I am so angry. I’m so angry that I’m shaking. Why did I wait so long? Is this God telling me, “I told you that you should have finished this already.”? UGH! What does this mean for my purpose? I just left beautiful Martha’s Vineyard. I have returned calm, with a slight smile on my face. Going through the mail can make your world come crashing down in 3 minutes. I was flipping through the mail because I saw the corner of the YMCA catalog sticking out. I thought, “Oh good! I can schedule myself to take care of all those puffy areas I’ve been looking at all summer.” And the envelop that made all this optimism switch gears – the Ministry Training Network. I took one course a while back. It was on preaching. The teachers said I had a gift. It was a class that sent me further down the road of pouring out my purpose.
See, in a day and a half, I inhaled a 260 page book all about writing from your heart. This was the inspiration that only could have come at this time, found on the bookshelf of this Inn, with the only title that could possibly grab my attention. But now, I find in the MTN catalog of courses where I once found validation, I find the very course that is the vehicle for my purpose. Already written, ready to be taught to the imaginary people that I envisioned enlightening, by a Reverend Doctor no less! January through March. So then this cute voice from inside chimes in, “Take it.” And then the hunger of envy takes over screaming, “Are you kidding?”, with a definite NO! Inside I growl, I waited too long. I can only be mad at myself!
After penciling my thoughts frantically in a notebook, I start feeling a bit different. Actually a bit better. So now I settle down and think, “Why this interruption?” Maybe the reason is to spur me into doing just this – writing. This is the authenticity of documenting my purpose in life. Sharing it’s moments with people because my prayer has always been Psalm 25:4. And so even with this I pray the Psalm. Maybe this is a confirmation that it can be done because someone is already doing it. There must be a bigger market of hungry souls wanting this teaching. Maybe I should take the course. Get in the boat and take a ride on the very vehicle I thought was a hidden creation. I’m learning that it’s okay to not be the only or the first. So that’s the lesson in this (the word said with contempt still) course. Yeah, I’m still a bit jealous. Yes, people, I follow Jesus and have a negative human emotion of jealousy. Nicole is breaking one of the 10 Commandments right now. So here’s an opportunity to share a truth: Forgiveness is easily given. The hard part is learning how not to become a repeat offender. Like everything, it’s a process. So in continuing on my purpose journey, I will learn how this discovery, at only this moment in time, given all that has taken place in my heart the past 72 hours, will be a piece in my puzzle. The last minute get away which led to the happenstance discovery of a “wow, this author is in my head” kind of book, which led to the fanning of a rekindled flame, which led to taking in air a bit deeper and more magical with a constant slight smile, which led to – the course in the MTN catalog.
The frown and shaky anger is gone, replaced with – I wonder.
Back to my YMCA exercise schedule half open under the notebook I just beat up with a pencil.
Thanks for listening,
Nicole
Saturday, August 28, 2010
August 28th, midnight
The problem started as – Oh my goodness, I have so much to write! Where do I begin? Then it became – This is too hard for me. I can’t begin. Which evolved to – Oh yeah, I was writing a blog wasn’t I? So much time has passed. Maybe I should just give up. But then the nagging need to fulfill my purpose (which is unfolding and taking on a new form frequently) would not let me stop. There is something to give. The pain of not giving it is greater than the pain of having to sit down and write it. So here I am now, contemplating, opening up, thinking, praying, feeling a bit naked. No turning back? No turning back. It’ll take a while. Longer than I have patience with myself. What am I writing about? Commitment. Discipline. Purpose. Vision. Finding God, for real. Forgiveness. Love, the real kind. Pouring out what’s inside. And really letting God move into your heart and create the most beautiful masterpiece He has ever created. YOU!
With knuckles cracked, sleeves rolled up, and Bible and prayer my ritual…here I go.
I can’t stop realizing that all people – no matter who you are and what you believe, you are in search of something outside yourself to make you find purpose in Life. People are desperate for something that makes sense, and helps them make sense of senseless things. People are searching for something to belong to, which doesn’t hurt anyone else, and at the same time makes them feel something. People want to feel something other than what they are feeling – even if it’s just for a moment. If what they find does the trick, even for a moment. But then the question: Is this really what I desire?
I will make no apologies and no excuses for what will be written. I believe in Jesus. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. What does that mean, Nicole? It means...Love will be the language that will be written. I’m sure you’ll be able to understand it, if you listen.
Enjoy and I beg for patience,
Nicole
With knuckles cracked, sleeves rolled up, and Bible and prayer my ritual…here I go.
I can’t stop realizing that all people – no matter who you are and what you believe, you are in search of something outside yourself to make you find purpose in Life. People are desperate for something that makes sense, and helps them make sense of senseless things. People are searching for something to belong to, which doesn’t hurt anyone else, and at the same time makes them feel something. People want to feel something other than what they are feeling – even if it’s just for a moment. If what they find does the trick, even for a moment. But then the question: Is this really what I desire?
I will make no apologies and no excuses for what will be written. I believe in Jesus. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. What does that mean, Nicole? It means...Love will be the language that will be written. I’m sure you’ll be able to understand it, if you listen.
Enjoy and I beg for patience,
Nicole
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
March 31
Oh my journal, how I have neglected you! It’s not that I have forgotten about you. No! I have thought of you often. It’s just that sometimes I find it difficult to write in you. Sometimes there is too much to write. Sometimes my thoughts are overwhelmed. Sometimes I simply don’t have enough time. I long to color you with all my life has experienced in the past month or so.
God is so amazing! How can I tell of all His wonders?
One of my Bibles, The Living Bible translation, spent some time with one of my friends and I got it back the other day. I read through the entire Bible using this one. In it are so many highlights of verses that really spoke to my heart. These Scriptures just have to be shared. Here are some:
Psalms 51: 7-15, “Sprinkle me with the cleansing blood and I shall be clean again. Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. And after you have punished me, give me back my joy again. Don’t keep looking at my sins – erase them from your sight. Create in me a new, clean heart, O God, filled with clean thoughts and right desires. Don’t toss me aside, banished forever from your presence. Don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me again the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to other sinners, and they – guilty like me – will repent and return to you. Don’t sentence me to death. O my God, you alone can rescue me. Then I will sing of your forgiveness, for my lips will be unsealed – oh, how I will praise you.”
Psalms 66: 16 – 20, “Come and hear, all of you who reverence the Lord, and I will tell you what he did for me: For I cried to him for help, with praises ready on my tongue. He would not have listened if I had not confessed my sins. But he listened! He heard my prayer! He paid attention to it! Blessed be God who didn’t turn away when I was praying, and didn’t refuse me his kindness and love”.
Psalms 116: 1-2, “I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!”
Psalms 92: 1-4, “It is good to say, ‘Thank you’ to the Lord, to sing praises to the God who is above all gods. Every morning tell him, ‘Thank you for your kindness,’ and every evening rejoice in all his faithfulness. Sing his praises, accompanied by music from the harp and lute and lyre. You have done so much for me, o Lord. No wonder I am glad! I sing for joy”.
Today, this day, is yours my God. Be glorified in all I say and do. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit to love YOU with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Thank you my King, Brother, Savior and Lord for being the Gate in which I can enter in the Presence of God.
Love,
Your Servant.
God is so amazing! How can I tell of all His wonders?
One of my Bibles, The Living Bible translation, spent some time with one of my friends and I got it back the other day. I read through the entire Bible using this one. In it are so many highlights of verses that really spoke to my heart. These Scriptures just have to be shared. Here are some:
Psalms 51: 7-15, “Sprinkle me with the cleansing blood and I shall be clean again. Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. And after you have punished me, give me back my joy again. Don’t keep looking at my sins – erase them from your sight. Create in me a new, clean heart, O God, filled with clean thoughts and right desires. Don’t toss me aside, banished forever from your presence. Don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me again the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to other sinners, and they – guilty like me – will repent and return to you. Don’t sentence me to death. O my God, you alone can rescue me. Then I will sing of your forgiveness, for my lips will be unsealed – oh, how I will praise you.”
Psalms 66: 16 – 20, “Come and hear, all of you who reverence the Lord, and I will tell you what he did for me: For I cried to him for help, with praises ready on my tongue. He would not have listened if I had not confessed my sins. But he listened! He heard my prayer! He paid attention to it! Blessed be God who didn’t turn away when I was praying, and didn’t refuse me his kindness and love”.
Psalms 116: 1-2, “I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!”
Psalms 92: 1-4, “It is good to say, ‘Thank you’ to the Lord, to sing praises to the God who is above all gods. Every morning tell him, ‘Thank you for your kindness,’ and every evening rejoice in all his faithfulness. Sing his praises, accompanied by music from the harp and lute and lyre. You have done so much for me, o Lord. No wonder I am glad! I sing for joy”.
Today, this day, is yours my God. Be glorified in all I say and do. Help me by the power of the Holy Spirit to love YOU with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Thank you my King, Brother, Savior and Lord for being the Gate in which I can enter in the Presence of God.
Love,
Your Servant.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
February 23
God's comfort was completely evident today through my friend. Yesterday she deeply mourned her brother. She clearly experienced that great pain of sorrow. Today he was buried. Today, she stood with the strength of the Almighty. If there was ever a doubt in the minds of those attending the services, that God is real and relevant to our lives, they should doubt no longer. She stood in front of her friends and family and told them (without a tear in her eye) of God's grace and mercy and comfort and love. What an amazing witness! It's moments like this that encourage all believers! This I will cherish!
I will not post a blog until next Monday, MARCH 1ST! Can you believe it will be March already?! Yes, spring is in the air.
I will continue to read in 1 Samuel and Romans.
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generation, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20 (NKJV)
I will not post a blog until next Monday, MARCH 1ST! Can you believe it will be March already?! Yes, spring is in the air.
I will continue to read in 1 Samuel and Romans.
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generation, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20 (NKJV)
Friday, February 19, 2010
February 19
What a difference a nice quiet house makes. My son is sleeping a little late this morning, and I am able to concentrate in prayer and reading the Bible. Yesterday was not so productive. As I was trying to pray, all I could hear was video games and boy noises. Most of the time things like that don’t distract me, yesterday was not one of those times. I think the reason is because I am just starting the fast and focusing more in prayer. Spiritual growth is funny like that. When we are determined to give more energy and focus to our relationship with the Lord, it seems like more things get in the way. This is especially true when fasting. All of the sudden you are hungry when normally you would not be thinking about eating. When you are praying, all these extra thoughts surface causing you to think about something totally different than what you want to pray about. The answer? Perseverance. Pushing through, because God is so much more necessary and important than anything else. You just have to have Him more in your life.
This morning’s devotional went something like this:
“Show me your ways, O Lord. Teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long”. Psalm 25:4. I never get tired of my favorite verse. I could say it in prayer a thousand times and it will still give special meaning.
Show. Teach. Guide. In your -Ways. Path. Truth. There is a dependence of us as students and children of God to be taught and guided through God’s ways, paths and truth. Along with that is a certain independence to do our homework, study and act in obedience.
“For you are God my Savior”. He is our Savior. Not because we deserved it, ONLY because he loves us so much Jesus would rather die than live without us. Our Savior. This alone is why we can worship Him.
“Whenever God gives us His inspiration, suddenly taking the initiative becomes a moral issue – a matter of obedience. Then we must act to be obedient and not continue to lie down doing nothing. If we will arise and shine, drudgery will be divinely transformed”. Oswald Chamber, February 19.
Living life with purpose and meaning is my focus to get me to the next level in life. Taking this inspiration from God and doing something with it – this is my focus and goal. Not meant to be glorious or easy, but good hard work still.
I closed in prayer on behalf of my friends and loved ones who are hurting right now – in so many different ways. I also prayed for my daughter’s future.
There is a blessing waiting for you today. Seek after God to find it. It’ll be just what you need.
This morning’s devotional went something like this:
“Show me your ways, O Lord. Teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long”. Psalm 25:4. I never get tired of my favorite verse. I could say it in prayer a thousand times and it will still give special meaning.
Show. Teach. Guide. In your -Ways. Path. Truth. There is a dependence of us as students and children of God to be taught and guided through God’s ways, paths and truth. Along with that is a certain independence to do our homework, study and act in obedience.
“For you are God my Savior”. He is our Savior. Not because we deserved it, ONLY because he loves us so much Jesus would rather die than live without us. Our Savior. This alone is why we can worship Him.
“Whenever God gives us His inspiration, suddenly taking the initiative becomes a moral issue – a matter of obedience. Then we must act to be obedient and not continue to lie down doing nothing. If we will arise and shine, drudgery will be divinely transformed”. Oswald Chamber, February 19.
Living life with purpose and meaning is my focus to get me to the next level in life. Taking this inspiration from God and doing something with it – this is my focus and goal. Not meant to be glorious or easy, but good hard work still.
I closed in prayer on behalf of my friends and loved ones who are hurting right now – in so many different ways. I also prayed for my daughter’s future.
There is a blessing waiting for you today. Seek after God to find it. It’ll be just what you need.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
February 17
The Season of Lent begins today. This is the 40 day period before Easter Sunday. Traditionally, it is celebrated by fasting. A few years ago, the fast I did what is known as the Daniel Fast. Basically I fasted meat and all processed foods and sweets and wine. What a powerful and life changing experience I had! Fasting is more about spending time with God than it is about what you are giving up. Fasting is taking away everyday normal pleasures so that we can focus more on prayer and reading the Bible. This year, I am fasting the following: TV (I will not watch TV) and sweets/goodies. I am also committing to limit time on the computer and praying three times a day. I will focus on deepening my prayer life and expressing my purpose that God has placed in my heart. My hope is that over the next few weeks I can communicate how I came to understand and follow my purpose in life.
Caution: If you are interested in fasting and would like to know more about it, please let me know. I will give you more information.
On the way to the couch where I read and pray, my eye caught one of my favorite devotionals, “My Utmost For His Highest” by Oswald Chambers. Today being the 17th of February, I turn to that page. Realizing that the subject, ‘taking initiative’ really started yesterday, I began with that instead. And once again, I am amazed at how relevant this subject is for the focus of this fasting period. I am sharing an excerpt from the devotional with you because it is just so eye-opening. Really, it is about FAITH and taking the initiative when God places a dream in your heart.
“Not all initiative, the willingness to take the first step, is inspired by God. Someone may say to you, “Get up and get going! Take your reluctance by the throat and throw it overboard – just do what needs to be done!” That is what we mean by ordinary human initiative. But when the Spirit of God comes to us and says, in effect, “Get up and get going,” suddenly we find that the initiative is inspired. God does not give us overcoming life – He gives us life as we overcome”.
Day One of the fast started off a little bumpy. I eventually got myself together and spent time in prayer. Really, I should have been prepared last night to begin my fast first thing this morning by going to bed a lot earlier last night. I am looking forward to spending more quality time in prayer as the days continue.
“Show me your ways, O Lord. Teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long.”
My hope rests in God alone – not in my ability to do anything, and not in anyone else’s ability to help me or show me or teach me. You can never fail with that perspective.
Caution: If you are interested in fasting and would like to know more about it, please let me know. I will give you more information.
On the way to the couch where I read and pray, my eye caught one of my favorite devotionals, “My Utmost For His Highest” by Oswald Chambers. Today being the 17th of February, I turn to that page. Realizing that the subject, ‘taking initiative’ really started yesterday, I began with that instead. And once again, I am amazed at how relevant this subject is for the focus of this fasting period. I am sharing an excerpt from the devotional with you because it is just so eye-opening. Really, it is about FAITH and taking the initiative when God places a dream in your heart.
“Not all initiative, the willingness to take the first step, is inspired by God. Someone may say to you, “Get up and get going! Take your reluctance by the throat and throw it overboard – just do what needs to be done!” That is what we mean by ordinary human initiative. But when the Spirit of God comes to us and says, in effect, “Get up and get going,” suddenly we find that the initiative is inspired. God does not give us overcoming life – He gives us life as we overcome”.
Day One of the fast started off a little bumpy. I eventually got myself together and spent time in prayer. Really, I should have been prepared last night to begin my fast first thing this morning by going to bed a lot earlier last night. I am looking forward to spending more quality time in prayer as the days continue.
“Show me your ways, O Lord. Teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long.”
My hope rests in God alone – not in my ability to do anything, and not in anyone else’s ability to help me or show me or teach me. You can never fail with that perspective.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
February 11
Motivation is super low today.
And then this song starts playing in my head:
You are my hiding place…You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance whenever I am afraid. I will trust in You. I will trust in You. Let the weak say I am strong, in the strength of the Lord. I will trust in You!
Over and over again I sang that song to the Lord. My cry to Him this morning, “Help me. I will trust in You”!
Reading in 1 Samuel is very nice because it is an escape into another world. This section of the Bible is like reading a novel. So the reading today: 1 Samuel chapter 12.
Samuel, the one that Hannah had prayed so hard for, is now an old man. The leaders of Israel have demanded a king be appointed to rule for them like the other nations. Can’t you just hear their whining, “I want to have what they have. We should be just like them”. Meanwhile, God is shaking His head saying, “Why, when you have Me”? So you know already that this is going to turn out bad. Saul is appointed king. In this chapter of the book Samuel, the Prophet, is telling them like it is. There are a few points that he makes in the speech that really caught my attention. Samuel had integrity. His sons became corrupt, prophets before him were corrupt. In other words, yes, even back then, these ‘men of God’ accepted bribes from people and did all sorts of wrong things. And Samuel says in verse 4 – have I cheated anyone? Can anyone say I did them wrong? Samuel kept his integrity as a leader. And therefore, God blessed him. Is there a leader we can find today that has that same integrity? There are some, but just like back then, very few. How about you? Can you say to everyone you know, ‘There is nothing you can hold against me’? Next point. Samuel is telling all Israel about how they turned their back on God time and time again without cause. They forgot God’s power. He delivered them and blessed them countless times. But they always wanted what they thought was the next best thing. Guess what…there is no next best thing. Everything out there is empty. Worthless. Meaningless. Israel is living proof of that. Moving on to verse 14, “If you fear the Lord and serve and obey him and do not rebel against his commands, and if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the Lord your God – good”. In other words, it still does not matter that Israel wants a king to rule over, the point still remains – to love God and follow after all he says. Whether they have a king or not, God must still be there hope. I generally don’t like to get into politics, but this point relates to many people’s feelings with President Obama. They put all their hope and trust in a man instead of God. It does not matter if that man is going to do God’s will or not, this man or King Saul is not to be our hope. Final point, and this one gets personal. Verse 20, “…yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. 21 Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless”. This really made me sit up and pay attention. Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength is one of my favorite verses. And here it is again. You see, sometimes at night I go on the internet to play puzzle games. I like them because it’s sort of an escape for me. I like to use my mind to think about something other than whatever happened that day. Can you relate? But what I found by doing that is all I felt afterward was more tired, and frustrated because I could not beat the game. It really wasn’t that fun. And truth be told there were things that I needed to do but wasn’t because I was playing this game. One night, I realized what I was teaching my children, what statement I was making without saying a word, by doing this. I can relax and unwind with God’s word instead of a mindless video game. I can read God’s word and be so much more refreshed if that’s what I choose instead. Lessons learned.
Thank you Samuel for all your hard work and struggles.
Idols come in many forms and they are pretty stupid.
And then this song starts playing in my head:
You are my hiding place…You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance whenever I am afraid. I will trust in You. I will trust in You. Let the weak say I am strong, in the strength of the Lord. I will trust in You!
Over and over again I sang that song to the Lord. My cry to Him this morning, “Help me. I will trust in You”!
Reading in 1 Samuel is very nice because it is an escape into another world. This section of the Bible is like reading a novel. So the reading today: 1 Samuel chapter 12.
Samuel, the one that Hannah had prayed so hard for, is now an old man. The leaders of Israel have demanded a king be appointed to rule for them like the other nations. Can’t you just hear their whining, “I want to have what they have. We should be just like them”. Meanwhile, God is shaking His head saying, “Why, when you have Me”? So you know already that this is going to turn out bad. Saul is appointed king. In this chapter of the book Samuel, the Prophet, is telling them like it is. There are a few points that he makes in the speech that really caught my attention. Samuel had integrity. His sons became corrupt, prophets before him were corrupt. In other words, yes, even back then, these ‘men of God’ accepted bribes from people and did all sorts of wrong things. And Samuel says in verse 4 – have I cheated anyone? Can anyone say I did them wrong? Samuel kept his integrity as a leader. And therefore, God blessed him. Is there a leader we can find today that has that same integrity? There are some, but just like back then, very few. How about you? Can you say to everyone you know, ‘There is nothing you can hold against me’? Next point. Samuel is telling all Israel about how they turned their back on God time and time again without cause. They forgot God’s power. He delivered them and blessed them countless times. But they always wanted what they thought was the next best thing. Guess what…there is no next best thing. Everything out there is empty. Worthless. Meaningless. Israel is living proof of that. Moving on to verse 14, “If you fear the Lord and serve and obey him and do not rebel against his commands, and if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the Lord your God – good”. In other words, it still does not matter that Israel wants a king to rule over, the point still remains – to love God and follow after all he says. Whether they have a king or not, God must still be there hope. I generally don’t like to get into politics, but this point relates to many people’s feelings with President Obama. They put all their hope and trust in a man instead of God. It does not matter if that man is going to do God’s will or not, this man or King Saul is not to be our hope. Final point, and this one gets personal. Verse 20, “…yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. 21 Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless”. This really made me sit up and pay attention. Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength is one of my favorite verses. And here it is again. You see, sometimes at night I go on the internet to play puzzle games. I like them because it’s sort of an escape for me. I like to use my mind to think about something other than whatever happened that day. Can you relate? But what I found by doing that is all I felt afterward was more tired, and frustrated because I could not beat the game. It really wasn’t that fun. And truth be told there were things that I needed to do but wasn’t because I was playing this game. One night, I realized what I was teaching my children, what statement I was making without saying a word, by doing this. I can relax and unwind with God’s word instead of a mindless video game. I can read God’s word and be so much more refreshed if that’s what I choose instead. Lessons learned.
Thank you Samuel for all your hard work and struggles.
Idols come in many forms and they are pretty stupid.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
February 10
John 10: 10 (NIV) I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
John 10: 10 (NKJV) I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
What does abundant mean? Definition of abundance = More than sufficient; over and above; above the ordinary measure; exceeding abundantly; over above beyond; more than enough; beyond measure.
So we ask the question: What is abundant in your life? Do you have an abundance of peace or negativity? Think about what your life is full of. If your life is full of satisfaction, then you probably do not need to read this. But if your life is full of uncertainty, confusion, old baggage of emotions, then you are probably looking for a change. In the world today, we have this idea that we can make ourselves happy. On our own there are things we can do to be fulfilled. Don’t get me wrong, those things are valid and important. But when they are built on selfish desires all we are doing is filling ourselves up with more that does not have the basis of meaning and purpose. The Book of Ecclesiastes explains this in chapters 5&6. The foundation of our fulfillment or abundance, needs to be Jesus Christ. There is no getting around that fact. Jesus is the life. “I am the way the truth and life. No one comes to the Father, except through me”. John 14:6 He is the source of life. He is the way of life. He is the truth of life. He is the abundance of life. So, I challenge you to really sit down and reflect on what exactly is abundant in your life. Chances are there are things in your life that are really good. Chances are there are things in your life that you need to do without. The consequences of choosing abundant life are moving away from being fulfilled with empty things and living the richness of abundance Jesus talks about in the Book of John. If you are ready to get rid of those things that weigh you down, then be warned this means that letting go of some things will be difficult. However, it’s good work. It’s healthy work to finally address these issues with Jesus by your side. After all, that’s what He is waiting and wanting to do.
Jesus came to this earth, lived a perfect life, was accused of all kinds of wrong he didn’t commit, was beaten, bled, was humiliated, hung up on a cross to die, was separated from His Father, died, was buried, and finally rose again for a greater purpose than His glory! Imagine that! He did all that for this reason: so that you and I can have an abundant life. Not a regular every day no purpose life. Not a life that’s filled with same old stuff. Not a life of let me just get through the day. He did not live perfectly and suffer greatly and be exalted because He wanted to. He did all that for us to have everlasting abundant life. That everlasting abundant life starts now. Our eternity begins when we accept Him into our hearts. The abundant life He wants for us is for the here and now and it is very possible for us to live a life of purpose, and blessings and abundance. Let’s put away the mundane. Let’s walk away from the ordinary life and even the negative life. Let’s walk into the abundance that He came to this earth to make sure we got. This one sentence from Jesus has a lot of implications for our lives today. Are you ready to choose abundance? Are you ready to bring your life to the next level? Are you ready to allow Jesus’ promises be fulfilled in your life?
Be blessed.
John 10: 10 (NKJV) I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
What does abundant mean? Definition of abundance = More than sufficient; over and above; above the ordinary measure; exceeding abundantly; over above beyond; more than enough; beyond measure.
So we ask the question: What is abundant in your life? Do you have an abundance of peace or negativity? Think about what your life is full of. If your life is full of satisfaction, then you probably do not need to read this. But if your life is full of uncertainty, confusion, old baggage of emotions, then you are probably looking for a change. In the world today, we have this idea that we can make ourselves happy. On our own there are things we can do to be fulfilled. Don’t get me wrong, those things are valid and important. But when they are built on selfish desires all we are doing is filling ourselves up with more that does not have the basis of meaning and purpose. The Book of Ecclesiastes explains this in chapters 5&6. The foundation of our fulfillment or abundance, needs to be Jesus Christ. There is no getting around that fact. Jesus is the life. “I am the way the truth and life. No one comes to the Father, except through me”. John 14:6 He is the source of life. He is the way of life. He is the truth of life. He is the abundance of life. So, I challenge you to really sit down and reflect on what exactly is abundant in your life. Chances are there are things in your life that are really good. Chances are there are things in your life that you need to do without. The consequences of choosing abundant life are moving away from being fulfilled with empty things and living the richness of abundance Jesus talks about in the Book of John. If you are ready to get rid of those things that weigh you down, then be warned this means that letting go of some things will be difficult. However, it’s good work. It’s healthy work to finally address these issues with Jesus by your side. After all, that’s what He is waiting and wanting to do.
Jesus came to this earth, lived a perfect life, was accused of all kinds of wrong he didn’t commit, was beaten, bled, was humiliated, hung up on a cross to die, was separated from His Father, died, was buried, and finally rose again for a greater purpose than His glory! Imagine that! He did all that for this reason: so that you and I can have an abundant life. Not a regular every day no purpose life. Not a life that’s filled with same old stuff. Not a life of let me just get through the day. He did not live perfectly and suffer greatly and be exalted because He wanted to. He did all that for us to have everlasting abundant life. That everlasting abundant life starts now. Our eternity begins when we accept Him into our hearts. The abundant life He wants for us is for the here and now and it is very possible for us to live a life of purpose, and blessings and abundance. Let’s put away the mundane. Let’s walk away from the ordinary life and even the negative life. Let’s walk into the abundance that He came to this earth to make sure we got. This one sentence from Jesus has a lot of implications for our lives today. Are you ready to choose abundance? Are you ready to bring your life to the next level? Are you ready to allow Jesus’ promises be fulfilled in your life?
Be blessed.
Friday, February 5, 2010
February 5
Life Transformed
Luke 5: 12, 13 (NIV)
While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
Leprosy was a detestable disease. In this passage, he was covered with it which made him unclean. In those days, if a person was considered unclean they could not be a part of regular society. Just like him, I too felt unclean. I felt completely dirty and ashamed because of my past and what I lived through. I can identify with the desperate way in which this man fell with his face to the ground before the Lord. He knew that Jesus was able to heal him. He was so humbled by His presence and at the same time so desperate to be healed. The other unspoken beauty of this passage is that Jesus did not have to touch the man. Many other times in the Gospels there are accounts of Jesus simply speaking the words of healing. But in this passage with this man covered in the most disgusting disease of the time, Jesus reaches down and touches the man to heal him. How intimate and loving of Jesus. You will experience God’s healing touch on your sin and pain.
One particular day while doing my devotional, I felt particularly ashamed of my past. I was ashamed of what was done to me and things that I did. I got down on the floor, with my face in the carpet, and begged Jesus to touch me and heal me. Like the man with leprosy, Jesus lovingly and gently, touched my hurt and pain like no one else could. However, unlike this man, my healing was a process as opposed to immediate. That process was a necessary journey that I had to take with Jesus. It would not have been as meaningful if it was immediate. However, I can say that my healing was real and I have the scars to prove it.
Please have patience. We are here in this life on a journey. Our life here is a process. We are not meant to be instantly perfect. God is teaching us, shaping us, molding us into HIS ideal of what He created us to be. Does a sailor get in his boat and desire to instantly be at his destination? No, there is joy and beauty in the journey. It’s a process. We are not to be finished products while we are here on earth.
Luke 5: 12, 13 (NIV)
While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.
Leprosy was a detestable disease. In this passage, he was covered with it which made him unclean. In those days, if a person was considered unclean they could not be a part of regular society. Just like him, I too felt unclean. I felt completely dirty and ashamed because of my past and what I lived through. I can identify with the desperate way in which this man fell with his face to the ground before the Lord. He knew that Jesus was able to heal him. He was so humbled by His presence and at the same time so desperate to be healed. The other unspoken beauty of this passage is that Jesus did not have to touch the man. Many other times in the Gospels there are accounts of Jesus simply speaking the words of healing. But in this passage with this man covered in the most disgusting disease of the time, Jesus reaches down and touches the man to heal him. How intimate and loving of Jesus. You will experience God’s healing touch on your sin and pain.
One particular day while doing my devotional, I felt particularly ashamed of my past. I was ashamed of what was done to me and things that I did. I got down on the floor, with my face in the carpet, and begged Jesus to touch me and heal me. Like the man with leprosy, Jesus lovingly and gently, touched my hurt and pain like no one else could. However, unlike this man, my healing was a process as opposed to immediate. That process was a necessary journey that I had to take with Jesus. It would not have been as meaningful if it was immediate. However, I can say that my healing was real and I have the scars to prove it.
Please have patience. We are here in this life on a journey. Our life here is a process. We are not meant to be instantly perfect. God is teaching us, shaping us, molding us into HIS ideal of what He created us to be. Does a sailor get in his boat and desire to instantly be at his destination? No, there is joy and beauty in the journey. It’s a process. We are not to be finished products while we are here on earth.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
February 4
I woke up completely empty. I gave out what God had poured into me yesterday. Desperate to be refilled and renewed, I cried out in prayer, “Lord, I need You. I am desperate for You”. Then came to my memory all of my personal struggles, frustrations, and sins. I confessed my sins and complained to God about my frustrations. He listened. Continuing, I prayed, “Lord, prepare my mind and my heart to receive Your Word, my daily bread. Bless it so that it will nourish my soul. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen”.
Reading today: Romans 7: 1-6
In order to understand life, we must understand death. The passage before this refers to a death to sin. This passage examines another death – to law. When Jesus was quizzed about the greatest commandment His reply was not any of the 10 commandments listed. His reply was on the foundation of all commandments (law) – to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. So in this passage, Paul explains that as Christians, that is, those who have accepted God’s gift through Jesus, we are no longer bound to following the law BECAUSE “we serve in the new way of the Spirit”, (verse 6). Which means because we have the Holy Spirit and Jesus, the burden of the law has been met. Does this mean that the commandments are irrelevant? Think of it this way, we love through Jesus so much that all the commandments are met. We love God with everything we have, therefore there is no room for sin, such as: checking out other people’s wives or husbands, having jealousy for someone else’s blessing, gossiping, lying, watching pornography. And nothing is more important than God, like: money, TV shows, working overtime, shopping. The mindset is more of being so consumed with God, there is no room for selfishness and temptations. Through walking away from sin – death, we are choosing – life, more abundantly.
On a more personal note, here's part of my story:
I remember the day I decided to give my life to Christ – for Him to do with my life whatever He pleases. I remember being scared, curious, anxious and ready. The life I was living was a result of a lifetime of hurt and pain and bad decisions. I was ready to live my life in a different light. Mostly, I was ready to not live my life the way I had been for so long. I was desperate for something better. I knew that I needed God.
That was one milestone of many. Years later, I realized that I needed a deeper relationship with Jesus. I couldn’t understand why I had such a Hope and Joy inside, and at the same time felt like something was missing. I prayed, I read the Bible, I went to Bible study, I volunteered in my church, but there was still a weight and a sadness that slowed me down. Then Jesus, in a gentle and persistent way, revealed that I needed to let Him all the way into my heart. He revealed the very obvious but very comfortable baggage that I had been dragging around everywhere I went, into every relationship I had, and through which I would feel every emotion. God gave me a new life, but I could not enjoy it completely. I needed to let him in and with my new Best Friend empty my bags one at a time. This was a very painfully reminding yet necessary process. I could have lived a regular life, keeping my familiar baggage hanging on me, but then again, that is not what Jesus died for. He bled, was humiliated, beaten and abandoned so that I could live an abundant life, a life of freedom and joy and fulfillment. He wants you to live the best life possible, a life free of pain, guilt, and anxiety but full of smiles, peace and purpose.
Reading today: Romans 7: 1-6
In order to understand life, we must understand death. The passage before this refers to a death to sin. This passage examines another death – to law. When Jesus was quizzed about the greatest commandment His reply was not any of the 10 commandments listed. His reply was on the foundation of all commandments (law) – to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. So in this passage, Paul explains that as Christians, that is, those who have accepted God’s gift through Jesus, we are no longer bound to following the law BECAUSE “we serve in the new way of the Spirit”, (verse 6). Which means because we have the Holy Spirit and Jesus, the burden of the law has been met. Does this mean that the commandments are irrelevant? Think of it this way, we love through Jesus so much that all the commandments are met. We love God with everything we have, therefore there is no room for sin, such as: checking out other people’s wives or husbands, having jealousy for someone else’s blessing, gossiping, lying, watching pornography. And nothing is more important than God, like: money, TV shows, working overtime, shopping. The mindset is more of being so consumed with God, there is no room for selfishness and temptations. Through walking away from sin – death, we are choosing – life, more abundantly.
On a more personal note, here's part of my story:
I remember the day I decided to give my life to Christ – for Him to do with my life whatever He pleases. I remember being scared, curious, anxious and ready. The life I was living was a result of a lifetime of hurt and pain and bad decisions. I was ready to live my life in a different light. Mostly, I was ready to not live my life the way I had been for so long. I was desperate for something better. I knew that I needed God.
That was one milestone of many. Years later, I realized that I needed a deeper relationship with Jesus. I couldn’t understand why I had such a Hope and Joy inside, and at the same time felt like something was missing. I prayed, I read the Bible, I went to Bible study, I volunteered in my church, but there was still a weight and a sadness that slowed me down. Then Jesus, in a gentle and persistent way, revealed that I needed to let Him all the way into my heart. He revealed the very obvious but very comfortable baggage that I had been dragging around everywhere I went, into every relationship I had, and through which I would feel every emotion. God gave me a new life, but I could not enjoy it completely. I needed to let him in and with my new Best Friend empty my bags one at a time. This was a very painfully reminding yet necessary process. I could have lived a regular life, keeping my familiar baggage hanging on me, but then again, that is not what Jesus died for. He bled, was humiliated, beaten and abandoned so that I could live an abundant life, a life of freedom and joy and fulfillment. He wants you to live the best life possible, a life free of pain, guilt, and anxiety but full of smiles, peace and purpose.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
February 2
Writer’s block. I’ve been thinking more about “living life on purpose” – the theme for this blog. Somehow, I just can’t get the words together. I want to share my testimony of how God gave me more clarity of my path in life. Maybe I’m thinking too much on what it should be that it’s overwhelming me. Writing about finding purpose in life is so important to me for many reasons. First, it’s the age – old question. Second, with everything that is within me, I know God is the Author of that purpose and it is tailor made for each one of us. My passion is helping people discover the best, most abundant life God has in store for them!
The devotionals this week have been – okay. Monday, I was still really distracted. Some days it’ll be like that. Maintenance. I guess days like that are practicing the new habit of searching Scripture and praying. Something like securing the foundation that has been laid. Some days are going to be fabulous – knock your socks off – revelations and others are going to be simple and sweet.
I didn’t start with a song. Maybe that’s where things went wrong. I prayed, asking God for forgiveness and clarity on the Scripture for that day. I prayed for an open heart and mind.
Reading: 1 Samuel 6 – The Ark Returned to Israel
The interesting section of this Scripture – verses 10 – 12. The Philistines are returning the Ark because God is cursing them for having it. The priests decided to send it back using two cows that have never been hitched to a cart before, alone. Why you ask? (Why we ask, haha). They were testing if the curses were from God. If the cows go straight on the road without being led by humans, then it was the God of Israel that brought this destruction. However, if the cows stray, then they know it was just a coincidence. Guess what happened. That’s right. The “never been hitched to a plow” – cows followed the path. Never turning from it to the right or to the left. That fascinates me because that is what God calls us to do. Stay on the path. He says, “Do not turn from it to the right or to the left”. Jesus said, “I am the WAY”. Another connection that can be made is to Psalm 32: 8, 9 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you”.
Enough said. Let that marinate.
Thanks for reading. Love you all!
The devotionals this week have been – okay. Monday, I was still really distracted. Some days it’ll be like that. Maintenance. I guess days like that are practicing the new habit of searching Scripture and praying. Something like securing the foundation that has been laid. Some days are going to be fabulous – knock your socks off – revelations and others are going to be simple and sweet.
I didn’t start with a song. Maybe that’s where things went wrong. I prayed, asking God for forgiveness and clarity on the Scripture for that day. I prayed for an open heart and mind.
Reading: 1 Samuel 6 – The Ark Returned to Israel
The interesting section of this Scripture – verses 10 – 12. The Philistines are returning the Ark because God is cursing them for having it. The priests decided to send it back using two cows that have never been hitched to a cart before, alone. Why you ask? (Why we ask, haha). They were testing if the curses were from God. If the cows go straight on the road without being led by humans, then it was the God of Israel that brought this destruction. However, if the cows stray, then they know it was just a coincidence. Guess what happened. That’s right. The “never been hitched to a plow” – cows followed the path. Never turning from it to the right or to the left. That fascinates me because that is what God calls us to do. Stay on the path. He says, “Do not turn from it to the right or to the left”. Jesus said, “I am the WAY”. Another connection that can be made is to Psalm 32: 8, 9 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you”.
Enough said. Let that marinate.
Thanks for reading. Love you all!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
January 28
Sleep has now become a luxury. Instead of exercising, I am going to take a nap so I can function for the rest of the day.
So in my favorite spot by the window I sit with my Bible open to my favorite Chapter. These are my “comfort foods”. This is my opening prayer – the first 5 verses of Psalm 25. That’s about all the prayer I could muster up at this point. Have you ever felt your soul so weary, you can’t even pray? The Bible says the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and the cry of our heart is heard through the cry of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8: 26, 27. Thank you, Lord!
And so, as I continue in the Chapter, my mind is drifting to one situation and another trouble. But then my eyes land on the tear stained section in verse 14. “The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them”. And I pause. Confides. A confidant. This means to entrust, to place in somebody’s care, to reveal, open your heart to. For those that fear the Lord, this is what HE does for us. Have you ever confided in someone a special part of you? A secret, a dream that is very special to you? When you intimately sit with that person, think of the closeness, think of the hushed tone of the conversation. That is what God does with us WHEN we have fear of Him. He entrusts His inner most confidence in US! Who are we that we deserve such honor? And that whisper session is God placing His plan for your life in your heart. How beautiful! And so this is why I praise the Lord and love Him! To read a real life example, check out Genesis 18: 17-19.
The other aspect of this verse is “the fear of the Lord”. The New International Version of the Bible gives this explanation, “Those who honor God and order their lives in accordance with his will because of their reverence for him; a sense of reverential trust in God that includes commitment to his revealed will”. Not the same fear we have of the IRS. Reverence means: respect, admiration, awe, worship.
So then I pray: Oh, Lord, have mercy on me and allow me into Your presence. Take pity on me and give me Your beyond all comprehension peace. (With my hands raised) I am desperate for You. I am so lost without You.
I continued in prayer sharing and asking for help in many things, which concluded in praising His Name!
Where is God going to show off today?
So in my favorite spot by the window I sit with my Bible open to my favorite Chapter. These are my “comfort foods”. This is my opening prayer – the first 5 verses of Psalm 25. That’s about all the prayer I could muster up at this point. Have you ever felt your soul so weary, you can’t even pray? The Bible says the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and the cry of our heart is heard through the cry of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8: 26, 27. Thank you, Lord!
And so, as I continue in the Chapter, my mind is drifting to one situation and another trouble. But then my eyes land on the tear stained section in verse 14. “The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them”. And I pause. Confides. A confidant. This means to entrust, to place in somebody’s care, to reveal, open your heart to. For those that fear the Lord, this is what HE does for us. Have you ever confided in someone a special part of you? A secret, a dream that is very special to you? When you intimately sit with that person, think of the closeness, think of the hushed tone of the conversation. That is what God does with us WHEN we have fear of Him. He entrusts His inner most confidence in US! Who are we that we deserve such honor? And that whisper session is God placing His plan for your life in your heart. How beautiful! And so this is why I praise the Lord and love Him! To read a real life example, check out Genesis 18: 17-19.
The other aspect of this verse is “the fear of the Lord”. The New International Version of the Bible gives this explanation, “Those who honor God and order their lives in accordance with his will because of their reverence for him; a sense of reverential trust in God that includes commitment to his revealed will”. Not the same fear we have of the IRS. Reverence means: respect, admiration, awe, worship.
So then I pray: Oh, Lord, have mercy on me and allow me into Your presence. Take pity on me and give me Your beyond all comprehension peace. (With my hands raised) I am desperate for You. I am so lost without You.
I continued in prayer sharing and asking for help in many things, which concluded in praising His Name!
Where is God going to show off today?
January 27
This post is an addition to yesterdays.
After I posted, I went for a walk in the beautiful sunshiny day. I was thinking about what I posted about sin. This is the way I like to think about it. When we accept the Gift that God has given in His Son, we are redeemed and our eternity begins. The purpose and reason God has for us begins. The more we become consumed and filled up with that purpose – whatever it may be – the more connected we are with God. When we are pregnant with our purpose and task in life, there is no room for sin.
After I posted, I went for a walk in the beautiful sunshiny day. I was thinking about what I posted about sin. This is the way I like to think about it. When we accept the Gift that God has given in His Son, we are redeemed and our eternity begins. The purpose and reason God has for us begins. The more we become consumed and filled up with that purpose – whatever it may be – the more connected we are with God. When we are pregnant with our purpose and task in life, there is no room for sin.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
January 26
I’m not feeling so well today. I’m tired, bloated, crampy and truth be told, I don’t want to do much today. But there is one thing I refuse to pass up today – that is getting alone with God. I simply cannot live without pausing and soaking up His love, grace, peace and forgiveness.
Oh Lord, here I am at Your throne of grace. I am humbled before You. I am Yours to do with as You please and see fit. Holy Spirit, I pray that You will cleanse my heart and mind. Make me worthy to be drawn closer to You. Touch my mind and my heart so that I am see how Your word applies to my life today. I thank You for this time to spend in Your presence. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
Reading today: Romans 6: 1-14 Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
This section is so jam packed with Truth, I could spend days just reading sentence by sentence. But the whole section is like a nice full plate – all of it to be enjoyed. This answers the question one of my elementary age students asked last week, “If Jesus died for us then why do we still have to die”? In just 14 short verses Paul answers this question. I’m not going to specifically address this – read it for yourself and see what God says. What caught my eye in the Scripture is the truth of being dead to sin. Sin is that temptation we all fall into. We all have a temptation. Yours may be different than mine, and not affect me at all. Be careful though, this is not the idea of what is good for you is good for you, and what is good for me is good for me. Sin is sin. It may look different, but it is still sin. The other aspect of sin is selfishness. I have been thinking lately about the Old Testament happenings. People then weren’t distracted like we are today. Their lives were a lot more simple. TV, email, blogs, didn’t exist to take their minds away from God. We are selfish people. And in our society today, we are 100% wrapped up in ourselves. That is the basis for most sin. If we are so concerned about ourselves, we can’t be completely concerned about God. And that sin of selfishness separates us from God. Verse 6, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been freed from sin”. Allowing sin to die from us is what baptism symbolizes. When I surrender my life to God every morning, I am dying to sin, so that God will reign and not sin. So today – I am alive. Alive for God, alive through God, alive because the Holy Spirit lives within me.
I tried to end in prayer but I was so distracted. All I could do was think of all the things that I needed to do today. So I grabbed a pad and pencil and jotted them down as they came to mind – one after another. Oh brother! The battle was against sleepiness too! Even worse! Then a song came on: Byron Cage, This is the Air I Breathe. Look it up! That snapped me out of my funk. So I closed by praying that song. “And I...I’m desperate for You….And I ….can’t live without You…this is my daily Bread”. Refreshed!
I desire to walk in the Power of God today!
I prayed for many people and circumstances. I asked God to guide me every step of the day. And I prayed that the Holy Spirit will reach far through this blog to touch many lives.
Be blessed and refreshed today!
Oh Lord, here I am at Your throne of grace. I am humbled before You. I am Yours to do with as You please and see fit. Holy Spirit, I pray that You will cleanse my heart and mind. Make me worthy to be drawn closer to You. Touch my mind and my heart so that I am see how Your word applies to my life today. I thank You for this time to spend in Your presence. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
Reading today: Romans 6: 1-14 Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
This section is so jam packed with Truth, I could spend days just reading sentence by sentence. But the whole section is like a nice full plate – all of it to be enjoyed. This answers the question one of my elementary age students asked last week, “If Jesus died for us then why do we still have to die”? In just 14 short verses Paul answers this question. I’m not going to specifically address this – read it for yourself and see what God says. What caught my eye in the Scripture is the truth of being dead to sin. Sin is that temptation we all fall into. We all have a temptation. Yours may be different than mine, and not affect me at all. Be careful though, this is not the idea of what is good for you is good for you, and what is good for me is good for me. Sin is sin. It may look different, but it is still sin. The other aspect of sin is selfishness. I have been thinking lately about the Old Testament happenings. People then weren’t distracted like we are today. Their lives were a lot more simple. TV, email, blogs, didn’t exist to take their minds away from God. We are selfish people. And in our society today, we are 100% wrapped up in ourselves. That is the basis for most sin. If we are so concerned about ourselves, we can’t be completely concerned about God. And that sin of selfishness separates us from God. Verse 6, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been freed from sin”. Allowing sin to die from us is what baptism symbolizes. When I surrender my life to God every morning, I am dying to sin, so that God will reign and not sin. So today – I am alive. Alive for God, alive through God, alive because the Holy Spirit lives within me.
I tried to end in prayer but I was so distracted. All I could do was think of all the things that I needed to do today. So I grabbed a pad and pencil and jotted them down as they came to mind – one after another. Oh brother! The battle was against sleepiness too! Even worse! Then a song came on: Byron Cage, This is the Air I Breathe. Look it up! That snapped me out of my funk. So I closed by praying that song. “And I...I’m desperate for You….And I ….can’t live without You…this is my daily Bread”. Refreshed!
I desire to walk in the Power of God today!
I prayed for many people and circumstances. I asked God to guide me every step of the day. And I prayed that the Holy Spirit will reach far through this blog to touch many lives.
Be blessed and refreshed today!
Monday, January 25, 2010
January 25
Wow! Where have I been? So many things can happen and change in just a few weeks. There is much to share, so this is going to be a long one…
Before I can begin to journal all that has taken place, I first need to begin with my devotional time. I have been able to spend time with God throughout all these days. It has been sporadic. One day while I was cleaning my house, I put my praise music on and worshiped the Lord and prayed. I was worshipping the Lord by being responsible with the things He has given me – my home. I was also worshipping by praying and singing praises to His Name!
The song that played on my CD: Natalie Grant and Friends, High and Exalted.
Prayer: Oh Lord, how good it feels to curl up with Your good Book. How blessed I am to pause this day and spend time with You. You are high and exalted and worthy of all praise! I give you my mind and my heart. Touch me so that I may see Your power through Your Word today. Bless me with Your presence. I repent my sin to You and ask for forgiveness. Thank you and Amen.
So for today, I read in 1 Samuel again. This section is so powerful! God is so powerful!! He demonstrates that power every day; it’s up to us to recognize it and walk in it. The Scripture is 1 Samuel 4: 12 – 5: 12. Eli the Prophet dies, his sons are killed, and the Ark of the Covenant is captured in battle. We meet a pregnant woman in this section that is married to one of Eli’s sons that died in battle. She is so upset about the Ark being captured and her husband and Eli are dead that she cannot see the blessing in the midst of all of this. She gives birth to a boy, but feels all hope is lost because of her circumstances. How many times I have felt all hope was lost because I could not understand or “feel” God’s presence? But God is so much bigger than circumstances, and He is so much bigger than a gold box! So God shows up with great power in Chapter 5. The Philistines who took the Ark of the Covenant put it into their god Dagon’s temple. I just can’t help but giggle reading this. The first morning they find their god Dagon knocked over before the Ark! Fallen, face down! A big old probably stone statue – knocked down! So what do they do? They lift it back into place. Now my giggle has turned into a full blown laugh because the next day Dagon is knocked over again but this time his face and hands are broken!! HAHAHA! Our God cannot be messed with! End of story. There is a lot more to the situation here, but just thinking about how God can take care of Himself. He doesn’t need us to worry about His Name being questioned or tainted. What also strikes me about the character of God in this situation is how Just He is. All this took place because of Israel’s disobedience. And with all that was happening, He kept His Word and punished Israel still. But He remained Faithful through it all. THIS is why I praise Him!
My ending prayer: Praise You Lord for how wonderful, powerful, faithful and holy You are!!
I continued the prayer by giving to Jesus all my concerns, excitement for what took place the past few weeks, my sorrows, and those that are so close to my heart that need a touch from Him. But one thing I know, God is still on His Throne and in control. That is all that matters!! I just need to trust and have faith in that alone.
By the way – does Dagon sound familiar? Those who grew up in the 80’s, remember Ghost Busters? One of the evil “ghosts” was named Dagon. Look it up. Funny, right?
Now for the second part of this blog: I have been seeking God’s Will in my life for a long time now. The fact of the matter is that God is far more interested in showing us more of Him in the process of learning to follow His Will. With a completely surrendered heart, God showed me more of who He is and His perfect Will for my life. Jesus was teaching me patience, reliance, peace, studying the Bible, prayer, silence, waiting. I could go on. And so in all of that I changed my direction in school. See, I have been taking classes toward a Master’s in Education Supervision and Administration. Not anymore. I became so desperate and at a cross road. I asked Jesus (again) to take away all that was within me that did not belong. The joy and excitement for something new that He placed in my heart is beyond words! To have the road map of exactly what it is we are purposed for and to know the power before it, behind it and within it – this is what we are to live for! Nothing more. Nothing less.
The following week was complete with a roller coaster of emotions. Does anyone see the pattern here? But OH the peace…..when all troubles, decisions, excitement are placed before Him, truly surrendered to Him, I mean lay at His throne, completely. I felt Him say to me, it’s all right. All is taken care of. That was enough for me. That is faith. Now, I still pray about all these circumstances. I still think about all these circumstances. Are they giving me more gray hair than I already have? Ha, NO! One thing is for sure, He vindicates those that are truly His!
I was sitting in the car with my beautiful daughter, about to make a very big decision regarding her future. She read my favorite Scripture. I must have read it a thousand times. But yesterday, something spoke to me, “Who, then, is the man that fears the Lord? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him. He will spend his days in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land”. His descendants will inherit the land! My children are blessed!!! What peace that Scripture gave – both of us!
God is good and faithful! All of this expression, how God ministers is for all people! And THIS is why I praise His Name!
Spread the Word….
Before I can begin to journal all that has taken place, I first need to begin with my devotional time. I have been able to spend time with God throughout all these days. It has been sporadic. One day while I was cleaning my house, I put my praise music on and worshiped the Lord and prayed. I was worshipping the Lord by being responsible with the things He has given me – my home. I was also worshipping by praying and singing praises to His Name!
The song that played on my CD: Natalie Grant and Friends, High and Exalted.
Prayer: Oh Lord, how good it feels to curl up with Your good Book. How blessed I am to pause this day and spend time with You. You are high and exalted and worthy of all praise! I give you my mind and my heart. Touch me so that I may see Your power through Your Word today. Bless me with Your presence. I repent my sin to You and ask for forgiveness. Thank you and Amen.
So for today, I read in 1 Samuel again. This section is so powerful! God is so powerful!! He demonstrates that power every day; it’s up to us to recognize it and walk in it. The Scripture is 1 Samuel 4: 12 – 5: 12. Eli the Prophet dies, his sons are killed, and the Ark of the Covenant is captured in battle. We meet a pregnant woman in this section that is married to one of Eli’s sons that died in battle. She is so upset about the Ark being captured and her husband and Eli are dead that she cannot see the blessing in the midst of all of this. She gives birth to a boy, but feels all hope is lost because of her circumstances. How many times I have felt all hope was lost because I could not understand or “feel” God’s presence? But God is so much bigger than circumstances, and He is so much bigger than a gold box! So God shows up with great power in Chapter 5. The Philistines who took the Ark of the Covenant put it into their god Dagon’s temple. I just can’t help but giggle reading this. The first morning they find their god Dagon knocked over before the Ark! Fallen, face down! A big old probably stone statue – knocked down! So what do they do? They lift it back into place. Now my giggle has turned into a full blown laugh because the next day Dagon is knocked over again but this time his face and hands are broken!! HAHAHA! Our God cannot be messed with! End of story. There is a lot more to the situation here, but just thinking about how God can take care of Himself. He doesn’t need us to worry about His Name being questioned or tainted. What also strikes me about the character of God in this situation is how Just He is. All this took place because of Israel’s disobedience. And with all that was happening, He kept His Word and punished Israel still. But He remained Faithful through it all. THIS is why I praise Him!
My ending prayer: Praise You Lord for how wonderful, powerful, faithful and holy You are!!
I continued the prayer by giving to Jesus all my concerns, excitement for what took place the past few weeks, my sorrows, and those that are so close to my heart that need a touch from Him. But one thing I know, God is still on His Throne and in control. That is all that matters!! I just need to trust and have faith in that alone.
By the way – does Dagon sound familiar? Those who grew up in the 80’s, remember Ghost Busters? One of the evil “ghosts” was named Dagon. Look it up. Funny, right?
Now for the second part of this blog: I have been seeking God’s Will in my life for a long time now. The fact of the matter is that God is far more interested in showing us more of Him in the process of learning to follow His Will. With a completely surrendered heart, God showed me more of who He is and His perfect Will for my life. Jesus was teaching me patience, reliance, peace, studying the Bible, prayer, silence, waiting. I could go on. And so in all of that I changed my direction in school. See, I have been taking classes toward a Master’s in Education Supervision and Administration. Not anymore. I became so desperate and at a cross road. I asked Jesus (again) to take away all that was within me that did not belong. The joy and excitement for something new that He placed in my heart is beyond words! To have the road map of exactly what it is we are purposed for and to know the power before it, behind it and within it – this is what we are to live for! Nothing more. Nothing less.
The following week was complete with a roller coaster of emotions. Does anyone see the pattern here? But OH the peace…..when all troubles, decisions, excitement are placed before Him, truly surrendered to Him, I mean lay at His throne, completely. I felt Him say to me, it’s all right. All is taken care of. That was enough for me. That is faith. Now, I still pray about all these circumstances. I still think about all these circumstances. Are they giving me more gray hair than I already have? Ha, NO! One thing is for sure, He vindicates those that are truly His!
I was sitting in the car with my beautiful daughter, about to make a very big decision regarding her future. She read my favorite Scripture. I must have read it a thousand times. But yesterday, something spoke to me, “Who, then, is the man that fears the Lord? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him. He will spend his days in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land”. His descendants will inherit the land! My children are blessed!!! What peace that Scripture gave – both of us!
God is good and faithful! All of this expression, how God ministers is for all people! And THIS is why I praise His Name!
Spread the Word….
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
January 12
I have spent the past few days working at church and being a mother and a wife. Yes, busy busy days. But good busy. Productive busy. This week I am at a conference, so I may not get to blog as much as I would like. This is time and energy well invested, I'm sure.
It felt so good this morning to put aside everything. My computer, this blog, the dishes, the laundry, phone calls. To put aside all of this in order to draw close to God. Oh, so refreshing! I turned on my knees with the Bible next to me. It's at that point, nothing else matters except - God. This is my time of peace and worship. So here it goes:
On my knees before God, as His child I asked for permission to enter into His presence. Tears in my eyes because of the reality of the Creator accepting me, I continued to worship. I praised Him for who He is: Redeemer, Savior, King of my life, Creator, Merciful, Just, and Righetous. I asked Him for forgiveness for falling into my temptation once again. I also confessed my unwillingness to walk in faith. Forgiven, I asked for wisdom and understanding in reading the Word. "In the Name of the One who saved my life, and the One who gave it to save and the One who breathed the breath of Life into us both, Amen.
So the song I listened to is Kirk Franklin on the Hero CD, "Brokenhearted". Find it on the internet and listen. It's wonderful!
Reading: 1 Samuel 2: 12 - 36
Samuel reminds me of Daniel. They both had integrity. They both followed after God as young men despite the corruption around them. This section is about the priest Eli's sons. They were no good, corrupt men. God was about to judge them. But Samuel found favor with God. Read verse 35. This is another prophet coming to Eli to tell him what God says; so this is God speaking really, "I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind". Imagine that! God allows us to know, have a piece of and follow after his own heart and mind. I can not even grasp how wonderful that is! Can you? But it is true. Do you believe there is a God? Well, this is what God is looking for all over the world. People who will submit themselves to Him and truly seek after Him. When we do this, He gives us His heart and mind! The Creator. The One and only true God! He wants to do this with us. He does not need us, but He chooses us. Who is willing to be made worthy?
The other verse I like, verse 21, "And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord". Hannah was faithful to the Lord, recognizing that He was the only one who could bless her. And God blessed her indeed with many other children. She went to visit Samuel every year. That must have been wonderful for her to see her son grow.
Reading: Romans 5: 1-11
After reading this, all I could think of was: faith, justified, perseverance, powerless, reconciliation, access, stand, rejoice, saved...
Let me know how this passage speaks to you.
I finished devotional time in prayer. Sitting, by the window. Looking out into the sky. I prayed for people that I know that are struggling; people that I met yesterday; my pastor; my husband; my children; and my family. I also prayed for you and future readers. I prayed that God would make Himself popular and be glorified through this blog. I prayed that the Holy Spirit would touch the hearts of those who will read this in the future.
Praise Him!
It felt so good this morning to put aside everything. My computer, this blog, the dishes, the laundry, phone calls. To put aside all of this in order to draw close to God. Oh, so refreshing! I turned on my knees with the Bible next to me. It's at that point, nothing else matters except - God. This is my time of peace and worship. So here it goes:
On my knees before God, as His child I asked for permission to enter into His presence. Tears in my eyes because of the reality of the Creator accepting me, I continued to worship. I praised Him for who He is: Redeemer, Savior, King of my life, Creator, Merciful, Just, and Righetous. I asked Him for forgiveness for falling into my temptation once again. I also confessed my unwillingness to walk in faith. Forgiven, I asked for wisdom and understanding in reading the Word. "In the Name of the One who saved my life, and the One who gave it to save and the One who breathed the breath of Life into us both, Amen.
So the song I listened to is Kirk Franklin on the Hero CD, "Brokenhearted". Find it on the internet and listen. It's wonderful!
Reading: 1 Samuel 2: 12 - 36
Samuel reminds me of Daniel. They both had integrity. They both followed after God as young men despite the corruption around them. This section is about the priest Eli's sons. They were no good, corrupt men. God was about to judge them. But Samuel found favor with God. Read verse 35. This is another prophet coming to Eli to tell him what God says; so this is God speaking really, "I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind". Imagine that! God allows us to know, have a piece of and follow after his own heart and mind. I can not even grasp how wonderful that is! Can you? But it is true. Do you believe there is a God? Well, this is what God is looking for all over the world. People who will submit themselves to Him and truly seek after Him. When we do this, He gives us His heart and mind! The Creator. The One and only true God! He wants to do this with us. He does not need us, but He chooses us. Who is willing to be made worthy?
The other verse I like, verse 21, "And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord". Hannah was faithful to the Lord, recognizing that He was the only one who could bless her. And God blessed her indeed with many other children. She went to visit Samuel every year. That must have been wonderful for her to see her son grow.
Reading: Romans 5: 1-11
After reading this, all I could think of was: faith, justified, perseverance, powerless, reconciliation, access, stand, rejoice, saved...
Let me know how this passage speaks to you.
I finished devotional time in prayer. Sitting, by the window. Looking out into the sky. I prayed for people that I know that are struggling; people that I met yesterday; my pastor; my husband; my children; and my family. I also prayed for you and future readers. I prayed that God would make Himself popular and be glorified through this blog. I prayed that the Holy Spirit would touch the hearts of those who will read this in the future.
Praise Him!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
January 8
Secrets revealed!!!
I did not do a devotional today. Today is cleaning day for me. All day. Did I get everything done? Nope. I will work on it throughout the weekend in between many other responsibilities.
But what I did do today was play my music while I was working around the house. By myself. So nice. Twice I had to stop what I was doing, right in the middle of washing dishes and sweeping. A praise song came on and I just had to stop and praise my God! Wow. It felt so good.
The first song: Byron Cage, This is the Air I Breathe
I stopped what I was doing, went over to the couch, got down on my knees, and just prayed the words to that song. It felt so good to just get on my knees before my God and Ruler of my life.
The second song: Lisa McClendon, You are Holy
One of my favorite - can't live without songs. Ok, now for the secret for all my readers. :)
I sing - no, belt- this song out! When I am all by myself, and really want to worship, I sing this song so loud and so strong. It's amazing! Yeah, my voice cracks - a bit. :) But I just love singing this song. It's a love song to God. It's private just between the two of us. Today, I sang it twice.
Well, this weekend is going to be very busy. I'm not sure that I will get to do a devotional at all. But I will pray. Maybe I will just post that.
God bless you all!
Nicole.
I did not do a devotional today. Today is cleaning day for me. All day. Did I get everything done? Nope. I will work on it throughout the weekend in between many other responsibilities.
But what I did do today was play my music while I was working around the house. By myself. So nice. Twice I had to stop what I was doing, right in the middle of washing dishes and sweeping. A praise song came on and I just had to stop and praise my God! Wow. It felt so good.
The first song: Byron Cage, This is the Air I Breathe
I stopped what I was doing, went over to the couch, got down on my knees, and just prayed the words to that song. It felt so good to just get on my knees before my God and Ruler of my life.
The second song: Lisa McClendon, You are Holy
One of my favorite - can't live without songs. Ok, now for the secret for all my readers. :)
I sing - no, belt- this song out! When I am all by myself, and really want to worship, I sing this song so loud and so strong. It's amazing! Yeah, my voice cracks - a bit. :) But I just love singing this song. It's a love song to God. It's private just between the two of us. Today, I sang it twice.
Well, this weekend is going to be very busy. I'm not sure that I will get to do a devotional at all. But I will pray. Maybe I will just post that.
God bless you all!
Nicole.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
January 7
Reflection day today! It's been a complete week that I've been writing this blog. This is so exciting!
So, I've been thinking about this blog and it's purpose and direction. The reason for me writing my thougts for all the world to hear is to expose authentic Christian living - all it's wonderful experiences and trials. See, too many times having a relationship with God seems far, confusing, rule oriented and up to our own determination. So, the plan is to take you with me through a year of living as a Christian; to be open, honest and real. And by doing this you can experience all this with me; ask questions; and look for yourself. At the end of the year, I know we will all grow.
The first reflection:
Many nights this week I really did not want to post anything. I said to myself that I would just simply write - NOTHING TO POST - just so something would be there. HA! Joke was on me.
But then I started thinking about why I was posting when I really didn't want to. And it was simply for the sake of posting something. That concerned me.
(Because) second reflection:
The blog post is supposed to be my devotional time for the day. The time of day when I sit and get into the Bible, pray and journal. It's supposed to be my intimate relationship with God only blogged. And so I thought, wow, if I am only going to do my devotional time just so I can say I posted something each day - my motives are not right. Do you know what that is called? The sin of PRIDE, folks. So it's time to repent and get my relationship right with Jesus.
The third reflection:
I am doing this blog because it is part of a book that I am writing. Through prayer, I realized that blogging is a powerful way to connect with people and get some feedback. I think Jesus wants everyone to see that having a personal relationship with Him is something incredible not something crazy or impossible. I am so excited to see where this whole experience is going. I'm praying for all of you that are reading. And I'm praying that God will bring more people that need to connect.
Please spread the word. The more the merrier!
So, I will leave you with this:
Tonight a prayer service, my friend shared this thought -
"Why do we have to go through difficult things? It would be easier for God to reveal what He wants us to do so we can do it. But God is much more interested in revealing more of Himself to us and our relationship with Him. Not details".
Ponder on that a bit folks, and let me know what you think.
Goodnight!
So, I've been thinking about this blog and it's purpose and direction. The reason for me writing my thougts for all the world to hear is to expose authentic Christian living - all it's wonderful experiences and trials. See, too many times having a relationship with God seems far, confusing, rule oriented and up to our own determination. So, the plan is to take you with me through a year of living as a Christian; to be open, honest and real. And by doing this you can experience all this with me; ask questions; and look for yourself. At the end of the year, I know we will all grow.
The first reflection:
Many nights this week I really did not want to post anything. I said to myself that I would just simply write - NOTHING TO POST - just so something would be there. HA! Joke was on me.
But then I started thinking about why I was posting when I really didn't want to. And it was simply for the sake of posting something. That concerned me.
(Because) second reflection:
The blog post is supposed to be my devotional time for the day. The time of day when I sit and get into the Bible, pray and journal. It's supposed to be my intimate relationship with God only blogged. And so I thought, wow, if I am only going to do my devotional time just so I can say I posted something each day - my motives are not right. Do you know what that is called? The sin of PRIDE, folks. So it's time to repent and get my relationship right with Jesus.
The third reflection:
I am doing this blog because it is part of a book that I am writing. Through prayer, I realized that blogging is a powerful way to connect with people and get some feedback. I think Jesus wants everyone to see that having a personal relationship with Him is something incredible not something crazy or impossible. I am so excited to see where this whole experience is going. I'm praying for all of you that are reading. And I'm praying that God will bring more people that need to connect.
Please spread the word. The more the merrier!
So, I will leave you with this:
Tonight a prayer service, my friend shared this thought -
"Why do we have to go through difficult things? It would be easier for God to reveal what He wants us to do so we can do it. But God is much more interested in revealing more of Himself to us and our relationship with Him. Not details".
Ponder on that a bit folks, and let me know what you think.
Goodnight!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
January 6
So, tonight I'm not going to post the usual devotional.
Today is Youth Group night. I direct the youth programs at my church, and Wednesday night is when all the classes meet.
The Primary Youth Group meets first. I love those little ones. They are so open and trusting. I thank God for the responsibility and privilege to teach them about God. So anyway, we started the conversation, I'm not sure how, about the movie 2012. (Which by the way, I have not seen. I really wanted to when it first came out, then I lost interest. I probably will, eventually.) Oh, I remember how we started on that subject. I asked the students (all in elementary school) if they were excited about a new year - 2010? Some of them actually said no. They went on to explain that some of their friends were saying that they are not excited about a new year because the world is going to end in 2012. And so, I took that opportunity to jump right in and clear all sillyness up for them. :)
I love conversations like this. If any of my readers want to challenge or ask me some hard questions about my faith, I (honestly) welcome the conversation. I'm not looking for an arguement, I just like to talk with people who have a different opinion than me. So please, feel free.
So anyways, back to the babies...
I explained to them about what the Bible has to say about the end of the world as we know it. Ready? Here it goes:
In Matthew chapter 24, Jesus talks about the last days of the world.
But more specifically, Matthew 24: 36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father".
Because of this, we can not say that the world will fall apart in the year 2012. No matter the prediction. Yes, there have been many prophesies that have come true, but this one can NOT be determined.
More importantly, for Christians - people who believe that Jesus is the Son of God and we have life through Him - this does not matter. Let me explain. The Bible teaches that when Jesus comes again, His believers will be caught up in the sky with Him and go to Heaven. After this, the Earth will be in turmoil. So that is why Christians (if you know any), want you to believe in Jesus. Yes, partially for your "get out of dodge free card". Please understand that is NOT the only benefit of having a personal relationship with Christ. More information on that later.
So, continuing...one of my more energenic and talkative students shouts out, "But Ms. Nicole! Sometimes I'm bad and what if I'm bad when Jesus comes again"!
How powerful! I thanked her so much for asking the question!
So, I directed her to John 3:16. Another heavily quoted verse. But when you take the time to read it and think about what it says - or rather doesn't say, it's amazing.
John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".
It says, those who believe in Jesus and ask Him to be Lord over their life receive life forever. What it does not say is that we must be "good" or "perfect" in order to receive such a wonderful blessing. See, the point is that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to make God love us. We can't give enough to the poor, we can't love and care for our aging parents enough, we can't shovel our neighbor's driveway for them into Heaven. It doesn't work like that. When we accept Jesus, the first thing He does is give us HIS righteousness. We did not earn it or deserve it. He died and rose again in order to do this for us. Anyone who loves Him. It's really so simple. And this is why I praise Him!
Now for my little friend, I explained to her that if she is telling a lie when Jesus comes back again, she will go to Heaven. BUT...she will also have to answer to Jesus for her actions. We are still held accountable for what we do and do not confess - to Him by the way, no one else.
The Bible speaks Truth. Look it up for yourself. See what God is so desperately trying to say to each one of us. And don't be scared of 2012. Have peace and know that He is God and He is in control!! Which may open another can of worms...
And by the way: I am not a good speller, so I keep a word document open so I can spell check any words I'm concerned about. HA!!
Spread the word,
Nicole M.
Today is Youth Group night. I direct the youth programs at my church, and Wednesday night is when all the classes meet.
The Primary Youth Group meets first. I love those little ones. They are so open and trusting. I thank God for the responsibility and privilege to teach them about God. So anyway, we started the conversation, I'm not sure how, about the movie 2012. (Which by the way, I have not seen. I really wanted to when it first came out, then I lost interest. I probably will, eventually.) Oh, I remember how we started on that subject. I asked the students (all in elementary school) if they were excited about a new year - 2010? Some of them actually said no. They went on to explain that some of their friends were saying that they are not excited about a new year because the world is going to end in 2012. And so, I took that opportunity to jump right in and clear all sillyness up for them. :)
I love conversations like this. If any of my readers want to challenge or ask me some hard questions about my faith, I (honestly) welcome the conversation. I'm not looking for an arguement, I just like to talk with people who have a different opinion than me. So please, feel free.
So anyways, back to the babies...
I explained to them about what the Bible has to say about the end of the world as we know it. Ready? Here it goes:
In Matthew chapter 24, Jesus talks about the last days of the world.
But more specifically, Matthew 24: 36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father".
Because of this, we can not say that the world will fall apart in the year 2012. No matter the prediction. Yes, there have been many prophesies that have come true, but this one can NOT be determined.
More importantly, for Christians - people who believe that Jesus is the Son of God and we have life through Him - this does not matter. Let me explain. The Bible teaches that when Jesus comes again, His believers will be caught up in the sky with Him and go to Heaven. After this, the Earth will be in turmoil. So that is why Christians (if you know any), want you to believe in Jesus. Yes, partially for your "get out of dodge free card". Please understand that is NOT the only benefit of having a personal relationship with Christ. More information on that later.
So, continuing...one of my more energenic and talkative students shouts out, "But Ms. Nicole! Sometimes I'm bad and what if I'm bad when Jesus comes again"!
How powerful! I thanked her so much for asking the question!
So, I directed her to John 3:16. Another heavily quoted verse. But when you take the time to read it and think about what it says - or rather doesn't say, it's amazing.
John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life".
It says, those who believe in Jesus and ask Him to be Lord over their life receive life forever. What it does not say is that we must be "good" or "perfect" in order to receive such a wonderful blessing. See, the point is that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to make God love us. We can't give enough to the poor, we can't love and care for our aging parents enough, we can't shovel our neighbor's driveway for them into Heaven. It doesn't work like that. When we accept Jesus, the first thing He does is give us HIS righteousness. We did not earn it or deserve it. He died and rose again in order to do this for us. Anyone who loves Him. It's really so simple. And this is why I praise Him!
Now for my little friend, I explained to her that if she is telling a lie when Jesus comes back again, she will go to Heaven. BUT...she will also have to answer to Jesus for her actions. We are still held accountable for what we do and do not confess - to Him by the way, no one else.
The Bible speaks Truth. Look it up for yourself. See what God is so desperately trying to say to each one of us. And don't be scared of 2012. Have peace and know that He is God and He is in control!! Which may open another can of worms...
And by the way: I am not a good speller, so I keep a word document open so I can spell check any words I'm concerned about. HA!!
Spread the word,
Nicole M.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
January 5
Writer's block.
Today was an ok day. I'm dealing with some emotions. I can't wait to see how God works this one out.
I'm a little distracted right now because of the TV. When I sit down to read and pray, I need quiet. Everyone is asleep, which is nice.
Tonight is going to be a short devotional.
I'm not going to listen to a song on CD tonight. I like the one the Praise and Worship Team sang on Sunday:
Holines, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me.
Faithfulness, faithfulness is what I long for
Faithfulness is what I need
Faithfulness, faithfulness is what you want from me.
Righteousness, righteousness is what I long for
Righteousness, is what I need
Righteousness, righteousness is what you want from me.
So take my life and hold it.
Take my mind and mold it.
Take my will, conform it, to Your's, to Your's O Lord.
Dear Lord,
I submit myself to you. I bring to You in trust and in faith, all that concerns me. Today, I don't know if I can lay down all my troubles. I don't know how just yet. I know that You and I have been through a lot, and You have shown me grace and mercy in the past. You have shown me Your power. Have patience with me Lord. Please. Thank you, that You are a God that does not change and does not turn away. You are faithful and wonderful! I trust in You! As I begin to read your Word, I ask for understanding and wisdom. Your Word is alive and relevant for me today. Help me to draw closer to you through the reading of this Word right now.
Amen.
Reading: 1 Samuel 2: 1-11
You know something? The Bible is such a comfort. My heart just now was so full of yuck! But after reading Hannah's prayer, I feel so refreshed! Can anyone understand? Does anyone not, and want to?! I mean really. Way deep down inside where the hurt is so deep and protected. God just touched me there. Thank you Lord. I felt His arms around me, saying it's going to be alright. What peace! Friends, this is why the Bible is so cherished by Christians.
verse 2, "There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God". Oh yes!!! There is no Rock like our God! Thank you Jesus, with you I can face anything.
I'm going to fall asleep with that song in my head. That is my prayer tonight.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day. I might not get to blog. If you are reading, I appreciate you.
Lord, keep us all safe from harm.
-Nicole
Today was an ok day. I'm dealing with some emotions. I can't wait to see how God works this one out.
I'm a little distracted right now because of the TV. When I sit down to read and pray, I need quiet. Everyone is asleep, which is nice.
Tonight is going to be a short devotional.
I'm not going to listen to a song on CD tonight. I like the one the Praise and Worship Team sang on Sunday:
Holines, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me.
Faithfulness, faithfulness is what I long for
Faithfulness is what I need
Faithfulness, faithfulness is what you want from me.
Righteousness, righteousness is what I long for
Righteousness, is what I need
Righteousness, righteousness is what you want from me.
So take my life and hold it.
Take my mind and mold it.
Take my will, conform it, to Your's, to Your's O Lord.
Dear Lord,
I submit myself to you. I bring to You in trust and in faith, all that concerns me. Today, I don't know if I can lay down all my troubles. I don't know how just yet. I know that You and I have been through a lot, and You have shown me grace and mercy in the past. You have shown me Your power. Have patience with me Lord. Please. Thank you, that You are a God that does not change and does not turn away. You are faithful and wonderful! I trust in You! As I begin to read your Word, I ask for understanding and wisdom. Your Word is alive and relevant for me today. Help me to draw closer to you through the reading of this Word right now.
Amen.
Reading: 1 Samuel 2: 1-11
You know something? The Bible is such a comfort. My heart just now was so full of yuck! But after reading Hannah's prayer, I feel so refreshed! Can anyone understand? Does anyone not, and want to?! I mean really. Way deep down inside where the hurt is so deep and protected. God just touched me there. Thank you Lord. I felt His arms around me, saying it's going to be alright. What peace! Friends, this is why the Bible is so cherished by Christians.
verse 2, "There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God". Oh yes!!! There is no Rock like our God! Thank you Jesus, with you I can face anything.
I'm going to fall asleep with that song in my head. That is my prayer tonight.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Tomorrow is going to be a long day. I might not get to blog. If you are reading, I appreciate you.
Lord, keep us all safe from harm.
-Nicole
Monday, January 4, 2010
January 4
Life sure is funny. Some days I feel like everything is all set, I know the plan and I'm moving forward. Then there are days or moments when all seems to be upside down. It's so easy to get lost in the uncertainty of life. But then I remember that my God is constant, never changing, and in control. Days like this I need to find that and cling to it. Never let it go.
So. I have been eating gluten free (mostly) for two days now. Let's see how this effects my body. I didn't hit the gym or shovel like I wanted. That was going to be my exercise today. I was supposed to be in bed a few hours ago. But I was late getting home tonight. My plan is to get to bed early so I can function in the morning and have my prayer and Bible time after I bring the kids to school. Well, this week is going to be a bit different. Late nights pretty much every night. So for now, I'll blog late at night. I'll make the most of it. I have to. I need my prayer and Bible time. I crave it sometimes.
So earlier today Nicole Mullen's song Blessed and Broken randomly played on my CD. I really needed to hear that song today.
It's about the time when Jesus fed thousands of people from a boy's lunch of bread and fish. She sings: take it, hold it, bless it, break it. Then the song transforms to: take me, hold me, bless me and break me. Cuz only then, I'll multiply.
So that's my prayer today. If you look up the song, listen to the words. Deep.
I prayed a few times already today. Mostly prayers of desperation. Desperate to be smack in the middle of God's Will and Power.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for another opportunity to come to you in prayer. You are faithful and merciful. Praise You, Jesus! Before I read your Word tonight, I pray that you will open up my heart and my mind. Allow me to understand all that I will read. Allow me to draw closer to you through you Holy Word tonight. I love you Jesus. Amen.
Reading: Romans chapter 4
This passage is about faith. What is faith? We know people named Faith. To have faith in something is to believe in it. I guess. The modern definition of faith changes.
But in this passage, Abraham is used as an example of faith. Faith is believing that God will allow to happen what He promises. Ha! The key is to know what He promises. This is how we know what God promises and how to follow it. By praying, reading and obeying.
So. Back to Abraham. Righteousness. It's not what we do to earn being called "good". It's simply believing in an everlasting God. Calling on the Name of Jesus credits us righteousness. That plain and simple.
Verse 15 is very interesting. "because law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression". In other words, rules bring correction. So if there are no rules, no one can be held accountable. That's the mindset of many people today. Nothing can be further from the truth! There are rules. There are guidelines. Everything on this planet has boundaries. God is the ultimate line drawer.
Closing prayer: 7 Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Thank you Lord for calling me blessed. Thank you also for your righteousness. I pray that I am worthy of wearing your righteousness. Help me tomorrow to be more like you, and less like me. Help my eyes to see where you are working around me. Give me the courage to step into your Will. I pray for those that are reading this blog. I thank you for this opportunity to honor You. I am trusting in You. I lift up my husband to you. Touch his heart and mind. Bless him. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
So I will read a little in 1 Samuel and a little in Romans.
Good night. XO!
So. I have been eating gluten free (mostly) for two days now. Let's see how this effects my body. I didn't hit the gym or shovel like I wanted. That was going to be my exercise today. I was supposed to be in bed a few hours ago. But I was late getting home tonight. My plan is to get to bed early so I can function in the morning and have my prayer and Bible time after I bring the kids to school. Well, this week is going to be a bit different. Late nights pretty much every night. So for now, I'll blog late at night. I'll make the most of it. I have to. I need my prayer and Bible time. I crave it sometimes.
So earlier today Nicole Mullen's song Blessed and Broken randomly played on my CD. I really needed to hear that song today.
It's about the time when Jesus fed thousands of people from a boy's lunch of bread and fish. She sings: take it, hold it, bless it, break it. Then the song transforms to: take me, hold me, bless me and break me. Cuz only then, I'll multiply.
So that's my prayer today. If you look up the song, listen to the words. Deep.
I prayed a few times already today. Mostly prayers of desperation. Desperate to be smack in the middle of God's Will and Power.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for another opportunity to come to you in prayer. You are faithful and merciful. Praise You, Jesus! Before I read your Word tonight, I pray that you will open up my heart and my mind. Allow me to understand all that I will read. Allow me to draw closer to you through you Holy Word tonight. I love you Jesus. Amen.
Reading: Romans chapter 4
This passage is about faith. What is faith? We know people named Faith. To have faith in something is to believe in it. I guess. The modern definition of faith changes.
But in this passage, Abraham is used as an example of faith. Faith is believing that God will allow to happen what He promises. Ha! The key is to know what He promises. This is how we know what God promises and how to follow it. By praying, reading and obeying.
So. Back to Abraham. Righteousness. It's not what we do to earn being called "good". It's simply believing in an everlasting God. Calling on the Name of Jesus credits us righteousness. That plain and simple.
Verse 15 is very interesting. "because law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression". In other words, rules bring correction. So if there are no rules, no one can be held accountable. That's the mindset of many people today. Nothing can be further from the truth! There are rules. There are guidelines. Everything on this planet has boundaries. God is the ultimate line drawer.
Closing prayer: 7 Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Thank you Lord for calling me blessed. Thank you also for your righteousness. I pray that I am worthy of wearing your righteousness. Help me tomorrow to be more like you, and less like me. Help my eyes to see where you are working around me. Give me the courage to step into your Will. I pray for those that are reading this blog. I thank you for this opportunity to honor You. I am trusting in You. I lift up my husband to you. Touch his heart and mind. Bless him. In the Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
So I will read a little in 1 Samuel and a little in Romans.
Good night. XO!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
January 3
Snow. It's so pretty. But man, it can be dangerous.
Well, nothing really to post tonight.
Great sermon Pastor gave today. Whether you're a Christian or not...it was very helpful.
He was talking about living your life better, and for what reasons.
So many people are searching for something better and new. Anything different than what they are feeling now. I think Christians and non-Christians alike are needing something better.
Our church theme for the year is Romans 12:2.
I need to remember that because I believe that there is a Heaven, that means my whole perspective must change. I'm passing through and so are you.
The question is: how many people can we love and affect while we are here.
That's what Jesus did and wants us to do. Love each other. And follow Him.
Well, back to the grind tomorrow.
I love schedules...they make my life so much easier.
Love and Always,
Nikki, y'all.
Well, nothing really to post tonight.
Great sermon Pastor gave today. Whether you're a Christian or not...it was very helpful.
He was talking about living your life better, and for what reasons.
So many people are searching for something better and new. Anything different than what they are feeling now. I think Christians and non-Christians alike are needing something better.
Our church theme for the year is Romans 12:2.
I need to remember that because I believe that there is a Heaven, that means my whole perspective must change. I'm passing through and so are you.
The question is: how many people can we love and affect while we are here.
That's what Jesus did and wants us to do. Love each other. And follow Him.
Well, back to the grind tomorrow.
I love schedules...they make my life so much easier.
Love and Always,
Nikki, y'all.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
January 2
Welcome to Day 2! ( and hi to my "friends")
The first time I prayed today (1:30 pm) was when I was sitting outside a church on Prov with my daughter. She was about to do something for the first time. Very exciting. I thanked God for His Faithfulness. That is why I praise Him.
The day continued with the usual busy activity of a wife and mother. I try to keep the perspective of being blessed with a beautiful family to take care of.
You know, facebook is a funny thing. I have been going down memory lane this past week. I found so many old friends (friends from the past anyways...LOL). Some friends I had were really good to me. I am sorry that I was a jerk to them sometimes. The church that we were at earlier today was close to an apartment I used to live in. Not good memories there either.
So here I am now, at the end of a long but productive day.
I just put in Lisa McClendon, More Than A...
Dear Lord,
You are so much more to me than anything I care about...
More than a dream. More than a finish line. More than my future. More than my past.
And as hard as it is to comprehend, more than my family. You have to be more than my family. Please help me to understand how much more You need to be in my life than anything else. Help me to understand how to worship You in such a greater way.
I love you Jesus. Please forgive me for all that I have done to make you shake your head in sorrow. Please help me tomorrow.
As I read Your Word now, I ask for wisdom to understand what I am about to read. Holy Spirit, draw me close to you through the Scripture. Amen.
So, I'm reading 1 Samuel 1. I turn to the page bookmarked by my uncle's picture.
Poor Hannah. She had no children but the other wife of her husband did. I can't help but think how empty and quiet her house must have been. What a loud silence.
The strength of a woman is amazing. The Bible says she was pouring out her soul to the Lord. She gave God all her sorrow and pain of not being able to bear a child. God listened to her prayer and granted her a son. But as I read verse 20 I couldn't help but think of Moses' mother, and Mary and Hannah. And how they each were so overjoyed when they realized they were pregnant. But each woman knew she had to give up her son. How bittersweet. How precious those early years were. The strength of these women to follow through with what they knew they were called to do. And the trust they had in God, to give up their children. For Him.
Like I started with prayer, I too need to be able to trust God completely with my most treasured possesions. And make Him, and my worship and love for Him so much bigger. Because then, it's in the Perfect Hands.
Lord, help me to be like Hannah and Mary and Moses' mother. Make me a strong woman to love and trust You with my life and all that is important to me.
Give me Your strength and courage and wisdom. In the precious and powerful Name above all Names, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
(Dear Readers, please understand that I did not read the Bible passage before I started to pray. This is the amazing happenings of personal devotional time.)
Well, off to sleep now. Tomorrow is another day. Time to get back on schedule cuz the daily rush is on again in 36 hours. :) LOL!
XO. I love you guys...
Smiles and hugs,
Nikki.
The first time I prayed today (1:30 pm) was when I was sitting outside a church on Prov with my daughter. She was about to do something for the first time. Very exciting. I thanked God for His Faithfulness. That is why I praise Him.
The day continued with the usual busy activity of a wife and mother. I try to keep the perspective of being blessed with a beautiful family to take care of.
You know, facebook is a funny thing. I have been going down memory lane this past week. I found so many old friends (friends from the past anyways...LOL). Some friends I had were really good to me. I am sorry that I was a jerk to them sometimes. The church that we were at earlier today was close to an apartment I used to live in. Not good memories there either.
So here I am now, at the end of a long but productive day.
I just put in Lisa McClendon, More Than A...
Dear Lord,
You are so much more to me than anything I care about...
More than a dream. More than a finish line. More than my future. More than my past.
And as hard as it is to comprehend, more than my family. You have to be more than my family. Please help me to understand how much more You need to be in my life than anything else. Help me to understand how to worship You in such a greater way.
I love you Jesus. Please forgive me for all that I have done to make you shake your head in sorrow. Please help me tomorrow.
As I read Your Word now, I ask for wisdom to understand what I am about to read. Holy Spirit, draw me close to you through the Scripture. Amen.
So, I'm reading 1 Samuel 1. I turn to the page bookmarked by my uncle's picture.
Poor Hannah. She had no children but the other wife of her husband did. I can't help but think how empty and quiet her house must have been. What a loud silence.
The strength of a woman is amazing. The Bible says she was pouring out her soul to the Lord. She gave God all her sorrow and pain of not being able to bear a child. God listened to her prayer and granted her a son. But as I read verse 20 I couldn't help but think of Moses' mother, and Mary and Hannah. And how they each were so overjoyed when they realized they were pregnant. But each woman knew she had to give up her son. How bittersweet. How precious those early years were. The strength of these women to follow through with what they knew they were called to do. And the trust they had in God, to give up their children. For Him.
Like I started with prayer, I too need to be able to trust God completely with my most treasured possesions. And make Him, and my worship and love for Him so much bigger. Because then, it's in the Perfect Hands.
Lord, help me to be like Hannah and Mary and Moses' mother. Make me a strong woman to love and trust You with my life and all that is important to me.
Give me Your strength and courage and wisdom. In the precious and powerful Name above all Names, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
(Dear Readers, please understand that I did not read the Bible passage before I started to pray. This is the amazing happenings of personal devotional time.)
Well, off to sleep now. Tomorrow is another day. Time to get back on schedule cuz the daily rush is on again in 36 hours. :) LOL!
XO. I love you guys...
Smiles and hugs,
Nikki.
Friday, January 1, 2010
January 1
Well, hello there everyone.
So, I've decided to be a completely open book and share my life with the world. Ouch. But kind of cool.
The truth is - I'm excited for this adventure. Anything that someone commits to do every day for a whole year is a huge undertaking.
I hope to learn a lot about myself and other people through this experience.
Ok. So. What's this all about?
Let's just say....we'll all find out as time goes by.
I woke up this morning thinking...this is it. This is the year. But then again, I have said that before. Why is it different this time? Well, I feel like I have learned some things about life and about myself and my relationship with God and...well...I want to give it all a chance to actually practice what I have learned.
Between thoughts of all that had to be done today, I remembered my favorite verse: Psalm 25:4. Help me Lord. Help my eyes to see what you are up to. Help me to be connected to where you are at work around me so that I can adjust myself to Your Will.
My feet hit the floor, and all the days activities began.
My day ends with my daughter having a party at home. Brings me back to when I was a kid. I wish I had the kind of life to invite my friends to hang out. Hm. The memories of what it was like when I was a teenager. Not very good memories. But I thank God it's all different now.
I'll share the why and how the difference came about as time goes on.
To all my readers: please have patience and hang in there with me. I promise this will be the most interesting adventure for us all.
Take care until tomorrow.
(this is exciting and a little scary)
Author in the making,
Nicole M.
So, I've decided to be a completely open book and share my life with the world. Ouch. But kind of cool.
The truth is - I'm excited for this adventure. Anything that someone commits to do every day for a whole year is a huge undertaking.
I hope to learn a lot about myself and other people through this experience.
Ok. So. What's this all about?
Let's just say....we'll all find out as time goes by.
I woke up this morning thinking...this is it. This is the year. But then again, I have said that before. Why is it different this time? Well, I feel like I have learned some things about life and about myself and my relationship with God and...well...I want to give it all a chance to actually practice what I have learned.
Between thoughts of all that had to be done today, I remembered my favorite verse: Psalm 25:4. Help me Lord. Help my eyes to see what you are up to. Help me to be connected to where you are at work around me so that I can adjust myself to Your Will.
My feet hit the floor, and all the days activities began.
My day ends with my daughter having a party at home. Brings me back to when I was a kid. I wish I had the kind of life to invite my friends to hang out. Hm. The memories of what it was like when I was a teenager. Not very good memories. But I thank God it's all different now.
I'll share the why and how the difference came about as time goes on.
To all my readers: please have patience and hang in there with me. I promise this will be the most interesting adventure for us all.
Take care until tomorrow.
(this is exciting and a little scary)
Author in the making,
Nicole M.
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