Sunday, September 26, 2010
Fall Fever
I LOVE FALL! I love to bake and get ready for the holidays. I started early this year and made a turkey dinner yesterday. Then today I made homemade turkey potpies with the left overs! I am looking forward to making cupcakes and cookies and pies! I want to go to Apple Hill so bad I can taste the apple fritters. I am ready for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Bring on the trick or treating and Harvest Festivals, bring on the turkeys and pumpkin patches, and most of all bring on hot chocolate and candy canes! Oh and I forgot the candy corn. I had a taste of one today and want more! I want to dress my babies up in cute little costumes and hang my stockings up. I want to decorate my tree and sing carols. Yes I know that is not what the holidays are all about don't get me wrong. I love the togetherness of it all too! Family time and sharing! I am ready!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
A Season of Change: All or Nothing
Today, I was thinking about the significance of this season of change; Fall! The leaves are changing color and they will soon fall off the trees. I kept thinking that not only are things changing in nature, but also in the supernatural.
Last night I attended a meeting at our church, specifically to receive prayer over the launch of Saturday night services. Since I am a Children's Church Leader, I have to step up and demonstrate a new sense of leadership. This has been challenging for me; I already teach two Sundays a month. I will now be teaching a total of four times a month. However, I know that God is moving me in this direction for a reason and I am obeying him! During the meeting last night, GOD kept speaking the words to me, "All of nothing." You see I have been luke warm in my walk with God lately, and I have also been struggling with thoughts of giving up one of the classes I teach. Well, last night I decided that I am all in; ALL OR NOTHING.
I really believe that a whole new change is coming. I believe that people are going to step up where they never thought they would. I believe that youth are going to mature into leadership positions. A new generation of Impact is going to arise. I believe and receive the word that was spoken over me last night about a whole new level of confidence. I know that I have, "the right stuff!" I know that I am more then capable of accomplishing God's plan for my life. I am claiming favor over my children and my husband. I am taking a new position of leadership and taking another step towards God's perfect will for my life. I am renewing my spirit and my mind. I am ALL IN! I am ready for this new season of Change!
Last night I attended a meeting at our church, specifically to receive prayer over the launch of Saturday night services. Since I am a Children's Church Leader, I have to step up and demonstrate a new sense of leadership. This has been challenging for me; I already teach two Sundays a month. I will now be teaching a total of four times a month. However, I know that God is moving me in this direction for a reason and I am obeying him! During the meeting last night, GOD kept speaking the words to me, "All of nothing." You see I have been luke warm in my walk with God lately, and I have also been struggling with thoughts of giving up one of the classes I teach. Well, last night I decided that I am all in; ALL OR NOTHING.
I really believe that a whole new change is coming. I believe that people are going to step up where they never thought they would. I believe that youth are going to mature into leadership positions. A new generation of Impact is going to arise. I believe and receive the word that was spoken over me last night about a whole new level of confidence. I know that I have, "the right stuff!" I know that I am more then capable of accomplishing God's plan for my life. I am claiming favor over my children and my husband. I am taking a new position of leadership and taking another step towards God's perfect will for my life. I am renewing my spirit and my mind. I am ALL IN! I am ready for this new season of Change!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Family Ties
We pride ourselves on our family ties. I have a great relationship with my parents and see them often. My husband has a great relationship with his mom, but unfortunately being across country keeps us from seeing her as often as we would like. I also have a great relationship with my husband's family and he has a great relationship with my family!
My inlaws were able to visit recently, at least two of them. My mother in law and grandmother in law spent about 2 weeks with us and it was great! We spent a lot of time outside talking, bbqing and playing with the kids. We were able to celebrate Luke's birthday with them even though it was early. I was not feeling well the night we had planned to celebrate, so we ended up just doing pizza at home! It is the little things like that which bring us closer together!
One of the things that we do as a family every night is sitting at the dinner table together. This is getting harder for us to do now that Lloyd and I are both working full time, but we still strive to make sure we all eat together. Sometimes we talk, sometimes we just eat. We also try to have a family night; we play games, watch movies, or sometimes we will go out.
As most of you know we are a blended family, so having a close relationship with one another does not always come easily. Lloyd and the boys get a long for the most part. Any of you that have step kids or were step kids at one point in time probably understand. I think it makes it easier for my husband since he has a stepdad. He really has a way of talking to the boys and getting the situation under control quickly.
All in all we are all just one happy family!
My inlaws were able to visit recently, at least two of them. My mother in law and grandmother in law spent about 2 weeks with us and it was great! We spent a lot of time outside talking, bbqing and playing with the kids. We were able to celebrate Luke's birthday with them even though it was early. I was not feeling well the night we had planned to celebrate, so we ended up just doing pizza at home! It is the little things like that which bring us closer together!
One of the things that we do as a family every night is sitting at the dinner table together. This is getting harder for us to do now that Lloyd and I are both working full time, but we still strive to make sure we all eat together. Sometimes we talk, sometimes we just eat. We also try to have a family night; we play games, watch movies, or sometimes we will go out.
As most of you know we are a blended family, so having a close relationship with one another does not always come easily. Lloyd and the boys get a long for the most part. Any of you that have step kids or were step kids at one point in time probably understand. I think it makes it easier for my husband since he has a stepdad. He really has a way of talking to the boys and getting the situation under control quickly.
All in all we are all just one happy family!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Salvation is Here and He lives in Me
My husband is a great man, a great husband and a great father. He comes from a legacy of hardworking family men and he upholds that legacy. He takes great pride in being the bread winner of the family. However, he is not the spiritual leader of our family. Unfortunately, my husband does not know his Heavenly Father. He believes in a "higher power", but will not call him God. He is also a very logical thinker, so he has a lot of ideas behind how creation was created. Lets just say he is confused and like I said, has never had a relationship with his Heavenly Father. Through all this, I still hold on to a vision that my husband will take his place in the Kingdom of Heaven and become the spiritual leader that God intended him to be. I see him coming to church unannounced, uninvited. Just showing up one Sunday and coming in unnoticed. He will walk up to the row we are sitting in and join us like he had been there the whole time. He will take my hand and we will praise and worship together like never before. Then when the pastor calls for the Alter Call he will raise his hand and truly accept the Lord as his savior.
I heard a song by Sanctus Real recently called, Lead Me. This song truly describes how I feel and it is my call and prayer for my husband. If you have time go to my facebook page and listen to the song! Or search for it on Youtube!
I truly feel that through my salvation, my husband will find his. He will see the spiritual leader that I am, and he will want to take his rightful place as the leader. I continue to pray for his salvation and I ask that if you read this you do the same!
Hold on to hope. Keep faith and never lose site of the plans that God has for you!
I heard a song by Sanctus Real recently called, Lead Me. This song truly describes how I feel and it is my call and prayer for my husband. If you have time go to my facebook page and listen to the song! Or search for it on Youtube!
I truly feel that through my salvation, my husband will find his. He will see the spiritual leader that I am, and he will want to take his rightful place as the leader. I continue to pray for his salvation and I ask that if you read this you do the same!
Hold on to hope. Keep faith and never lose site of the plans that God has for you!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
What this year has brought?
You all have heard the saying, "How time flies!" This is an understatment when you have babies. The first year flies by so fast. Before you know they are toddlers. Today is my babies first birthday! In the past year she has changed so much. She went from this serious baby who we could never get to laugh to this silly baby that now smiles and laughs all the time. She has quite the personallity. Stubborn and witty, goofy and still sometimes serious. Sweet and loving, demanding and set in her ways. She loves music, books and just about anything that has buttons. She gets into everything! We choose to give her a lot more freedom then we gave Luke when he was a baby. We choose not to put up baby gates, so she has full range of the house. We keep doors and cupboards locked or shut and locked. Other then that she is able to go and explore. She likes to try to climb, reach, and touch. She is a talker and will tell you if she does not like something or does not agree with something. She is definately a daddy's girl and has him wrapped around her little finger. She loves her brothers. I know one thing she is going to be one well protected little girl. In this year she has brought us so much joy. She is holding true to the meaning of her name which is "Fathers Joy!"
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Special Needs=Special place
I have always had a special place in my heart for children with special needs; rather they be physical or emotional. Maybe it was because God knew this, that he blessed me with a special needs child. Don't get me wrong it is HARD; having a child with special needs of any kind is not an easy task. I am not perfect and I know I have made mistakes in raising my special blessing. However, I also know that God knows exactly what he is doing and I have a responsibility to him to fulfill his plan for this child's life. I know that ultimately my son is God's son and I am just his earthly mother. Sometimes I question why and how. Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I laugh. Sometimes I scream. All the time I pray. I have been on my knees for my special needs son more then any other one of my children. I know that prayer is the only way that we have made it through the situations that we have come up against. I know that God does not let us down. I know that God is always on our side and that all the earthly words and situations that we come up against are not of God. Sometimes I have to get advice and be reminded of how to handle a situation and I will turn to an earthly source for that advice and reminder; however I still know God is there. I could not even imagine how I would deal with having a special needs child if I did not have God on my side. I praise God everyday for giving me the strength and determination to raise my son up in a Godly way. I praise God everyday for giving me a husband who is our rock and foundation. I praise God everyday for my husbands legacy of being a strong family man! I praise God everyday for what he has already done in my son's life and what he will continue to do in my son's life.
I will continue to fight for my son and to hold him dear and near to my heart because he deserves it!
PS: I also want to add that I believe all children are special!
I will continue to fight for my son and to hold him dear and near to my heart because he deserves it!
PS: I also want to add that I believe all children are special!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Glorious Family Life
This was a sessions that I attended while at the conference! Again it is based off my notes so sorry if it is all over the place!
Through this session I learned that Gods way works! The speaker gave us six points:
1. Let go of the expectations. Everyone is different, we need people who don't think like everyone else. Allow your kids and husband to be who they are. We don't get to control other peoples choices. Now is the time to teach your children. You cannot control the uncontrollable, but you can control how you deal with it!
2. Raise your children in the House of God!
3. Live a principled life. Be true to yourself. Your children need to know where to turn. Don't be fake. Kids will know if you are faking. Just do your part. Don't impose your fears upon your children. Cannot control your kids. Don't parent on your feelings! Always ask yourself why you want them to do what you want them to do and explain that to them!
4. Gratitude= Thankfulness live your life this way!
5. Live in the moment. With all the chaos is the glory! (this point stuck out most to me!)
6. Find the humor in life. All about perspective.
Anger is usually rooted in fear. This is why we should not parent based on our feelings. We need to have a purpose/goal in mind for our children, but expected that they may take another road. Encourage and guide them, but remember they are individuals.
Through this session I learned that Gods way works! The speaker gave us six points:
1. Let go of the expectations. Everyone is different, we need people who don't think like everyone else. Allow your kids and husband to be who they are. We don't get to control other peoples choices. Now is the time to teach your children. You cannot control the uncontrollable, but you can control how you deal with it!
2. Raise your children in the House of God!
3. Live a principled life. Be true to yourself. Your children need to know where to turn. Don't be fake. Kids will know if you are faking. Just do your part. Don't impose your fears upon your children. Cannot control your kids. Don't parent on your feelings! Always ask yourself why you want them to do what you want them to do and explain that to them!
4. Gratitude= Thankfulness live your life this way!
5. Live in the moment. With all the chaos is the glory! (this point stuck out most to me!)
6. Find the humor in life. All about perspective.
Anger is usually rooted in fear. This is why we should not parent based on our feelings. We need to have a purpose/goal in mind for our children, but expected that they may take another road. Encourage and guide them, but remember they are individuals.
Monday, April 5, 2010
He is Alive and He Lives in me!
Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He still performs miracles and answers prayers. I have seen him working in my life and my children's lives for two years now, but nothing compares to the miracles he performed this weekend. His resurrection weekend, yet he resurrected my family!
I am in awe of how he still works and continues to work in the lives of my children mainly. The little things he does to show us that he is alive. Two weeks ago I came across what is called Cardboard testimonies, so I watched several churches that have done them and was wowed. Then last Sunday our church announced that we would be doing these cardboard testimonies as part of our Easter service. I knew right away I wanted to be a part of this powerful event. Alex then said he also wanted to participate and immediately came up with what he was going to write as his testimony! I tried to talk Nathan into doing one as well, but he was not interested.
We had practice Thursday and Friday. Then we had three services that were the real thing. One on Saturday night and two on Easter Sunday. Before the Saturday night service one of the ladies who attends our church was chatting with me, and I told her that Alex was doing the cardboard testimonies. She pointed out how much he is growing and I told her yes he is and I am so excited! She quoted a bible scripture to me from 3rd John 1:4, "There is no greater joy then a mother who sees her children walking in truth!" This is the scripture I am going to stand on for a long time!
I was in the nursery during the first Sunday service, but Alex still went out there and showed his testimony! Then at the second service on Sunday when they had Altar call, Nathan raised his hand. I thought he had already asked the Lord into his heart, so I questioned him. He said he felt he needed to do it again! PRAISE THE LORD! I went back with him to speak with the altar team.
I am so proud of my boys and my joy is overflowing! God is moving!
That is just the icing on the cake. He has also brought someone back into my life that really needs him right now. I really feel that he is using me to help this person and there is nothing that makes me happier then helping people. I cannot wait to see what else God has in store for my family. Salvation for my husband! Oh yes, it is coming! I believe it there for it will be!
I am in awe of how he still works and continues to work in the lives of my children mainly. The little things he does to show us that he is alive. Two weeks ago I came across what is called Cardboard testimonies, so I watched several churches that have done them and was wowed. Then last Sunday our church announced that we would be doing these cardboard testimonies as part of our Easter service. I knew right away I wanted to be a part of this powerful event. Alex then said he also wanted to participate and immediately came up with what he was going to write as his testimony! I tried to talk Nathan into doing one as well, but he was not interested.
We had practice Thursday and Friday. Then we had three services that were the real thing. One on Saturday night and two on Easter Sunday. Before the Saturday night service one of the ladies who attends our church was chatting with me, and I told her that Alex was doing the cardboard testimonies. She pointed out how much he is growing and I told her yes he is and I am so excited! She quoted a bible scripture to me from 3rd John 1:4, "There is no greater joy then a mother who sees her children walking in truth!" This is the scripture I am going to stand on for a long time!
I was in the nursery during the first Sunday service, but Alex still went out there and showed his testimony! Then at the second service on Sunday when they had Altar call, Nathan raised his hand. I thought he had already asked the Lord into his heart, so I questioned him. He said he felt he needed to do it again! PRAISE THE LORD! I went back with him to speak with the altar team.
I am so proud of my boys and my joy is overflowing! God is moving!
That is just the icing on the cake. He has also brought someone back into my life that really needs him right now. I really feel that he is using me to help this person and there is nothing that makes me happier then helping people. I cannot wait to see what else God has in store for my family. Salvation for my husband! Oh yes, it is coming! I believe it there for it will be!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Hi Ho Hi Ho Off to Work I go!
No time for play I work all day....Hi ho Hi Ho Hi Ho! This is how I feel these days. I am now working full time and it has been hard. I work from 8:30-5 everyday and by the time I get home I have time to do dinner, baths and bed! I have been fighting a cold for almost two weeks. Abby just got over something as well. Luke was broke out in hives for a week, oh and my husband was sick too! I am loving working full time as much as it is taking out of me. I am so glad that my family is back on track financially. We are in the mist of planning Abigail's first birthday and Luke's third! For Abby we aredoing a butterfly/flower theme and for Luke we are doing Where the Wild Things Are. I am really excited about both of their birthdays, but sad that my babies are growing up. Oh and did I mention that Nathan is going to be 16 this year! Well that is about all I have time for tonight off to serve dinner. Crockpots are amazing by the way!
Monday, February 8, 2010
God's Timing
"As soon as he finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came...'You have acted foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the LORD your God.'" - 1 Samuel 13:10-13 NASB
The prophet Samuel had been very specific. He told King Saul what to do and when to act. But Saul chose to ignore these directions.
Instead of waiting for Samuel, he decided to move forward, making an offering on his own. Saul had not waited quite long enough, for Samuel arrived as soon as the offering was completed, precisely when he had promised.
Through his actions, Saul revealed a tendency to reinterpret directions according to his own understanding. He proved he couldn't be trusted.
Saul didn't realize that timing is important to God. Samuel had given him a specific time, a time that was "appointed" (v. 8). This was the same word God used in Leviticus 23 to establish the feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles as His "appointed times." This also was the same word used to describe the creation of seasons as God's appointed times in nature (Genesis 1:14).
The Bible tells us "there is an appointed time for everything." There are specific times when we are to act, and times when we are not to act...times to give birth and to die, to plant and to uproot, to kill and to heal, to tear down and to build up, to be silent and to speak (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).
God's timing always is perfect. He looks for people who will believe Him, trust Him, obey Him, and act according to His timetable--not like Saul, who made himself the judge of time and lacked the patience to trust in God.
Today, make sure that you are sensitive to God's timing. As you're waiting for His Word to come to pass, don't give up. Keep trusting. His Word is true, and He keeps His promises.
Prayer
Father, I seek Your guidance and wisdom. Help me to stay sensitive to Your timing. Lead me into Your purposes for me. I commit my life and decisions to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 13
The prophet Samuel had been very specific. He told King Saul what to do and when to act. But Saul chose to ignore these directions.
Instead of waiting for Samuel, he decided to move forward, making an offering on his own. Saul had not waited quite long enough, for Samuel arrived as soon as the offering was completed, precisely when he had promised.
Through his actions, Saul revealed a tendency to reinterpret directions according to his own understanding. He proved he couldn't be trusted.
Saul didn't realize that timing is important to God. Samuel had given him a specific time, a time that was "appointed" (v. 8). This was the same word God used in Leviticus 23 to establish the feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles as His "appointed times." This also was the same word used to describe the creation of seasons as God's appointed times in nature (Genesis 1:14).
The Bible tells us "there is an appointed time for everything." There are specific times when we are to act, and times when we are not to act...times to give birth and to die, to plant and to uproot, to kill and to heal, to tear down and to build up, to be silent and to speak (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).
God's timing always is perfect. He looks for people who will believe Him, trust Him, obey Him, and act according to His timetable--not like Saul, who made himself the judge of time and lacked the patience to trust in God.
Today, make sure that you are sensitive to God's timing. As you're waiting for His Word to come to pass, don't give up. Keep trusting. His Word is true, and He keeps His promises.
Prayer
Father, I seek Your guidance and wisdom. Help me to stay sensitive to Your timing. Lead me into Your purposes for me. I commit my life and decisions to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 13
Friday, February 5, 2010
Depending on God Alone
"The Philistines fought and Israel was defeated, and every man fled to his tent; and the slaughter was very great, for there fell of Israel thirty thousand foot soldiers." - 1 Samuel 4:10 NASB
Carrying the Ark of the Covenant into battle, the Israelites thought they were invincible. Sure that it guaranteed them victory, they proclaimed: "God will save us from our enemies" (v. 3). Yet they were defeated by the Philistines, and the ark itself was captured. How could this have happened?
The Israelites had made a major mistake: They assumed they could trust in the ark and that it would save them. As a result, they didn't seek God, and He wasn't directing them. Because He hadn't called them to go into this battle, He didn't bless their efforts. It was a painful lesson to learn.
In our time, many people are just like these Israelites. Thinking that they are religious or spiritual, they put their faith in all kinds of things--people, traditions, creeds, slogans, good works, denominations, and religious symbols.
Inevitably, all of these things will fall short and let us down. Only God Himself never fails. We must start every endeavor with Him and not take His blessings for granted.
David, who entered the picture soon after the battle described above, once wrote, "Some boast in chariots and some in horses, but we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God" (Psalm 20:7). We, too, need to trust completely in God and boast only in Him.
Today, there are many temptations and distractions, but God remains the same. Don't put your trust in the chariots and horses of this world. Rather than being overconfident or putting your faith in the wrong things or people, trust in the Lord, and Him alone.
Prayer
Father, I place my hope in You. You are my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer. Other people may fail me, but I can depend on You. I worship You! In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 4
Carrying the Ark of the Covenant into battle, the Israelites thought they were invincible. Sure that it guaranteed them victory, they proclaimed: "God will save us from our enemies" (v. 3). Yet they were defeated by the Philistines, and the ark itself was captured. How could this have happened?
The Israelites had made a major mistake: They assumed they could trust in the ark and that it would save them. As a result, they didn't seek God, and He wasn't directing them. Because He hadn't called them to go into this battle, He didn't bless their efforts. It was a painful lesson to learn.
In our time, many people are just like these Israelites. Thinking that they are religious or spiritual, they put their faith in all kinds of things--people, traditions, creeds, slogans, good works, denominations, and religious symbols.
Inevitably, all of these things will fall short and let us down. Only God Himself never fails. We must start every endeavor with Him and not take His blessings for granted.
David, who entered the picture soon after the battle described above, once wrote, "Some boast in chariots and some in horses, but we will boast in the name of the LORD, our God" (Psalm 20:7). We, too, need to trust completely in God and boast only in Him.
Today, there are many temptations and distractions, but God remains the same. Don't put your trust in the chariots and horses of this world. Rather than being overconfident or putting your faith in the wrong things or people, trust in the Lord, and Him alone.
Prayer
Father, I place my hope in You. You are my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliverer. Other people may fail me, but I can depend on You. I worship You! In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 4
Thursday, February 4, 2010
God's Revelation
"Samuel grew and the LORD was with him and let none of his words fail. All Israel...knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the LORD. And the LORD appeared again at Shiloh, because the LORD revealed Himself to Samuel...by the word of the LORD." - 1 Samuel 3:19-21 NASB
To the people of Israel, it seemed as though God was silent. His Word was "rare" and "visions were infrequent" (v. 1). But everything changed through Samuel, who learned to hear the voice of God. The first message he received described judgment that was about to come to Eli, the priest. Samuel wasn't sure what to do, but he told Eli "everything and hid nothing from him" (v. 18).
Samuel had passed this first test. He demonstrated that God could trust him to hear His words and faithfully deliver His messages.
After Samuel passed this test, "the LORD revealed Himself to Samuel" (v. 21). He disclosed deep truths and powerful insights. Why? Because Samuel had proven himself to be faithful and trustworthy--because he cultivated a personal relationship with God and knew His voice. Soon, "Samuel was confirmed as a prophet" (v. 20). Everyone throughout Israel realized that, once again, God was speaking to His people.
Are you ready to follow the path laid out by Samuel? To dedicate your life to serving Him? To spend time in His Presence, listen to His voice, and be faithful to carry out what He says?
Today, God is ready to reveal Himself to you in new ways--to open up new insights from His Word, to give you new levels of wisdom, and to give you a message to speak to others.
Follow Samuel's example: Commit your life to God. Deepen your relationship with Him. Fill your life with His Word. Follow the leading of His Spirit. Believe Him for greater revelations.
Prayer
Father, I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. Help me understand more of Your Word. Help me to complete Your assignment for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 3
To the people of Israel, it seemed as though God was silent. His Word was "rare" and "visions were infrequent" (v. 1). But everything changed through Samuel, who learned to hear the voice of God. The first message he received described judgment that was about to come to Eli, the priest. Samuel wasn't sure what to do, but he told Eli "everything and hid nothing from him" (v. 18).
Samuel had passed this first test. He demonstrated that God could trust him to hear His words and faithfully deliver His messages.
After Samuel passed this test, "the LORD revealed Himself to Samuel" (v. 21). He disclosed deep truths and powerful insights. Why? Because Samuel had proven himself to be faithful and trustworthy--because he cultivated a personal relationship with God and knew His voice. Soon, "Samuel was confirmed as a prophet" (v. 20). Everyone throughout Israel realized that, once again, God was speaking to His people.
Are you ready to follow the path laid out by Samuel? To dedicate your life to serving Him? To spend time in His Presence, listen to His voice, and be faithful to carry out what He says?
Today, God is ready to reveal Himself to you in new ways--to open up new insights from His Word, to give you new levels of wisdom, and to give you a message to speak to others.
Follow Samuel's example: Commit your life to God. Deepen your relationship with Him. Fill your life with His Word. Follow the leading of His Spirit. Believe Him for greater revelations.
Prayer
Father, I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. Help me understand more of Your Word. Help me to complete Your assignment for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 3
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
A Turnaround for God's People
"The boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD before Eli. And word from the LORD was rare in those days, visions were infrequent." - 1 Samuel 3:1 NASB
For many in Israel, God seemed merely a part of Israel's distant history. They had never heard His voice or sensed His involvement in their lives. But through Samuel everything changed.
This process began when Samuel was just a boy. From early childhood, he spent his life in the Temple, where he entered a new dimension--learning to hear the voice of God. He realized God hadn't changed: He was real, His Word was relevant, He had plans for Israel and each individual, and He was ready to direct them, protect them, and bless them.
Today, many never hear God's voice. They assume that faith is irrelevant or misguided. To them, God is dead--a relic of history. Others have a religion of forms and rituals: They know about God, but don't have a personal relationship with Him.
Just as in the time of Samuel, God is ready to speak to people in our time--to turn around our situations and solve our problems. But who will hear His voice?
He looks for people who will develop a personal relationship with Him and spend time with Him. He seeks people who know His Word and make it part of their daily lives, believing that it's "living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword" (Hebrews 4:12).
Are you ready to hear God's voice? Start by spending more time in His Presence. Develop a more intimate relationship with Him. Fill your life with the Scriptures, and put them into practice. As you pray, talk with Him and listen.
Seek to become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit. Let Him guide you and direct your steps. Let Him turn around your life and change other lives for Christ through you!
Prayer
Father, I want a more intimate relationship with You. Speak to me through Your Word. Fill me anew with Your Spirit. Use me to impact lives for Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 3
For many in Israel, God seemed merely a part of Israel's distant history. They had never heard His voice or sensed His involvement in their lives. But through Samuel everything changed.
This process began when Samuel was just a boy. From early childhood, he spent his life in the Temple, where he entered a new dimension--learning to hear the voice of God. He realized God hadn't changed: He was real, His Word was relevant, He had plans for Israel and each individual, and He was ready to direct them, protect them, and bless them.
Today, many never hear God's voice. They assume that faith is irrelevant or misguided. To them, God is dead--a relic of history. Others have a religion of forms and rituals: They know about God, but don't have a personal relationship with Him.
Just as in the time of Samuel, God is ready to speak to people in our time--to turn around our situations and solve our problems. But who will hear His voice?
He looks for people who will develop a personal relationship with Him and spend time with Him. He seeks people who know His Word and make it part of their daily lives, believing that it's "living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword" (Hebrews 4:12).
Are you ready to hear God's voice? Start by spending more time in His Presence. Develop a more intimate relationship with Him. Fill your life with the Scriptures, and put them into practice. As you pray, talk with Him and listen.
Seek to become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit. Let Him guide you and direct your steps. Let Him turn around your life and change other lives for Christ through you!
Prayer
Father, I want a more intimate relationship with You. Speak to me through Your Word. Fill me anew with Your Spirit. Use me to impact lives for Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
1 Samuel 3
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
A Turning Point for Paul
"I have done no wrong to the Jews, as you also very well know...I do not refuse to die; but if none of those things is true of which these men accuse me, no one can hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar.'" - Acts 25:10-11 NASB
It was a key moment in Christian history. Paul stood alone, listening as his accusers claimed he was a political revolutionary, a rebel, and a dangerous man. Paul could have resorted to bribery, as the Roman governor, Felix, had hoped. He had done nothing wrong and could have fought the charges. In fact, King Agrippa later admitted that Paul could have been set free. Instead, Paul chose to "appeal to Caesar."
This was a risky decision. What would he face? Persecution? Death? But Paul was proving the truth of what he had written: "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). He was demonstrating his unwavering commitment to following Christ.
This appeal helped turn the world upside down. In Rome, Paul preached the "Kingdom of God" and taught "concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered" (Acts 28:17-31). There he wrote how his imprisonment had "turned out for the greater progress of the gospel," since it became "well known throughout the whole praetorian guard." Seeing his example, other Believers were encouraged "to speak the word of God without fear" (Philippians 1:12-14).
With greater clarity than ever before, Paul realized that nothing mattered except serving Jesus--not even his own life. He wrote from Rome, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21).
In the same way, God is ready to turn around your circumstances and use you to change the world. Follow Paul's example: Commit your life to Him, without reservation. Let Him direct your steps. Live for Christ, for nothing else matters!
Prayer
Father, I surrender my life to You. Direct my steps. Use me to impact the world for the Gospel. Thank You for meeting my needs. I trust in You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Acts 25
It was a key moment in Christian history. Paul stood alone, listening as his accusers claimed he was a political revolutionary, a rebel, and a dangerous man. Paul could have resorted to bribery, as the Roman governor, Felix, had hoped. He had done nothing wrong and could have fought the charges. In fact, King Agrippa later admitted that Paul could have been set free. Instead, Paul chose to "appeal to Caesar."
This was a risky decision. What would he face? Persecution? Death? But Paul was proving the truth of what he had written: "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). He was demonstrating his unwavering commitment to following Christ.
This appeal helped turn the world upside down. In Rome, Paul preached the "Kingdom of God" and taught "concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered" (Acts 28:17-31). There he wrote how his imprisonment had "turned out for the greater progress of the gospel," since it became "well known throughout the whole praetorian guard." Seeing his example, other Believers were encouraged "to speak the word of God without fear" (Philippians 1:12-14).
With greater clarity than ever before, Paul realized that nothing mattered except serving Jesus--not even his own life. He wrote from Rome, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21).
In the same way, God is ready to turn around your circumstances and use you to change the world. Follow Paul's example: Commit your life to Him, without reservation. Let Him direct your steps. Live for Christ, for nothing else matters!
Prayer
Father, I surrender my life to You. Direct my steps. Use me to impact the world for the Gospel. Thank You for meeting my needs. I trust in You. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Acts 25
Monday, February 1, 2010
Peter's Turnaround
"They were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house...And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance." - Acts 2:1-4 NASB
Impetuous Peter--always a man of action, quick to make promises. But he faced reality after he denied Jesus three times. Instead of being bold, he ran away in fear.
Knowing he had denied his Master, Peter must have felt like a real failure. But Jesus knew Peter had fallen short because he depended on his flesh. He needed the Holy Spirit!
After His Resurrection, Jesus commanded Peter and the other disciples to wait in Jerusalem "for what the Father had promised"--to "be baptized with the Holy Spirit" (vs. 4-5). Questions must have flooded Peter's mind. Why did they have to wait? We can imagine how much he wanted to take action and do something. But, obeying Jesus, he and the others waited.
When the Day of Pentecost came, they still were waiting. They were in one place, united, seeking God together. Then, without warning, everything changed as they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Suddenly, the waiting must have made sense, for they were baptized into a new dimension of power. They had acted according to God's timetable, and now they were equipped and ready for ministry.
Everything turned around for Peter and the early Church. Why? Because they waited on God. They were prepared for the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, and He changed everything.
Today, God still changes lives through His Spirit. Make sure that you surrender your life to Him. Seek Him. Wait on Him. Listen to His voice. Seek unity with other Believers. Be filled with the Holy Spirit, and follow His leading. Prepare to be used by God!
Prayer
Holy Spirit, I seek to move according to Your will. I need You. I wait on You. Fill me with Your power. Use me to spread the Gospel and impact lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Acts 2
Impetuous Peter--always a man of action, quick to make promises. But he faced reality after he denied Jesus three times. Instead of being bold, he ran away in fear.
Knowing he had denied his Master, Peter must have felt like a real failure. But Jesus knew Peter had fallen short because he depended on his flesh. He needed the Holy Spirit!
After His Resurrection, Jesus commanded Peter and the other disciples to wait in Jerusalem "for what the Father had promised"--to "be baptized with the Holy Spirit" (vs. 4-5). Questions must have flooded Peter's mind. Why did they have to wait? We can imagine how much he wanted to take action and do something. But, obeying Jesus, he and the others waited.
When the Day of Pentecost came, they still were waiting. They were in one place, united, seeking God together. Then, without warning, everything changed as they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Suddenly, the waiting must have made sense, for they were baptized into a new dimension of power. They had acted according to God's timetable, and now they were equipped and ready for ministry.
Everything turned around for Peter and the early Church. Why? Because they waited on God. They were prepared for the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, and He changed everything.
Today, God still changes lives through His Spirit. Make sure that you surrender your life to Him. Seek Him. Wait on Him. Listen to His voice. Seek unity with other Believers. Be filled with the Holy Spirit, and follow His leading. Prepare to be used by God!
Prayer
Holy Spirit, I seek to move according to Your will. I need You. I wait on You. Fill me with Your power. Use me to spread the Gospel and impact lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Acts 2
Sunday, January 31, 2010
He Is the Lord!
I found this daily devotional website and I am going to try to look at it everyday to get inspiration from the word! I have fallen short when it comes to reading my bible everyday. I will start again today! Thank you Lord that you forgive me of my short comings!
"I am the LORD, and there is no other; besides Me there is no God...the One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the LORD who does all these." - Isaiah 45:5-7 NASB
There are times when it can appear that darkness rules the earth...that there's no hope...and that God's people inevitably will be defeated. We can think our lives are dominated by enemies and that we're nothing but victims. We can feel outnumbered and doomed to failure. Discouraged, we can wonder if God ever will answer our prayers and solve our problems.
At times like these, we need to read these verses from Isaiah, where God states His absolute sovereignty. Regardless of how things appear, He's the Master of every situation. He is "the Lord, and there is no other!"
God declares that He reigns over every part of life--not only the light, but even the darkness; amid what appears to be good news or bad; when we face trials or when everything seems to be going smoothly. He has no rivals, and His power has no limits.
These truths are overwhelming. Life-changing! But do we really believe them? If we really believed them, we would never have any fears, for we could trust in God completely! We would know that the only thing to worry about is not obeying and trusting Him, not living in accordance with His will, and not being in harmony with Him.
Today, stop and think about these truths. Declare God to be the Master of your life. Do not allow any problem to make you discouraged.
Focus on the Lord. Worship Him. Seek His face. Commit the situations you face to Him, and trust in Him resolutely. It's His desire "that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no one besides Me" (v. 6). He is the Lord!
Prayer
Father, You are sovereign. I commit these situations and people into Your hands: _______. I trust in You, and I'm believing You for turnarounds in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Isaiah 45
"I am the LORD, and there is no other; besides Me there is no God...the One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the LORD who does all these." - Isaiah 45:5-7 NASB
There are times when it can appear that darkness rules the earth...that there's no hope...and that God's people inevitably will be defeated. We can think our lives are dominated by enemies and that we're nothing but victims. We can feel outnumbered and doomed to failure. Discouraged, we can wonder if God ever will answer our prayers and solve our problems.
At times like these, we need to read these verses from Isaiah, where God states His absolute sovereignty. Regardless of how things appear, He's the Master of every situation. He is "the Lord, and there is no other!"
God declares that He reigns over every part of life--not only the light, but even the darkness; amid what appears to be good news or bad; when we face trials or when everything seems to be going smoothly. He has no rivals, and His power has no limits.
These truths are overwhelming. Life-changing! But do we really believe them? If we really believed them, we would never have any fears, for we could trust in God completely! We would know that the only thing to worry about is not obeying and trusting Him, not living in accordance with His will, and not being in harmony with Him.
Today, stop and think about these truths. Declare God to be the Master of your life. Do not allow any problem to make you discouraged.
Focus on the Lord. Worship Him. Seek His face. Commit the situations you face to Him, and trust in Him resolutely. It's His desire "that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no one besides Me" (v. 6). He is the Lord!
Prayer
Father, You are sovereign. I commit these situations and people into Your hands: _______. I trust in You, and I'm believing You for turnarounds in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Extended Reading
Isaiah 45
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Exempt from What?
I have been a preschool teacher for over thirteen years. I was working in childcare when I made a mistake in my life (at age 19 mind you) and paid for it. I have paid for this mistake in more ways then one! On top of the natural consequences of this mistake; I now get reminded of it every time I apply for a job. I had never had a problem until about two years ago. I had gone on maternity leave from KB and had all intentions of returning. However, when I returned I was not being offered the hours I wanted to work. So I went else where looking for employment that would be flexible with me! I found a place that I thought would be great. It was close to home and they seemed to be willing to give me the hours I was looking for. Well because of my past, the owner, Mr.B, felt that I may need what is called an exemption. I had never need an exemption before, but he made it sound like it would be better to apply for one. So against my better judgement I did. In all hopes that by having this exemption Mr. B would hire me. Well come to find out he did not hire me because he did not want me to have an exemption. I guess some people when they file for an exemption get one and some don't and he was hoping I wouldn't. Yet, he made it sound like either way it would be okay. So needless to say I did not get that job. Ever since then it has been every hard for me to find a job. Which is very sad to me. I have my AA degree in Early Childhood Education that I busted my butt to get, I have over thirteen years of experience, and I come highly recommended with excellent references! This is so frustrating to me! I know that I have been forgiven of my past, but it forever haunts me. I know that I have favor for the job that I do have and I know that the Lord is going to open a door for me somewhere. It will all be in his perfect timing. I know these things. I also know that my family is struggling financially and although we are praying for financial breakthrough, I feel helpless! I feel that I wasted my time in school and I have wasted the last thirteen years. It is so frustrating. I am working on calling the Department of Justice to see what can be done about this exemption, until then I will continue to do what I love! Because I am exempt from the ways of this world and I will reap my rewards in Heaven!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
AMAZING!
READER WARNING: THIS POST WILL BE JUMPING ALL OVER THE PLACE AS SO MANY AMAZING THINGS HAVE HAPPENED READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!
This year started off something like this: My husbands job was in transition and we were not even sure if he was going to keep his job. Things were going south with Alex's behavior and I was being faced with the reality that I was going to have to start working full time again. Needless to say we were at a loss for what was happening. Within a week everything just flipped! We learned that Lloyd would be working at a permanent site; which meant he did not lose his job, but his pay would be less(even with a 2% pay raise). We were just grateful he still had a job. Then my husband shared an awesome vision he received of me opening up my own daycare center. This is what he shared with me:
My little vision.
Hey sweetie here was my little vision about something in the future. I see you having your own preschool/Daycare.
The building was about the size of the house or even your current employment based on perspective of the view from the building. The walls where a whitish or light color paint. The floors where all light hardwood. The building had a vast amount of natural light coming through the windows as there where windows down each side. There could have also been a skylight but not sure as the room was fairly bright with no lights on. There where 3 other people there with you and not sure if they where partners, or employees.
I gave instructions on how to get pricing to be competitive with other centers but low enough to entice enrollment.
Advice was go to various preschool/day care centers and get there pricing and make it to where you would be profitable but affordable. You would use Abby as you where asking around for the pricing as if you where going to put her into it but you would also state that you have friends with children that are at various ages and you where getting info for them so the information would be freely given more than if you went in with no kids and told them that you where opening a business and being competitive against them.
You only where going up to the Kindergarten age group. And you would charge an extra fee like $25 a week or discount pending on if the child was potty trained at a certain age.
Abby and Luke was not much older from what I could tell. But it was sunny outside and looked to be a beautiful spring/summer day.
On Friday Alex came home from school fairly upset that the kids had made fun of his project and feeling very down on himself. He did a community service project all geared around services that he did at church or related to church. Then on Saturday the 9th I went to a bible study. I shared with the ladies how Alex had been attacked by the kids at school. Then we went to Saturday night prayer at my church. During prayer five words kept coming to mind; renewing, anointing, refreshing, expectations, and faith. I also learned that my pastor had prayed for my two older boys and had a vision that they were both going to have the power of healing. Then after prayer I asked Della (attended the bible study earlier), if I could observe her teaching in 4's and 5's on Sunday. Before I spoke to her I had opened my bible to Psalms 17:13-19:24; did not have time to read it so bookmarked it. On the way home from prayer Alex was going on and on about how he did not have any friends. I was combating his negativity with lots of positive. Then a song came on about how the Lord is our strong tower and we need to run to him. I told Alex to take refuge in that song. Went to church on Sunday and decided to read Psalms(remember where I marked my bible on Saturday), in Psalms 18:10 it says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe." This was confirmation to me that I was doing the right things with Alex. Then while I was helping Della in the classroom, she told me she had something for me that fit in perfectly with what Alex was going through. She gave me part of the lesson she was teaching and it was all about not listening to what others say about you! More confirmation!It was amazing how God was using people around me, the radio, a preschool lesson, and most importantly his word to give me confirmation! Then Sunday afternoon the icing on the cake! I found my adopted brother! I have known about him since I was twelve, but never thought I would find him. Can you believe it was as simple as googling his name and finding him on Facebook! Facebook has brought lots of people together! AMAZING! I will have to write another post about that, but lastly I want to leave you with this link!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sngu-MK4-4k
This year started off something like this: My husbands job was in transition and we were not even sure if he was going to keep his job. Things were going south with Alex's behavior and I was being faced with the reality that I was going to have to start working full time again. Needless to say we were at a loss for what was happening. Within a week everything just flipped! We learned that Lloyd would be working at a permanent site; which meant he did not lose his job, but his pay would be less(even with a 2% pay raise). We were just grateful he still had a job. Then my husband shared an awesome vision he received of me opening up my own daycare center. This is what he shared with me:
My little vision.
Hey sweetie here was my little vision about something in the future. I see you having your own preschool/Daycare.
The building was about the size of the house or even your current employment based on perspective of the view from the building. The walls where a whitish or light color paint. The floors where all light hardwood. The building had a vast amount of natural light coming through the windows as there where windows down each side. There could have also been a skylight but not sure as the room was fairly bright with no lights on. There where 3 other people there with you and not sure if they where partners, or employees.
I gave instructions on how to get pricing to be competitive with other centers but low enough to entice enrollment.
Advice was go to various preschool/day care centers and get there pricing and make it to where you would be profitable but affordable. You would use Abby as you where asking around for the pricing as if you where going to put her into it but you would also state that you have friends with children that are at various ages and you where getting info for them so the information would be freely given more than if you went in with no kids and told them that you where opening a business and being competitive against them.
You only where going up to the Kindergarten age group. And you would charge an extra fee like $25 a week or discount pending on if the child was potty trained at a certain age.
Abby and Luke was not much older from what I could tell. But it was sunny outside and looked to be a beautiful spring/summer day.
On Friday Alex came home from school fairly upset that the kids had made fun of his project and feeling very down on himself. He did a community service project all geared around services that he did at church or related to church. Then on Saturday the 9th I went to a bible study. I shared with the ladies how Alex had been attacked by the kids at school. Then we went to Saturday night prayer at my church. During prayer five words kept coming to mind; renewing, anointing, refreshing, expectations, and faith. I also learned that my pastor had prayed for my two older boys and had a vision that they were both going to have the power of healing. Then after prayer I asked Della (attended the bible study earlier), if I could observe her teaching in 4's and 5's on Sunday. Before I spoke to her I had opened my bible to Psalms 17:13-19:24; did not have time to read it so bookmarked it. On the way home from prayer Alex was going on and on about how he did not have any friends. I was combating his negativity with lots of positive. Then a song came on about how the Lord is our strong tower and we need to run to him. I told Alex to take refuge in that song. Went to church on Sunday and decided to read Psalms(remember where I marked my bible on Saturday), in Psalms 18:10 it says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe." This was confirmation to me that I was doing the right things with Alex. Then while I was helping Della in the classroom, she told me she had something for me that fit in perfectly with what Alex was going through. She gave me part of the lesson she was teaching and it was all about not listening to what others say about you! More confirmation!It was amazing how God was using people around me, the radio, a preschool lesson, and most importantly his word to give me confirmation! Then Sunday afternoon the icing on the cake! I found my adopted brother! I have known about him since I was twelve, but never thought I would find him. Can you believe it was as simple as googling his name and finding him on Facebook! Facebook has brought lots of people together! AMAZING! I will have to write another post about that, but lastly I want to leave you with this link!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sngu-MK4-4k
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)