Well, as you can see, Satan is very active in trying to deter me from my blogging! Satan, you will NOT win because I have God on my side! Get out of my way because I chose God!
Since I am way behind on the blogging, I am going to write about what I have studied for the past TWO weeks.
First of was the principle of Scripture and how important it is that we read Scripture daily. In John 15:7, it says, "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." This verse has come to mean something totally different to me now as a result of this scripture. It has also caused me to really think about what the verse is really saying. I think as a society, we tend to focus on the part of the verse, "ask, whatever you wish, and it will be done for you" mainly because we are selfish and only think of ourselves. I have come to realize that if we are in the scripture everyday, then we will pursue God's will and as a result, our requests will be directed toward God's will. So, it's not a "give me everything I wish" type of request that we will seek of God, but one that is directed toward His will. That was a very powerful concept for me to realize.
I also learned that the more I read, the deeper my relationship with God will be. I will be able to get a better idea of WHO God is and His attributes as well as His will for my life. He is my Heavenly Father, why wouldn't I want to know Him better. I have really abused it up to this point and I guess it is typical of most people because He isn't someone we see as tangible and in our face physically everyday. We just tend to think of Him as this "guy" "way up there" that doesn't really care about the little things in our life. Yet, He does. He wants us to give it all over to Him.
Another revelation I learned was that I don't need to be a scholar to understand His word. I'm going to understand the scripture and get something different out of it than the person next to me, reading the same scripture. That is the Holy Spirit at work in us. Isn't that amazing! I loved this statement that I read, "It is not simply a book (Bible) that we read, it is a book that reads us." As my teacher pointed out, if you compare the writings of the day when the Bible was written, only the Bible is considered "living" because it applies to our lives even today whereas most writings of the time were only applicable for that time period. In Proverbs 30:5, it talks about how His word is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. How can we fail, when we have God and His word to protect us in our time of need!!
Another part of the lesson talked about our faith and the Word. It spoke directly to me when I read "What a difference it makes when we stop trying to solve our problems and start trusting God!" That is so true!! When I got my teaching certificate, I tried to find a teaching job and had applied at over 50 school districts across Texas. When the only phone calls I received asked if I was a coach as well, I got very frustrated because all I wanted to do was teach!! Come on, didn't they want a great teacher??? I remember having a conversation with our pastor one night (shortly before the school year started and I was still jobless) and He had asked me if I had given it over to God. I told him that I hadn't. When I got out to my car, I kid you not, I literally looked up and said, "Fine God, you want to find me a job...Find it because I am sick of trying to find one!" Literally, less than 24 hours later, I got a call from Kingwood High School requesting an interview. I drove over there the next day and on the drive back, I was convinced that I probably didn't get the job because most Social Studies teachers tend to be liberal and I mentioned that my favorite book up to that point was a Christian one talking about God's purpose for me. I couldn't believe it, by the time I got back home, they called me to tell me that I got the job. I had to be there by Friday, although school started on Wednesday. I literally got the job in less than 24 hours from giving it over to God!! Since then I have given over that portion of my life to God, but being the control freak that I am, there are still some areas that I think I can do better than God. That is crazy but I am slowly learning to let go of it all and give it to Him.
I know this post seems very long, but there was such good information, I don't want to overlook it!
The next section was looking at life with a renewed mind. It was very interesting to think that God looks at all of our situations differently than us. I had never thought of this concept before now. He sees ahead of us and knows the ultimate ending so why wouldn't He? He takes the negatives in our lives and turns into something positive although we may not see it at the time.
In terms of receiving His word, we learned that God has planted the seed of his Word in our hearts once we accept Him into our lives, but it is what we do with that seed that really matters. Do we neglect it and produce nothing? Do we use it solely for ourselves? Or do we water it and produce many fruits? It really made look at what I do with Jesus and His word and if I am really producing anything? Wow! That is profound! It's like it says in James 1:22, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, not merely hearers who delude themselves." It is like looking the mirror. I can read the word (looking in the mirror) but if I don't use it (leaving the mirror), it is worthless.
I think the most controversial part of this whole study that I have done was on supplication. I loved the statement that we typically associated or equate prayer with asking. Isn't that the truth!!?? The only time a lot of people (including me) pray is when we want something whether it be riches or just answers to our misery. In fact, prayer is our communion with God. It is what builds our relationship. Now to the controversial part, the author said that it is a sin not to pray for literally EVERYONE. I am still processing that one. He quotes Samuel saying that it was a sin not to pray for the people He was responsible for. He also mentions Jesus' command (not request, mind you) to love your enemies and PRAY for them. We debated this topic with no definitive answer except for that God is going to convict us of who we need to pray for.
What I found really interesting was the lesson on Jesus' model for prayer, also known as the Lord's Prayer. I have always found it interesting that some churches use it as THE prayer rather than a model. It was like I was telling the teacher, even using the format that it suggested in the book (just like saying the Lord's Prayer over and over), I feel like my prayer likes a sincerity if I follow some format rather than just talking straight up to God. It really does take on a new meaning though if you really dig deep into what the prayer is saying....
The last lesson of our class ( MAJOR :( ) was the author's advice. He says that one of the most powerful ways to pray is to pray Scripture. I have found that to be so true. When Bailey was afraid of the dark a few months back, we prayed together and I used the Scripture in Isaiah 41:10 (?) that says "Do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my mighty right hand." How powerful of a Scripture that is. I kept reminding Bailey that God says that He never leaves us. It is Satan telling us to be scared but God assures us that He is with us always. Now, my daughter doesn't have a fear of the darkness and I know it is because we prayed Scripture. What a powerful and wonderful tool that God has given us to live our lives!
Now I am faced with my biggest fear since the study is over! Will I maintain my routine of studying His word or will Satan win and convince me to stop. I pray that God wins this battle because I want my kids to see a Godly woman in me. :)
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Awesome Bible Study Lesson Today
Today was very good for me. If you haven't noticed, I haven't blogged in several days. It is Satan definitely attacking me either through my kids' school issues or through the pain in my shoulder as a result of the car accident two years ago. When he attacks, he definitely attacks hard.
So, to be honest, I have not finished the lessons for this week. I am three days behind, but what I got out of today's lesson at church really moved me.
This is the week that we studied about thanking the Lord. God commands us in I Thessalonians 5:18 to "give thanks to the Lord." It's not a request, but a command. Every day, something new was pointed out that we need to be thankful for whether it is the people that we struggle with or the results of painful events in our life. Now, I didn't say be thankful for the pain inflicted, but the results that will come as a result. It talked about how these struggles and painful things we encounter as Christians, while not caused by God but He helps us through it, produce a ministry in us. I told my class today about my brother, Kevin, and how I lost him five years ago this year. I distinctly remember hearing, "I will praise you in this storm" on the radio and I clung to that song to help me make it through my drive to my parents' house. When the pastor asked if there was anything special we wanted to occur at the funeral, I asked that he offer the plan of salvation because I knew a lot of my brother's friends were not Christians. As a result of the plan of salvation being offered, I believe it was around seven people that came to know Christ that day. I know that this will sound odd to some, but that actually helped me cope a lot with his death. Would I love to have him back? YES! In a heartbeat, I would love to him call my name in his odd way just one more time or even sing a song for me and ask me to turn my head so I wouldn't look at him when he sang since it made him nervous. I guess I look at it as that he didn't die in vain because he now has friends that will meet him in Heaven one day. One thing that did help me cope with his loss was Johnny's cousin's wife, Jeannie, who shared her similar experience with her brother. God used her that night to help me get through the difficult time. It has only been recently that I feel like I have been able to offer myself to others that are going through similar situations. I am thankful for that and hope that I can offer the same comfort that Jeannie offered me that one night.
I also had some revelations today. I need to be more thankful for what I have. The teacher today was saying that if anyone makes over $40,000 a year, that they are considered in the top 1% of the wealthiest people in the world. Here I complain about not having some stuff in my life, and I live above my means. I did notice that last year, we, as a family, learned to live off substantially less than previous years, but we made it through just fine. I had given it over to God and He provided beyond my expectations. It blew me away.
I also need to be thankful for my kids. Strangely, this verse spoke volumes to me today.
"Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests." Proverbs 14:4.
I instantly thought of my kids with this verse. You have to understand that I am a control freak. When I see their messy rooms, I about lose it. But as the verse says, the manger is empty but with the ox comes abundant harvests. They may have the messiest room, but they give me so much love. Just last night, we were getting on to Colby for his messy room, but he got up this morning and cleaned it and next thing I knew, Bailey and Colby were fighting over who was going to snuggle with me. That is my abundant harvest!! It is definitely better than an empty manger!! The same thing can be said of my wonderful husband! There are times that tough between us, but in the end, I could not live without him and his unconditional love for me, even when I am not the nicest person. :)
I can't wait to do the rest of the lessons to see what else I can be thankful for! I have so much to be thankful for. What about you?
So, to be honest, I have not finished the lessons for this week. I am three days behind, but what I got out of today's lesson at church really moved me.
This is the week that we studied about thanking the Lord. God commands us in I Thessalonians 5:18 to "give thanks to the Lord." It's not a request, but a command. Every day, something new was pointed out that we need to be thankful for whether it is the people that we struggle with or the results of painful events in our life. Now, I didn't say be thankful for the pain inflicted, but the results that will come as a result. It talked about how these struggles and painful things we encounter as Christians, while not caused by God but He helps us through it, produce a ministry in us. I told my class today about my brother, Kevin, and how I lost him five years ago this year. I distinctly remember hearing, "I will praise you in this storm" on the radio and I clung to that song to help me make it through my drive to my parents' house. When the pastor asked if there was anything special we wanted to occur at the funeral, I asked that he offer the plan of salvation because I knew a lot of my brother's friends were not Christians. As a result of the plan of salvation being offered, I believe it was around seven people that came to know Christ that day. I know that this will sound odd to some, but that actually helped me cope a lot with his death. Would I love to have him back? YES! In a heartbeat, I would love to him call my name in his odd way just one more time or even sing a song for me and ask me to turn my head so I wouldn't look at him when he sang since it made him nervous. I guess I look at it as that he didn't die in vain because he now has friends that will meet him in Heaven one day. One thing that did help me cope with his loss was Johnny's cousin's wife, Jeannie, who shared her similar experience with her brother. God used her that night to help me get through the difficult time. It has only been recently that I feel like I have been able to offer myself to others that are going through similar situations. I am thankful for that and hope that I can offer the same comfort that Jeannie offered me that one night.
I also had some revelations today. I need to be more thankful for what I have. The teacher today was saying that if anyone makes over $40,000 a year, that they are considered in the top 1% of the wealthiest people in the world. Here I complain about not having some stuff in my life, and I live above my means. I did notice that last year, we, as a family, learned to live off substantially less than previous years, but we made it through just fine. I had given it over to God and He provided beyond my expectations. It blew me away.
I also need to be thankful for my kids. Strangely, this verse spoke volumes to me today.
"Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests." Proverbs 14:4.
I instantly thought of my kids with this verse. You have to understand that I am a control freak. When I see their messy rooms, I about lose it. But as the verse says, the manger is empty but with the ox comes abundant harvests. They may have the messiest room, but they give me so much love. Just last night, we were getting on to Colby for his messy room, but he got up this morning and cleaned it and next thing I knew, Bailey and Colby were fighting over who was going to snuggle with me. That is my abundant harvest!! It is definitely better than an empty manger!! The same thing can be said of my wonderful husband! There are times that tough between us, but in the end, I could not live without him and his unconditional love for me, even when I am not the nicest person. :)
I can't wait to do the rest of the lessons to see what else I can be thankful for! I have so much to be thankful for. What about you?
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Wow...Satan is attacking..
The last week has been hard on me. I had a cold/sinus infection for the second time in a month. That is very unusual for me. I typically get a cold or two during the year and that's it. I think Satan is not too happy that I am doing devotionals. That is my reason for not blogging. It is not a good one at all. Satan may have stopped me from blogging for a few days but he didn't stop me from doing my devotions except for one night! I was determined that he wasn't going to lead me astray!
This week's devotions have been directed to confessions. The statement that has really hit me is that "Sin is appealing. Otherwise, no one would do it." I also liked the statement that confession should not be a result of guilt but a desire to become closer to God. I guess I have always looked at it as a guilt thing. I've been convicted about certain things in my life. I know that that is the Holy Spirit working in me but when I have slipped, it has caused guilt. It doesn't deny that you will feel guilt because I would think most people would feel guilt for doing something wrong, but the main guiding force for confession should be your desire to come closer to God. It's like when you have a fight with someone close. You may have felt guilty for something nasty that you said to them, and you ask for forgiveness because you want nothing to come between your relationship again. It's that desire for closeness that makes you confess, not the guilt.
In the whole process of this devotional study which is teaching you how to do a devotional, it's given a format for praying. I'm on the fence about a format for praying because it makes me question my sincerity when praying. The format is ACTS, which I have heard before. A is for adoration; C is for confession; T is for thanksgiving; and S is for supplication. In the process, I have really started thinking about what I adore about God and what I am thankful for. It suggests that you use some praise songs for adoration. I've really been thinking about the words of praise songs lately and taking them to heart.
I think I have about two more weeks of this Bible study and then I am out on my own. I'm going to be honest. I am a bit nervous. Will I be able to keep it up? That is the biggest challenge! I pray that God guides me through it and gives me strength because I know that Satan is going to try his best to get me out of the habit that I am trying so hard to accomplish.
This week's devotions have been directed to confessions. The statement that has really hit me is that "Sin is appealing. Otherwise, no one would do it." I also liked the statement that confession should not be a result of guilt but a desire to become closer to God. I guess I have always looked at it as a guilt thing. I've been convicted about certain things in my life. I know that that is the Holy Spirit working in me but when I have slipped, it has caused guilt. It doesn't deny that you will feel guilt because I would think most people would feel guilt for doing something wrong, but the main guiding force for confession should be your desire to come closer to God. It's like when you have a fight with someone close. You may have felt guilty for something nasty that you said to them, and you ask for forgiveness because you want nothing to come between your relationship again. It's that desire for closeness that makes you confess, not the guilt.
In the whole process of this devotional study which is teaching you how to do a devotional, it's given a format for praying. I'm on the fence about a format for praying because it makes me question my sincerity when praying. The format is ACTS, which I have heard before. A is for adoration; C is for confession; T is for thanksgiving; and S is for supplication. In the process, I have really started thinking about what I adore about God and what I am thankful for. It suggests that you use some praise songs for adoration. I've really been thinking about the words of praise songs lately and taking them to heart.
I think I have about two more weeks of this Bible study and then I am out on my own. I'm going to be honest. I am a bit nervous. Will I be able to keep it up? That is the biggest challenge! I pray that God guides me through it and gives me strength because I know that Satan is going to try his best to get me out of the habit that I am trying so hard to accomplish.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Convictions and Confessions....
I like what my devotional was saying today. Convictions lead to confessions. They work hand in hand. You can't confess something unless you are convicted of it.
When we confess, we are also acknowledging our specific sin. I have been asking God to search my heart and convict me of anything that is unpleasing to Him. That is hard to do, because as a sinner, sometimes I don't want to give up my sins. Am I alone in this? I have a few sins in my life that I have become quite comfortable with yet I know that they are wrong. I have been praying that the Lord just make them very unattractive to me because I know that Satan has his hand in on it and has a pretty firm grip. I don't want him to have the grip. I pray that the Lord hears my cry and helps me break through because I know that I can't do anything without Him!
When we confess, we are also acknowledging our specific sin. I have been asking God to search my heart and convict me of anything that is unpleasing to Him. That is hard to do, because as a sinner, sometimes I don't want to give up my sins. Am I alone in this? I have a few sins in my life that I have become quite comfortable with yet I know that they are wrong. I have been praying that the Lord just make them very unattractive to me because I know that Satan has his hand in on it and has a pretty firm grip. I don't want him to have the grip. I pray that the Lord hears my cry and helps me break through because I know that I can't do anything without Him!
Monday, January 31, 2011
God is worthy to be praised....
I had a great session at our weekly meeting yesterday. I had a couple of thoughts that really struck me throughout the week. (I might seem repetitive here.)
1. Being human, I was really examining why I didn't praise God everyday. Besides taking it for granted, I was really examining my reasons. One thought that came to mind was that doesn't God already know how great and awesome He is? Does He really need me to tell Him that. As I was thinking this thought, it struck me. Who doesn't love to be praised? I know I personally love it! I think the only difference between us receiving praise and God receiving praise is that His self esteem doesn't rest on our praises. He craves our praises just like we do. I think He wants to know that we have made the choice and the commitment and that praise is one form of showing it.
2. For some reason, in our discussion, we got on the topic of different religions such as Buddhism. Buddhists bow before the statutes and burn incense. I don't see how this gives them comfort. Buddha is dead. He's not coming back. He gave some great advice, but that's about where the buck ends. It was at this time that I realized that we have an idea of what Buddha looked like based on the age of the statutes. We have yet to see a picture of God. Yes, we have images of Jesus although they are most likely not accurate since He has been made in the image of a white man (but that's another story). There is no statute of God for us to worship. I find that extremely interesting! He tells us to not put any other idols before us to worship. Man created idols because we're visual (heck, we can see that Eve! ;). We need something tangible. Yet, God asks us for our faith, our belief in Him. That is the ultimate test I think. Believing in the unseen. This was a great revelation to me this week!
God has so many outstanding qualities to adore Him for. How can we not begin our prayers with the awesome characteristics He has!
Rejoice Evermore! I Thess. 5:17 (Think about this verse. It says evermore. It doesn't say when to begin or when to stop. There is no beginning and no end. We are to rejoice!
1. Being human, I was really examining why I didn't praise God everyday. Besides taking it for granted, I was really examining my reasons. One thought that came to mind was that doesn't God already know how great and awesome He is? Does He really need me to tell Him that. As I was thinking this thought, it struck me. Who doesn't love to be praised? I know I personally love it! I think the only difference between us receiving praise and God receiving praise is that His self esteem doesn't rest on our praises. He craves our praises just like we do. I think He wants to know that we have made the choice and the commitment and that praise is one form of showing it.
2. For some reason, in our discussion, we got on the topic of different religions such as Buddhism. Buddhists bow before the statutes and burn incense. I don't see how this gives them comfort. Buddha is dead. He's not coming back. He gave some great advice, but that's about where the buck ends. It was at this time that I realized that we have an idea of what Buddha looked like based on the age of the statutes. We have yet to see a picture of God. Yes, we have images of Jesus although they are most likely not accurate since He has been made in the image of a white man (but that's another story). There is no statute of God for us to worship. I find that extremely interesting! He tells us to not put any other idols before us to worship. Man created idols because we're visual (heck, we can see that Eve! ;). We need something tangible. Yet, God asks us for our faith, our belief in Him. That is the ultimate test I think. Believing in the unseen. This was a great revelation to me this week!
God has so many outstanding qualities to adore Him for. How can we not begin our prayers with the awesome characteristics He has!
Rejoice Evermore! I Thess. 5:17 (Think about this verse. It says evermore. It doesn't say when to begin or when to stop. There is no beginning and no end. We are to rejoice!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Rejoice Evermore!
I'm continuing on my lessons this week. The verse that really popped out at me although it wasn't mentioned in the lesson was I Thess. 5:17 where it says, "Rejoice Evermore!" It doesn't say stop or pause, but to do it evermore.
I love you Lord and I lift my voice
To worship you...
Oh my soul, rejoice!
Take joy, my King,
in what you hear!
May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear!
I love you Lord for who you were, are and to come!
I love you Lord and I lift my voice
To worship you...
Oh my soul, rejoice!
Take joy, my King,
in what you hear!
May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear!
I love you Lord for who you were, are and to come!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Attacks....
Well, I see that it has been three days since I last wrote in here. I was thinking about it last night and thought, "Wow, Satan really doesn't like me doing this." He's been throwing curves balls at me the last several days to deter me from pursuing God. It's just like I read in the book, "Battlefield of the Mind," by Joyce Meyers. Satan is extremely patient and chips away at you daily. I am praying that God makes me stronger through this trial.
This week's devotionals are focused on praising God. When I read the first day's devotion, it really struck home with me the statement that we really don't focus on God that much unless we are in need or are in tragic times. I think that is what society has slowly taught us. We don't need God. We can do it ourselves which is soooooo untrue. I need Him everyday in my life. I am focused on looking on what He has for me to learn everyday since I started this. I doing some introspective looks into myself and it's not pretty. I am hoping that He will mold me into something better. :) What it all boils down to is is that it is my choice of whether I allow Him to work in me or not. It's sad to think that I don't do this sometimes. I'm sure it must feel like a slap in the face to him. I know that if my kids ignore me or push me away when I try to hug them, it hurts.
I have also learned in this week's lessons that God is limitless! I will never fully understand every single aspect of God. I can't put Him in a box. He is more than that! It reminded of our church's recent Bible Study, called "The Truth Project". A lot of people put God in a box and God can't be restricted. He is greater than that box! Malachi 1:6 struck a cord with me. "A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor?" And if I am a master, where is My respect?" I thought that was a pretty direct statement from God. It's not holding back on His feelings at all on this issue. He is more than worthy of my time and pursuit!
Ok, I have a confession. I am a car singer! I listen to KSBJ and I go full blast on some of the praise songs. I am not a big singer at church, but I am in the car. Go figure! I haven't quite figured that one out but I love singing the praise songs in the car. I have left the secular music behind, for the most part, and found that the Christian station offers so much more hope and praise rather than the negativity on the secular stations. It literally does put me in a better mood. What I didn't really realize was that God calls us to worship Him. Ok, yeah, I can do that one easily! :) It's hard sometimes when the times are bad, but the songs are so reassuring that there is a purpose for everything happening in our lives and I have to trust Him to pull me through. What better reassurance. I've never heard that reassurance from a secular song. In those songs, you can supposedly count on man, but I'm not quick to hold my breath on that one!
These are some of the things that I have been praising God for this week:
-For bringing me to this devotional Bible study at church
-For His grace
-For Johnny
-For always being there for me
-For caring about me and my needs
-For giving me strength and endurance
-For wanting me when He doesn't need me (I borrowed this from a fabulous neighbor...thanks Shannon!)
-For pursing me daily
-For providing a book as a guide for our lives
-For showing me daily the depths of His love
I have so much to praise him for!
I am already praising Him for defending me against the attacks I am going through this week!
This week's devotionals are focused on praising God. When I read the first day's devotion, it really struck home with me the statement that we really don't focus on God that much unless we are in need or are in tragic times. I think that is what society has slowly taught us. We don't need God. We can do it ourselves which is soooooo untrue. I need Him everyday in my life. I am focused on looking on what He has for me to learn everyday since I started this. I doing some introspective looks into myself and it's not pretty. I am hoping that He will mold me into something better. :) What it all boils down to is is that it is my choice of whether I allow Him to work in me or not. It's sad to think that I don't do this sometimes. I'm sure it must feel like a slap in the face to him. I know that if my kids ignore me or push me away when I try to hug them, it hurts.
I have also learned in this week's lessons that God is limitless! I will never fully understand every single aspect of God. I can't put Him in a box. He is more than that! It reminded of our church's recent Bible Study, called "The Truth Project". A lot of people put God in a box and God can't be restricted. He is greater than that box! Malachi 1:6 struck a cord with me. "A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor?" And if I am a master, where is My respect?" I thought that was a pretty direct statement from God. It's not holding back on His feelings at all on this issue. He is more than worthy of my time and pursuit!
Ok, I have a confession. I am a car singer! I listen to KSBJ and I go full blast on some of the praise songs. I am not a big singer at church, but I am in the car. Go figure! I haven't quite figured that one out but I love singing the praise songs in the car. I have left the secular music behind, for the most part, and found that the Christian station offers so much more hope and praise rather than the negativity on the secular stations. It literally does put me in a better mood. What I didn't really realize was that God calls us to worship Him. Ok, yeah, I can do that one easily! :) It's hard sometimes when the times are bad, but the songs are so reassuring that there is a purpose for everything happening in our lives and I have to trust Him to pull me through. What better reassurance. I've never heard that reassurance from a secular song. In those songs, you can supposedly count on man, but I'm not quick to hold my breath on that one!
These are some of the things that I have been praising God for this week:
-For bringing me to this devotional Bible study at church
-For His grace
-For Johnny
-For always being there for me
-For caring about me and my needs
-For giving me strength and endurance
-For wanting me when He doesn't need me (I borrowed this from a fabulous neighbor...thanks Shannon!)
-For pursing me daily
-For providing a book as a guide for our lives
-For showing me daily the depths of His love
I have so much to praise him for!
I am already praising Him for defending me against the attacks I am going through this week!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Wrapping up the first week...
I just want to start off mentioning that I saw Micah 6:8 AGAIN. This had to be at least the fifth time that I saw this verse this week. This time it was in Hobby Lobby on one of their metal signs. I have NEVER noticed it before but it caught my eye this time! Definitely think that is God telling me something!
On Day 6 of my Bible study, it was talking about "Pictures of Pursuing God". This was somewhat comforting to me because it talked about how Jesus pursued God at various times throughout the day. He didn't have a set devotional time. Sometimes it was at night; sometimes it was during the day. I know that most people recommend doing the devotional in the morning. I just haven't been able to do it. Since I go to bed late, it makes it hard to wake up even earlier than my kids to do this. Even though I more prone to fall asleep at night, it is easier for me to do it then because it feels like I have to whole house to myself because everyone else is asleep. I guess this was a reassurance to me that it doesn't matter what time I devote to Him, He just wants me to pursue Him. :)
We had our first class at church yesterday. It was very small, but I really liked that because it seemed more intimate. I got some extras out of the devotions that I otherwise wouldn't have seen. I love hearing other people's perspectives because sometimes I feel like I just don't understand what I am reading. What stuck out most in my mind were some scriptures that we read such as the following verses:
But if you stay joined to me and my words remain in you, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted! My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father." John 15:7-8
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seeks me. "I will be found by you," says the Lord. ""I will end your capitivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land." Jeremiah 29:11-14
It was interesting that it was mentioned in the class that no one reads the verses following Jeremiah 29:11, but they clearly tell us that God is telling us that He is there and wants to be sought. There is no hiding by Him. He doesn't go away somewhere. He never leaves us. We just have to LOOK for Him. It doesn't seem like such a hard task but Satan is right there tempting to us to do otherwise because that is the one thing he doesn't want us to do.
We also talked about our call to minister to others. Looking at the disciples, they were common everyday people, just like us. They weren't some special group of people that were higher in society, etc. I think it is another great example of how God uses anyone to spread the Gospel. It can be a king like David or a former Roman soldier, known for persecuting Christians, even someone that didn't think he had the talent for speaking on God's behalf and leading people out of Egypt (Moses). I guess I never have thought I could do that because I didn't think I was well "versed" enough to minister to others. I feel very limited in what I can say. I guess I need God to take over in that part of my life.
On the final day of the first week of study/devotions, the main point that caught my eye was that in our pursuit of God, we have to be focused. As Paul says in the Bible, we are to "run the race, in such a way, as not without aim." What I need to to remember is that "The Christian life isn't a sprint, but a marathon." I will never know it all and I will never be finished so why rush things. I need to absorb everything God wants me to know and do.
The most profound statement was "If we reflect honestly on sin, we quickly realize that every sin is rooted in unbelief." As I reflected on this statement, it really hit me on how true it was. Every sin is rooted in unbelief. When we lie, there is unbelief that we will get caught. When someone steals; they don't believe they will be caught. It goes all the way back to Eve. She didn't believe God's truths about those trees in the Garden. Sarah didn't believe God's promises that she would have a baby. Yet, she had a baby. Like I said, it was a very profound statement to me.
In my prayer last night, I had an honest confession to God. I need that burning desire to want to pursue Him everyday. I want to feel His presence. I don't want to just go through the motions.
On Day 6 of my Bible study, it was talking about "Pictures of Pursuing God". This was somewhat comforting to me because it talked about how Jesus pursued God at various times throughout the day. He didn't have a set devotional time. Sometimes it was at night; sometimes it was during the day. I know that most people recommend doing the devotional in the morning. I just haven't been able to do it. Since I go to bed late, it makes it hard to wake up even earlier than my kids to do this. Even though I more prone to fall asleep at night, it is easier for me to do it then because it feels like I have to whole house to myself because everyone else is asleep. I guess this was a reassurance to me that it doesn't matter what time I devote to Him, He just wants me to pursue Him. :)
We had our first class at church yesterday. It was very small, but I really liked that because it seemed more intimate. I got some extras out of the devotions that I otherwise wouldn't have seen. I love hearing other people's perspectives because sometimes I feel like I just don't understand what I am reading. What stuck out most in my mind were some scriptures that we read such as the following verses:
But if you stay joined to me and my words remain in you, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted! My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father." John 15:7-8
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seeks me. "I will be found by you," says the Lord. ""I will end your capitivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land." Jeremiah 29:11-14
It was interesting that it was mentioned in the class that no one reads the verses following Jeremiah 29:11, but they clearly tell us that God is telling us that He is there and wants to be sought. There is no hiding by Him. He doesn't go away somewhere. He never leaves us. We just have to LOOK for Him. It doesn't seem like such a hard task but Satan is right there tempting to us to do otherwise because that is the one thing he doesn't want us to do.
We also talked about our call to minister to others. Looking at the disciples, they were common everyday people, just like us. They weren't some special group of people that were higher in society, etc. I think it is another great example of how God uses anyone to spread the Gospel. It can be a king like David or a former Roman soldier, known for persecuting Christians, even someone that didn't think he had the talent for speaking on God's behalf and leading people out of Egypt (Moses). I guess I never have thought I could do that because I didn't think I was well "versed" enough to minister to others. I feel very limited in what I can say. I guess I need God to take over in that part of my life.
On the final day of the first week of study/devotions, the main point that caught my eye was that in our pursuit of God, we have to be focused. As Paul says in the Bible, we are to "run the race, in such a way, as not without aim." What I need to to remember is that "The Christian life isn't a sprint, but a marathon." I will never know it all and I will never be finished so why rush things. I need to absorb everything God wants me to know and do.
The most profound statement was "If we reflect honestly on sin, we quickly realize that every sin is rooted in unbelief." As I reflected on this statement, it really hit me on how true it was. Every sin is rooted in unbelief. When we lie, there is unbelief that we will get caught. When someone steals; they don't believe they will be caught. It goes all the way back to Eve. She didn't believe God's truths about those trees in the Garden. Sarah didn't believe God's promises that she would have a baby. Yet, she had a baby. Like I said, it was a very profound statement to me.
In my prayer last night, I had an honest confession to God. I need that burning desire to want to pursue Him everyday. I want to feel His presence. I don't want to just go through the motions.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Reoccurrences...
What a week this has been. I attended two funerals. I always question why these things happen. Why was a mother and young innocent baby taken from this world? Why was my brother taken from us when he was entering his prime and had a beautiful daughter to raise?? There is no way to instantly heal the pain. There are no words of comfort for those grieving. I remember thinking when my brother passed away...."how can all of these people around me be so happy? Don't they know that my brother isn't here anymore? I miss him! I want him back now!!" I have to remind myself of Jeremiah 29:11. God has a plan for each and every one of us. Although we don't know or understand that plan, there is one. I live by those words. It is the only thing that explain these tragic events in our lives.
As I have completed devotional last night (at 1:30 in the morning.....I was tempted not to do it, but I made myself get up and do it!), I noticed that a verse has repeatedly come up this week, through my devotional, a Bible verse that was sent through my phone devotional, and my kid's devotional. I don't know about you, but that is a sign to me that I need to pay attention to this verse because there is something there that God is wanting me to see. It is Micah 6:8.
"He has told you, O Man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
I take it so far that God is really wanting me to walk with him daily. I have also focused on the loving kindness this week. I want to show it toward others, although I have a few week points in it so maybe that is what God is pointing out as well.
I also noticed another repeated verse in my life this week. I Thessalonians 5:5.
"You are children of the light and children of the day. You do not belong to the night or of the darkness." My kid's devotional also mentioned this. I was explaining to the kids how we need to be a light, like Jesus is to the world so that others can see Christ in us. Just like the song, "This little light of mine", we need to let him shine to those around us.
I am hoping that through this blog that maybe I can be a shining light to others. Hopefully you can see glimpses of Christ in me. Although I am not perfect like it says in Romans 3:23, I am a Christ follower and hope that others will want to do the same. :)
As I have completed devotional last night (at 1:30 in the morning.....I was tempted not to do it, but I made myself get up and do it!), I noticed that a verse has repeatedly come up this week, through my devotional, a Bible verse that was sent through my phone devotional, and my kid's devotional. I don't know about you, but that is a sign to me that I need to pay attention to this verse because there is something there that God is wanting me to see. It is Micah 6:8.
"He has told you, O Man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
I take it so far that God is really wanting me to walk with him daily. I have also focused on the loving kindness this week. I want to show it toward others, although I have a few week points in it so maybe that is what God is pointing out as well.
I also noticed another repeated verse in my life this week. I Thessalonians 5:5.
"You are children of the light and children of the day. You do not belong to the night or of the darkness." My kid's devotional also mentioned this. I was explaining to the kids how we need to be a light, like Jesus is to the world so that others can see Christ in us. Just like the song, "This little light of mine", we need to let him shine to those around us.
I am hoping that through this blog that maybe I can be a shining light to others. Hopefully you can see glimpses of Christ in me. Although I am not perfect like it says in Romans 3:23, I am a Christ follower and hope that others will want to do the same. :)
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Hinderances...
Well, how funny it was to read last night's devotional and it was talking about what I had written in my post yesterday. It was talking about how we are hindered from our study of the Word. Satan likes to keep us busy with doing other things other than learning more about God. It reminded me of my study of Joyce Meyer's book, "Battlefield of the Mind". In the book she talks about the devil being the most patient of all. I'm not patient by any means, but there Satan is, taking his time, working little by little each day to erode our faith and our time with God.
I guess I must be on the right track if I was already thinking about what the next devotional was about! LOL
I love how our memory verse for the church this week also played into this.....
Teach me your way, LORD,
that I may rely on your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
Psalm 86:11
I guess I must be on the right track if I was already thinking about what the next devotional was about! LOL
I love how our memory verse for the church this week also played into this.....
Teach me your way, LORD,
that I may rely on your faithfulness;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
Psalm 86:11
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Detour
Ok...so I have taken a brief detour. I can't believe that I am already doing this a few days into the process of getting myself in the habit of spending time in the word. I actually am starting a new Bible study at church on how to develop a quiet time. I am in serious need of this people!
I have done two days of the study so far although I am a day behind. The first day really revealed something. It said that God reveals something new to us everyday...we just have to be there to realize it and accept. For the past few days, I have been looking for those lessons. The first thing I realized came at the funeral that I attended last night for a church friend's husband who passed away last week. Our pastor read Psalm 23 and I got a whole new meaning out of it. When it says "As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death...", the pastor reminded us that God walks us through it, not to it as a final destination. That had so many meanings for me. This life is temporary and while death may seem permanent to me sometimes because I can't come back in my human form and hug my kids and other loved ones, it isn't the end. My life will just start a new phase, a good phase. Wow...what a huge revelation for me. I am surrounded by death this week but I am reminded that Jesus conquered that.
Last night's lesson was about giving up everything to know more about God. It struck me. God knows everything about me, even down to the number of hairs I have on my head through the daily brushes! LOL It really woke me up to the fact that I really ignore God. It mentioned how we nurture new relationships. We don't meet people and then ignore them to develop relationships. We do everything we can to learn more about them to cultivate the relationship.
I am here to admit that I have never really developed a good quiet time with God. I am the one that does the Bible studies, like the ones by Beth Moore, and do five days worth of work/studying in one day. I hate procrastinating, but have no problem doing it with the Word. It's embarrassing. I hope to change this. I want to be an example to my kids that I have a daily relationship with God that I hope that I can inspire them to do as well. Right now we are having nightly devotions. They quickly remind me when we have missed one. That's definitely a good sign to me! They are keeping me accountable for those. Now, I need someone to keep me accountable to having the daily quiet time. Do you want to be that person? You think I am joking, but I am not!
I have done two days of the study so far although I am a day behind. The first day really revealed something. It said that God reveals something new to us everyday...we just have to be there to realize it and accept. For the past few days, I have been looking for those lessons. The first thing I realized came at the funeral that I attended last night for a church friend's husband who passed away last week. Our pastor read Psalm 23 and I got a whole new meaning out of it. When it says "As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death...", the pastor reminded us that God walks us through it, not to it as a final destination. That had so many meanings for me. This life is temporary and while death may seem permanent to me sometimes because I can't come back in my human form and hug my kids and other loved ones, it isn't the end. My life will just start a new phase, a good phase. Wow...what a huge revelation for me. I am surrounded by death this week but I am reminded that Jesus conquered that.
Last night's lesson was about giving up everything to know more about God. It struck me. God knows everything about me, even down to the number of hairs I have on my head through the daily brushes! LOL It really woke me up to the fact that I really ignore God. It mentioned how we nurture new relationships. We don't meet people and then ignore them to develop relationships. We do everything we can to learn more about them to cultivate the relationship.
I am here to admit that I have never really developed a good quiet time with God. I am the one that does the Bible studies, like the ones by Beth Moore, and do five days worth of work/studying in one day. I hate procrastinating, but have no problem doing it with the Word. It's embarrassing. I hope to change this. I want to be an example to my kids that I have a daily relationship with God that I hope that I can inspire them to do as well. Right now we are having nightly devotions. They quickly remind me when we have missed one. That's definitely a good sign to me! They are keeping me accountable for those. Now, I need someone to keep me accountable to having the daily quiet time. Do you want to be that person? You think I am joking, but I am not!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Job 35-38
I will admit that I had to look up a commmentary on these verses because I was quite confused when reading these chapters. From what I understand now, Job's friend was calling Job out on what he was saying. Job was saying one thing and acting contrary to it. It reminds me of our memory verse from church this week. James 1:22. "Don't just listen to the Word. You fool yourself if you do that. Do what the Word says." It just reaffirms that I need to live in God's word rather than just reading it. I am hoping that by doing this blog, I can accomplish that.
God help me to stay in your Word and live it daily.
God help me to stay in your Word and live it daily.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Job 29-31
Today I started a Bible plan. I want to read the Bible chronologically in a year. Granted, the program sent me to read Job 29-31 today so I am not quite sure what the deal is what that, but I read it anyway.
I really need to go back and read the beginning of Job to have a better understanding, but some things really struck me that I want to mention.
Job 29...It's all about him. It's "I this" and "I that". I reminded me of today when everyone is very concerned about themselves versus God and others. We are all focused on what we need. Society tells us that we need to be concerned about that instead of the needs of others. Granted, yes, they throw in those commercials that say that we need to help others, but those are few and far between. I am very guilty of this. It is that innate desire in all of us to be selfish. It's a hard habit to break. Today, I was teaching my homeschoolers that monks and nuns gave up the ways of their lives to devote it to the church. What a selfless act! I can only imagine how hard that is to do.
Job 30 - Job talks about how his life has drastically changed. He's gone from the totally respected person to the most despised person, the lowest of the lows. Even the rejects of society make fun of him. This chapter reminded me in a way of the man that was "rediscovered" last week on YouTube. He was once a DJ and had succumbed to drugs and alcohol that ultimately led to his demise and fate as a homeless man. It wasn't until someone in Ohio read his sign about his "God given talent of voice" that he was instantly "brought back" to society. He had had a good life prior to the drugs and alcohol but had everything taken away from him. Even his own mother had given up on him. In this chapter, Job was asking God why He was putting him through this. That is what all of us do when we walk those painful paths in our life. Thank God that Jesus redeemed us!
Job 31 - I noticed that Job is recalling his past to make sure that it is a good one for God to look at. I know the story of Job but for some reason I thought the last chapter would be more of praise rather than recollection. I guess that is why I need to go read all of the book. Maybe then will the last chapter make more sense.
Lord, Please help me to realize my faults and praise you in each and every storm in my life.
I really need to go back and read the beginning of Job to have a better understanding, but some things really struck me that I want to mention.
Job 29...It's all about him. It's "I this" and "I that". I reminded me of today when everyone is very concerned about themselves versus God and others. We are all focused on what we need. Society tells us that we need to be concerned about that instead of the needs of others. Granted, yes, they throw in those commercials that say that we need to help others, but those are few and far between. I am very guilty of this. It is that innate desire in all of us to be selfish. It's a hard habit to break. Today, I was teaching my homeschoolers that monks and nuns gave up the ways of their lives to devote it to the church. What a selfless act! I can only imagine how hard that is to do.
Job 30 - Job talks about how his life has drastically changed. He's gone from the totally respected person to the most despised person, the lowest of the lows. Even the rejects of society make fun of him. This chapter reminded me in a way of the man that was "rediscovered" last week on YouTube. He was once a DJ and had succumbed to drugs and alcohol that ultimately led to his demise and fate as a homeless man. It wasn't until someone in Ohio read his sign about his "God given talent of voice" that he was instantly "brought back" to society. He had had a good life prior to the drugs and alcohol but had everything taken away from him. Even his own mother had given up on him. In this chapter, Job was asking God why He was putting him through this. That is what all of us do when we walk those painful paths in our life. Thank God that Jesus redeemed us!
Job 31 - I noticed that Job is recalling his past to make sure that it is a good one for God to look at. I know the story of Job but for some reason I thought the last chapter would be more of praise rather than recollection. I guess that is why I need to go read all of the book. Maybe then will the last chapter make more sense.
Lord, Please help me to realize my faults and praise you in each and every storm in my life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)