Prayer Force: His presence
The phrase, "he was acquainted with grief" regarding Jesus from Isaiah 53 keeps going through my head. Recently I listened to Joyce Meyer and her teaching on the well known "Bee Attitudes". Her topic of the day was "blessed are they that mourn for they will be comforted". I can relate easily to these topics because this season of time has been time of sorrows and wonderments for me and those around me. Sometimes I felt like I would be swallowed up in grief... but God's presence was enveloping me even when my efforts to reach out seemed limited. My simple "yes Lord" gave Him an open door to bring healing. It is not always easy to see God's hand through brokenness. Last February 2013 my 91 year old father passed into eternity leaving me and my siblings without natural parents on this earth...I miss hearing their voices and their godly council. Almost a year later my brother passed very unexpectedly at a young age. There are other things that have come and tried to rock my faith. I'm sure you could share of things that have come this year. However, in the midst I have seen the presence of God bring peace and strength and miracles. Jesus was aquatinted with grief. Look up today, believe upon Him, let him restore and bring miracles into your life. Don't shut the door because of sorrows that have come, don't miss the compassion He has for you and the call He has placed upon you. You are called to do more than survive this life....You are called to see victory. Some may not see victory in the cross...but if there were no cross there would be no resurrection day. This may sound different....but if Jesus didn't see the Father in times of sorrow and grief He would not have met the cross of His destiny. The cross and Resurrection were Jesus' destiny from the foundation of the world. The cross of our Savor paid the price for our sin and opened the door for our victory.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Cultivating Coming into the Presence of God: Part 1
Prayer
Force: Cultivating coming into the Presence
of God
The presence
of God is life changing and produces in a person the plan and purposes of God
as they walk through their daily life.
It is not that you stop being a normal person with normal
concerns…rather it is that you are strengthened by the presence of the King. Many folks have tasted of His presence in
church or a revival meeting and have placed His Presence in the once in a great
while file…God wants us to cultivate a relationship with Him that will allow
Him to be welcome any time of day or night.
His strength is powerful. I won’t
say it is always easy, but from experience I can say the rewards are
great. There are always obstacles to
forming a good habit. Learning to come into God’s presence is no exception and
in fact this habit is targeted for defeat by our enemy the devil. An overcoming life that gives the believer
strength to walk through life’s trials and difficulties with the ability to
effectively reach out to those around us who are in need catches the attention
of the enemy. He knows that placing
ourselves in the secret place of the Most High God brings us to that place of
victory. Don’t fret because Holy Spirit
can help us overcome any obstacle and God has given us His armor to defend
against any attack of the enemy. The
Word tells us to boldly come to the throne of grace. Over the next days as we approach
Resurrection day I’d like to discuss steps to coming into God’s throne room and
into His life changing presence.
Today I
found something I’ve been searching for since my graduation from Valley Forge
Christian College in 1986. A friend gave
me a Scottish Bible that I loved. It had
Psalms from an old version. I misplaced
the Bible. Here is Psalms 91 in that
sweet version. The wording is different
than we are used to…but give it a read and tell God you desire His
presence. http://www.cgmusic.org/workshop/presby1887/psalm_91.htm also here is a song that leads to the throne
room. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4CRvAPzxjI&feature=share
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
God wants to be in our presence
Prayer Force: The Presence of God
My father taught Sunday School in our church for many years and one of his favorite experiences was the sharing of a weekly Scripture dealing with God’s desire to have fellowship with His people. It started one day when He asked God a question. “Do you enjoy it when we come into your presence?” He didn’t receive an immediate answer, but as he went about his daily business the Holy Spirit spoke to his heart. The family dog jumped up on the couch and Dad heard the Holy Spirit ask him, “Whose little dog is this?” Dad answered back, “He is my little dog.” The Spirit prodded one more time….”Do you like it when he comes to you on his own accord just to spend time with you?” Dad understood what was being said. “Yes, yes I do” Some balk at the notion that the God of the universe would care about spending time with an individual. They are quick to point out that God doesn’t need anything. However, the Scripture tells us we were made for His pleasure. My husband John and I didn’t need children to survive, but we desired them and it is our greatest joy even now that they are grown to be in their presence or to receive a phone call. God desired fellowship and made us in His image….like him. Two early circumstances in the Bible come to mind that speaks to this….one in Genesis 3:8 we see that God came to Adam and Eve in the cool of the day…which seems to have been a habit before the fall. Then in Leviticus 26:11 as instructions are being given for the tabernacle we see that God desired to “tabernacle” or dwell among His people. The tent of His presence was to be in the middle of the camp. Today we are the temple of the Holy Spirit and He desires us to be willing vessels of His presence. When we take time with Him, we become like him in character and mind, we are healed in body and spirit, and we are strengthened in heart and purpose. This week as we anticipate the Lord’s Day and the gathering of ourselves together to worship let’s come into His presence in our homes and workplaces….worship can be so much more when it is our daily habit. Instead of having to prime the pump…we begin to flow in His presence immediately.
Monday, November 25, 2013
The Grinch that is Trying to Steal Thanksgiving
Many of you have heard that many retail stores are opening their doors for a good part of Thanksgiving day as a sort of pre Black Friday. Debate abounds on the internet about the folly or the merit of the situation. The lure of sales for Christmas and an extra day of shopping has many excited about the day. In the past stores and gas stations sometimes opened for a few hours simply as a courtesy for travelers or families who might have forgotten one last item...but not at full capacity. I've been glad to see petitions circulating to oppose this trend that is expanding even further this year.
Here are some of the reasons I oppose retailors opening their doors on Thanksgiving Day.
I know that some of you may be shrugging at my title not at all feeling that there is any threat on our nation, our families or our long standing traditions. First I'd like to remind you that God was involved in the first Thanksgiving as the Pilgrims and Indians gathered and thanks to God was given. The winter had been hard and lives had been lost...but the people still saw the hand of God and His great provision and protection. This year has been hard for many of us, yet if we will look we will see that the Lord has not left our side.
1. Workers and their families are effected. It snowballs.
You may not be effected this year, but the snowball is starting. Years ago Sunday was a day of worship and a day for families to rest and relax together. Dinners were something special and being with Mom and Dad and visiting Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles, cousins and friends were the norm filling hearts with memories. Retailers began to get the great idea that Sunday was no longer a day to be respected because just maybe they could make a few more dollars on the backs of workers many of whom would now miss church and the extended family dinner. Maybe dinner doesn't seem like much, but those who have practiced family table ( or couch) know that eating together promotes communication and provide a time for simply memories to form producing life long security and confidence. Think about this....if Mom and Dad are working who is watching the kids? Where is the day to have for family for a tired worn out worker?
2. Who is next?
"Well, that is only retail and that's the business," you may say. I don't agree with that but let's take that idea for a minute. If retail drives the force production will have to catch up and factories that make the product or distribute it will have to keep up. Already we see retailors feeling as if they have to compete with those who are opening their doors the same could easily happen to other industries. There is already a concept in corporate America that desires to push as much as they can using the economy as its excuse. If retail more and more stays open then by necessity other industries and other workers have to go to work as well. Don't count on the idea that this will not eventually effect you and your family.
3. A Day to be with family and be thankful to God
I hope that Americans can see past their sale adds and see what is happening. You may consider it just a few hours out of your day for shopping...but the worker and the children at Daycare or with Grandma waiting don't think of it that way. Remember when a few retailors opened on Sunday no one thought it would become common, no one realized a weekly day to worship and relax with your kids and family that had been a part of our fabric as a nation would begin to disappear. No one thought that in order to get many jobs a person would have to agree to work on Sunday.
I urge you to think before you make your way to the store after a nice Turkey dinner. What is this day like for the worker at the store you are going too? Most importantly ask yourself what Thanksgiving Day will look like in a few years when many more are working?
Sunday, January 27, 2013
No Weapon
Isaiah 54:17
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.
A year of challenge, a year of new beginning, a year to trust the Lord. As I watched a lady preacher that I hadn't listened to for awhile she put forth a simple testimony. She had found that quoting verses 10 times rose her faith level. We don't have to copy or mimic someone elses way, but I felt nudged of the Holy Spirit to start this same venture. God gives me a verse for the day and through out I say it 10 times. It has brought me faith, peace and trust in the midst of storm. God is working upon our behalf.
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.
A year of challenge, a year of new beginning, a year to trust the Lord. As I watched a lady preacher that I hadn't listened to for awhile she put forth a simple testimony. She had found that quoting verses 10 times rose her faith level. We don't have to copy or mimic someone elses way, but I felt nudged of the Holy Spirit to start this same venture. God gives me a verse for the day and through out I say it 10 times. It has brought me faith, peace and trust in the midst of storm. God is working upon our behalf.
Monday, December 31, 2012
New Years Eve 2012...Peace by with you.
If you are a LWF member I hope you enjoyed reading your first chapter of the New Testament. I know if it is your first time the begots of the first several verses can be challenging, but if you endured you began the Greatest Story Ever Told.
Tomorrow brings us into a New Year. Fiscal Cliffs along with pressures of this world threaten to dampen our enthusiasm for 2013. Yet as I've prayed about the coming year I feel the Holy Spirit speaking the word Peace. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives do I give you, Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27 Peace doesn't stick it head in the sand, rather it decides to put its trust in Jesus. God tells us in the Word that He has good plans for us not bad ones. All around us the voices of the world may shout all of the bad things that have happened or that are yet to happen...God whispers His good plan to us.
I believe 2013 is a year of restoration and growth. God has good plans for His children. Part of growing in the Lord requires exercising trust that He will give us wisdom in the midst of storm. Growth also comes in blessing as we learn to handle and appreciate the good things God gives us and makes us stewards over.
Don't fear 2013. God watches out for you and me.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Reflections perparing for Resurrection Day
Resurrection Sunday is April 24th this year. During the weeks leading up to this special day of celebration we ponder the work of the cross and His resurrection.
The first reflection I'll share is about Mary and Joseph and their devotion to the things of God despite the obstacles they faced and how that godly character impacted Jesus.
Mary and the promise
The Messiah was promised in the book of Genesis. Every Jewish child heard about it and waited for His coming. We don’t know all the details of what Mary was doing when the angel came to visit her and gave the news that she had been chosen to bring the Messiah into the world, but we do know that it was very dramatic. Many overlook the treasure of things to be learned from her life because others wrongly ascribe worship to her. One of my favorite things about her is the statement…”Mary pondered all of these things” . To ponder means to think intensely or chew over an issue or event .The ponder statement is right after the description of the shepherds visit to the manger where they surely shared the story of the angels that came to their field and told them the Savior had been born.
She had a lot to ponder.
Mary encourages me because in everyday life there is a lot to ponder. To ponder means to intensely consider something or events. Walking out our life in God’s will can be like that…we can be right smack dab in the center of God’s will and yet have a lot to think about.
Being chosen and willing
Mary and Joseph were chosen of God to raise Jesus because of their godly character. It was a matter of the right time, the right place, and the right people. Sometimes serving God faithfully in our everyday life may not seem like an earth shattering thing, but God takes note of our love and devotion towards Him. While we know that Mary and Joseph weren’t perfect think a moment about the trust Father God put in them. Mary’s response at the end of her conversation with Gabriel was, “Be it unto me as you have said.” Every time I read those words of hers my mind goes to the garden where Jesus said to the Father, “Not my will but thine” Jesus is both fully God and fully human. He took on human flesh when Mary said, “Be it unto me as you have said.” and that human being needed parents who would whole heartedly obey God at every turn. He needed parents that would give Him that example in their daily lives. Mary and Joseph surely must have pondered, “why us?” but they rose to the task. We like Mary and Joseph may wonder at those things that God has placed in our spear of influence and responsibility. Sometimes we may wonder if we are up to the task. Their life shows us that God can take a person of character who is willing to obey Him and trust them with a great task. Remember others wouldn’t see the greatness of their task. Being parents seemed ordinary to those around them who didn’t understand who Jesus was and the circumstances for those unwilling to believe the truth would seem scandalous. The angel told Joseph, “Don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife” and explained who Jesus was and that He would bring Salvation. “Not my will but thine”, He said…that last night in the garden…Can you see Mary and Joseph’s love and upbringing in that statement of total commitment.
The first reflection I'll share is about Mary and Joseph and their devotion to the things of God despite the obstacles they faced and how that godly character impacted Jesus.
Mary and the promise
The Messiah was promised in the book of Genesis. Every Jewish child heard about it and waited for His coming. We don’t know all the details of what Mary was doing when the angel came to visit her and gave the news that she had been chosen to bring the Messiah into the world, but we do know that it was very dramatic. Many overlook the treasure of things to be learned from her life because others wrongly ascribe worship to her. One of my favorite things about her is the statement…”Mary pondered all of these things” . To ponder means to think intensely or chew over an issue or event .The ponder statement is right after the description of the shepherds visit to the manger where they surely shared the story of the angels that came to their field and told them the Savior had been born.
She had a lot to ponder.
Mary encourages me because in everyday life there is a lot to ponder. To ponder means to intensely consider something or events. Walking out our life in God’s will can be like that…we can be right smack dab in the center of God’s will and yet have a lot to think about.
Being chosen and willing
Mary and Joseph were chosen of God to raise Jesus because of their godly character. It was a matter of the right time, the right place, and the right people. Sometimes serving God faithfully in our everyday life may not seem like an earth shattering thing, but God takes note of our love and devotion towards Him. While we know that Mary and Joseph weren’t perfect think a moment about the trust Father God put in them. Mary’s response at the end of her conversation with Gabriel was, “Be it unto me as you have said.” Every time I read those words of hers my mind goes to the garden where Jesus said to the Father, “Not my will but thine” Jesus is both fully God and fully human. He took on human flesh when Mary said, “Be it unto me as you have said.” and that human being needed parents who would whole heartedly obey God at every turn. He needed parents that would give Him that example in their daily lives. Mary and Joseph surely must have pondered, “why us?” but they rose to the task. We like Mary and Joseph may wonder at those things that God has placed in our spear of influence and responsibility. Sometimes we may wonder if we are up to the task. Their life shows us that God can take a person of character who is willing to obey Him and trust them with a great task. Remember others wouldn’t see the greatness of their task. Being parents seemed ordinary to those around them who didn’t understand who Jesus was and the circumstances for those unwilling to believe the truth would seem scandalous. The angel told Joseph, “Don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife” and explained who Jesus was and that He would bring Salvation. “Not my will but thine”, He said…that last night in the garden…Can you see Mary and Joseph’s love and upbringing in that statement of total commitment.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
New Seasons: Last Day of Summer
Last Day of Summer
The news said that today September 22, 2010 is the last day of summer. The changing of the seasons can be a beautiful thing. Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the crisp weather that is usually not too hot.. not to cold, the leaves on the trees changing to brilliant colors, the hot soups, the Thanks Giving Holiday, and in a little while the crunch of leaves underfoot. I'll miss the bright sunshine, the deep greens, my neighbors pretty flowers (yeah I have some but this year it looked more like a weed garden), the long days, my father's birds (some will stay but many will go south) and some really wonderful memories that this summer has brought. God has changing seasons for our life and the Body of Christ too. Each new season has things that we can get excited about and enjoy and embrace. Change isn't always easy...but thank God we know the master architect. He makes each season beautiful.
The news said that today September 22, 2010 is the last day of summer. The changing of the seasons can be a beautiful thing. Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the crisp weather that is usually not too hot.. not to cold, the leaves on the trees changing to brilliant colors, the hot soups, the Thanks Giving Holiday, and in a little while the crunch of leaves underfoot. I'll miss the bright sunshine, the deep greens, my neighbors pretty flowers (yeah I have some but this year it looked more like a weed garden), the long days, my father's birds (some will stay but many will go south) and some really wonderful memories that this summer has brought. God has changing seasons for our life and the Body of Christ too. Each new season has things that we can get excited about and enjoy and embrace. Change isn't always easy...but thank God we know the master architect. He makes each season beautiful.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Can't stop eating
I had been loosing a few pounds here and there. Weigh in at TOPS is tomorrow but I don't want to go. The last few weeks I've been eating everything in sight and my losses are turning into gains. It's almost 12:00 a.m and I'm tempted to eat another snack. Went to a party tonight with plenty of food... and should be satisfied. Drinking some water and trying not to think about more food. Maybe it is because I've started to eat sugary stuff again....it might just up my desire for food.
Healthy foods by Cookie Monster of Sesame Street.
Healthy foods by Cookie Monster of Sesame Street.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Truth Reveled
God is so faithful. This week has brought some hard things on members of my family. My prayer throughout the night and into today has been that truth be revealed and hearts aligned with that truth. The enemy whispers in my heart that people don't change their tune so why bother to pray. Yet deep within me my heart cries out that "with man things are impossible, but with God all things are possible" This morning as I opened my email I found a newsletter from a friend who had a few months ago written a newsletter on a hot topic. The original letter had been heartfelt but biased toward a certain viewpoint. Now here a few months later they had a change of heart based upon the moving of the Holy Spirit in their life. Hope welled up within me...what the enemy says is impossible can happen. What seems like a lost cause can be changed. I declare mountains moved and truth to prevail in the situation I'm praying about right now. I don't know what God will do but I believe He will do what he says....and all things really will work out for good to those who are called according to His purpose.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Taking Inventory
I turned 45 years old in December. The passage of time causes one to take inventory of their life and what they've accomplished. This year I watched "It's a Wonderful Life" with my niece. It spoke to my heart and reminded me that sometimes our inventory is not like God's inventory. We can have our outlook soured by circumstances that are not a finished work yet. You all know the story of "It's A Wonderful Life" George Bailey looks upon his life with all of its trials and wonders if anything was worth while, indeed he wonders if his life has any meaning. He is kind hearted and spends his life caring about the needs of others but is accused of being a poor business man by the scheming Mr. Potter who cares nothing for the welfare of anybody but himself.
Our worth in God's eyes
Sometimes we cannot see with our eyes the worth and value that God puts upon us as an individual human being. We examine ourselves and see only brokenness. We see circumstance that are in the now before they are truly finished and we cast a judgment about ourselves, others and even God. We must be careful not to let the "Mr. Potters" of the world set the criteria for our inventory. Paul the apostle said that he would let God judge his accomplishments not the whims of man. (1 Corinthians 4:3-4)
A look at life without us
It might seem a little self important to say that without us things might not be as good for those around us, and it is hard to get past the idea that we might be getting prideful to even go there. Yet God knows every hair upon our head and every coming and going we make. If we yield our lives to His purpose then whether or not we "see" our worth at the moment we can be assured that we do matter. Maybe you are in the midst of a mess complete with upset emotions and depressed thought patterns. That still doesn't mean that you haven't had a godly impact. We are often the toughest critics of our own life. Your inventory of yourself might not have a high rating at the moment, but remember there are those who would rate your contribution higher. God can make something new from a broken life. His sense of value is far different than ours.
Sometimes others don't see the value in another human being until they no longer have what they once had in relationship.
Whether it is a young person going off to college, a husband or wife who are not getting along, or simply a kind next door neighbor that we take for granted we often don't see true value in someone until we are removed from situations or their presence. I remember longing to be on my own out of the watchful eye of my parents. Yet when I went to college I found myself missing the very people I wanted to distance myself from because I began to see their worth when they were no longer close by. Absence doesn't always have to be the way we realize the worth of others or our worth to them. We can take a moment in our busy lives to make a mental list of the things that we are thankful for about people around us and yes even good things about ourselves.
Evil intents at work
In the movie It's a Wonderful Life Mr. Potter is the source of scheming with selfish intent. His trickery and mean spirited nature was the assault that caused the final blow in George Bailey's ability to go forward. George felt like he couldn't take one more step and that his whole life had been for naught. The Word tells us the we wrestle not against flesh and blood. We wrestle instead against the forces of the enemy of our soul. We are not blind to the fact that often the tool of the enemy is a human being caught in the devil's trap. George believed the lie of the enemy and it plummeted him into a cycle of self destructive thoughts and emotions that would have killed him without God's intervention. These feelings brought on by the master accuser caused him to give up on life. We must be diligent to not fall for a lie instead of God's truth.
God's view
There is a moment near the end of the movie where George finally gets it. George realizes people were indeed helped through his life. The pharmacist he worked with as a child was saved from a deadly mistake caused by the grief of losing his son , his brother is saved in childhood by George from a drowning accident and was able in turn to save many men in battle, and the families who looked to him for help in a time of trouble were blessed by his kindness. He sees that his life matters. He sees that the world would be less with out his contribution to it. He sees that Mr. Potter's assessment of his life is not what matters. I hope as you ponder the well known movie you see that your life has value. Jesus is the source of that value. His love for people and his desire to serve came as a gift from heaven's throne.
The next time you take inventory of your life ask the Holy Spirit to help you. He'll show you areas that you can improve upon. He'll show you those things that please Him about you. Don't believe the lies the devil tries to cast.
Our worth in God's eyes
Sometimes we cannot see with our eyes the worth and value that God puts upon us as an individual human being. We examine ourselves and see only brokenness. We see circumstance that are in the now before they are truly finished and we cast a judgment about ourselves, others and even God. We must be careful not to let the "Mr. Potters" of the world set the criteria for our inventory. Paul the apostle said that he would let God judge his accomplishments not the whims of man. (1 Corinthians 4:3-4)
A look at life without us
It might seem a little self important to say that without us things might not be as good for those around us, and it is hard to get past the idea that we might be getting prideful to even go there. Yet God knows every hair upon our head and every coming and going we make. If we yield our lives to His purpose then whether or not we "see" our worth at the moment we can be assured that we do matter. Maybe you are in the midst of a mess complete with upset emotions and depressed thought patterns. That still doesn't mean that you haven't had a godly impact. We are often the toughest critics of our own life. Your inventory of yourself might not have a high rating at the moment, but remember there are those who would rate your contribution higher. God can make something new from a broken life. His sense of value is far different than ours.
Sometimes others don't see the value in another human being until they no longer have what they once had in relationship.
Whether it is a young person going off to college, a husband or wife who are not getting along, or simply a kind next door neighbor that we take for granted we often don't see true value in someone until we are removed from situations or their presence. I remember longing to be on my own out of the watchful eye of my parents. Yet when I went to college I found myself missing the very people I wanted to distance myself from because I began to see their worth when they were no longer close by. Absence doesn't always have to be the way we realize the worth of others or our worth to them. We can take a moment in our busy lives to make a mental list of the things that we are thankful for about people around us and yes even good things about ourselves.
Evil intents at work
In the movie It's a Wonderful Life Mr. Potter is the source of scheming with selfish intent. His trickery and mean spirited nature was the assault that caused the final blow in George Bailey's ability to go forward. George felt like he couldn't take one more step and that his whole life had been for naught. The Word tells us the we wrestle not against flesh and blood. We wrestle instead against the forces of the enemy of our soul. We are not blind to the fact that often the tool of the enemy is a human being caught in the devil's trap. George believed the lie of the enemy and it plummeted him into a cycle of self destructive thoughts and emotions that would have killed him without God's intervention. These feelings brought on by the master accuser caused him to give up on life. We must be diligent to not fall for a lie instead of God's truth.
God's view
There is a moment near the end of the movie where George finally gets it. George realizes people were indeed helped through his life. The pharmacist he worked with as a child was saved from a deadly mistake caused by the grief of losing his son , his brother is saved in childhood by George from a drowning accident and was able in turn to save many men in battle, and the families who looked to him for help in a time of trouble were blessed by his kindness. He sees that his life matters. He sees that the world would be less with out his contribution to it. He sees that Mr. Potter's assessment of his life is not what matters. I hope as you ponder the well known movie you see that your life has value. Jesus is the source of that value. His love for people and his desire to serve came as a gift from heaven's throne.
The next time you take inventory of your life ask the Holy Spirit to help you. He'll show you areas that you can improve upon. He'll show you those things that please Him about you. Don't believe the lies the devil tries to cast.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Lessons from childrens first ministry experience
Recently our Sunday School class of young children experienced their first real ministry assignment. It was both exiting and challenging.
We made angels for 38 residents on the 4th floor of one of the local old folks homes. My father had been a temporary resident this summer on the floor and we wanted to be a blessing to the staff and the residents who meant so much to Dad for the time he stayed there.
The first lesson I learned was that the heart is willing but often continued encouragement is needed to keep us on tract. I believe this is true of adults just as it is with children.
The children were excited to make the angels when I first explained what we were doing. They even added that they also wanted to minister to homeless people and those who didn't have resources. I was so blessed by their heart to give to others. Half way through the Sunday School class some of the children began to ask about "their angels" and were they going to get to take some home to their families. I assured them that we would try, but our first job was to make 38 angels for the residents. Their enthusiasm waned a little as they began to wonder if they would ever get to make angels for their home. It was a roller coaster of emotions for them as they teetered back and forth between wanting to bless others and wanting to make a gift for themselves or their family members instead.
The second lesson I learned was that I had to pick up some slack.
I found myself finishing up the angels at home. The children worked hard on them, but finishing touches still needed to be made. Granted starting early enough is essential to success, but one helping others to reach out to others must expect to pick up some slack. Attitude is important because if the extra effort is begrudged those you are helping will pick up on it thus marring the experience. When we handed out the angels my comment was always about the work the children did....not the time I spent finishing up. This helped the children take ownership of their project and was a blessing to the residents.
Lessons I learned through follow-up questions after the ministry event.
First, Stepping out and making a difference is something we want to do as Christians, but there is a certain amount of wonderment or "fear of the unknown" that we must overcome.
Second, working through those fears brings blessing for both others and ourselves, a feeling of accomplishment and trust in God to see us through situations as we walk outside our normal comfort zone.
The date was set for the event and arrangements made with both the children and the home. I arrived early and waited for the children to arrive. One of the children had backed out yet to my surprise arrived with the others and took part in the event. She was shy throughout but did a wonderful job.
The following Sunday I asked some follow-up questions that revealed the working of the Holy Spirit in their lives through their ministry opportunity. I believe that adults might go through some of the same emotions as my Sunday School Class did.
"How did you feel when you first arrived?"
"Afraid. We didn't know if the old people would like us or be mad at us for bugging them."
"How did you feel when you delivered the first angel?"
"Hoping that they liked our angels and did not yell at us"
"How did you feel after you had handed out several angels and prayed for residents?"
"We really like it. The old people liked us and they liked our gift."
"Tell about one of the residents that touched your heart."
"I liked the lady who grabbed Grandma's hand (Grandma came with the children) and cried. She was so glad to see us and have some company. She said, "God will bless you."
" I liked the man that was in the room your father was in. He was a Christian and glad to see that we wanted people to know that Jesus loves them."
Are you glad you went and ministered to others?
"Yes"
This year we will have opportunity to minister. We will have to overcome obstacles by setting our own desires aside for the needs of others. It will be important to prepare and do the best job possible. We will certainly have to overcome getting out of our comfort zone to reach out to others. If we are leading...we might have to pick up the slack in some ways. We will have to resist getting a bad attitude or glorying in all the work we had to do. After all the focus of a leader is to encourage others to go beyond their current limits...often this kind of encouragement requires leaders to go beyond their limitations as well.
I'm excited and ready to find other areas of ministry for the children and adults of our church. It's time to put your God given dreams into actions. Start one step at a time.
We made angels for 38 residents on the 4th floor of one of the local old folks homes. My father had been a temporary resident this summer on the floor and we wanted to be a blessing to the staff and the residents who meant so much to Dad for the time he stayed there.
The first lesson I learned was that the heart is willing but often continued encouragement is needed to keep us on tract. I believe this is true of adults just as it is with children.
The children were excited to make the angels when I first explained what we were doing. They even added that they also wanted to minister to homeless people and those who didn't have resources. I was so blessed by their heart to give to others. Half way through the Sunday School class some of the children began to ask about "their angels" and were they going to get to take some home to their families. I assured them that we would try, but our first job was to make 38 angels for the residents. Their enthusiasm waned a little as they began to wonder if they would ever get to make angels for their home. It was a roller coaster of emotions for them as they teetered back and forth between wanting to bless others and wanting to make a gift for themselves or their family members instead.
The second lesson I learned was that I had to pick up some slack.
I found myself finishing up the angels at home. The children worked hard on them, but finishing touches still needed to be made. Granted starting early enough is essential to success, but one helping others to reach out to others must expect to pick up some slack. Attitude is important because if the extra effort is begrudged those you are helping will pick up on it thus marring the experience. When we handed out the angels my comment was always about the work the children did....not the time I spent finishing up. This helped the children take ownership of their project and was a blessing to the residents.
Lessons I learned through follow-up questions after the ministry event.
First, Stepping out and making a difference is something we want to do as Christians, but there is a certain amount of wonderment or "fear of the unknown" that we must overcome.
Second, working through those fears brings blessing for both others and ourselves, a feeling of accomplishment and trust in God to see us through situations as we walk outside our normal comfort zone.
The date was set for the event and arrangements made with both the children and the home. I arrived early and waited for the children to arrive. One of the children had backed out yet to my surprise arrived with the others and took part in the event. She was shy throughout but did a wonderful job.
The following Sunday I asked some follow-up questions that revealed the working of the Holy Spirit in their lives through their ministry opportunity. I believe that adults might go through some of the same emotions as my Sunday School Class did.
"How did you feel when you first arrived?"
"Afraid. We didn't know if the old people would like us or be mad at us for bugging them."
"How did you feel when you delivered the first angel?"
"Hoping that they liked our angels and did not yell at us"
"How did you feel after you had handed out several angels and prayed for residents?"
"We really like it. The old people liked us and they liked our gift."
"Tell about one of the residents that touched your heart."
"I liked the lady who grabbed Grandma's hand (Grandma came with the children) and cried. She was so glad to see us and have some company. She said, "God will bless you."
" I liked the man that was in the room your father was in. He was a Christian and glad to see that we wanted people to know that Jesus loves them."
Are you glad you went and ministered to others?
"Yes"
This year we will have opportunity to minister. We will have to overcome obstacles by setting our own desires aside for the needs of others. It will be important to prepare and do the best job possible. We will certainly have to overcome getting out of our comfort zone to reach out to others. If we are leading...we might have to pick up the slack in some ways. We will have to resist getting a bad attitude or glorying in all the work we had to do. After all the focus of a leader is to encourage others to go beyond their current limits...often this kind of encouragement requires leaders to go beyond their limitations as well.
I'm excited and ready to find other areas of ministry for the children and adults of our church. It's time to put your God given dreams into actions. Start one step at a time.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Street lights and answer to prayer
A few days ago I passed by our old neighborhood in the city we live in. It was the first home my husband and I lived in and where my children were born. It reminded me of a long ago prayer that was answered for me in a special way. The city decided that maintaining the street lights was too much of a financial burden so they turned over the responsibility over to the local utility company. The new owners quickly decided that the ornate street lights that had been part of our city for years were to costly to maintain. I followed the process in the paper..the small outcry from the community was met with the company's firm stance that people must face reality that the acceptance of bland street lights similar to those that most modern cities use was inevitable. "Lord, Jesus", I prayed , "please let me keep my street lights...it is part of this city." Little did I know that behind the scene negotiations where going on to replace most of the lights in the city but to recreate the old lights in small parts of the city using bulbs that would still save energy. My prayer had reached heaven and lo and behold my street was one of the few streets that would maintain the old style lights that looked like a lamp post. I looked out many nights afterward and said a prayer of thanks to God for hearing my hearts cry. Some time later we moved and with the installation of new lights over the city perhaps I lost the wonder of what God had done because it didn't seem a big deal to leave my lights behind. Then the other day when I took a look at those old style ornate street lights which still remain on my former street I was reminded that God still answers prayer. My prayer seemed small and not very noteworthy...I'd even forgotten it...yet God used a visible reminder to me that He still hears our hearts cry. Pulling in our driveway...I wish my prayer had been expanded to include the whole city...for now my view is of the new non descript lights....my vision didn't cover the fact that we would someday move across town.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
When a look at yourselve changes everything
Looking at ourselves can be very revealing and lately has been a subject in our house. We've been recording the Sunday Sermon on video the last few weeks. Early Monday I awoke to the sound of my husband's Sunday Sermon as he watched what was uploaded. I had noticed Sunday that he had dressed a little differently than usual. I had commented to him as we left for church that he looked nice. He called me to the computer where we watched the video..and as we watched he blurted out. "Last week I looked scruffy...so this week I wanted to look better." I knew what he meant because in our Kingdom Principles series there were a few times where my desperate need of a haircut had almost prevented me from posting those videos. As a result I've insisted in keeping a proper schedule of haircuts. I realize that this is not vain pride...but rather it is natural and good self examination that came as a result of looking at ourselves and making needed changes. James 1:23 says, " For if you just listen and don't obey, it is like looking at your face in a mirror but doing nothing to improve your appearance." NLT
- Don't throw the mirror away. I wish I could say that our physical appearance is the only thing that we are working on but that is not true. God sheds light on areas that need change. It can be painful and sometimes we want to throw the mirror away. I let my husband know that was how he's looked for a long time when he's preached. His answer was....well watching myself on video shows me my need for change.
- Don't walk away and put your head in the sand. Sometimes we look in the mirror of God's Word and Presence and we are overwhelmed by what we see. It is tempting to slip away from the mirror and pretend what we saw isn't really there..or hope it will fix itself. Examining ourselves demands a plan be formed to address the problems. It can be simple and it can be step by step...but improvement only comes with action.
- Don't despair. God's mirror is to be a help not to bring depression. His desire is for us to live life and live it abundantly and that sometimes requires changes in direction.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Biblical Planning
Plans
Every January many people make plans to do better with their life. The goals are often praiseworthy but commitment to them wane by the end of the month. We are quickly heading toward the end of January and so I thought it might be a nice time to begin to look at those plans. It will be our topic for the next few weeks.
Every January many people make plans to do better with their life. The goals are often praiseworthy but commitment to them wane by the end of the month. We are quickly heading toward the end of January and so I thought it might be a nice time to begin to look at those plans. It will be our topic for the next few weeks.
Is it alright to make plans biblically?
Many question whether or not a person should make plans at all. Verses such as, James 4:13-5:1 " Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit";14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.15 Instead you ought to say," If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that."16 But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. "NKJV cause some to wonder if it is wrong to even make plans. Some people walk away with the impression that James is saying we should not make plans for our life. Is he really saying that? Looking at verse 15 it seems he is really saying, God is the author of life and our plans may be good, but we must not act like they are unchangable by His hand. How sad it is that some have taken this verse and a few others to mean that they should simply float through life with no goals. It is always a good idea to make sure we read the entire context and read the whole counsel of God on a subject. We’ll be looking t a lot of verses about planning and goals in the coming days.
God’s plans for us
A famous verse that has been a comfort to me over the years is Jeremiah 29:11-14 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.12 Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.13 And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.14 I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive. NKJV"
The entire chapter shows that Israel had strayed from the Lord. God was going to allow them to be taken over by another country….but in the end He would cause them to desire Him again. He was not and would not forsake them….rather He would woo them back to Himself. When they sought Him they would find Him. The NLT uses the word plans instead of thoughts. We form our plans in our thoughts and this Scripture shows that God’s people were on His mind and He had good plans for them even though they were going through some hard things because of their own doings at the moment. Parents of older children may be able tot relate to this verse a little easier than young people. There are times when parents have loved and given to their children only to be rejected or neglected by them. The pain can be overwhelming….but even through that pain most parents still desire their child’s good and restored relationship.
God has plans and he encourages us to make plans.
Monday, December 1, 2008
I found a cute video with a nice message
on God Tube. If you liked Tom and Jerry as a kid take another look. Someone made some great edits.
Here is another video that says I can't Give up now
Here is another video that says I can't Give up now
Monday, August 4, 2008
Should we tell her????
A few months ago my husband and I entered a hospital elevator. The couple that followed behind us were talking in hushed tones. Finally the wife discreetly came up to me and whispered, "Your shirt is on inside out".When I thanked her for saving me future embarrassment her husband told us the situation had been a dilemma to him. He had seen my shirt first and didn't know what to do. He worried I might get angry with him for interfering or get so embarrassed I'd cry. He didn't know what to do so he asked his wife who he hoped would know whether a woman would want to be told about such a matter. Thankfully his wife knew that most women would want the mistake corrected immediately. Truthfully it was a little embarrassing. I'm not a morning person, but my fathers condition and his doctors early bedside rounds made it necessary for us to get up at the crack of dawn and be on our way. I'd already seen my fathers doctor, talked to his nurse and walked the hospital hallways before the revelation of my plight was revealed to me. My dear husband hadn't noticed. Have you ever had a similar dilemma? Either position is difficult. We've all had to ask ourselves "should we tell them" in regard to clothing problem or perhaps an attitude problem. I know we must guard against unproductive criticism, but there are times when we should alert someone or be alerted to situations where an issue may cause problems. In my story I was the one who was in need of discrete revelation. Being told by a stranger about my shirt embarrassed me a little...but the alternative would have increased my embarrassment because we had a full day of appointments. We may not always like "being told" something but we can certainly listen and see if God is speaking through the messenger. Remember....The Holy Spirit can direct you...and let you know "if you should tell" and if you should "accept what is said as valid" We don't have to have "egg on our face" if we will listen to the voice of God in our life..remember sometimes that voice comes through a human tongue.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Our dog Scooter is a hero (M)
Marcy, our overweight little Daschund, loves to burrow under blankets, coats, or anything warm. A few nights ago. I had on a housecoat with oversized sleeves. I got hot and threw the housecoat on the couch where Marcy sleeps. When we went to bed Marcy had burrowed under the housecoat and was happily sleeping. About 2:30 a.m. Scooter, our senior citizen Daschund, knocked down the gate we keep by the bedroom (Scooter usually barks about 5:00a.m and we let them in with us for a little while before we get up) John heard her collar rub against the bed. She was shaking and upset. He called for Marcy and when she didn't come he went to look for her. She had gotten stuck in one of the sleaves and couldn't even bark...her breathing was labored and she was in a panic. Praise God for Scooter's quick thinking and willingness to knock down the barrier to our bedroom to get help for her little Marcy. Needless to say, we will not be leaving anything with sleeves where Marcy can get herself into another bad situation.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Don't miss a revelation of God just because you've heard it before
My sister visited a few weeks ago. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and she got to spend time with our Dad. One morning we were alone and began to talk about more than surface stuff. She began to say some things that had truth and revelation, things that could begin to change things if I listened. The problem that occured was "I knew all about what she was saying," Sometimes when we've walked with the Lord for a while, when we've studied the Word of God we can get to the place where we know the teaching that can help set us free...but in a weird way because we know it so well we miss out on really hearing it.
As I listened to my sister I could confirm everything she was saying...indeed I'd taught it to others, and I'd even lived it out in situations in my life. Yet God was reminding me through her that I needed to get back to basics. You see you can know something, you can even have walked the path previously, but in the now be having trouble implimenting it.
When the Holy Spirit speaks to you through the Word, through your spirit, a message, or through a godly friend don't miss the message through familiarity.
Maybe today you are going through somethings that are painful or troubling. The Holy Spirit desires to speak to you today. He wants us to be open to listen to Him and to what He has to say. Remember this:
1. God leads us in our everyday life. The Word says, "My sheep hear My voice" We can be lead of God. Jesus desires to us to allow His leading in our life. He does not abandon us...We've been given the Holy Spirit who leads us into all truth.
2. There could be something so simple, something you already know that could be an answer to your current cirucmstance. I almost missed the words that would set me free...because instead of listening I was tempted to simply spout my "expertise" on the subject. What turned it around was the gentle spirit of the Lord speaking in my heart. "Ruth, you need this...truth to become alive again....listen afresh for the things you are facing in the NOW."
3. Expect to be lead by the Spirit. The Word says in Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.KJV and in Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD,Trust also in Him,And He shall bring it to pass.NKJV God still speaks in the 21rst Century to men and women who are willing to trust Him. The Holy Spirit lives within those who have accepted Jesus Christ. We have the joy of knowing that it is His desire to teach us all things and to help us walk the path of our life in a way that will bring about life and life more abundantly.
As I listened to my sister I could confirm everything she was saying...indeed I'd taught it to others, and I'd even lived it out in situations in my life. Yet God was reminding me through her that I needed to get back to basics. You see you can know something, you can even have walked the path previously, but in the now be having trouble implimenting it.
When the Holy Spirit speaks to you through the Word, through your spirit, a message, or through a godly friend don't miss the message through familiarity.
Maybe today you are going through somethings that are painful or troubling. The Holy Spirit desires to speak to you today. He wants us to be open to listen to Him and to what He has to say. Remember this:
1. God leads us in our everyday life. The Word says, "My sheep hear My voice" We can be lead of God. Jesus desires to us to allow His leading in our life. He does not abandon us...We've been given the Holy Spirit who leads us into all truth.
2. There could be something so simple, something you already know that could be an answer to your current cirucmstance. I almost missed the words that would set me free...because instead of listening I was tempted to simply spout my "expertise" on the subject. What turned it around was the gentle spirit of the Lord speaking in my heart. "Ruth, you need this...truth to become alive again....listen afresh for the things you are facing in the NOW."
3. Expect to be lead by the Spirit. The Word says in Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.KJV and in Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD,Trust also in Him,And He shall bring it to pass.NKJV God still speaks in the 21rst Century to men and women who are willing to trust Him. The Holy Spirit lives within those who have accepted Jesus Christ. We have the joy of knowing that it is His desire to teach us all things and to help us walk the path of our life in a way that will bring about life and life more abundantly.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
My oldest son is twenty years old today
I'm looking forward to talking to my son Al later today when he gets home from work. He and his wife live out west as he is in the Airforce.
Time certainly stops for no man. To steal a phrase from my father, "Seems like yesterday" he was just born. It was Mother's Day and we thought his arrival was a few weeks away. We had some nice things planned for Sunday Service for all of the mothers, but it ended up that all our plans had to be postponed. I couldn't sleep throughout the night. I didn't have pain persay, but I was uncomfortable. We had prayed that I wouldn't have pain...and that was basically answered...yet I had no trouble understanding it was time to go. We called our parents (both sets lived about an hour away at the time) and went to the hospital. Well we didn't go straight to the hospital. My darling husband ever responsible couldn't get ahold of a few parishioners by phone to tell them church would be canceled so we went around town to tell them first. I was NOT HAPPY about that. I admit I YELLED at him.
When we arrived the kindly nurse saw I wasn't in great pain and thought I'd be several hours and so she didn't examine me. She told us, "Your doctor is in church. so we won't disturb her...okay." Meanwhile..I couldn't get comfortable and to make matters worse they put a machine on me to determine how far apart the contractions were and they wouldn't let me walk . I remember John and I were in the room alone with the nurse just outside....I said I've got to push...and like a flash she was there and determined I was ready to have the baby at any moment and my doctor still had not been called. Turns out Al was in a little distress and the birth had to happen quickly. Thankfully, within 10 minutes the Doctor arrived and we were on our way. Since I didn't have a lot of pain they told me...Okay your having a contraction it is time to push. So at 12:29 a.m. , about the time church would normally end, Al was born.
Meanwhile my Mother had arrived at the hospital asking for me...and accidently using my maiden name....only to be told there was no one by that name at the hospital. She finally came to herself in time to see me being wheeled from the delivery room. She rushed to the nursery where she was able to hold Al before John and anyone else....a fact she recalled with glee for years to come. John's folks were also on hand and thrilled at the new arrival. My Mom in law stayed and helped us for a little while after everyone else left.
Anyway...it is nice to remember. Both my boys are a treasure...and I know God will not forget that we raised them the best we could in the knowledge of the Lord. God will not have His Word return void.
Time certainly stops for no man. To steal a phrase from my father, "Seems like yesterday" he was just born. It was Mother's Day and we thought his arrival was a few weeks away. We had some nice things planned for Sunday Service for all of the mothers, but it ended up that all our plans had to be postponed. I couldn't sleep throughout the night. I didn't have pain persay, but I was uncomfortable. We had prayed that I wouldn't have pain...and that was basically answered...yet I had no trouble understanding it was time to go. We called our parents (both sets lived about an hour away at the time) and went to the hospital. Well we didn't go straight to the hospital. My darling husband ever responsible couldn't get ahold of a few parishioners by phone to tell them church would be canceled so we went around town to tell them first. I was NOT HAPPY about that. I admit I YELLED at him.
When we arrived the kindly nurse saw I wasn't in great pain and thought I'd be several hours and so she didn't examine me. She told us, "Your doctor is in church. so we won't disturb her...okay." Meanwhile..I couldn't get comfortable and to make matters worse they put a machine on me to determine how far apart the contractions were and they wouldn't let me walk . I remember John and I were in the room alone with the nurse just outside....I said I've got to push...and like a flash she was there and determined I was ready to have the baby at any moment and my doctor still had not been called. Turns out Al was in a little distress and the birth had to happen quickly. Thankfully, within 10 minutes the Doctor arrived and we were on our way. Since I didn't have a lot of pain they told me...Okay your having a contraction it is time to push. So at 12:29 a.m. , about the time church would normally end, Al was born.
Meanwhile my Mother had arrived at the hospital asking for me...and accidently using my maiden name....only to be told there was no one by that name at the hospital. She finally came to herself in time to see me being wheeled from the delivery room. She rushed to the nursery where she was able to hold Al before John and anyone else....a fact she recalled with glee for years to come. John's folks were also on hand and thrilled at the new arrival. My Mom in law stayed and helped us for a little while after everyone else left.
Anyway...it is nice to remember. Both my boys are a treasure...and I know God will not forget that we raised them the best we could in the knowledge of the Lord. God will not have His Word return void.
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