So, I used to be somewhat "spontaneous" in my schedule... spontaneous as in flexible, not really exciting spontaneous like skydiving at the flip of a coin spontaneous. But as I have grown and now have somewhat of an "adult-person-schedule" I am less and less willing to be flexible or spontaneous. I do choose to do things like go to Africa and get baptized... you know, those things that the only explanation for is the fact that I love Jesus and so I do it. This is the same reason for not something.
I like to plan ahead a little bit. Do I have a five year plan? Nope... I don't plan THAT far ahead, partly because I just don't want to, but mostly because there is a good chance that my plans will change courtesy of the One I live my life for. Would I love to be back in Africa sometime in the next five years? Yes definitely and I pray that it happens. Will I plan on it happening? No, but not because I doubt it, more so because if God wants me there then I will be there. This also pertains to other wants like being in a relationship, being married, or doing something else that I really would absolutely want and love to do. But I will not go "forcing" the issue or chasing after these things. Instead, I will run after God. Instead of wanting what the world or the flesh wants which is generally more of a want than a need, I will want what God wants for me. His plan is the best after all. God is a better planner than I am and I will take His perfect lifetime plan for me over an imperfect five year plan any day!!!
--------------------------
"So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere -- in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.""
~*Acts 1:6-8 (NLT)*~
Friday, July 8, 2011
Thursday, July 7, 2011
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
Growing up, I remember doing things like color by number, playing the game of memory (which I seem to still do sometimes at work), making art with a light bright, and doing dot to dot drawings. I was always so proud when my project, my masterpiece was complete. So it is now, when I connect the dots of what God wants me to do and how I respond to what He asks of me. It amazes me when He uses two different passages and devotionals to speak to my heart about one particular thought, consideration, prompting... or worry.
The Spirit amazes me when prompting me to do something. Even though I can be hesitant to respond and sometimes even doubt whether it is God or if Satan is playing tricks on me with my mind, when I sit and think and pray about it, the Spirit usually discerns the situation for me and the conclusion seems to always end up following the prompting from God. The thing with worry in my life: Satan creeps into my life, my prayer time, my time alone with God, my decisions, my thoughts and actions... he creeps in through worry. He uses continued doubt and uncertainty which leads me to sometimes hesitate long enough to miss a given opportunity from God.
In the world of giving, that hesitation could lead to a missed opportunity to bless another in need. The worry and prolonged hesitation could be the difference between somebody fulfilling a missionary calling sooner rather than later, if even at all. (I am throwing out scenarios...). Giving is plain difficult for most people. In my life money has sometimes been an issue. It has been a controller. Money and not having "enough" of it, whatever enough means, has led to worry and worry gives Satan a hold over a heart. If that happens, I usually end up face down with a handful of tears. That is when God steps in. He steps in in more ways than are countable, reminding me and blessing me with His promises. He promises to supply and take care... all what HE knows we need, even if it is not exactly what we WANT. He promises to never let go. What, then, can I do? Simply respond.
---------------------------------------------
"Remember this -- a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others."
~*2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NLT)*~
The Spirit amazes me when prompting me to do something. Even though I can be hesitant to respond and sometimes even doubt whether it is God or if Satan is playing tricks on me with my mind, when I sit and think and pray about it, the Spirit usually discerns the situation for me and the conclusion seems to always end up following the prompting from God. The thing with worry in my life: Satan creeps into my life, my prayer time, my time alone with God, my decisions, my thoughts and actions... he creeps in through worry. He uses continued doubt and uncertainty which leads me to sometimes hesitate long enough to miss a given opportunity from God.
In the world of giving, that hesitation could lead to a missed opportunity to bless another in need. The worry and prolonged hesitation could be the difference between somebody fulfilling a missionary calling sooner rather than later, if even at all. (I am throwing out scenarios...). Giving is plain difficult for most people. In my life money has sometimes been an issue. It has been a controller. Money and not having "enough" of it, whatever enough means, has led to worry and worry gives Satan a hold over a heart. If that happens, I usually end up face down with a handful of tears. That is when God steps in. He steps in in more ways than are countable, reminding me and blessing me with His promises. He promises to supply and take care... all what HE knows we need, even if it is not exactly what we WANT. He promises to never let go. What, then, can I do? Simply respond.
---------------------------------------------
"Remember this -- a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others."
~*2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NLT)*~
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Proverbs 3:1-12
So I admit it, usually when I turn and read Proverbs 3, my mind for some reason focuses on verses five and six only. Until this morning, I had never really read it verse by verse, thinking on each before I moved to the next. Each verse is packed with so much of their own, yet all have a similar underlying message. That message: trust in God above all else. He will take care and lead us where he wants us to go. In EVERYTHING trust him.
Every devotional this morning seemed to hold this message. Everything I read, once again, pointed me to letting go and letting God. So often we try to understand. We try to understand why God put us in one mold when we wanted to be in another. He made us into a cup when we wanted to be a bowl. But he did it because he knows what is best. He alone knows what mold fits us best. It is by faith we trust him in this, choosing His way over ours. That's why it is called faith, trusting in what is unseen.
---------------------------------
"My child, never forget the things I have taught you.
Store my commands in your heart.
If you do this, you will live many years,
and your life will be satisfying.
Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!
Tie them around your neck as a reminder.
Write them deep within your heart.
Then you will find favor with both God and people,
and you will earn a good reputation.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
Don't be impressed with your own wisdom.
Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
Then you will have healing for your body
and strength for your bones.
Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce.
Then he will fill your barns with grain
and your vats will overflow with good wine.
My child, don't reject the Lord's discipline,
and don't be upset when he corrects you.
For the Lord corrects those he loves,
just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights."
~*Proverbs 3:1-12 (NLT)*~
Every devotional this morning seemed to hold this message. Everything I read, once again, pointed me to letting go and letting God. So often we try to understand. We try to understand why God put us in one mold when we wanted to be in another. He made us into a cup when we wanted to be a bowl. But he did it because he knows what is best. He alone knows what mold fits us best. It is by faith we trust him in this, choosing His way over ours. That's why it is called faith, trusting in what is unseen.
---------------------------------
"My child, never forget the things I have taught you.
Store my commands in your heart.
If you do this, you will live many years,
and your life will be satisfying.
Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!
Tie them around your neck as a reminder.
Write them deep within your heart.
Then you will find favor with both God and people,
and you will earn a good reputation.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
Don't be impressed with your own wisdom.
Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
Then you will have healing for your body
and strength for your bones.
Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the best part of everything you produce.
Then he will fill your barns with grain
and your vats will overflow with good wine.
My child, don't reject the Lord's discipline,
and don't be upset when he corrects you.
For the Lord corrects those he loves,
just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights."
~*Proverbs 3:1-12 (NLT)*~
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
Last night was a fun evening. Fourth of July, a celebration of our continued freedom. We sit and watch as fireworks light up the night sky. Why don't we shoot off these huge displays during the day? Why shoot them off in the dark of night? Because in the dark their light and splendor and beauty are on display... showing as a light in the darkness.
Just is the splendor and beauty of the Gospel, the Good News of Christ. It is a light in the darkness, truth in the midst of chaos. In the light, it is simply a light... maybe it makes the place a bit brighter but it is still a light among lights. In the dark, however, it is a beacon of hope, a guide for the lost. In the "good times" it is easy to shine and show the glory of god. In the "dark times" our lights grow dim and the only way to brighten is by being plugged into the Eternal Life Source and Light. When we shine his light in the darkness, we not only glorify Him, but light up a path for others to see Him. Allow God to light up your life, that others may see and walk in the same light.
---------------------------------
"Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don't try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this.
If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.
You see, we don't go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ."
~*2 Corinthians 4:1-6 (NLT)*~
Just is the splendor and beauty of the Gospel, the Good News of Christ. It is a light in the darkness, truth in the midst of chaos. In the light, it is simply a light... maybe it makes the place a bit brighter but it is still a light among lights. In the dark, however, it is a beacon of hope, a guide for the lost. In the "good times" it is easy to shine and show the glory of god. In the "dark times" our lights grow dim and the only way to brighten is by being plugged into the Eternal Life Source and Light. When we shine his light in the darkness, we not only glorify Him, but light up a path for others to see Him. Allow God to light up your life, that others may see and walk in the same light.
---------------------------------
"Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don't try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this.
If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.
You see, we don't go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ."
~*2 Corinthians 4:1-6 (NLT)*~
Monday, July 4, 2011
Thank You Troops
So I really do not have much to say that would be profound on this day that we celebrate the independence of our country. I did, however, attempt to find Bible verses on Freedom and being free. I succeeded, obviously, because we are free in Christ. But, as I read, I could not help but think of the men and women who serve our country and the sacrifices they make that we may continue to live freely in America. Now, this may be a bold comparison, and I am not saying they are Jesus Christ, but just think about their service to our country. What sacrifice do these men and women make? What sacrifice did Christ make for us? (the reasons for sacrifice are obviously different). Please keep in mind that these are just thoughts and I am simply recognizing the service done for our country. While Christ died for all mankind to know The Father and be free in the Truth. These men and women do sacrifice for us to live physical freedom here in the U.S. of A.
Christ Jesus was God in the form of man. He humbled himself to come to earth, to live and die that we might live. Jesus came to be a ransom for all, that we may know the love of the Father in Heaven through the sacrifice of His Son. Christ came so that we can be free... free to live in the love and eternity of our Heavenly Father. He died on a the cross to free us from death, decay, and the ways of the flesh. Whether we live in and out that freedom is our choice, but it is there. That freedom is a gift of God that we do not necessarily have to work for; we are given freedom through belief and doing life daily with Christ. We are free because of the sacrifice of the life of Christ. True freedom comes through Christ and Christ alone. Christ died for us to share freedom in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Now, I would like to thank the men and women of this country. To our troops, we live in freedom in our every day life because of the sacrifice made by those fighting for our country. There is a sacrifice to fight, a sacrifice of a life with family, of time spent doing something here in freedom... and unfortunately a sacrifice of life. Thank you to all of the men and women of our military for the sacrifice you make daily that we may live in the freedom of this country. Thank you.
-------------------------------------------
"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
~*1 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT)*~
"Sin is no longer your master... Instead you live under the freedom of God's grace."
~*Romans 6:14 (NLT)*~
"...the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay."
~*Romans 8:21
"But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ."
~*Galatians 3:22 (NLT)*~
"God sent him to buy freedom for us... so that he could adopt us as his very own children."
~*Galatians 4:5 (NLT)*~
"So Christ has truly set us free."
~*Galatians 5:1 (NLT)*~
"He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins."
~*Ephesians 1:7 (NLT)*~
"He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time."
~*1 Timothy 2:6 (NLT)*~
"And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free."
~*John 8:32 (NLT)*~
Christ Jesus was God in the form of man. He humbled himself to come to earth, to live and die that we might live. Jesus came to be a ransom for all, that we may know the love of the Father in Heaven through the sacrifice of His Son. Christ came so that we can be free... free to live in the love and eternity of our Heavenly Father. He died on a the cross to free us from death, decay, and the ways of the flesh. Whether we live in and out that freedom is our choice, but it is there. That freedom is a gift of God that we do not necessarily have to work for; we are given freedom through belief and doing life daily with Christ. We are free because of the sacrifice of the life of Christ. True freedom comes through Christ and Christ alone. Christ died for us to share freedom in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Now, I would like to thank the men and women of this country. To our troops, we live in freedom in our every day life because of the sacrifice made by those fighting for our country. There is a sacrifice to fight, a sacrifice of a life with family, of time spent doing something here in freedom... and unfortunately a sacrifice of life. Thank you to all of the men and women of our military for the sacrifice you make daily that we may live in the freedom of this country. Thank you.
-------------------------------------------
"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
~*1 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT)*~
"Sin is no longer your master... Instead you live under the freedom of God's grace."
~*Romans 6:14 (NLT)*~
"...the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God's children in glorious freedom from death and decay."
~*Romans 8:21
"But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ."
~*Galatians 3:22 (NLT)*~
"God sent him to buy freedom for us... so that he could adopt us as his very own children."
~*Galatians 4:5 (NLT)*~
"So Christ has truly set us free."
~*Galatians 5:1 (NLT)*~
"He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins."
~*Ephesians 1:7 (NLT)*~
"He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time."
~*1 Timothy 2:6 (NLT)*~
"And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free."
~*John 8:32 (NLT)*~
Friday, July 1, 2011
Mark 10:43-45
Who are you? Really, who do you think you are? Who do others say you are? Jesus created a new definition for greatness: be great by serving. So many people in power or of great influence think they are great because they are being served or rule over others and tend to exercise there authority a bit much at times. Our pride gets the best of us at times and we think we are great because we have an enormous amount of facebook friends. At times, most of us can be this way. We naturally have a mentality that we deserve something. The world sometimes seems to define greatness by the amount of money you make, how many people are "following" you, or by status in society... or in some cases who and how many people serve you.
This is not how Jesus tells us to be, nor is it the example he left of living life for our Heavenly Father. This in not how the most influential and greatest being in history acted or carried himself. Jesus was great, not because he had followers or because he had power (although he is almighty and infinite). He was great because he was humble. He served. People followed Christ because he humbled himself to a servant, not using status or suffering from a power trip of being "king". He gave them the choice, the opportunity to follow. Such it is in this life. We should not have the expectations of being served but we should serve others. There is a great testimony to Christ in serving others. I have experienced it first hand... how people loved and cared for me and served me because they loved Jesus... that is a true testament to his glory. The King of Kings came to serve, not to be served.
So I ask again, who are you? Who do you think you are? Who do others see you as?
-------------------------------
"But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave to everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."
~*Mark 10:43-45 (NLT)*~
This is not how Jesus tells us to be, nor is it the example he left of living life for our Heavenly Father. This in not how the most influential and greatest being in history acted or carried himself. Jesus was great, not because he had followers or because he had power (although he is almighty and infinite). He was great because he was humble. He served. People followed Christ because he humbled himself to a servant, not using status or suffering from a power trip of being "king". He gave them the choice, the opportunity to follow. Such it is in this life. We should not have the expectations of being served but we should serve others. There is a great testimony to Christ in serving others. I have experienced it first hand... how people loved and cared for me and served me because they loved Jesus... that is a true testament to his glory. The King of Kings came to serve, not to be served.
So I ask again, who are you? Who do you think you are? Who do others see you as?
-------------------------------
"But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave to everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."
~*Mark 10:43-45 (NLT)*~
Simple Thanks
Thank you for a rested body. I pray for peace of mind.
Thank you for a heart that beats. From it may love and kindness shine.
I thank you for the friends I have. I pray for continued fellowship from thee.
Thank you for holding me accountable. Open my heart to see.
You are a wonderful God. I pray that you would be the focus of my heart, mind, body, and soul.
I know Satan will attack me, but you are my strong tower, my fortress and refuge. Come minister to me.
~Sharina Marie
Thank you for a heart that beats. From it may love and kindness shine.
I thank you for the friends I have. I pray for continued fellowship from thee.
Thank you for holding me accountable. Open my heart to see.
You are a wonderful God. I pray that you would be the focus of my heart, mind, body, and soul.
I know Satan will attack me, but you are my strong tower, my fortress and refuge. Come minister to me.
~Sharina Marie
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