I run for dear life to God, I'll never live to regret it.
Do what you do so well:
get me out of this mess and up on my feet.
Put your ear to the ground and listen,
give me space for salvation.
Be a guest room where I can retreat;
you said your door was always open!
You're my salvation—my vast, granite fortress.
Psalm 71:3 (The Message)
I’ve struggled for many years with a sense of “I can fix it” syndrome. When my life took turns and detours, my first thought is “I can fix it”. I’ve allowed myself to have this false sense of ability. To believe that if I was the one to mess it up, I was the one that was going to fix it. – I had to, it was my mistake.
Very early in my years I was involved in a relationship that took a wrong turn and ended up very badly. The other part of the relationship took a total nose-dive and not only went down the wrong road, but completely “derailed”. They made mistake after mistake, went though one disastrous relationship after another and all the while, I sat back and thought to myself “I can fix this”. Or “I should have fixed it”. I had moved on but their destructive actions haunted me because I played the “if I would have…” “if I hadn’t had…” card over and over again in my mind.
Fast forward several years- my life goes on but I still have this “I can fix it” mind-set. I continue to make mistakes, watch others around me that I love and care about make mistakes and my first impression is “I can fix it”. That’s always my first thought- what can I do to help? How can I help fix it? I’m not sure how to shut it off but… I am guilty of trying to hold onto it and fix it myself because my mind is telling me that I’m the one that made the mistake in the first place. I feel really guilty scooping up the entire heap of wrong rubble and handing it over to God to fix- it’s like handing a broken toy to a parent in hopes that they can make it right. By laying our mistakes at His feet and allowing Him to have it- He does more than fix the situation- He fixes US.
Friends- it is NOT our job to “fix it”. It is our job as Christians to pray, listen, support and bottom line- GIVE IT TO GOD to handle. If it’s a mistake that we’ve made or another that we’ve inflicted intentionally or even unintentionally- GIVE IT TO GOD. We can NOT undo the past. We are NOT saviors. There is only One Savior and He’s more than willing and capable of fixing it.
Something I heard recently that I really needed to hear and has helped me immensely is this: We all have made mistakes, hurt others, and been in situations and relationships that have been lethal at times. And whether it was our choice to be in them, we mistakenly got involved or even volunteered for the heartache, and it turned out to be one big huge mistake- we don’t have the ability to fix it. It’s our job to confess, repent and give it up to God. Regardless of what happened or who was hurt, if we give it to God to fix- He will make something good of it, regardless of how bad we made it to begin with. Let me say this, it is important that we take responsibility for our actions- I’m not suggesting that we shouldn’t say we’re sorry and apologize. Sometimes that can really help the situation down the healing path, and once we’ve done that- allow God to have it because only He can fix it perfectly. I can't fix it.
Father, I praise you that you are the Utlimate "Fixer"! You are and always have been the One person who has seen me through every mistake, every wrong turn, every wrong path and still You allow me to be within Your Mercy and Grace! Thank you for loving me through the mistakes, and for the knowledge that I have in You, that even when I fall- You will always be there to fix it if I give it all to You. Help me to always remember that. In Jesus Name.
Julie
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
New Years Resolutions or New Years Absolution?
This Devotion is solely to glorify God and to further His Kingdom and to Him do I give ALL the glory.
I chose this email address because it was on Nov 1978 that I invited Christ into my heart-and since that day He and I have had a lifetime of memories, some good and some not so good- but He's never left me- He's been in every second of every day. And everyday I face with Him. It is my prayer that these devotions touch your life and that you will forgive my human heart at times, but please know it's my desire for these words to bring you closer in your relationship with our Father.
Thank you for allowing me to share my heart with yours.
New Years Resolutions or New Years Absolution?
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" Hebrews 13:8
We talk so much about New Year's Resolutions. What we will do to make the next year better than the one before. How will we live differently than the year before. We make lists and promises to ourselves. I'm sure they are all made with good intentions, but let's be honest-how many do we actually follow through? I have had a few resolutions that I have actually followed through but even more that I've failed in seeing all the way to the end. This year instead of focusing on the resolutions I can make about the coming year, I want to focus on the absolution of the coming year. Let's see,... what do I know is absolute?
First, I am absolute in the fact that God's love for me never changes. He loves me when I succeed and when I fail. He loves me when I'm joyful and when I'm sad. When I'm loving and when I'm bitter. When I'm fake and when I am real. My attitude and reactions change, but His love for me never does.
I am absolute that His love is endless. His love stretches as far as the East is from the West. Which is a little hard for me to comprehend since I live in the "Midwest". I'm more central than one or the other-the distance is closer than if I lived on the West Coast and traveled all the way to the East Coast. His love spans that entire distance and as a matter of fact, His love covers the entire globe and then some. It has no boundaries, it is endless.
I am absolute that He is perfect. And because He's perfect, I'm sure I am not. It literally blows me away to think about how perfect He is. We recently had a beautiful snowfall and getting out of my car one evening, I could see the moon's light reflecting on the new snow and it had a sparkle to it as if it was laced with diamonds. And it was so perfect I had to just stand there and admire it for a minute or two until my cold toes reminded me where I was. But as I walked in the house I was reminded how perfect God makes things for us and how we- with man's own hand sometimes ruin them. Just like that beautiful snow, if it was left untouched, would have continued to be pure. But the foot prints of man (and snow plows) soon make it very unattractive. We do that with His plan for our lives when we don't allow His Will to work- He is perfect.
Finally, I am absolute that He is coming back for me. I believe that He is preparing a new home for me and it will be beyond my wildest imagination. I am absolute that by His blood I am saved, because of His sacrifice. And it is only by Grace and Mercy that I will live in eternity with Him and finally be free of all the superficial promises this earthly dwelling place is offering me now. How wonderful to live in the presence of my Lord and Savior forever, how ABSOLUTELY wonderful!
Julie
I chose this email address because it was on Nov 1978 that I invited Christ into my heart-and since that day He and I have had a lifetime of memories, some good and some not so good- but He's never left me- He's been in every second of every day. And everyday I face with Him. It is my prayer that these devotions touch your life and that you will forgive my human heart at times, but please know it's my desire for these words to bring you closer in your relationship with our Father.
Thank you for allowing me to share my heart with yours.
New Years Resolutions or New Years Absolution?
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" Hebrews 13:8
We talk so much about New Year's Resolutions. What we will do to make the next year better than the one before. How will we live differently than the year before. We make lists and promises to ourselves. I'm sure they are all made with good intentions, but let's be honest-how many do we actually follow through? I have had a few resolutions that I have actually followed through but even more that I've failed in seeing all the way to the end. This year instead of focusing on the resolutions I can make about the coming year, I want to focus on the absolution of the coming year. Let's see,... what do I know is absolute?
First, I am absolute in the fact that God's love for me never changes. He loves me when I succeed and when I fail. He loves me when I'm joyful and when I'm sad. When I'm loving and when I'm bitter. When I'm fake and when I am real. My attitude and reactions change, but His love for me never does.
I am absolute that His love is endless. His love stretches as far as the East is from the West. Which is a little hard for me to comprehend since I live in the "Midwest". I'm more central than one or the other-the distance is closer than if I lived on the West Coast and traveled all the way to the East Coast. His love spans that entire distance and as a matter of fact, His love covers the entire globe and then some. It has no boundaries, it is endless.
I am absolute that He is perfect. And because He's perfect, I'm sure I am not. It literally blows me away to think about how perfect He is. We recently had a beautiful snowfall and getting out of my car one evening, I could see the moon's light reflecting on the new snow and it had a sparkle to it as if it was laced with diamonds. And it was so perfect I had to just stand there and admire it for a minute or two until my cold toes reminded me where I was. But as I walked in the house I was reminded how perfect God makes things for us and how we- with man's own hand sometimes ruin them. Just like that beautiful snow, if it was left untouched, would have continued to be pure. But the foot prints of man (and snow plows) soon make it very unattractive. We do that with His plan for our lives when we don't allow His Will to work- He is perfect.
Finally, I am absolute that He is coming back for me. I believe that He is preparing a new home for me and it will be beyond my wildest imagination. I am absolute that by His blood I am saved, because of His sacrifice. And it is only by Grace and Mercy that I will live in eternity with Him and finally be free of all the superficial promises this earthly dwelling place is offering me now. How wonderful to live in the presence of my Lord and Savior forever, how ABSOLUTELY wonderful!
Julie
Are You Ready?
I had a dream. I was walking on a side road and came to where the road made a “T”. There was an empty field in front of me and I looked into the clouds. I could hear a very distant music that was more beautiful than I have ever heard in my entire life. Little by little the music became louder. I did not recognize the words or the music but it was mesmerizing.
Still staring at the sky, one angel appeared in the distance, and then there where three, and then 12 and they continued to multiply until the entire sky was consumed and they were all singing the same wonderful song. The music continued to get louder and the angles continued to multiply and draw closer. I knew in my heart that this was the Glorious Appearance and Jesus would soon appear surrounded by the angels. I could not take my eyes off that sky- I waited with the greatest anticipation I have ever felt.
Out of my peripheral vision, I could see to my left that the ground was shaking and opening up. I could see way down into the earths core and it was full of flames. I could see the flames and feel the heat. People I knew were gathering around the opening earth and one by one falling to this lake of fire. I knew them, but not their names- but I know I knew who they were and I was scared and sad.
All the while I refuse to take my eyes off the sky because at that time, I was aware this was a dream and I just wanted to stay asleep long enough to see Jesus’ face. I remember starting to wake up slowly and almost pleading to keep within the dream, but I woke up and I have NEVER forgotten what I experienced.
I don’t know when the Lord will take me home- none of us do. But I do know I want to be ready. I want to be prepared as much as I can be. I want my loved ones there with me. I remember feeling so sad because I knew the people who were perishing and I couldn’t do anything about it in the dream, but I can do something about it now that I’m awake.
We had a song that was sang at church camp called “I Wish We’d All Been Ready”- it’s about the second coming of Christ and how some will be taken and some will be left behind. The chorus says “There’s no time to change your mind, how could you have been so blind? The Father spoke, the demons dined, the Son as come and you’ve been left behind”. I’ve read books on the Rapture, I’ve watched movies about it and I’ve heard many a good sermon on the subject. Some might call this “scare tactics” and yes I admit, I hope I scare you and make you think about your salvation.
Friends, we are NOT promised tomorrow. There are NO guarantees. There will be NO second chances. God loves us and wishes for NONE of us to perish. But some will. It might be people you know personally that will go hell. Could it possibly be you? How sure are you about your salvation? How ready and prepared are you for that day? There will be no where to hide and there will be no excuses. Are you ready to stand in judgment before God?
If you’re not sure, please, please contact me and we will discuss it so you can be. There’s no greater subject to write about, there’s no greater subject to sing about, there’s no greater subject to talk about- it’s the subject of eternity. The next time you’re outside- look to the clouds, envision what it will look like to see angels and hear music, anticipate His face and ask yourself- Am I ready?
“If anyone’s name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown in the Lake of Fire”
Revelation 20:15
Julie
Authors Note:
God gave me this devotion last week- the next day I was thinking over it and sorting it out in my mind. I logged onto GodTube and the first video I came to was this below.
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=7e18e50b58eb7e0c6ccb
Still staring at the sky, one angel appeared in the distance, and then there where three, and then 12 and they continued to multiply until the entire sky was consumed and they were all singing the same wonderful song. The music continued to get louder and the angles continued to multiply and draw closer. I knew in my heart that this was the Glorious Appearance and Jesus would soon appear surrounded by the angels. I could not take my eyes off that sky- I waited with the greatest anticipation I have ever felt.
Out of my peripheral vision, I could see to my left that the ground was shaking and opening up. I could see way down into the earths core and it was full of flames. I could see the flames and feel the heat. People I knew were gathering around the opening earth and one by one falling to this lake of fire. I knew them, but not their names- but I know I knew who they were and I was scared and sad.
All the while I refuse to take my eyes off the sky because at that time, I was aware this was a dream and I just wanted to stay asleep long enough to see Jesus’ face. I remember starting to wake up slowly and almost pleading to keep within the dream, but I woke up and I have NEVER forgotten what I experienced.
I don’t know when the Lord will take me home- none of us do. But I do know I want to be ready. I want to be prepared as much as I can be. I want my loved ones there with me. I remember feeling so sad because I knew the people who were perishing and I couldn’t do anything about it in the dream, but I can do something about it now that I’m awake.
We had a song that was sang at church camp called “I Wish We’d All Been Ready”- it’s about the second coming of Christ and how some will be taken and some will be left behind. The chorus says “There’s no time to change your mind, how could you have been so blind? The Father spoke, the demons dined, the Son as come and you’ve been left behind”. I’ve read books on the Rapture, I’ve watched movies about it and I’ve heard many a good sermon on the subject. Some might call this “scare tactics” and yes I admit, I hope I scare you and make you think about your salvation.
Friends, we are NOT promised tomorrow. There are NO guarantees. There will be NO second chances. God loves us and wishes for NONE of us to perish. But some will. It might be people you know personally that will go hell. Could it possibly be you? How sure are you about your salvation? How ready and prepared are you for that day? There will be no where to hide and there will be no excuses. Are you ready to stand in judgment before God?
If you’re not sure, please, please contact me and we will discuss it so you can be. There’s no greater subject to write about, there’s no greater subject to sing about, there’s no greater subject to talk about- it’s the subject of eternity. The next time you’re outside- look to the clouds, envision what it will look like to see angels and hear music, anticipate His face and ask yourself- Am I ready?
“If anyone’s name was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown in the Lake of Fire”
Revelation 20:15
Julie
Authors Note:
God gave me this devotion last week- the next day I was thinking over it and sorting it out in my mind. I logged onto GodTube and the first video I came to was this below.
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=7e18e50b58eb7e0c6ccb
Pray for Each Other
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:10-12
I had a dear friend tell me this week that she prays for me every morning. I can not tell you how much it meant for me to know that she lifts my name to our Father at the very earliest hours of the day. I didn’t ask her to pray- but she prays for me. I didn’t mention that I had a prayer concern- but she prays for me.. I have not been ill- but she prays for me.
I have not stopped thinking about it since she told me and I will tell you this- my friend has had a very hard year. Her faith has been tested and her heart broken, but her love and devotion for God has grown tremendously through this trial. To think of her taking the time to say my name before God when I know she has so many things that she needs to talk to Him about is, well the most selfless thing she could do in my eyes.
How often do we have people approach us with prayer concerns? How often do we write prayer concerns down at church or in Sunday School? How often have you known of someone that was sick and needed prayers? How many times have you told someone you would pray for them and then forgot? I’m guilty of that. I’ve had the very best of intentions- but I’m human and I have forgotten at times. I’d like to believe that’s one of the reason’s God created the technology of Microsoft Outlook to keep my calendar updated and to throw a reminder at me when I need to do something. It works J-and yes it has been full of prayer requests at times just so I can remember.
It is SO important that we pray for each other- and not just when we’re asked to do it. We don’t know what’s going on in someone’s life. Maybe they aren’t comfortable sharing it verbally and it’s not important that they tell us because God knows their hearts. When we speak to friends and walk away thinking to ourselves “something just doesn’t seem right”- pray for them. When they mention in passing that they’ve been feeling under the weather or their spouse or child is ill- pray for them. People give us signals without directly coming out and asking for prayer so be alert- be ready to lift them up in prayer. Ask God to bless them in a way that only He is capable of. Ask God to make you sensitive to the needs of others- to use you as an instrument of prayer. We all can pray. To some it might seem like a small token but to God, it’s the time He cherishes with us most. When we come before Him and pour out our hearts to His, He can meet every need we can think of and more.
Julie
Romans 12:10-12
I had a dear friend tell me this week that she prays for me every morning. I can not tell you how much it meant for me to know that she lifts my name to our Father at the very earliest hours of the day. I didn’t ask her to pray- but she prays for me. I didn’t mention that I had a prayer concern- but she prays for me.. I have not been ill- but she prays for me.
I have not stopped thinking about it since she told me and I will tell you this- my friend has had a very hard year. Her faith has been tested and her heart broken, but her love and devotion for God has grown tremendously through this trial. To think of her taking the time to say my name before God when I know she has so many things that she needs to talk to Him about is, well the most selfless thing she could do in my eyes.
How often do we have people approach us with prayer concerns? How often do we write prayer concerns down at church or in Sunday School? How often have you known of someone that was sick and needed prayers? How many times have you told someone you would pray for them and then forgot? I’m guilty of that. I’ve had the very best of intentions- but I’m human and I have forgotten at times. I’d like to believe that’s one of the reason’s God created the technology of Microsoft Outlook to keep my calendar updated and to throw a reminder at me when I need to do something. It works J-and yes it has been full of prayer requests at times just so I can remember.
It is SO important that we pray for each other- and not just when we’re asked to do it. We don’t know what’s going on in someone’s life. Maybe they aren’t comfortable sharing it verbally and it’s not important that they tell us because God knows their hearts. When we speak to friends and walk away thinking to ourselves “something just doesn’t seem right”- pray for them. When they mention in passing that they’ve been feeling under the weather or their spouse or child is ill- pray for them. People give us signals without directly coming out and asking for prayer so be alert- be ready to lift them up in prayer. Ask God to bless them in a way that only He is capable of. Ask God to make you sensitive to the needs of others- to use you as an instrument of prayer. We all can pray. To some it might seem like a small token but to God, it’s the time He cherishes with us most. When we come before Him and pour out our hearts to His, He can meet every need we can think of and more.
Julie
Forgiving
Do you know what it feels like to not be forgiven for something or by someone? What does it feel like to tell someone how very sorry you are- only to be shut down and turned away? It stings. There's no getting around it- it hurts. As bad as you want to take away the pain you've caused, you just can't. You desperately want to sit that person down and tell them why it happened, maybe the circumstances surrounding it but they don't care to hear your pleading apologies. Maybe you've tried but they've responded with hateful words- words that cut you like a knife. Words you'll never forget.
We've all hurt people- we're human, we make mistakes and our parents tell us early on to "say you're sorry". Sometimes people forgive and sometimes they choose not to. That's really the bottom line- they have to choose to forgive. Choosing to say "I forgive you" is hard sometimes. I have known people who say they will never forgive- they say they can't- it's impossible. It's hard for me to hear people say they'll never forgive because I know what the Bible says about choosing not to forgive. And I'm going to tell you in case you don't know.
Matthew 6:14 & 15 says "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins".
I think that's pretty black and white, don't you? I know you might be thinking, "but you don't know what this person did…" Let's be clear- there is no "but "clause to Jesus' statement. He doesn't give a loop hole. There are no exceptions to this rule. Do you want to be forgiven?- sure, we all do. I'd love to be able to 'rewind time" and do a few things in my life over again- but I can't. One thing I've learned over time is I can't take my mistakes back but I have really learned from them. God has used my indiscretions to mold my character and just let me add- He's not even close to being done with me yet.
When I think of the forgiveness Christ has bestowed on me- I am so humbled. I am so thankful that the Bible says we are "new creatures" and "whiter than snow", that His love "keeps no records of wrong". Can you imagine being able to forgive like that? And what He went through to show us that forgiveness- that's another whole devotion!
When you know you've been wronged it's OK to be hurt- it's OK to be angry- but remember those are all parts of the cycle- forgiveness and acceptance should always be the last step in the grief process- without it our hearts become empty and hard. Sometimes I think we justify holding on to it so we can make the offender continue to suffer. But who does it really hurt more? - ourselves. As long as we're holding on to the hurt and pain- God can't heal us. The healing process can be so hard sometimes but don't you want to be forgiven for your mistakes? Can you remember the mistakes you've made that God paid for with His sinless life? He was perfect- and He forgives us. If He can forgive us- can't we forgive too?
The next time someone really hurts you and approaches you to ask forgiveness, see Jesus smiling face. Picture Him telling you how much He's forgiven you- how much He loves you. Forgiveness is liberating- it's empowering and it's free when we ask for and accept it. We will make mistakes- we will hurt people and be hurt- forgiveness is a bridge in the shape of a cross- the cross of Jesus.
Julie
We've all hurt people- we're human, we make mistakes and our parents tell us early on to "say you're sorry". Sometimes people forgive and sometimes they choose not to. That's really the bottom line- they have to choose to forgive. Choosing to say "I forgive you" is hard sometimes. I have known people who say they will never forgive- they say they can't- it's impossible. It's hard for me to hear people say they'll never forgive because I know what the Bible says about choosing not to forgive. And I'm going to tell you in case you don't know.
Matthew 6:14 & 15 says "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins".
I think that's pretty black and white, don't you? I know you might be thinking, "but you don't know what this person did…" Let's be clear- there is no "but "clause to Jesus' statement. He doesn't give a loop hole. There are no exceptions to this rule. Do you want to be forgiven?- sure, we all do. I'd love to be able to 'rewind time" and do a few things in my life over again- but I can't. One thing I've learned over time is I can't take my mistakes back but I have really learned from them. God has used my indiscretions to mold my character and just let me add- He's not even close to being done with me yet.
When I think of the forgiveness Christ has bestowed on me- I am so humbled. I am so thankful that the Bible says we are "new creatures" and "whiter than snow", that His love "keeps no records of wrong". Can you imagine being able to forgive like that? And what He went through to show us that forgiveness- that's another whole devotion!
When you know you've been wronged it's OK to be hurt- it's OK to be angry- but remember those are all parts of the cycle- forgiveness and acceptance should always be the last step in the grief process- without it our hearts become empty and hard. Sometimes I think we justify holding on to it so we can make the offender continue to suffer. But who does it really hurt more? - ourselves. As long as we're holding on to the hurt and pain- God can't heal us. The healing process can be so hard sometimes but don't you want to be forgiven for your mistakes? Can you remember the mistakes you've made that God paid for with His sinless life? He was perfect- and He forgives us. If He can forgive us- can't we forgive too?
The next time someone really hurts you and approaches you to ask forgiveness, see Jesus smiling face. Picture Him telling you how much He's forgiven you- how much He loves you. Forgiveness is liberating- it's empowering and it's free when we ask for and accept it. We will make mistakes- we will hurt people and be hurt- forgiveness is a bridge in the shape of a cross- the cross of Jesus.
Julie
Remodel or Rebuild
"The carpenter measures with a line and makes an outline with a marker;
he roughs it out with chisels and marks it with compasses.
He shapes it in the form of man, of man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine."
Isaiah 44:13
I've never understood why at times fast food establishments and other restaurants completely demolish established stores just to rebuild them at the same site. In my mind it would be better to just remodel than to rebuild-obviously construction is not my occupation.
I have remodeled a few structures in my life and even oversaw an office being constructed once. When I was younger, my family spent an entire summer tearing down the first house my parents lived in. I remember my dad taking a sledge hammer to the plaster walls. All the lathes, the dust, the debris- it was a MESS. We were tearing out the old and salvaging the frame work to build an addition onto our house. It was my brother and my job to pull the nails out of the boards and stack them to the side. When the summer ended, my dad doused the rubble with gasoline and the remains went up in smoke.
I have been told that in the choice to remodel or rebuild a structure, you must weigh all the factors- is the present structure sound? Does it just need cosmetic changes or does it need to be gutted and totally rebuilt from the floor up? And who determines what's salvageable or what's better to completely demolish? The answer to those questions is, someone who is an expert- someone who does have construction as an occupation.
How about our lives? Should we be remodeled or rebuilt? How firm is the foundation we are built on? How strong are the supports in our lives? Do you need a total overhaul or just a paint job? Will a little spackle do it or shall we bring in the bulldozer? And who should we allow to judge this task? God of course. He made us, He is the Master Builder our Earthly Creator. Who better to answer these questions? Isn't the One that made us in His own image the same One that should remodel and rebuild us?
My life has been like that old house my family demolished. Parts of it have been strong and are worth keeping and others... well let's say there are parts that have needed to have a match and gas can taken to them and God has done that at times in my life. There have been trials in my life that I could see coming and I corrected, made the right adjustments and got away with a little "cosmetic touch" and others that He brought in the wrecking ball to fix.
I believe that our God is Sovereign. That He knows what's best for us and wants that for us, even if it takes major renovations. I encourage you to look at the rooms in your physical house, ask God where it can be strengthened, where can it be fixed or even where it needs to be totally torn out and rebuilt. He knows us better than we know ourselves and He's ready to complete us.
Julie
he roughs it out with chisels and marks it with compasses.
He shapes it in the form of man, of man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine."
Isaiah 44:13
I've never understood why at times fast food establishments and other restaurants completely demolish established stores just to rebuild them at the same site. In my mind it would be better to just remodel than to rebuild-obviously construction is not my occupation.
I have remodeled a few structures in my life and even oversaw an office being constructed once. When I was younger, my family spent an entire summer tearing down the first house my parents lived in. I remember my dad taking a sledge hammer to the plaster walls. All the lathes, the dust, the debris- it was a MESS. We were tearing out the old and salvaging the frame work to build an addition onto our house. It was my brother and my job to pull the nails out of the boards and stack them to the side. When the summer ended, my dad doused the rubble with gasoline and the remains went up in smoke.
I have been told that in the choice to remodel or rebuild a structure, you must weigh all the factors- is the present structure sound? Does it just need cosmetic changes or does it need to be gutted and totally rebuilt from the floor up? And who determines what's salvageable or what's better to completely demolish? The answer to those questions is, someone who is an expert- someone who does have construction as an occupation.
How about our lives? Should we be remodeled or rebuilt? How firm is the foundation we are built on? How strong are the supports in our lives? Do you need a total overhaul or just a paint job? Will a little spackle do it or shall we bring in the bulldozer? And who should we allow to judge this task? God of course. He made us, He is the Master Builder our Earthly Creator. Who better to answer these questions? Isn't the One that made us in His own image the same One that should remodel and rebuild us?
My life has been like that old house my family demolished. Parts of it have been strong and are worth keeping and others... well let's say there are parts that have needed to have a match and gas can taken to them and God has done that at times in my life. There have been trials in my life that I could see coming and I corrected, made the right adjustments and got away with a little "cosmetic touch" and others that He brought in the wrecking ball to fix.
I believe that our God is Sovereign. That He knows what's best for us and wants that for us, even if it takes major renovations. I encourage you to look at the rooms in your physical house, ask God where it can be strengthened, where can it be fixed or even where it needs to be totally torn out and rebuilt. He knows us better than we know ourselves and He's ready to complete us.
Julie
Football and Faith
I’m pretty sure that Jesus didn’t have football like we do- at least not the full structured game. And I have to admit, I don’t watch sports like I use to in the past, but I do watch the Super Bowl (mostly for the commercials). And when I think about the concept of the game, the team work that’s involved, the discipline it takes and the strength and determination to fulfill the outcome- I can understand a little better how God works and expects us to interact with each other.
Bear with me here for just a minute, because I know Chase (my son) is reading this and saying “MOM, you don’t understand the first thing about football, and he’s right- I have never played the game, but the skeleton of the game I understand.
I understand that there is a draft at the beginning stage. That coaches select players according to their “abilities”. The Bible says that God chose us before we were born.
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb”
Psalm 139:13
I think that makes us extra special because God doesn’t wait to see if we “make the cut” before He decides if we’re good enough.- We’re good enough just because we belong to Him.
I understand there’s conditioning and strengthening exercises that football players endure. The Bible says we are to treat our body’s as temples and fully use them for His purpose.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;”
I Corinthians 6:19
I understand there are many different pieces to a football uniform. They are to protect the players from serious injury. The Bible says as Christians we are to:
“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Ephesians 6:11-17
I understand that there are a lot of different players that make up the team- each one has a job that is specific to their gifts and graces. Without one, they won’t play in harmony and to the best of their abilities. This is a lot like the body of Christ. The Bible says:
"For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly:if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness."
Romans 12: 4-8
I understand that victory comes to those that play the game successfully- As Christians, the Bible says:
"It's not that I have already reached this goal or have already become perfect. But I keep pursuing it, hoping somehow to embrace it just as I have been embraced by the Messiah Jesus."
Philippians 3:12
So, see- there are some similarity between football and being a Christian. And I may not have played football, but I like to think of Christ as my head coach. I know He cheers me on, prepares me for what’s coming- gives me the tools to be successful and never stops believing in my abilities. Thanks Coach!
Julie
Bear with me here for just a minute, because I know Chase (my son) is reading this and saying “MOM, you don’t understand the first thing about football, and he’s right- I have never played the game, but the skeleton of the game I understand.
I understand that there is a draft at the beginning stage. That coaches select players according to their “abilities”. The Bible says that God chose us before we were born.
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb”
Psalm 139:13
I think that makes us extra special because God doesn’t wait to see if we “make the cut” before He decides if we’re good enough.- We’re good enough just because we belong to Him.
I understand there’s conditioning and strengthening exercises that football players endure. The Bible says we are to treat our body’s as temples and fully use them for His purpose.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;”
I Corinthians 6:19
I understand there are many different pieces to a football uniform. They are to protect the players from serious injury. The Bible says as Christians we are to:
“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Ephesians 6:11-17
I understand that there are a lot of different players that make up the team- each one has a job that is specific to their gifts and graces. Without one, they won’t play in harmony and to the best of their abilities. This is a lot like the body of Christ. The Bible says:
"For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly:if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness."
Romans 12: 4-8
I understand that victory comes to those that play the game successfully- As Christians, the Bible says:
"It's not that I have already reached this goal or have already become perfect. But I keep pursuing it, hoping somehow to embrace it just as I have been embraced by the Messiah Jesus."
Philippians 3:12
So, see- there are some similarity between football and being a Christian. And I may not have played football, but I like to think of Christ as my head coach. I know He cheers me on, prepares me for what’s coming- gives me the tools to be successful and never stops believing in my abilities. Thanks Coach!
Julie
Oh Be Careful
As Christians, we must always be aware of our surroundings and the influences we have on others- fellow Christians as well as Non-Christians. We are held accountable for causing others to stumble. The Bible says:
”It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.
Luke 17:2
I am now a Grandmother- the mistakes I made as a mother, I do not plan on repeating with my grandchildren. I realized it’s impossible to be perfect but I have vowed to be a better influence and example for them.. I praise God that I feel I’ve been giving another chance to get it right. For those of us that are older and understand what I’m saying- go for it!- for those of you who are rearing small children, please listen to my warning. Everything you do and say is an influence to that child. They are walking-talking tape reorders and everything you do or don’t do correctly goes straight into their little memory banks. My children remember things that I don’t- I think I’ve mentally blocked some of my mistakes out- but even now, they remember.
One of my greatest passions is my grandchildren- God has blessed me with this “new moldable clay”. One of my grandson’s loves the song “Oh Be Careful” and as I think of those words, it should apply to adults as well as children.
“Oh be careful little eyes-what you see. Oh be careful little eyes what you see. For the Father up above, is looking down in love- so be careful little eyes what you see”
Then of course it goes to little ears, little tongue, little hands and little feet..
We sing that song and he points to each part and when we’re finished he claps and says “YEAH- I did it!”- when we look back on our lives, wouldn’t it great to be able to say “YEAH- I did it!”? I want my grandchildren to grow and see Jesus in my actions, my words and my heart. I want them to remember that I loved God above everything else. To accomplish that I need to be careful what my eyes see, my lips say, my ears hear, my hands do and where my feet go.
I can not express how gracious God has been with His Grace and Mercy in my life- the opportunity He has bestowed on me is so humbling, because I am so unworthy at times. But because He loves me and believes in me, I have the chance to help steer and guide the little people in my life down His path. I will make mistakes- you will make mistakes, but we can always be a positive example and even an example of forgiveness as well. Never miss the opportunity to teach, model and influence someone in a positive way- the benefits are out of this world!
Julie
”It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.
Luke 17:2
I am now a Grandmother- the mistakes I made as a mother, I do not plan on repeating with my grandchildren. I realized it’s impossible to be perfect but I have vowed to be a better influence and example for them.. I praise God that I feel I’ve been giving another chance to get it right. For those of us that are older and understand what I’m saying- go for it!- for those of you who are rearing small children, please listen to my warning. Everything you do and say is an influence to that child. They are walking-talking tape reorders and everything you do or don’t do correctly goes straight into their little memory banks. My children remember things that I don’t- I think I’ve mentally blocked some of my mistakes out- but even now, they remember.
One of my greatest passions is my grandchildren- God has blessed me with this “new moldable clay”. One of my grandson’s loves the song “Oh Be Careful” and as I think of those words, it should apply to adults as well as children.
“Oh be careful little eyes-what you see. Oh be careful little eyes what you see. For the Father up above, is looking down in love- so be careful little eyes what you see”
Then of course it goes to little ears, little tongue, little hands and little feet..
We sing that song and he points to each part and when we’re finished he claps and says “YEAH- I did it!”- when we look back on our lives, wouldn’t it great to be able to say “YEAH- I did it!”? I want my grandchildren to grow and see Jesus in my actions, my words and my heart. I want them to remember that I loved God above everything else. To accomplish that I need to be careful what my eyes see, my lips say, my ears hear, my hands do and where my feet go.
I can not express how gracious God has been with His Grace and Mercy in my life- the opportunity He has bestowed on me is so humbling, because I am so unworthy at times. But because He loves me and believes in me, I have the chance to help steer and guide the little people in my life down His path. I will make mistakes- you will make mistakes, but we can always be a positive example and even an example of forgiveness as well. Never miss the opportunity to teach, model and influence someone in a positive way- the benefits are out of this world!
Julie
Collateral Damage
According to the USAF Intelligence Targeting Guide, the term means:
“[the] unintentional damage or incidental damage affecting facilities, equipment, or personnel, occurring as a result of military actions directed against targeted enemy forces or facilities. Such damage can occur to friendly, neutral, and even enemy forces".
When I think of Collateral Damage on a non-military level, I think of mistakes or wrongs that not only have affected myself, but others around me- they’re like the “ripple effect” One mistake can have a major impact on the people around us. Sometimes I think we feel our mistakes will only have a repercussion for us-but many times that is not true.
I personally don’t like to live in the past- it’s too painful. I praise our God who is my Deliverer- deliverance from painful mistakes that have forever altered my life- mistakes that only He can totally forgive me from and only He can totally forget happened. This is a very hard truth that I have to come to understand for my life. As Christians we are to forgive each other – we’re commanded to, but we can never totally forget- it isn’t possible to totally erase that part. God gives us the ability to see past the hurt and most of the time I don’t remember it unless I pull it from the shelves of my memory library intentionally.
Collateral Damage- it can be unintentional and intentional. When it’s unintentional, is it any less severe or painless as when it’s intentional? Both cause scars- both do damage, both can alter relationships, destroy families and friendships. I have regretfully said things in anger that as soon as the words came out of my mouth, I wish I could snatch them right back. I can be SO quick tongued- that is not a welcomed attribute to my personality and that’s just a little something He’s still working on in me. I LOVE Proverbs, it has so many passages that speak to me:
“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment”
Proverbs 10: 19-21
Collateral Damage- it can affect others and our spiritual realms as well as our physical ones. The Bible is very firm on where we stand when we offend our brother spiritually..
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him; haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.”
Proverbs 6:16-19
Collateral Damage- to friendly, neutral or even our enemies. When we love someone and hurt them- wow- that really hurts us too. Love is such a tender emotion that has a wide sense of being. But what about when we don’t actually love someone and hurt them? Maybe we don’t even really like them but hurt them. Or what about the person you have in your life that you just wish you didn’t have - you know who I’m talking about… let’s be honest, we ALL have them.. When you do something to hurt them, do you enjoy it or do you regret it? Or let’s go one step farther still- our enemies. You might be saying “I don’t have anyone I really hate”…- do you? What about the little things we do, we might feel are innocent or come natural like “road rage” or maybe it’s a prejudice we have – someone of a different race, someone with a different social background, someone with a different religion…??? Just because we don’t actually say we “hate” someone doesn’t mean it can’t play out in our actions, after all, I’ve heard it said “Actions speak louder than words” and isn’t that so true!
As Christians, Collateral Damage should be kept to an absolute unintentional minimum. We should always be aware of our surroundings and who it could affect. When we have to correct- it should always be constructive and loving- never like dropping the bomb on Hiroshima. It shouldn’t be intentional or devastating. I know this will sound funny to some people but when I find myself at the point when I want to lash out and say something I know is going to be hurtful and wrong, a lot of people say “Count to 10”- I could count to 1000 and that wouldn’t work for me, so I sing. Yes SING- for some reason I find it difficult to sing and be angry at the same time. Try it sometime; it might just “defuse” you.
Julie
“[the] unintentional damage or incidental damage affecting facilities, equipment, or personnel, occurring as a result of military actions directed against targeted enemy forces or facilities. Such damage can occur to friendly, neutral, and even enemy forces".
When I think of Collateral Damage on a non-military level, I think of mistakes or wrongs that not only have affected myself, but others around me- they’re like the “ripple effect” One mistake can have a major impact on the people around us. Sometimes I think we feel our mistakes will only have a repercussion for us-but many times that is not true.
I personally don’t like to live in the past- it’s too painful. I praise our God who is my Deliverer- deliverance from painful mistakes that have forever altered my life- mistakes that only He can totally forgive me from and only He can totally forget happened. This is a very hard truth that I have to come to understand for my life. As Christians we are to forgive each other – we’re commanded to, but we can never totally forget- it isn’t possible to totally erase that part. God gives us the ability to see past the hurt and most of the time I don’t remember it unless I pull it from the shelves of my memory library intentionally.
Collateral Damage- it can be unintentional and intentional. When it’s unintentional, is it any less severe or painless as when it’s intentional? Both cause scars- both do damage, both can alter relationships, destroy families and friendships. I have regretfully said things in anger that as soon as the words came out of my mouth, I wish I could snatch them right back. I can be SO quick tongued- that is not a welcomed attribute to my personality and that’s just a little something He’s still working on in me. I LOVE Proverbs, it has so many passages that speak to me:
“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment”
Proverbs 10: 19-21
Collateral Damage- it can affect others and our spiritual realms as well as our physical ones. The Bible is very firm on where we stand when we offend our brother spiritually..
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him; haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.”
Proverbs 6:16-19
Collateral Damage- to friendly, neutral or even our enemies. When we love someone and hurt them- wow- that really hurts us too. Love is such a tender emotion that has a wide sense of being. But what about when we don’t actually love someone and hurt them? Maybe we don’t even really like them but hurt them. Or what about the person you have in your life that you just wish you didn’t have - you know who I’m talking about… let’s be honest, we ALL have them.. When you do something to hurt them, do you enjoy it or do you regret it? Or let’s go one step farther still- our enemies. You might be saying “I don’t have anyone I really hate”…- do you? What about the little things we do, we might feel are innocent or come natural like “road rage” or maybe it’s a prejudice we have – someone of a different race, someone with a different social background, someone with a different religion…??? Just because we don’t actually say we “hate” someone doesn’t mean it can’t play out in our actions, after all, I’ve heard it said “Actions speak louder than words” and isn’t that so true!
As Christians, Collateral Damage should be kept to an absolute unintentional minimum. We should always be aware of our surroundings and who it could affect. When we have to correct- it should always be constructive and loving- never like dropping the bomb on Hiroshima. It shouldn’t be intentional or devastating. I know this will sound funny to some people but when I find myself at the point when I want to lash out and say something I know is going to be hurtful and wrong, a lot of people say “Count to 10”- I could count to 1000 and that wouldn’t work for me, so I sing. Yes SING- for some reason I find it difficult to sing and be angry at the same time. Try it sometime; it might just “defuse” you.
Julie
Pedicures
I realize that I have a number of men that receive this devotion every week and yes, this is for you too. I LOVE to receive a pedicure. I don’t normally get them but in the summer when I wear sandals and I love them. There’s something about someone washing your feet that is SO relaxing. I think it’s the ultimate in pampering!
Pedicures take awhile to have done. It’s a process, but when they are done correctly, your feet will never be the same! The last time I was sitting in the chair soaking my feet, an older man came in, gray hair, bib overalls- he looked like he had just came in from feeding the livestock and behind him walked what I assumed was his wife. She like him was well on in her years and he lovingly and gently helped her into the big chair to start to soak her feet. As I watched him, I realized he was helping himself into the chair next too her. I remember thinking to myself “surely he’s not going to get a pedicure too”- Yep, he put his feet down in the warm bubbly water and together they enjoy a pedicure. Now, there’s a sight you don’t see everyday!
Did you know that Jesus gave pedicures?
“(4)so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (5)After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
(6)He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"
(7)Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
(8)"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
(9)"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"
(10)Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." 11For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.
(12)When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. (13)"You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. (14)Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. (15)I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. (16)I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. (17)Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
John 13: 4 -17
What I find incredible about this story are a couple things. First, I’m sure that the roads were very long, dirty and dusty- they walked everywhere. I can visualize the disciple’s feet as less attractive then I’m sure the reality was. Now, I’m not a huge fan of feet; I just don’t believe I’ve ever seen pair that are attractive. Even when they’re all softened and nails painted, they still leave something to be desired in my eyes. I can only imagine how dirty they were at that time in history. I’m sure that Jesus didn’t have all the fancy nail clippers, emery boards, fragrant bath oil and toe separators like they do at salons. But did that stop Him from kneeling and washing His disciple’s feet? Nope. And he had an entire table full of feet to wash- and He washed each one by one.
Secondly, I’m totally in awe of the example He gave us by washing the disciple’s feet. The Bible says He washed ALL of the disciple’s feet, not all but one- He washed ALL of them- He washed Judas’s feet too. The man he knew that within hours would betray Him into the hands of his enemies- He washed his feet. The man that He loved and had trusted as one of His chosen twelve- He knelt and washed his feet too.. Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t mind washing feet, mine or anyone else’s that I love and care about, but my enemies??? Someone that’s betrayed me??? Get on my knees and serve them??? What an example of pure, unconditional love. That is a picture I want to always keep in my mind. It’s a quality that I need to practice daily. Not on special occasions, not when I’m feeling generous, not when I have all the right thoughts- DAILY. How much better would the world be if we all would remember to serve our brothers and sisters, our family, our friends, our co-workers, and yes, even those that we find hard to deal with on a daily basis? Jesus was our example- He washes our feet every time we fail because He loves us. Whose feet can you/will you wash today?
Julie
Pedicures take awhile to have done. It’s a process, but when they are done correctly, your feet will never be the same! The last time I was sitting in the chair soaking my feet, an older man came in, gray hair, bib overalls- he looked like he had just came in from feeding the livestock and behind him walked what I assumed was his wife. She like him was well on in her years and he lovingly and gently helped her into the big chair to start to soak her feet. As I watched him, I realized he was helping himself into the chair next too her. I remember thinking to myself “surely he’s not going to get a pedicure too”- Yep, he put his feet down in the warm bubbly water and together they enjoy a pedicure. Now, there’s a sight you don’t see everyday!
Did you know that Jesus gave pedicures?
“(4)so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (5)After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
(6)He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"
(7)Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."
(8)"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."
(9)"Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"
(10)Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." 11For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.
(12)When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. (13)"You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. (14)Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. (15)I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. (16)I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. (17)Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
John 13: 4 -17
What I find incredible about this story are a couple things. First, I’m sure that the roads were very long, dirty and dusty- they walked everywhere. I can visualize the disciple’s feet as less attractive then I’m sure the reality was. Now, I’m not a huge fan of feet; I just don’t believe I’ve ever seen pair that are attractive. Even when they’re all softened and nails painted, they still leave something to be desired in my eyes. I can only imagine how dirty they were at that time in history. I’m sure that Jesus didn’t have all the fancy nail clippers, emery boards, fragrant bath oil and toe separators like they do at salons. But did that stop Him from kneeling and washing His disciple’s feet? Nope. And he had an entire table full of feet to wash- and He washed each one by one.
Secondly, I’m totally in awe of the example He gave us by washing the disciple’s feet. The Bible says He washed ALL of the disciple’s feet, not all but one- He washed ALL of them- He washed Judas’s feet too. The man he knew that within hours would betray Him into the hands of his enemies- He washed his feet. The man that He loved and had trusted as one of His chosen twelve- He knelt and washed his feet too.. Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t mind washing feet, mine or anyone else’s that I love and care about, but my enemies??? Someone that’s betrayed me??? Get on my knees and serve them??? What an example of pure, unconditional love. That is a picture I want to always keep in my mind. It’s a quality that I need to practice daily. Not on special occasions, not when I’m feeling generous, not when I have all the right thoughts- DAILY. How much better would the world be if we all would remember to serve our brothers and sisters, our family, our friends, our co-workers, and yes, even those that we find hard to deal with on a daily basis? Jesus was our example- He washes our feet every time we fail because He loves us. Whose feet can you/will you wash today?
Julie
Satan Spends-Jesus Saves
Have you ever heard someone say “Being a Christian means giving up too much”? When I hear this it stops me in my tracks. “Give up too much”? GIVE UP? Being a Christian is all about GETTING-not material possessions but eternal privileges. Let’s look at the facts:
Satan is a Spender. The Bible says he roams the earth looking for souls to mislead, to lie to, to devour. He takes and takes from us. He robs us of everything that is pure and holy. He’s spending our precious time when we’re too tired to get up and attend church on Sunday. He spends our self esteem when he makes us believe we’re unworthy. He spends our pride when we feel we’ve been cheated and we're wronged. He spends our money when we buy drugs or alcohol. He spends our attitude when we’re angry and bitter, when we refuse to forgive. He spends our peace when we have inner turmoil. He spends our patience's when we lash out and hurt those around us. He’s a SPENDER. He does not care about our money, our lives or our families – He’s a user and a fake! Have you ever tried to take something back to a store for a refund because you decided you didn’t like it, couldn’t use it or it didn’t meet your expectations only to have them tell you that you couldn’t have your money back, but you can have store credit? That’s what Satan does to our hearts when he tell us by following his way- we’ll be happy and content, but when we realize it’s not what we expected and ask to change it, he says “no, I won’t give it back to you, but you can pick out another sin and exchange it and by the way-since you realized what you were doing was wrong- I’m going to give you some guilt and shame as a bonus”.
Jesus is a Saver- He saves us. Jesus saves our lives everyday by giving us His Spirit to lead and guide us. He saves lives, our relationships, and mostly our hearts. And He’s saving the very best for last-Heaven. I like how The Message interprets 2 Thessalonians 2:9:
“The Anarchist's coming is all Satan's work. All his power and signs and miracles are fake, evil sleight of hand that plays to the gallery of those who hate the truth that could save them. And since they're so obsessed with evil, God rubs their noses in it—gives them what they want. Since they refuse to trust truth, they're banished to their chosen world of lies and illusions.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t take comfort in God rubbing sinner’s noses in their transgressions. But there will come a day when this whole drama on earth will unfold and God will return and there will be no more “I’m sorry”. All the people who feel like they’d be sacrificing too much to follow God, will stand before Him and answer because of it. If you’re someone that feels like you just don’t have the time, the strength or the inclination to be a Christian, let me assure you right now- the clock is ticking. The gifts we get from God are so precious and priceless I guarantee you will never want to exchange them or asking for your old life back- and better yet, His Grace and Mercy covers all the shame and guilt of that past so there’s no need to even look back. You don’t have to wait for a “sale” or a “blue-light special”- God’s always ready and waiting to give you the deal of a lifetime- or better yet, a deal for all eternity!
Julie
Satan is a Spender. The Bible says he roams the earth looking for souls to mislead, to lie to, to devour. He takes and takes from us. He robs us of everything that is pure and holy. He’s spending our precious time when we’re too tired to get up and attend church on Sunday. He spends our self esteem when he makes us believe we’re unworthy. He spends our pride when we feel we’ve been cheated and we're wronged. He spends our money when we buy drugs or alcohol. He spends our attitude when we’re angry and bitter, when we refuse to forgive. He spends our peace when we have inner turmoil. He spends our patience's when we lash out and hurt those around us. He’s a SPENDER. He does not care about our money, our lives or our families – He’s a user and a fake! Have you ever tried to take something back to a store for a refund because you decided you didn’t like it, couldn’t use it or it didn’t meet your expectations only to have them tell you that you couldn’t have your money back, but you can have store credit? That’s what Satan does to our hearts when he tell us by following his way- we’ll be happy and content, but when we realize it’s not what we expected and ask to change it, he says “no, I won’t give it back to you, but you can pick out another sin and exchange it and by the way-since you realized what you were doing was wrong- I’m going to give you some guilt and shame as a bonus”.
Jesus is a Saver- He saves us. Jesus saves our lives everyday by giving us His Spirit to lead and guide us. He saves lives, our relationships, and mostly our hearts. And He’s saving the very best for last-Heaven. I like how The Message interprets 2 Thessalonians 2:9:
“The Anarchist's coming is all Satan's work. All his power and signs and miracles are fake, evil sleight of hand that plays to the gallery of those who hate the truth that could save them. And since they're so obsessed with evil, God rubs their noses in it—gives them what they want. Since they refuse to trust truth, they're banished to their chosen world of lies and illusions.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t take comfort in God rubbing sinner’s noses in their transgressions. But there will come a day when this whole drama on earth will unfold and God will return and there will be no more “I’m sorry”. All the people who feel like they’d be sacrificing too much to follow God, will stand before Him and answer because of it. If you’re someone that feels like you just don’t have the time, the strength or the inclination to be a Christian, let me assure you right now- the clock is ticking. The gifts we get from God are so precious and priceless I guarantee you will never want to exchange them or asking for your old life back- and better yet, His Grace and Mercy covers all the shame and guilt of that past so there’s no need to even look back. You don’t have to wait for a “sale” or a “blue-light special”- God’s always ready and waiting to give you the deal of a lifetime- or better yet, a deal for all eternity!
Julie
His Time
Isaiah 40:31 (The Message)
27-31 "... God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And He knows everything, inside and out. He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts. For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind. "
I was honored to speak at a woman's breakfast this past week and it was the first time I had actually spoke "without a net" (without looking at my notes). And as I was criticizing myself, after the fact, one of the things I felt I did wrong was talk too fast. I'm used to writing, not speaking and my fingers work faster than my brain most of the time and now I know, I guess my tongue does too. How often do we get in a hurry about things that we should savor? I can think of a lot of ways we do that in our lives.
As humans, we tend to hurry. When I was 15 years old, I couldn't wait until I was old enough to be out of high school and on my own. I'll have to admit, being a wife and a mother wasn't in my immediate plans but I wanted to spread my wings and try things on my own. I can see from even farther back than 15 now, that God had a plan and was beginning to work it - but in His time.
Once I did get married and start a family, again- I was in a hurry. "I can't wait for my children to be out of diapers".. "I can't wait for my children to walk, run..." and so the cycle began. And sometimes, I don't' think I've still learned the lesson of waiting on the Lord- waiting for His time.
All those precious years slipped away in what seems now like an instant, forever in my memory, which my daughter so graciously told me a few days ago is now failing me too :) Why are we in such a hurry? I put my grandson down for a nap the other day and as I watched him sleeping so peacefully, I could have just laid there for hours just taking that moment in. His mother was laying on the other side of him and I teared up just thinking about how completely precious he is and seeing Paige there next to him brought back so many memories that I had in my haste, forgotten about until that moment. How blessed am I and how the years had somehow slipped away so quickly. Why was I in such a hurry? It's all about His time.
We get so caught up in everything our lives throw at us. We juggle so many responsibilities and duties everyday that it's so easy to just go through the motions without even giving it a second thought. And at the end of the day we drop, dead tired and then get up the next day and start the cycle all over again. The older I get the more I understand how important it is to wait on the Lord. How important it is to just sit sometimes and enjoy the silence-just sit and listen for His voice to speak to my heart. When I give Him that time, He does speak and how it has impacted me- I wouldn't even begin to have the vocabulary to explain!
Waiting isn't such a bad thing. And wouldn't it be better to just take the time to enjoy the little gifts of time He does give us? What if every time we had to wait on someone or something, we used that to just listen and think upon Him? What if every time we waited in a line at a market, or waited sitting in a Dr's office, we just silently had time to listen to Him? It's His time anyway. He gave it to us and He's using it all in accordance to His plan- His time.
What a blessing His time has been to me and I'm sure has been to you! Every second of every minute of every hour- what a true gift from Him!! So let the clock tick- let the tides come and go because ever second that goes by brings me closer to His plan- His time!
Julie
27-31 "... God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And He knows everything, inside and out. He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts. For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind. "
I was honored to speak at a woman's breakfast this past week and it was the first time I had actually spoke "without a net" (without looking at my notes). And as I was criticizing myself, after the fact, one of the things I felt I did wrong was talk too fast. I'm used to writing, not speaking and my fingers work faster than my brain most of the time and now I know, I guess my tongue does too. How often do we get in a hurry about things that we should savor? I can think of a lot of ways we do that in our lives.
As humans, we tend to hurry. When I was 15 years old, I couldn't wait until I was old enough to be out of high school and on my own. I'll have to admit, being a wife and a mother wasn't in my immediate plans but I wanted to spread my wings and try things on my own. I can see from even farther back than 15 now, that God had a plan and was beginning to work it - but in His time.
Once I did get married and start a family, again- I was in a hurry. "I can't wait for my children to be out of diapers".. "I can't wait for my children to walk, run..." and so the cycle began. And sometimes, I don't' think I've still learned the lesson of waiting on the Lord- waiting for His time.
All those precious years slipped away in what seems now like an instant, forever in my memory, which my daughter so graciously told me a few days ago is now failing me too :) Why are we in such a hurry? I put my grandson down for a nap the other day and as I watched him sleeping so peacefully, I could have just laid there for hours just taking that moment in. His mother was laying on the other side of him and I teared up just thinking about how completely precious he is and seeing Paige there next to him brought back so many memories that I had in my haste, forgotten about until that moment. How blessed am I and how the years had somehow slipped away so quickly. Why was I in such a hurry? It's all about His time.
We get so caught up in everything our lives throw at us. We juggle so many responsibilities and duties everyday that it's so easy to just go through the motions without even giving it a second thought. And at the end of the day we drop, dead tired and then get up the next day and start the cycle all over again. The older I get the more I understand how important it is to wait on the Lord. How important it is to just sit sometimes and enjoy the silence-just sit and listen for His voice to speak to my heart. When I give Him that time, He does speak and how it has impacted me- I wouldn't even begin to have the vocabulary to explain!
Waiting isn't such a bad thing. And wouldn't it be better to just take the time to enjoy the little gifts of time He does give us? What if every time we had to wait on someone or something, we used that to just listen and think upon Him? What if every time we waited in a line at a market, or waited sitting in a Dr's office, we just silently had time to listen to Him? It's His time anyway. He gave it to us and He's using it all in accordance to His plan- His time.
What a blessing His time has been to me and I'm sure has been to you! Every second of every minute of every hour- what a true gift from Him!! So let the clock tick- let the tides come and go because ever second that goes by brings me closer to His plan- His time!
Julie
…and now a word from my Sponsor
Have you every wondered what it would be like if Jesus did commercials? I mean, if every time we sat down and watched TV, there would be little pauses in the programs to give a Message? They might sound like:
“Want to know how to get to Heaven???- Well let me tell you about a new way to GUARANTEE your place in Salvation! By just simply surrendering your heart to the Lord- you, yes YOU- could know for sure you’ll be on the way to those pearly gates someday! No need to dial a number, or even use your credit card- just get down on your knees and repeat after me… Don’t wait another second- the Lord is standing by waiting to hear from you- Act Now!
Or…
“…(Loud alarm)… this is test, only a test. The sound you just heard was the brought to you by the Emergency “Eternity is Forever” Bureau- If this had been an actually emergency, it would have been followed by Gabriel and his boys playing their trumpets and singing as they appeared in the air. Remember, this is only a test… this time.”
Wouldn’t it be so cool to have Christian commercials? - advertizing all the perks of the future. Do you think it would make a difference if people were constantly reminded of what’s to come? Or do you think they’d still get up and walk away to the kitchen to get a snack? I would like to think they would pay attention but when I truly think about the past and see how our society has progressed up till now- I kind of sadly doubt it.
God sent his One and Only Son to earth to be the Ultimate Example - yet still some rejected him. He actually walked the earth, spoke auditable to people, touched them with His hands, knelt and prayed with them, performed miracles, rose from the dead and some still didn’t get it. I guess I shouldn’t be shocked that people today still don’t get it- even if they saw it on the TV on a regular basis. Some people sit in church every Sunday and still don’t get it.
We need to be reminded daily what He’s done for us and in our lives. We should praise him constantly just for being the Lord He is! We should wake up stating “Yes Lord” and go to sleep saying “Thank you Lord”. The next time you’re sitting and watching TV and a commercial comes on- instead of jumping up and leaving the room, try saying a small prayer of thanksgiving. Acknowledge Him- Praise Him- Worship Him. I’ve heard it said the more we acknowledge him with praise, the more likely He is to do an encore.
Exodus 15:2 (New International Version)
The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him.
Julie
“Want to know how to get to Heaven???- Well let me tell you about a new way to GUARANTEE your place in Salvation! By just simply surrendering your heart to the Lord- you, yes YOU- could know for sure you’ll be on the way to those pearly gates someday! No need to dial a number, or even use your credit card- just get down on your knees and repeat after me… Don’t wait another second- the Lord is standing by waiting to hear from you- Act Now!
Or…
“…(Loud alarm)… this is test, only a test. The sound you just heard was the brought to you by the Emergency “Eternity is Forever” Bureau- If this had been an actually emergency, it would have been followed by Gabriel and his boys playing their trumpets and singing as they appeared in the air. Remember, this is only a test… this time.”
Wouldn’t it be so cool to have Christian commercials? - advertizing all the perks of the future. Do you think it would make a difference if people were constantly reminded of what’s to come? Or do you think they’d still get up and walk away to the kitchen to get a snack? I would like to think they would pay attention but when I truly think about the past and see how our society has progressed up till now- I kind of sadly doubt it.
God sent his One and Only Son to earth to be the Ultimate Example - yet still some rejected him. He actually walked the earth, spoke auditable to people, touched them with His hands, knelt and prayed with them, performed miracles, rose from the dead and some still didn’t get it. I guess I shouldn’t be shocked that people today still don’t get it- even if they saw it on the TV on a regular basis. Some people sit in church every Sunday and still don’t get it.
We need to be reminded daily what He’s done for us and in our lives. We should praise him constantly just for being the Lord He is! We should wake up stating “Yes Lord” and go to sleep saying “Thank you Lord”. The next time you’re sitting and watching TV and a commercial comes on- instead of jumping up and leaving the room, try saying a small prayer of thanksgiving. Acknowledge Him- Praise Him- Worship Him. I’ve heard it said the more we acknowledge him with praise, the more likely He is to do an encore.
Exodus 15:2 (New International Version)
The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him.
Julie
Like It, Love It, Gotta Have It
Like It, Love It, Gotta Have It
My favorite ice cream store has three choices for serving sizes: “Like It”- “Love It” and “Gotta Have It”. I’ve always requested the “Like It” size because it’s more than enough for me. This quantity is perfect if you want just enough- and not too much.
The “Love It” size is significantly bigger- you can really tell the difference between the “Like It” and “Love It” and I’ve been tempted at times to try the “Love It” size but I’m just worried it would put me over the edge and I’d feel miserable afterward.
But I’ve witnessed other customers with their “Gotta Have It” mound of cool cream decadence. It literally flows over the sides of the containers it’s so huge. I can’t imagine finishing something of that magnitude without becoming physically sick- but I’ve witnessed it with my own eyes and the recipients seem to enjoy every bite.
My question to you today is – What size is your faith? Do you “like it”, “love it” or “gotta have it”?
Are you satisfied with “like it” faith? Do you just get enough to make you feel full and don’t worry about over indulging? Maybe you’re content to spend a couple Sunday’s a month at church or an evening or two reading a Christian book or magazine. Do you worry that if you show more interest that it will jump up and grab you and you might look like you’re enjoying it too much?
What about “love it” faith- who would that represent? Maybe someone that is devoted to being an active member of the body of Christ- maybe they teach Sunday School or sing on the Praise Team. They attend faithfully and live their faith outside the walls of the church and beyond Sunday mornings.
Or “gotta have it” faith- the kind of faith that oozes at the seams- that can’t be contained because you’re literally over flowing with joy and the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. You’re so contagious that people don’t have to hear you say a word, they know by your actions that you love Jesus and serve him with every breath.
What size is your faith? What size do you want your faith to be? The Bible says:
“(15)I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! (16)So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Revelation 3:15 & 16. (NIV)
We are to be on fire in our faith- live it every day- breath in His presence so in everything we do we reflect Him. We “gotta have it”! We can’t just “like it” or “love it”- we “gotta have it”! We have to overflow with our love for Him- the walls of the church should not contain us- we are to flow out to our neighbors or co-workers, our families, our friends, even our enemies. We are to reach the lost- don’t settle for “like it” or “love it”- over indulge this time and go for the “gotta have it”!
Julie
My favorite ice cream store has three choices for serving sizes: “Like It”- “Love It” and “Gotta Have It”. I’ve always requested the “Like It” size because it’s more than enough for me. This quantity is perfect if you want just enough- and not too much.
The “Love It” size is significantly bigger- you can really tell the difference between the “Like It” and “Love It” and I’ve been tempted at times to try the “Love It” size but I’m just worried it would put me over the edge and I’d feel miserable afterward.
But I’ve witnessed other customers with their “Gotta Have It” mound of cool cream decadence. It literally flows over the sides of the containers it’s so huge. I can’t imagine finishing something of that magnitude without becoming physically sick- but I’ve witnessed it with my own eyes and the recipients seem to enjoy every bite.
My question to you today is – What size is your faith? Do you “like it”, “love it” or “gotta have it”?
Are you satisfied with “like it” faith? Do you just get enough to make you feel full and don’t worry about over indulging? Maybe you’re content to spend a couple Sunday’s a month at church or an evening or two reading a Christian book or magazine. Do you worry that if you show more interest that it will jump up and grab you and you might look like you’re enjoying it too much?
What about “love it” faith- who would that represent? Maybe someone that is devoted to being an active member of the body of Christ- maybe they teach Sunday School or sing on the Praise Team. They attend faithfully and live their faith outside the walls of the church and beyond Sunday mornings.
Or “gotta have it” faith- the kind of faith that oozes at the seams- that can’t be contained because you’re literally over flowing with joy and the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. You’re so contagious that people don’t have to hear you say a word, they know by your actions that you love Jesus and serve him with every breath.
What size is your faith? What size do you want your faith to be? The Bible says:
“(15)I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! (16)So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Revelation 3:15 & 16. (NIV)
We are to be on fire in our faith- live it every day- breath in His presence so in everything we do we reflect Him. We “gotta have it”! We can’t just “like it” or “love it”- we “gotta have it”! We have to overflow with our love for Him- the walls of the church should not contain us- we are to flow out to our neighbors or co-workers, our families, our friends, even our enemies. We are to reach the lost- don’t settle for “like it” or “love it”- over indulge this time and go for the “gotta have it”!
Julie
His Passion
This entire week as been what we consider "Holy Week"- the week Jesus was crucified, buried and arose. It's the week that we celebrate our most precious of holidays as Christians-the week that Jesus forever changed our future.
I remember when Phil and I went to see The Passion for the first time- when we walked into the theater, a local church had put a basket of Kleenex at the entrance door and I knew then, I was in for a tear-jerker. If I remember correctly, I cried through almost what seemed the entire movie.
It seems the older I become the easier it is for me to separate reality from Hollywood- or at least what they would like to interpret as reality. I don't know if it's me aging or just being a little more discerning but I see a lot of movies and think they are so far fetched and disconnected from reality.. There's so much computer graphics and stunts that you know physically- some of what they do, well-that's just not possible.
As graphic as The Passion seemed- I believe in reality, it was probably a lot worse than Hollywood could even interpret. I was reared in church- I don't ever remember NOT being in church. Seems every time the church doors were open- we were there. So I've had a lifetime of mental images of what I interpret Jesus final days on earth to be like and though my own images were graphic at times, Hollywood gave me some new images that I had not realized- or maybe didn't want to realize-haunting images.
Personally-in my life, Jesus going through His final days for me is something I want to remember every single day I breathe, and actually even after I stop breathing. I believe because of that final week- my days of praising Him will not end when my life on this earth does. Because of this week, I will forever be able to remember His selfless act of love that will follow me well after I draw my last breath- I will be able to forever praise him for all eternity.
Sometimes being human means that we have limits to our thought process- we have boundaries - "comfort zones" that we stay within, sometimes just because we don't want to think "outside the box" and sometimes because we think it's too painful to think more about it. But the reality of this week is that if Jesus had not been betrayed, put on trial, beaten, crucified and arose- we would have NO future. There would be nothing and I do mean NOTHING for us to live for.
I have had bad things happen to me, or at least bad from a human perspective and I didn't know they were coming- I didn't expect it. Jesus knew what would happen to Him and He did it anyway.. He knew all along the coming pain and anguish. He knew every person that would betray Him- people he had held close to Him- friends- people He trusted as His chosen. Haven't we had and will continue to have people in our lives that have and will betray us? People that we have loved and trusted? How did Jesus react to those that forsakes Him? Did he "write them off"? NO- He forgave them. And most of those didn't even ask to be forgiven- they didn't even acknowledge they had done anything wrong- He forgave them because He loved them. He forgives us that way-unconditionally.
That concept is SO FAR BEYOND me sometimes. It's physically painful at times for me to forgive, I'll admit it. I don't like confrontation or to harbor ill-will towards people, even when I'm angry, but I have had to forgive people that have not asked me for forgiveness, people who didn't care that they had hurt me. We will have people like that in our lives- we just will, it's a very painful part of who we are, and we can't control at times the pain that is inflicted upon us, but we can and should control how we react to that pain and hurt.
When I think of the pain that I have caused Jesus just in my lifetime alone... I'm so ashamed, humbled and in awe of His Mercy and Grace. When it comes to mistakes- I feel I've made some really big ones. And if I'm going to be honest, I've made some really big ones and more than once! I can get caught up in a sea of self pity and selfishness that Satan has a field day with me. That's Satan's "forte"- he loves to show us our faults so we want to throw our hands in the air and say "I give up"- "being a Christian is just too hard"- "I'm never going to be what God wants me to be, I just can't"- THAT my friends, is a LIE! Satan is a liar and a thief- he scours the earth just waiting for a little sense of insecurity to set in and BAM!- he's on us like Tar Baby on Briar Rabbit. And he can be a hard character to shake once he's got his hands on you.
Because of this week- as Christians, we have the hope and promise of eternity with God our Father. Regardless of our past, regardless of our mistakes, regardless of our sin- that is His promise to us. God give us our salvation, it's a FREE gift. We do not earn it- we believe, confess and obey and it's FREE- no strings attached. Don't let Satan pull your stings!- there are NO strings! So don't let him tell you otherwise.
My friends, it is my desire that you will reflect on this past week and rejoice in all we have to look forward to as Christians. Remember that just like Jesus, the grave is not the end for us- it's the beginning!
(1)After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
(2)There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. (3)His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. (4)The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
(5)The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. (6)He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. (7)Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
(8)So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. (9)Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. (10)Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.."
Matthew 28: 1-10
Julie
I remember when Phil and I went to see The Passion for the first time- when we walked into the theater, a local church had put a basket of Kleenex at the entrance door and I knew then, I was in for a tear-jerker. If I remember correctly, I cried through almost what seemed the entire movie.
It seems the older I become the easier it is for me to separate reality from Hollywood- or at least what they would like to interpret as reality. I don't know if it's me aging or just being a little more discerning but I see a lot of movies and think they are so far fetched and disconnected from reality.. There's so much computer graphics and stunts that you know physically- some of what they do, well-that's just not possible.
As graphic as The Passion seemed- I believe in reality, it was probably a lot worse than Hollywood could even interpret. I was reared in church- I don't ever remember NOT being in church. Seems every time the church doors were open- we were there. So I've had a lifetime of mental images of what I interpret Jesus final days on earth to be like and though my own images were graphic at times, Hollywood gave me some new images that I had not realized- or maybe didn't want to realize-haunting images.
Personally-in my life, Jesus going through His final days for me is something I want to remember every single day I breathe, and actually even after I stop breathing. I believe because of that final week- my days of praising Him will not end when my life on this earth does. Because of this week, I will forever be able to remember His selfless act of love that will follow me well after I draw my last breath- I will be able to forever praise him for all eternity.
Sometimes being human means that we have limits to our thought process- we have boundaries - "comfort zones" that we stay within, sometimes just because we don't want to think "outside the box" and sometimes because we think it's too painful to think more about it. But the reality of this week is that if Jesus had not been betrayed, put on trial, beaten, crucified and arose- we would have NO future. There would be nothing and I do mean NOTHING for us to live for.
I have had bad things happen to me, or at least bad from a human perspective and I didn't know they were coming- I didn't expect it. Jesus knew what would happen to Him and He did it anyway.. He knew all along the coming pain and anguish. He knew every person that would betray Him- people he had held close to Him- friends- people He trusted as His chosen. Haven't we had and will continue to have people in our lives that have and will betray us? People that we have loved and trusted? How did Jesus react to those that forsakes Him? Did he "write them off"? NO- He forgave them. And most of those didn't even ask to be forgiven- they didn't even acknowledge they had done anything wrong- He forgave them because He loved them. He forgives us that way-unconditionally.
That concept is SO FAR BEYOND me sometimes. It's physically painful at times for me to forgive, I'll admit it. I don't like confrontation or to harbor ill-will towards people, even when I'm angry, but I have had to forgive people that have not asked me for forgiveness, people who didn't care that they had hurt me. We will have people like that in our lives- we just will, it's a very painful part of who we are, and we can't control at times the pain that is inflicted upon us, but we can and should control how we react to that pain and hurt.
When I think of the pain that I have caused Jesus just in my lifetime alone... I'm so ashamed, humbled and in awe of His Mercy and Grace. When it comes to mistakes- I feel I've made some really big ones. And if I'm going to be honest, I've made some really big ones and more than once! I can get caught up in a sea of self pity and selfishness that Satan has a field day with me. That's Satan's "forte"- he loves to show us our faults so we want to throw our hands in the air and say "I give up"- "being a Christian is just too hard"- "I'm never going to be what God wants me to be, I just can't"- THAT my friends, is a LIE! Satan is a liar and a thief- he scours the earth just waiting for a little sense of insecurity to set in and BAM!- he's on us like Tar Baby on Briar Rabbit. And he can be a hard character to shake once he's got his hands on you.
Because of this week- as Christians, we have the hope and promise of eternity with God our Father. Regardless of our past, regardless of our mistakes, regardless of our sin- that is His promise to us. God give us our salvation, it's a FREE gift. We do not earn it- we believe, confess and obey and it's FREE- no strings attached. Don't let Satan pull your stings!- there are NO strings! So don't let him tell you otherwise.
My friends, it is my desire that you will reflect on this past week and rejoice in all we have to look forward to as Christians. Remember that just like Jesus, the grave is not the end for us- it's the beginning!
(1)After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
(2)There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. (3)His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. (4)The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
(5)The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. (6)He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. (7)Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
(8)So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. (9)Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. (10)Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.."
Matthew 28: 1-10
Julie
Temptation
(1)Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. (2)After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. (3)The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread."
(4)Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'[a]"
(5)Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. (6)"If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'[b]"
(7)Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'[c]"
(8)Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. (9)"All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me."
(10)Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'[d]" 11Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Matthew 4:1-11
Have you ever thought you were being tempted beyond what you can endure? Have you ever promised God you would never repeat a sin only to fall right back into that same sin? Have you felt such a pull to sin that you told yourself “It’s ok”- or “I’ll repent and be forgiven...God understands”?
As the above scripture tells us He does understand but it doesn’t mean He fell for it and neither should we. Satan can be SO sneaky that I’ve actually done something and didn’t even realize I had sinned only to be hit in the face with it after the fact, and then had to live with the shame and seek repentance. I’m speaking of what some might consider a “small sin” like walking out of my office building with a company pen in my purse (and yes, my supervisor is on this distribution) or taking the sugar packets from a restaurant. You might feel those are harmless but are they?
I read a book last year by Beth Moore titled “Get Out of that Pit”. She addresses three ways we fall into sin (pits).
1. We accidently fall in
2. Someone can push us in
3. We can jump in.
I remember an illustration a preacher gave one year I was at church camp. He held up a large black “L” and said it represented the big lies (sin) we do. Then he held a smaller white “L” and said it represented our “little small white lie’s” (sins). But when he put the two, one on top of the other- they really were the same exact size, the black one just appeared larger.
Isn’t that so true of our sins? Sometimes what we feel is small or insignificant really isn’t in God’s eyes. Or something we do that’s accidentally turns out to be HUGE and hurts everyone around us. It becomes a mess so fast we don’t even know what hits us. Sin is Sin- Small or Big- Black or White- it’s SIN.
Satan is a master at making us believe we can justify our wrong actions. What are we to do when we’re faced with a sin? Let’s look again at how Jesus reacted.
He quoted Scripture
He stated the facts
He rebuked Satan
We are promised:
"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
I Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)
Another translation The Message puts it this way:
"No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it."
Isn’t that an awesome promise!?! When Satan lies to us- we can and should call on these scriptures and he (Satan) will flee from us. How empowering is that!?!
Maybe today you’re dealing with a temptation/sin that has a death grip on you. Maybe you’re feeling like there’s no way out. That you’re stuck and beyond hope. Please don’t believe that- Please don’t give Satan that power over you. If you’re so overwhelmed you don’t even know how to pray- write down the scriptures above and read them to yourself when you feel hopeless and defeated. Soak in His promises.
Jesus does understand sin because He was tempted. But by His example we can overcome sin and be free as He made us to be- Free in Him. Temptation will always be here- but it doesn’t have the last word- God does and He says “Flee from Me”!
Julie
(4)Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'[a]"
(5)Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. (6)"If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written: " 'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'[b]"
(7)Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'[c]"
(8)Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. (9)"All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me."
(10)Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'[d]" 11Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
Matthew 4:1-11
Have you ever thought you were being tempted beyond what you can endure? Have you ever promised God you would never repeat a sin only to fall right back into that same sin? Have you felt such a pull to sin that you told yourself “It’s ok”- or “I’ll repent and be forgiven...God understands”?
As the above scripture tells us He does understand but it doesn’t mean He fell for it and neither should we. Satan can be SO sneaky that I’ve actually done something and didn’t even realize I had sinned only to be hit in the face with it after the fact, and then had to live with the shame and seek repentance. I’m speaking of what some might consider a “small sin” like walking out of my office building with a company pen in my purse (and yes, my supervisor is on this distribution) or taking the sugar packets from a restaurant. You might feel those are harmless but are they?
I read a book last year by Beth Moore titled “Get Out of that Pit”. She addresses three ways we fall into sin (pits).
1. We accidently fall in
2. Someone can push us in
3. We can jump in.
I remember an illustration a preacher gave one year I was at church camp. He held up a large black “L” and said it represented the big lies (sin) we do. Then he held a smaller white “L” and said it represented our “little small white lie’s” (sins). But when he put the two, one on top of the other- they really were the same exact size, the black one just appeared larger.
Isn’t that so true of our sins? Sometimes what we feel is small or insignificant really isn’t in God’s eyes. Or something we do that’s accidentally turns out to be HUGE and hurts everyone around us. It becomes a mess so fast we don’t even know what hits us. Sin is Sin- Small or Big- Black or White- it’s SIN.
Satan is a master at making us believe we can justify our wrong actions. What are we to do when we’re faced with a sin? Let’s look again at how Jesus reacted.
He quoted Scripture
He stated the facts
He rebuked Satan
We are promised:
"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
I Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)
Another translation The Message puts it this way:
"No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it."
Isn’t that an awesome promise!?! When Satan lies to us- we can and should call on these scriptures and he (Satan) will flee from us. How empowering is that!?!
Maybe today you’re dealing with a temptation/sin that has a death grip on you. Maybe you’re feeling like there’s no way out. That you’re stuck and beyond hope. Please don’t believe that- Please don’t give Satan that power over you. If you’re so overwhelmed you don’t even know how to pray- write down the scriptures above and read them to yourself when you feel hopeless and defeated. Soak in His promises.
Jesus does understand sin because He was tempted. But by His example we can overcome sin and be free as He made us to be- Free in Him. Temptation will always be here- but it doesn’t have the last word- God does and He says “Flee from Me”!
Julie
Take the High Road
(1) A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (2) The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. (3) The eyes of the Lord are everywhere keeping watch on the wicked and the good. (4)The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”
Proverbs 15:1-4
As I read verse 3 of this text, I wondered to myself if we all would remember that-would our lives be different? If we remembered that everything we do or say is being watched and heard by the Lord Almighty, wouldn’t that or shouldn’t that change us? It should for me.
The other verses speak about our words and how we communicate with each other, how we “interact”. It talks about building up and tearing down. It talks about speaking the truth and untruths. Words like “gentle, wise and healing jump out at me. Those words remind me that as a Christian I am to “take the high road” because only Satan and his followers take the low road. Words that describe them are – harsh, folly and deceitful. What road am I on? What road are you on?
As I write this I am truly struggling with the answer to that question. I know what road I want to be on, but what road am I really on? I want to be on the high road. I want to give gentle answers, be filled with Christ’s wisdom and knowledge. I want my words to be healing. How many times have we allowed anger and resentment to crush our spirits only to leave us feeling empty and shallow? We might have the “last word”-but when the smoke clears-how does your heart feel? Mine has felt pretty low at times.
The next time you’re in a situation that you don’t feel you can control, and your anger builds and wants to lash out with strong and hurtful words, remember –we have a choice. We stand at a cross road every day and make a decision with our words and actions what road we will take.
The Bible says in Matt 7:13 & 14
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction andmanyenter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only afewfind it.”
Follow the right road-take the high road” and let’s walk together with Christ.
Father God, please help us to remember that we have choices everyday. Help us to remember that every decision that comes to us does not have to be made without your input. Lord may you guide our attitudes, our actions and our voices. Thank you for everything you have given to us but most of all for your love and forgiveness. In Jesus name-AMEN
Julie
Proverbs 15:1-4
As I read verse 3 of this text, I wondered to myself if we all would remember that-would our lives be different? If we remembered that everything we do or say is being watched and heard by the Lord Almighty, wouldn’t that or shouldn’t that change us? It should for me.
The other verses speak about our words and how we communicate with each other, how we “interact”. It talks about building up and tearing down. It talks about speaking the truth and untruths. Words like “gentle, wise and healing jump out at me. Those words remind me that as a Christian I am to “take the high road” because only Satan and his followers take the low road. Words that describe them are – harsh, folly and deceitful. What road am I on? What road are you on?
As I write this I am truly struggling with the answer to that question. I know what road I want to be on, but what road am I really on? I want to be on the high road. I want to give gentle answers, be filled with Christ’s wisdom and knowledge. I want my words to be healing. How many times have we allowed anger and resentment to crush our spirits only to leave us feeling empty and shallow? We might have the “last word”-but when the smoke clears-how does your heart feel? Mine has felt pretty low at times.
The next time you’re in a situation that you don’t feel you can control, and your anger builds and wants to lash out with strong and hurtful words, remember –we have a choice. We stand at a cross road every day and make a decision with our words and actions what road we will take.
The Bible says in Matt 7:13 & 14
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction andmanyenter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only afewfind it.”
Follow the right road-take the high road” and let’s walk together with Christ.
Father God, please help us to remember that we have choices everyday. Help us to remember that every decision that comes to us does not have to be made without your input. Lord may you guide our attitudes, our actions and our voices. Thank you for everything you have given to us but most of all for your love and forgiveness. In Jesus name-AMEN
Julie
Oh Our Tongues!
I had a situation arise this week and a dear friend of mine needed help – let’s just say – stating the facts “in love”. I’ve said before that I have a very quick tongue, much quicker than my brain and it made me stop and think long and hard about this challenge of mine. The Bible has a lot to say about this particular issue.
“You use your mouth for evil and harness your tongue to deceit”
Psalm 50:19
“You love every harmful word, O you deceitful tongue!”
Psalm 52:4
“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows.”
Psalm 64:3
I have always been a very firm believer that we can and should speak the truth constructively. It’s ok to speak up as long as we do it lovingly, but how do we do this? I’m speaking from personal experience here, but the first thing I do is saturate the situation in prayer. I have a very bad habit of flying off the handle and lashing out when I’ve been hurt or wrongful accused and I’ve had to eat my words on more than one occasion. It’s so easy to want to be heard- to only see it our way. There’s an old saying “walk a mile in other’s moccasins’, how true is this? If we want to be heard and understood, we have to also understand where the other person is coming from. We need to ask God to show us both sides, to be sensitive and understanding- this can be so hard to do.
Nothing is harder for me than to have someone right in my face letting it all out and me having to hold my tongue. The older I get the better I’ve become at holding it but it’s important when all you want to do is yell your side of the situation right back at them. Yelling, screaming, crying, being dramatic is something that for some people comes naturally. Not for all, but for some and those people sometimes just happen to be the ones I deal with in my life.
Something else that I’ve had to learn the hard way is to not say I’m sorry if I’m not. If I’m in the wrong and know it, that’s different, but I had a very wise woman once tell me “Right Thoughts follow Right Actions”- do the right thing and you’ll feel better about it later. And I believe this to be true. I spent the majority of my younger life saying “I’m sorry you feel that way”… was I really? - No, not always. So, I’ve learned not to say I’m sorry right off the get go.
We do so much talking that we fail to stop and listen. Jesus was such an example of love and tenderness. I’m sure during His years on earth He had to listen to some of the most bogus explanations of human nature. I still struggle with what I want to justify as “righteous anger”. I believe with all my heart that being a Christian does not mean being a ‘door mat”- but we are to love and speak in love and act in love. That is what separates us from the secular world. How we react reflects Christ in our lives. Our actions reflect who’s really in control. If we speak harshly and in anger, that does not reflect God’s Spirit in our hearts and minds.
Again, I am speaking from very personal experience. I have had to seek forgiveness on so many accounts of my tongue; I’m ashamed to admit it. But if my mistakes can help one person to stop and pray before they speak, then that’s one less word that cuts like a knife. It helps me be more accountable and it’s one less emotional scar and that makes the world a little better place to be in.
Please try and pray- give God control of your tongue and actions- you will find that you will see the situation differently and react differently and because of that- you will represent Him the way He intends for you too- Give Him control and let Him handle it. He’s “got your back”…now let Him have your tongue as well!
"Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure”
Psalm 16:9
Julie
“You use your mouth for evil and harness your tongue to deceit”
Psalm 50:19
“You love every harmful word, O you deceitful tongue!”
Psalm 52:4
“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows.”
Psalm 64:3
I have always been a very firm believer that we can and should speak the truth constructively. It’s ok to speak up as long as we do it lovingly, but how do we do this? I’m speaking from personal experience here, but the first thing I do is saturate the situation in prayer. I have a very bad habit of flying off the handle and lashing out when I’ve been hurt or wrongful accused and I’ve had to eat my words on more than one occasion. It’s so easy to want to be heard- to only see it our way. There’s an old saying “walk a mile in other’s moccasins’, how true is this? If we want to be heard and understood, we have to also understand where the other person is coming from. We need to ask God to show us both sides, to be sensitive and understanding- this can be so hard to do.
Nothing is harder for me than to have someone right in my face letting it all out and me having to hold my tongue. The older I get the better I’ve become at holding it but it’s important when all you want to do is yell your side of the situation right back at them. Yelling, screaming, crying, being dramatic is something that for some people comes naturally. Not for all, but for some and those people sometimes just happen to be the ones I deal with in my life.
Something else that I’ve had to learn the hard way is to not say I’m sorry if I’m not. If I’m in the wrong and know it, that’s different, but I had a very wise woman once tell me “Right Thoughts follow Right Actions”- do the right thing and you’ll feel better about it later. And I believe this to be true. I spent the majority of my younger life saying “I’m sorry you feel that way”… was I really? - No, not always. So, I’ve learned not to say I’m sorry right off the get go.
We do so much talking that we fail to stop and listen. Jesus was such an example of love and tenderness. I’m sure during His years on earth He had to listen to some of the most bogus explanations of human nature. I still struggle with what I want to justify as “righteous anger”. I believe with all my heart that being a Christian does not mean being a ‘door mat”- but we are to love and speak in love and act in love. That is what separates us from the secular world. How we react reflects Christ in our lives. Our actions reflect who’s really in control. If we speak harshly and in anger, that does not reflect God’s Spirit in our hearts and minds.
Again, I am speaking from very personal experience. I have had to seek forgiveness on so many accounts of my tongue; I’m ashamed to admit it. But if my mistakes can help one person to stop and pray before they speak, then that’s one less word that cuts like a knife. It helps me be more accountable and it’s one less emotional scar and that makes the world a little better place to be in.
Please try and pray- give God control of your tongue and actions- you will find that you will see the situation differently and react differently and because of that- you will represent Him the way He intends for you too- Give Him control and let Him handle it. He’s “got your back”…now let Him have your tongue as well!
"Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure”
Psalm 16:9
Julie
A Noble Woman
She fell in love at 16. It soon became obvious that this could be the man she would spend the rest of her life with. Yes, and at 18, fresh out of high school, they married and that was the beginning of their lives together...
They lived on love for the first few years of their lives as man and wife and soon became so excited to realize they would soon be parents. But fate stepped in and soon after the pregnancy began, it also ended. They held on to their love and another year passed and again, wonderful news of a new life that had begun. Nine months later, she delivered, but again the Lord spoke, it was not their time and He took their second child to heaven.
Devastated, broken and lonely, she cried many tears and questioned many things- but she loved her husband, and didn't loose hope that someday she would be a mother. A few years later, her prayers were answered and she gave birth to a very healthy baby girl and two years later- a son.
At 23 years old she gave her life totally to the Lord and has never looked back...
Let me tell you about this incredible woman. She reared these two children to love and serve the Lord with all their hearts. Though not perfect, she was always an example of unconditional love. These two children never went without. Never went to bed dirty or hungry. They were always supported physically as well as mentally. The children both grew and started lives of their own and still she was there to lead and advise.
Besides the challenges she faced to become a mother early in her life, many years ago she was also diagnoses with breast cancer but she never lost her faith or the love for her God. The Lord was merciful and she was completely cured and continues to love and serve Him daily. She has been a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend to everyone who knows her.
Of course I'm speaking of my mother. My wonderful mother who I love with all my heart. Who has taught me so much about the woman I wish to become. Who has loved me through the good and the bad. Who has taught me so much about the Lord and His grace and mercy. I wish to honor her today and everyday and I am so grateful to God for allowing her to be MY mother.
If you've blessed today to have your mother in your life- praise God! It is my prayer that everyone would have a mother like mine. I know the one determining factor that makes her the best is her love and devotion to God. Thank you mom for loving me enough to teach me about Him. Thank you for the discipline, for the love and for the example.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31: 28 & 29
Happy Mothers Day- I Love You Mom!
Julie
They lived on love for the first few years of their lives as man and wife and soon became so excited to realize they would soon be parents. But fate stepped in and soon after the pregnancy began, it also ended. They held on to their love and another year passed and again, wonderful news of a new life that had begun. Nine months later, she delivered, but again the Lord spoke, it was not their time and He took their second child to heaven.
Devastated, broken and lonely, she cried many tears and questioned many things- but she loved her husband, and didn't loose hope that someday she would be a mother. A few years later, her prayers were answered and she gave birth to a very healthy baby girl and two years later- a son.
At 23 years old she gave her life totally to the Lord and has never looked back...
Let me tell you about this incredible woman. She reared these two children to love and serve the Lord with all their hearts. Though not perfect, she was always an example of unconditional love. These two children never went without. Never went to bed dirty or hungry. They were always supported physically as well as mentally. The children both grew and started lives of their own and still she was there to lead and advise.
Besides the challenges she faced to become a mother early in her life, many years ago she was also diagnoses with breast cancer but she never lost her faith or the love for her God. The Lord was merciful and she was completely cured and continues to love and serve Him daily. She has been a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend to everyone who knows her.
Of course I'm speaking of my mother. My wonderful mother who I love with all my heart. Who has taught me so much about the woman I wish to become. Who has loved me through the good and the bad. Who has taught me so much about the Lord and His grace and mercy. I wish to honor her today and everyday and I am so grateful to God for allowing her to be MY mother.
If you've blessed today to have your mother in your life- praise God! It is my prayer that everyone would have a mother like mine. I know the one determining factor that makes her the best is her love and devotion to God. Thank you mom for loving me enough to teach me about Him. Thank you for the discipline, for the love and for the example.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31: 28 & 29
Happy Mothers Day- I Love You Mom!
Julie
Rolling Thunder
1 Samuel 12:16-18 (The Message)
16-17 "Pay attention! Watch this wonder that God is going to perform before you now! It's summer, as you well know, and the rainy season is over. But I'm going to pray to God. He'll send thunder and rain, a sign to convince you of the great wrong you have done to God by asking for a king."
18 Samuel prayed to God, and God sent thunder and rain that same day. The people were greatly afraid and in awe of God and of Samuel.
When I was a little girl, my dad would let me stand outside under protection of the porch and watch a storm when it came. For some reason, being able to see the rain, wind and thunder made me less afraid. Even now when it storms, I want to be outside. Last night as I arrived home I could see a storm coming. The clouds were thick and dark just in the distance. You could smell the rain approaching. So I sat on my front porch and waited.
The thunder of a storm always makes me very anxious. Waiting for the pop and crack, not knowing when it would hit is always the highlight of a storm for me. But last night there was no popping or cracking of thunder. It was a thunder I have never remembered hearing before, but I believe it’s what they call “rolling thunder”. The thunder just steadily continued, almost with no end. In a way it was almost soothing, unlike the thunder that I had experienced.
I’m a little unsure on how to explain this but I’m in a way, a person that enjoys living on the edge just a bit. I’ve been known to cross the line, go too far, over step the boundaries. I bet, in my youth I was what some call a “strong-willed” child. I’m a thrill seeker. I love things like roller coasters, fast cars and thunder and lighting. But putting myself at risk means putting myself in danger. I do not believe I am invincible. But something in me enjoys being scared just a little bit.
When we live on the edge, play with fire or just get to close to danger- we’re going to get hurt or hurt someone else. Danger can be subtle like this rolling thunder. We can feel that’s it’s fine and we’re not at risk but about the time we entertain that thought- we get hit by lightening or burnt by the fire- self inflicted mind you. And it’s almost a jolt that brings you back to reality and you think to yourself- why did I do that? That was really stupid. Been there- done that.
As I sat and listened to that rolling thunder last night, I pondered the thoughts above. Why does it take me getting struck by lightening to get my attention some times? Why is there such a thrill to hear the thunder? I don’t know the answer to these questions but I do know that when I allow myself to be open to the Holy Spirit and it’s leading in my life, I’m more apt to play it safe. I really don’t like to be hurt or hurt others. I love to live life to it’s fullest, but that doesn’t mean I have to be scared or thrilled to enjoy it.
I know I will continue to watch storms because it’s a sense of comfort and security. But just like the thunder that follows lightening, I will watch for signs of danger. I will use the scriptures and the Holy Spirit to protect me from allowing myself to get too close. I will thank God for the storms because they have and will continue to teach me so much, but I be more guarded about putting myself out there in harms way.. Life’s full enough of challenges and trials for me to go looking for trouble on my own.
Thank you for allowing me to be a little more transparent- I pray that it will help you and encourage you to remember to always seek God’s protection and provision!
Julie
16-17 "Pay attention! Watch this wonder that God is going to perform before you now! It's summer, as you well know, and the rainy season is over. But I'm going to pray to God. He'll send thunder and rain, a sign to convince you of the great wrong you have done to God by asking for a king."
18 Samuel prayed to God, and God sent thunder and rain that same day. The people were greatly afraid and in awe of God and of Samuel.
When I was a little girl, my dad would let me stand outside under protection of the porch and watch a storm when it came. For some reason, being able to see the rain, wind and thunder made me less afraid. Even now when it storms, I want to be outside. Last night as I arrived home I could see a storm coming. The clouds were thick and dark just in the distance. You could smell the rain approaching. So I sat on my front porch and waited.
The thunder of a storm always makes me very anxious. Waiting for the pop and crack, not knowing when it would hit is always the highlight of a storm for me. But last night there was no popping or cracking of thunder. It was a thunder I have never remembered hearing before, but I believe it’s what they call “rolling thunder”. The thunder just steadily continued, almost with no end. In a way it was almost soothing, unlike the thunder that I had experienced.
I’m a little unsure on how to explain this but I’m in a way, a person that enjoys living on the edge just a bit. I’ve been known to cross the line, go too far, over step the boundaries. I bet, in my youth I was what some call a “strong-willed” child. I’m a thrill seeker. I love things like roller coasters, fast cars and thunder and lighting. But putting myself at risk means putting myself in danger. I do not believe I am invincible. But something in me enjoys being scared just a little bit.
When we live on the edge, play with fire or just get to close to danger- we’re going to get hurt or hurt someone else. Danger can be subtle like this rolling thunder. We can feel that’s it’s fine and we’re not at risk but about the time we entertain that thought- we get hit by lightening or burnt by the fire- self inflicted mind you. And it’s almost a jolt that brings you back to reality and you think to yourself- why did I do that? That was really stupid. Been there- done that.
As I sat and listened to that rolling thunder last night, I pondered the thoughts above. Why does it take me getting struck by lightening to get my attention some times? Why is there such a thrill to hear the thunder? I don’t know the answer to these questions but I do know that when I allow myself to be open to the Holy Spirit and it’s leading in my life, I’m more apt to play it safe. I really don’t like to be hurt or hurt others. I love to live life to it’s fullest, but that doesn’t mean I have to be scared or thrilled to enjoy it.
I know I will continue to watch storms because it’s a sense of comfort and security. But just like the thunder that follows lightening, I will watch for signs of danger. I will use the scriptures and the Holy Spirit to protect me from allowing myself to get too close. I will thank God for the storms because they have and will continue to teach me so much, but I be more guarded about putting myself out there in harms way.. Life’s full enough of challenges and trials for me to go looking for trouble on my own.
Thank you for allowing me to be a little more transparent- I pray that it will help you and encourage you to remember to always seek God’s protection and provision!
Julie
A Time For Everything
A Time for Everything
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-3
Spring always helps me reflect on the newness of life. It reminds me of new beginnings, of things starting fresh. Spring to me is a time of renewal. It’s a time of year that I look back and think about maybe some mistakes I’ve made and ask myself, what I can do to make things better going forward.
It also reminds me that I have in the past, had a tendency, when I make mistakes; to hide them or ignore them like they didn’t happen. Like I’m the only person who saw it or witnessed it, so I can bury them in the dirt where no one will see. But we know that spring brings warmer weather, a lot of rain, sometimes strong winds.
Have you ever planted a spring garden too early and the wind and rain of spring washes the seeds to the surface and exposed them to the whole world? Sometimes that’s the way our sins are. We think we can hide them just beneath a thin layer of soil and no one will know, but God comes along and gives us a little of His wind and rain, and we’re totally exposed to the world. There’s no hiding it after that. It’s embarrassing, it’s awkward, but most of all for me, it’s convicting.
He doesn’t expose us for his entertainment. He exposes us for our humility. It’s His way of saying to us, “You can’t slip that little secret under the rug and not think I’m not going to see it”.
I do garden some and I’ve found that some seeds need to be wiped or washed off before they’re planted. I think God does that with us, He allows the winds and rains to expose our flaws so He can pick us up, wash us of that sin and replant us deep in His soil so we can grow as He planned. When we give Him control He will plant us in His garden and his love cultivates and fertilizes our lives and we grow to His potential.
We are to be gardeners, good gardeners. Gardeners that plant seeds of God’s truth, of His love, of His forgiveness and His plans for our lives and for the lives of those we love. We are to plant seeds for tomorrow- for His coming Kingdom.
The Bible speaks a lot about planting, sewing and about harvesting and we have so many people that cross our paths everyday. Maybe we have family, spouses or children. Maybe it’s co-workers and friends. Or maybe it’s those that we don’t see eye-to-eye with. How can we plant seed to these people? -by our actions, by our speech, by our attitude.
For me the two hardest groups to plant seeds are family and enemies, family because they know me so well. They see me when I’m good and when I’m bad. They see me when I’m strong and when I’m weak. It feels like I’m living in a fish bowl and they watch everything, just waiting for me to make a mistake so they can say “HEY, you can’t do that- you’re supposed to be a Christian”
My enemies because sometimes it feels as no matter what you do, they’re not going to like you, let alone listen to what you have to say about God and His promises for their life.
But we are commanded to plant seeds, to witness- to be salt as the Bible calls it. I want to encourage you to really see the people in your life that need the Lord. Words are sometimes forgotten, but actions can stay with someone forever. Be an example of Him in everything we do, whether we’re with family, friends, co-workers or in awkward situations with those we don’t want us around. Lift them up in prayer and ask God for ways to reflect His love to them. I want to encourage you to do something this week that truly reflects the Lord in your life and my His Kingdom be glorified.
Julie
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-3
Spring always helps me reflect on the newness of life. It reminds me of new beginnings, of things starting fresh. Spring to me is a time of renewal. It’s a time of year that I look back and think about maybe some mistakes I’ve made and ask myself, what I can do to make things better going forward.
It also reminds me that I have in the past, had a tendency, when I make mistakes; to hide them or ignore them like they didn’t happen. Like I’m the only person who saw it or witnessed it, so I can bury them in the dirt where no one will see. But we know that spring brings warmer weather, a lot of rain, sometimes strong winds.
Have you ever planted a spring garden too early and the wind and rain of spring washes the seeds to the surface and exposed them to the whole world? Sometimes that’s the way our sins are. We think we can hide them just beneath a thin layer of soil and no one will know, but God comes along and gives us a little of His wind and rain, and we’re totally exposed to the world. There’s no hiding it after that. It’s embarrassing, it’s awkward, but most of all for me, it’s convicting.
He doesn’t expose us for his entertainment. He exposes us for our humility. It’s His way of saying to us, “You can’t slip that little secret under the rug and not think I’m not going to see it”.
I do garden some and I’ve found that some seeds need to be wiped or washed off before they’re planted. I think God does that with us, He allows the winds and rains to expose our flaws so He can pick us up, wash us of that sin and replant us deep in His soil so we can grow as He planned. When we give Him control He will plant us in His garden and his love cultivates and fertilizes our lives and we grow to His potential.
We are to be gardeners, good gardeners. Gardeners that plant seeds of God’s truth, of His love, of His forgiveness and His plans for our lives and for the lives of those we love. We are to plant seeds for tomorrow- for His coming Kingdom.
The Bible speaks a lot about planting, sewing and about harvesting and we have so many people that cross our paths everyday. Maybe we have family, spouses or children. Maybe it’s co-workers and friends. Or maybe it’s those that we don’t see eye-to-eye with. How can we plant seed to these people? -by our actions, by our speech, by our attitude.
For me the two hardest groups to plant seeds are family and enemies, family because they know me so well. They see me when I’m good and when I’m bad. They see me when I’m strong and when I’m weak. It feels like I’m living in a fish bowl and they watch everything, just waiting for me to make a mistake so they can say “HEY, you can’t do that- you’re supposed to be a Christian”
My enemies because sometimes it feels as no matter what you do, they’re not going to like you, let alone listen to what you have to say about God and His promises for their life.
But we are commanded to plant seeds, to witness- to be salt as the Bible calls it. I want to encourage you to really see the people in your life that need the Lord. Words are sometimes forgotten, but actions can stay with someone forever. Be an example of Him in everything we do, whether we’re with family, friends, co-workers or in awkward situations with those we don’t want us around. Lift them up in prayer and ask God for ways to reflect His love to them. I want to encourage you to do something this week that truly reflects the Lord in your life and my His Kingdom be glorified.
Julie
After God's Heart
After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'
Acts 13:22
I’ve always wondered, why did God use David? I mean, David was a small, lowly shepherd boy. He wasn’t anything special. He was the youngest of many siblings, kind of a loner. He was content to sit on the hill side, playing his harp, watching over his father’s sheep. I’m sure as he sat there day dreaming, he never would have guessed he would one day be a king and a “man after God’s own heart”.
And what does it mean to be “a man after God’s own heart”? Does it mean he was perfect? No, we know David wasn’t perfect, as a matter of fact; he made several mistakes, and not just little ones. He committed murder and adultery just to name a couple. So what made this man so appealing to God, so usable? so moldable?
It was David’s heart. God knew David’s heart- when he looked at David He didn’t say “Now there’s a perfect example of my flawless creation”. I’ll bet he said “Now there’s a man that every day, even through his trials and tribulations, still chooses to follow Me”.
Do you think that’s possible for us? Do you believe that no matter how many mistakes you make, God will still look at you with forgiving eyes, wrap His arms around you and tell you it’s ok? I’d like to believe that. The Bible tells us that He does do that if our heart is right… heart… Heart… HEART- there’s that word again.. It’s all about our heart.
You see, God isn’t sitting above with a notebook and ink pen writing down all our wrongs just to make sure on judgment day He doesn’t forget to punish us for a sin. But rather he’s watching and sitting with a chalkboard and eraser. And every time we repent, we ask for forgiveness- he wipes that sin right off the slate like it never even happened at all. All because He can see our HEARTS- He knows our HEARTS.
I believe God used David because of all people, David lived for God’s Grace and Mercy. He had experienced it first hand. He knew what it was like to be delivered from sin by God’s love every single solitary day. And he never forgot that. We need to never forget that too.
Julie
Acts 13:22
I’ve always wondered, why did God use David? I mean, David was a small, lowly shepherd boy. He wasn’t anything special. He was the youngest of many siblings, kind of a loner. He was content to sit on the hill side, playing his harp, watching over his father’s sheep. I’m sure as he sat there day dreaming, he never would have guessed he would one day be a king and a “man after God’s own heart”.
And what does it mean to be “a man after God’s own heart”? Does it mean he was perfect? No, we know David wasn’t perfect, as a matter of fact; he made several mistakes, and not just little ones. He committed murder and adultery just to name a couple. So what made this man so appealing to God, so usable? so moldable?
It was David’s heart. God knew David’s heart- when he looked at David He didn’t say “Now there’s a perfect example of my flawless creation”. I’ll bet he said “Now there’s a man that every day, even through his trials and tribulations, still chooses to follow Me”.
Do you think that’s possible for us? Do you believe that no matter how many mistakes you make, God will still look at you with forgiving eyes, wrap His arms around you and tell you it’s ok? I’d like to believe that. The Bible tells us that He does do that if our heart is right… heart… Heart… HEART- there’s that word again.. It’s all about our heart.
You see, God isn’t sitting above with a notebook and ink pen writing down all our wrongs just to make sure on judgment day He doesn’t forget to punish us for a sin. But rather he’s watching and sitting with a chalkboard and eraser. And every time we repent, we ask for forgiveness- he wipes that sin right off the slate like it never even happened at all. All because He can see our HEARTS- He knows our HEARTS.
I believe God used David because of all people, David lived for God’s Grace and Mercy. He had experienced it first hand. He knew what it was like to be delivered from sin by God’s love every single solitary day. And he never forgot that. We need to never forget that too.
Julie
Don't Look Back!
Don’t Look Back!
“But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt”. –Gen 19:26
This scripture is a result of disobedience. The Lord was going to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. He told Abraham His plan and why- the cities had become wicked with all sorts of sin. Abraham pleaded with God to spare the righteous of the cities and after much discussion, the Lord consented to save Lot and his family.
As Lot, his wife and two daughters fled, the angels of God specifically spoke to them and said “don’t look back and don’t stop or you will be swept away.” I’m sure there was quite a commotion of the cities being destroyed and Lot’s wife glanced back to quickly see what was happening and was immediately turned into a pillar of salt.
Now, I know my first instinct was “she just looked back as she was leaving” but what did the angles say? Don’t look back” or what? “You will be swept away”. It sounds like a very simple command that resulted in a life altering mistake. How many times in our lives do we get caught up in sin, repent and return to that sin? Sometimes subconsciously, sometimes unconsciously, but we do it. How many times in our lives have we heard the consequences, knew the penalty but continued in our sin? I know for me- too many to count or admit. We think “it’s no big deal” but there’s that nagging inner feeling (our conscience) that stops us just enough to truly know what we’re about to do is sin” and we dismiss it and continue.
If we know our sin, if we know our consequences, we should not be surprised in our judgment. We are warned, just as Lots’ wife was warned. It was simple, just don’t do it. Don’t look back and don’t hesitate. Just as death resulted for Lot’s wife, death can as easily come to us. Maybe not always in the physical sense, but we damage ourselves. When we sin as Christians and continue in that sin, we not only first and foremost disappoint God and damage our relationship with Him, but we also damage our witness to others both saved and unsaved. We are called to be “salt and light” but not the kind of salt Lot’s wife was turned into.
Let’s confess our sins, turn away from them, walk away- don’t stop and most importantly, don’t look back. Be focused on Christ and He will deliver us.
Julie
“But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt”. –Gen 19:26
This scripture is a result of disobedience. The Lord was going to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. He told Abraham His plan and why- the cities had become wicked with all sorts of sin. Abraham pleaded with God to spare the righteous of the cities and after much discussion, the Lord consented to save Lot and his family.
As Lot, his wife and two daughters fled, the angels of God specifically spoke to them and said “don’t look back and don’t stop or you will be swept away.” I’m sure there was quite a commotion of the cities being destroyed and Lot’s wife glanced back to quickly see what was happening and was immediately turned into a pillar of salt.
Now, I know my first instinct was “she just looked back as she was leaving” but what did the angles say? Don’t look back” or what? “You will be swept away”. It sounds like a very simple command that resulted in a life altering mistake. How many times in our lives do we get caught up in sin, repent and return to that sin? Sometimes subconsciously, sometimes unconsciously, but we do it. How many times in our lives have we heard the consequences, knew the penalty but continued in our sin? I know for me- too many to count or admit. We think “it’s no big deal” but there’s that nagging inner feeling (our conscience) that stops us just enough to truly know what we’re about to do is sin” and we dismiss it and continue.
If we know our sin, if we know our consequences, we should not be surprised in our judgment. We are warned, just as Lots’ wife was warned. It was simple, just don’t do it. Don’t look back and don’t hesitate. Just as death resulted for Lot’s wife, death can as easily come to us. Maybe not always in the physical sense, but we damage ourselves. When we sin as Christians and continue in that sin, we not only first and foremost disappoint God and damage our relationship with Him, but we also damage our witness to others both saved and unsaved. We are called to be “salt and light” but not the kind of salt Lot’s wife was turned into.
Let’s confess our sins, turn away from them, walk away- don’t stop and most importantly, don’t look back. Be focused on Christ and He will deliver us.
Julie
Jesus Loves the Little Children
Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them...
Matthew 19:13
I believe with all my heart that Jesus LOVES children. It's no secret to anyone that knows me, I share this particular passion with Jesus. There's something so pure and innocent in them. I love to watch them discover things- the way their eyes light up melts my heart. They have such a look of awe and wonder.
I wish I could tell you I've always had this love for kids. I babysat when I was an adolescent, spent many summers watching children for others. But for many, many years- I couldn't see myself having my own. I used to joke to others about "not wanting those curtain climbers" and I know that now to be pure selfishness on my part. I had a lot of selfish ways growing up, I was pretty self consumed at times. And in my heart, it really wasn't that I didn't want them, -I didn't want to settle down enough to be that responsible for someone else when I wasn't even being responsible for myself.
But praise the Lord- He is good. He stopped me dead in my tracks on my one way road that was leading to self destruction and I hit head on with one of these "yard apes" and my life has never been the same since- thank you Jesus!
This week I had a few situations that have haunted me during the dark hours of the day. It started with a conversation that was taking place and I was NOT ease dropping- they were speaking so loud, everyone around heard. It was a woman that was voicing her very strong opinions against children. She had an evening out with a friend who had brought her small child along and she was NOT happy about it. Some of the things she was stating were so hateful, I finally had to get up and walk away before I swung around and asked her if she'd like to see some pictures of my precious grandchildren.
Secondly, a friend told me of a young girl we both know. This girls name is Kat. Her mother was very abusive and obviously didn't want her. Arrangements were made for her to go and live with a friend. That situation fell through, so the mother asked her daughter if she'd like to go to Chicago for a day of shopping, and of course this young teenager accepted the invitation only to have her mother take her straight to an orphanage, sign her parental rights away and walk out of her life forever.
I couldn't help but recall the day when I might have shared this view and it made me sick to my stomach. I am so thankful that we serve a God that, in His infinite wisdom, chose to give me such a wake up call as He did. I understand that we are all not called to be parents and that's OK-and I am thankful for those that do chose not to have children if they're not going to love and cherish them for the gifts that they are. But I have to be honest, I can NOT imagine my life without mine.
Jesus knew and appreciated the innocence of children, - their way of unconditional love and selflessness mirrored His own. I love to imagine Him pulling them up on his lap and watching them take in all the wonders of the world that was created just for them. I can see Him singing with them and maybe kicking a ball around a dirt filled street. He loved them- He prayed for them.
I'd like to ask you to think of the children in your lives, whether you're a parent or not and please pray for them. Go out of your way to make a child feel special this week. Let them know that God loves them. Regardless of the circumstances around young Kat's life, I'm praying God will put someone in her life down the road that will introduce her to the Greatest Parent there ever will be and she will experience a love that is beyond any other, that she will be able to forgive and trust again. I know God loves her. I know He will watch over her. There are so many unloved and unwanted children- please, let's make a difference in a child's life today!
Julie
Matthew 19:13
I believe with all my heart that Jesus LOVES children. It's no secret to anyone that knows me, I share this particular passion with Jesus. There's something so pure and innocent in them. I love to watch them discover things- the way their eyes light up melts my heart. They have such a look of awe and wonder.
I wish I could tell you I've always had this love for kids. I babysat when I was an adolescent, spent many summers watching children for others. But for many, many years- I couldn't see myself having my own. I used to joke to others about "not wanting those curtain climbers" and I know that now to be pure selfishness on my part. I had a lot of selfish ways growing up, I was pretty self consumed at times. And in my heart, it really wasn't that I didn't want them, -I didn't want to settle down enough to be that responsible for someone else when I wasn't even being responsible for myself.
But praise the Lord- He is good. He stopped me dead in my tracks on my one way road that was leading to self destruction and I hit head on with one of these "yard apes" and my life has never been the same since- thank you Jesus!
This week I had a few situations that have haunted me during the dark hours of the day. It started with a conversation that was taking place and I was NOT ease dropping- they were speaking so loud, everyone around heard. It was a woman that was voicing her very strong opinions against children. She had an evening out with a friend who had brought her small child along and she was NOT happy about it. Some of the things she was stating were so hateful, I finally had to get up and walk away before I swung around and asked her if she'd like to see some pictures of my precious grandchildren.
Secondly, a friend told me of a young girl we both know. This girls name is Kat. Her mother was very abusive and obviously didn't want her. Arrangements were made for her to go and live with a friend. That situation fell through, so the mother asked her daughter if she'd like to go to Chicago for a day of shopping, and of course this young teenager accepted the invitation only to have her mother take her straight to an orphanage, sign her parental rights away and walk out of her life forever.
I couldn't help but recall the day when I might have shared this view and it made me sick to my stomach. I am so thankful that we serve a God that, in His infinite wisdom, chose to give me such a wake up call as He did. I understand that we are all not called to be parents and that's OK-and I am thankful for those that do chose not to have children if they're not going to love and cherish them for the gifts that they are. But I have to be honest, I can NOT imagine my life without mine.
Jesus knew and appreciated the innocence of children, - their way of unconditional love and selflessness mirrored His own. I love to imagine Him pulling them up on his lap and watching them take in all the wonders of the world that was created just for them. I can see Him singing with them and maybe kicking a ball around a dirt filled street. He loved them- He prayed for them.
I'd like to ask you to think of the children in your lives, whether you're a parent or not and please pray for them. Go out of your way to make a child feel special this week. Let them know that God loves them. Regardless of the circumstances around young Kat's life, I'm praying God will put someone in her life down the road that will introduce her to the Greatest Parent there ever will be and she will experience a love that is beyond any other, that she will be able to forgive and trust again. I know God loves her. I know He will watch over her. There are so many unloved and unwanted children- please, let's make a difference in a child's life today!
Julie
Honor Your Father
"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
Deuteronomy 5:16 (NIV)
Father,… Papa,…Dad,…Pop,…Daddy,… Padre,... Pa- these are some familiar names of we might call our fathers. Personally, I call my father “Dad”. We call God our Father, Jesus called him “Abba Father” Regardless what name you title your father, and the Bible is very specific on how fathers should be. They are to be a good example, teach, disciple, console, protect, provide for and most of all LOVE their children. I’m not sure what your earthly father is/was like. I realize that sometimes the word “father” is nothing more than a technicality. There’s a phrase that I’ve heard and happen to believe in that says “anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad”. I just happen to have a wonderful earthly father. I know that I am blessed. I am super sensitive when it comes to my dad, so I will not be writing this without a box of Kleenex close at hand.
I have some of the most incredible memories as a child because of my dad. He LOVES to fish and we spent many summers camping, hiking, canoeing and fishing. He spent more time fishing my line out of drift wood or a tree then he actually spent getting to fish himself. But he never complained. My father is one of twelve children so to say he’s “family oriented” is an understatement. He loves to have his family around him and now that the years have added grandchildren and even great-grandchildren, the memories just keep pouring out. He loves to be smothered by them and they love him.
I’ve always had the absolution that no matter what mistakes I made as a child- or even make now as an adult- I have NO doubt my dad loves me. I’m sure that under the definition of “unconditional love” in the dictionary- there’s a picture of my dad. I don’t think he’d mind me sharing with you that he’s a very sensitive man. He’s not afraid to say or show how he feels. I’ve seen him cry at the loss of family and friends, at weddings and even at movies. He never misses an opportunity to say he loves me or hug me. I sat on my dad’s lap way past my teenage years.
I know my attitude and relationship with my Heavenly Father is what it is today because of my earthy father. I know because my dad is such a loving example that it’s easy for me to imagine God loving me. I believe and trust because of the security my dad has always provided. I am able to love in return because of my dad’s attitude towards sharing and caring for others. I know I’m a better person because of him.
I could go on and on about my dad and what he means to me and others- he’s just that kind of dad. He’s the kind of dad you want to brag on every chance you get. He’s the kind of dad that will live on in people’s lives and memories way past the hour he’s called Home to receive his reward. If you’ve never experience an earthly father like this, please don’t loose heart because you always have a Heavenly Father that’s even greater. He will never leave you or forsake you. I can guarantee you 100% that He will never let you down. My earthly father isn’t perfect, but my Heavenly One is- PTL.
Please tell you father today how much you love him. If not your earthly one- then your Heavenly One. Honor him today and every day.
I love you Dad!
Julie
Deuteronomy 5:16 (NIV)
Father,… Papa,…Dad,…Pop,…Daddy,… Padre,... Pa- these are some familiar names of we might call our fathers. Personally, I call my father “Dad”. We call God our Father, Jesus called him “Abba Father” Regardless what name you title your father, and the Bible is very specific on how fathers should be. They are to be a good example, teach, disciple, console, protect, provide for and most of all LOVE their children. I’m not sure what your earthly father is/was like. I realize that sometimes the word “father” is nothing more than a technicality. There’s a phrase that I’ve heard and happen to believe in that says “anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad”. I just happen to have a wonderful earthly father. I know that I am blessed. I am super sensitive when it comes to my dad, so I will not be writing this without a box of Kleenex close at hand.
I have some of the most incredible memories as a child because of my dad. He LOVES to fish and we spent many summers camping, hiking, canoeing and fishing. He spent more time fishing my line out of drift wood or a tree then he actually spent getting to fish himself. But he never complained. My father is one of twelve children so to say he’s “family oriented” is an understatement. He loves to have his family around him and now that the years have added grandchildren and even great-grandchildren, the memories just keep pouring out. He loves to be smothered by them and they love him.
I’ve always had the absolution that no matter what mistakes I made as a child- or even make now as an adult- I have NO doubt my dad loves me. I’m sure that under the definition of “unconditional love” in the dictionary- there’s a picture of my dad. I don’t think he’d mind me sharing with you that he’s a very sensitive man. He’s not afraid to say or show how he feels. I’ve seen him cry at the loss of family and friends, at weddings and even at movies. He never misses an opportunity to say he loves me or hug me. I sat on my dad’s lap way past my teenage years.
I know my attitude and relationship with my Heavenly Father is what it is today because of my earthy father. I know because my dad is such a loving example that it’s easy for me to imagine God loving me. I believe and trust because of the security my dad has always provided. I am able to love in return because of my dad’s attitude towards sharing and caring for others. I know I’m a better person because of him.
I could go on and on about my dad and what he means to me and others- he’s just that kind of dad. He’s the kind of dad you want to brag on every chance you get. He’s the kind of dad that will live on in people’s lives and memories way past the hour he’s called Home to receive his reward. If you’ve never experience an earthly father like this, please don’t loose heart because you always have a Heavenly Father that’s even greater. He will never leave you or forsake you. I can guarantee you 100% that He will never let you down. My earthly father isn’t perfect, but my Heavenly One is- PTL.
Please tell you father today how much you love him. If not your earthly one- then your Heavenly One. Honor him today and every day.
I love you Dad!
Julie
Do Not Be Deceived
8And He said, Be on your guard and be careful that you are not led astray; for many will come in My name [[a]appropriating to themselves the name Messiah which belongs to Me], saying, I am He! and, The time is at hand! Do not go out after them.
Luke 21:8 (The Amplified Bible)
On the way to work this morning, I came up behind a pickup truck that looked to have an outline of Jesus sitting on its back center windshield. I thought to myself, how cool that was, it was almost one of those pictures that you can look at for a long time and then blink and it changes and you see something else. Well I didn’t have to blink for it to change; I just had to get closer. The closer I came upon this truck, the more the picture started to alter. And soon as I was right there and I saw it for exactly what it was- an exotic picture of a woman holding a mink boa. Wow, how had just a few car lengths changed my interpretation of it.
This really made me think- how many times in our lives do we allow things to look really appealing from afar, but once we get up close we realize how they are not at all what they appeared and how harmful they are. And maybe not just harmful- but deadly they can become.
Sin is this way. Satan has a way of cleaning it up, packaging and slapping on a little window dressing and making it look like something you’ve always wanted, when it is not. He knows how to make the dead look alive, the evil look innocent and the plan look appealing. He’s a master at it and how many times has he hooked us? Too many times for me than I wish to admit.
See, I think we underestimate Satan- We know our God is more powerful and more awesome and could send Satan wheeling into the next galaxy if He really wanted to, but He doesn’t. Satan is alive and well and is living among us- earth is his domain. I work in a office setting with hundreds of people in one building and I don’t even have to leave my building to see Satan’s handy work, sometimes it’s very, very close. And I will admit, there have been people and situations at my work place that have looked innocent and appealing- but I know because Jesus has allowed me to see some situations for what they really are, that certain situations might look like they need my help or they would be fun to join in, but Praise God- my eyes have been opened at times to see it all for what it really is- A deadly situation.
We may be living among Satan and his Demons on the outside- but the Spirit of the Lord God Almighty lives within us and as long as He has occupancy- Satan can not. I hope this helps you, but sometimes when I feel I’m being attacked by Satan and his “thugs” I have to just stop and dwell on his Spirit that’s within me. I have to ask that His Spirit will make Himself known to me in such an intimate way and will stir my every being. I close my eyes and I can imagine The Spirit circling me like a tornado- making a hedge of protection. That illustration gives me peace.
I know we live in an evil world- I see it everywhere. I see so many good Christian people fighting the fight everyday-all day long. I have never in my life felt more like a minority than I do in these present days. We have people that look as if they have our best interests at hearts. They walk a good walk and talk a good talk- and I’m not encouraging any of us to get close enough to see for ourselves, because it’s too easy to get caught up and sucked in- I know people it has happened to.
It’s so easy to get discouraged and hard to see the positive sometimes- but always remember we serve a God who IS the KING- not the ambassador, not the Prince, not a dignitary, He’s the KING. And He’s not just King over our country or our government, He’s not just King over another continent, He is King over this world and everything beyond- He rules over EVERYTHING.
Please be careful and allow God to show you sin from His protected hedge. Stay close enough to Him that you’re not tempted to get up close and personal before it’s too late to realize that it’s not what it seemed and you’ve become trapped in a web of sin. Ask daily for His arms of security- He never wishes for us to be hurt, He never wishes for us to fall astray and He never wishes for us to be lost.
Open your eyes, see things for what they really are, ask God to give you wisdom to discern good from evil- seek His ultimate protection and allow Him to show you what He made for you to enjoy- the beauty of His world- the Christian friends and family He has placed in your life.. Stay focused on Him and His Kingdom always- don’t search for “green pastures” on the other side- it could be a trick that will pull you in and away from everything you love and hold dear. And never forget the Heaven that He has a promised us- where there will be no more pain, suffering or tears. Let’s encourage each other and hold each other accountable- but mostly let’s give God all the praise that He deserves for being who He is- Our Salvation- Our Deliverer- Our Future.
Julie
Luke 21:8 (The Amplified Bible)
On the way to work this morning, I came up behind a pickup truck that looked to have an outline of Jesus sitting on its back center windshield. I thought to myself, how cool that was, it was almost one of those pictures that you can look at for a long time and then blink and it changes and you see something else. Well I didn’t have to blink for it to change; I just had to get closer. The closer I came upon this truck, the more the picture started to alter. And soon as I was right there and I saw it for exactly what it was- an exotic picture of a woman holding a mink boa. Wow, how had just a few car lengths changed my interpretation of it.
This really made me think- how many times in our lives do we allow things to look really appealing from afar, but once we get up close we realize how they are not at all what they appeared and how harmful they are. And maybe not just harmful- but deadly they can become.
Sin is this way. Satan has a way of cleaning it up, packaging and slapping on a little window dressing and making it look like something you’ve always wanted, when it is not. He knows how to make the dead look alive, the evil look innocent and the plan look appealing. He’s a master at it and how many times has he hooked us? Too many times for me than I wish to admit.
See, I think we underestimate Satan- We know our God is more powerful and more awesome and could send Satan wheeling into the next galaxy if He really wanted to, but He doesn’t. Satan is alive and well and is living among us- earth is his domain. I work in a office setting with hundreds of people in one building and I don’t even have to leave my building to see Satan’s handy work, sometimes it’s very, very close. And I will admit, there have been people and situations at my work place that have looked innocent and appealing- but I know because Jesus has allowed me to see some situations for what they really are, that certain situations might look like they need my help or they would be fun to join in, but Praise God- my eyes have been opened at times to see it all for what it really is- A deadly situation.
We may be living among Satan and his Demons on the outside- but the Spirit of the Lord God Almighty lives within us and as long as He has occupancy- Satan can not. I hope this helps you, but sometimes when I feel I’m being attacked by Satan and his “thugs” I have to just stop and dwell on his Spirit that’s within me. I have to ask that His Spirit will make Himself known to me in such an intimate way and will stir my every being. I close my eyes and I can imagine The Spirit circling me like a tornado- making a hedge of protection. That illustration gives me peace.
I know we live in an evil world- I see it everywhere. I see so many good Christian people fighting the fight everyday-all day long. I have never in my life felt more like a minority than I do in these present days. We have people that look as if they have our best interests at hearts. They walk a good walk and talk a good talk- and I’m not encouraging any of us to get close enough to see for ourselves, because it’s too easy to get caught up and sucked in- I know people it has happened to.
It’s so easy to get discouraged and hard to see the positive sometimes- but always remember we serve a God who IS the KING- not the ambassador, not the Prince, not a dignitary, He’s the KING. And He’s not just King over our country or our government, He’s not just King over another continent, He is King over this world and everything beyond- He rules over EVERYTHING.
Please be careful and allow God to show you sin from His protected hedge. Stay close enough to Him that you’re not tempted to get up close and personal before it’s too late to realize that it’s not what it seemed and you’ve become trapped in a web of sin. Ask daily for His arms of security- He never wishes for us to be hurt, He never wishes for us to fall astray and He never wishes for us to be lost.
Open your eyes, see things for what they really are, ask God to give you wisdom to discern good from evil- seek His ultimate protection and allow Him to show you what He made for you to enjoy- the beauty of His world- the Christian friends and family He has placed in your life.. Stay focused on Him and His Kingdom always- don’t search for “green pastures” on the other side- it could be a trick that will pull you in and away from everything you love and hold dear. And never forget the Heaven that He has a promised us- where there will be no more pain, suffering or tears. Let’s encourage each other and hold each other accountable- but mostly let’s give God all the praise that He deserves for being who He is- Our Salvation- Our Deliverer- Our Future.
Julie
By His Wounds We are Healed
But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5
I received awful news yesterday; one of my best friends was diagnosis with thyroid cancer. The news hit us hard and after tears and questions of “why?” it led me to search my soul for answers that really can only come from God.
My human reaction was “but I want her here”. See, I had made plans, plans that included her in my future, plans to make a life time of memories. Plans to bounce our grandchildren on our knees and laugh till we peed our pants.
I know in my heart that God can heal her. I believe that He is totally capable of such a miracle. Is that what I pray for? That this cup will pass from her? Would that be best for her,… or for me?
When Christ faced the cross, I believe He knew what lie ahead. He knew the suffering; he knew the torture He would endure. He knew it was not because of His sin, but ours that he would be unjustly persecuted. Isaiah 53:5 says that the punishment that brought US peace was upon Him. Peace? Yes, our peace, our salvation, or bridge to eternity with Him. None of that would be possible without His sacrifice.
I don’t want to see my friend suffer or sacrifice her quality of life just so I’ll have her for a few more years of memories. Isn’t that what as Christians we’re to be working toward? - going home? – being in heaven forever with Christ? How can I ask her to stay behind on this earth when she has her reward waiting for her? How selfish of me. No, I love her too much for that. I will pray for God’s Will- His perfect, all knowing and always loving will, His plan.
I will miss her, wow- will I miss her. But I will always hold tight to my precious memories. I will look ahead to the day when I will be reunited with her in His Kingdom. Think of all the memories we will make there!
Julie
* Authors note: This devotion was written a year ago. Since that time our Lord choose to completely heal my friend and she is still with us- God is Good!
Isaiah 53:5
I received awful news yesterday; one of my best friends was diagnosis with thyroid cancer. The news hit us hard and after tears and questions of “why?” it led me to search my soul for answers that really can only come from God.
My human reaction was “but I want her here”. See, I had made plans, plans that included her in my future, plans to make a life time of memories. Plans to bounce our grandchildren on our knees and laugh till we peed our pants.
I know in my heart that God can heal her. I believe that He is totally capable of such a miracle. Is that what I pray for? That this cup will pass from her? Would that be best for her,… or for me?
When Christ faced the cross, I believe He knew what lie ahead. He knew the suffering; he knew the torture He would endure. He knew it was not because of His sin, but ours that he would be unjustly persecuted. Isaiah 53:5 says that the punishment that brought US peace was upon Him. Peace? Yes, our peace, our salvation, or bridge to eternity with Him. None of that would be possible without His sacrifice.
I don’t want to see my friend suffer or sacrifice her quality of life just so I’ll have her for a few more years of memories. Isn’t that what as Christians we’re to be working toward? - going home? – being in heaven forever with Christ? How can I ask her to stay behind on this earth when she has her reward waiting for her? How selfish of me. No, I love her too much for that. I will pray for God’s Will- His perfect, all knowing and always loving will, His plan.
I will miss her, wow- will I miss her. But I will always hold tight to my precious memories. I will look ahead to the day when I will be reunited with her in His Kingdom. Think of all the memories we will make there!
Julie
* Authors note: This devotion was written a year ago. Since that time our Lord choose to completely heal my friend and she is still with us- God is Good!
Over-the-Counter Assumptions
"When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them."
Luke 4:40
I have had some medical issues lately and have been going through several tests and trying different prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter remedies. I'm beginning to think Walgreens knows me on a first name basis. Unfortunately medical issues can be a "trial and error" process- it's process of elimination. At one time last week, I actually had three Dr's in the same room all talking to each other saying "well, ok… what do we know?… it's not this… and it's not this…" and one of them looked up at me and said "oh sorry, we're just thinking out loud to each other" and I had to laugh and answer "oh, it's ok really- it's like I'm not even here" This process can be very frustrating but I know Dr's are human- we sometimes put them on pedestals because they heal, but I always remember that they are only good at what they do because God gave them that ability. He is our Great Healer- and I've come to name this "trial and error" process from the medical field as "over-the-counter assumptions".
I have had medical issues for the past 25 years. I have been blessed with some really fabulous Dr's and some… well, we won't go there ;) And most of the time it's been surgery and/or a new pill. I take several pills- several times a day to make me function properly. I get very weary of medicines-it's a challenge some days to remember to take them like I'm instructed, but when I do- things are so much better, when I don't- I can really tell I've missed a dose.
Isn't our Christian walk like this? We need specific doses of it daily to function properly. We need it- without it things could become fatal. I know when I set aside specific time to be with Christ- my day goes smoother, my attitude is more positive and I just have a better outlook on life in general. When I neglect my faith- it shows in everything I do. Faith is a prescription- not an "over-the-counter assumption". It's something that Christ commands of us but it's up to us to follow through and accept it, allow it to work in our lives and make us better Christians.
Have you had your dose today?
Julie
Luke 4:40
I have had some medical issues lately and have been going through several tests and trying different prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter remedies. I'm beginning to think Walgreens knows me on a first name basis. Unfortunately medical issues can be a "trial and error" process- it's process of elimination. At one time last week, I actually had three Dr's in the same room all talking to each other saying "well, ok… what do we know?… it's not this… and it's not this…" and one of them looked up at me and said "oh sorry, we're just thinking out loud to each other" and I had to laugh and answer "oh, it's ok really- it's like I'm not even here" This process can be very frustrating but I know Dr's are human- we sometimes put them on pedestals because they heal, but I always remember that they are only good at what they do because God gave them that ability. He is our Great Healer- and I've come to name this "trial and error" process from the medical field as "over-the-counter assumptions".
I have had medical issues for the past 25 years. I have been blessed with some really fabulous Dr's and some… well, we won't go there ;) And most of the time it's been surgery and/or a new pill. I take several pills- several times a day to make me function properly. I get very weary of medicines-it's a challenge some days to remember to take them like I'm instructed, but when I do- things are so much better, when I don't- I can really tell I've missed a dose.
Isn't our Christian walk like this? We need specific doses of it daily to function properly. We need it- without it things could become fatal. I know when I set aside specific time to be with Christ- my day goes smoother, my attitude is more positive and I just have a better outlook on life in general. When I neglect my faith- it shows in everything I do. Faith is a prescription- not an "over-the-counter assumption". It's something that Christ commands of us but it's up to us to follow through and accept it, allow it to work in our lives and make us better Christians.
Have you had your dose today?
Julie
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