Debbie's Days

May I See Some Identification?

2009-08-23T21:43:00.000-07:00

I. Why I chose this message?

A few months ago as we studied the book of Acts and we talked a lot about baptism. At that time the Lord put it on my heart how we are a people who are searching for our identity, some validation of who we are.

Just last week I was pulled over by a sheriff for a burned out tail light, the very first thing he asked me was, May I see some identification? So that became the title of our message today. We live in a time when your identity can be stolen, when teenage girls look to tv pop stars and magazine covers to tell them who they are, at the first sign of lines and wrinkles we pay money to erase the years, women leave their marriages and even their children because they have to go and “find themselves”. While we were once a nation founded on Christianity and our country’s identity was the land of the free. Now we are a nation in a debt crisis because of greed. A mortgage crisis, because a bigger house means we are successful, not just more to clean. We are a politically correct nation who accepts all sinful lifestyles and tolerates the worship of idols and false gods via numerous religions. At one time or another, we can all raise our hands and say yes, I can identify with that. Well it seems to me we are a people suffering from an identity crisis.

II. The lives we’ve been studying.

Within the last 25 chapters in Genesis we have touched base on what kind of legacy both men and women left on the pages of Scripture. We read about Cain who murdered his brother and his great, great, great grandson Lamech followed in his footsteps; Cain left a legacy of murder. Noah, who believed God and moved with godly fear building an ark even when it had never rained, left a legacy for his obedience, patience and faith. Ham dishonored his father Noah and so his son Canaan was cursed. We know that the legacy of the Canaanites were of idolatry and wickedness. Abraham’s legacy was that he is the father of faith, his faith made him righteous. Abraham’s legacy reaches to the very lives of our own in that by faith in Jesus Christ we too are made right with God. We remember Sarah for laughing at the thought of having a son in her old age; yet bore Isaac when she was 91. Lot’s wife who looked back at Sodom and became a pillar of salt.

III. What is a legacy?

So we ask ourselves the question, who and what will history remember us by? To borrow from one of your responses in Genesis 5, Enoch left a legacy not an epitaph. A legacy is something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor; a gift handed down "Enoch lived to be 365 years old. He spent his life in fellowship with God, and then he disappeared, because God took him away. "All of the other descendants until Noah, they lived, they tried and they died. There were those who are remembered for their relationship with God and those who tried to become famous; building a tower to make a great name for them selves. We can either chose to leave a legacy that glorifies self or one that glorifies God.

For some, I may be telling you something that you already know, while others are hearing this truth for the first time and will be relieved to start living their lives fully aware that their identity is in Christ and the legacy you leave depends on how well you understand and embrace this truth.

IV. Why are we still searching?

Just on Facebook alone, there are many quizzes you can take to reveal what qualities you have, your Myers-Briggs personality type, what actress you most resemble, what bible character you are most like and even what bible verse best describes you.

The need to discover who we are and why we are here, where does it stem from? I believe it’s the enemies plan to use worldly values and wisdom to keep people in a state of confusion of wanting more, doubting who they are, pre-occupation with what about me, envy about the life they think they deserve and bitterness about the life they have. Remember, Eve in the garden, the serpent lied to her, confused God’s words, and appealed to her sin nature of wanting more. The difference between the world and God is so vast that if we move toward and listen to what the world says we are actually moving away from and alienating ourselves from God. So let us put an end to all the confusion, close the door of uncertainty, silence the mouths of liars and reveal the truth that trying to find yourself, searching for that validation is not the solution it’s the problem.

V. Who are we?

We have learned from Genesis 1 that we were created in the very image of God. When we put our faith in Christ our spirit was reborn. Paul often used the expression “in Christ”….Our identity is in Christ because when we put our faith in Him we became united with Him in His death and resurrection. 2Tim 2:11, For if we died with Him, we shall also live with Him. We died to sin, our old identity. Dying with Christ means dying to the things that used to run our lives. Rising with Christ means rising to a new way of living under Jesus’ authority and God’s will for your life. If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

Scripture says, do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you (who dwells within you), whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? 1Cor 6:19 The temple, as the name means (from a Greek root "to dwell"), was the earthly dwelling-place of God, where alone He put His name. We need to come to the realization that we are not living in the flesh according to our old nature, but in the Spirit. The flesh says we need to find out who we are; self-discovery and leave our mark as someone who is accomplished by the world’s standards. But the Spirit says, you are no longer your own, but bought at great price so present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. Under our new identity we are not to be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Paul got it right when he said, “for it is no longer I who lives but Christ who lives in me.” Isn’t it true that our actions are motivated by who we are. So if we are created in His image, we have the Spirit of God dwelling inside us and we know we are united in Christ. If we are called vessels, a temple, His body, His hands and feet, then lets look at what action will follow.

VI. Our legacy

The legacy we leave is really the fruit that was produced in and through our lives by the working of the Holy Spirit in us. As Matthew 7:20 says, therefore by their fruits you will know them, either bad or good. The key to that legacy or fruit is abiding in Jesus, which means to remain in, dwell, to stay, to settle in, to sink deeper.

In John 15:5-8 Jesus said, I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Those that don’t abide in Christ are cast out, Cain was cast out, Canaan was cursed, Lot’s wife became salt and Sodom burned. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? Mark 9:36. For the person who says I need to find myself. Jesus says, “He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” Matthew 11:39

VII. Closing

So I ask , what will your legacy be? To quote from some of your responses. As moms, we too can be "mothers of nations". God commands us to faithfully teach our children the life-giving truths of Scripture. With Christ in our hearts, we can begin our own line of godly seed. As we pass on the gospel to our children, they can, in turn, pass it on to the next generation. Our godly influence can continue through time and through generations as "innumerable as the stars". One sister said, I want to leave a legacy of faith and I want to bring hope to those around me that no matter what we face...in Jesus there is victory. And just the other day I was told by a dear sister in Christ, the greatest legacy that we could ever leave is to teach our children to have a relationship with Jesus Christ, if we do that, when we leave this earth, we will have done our job. Sounds like a great legacy to me!!!

Beginning today- we can stop searching, stop pursuing those things that we did with our old identity and start living out our legacy, doing the will of God. I pray that we have faith to believe, to trust, embrace the truth, to know and understand that our identity is in Christ. It's never too late to begin if we make ourselves available to God for His purposes. Let us be determined to abide in Christ, bearing much fruit and giving all the glory to Him.

2 Corinthians

2009-08-03T13:45:00.000-07:00

Praise God for all He is doing in and through us as we read a Chapter a Day together. Our group of ladies keeps growing. We are being changed by the power of God's word through His Spirit. Glory be to God! These responses are taken from our group!

Chapter 1

We know that whatever we go through whatever life has in store for us He will always be with us and he will comfort us. We in turn must comfort others in their afflictions. We can stand steadfast knowing that He will deliver us like he did Paul time and time again. We shouldn't rely on ourselves or our own understanding but rely on Him. God allows us to get in situations that are hopeless and we can't see our way out on our own accord we have to rely totally on Him. We see at the end of the chapter that we are told that He has given us a guarantee, He has placed The Holy Spirit in our hearts as a sign or as a deposit of the fulfillment of His Promise to us. When God gives you a guarantee how can you not be comforted.

Chapter 2

Paul is so grieved about this situation with Corinthians because he loves them dearly. What I see is how the action of one person can affect a whole community of believers. But he clarifies that although he has sinned, he apparently was rebuked and he repented, so it was time to forgive and comfort him. In Christ, this community would then be healed.

This makes me think how sometimes our own emotions can hold us hostage making us think we have the right to speak harshly or hold some grudge. But scripture says “we are to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ “ 2 Cor 10:5. This is something I work on repeatedly as I respond to my husband in a Liz way instead of a Christ way. In Christ’s way, Satan then would have no way to take advantage of us (verse 11).

Regarding the Fragrance of Christ, here’s just something I’m always reminded of when I walk by the coffee aisle in the grocery store. I love the smell of coffee beans. It makes me want to stop and breathe it in. So in my life it reminds me to stop and breathe Him in, my God... to breath in the aroma of the knowledge of Him and the example I exemplify to others. Because…He uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. v 14-15. NLT

Chapter 3

Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. 4 And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

2 Cor 3:3-5 (KJV)

I love this! We should be like this. We do not need a LETTER or someone telling others that we are Christians, anyone we meet should know that there is something different about us. We need to be the light of the world. As Paul says that the church of Corith was his letter. What we do as christian is written as in the hearts of others not a piece of paper. It is for the Lord not for ourselves. What we do is only done because of the love of God and the gifts he gives us. Our reward is in honoring and serving the Lord not from man because Our reward is eternal whereas if it is written in a letter it only will last for a short season.

Chapter 4
⁶For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"^[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

As Gods creation started from darkness to light, he also brings the light bulb to new believers. The hearts are open by this light so their eyes can see the goodness that they were living without. A new believer is on fire from the heat of the light!
As we continue to live in the goodness of our Lord through his mercy and grace this light will continue to stay lit. May we pray for those that are living in the darkness and blinded by Satan.

As we continue are holiday weekend Lord, give my sisters this light to shine as we walk in your path of righteousness. May our light shine bright, so we can give You glory Father.

Chapter 5

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old has gone and the new has come!" vs.17..NIV

After reading this again, it reminds me of what Christ has done for us, He stripped away our sins, the dirtiness that covered our bodies and has cleansed us. He had made us like beatuiful butterflies. The old is gone and the new shines forth!Praise God!!

Chapter 6

"I urge you not to recieve the grace of God in vain" vs 1

"Dont do anything to discredit the ministry" vs 3

But in all things ( vs 5-10), through the storms of life respond in truth with the power of God. Paul is responding to all that was being said about him and done to him. He carries on using his life as the response to the slanderers and faithfully continues on for Christ.

"You are not restrained by us, but by your own affections" vs 12 Ouch! The only thing holding us back is us...no excuses.... I heard someone say "You are as holy as you want to be" What, no way! I want to be closer to You, hear more from You, dive deeper into You....but in just a minute...I gotta take care of something else first Lord. I remember my kids when they were little saying "mom, mom.." and I would say "just a minute" while trying to finish whatever I was doing before I got back to them...and it always took more than a minute...and sad to say I probably never got back to them many times as they were onto something else quick enough.Now, I loved my children and always said I would do anything for them but many times I put them after some project or phone call...etc. You get the point I hope!

I always remember that because its so true, if we look at what we spend our time doing we find the affections of our heart. I always pray to be closer to the Lord, to have more of Him in my life....but then I look at what I spend my time doing and realize I must not want Him more than....whatever it is I am doing at that moment...

God is saying " Mary, Mary" and it is up to me if I answer His call or say "In a Minute Lord"

Chapter 7
(vs 9) I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner.

Paul regretted that he had to write a "severe letter" to the Corinthians. But since it caused them to repent and turn to God, his sorrow was transformed into joy. Their sorrow did not stop at just feeling sad about getting caught or suffering the unpleasant consequences of their sins. Their sorrow was godly sorrow, a genuine remorse for their sins. This led to repentance, a change in their thinking that led to a renouncing of their sin and turning to GOD. Their repentance ultimately led to deliverance from their sinful habits.

When we trust Jesus as our Savior and wholeheartedly repent of our sinful tendencies, the Holy Spirit creates within us a new desire to do what is pleasing to GOD. Thank you Jesus!

By one MAN's obedience many will be made righteous. Romans 5:19

Chapter 8
VS. 5&9

"And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God."

(9)"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich."

Paul is letting us know that we should be as the Macedonians... they had very little as far as earthly possessions, but they gave of themselves, and what little money they had, completely to the Lord. Paul was hesitant to accept money from them because they had so little, but because they were so willing and insistent, he had no choice but to accept.

Paul wants us to see that this is one way we should show our thanks to God, for giving us His one and only Son. After all... He became poor, by suffering for our sins as He did, so that we might have all the riches of heaven that God has to offer us. The least we could do is give joyfully to the Lord and not feel obligated... because He did it out of love... and so should we.

Have a wonderful day giving yourself completely to the Lord,

Chapter 9
V:13 "Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else."

What an encouragement to serve, share, and be obedient.

Lord, that service, generosity, and obedience would simply flow from me, not be something that I have to think about doing and putting into practice, but rather come instinctively, effortlessly, thoughtlessly. You are worthy to be praised. Praise to the Living King, You are my everything and I will adore You.

Chapter 10

Our strongest weapon and defense is having God and knowing His word. It helps us fight against any issues we may have. Bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ...with every thought we have, we need to remain in Christ [at all times]. we shouldnt' compare ourselves to each other but stay true to God's word. we are not to take the glory but to give it to God, the rightful owner of all the glory, for He is the one who appointed us!

I love our savior God. I praise Him daily as He deserves it!

Chapter 11

1-3 (Paul was passionate in his desire for others to continue growing in their relationship with Christ)

4-6 (People were drawn to the deceitful teachings because of their impressive words and dismissing the truth of the gospel because it wasn’t given as demonstratively)

7-12 (Open and honest communication is necessary among believers. We need to be transparent)

12-15 (With so many teachings out there – we need to know what group we are lumped with when sharing the gospel. Make a point of having others know that the God we serve is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; that Jesus is the Son of God – Jesus is Lord and that the Holy Spirit equips us to serve)

16-21(Paul began to get down to their level to draw them up to Christ’s. He made sure they knew that boasting wasn’t a fruit of the Spirit, but a foolish fruit of the flesh)

21-23 (How frustrating it is when you know they know truth, but, they choose to follow a lie because it is more exciting. True followers of Christ hear His voice -- John 10:27 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me”)

23-29 (What have I/we been willing to suffer for the sake of the cross? Let’s count it all joy – James 1:2-8)

Chapter 12

The one verse that spoke to me is v10 “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

I am at a point in my life where I am depending on the Lord more then ever. At work I am persecuted and sometimes it is really hard to walk into this place on a daily basis but I know that I have to and it only makes me a stronger person and deepens my faith. My life is full of difficulties I mean whose isn’t? We all have trials and things that we are facing now but we have to remember that they are only temporary and will soon fade away. Whether it be a hardship, insult, or persecution I count it as a blessing for I know my God is with me.

Chapter 13

11 Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

Paul had made 2 trips to this Church, admonished them and reviewed and reviewed God’s ways and words. I love his final words that still stand today for us. “Aim” for perfection- If we awake every morning and just aim for the perfection of our Lord; If we aim to be of one mind with our Lord- Think as He would have us to think and present ourselves in His ways- We would end up in peace at the end of the day.

Peace to you all,

Chapter a Day 1 Corinthians

2009-08-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

1 Corinthians

Chapter 1

i like how Paul starts out saying ^"Grace and peace to you....which is something only those who are in Christ can really truly have. He goes on to remind us that we do not lack any Spiritual gift, as we often tend to forget at lest i do. He wants us all to be of the same mind, not arguing over whose church we belong to, we are all of the same body, the body of Christ. And He is the head. No one should be in the name of, but that of our Lord's.

Some times when i read this chapter, i feel like the Lord put it in the bible just for me. i am that one who never got any kind of degree in school. i went to school for a long time, and i learned a great deal. When i was in grade school, i always struggled, i was that kid who studied really hard just to get a C, when that is what most did to get the A. The Lord taught me from His word, and He is not done. i lean on Him for every thing. He is my strength and Song, and i know in my heart what this chapter is saying. i am not rich, but He has made me rich in faith, family and with friends. He has been so faithful in most every way in my life. i am blessed and thankful.

Chapter 2
1Cor 2 -
In vs 4 and 5 Paul explains that when he first spoke/preached to them he didn't try to prove anything by sounding wise, He says he simply let God's Spirit show, so that they would have faith in God's power and not because of human wisdom.... AMEN to THAT!!!!!! Paul knew that the wisdom of God is so much more then the wisdom of this world and the people in it.

Chapter 3

I'm glad God calls us servants now because as christians I believe that is our role. Love the Lord, obey him and his commandments to do them, be a doer of the word and not just a hearer only, love our neighbors (anybody next to us...anybody), study the word of God, spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and be a team player in the body of Christ because we are all a part of the body. (v.5-6) says, "After all, who is Apollos? and who is Paul? (who is Liz?)we are simply God's servants, by whom you were led to believe. Each one of us does the work which the Lord gave us to do. I plant the seed, Apollos watered the plant, but it was God who made the plant grow. "We as believers cannot take any credit for drawing non-believers to Christ; God brings the increase.

What the world considers to be wisdom is non-sense in the sight of God. Everything belongs to God. May the life that I live be a reflection of Jesus inside of me. He is not looking for perfection; I don't possess that, but I'm available and willing to do as He commands no matter how hard the task before me. I too desire the meat of the word and thirst and hunger for righteousness. (1.cor. 13:11)When I was a child I spoke like a child, acted like a child but one day I put my childish things away and I grew up into this woman of God I'm becoming in God. I'm still a work in progress but I press on because I'm not who I use to be, thank God.

Chapter 4
Verse 16..."Therefore I urge you to imitate me." How wonderful those words are! There is only one that we should follow and imitate and that is Jesus Christ our Lord...Paul set wondeful examples of how we are to do that. Pray, don't be ashamed of the Gospel, share and encourage others in the love of Jesus Christ..trust and keep the faith, though many trials come our way, we know we can handle it we have Christ on our side!

Chapter 5

VS. 6 & 7

"(6)Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? (7)Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us."

Boasting is not good for the believer, especially because we are to glorify God, always. Even if it is just a little bit, it will spread throughout. It's like cancer... it starts out small, but if not treated right away, it will spread throughout the whole body. Therefore, we must do as the Jews did during the Passover Feast... we must scrape the leaven clean and get it all out! Get rid of the evil! We must remember that the slaying of the lamb during Passover was a symbol of what our Lord Jesus Christ did on the cross for us... the least we could do is act accordingly. I know I will always be an "Israelite", but I thank God everyday for His patience, mercy, forgiveness, and most of all... LOVE!

Chapter 6
Believers should not take each other to court because it gives merit to the world's view and does great damage to the unsaved world. We appear to be no different from the world.

I think Luke 6: 27-36 says it all. Love for enemies....27-31...."But I tell you who hear me, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you."

You gotta be kidding me, right!!!!! Yes, impossible if we try to do these things in our own strength. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit can we become more like Christ. "Forgive as I have forgiven you." Love one another, just as I have loved you, says the Lord.

We were created by God for a divine purpose. We were redeemed by Christ and our bodies are members of Christ. The Holy Spirit dwells in us.

Christ used His body for the purpose of dying for our sins. He used His body for a high and holy purpose. We must use our bodies to honor Him.

Chapter 7
(vs10) Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband.

Contrary to what "the world" has to suggest, the Bible gives us solid truths and guidelines about marriage.

God has promised us HIS presence and HIS help when we face trials, and that promise extends to our marriage, even a difficult one. Our gracious God has also assured us of a way of escape through any difficulty that might tempt us to give in to sin. God will enable us to stand strong in the face of trial, including those that come in our marriage.

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it (1 Cor 10:13).

Father GOD, thank you that you have given us the precious gift of marriage and I also thank you that you promise to give each one of us the grace and power to endure. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Chapter 8

But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church.

What God recognizes...Those who love Him.

It is not our knowledge of His word that brings God glory... its what we do with that knowledge. Encouraging others, restoring others to usefulness in the body, and sharing His love with those that don't know Him.

Gal 2:21 I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die.

1 Cor 13: 13 There are three things that will endure--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love.

Lord help me to be more eager share the grace and love you have poured out on me.

Chapter 9

I Cor. 9. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

It is my prayer to always listen to the Holy Spirit for the correct words when I am witnessing to anyone about the Word of God and salvation ; I want to be able to speak to them on their particular level of understanding.

Vs. 27: No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

I am running for Jesus and trying to live for the prize of eternity.

Chapter 10

Temptation is a part of life and there are times where I feel I cannot bear certain situations. V13 helps e to understand that even as Christians we will face temptation but God will always provide a way out.

V21: This really spoke to me. I used to be that person that loved to separate lives. Church on Sunday but my way the rest of the week. So WRONG!!!!! As a child of god I know now that I cannot be “of this world” and a child of God, it’s like mixing oil and vinegar…. Not a good combination. V31: Do it all for the Glory of God. Our everyday actions should reflect our Christian life. We have to always to careful what decisions we make because we don’t want a new believer to stumble. BE A GOOD EXAMPLE!!!

Chapter 11
(vs 27) Whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

The Corinthian's failure to honor the sanctity of the ceremony dishonored the memory of Christ's sacrifice. Many believers paid for their mistake with a loss of health or even their lives (vs30).

But Paul urged the Corinthians to judge themselves so that they wouldn't be judged. And he also pointed out that even the Lord's judgement was for their good (vs32).

The Lord's Table will remain an opportunity until HE comes. By the attitude of our hearts we will either honor HIS death or unfortunately, may do damage to HIS name.

I'm reminded that before I celebrate the Lord's Supper, I must prayerfully examine myself. Then, with a heart of gratitude, I can focus on HIS sacrifice for me.

Yes Jesus, you are worthy of honor and glory!!....May everything I say and do be worthy of being lifted up as an offering of thanksgiving and praise to YOU. Amen!

Chapter 12

V.11

"But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills."

V. 18 But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased."

We all have different spiritual gifts, because just like a human body cannot function if it was just one ear, tongue, or eye, etc... the Body of Christ (His church) cannot function properly if everyone has the same gift. Everyone is GIVEN a different gift by the Holy Spirit. We do not choose our own gift. The Holy Spirit is perfect... therefore, knows how each ones role fits, to make up the Body of Christ. We are to give God the glory and thanks for our gifts and not be prideful or unhappy with them, because they are given to us to serve others and glorify God. He has a perfect plan for all, and we must have faith in that.

Chapter 13
What a beautiful description of God this chapter has. Broken down it looks like this:

God is/does
patient
kind
rejoices with the truth
always protects
always trusts
always hopes
always perseveres

God is not/does not
envy
boast
proud
rude
self-seeking
easily angered
keep track of wrongs done
delight in evil
never fails

1 John 4:8 "...God is love."

I am thankful for both what God is and is not. I would like to take this, think about it, admire my Father's attributes, and in a childlike way imitate my Father in heaven.

The image in my mind is of a young child walking behind his father, arms outstretched for balance looking down at the foot impressions left by his father on the wet sand at the beach, being ever so careful not to deviate from them.

Help me God to embrace the qualities that You are, to reflect Your beauty, and become like You.

Chapter 14
²⁶What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church.

How important it is that we encourage one another. Not only in our words and actions but the use of our spiritual gifts as well which comes in

many different types of form.

And then there is love -the one thing we all respond to. It prepares our heart to receive all that Christ has for us.

Chapter 15

Verses 40b-42a stands out to me the most..."but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead."

There will be different intensities in heaven. Daniel 12 tells us that those who win souls shall shine as the stars forever. Those who are serving the Lord now and making their lives count today will shine brightly throughout eternity. And although those who simply believe in Jesus, but give priority to their own bodies, possessions, interests, hobbies, careers, or agendas will be in heaven, they will not shine with the same intensity.

Truthfully, I will count it a blessing to be the resident maid and chief dishwasher as long as I am in heaven, but I would like to shine brightly for my Lord.

Father, give me the focus and strength to work hard today, and all my tomorrows to make Your kingdom my passion and priority. Not for the glory of my shining star, but for the Glory of you, my God. And Father, thank you for the wisdom you have given Jon Courson, because without his teachings I would not have understanding. Bless him Father, he is a good and faithful servant... and I LOVE him!!!

Be blessed today sisters...

Chapter 16

vs 13 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Let ALL that we do be done in love....be on the alert in love...stand firm in love..act like men in love...be strong in love! Such a good reminder for us today as we respond to all the ungodliness in our world.

vs 17...rejoice over the coming of ....( 3 men listed here who were believed to be the ones who brought this letter to them)

vs18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours.

Lord, may we live our lives as a reflection of Your Love in such a way that we bring a refreshing of spirit to those we come in contact with!

Acts

2009-06-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

Our group of ladies in Chapter a Day continues to grow in the knowledge and understanding of our Lord. We are united together by His Spirit, like minded and of one accord. Our God is worthy to be praised!!

Taken from your Responses!

Acts 1

⁷ And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.

⁸ But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me

in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

It is not for me to know - How often do I catch myself trying to figure out what God is up to (How prideful of me to think that my mind could even begin to fathom)

Gods word says distinctively - it is not for me to know the times or the seasons. His word goes on to say what I am to do -

I am to be a witness - this is our commission: Get the Word out to the World. Begin at home and extend it into all the world. God wants people saved.

What is a witness - A witness is "someone who tells what he has seen and heard" Proverbs 14:25 A true witness delivereth souls.

The only way we will be able to get the word out and for the word to penetrate the hearts of the lost is through the Holy Spirit.

I also loved vs 14 - These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, - Oneness, prayer and waiting upon the Lord. It is John 17 in action.

The prayer that Jesus prayed that we would be one in spirit "one accord" and that they were. Christ was what brought them together.

Lord - Please let it always be on the forefront of our hearts and minds to seize the opportunities to tell the lost about their need of a Savior.

Introducing them to you Lord - the only one who can satisfy the void in their soul. To know You and make You known. Thank you that you

are a living God! In Jesus name. Amen

Acts 2

Penetcost marks the beginning of the church ( Matt 16:18). vs 1 " they were all together in one place" as Jesus had asked them to wait in 1:4. Not only were they in one place physically but they were of one mind, one heart and one accord. The Holy Spirit comes with the sound of a violent rushing wind ( Power) and there appears fire ( Passion) on each of them. They begin speaking in tongues, which proclaimed what they couldnt before through the Power and Passion of the Holy Spirit.

Over 3000 were saved that day and the church had begun! Vs 42-47 give us the ingredients of a great church.

vs 42 a devoted church

vs 43 an expectant church

vs 45 a sacrificial church

vs 46 a consistent church

vs 46 a loving and sincere church

vs 47 a worshipping church

Beloved, may we "be" all the above through the Power and Passion of the Holy Spirit!!

Acts 3

Verse 6: “But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!”

The lame beggar asked for something that offered him temporary help-money, but Peter gave him something much better and longer lasting- the use of his legs. God ALWAYS has the bigger picture. We often want something that is a “quick fix” but when we put our faith and trust in the Lord, he will give us what we need and it’s in his time, not ours.

Verse 19: “Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away”. Peter was addressing the crowds telling them to change their ways and all they need to do is repent. What a sigh of relief this is, all I have to do is repent and turn from my sins. God will guide us through the rest.

Verse 20: “Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, and your appointed Messiah.” Once we repent and turn away from our sins we will be refreshed (to restore or maintain by renewing supply) from the presence of the Lord. Our slate will be as white as snow!!! PRAISE GOD!!!

Dear Heavenly Father I pray that you will forgive me of all of my sins. I am repenting and turning to you to be refreshed. I pray for each of the ladies in the group that whatever they are going through right now whether it’s a trial, or something that is exciting that you will pour out the Holy Spirit on us. Lord, your ways are far better then mine and I often get off track but I turn back to you now and ask that you will help be to better understand your Word and what you want from me. Thank you for the blessings you gave and continue to give. I want to glorify you in all that I do. Bless these ladies as we head into the weekend and keep us safe. In Jesus’ name I pray AMEN

Acts 4

How intimidating it must have been standing in the midst of the council (Annas, Caiaphas,guards and sadducees etc.) but Peter and John was full of the holy spirit meaning fear was replaced by boldness in Christ Jesus. They spoke as they were led, they opened their mouths and the holy spirit filled their mouths with His words. (v,12) Salvation is to be found through Jesus alone, in all the world there in no one else whom God has given who can save us." They were threatened to stop speaking in the name of Jesus of Nazareth but (v.20) says "For we cannot stop speaking of what we ourselves have seen and heard."

The proof is always in the pudding because the miracle was standing right there next to Peter and John; the lame man who was lame from birth. Not a kid but a 40 year old man, so the people believed and prayed for bolness as they spoke. They were one in mind and heart (one accord) and all were filled with the holy spirit and began to proclaim God's message with boldness. They shared everything they had (in cluding money, houses and property) with each other and no one in the group was in need. The apostles would distribute the money to each one according to their need.

The bible says God shall supply all our need according to His riches in Christ Jesus. His grace is sufficient.

Acts 5

Facing Opposition

The Apostles, through the Holy Spirit, performed many miracles...the Sadduces are filled with jealousy.

Again the Apostles are put in jail...released by an angel...put in jail again....ordered (Again) to never speak in the name of Jesus...and flogged (Whipped!!).

Their response...vs29 "We must obey God rather that any human authority" ~Obedience to God. vs.41 "The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the the name of Jesus." ~Praising God

vs.42 Continued to preach and teach ~ "Jesus is the Messiah!!" ~Pressed On

God was there in the midst of it all!!!

vs. 14,26 The people believed and had a high regard for the disciples...which brought fear to the temple guards...protecting them from being treated with violence.

vs. 19 God sent an angel to open the gates of the jail.

vs. 21 God provided a way for them to teach in the temple. vs 29 He gave Peter and the apostles boldness and the right words in front of the temple council. vs.33 God softend Gamaliel's heart to let them go.

I am reminded of James 1...."Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."

Acts 6

Acts 6: 3-4: Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”

What I found interesting was the beginning of Church Organization. I did a “search” on the duties and required qualifications of a deacon. Unfortunately, I don’t think all of these qualifications and duties are followed in todays churches.

Qualifications:

· Men of good reputation,

· Be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom",(Acts 6:3) "And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit

· Deacons are to be capable of serving the Lord in spiritual ways

· The office of Deacon requires a firm grasp of sound doctrine

Duties:

· To be the ministers of mercy in the church. Providing for widows and orphans and needs of the local congregation.

· They are to visit the sick and those in prison.

· Deacons are to help disciple new converts

· Keep watch over the church members, reporting any who seemed about to fall away

· They are to also work at restoring those who are out of fellowship.

Acts 7

The first Martyr was Stephen. Stoned for proclaiming the Good News of Christ.

vs 60

And falling on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, Lord, do not hold this sin against them!

WOw, this brought me to tears. In the midst of being stoned he asked God to not hold them accountable for their actions. Throughout my life I have had people sin against me (as have you) some with severe consequences to me. Not once in the middle of the "stoning" did I ask the Lord to not hold this sin against them.

Lord, give us the heart and compassion of Stephen that we can see the bigger picture in the midst of our "stoning" and pray for the ones who need to have their "spiritual eyes" opened. For our trust is in You...

Ps 27 The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread?....My heart will not fear...I shall be confident

Acts 8

Simon wanted to buy the power of the Holy Spirit. God's gift of salvation and the power of the Holy Spirit working in the believers life is a free gift if we believe in Jesus, ask for the Holy Spirit to empower us and receive in faith. This cost God dearly and there is no way it can be purchased with any amount of money and to even suggest such a thing is a huge insult to God. (v20)

The early church spread out due to persecution, allowing the message of the Gospel to be proclaimed throughout Judea and Samaria. God's purposes can not be stopped. This chapter twice notes the joy when the people were converted (v8 & v39). What a difference it makes to have God in our lives.

Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.

Acts 9
From Darkness to Light

Vs 1-2 - When Saul walked in darkness His great passion was to imprison and kill all those who belonged to the WAY - faith in Jesus Christ. Saul was blinded by hatred and sin.
Vs 3 - Suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him
Vs 8-9 - He could see nothing. He was blinded for three days.
Vs 15 - Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.
Vs 17 - That you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Saul's eyes were opened and he could now see the Truth.
Vs 20 - And immediately in the synagogues he proclaimed Jesus, saying, He is the Son of God.
Vs 23 - After considerable time had elapsed, the Jews conspired to put Saul out of the way by slaying him.
Saul went from darkness to light . He was a new man. He was no longer Saul he was now Paul. He had a change of heart. Paul was chosen by God to do a task - preach the word, Christ ans Him crucified. The path that was ahead of him was a path of suffering for the Lord. He no longer persecuted those who believed in The Way. Instead he was persecuted for his faith in The Way. Paul never looked back. Just as he was focused and passionate to do evil he now had the same passion to do good. Only now a strong dose of the Holy Spirit was added to his passion.
God give me the strength and the desire to be passionate and focused and to be obedient to do that which you have called be to do. Help me to be like Paul, to go when you say go and to not question or hesitate. To tell the world about your love and saving grace. To have a heart always that burns for you and to be more and more like you each day.

Acts 10
~ God shows no partiality. In every nation anyone who loves him and does what is right is acceptable to him. (vs.34, 35) We don't have to be a certain race, color or wealth category for Jesus to love us and accept us. Love it!

Acts 11

(v23) When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.

Purpose of heart describes a resolve of the will to make up one's mind about one thing. In this case, the resolve was to remain with the Lord. When Barnabas saw the grace of God in these converts, he was true to his name (he was nicknamed "Son of Encouragement") and encouraged them in their new faith. Such beautiful encouragement.

Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called. Ephesians 4:1

Acts 12

I thought it was interesting that while Peter was in jail the other believers were at Mary's house, praying for him. And when the angel of the Lord came and lead him out of jail, he went to Mary's and Rhoda was the only one who believed it was Peter. Everyone else thought it was his angel.

Isn't that how we can be, praying and knowing God can and will answer our prayers, but when He does..sometimes we have a hard time believing it.

Acts 13

"Separate to me": Before Barnabas and Saul can do anything great for God, they must first be separated to Him. If you will separate to God, it means you must separate from some other things. You can’t really say "yes" to God’s call on your life until you can say "no" to things that will keep you from that call.

Acts 14

As I read this chapter I started to imagine Paul and Barnabas speaking in the name of Jesus to the gentiles and the jews and how they believed when they saw the crippled man jump up and walk. It reminds me of our testimonies today when we hear something so amazing that we rejoice with that person and we are encouraged too; because we know it was only by the grace of God that the person came through. I was also encouraged by Pauls courage to speak boldly even though he knew his life would be in danger because of some jews and gentiles who did not believe and they persuaded the people to think differently too. They took Paul out of the city and stoned him. They thought that he was dead and left him there but as soon as Paul came to, he went right back into the city, telling the good news.

God told Joshua in the old testiment of Deu. 31:6, "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear or be afraid of them, for the Lord your God, He is the one who goes with you. He will not leave you nor foresake you." And He will not leave us either. Paul and Barnabas said don't idolized us, we are mere men just like you, worship the living God. I also hear meekness and humility- controlled strength not weakness.

Acts 15
" Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing." This shows Paul had a heart to bring people into the body of Christ and also grow them! We must do the same. Check on those we brought to know Christ not just assume they are doing ok and we're done with our job there. Instead follow Pauls example of following up with them and encouraging them to keep running the race! We can always use a word of encouragement from another Sister in Christ!

Acts 16

⁶ Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. ⁷ After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit^[a] did not permit them.

We do not always know the plans God has for us but when the small still voice in us

prompts us or forbids us to go in a certain direction we must be obedient and go in the direction that

The Holy Spirit is leading.

As Christians - and children of God - we must allow the Holy Spirit to lead, direct and guide our lives and our steps.

Even when we don't understand what He is doing we need to obey His promptings!!

Acts 17
V:22 & 23 "So Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, "Men of Athens, I observe that you are very religious in all respects. For while I was passing through and examining the objects of your worship, I also found an altar with this inscription, 'TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.' Therefore what you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you."

I should like to learn from Paul in this passage, how to share with "religious" nonbelievers, or people who say they are "spiritual."

I notice that he speaks the truth with respect. What I mean is he took the time to note something of their belief system and culture and incorporated it into his message, even quoting one of their poets in verse 28.

The result? Some mocked, some were interested, some believed.

Acts 18
As I read this chapter I was really drawn to the last part where we are told about the ministry of Appollos. We are told that he is an eloquent man and Mighty in the scriptures. "Mighty in the scriptures" Wow what a complement to this man! Despite being a scholer and already knowledgeable about the scriptures, we also learn that he received counsel (for lack of a better word) from Aquila and Priscilla who explained the ways of God "more accurately". This reminds me that no matter how much we know about the scriptures we always have more to learn. We need to stay humble and willing to listen and be taught with our hearts and minds open to learn.

We are told that when Appollos arrived in Achaia..."he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ." This sentence is a reminder to us all the importance of having knowledge of the scriptures, something that I have fallen away from in recent years, but that I am really focusing on know. I pray that the Lord continue to keep my heart and mind open, humble and focused on learning and sharing what I have learned.

Acts 19

Power in the name of Jesus

Paul traveled, built up new believers, baptized in the name of Jesus, preached boldly, argued persuasively, held daily discussions, performed miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The seven sons of Sceva, a leading priest, were making a living claiming to heal and drive out demons. They were using Jesus' name in an effort to match Paul's power. Failing to see Paul's power came from the Holy Spirit not from incantations and magic formulas. They were attacked by a demon they were trying to drive out. They called on the name of Jesus without knowing Him personally.

There is power in the name of Jesus when we have a personal relationship with Him. May I use the power and victory that I have in Jesus to the fullest for His glory.

Acts 20

Paul finally arrived in Greece, where he stayed three months. Because the Jews made a plot against him. He says he is compelled by the Spirit and that he is going to Jerusalem, he doesn't really know what is going to happen, he only knows that in every city the Holy Spirit warns that prison and hardships are in his future.

Paul does this amazing rising from the dead, of this young man who went to sleep, while listening to him preach. i think it is funny and i have often told my son, don't fall asleep in church, you may wake up falling out a window. LOL

Paul tells them his heart, as he pores it out. Saying he served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although he was severely tested by plots of the Jews. They knew that he did not hesitated to preach anything that would not be helpful to them but have taught these Christian's publicly and from house to house. He has declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in Jesus. Then he tells them, "Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God, Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood." He says be on your guard, men will come and distort the truth, and he says this with tears. Paul deeply loves these people. Paul reminds them how he worked not asking for any hand outs, he also gave while any were in need. He commits them to God, like Jesus committed us to His Father in prayer before He left, and they feel the love for one another, and how much they will miss Paul. And then they said their good-byes.

Acts 21

In chapter 21 I'm amazed at Paul's willingness to go to Jerusalem even though he knew what awaited him. I'm also saddened that many Jews missed Jesus because of their zealousness for the law and customs. They were even willing to kill Paul over it, as was Paul until he came to know the grace of God and was then willing to die to teach it to others.

Acts 22

As Paul recounts his conversion; as a persecutor of Christians to a Disciple
teaching Salvation through Jesus Christ, the verses brought to my mind how
God uses all people. God can turn the worse sinner around and use them, it
is not for me to judge. We all were something else before we accepted Jesus
Christ as our Savior. I am not what I should be, but I thank God I am not
what I used to be.

Vs: 25-30: Paul a Roman Citizen: I saw these verses as a parallel to Paul
being protected as a Roman Citizen to we as Christians being "Citizens" of
God, we are Children of God, protected by the Holy Spirit .

Acts 23
V:23 "I wanted to know why they were accusing him, so I brought him to their Sanhedrin. I soon discovered it was something regarding their religious law--certainly nothing worthy of imprisonment or death."

Paul had done nothing worthy of imprisonment, yet he continued to be held captive. As we read on into the next chapter we will see he is held prisoner for more than 2 years without a just cause.

When we believe we are being held captive in an uncomfortable situation in life we can remember that the Lord is at our side, and perhaps if we can tune out the noise and chaos around we can hear Him speak softly to our hearts saying "Take courage..."

Acts 24
(vs16) This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense towar God and men.

Our conscience is that inner voice that tells us if we are pleasing or displeasing God. Praise God that the Holy Spirit brings our consicence to life. We have the responsiblity to keep it pure. Paul declared, "I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day" (Acts 23:1). This is Paul's bold and consistent claim.

God always instructs us down to the last detail. I pray that my ear will always be sensitive enough to hear even His softest whisper. I know that the only thing that will keep my conscience sensitive to Him is to daily stay in the word of God.

Acts 25
⁸Then Paul made his defense: "I have done nothing wrong against the law of the Jews or against the temple or against Caesar."

When we accepted Christ we asked Him to be our Lord and Savior..our Master! What freedom we have in our life as a believer.
When we are "full" of the Holy Spirit and allow Him to lead us throughout our day we can look back over the day and have no regrets.
We can stand with confidence knowing that we spent our time being obedient to His prompting. Paul could stand with confidence before his
accusers knowing that he was completely in the will of God - He knew that he had done nothing wrong!

What freedom we have in Christ

Acts 26
In vs 28 Agrippa asks Paul if he thought he could pursuade him to become a Christian in such a short time? Paul responds that his prayer is that all who were listening would become Christians whether it was in a short time or long time. Paul's prayer for these people was simple, That they would Know God like he did.

Sometimes I find myself in judgement of others, in the way that they live, the decisions that they make, the way they speak or even dress etc... I have even on some occasions found myself praying that somebody would change to better suit what I believed to be a better way, I am reminded by Pauls' simple words that what I should really be praying for is that these people will know Jesus like I do. I pray today that God helps me to understand what is really important and to be a light to help others find him and also for patience as just like Paul mentioned, it may take a short time or a long time...

Acts 27

So take courage!! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.

The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone. The crew was so worried that they hadn't touched food for two weeks. There was 276 passengers aboard.

Paul used this opportunity to bring God Glory. He told them about his God. That God had sent an angel that told him not be afraid. This is the second time God had told Paul he would make it to Rome. That everyone on the boat would be safe. They were worried...they had lost hope. Paul used this opportunity to give them hope. Hope in what God had promised.

From this passage I am reminded that in the storms we face in life. We hold on to the promises of God to sustain us...we look for ways to encourage others and bring God glory. So take courage!! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.

Acts 28
Reading this Chapter has really opened my eyes to Paul's dedication to
preaching the Word and enduring trials to do so. I have been inspired to
look inward at my walk.

Stand out verses for me:

Vs.28: "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to
the Gentiles, and they will listen!"

Paul is saying to the Jews: I have shown you the way- it is up to you to
believe.

Vs.30: For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and
welcomed all who came to see him. Vs.31 : Boldly and without hindrance he
preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

At the end of Paul's journey God made sure he had somewhere to lay his head
and still continue to teach. Through all of our trials God will always
provide a way out.

Blessings!!!

Highlights of The Gospel of John

2009-05-01T17:01:00.000-07:00

We continue on daily in the teaching of God's Word and the fellowship with one another, to God be the Glory!

John 1
So very much about Jesus -
He is the Word of God
He was with God in the beginning
He is the light of men
He made the world
He was rejected by His own
He gives the privilege to become children of God to those who believe in His name
He took on human form and lived among mankind
He is full of grace and truth
He has made God known to us
He is the lamb of God
He takes away the sin of the world

V:43 Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.”

I too will follow You Lord, for you are worthy.

John 2
John 2:8b "so the servants followed his instructions". I am amazed how the servants obeyed Jesus, no questions no complaints just obedience. Jesus told them to fill up six stone jugs used for jewish ceremonial washing. They each could hold up to twenty to thirty gallons!!! that is heavy!! Sometimes when the Lord has given me instructions I ask too many questions!! How? and Why? I complain its too heavy Lord! I can"t do it! the instuctions you have given me are to diffcult! But just like these jugs of water I can be filled with the Holy Spirit The living water!! to accomplish the work the Lord has given me to do, be a godly woman to love my husband to train my children in the ways of the Lord! to minister to others. All I have to do is follow his instructions and he will turn the water into wine!!

John 3

V.15...that whoever believes in Him (Jesus) may have eternal life.

What happened to make it possible for someone to have eternal life?

V.16....For God sooo loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

This is one of my favorite verses in the bible. It's that kind of love that keeps me more & more wanting to know my Savoir.......also I pray every day that my unsaved family members will one day believe in Jesus, and have eternal life

John 4

Vs 34. Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.

Vs 36. “And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life. That both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

Vs 38. “I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors.”

Jesus is the only one who finished all the work His Father gave Him, however we were chosen to do His will also and we have a job to do. His Word is living and active and the only way we are able to use it properly is if we read it and meditate on it as it transforms us to be more like Him. This is our spiritual food. As He chooses to bless us as we go out to do His will, He gives us opportunity to reach unsaved people and give out the gospel. The harvest is ready and he just needs us to plant seeds because He does all the work. Let us all rejoice together, Praise Him!

John 5

Many gave witness to the life saving power of Jesus Christ in their lives!!!

Jesus asserts His authority in this chapter. He is persecuted for healing on the Sabbath and says vs17 "My Father is working until now and I Myself am working" The Jews knew He was claiming full deity- equality with God. He tells them that God has given Him the authority to judge so that Jesus may be honored and those who believe in Him will escape judgement. Jesus also says that He has witnesses to this Truth...John the Baptist, His miracles, the Scriptures and Moses. He tells them they dont believe in Him though He comes in His Fathers name but they will believe others who come in their own names.(vs 43)

Isnt that so true....over the centuries people have believed those who claim to have the "truth" and the "answers" and have followed them to hell instead of following the One Truth into Eternity with the God who loves them!

John 6

But Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 6:68

Peter reminds us there is no other to go to when we are in the desert and in the mist of our trials, when we feel lonely, fearful, hurt, lost, confused. There is no other to praise when we are rejoicing either!! Peter reminds us there is nowhere else to go but to our Lord!

John 7

Jesus said: "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:37-38). Christ spoke of the Holy Spirit, who would make His home in every believer. So when we invite Jesus intor our lives, the Flow finds us and we find the Flow. From then on, we receive of the living water. The Holy Spirit carries us along by a power and purpose greater than ourselves.

Father, thank You for Your Spirit; fill us with Your love and power. Change us into Christ's own image, moment by moment...Amen.

John 8

This was an awesome Chapter, Many reminders for me regarding my actions as a Christian...

- Stop judging others. It is not my place to judge, only to forgive as I myself have been forgiven.

- Jesus is the light in the middle of the darkness. As A Christian - do others see that light in me????

- Be faithful and patient - God has the perfect plan and it is in his time, not my own.

- THE TRUTH WILL SET ME FREE!!!!! AMEN
(all freedom comes at a price, Jesus thank you for paying that price for my freedom)

John 9

it was your eyes he opened

At first we are all blind like the man in this chapter and once we believe in God then that is removed and we are able to see the light just as the man was able to see everything for the first time.

John 10

Our Shepard!! Our Resurrected Savior!!!

He is the gate for His sheep, the good Shepard, knows the name of each of His sheep and leads them, He walks ahead of His sheep, He voluntarily sacrificed His life for His sheep, through Him His sheep are safe and saved, He wants to give His sheep a rich and satisfying life, He is more powerful than anyone or anything else (I love that!!).

His sheep: follow, believe, listen, know their Shepard, have eternal life, cannot be snatched away!!!

"I am the good Shepard; I know my own sheep, and my sheep know me."

All Praise, Glory, Honor, Worship, to Him on this Good Friday day as we remember all Our Good Shepard sacrificed on Calvary for us His sheep......

John 11

This story illustrates the importance of being in God's Word constantly, and digging deep to find the true meaning. God says He is faithful to bring new truths and understanding to us each time we enter into His presence, and ask the Holy Spirit to help us gain knowledge and wisdom through the Word. This study helps each of us do just that, and for that I am more than thankful.

Mary and Martha heard the words from Jesus' mouth but failed to see the true meaning:

Jesus said, "Your brother will rise again."

Martha heard and replied, "I know he will rise again in the Resurrection at the last day."

What Jesus really meant was that her brother would rise TODAY!

The disciples also missed the true meaning:

Jesus said, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up."

The disciples heard and replied, "Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better."

What Jesus was meant was he was dead. He previously told them this sickness would not end in death but that they would see the Glory of God if they believed.

The take away for me is that we can only see, hear, and believe to the point of our current understanding, and it is only though searching and study that we will increase our ability to understand what God truly means. (Personally, I have read this many times but TODAY is the first time it sunk in that Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation and the children of God everywhere. I always thought he plotted to kill Jesus simply because he was worried he would lose his power and position.)

Once again, God bless each one of you, our time in His word, and our ability to share what we see, hear, and believe.

May your wisdom and blessings increase today,

John 12

When Mary poured the whole pint of expensive oil on Jesus feet and wiped them with her hair, the sweet smell filled the whole house. Jesus said to Judas Iscariot, the betrayer "leave her alone, this is in preparation for my burial. The poor you will have always but you will not always have me." His hour had begun at that point.

Those who hated Jesus also wanted to kill Lazarus because when Jesus raised him from the dead, many believed in Jesus. Jesus spoke of his death, unbelieving people and judgment of his words. The Jewish authorities planned on arresting Jesus so he did not travel openly in Judea but he stayed with the disciples in Ephraim.

Jesus steps were ordered of God and he did what the Father told him.

All of this was divinely appointed by God.

John 13

How intimate is our relationship with Christ. Isn't wonderful

to know of the love that God has for each of us. He took his own

into the upper room and shared truths with them. He talks about his love

for us and how we are to live, the provisions he has made and the relationships between

us and Him.

What love. And then He gives us the command to love one another as He has loved us.

How else will the world come to know Christ if they do not experience His love flowing through us.

His disciples are to be know for their love.

John 14

Jesus explains how He is one with His Father, how, He is going to prepare a place for us and when He is done He will come back and get us. And if we know Him, we know the Father too. He says He will give us His Spirit, to help us, to give us wisdom when we ask. He will never leave us alone.

Jesus tells us that they that love Him, keep His commandments and obey them, those who don't do not love Him, and have no part with Him. He tells us not to be afraid, not to be troubled at heart, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give....."

Thank You Lord, for all You have given us. May You be glorified in us today.

John 15

Todays passage brings me joy, as I would like to think of myself as a pretty good gardner, not one green thumb but two! Thank you Lord!
God says apart from me you can do nothing, Oh do we all know how true that is. I don't think we would want to do it any other way!
"But if you remain in me and me in you, you may ask for anything", Lord let me bring you Glory in the things I do and say.
"Remain in my love...you will be filled with my joy,Yes your joy will overflow!" My heart smiles to know the unending joy God gives me everyday.
Lord I pray, let me produce the loving fruit that would be pleasing YOU.
Sisters have a wonderful weekend and may it be flowing with Gods fruit

John 16

Verse 13: " When the spirit of truth comes he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future." This verse, referring to the Holy Spirit spoke to me because without the Holy Spirit in my life I am unable to stay strong, I need a refilling of him each and everyday!!! What a beautiful verse.

Verse 33: "So you have sorrow now but I will see you again; then you will rejoice and no one can rob you of that joy". We live in a world full of sorrow and pain but we have to remember that this is only temperary, PRAISE GOD!!!!! Until Jesus comes back we will have trials, sorrows and pain but we have to think of the future and realize that this is not the end, we have to keep walking our Christian walk and sharing the Gospel for when our time is up here on this earth we will see Jesus face to face. HOW AMAZING IS THAT!!!!

Thank you Lord for blessing me with such a wonderful group of ladies that truly love you. I pray that you will continue to bless us with this group and in our everyday walk with you. It's not always easy but I know with the strength that you give us we are able to do it!! I love you Lord Jesus and thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. Jesus it's in your name I pray... AMEN!!

John 17

Vs.14-15 made me think of todays world..."I have given them YOUR WORD and the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not". And then Jesus in His loving kindness asks God to not take us out of this world (there are soooo many more souls to be won), but to keep us safe from the evil one.

All of these trails we face as christians are for the glory of God!

John 18

The Shepards ultimate sacrifice for His sheep.

It was dark...the soldiers came with torches and lanterns.

Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane....Judas knew right where to find Him.

Jesus told the soldiers 3X I AM (declares His deity John 8:58, Ex3:14)....they ALL fell backward to the ground. His power and authority overcame them.

It happened during the Passover....not before not after....Jesus came to be our Passover Lamb. Jesus The Good Shepard laying down His life for His sheep (John 10:11)...

The Divine Plan.....

We are all prone to abandoning Christ during times of uncertainty. Peter who had just taken out his sword to protect Jesus. Denied Him 3X. He loved Jesus....He walked very close to Jesus.....He had promised that he would die for Jesus...

Jesus knows our hearts...He knows what we are going to do...just like He knew with Peter....He doesn't deny us or disown us...instead He provides a way for us..

Jesus, Our High Priest, Our Savior, Our Shepard....help us to be strong, courageous woman. Help us to stand up for you in a world that denies you more and more. Give us boldness and love to share all that you have done for us with others....in Jesus name. Amen.

John 19

Jesus' last words...."It is finished." (vs30)
His cry from the cross announced that not only had His suffering come to an end but also that His redemptive work was eternally accomplished. All that He had come to achieve in His human life was finished. Done!!

We can do nothing to add to His sacrifice. Christ's self-giving death was all-sufficient. We have stretched out our empty hand of faith, and GOD in HIS grace puts into it the gift of eternal life. Thank you Jesus!

Jesus, the suffering that you endured on our behalf causes me to bow my head in quiet gratitude. God, I lift up my heart to YOU in worship....Father, that we may always be filled with wonder because of the magnitude or Your love and grace! Amen....

John 20

The Resurrection:

My thoughts: What struck me is how faithful the women (all the Marys’) were; they were the last to leave the crucifixion and the first to come to the tomb I pray to be as faithful as the women and never doubtful- for I know He lives.

“Peace Be with You”, I pray to always remember that the Lord wants us to dwell in peace, to not let anything or anyone steal your peace and joy.

John 21

for me it was wonderful how Peters love of Jesus as Lord stood out when he jumped in the water after Jesus..." it is the Lord!!" and Jesus asked him three times a question..." do you love me?" and that stands out because 3 times before Peter had denied Jesus...Jesus loves...all of us...for always

Hebrews Highlights

2009-03-30T18:06:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend time in God's word but with your sisters who love the Lord! 28 of us read a Chapter a Day in the book of Hebrews and what a blessing it was to hear how the Lord spoke to each one of us so personally and yet so profoundly!!! Here are some highlights from their responses......

Chapter 1
Jesus is the "exact Representation of who God is" - He is the heir and ruler of everything!

Chapter 2
Because of Jesus' sufferings He is able to help us through all our trials...He understands from experience. What did He do when faced with a trial...He prayed, He pressed on, He stayed focused on the goal. Lord help me to follow your example.
Chapter 3

While Moses was a faithful servant in Gods house Jesus was the builder of the house. Dont harden your heart to His Word and fall away like the children of Israel and lose your inheritance but encourage one another daily and hold fast until the end!

Chapter 4
The word of God is living and active- there is nothing that happens in our lives today in 2009- that the word cannot help us with. We may hide things from our friends, family and even ourselves, But nothing is hidden from God’s sight and we must remember we will have to give an account for our actions . We are so blessed to have a High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses, yet forgives and continues to give us grace.

Chapter 5
I see God the Son talking to God the Father in prayer and supplication and with vehement cries and tears for my soul to keep me from eternal death. He prayed with confidence because of His godly fear.

Do I ever pray for those who do not yet know Him in that manner? Am I living my life in godly fear that gives God the glory? If not, then come to The Father in repentance and ask for His power to change you from the inside out. His mercy endures forever!

Hebrews 6
Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.

Oh that God, through circumstances in my life, would till the soil of my heart that it may not be full of thorns and thistles, but rather it would drink in the rain of His Word in order to produce useful fruit to the benefit of the body and I might receive the blessing of God.

Hebrews 7
I'm so glad Jesus cannot be replaced by another high priest because He lives forever. Jesus was crucified once for all, Hallelujah!!! The law of Moses appointed men who are imperfect to be high priests but God's promise made with a vow (His own name) appoints the Son, who has been made perfect forever.

Hebrews 8
He will give us everything we need we just need to listen and follow. Your heart must be open.
My favorite portion of this reading was v:11 There will be no further need for each to teach his neighbor, and each his brother, saying Learn to know the Lord! No, they will all know me, from the least to the greatest." We should all be thankful to have this opportunity for a relationship with him. I pray all will be open and be listening. For if they do (v:12 "since i shall forgive their guilt and never more call their sins to mind." How gracious is he? How blessed are we to be apart of this. I feel very blessed and this chapter meant alot to me. Sorry ladies I could go on and on. This chapter really touched me.

Hebrews 9
"For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may recieve the promised eternal inheritance--now that He has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant". vs.15

Thank you Lord that we are no longer bound or under the old covenant and that are sins are not just covered by blood, but washed clean by His (forgiving & loving) blood.

Hebrews 10
Praise be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We can enter heaven's most holy place because of the sacrifice He made for us, once and for all.
Therefore, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts, fully trusting Him. We are His daughters.
We have been made clean by His blood and our bodies have been washed with pure water.
Let us hold fast without wavering, to the hope we affirm, for He who promised is faithful to His word.
Let us motivate one another to acts of love and good works.
Let us not neglect our meeting together, but encourage one another, especially now that His return is drawing near.

Hebrews 11
For we walk by faith, not by sight!
2 Corinthians 5:7

I love the word "Walk"
Two definitions of the word walk that applies.
1. To pursue a course of action or way of life - conduct oneself: behave:
(behave - to act, function, or react in a particular way)
When we surrendered our lives to Jesus and accepted Him as our Savior our way of life has been
to have a relationship with our Lord, to put our complete trust in Him and Him alone and to allow the Holy
Spirit to lead us in our walk.

We do not look for the approval of the world but seek only the approval of God.
Hebrews 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please God.

2. To move along on foot : advance by steps
Faith requires us to step out. We must take steps in our faith in order to keep walking in our faith.
Believing that God is with us every step of the way.

Hebrews 12
Let us be joyful as we struggle but are forgiven.
Let us be sorrowful when we sin against our Father.
It says to make every effort to live in peace and love ALL men
as our sisters and brothers.
"Let us be thankful" and worship the Lord with all our heart!

Hebrews 13

Well, this entire letter brought upon me great conviction because of my sinful nature, and the one area of my life I continue to refuse to give the Lord. (Don't get me wrong, I try everyday but always end up taking it back) As I read each chapter and verse I became more and more disheartened, and I let Satan discourage me, and tell me I couldn't "throw off everything that hinders me, and the sin that so easily entangles" , and that I wasn't worthy of God's forgiveness, grace and mercy.

This chapter sheds a new light for me personally because of the blood my Savior Jesus shed. In a commentary by one of my favorites, Jon Courson, I learned that the power of His blood is what will make us "perfect in every good work". It is through His blood that our relationships and our fellowship are set right, and the holes in the nets of our jobs and finances are mended. It is through His blood that we battle against the enemy. And it is through His blood, the blood of the everlasting covenant, that we are made perfect, physically, relationally, vocationally, spiritually, and eternally.

Crisis Mode

2008-11-26T16:53:00.000-08:00

Everywhere you turn lately people are talking about the crisis in our country. Every news station has experts, politicians and the like weighing in on who is to blame for the country's economic crisis. We have an oil crisis, a mortgage crisis, an employment crisis, a financial crisis, an energy crisis and by the looks of food prices a food crisis as well. All of the finger pointing and blame games do nothing to identify the source or the solution for all these problems. Our leaders can spend all the money on earth to boost the economy and bail out institutions but unless we call it what it is, their solution may only amount to a band aid on a broken leg.

In May of this year, I was sitting out on the deck of my sister-n-laws house during a girls weekend getaway. It was a beautiful crisp morning, with the sun shining through the many tree tops in her backyard. As I looked out in wonder at God's creation and beauty the Lord led me to read Psalm 105. I wrote; Remember God's mighty works, all he has done for his people-the nation of Israel. We recount step by step as God protected them, provided for them, led them, blessed them, sheltered them, fed them and even disciplined them. Our Father in heaven has done the same for our Nation, the United States.

Many are unaware that in 1863, our president, Abraham Lincoln made April 30th a National Day of Prayer and Humiliation. He decreed that we, as a nation were to come back to God and humble ourselves, repenting of our sins and asking for God's forgiveness.

So my prayer this Thanksgiving is to thank God for blessing our Nation for so long, providing for our needs, feeding us, and yes even disciplining us. Do not let us forget all that You have done O' Lord to provide and protect your children. Thank you Lord for allowing me to live in a prosperous, abundant and peaceful land. Let our country and our people recognize you Lord are the provider, sustainer and giver of all life. Be still people and know God!

President Lincoln wrote, "It is the duty of our Nation as well as men to depend on God, confess their sins and transgressions, humble yourselves in sorrow because with assurance and hope of our genuine repentance will lead to mercy and forgiveness and recognize the truth in Scripture proven by all history that the Nations only are blessed who's God is the Lord."

So rather than worry and be anxious about the state of our economy, rather than point fingers and blame each other for the problems of our nation, let us follow the direction and duty of a man who once guided our country through one of the most devastating experiences in it's history.

"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2Chron. 7:14

The Christmas Robe

2008-11-25T19:42:00.001-08:00

Every Christmas when making my list of wants for my husband and son to go shopping with, I take a mental inventory as to the condition of my robe. I reflect back on the Christmas gifts I've given over the years to my own mom and the one gift worth repeating was a new robe. What is it that mom's love so much about stepping into and wrapping up in a new robe?

I wondered a bit, was it the comfort of being clothed in the warmth and softness of something new or was it the person who gave the robe that makes it so special? Has God knitted such a desire into the very fabric of my soul to long for a new white robe at Christmas?

Looking deeper into my fondness for a new white robe I found in Revelation 3:4-5, "a few names, those who have not defiled their garments, they shall walk with Me in white for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life, but confess his name before my Father in Heaven and His angels."

Wow- did this excite me!

Garments in the Greek was literally a large outer garment or a loose upper garment so large that sometimes a man would sleep in it. I'm thinking a big comfy robe!

We know that Jesus is speaking of the believers who are faithful in their service and obedience to Him, it is the reward for the one who overcomes, it's a promise and a gift from God. "And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints." (Rev. 19:8)

What does faithful service look like?

1. We are to fully carry out the ministry God has given us, using our abilities. (2Tim. 4:5) (Eph.4:11-12)

2. Pour out our lives as an offering to God. Our lives are not our own.(2Tim. 4:6)

3. Remain faithful to the things we've been taught; reading the scriptures, encouraging believers and teaching them. (2Tim. 3:14) (1Tim. 4:13)

4. Be a good worker as unto the Lord, doing what the Spirit leads us to do. (Eph. 6:8,5:9)

5. Serve one another in love. (Gal. 5:13)

J.Vernon McGee puts it this way, "A saint my friend, is one who has trusted Christ and is set aside for the sole use of God. There are only two kinds of people today: the saints and the ain'ts. If you are a saint, then you are not an ain't. If you ain't an ain't, then you are a saint."

How does one keep from soiling their garments?

1. Don't break God's laws.(Matt. 7:23)

2. Don't practice immorality,impurity, greed, idolatry and the like. (Eph. 5:5)

3. Take no part in the deeds of evil and darkness.(John 3:19)

4. Don't give in to what your sinful nature craves. (Gal.5:19)

Sadly, many Christians sometimes deceive themselves into thinking that God does not require them to live righteously. Do not be deceived, those who practice such iniquity and lawlessness will not inherit the kingdom of God. Instead choose to be washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus.

Using an illustration from Luke 5:36- here we have an old robe and a new robe. Now it would seem foolish to take pieces of my new robe and use it to patch up my old robe. I'd have a useless new robe and an old robe that is pieced together. Instead, I choose to put on my new robe and throw away the old one.

I have come to the conclusion that I enjoy a white robe because it reminds me of being washed clean by the blood of my Redeemer, it's softness reminds me of a lambs wool brushing against her Shepherds cheek, my robe is warmth to my soul on a cold morning, and comfort to my bones after a troubled day.

One day I'll be given a white robe made of fine linen that will never wear out, become soiled or fade. My robe is precious to me because of the person who gave it to me. I look forward to the day when Christ will personally wrap me in my white Christmas robe and say welcome home good and faithful servant.

The Waiting Room

2008-09-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." Galatians 3:27

Today, I had some tests done in the radiology dept at our local hospital. During a routine physical exam and blood work, my doctor felt it necessary to run some further tests due to abnormal findings. All week I prayed and asked my sisters in Christ to pray as well that everything would come out normal. The Lord gave me a peace during this time that can't be explained other than my mind was quiet and my heart was calm.

While in the waiting room a woman in her late 40's came in and when she sat down a few seats across from me she began to cry. She held her head in her hands and tried to hide her tears by wiping them away. I could see she was scared and sensed that she felt alone. She bowed her head making the sign of the cross over her chest and when she looked up, out of no where I blurted out, "are you okay?" She looked at me with teary eyes and shook her head no. I asked, "can I pray with you?" She simply nodded yes, my name is Marina.

After I said a simple prayer for Marina, in very broken English she searched for the words. Her son had died in a car accident in April, she only has her parents left who live in Mexico, she takes care of her grandchildren who are very young and now she is having biopsies done on her breast and she is terrified that she has breast cancer.

I told her how much God loved her and gave her reassurance to not be afraid. I sat and talked with her until they called her name, she stood up, hugged me and said thank you. Waiting for my turn to be called I prayed for God to comfort Marina, I know he was there. The thought came, if all of these tests I was going through was so I could be in this waiting room, on this day, at this time to be there for Marina and wrap her in the love of Christ then so be it. God is good, He is faithful and true!

Motivated by Power

2008-09-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

I'm really looking forward to our upcoming Women's bible study at Harvest. Soon, we will begin studying the life and ministry of Paul which will take us into early May. I remember when I first committed to doing an 8 month inductive bible study, I was really terrified that I'd never make it to the finish line. But, with God's help I was motivated to not give up and my journey bestowed treasures that are eternal.

As I was reading Acts 14:22, a terror arose inside of me, Lord will I make it to the finish line?

Paul had been going from city to city preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. Along the way, he'd encountered unbelieving Jews who stirred up others poisoning their minds against Paul and the other brethren. There was a violent attempt to abuse and stone them so Paul fled to Lystra and Derbe which were cities in the surrounding region. Paul continued to preach the gospel even healing a man who had never walked. Paul's persecutors were relentless in trying to stop Paul from preaching the gospel. They again, persuaded the multitudes who then stoned Paul, dragging him outside of the city and left him for dead. However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose and went into the city.

I'm encouraged every time I hear when the body of Christ, gathers around their brother praying for him, laying hands on him, asking God for strength and healing power. God answered, he arose and kept going.

The next day, Paul went into Derbe preaching the gospel and making many disciples. After he was done there, what he did next was amazing! Paul went back to the cities that threatened him, beat him, stoned him and left him for dead in order to strengthen the souls of the disciples and encourage them to continue in the faith. He told them, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God."

What???? It was at that point the terror arose in me. Oh Lord, I hate going through tribulation, can't I enter the kingdom of God without it? Granted, our tribulation is no where near the kind that Paul experienced, but if it were, would I be willing? Would I have gone back to the city where I was hated, beat, stoned and thrown out of their city left to die? What was Paul's motivation to endure such persecution (infliction of harm and suffering)?

Paul was willing to die for the sake of the gospel. He wanted others to know the truth and receive eternal life. His belief in Jesus, in Christ's death and resurrection, this power, this truth, compelled him to tell others. Paul's motivation was that Jesus lives and he was steadfast in this hope of eternal life. Paul's focus was not on himself, his suffering, or on his enemies but on Jesus. His motivation? It was God's power that motivated him to face his opponents, danger, difficulty and even death for Christ's sake. The truth of our glorious future with Christ will empower us and motivate us to endure any kind of trouble. It was God's power that kept him going.

2 Corinthians 4:7-11 tells us that even though Paul was wounded, bruised, beaten down and left for dead, he was not forsaken or destroyed. He got back up and kept doing what he was called to do. Paul relied on God's power, he knew it to be a treasure. It was only God's power that strengthened Paul, it was God who spared him and enabled him to continue to preach the gospel and testify of God's deliverance. Through much tribulation, Paul becomes a broken vessel, through which God's glory is manifested. Through much tribulation, we are brought to our knees, fully relying on God's power to endure.

So as tribulation arises I can have the confidence and be motivated by God's power to keep going and finish well. Jesus told Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." I know there is nothing in my own strength that can bring such endurance, devotion and motivation. Along this journey I will find myself crushed, broken hearted and beaten but I'm not destroyed and my God does not leave me or forsake me.

Waiting is the Hardest Part

2008-09-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has ever been told by a doctor, "you have cancer" experiences the sick feeling that naws in the pit of your stomach. To hear "we don't know what kind it is" fills you with another level of terror and fear altogether. Anyone who has ever endured suffering knows all too well that the hardest part is waiting for an answer.

Seventeen years ago, Mike and I had only been married 14 months, young and in love we were embarking on the journey of a lifetime. Mike had just been drafted two years before by the Chicago White Sox. It was his life long dream to play professional baseball and we were seeing it realized. I was head over hills in love with my buff young baseball stud and we were living the dream. What happened next brought our world to a crashing halt and the hardest part would be the waiting.

We'd just settled into our new apartment in Sarasota, Florida where Mike would play his third season for the minor "A" White Sox team. He'd been experiencing horrible back pain and swelling of lymph nodes prior to and during spring training. Just as Mike earned the starting position at 3rd base, his neck swelled to the size of a grapefruit. An ENT at the local hospital biopsied some lymph nodes and came to us with the earth shattering news "you have cancer" but "we don't know what kind it is." The hardest part was waiting for someone to tell us what to do next.

We immediately flew back to California with hopes for some kind of answers, but instead we encountered confusion and fear. There were no physicians that could diagnose the cancer. Therefore, no one knew how to treat it and the hardest part was the waiting.

These seventeen years later when a friend or a loved one is faced with the same circumstances, I find myself turning to God's word for hope and for direction when we wait. Isaiah 30:18b says, "Blessed are all those who wait for Him." When we wait for God, we are waiting till He is ready. We are waiting for the outcome that is in God's perfect will and in God's perfect timing.

Consider the story in John 11 of Martha and Mary, the sisters of Lazarus. Lazarus was very sick and the sisters sent word to Jesus saying, "Lord, the one whom you love is sick." Mary and Martha were counting on Jesus to come quickly to heal their brother of his illness.

Isaiah 30:18- Therefore the Lord will wait, that He may be gracious to you. And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy on you. Jesus delayed in his coming for two more days after he heard that Lazarus was sick. Jesus said to his disciples, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the son of God may be glorified through it."

God's purpose was to glorify his son by raising Lazarus from the dead. Jesus would demonstrate his deity in an undeniable way. Seeing this demonstration of God's power, giving life back to the dead would cause his disciples to grow and for others to believe. God's timing to accomplish His purpose is always perfect.

But for Mary and Martha, the waiting was the hardest part. I'm sure confusion set in quickly. Why hadn't Jesus come right away to heal our brother? Undoubtedly, they'd expressed this to each other over the last couple of days. If Jesus had been here, Lazarus would not have died.

In the waiting, the fear and the 'what ifs' creep in. Satan whispers in our ears and the 'if onlys' arise.

But the Lord tells us to just:

Believe- Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God? John 11:40

Pray- Jesus prayed, "Father, thank You that You have heard Me." John 11:41

Wait- Therefore, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me. Micah 7:7

Seventeen years ago, we felt alone, confused, and terrified with no real hope. At the time we were unbelievers but we were surrounded by family and friends, a band of believers who believed for us, prayed for us and hoped for us. We were led to a place called the City of Hope that identified Mike's cancer and treated him. However, it was God who did the healing. Nowadays when faced with trials, we don't have to face the waiting period alone.

Those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

Blessed with His Benefits

2008-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Today was bittersweet. Our summer has come to an end. The long lazy days of sleeping in, lounging by the pool, going to the beach, and continuous fun are over. Now it's alarm clocks, busy mornings, and back to the freeway! Argh!

As Austin jumped out of the car with backpack in tow, and raced towards his new school there was no looking back for him only excitement and a little nervousness to what this new season holds.

I decided to park and saw some moms I knew standing at a distance from the kids, so as to not intrude. I guess it's no longer cool to walk your 7th grader to their first class and don't even think about taking pictures. They invited me to the Tuesday morning prayer meeting they have on campus. What a amazing group of moms and dads that I met. Even more, what a privledge it was to be praying in unity for the covering of our children and praising Jesus for his faithfulness and provision. Psalm 103:2 says, "Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-" what benefits we have indeed!

Our days of summer may have ended but I cheerish the time spent with family and friends. "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." Ecc.3:1

Change Your Destination

2008-08-18T13:04:00.001-07:00

I had the privledge this weekend of serving at the Harvest Crusades in Anaheim as a follow up decision counselor for those who were publicly coming forward to make a decision, a choice, a commitment and a covenant to follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Of the 15 people I met on the field, prayed with, encouraged and handed bibles to, 13 of them were returning to the Lord. One woman was 80 years old and she was asking Jesus into her life for the very first time. My heart rejoiced as I witnessed the thousands upon thousands making a decision to change their eternal destination.

Pastor Greg spoke to over 100,000 people about God's love for them, God's provision of redemption, salvation and reconciliation through his Son Jesus Christ, who suffered and died for all of humanities sins. Greg spoke of life, blessings and Heaven as well as the curses, death and Hell. As I look around the stadium filled with believers, unbelievers, seekers, and prodigals the Lord is reminding me that this is the same Harvest Crusade that Moses had for His people in the desert on the plains of Moab. A decision has to be made in the hearts of those listening.

In Deuteronomy 29-30 we discover Moses calling all of Israel (millions of people) to gather around in a great assembly to listen to what God told Moses to tell His people. You'll find the message is the same today.

Moses first reminds them of all the miraculous and merciful acts God did for them before their very eyes. God had set them free from their bondage of slavery in Egypt, He defeated Pharaoh and his armies at the Red Sea, God provided safe passage as he led them throught the wilderness, He showered them with food and water sustaining them as they walked through the valleys, God guided and supported His people as He led them toward the Promised land conquering enemies along the way.

Now it was their turn to respond to all that God had done for them, providing a way of escape, they could now be reconciled back to God. The purpose of Moses' message was for each individual to enter into a covenant with the Lord their God that very day. Moses emphasized the importance of today in his message 6 times in 8 sentences. This covenant was to bind God and His people together setting them apart for His purposes. Each person had to make a decision for themselves, God would not force himself upon them. However, they were warned that there would be blessings for them to claim or curses that would follow their disobedience either way the choice was theirs.

The Bible tells us it is no mystery or difficulty of understanding that the choice to follow and obey God would bring life and prosperity while turning away and worshipping other gods (anything that takes the place of God) would bring death. But if you return to the Lord our God and obey His voice today with all your heart and with all your soul, the Lord our God will bring you back from captivity and have compassion on you and gather you again. Sin holds us captive along with bad choices but there is great hope and peace for when we return to God he is faithful to fogive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The command issued before us today is the same in the day of Moses. Set before us today is a choice of life and good, death and evil therefore, choose life that you may live. Love God, obey his commands, cling to Him for He is your life and the length of your days.

Reflections From The Heart

2008-08-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

The picture you see is our view from the balcony of our little one bedroom cabin at the Double Eagle Resort in June Lake. The boys rose up early this morning to take a boat out onto the lake for some fishing. I decided to drink in the beauty of my surroundings and journal my time with the Lord. As I was looking out at the little fly fishing pond below, the reflection of the trees surrounding the banks was mirrored perfectly in the water. The scene was a picture of God's glory. But, I noticed as the water rippled from any movement the image was blurred until the water became still again.

I reflected on 2Corinthians 3:18, "But we all, with unveiled faces, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as the Spirit of the Lord."

It is true, the moment you put your faith in Christ a veil is removed, the light is turned on and the truth of Jesus Christ is revealed to you in a personal way. 2Corinthians 4:6 says that "God commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

As we really begin to walk in obedience and seek to know God more by applying His truths to our daily lives, the Spirit of God does something miraculous. 2Corinthians 13:5, "As we examine ourselves to see if we are truly being obedient, yielding to God we will be transformed into his likeness." It is God's Spirit that does the transforming and it's a lifelong process.

Sure the ripples will come, especially in our attitudes and actions, the image of his likeness becomes blurred. The way in which the reflection becomes clear again is when the water becomes still. "So our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He has mercy on us." Psalm 123:2b

For now I look at my own relfection in a mirror and see only dimly the image of his likeness for the perfection of His glory in our lives is still being transformed. But one day I'll see face to face.

The One Thing

2008-07-04T14:23:00.000-07:00

Remember the scene in City Slickers where on their trek back to the ranch on horseback Billy Crystal (Mitch) asks the all-wise Jack Palance (Curly) a personal question. What is it that makes life really matter and how do you know when you’ve found it? Curly raises his black-gloved finger and simply says “Only One Thing.” As we journey through this life many are asking the same question. What is the “One Thing” that really matters and how do you know when you’ve found it?

In Matthew 19, there was a rich young man who held a high position of authority in his country. He was not only very wealthy but had abilities beyond his years to hold such a position of power at a young age. One day this rich young man came to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” Now this young man who had everything he needed according to the world’s standards was respectfully and with all sincerity concerned about how to obtain eternal life. It’s evident that the “One Thing” that this rich young man didn’t have but was still looking for was eternal life. He was sensible in thinking that something must be done in order to attain this kind of assurance and happiness. Now Jesus who knows our thoughts (Matt 9:4 & 12:25) replied, “If you want to enter life obey the commandments.” “Which ones?” the man inquired. Jesus replied, “Do not murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man goes on to tell Jesus that he’d kept all of these commandments since his youth so what one thing does he still lack? Again, Jesus who knows our heart tells him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the man heard this he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Jesus was showing this man the way of entering into eternal life now is through obedience by faith. By telling the young man to go and sell his possessions and give to the poor, Christ was revealing to him that your not perfect as you claim, in fact you have an inordinate love of the world and it’s pleasures. The man valued himself too much through his own merit and efforts to see his need for a savior.

Romans 1:5- Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith…..
1John 1:8- if you claim to not sin you are deceiving yourself and the truth is not in us.
Luke 12:15- ….one’s life does not consist of the things he possesses.
Matthew 16:26- for what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

Sadly, many make the same mistake thinking they can do something good to earn eternal life by their own merit. Others are too busy with the things of this life to inquire about the next. He didn’t like the terms by which eternal life comes. We deceive ourselves into thinking that we can specify the terms by which we come to God. Thus, salvation becomes a great difficulty to those who have much in this world.

Ephesians 2:8-For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
John 14:6- Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

Likewise, we see in the parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12 another example of one, who stored up his wealth so he could eat, drink and be merry. He gathered up treasures for himself and was not rich toward God. What he valued in this life had no value in heaven.

Romans 6:23 - The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Matthew 6:19-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

My heart breaks for this young man who was standing in front of the Savior of the world asking about eternal life yet walked away sorrowful, falling short of having the “One Thing”. Let us not turn away from such a great gift but instead come to Jesus, the One who offers reconciliation to God and by faith say “Yes Lord I believe!” You will have discovered the one thing that truly matters in life and you will know that you have found it when your heart can say, "It is not I that have found it, but He has found me.”

John 3:16- For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

2008-07-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

It has been said that a mother’s hearing is very acute, when our babies cry we know by their sound if they are hurt or just hungry, we can hear the change of inflections in our child’s voice when something is bothering them, our ears tells us if it’s our child hollering MOM above all the others, and we hear their conversations even if it’s just above a whisper. We can relate that in order for a physician to diagnosis a problem they must first listen to all of their patient’s symptoms. However, both the physician and the mother have used their ability to listen and they respond accordingly. Not everyone has the physical ability to hear, but everyone does have the God-given ability to listen and this is one sense that we widely take for granted.

I’m reminded of the instances where Jesus spoke to the multitudes, he ended his teaching with “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” This was in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy which in part says, “…for the hearts of this people have grown dull, their ears are hard of hearing…” But blessed are your ears for they hear, many prophets and righteous men desire to hear what you hear but did not. (see Matthew 13:13-17)

For most hearing comes naturally but the real test comes when you respond to what you’ve heard. Are we listening to what God is saying today? John 10:3 bears witness to the believer, “and the sheep listen to the voice of the shepherd. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” Do you hear the Shepherd’s voice? A good barometer is our response. Ask yourself this honest question, am I listening to and obeying our Lord’s voice or have I become that wayward sheep who has gone astray?

Often times a person’s hearing loss can be measured based on their behavioral responses. The author of Hebrews gives us believers a warning to pay close attention, to be careful to what we have heard so that we don’t drift away. In Hebrews 2:1-4: He is speaking of those who have heard from the Lord God himself, they have heard the good news of salvation, they even responded initially but because of immaturity, spiritual sluggishness, and disobedience they begin to drift away. Our Lord knows our weaknesses and he is a loving Father who demands that we listen attentively to what he says. For if we neglect the message that we’ve heard through the Lord himself and through those around us sharing God’s word, how can we escape punishment if we don’t respond to such a great salvation. We lose out on the opportunity to reign with Christ and be heir of his kingdom.
Do not neglect this great gift you have been given.

It is the hardness of our hearts that causes us to hear but not to listen. Israel heard the voice of the one crying out in the wilderness, they heard the words of Jesus yet they failed to listen and believe. How many times did Pharaoh hear the words, “let my people go?” “Yet, Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said.” For those who don’t take heed and turn at the Lord’s rebuke they face the results of their choice. Proverbs 1:23-33 gives warning to those who God calls yet they refuse to listen. However, a promise is also given to who ever listens to Him will dwell safely and will be secure without fear of evil.

Have you heard the voice of God calling you out of rebellion? Have you drifted away? Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion. Beware, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. (Hebrews 3:12,15) I urge you today to listen to the voice of Jesus, turn back to him now and repent. In order to hear his voice we must first be listening. Make time now to spend time alone with God. “The Lord will cause men to hear his majestic voice.” Isaiah 30:30 “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “this is the way; walk in it.”” Is 30:21 Listen to our Lord’s voice telling you to turn back, come back into a right relationship with him it’s where you belong.

There is no chorus so loud that the voice of God cannot be heard….if we will but listen. Max Lucado.

Reconciliation

2008-06-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

The month of June has been a time of reconciliation. I'm seeing God restore broken relationships between families and rekindle friendships that have been long neglected. As I sat in awe of God's power to bring about such restoration and healing, I rejoice over his love and affection for his children. Two hours had past and it was close to midnight when I looked at all the Lord had shown me about reconcilation. I decided to start blogging these times where the Lord has poured out his truth into my heart and I hope that you'll be encouraged and choose to encourage others by sharing your stories of God's reconcilation in your life.

Reconciliation-in the context of relationships with other people it means a change in attitude on the part of both individuals. In context to God and man it means to change from emnity to friendship. The change that is man's part is obvious- our need to change from our sinful ways. But what about God's part? Does God ever change? Isn't he the same yesterday, today and always? Rooted in the doctrine of justification we see the change of attitude God has towards a sinner as God delcares a person who was formerly his enemy to being righteous before him.

In Romans 5:8-10 "But God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life."

Just like with God, I've found as relationships are reconciled our state of alienation has been changed, we are no longer at emnity but at peace. What great blessings come with this kind of reconcilation? In Psalm 21 the Lord showed me these great blessings that come when you have reconciliation.

Joy- the kind of joy that is everlasting. Isaiah 51:11
Rejoicing- like when Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:7
God gives you your heart's desire- a desire to reconcile. Psalm 37:4
Goodness- we see God's goodness before our eyes. Ex 33:19
Newness of life- he really makes all things new. Romans 6:4
Length of days- we get time back. Prov 3:16
God is glorified- Matt 15:31
God's mercy is seen, honor is restored, we have right standing again. Reconciliation is God's gift as it brings life to the lost soul which the greatest gift from God. We experience satisfying relief and peace. As the Proverbs say humilty comes before honor. We must start by acknowlegding our need for reconciliation by confessing all known sin and to trust God for cleansing. 1John 1:9

God bless!