Galatians 4:6-7 "And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, 'Abba! Father!' Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God."
Are you still in bondage? Are there areas the enemy still has a strong grip on in your life? Remember your daily battle ground is your mind. Are you taking those thoughts captive? Your life shows what you believe. What are you believing? Do you believe you have been set free? Do you believe you are an adopted child of God and now you have rights? Before Christ you were a slave of unrighteousness. The blood of Christ, which has justified you, purchased all the rights of your inheritance. You know what you inherited? Freedom. When the enemy torments you with ways of bondage and preys on your fears to cripple you, choose to believe the truth of your right to freedom. No, you don't deserve it and you did not earn it. But it is yours!!! Christ purchased it for you. Show gratitude and thankfulness to God today for the freedom that He bought for you. I don't know about you but this sounds like the greatest Christmas gift of all. And the most expensive one by far.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Today's Book Recommendation
Need a good book recommendation? Need to dig a little deeper in your walk with God? If you haven't yet already, I HIGHLY recommend reading any of Elizabeth George's Books...starting with this one!
A WOMAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART by Elizabeth George
OR...
A YOUNG WOMAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART by Elizabeth George
Check out all Elizabeth George Books on various topics at ElizabethGeorge.com
A WOMAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART by Elizabeth George
OR...
A YOUNG WOMAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART by Elizabeth George
Check out all Elizabeth George Books on various topics at ElizabethGeorge.com
Friday, December 4, 2009
Spiritual Warfare Discussion
Click HERE to watch a discussion between Cheryl Brodersen and Sharon Ries on Spiritual Warfare. I was so well reminded and learned a lot about this topic during this discussion. I really encourage you to take the time to watch it!
http://www.hischannel.com/streambird/2000/2007tue/vodtv.php
http://www.hischannel.com/streambird/2000/2007tue/vodtv.php
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Treasures from Psalm 119
Be refreshed with these sweet reminders...
Is the Word of God alive to you?
Pray Psalm 119:18 "Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Thy law."
Are you entangled in sin? Make God's Word your treasure...then your heart will be attached.
Matthew 6:21 "For where your is, there will your heart be also."
Psalm 119:11 "Thy word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee."
Held in bondage by unguarded eyes?
Psalm 119:37 "Turn my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in Thy ways." If your focus is on the treasures of this world and what the world craves after regarding success, beauty and satisfaction...your character will be shallow because all of these things are here for a moment.
Affliction can be good
Psalm 119:67 "Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Thy word."
God is faithful.
Remember your responsibility
Psalm 119:101 "I have restrained my feet from every evil way, that I may keep Thy word."
Oh the pain we can avoid! Remember how weak we are and be wise in your daily decisions. See sin for what it is. Call it what it is.
Remain faithful
Psalm 119: 130 "The unfolding of Thy words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple."
Be faithful to be in God's Word and you will day by day, month by month, year by year and God will open you eyes to truth more and more. You may not understand a lot now but He will be faithful to give you understanding.
Broken is beautiful
Psalm 119:136 "My eyes shed streams of water, because they do not keep Thy law."
Don't want to stumble? Love God's Word.
Psalm 119:165 "Those who love Thy law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble."
It doesn't say those who read or know God's law, it says those who LOVE it. Set up your life around treasuring God's Word, then your heart will be attached...you will LOVE His Word. Love is most powerful. Guard your heart with God's Word and the enemy will be restricted in your life.
Is the Word of God alive to you?
Pray Psalm 119:18 "Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Thy law."
Are you entangled in sin? Make God's Word your treasure...then your heart will be attached.
Matthew 6:21 "For where your is, there will your heart be also."
Psalm 119:11 "Thy word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee."
Held in bondage by unguarded eyes?
Psalm 119:37 "Turn my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in Thy ways." If your focus is on the treasures of this world and what the world craves after regarding success, beauty and satisfaction...your character will be shallow because all of these things are here for a moment.
Affliction can be good
Psalm 119:67 "Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Thy word."
God is faithful.
Remember your responsibility
Psalm 119:101 "I have restrained my feet from every evil way, that I may keep Thy word."
Oh the pain we can avoid! Remember how weak we are and be wise in your daily decisions. See sin for what it is. Call it what it is.
Remain faithful
Psalm 119: 130 "The unfolding of Thy words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple."
Be faithful to be in God's Word and you will day by day, month by month, year by year and God will open you eyes to truth more and more. You may not understand a lot now but He will be faithful to give you understanding.
Broken is beautiful
Psalm 119:136 "My eyes shed streams of water, because they do not keep Thy law."
Don't want to stumble? Love God's Word.
Psalm 119:165 "Those who love Thy law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble."
It doesn't say those who read or know God's law, it says those who LOVE it. Set up your life around treasuring God's Word, then your heart will be attached...you will LOVE His Word. Love is most powerful. Guard your heart with God's Word and the enemy will be restricted in your life.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Words of Wisdom Concerning Ministry
Are you in a season of preparation? Here are some words of wisdom from Pastor Jon Courson about ministry that have been encouraging me greatly lately.
"To you, who, like me, want to be used by God, I would say as did Zechariah, 'Don't despise the days of small things" (4:10). You may be on the backside of the desert, going through boring times or difficult situations, but know this: It's part of God's preparation."
"In this offering of consecration [Lev 8:25-27a], Aaron's and his sons's hands were initially empty. The Hebrew word translated 'consecration' means 'to fill the hands.' We usually think of consecration in terms of what we can bring to the Lord, what we can give Him, what we can do for Him -when in reality consecration means we come before the Lord with empty hands and let Him fill them as He chooses."
"Ministry is like the measles. You can't give it unless you've got it. You can't give blessing unless you're blessed. And you won't be blessed until you're locked in, tucked away, set aside -for how long? Until God's preparatory work in you is complete. Aaron and his sons were no doubt eager to begin, but they were to wait in order that they die not. Many ministries die because people don't know the meaning of a personal devotional life, of spending chunks of time locked away in the presence of God."
-taken from Jon Courson's Application Commentary
-Get into God's presence. Learn how to spend time with Him and receive fresh words from Him. Ministry will be an overflow of that. Stay connected to the vine and bear fruit that lasts.
"To you, who, like me, want to be used by God, I would say as did Zechariah, 'Don't despise the days of small things" (4:10). You may be on the backside of the desert, going through boring times or difficult situations, but know this: It's part of God's preparation."
"In this offering of consecration [Lev 8:25-27a], Aaron's and his sons's hands were initially empty. The Hebrew word translated 'consecration' means 'to fill the hands.' We usually think of consecration in terms of what we can bring to the Lord, what we can give Him, what we can do for Him -when in reality consecration means we come before the Lord with empty hands and let Him fill them as He chooses."
"Ministry is like the measles. You can't give it unless you've got it. You can't give blessing unless you're blessed. And you won't be blessed until you're locked in, tucked away, set aside -for how long? Until God's preparatory work in you is complete. Aaron and his sons were no doubt eager to begin, but they were to wait in order that they die not. Many ministries die because people don't know the meaning of a personal devotional life, of spending chunks of time locked away in the presence of God."
-taken from Jon Courson's Application Commentary
-Get into God's presence. Learn how to spend time with Him and receive fresh words from Him. Ministry will be an overflow of that. Stay connected to the vine and bear fruit that lasts.
Friday, November 20, 2009
How to Wait
This is today's Streams in the Desert devotional. May it be of encouragement to you!
How To Wait
"Blessed is he that waiteth" (Dan. 12:12).
It may seem an easy thing to wait, but it is one of the postures which a Christian soldier learns not without years of teaching. Marching and quick-marching are much easier to God's warriors than standing still.
There are hours of perplexity when the most willing spirit, anxiously desirous to serve the Lord, knows not what part to take. Then what shall it do? Vex itself by despair? Fly back in cowardice, turn to the right hand in fear, or rush forward in presumption?
No, but simply wait. Wait in prayer, however. Call upon God and spread the case before Him; tell Him your difficulty, and plead His promise of aid.
Wait in faith. Express your unstaggering confidence in Him. Believe that if He keep you tarrying even till midnight, yet He will come at the right time; the vision shall come, and shall not tarry.
Wait in quiet patience. Never murmur against the second cause, as the children of Israel did against Moses. Accept the case as it is, and put it as it stands, simply and with your whole heart, without any self-will, into the hand of your covenant God, saying, "Now, Lord, not my will, but Thine be done. I know not what to do; I am brought to extremities; but I will wait until Thou shalt cleave the floods, or drive back my foes. I will wait, if Thou keep me many a day, for my heart is fixed upon Thee alone, O God, and my spirit waiteth for Thee in full conviction that Thou wilt yet be my joy and my salvation, my refuge and my strong tower." --Morning by Morning
Wait patiently wait,
God never is late;
Thy budding plans are in Thy Father's holding,
And only wait His grand divine unfolding.
Then wait, wait,
Patiently wait.
Trust, hopefully trust,
That God will adjust
Thy tangled life; and from its dark concealings,
Will bring His will, in all its bright revealings.
Then trust, trust,
Hopefully trust.
Rest, peacefully rest
On thy Saviour's breast;
Breathe in His ear thy sacred high ambition,
And He will bring it forth in blest fruition.
Then rest, rest,
Peacefully rest! --Mercy A. Gladwin
-Streams in the Desert
How To Wait
"Blessed is he that waiteth" (Dan. 12:12).
It may seem an easy thing to wait, but it is one of the postures which a Christian soldier learns not without years of teaching. Marching and quick-marching are much easier to God's warriors than standing still.
There are hours of perplexity when the most willing spirit, anxiously desirous to serve the Lord, knows not what part to take. Then what shall it do? Vex itself by despair? Fly back in cowardice, turn to the right hand in fear, or rush forward in presumption?
No, but simply wait. Wait in prayer, however. Call upon God and spread the case before Him; tell Him your difficulty, and plead His promise of aid.
Wait in faith. Express your unstaggering confidence in Him. Believe that if He keep you tarrying even till midnight, yet He will come at the right time; the vision shall come, and shall not tarry.
Wait in quiet patience. Never murmur against the second cause, as the children of Israel did against Moses. Accept the case as it is, and put it as it stands, simply and with your whole heart, without any self-will, into the hand of your covenant God, saying, "Now, Lord, not my will, but Thine be done. I know not what to do; I am brought to extremities; but I will wait until Thou shalt cleave the floods, or drive back my foes. I will wait, if Thou keep me many a day, for my heart is fixed upon Thee alone, O God, and my spirit waiteth for Thee in full conviction that Thou wilt yet be my joy and my salvation, my refuge and my strong tower." --Morning by Morning
Wait patiently wait,
God never is late;
Thy budding plans are in Thy Father's holding,
And only wait His grand divine unfolding.
Then wait, wait,
Patiently wait.
Trust, hopefully trust,
That God will adjust
Thy tangled life; and from its dark concealings,
Will bring His will, in all its bright revealings.
Then trust, trust,
Hopefully trust.
Rest, peacefully rest
On thy Saviour's breast;
Breathe in His ear thy sacred high ambition,
And He will bring it forth in blest fruition.
Then rest, rest,
Peacefully rest! --Mercy A. Gladwin
-Streams in the Desert
Monday, November 16, 2009
A Divine Defining Moment
Be encouraged today to know that we all go through trials. It is a part of life on earth. And it's okay. Trials in your life do not mean that there's a problem that needs to be fixed. Okay, maybe there's a problem that needs to be fixed, but we can only be so proactive in preventing difficult circumstances and hardship. I'm not talking about consequences to sin and the discipline of the Lord. I am talking about having hard days, dealing with hard emotions and feeling pain. We cannot see how everything is going to work out in life and prevent hard times.
Do you know that you have barely scratched the surface of intimacy with the Lord? Do you realize how little you know God? I'm not saying that to discourage you...but wow...there is so much to know! Is there a special way God touches your heart...and you know it's Him loving on you? Have you learned how to hear His voice as you meditate on His word? Does He make you smile during the day?
Hardships are all about knowing Jesus. They woo us to Him. They help us see Him because we're pretty blind. Difficult circumstances can either bring us toward the Lord or away from Him. Don't be swallowed by them. When you are overwhelmed in your difficulties you are in position to experience a supernatural God. And that is NOT a bad thing. We look at hard times and seek to get out. It is our natural response. Look at a hard day, a hard year or even just a hard moment as your opportunity to having a Divine Defining Moment.
At times I may want my spouse or friend to be perfect. But if they were perfect and I did not know them in an intimate way...it sure would not mean much. God perfects you through the trials...but I assure you, He is more interested in you knowing Him more intimately through them. As you know Him more intimately and personally through the trials, the work of holiness in your life will be genuine and authentic. You will be real. Life will be an adventure and a thrill. God does not just want to make you a "better person." He wants you to be alive. To live life to the fullest (John 10:10). And God does not love you more if you are more holy. That's love. Loving people just as they are...that's what Jesus is all about. Don't get me wrong...God is totally into holiness and perfecting you. It's a glorious purpose of His. It is how the world sees God in our lives.
When Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned, what did they do? They prayed and sang praises to the Lord. In that moment, do you think they were doing that because they were happy they were becoming more perfect people? Maybe. But I think it was a supernatural moment. They allowed the suffering to be a Divine Defining Moment. They let God have His way. The result? An earthquake, all the prison doors open and chains broken, the gospel shared and salvation occurred. Now that is an exciting story to tell! God is no bore. He is an exciting God. Trials invite you to experience that.
Let those trials come...and get to know your God.
Do you know that you have barely scratched the surface of intimacy with the Lord? Do you realize how little you know God? I'm not saying that to discourage you...but wow...there is so much to know! Is there a special way God touches your heart...and you know it's Him loving on you? Have you learned how to hear His voice as you meditate on His word? Does He make you smile during the day?
Hardships are all about knowing Jesus. They woo us to Him. They help us see Him because we're pretty blind. Difficult circumstances can either bring us toward the Lord or away from Him. Don't be swallowed by them. When you are overwhelmed in your difficulties you are in position to experience a supernatural God. And that is NOT a bad thing. We look at hard times and seek to get out. It is our natural response. Look at a hard day, a hard year or even just a hard moment as your opportunity to having a Divine Defining Moment.
At times I may want my spouse or friend to be perfect. But if they were perfect and I did not know them in an intimate way...it sure would not mean much. God perfects you through the trials...but I assure you, He is more interested in you knowing Him more intimately through them. As you know Him more intimately and personally through the trials, the work of holiness in your life will be genuine and authentic. You will be real. Life will be an adventure and a thrill. God does not just want to make you a "better person." He wants you to be alive. To live life to the fullest (John 10:10). And God does not love you more if you are more holy. That's love. Loving people just as they are...that's what Jesus is all about. Don't get me wrong...God is totally into holiness and perfecting you. It's a glorious purpose of His. It is how the world sees God in our lives.
When Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned, what did they do? They prayed and sang praises to the Lord. In that moment, do you think they were doing that because they were happy they were becoming more perfect people? Maybe. But I think it was a supernatural moment. They allowed the suffering to be a Divine Defining Moment. They let God have His way. The result? An earthquake, all the prison doors open and chains broken, the gospel shared and salvation occurred. Now that is an exciting story to tell! God is no bore. He is an exciting God. Trials invite you to experience that.
Let those trials come...and get to know your God.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Party On
I'm not quite sure how to put into words all that God is showing me but I'll give it a shot.
When it comes to spending time with God, we don't need a "prescription" in order to get into God's presence. We have the freedom to come to Him as we are and Christ paid the price for our sin that separated us from God so that we could be near. However, I think that God does show us all throughout scripture how to approach Him. Not because we "have to" in order to be intimate with Him or anything but...well, God knows us! He knows how we work and how we function. He designed and created us and He knows how we are rigged. So, He gives us instruction when it comes to approaching Him so we can "get the most" out of our time seeking Him. I'll just highlight a few verses based on what I'm talking about and comment on them.
Psalm 95:2 says, "Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving."
Thanksgiving? Haha...I just realized that's right around the corner. And no that has nothing to do with what I'm talking about. This is not holiday related! God just did it that way :o)
Anyway, the word for thanksgiving in the original Hebrew can also mean "a song of thanksgiving." Pretty cool. God is so into music. Music is VERY spiritual. If you listen to the top secular songs today you would be floored at the bold and blunt messages of Satan, whom the Bible describes is the god of this age. So, when it comes to entering into God's presence...be thankful. Sing a song of thanks. It's a secret. A secret that God has let us in on. When we approach God with a thankful heart, it's like bringing a huge torch into a dark cave. It is the start of a very special journey into God's presence. Let's just say, you will see Him better, you will have insight faster and you will just plain be happy!
Psalm 95:6 says, "Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker."
Have you done that? You've got to try it. It's awesome! Go on, get down on your knees in your bedroom. Bow down. Press your face into the carpet. Worship God. It's a thrill. You are missing out otherwise. Trust me, God knows how we're wired. We deeply want to bow down to someone.
Psalm 100:2 "Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing."
We are such a mopey people. We are so gloomy. I bet you many more people would be saved if we were actually happy. Put on that worship music that makes you smile. Actually, turn it up really loud. Who cares if it's corny or whatever. You don't have to worry about that stuff. And God doesn't care if you can't sing in tune. Whatever. Just sing...LOUD. Have fun...smile a little with God. It's okay. God's into partying. There's actually a big party to come but we can get our party on now.
When it comes to spending time with God, we don't need a "prescription" in order to get into God's presence. We have the freedom to come to Him as we are and Christ paid the price for our sin that separated us from God so that we could be near. However, I think that God does show us all throughout scripture how to approach Him. Not because we "have to" in order to be intimate with Him or anything but...well, God knows us! He knows how we work and how we function. He designed and created us and He knows how we are rigged. So, He gives us instruction when it comes to approaching Him so we can "get the most" out of our time seeking Him. I'll just highlight a few verses based on what I'm talking about and comment on them.
Psalm 95:2 says, "Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving."
Thanksgiving? Haha...I just realized that's right around the corner. And no that has nothing to do with what I'm talking about. This is not holiday related! God just did it that way :o)
Anyway, the word for thanksgiving in the original Hebrew can also mean "a song of thanksgiving." Pretty cool. God is so into music. Music is VERY spiritual. If you listen to the top secular songs today you would be floored at the bold and blunt messages of Satan, whom the Bible describes is the god of this age. So, when it comes to entering into God's presence...be thankful. Sing a song of thanks. It's a secret. A secret that God has let us in on. When we approach God with a thankful heart, it's like bringing a huge torch into a dark cave. It is the start of a very special journey into God's presence. Let's just say, you will see Him better, you will have insight faster and you will just plain be happy!
Psalm 95:6 says, "Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker."
Have you done that? You've got to try it. It's awesome! Go on, get down on your knees in your bedroom. Bow down. Press your face into the carpet. Worship God. It's a thrill. You are missing out otherwise. Trust me, God knows how we're wired. We deeply want to bow down to someone.
Psalm 100:2 "Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing."
We are such a mopey people. We are so gloomy. I bet you many more people would be saved if we were actually happy. Put on that worship music that makes you smile. Actually, turn it up really loud. Who cares if it's corny or whatever. You don't have to worry about that stuff. And God doesn't care if you can't sing in tune. Whatever. Just sing...LOUD. Have fun...smile a little with God. It's okay. God's into partying. There's actually a big party to come but we can get our party on now.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Don't Forget to Pray
Are you feeling burdened? Don't forget to pray.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Don't forget to pray.
Is your vision clouded? Don't forget to pray.
Is your heart broken? Don't forget to pray.
Are you just making it by? Don't forget to pray.
Do you feel depressed?Don't forget to pray.
The enemy tempts us away from our time of prayer. Think back to those times God has shown up strong in your time of prayer with Him. Remember how He lifted a burden, gave you peace, filled you with joy and changed your perspective. Remember how He is the only one who can do those things! Enter into a time of prayer with your Creator (even if you are busy doing things...learn to pray wherever you are) and run to Him. Remember Matthew 11:28-30 NIV "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." So often we carry around huge burdens and pain because we have not yet learned how to "go to Jesus." He wants to carry those heavy loads. He wants to heal you. He wants to relieve you of the burdens and pressures of this life. But we need to learn how to "go to Him." We need to remember to "go to Him." When you feel these things...stop and "go to Jesus."
Do you feel overwhelmed? Don't forget to pray.
Is your vision clouded? Don't forget to pray.
Is your heart broken? Don't forget to pray.
Are you just making it by? Don't forget to pray.
Do you feel depressed?Don't forget to pray.
The enemy tempts us away from our time of prayer. Think back to those times God has shown up strong in your time of prayer with Him. Remember how He lifted a burden, gave you peace, filled you with joy and changed your perspective. Remember how He is the only one who can do those things! Enter into a time of prayer with your Creator (even if you are busy doing things...learn to pray wherever you are) and run to Him. Remember Matthew 11:28-30 NIV "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." So often we carry around huge burdens and pain because we have not yet learned how to "go to Jesus." He wants to carry those heavy loads. He wants to heal you. He wants to relieve you of the burdens and pressures of this life. But we need to learn how to "go to Him." We need to remember to "go to Him." When you feel these things...stop and "go to Jesus."
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Number 5
Practically, how do you "yield fruit" in a difficult season?
Number 5,
5. Continue to complete the work He is currently calling you to
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
We shine in this world as we do our good works in such a way to glorify God (Matthew 5:16). When you press on in completing a work He is calling you to in a difficult season, it will bring glory to God and others will look on and see the beautiful work the Lord is doing in your life!
Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established."
Sometimes we wonder if the works we do are God's will or not. Simply bring them before the Lord in prayer and He will show you. He will open and close doors. He will establish everything you do. Do not do a work for God apart from prayer. You may find yourself doing things for God apart from prayer. Redirect the works you do for Him by daily committing them in prayer before Him and stay connected to Him in all of your tasks. Are you doing a specific ministry without time spent in prayer for that particular work? If so, you will find it to be burdensome to you rather than a natural overflow of God's Spirit inside.
Number 5,
5. Continue to complete the work He is currently calling you to
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
We shine in this world as we do our good works in such a way to glorify God (Matthew 5:16). When you press on in completing a work He is calling you to in a difficult season, it will bring glory to God and others will look on and see the beautiful work the Lord is doing in your life!
Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established."
Sometimes we wonder if the works we do are God's will or not. Simply bring them before the Lord in prayer and He will show you. He will open and close doors. He will establish everything you do. Do not do a work for God apart from prayer. You may find yourself doing things for God apart from prayer. Redirect the works you do for Him by daily committing them in prayer before Him and stay connected to Him in all of your tasks. Are you doing a specific ministry without time spent in prayer for that particular work? If so, you will find it to be burdensome to you rather than a natural overflow of God's Spirit inside.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Number 4
Practically, how do you "yield fruit" in a difficult season?
Number 4,
4. Continue to be in fellowship
Hebrews 10:25 "not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
You will be in a pit of discouragement and depression if you are not meeting regularly for fellowship with your brothers and sisters!
1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 "Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; for indeed you do practice it toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more,"
There is more love to excel in! We need to love each other more and more. This happens when we get together!
1 Corinthians 12:7 "Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it."
We need each other. This is how God made it. We were created to function all together as one. If you are separated from this...you will not be very fruitful!
Proverbs 27:17 "Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
Proverbs 11:25 NIV "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
We are dependant upon one another to be sharpened in the Lord. Don't be deceived by thinking you don't need to be sharpened by anyone!
When you put yourself out there to seek to refresh others...God will refresh you!
Number 4,
4. Continue to be in fellowship
Hebrews 10:25 "not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
You will be in a pit of discouragement and depression if you are not meeting regularly for fellowship with your brothers and sisters!
1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 "Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; for indeed you do practice it toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more,"
There is more love to excel in! We need to love each other more and more. This happens when we get together!
1 Corinthians 12:7 "Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it."
We need each other. This is how God made it. We were created to function all together as one. If you are separated from this...you will not be very fruitful!
Proverbs 27:17 "Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
Proverbs 11:25 NIV "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
We are dependant upon one another to be sharpened in the Lord. Don't be deceived by thinking you don't need to be sharpened by anyone!
When you put yourself out there to seek to refresh others...God will refresh you!
Number 3
Practically, how do you still "yield fruit" in a difficult season of life?
Number 3
3. Continue to be sowing God's Word by watering and planting
1 Corinthians 3:6-9 "I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building."
Press on in the Word. Be in the Word and share the Word. God's Word is supernatural. It's as simple as that! By simply meditating on it and sharing with others what God is showing you, a work of God will take place in people's hearts and minds. God's Word is a healing agent. Psalm 107:20 says, "He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions."
Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
"Teaching them to observe all that I commanded you." We are not to stop teaching or sharing God's Word because things get hard! There are different seasons of life but that does not change what we are called by God to do. 2 Timothy 4:2 "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction."
Press on in the Word! If you have found yourself without a hunger for God's Word lately set aside some serious time to get drenched in it again. A hunger for God's Word is something to be maintained. When you stop getting into it, you will stop being hungry for it...and you will stop being fruitful!
Number 3
3. Continue to be sowing God's Word by watering and planting
1 Corinthians 3:6-9 "I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. So then, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building."
Press on in the Word. Be in the Word and share the Word. God's Word is supernatural. It's as simple as that! By simply meditating on it and sharing with others what God is showing you, a work of God will take place in people's hearts and minds. God's Word is a healing agent. Psalm 107:20 says, "He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions."
Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
"Teaching them to observe all that I commanded you." We are not to stop teaching or sharing God's Word because things get hard! There are different seasons of life but that does not change what we are called by God to do. 2 Timothy 4:2 "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction."
Press on in the Word! If you have found yourself without a hunger for God's Word lately set aside some serious time to get drenched in it again. A hunger for God's Word is something to be maintained. When you stop getting into it, you will stop being hungry for it...and you will stop being fruitful!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Number 2
Practically, how do you still "yield fruit" in a difficult season of life?
Number 2
2. Continue to engage in spiritual battle through prayer
Ephesians 6:12, 18 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places....With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,"
Do you forget about the spiritual realm? I do! Remember what's happening in the unseen realm and the reality of it. It is a reality! Ask God to make you more aware and more sensitive to the battle that is really going on. Prayer is your connection! By pressing on in the spiritual, your life will start to automatically yield fruit.
Psalm 18:39 "For Thou has girded me with strength for the battle; Thou has subdued under me those who rose up against me."
Let me say that we engage in this kind of strength and victory from the Lord through prayer!
2 Timothy 2:3-4 "Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier."
Are you entangled in the affairs of life? Is it the cause of a dry or difficult season in your life? You are a soldier of Christ Jesus. Rid yourself of the things that weigh you down! March on!!!!!!!!!!
Number 2
2. Continue to engage in spiritual battle through prayer
Ephesians 6:12, 18 "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places....With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,"
Do you forget about the spiritual realm? I do! Remember what's happening in the unseen realm and the reality of it. It is a reality! Ask God to make you more aware and more sensitive to the battle that is really going on. Prayer is your connection! By pressing on in the spiritual, your life will start to automatically yield fruit.
Psalm 18:39 "For Thou has girded me with strength for the battle; Thou has subdued under me those who rose up against me."
Let me say that we engage in this kind of strength and victory from the Lord through prayer!
2 Timothy 2:3-4 "Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier."
Are you entangled in the affairs of life? Is it the cause of a dry or difficult season in your life? You are a soldier of Christ Jesus. Rid yourself of the things that weigh you down! March on!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Number 1
Practically, how do you still "yield fruit" in a difficult season in life? Okay, number 1...
1. Continue to build up the Kingdom of God
Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you."
Be building up the body of believers...the spiritual building...pouring yourself into the lives of others. Remember...you are not alone! Every time you think about or talk to someone...remember they go through hard times! We are all "going through stuff." If we all seek to build each other up and encourage each other...how glorious! Needs will be met.
Hebrews 10:25 "not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you are also doing."
1. Continue to build up the Kingdom of God
Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you."
Be building up the body of believers...the spiritual building...pouring yourself into the lives of others. Remember...you are not alone! Every time you think about or talk to someone...remember they go through hard times! We are all "going through stuff." If we all seek to build each other up and encourage each other...how glorious! Needs will be met.
Hebrews 10:25 "not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you are also doing."
Monday, October 26, 2009
Motive For Pressing Forward
Remember how we talked about the cursing of trusting in man and the blessing of trusting in God? Let's read a definition of those who are trusting in their God. Jeremiah 17:7-8 NASB "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit."
Isn't that great? As you trust in the Lord and as your trust is the Lord, you will be firmly planted. Not only that, when a season of drought comes in your life, you will not be anxious and your life will still bear fruit! We are going to look at five ways we can still "yield fruit" in a difficult season. But just for today let's focus on the MOTIVE of why we will still be bearing fruit. A LOVE FOR GOD!
In a difficult season you may find it hard to continue to press forward and obey the Lord, but a love for the Lord will make it possible. John 14:15 says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." John 15:14 says, "You are My friends, if you do what I command you." Remember when things are hard, that you love the Lord and that you are His friend. Stick close to Him...that your love for Him motivate you to still be fearless and fruit-bearing!
Isn't that great? As you trust in the Lord and as your trust is the Lord, you will be firmly planted. Not only that, when a season of drought comes in your life, you will not be anxious and your life will still bear fruit! We are going to look at five ways we can still "yield fruit" in a difficult season. But just for today let's focus on the MOTIVE of why we will still be bearing fruit. A LOVE FOR GOD!
In a difficult season you may find it hard to continue to press forward and obey the Lord, but a love for the Lord will make it possible. John 14:15 says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." John 15:14 says, "You are My friends, if you do what I command you." Remember when things are hard, that you love the Lord and that you are His friend. Stick close to Him...that your love for Him motivate you to still be fearless and fruit-bearing!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Billy's Teachings
Hey Ladies! Just want you to know that I have made blog page for all of Billy's teachings. I am still in the process of getting all the teachings on there but there will be more added. You will also be able to click on a link and get a notes guide to fill in as you listen to the teaching. Galatians chapter 1 so far as a fill-in-the-blank notes page to go along with it. Get get enough of the Word!
Here's the link
http://billypenna.blogspot.com
Love you all,
Rach
Here's the link
http://billypenna.blogspot.com
Love you all,
Rach
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Cursed or Blessed?
Jeremiah 17:5 teaches us "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength." So where does the blessing come? Verse 7 says, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord." Not only does the blessing come from trust in the Lord but when the trust is the Lord is the true blessing! Remember, God does not just meet the need He is the need! We simply need Him. We will be digging into a chunk of scriptures in Jeremiah 17 but this is what we're going to start with. Meditate on this....GOD is the need that we are searching for. Let's seek Him and find Him and get to know Him more and more!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Come and Dine
Sorry it's been too long! I love posting things and just have been crazy busy lately. Anyway, this morning I read this devotional and it came as such a fresh word to me. Take a quiet minute to read and chew on this. I pray it is a fresh word for you as well!
Taken from Charles Spurgeon's Morning and Evening:
"Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine." (John 21:12)
In these words, the believer is invited to a holy nearness to Jesus. "Come and dine," implies the same table and the same meat. Sometimes it means to sit side by side and lean our head on the Savior's bosom. "Come and dine" gives us a vision of union with Jesus. Oh, what union this is! It is a depth which reason cannot fathom. "He that dwelleth in me, and I in him" (John 6:56). It is also an invitation to enjoy fellowship with the saints. Christians may differ on a variety of points, but they have all one spiritual appetite. If we cannot all feel alike, we can all feed alike on the bread of life sent down from heaven. At the table of fellowship with Jesus, we are one bread and one cup. Get nearer to Jesus, and you will find yourself linked more and more in spirit to all who are, like yourself, supported by the same heavenly manna. If we were closer to Jesus, we would be closer to one another. We likewise see in these words the source of strength for every Christian. to look at Christ is to live, but for strength to serve Him you must "come and dine." We labor under much unnecessary weakness on account of neglecting this precept of the Master. We should feed on the marrow and fatness of the Word that we may accumulate strength therein and urge every power to its full tension in the Master's service. Thus, then, if you desire nearness to Jesus, union with Jesus, love for His people, and strength from Jesus, "come and dine" with Him by faith.
Amen!!! This is such an important word for God's children. It was so well said!!!!!!!!!!!
Taken from Charles Spurgeon's Morning and Evening:
"Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine." (John 21:12)
In these words, the believer is invited to a holy nearness to Jesus. "Come and dine," implies the same table and the same meat. Sometimes it means to sit side by side and lean our head on the Savior's bosom. "Come and dine" gives us a vision of union with Jesus. Oh, what union this is! It is a depth which reason cannot fathom. "He that dwelleth in me, and I in him" (John 6:56). It is also an invitation to enjoy fellowship with the saints. Christians may differ on a variety of points, but they have all one spiritual appetite. If we cannot all feel alike, we can all feed alike on the bread of life sent down from heaven. At the table of fellowship with Jesus, we are one bread and one cup. Get nearer to Jesus, and you will find yourself linked more and more in spirit to all who are, like yourself, supported by the same heavenly manna. If we were closer to Jesus, we would be closer to one another. We likewise see in these words the source of strength for every Christian. to look at Christ is to live, but for strength to serve Him you must "come and dine." We labor under much unnecessary weakness on account of neglecting this precept of the Master. We should feed on the marrow and fatness of the Word that we may accumulate strength therein and urge every power to its full tension in the Master's service. Thus, then, if you desire nearness to Jesus, union with Jesus, love for His people, and strength from Jesus, "come and dine" with Him by faith.
Amen!!! This is such an important word for God's children. It was so well said!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Not Doing But Being
Ever wonder what your "purpose" is? Sometimes it is much simpler than we think. The burdens we carry in trying to have purpose and live out purpose can drain and confuse us. Let's meditate on God's main purpose for us. Let this one thing be swimming around your mind today and feel the freedom it brings. Ephesians 1:4 says, "just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him." God chose us for the purpose of holiness and blamelessness. Why? What does that mean? It means that God does not want you to just "do" this thing. He wants you to "be" this thing. Colossians 1:21-22 says, "And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach-" Again here we find God's purpose of holiness and blamelessness. Why? I think it can be said in one word...GENUINE. God always does as genuine work. If it is not genuine, it is because we are hindering Him. Imagine a REAL and AUTHENTIC life for God. Where the life in the home is not different from the life in the church. Where the desires of the heart are to seek God whether there is a "problem" to bring Him or not. You see, if we let God into the innermost places of our hearts and minds and do a deep work of miraculous change, we can be what Philippians 2:15 is talking about..."that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,"
We need to let God work IN us so that He can work THROUGH us. WE are witnesses. It's who we are. Holiness shines in this world. And holiness is NOT what we do...it's just who we are. Spend some special and intimate time with the Lord. HE will do the work inside you and then through you. Living for Him will be natural. It will be an overflow. God does not desire you to be burnt out and burdened. If you are...ask yourself the question. How's your time with God been?
We need to let God work IN us so that He can work THROUGH us. WE are witnesses. It's who we are. Holiness shines in this world. And holiness is NOT what we do...it's just who we are. Spend some special and intimate time with the Lord. HE will do the work inside you and then through you. Living for Him will be natural. It will be an overflow. God does not desire you to be burnt out and burdened. If you are...ask yourself the question. How's your time with God been?
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
WHY DO YOU FOLLOW GOD?
Why do you follow God? Really. Ask yourself. Challenge yourself. Ask God to search out your heart and show you. We live in a VERY self-centered culture. Have you brought that mindset into your relationship with God? I am convinced, that when it all boils down, there are basically two "types" of believers.
The first "type" would be those who just simply live life. They make their own decisions, they choose their own direction and live life on their own path of "choice." They then pray and ask God to "bless" their decisions and choices and invite Him to be a part of their life. They try to do the Christian thing when it comes to making decisions. They are caught up in the "rights and wrongs" of everything. Does God love them? Absolutely. And not any more or less than the other "type" of believer we will describe. But let me ASSURE you. They are REALLY missing it and missing out. Their prayers are a list of wants and needs. "God I want this car, heal my body, may me children be good, etc." There is nothing wrong with this. God is our Father! He wants us to lay these things before Him. But if that's all there is...is there something wrong?
The second "type" of believer is a FULLY surrendered one. They simply live for God. They learn to hear Him and recognize His voice (John 10:4). Their life is not their own (1 Corinthians 6:19). They have "given up" on their dreams and goals...well, they have given them to Him. Their decisions and choices are based on OBEDIENCE to God. They follow the "path" that He shows them. They choose what He has chosen for them. These believers are partaking of the spiritual blessings that they have been freely given in Christ Jesus. There is intimacy with the Father. There is "true spirituality" if you will. Rather than asking God to be a part of their life, they ask to be a part of what God's doing in this world. They actually take the Bible for what it says. They actually read it and obey it. They seek to be purified and allow God into those "secret" places of their hearts and minds. No holding on to secret sins. God has complete access.
Can you be a "believer" and live as the first type? Can you be an unbeliever and live as the first type...but not really be a believer? Sure you can. I'm not saying they're not a believer...but I'm also not saying they are. People can be deceived into thinking they are living for God when, unfortunately, in reality they just want God to bless their life. They're not really interested in living for Him. Please do not think I TOTALLY live as the second "type" of believer. But that is my desire. Is it yours? Why do you follow God? Have you counted the cost of following Him? Enough of my opinion on this matter...let's just read what Jesus said. He says it much more boldly, bluntly and seriously that I think I ever could. I have too much "people pleasing" in me. Here's what He says about following Him...
Luke 14:26-28 "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he CANNOT be My disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me CANNOT be My disciple. For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it?" (emphasis mine)
Matthew 10:37-39 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found life shall lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake shall find it."
1 Corinthians 6:19 "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, who you have from God, and that you are not your own?"
1 John 2:15-17 "Do not love the world, nor the THINGS in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is NOT in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the WILL OF GOD abides forever." (emphasis mine)
WARNING: We tend to always give ourselves the benefit of the doubt and we justify ourselves and tell ourselves things like "well, I definitely don't love the world and I know life here is short and...." so on and so forth. Let me challenge you to, rather than make yourself sound good in your head, to say "Lord, there is so much of me that loves this world...I am so focused on myself...I live life my own way...HELP ME LORD!" Don't puff yourself up before the Lord. Humble yourself before Him. That is the way of the true disciple. Remember the Pharisee puffed himself up before the Lord in prayer, the tax collector repented and was broken over his sin. Which are you? Jesus is coming back and your days are much fewer than you think. Sense the urgency. Live for eternity. You will be standing before Him before you know it.
I love you so much. I am praying for you. Pray for me too.
Your sis,
Rach
The first "type" would be those who just simply live life. They make their own decisions, they choose their own direction and live life on their own path of "choice." They then pray and ask God to "bless" their decisions and choices and invite Him to be a part of their life. They try to do the Christian thing when it comes to making decisions. They are caught up in the "rights and wrongs" of everything. Does God love them? Absolutely. And not any more or less than the other "type" of believer we will describe. But let me ASSURE you. They are REALLY missing it and missing out. Their prayers are a list of wants and needs. "God I want this car, heal my body, may me children be good, etc." There is nothing wrong with this. God is our Father! He wants us to lay these things before Him. But if that's all there is...is there something wrong?
The second "type" of believer is a FULLY surrendered one. They simply live for God. They learn to hear Him and recognize His voice (John 10:4). Their life is not their own (1 Corinthians 6:19). They have "given up" on their dreams and goals...well, they have given them to Him. Their decisions and choices are based on OBEDIENCE to God. They follow the "path" that He shows them. They choose what He has chosen for them. These believers are partaking of the spiritual blessings that they have been freely given in Christ Jesus. There is intimacy with the Father. There is "true spirituality" if you will. Rather than asking God to be a part of their life, they ask to be a part of what God's doing in this world. They actually take the Bible for what it says. They actually read it and obey it. They seek to be purified and allow God into those "secret" places of their hearts and minds. No holding on to secret sins. God has complete access.
Can you be a "believer" and live as the first type? Can you be an unbeliever and live as the first type...but not really be a believer? Sure you can. I'm not saying they're not a believer...but I'm also not saying they are. People can be deceived into thinking they are living for God when, unfortunately, in reality they just want God to bless their life. They're not really interested in living for Him. Please do not think I TOTALLY live as the second "type" of believer. But that is my desire. Is it yours? Why do you follow God? Have you counted the cost of following Him? Enough of my opinion on this matter...let's just read what Jesus said. He says it much more boldly, bluntly and seriously that I think I ever could. I have too much "people pleasing" in me. Here's what He says about following Him...
Luke 14:26-28 "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and children and brothers and sisters, yes, even his own life, he CANNOT be My disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me CANNOT be My disciple. For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it?" (emphasis mine)
Matthew 10:37-39 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found life shall lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake shall find it."
1 Corinthians 6:19 "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, who you have from God, and that you are not your own?"
1 John 2:15-17 "Do not love the world, nor the THINGS in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is NOT in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. And the world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the WILL OF GOD abides forever." (emphasis mine)
WARNING: We tend to always give ourselves the benefit of the doubt and we justify ourselves and tell ourselves things like "well, I definitely don't love the world and I know life here is short and...." so on and so forth. Let me challenge you to, rather than make yourself sound good in your head, to say "Lord, there is so much of me that loves this world...I am so focused on myself...I live life my own way...HELP ME LORD!" Don't puff yourself up before the Lord. Humble yourself before Him. That is the way of the true disciple. Remember the Pharisee puffed himself up before the Lord in prayer, the tax collector repented and was broken over his sin. Which are you? Jesus is coming back and your days are much fewer than you think. Sense the urgency. Live for eternity. You will be standing before Him before you know it.
I love you so much. I am praying for you. Pray for me too.
Your sis,
Rach
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
THE PEOPLE SYNDROME
Galatians 1:10 "For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ."
We have a people syndrome where we are way too caught up with people
- Pressure
- Belonging
- Acceptance
- Popularity
- Celebrities
- Musicians
- Fashion
- Reality Shows
We have a tendency to lift people up and idolize them in our heart which the Bible tells us to flee from in 1 Corinthains 10:14 "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." ...God did create us to have relationships...we are relational and He created us that way...but we can be unhealthy in the way we interact with and view mankind.
Idolatry is allowing something to be on the throne of your heart other than God. It is something you love and worship more than God. It is something that causes you to act in behalf of it.
When you put your trust in other people...it pulls you away from God. Jeremiah 17:5 says, "Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the LORD."
We are so easily led to follow people. For example, most of us know about God from what people tell us about God...not from what we've read about Him for ourselves from our Bibles. We rely on other people to tell us!
Paul addresses this issue in Galatians 1:1 stating he was NOT sent from men nor through the agency of man but through Jesus Christ
In verse 6 Paul says he was so amazed that they were deserting Him who called them by grace to a different gospel. WHY??? Because of all Christ had done for them. They quickly turned away from Christ and all He had done to listen to what other people had to say!
Friday, September 25, 2009
OVERCOMING FEELING UNLOVED
Here is an excerpt taken from Beth Moore's Book "Praying God's Word." I pray you will be so edified!
"Whether we seek to have our cup filled through approval, affirmation, control, success, or immediate gratification, we are miserable until something is in it. I have come to dearly love and appreciate Psalm 143:8 (NIV): 'Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.' What a heavy yoke is shattered when we awaken in the morning, bring our hearts, minds and souls and all their "needs" to the Great Soul-ologist, offer Him our empty cups, and ask Him to fill them with Himself! No one is more pleasurable to be around than a person who has had her cup filled by the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the only One who is never overwhelmed by the depth and length of our need. Imagine how different out days would be if we had our cups filled by Christ first thing in the morning. During the course of the day, anything else anyone is able to offer could be just the overflow of an already full cup. This person will never lack company or affection because she draws daily from the well of unfailing love. This blessed of all believers will know from experience what the apostle Paul meant in Colossians 2:10 (KJV); 'Ye are complete in Him.'"
-Beth Moore, Praying God's Word
"Whether we seek to have our cup filled through approval, affirmation, control, success, or immediate gratification, we are miserable until something is in it. I have come to dearly love and appreciate Psalm 143:8 (NIV): 'Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.' What a heavy yoke is shattered when we awaken in the morning, bring our hearts, minds and souls and all their "needs" to the Great Soul-ologist, offer Him our empty cups, and ask Him to fill them with Himself! No one is more pleasurable to be around than a person who has had her cup filled by the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the only One who is never overwhelmed by the depth and length of our need. Imagine how different out days would be if we had our cups filled by Christ first thing in the morning. During the course of the day, anything else anyone is able to offer could be just the overflow of an already full cup. This person will never lack company or affection because she draws daily from the well of unfailing love. This blessed of all believers will know from experience what the apostle Paul meant in Colossians 2:10 (KJV); 'Ye are complete in Him.'"
-Beth Moore, Praying God's Word
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Beautiful Storm
This morning I was reading in Genesis about one of my favorite...I almost want to say my very favorite Bible character Joseph. Joseph ALWAYS amazes me. He stands above the crowd. Trials are his life and they press out of him purity, faith and compassion. A few days ago I read about how he resisted the temptation to sleep with Potiphar's wife though she asked him "day after day" (Gen 39:10). What was the result in his character? Purity. What happened when she lied and said he raped her? Imprisonment. My response? Amazing. But today I think I was even more amazed. Although I've read this many times I feel like I am walking around today with words and phrases swimming around in my mind like "wow" "amazing" "I can't believe it" "how is that possible". Anyway, Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery and God blesses Him and to make a long story short he ends up ruling Egypt and God has revealed to him of a famine to come. He stores up food and makes all necessary preparations for everyone to survive. His brothers come to get food for their family. So much pain and devastation has Joseph's father bared at the news of Joseph's death. A lie the brothers crafted. Here are his brothers coming to him for food to survive. The brothers that hated him...and would have killed him had it not been for Reuben, the eldest. When Joseph reveals himself to his brothers he says "And now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life....Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God"(Gen. 45:5, 8). What did I write next to each one of those verses? WOW. That's all I can think. Maybe I'm in lala land today but do you ever just put yourself in the character's position? Do you try to imagine what they felt? All I know is God does supernatural things INSIDE us and that has been amazing me more recently than what He does in the physical realm. God parted the Red Sea...of course He can. And it IS a miracle. But with tears in my eyes I say GOD is doing a miracle inside of us daily. I was thinking last night of how much He has changed me. Things I used to think and do...that I always thought would be a part of me. Struggles and fears. Now I most definitely have struggles and fears but...HE HAS FREED ME! I literally do not think the same. I am at peace. God is REAL. He speaks to me. He shows Himself STRONG. He is alive. When I seek Him I find Him. I am in LOVE. Are you? I pray you are. We are in such DESPERATE need for intimacy and love. God made us that way. God has blessed me with a wonderful husband but when it all boils down to it you know why I love him? God. You know what I love about him? God. God in him and God in me is why we can love each other the way we do. We do not meet each other's need for love in any stretch of the imagination. God does. We are in love with God. And Joseph must have been in love with God too. There is no way his life would show what it showed through all the trials had he not been in love with his God. I remember Billy said something very insightful when we were on our honeymoon. We were on a cruise ship and we were standing on the front deck. There was a storm in the distance we were admiring and we were commenting on how beautiful it was. He said, "You know that's how it's supposed to be when the world looks at the life of a believer going through a trial. The world should look on and say...'That's beautiful.'"
Thursday, September 17, 2009
A Cute Little Joke
Know what God Looks Like?
A kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they drew.
She would occasionally walk around to see each child's artwork.
As she came to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was.
The girl replied, "I'm drawing God."
The teacher paused and said, "But no one knows what God looks like."
Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing the girl replied,. . . .
"They will in a minute."
"Author is Unknown"
Monday, September 14, 2009
Your QUIET TIME: Is Spending Time With God Your Favorite Time of the Day?
1. Be still before Him
Psalm 46:10 NKJV
Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!
We need to stop and acknowledge who it is we're talking too. Almighty and all powerful Creator! We need to know He is sovereign (in control) and He knows the future. He holds you in His hand.
1 Peter 5:6-7
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
We need to come before Him and lay distracting thoughts aside, thoughts of things we need to do that day, problems that cry for our attention, worries that are filling our head...we need to clear our minds and focus our attention so that we can hear from God.
Psalm 4:4
Tremble, and do not sin; meditiate in your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah.
We need to come ready to fill our mind with thoughts about Him...prepare to converse with Him.
Psalm 23:1-3
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
God wants to restore and refresh us when we are in His presence and it is His desire to lead us beside the quiet waters. There is a "sweet place" we can be with God where we sit in His presence and He calms our hearts and minds.
Zepheniah 3:17 NKJV
The LORD your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.
2. Be open and honest with Him
Read Psalm 139:1-6
- God knows every thought in our minds but we need to CONVERSATE with Him in order to have a relationship!
Psalm 64:2
O You who hear prayer, to You all men come.
- God wants to hear us. Don't be afraid to open up your mouth and say what you really feel...God already knows it. You need to speak it to Him in prayer. This is how you communicate with God. James 4:8 says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."
Psalm 89:46-48
How long, O LORD? Will You hide Yourself forever? Will Your wrath burn like fire? Remember what my span of life is; for what vanity You have created all the sons of men! What man can live and not see death? Can he deliver his soul from the power of Sheol?
The Psalmists were painfully open and honest with God. They communicated openly with God so that they could deal with what was going on inside them...so that they could acknowledge it and be directed and healed by the Lord. Speaking out loud to God helps us put in perspective what is going on inside of us. It may just help you stay focused with all those thoughts swimming around in your head!
3. Be listening to Him as you read the Bible
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
It is in your intimate one-on-one time with God in His Word that you can have a very powerful encounter with communicating with Him. It is in His Word that you hear His voice and respond!
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
in the NIV
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
- The Bible is God's Word. It is how He communicates with us.
- When we open the Word of God we need to understand the verses are not going to jump off the page into our hearts without the Holy Spirit.
1 John 2:27 NLT
But you have received the Holy Spirit,* and he lives within you, so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you all things, and what he teaches is true--it is not a lie. So continue in what he has taught you, and continue to live in Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:9-12 NLT
This is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. But we know these things because God has revealed them to us by his Spirit, and his Spirit searches out everything and shows us even God's deep secrets. No one can know what anyone else is really thinking except that person alone, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. And God has actually given us his Spirit (not the world's spirit) so we can know the wonderful things Godehas freely given us.
- Talk to God while you are reading His Word!
- KEEP A JOURNAL FOR YOUR TIME WITH GOD. Record verses that speak to you, something God showed you that day, prayers He answered, prayers you want Him to answer!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Eyes to See and Ears to Hear
Hello sisters! I pray that the Lord spoke to you through the Beth Moore study if you got the chance to listen to it! God has so much in store! So often we get caught up in each day's demands and miss the voice of God!
I was encouraged this morning reading the book of Matthew. Jesus says in Matthew 13:11 speaking to the disciples, "To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven..." Verses 16-17 "But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. For truly I say to you, that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it; and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it." Verse 43b "He who has ears to hear let him hear." I want to encourage you to BELIEVE that God has given you ears to hear and eyes to see! Have you heard from the Lord lately? What's He been speaking to you about? Have you been seeing God move in your life and heart? In the lives of those around you?
When you come before the Lord...do you expect to hear Him? Hebrews 11:6 is such a challenging verse for me. It says, "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." I don't know about you, but my reward for seeking Him is getting to hear and see Him!
I pray you have ears to hear and eyes to see. Let God speak to you through His Word today! Don't just read the Bible to know about the Author, read the Bible to know the Author! Maybe you've gotten caught up in the routine of devotions, like I do so often. Let's return to having a heart that wants to know the Lord today. May God do a work in us by His Spirit!
It is so important to know the Lord. It is important because God says it's important!
John 17:3 "And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou has sent."
Matthew 7: 23 "And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness."
1 Corinthians 1:9 NLT "God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."
I'm going to be posting practical ways to "hear the Lord" for the days to follow. Love you all!
I was encouraged this morning reading the book of Matthew. Jesus says in Matthew 13:11 speaking to the disciples, "To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven..." Verses 16-17 "But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. For truly I say to you, that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it; and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it." Verse 43b "He who has ears to hear let him hear." I want to encourage you to BELIEVE that God has given you ears to hear and eyes to see! Have you heard from the Lord lately? What's He been speaking to you about? Have you been seeing God move in your life and heart? In the lives of those around you?
When you come before the Lord...do you expect to hear Him? Hebrews 11:6 is such a challenging verse for me. It says, "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." I don't know about you, but my reward for seeking Him is getting to hear and see Him!
I pray you have ears to hear and eyes to see. Let God speak to you through His Word today! Don't just read the Bible to know about the Author, read the Bible to know the Author! Maybe you've gotten caught up in the routine of devotions, like I do so often. Let's return to having a heart that wants to know the Lord today. May God do a work in us by His Spirit!
It is so important to know the Lord. It is important because God says it's important!
John 17:3 "And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou has sent."
Matthew 7: 23 "And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness."
1 Corinthians 1:9 NLT "God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."
I'm going to be posting practical ways to "hear the Lord" for the days to follow. Love you all!
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
BETH MOORE: Overcoming Insecurity Part 3
Here is the third and final teaching of Beth Moore's. I pray God is maturing you in this area of your walk!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
BETH MOORE: Overcoming Insecurity Part 2
Here is Part 2 of 3 in the Beth Moore teaching "Overcoming Insecurity". I hope you are getting as much out of the study as I am!
BETH MOORE: Overcoming Insecurity Part 1
Check out this Beth Moore teaching entitled "Overcoming Insecurity". Here is part one. Tomorrow I will post part 2 and then part 3 the following day. I was so blessed by this teaching! I pray God will use it greatly in your life as well. God Bless, my sisters!!!!!!!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
INSECURITIES IN THE LIGHT OF OUR IDENTITY
Hey Ladies!!!!!! Wow...it's been a WHILE! I have been sick and resting, well trying to, and taking care of the kiddies. Otherwise, now I am feeling better and am ready to start back up blogging about our topic! I pray you all have been doing well.
INSECURITY: We all long for a strong sense of security in our lives. We think through situations with a security factor in mind. We want to feel safe, accepted, in control and comfortable. Why? Well, we feel pain. We feel the pressures of life here on earth. We have been rejected, hurt and wronged. We want to protect ourselves. We want to stand on some solid ground. I hope you have been praying about maybe some areas in your life where you have strong insecurities. Or maybe just little daily things. Can you identify any? Where do you lack confidence? What are you hesitant about when it comes to the things of God? Do you think your prayers are not "good enough" for God to hear?
First of all, let's view our identity. As born-again believers, we have become a new creature "in Christ". 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV tells us, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" We are positioned in Christ. My personal "identity" verse is Colossians 3:3 which says, "For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." This verse is saying that I am no longer living! "Rachel" is no longer living for herself. She is hidden in Jesus. Talk about feeling secure! My identity...Jesus. My purpose...Jesus. My reason for everything...Jesus. My motivation...Jesus. My source...Jesus. Thinking about who we are in Christ will first bring the right perspective when it comes to allowing God to transform habitual actions and reactions of insecurity in our lives.
Let's meditate on verses that tell us who we are in Christ and look at our insecurities in light of these scriptures. Post up more verses on who we are in Christ below! (Hint: there are a ton of them in Ephesians chapters 1-3!)
INSECURITY: We all long for a strong sense of security in our lives. We think through situations with a security factor in mind. We want to feel safe, accepted, in control and comfortable. Why? Well, we feel pain. We feel the pressures of life here on earth. We have been rejected, hurt and wronged. We want to protect ourselves. We want to stand on some solid ground. I hope you have been praying about maybe some areas in your life where you have strong insecurities. Or maybe just little daily things. Can you identify any? Where do you lack confidence? What are you hesitant about when it comes to the things of God? Do you think your prayers are not "good enough" for God to hear?
First of all, let's view our identity. As born-again believers, we have become a new creature "in Christ". 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV tells us, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" We are positioned in Christ. My personal "identity" verse is Colossians 3:3 which says, "For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." This verse is saying that I am no longer living! "Rachel" is no longer living for herself. She is hidden in Jesus. Talk about feeling secure! My identity...Jesus. My purpose...Jesus. My reason for everything...Jesus. My motivation...Jesus. My source...Jesus. Thinking about who we are in Christ will first bring the right perspective when it comes to allowing God to transform habitual actions and reactions of insecurity in our lives.
Let's meditate on verses that tell us who we are in Christ and look at our insecurities in light of these scriptures. Post up more verses on who we are in Christ below! (Hint: there are a ton of them in Ephesians chapters 1-3!)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Let's Define It
Okay so let's get started! Dictionary definitions of insecurity are "lack of confidence or assurance; self-doubt; a feeling of apprehensiveness and uncertainty." Wow. I don't know about you, but to me that barely scratches the surface! Insecurities are a part of every person's life, male or female. We all are a little insecure about one thing or another. What are your "things"? No, you don't have to post it in the comments...just think about it for a moment, between you and the Lord. What are areas in your life where you "lack confidence or assurance"? Do you feel totally and completely loved? Do you like the way you look? Do you like your personality? Do you trust God? Questions like these will bring those insecurities into light. The first thing I want to do is to have us all share our personal definition of insecurity. It's not that hard. If you had to tell someone else what insecurity is what would you say? It can be simple and basic or deep and descriptive...whatever you want! Just post your comment below.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Insecurity is the Winner
Alright ladies! The winner of the poll for the next few weeks is INSECURITY! To be honest, I hate that word. Don't you? Don't we all desire to be secure in the Lord, fully and completely! I'm so excited to start posting on this topic. We'll have devotionals and more shortly! Lord, may you help us grow in our insecurities. Correct our thinking and give us confidence in who we are in You! To God be the glory! I think it all starts with this verse...Colossians 3:3 "For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God."
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
A SOUND MIND
Thank you Lord! The Holy Spirit has been bringing to mind this morning 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." So often in times of heavy emotion, little sleep and/or trial we are tempted to allow every thought that knocks on the door of our mind to enter in and have a seat! Lord help us! I so want to grow out of that. God enables us by His Spirit to have self-control and not have to be enslaved to tormenting and depressing thoughts. It is so sweet to go through your day in victory and joy...being an over-comer in the battle against your flesh. We are all in this sisters! Do not think you suffer days of intense emotion or negative thoughts alone! What an opportunity to witness the power of God working inside of you. Ephesians 3:20 NASB "Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all we ask or think, according to the power that works within us." And how encouraging it is to know "that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). Remember...God has given you a sound mind. The word for "sound mind" in the Greek derived from a word that means "heal, preserve, save, do well, be whole." The battlefield is mostly in our minds and that is where we need God to come in and take over. Be in God's Word. Read it, meditate on it and memorize it. Be in it all throughout the day. Fill your thoughts with scripture. Psalm 107:20 says, "He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions." Apply the ointment of God's Word to your mind because it is God's will for you to live your life with a healed, whole and preserved mind. He died on the cross to give that to you. Thank you Jesus! Comment with any other thoughts or scriptures that God has given you concerning your thought life.
Friday, August 7, 2009
VOTE FOR A TOPIC
Check out the poll at the bottom of the page and vote! I am interested in focusing on a specific topic for this month and I want to know what you want it to be. We will discuss this topic by commenting on the devotionals posted. I am also going to be posting book reviews related to the topic! SO....vote and we'll get started!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
A Thought From Vicki!
I'm reading this pretty good book that Naomi lent me, "The 5 conversations you must have with your daughter" and last night the chapter discussed how women in the 1800-s were more concerned about being beautiful on the inside than the outside. The outer vanity didn't start until after world war 1 when mirrors became standard in every household bathroom and the compact mirror with powder came out during the "Flapper period".
As women we really need to meditate on like you said, 1 Samuel 16:7, and the others, 'Psalm 139:14 -I Praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful, I know that full well. I like what the author Vicki Courtney says 'What it means: you are created in the image of God and God doesn't make junk! Like a snowflake, every person is unique . No two are the same. God sees you as a masterpiece; and when you look in the mirror,He wants you to "know full well" Try this beauty tip-Every morning when you look in the mirror say Psalm 139:14 and smile . You might even tape this verse on your mirror. And lets continue to pray and read His word on a regular basis, so we can be drop dead gorgeous on the inside may I remind you that Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting ; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Again like Vicki C. says What it means Beauty fades with age, so if you are more concerned with your outer appearance , you will be unhappy when the wrinkles come and the scales go ups. Did you know that age can start as early as 20?
Now this is my thought, Vicki B., Young ladies, my spirit seems ageless, I don't ever feel older, just wiser. But when I look in the mirror I see the changes of age on myself. How awsome is our God to have given us His image and knowing our outer bodies would age and change to less appealing, He has given His word and wisdom to center on Him and His kingdom. Who are we trying to please man or Christ- who died for us. Whose image are you in, the worlds image or Gods image ? Don't you want to be beautiful for Heaven and your King!
Love and blessings,
Vicki
All for Christ.
As women we really need to meditate on like you said, 1 Samuel 16:7, and the others, 'Psalm 139:14 -I Praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful, I know that full well. I like what the author Vicki Courtney says 'What it means: you are created in the image of God and God doesn't make junk! Like a snowflake, every person is unique . No two are the same. God sees you as a masterpiece; and when you look in the mirror,He wants you to "know full well" Try this beauty tip-Every morning when you look in the mirror say Psalm 139:14 and smile . You might even tape this verse on your mirror. And lets continue to pray and read His word on a regular basis, so we can be drop dead gorgeous on the inside may I remind you that Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceptive and beauty fleeting ; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Again like Vicki C. says What it means Beauty fades with age, so if you are more concerned with your outer appearance , you will be unhappy when the wrinkles come and the scales go ups. Did you know that age can start as early as 20?
Now this is my thought, Vicki B., Young ladies, my spirit seems ageless, I don't ever feel older, just wiser. But when I look in the mirror I see the changes of age on myself. How awsome is our God to have given us His image and knowing our outer bodies would age and change to less appealing, He has given His word and wisdom to center on Him and His kingdom. Who are we trying to please man or Christ- who died for us. Whose image are you in, the worlds image or Gods image ? Don't you want to be beautiful for Heaven and your King!
Love and blessings,
Vicki
All for Christ.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Turn Away My Eyes
Psalm 119:37 NASB "Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in Thy ways."
Wow! What a great verse. The world is all about vanity and appearance. Let this be a verse we hold onto and memorize since we are bombarded with vain images and lifestyles daily. I always remember the verse in Luke 16:15 when Jesus is talking to the Pharisees and He says to them, "You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God."
Think about the things that are highly esteemed in our culture today. Do they have any value to God or is it an abomination to Him? Is your value system that of the world's or God's?
Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Is your heart set on vanity? Is it set on temporal and earthly things? Ask God to help you "turn away your eyes" from those things! When you do and you look to the Lord and the truth of His Word, you are free from being a slave to this world's vain ways.
Do you have an appearance of spirituality but no genuine heart devotion? Do you cry over your sin? Are you broken and repentant? Ask God to place in you a heart that is fully His. May we each seek to be genuine and REAL in our relationship with Him and may we all appear to be what we really are. Lord, turn away our eyes from looking at vanity and revive us in Your ways!
Wow! What a great verse. The world is all about vanity and appearance. Let this be a verse we hold onto and memorize since we are bombarded with vain images and lifestyles daily. I always remember the verse in Luke 16:15 when Jesus is talking to the Pharisees and He says to them, "You are those who justify yourselves in the sight of men, but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God."
Think about the things that are highly esteemed in our culture today. Do they have any value to God or is it an abomination to Him? Is your value system that of the world's or God's?
Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Is your heart set on vanity? Is it set on temporal and earthly things? Ask God to help you "turn away your eyes" from those things! When you do and you look to the Lord and the truth of His Word, you are free from being a slave to this world's vain ways.
Do you have an appearance of spirituality but no genuine heart devotion? Do you cry over your sin? Are you broken and repentant? Ask God to place in you a heart that is fully His. May we each seek to be genuine and REAL in our relationship with Him and may we all appear to be what we really are. Lord, turn away our eyes from looking at vanity and revive us in Your ways!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Welcome to Our Meeting Place!
Hey ladies! I'm so excited to start this blog. It do not want it to be anything too formal. I wish we all could meet often together but at least we can say hi and meet up online! I encourage you to stop here every day or so and encourage one another and be encouraged yourself in the Lord. I want all of us to be a part and add to this blog. Devotions, studies and anything we do will not just be from me...it will be from all of us! I want this blog to be a meeting place for the ladies...and I want it to be fun. Send me pictures, thoughts on scripture, music...anything so I can post it. We will start a Bible study to do together online but for now I want us all to meet each other and say hi and everything...like an icebreaker! This is great because if you're close by or far away we can all be a part! God Bless. Your sis, Rachel Penna.
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