Mike's challenge to read through the book of John 2 times in 4 weeks is taking me a little longer, but I am doing it. Today I spent some time reading in chapter 17. Verses 13-19 really jumped off the pages at me.
And now I am coming to you (referring to God). I have told them (the disciples) many things while I was with them so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not. I'm not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They are not part of this world anymore than I am. Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth. As you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself entirely to you so they also might be entirely yours.
Just before I read these verses, I had spent some time reading in Come Away My Beloved by Frances J. Roberts. I read the entry titled "Courage" (pg. 62-64) The focus of this passage was on Ephesians 6:17 which says, "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Paragraph 5 states:
"You have not wrestled in any measure such as He, the Lord Jesus. You are not prepared to enter into this conflict as long as you are absorbed in the luxuries and the personal comforts of normal life. For every soldier must give first place to his obligations to the armed forces, and second place to his own private life and wishes. Even so you must do, if you would be My followers. Even so did Jesus during His earthly ministry. His entire life was subordinated to the Father's will."
The next entry "The Sense of Perspective" goes on to state in paragraph 7, 8 & 13:
"No my children, do not fear. Remember the words of Holy Scripture: 'Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom' (Luke 12:32). Here you have it again-- I am not simply preserving you, but I am doing so for the purpose of sharing with you My kingdom power. I you can catch the vision of what the days ahead hold in store for you in My great kingdom, you will gain a whole new perspective, so that as you view the present, transient scene, its true dimension will come into focus on proportion to the whole panoramic picture.
I give the sense of perspective, because I see the whole scroll of the ages as though it were already unrolled before Me-- so that the future is as clearly in view as the past. Look over my should! Look at your own life from My vantage point. My Spirit will bring you revelation and understanding, light and wisdom.
Seek My wisdom, and make it the guide of your life. Let the winds blow and storms beat. Your house shall stand."
As I read through all these passages, I began to sense again in a very powerful way, the call and commissioning God has on my life. It is an awesome fact that Christ has called me to be His disciple. It is an empowering fact that he has given me the Holy Spirit to support, guide and strengthen me. And though it can be a frightening fact that he has called me to the battle front against the Evil One for the souls of many, it is an encouraging FACT that "if GOD is for us, who can stand against us?"
As I relate these passages to my life the challenge on the table for me is to throw off all the things that hinder me and way me down-- that keep me from fighting this battle effectively, to not fear the enemy and the world around me, but rather to seek God's wisdom as I continue to push forward in this battle, carrying the Light of the Gospel into the darkness. Let the winds blow and the storms beat. My house shall stand!
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Saturday, July 09, 2005
Friday, July 08, 2005
Life Decisions...
I am at yet another cross-road. What is God's Will when faced with adversity, a daunting obstacle, the presence of darkness where there is no hope? Both solutions are good, godly, right... but which is the BEST solution with the most profound impact?
I Corinthians 15:57 says "Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
We find ourselves in a real spiritual battle... but thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
I read this except today while spending time with Jesus. It's from "Come Away, My Beloved" pgs. 56 & 57:
"O My child, have I ever failed you? Have I ever turned My back on you or forsaken you? Have I not been your refuge and your strong defense? I have protected you and kept you in sickness and in health. Yea, I am with you to help you now. Fear not. My purposes will be fulfilled in spite of your weaknesses, if in your need you rely on My strength. My will shall be done regardless of the flaws in your life, if you count on the power of My righteousness. I do not work only in cases where there are no obstacles; but I glory in overruling the prevailing circumstances, and I take pleasure in bringing victories in those places where no victory is anywhere in sight.
Count on My coming. Know that whenever faith brings Me on the scene, everything is changed. Darkness is turned to light. Grief is turned to joy. Sickness to health. Poverty to My sufficient supply. Doubt to faith. Anxiety to trust.
No negative force can occupy the same place as My Spirit. When My Spirit comes in, all these things must go. Yes, they shall go! Ask for the victory. I will come and bring it. Don't look for the victory-- look for Me, and you will see the victory that I will bring with me. After I have come, you shall behold the miracles I will do."
So I guess, I now know which solution is the best... the one where I TRUST the SPIRIT to enter the situation, so that all the negative forces must flee, asking for the victory, and watching the Lord bring it. I long to see the miracles he will do. Praise be to God-- the One who gives us the Victory!
I Corinthians 15:57 says "Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
We find ourselves in a real spiritual battle... but thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
I read this except today while spending time with Jesus. It's from "Come Away, My Beloved" pgs. 56 & 57:
"O My child, have I ever failed you? Have I ever turned My back on you or forsaken you? Have I not been your refuge and your strong defense? I have protected you and kept you in sickness and in health. Yea, I am with you to help you now. Fear not. My purposes will be fulfilled in spite of your weaknesses, if in your need you rely on My strength. My will shall be done regardless of the flaws in your life, if you count on the power of My righteousness. I do not work only in cases where there are no obstacles; but I glory in overruling the prevailing circumstances, and I take pleasure in bringing victories in those places where no victory is anywhere in sight.
Count on My coming. Know that whenever faith brings Me on the scene, everything is changed. Darkness is turned to light. Grief is turned to joy. Sickness to health. Poverty to My sufficient supply. Doubt to faith. Anxiety to trust.
No negative force can occupy the same place as My Spirit. When My Spirit comes in, all these things must go. Yes, they shall go! Ask for the victory. I will come and bring it. Don't look for the victory-- look for Me, and you will see the victory that I will bring with me. After I have come, you shall behold the miracles I will do."
So I guess, I now know which solution is the best... the one where I TRUST the SPIRIT to enter the situation, so that all the negative forces must flee, asking for the victory, and watching the Lord bring it. I long to see the miracles he will do. Praise be to God-- the One who gives us the Victory!
Monday, July 04, 2005
"Make Straight the Way of the Lord"
The prophet Isaiah fortells the coming of John the Baptist when he says in Isaiah 40:3 "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: 'Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!'"
I spent some time reading in Matthew yesterday where John the Baptist is introduced on the scene as the fullfillment of this prophecy. Matthew 3:1-3 says:
In those days John the Baptist began preaching in the Judean wilderness. HIs messagae was, "Turn from your sins and to turn God, becuase the Kingdom of Heaven is near." Isaiah had spoken of John when he said, "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: 'Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!'... people from Jerusalem and from every section of Judea and from all over the Jordan Valley went out to the wilderness to hear him preach."
"Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!" really struck me. I remember a few months ago when a young lady in our house church asked, "What do you suppose that means?" I too was wondering the same thing. So we dialogued about it and my husband encouraged us to ask the Lord to reveal it to us. Well, we never came back to it in the many weeks to follow. Now it's back! Hmmmm...
So I asked the Lord to reveal the meaning to me. What was John the Baptist's message really saying? It seemed so indirect. After reading and re-reading the context and asking the Lord to reveal the real meaning, I got the answer! Weeks ago, I assumed it meant that I had to clean up my life, heart, mind, etc... to make a straight road, clear path, for the Lord in my own life. That is NOT what this passage is talking about.
The meaning of this passage is way bigger than ME! People who don't know Jesus must be prepared to meet Him. I can prepare the way for Jesus by telling them of their need for forgiveness, demonstrating Christ's teaching by my conduct, and telling them how Christ can give their lives real meaning. I can make a straight road for Jesus by correcting the misconceptions that they might have that are hindering them from coming to Christ.
So, it's not about me getting my life straight! It's about my obedience to God's Word to prepare the soil of unbelievers and straighten out the road so that others too will turn to Christ.
Hmmmm....God's assignment for my life is getting clearer...
I spent some time reading in Matthew yesterday where John the Baptist is introduced on the scene as the fullfillment of this prophecy. Matthew 3:1-3 says:
In those days John the Baptist began preaching in the Judean wilderness. HIs messagae was, "Turn from your sins and to turn God, becuase the Kingdom of Heaven is near." Isaiah had spoken of John when he said, "He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: 'Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!'... people from Jerusalem and from every section of Judea and from all over the Jordan Valley went out to the wilderness to hear him preach."
"Prepare a pathway for the Lord's coming! Make a straight road for him!" really struck me. I remember a few months ago when a young lady in our house church asked, "What do you suppose that means?" I too was wondering the same thing. So we dialogued about it and my husband encouraged us to ask the Lord to reveal it to us. Well, we never came back to it in the many weeks to follow. Now it's back! Hmmmm...
So I asked the Lord to reveal the meaning to me. What was John the Baptist's message really saying? It seemed so indirect. After reading and re-reading the context and asking the Lord to reveal the real meaning, I got the answer! Weeks ago, I assumed it meant that I had to clean up my life, heart, mind, etc... to make a straight road, clear path, for the Lord in my own life. That is NOT what this passage is talking about.
The meaning of this passage is way bigger than ME! People who don't know Jesus must be prepared to meet Him. I can prepare the way for Jesus by telling them of their need for forgiveness, demonstrating Christ's teaching by my conduct, and telling them how Christ can give their lives real meaning. I can make a straight road for Jesus by correcting the misconceptions that they might have that are hindering them from coming to Christ.
So, it's not about me getting my life straight! It's about my obedience to God's Word to prepare the soil of unbelievers and straighten out the road so that others too will turn to Christ.
Hmmmm....God's assignment for my life is getting clearer...
Thursday, June 30, 2005
I beg to differ!
"Alone...just me and my Jesus" continued:
In this same time with God as my last entry (Alone...just me and my Jesus), after reading John 8, I was told to read Acts 15. Here the Spirit revealed to me the importance of restoration and unity in The Church. The Jewish Christians were demanding that the Gentile Christians must become Jews first (through circumcision) before they could follow Jesus. The Gentiles were confused and frustrated. So Paul and Barnabas called a meeting among the Jewish leaders to set them straight on this. God does not make differences between Jew and Gentile. Once one has accpets Jesus as Lord, the Holy Spirit is placed in them. There is no need for circumcision. The elders and deacons came to see the truth in this and decided it best to write a letter to the Gentiles freeing them from the religious Law of the OT. So, they sent the letter with some of the Jewish leaders along with Paul and Barnabas back to the Gentiles informing them. There was much celebration over this. Paul and Barnabas then felt they needed to go visit all the believers in all the churches from thier first missionary journey. Barnabas requests that John Mark accompany them. Paul refuses, becuase John Mark had deserted them when they were imprisoned. A heated argument ensues, and it is resolved with Paul and Barnabas dividing into 2 groups. Barnabas took John Mark with him to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas to accompany him. (The start of Paul's second missionary journey)
BUT the story is not complete! There was a heated argument, which led to seperation... BUT was all part of God's plan to bring unity. WHAT??? How does a fight bring unity? Doesn't that bring discord?
Well, here are the parts that I left out... remember the arguing over circumcision? Well, Silas was one of the Jewish leaders sent to deliver the letter to the Gerntiles freeing them from this ritual. Paul chose HIM to go with him on his next journey. When the believers commissioned Paula and Silas for the journey, they sent them off ENTRUSTING THEM TO THE LORD'S GRACE!
And remember Barnabas and Paul's "split?" This too was God's plan... two great preachers formed TWO teams... TWO MISSIONARY ENDEAVORS INSTEAD OF ONE! The Gospel spread faster!
The Lord used this passage to show me that even when things get really ugly among Christians, HE is still in control. He is bigger than our plans, our minds, our vision. When we are FULLY reliant on the Holy Spirit in our lives, through adversity and hardship, God's grace is sufficient. Christians don't always agree. AND problems can be solved by seeking wise counsil (eg: Paula and Barnabas' wisdom in circumcision) and agreeing to disagree and letting God work his will. (eg: Paul and Barnabas' disagreement).
So what did I learn today? To sum it all up in a few short sentences:
When times get really ugly, and they will, I must rest in the Father, keeping my eyes on Jesus. Agree to disagree. And allow God to work his perfect will.
In this same time with God as my last entry (Alone...just me and my Jesus), after reading John 8, I was told to read Acts 15. Here the Spirit revealed to me the importance of restoration and unity in The Church. The Jewish Christians were demanding that the Gentile Christians must become Jews first (through circumcision) before they could follow Jesus. The Gentiles were confused and frustrated. So Paul and Barnabas called a meeting among the Jewish leaders to set them straight on this. God does not make differences between Jew and Gentile. Once one has accpets Jesus as Lord, the Holy Spirit is placed in them. There is no need for circumcision. The elders and deacons came to see the truth in this and decided it best to write a letter to the Gentiles freeing them from the religious Law of the OT. So, they sent the letter with some of the Jewish leaders along with Paul and Barnabas back to the Gentiles informing them. There was much celebration over this. Paul and Barnabas then felt they needed to go visit all the believers in all the churches from thier first missionary journey. Barnabas requests that John Mark accompany them. Paul refuses, becuase John Mark had deserted them when they were imprisoned. A heated argument ensues, and it is resolved with Paul and Barnabas dividing into 2 groups. Barnabas took John Mark with him to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas to accompany him. (The start of Paul's second missionary journey)
BUT the story is not complete! There was a heated argument, which led to seperation... BUT was all part of God's plan to bring unity. WHAT??? How does a fight bring unity? Doesn't that bring discord?
Well, here are the parts that I left out... remember the arguing over circumcision? Well, Silas was one of the Jewish leaders sent to deliver the letter to the Gerntiles freeing them from this ritual. Paul chose HIM to go with him on his next journey. When the believers commissioned Paula and Silas for the journey, they sent them off ENTRUSTING THEM TO THE LORD'S GRACE!
And remember Barnabas and Paul's "split?" This too was God's plan... two great preachers formed TWO teams... TWO MISSIONARY ENDEAVORS INSTEAD OF ONE! The Gospel spread faster!
The Lord used this passage to show me that even when things get really ugly among Christians, HE is still in control. He is bigger than our plans, our minds, our vision. When we are FULLY reliant on the Holy Spirit in our lives, through adversity and hardship, God's grace is sufficient. Christians don't always agree. AND problems can be solved by seeking wise counsil (eg: Paula and Barnabas' wisdom in circumcision) and agreeing to disagree and letting God work his will. (eg: Paul and Barnabas' disagreement).
So what did I learn today? To sum it all up in a few short sentences:
When times get really ugly, and they will, I must rest in the Father, keeping my eyes on Jesus. Agree to disagree. And allow God to work his perfect will.
"Alone... just me and my Jesus"
The kids had gone to bed, Mike was with 2 of his friends for an LTG, and it was really late at night. So, all the lights in the house were out. I was alone, just me and my Jesus. I was not tired and was longing to spend some time with Him praising and singing and praying. I was drawn to my front proch where I sat and praised my Heavenly father through song-- I sang quietly so I didn't wake up the neighborhood. :-)
When I first sat down, I could feel a strong spiritual battle all around me, so I starting proclaiming the name of Jesus and commanding Satan and his army to flee. Afterall, we are God's army and all authority and power has been given to us through Christ Jesus to overcome spiritual darkness. That was it. The battle was over! I sat there on my porch praising Jesus' name and singing songs in praise to Him.
After a half hour or so, I felt the Spirit tell me it was time to go to bed. I wasn't tired, but the Spirit said, "You need your rest. Tomorrow you have a battle to fight." Whoa! Off to bed I immediately went. I slept really good last night, the first in a few weeks. This morning, the Spirit woke me up early and said, "Get up. It's time to put on your armor." End of sleep. I rose up, dressed, and was reminded not to forget the Helmut of Salvation.
My kids were still sleeping, my husband was already off to an early morning meeting, and there I sat on the sofa... alone, just me and my Jesus. He told me to go to John 8 and then Acts 15. So, I read till the Spirit stopped me. John 8:21-30 is where I stopped. As I read it, the Lord showed me another word picture of what life controlled by the Spirit looks like. In verse 28, Jesus tells the Jewish leaders, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will realize that I am he and that I DO NOTHING ON MY OWN, but I speak only what the Father taught me. And THE ONE WHO SENT ME IS WITH ME-- HE HAS NOT DESERTED ME. For I always to those things that are pleasing to him." What a beautiful picture! Jesus had the Father with him, too becuase he was not just God incarnate, but also FULLY MAN. He needed God! We are given this same gift. We are fully human, and God has put the Holy Spirit in each follower of Jesus.
to be continued...
When I first sat down, I could feel a strong spiritual battle all around me, so I starting proclaiming the name of Jesus and commanding Satan and his army to flee. Afterall, we are God's army and all authority and power has been given to us through Christ Jesus to overcome spiritual darkness. That was it. The battle was over! I sat there on my porch praising Jesus' name and singing songs in praise to Him.
After a half hour or so, I felt the Spirit tell me it was time to go to bed. I wasn't tired, but the Spirit said, "You need your rest. Tomorrow you have a battle to fight." Whoa! Off to bed I immediately went. I slept really good last night, the first in a few weeks. This morning, the Spirit woke me up early and said, "Get up. It's time to put on your armor." End of sleep. I rose up, dressed, and was reminded not to forget the Helmut of Salvation.
My kids were still sleeping, my husband was already off to an early morning meeting, and there I sat on the sofa... alone, just me and my Jesus. He told me to go to John 8 and then Acts 15. So, I read till the Spirit stopped me. John 8:21-30 is where I stopped. As I read it, the Lord showed me another word picture of what life controlled by the Spirit looks like. In verse 28, Jesus tells the Jewish leaders, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will realize that I am he and that I DO NOTHING ON MY OWN, but I speak only what the Father taught me. And THE ONE WHO SENT ME IS WITH ME-- HE HAS NOT DESERTED ME. For I always to those things that are pleasing to him." What a beautiful picture! Jesus had the Father with him, too becuase he was not just God incarnate, but also FULLY MAN. He needed God! We are given this same gift. We are fully human, and God has put the Holy Spirit in each follower of Jesus.
to be continued...
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Wheels in Motion
Ezekiel 1:15-21 says this: As I looked at these beings, I saw four wheels on the ground beneath them, one wheel belonging to each. The wheels sparkled as if made of chrysolite. All four wheels looked the same; each wheel had a second wheel turning crosswise within it. The beings could move forward in any of the four directions they faced, without turning as they moved. The rims of the four wheels were awesomely tall, and they were covered with eyes all around the edges. When the four living beings moved, the wheels moved with them. When they flew upward, the wheels went up, too. The spirit of the four living beings was in the wheels. So wherever the spirit went, the wheels and the living beings went, too. When the living beings moved, the wheels moved. When the living beings stopped, the wheels stopped. When the living beings flew into the air, the wheels rose up. For the spirit of the living beings was in the wheels.
Ezekiel was an Old Testament Prophet who God spoke to through visions to communicate to the Jews God's goodness to those who faithfully seek to obey him, and the promise of a glorious future ahead. This excerpt is taken from the beginning of the vision with which God spoke to Ezekiel. These verses popped off the page at me. Now, I am in no way going to communicate what his vision is symbolizing, the message it holds, etc... but rather I am going to state how God took these verses to show through a word picture what it is He has teaching me.
The wheels represent believers who are fully surrendered to Jesus, and the living beings represent the Holy Spirit living inside those believers who are fully surrendered to Jesus. When the Spirit inside them moves forward, backward, up, down, speaks, doesn’t speak, stops, etc… the believer, being fully surrendered to the Spirit, does the same. The Holy Spirit is TOTALLY in control… not the fully surrendered believer. This was HUGE for me to get a word picture for what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit and totally submissive to Christ. When this happens, which I have experienced, the “eutopia” that is experienced is truly amazing! I totally am ONE with Christ. This is just too cool! But as soon as I take over the driver’s seat, I remove myself from this “ONE-NESS” with Christ. No I don’t lose my salvation, but I no longer am fully surrendered to the Spirit, which means the relationship is broken/damaged.
Beautiful Waterfall, flow over me... and FILL me till only YOU remains!
Ezekiel was an Old Testament Prophet who God spoke to through visions to communicate to the Jews God's goodness to those who faithfully seek to obey him, and the promise of a glorious future ahead. This excerpt is taken from the beginning of the vision with which God spoke to Ezekiel. These verses popped off the page at me. Now, I am in no way going to communicate what his vision is symbolizing, the message it holds, etc... but rather I am going to state how God took these verses to show through a word picture what it is He has teaching me.
The wheels represent believers who are fully surrendered to Jesus, and the living beings represent the Holy Spirit living inside those believers who are fully surrendered to Jesus. When the Spirit inside them moves forward, backward, up, down, speaks, doesn’t speak, stops, etc… the believer, being fully surrendered to the Spirit, does the same. The Holy Spirit is TOTALLY in control… not the fully surrendered believer. This was HUGE for me to get a word picture for what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit and totally submissive to Christ. When this happens, which I have experienced, the “eutopia” that is experienced is truly amazing! I totally am ONE with Christ. This is just too cool! But as soon as I take over the driver’s seat, I remove myself from this “ONE-NESS” with Christ. No I don’t lose my salvation, but I no longer am fully surrendered to the Spirit, which means the relationship is broken/damaged.
Beautiful Waterfall, flow over me... and FILL me till only YOU remains!
Thursday, June 23, 2005
RUSH over me!
This morning I spent some time reading Philippians. I was struck by many things, but decided that I needed to focus on just one of those things, since my mind is too small to handle more than that! The thing that spoke the loudest was the following passage from Philippians 3:6b-14:
"...I obeyed the Jewish law so carefully that I was never accused of any fault.
I once thought all these things were so very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I may have Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own goodness or my ability to obey God's law, but I TRUST Christ to save me. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on FAITH. As a result, I can really know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I can learn what it means to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that, somehow, I can experience the resurrection from the dead!
I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be. No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven."
..."As a RESULT, I can really KNOW CHRIST and EXPERIENCE the MIGHTY POWER THAT RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD!!!! I can learn what it means to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that, SOMEHOW, I can experience the resurrection from the dead!" WOW! WOW! WOW!!! This is really AWESOME! By not allowing my flesh to rule, and by allowing the Holy Spirit to control my life FULLY, I can experience the SAME mighty power that raised Jesus from the dead! So that is what this experience is that I am feeling? Sensing? I can't describe it, but boy did the apostle Paul hit the nail on the head! It's the power of God that raised Jesus Christ from the dead.
I am still trying to grapple with this. I just glanced down to see if my commentary could shed anymore light on this. Here's what it says:
"3:10 When we become one with Christ by trusting in him, we experience the power that raised him from the dead. That same mighty power will help us live morally renewed and regenerated lives. But BEFORE we can walk in newness of life, we must die to sin. Just as the Resurrection gives us Christ's power to live for him, his crucifixion marks the death of our sinful nature. We can't know the victory of the Resurrection without personally applying the crucifixion."
This topic is just incredible to discover and uncover. How deep, rich, and exhilarating! Beautiful Waterfall... RUSH over me! Wash me away till only YOU remains!
"...I obeyed the Jewish law so carefully that I was never accused of any fault.
I once thought all these things were so very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I may have Christ and become one with him. I no longer count on my own goodness or my ability to obey God's law, but I TRUST Christ to save me. For God's way of making us right with himself depends on FAITH. As a result, I can really know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I can learn what it means to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that, somehow, I can experience the resurrection from the dead!
I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be. No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven."
..."As a RESULT, I can really KNOW CHRIST and EXPERIENCE the MIGHTY POWER THAT RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD!!!! I can learn what it means to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that, SOMEHOW, I can experience the resurrection from the dead!" WOW! WOW! WOW!!! This is really AWESOME! By not allowing my flesh to rule, and by allowing the Holy Spirit to control my life FULLY, I can experience the SAME mighty power that raised Jesus from the dead! So that is what this experience is that I am feeling? Sensing? I can't describe it, but boy did the apostle Paul hit the nail on the head! It's the power of God that raised Jesus Christ from the dead.
I am still trying to grapple with this. I just glanced down to see if my commentary could shed anymore light on this. Here's what it says:
"3:10 When we become one with Christ by trusting in him, we experience the power that raised him from the dead. That same mighty power will help us live morally renewed and regenerated lives. But BEFORE we can walk in newness of life, we must die to sin. Just as the Resurrection gives us Christ's power to live for him, his crucifixion marks the death of our sinful nature. We can't know the victory of the Resurrection without personally applying the crucifixion."
This topic is just incredible to discover and uncover. How deep, rich, and exhilarating! Beautiful Waterfall... RUSH over me! Wash me away till only YOU remains!
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Beautiful Waterfall
A friend of mine, Richard Jordan, wrote a song titled, Beautiful Waterall. The lyrics throughout the song are so refreshing!
Chorus:
Beautiful Waterfall, pouring down your perfect love on me
Beautiful Waterfall, wash me away till only you remains
What an amazing "picture" of how God, The Beautiful Waterfall, pours out his love on all those who love him. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, and he LAVISHES them on those who surrender their hearts and lives to Him.
Reach out and take a drink!
Chorus:
Beautiful Waterfall, pouring down your perfect love on me
Beautiful Waterfall, wash me away till only you remains
What an amazing "picture" of how God, The Beautiful Waterfall, pours out his love on all those who love him. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, and he LAVISHES them on those who surrender their hearts and lives to Him.
Reach out and take a drink!
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Life Transformation
This morning at our local "Organic Greenhouse Gathering" (a time each month set aside for leadership development of those who are organic church planters) we spent some time reflecting on what Life Transformation looks like. We looked at the church in Thessolonica (modern day Thessoloniki).
In ancient days, Thessolinca was the capital and largest city of the the Roman province of Macedonia, the wealthiest city of the Roman empire due to the sea port, trade, and international influence. The most important Roman Highway from Rome to the Orient went through Thessolonica. Thessolinica was given freedom to select it's own rulers and was not bound my Roman law or religious constructs. As a result, many pagan religions and cultural influences permiated the city which raised many challenges for the Christians at that time.
In 1 Thesselonians 1:2-10 we read about how the church was flourishing and the Gospel was "ringing out" throughout the Macedonian province. What was happening was RADICAL LIFE TRANSFORMATION! The cause of this transformation was the power of the Holy Spirit. The effects were people who heard the news were transformed by the power of the Word. They turned from their idols, and were so impassioned about their new found faith that they had to tell the world! This message and the Christians lives were so radical and so powerful that 1 Thessalonians 1:8 says, >"And now the word of the Lord is RINGING OUT from you to people everywhere, even beyond Greece, for where we go we find people telling us about your faith in God."
The thing that strikes me is that the apostles were not there to spoon feed these new believers. The believers were under severe spiritual attack. Paul says in chapter 3, that he couldn't bare it any longer (not knowing how they were doing) for fear that the Devil had overcome them. So he sent Timothy to encourage and strengthen them. Upon Timothy's return, his news is so awesome!!! The believers were stronger than ever!!! Paul writes in vs. 9, "How we thank God for you! Because of you, we have great joy in the presence of God."
Do you think this kind of faith in action was done out of obligation or duty for being a follower of Jesus? I think not! This kind of faith in action was done out lives being radically transformed into the image of Christ. So much so, that the believers had to tell the world-- out of their passion for Christ and their sheer excitement and gratitude for what He had done for them.
Now step into the present-- the new millenium. What does Life Transformation look like today? Do we dare think it is any different? I think not! Dallas Willard in his book, "The Spirit of the Disciplines" says on pg. 20:
True character transformation begins, we are taught to believe, in the pure grace of God and is continually assisted by it. Very well. BUT actions is also indispensable in making the Christian a truly different kind of person-- one having a new life in which "Old things have passed away and behold, all things have become new!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Failure to act in certain definate ways will guarantee that this transformation does not come to pass.
Jesus Christ has so radically transformed my life that I MUST tell the world!... not out of obligation or duty. Rather out of my PASSION for Christ and out of my sheer excitement and gratitude for what HE did for me by dying on the cross, bearing my burden of shame from sin, and rising from the dead so that I may be set free from the chains that held me captive! I am FREE because of Christ!
Imagine what The Church could look like today if every believer were to turn from their idols and surrender their minds ("the renewing of the mind")and hearts to God, just like the Thessolonicans did. We COULD NOT be silent. Our actions WOULD reflect the life transformation that we see in Thessolonica.
So how about it? The world must hear! We cannot be silent. Our lives MUST reflect the transformation of the Holy Spirit! The message must RING OUT!
JESUS SAVES!!!
In ancient days, Thessolinca was the capital and largest city of the the Roman province of Macedonia, the wealthiest city of the Roman empire due to the sea port, trade, and international influence. The most important Roman Highway from Rome to the Orient went through Thessolonica. Thessolinica was given freedom to select it's own rulers and was not bound my Roman law or religious constructs. As a result, many pagan religions and cultural influences permiated the city which raised many challenges for the Christians at that time.
In 1 Thesselonians 1:2-10 we read about how the church was flourishing and the Gospel was "ringing out" throughout the Macedonian province. What was happening was RADICAL LIFE TRANSFORMATION! The cause of this transformation was the power of the Holy Spirit. The effects were people who heard the news were transformed by the power of the Word. They turned from their idols, and were so impassioned about their new found faith that they had to tell the world! This message and the Christians lives were so radical and so powerful that 1 Thessalonians 1:8 says, >"And now the word of the Lord is RINGING OUT from you to people everywhere, even beyond Greece, for where we go we find people telling us about your faith in God."
The thing that strikes me is that the apostles were not there to spoon feed these new believers. The believers were under severe spiritual attack. Paul says in chapter 3, that he couldn't bare it any longer (not knowing how they were doing) for fear that the Devil had overcome them. So he sent Timothy to encourage and strengthen them. Upon Timothy's return, his news is so awesome!!! The believers were stronger than ever!!! Paul writes in vs. 9, "How we thank God for you! Because of you, we have great joy in the presence of God."
Do you think this kind of faith in action was done out of obligation or duty for being a follower of Jesus? I think not! This kind of faith in action was done out lives being radically transformed into the image of Christ. So much so, that the believers had to tell the world-- out of their passion for Christ and their sheer excitement and gratitude for what He had done for them.
Now step into the present-- the new millenium. What does Life Transformation look like today? Do we dare think it is any different? I think not! Dallas Willard in his book, "The Spirit of the Disciplines" says on pg. 20:
True character transformation begins, we are taught to believe, in the pure grace of God and is continually assisted by it. Very well. BUT actions is also indispensable in making the Christian a truly different kind of person-- one having a new life in which "Old things have passed away and behold, all things have become new!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Failure to act in certain definate ways will guarantee that this transformation does not come to pass.
Jesus Christ has so radically transformed my life that I MUST tell the world!... not out of obligation or duty. Rather out of my PASSION for Christ and out of my sheer excitement and gratitude for what HE did for me by dying on the cross, bearing my burden of shame from sin, and rising from the dead so that I may be set free from the chains that held me captive! I am FREE because of Christ!
Imagine what The Church could look like today if every believer were to turn from their idols and surrender their minds ("the renewing of the mind")and hearts to God, just like the Thessolonicans did. We COULD NOT be silent. Our actions WOULD reflect the life transformation that we see in Thessolonica.
So how about it? The world must hear! We cannot be silent. Our lives MUST reflect the transformation of the Holy Spirit! The message must RING OUT!
JESUS SAVES!!!
Dependence on the Great Burden-Bearer
A midst all the hub-bub of the last week of school for my kids (class picnics, K-5 graduation, class parties, etc...), packing up my classroom for the summer cleaning event by the school janitors, all the other graduation parties for friends/church members, all the many birthday parties for my own children plus other family members, God says to me, "Take heed! I am testing you." HRRRRRRRR! (Screeching hault.) "Huh? Right now? Can't it wait till I have a moment to breathe?" "No, right now. It's my perfect timing, and now is the time for another test." "Okay, God. What is it that you want me to learn?" So amdist all the "life" happening, his testing has begun. Let me explain...
I mentioned Trust and Faith in my last blog. And while I am still learning what it means to Trust that God has His perfect Will in line for me, that he will supply all my needs (physically, financially, mentally, and spiritually) and having Faith that He will do what He has promised... I am now learning what it means to be TOTALLY DEPENDENT on MY GREAT BURDEN BEARER! Each day, I read a little blip from "Come Away, My Beloved" by Frances J. Roberts. It's kind of like a devotional book, but more like a book of Inspirational thoughts. And though I don't depend on it for my spiritual nourishment, I am finding that God has ordained these writings for me to be reading them at this time. One of the "thoughts" if you will, is called "Dependence on God" and the very next one is called "The Burden-Bearer" I read them both last night.
Hebrews 3:14 says, "For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end." and Deuteronomy 8:16 says, "He might test you, to do you good in the end." This week held trials and circumstances that were difficult. My ability to trust God has certainly grown, while I have sensed the ability to trust OTHERS has weekend. Galatians 6:1 says, "Carry each other's burdens. In this way you fulfill the law of Christ" Often I assume that it means that as fellow believers we are to bear the burdens of others...period. But there is a pre-requisite to this "bearing of burdens." What I often over look is that I must be competely dependent on Christ FIRST. I should not carelessly throw out my concerns, troubles, heart-ache, frustrations, etc... to those who have listening ears. WITHOUT FIRST relaying this information to Christ, and learning that HE is my ULTIMATE burden bearer, I risk the information falling on ears that are not trustworthy. So hence, my test.
The following thoughts are from my reading last night and have caused me much relief:
"My child, do not share your burdens with all who come to you professing concern, I, Myself, am the great burden-bearer. You need not look to another. I will lead you and guide you in wisdom from above. All things will be as I plan them, if you allow ME the freedom to shape circumstances and lead you to the right decisions.
I am merciful and kind. I love you beyond measure. I intend to do you good; and I will bring to you those who can TRULY help, if you leave all in My hands.
I want you to prosper and be in health. I want you to know Me more intimately. If difficulties come, it is by My order and for your benefit. Others would say you have trouble: I would say you have a test."
Part of my diminishing abilities to trust others is all part of God's plan. Though it hurts tremendously to have confidentiality broken, seemingly no person to talk to who understands my circumstances, etc... I do have MY GREAT BURDEN-BEARER and HE is SUFFICIENT! This is the test. Will I fully trust Him and have faith in Him alone? When the due time comes...HE will begin to place people in my life who I can truly trust to help. But first, I must be fully dependent on Him.
I mentioned Trust and Faith in my last blog. And while I am still learning what it means to Trust that God has His perfect Will in line for me, that he will supply all my needs (physically, financially, mentally, and spiritually) and having Faith that He will do what He has promised... I am now learning what it means to be TOTALLY DEPENDENT on MY GREAT BURDEN BEARER! Each day, I read a little blip from "Come Away, My Beloved" by Frances J. Roberts. It's kind of like a devotional book, but more like a book of Inspirational thoughts. And though I don't depend on it for my spiritual nourishment, I am finding that God has ordained these writings for me to be reading them at this time. One of the "thoughts" if you will, is called "Dependence on God" and the very next one is called "The Burden-Bearer" I read them both last night.
Hebrews 3:14 says, "For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end." and Deuteronomy 8:16 says, "He might test you, to do you good in the end." This week held trials and circumstances that were difficult. My ability to trust God has certainly grown, while I have sensed the ability to trust OTHERS has weekend. Galatians 6:1 says, "Carry each other's burdens. In this way you fulfill the law of Christ" Often I assume that it means that as fellow believers we are to bear the burdens of others...period. But there is a pre-requisite to this "bearing of burdens." What I often over look is that I must be competely dependent on Christ FIRST. I should not carelessly throw out my concerns, troubles, heart-ache, frustrations, etc... to those who have listening ears. WITHOUT FIRST relaying this information to Christ, and learning that HE is my ULTIMATE burden bearer, I risk the information falling on ears that are not trustworthy. So hence, my test.
The following thoughts are from my reading last night and have caused me much relief:
"My child, do not share your burdens with all who come to you professing concern, I, Myself, am the great burden-bearer. You need not look to another. I will lead you and guide you in wisdom from above. All things will be as I plan them, if you allow ME the freedom to shape circumstances and lead you to the right decisions.
I am merciful and kind. I love you beyond measure. I intend to do you good; and I will bring to you those who can TRULY help, if you leave all in My hands.
I want you to prosper and be in health. I want you to know Me more intimately. If difficulties come, it is by My order and for your benefit. Others would say you have trouble: I would say you have a test."
Part of my diminishing abilities to trust others is all part of God's plan. Though it hurts tremendously to have confidentiality broken, seemingly no person to talk to who understands my circumstances, etc... I do have MY GREAT BURDEN-BEARER and HE is SUFFICIENT! This is the test. Will I fully trust Him and have faith in Him alone? When the due time comes...HE will begin to place people in my life who I can truly trust to help. But first, I must be fully dependent on Him.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Been awhile...
Wow! What a whirlwind of the past few months. I can't believe it has been 2 1/2 months since I have made an entry!
God is still good. And everyday I see Him in unique, creative, exciting, and humbling ways. The past 2 1/2 months have been no different. The dinner theater production really took a lot of my time and energy, but it has been well worth it. So many opportunities to network with folks in our community to promote our school, but even MORE importantly... the opportunity for thequest to let our LIGHT SHINE to the dinner guests whom we served was far more exciting! It has been such a pleasure to hear people compliment our church for their hard work and their servants hearts! What they don't realize is that they are complimenting Jesus with skin! Afterall, we are his ambassadors and are just the vessel that he dwells in as he serves through us and loves others to HIMSELF.
Trust & Faith... that's what I'm learning over and over again. TRUST that God keeps his promises to provide for our needs, to protect us with his watchful eye, and to hold us in his arms to show us his love. FAITH that surpasses all understanding as we go about our lives allowing him to live through us. Faith that HE IS GOD and that He wants only the best for us. FAITH that can move mountains! FAITH as tiny as a mustard seed, but as powerful as a storm. Trust and Faith... that God is who he says he is.
God is still good. And everyday I see Him in unique, creative, exciting, and humbling ways. The past 2 1/2 months have been no different. The dinner theater production really took a lot of my time and energy, but it has been well worth it. So many opportunities to network with folks in our community to promote our school, but even MORE importantly... the opportunity for thequest to let our LIGHT SHINE to the dinner guests whom we served was far more exciting! It has been such a pleasure to hear people compliment our church for their hard work and their servants hearts! What they don't realize is that they are complimenting Jesus with skin! Afterall, we are his ambassadors and are just the vessel that he dwells in as he serves through us and loves others to HIMSELF.
Trust & Faith... that's what I'm learning over and over again. TRUST that God keeps his promises to provide for our needs, to protect us with his watchful eye, and to hold us in his arms to show us his love. FAITH that surpasses all understanding as we go about our lives allowing him to live through us. Faith that HE IS GOD and that He wants only the best for us. FAITH that can move mountains! FAITH as tiny as a mustard seed, but as powerful as a storm. Trust and Faith... that God is who he says he is.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Emack & Bolio's
Hmmm....
Just got back from another Friday night at a really cool ice cream shop in our neighborhood. Yeah, I know there was snow on the ground this week. But come on... who can resist ice cream?!?! Plus, the shop has a really great atmosphere. It's kinda like sitting in someone's living room, only you're not. Art works hangs all around the house. There's a really huge kitchen table where you can play all kinds of board games with 10-12 people. About 6 sofas & coffee tables are placed around the house so one can relax and enjoy conversation, chess, or extreme Jenga with others. Cafe' tables and chairs are sprinkled around the house for your dining enjoyment, in case you're not in the mood to be social. There's even a small table and chairs set up & equipped with toys and games for the chillens. It's a really large open space, for an ice cream shop. But is it too big for God???
Hmmm....
Thequest... a network of house church.
Purpose... to GO INTO all the world.
How... wherever there is an opening/calling.
Hmmm...
As we, Mike & I and some folks from our house church, have frequented this super cool spot for around 2 months now, we have always remarked about how we feel so at home there. The owner seems happy to see us there regularly. The space is warm and inviting. Tonight we started to ponder about how maybe, God is paving the way for us to start another house church there. Really? I mean nothing spiritual has been happening there so far. Or has it???
Hmmm...
The thoughts are just now forming. But it seems apparent to me that God has put these thoughts in all of our minds for a reason. Could it be that this is the next place God has called us to? The place where he wants to SHINE on High Street? We've prayed about open spaces, person's of peace, and even possible storefront space where we could meet and be visible. Could this be the time and the place?
...The only way to know... PRAYER! It's time to pray! It's time to go before the throne of God to ask The Lord of the Harvest for his clear guidance. To raise up workers for the havest. To make straight the way of the Lord! It's time to pray for open hearts and minds to the gospel.
It's time to PRAY for Emack & Bolio's!
Just got back from another Friday night at a really cool ice cream shop in our neighborhood. Yeah, I know there was snow on the ground this week. But come on... who can resist ice cream?!?! Plus, the shop has a really great atmosphere. It's kinda like sitting in someone's living room, only you're not. Art works hangs all around the house. There's a really huge kitchen table where you can play all kinds of board games with 10-12 people. About 6 sofas & coffee tables are placed around the house so one can relax and enjoy conversation, chess, or extreme Jenga with others. Cafe' tables and chairs are sprinkled around the house for your dining enjoyment, in case you're not in the mood to be social. There's even a small table and chairs set up & equipped with toys and games for the chillens. It's a really large open space, for an ice cream shop. But is it too big for God???
Hmmm....
Thequest... a network of house church.
Purpose... to GO INTO all the world.
How... wherever there is an opening/calling.
Hmmm...
As we, Mike & I and some folks from our house church, have frequented this super cool spot for around 2 months now, we have always remarked about how we feel so at home there. The owner seems happy to see us there regularly. The space is warm and inviting. Tonight we started to ponder about how maybe, God is paving the way for us to start another house church there. Really? I mean nothing spiritual has been happening there so far. Or has it???
Hmmm...
The thoughts are just now forming. But it seems apparent to me that God has put these thoughts in all of our minds for a reason. Could it be that this is the next place God has called us to? The place where he wants to SHINE on High Street? We've prayed about open spaces, person's of peace, and even possible storefront space where we could meet and be visible. Could this be the time and the place?
...The only way to know... PRAYER! It's time to pray! It's time to go before the throne of God to ask The Lord of the Harvest for his clear guidance. To raise up workers for the havest. To make straight the way of the Lord! It's time to pray for open hearts and minds to the gospel.
It's time to PRAY for Emack & Bolio's!
Thursday, March 17, 2005
The Wonder of It All
There's the wonder of sunset at evening,
The wonder as sunrise I see;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is the wonder that God loves me.
There's the wonder of springtime and harvest,
The sky, the stars, the sun;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is a wonder that's only begun.
O the wonder of it all!
The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.
O, the wonder of it all!
The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.
"The Wonder of It All" Hymn Text & Music by: George Beverly Shea
Copyright: 1957 Chancel Music, Inc.
"What is man that you are mindful of Him?" Hebrews 2:6
As God has been searching my heart and showing me areas in my life which need changed, I am refreshed to be able to look back now past all the turmoil, pain, and anguish to see God's hands in it all. When things looked really dismal, God was calling me to attention & doing surgery on my soul. When God was repairing my heart, it was excited, fresh and new! Now God is showing me how he was not only working out these things in my life, but in the life of others close to me too! It is such a wonder to me, that he:
1. causes circumstance in my life to look so bleak
2. resulting in my total loss of control
3. leaving my only recourse as full dependence on Him
4. to then discover that it wasn't just about me, he was changing me for others too!
It is painful & humbling, yet exciting and full of mystery & discovery. God is showing me how important it is to trust Him, because He has never failed me, and to remember that he is working all these things together for my good! Praise be to the Lord God Almighty!
As I Keep My Eyes On Jesus the rest of this week...
"Oh! Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth and the Universe: Help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right; make me truthful, honest and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving and patient with my fellowmen - help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings-- even as Thou understandest mine! Amen, Amen, Amen."
--President Harry Truman
The wonder as sunrise I see;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is the wonder that God loves me.
There's the wonder of springtime and harvest,
The sky, the stars, the sun;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is a wonder that's only begun.
O the wonder of it all!
The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.
O, the wonder of it all!
The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.
"The Wonder of It All" Hymn Text & Music by: George Beverly Shea
Copyright: 1957 Chancel Music, Inc.
"What is man that you are mindful of Him?" Hebrews 2:6
As God has been searching my heart and showing me areas in my life which need changed, I am refreshed to be able to look back now past all the turmoil, pain, and anguish to see God's hands in it all. When things looked really dismal, God was calling me to attention & doing surgery on my soul. When God was repairing my heart, it was excited, fresh and new! Now God is showing me how he was not only working out these things in my life, but in the life of others close to me too! It is such a wonder to me, that he:
1. causes circumstance in my life to look so bleak
2. resulting in my total loss of control
3. leaving my only recourse as full dependence on Him
4. to then discover that it wasn't just about me, he was changing me for others too!
It is painful & humbling, yet exciting and full of mystery & discovery. God is showing me how important it is to trust Him, because He has never failed me, and to remember that he is working all these things together for my good! Praise be to the Lord God Almighty!
As I Keep My Eyes On Jesus the rest of this week...
"Oh! Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth and the Universe: Help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right; make me truthful, honest and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving and patient with my fellowmen - help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings-- even as Thou understandest mine! Amen, Amen, Amen."
--President Harry Truman
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Psalm 139
O Lord, you have examined my heart
And know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or when I stand up.
You know my every thought when far away.
You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest.
Every moment you know where I am.
You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.
You both precede me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to know!
I can never escape from your spirit!
I can never get away from your presence!
If I go up to heaven, you are there;
If I go down to the place of the dead, you are there.
If I ride on wings of the morning,
If I dwell by the farthest oceans,
Even there your hand will guide me,
And your strength will support me.
I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night,
But even in the darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines as bright as the day.
Darkness and light are both alike to you.
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb.
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous, and how well I know it.
You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God!
They are innumerable!
I can't even count them;
They outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up in the morning, you are still with me!
O God, if only you would destroy the wicked!
Get out of my life, you murderers!
They blaspheme you; your enemies take your name in vain.
O Lord, shouldn't I hate those who hate you?
Shouldn't I despise those who reject you?
Yes, I hate them with complete hatred, for your enemies are my enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Test me and know my thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you,
And lead me along the path of everlasting life.
--The New Living Translation of the Bible
And know everything about me.
You know when I sit down or when I stand up.
You know my every thought when far away.
You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest.
Every moment you know where I am.
You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.
You both precede me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to know!
I can never escape from your spirit!
I can never get away from your presence!
If I go up to heaven, you are there;
If I go down to the place of the dead, you are there.
If I ride on wings of the morning,
If I dwell by the farthest oceans,
Even there your hand will guide me,
And your strength will support me.
I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night,
But even in the darkness I cannot hide from you.
To you the night shines as bright as the day.
Darkness and light are both alike to you.
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb.
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous, and how well I know it.
You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God!
They are innumerable!
I can't even count them;
They outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up in the morning, you are still with me!
O God, if only you would destroy the wicked!
Get out of my life, you murderers!
They blaspheme you; your enemies take your name in vain.
O Lord, shouldn't I hate those who hate you?
Shouldn't I despise those who reject you?
Yes, I hate them with complete hatred, for your enemies are my enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Test me and know my thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you,
And lead me along the path of everlasting life.
--The New Living Translation of the Bible
Monday, March 14, 2005
If I rise on wings of the dawn...
Wow, it's been over a week since my last entry. Can you tell I've been busy?
This past week was really a blessing. A cousin of mine came to stay with us for the week. She is at a point in her life where she is desperately seeking to allow God to fully control her life, while the struggle to resist the flesh continues to rage. Sound familiar??? The flesh and all it's charms tries so hard to get me to resist the Truth. The cool part is that even though I may give in and entertain my old nature for even a moment, God is still there waiting for me to return to Him so he can shower me with his unconditional love!
Whether I keep my eyes on Jesus or glance away for a time, I simply can't escape His all knowing, all powerful presence in my life. I can't hide from him. He'll never leave me. He's always right there day or night, high or low, joy or sorrow. He knows my comings and goings, when I get up or sit down, when I wake up or go to sleep. He knows my innermost thoughts. He has his eyes on me continually. How awesome! How comforting!
"If I rise on wings of the dawn. If I settle on the far side of the sea. Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." Psalm 139: 8-10
This past week was really a blessing. A cousin of mine came to stay with us for the week. She is at a point in her life where she is desperately seeking to allow God to fully control her life, while the struggle to resist the flesh continues to rage. Sound familiar??? The flesh and all it's charms tries so hard to get me to resist the Truth. The cool part is that even though I may give in and entertain my old nature for even a moment, God is still there waiting for me to return to Him so he can shower me with his unconditional love!
Whether I keep my eyes on Jesus or glance away for a time, I simply can't escape His all knowing, all powerful presence in my life. I can't hide from him. He'll never leave me. He's always right there day or night, high or low, joy or sorrow. He knows my comings and goings, when I get up or sit down, when I wake up or go to sleep. He knows my innermost thoughts. He has his eyes on me continually. How awesome! How comforting!
"If I rise on wings of the dawn. If I settle on the far side of the sea. Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." Psalm 139: 8-10
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Unconditional Love
The last couple days have been pretty intense. So much so, that when I say my heart was aching, I mean just that. Today my heart literally hurt from the burden I've been carrying. As I left the house this afternoon for a heart to heart with a trusted friend, my husband hugged me good-bye as he said this to me: "Mindi, I love you so much! I am so lucky to have you as my wife." As I walked out the door to the van, I thought (almost scratching my head)... "Man, I don't get it. Does he really mean that?!?" I don't doubt him. Rather, I am astonished!
This evening, I have been reflecting on all the things that God is trying to work in me the last couple weeks. I feel very overwhelmed. I am even more perplexed my husband can say that he loves me so much and that HE is lucky to have ME as his wife. This makes me consider the fact that Jesus also loves me even more and far beyond the way my husband does-- unconditionally!
I feel so unworthy of both of their love. I know this is not where God wants me to stay-- feeling so unworthy. But for now, that is where he has me. The burden I have been carrying certainly feels lighter. But the pain, the aching in my heart, is a reminder that God is working, and that I can't go through this without his strength and his power. He is not yet done doing whatever it is he needs to do in my heart and in my life at this time.
So, dear Jesus, on with the open heart surgery! Search me, Oh God, and know my HEART today. Test me... show me my wickedness... cleanse me... and SET ME FREE! So that I can walk with you towards Heaven, keeping my eyes on you.
This evening, I have been reflecting on all the things that God is trying to work in me the last couple weeks. I feel very overwhelmed. I am even more perplexed my husband can say that he loves me so much and that HE is lucky to have ME as his wife. This makes me consider the fact that Jesus also loves me even more and far beyond the way my husband does-- unconditionally!
I feel so unworthy of both of their love. I know this is not where God wants me to stay-- feeling so unworthy. But for now, that is where he has me. The burden I have been carrying certainly feels lighter. But the pain, the aching in my heart, is a reminder that God is working, and that I can't go through this without his strength and his power. He is not yet done doing whatever it is he needs to do in my heart and in my life at this time.
So, dear Jesus, on with the open heart surgery! Search me, Oh God, and know my HEART today. Test me... show me my wickedness... cleanse me... and SET ME FREE! So that I can walk with you towards Heaven, keeping my eyes on you.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
"Love your wife... just like Christ loves The Church"
Yesterday, I came home from visiting my sisters. My kids all bowled me over with hugs and kisses, and squeals of joy, "MOMMY!!!" My husband grabbed me and hugged me and kissed me too. I couldn't let go. It was so great to be home!
At one point this past weekend my sister said something to me like this: It's funny how out of all the guys you dated that well, were not the best for you, you ended up with such a wonderful husband and a wonderful marriage. I can't remember her exact words, but that's the gist of it. I was kinda at a loss for words at that moment, I guess because I was so humbling to hear her analysis of my marriage.
As I thought about it on my drive home, all night last night, and most of today, I am very humbled. And very proud! We work hard out our marriage and it shows, even my sister sees it.
We have to work hard at it. But sometimes, it's not so hard... when we are both seeking to do God' will. Let me explain: I spent most of the day strugging with something that kept coming to my mind. I couldn't determine if it was God showing me an area in my life that I needed to deal with and I needed healed from.... OR if it was flesh causing me to doubt choices I have made or tempting me to turn and go the wrong way. Looking back, I think it was both. None the less, it was something that really was paining my heart. I didn't want to talk about it, not out of fear of what my husband would think/say, but out of my own brokenness. I didn't want to admit that God was trying to deal with something in my life that would certainly affect my marriage. I spent the whole drive home praying, begging God to show me what to do. I scanned the radio for over 2 hours praying God would speak to me through a song on the radio. I listened to the Bible on tape at a section where I felt called to listen. I listened to praise and worship music. I sat in silence. I prayed and then sat. Then prayed some more and then sat. Finally, I arrived home... still no answers.
As we went to bed late last night, I was dying inside. I could hear God telling me to tell my husband what was on my heart. But I literally couldn't open my mouth. So, I prayed, "Lord Jesus, please, if you want me tell him and that is the best thing to do in his situation, then please have him ask me what I am thinking." Wouldn't you know it... he asked within seconds of my prayer! It was not me, but Christ through me, that opened my mouth. Before I knew it, I asked him to turn the light on. God with his strength, helped me to pour out my heart to him.
My honey grabbed me and pulled me close to him. He held me tight and then asked, "What can WE do about it?" Then as he held me in his arms, he prayed allowed for me. He prayed for my heart, my mind, and God's direction. What happened next??? The burden, the pain, the feelings vanished!
My husband says he is always reminded of the challenge layed before him during our wedding ceremony: "You are to love Mindi, just like Christ loves The Church." He did just that. What a beautiful example of that! Just as my husband showed me that kind of love, that is exactly how our Heavenly Father loves us too. When our heart is full of pain, when we are broken, when we are full of thoughts that we in our own strength can't deal with, He is waiting to pull us close to Him, to hold us ever so close in His arms. The Holy Spirit prays for us on our behalf in line with the Will of God for our life. And our Heavenly Father lifts the burden, the pain, the hurt... it vanishes!
Thank you Michael, for loving me the way Jesus Christ loves The Church. Thank you for being my husband and the love of my life, as WE Keep Our Eyes On Jesus.
At one point this past weekend my sister said something to me like this: It's funny how out of all the guys you dated that well, were not the best for you, you ended up with such a wonderful husband and a wonderful marriage. I can't remember her exact words, but that's the gist of it. I was kinda at a loss for words at that moment, I guess because I was so humbling to hear her analysis of my marriage.
As I thought about it on my drive home, all night last night, and most of today, I am very humbled. And very proud! We work hard out our marriage and it shows, even my sister sees it.
We have to work hard at it. But sometimes, it's not so hard... when we are both seeking to do God' will. Let me explain: I spent most of the day strugging with something that kept coming to my mind. I couldn't determine if it was God showing me an area in my life that I needed to deal with and I needed healed from.... OR if it was flesh causing me to doubt choices I have made or tempting me to turn and go the wrong way. Looking back, I think it was both. None the less, it was something that really was paining my heart. I didn't want to talk about it, not out of fear of what my husband would think/say, but out of my own brokenness. I didn't want to admit that God was trying to deal with something in my life that would certainly affect my marriage. I spent the whole drive home praying, begging God to show me what to do. I scanned the radio for over 2 hours praying God would speak to me through a song on the radio. I listened to the Bible on tape at a section where I felt called to listen. I listened to praise and worship music. I sat in silence. I prayed and then sat. Then prayed some more and then sat. Finally, I arrived home... still no answers.
As we went to bed late last night, I was dying inside. I could hear God telling me to tell my husband what was on my heart. But I literally couldn't open my mouth. So, I prayed, "Lord Jesus, please, if you want me tell him and that is the best thing to do in his situation, then please have him ask me what I am thinking." Wouldn't you know it... he asked within seconds of my prayer! It was not me, but Christ through me, that opened my mouth. Before I knew it, I asked him to turn the light on. God with his strength, helped me to pour out my heart to him.
My honey grabbed me and pulled me close to him. He held me tight and then asked, "What can WE do about it?" Then as he held me in his arms, he prayed allowed for me. He prayed for my heart, my mind, and God's direction. What happened next??? The burden, the pain, the feelings vanished!
My husband says he is always reminded of the challenge layed before him during our wedding ceremony: "You are to love Mindi, just like Christ loves The Church." He did just that. What a beautiful example of that! Just as my husband showed me that kind of love, that is exactly how our Heavenly Father loves us too. When our heart is full of pain, when we are broken, when we are full of thoughts that we in our own strength can't deal with, He is waiting to pull us close to Him, to hold us ever so close in His arms. The Holy Spirit prays for us on our behalf in line with the Will of God for our life. And our Heavenly Father lifts the burden, the pain, the hurt... it vanishes!
Thank you Michael, for loving me the way Jesus Christ loves The Church. Thank you for being my husband and the love of my life, as WE Keep Our Eyes On Jesus.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
The Glory of God
Drove to see my sisters in Indiana this weekend. Had some window treatments to design and sew for one of them. The weekend has been really nice, & relaxing, even though the pressure is on to get 12 window treatments sewn before Monday morning! It's been fun to kinda get away from the responsibilities at home... left the kids with my husband for some daddy time. They all seem to be having a good time. The sun even peered through the bleak late winter days and they were able to enjoy some play time at their school's playground. They were playing baseball when I called to check in.
I was really excited to get on the road last night. I rented a car and it has a CD player that works!!! YAY! I took several CD's with me to listen to on the trip. But, I should've taken only two CD's. One of my favorites is a praise and worship CD by Vineyard Music. It's all sung in German. One of my favorite songs is "Komm, jetzt ist die Zeit" (Come, now is the time... to worship) It's so awesome! It's the first song on the CD and the first song I turned on for the trip. I spent the rest of the 3 hour trip singing at the top of my lungs praises to Jesus. It felt so good to sing again! Jesus and I had a blast! I kept saying, I will turn the music off after the next song... cause I also wanted to spend time praying while I drove. But, I just couldn't stop. It was such a powerful time giving thanks and praise to God for bringing me out of the pit of despair.
One of the songs that God has been replaying in my brain all day today is a really fun and gorgeous song by Sandi Patti titled, "The Heavens are Telling." It's based on Psalm 19:1 which says, "The heavens are telling the glory of God." So I decided to spend a few moments reading this Psalm this evening. This Psalm has three parts: 1.) Proclaiming God's glory and showing how the earth testifies to his greatness, 2.) shows how right, true and good the decrees of the Lord are, 3.) the psalmist concludes with recognizing his sinfulness and his prayer to the Lord.
God wanted me to see this Psalm today. As he has been working in my heart and in my mind this past week he has taken me on quite a journey... soul searching! Ugh! The verses that really spoke loudly to me were vs. 12 -14: "How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of sin. May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."
Today, many times, I was faced with opportunity to resist the flesh (my sinful nature), and yet did not. Other times, I wouldn't even realize that the flesh had taken over. These verses were especially powerful to me today, because my heart's desire it to continually walk in the Spirit and to allow the power of God to rule my life. Yet, sometimes the flesh wins the battle. BUT! In the end, the Holy Spirit wins the war! So, cleanse my heart oh Lord, find all the wicked ways in me, so that I can walk with you towards eternal life! "May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, {as I continue to Keep My Eyes On You}, my rock and my redeemer."
I was really excited to get on the road last night. I rented a car and it has a CD player that works!!! YAY! I took several CD's with me to listen to on the trip. But, I should've taken only two CD's. One of my favorites is a praise and worship CD by Vineyard Music. It's all sung in German. One of my favorite songs is "Komm, jetzt ist die Zeit" (Come, now is the time... to worship) It's so awesome! It's the first song on the CD and the first song I turned on for the trip. I spent the rest of the 3 hour trip singing at the top of my lungs praises to Jesus. It felt so good to sing again! Jesus and I had a blast! I kept saying, I will turn the music off after the next song... cause I also wanted to spend time praying while I drove. But, I just couldn't stop. It was such a powerful time giving thanks and praise to God for bringing me out of the pit of despair.
One of the songs that God has been replaying in my brain all day today is a really fun and gorgeous song by Sandi Patti titled, "The Heavens are Telling." It's based on Psalm 19:1 which says, "The heavens are telling the glory of God." So I decided to spend a few moments reading this Psalm this evening. This Psalm has three parts: 1.) Proclaiming God's glory and showing how the earth testifies to his greatness, 2.) shows how right, true and good the decrees of the Lord are, 3.) the psalmist concludes with recognizing his sinfulness and his prayer to the Lord.
God wanted me to see this Psalm today. As he has been working in my heart and in my mind this past week he has taken me on quite a journey... soul searching! Ugh! The verses that really spoke loudly to me were vs. 12 -14: "How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep me from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of sin. May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."
Today, many times, I was faced with opportunity to resist the flesh (my sinful nature), and yet did not. Other times, I wouldn't even realize that the flesh had taken over. These verses were especially powerful to me today, because my heart's desire it to continually walk in the Spirit and to allow the power of God to rule my life. Yet, sometimes the flesh wins the battle. BUT! In the end, the Holy Spirit wins the war! So, cleanse my heart oh Lord, find all the wicked ways in me, so that I can walk with you towards eternal life! "May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, {as I continue to Keep My Eyes On You}, my rock and my redeemer."
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Read Until
This past week, I have been reminded of a practice that I have known for some time, but never really grasped the full power of it until now. Evelyn Christenson, in her book, "Lord Change ME!" explains a simple concept called "Read Until." As I am reading through the scriptures daily, basically I "read until" I hear God speak. Then when I hear that still small whisper in my ear, I stop and ask God to show me what it is he wants me to understand. Then I listen in silence until I fully hear him. I pray and ask God to do that thing through me. I also like to write it down or underline it in my Bible as a reminder. This is yet another reason why I started this blog. I wanted to be able to write out what it is God is speaking to me about so that I can come back to it later, if necessary, and recall it. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go. I will guide you with my eye." Psalm 32:8
Today one thought the Lord brought to my mind over and over again, "Search me, oh God, and know my heart; test me, and know my thoughts; Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Psalm 139:23-24. In Romans 1 Paul talks about how the unbelievers were full of sin and totally under its power. (ie: wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, fighting, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip). The believers were astonished by this and remarked about what terrible people he had been talking about(vs. 2:1). He replies: "You are just as bad, and you have no excuse!" (2:1) The unbelievers excuse was that they were not followers of Jesus, and so they were fully given over to the flesh. They were walking just as they ought to for people who were walking in darkness. BUT, the believers were just as bad... and they had no excuse! They were no longer bound by the law. But they were still allowing the flesh to control their lives. And that is not acting at all the way they ought to.
I have been thinking about this passage all day as I desire to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh. What does that mean for me-- literally? Then, Jesus brought Psalm 139: 23-24 to my mind: Search me, OH GOD!, and know my heart. Test me, and point out all my sins, so that I can walk with you along the path towards Heaven. So I have been praying that God would search my heart and show me where I need to be released from the grip the flesh has on me.
One of the things He is showing me is to MAKE time to REST. By resting, that doesn't always mean sleeping... but just slowing down and relaxing a little in the midst of the humdrum of the day. This may seem funny, that not resting is an area of sin??? Well, yep. It is. I love to stay busy. I love to have my plate piled and overflowing with projects and things to do, people to see, places to go. But this usually means that I am giving in to the flesh to make myself look good to others and to win God's approval. AND it also means that I have no time left for quality time with my Father. So, yeah... this not resting is sin! Today, I actually took 3 rests spending time with God in prayer, scripture reading, etc... Yes, one of those rests were spent catching a quick cat nap. It was really refreshing to walk in the Spirit today as I went about my life and chores at home. Finding and then Choosing Rest is such a drink of cool water as I walk along this path towards eternal life. All the trials, troubles, and even the mundane things I have to do, become so easy... so light, as I Keep My Eyes on Jesus all day everyday.
Today one thought the Lord brought to my mind over and over again, "Search me, oh God, and know my heart; test me, and know my thoughts; Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Psalm 139:23-24. In Romans 1 Paul talks about how the unbelievers were full of sin and totally under its power. (ie: wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, fighting, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip). The believers were astonished by this and remarked about what terrible people he had been talking about(vs. 2:1). He replies: "You are just as bad, and you have no excuse!" (2:1) The unbelievers excuse was that they were not followers of Jesus, and so they were fully given over to the flesh. They were walking just as they ought to for people who were walking in darkness. BUT, the believers were just as bad... and they had no excuse! They were no longer bound by the law. But they were still allowing the flesh to control their lives. And that is not acting at all the way they ought to.
I have been thinking about this passage all day as I desire to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh. What does that mean for me-- literally? Then, Jesus brought Psalm 139: 23-24 to my mind: Search me, OH GOD!, and know my heart. Test me, and point out all my sins, so that I can walk with you along the path towards Heaven. So I have been praying that God would search my heart and show me where I need to be released from the grip the flesh has on me.
One of the things He is showing me is to MAKE time to REST. By resting, that doesn't always mean sleeping... but just slowing down and relaxing a little in the midst of the humdrum of the day. This may seem funny, that not resting is an area of sin??? Well, yep. It is. I love to stay busy. I love to have my plate piled and overflowing with projects and things to do, people to see, places to go. But this usually means that I am giving in to the flesh to make myself look good to others and to win God's approval. AND it also means that I have no time left for quality time with my Father. So, yeah... this not resting is sin! Today, I actually took 3 rests spending time with God in prayer, scripture reading, etc... Yes, one of those rests were spent catching a quick cat nap. It was really refreshing to walk in the Spirit today as I went about my life and chores at home. Finding and then Choosing Rest is such a drink of cool water as I walk along this path towards eternal life. All the trials, troubles, and even the mundane things I have to do, become so easy... so light, as I Keep My Eyes on Jesus all day everyday.
"The Author"
Got up this morning and checked my e-mails right away. Normally, I feel like I should wait and do that at another time in the day. Why rush right away to the computer? Well, I didn't sense that this morning. The only e-mail I had received was from the Presidential Prayer Team. I'll be honest, most days I scan it and delete it without reading hardly a word. But this morning, my eyes were drawn straight to the following quote. I saw nothing else on the page, just this:
"As we pray continually, even during times when God seems distant and prayer feels fruitless, we immerse ourselves in the benevolence, grace, forgiveness and love of God. Our attitudes toward life are modified accordingly. This doesn't mean that we become passive or weak. Living in harmony with the omnipotent God makes us stronger, just as seeing the world through the eyes of the omniscient God makes us wiser."
--Jimmy Carter
That's when it stuck me... God was guiding my mind and my eyes this morning, in ways that would grab my attention right away, to see how he writes words on people's heart and then speaks through those people to remind us of what he is doing in each of our lives. The more I continue on this journery towards living in the Spirit, the more I see God's hand. His timing is perfect. His instructions are always relevant. After all, "He is the AUTHOR of our faith."
"Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful." Romans 12:12 (NIV)
"As we pray continually, even during times when God seems distant and prayer feels fruitless, we immerse ourselves in the benevolence, grace, forgiveness and love of God. Our attitudes toward life are modified accordingly. This doesn't mean that we become passive or weak. Living in harmony with the omnipotent God makes us stronger, just as seeing the world through the eyes of the omniscient God makes us wiser."
--Jimmy Carter
That's when it stuck me... God was guiding my mind and my eyes this morning, in ways that would grab my attention right away, to see how he writes words on people's heart and then speaks through those people to remind us of what he is doing in each of our lives. The more I continue on this journery towards living in the Spirit, the more I see God's hand. His timing is perfect. His instructions are always relevant. After all, "He is the AUTHOR of our faith."
"Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful." Romans 12:12 (NIV)
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
EXTRA! EXTRA! This just in!
I just got a phone call from one of the little girls in our house church. She called to tell us that she decided she needed to tell us a secret that she had been keeping. She confessed that she had been secretly worshiping and praying to Jesus, and wanted us to know about it. No one was going to make that choice for her. She wanted to decide on her own. She concluded by saying, "I needed a god to worship, so I decided to choose the best one I could find!" Out of the mouth of babes! There is so much Truth in these statements. So many are seeking, so many are secretly looking when the Lord opens their eyes to the BEST choice out there-- Jesus! It can't be forced. No one can convice someone that He is the answer. Only the Holy Spirit has the power! Praise the Lord...another child is Keeping Her Eyes On Jesus!
"Lord, Change Me!"
I am currently reading a book by Evelyn Christenson titled, "Lord, Change Me!" Someone said, that if you don't want to change, then don't read this book! The Lord has used Evelyn and her public speaking ministry to reach thousands of women across the globe for Christ. I am finding this book to be perfect timing in my life and struggles as I break free from the chains of bondage that the flesh has had a hold of for so long. Transformation is never easy and it is always painful. But oh, so worth it.
Today in my LTG (Life Transformation Group... appropriate, huh?) we talked about how we were crucified with Christ, buried with Him, and rose again with him. What? Is this wacked theology? At first, I thought, huh??? But, then I remembered Romans 7 says we are crucified with Christ. That means we died to our flesh when Christ died on the cross. Then, when he rose from the grave, we came to life again too... we are a new creation. This I understood. No problems with that. BUT, the burial? How does that work out?
This is the coolest part... for a seed to grow into a plant and flourish... what must it do? It first has to be BURIED. It then rots away to nothing, then suddenly a plant begins to grow out of that mass of rot and decay and then eventually brings forth fruit. This will never happen if the seed does not get buried. It MUST go into the ground. The same thing stands for me as a follower of Jesus. I died with Christ. I was buried with Him... the flesh rots away and deteriorates. And then I rose with Christ. Behold! I am a new creation! In order for me to grow and bring forth fruit, the flesh has to be done away with, it HAS to be buried! Ah ha! I got it. It all made perfect sense, and wasn't as theologically bizarre as I at first thought.
As the day has gone on, I started thinking some more along this line. It reminds me of the "Parable of the Growing Seed" in Mark 4:26: "A farmer planted/buried seeds in his field. Then he went on with his other activities. As the days went by, the seeds sprouted and grew without the farmer's help, because the earth produces the crop on its own." The farmer in this story did nothing to make that seed grow... other than bury it. Once it was in the ground, he didn't water it or pay it any attention. Then, after a season it sprouted and grew. We hear this story related frequently to sharing our faith with others. You know, we plant the seed, and then pray to the Lord to bring forth fruit. We can't force someone to follow Jesus. It's only the Holy Spirit that opens their eyes when they are ready. While this is true, I think the meaning is even bigger than that. It doesn't just mean evangelism and conversions. I think it also something even more personal. I must first die to my flesh, bury those desires in the ground, and then wait for the Lord to grow me. It's not something I can force. I can't do it in my own strength. Since I am alive in Christ, HE does the growing and the crop producing!
Whew! That surely takes a load off of my shoulders. I will hear and understand the Truth and grow in it, ONLY when Christ reveals those things to me... as I continue on this quest of "Keeping My Eyes On Jesus."
Today in my LTG (Life Transformation Group... appropriate, huh?) we talked about how we were crucified with Christ, buried with Him, and rose again with him. What? Is this wacked theology? At first, I thought, huh??? But, then I remembered Romans 7 says we are crucified with Christ. That means we died to our flesh when Christ died on the cross. Then, when he rose from the grave, we came to life again too... we are a new creation. This I understood. No problems with that. BUT, the burial? How does that work out?
This is the coolest part... for a seed to grow into a plant and flourish... what must it do? It first has to be BURIED. It then rots away to nothing, then suddenly a plant begins to grow out of that mass of rot and decay and then eventually brings forth fruit. This will never happen if the seed does not get buried. It MUST go into the ground. The same thing stands for me as a follower of Jesus. I died with Christ. I was buried with Him... the flesh rots away and deteriorates. And then I rose with Christ. Behold! I am a new creation! In order for me to grow and bring forth fruit, the flesh has to be done away with, it HAS to be buried! Ah ha! I got it. It all made perfect sense, and wasn't as theologically bizarre as I at first thought.
As the day has gone on, I started thinking some more along this line. It reminds me of the "Parable of the Growing Seed" in Mark 4:26: "A farmer planted/buried seeds in his field. Then he went on with his other activities. As the days went by, the seeds sprouted and grew without the farmer's help, because the earth produces the crop on its own." The farmer in this story did nothing to make that seed grow... other than bury it. Once it was in the ground, he didn't water it or pay it any attention. Then, after a season it sprouted and grew. We hear this story related frequently to sharing our faith with others. You know, we plant the seed, and then pray to the Lord to bring forth fruit. We can't force someone to follow Jesus. It's only the Holy Spirit that opens their eyes when they are ready. While this is true, I think the meaning is even bigger than that. It doesn't just mean evangelism and conversions. I think it also something even more personal. I must first die to my flesh, bury those desires in the ground, and then wait for the Lord to grow me. It's not something I can force. I can't do it in my own strength. Since I am alive in Christ, HE does the growing and the crop producing!
Whew! That surely takes a load off of my shoulders. I will hear and understand the Truth and grow in it, ONLY when Christ reveals those things to me... as I continue on this quest of "Keeping My Eyes On Jesus."
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Monday, February 21, 2005
My first attempt at blogging
Well, here it is. My first blog entry.
I guess I should explain what led me to blogging. I am not good at journaling, handwriting that is. In fact, I find it painstaking. So, I thought maybe I would find it easier to spell out my thoughts by typing them. Each entry will probably be long, so...
Grab a cup of coffee! Here I go:
The past several months have been a whirlwind. God has been stirring my innermost being. In the last couple weeks, I have reached the boiling point-- that point where, like the prophet Elijah, I excliamed!-- "It is enough! Now take away my life!" I don't mean that literally. I mean that I am exassperated from allowing the Law (the Old Testament biblical set of rules) to run my life. Though I have been a follower of Jesus for many many years, and have understood that I am no longer bound to the old set of rules, I guess I didn't realize what that really meant. I always understood it to mean that I am now freed from making blood sacrifices, Jesus Christ paid that price when he died on the cross, so I no longer have to pay the price for my sins. I also knew that it meant that I no longer have to go to the High Priest to confess my sins. I can now go straight to God himself. The veil was torn in the temple and now I can go to the Holy of Holies myself. Freedom from The Law means freedom in Christ!
BUT! There is something that for so many years, I didn't see. Probably God knew I was not ready to really learn this nugget of Truth until now: "The law only applies to those still living!" (Romans 7:1) What? I'm alive, kicking, breathing. Pinch me! Maybe I'm dreaming. Then, I read on... "I am crucified with Christ. It's NOT ME that is living today. It's CHRIST living IN me." (Romans 7:4 & Galatians 2:19b & 20) This is HUGE! All the good stuff that I feel obligated to do for Christ, all the things that I am tempted to do that I know are sin, all the turmoil I have put myself through the last several months trying to "do" all the right things was NOT ME. It was the FLESH!-- the old self that died on the cross with Jesus. When I try to keep the Law, I discover that I can never earn God's approval. I fail miserably. I make a total fool of myself. If I try to attain the law, then I am guilty of saying that there was no need for Christ to die! WHOA!
Rather, I am FREE from the Law. I am now Living in the Spirit. (See, I'm alive!...whew!) But, what this means is that the the Holy Spirit lives in me. I am now controlled by Him. I am supposed to do only what He tells me to do. This is wonderful, freeing, relieving, and totally attainable! Now there is no condemnation, becuase I am united with Christ. The power of the life-giving Spirit has freed me through Jesus Christ from the power of sin that leads to death. Since the Law could not save me, God created a new plan to save me. He sent Jesus to destroy the control since had over me. He did this so that the requirements of the law would be FULLY ACCOMPLISHED for me, because I now follow the Spirit. I have no obligation whatsoever to do what my sinful nature urges me to do, even if it appears to be good. If I keep following my flesh, I will die! But if I through the power of the Holy Spirit turn from the flesh and it's evil deed, I will LIVE. (Romans 8:1-4 & 12-13). I can't do it in my own strength. I do it only through the strength of the God.
So as I look over the last months of my life, I begin to see that all the good things that I was doing and all the sinful things too, were done only because I was still allowing the Flesh to control me... and it led to death... physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual breakdown. Today, February 21, 2005, I am doing an about-face, resisting the Devil and running from the Flesh, while walking in the Spirit. I'm "Keeping my eyes on Jesus!"-- the author and perfector of my faith. (Hebrews 12:2)
I guess I should explain what led me to blogging. I am not good at journaling, handwriting that is. In fact, I find it painstaking. So, I thought maybe I would find it easier to spell out my thoughts by typing them. Each entry will probably be long, so...
Grab a cup of coffee! Here I go:
The past several months have been a whirlwind. God has been stirring my innermost being. In the last couple weeks, I have reached the boiling point-- that point where, like the prophet Elijah, I excliamed!-- "It is enough! Now take away my life!" I don't mean that literally. I mean that I am exassperated from allowing the Law (the Old Testament biblical set of rules) to run my life. Though I have been a follower of Jesus for many many years, and have understood that I am no longer bound to the old set of rules, I guess I didn't realize what that really meant. I always understood it to mean that I am now freed from making blood sacrifices, Jesus Christ paid that price when he died on the cross, so I no longer have to pay the price for my sins. I also knew that it meant that I no longer have to go to the High Priest to confess my sins. I can now go straight to God himself. The veil was torn in the temple and now I can go to the Holy of Holies myself. Freedom from The Law means freedom in Christ!
BUT! There is something that for so many years, I didn't see. Probably God knew I was not ready to really learn this nugget of Truth until now: "The law only applies to those still living!" (Romans 7:1) What? I'm alive, kicking, breathing. Pinch me! Maybe I'm dreaming. Then, I read on... "I am crucified with Christ. It's NOT ME that is living today. It's CHRIST living IN me." (Romans 7:4 & Galatians 2:19b & 20) This is HUGE! All the good stuff that I feel obligated to do for Christ, all the things that I am tempted to do that I know are sin, all the turmoil I have put myself through the last several months trying to "do" all the right things was NOT ME. It was the FLESH!-- the old self that died on the cross with Jesus. When I try to keep the Law, I discover that I can never earn God's approval. I fail miserably. I make a total fool of myself. If I try to attain the law, then I am guilty of saying that there was no need for Christ to die! WHOA!
Rather, I am FREE from the Law. I am now Living in the Spirit. (See, I'm alive!...whew!) But, what this means is that the the Holy Spirit lives in me. I am now controlled by Him. I am supposed to do only what He tells me to do. This is wonderful, freeing, relieving, and totally attainable! Now there is no condemnation, becuase I am united with Christ. The power of the life-giving Spirit has freed me through Jesus Christ from the power of sin that leads to death. Since the Law could not save me, God created a new plan to save me. He sent Jesus to destroy the control since had over me. He did this so that the requirements of the law would be FULLY ACCOMPLISHED for me, because I now follow the Spirit. I have no obligation whatsoever to do what my sinful nature urges me to do, even if it appears to be good. If I keep following my flesh, I will die! But if I through the power of the Holy Spirit turn from the flesh and it's evil deed, I will LIVE. (Romans 8:1-4 & 12-13). I can't do it in my own strength. I do it only through the strength of the God.
So as I look over the last months of my life, I begin to see that all the good things that I was doing and all the sinful things too, were done only because I was still allowing the Flesh to control me... and it led to death... physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual breakdown. Today, February 21, 2005, I am doing an about-face, resisting the Devil and running from the Flesh, while walking in the Spirit. I'm "Keeping my eyes on Jesus!"-- the author and perfector of my faith. (Hebrews 12:2)
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