Heart Cry...

Future wives...

2011-08-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

I had this thought, or series of thoughts, as I was washing dishes tonight...

I am a young (as in new) mother, and have not been married very long yet. However, there are some things I have learned, and many more things I am learning, that I could pass on to others coming behind me. I have younger sisters, and I hope to some day have daughters. So, for those soon to be wives, or will be wives in the more distant future, I have some recommendations...

During the time you still have at home, learn all you can from your mother about running a home and how to be a godly wife.

-Learn to cook good meals for your family, and do so joyfully.
.....I'll tell on myself here. When I first got married I would get grumpy while preparing a meal that took some effort, especially if my hard working husband was relaxing after a day of work. Now, when our son was born it took me a while to learn how to get a meal on the table while caring for a hungry newborn, so my wonderful husband made some great meals. (Did I mention I have an amazing husband!?) After several months I was able to take over cooking meals again, and I have done so (for the most part) with a much improved attitude. =) I am thankful that I can make dinner for my family. It is satisfying to be able to put a good meal on the table for my family to enjoy.

-Learn to clean the house. You may already know the basics, but learn to clean the things that don't get done often as well.
.....While you may be busy now, when you have your own home there will be more of the responsibility on your shoulders for the cleaning. So, learning to do it while you don't have to do it all will help you. Maybe even clean the whole house for some good practice. Chances are you will start out somewhere smaller after your married, and it will be easy by contrast. ;)

Any task that is before us will be much easier on us and much less stressful if we learn to enjoy it. Being thankful that we have the opportunity to tackle the task before us will help our perspective. And, of course, the Holy Spirit is our Helper! He knows the answer to that thing that we just can't seem to figure out.

2009-04-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard that children's song that goes,
"The wise man built his house upon a rock. The wise man built his house upon a rock. The wise man built his house upon a rock, and the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down and the floods came up. The rains came down and the floods came up. The rains came down and the floods came up, but the house on the rock stood firm.
The foolish man built his house upon the sand. The foolish man built his house upon the sand. The foolish man built his house upon the sand, and the rains came tumbling down. The rains came down and the floods came up. The rains came down and floods came up. The rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand went splat!"

So, this morning I was reading my Bible and I read the passage this song came from. It goes like this, and Jesus is talking:
"Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock; and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. and great was its fall." (Matthew 7:24-27)

When I read that I started thinking how people talk about the wise man and the foolish man, and no one ever thinks they are the foolish man because we don't talk about what made the wise man wise or the foolish man foolish, what makes us wise or foolish.

It's in the response.

Both men heard Jesus' sayings, they heard the Word, but they each did something differently with what they heard. This struck me, that two people go to church and listen to the message- maybe shout amen, nod their heads, clap, and so on- they look the same. Yet something happens and one falls and the other does not- same storms of life, both in church- one can withstand the storm and the other crumbles.
What's the difference?
It's the part you don't see on Sunday morning. It's how they lived the rest of the week. The wise man took what the Word says and did it, he built his house- or his life- on the Word- Jesus- and it stood strong. The foolish man didn't do anything with the Word, and in doing nothing he built his house- his life- on sand, the unsolid foundation of this world, and when the storm came he had no strength to withstand, and fell. It says, "And great was it's fall."

So, how do we build our lives on a solid foundation? Do what the Word, or the Bible, says. Be a doer of the Word, not just a hearer only, like James says:
"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." (James 1:22)

School Building- the Latest!

2008-12-29T15:54:00.000-08:00

I'm am excited and looking forward to the completion of the school building in Guatemala! I have an update for you on the progress of the building.

Before Christmas I learned that tile was up on the walls, with plans to finish the floor after Christmas, in one of the bathrooms. (Yippee for progress!)

Today I found out what still needs to be completed and how much is needed for that...so I want to share it with you, then if it's in your heart to do, you can get involved! =)

The total cost still needed is $3,500. This includes: stucco, 4 doors, 4 windows, finishing the boys bathroom, an area for washing, and the electrical connection by the power company.

To me that doesn't sound like a lot of money...I'm sure if we get behind this it could be done quickly. I know I'm personally doing something about this, and I hope you'll join me. It is going to be wonderful for the children to have a school building!

Thank you for taking the time to think about this opportunity to bless these precious children!
Have a happy New Year!!!! =D

Want to get involved? Here's what to do:

1) Make checks payable to Mutual Faith Ministries International (MFMI)

2) Clearly designate: For LIFE Unlimited Guatemala- School
3) Mail to:
MFMI c/o LIFE Unlimited
P.O. Box 951060
Mission Hills, CA 91395-1060

School building progress

2008-12-15T21:00:00.000-08:00

I want to share the vision for the school with you, and then some pictures. =)

The vision for the school is primarily that the children know Christ and secondarily to provide the children with a good education so they can break the cycle of poverty. Without that good education when the children leave the home they struggle. However, with a good education they have a better chance of success. The children who have seen others leave the home without an education and have seen their struggle now have a vision for education. These children better understand the value of a good education.

The vision also includes providing the children with an education in computers, using a library, and developing life skills in addition to the basic subjects.

Below are some pictures of what the school looks like now. So much progress has taken place since I last posted pictures of it. Enjoy! =)

<----- Here is the school! =)

This is one of two bathrooms. ----->

(They still need toilets, stalls, sinks, and tile on the walls and floors.)

<---- This is a closet.

(A great place for needed shelving.)

The second part of the school. ---->

(It still needs stucco and paint.)

<------ This is the office.

(It needs office furniture and shelving.)

This is one of five classrooms! ---->

(Won't it look great with the needed desks and writing boards?!)

I would like to see this school completed. The school year in Guatemala starts in January and the goal is to have two class rooms and the bathrooms completed by then. Would you help? Beyond the things I wrote beside the pictures, these things are also needed to complete the school:

windows and doors (special doors and windows which will protect everything inside)

pavers blocks (for the courtyard in front of the school- an area for the children to play)

curtains, etc. for decoration

pencil sharpeners, etc. for school use

computers

library

$1800 is needed at this point for the windows and doors.

If you would be interested in helping finish the school building for these precious children, please do the following:

1) Make checks payable to Mutual Faith Ministries International (MFMI)

2) Clearly designate: For LIFE Unlimited Guatemala- School
3) Mail to:
MFMI c/o LIFE Unlimited
P.O. Box 951060
Mission Hills, CA 91395-1060

A family tradition...

2008-12-14T16:35:00.000-08:00

One of our family traditions to is to go as a family to find a Christmas tree, cut it down, bring it home, and decorate it. We really enjoy this time together. It's just fun! =)
This year the wind was very cold out in the fields...and being that I just returned from Guatemala not that long ago, it felt even colder to me. But it was still a great time. Great memories! =)

Back in the States...

2008-12-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

<------- I went from here,

<--------- to here!

Yes, I am back in the cold of the northern United States. Quite a temp change for me going from Guatemala to Illinois! There are also many other things different being back in the States. But I'm here planning my wedding...YEAH!!! =D

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

I had a great Thanksgiving this year. We had the official Thanksgiving dinner a few days before with all the kids from the home. Then the family (the one I'm marrying into) headed off to the beach. It was so wonderful. =) We just relaxed...walking on the beach, playing in the waves, laying by the pool, swimming...very nice! We also released sea turtles into the ocean. It was a very good time in all...here's some of the pictures. Enjoy! =)

BIG NEWS!!! =D

2008-11-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

Well, the BIG news is that I got engaged on Sunday night (16th of November)!!!! =D
Since I sent everyone here for the details on how I got engaged...here they are. =)

It started about 5:30pm on Sunday. Micah and I were not really doing anything, just hanging out. Then Micah asked if I was doing anything at around 7:00. I said I didn't have any plans. So, he said I could come up in nice clothes at 7:00. (I had a very good idea of what was coming.) Now, I don't think I've ever taken an hour and a half to do so little with getting myself ready to go somewhere. (I was so full of anticipation and excitement that I didn't know what to do with myself...I felt so girly!)

Anyway, at about 7pm we left for the city...we live out in the country. But as we were leaving he told his parents when we'd be back, which we don't usually specify. (Another hint as to what was coming.) We went to eat at La Hacienda (a nice steak restaurant in Guatemala). We ate our meal and talked, then we ordered dessert. When it came he couldn't eat because he knew what was coming, and I didn't eat because he wasn't. Micah was really nervous and we tried to talk about something...which ended up being the way the dessert was decorated.

Then Micah started talking about the real subject at hand. =) He asked if I was happy with the way things are (us "not dating" dating...because I don't "date"), [and I said yes]...if I wanted to just keep going like this [I said no.]...or if I'd rather be engaged [I said yes]. He said that if he could move his legs he'd do something about it...and after a little bit he did. He stood up and took a box out of his pocket, walked around to the other side of me, and got down on his knee. He said he'd had this, referring to what was in the box, for a long time and wanted to ask me. Then he asked if I would marry him. I said yes. He put the ring on my finger. The ring size is perfect. The stone size is perfect. It's beautiful! People clapped and cheered and the waiters came over with this thing that makes noise like fireworks. (Then we got back to dessert...but I couldn't eat for a while because I was so excited.)

What an amazing experience! I'm loving being engaged! Here's a picture of the ring:

So much joy and excitement these last few days- first with getting engaged, of course, then the fun of telling everyone about it. =)
So, now you know too...

The Pacaya

2008-11-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

I went on an adventure last Sunday...I climbed a volcano for the first time! What a climb the last part was. But it's rather amazing to see and do...'cause I can say- I climbed a volcano! =) The glowing picture is of the inside of the volcano. Enjoy!

Greetings from Guatemala!

2008-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

We are near the official end of summer. The weather here isn't like I'm used to summer being, so it didn't really feel like summer. Some things have been changing here and I’ll try to update you on the way things are now. Praise be to God for His faithfulness! He is taking care of me and leading me forward step by step.

The big change here is in what I’m doing with the majority of my time. Instead of teaching Joaquin and Marcos, I am now working in LIFE Tender Mercy Home. (The home I helped in when I was here last August.)

I am working with seven children in the mornings. We sing songs, read stories, play with play dough, color, play with puzzles, and play in general. I speak to them mostly in English and they are understanding a lot in the three months I’ve been working with them.

In the afternoons there are three more children, making ten total. When the weather is nice, we play in the park. Afterward I help with baths. With one person bathing and one dressing the children, all ten can have their baths done in less than an hour, even a half hour. The system works well. =)

I am enjoying working with the young children. The littlest are under two years old. The oldest are ten years old. There are the joys and challenges that come with working with children, but I am enjoying it and continuing to grow and learn.

Children’s clubs are still on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. I am also continuing to teach English class to three of the older boys, though now two days a week instead of three.

I work in Tender Mercy all day Monday- Friday, and in the morning on Saturday. English class is Monday and Wednesday just before dinner. After working all week I thoroughly enjoy my day and half off on the weekends. It is a good time to have some fun relaxing before beginning the next week. (As well as try to catch up on some things.) My favorite thing to do by far with my free time is hang out with Micah- who I mentioned briefly in my previous newsletter. We have now become more than friends and really enjoy time we get to spend together.

I really enjoy working with the kids in this home. Even when I’m so tired in the morning, when I walk through the door and the kids come running for a hug it brightens my day so much. They are sweet children and I am glad to have this opportunity to love on and work with them. =)

I appreciate your continued support! I so appreciate those of you who continue to support me financially and through prayer! It does make a difference. Thank you!

And Three Months Later...

2008-07-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

If anyone still looks at this blog...it's been about three months since I wrote anything. Well, I'm still alive and living in Guatemala. =)

Life is busy working with children mostly. I'll try to write more later...

Hehehe

It's a New Season...

2008-04-03T13:36:00.001-07:00

So, I had a week off the mission field for spring break, toward the middle/end of March. Since school was out and I wasn’t teaching, I had the opportunity to visit family and friends in the States. It was a much needed and much enjoyed time. I thank God for the opportunity to see everyone and be refreshed.

I don’t know about your life, but I am in a new season. I’m not really sure what things are going to look like in this new season, but I do know that it will be good because I know that God has good plans in store for us. =)

So, it’s after spring break and I’m back teaching, but a little differently. Now I am more in a internship for teaching. I still teach some classes, other classes I observe and assist with whatever is needed. I am learning through observing and hands on application.

The children’s clubs are continuing. As I have gotten to know the children better, and my Spanish continues to improve, things seem to be going better. Of course there are challenges, but God is faithful. I am excited about something I started with the girls last week in their meeting. I started teaching them a dance to “I’m Trading My Sorrows” by Darrell Evans. They are enjoying it as well. =)

(I actually used this song, along with my friend Ana Ana, to teach a dance to children in Mexico last March. I am glad that I am getting to use it again!)

Something new that just started after my return to Guatemala is that I am now teaching English to three of the older boys. This is a new experience for me and I am learning a whole new set of things with this. They are well behaved and want to learn- so it is an enjoyable time. We have classes three times a week.

I have been really learning a lot lately spiritually as well, or at least I’m now realizing some things. I’ve “known” over and over that I need to study who I am in Christ. In the past I’ve started and haven’t continued to where I actually get it. This time I have a piece of paper on my wall that I am sticking smaller papers to as I come across a verse or something that tells me who I am. For example: “I am accepted. ‘to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.’ Ephesians 1:6”

If you don’t know who you are in Christ, I greatly encourage you to open up the Bible and find out how God sees you...if you haven’t learned how He sees you I’m sure that you don’t see yourself how He does. It is so wonderful how He sees us- and that is the truth about us, not how we feel or what others say about us. I also recommend you listen to Pastor Joe Barlow and his sermon from March 16, 2008 called “Making Disciples 9- Identity in Christ pt. 1” and his sermon from March 30, 2008 called “Making Disciples 9- Identity in Christ pt. 2 (the real one)”. You can access these sermons through the website: familylife.cc or through itunes, look for Family Life Christian Center. These, and a few other sources, have greatly encouraged me to once again find out how God sees me- and this time keep going until I actually see myself that way!

So, yes, God is at work in my life and all is well. I really APPRECIATE those of you who continue to pray for me. I KNOW it makes a difference!

That’s an update on my life...if you’d like to write and let me know what God is doing in your life via email, I’d like to hear about it. Though I can’t promise I’ll be able to respond, or that a response will be in a timely manner, I will enjoy reading what God is doing in your life. =)

“And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” Romans 16:20

School building update...

2008-03-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest view of the school building...

I keep trying to post a video (I've been trying for days)...and therefore posting this picture has been delayed as well. If the video comes through, great! Otherwise, there's just this picture of the school.

Puppies!!!

2008-03-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm not really a dog person, however, these puppies are cute and I know some people would want to see them. (Yes, Sam, this is mostly for you.) =)

So, enjoy the pics...they have grown soooo much since they were born.

A time change?

2008-03-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's a little late...

Last Sunday there was a time change because of the sun (day light savings) in the United States, and maybe much of the world. Well, here there wasn't. Just so you know, I'm now an hour earlier than Central Standard Time, so I guess now we're the same as Mountain Time.

In case you're trying to catch me at a certain time...that's what's happening here. =)

Oh, and if you live near my family or go to Family Life Christian Center, I'll be in town next week. So, make sure you don't skip church the next two Sundays if you want to see me. =)

Tortillas, part 2

2008-02-29T04:46:00.000-08:00

Here's what the tortillas look like after they're shaped and cooked. Yummy! =)

Okay, they're not perfectly round, but they still taste good!

Tortillas!!!!

2008-02-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, so when I was in Guatemala for a month, mostly in August, I learned how to make tortillas. Well, really I watched and tried to make tortillas, but they didn't turn out round and beautiful like the ones the women made who were showing me how to do it.

Well, this week we ran out of bread- so Sam and I decided to make tortillas. The first time was somewhat of an experiment to get the right amount of mix and water combined. From there I was amazed at how round the tortillas turned out! I was so happy they weren't falling apart and as oddly shaped as before. I'm sure there were several that didn't make the circle shape complete- but I was satisfied with my work. And they tasted good too! =)

So, here's some of what it looked like when I was making tortillas...

Windows of Opportunity

2008-02-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15

"You shall teach them diligently to your children, and you shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up." Deuteronomy 6:7

There are opportunities to speak into the life of a child, or really anyone for that matter. Sometimes the opportunity comes in the form of a question. Sometimes in the form of a comment.

For example, I was reading my Bible to one of my students. He recognized part of the armor of God because of a song we sang in class. I was able to tell him how when he speaks the Word of God it's like a sword. The example I used was Ephesians 6:1, which he also recognized from a song, to illustrate if he was being tempted to disobey, he could say, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." to fight as a sword against the enemy.

There are little windows of opportunity to speak into the lives of those around us. Keep your ear tuned to the Holy Spirit and be aware of the opportunities that arise.

Enjoy the journey!

~Rebecca

Hidden in Christ

A First Mission Trip...

2008-02-18T16:52:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted, so here's a bit of what has been happening...

I've been taking care of the boys, aka my students and their older brother, for a bit over a week now. Thankfully, one of my best friends, Samantha, is here helping me! I am soooooo glad she's here!!!! (I can't emphasize that enough.) So, I'm going to take a moment to talk about her. =)

This is her first mission trip, and I'm excited it's with me! She has been helping me by taking care of cleaning, cooking, laundry, and also playing with the boys when I need a break. (It's a lot I know.) Beyond that she is helping me by just being here. Having a friend here helps so much- because laughter is good like medicine. =)

I am so thankful that she's here!!! (I did mention that, right?) She has been encouraging me and help me get some things back on track. God is speaking through her into my life- reminding me of things I've known and helping me see things that I couldn't see. Again, I'm so thankful for her coming and helping me! =)

[Sam, you're such a blessing to me!!!! Thank you!] =D

A Quick Packing Job...

2008-02-08T17:08:00.000-08:00

It is so interesting to me how quickly I can pack when I have less stuff!
So, since I'm staying up with the boys while the Dvoraks are in Africa, I had to pack for a month. When I came for a month in August I had a packing list WAY ahead of time and took at least a day to pack.
So, yesterday I decided I should pack. So, in the morning I put a few things out. Then that afternoon I pulled some more things out on the bed. Last night I put everything into a suitcase and grabbed everything else- except what I should throw in this morning. It probably, in all, took about 2 hrs! I like that so much better than spending a ton of time on it. =)
Today, I brought it all upstairs. It seems funny to have to pack for a month when I just moved up the hill- but it's true.
I'm heading into a month of filling in as mom, I guess you could say, for 3 children- really 2 children and 1 teen. I know that God will help me- so I know it will be good. =)
And life is just easier with less stuff- quite a lesson to learn coming from the western culture.
Well, that's all for now...
Hidden in Christ

Strength...

2008-02-01T13:56:00.001-08:00

*This picture really has nothing to do with this post, besides that it was something I ate while here in Guatemala. =)*

Lately I've really been needing God's strength. And I've seen some things in familiar verses that I hadn't noticed before. So, I thought I'd share it with you...some is just me thinking, but here it is:

"that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man," Ephesians 3:16

Strengthened with might through His Spirit according to the riches of His glory. It's not strengthened according to how much I do what I'm supposed to do- how much I read the Bible and pray (though they're important and strengthening to the spirit.)
I'm not strengthened according to how much I do everything right.
I'm not strengthened based on how I feel about myself, if I'm confident and outgoing.
I am strengthened according to the riches of His glory!
The riches of His glory are immense, far reaching, beyond me- far beyond my need.
His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, strengthens my inner man, or my spirit.
Praise God for His strength!

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us," Ephesians 3:20

According to the power that works in us. That could be according to the level we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us. Or it could be according to the power, which is of the Holy Spirit. It must be according to the power of God, which is at work in me also, because according to this power He does exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. The power available doesn't appear limited in any way. So, this unlimited power is at work in me and can do exceedingly, abundantly, above all I ask or think!

To Him, indeed, be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen! (verse 21)

His power is at work in me. And He can do exceedingly abundantly above all I ask or think. So much more than I ask, God is able to do. Much more than I even think, God is able to do.
So, He says, ask and it will be given to you. (Matthew 7:7)
And whatever you ask in My Name I will do it. (John 14:14)
The ability is unlimited. I need only ask! Praise God!

An exploring school day...

2008-01-27T21:30:00.000-08:00

Friday was a casual school day...

My students and I headed out for a morning of exploring and learning- in an all fun way! =)

We walked up and down the hill. We look at the trees. We made things out of pine needles. We picked flowers. We gathered pine cones. We sang songs. We read a story. We had a picnic snack.

Then it started to rain and get cold, according to the climate here...

So, we moved our "camp" inside and continued with our fun.

We pressed some flowers in wax paper to save the beauty for another day.

We had a great time learning as we played. =)

These are pictures from our outdoor school day.

The School Building is Really Going Up...

2008-01-21T17:21:00.000-08:00

The new school building is really going up fast. There was a team working here last week and a new team is coming out this week. Here's some video of what it looked like while they were working last week. There's even more done now. Enjoy!

First Meeting for the Girls...

2008-01-17T15:59:00.000-08:00

Today was the first meeting of the international children's club for the girls. I think it went very well!

There were 4 girls in the meeting. They were so excited. =) They got to dress up and they got to go in my room- which all the children love to be allowed to do. So, I decided to use the kind of living room for the girls to meet in. A special treat. =)

I didn't have a translator for this one. Interesting choice I my part really because some of the boys are bilingual and I had a translator, yet none of the girls know English and I didn't have one. However, I have the Holy Spirit and I have been learning a lot of Spanish since I was here in August apparently. I was able to carry on- though I wasn't sure I got everything across as I planned at some points. I think it went very well. I'm excited about what God is doing! =D

The boys' club begins...

2008-01-15T16:58:00.000-08:00

Today we had the first meeting for the boys branch of the international children's club! =)

There were six boys and we went for a hike down the hill in the woods. Some of them call it a ditch.

After hiking down to a more open area, we sat down and I pulled out the flannel board and Betty Luken felts. Using the Spanish version of the story I told them about creation. We went from complete darkness through day five. I think the boys enjoyed being allowed to go down the hill- they love it...the being boys sort of thing. =)

Hermano Roberto came with to help translate when I didn't know the words. I read the story in Spanish and added some things that he translated for me. I'll get to the point where I can say it all myself- but I'm still learning.

I think it went well for the first meeting. Praise God! I was nervous about starting- but I knew it was the right thing to do. So, yeah!

Thursday is the first meeting for the girls branch of the club. It will go well also, I'm sure. It will be the same lesson- with a more girly environment. =)

Well, off again...
Blessings on you!

Shaking in church...

2008-01-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit behind in posting about this, but I thought I'd let you know about Sunday's church service. It was my second time being in a Spanish speaking church in Guatemala. The first time I didn't understand much at all. So, this time Becky asked one of the older boys to translate for me. He did his best, as hard as it was because of how fast everything was said without pauses, and it made a big difference in how much I understood. I was very grateful for the help!

Okay, at the beginning. We arrived at church in the van (this van holds a lot of people, yet is narrow and has a good turning radius). So we got out of the van, went in the church, and found seats- worship had already started. I really like that they have the words to the songs on the wall because I can understand more and can actually follow along. I knew two of the songs in English, so it was easier to sing them in Spanish- I already knew the tune. In both songs that I knew, the power went out!

Now, the power going out here is not really the same as if it went out in the USA. When the power goes out here, it's just a normal part of life- everyone keeps on going, sometimes adjusting for the lack of light or something. So, when the power went out in church, everyone kept on singing and a guitar was unplugged to go acoustic. So, things carried on...

During the sermon, translation helped soooo much! The power was still out for most of the service- so everyone scooted closer and the pastor talked louder. During the service, there was a smallish, I guess, earthquake. Everyone sitting felt it. It started at one side and moved across to the other. The interesting things was the pastor didn't feel it and kept on preaching. People started waving him to the side- away from the hanging speakers. He realized what was happening and moved back. The the earthquake ended and service continued...as if nothing happened! Amazing. =)

There have been several earthquakes in the past week- though none for a few days now. The biggest was probably on Friday- which was the previous post. There has been no damage that I know of. God's hand is on us and He is taking care of us. It is so good to be in His care.

Well, that's all for now...there's a prayer meeting soon...
I'm safe in His hand.

Earthquake!

2008-01-05T13:56:00.000-08:00

Last night was interesting here.

It was going along as a normal Friday night of watching the boys (my two students)- even after the power went out.

When the power went out, we were suddenly done with the movie (which had just frozen up anyway) and it was time to brush teeth and get in bed. My plan was to light some candles and get them off to sleep as quickly as possible.

It was just the routine (which I'm still learning) of getting the flashlight and lighting candles. As I was going to light the first candle, the match broke. Before I could get out another match, everything started shaking. (So thankfully no candles were lit.) I don't remember being in anything like that before, so I didn't really know what to do at the time.

I did what I knew to do. I held the boys close to me and tried to keep them calm. (They've been in earthquakes before and don't have fun memories of them.) I told them it was okay and God was taking care of us. I remembered a story Becky told of an earthquake- and that they went outside- so I moved us toward the door.

The shaking didn't last very long. When it stopped, I had the door open, and Hermano David and some of the older boys were coming up the stairs to make sure we were okay.
We were fine- no damage done...just some shaking up.

So, they took the boys down and I ran and grabbed their blankets and pillows, so they could sleep downstairs.

Downstairs we all stood close to the walls. The older boys lit some candles and put them on the tile floor. After a bit, and Hermano David checking on the kids in the other houses, and an evacuation plan was set up for any more earthquakes during the night, mattresses were brought out of the older boys rooms and everyone settled down. (The power came back on somewhere in there.)

The two boys and I settled onto one mattress. Really they were settled into it, and I was kinda on the side of it, falling off. (But my goal wasn't to sleep, just to help them get to sleep.) All the boys were told to keep their shoes on while they slept, in case they needed to get out of the house fast.

After a while everyone quieted down and went to sleep...or were at least quiet.

I dozed on and off. When I'd start to really fall asleep though, I'd start falling off the bed and wake up. =)

Maybe almost two hours after the earthquake David and Becky got back from their day out. They had felt the earthquake where they were too. After they got back, and the two boys were moved up to their beds, I went down to my bed.

As I was going to sleep I remembered Psalm 91. It's really a good chapter to think about! The part I thought about was, though a thousand fall at my side and ten thousand at my right hand, it will not come near me- or anyone on this property! We are protected. God's hand is on us.
Then another verse came to mind: the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him and He delivers them.

How good it is to be taken care of by the Almighty GOD!!!!

First Day of School...

2008-01-03T14:52:00.000-08:00

I just finished my first day of teaching here in Guatemala. It went well.

The first day of school starts with an sort of opening ceremony. Different people participated in different ways. Being that I'm still learning Spanish, I prayed in English...they were okay with that. (The prayer was my part.)

After opening the school year I got started teaching. I showed my students their books and some school supplies- which they were excited to start using!

I'm still getting the feel of how everything will really flow, but I've at least started and can adjust as needed. God is faithful!

Yesterday the power went out in the afternoon and was out for much of the night, coming on for a brief time- maybe an hour- before going out again. The power outage was due to the wind- it was howling around the house. The temperature has for sure dropped in the last day or two. It was in the 40s last night. (I noticed this morning that my bedroom windows were not closed all the way...so, in the future I should be a bit warmer than I have been at night!)

I am so blessed! Today the classrooms were changed around and I now have a sort of sweet- bed room, bathroom, and middle room that is larger-which I think will be great for worship dance! I have so much of my own space now! It's such a blessing!!!!

I'm not only developing a good relationship with my students, I also gets lots of hugs and "Rebecca"'s when I walk into the main room of the house where I'm staying. All but the youngest in that house come for hugs and want to talk to me- some in Spanish which is helpful. =)

I really am blessed! God's grace is on me for the cold as well- I have to keep remembering that. There are for sure people who have a lot less than me!

Remember, God loves you soooooo much!!!!!!
Until next time...

The Night Before...

2008-01-02T07:20:00.000-08:00

I’m in bed getting ready to sleep for the night at 7:40pm- wow!

Well, tomorrow everything begins. Tomorrow is the teacher’s planning meeting- the only day to prepare for the school year, including an opening ceremony. So, we’ll be busy. Did I mention it’ll be in Spanish? Well, yes, from my understanding, the night before, it will be in Spanish...and I will be submersed in the language. Though my hope is that someone will help me when I get stuck. If there is no one else, I know that the Holy Spirit is my Helper. And He is more than enough.

This day, and yesterday, were pretty much filled with preparations for the meeting tomorrow. I have taught before, but not in this way. I haven’t had to present my goals for the year, my year plan, and the first week’s lesson plans, before the first day. So, I’ve been trying to prepare for something I’m not really clear what it will be like. But I know God will not leave me no matter what happens tomorrow.

So, we’ll see what tomorrow holds. But for now, I need some sleep- it will be an early morning and a full day. Catch you later!

Getting Settled In...

2007-12-28T21:58:00.000-08:00

After my first night of trying to sleep, but thinking a lot, I woke up to a sunny room. The sun shone through and lit up the yellow room- making it more alive and cheerful than before.

When I finally decided to get out of the warm covers and get started unpacking, things got underway with getting settled.

I unpacked and organized what I could of my belongings into a desk and under the bed Then I organized two suitcases as a make shift dresser (more like two trunks) for the time being. I may get a dresser, or I may end up using some closets in the bathroom...whatever works. =)

After everything had a place, it was nearing noon, and I headed up to look after my soon to be students for the day.

Teaching begins this coming Thursday. I am told that this weekend I’m being thrust into the culture. A quincinata tomorrow- the 15th birthday is a very big deal. Then there’s church, in Spanish, on Sunday. Then of course the teachers meeting, in Spanish, on Wednesday....now that should be interesting. =)

So, I’m being submersed in the culture and language- which I hear is the best was to learn it but is also quite difficult.

Well, it’s almost time to play in the park. It is a warm day here- a t-shirt is a great choice in the intense sun. Here I go...

Launch...

2007-12-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

Flying into Miami was beautiful. We flew along the coast. As we went inland, there were small lakes, river, tributaries, and so on surrounded by houses. There were narrow golf courses surrounded by houses. It all looked like a luxury place.

Now I have a fairly short layover before the next flight- on to Guatemala!

*****

Well....a bit longer layover- delayed an hour right now.

*****

We finally took off- in a sparsely filled, large plane.

Flying into Guatemala City, two hours late, I could see the city lights. They were in clusters that seemed to go around mountains or something- I couldn’t tell from the air.
After landing and going through customs, I collected my luggage and connected them into a “ducks in a row” configuration. It worked pretty well. On my own, there’s no other way I could manage six bags on wheels and one on my arm- yes I know, LOTS of luggage! (I’m still working on is the traveling light concept.) =D

The whole Dvorak family, living in Guatemala, was there to pick me up. After getting all my bags loaded, we headed off up the mountain. When we turned onto the dirt road leading to the property I felt more like I was in familiar territory. It was a more comfortable and peaceful feeling. The road itself was smoother than when I was here in the rainy season- I was told they recently smoothed it out.

After moving my belongings into what is now my room, I fished out what I needed and got to bed. However, I didn’t really sleep as much as I could have. My brain was running with hundreds of thoughts. It seemed like I was awake and asleep much of the night- which was actually morning because I got to bed at midnight. But it wasn’t stressful- just possessing everything I think.

So, I’ve been launched onto the mission field! =)

Letting Go...

2007-12-05T05:03:00.000-08:00

As I am in transition to the mission field, my blog is also in transition. I guess it is becoming a lot more personal, as far as what I share. I think this post shows that...

God started talking to me this summer about letting go. He asked me to let go of specific thing in my life. He also asked me to release the grip I had on some relationships and dreams for the future. More recently, He has been asking me to let go of myself.

A dream God asked me to let go of was ever getting married and having children of my own. After crying out to God for help and battling myself, I let go. I betrothed myself to Jesus Christ and contented myself in Him. He is all I need. [Over a month after that event *(I went back and looked and it was 2 months and 11 days afterward), God told me I would get married some day. Having let go of the whole thing already, I am content to wait for His timing.]

There are many "things" God asked me to let go of. One of the first requests to "let go" was that I simplify my stuff- preparing to be able to pick up and leave for the mission field at some unknown time. I began, but didn't finish. I am still in process of simplifying and letting go, though I now know I am moving to the mission field in less than a month. This has been a hard process because of the materialistic atmosphere which surrounds us in the western world. It also has to do with thinking in lack. I'll explain this. It's not that I have any lack. I have everything I need- I've never missed a meal because we had no food; I never had to sleep on the street because we had no house; I never had to go around naked because I had no clothes. I have been, and am, well provided for. This thinking in lack, for me, has looked like saving so many things that I'm not using "in case" I need them later in life. As if God is unable to provide for me when the need arises. Really, God is more than able to provide, and He will take care of me. So, I can freely give away what I don't currently need and ask my Father for the things I need. My Father is good.

Now, as for letting go of myself, well that is more current. I'm just coming to the realization that God wants me to not only let go of my "stuff", but also myself. The tendency when God asks me to do something is to try to do it in my own strength. The attitude is like, "Okay, that is what God wants me to do, so I'm going to do it. Now how can I get this done?" What I'm realizing is what Jesus said, "without Me, you can do nothing." I really cannot accomplish what He has called me to do on my own. Of course I "knew that." However, the way I actually live shows that I still try to do everything in my own strength. This of course leads to stress, fatigue, frustration, worry, fear, thinking in lack, and so on. Yet, to really let go of myself and trying to "get it all done" would be much more effective, provided of course I allow God to work through me. It's not striving and struggling. It's letting go. It's not giving into the pressure to use my mind to figure out how it all fits in my schedule and pushing until it's "done". There is some satisfaction in a job accomplished, yes, but does that bear any fruit? Certainly not the quality or quantity that would have been reached by relying on God. It seems a foreign concept to let go and abandon self in this self-focused culture, so I'm not sure what it all looks like in practicality. This I know, I cannot do what I am supposed to do on this planet in my own ability. I need God working through me every day of my life- every moment. Those times when I have surrendered to God and let Him work through me have been sweet and fruitful. Sadly, I have many memories of relying on my own strength and being stressed out and then not even reaching my goal. I don't want that anymore. I want to walk with my Father, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and fulfill what He has called me to do in this time on earth.

So, here's my conclusion: I give up! God, whatever You want to do through me, You may do. It's not my own strength or ability. It's You in me. I am Yours, so have Your way in me.

*SIGH* =)
There's a freedom in saying "I give up" and completely surrendering to God. =)

Let's see what comes of it. All the glory to God! =)

Maasai?

2007-11-27T17:30:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the word Massai? Do you know what it is about?

How would it feel if you or I could put a Bible into the hands of a pastor, who has never had a Bible, in another country?

Back to the first question...
The Maasai are a people group who live in Tanzania and Kenya, in east Africa. They live in the Maasailand and speak Maasai.

Now, back to the Bible question...
What would it be like to place a Bible into the hands of a Maasai pastor, in his own language? Or what would it be like to be part of that process of getting it there? That's what I want to find out. A complete Bible cost $4.50* (US). So, for about what it costs to get a Starbucks coffee drink, you or I could provide a complete Bible in Maasai to place into the hands of a Maasai pastor. What a great thought! =)

Children are very important to me, so this sounds amazing to me as well...think about this...
Imagine placing a Maasai New Testament Bible into the hands of a child. The child could then learn at a young age about Jesus Christ and live a full life with a relationship with Him- not caught up in things in this life that don't satisfy. Well, a New Testament in Maasai only cost $2.85* (US). How about that!

That sounds like something I want to be part of...how about you?

(*Prices are from 2006.)

Full Time Missions

2007-11-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

Okay, so here's some start up details about my life on the mission field full-time...those of you who received a letter from me via snail mail have already read most of this information. For the rest of you, here it is:

I recently spent a month at a children's home in Guatemala with David and Becky Dvorak & Life Unlimited Ministries associated with Keith Hershey & Mutual Faith Ministries. While there for that month I was invited to become a missionary on the field with the Dvoraks. God spoke to my heart that it's time for me to move forward with this life desire, so I am moving to Guatemala! My vacation time will now be coming to the States!!! I am very excited to have this opportunity to minister alongside missionaries who have been on the mission field for over thirteen years! =)

Some of what I will be doing in Guatemala includes teaching two of the boys the Dvoraks are adopting, starting up an International Children's Club, and starting up a consistent Sunday School class.

In addition to this ministry in Guatemala, in the future I will be making trips with the Dvoraks to the Maasailand in Tanzania. After the boys I am teaching are adopted, they will accompany their parents on the trips, and I will continue teaching them to Tanzania.

I will have many unforeseen opportunities to learn and grow in the years ahead. I am very much looking forward to all God has in store for me...I know it's good! =)

Since I am moving to a new location, where mail takes longer to travel, I will be posting updates of what I'm doing here, on my blog. My departure date is December 27th, 2007...so I'm off and running soon. =)

Your prayers are greatly desired- and are highly effective! If you'd like to receive prayer updates, email me and let me know. lovendancn@yahoo(dot)com

If you want to give financially, look to the right side of this page under "Want to be involved?" for information. I'm only asking you to do what is in your heart. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Abundant blessings overtake you!
Reaching a Generation Among the Nations

No doubt about it!

2007-11-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

I was reading in James yesterday and then other scriptures started coming to mind...it was so good, and it brought together some things in my heart I've been hearing in sermons. So, I thought I would share it with you:

"If any of you lacks wisdom let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."
~ James 1:5-8

God gives without reproach! We are to ask in faith, not doubt, and we'll be stable and receive from God.

So this is what I've decided, based on what God says: I do not doubt. I am stable standing on the Word. I ask and receive all God has for me. Nothing is withheld from me. I lack nothing. When I ask in faith, I know I will receive from God. No doubt about it. It's on its way!

"So Jesus answered and said to them, 'Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be removed and be cast into the sea." and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them." ~ Mark 11:22-24

My Father is so good. I don't have to work under great stress to get what I need. I can simply ask and believe Him. Wow! What a loving, all powerful Father I have!

"And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it." ~ John 14:13-14

God is so good! This is beyond this world's system and requirements. Having resources is not difficult. I can simply ask God and believe Him. Wow! I am thankful! Then I don't have to concern myself with "making money", I can simply do the work God has called me to do! That takes stress off. My Father is soooo good!

Life- to the extreme

2007-10-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

I was thinking this morning about some things and just started writing things down, and it developed into this:

"...And by His [Jesus] stripes we are healed." ~Isaiah 53:5

"who Himself [Jesus] bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness- by whose stripes you were healed." ~1 Peter 2:24

"...healing all kinds of sickness and all kids of disease among the people...they brought to Him [Jesus] all sick people who were afflicted with various diseases and torments, and those who were demon-possessed, epileptics and paralytics, and He healed them." ~ Matthew 5:23-24

"When evening had come, they brought to Him [Jesus] many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 'He Himself took our infirmities, and bore our sicknesses.'" ~ Matthew 8:16-17

So, when Jesus was beaten, before He was nailed to the cross, He purchased our healing. He carried all our sickness and disease. He took it all. He bore it all. Because He was beaten, we are healed. By His injury we were healed. So, since He already bore our sickness, disease, and pain, why should we bear it again? He already made a way for us to walk in health- nothing missing, nothing broken...nothing out of place, nothing weak- full of strength and vigor for life. Abundant life.

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I [Jesus] have come that they may have life, and that they more have it more abundantly." John 10:10

Jesus came so we can have abundant life, not dragging through the mud, barely making it life. ABUNDANT LIFE! =D That sounds good to me!

Abundant life...what does that look like?

Hmmm...well, abundance- having more than enough, not just a little more than needed, but this great big overflow! Overflow of what? Life.

So, life is just overflowing out of us. Abundant life. That brings to mind things like:
-Joy, certainly not depression. No matter what the situation, just a joy that bubbles over. A happiness and excitement about life that isn't limited by the circumstances. Even in the very worst circumstances there is something to smile about. If nothing else: God loves us! Yet, there's even so much more than that most of us can be thankful for.
So, joy, what else?

-Well, certainly walking in complete health. Abundant life, unhindered by pain or sickness. So, if we're completely healthy is that abundance, or just enough for our own self. I think abundance would look like being so full of this life of God that it overflows to other people. It could look like it did with Peter:

"So that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed." ~Acts 5:15-16

Or what happened with Peter and John:

"And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, 'Look at us.' So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.' And he took him by the hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them- walking, leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God." ~Acts 3:2-9

Then why should we be able to do this? Jesus is the Healer, not us, right? Yes, Jesus Christ is the Healer. However, this is what He said before He returned to heaven:

"'And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will speak with new tongues, they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.'" ~Mark 16:17-18

Wow! Just think about that! Then, after you've gotten a hold of what it says, start living it! Enjoy the extreme life God has for you- abundant life! =D

Need Resources?

2007-10-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

"'Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.'" John 14:12-14

The resources and backing for work in the Kingdom of God are there, ready and available. It's all in order to advance the Kingdom of God and glorify the Father.

Because I believe in Jesus, I can do the same works He did on earth, and even greater works. Whatever I ask in the name of Jesus- according to His will (found the Bible) and character- He'll do it, in order to bring glory to the Father. =)

Specifically Created

2007-10-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

"The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.'
'Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said, "I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.'
But the LORD said to me, 'Do not say, "I am only a child." You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,' declares the LORD. Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, 'Now, I have put my words in your mouth.'" (Jeremiah 1:4-9)

I love these verses! It shows how God created us each specifically for a purpose. I like what "The Principles and Power of Vision" says about this:

"Notice that God used the past tense. He had already set apart and appointed Jeremiah as a prophet. Yet at first, Jeremiah responded, 'I do not know how to speak' (v.6). God's reaction was, in effect, 'Do not say that! If I built you to be a prophet, don't tell Me you can't talk!'...
...Again, whatever God is causing you to dream is a revelation of your ability. Responsibility is really 'respond-ability' or the ability to respond to the requirement of your vision.

Everything about you is determined by your purpose. God built you, designed you, and gave you the right makeup for it. Your heritage and ethnic mix, the color of your skin, your language, your height, and all the other physical features are made for the fulfillment of your vision. You were built for what you're supposed to do. You are perfect for your purpose. This means that your ability isn't dependent on what you perceive as your limitations.

...Everything God gave you to do, you are able to do. For everything God put in your heart to do, you have the corresponding ability to accomplish.

Dreams are given to draw out what's already inside us and to activate God's power in enabling us to achieve our visions. This is why God may give us dreams that are bigger than our educations. ...Likewise, you may not have the background to do what you are going to do. People may not believe you can do it, yet what does it matter what they think? Just keep doing what God tells you to do. God never gives us dreams to frustrate us. He gives us dreams to deliver us from mediocrity and to reveal our true selves to the world. The more I study the Word of God, the more I realize that God appoints, anoints, and distinguishes people. He doesn't like them to get lost in mediocrity. Therefore, He said, in effect, 'Abraham, come out. Moses, come out. David, come out. You are lost among the average.' "

I'm back! =)

2007-09-24T16:43:00.000-07:00

Just so those of you who check this faithfully know, I am back in the country. Being in Guatemala was a wonderful learning experience! There's so much I could share...however, I am busy preparing to move to Guatemala. (So much to do!) I will try to write regularly again, but I just wanted to let you know I'm back! =)

A quick thought:
Seek after GOD, through His Son Jesus Christ, with all you are! It is sooooo worth it! There is no one like Him- anywhere! Go farther than you've yet dared to go in your relationship with Jesus, because He has so much more for you than you've yet experienced or realized!

Keep loving Him!

Another Update

2007-08-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

I just got an email from Becca (not a long one, 'cause she's busy!). She's helping out a ministry that cares for orphans in Guatemala and she just moved into the children's home. Everything is going well. The home welcomed ten new babies a few days ago, so she has her hands full! Prayers are appreciated!

A Quick Update

2007-08-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hi-ho! Sam here! I'm posting for Rebecca, 'cause Becca's in Guatemala! This is just an update for those who follow her blog. She arrived in Guatemala safe and sound, and I should be receiving more details sometime soon. Please agree with us in prayer that her trip will be a powerful blessing to the people she's working with and that she'll come home with lots of cool stories and pictures to share!

STEP UP!!!

2007-07-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

I just want to take a moment and share with you from my life...

Okay, so, I'm getting ready to go on a mission trip, which is such an amazing opportunity!!! And I'm very excited!!! =D

I don't know if you've ever been in the place where you're moving forward with what God has told you to do, but fear and doubt keep trying to stop you or slow you down. Well, in the past when that would happen I would back down instead of continuing to press forward.

However, lately I've been learning, that I can't back down. God has been telling me very clearly not to back down on this or let fear and doubt defeat me. Actually, God used baseball to illustrate it for me- it gives me a picture to visualize what's really going on. God told me: "Step up to the plate; it's your turn to hit a home run! Don't let fear strike you out! Don't let doubt strike you out!"

I don't know where you're at right now or what God is telling you to do, but maybe He's saying the same thing to you...DON'T BACK DOWN! STEP UP!

So I've been learning. Have you ever been in a situation where you clearly understand what God has told you to do, you just don't know how to actually do it? Well, this week, I found myself facing fear's attack. In myself I didn't know what to do. Now, instead of completely caving in, I ran to God. He had the strategy. So, I ran to Him and asked Him to teach me how to fight. I needed to learn how to take fear down and not let it have the victory over me!

When I ran to God and asked Him how to fight, He reminded me of something that was taught in the women's Bible study I've been going to. It's this...change the mental picture, change what I'm meditating on.

Okay, so what does that mean? Well, we don't think in words, we think in pictures and then come up with words to describe the pictures. So, there are pictures in our minds, ways that we see ourselves in specific situations...these could be pictures of things that have actually happened in the past or just ungodly imaginations. What we have to do, what I had to do, was create a new picture for the situation.

For example, what I was facing is I've been quite frightened of needles (I can't say I like needles now, but I'm not so scared.) - and I have to go get a shot and some blood work done this week before the mission trip. My mental picture was of last time I had blood taken and I was very close to passing out...not a pleasant picture! So, as I prayed and looked to God for the answer, I began to see the way I want to be when I go to the doctor. It is a picture full of confidence and boldness- no fear. Now with this new picture of myself in that situation I am able to see myself how God sees me and not give into fear. =)

Maybe there's something in your life right now that you need to run to God and ask Him how to handle. You know what?! He is more than willing to help you...and He has the answer! Just listen to Him (that could just mean reading His Word, the Bible) and then obey what He tells you. Enjoy the new found freedom in Jesus! =D

From God's heart...

2007-07-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

I felt like God told me this for you this morning:

Oh, My children! I long for you to come close to Me and become one with My heart. There is so much more for you. I have so much in store! There are things beyond your most wonderful imaginings. I desire great things for you. I desire for you to know Me as I know you- intimately. I know every little detail of you. Won't you come and spend time with Me? Come and get to know Me! I long for you, My children. Come apart. Come to Me! I love you. I long to reveal Myself to you. Oh, how I ache for you! Can you feel My love for you? My great unending, unsearchable love for you? Even if you cannot feel it and don't know it, come close. Closer than you've yet dared. I have so much for you! Come into the secret place. Come get alone with Me. My heart is toward you. I love you! Come and spend time with Me. Come and receive of Me. I give only good gifts. Come, My children, come. I am waiting for you.

The Word...

2007-07-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

I went to a women's Bible study yesterday and we were given homework...it's actually a class called Principles of Faith. So, anyway, I started doing the homework this morning, and I want to share what I found so far with you.

This assignment is reading and meditating on verses from Psalm 119, but replacing things like "the law, testimonies, God's ways..." with "the Word". Here's what I studied today...I've adapted the words mentioned aboove, so these aren't direct quotes.

Ps 119:1* Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are the undefiled (the upright, truly sincere, and blameless) in the Word [the revealed will of God], who walk (order their conduct and conversation) in the Word (the whole of God's revealed will).

My response: If I order my conduct and conversation after the Word, I'll be blessed- happy, fortunate, and to be envied.

Psalm 119:2* Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are they who keep the Word, and who seek, inquire for and of the Word and crave the Word with the whole heart.

My response: If I keep the Word and seek, inquire, and crave the Word with my whole heart, I'll be blessed- happy, fortunate, and to be envied.

Psalm 119:3* Yes, they do no unrighteousness [no willful wandering from the Word], they walk in the Word.

My response: I don't willfully wander from the Word, but I walk in the Word.

Psalm 119:4* You have commanded us to keep Your Word, that we should observe it diligently.

My response: I keep the Word and observe it diligently.

Psalm 119:5* Oh, that my ways were directed and established to observe Your Word [hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying it]!

My response: I observe the Word- I hear, receive, love, and obey the Word.

Psalm 119:6* Then shall I not be put to shame [by failing to inherit Your promises] when I have respect to all Your Word.

My response: I respect the Word and I don't fail to receive and inherit the promises; I am not put to shame.

I don't know about you, but the length of Psalm 119 has kept me from really diving into it before. There is so much good stuff in there though! Check it out for yourself. =)

[Side note: I'm not using pictures right now because I'm using a different computer .]

Chosen...

2007-07-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

I have been getting SOOOO MUCH out of what I've been reading in the Bible lately that I'd have to post nearly everyday to keep you caught up with it all. For now I'll just share two verses with you and my thoughts about them from when I was reading and thinking about what it meant...kinda breaking it down. You can apply these verses to you as well. Enjoy!

"Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love." ~Ephesians 1:4

God chose me for Himself. He picked me as His own in Christ. Because of His great love, even before the foundations of the world were laid, He chose me! =) I am loved. I am accepted in the Beloved. I have been chosen. And God is good. I've not been chosen in some evil plan. God chose me out of His great LOVE! His desire is that I should be holy, consecrated, set apart for Him, blameless in His sight, above reproach, and before Him in love. I have been set apart for Him, since He chose me before the foundation of the world. I am blameless and above reproach in His sight because I am in Christ. I am before Him in love. He desires to be loved in return. Yet, He loved me EXTRAVAGANTLY first. He isn't asking for something He hasn't first given.

"For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it pleased Him and was His kind intent]-" ~Ephesians 1:5

My Father planned in love way beforehand to adopt me and reveal me as His child through Jesus Christ. This lined up with His will. It pleased Him and was His kind intent to make me His own child.

God's Word is amazing! Dive in deeper for yourself! =)

Undisturbedness and Favor...

2007-07-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

"May grace (God's unmerited favor) and spiritual peace [which means peace with God and harmony , unity, and undisturbedness] be yours from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ." ~Ephesians 1:2

Peace. Undisturbedness. That is such a wonderful place to be! This undisturbed peace is from my Father and my Beloved. Undisturbedness is like a settled quiet feeling in my stomach. It's not scratchy and uneasy.

Peace. Everything is alright. All is well. There's a real rest where there's paece. It's not like a forced sleep, it's gentle and refreshing.

Grace. God's unmerited favor. I didn't do anything to earn His favor, but He has favor on me. He showers blessings on me. He saved me! He rescued me! I should have been forever separated from Him- what a completely, utterly, horribly despicable thought! =/

Yet, He made the way for me to be with Him forever! =D Now that is a completely, utterly, wonderfully beautiful thought!!!! Forever with the One Who loved me enough to die for me- though He didn't stay dead. (And, by the way, that power that raised Jesus from the dead is in me!) I'm no longer separated from Him. I can talk to Him, listen to Him, walk with Him, live by His side... =)

It's the best life. And He just showed this favor to me; I didn't earn it. I just received it. I didn't reject it! Of course not!

He shows me His favor because of His extravagant, over-the-top love for me. Even when I was far away from Him, even before I was born, He loved me. He chose me. I've just chosen to respond to that love. =) His love is so amazing!

Wow! All that from one verse- the Bible is so good! It's God's letter to me. =)

You know what, you can experience the things I've been talking about too! This undisturbed peace and favor from God isn't just for me- it's for you too. You just have to receive it! Ask Jesus to reveal Himself to you. If you have any questions, ask away. Have a great night!

Take some time and REST…

2007-07-05T22:30:00.000-07:00

Do you ever find yourself soooo worn out by life? Do you ever feel way too busy for how much time you have available? Like there’s no way you could ever get your “to do” list done?

I know I have.

But look at what Jesus says:

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matthew 11:28-30)

I love that! It’s not God that is wearing us out. He wants to refresh us! He wants to help us!

Here’s another paragraph from the Message Bible:

“Why would you ever complain…saying,
‘God has lost track of me. He doesn't care what happens to me’?
Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening? God doesn't come and go. God lasts. He's Creator of all you can see or imagine. He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath. And he knows everything, inside and out. He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts. For even young people tire and drop out, young folk in their prime stumble and fall. But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.” (Isaiah 40: 27-31)

This is something God told me back in January that I went back and read again. I think it applies to you as well:

“…I desire for all My children to come aside and spend time with Me. I want to reveal Myself to My children. They just need to slow down, stop for a while, and come aside to Me. It’s often like a two year old, wanting to be independent and do so much- moving everywhere. Then when the young child is worn out, then they’ll go to mom for comfort and rest. Many of My children are like that. They try to do everything themselves, in their own strength. They get worn out. If they would come aside to Me, quiet themselves, then I could bring strength and peace to them. Those who wait on Me will renew their strength.”

Yet...

2007-06-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

“However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves….”

Humanity is frail- even the strongest person dies. Life is compared to a vapor Psalm 39:5 and the grass (Psalm 103:15-16). This present life on earth doesn’t last forever. However, because we are frail, the Light of the Gospel- God’s message of good news to everyone- can show through us. Then the “grandeur and exceeding greatness” that show through are obviously not from us- it is God’s power!

That is so wonderful! When I feel weak, or even when I feel strong, it is God’s power that can work through me- shinning out- that is the amazing thing seen. It’s not me.

“…We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; We are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed; Always carrying about in the body the liability and exposure to the same putting to death that the Lord Jesus suffered, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown forth by and in our bodies. For we who live are constantly [experiencing] being handed over to death for Jesus' sake, that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be evidenced through our flesh which is liable to death. Thus death is actively at work in us, but [it is in order that our] life [may be actively at work] in you. Yet we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, I have believed, and therefore have I spoken. We too believe, and therefore we speak, Assured that He Who raised up the Lord Jesus will raise us up also with Jesus and bring us [along] with you into His presence. For all [these] things are [taking place] for your sake, so that the more grace (divine favor and spiritual blessing) extends to more and more people and multiplies through the many, the more thanksgiving may increase [and redound] to the glory of God…”

The list of things at the beginning of this part doesn’t sound fun, does it? These are things we might normally try to avoid…pressure, trouble, oppression, embarrassment, being perplexed, being unable to find a way out, persecution, being struck down…not something many people would sign up for. But then look at the reason for all this…Paul, the writer here, says all these things are for the sake of the Corinthians, those he was writing to. Also, so that more of God’s favor and spiritual blessing could reach more and more people, and that thanksgiving to God will increase. His focus was not on himself as much as he focused on the benefit for those he was ministering to, those who still needed to be reached, and bringing glory to God.

How often do we get so concerned about the stresses in our own lives and consumed with thinking about ourselves. There are so many people who have not yet experienced or heard the Good News. Many people have never even had the chance to see the Light of the Gospel- because we haven't let that Light shine out of us. We are the light of the world when we have Jesus Christ inside us. (Matthew 5:14) He is the LIGHT, and we get to let it shine out of us! There are people who’ve never heard and never seen the Light of the Gospel all over the world- they could live next door to you, shop at the same places you do, or they could be on the other side of the world. Wherever they are, we can let the LIGHT shine to all we come in contact with.

“…Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying and wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day. For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!], Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.” 2 Corinthians 4:7-18

Because we are doing everything for God’s glory and not focusing so much on what we are going through, we don’t become discouraged, exhausted, or wearied through fear. Yes, our physical bodies get older and wear out eventually, YET our inner self- spirit man- is being renewed every day. The things we see won’t last; it’s the unseen that will last. So, let’s look at the things that are unseen by our physical eyes, and let our light shine to everyone we are around (Matthew 5:16). Again, let's be more eternity minded, (more about that here).

Simply Embrace...

2007-06-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

“God went for the jugular when he sent his own Son. He didn't deal with the problem as something remote and unimportant. In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all. The law code, weakened as it always was by fractured human nature, could never have done that. The law always ended up being used as a Band-Aid on sin instead of a deep healing of it. And now what the law code asked for but we couldn't deliver is accomplished as we, instead of redoubling our own efforts, simply embrace what the Spirit is doing in us…”

Let’s pause here a sec and think about that… Jesus left heaven and came into normal human life with all our problems and messes. He did that so that He could make things right again- something we never could have done on our own! Now instead of trying to work really, really hard to fix our “bad habits” or the mess ups we just can’t seem to get past- we simply embrace what Jesus has done. I like that “simply embrace”…it’s whole hearted acceptance, like greeting a best friend you haven’t seen in a while- it’s full of joy and enthusiasm…lots of smiles! So, we can embrace what the Holy Spirit is doing in us, based on what Jesus did. The first step in this is to accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord- that means He’s rescued you and is now in charge of your life. Okay, let’s keep reading…

“Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them—living and breathing God! Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life. Focusing on the self is the opposite of focusing on God. Anyone completely absorbed in self ignores God, ends up thinking more about self than God. That person ignores who God is and what he is doing. And God isn't pleased at being ignored. But if God himself has taken up residence in your life, you can hardly be thinking more of yourself than of him. Anyone, of course, who has not welcomed this invisible but clearly present God, the Spirit of Christ, won't know what we're talking about. But for you who welcome him, in whom he dwells—even though you still experience all the limitations of sin—you yourself experience life on God's terms. It stands to reason, doesn't it, that if the alive-and-present God who raised Jesus from the dead moves into your life, he'll do the same thing in you that he did in Jesus, bringing you alive to himself? When God lives and breathes in you (and he does, as surely as he did in Jesus), you are delivered from that dead life. With his Spirit living in you, your body will be as alive as Christ's!” Romans 8:3-11 (Message)

Have you ever found yourself “obsessed with measuring” your “moral muscle”? That could look like comparing yourself with someone and thinking something like, “I’d never do that…that’s horrible!” Or it could look like trying to reach impossible standards on your own. Do you think you can get everything right in your life on your own strength? Well, you can’t. However, if you’ll trust in God’s action- what He’s doing in you by the Holy Spirit, you’ll find the living, breathing God is in you! What an amazing thought! The Almighty GOD living and breathing in you and working out things in your life! When you focus on yourself, you’ll find a dead end- no hope. Yet, if you’ll put your attention on God, you’ll find yourself free- endless hope! It’s like being in a dense forest, then suddenly walking out into an open field- no restriction on which direction to go. God, when He lives in you, can do the same thing He did in Jesus- bring you to life! =) Then your dead life, without hope, is over and your free to live as the person God made you to be. It is so fulfilling to live out as you were created!

In short, embrace what God wants to do in you and focus your attention on Him…then you’ll find yourself in a great place of freedom in God!

The Heart of the Matter...

2007-06-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

“…Take care not to do your good deeds publicly or before men, in order to be seen by them; otherwise you will have no reward [reserved for and awaiting you] with and from your Father Who is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:1)

“…and your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open. Do not gather and heap up and store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust and worm consume and destroy, and where thieves break through and steal. But gather and heap up and store for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust nor worm consume and destroy, and where thieves do not break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:18-21)

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in). Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing?” (Matthew 6:24-25)

“For the Gentiles (heathen) wish for and crave and diligently seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows well that you need them all. But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given to you besides. So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:32-34 )

God took me to these verses today and I can see how we need to be more eternity minded in our everyday lives. We often can find ourselves seeking after things that aren’t going to last. We want the latest clothing styles, or just new clothes that we aren't tired of, or this certain food that we’re really craving right now. We do need clothing and food to live, but it says here, that’s not what we’re to seek after. God knows we need clothes to wear and food to eat. Our focus though is to be on the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, or His way of being and doing right. (We don’t measure what is right by the culture around us or even what we think and the standards we’ve set for ourselves. We measure what is right by His way of being and doing, which is found in the Bible.)

We are not to be anxious or uneasy about our lives. We are to seek the Kingdom of God. Then all these things will be given to us. When we are actively pursuing the Kingdom of God, and not worrying about our own lives, God has no problem getting everything together that we need. It is not like He needs our worrying to know what we need or to be able to get it for us. In fact our worrying can actually be hindering God’s work in our lives. When we completely surrender to God, each area of our lives, He has the freedom to put everything in order and provide exactly what we need- the perfect fit for that area.

Our focus is to be on eternity, not here on earth. If you’re familiar with teaching on giving, often times we tend to think about what God will do for us when we give. Well, sure, it’s true that we receive a harvest when we plant, and we should expect a harvest, but that isn’t to be our main focus. Here it talks about storing up treasure in heaven. So, yes, there is a harvest on earth that allows us to keep sowing more and continuing the cycle, but we’re storing up treasure in heaven- where it won’t be lost, stolen, or destroyed.

We can’t take things with us when we die, we have to send them ahead, and get it taken care of before we die. Getting people saved, giving, and so on, all have to be done before we die…and that sends our treasure to heaven. And if your treasure is in heaven, that’s where your heart will be too! However, if your treasure is on earth, that’s where your heart will be…and this world is not worth setting your heart on…it will all fade away. Take your energy and this time that God has given you and store up treasure in heaven. You’ll find that it is worth the effort.

quote to think about...

2007-05-20T07:19:00.000-07:00

"Your perspective of yourself will determine the possibilities you pursue." ~Mike Evans

Here are a few of my thoughts on the quote:
Do you see yourself the way God sees you? Do I see myself the way God sees me? What possibilities would we pursue if we did?

What are your thoughts on this quote?

Belonging to Another...

2007-05-13T23:32:00.000-07:00

There is so much I want to share with you, on this new topic, that I’ve decided to be merciful to you and start a series instead of posting the whole thing at once. So, let’s dive in…

“Do you not know, brethren- for I am speaking to men who are acquainted with the Law- that legal claims have power over a person only for as long as he is alive? For [instance] a married woman is bound by law to her husband as long as he lives; but if her husband dies, she is loosed and discharged from the law concerning her husband. Accordingly, she will be held an adulteress if she unites herself to another man while her husband lives. But if her husband dies, the marriage law no longer is binding on her [she is free from that law]; and if she unites herself to another man, she is not an adulteress.
Likewise, my brethren, you have undergone death as to the Law through the [crucified] body of Christ, so that now you may belong to Another, to Him Who was raised from the dead in order that we may bear fruit for God. When we were living in the flesh (mere physical lives), the sinful passions that were awakened and aroused up by [what] the Law [makes sin] were constantly operating in our natural powers (in our bodily organs, in the sensitive appetites and wills of the flesh), so that we bore fruit for death. But now we are discharged from the Law and have terminated all intercourse with it, having died to what once restrained and held us captive. So now we serve not under [obedience to] the old code of written regulations, but [under obedience to the promptings] of the Spirit in newness [of life].” ~Romans 7:1-6

I like that comparison. It says it so clearly.

We belong to someone else! Because of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, and the fact that we died with Him, we belong to Another- Jesus Christ.

When we died through Jesus Christ, we died to the law and we no longer have to act like our bodies tell us to or whatever our natural desires are…we are no longer in bondage to those desires, as if we have no control to keep ourselves from doing things we shouldn’t, and that part of us maybe doesn’t even want to do. We used to even produce death in our lives through these actions and attitudes. However, now, we don’t have to obey our own natural desires, but we can live obeying God. We can live by the Holy Spirit telling us what to do in newness of life. We’re not trapped in an old life; we have new life through Jesus Christ! We can bear fruit for God! =)

So, think about it. How does knowing that you don’t belong to what you used to be bound to change the way you think? How does knowing you belong to Another- Who really loves you- change the way you think?
You know something? When you change the way you think with what the Bible says, called renewing your mind, it affects how you act… and it affects all of your life. Change the way you think, the place where you make decisions, to fit with what God says about you and how He sees you, and you’ll find you act differently. So, instead of trying to force yourself to “fix” things in your life, start on the inside and let the change flow naturally out of you, as God works in your life.

Are you being followed?

2007-05-03T14:34:00.000-07:00

Here’s another thought that goes along with the previous post. Check out this verse:

“Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place.” Psalm 23:6

In the world we live in, there can be a lot of danger. Have you ever felt like someone was following you with harmful intentions? I don’t know about you, but I have. Really there wasn’t anyone there who wanted to harm me.

But think about this, “…goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life…” That sounds good to me! I have goodness following me! There is mercy following me! There is unfailing love following me!

Have you ever had a friend who said, “I’ve got your back.” That’s encouraging. It helps relieve some pressure from the situation. You know that you’re not alone, right? Well, goodness, mercy, and unfailing love have my back. How cool is that!

When we’re living for Jesus Christ, we can know that He has our back. Look at this:

“Then shall your light break forth like the morning, and your healing (your restoration and the power of a new life) shall spring forth speedily; your righteousness (your rightness, your justice, and your right relationship with God) shall go before you [conducting you to peace and prosperity], and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.” Isaiah 58:8 (Amplified)

There is a comfort in knowing that GOD has your back. Also, goodness, mercy, and unfailing love are following you. As you go through your week, think about that. You are being followed, but it’s a very good thing!

Enemies?

2007-05-03T01:58:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about this the other day. Take a look at this verse:

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over.” Psalm 23:5

Many people have this Psalm memorized, but have you thought about this? “…in the presence of my enemies.” Well, I don’t know of any people who are my enemies. I don’t about you. For the guy who wrote this Psalm, there were real enemies who were seeking his life. For me, well who or what are my enemies?

So, I started thinking about this. My enemies are invisible to my natural eyes. My enemies are things like fear, doubt, and deception. Your enemies may be different.

“You prepare a table before me…” So, in the midst of these enemies, God has prepared a table for me- even in the presence of fear, doubt, and deception.

What are you enemies? Do you see the banquet that God has prepared for you, even in the presence of your enemies? He’s spread the table before you.

It kind of changes your perspective when you see God’s provision spread out before you.
Sure the enemies may still be there, but the focus doesn’t have to be on them. It’s like, “Come on, there’s a banquet in front of me! Everything I need is right there!”

I’m completely provided for. The answers to my questions are there on the table. The weapons I need to fight those enemies are on the table. The nourishment that I need is there. The peace I need is there. On and on it goes…

What do you need? Look at the table that God has spread before you in the midst of your enemies. Step up and enjoy. Through Jesus Christ we are victorious!

No human reason...

2007-04-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

I read this today and it really spoke to my heart, I hope it helps you too.

“[For Abraham, human reason for] hope being gone, hoped in faith that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been promised, So [numberless] shall your descendants be. He did not weaken in faith when he considered the [utter] impotence of his own body, which was as good as dead because he was about a hundred years old, or [when he considered] the barrenness of Sarah’s [deadened] womb. No unbelief or distrust made him waver (doubtingly question) concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and was empowered by faith as he gave praise and glory to God, fully satisfied and assured that God was able and mighty to keep His word and to do what He had promised.” ~Romans 4:18-21 (Amp)

“When I am in a battle, knowing what God has promised but still experiencing attacks from doubt and unbelief, I like to meditate on Romans 4:18-21.

When God tells us something or asks us to do something, the faith to believe or do it comes with a word from God. It is ridiculous to think that God would expect us to do something without giving us the ability to believe we can do it. Satan knows how dangerous we are when our hearts are full of faith, so he attacks us with doubt and unbelief. It isn’t that we do not have faith; it is just that Satan tries to destroy our faith with lies.

…God places dreams and vision in the hearts of His people; they begin as little “seeds.” Just as a woman has a seed planted into her womb when she becomes pregnant, so we become “pregnant,” so to speak, with the things God speaks and promises. During the “pregnancy,” Satan works hard to try and get us to “abort” our dreams. One of the tools he uses is doubt; another is unbelief. Both of these work against the mind.

Faith is a product of the spirit; it is a spiritual force. The enemy does not want your mind to agree with your spirit. He knows that if God places in you the faith to do something, and you get positive and start consistently believing that you can actually do it, then you will do considerable damage on his kingdom.

I encourage you to be assured in your faith that God will follow through with what He has promised you by His Word. Get His promises into your mind; think about them; and let your faith increase.” ~Joyce Meyer, The Everyday Life Bible, p1809

Doubt and unbelief are our enemies. Another one of these enemies is fear. We cannot allow them to have control in our lives. Their goal is to keep us from fulfilling the destiny God has for our lives. It is not worth it to allow them to speak into our lives. Too much is at stake! It Is not only about me and my own life, or you and your own life; it is about possibly millions or billions of people who God has planned for you or I to influence by His power.

Did you notice that even though Abraham could see the facts that he and his wife were beyond childbearing years and he had no human reason to hope, his faith didn’t weaken? He didn’t doubt God’s promise but he was completely confident that God was big enough and strong enough to keep His word and do what He had promised. What an example for us!

We too can be completely confident in God- He will do what He has promised to do. Is there something that God has told you in His Word? You can stand on it. You can believe it. Follow Abraham’s example.

“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” ~2 Corinthians 1:20 (NKJ)

“For with God nothing will be impossible.” ~Luke 1:37 (NKJ)

There is no situation beyond God’s help. There is nothing too hard for God. Nothing.

“Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.” ~Deuteronomy 31:6 (Message)

Hang on!

2007-04-07T14:22:00.000-07:00

“I AM the True Vine, and My Father is the Vinedresser. Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit. You are cleansed and pruned already, because of the word which I have given you [the teachings I have discussed with you]. Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:1-5)

I cannot escape this idea of abiding in God…so this is a continuation. God keeps telling me to abide in Him. This is an excerpt from my journal that I believe could apply to you as well.

“Abide in Me and I in you- fruit just naturally come forth. You never see a grape being forced into existence- it all happens easily and naturally because of the connection between the vine and the branches. It’s not a difficult thing. Even so, when you just simply abide in Me and I in you things happen easily and naturally- without strain. So, don’t concern yourself with what others think and with pleasing them. Seek to please Me- obey and abide. If I tell you to let go of something, let Me prune it off and don’t try to hold onto it. This pruning will allow more fruit to come forth. If I graft something into you life, don’t resist it. Let My Spirit flow through you to bring life and fruit to that area as well. I know the amount you can handle and how to bring forth the most fruit. I desire fruit, in it My Father is glorified. So, abide in Me and let My words abide in you. Meditate on My words. Speak My words. Let them produce life in those around you, and in you. Abide and bring forth fruit. As simple at that. I have much for you to do, but you first must learn to abide in Me. Without that essential element, you won’t produce the fruit you and I desire.”

Field Training...

2007-04-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

This past week I was on a trip that could be called field training. For me this training was allowing God to flow through me to minister to other people. My specific situation often put me in a place of not really knowing what was going on as far as what was previously planned. So beyond the normal flexibility of plans, I had to go with the flow and be ready to do anything. However, before I got to the outreach location God told me I could do anything I was asked to do- relying on Him. So, I found myself many times right in front of a ministry opportunity silently telling God, “I’m relying on You.” My goal was to fix my eyes on Him and just let Him flow through me. And I found a new boldness inside me- a lack of timidity. I know it was from the Spirit of God in me.

So, let me just say- God is More-Than-Enough for anything you need in your life right now. Rely on Him. Fix your eyes on Him. He is strong enough and BIG enough to hold you- He won’t let you fall. Rest in Him, even as you go about activities. Rest your heart in Him. He is More Than Enough!

Do you know God?

2007-03-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

God has been revealing Himself to me as More Than Enough. A few months ago I asked God to reveal Himself to me as El Shaddai, which means More Than Enough, in a certain area of my life- and He has been, and is still, showing me more of Himself. It is a wonderful journey of getting to know God better every day.

Who do you need to know God as right now in your life? Your Healer? Your Provider? Your Peace? Your Strong Tower? Your Father? Your More-Than-Enough?

Ask God to reveal Himself to you. He will. He loves you.

May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, that you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God’s devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]; [That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]! Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do super abundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]- to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it).” Ephesians 3:17-21

“I can’t! I have to…”

2007-03-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

Recently the topic of being diligent and faithful has been brought to my attention several times. As I’ve been thinking about things that have been said, the Holy Spirit has been reminding me of different verses from the Bible. So, here we go…

“The hand of the diligent will rule, but the slothful will be put to forced labor.” (Proverbs 12:24)

“The hand of the diligent will rule.” Does that sound like something you would like in your life? It is an amazing thought to me because it may seem that you’re just plugging along doing what you’ve always done, because you just do what you’re supposed to do, but that diligence somehow prepares or positions you to rule!

“Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings, he will not stand before obscure men.” (Proverbs 22:29)

How about that! Standing before kings because of diligence- that’s pretty powerful stuff. What an opportunity!

“And he said to him, Well done, excellent bond servant! Because you have been faithful and trustworthy in a very little [thing], you shall have authority over ten cities.” (Luke 19:17)

Here’s an example of someone who has been faithful and trustworthy in little things. Because of that trustworthiness this person was put in authority over ten cities! That is a big responsibility to be given! Yet, it’s because of the faithfulness in the little things that this person was placed in that authority!

“He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is faithful also in much, and he who is dishonest and unjust in a very little [thing] is dishonest and unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the [case of] unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions), who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not proved faithful in that which belongs to another [whether God or man], who will give you that which is your own [that is, the true riches]?” (Luke 16:10-12)

So then, if you’re faithful in the little things you will be faithful in much. It’s like because you’ve developed the pattern and habit of being faithful in the little things, you’ll just keep being faithful in the bigger things. The habits you develop in your private life then will affect your public life. Habits of faithfulness, even in the small things that no one sees except God, develop you to be faithful and trustworthy in the spotlight.

“Moreover, it is [essentially] required of stewards that a man should be found faithful [proving himself worthy of trust].” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

For someone to trust you with something valuable of theirs they want to find you faithful. If they’ve seen that you’re trustworthy then they can feel confident giving their possession into your care. They know that you’ll take good care of it because they’ve seen your faithfulness.

“His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the blessedness) which your master enjoys.” (Matthew 25:21)
May we each be found faithful by God Who has entrusted us with so many things. May He be able to say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” to each of us when we stand before Him.

Help!

2007-02-24T13:36:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt like you can’t handle or fix a situation that you’re facing? Some people respond by ignoring the whole thing in one way or another and stuff all their emotions down deep inside. Others explode and everything comes out all over everyone, or whoever is closest.

This past week, especially the beginning of the week was a hard one for my family. As the week went on it improved; Monday, however, was very hard. I couldn’t do anything about the situation myself, actually none of my family could. I found that the only thing I could do that would actually help in anyway was to completely rely on God and pray. God was the only one who could intervene in the situation…and He has and is at work in the situation!

[Added note: I am very grateful to all the people that have and are standing with me and my family in prayer in this situation.]

There was another situation recently where I felt so inadequate- completely unable to do what was before me to do. Have you ever felt like that…totally inadequate, unequipped, useless in the situation, ready to give up and let someone else take over, maybe even that you’ve already messed up the situation. I felt like that.

As I thought about the situation and began to cry out to God that I was unable to do this without Him and how I felt like I’d messed things up, He spoke to me. It wasn’t an audible voice, but He spoke all the same. At the time I was in the kitchen. We have random pieces of tile with pictures of different things on our backsplash…and as I cried out to God I looked down and saw this one tile that is a picture of clusters of grapes. The picture sparked something in me and God reminded me of some verses in the Bible, and I looked them up:

“I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If a person does not dwell in Me, he is thrown out like a [broken off] branch, and withers; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and they are burned. If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves as true followers of Mine. I have loved you, [just] as the Father has loved Me; abide in My love [continue in His love with Me]. If you keep My commandments [if you continue to obey My instructions], you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father’s commandments and live on in His love.” (John 15:5-10)

In my Bible there is a comment by Joyce Meyer about these verses, I’ll include part of it:

“God wants us to depend entirely on Him. He wants us to lean on, trust in and rely on Him. Actually, that is part of the definition of faith. We are partners with God, and that means we both have responsibility. But we must lean on Him in order to do the things that are our part. God called me into the ministry and He anointed (enabled) and gifted me to do what I need to do, but I still have to trust Him and remember how much I need Him at all times….When the Lord says we can do nothing apart from Him, He means things will not work properly in our lives unless we invite Him into everything. His presence can eliminate much of the struggle we experience in life. It makes impossible things possible, hard things easy and frustrating things peaceful. Do not ever be afraid to say, ‘Help, Lord, I can’t do this without You.’” (The Everyday Life Bible p1716)

After reading that I looked over at the cabinet door and saw this on a piece of paper:

“Do not, therefore, fling away your fearless confidence, for it carries a great and glorious compensation of reward. For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised.” (Ephesians 10:35-36)

Through these verses I saw the answer to my situation. Really, it’s true, I can’t do the things that are before me on my own. I need God. I must abide in Him, completely rely on Him, to be able to accomplish anything meaningful. My confidence must be in God alone. He will keep me from tripping as I go along this journey.

If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t know what to do, or things look overwhelming, call out to God. He is waiting for you with arms open wide to receive you. He loves you and accepts you. He has the answers you need. He is the answer. Abide in Him. Call out to Him. Throw yourself at His feet in complete dependence on Him. He is able to do amazing things in your life.

I’ll leave you with this:

“May He [the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ] grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, that you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God’s devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth of it]; [that you may really come] to know [practically, through experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the rich measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]! Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]-” (Ephesians 3:16-20)

If you didn’t understand this post reading it the first time, try reading it again. If you have questions, leave a comment and let me know. I’ll do my best to explain.

Longing...

2007-02-17T12:34:00.000-08:00

There is a longing in the heart of God…and it’s for you!

All Prepared

Have you seen My bride?
Has she come by here?
I’m ready.
The place has been prepared.

Are you ready, My bride?
My heart longs for you.
I desire to be with you.

Are you ready, My bride?
I can’t wait for our wedding day to come.
All has been made ready.
Are you ready, My bride?

Jesus Christ is longing for His bride. Do you take the time to stop and feel your heart aching for Him? That really is the deepest cry of your heart, whether you recognize it or not. It sometimes seems like a desire for something else- food, friends, music, or entertainment- really any number of things. Yet, the real cry of your heart, if you take the time to hear it, is for God.

Aching for You

I look into the clear night sky,
and I yearn for You.
I see the trees silhouette,
and I yearn for You.
I gaze at the moon,
and I yearn for You.

My heart is aching,
and when I’m still I feel it.
I’m aching for You.
There’s no place I can go,
no place to fill this desire,
only in You, I am satisfied.

God really is the only One who can fill the deep longing of your heart. Only He can fill your deepest desire. Do you feel the longing? Let it out- cry out to God and let Him fill you and satisfy that longing. He is waiting and longing for you too.

Injustice cries out...

2007-02-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

These writings come from a heart broken for the children:

“Whose child is this laying in the trash heap, covered in the blood of her birth? Why was she left here? How long can she survive? Who will love her? Will anyone save her? Death is approaching…will you stop the approach? Do you hear the cry? It is getting weaker. Does anyone care? Does anyone hear? Why do you walk past and do nothing? Are you deaf to the cry? Is your heart hardened by the suffering? Soften your heart. Reach out in compassion. Do something of value.

The heart of God is crying. He is the Father of the fatherless. Will you be His hands extended?

How many children die everyday because they’re abandoned? How many world changers never have a chance?

Do you see her? She is precious in God’s eyes and she is precious in my eyes. Her pain was great, but now she is loved. Her eyes sparkle. She knows she is loved. This is my child, my daughter. She was lost, but now she is found. The Father of the fatherless cares for her. He led me to her.”
-(April 28, 2006)

Injustice

“You see the injustice;
it breaks Your heart.
You weep,
I weep with You.

You love justice,
for You are good.
You love justice,
for You are Just.
You love justice,
for You are God.

You see pain,
You sent Jesus.
You see pain,
You sent us here.

In the midst of the injustice,
You are Just
and You are love.”
-(July 13, 2006)

"Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands;" (Isaiah 49:15-16)

I died...

2007-02-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Strange title I know…let’s just dive in and explore the following quote a bit:

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

I understood this quote from the Bible in a whole new way this week than I have previously. I’ll do my best to get it across to you. Read all the way through so you can get the whole idea. There is probably more that I don’t understand yet, but this much just became so clear to me that I have to share it with you.

Basically, in short, I died.

That reminds me of a quote from “Finding Nemo”, where Marlin says, “I’m dead I’m dead I’m dead I’m dead I’m dead I died I’m dead.” (He of course was not dead, but I am.) Okay, let me try to clarify: I’m not a ghost or anything like that. My body is still functioning. My brain is still active. I still have emotions and so on. Looking at me you probably couldn’t tell anything is different- unless I act or talk differently. I could say the change is more unseen.

I guess the change is partly in the way I look at life, and how I respond to it. For example, it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks about me. I don’t have to be intimidated by anyone or anything because it’s not me and it’s not about me.

Instead of me living my own life however I want, it is Jesus Christ that lives through me. It’s not about me; it’s about Him. I can be completely surrendered to God. (Though there may be some other things I’m not aware of right now, I have surrendered everything I know of…and when God shows other areas to me, I’ll surrender those areas too.) I can do whatever God says because it’s Him in me. It’s His power giving me the ability to do what He says.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

It may sound strange, but it is amazingly freeing to completely give up control to God. It’s not up to me to figure out how I will do what He tells me to do. I can just trust Him. For example, if God told me to pray for you to be healed, it’s not about me nor is it my own power that would heal you. It is God’s power flowing through me. When I’m completely surrendered it’s like I’m a water pipe that is clean- nothing blocking the water flow- and God can just flow through me. (My pastor has been mentioning this idea a lot in his sermons lately.)

All this, my dying and Christ living in me, didn’t really happen this week. I wasn’t crucified with Christ this week. I just understood it so much better this week. It really all happened long ago. When Jesus was crucified, I was too. When I was born again I died and was born into the Kingdom of God. (You can find out more about being born again in “The Bride” post.)

Why am I telling you all this? Well, this was so monumental to me that I want to share it with you. You can completely surrender your life to Christ and experience His life in you too. I’m not at all suggesting that you commit suicide. Please, don’t even consider it! God has such an amazing plan for your life! What I’m talking about it completely different. I hope you can see that from what I’ve written. If you haven’t COMPLETELY surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, join me, and many others, in this new life of Christ living in you.

“To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27, emphasis added.)

If you’d like to go deeper into this topic or if you have questions, let me know.

In love...

2007-01-27T17:05:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been in love? Do you remember how all you wanted do was just be around the person and spend time together? A look or smile in your direction made your day a million times brighter. A special gift was held dear to your heart. You treasured every little thing that told you of the love between the two of you.

Well… I’m in love. The One I’m in love with is so far beyond amazing. There are no words to really accurately describe Him, but I’ll do my best… He’s my Prince of Peace, the best looking of ten thousand, the Beginning and the End, the Light of the World, my Redeemer, my Fortress, my Deliverer, my Rock, my Shepherd, my Portion, my Strong Habitation, my Banner, my Shield, my Strength, my Hiding Place, my Comfort. He is everything to me. He’s my ALL. I enjoy our time together. I read His letter to me every day. I talk to Him whenever I think of Him. There is absolutely no one who matches up to Him.

The best part about it is that He loves me even more than I love Him! What an amazing thing!!! He actually loved me before I even knew He existed. He patiently waited for me. He sent messages to me of His love. He waited expectantly for the day when I would recognize that He was calling to me. Now I know of His love. It is so far beyond anything I can even wrap my mind around. It’s way EXTRAVEGANT! I mean, some of the things He does He really doesn’t have to do, but He does them anyway because He loves me. He tells me He loves me all the time. He shows me He loves me in soooo many ways. He sends me flowers. He sends warmth to my heart. He holds me close to Himself. He dries my tears when I’m sad; He even cries with me, and He comforts me. I am never alone because of Him. As a matter of fact, He even died for me- but He’s alive again. His love is extravagant! He paints beautiful sunrises and sunsets for me. He lights my morning.

Oh, His name! I forgot to tell you! My love is my God, Jesus Christ, my Savior, my Creator, my Father, my Teacher, my Everything. There is no one who compares to Him!

Not only does He love me, but no one can separate me from His love. Check this out:

“He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?…Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?…Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:32,35,37-39)

You know what, as amazing as this sounds, He loves you too! He loves you as much as He loves me and yet it isn’t a strange thing. He loves the whole world. He loves each of us individually. So everything I wrote about God loving me is true of you too. Have you realized His love for you? Have you responded to His love? (If you need to know how to respond read “The Bride” post.) He is waiting for you. He loves you so much more than you can imagine. Open your eyes and see all He does to show you His love and you’ll be amazed! Yes, I’m in love. Are you?

If you have any questions regarding this love God has for you, let me know. Better yet, ask Him to reveal His love to you. You can still contact me and let me know about the love He shows you.

“…May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, that you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God’s devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]; [that you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!” (Ephesians 3:17-19)

Love from the Heart of the Father

2007-01-20T12:37:00.000-08:00

God told me this and He is saying the same thing to you:
“I am your Father. I love you. I love to watch you sleep peacefully. I rejoice with you. I cry with you and am there to comfort you. When you’re tired, I am your peace and place of rest. I am always with you. You never need to feel alone or like an outcast. Even if everyone else abandons you, I will never abandon you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. I cannot lie. I love you. You are My Bride. I am preparing a place for you. A special place just for you and I know you’ll love it. I know because I created you. I know your likes and dislikes and your favorites.”

This part God told me about you:
“Tell them I love them. Tell them what I did for them. I provided everything they need for life and godliness. I did all the work, they just have to receive it. I’m so excited to show them My love and provision. It grieves My heart that they’ve been bound and live in poverty- without all the things I’ve provided. Tell them I have a place of peace for them. Yes, the world around them may be in turmoil, but there’s peace for them. I have it right here, waiting for them. It’s all prepared. The table is prepared; call them to My Supper. There so much more room at My table. Call them to the marriage supper of the Lamb. I love kids; call them too! Call them all. I don’t mind the noise or the mess- I love them!!!!! … It’s almost time for My Supper! I’m so ready to have all My people here with Me- where they aren’t under sin any longer. Soon, very soon. But there’s still more room- much more room. I want the dinning hall to be full. I love people! This is what I gave My life for- so I could have everyone with Me. It grieves My heart when people go where I never wanted them to go- forever apart from Me. But I am holy and I cannot be in the presence of sin.”

If you have a relationship with the Lamb, Jesus Christ, then God really is your Father. If you don’t yet have that relationship, check out the post titled “The Bride” to learn more. If you have any questions after that, let me know.

Ready to party?!

2007-01-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been to a really nice reception after a wedding? You know the kind with a sit down dinner- the marriage supper. No expense has been spared. All the stops have been pulled out for the biggest celebration they can afford. Everything is decorated. The food is really good. It’s time to celebrate!

The bride is gorgeous, not only because she’s all dressed up, but also because she’s enjoying the love of her husband. All her family and friends are there to celebrate with her.

The groom is also glowing with love for his bride and excitement for their future life together. He is also excited, nearly jumping for joy, because he won his wife’s heart and finally married her. All his family and friends are there to celebrate with him.

It is one of the biggest days of their lives, and rightfully so.

But, let me tell you, there is an even bigger marriage supper than the biggest one you can imagine.

“Then He said to him, ‘A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, “Come, for all things are now ready.” But they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, “I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it. I ask you to have me excused.” And another said, “I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to test them. I ask you to have me excused.” Still another said, “I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.” So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor and the maimed and the lame and the blind.” And the servant said, “Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.” Then the master said to the servant, “Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.”’” (Luke 14: 16- 24)

“Then he said to me, ‘Write: “Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!”’ And he said to me, ‘These are the true sayings of God.’” (Revelation 19:9) [emphasis added]

The marriage supper of the Lamb is not going to be a party you want to miss! There are so many people invited. In fact, the invitation is extended to you. You are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Your relationship with the Lamb is what gets you into the banquet. (See the previous post for Who the Lamb is.)
I know I am definitely planning to be in on this party. I would highly recommend that you get in on it too! This is not something you want to miss out on.

Did you notice though that those who were invited first didn’t value the fact that they were invited? They just went on with life as usual- or even with special things, neglecting the invitation to the great banquet. Then, did you see it, the master of the house- the one inviting everyone- got angry because they didn’t come. Instead of them, he invited anyone who could be found. There was so much room in the banquet hall that everyone could have come. So the poor, the maimed, the lame, and the blind, which could be found on the streets and lanes of the city, were invited. Then, because even after that, there was MORE ROOM, those on the highways and in the hedges were compelled to come- so that the house would be full! The desire of the master of the house was for a packed out banquet. He didn’t want anything he had prepared to go to waste because of a lack of guests at the banquet. There was enough room for everyone!

Now, God has been preparing a banquet- the marriage supper of the Lamb- and He wants His house to be full. So everyone is invited! =)
You’re ticket to get through the door at the house is your relationship with the Lamb, that’s the proof that you have been invited. If you don’t have a relationship with the Lamb, you can start one right now. (See the previous post “The Bride” for how to do that.)

Since there is so much room, invite everyone you know! No one should be left out of this celebration! Will you be there? Will you join me in inviting everyone to the banquet? I look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions feel free to contact me. Have a great week!

The Bride

2006-12-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about how much God loves you? Have you ever read about Jesus as the Bridegroom who is longing for His bride? The Church, as a whole- all belivers in Jesus, is His bride. He is waiting for her to get ready. Do you hear His heart cry for His bride? There is a time coming soon when everyone will be able to say:
"'Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.'” (Revelation 19:7)

If you don't know what it means by the "the Lamb": The Lamb is Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who was slain before any part of the world existed. It happened in God's eyes a long time before anyone else saw it happen. Later Jesus did come to earth and live a perfect life. He never did anything wrong; not one thing! Then He was wrongly accused, killed, and burried. Here's the thing though: He knew it would happen. He was born, lived perfect, and died for you. There was no other way for you to get to God because the wrong things you've done separate you from God. You know what happened after He was burried? He did not stay dead! Amazingly, He came back to life after three days and is still alive today! After He came back to life, He talked with His friends for many days and then He went back to heaven. He went to prepare a place for us to live with Him. His life, death, and resurrection (coming back to life) are what made a way for us to live with God forever.

All we have to do is accept the gift He is offering us. To accept the gift all you have to do is believe in Jesus Christ with all your heart- believe He died for you and was raised from the dead. Then confess (honestly say out loud) "Jesus is my Lord". That means He is in charge of your life. That's all it takes.
Yes, you have done some bad things in your life, we all have. All that doesn't matter when you accept the gift that God is offering you through Jesus Christ. You get to start all over. It's called being born again. This time you're not born physically, you're born spiritually. You're born into the family of God. You become a child of God. The old person you used to be dies and the you that lives is brand new. It is no longer you that lives; it's Jesus Christ living through you. Now that is an amazing adventure!

If you decided to accept the gift God is offering you, I'd love to hear about it!
If you have any questions about what I wrote, let me know and I'll do my best to direct you to the answer.