Tomorrow is June 1st and I'm already overwhelmed at what this month holds for me. I've worked hard to decrease my responsibilities so that I can be a better wife and mom and I'm letting things creep back in. So, I'm already feeling the anxiety of being overwhelmed and it hasn't even gotten here yet. I know that is sin on my part so pray that I can say No to what God doesn't want my hands in and do well the things he does want my hands in and just let go!
Thanks for pouring your hearts out. I love reading what you learn each day.
Also, I feel like God is really beginning to tug on Sawyer's heart. It's been really exciting to watch, answer his questions, and see his little mind and heart work. It's also been hard because just when I think he's understanding more Satan begins to attack in crazy ways, mostly dealing with discipline and how I handle discipline. I'd love for y'all to pray that I would have wisdom in teaching and training him so that I don't get in the way of God speaking to his heart!
Funny story - I was helping him learn John 14:6 (Jesus said I am the way the truth and the life no man comes to the Father but by me) back during Easter. We had been saying it all week long and he was finally doing it by himself. I was such a proud momma, and then he says to me in the car while we're saying it together, "momma, why did Jesus say BUTT". Just when you think they're getting it:)
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Karlyn - Ephesians 3
S - 3:6 (The Message) The mystery is that people who have never heard of God and those who have heard of him all their lives (what I've been calling outsiders and insiders) stand on the same ground before God. They get the same offer, same help, same promises in Christ Jesus. The Message is accessible and welcoming to everyone, across the board.
O - God never intended for salvation to be hard, inaccessible, or given to just one body of people. He knew from the beginning of time he would send Christ to redeem us all.
There are very few things in life that are "welcoming to everyone across the board", Oh how I wish Bible teaching and believeing churches across our nation were all this way so that more people would see they have the "same offer, same help, same promises in Christ Jesus"
A - I need to make my words and actions match up to God's message so that my neighbors and community will see God is here for all of us and we're the same across the board. Basically stop "playing church" and be REAL with everyone around me.
P - Lord thank you for coming for all of us. Thank you that your promises that are alive and real! Jesus, thank you for being accessible. Help me to live this out to unbelievers around me.
O - God never intended for salvation to be hard, inaccessible, or given to just one body of people. He knew from the beginning of time he would send Christ to redeem us all.
There are very few things in life that are "welcoming to everyone across the board", Oh how I wish Bible teaching and believeing churches across our nation were all this way so that more people would see they have the "same offer, same help, same promises in Christ Jesus"
A - I need to make my words and actions match up to God's message so that my neighbors and community will see God is here for all of us and we're the same across the board. Basically stop "playing church" and be REAL with everyone around me.
P - Lord thank you for coming for all of us. Thank you that your promises that are alive and real! Jesus, thank you for being accessible. Help me to live this out to unbelievers around me.
Prayer Request- Mission Trip Opportunity
I have been given the chance to go on a mission trip to Turkey the first week in November to work with some friends of ours from shreveport who are now over there. Our church is getting this trip together. I've never been on a plan for more than 4 hours or been on a mission trip without a family member. I'm little anxious. Please pray that if I'm to go on this trip than doors will be opened and it be clear. There are a couple of things that have to workout like childcare while Dan is at work, money, and most importantly fear. Also that I will go for the right reasons.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Ephesians Chapter 3
S- v. 18-19 And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it.
O- No matter how much I think I know God loves me, its more than I will ever understand on Earth. I can't wait to get to fully understand his love when we are in Heaven.
A- Love is so grand! I even have a hard time describing the love I have for Dan and the boys. I can't even imagine how much more God's love is for me and everyone else. It's been a long time since I actually sat down and thought about pure love. I pray that I can understand more about his love and that I can show his love to others.
P- Lord, thank you for loving. I'm so not worthy of it. It's only be your grace and mercy that I can experience it. Help to understand and apply it in my life.
O- No matter how much I think I know God loves me, its more than I will ever understand on Earth. I can't wait to get to fully understand his love when we are in Heaven.
A- Love is so grand! I even have a hard time describing the love I have for Dan and the boys. I can't even imagine how much more God's love is for me and everyone else. It's been a long time since I actually sat down and thought about pure love. I pray that I can understand more about his love and that I can show his love to others.
P- Lord, thank you for loving. I'm so not worthy of it. It's only be your grace and mercy that I can experience it. Help to understand and apply it in my life.
Ephesians Chapter 1 and 2
S-v. Furthermore, because of Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us from the beginning, and all things happen just as he decided long ago.
O-He chose us from the get go. He kenw we were His before our eyes were opened to his Word and hearts ready for the gift of salvation. He knows the future. That should be comforting to us.
A- Even though I know God knows how things are going to end up, its sometimes hard for me to fully trust Him on certain areas of my life. Its amazing to me that He ALWAYS knew and was part of us.
P- Lord, thank you for chosing me and opening my eyes and heart to you. Help me with to be more trustworthy and have total faith in you.
O-He chose us from the get go. He kenw we were His before our eyes were opened to his Word and hearts ready for the gift of salvation. He knows the future. That should be comforting to us.
A- Even though I know God knows how things are going to end up, its sometimes hard for me to fully trust Him on certain areas of my life. Its amazing to me that He ALWAYS knew and was part of us.
P- Lord, thank you for chosing me and opening my eyes and heart to you. Help me with to be more trustworthy and have total faith in you.
Amber- Ephesians 3
S- Ephesians 3:6 "...to be specific that the Gentiles are fellow heirs and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel."
O- Back in v. 4-5 it talks about the mystery of Christ that had been revealed to Paul that had not been revealed in other generation and then on to v. 6 that the Gentiles (that's us) are fellow heirs, members of the body, and partakers of the promise in Christ.
A- Sometimes, okay a lot of times, I am amazed at how God chose to do things in the Bible and today as well. I guess it hasn't always been on my mind that the promise of Christ was first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles. I mean, I knew it, but it's not continually on my mind what the ramifications would be for me if He would have just stopped with the Jews. When I really sit and think about it, it blows my mind. I am so thankful that the Lord chose me, that His salvation is not just for the Jews, His chosen people, but that He extended it to me for now I am one of His chosen.
P-Lord, help me to live in a way that displays your Glory. Thank you for choosing me! May my life, not be a waste for your Kingdom, but a life that demonstrates my love for the Chooser. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord for extending your grace to me.
O- Back in v. 4-5 it talks about the mystery of Christ that had been revealed to Paul that had not been revealed in other generation and then on to v. 6 that the Gentiles (that's us) are fellow heirs, members of the body, and partakers of the promise in Christ.
A- Sometimes, okay a lot of times, I am amazed at how God chose to do things in the Bible and today as well. I guess it hasn't always been on my mind that the promise of Christ was first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles. I mean, I knew it, but it's not continually on my mind what the ramifications would be for me if He would have just stopped with the Jews. When I really sit and think about it, it blows my mind. I am so thankful that the Lord chose me, that His salvation is not just for the Jews, His chosen people, but that He extended it to me for now I am one of His chosen.
P-Lord, help me to live in a way that displays your Glory. Thank you for choosing me! May my life, not be a waste for your Kingdom, but a life that demonstrates my love for the Chooser. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord for extending your grace to me.
Amber- Ephesians 1-2
S- Ephesians 1:3 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him."
2:1 "And you were dead in your trespasses and sins"
2:4 "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions made us alive together with Christ."
O- You can not help but be encouraged when you read the letter to the Ephesians. Paul reminds us in v. 3 that Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing, such as predestination, redemption, forgiveness, and the list could go on and on. Paul is reminding them and us today of where we once were to what Christ has done and where we are now.
A- What victory I could walk in if I remembered my status with Christ. He has given me every spiritual blessing (I should be way more excited about those than my earthly blessings). I was dead, but He has made me alive together with Christ. That is truly amazing, but how my amazement gets lost in all the mundane things of life.
P- Lord, may I truly walk in victory because of YOU! You have blessed me with EVERY spiritual blessing. I'm not sure I even know what all those are, but I know I want to claim them. Thank you for taking me from being dead to alive with Christ. Help me to remember this every minute of the day.
2:1 "And you were dead in your trespasses and sins"
2:4 "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions made us alive together with Christ."
O- You can not help but be encouraged when you read the letter to the Ephesians. Paul reminds us in v. 3 that Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing, such as predestination, redemption, forgiveness, and the list could go on and on. Paul is reminding them and us today of where we once were to what Christ has done and where we are now.
A- What victory I could walk in if I remembered my status with Christ. He has given me every spiritual blessing (I should be way more excited about those than my earthly blessings). I was dead, but He has made me alive together with Christ. That is truly amazing, but how my amazement gets lost in all the mundane things of life.
P- Lord, may I truly walk in victory because of YOU! You have blessed me with EVERY spiritual blessing. I'm not sure I even know what all those are, but I know I want to claim them. Thank you for taking me from being dead to alive with Christ. Help me to remember this every minute of the day.
Ginny - Ephesians 3
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." 3:20
O - Ephesians 3:20 is one of my favorite verses!!! I have it taped to my printer at work and I have it in the window sill above my kitchen sink. I love knowing that as good as I can make it in my mind. As awesome as I can fathom. As much as I can wish and hope that it would be just so -- God has even more in store. I love that we have a God that thinks BIG!
A - How often I can limit myself. Mainly I do this by not opening my eyes to all the possiblities. I want it done the way I conjur up in my head. I want the end result to be the one I chose. What freedom I miss out on when I don't just hand it over to the Lord to take care of the way He sees fit.
P - Lord I want to be open and available to YOUR plans, not mine. Please open my heart and mind to follow where You lead. I don't want to miss out on something because of my preconceived ideas and expectations. Thank you for wanting to give me immeasurably more.
S - "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." 3:20
O - Ephesians 3:20 is one of my favorite verses!!! I have it taped to my printer at work and I have it in the window sill above my kitchen sink. I love knowing that as good as I can make it in my mind. As awesome as I can fathom. As much as I can wish and hope that it would be just so -- God has even more in store. I love that we have a God that thinks BIG!
A - How often I can limit myself. Mainly I do this by not opening my eyes to all the possiblities. I want it done the way I conjur up in my head. I want the end result to be the one I chose. What freedom I miss out on when I don't just hand it over to the Lord to take care of the way He sees fit.
P - Lord I want to be open and available to YOUR plans, not mine. Please open my heart and mind to follow where You lead. I don't want to miss out on something because of my preconceived ideas and expectations. Thank you for wanting to give me immeasurably more.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Ginny - Ephesians 1 & 2
S - "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him" 1:7-9
O - I love these verses b/c it signifies God's soverignty. He is in control. I love verse 9 "He made known to us the mystery of His will." God is over all things. He holds the future.
A - There are times in my life that I do not understand, but it is at those times I am drawn back to God's infinite wisdom and love. He knows. He has not left me. He is not scared, or nervous, or confused. Just knowing that God is still in control brings a peace to my heart.
P - Lord I praise You b/c You are constant. When I filled whipped around in the wind, You are stable. Lord, I want to be grounded in Your love and truth. I ask for wisdom as I open up Your Word and pray to You that I may know the mystery of Your will.
Karlyn - Ephesians 1-2
S - 1:18-19 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you will know what is the hope of His caling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.
-And what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.
2:3; 13 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest
-But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
O - I love Paul's writing style. You can hear it in his words that he is soooo full of the Holy Spirit and words can't even express what he feels for Christ! That's the desire I have, to be so full that my saucer runs over!
Vs 18-19 remind me that I haven't allowed myself to really be ENLIGHTENED of Christ's calling, my inheritance as a believer, and His surpassing greatness of His power. All of this is available to me but so many times I put God in a box and don't expect and live for his greatness! He has the power to save my neighbors and he has the power to revive my church and he has the power over my sins that I allow myself to me chained to!
Chapter 2 reminds me again that because I'm saved I need to treat my lusts as FORMER and stop being a slave to them. I've been FREED and need to live like it! I tend to live like Christ is far off and not completely live with Him NEAR. He is so near and I have such a privilege to live with him in me! Start living like it Karlyn!!!
A- Today I surrender my sins, my lusts to Him and live in the freedom from sin that he gives me every day. Today I choose to live ENLIGHTENED and hold on to the nearness of him in my life!
P- Lord I praise you for the greatness of your power! I pray that the eyes of my heart will be enlightened today so I will know the hope of your calling and the riches of your inheritance! Thank you for bringing me near to you by the blood of Jesus!
-And what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.
2:3; 13 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest
-But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
O - I love Paul's writing style. You can hear it in his words that he is soooo full of the Holy Spirit and words can't even express what he feels for Christ! That's the desire I have, to be so full that my saucer runs over!
Vs 18-19 remind me that I haven't allowed myself to really be ENLIGHTENED of Christ's calling, my inheritance as a believer, and His surpassing greatness of His power. All of this is available to me but so many times I put God in a box and don't expect and live for his greatness! He has the power to save my neighbors and he has the power to revive my church and he has the power over my sins that I allow myself to me chained to!
Chapter 2 reminds me again that because I'm saved I need to treat my lusts as FORMER and stop being a slave to them. I've been FREED and need to live like it! I tend to live like Christ is far off and not completely live with Him NEAR. He is so near and I have such a privilege to live with him in me! Start living like it Karlyn!!!
A- Today I surrender my sins, my lusts to Him and live in the freedom from sin that he gives me every day. Today I choose to live ENLIGHTENED and hold on to the nearness of him in my life!
P- Lord I praise you for the greatness of your power! I pray that the eyes of my heart will be enlightened today so I will know the hope of your calling and the riches of your inheritance! Thank you for bringing me near to you by the blood of Jesus!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Week 3: Ephesians anyone?
Hope everyone had a great weekend! Unless someone has another suggestion why don't we go through Ephesians this week. Let's do chapters 1-2 Monday, and one chapter a day for the rest of the week! Have a great Memorial Day! Y'all have been very encouraging to me. WHen are we going to plan this trip? Maybe we need a conference call so we can hear everyone's voices! Amber - hope you had a wonderful baby dedication for your sweet little girl!
-Karlyn
-Karlyn
Friday, May 27, 2011
Amber- Psalm 143
S-Psalm 143:5-6 "I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands. I stretch out my hands to You; My soul longs for you, as a parched land."
Psalm 143 10-12"Teach me to do your will, For You are my God; Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. For the sake of Your name, O Lord revive me...For I am Your Servant."
O- I remember reading this Psalm atop a mountain with a beautiful view in Romania in 2001. I was in a place where I needed the Lord to revive me. I was longing for Him to revive me with all my heart. I sat alone and read these verses again and again weeping before my Father. Then the last sentence of the chapter..."For I am Your Servant." For some reason that line just gives me chills. The humility of it!
A- I want to long for the Lord as David did. I want to be revived, not because of the benefits for myself, but for HIS NAME'S SAKE.
P- Lord, thank you for the fire you have rekindled in me in recent days, may it continue to grow.
Lord, revive me for Your Name's Sake so that my life may be used to glorify you. Place a longing within my heart that only you can fill. May I earnestly seek after you. Teach me to do your will, Lord, for you are my God. For I am your servant.
Shane and Shane have a song on their Psalms cd that was written from this Psalm. Love it!
Thanks girls for the last 2 weeks! The Lord has begun a work in me where I have been dry and stagnant for awhile. Pray that I will continue to allow Him to work in my life for His glory.
Psalm 143 10-12"Teach me to do your will, For You are my God; Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. For the sake of Your name, O Lord revive me...For I am Your Servant."
O- I remember reading this Psalm atop a mountain with a beautiful view in Romania in 2001. I was in a place where I needed the Lord to revive me. I was longing for Him to revive me with all my heart. I sat alone and read these verses again and again weeping before my Father. Then the last sentence of the chapter..."For I am Your Servant." For some reason that line just gives me chills. The humility of it!
A- I want to long for the Lord as David did. I want to be revived, not because of the benefits for myself, but for HIS NAME'S SAKE.
P- Lord, thank you for the fire you have rekindled in me in recent days, may it continue to grow.
Lord, revive me for Your Name's Sake so that my life may be used to glorify you. Place a longing within my heart that only you can fill. May I earnestly seek after you. Teach me to do your will, Lord, for you are my God. For I am your servant.
Shane and Shane have a song on their Psalms cd that was written from this Psalm. Love it!
Thanks girls for the last 2 weeks! The Lord has begun a work in me where I have been dry and stagnant for awhile. Pray that I will continue to allow Him to work in my life for His glory.
Philemon
S- You are generous becasue of your faith. And I am praying that you will really put your generosity to work, for in so doing you will come to an understanding of all the good things we can do through Christ. I myself have gained much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because your kindness has so often refreshed the hearts of God's people.
O- Philemon was a faithful person. He did give but not as much as he could. He also could hold grudges therefore holding him back from giving. Paul was writing to him out if love and playing into his emotions. Paul knew what opens could be open if Philemon would open his heart, forgive and give more.
A- I need to be more open. I need to give and more from my heart than because its what I should be doing. There's more I could give, show, and say that many times I don't based on the past. Its very easy for me to help and forgive the first time but if it happens again I hesiate. I need to trust God in every detail.
P- I pray that my heart will be soften to do God's work.
O- Philemon was a faithful person. He did give but not as much as he could. He also could hold grudges therefore holding him back from giving. Paul was writing to him out if love and playing into his emotions. Paul knew what opens could be open if Philemon would open his heart, forgive and give more.
A- I need to be more open. I need to give and more from my heart than because its what I should be doing. There's more I could give, show, and say that many times I don't based on the past. Its very easy for me to help and forgive the first time but if it happens again I hesiate. I need to trust God in every detail.
P- I pray that my heart will be soften to do God's work.
Ginny - Psalm 34
S - 34:18 "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
34:8 "Oh taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!"
O - What hope these two verses give! We can feel smushed to the core with no relief in sight, yet the moment we look up God is there. He never leaves, He is always right there. There is no weight too heavy that the Lord will not get below us and help us push up.
A - I can name 1 time in my life that I felt my heart was actually broken, but I can name a handful of times when I felt truly crushed. I'm so glad David used the word "crushed" - I can relate. Not in pieces, not wandering how I'm going to ever fix it and move on, but yet extremly tired, beaten down, and needing His strength for each step.
Psalm 34 is also near and dear to my heart b/c it is the Psalm that Karen and I prayed together through Beth Moore's Esther study. Karen was my Bible Study teacher and she is as scatter brained as they come, but I love her and yearn to know the Word of God as she does. That Esther study changed my life - literally. The Lord brought down many walls and I experienced freedom that I had never known before. Everytime I read Psalm 34 I think of Karen and the mighty work the Lord did in my life during that time. May I always stop to taste and see what the Lord has done!
P - First off, thank y'all for praying for me yesterday. I've been praying for y'all each morning as I huff and puff around my park. Well, I may get some Lady Gaga in too, but there are still prayers :) My prayer today is for strength to hold out. Perseverance for each step. Taste and see! Taste and See!
Love you girls! Hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!
34:8 "Oh taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!"
O - What hope these two verses give! We can feel smushed to the core with no relief in sight, yet the moment we look up God is there. He never leaves, He is always right there. There is no weight too heavy that the Lord will not get below us and help us push up.
A - I can name 1 time in my life that I felt my heart was actually broken, but I can name a handful of times when I felt truly crushed. I'm so glad David used the word "crushed" - I can relate. Not in pieces, not wandering how I'm going to ever fix it and move on, but yet extremly tired, beaten down, and needing His strength for each step.
Psalm 34 is also near and dear to my heart b/c it is the Psalm that Karen and I prayed together through Beth Moore's Esther study. Karen was my Bible Study teacher and she is as scatter brained as they come, but I love her and yearn to know the Word of God as she does. That Esther study changed my life - literally. The Lord brought down many walls and I experienced freedom that I had never known before. Everytime I read Psalm 34 I think of Karen and the mighty work the Lord did in my life during that time. May I always stop to taste and see what the Lord has done!
P - First off, thank y'all for praying for me yesterday. I've been praying for y'all each morning as I huff and puff around my park. Well, I may get some Lady Gaga in too, but there are still prayers :) My prayer today is for strength to hold out. Perseverance for each step. Taste and see! Taste and See!
Love you girls! Hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!
Karlyn - Psalms
Good Morning Sunshines!!!!
S - 23:6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
84:1-2 How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of heaven's armies. I long, yes I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. With my whole being, body, and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God.
63:1; 3-5 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.
Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you. I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
O - When we got to Psalms in the Chronological Bible Study this year I started making a list of all the verses that I knew as songs, songs that I sang with my family growing up and songs that are familiar to us today. I couldn't believe how many there were. These are just a few of my favorites.
When I was typing these out I forgot just how uplifting these words are. If I would just begin my day praising with these verses my attitude would be so different. The desperation of longing to be with God and to know him really gets to my core. I don't think I've ever lived with that much conviction and desire for Christ. My relationships, my decisions, my everything would be so different if I lived with this conviction!
A - In my Bible reading and study every morning I need to read with conviction and apply every word to my life with conviction of the heart! Just as if I was David in the caves desperately longing for God!
P- I'm driving home from Springfield today with the boys and Walter, pray for safety and that Knox travels well (he hates to travel). God help me to live out in my words and actions how your unfailing love is better than life itself. Lord I desire for you to satisfy me more than the richest feast!
S - 23:6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
84:1-2 How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of heaven's armies. I long, yes I faint with longing to enter the courts of the Lord. With my whole being, body, and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God.
63:1; 3-5 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.
Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you. I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
O - When we got to Psalms in the Chronological Bible Study this year I started making a list of all the verses that I knew as songs, songs that I sang with my family growing up and songs that are familiar to us today. I couldn't believe how many there were. These are just a few of my favorites.
When I was typing these out I forgot just how uplifting these words are. If I would just begin my day praising with these verses my attitude would be so different. The desperation of longing to be with God and to know him really gets to my core. I don't think I've ever lived with that much conviction and desire for Christ. My relationships, my decisions, my everything would be so different if I lived with this conviction!
A - In my Bible reading and study every morning I need to read with conviction and apply every word to my life with conviction of the heart! Just as if I was David in the caves desperately longing for God!
P- I'm driving home from Springfield today with the boys and Walter, pray for safety and that Knox travels well (he hates to travel). God help me to live out in my words and actions how your unfailing love is better than life itself. Lord I desire for you to satisfy me more than the richest feast!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Jen Titus Chapter 3
This has been a crazy week with end of school year, Grant's bday party, baseball and church activities. I've barely have had time to breathe. My attiude has stunk today because I'm just plain worn out. I have to stay up until midnight to get time for myself this week.
S- v.4-5 But- When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.
O- It's all about Mercy and Grace. It is so easy to get wrapped up on doing all the good things for Him, but He didn't save us for that reason. I was just as guilty as the next person.
A- Mercy is low on my list of gifts and it shows. But it shows more towards Christians than non. I can be very hard fellow Christians. I always think well they know better and shouldn't be doing that. As far as nonchristians, I think well, their behavior doesn't bother me as much because they don't know better. I'll pray for them and feel a little sorry. I need to remember that I still sin everyday and its only because of God's love, mercy and grace that I'm renewed everyday. I need to be more loving towards more Christian brother and sisters when they have fallen.
P- Lord, help me to more merciful. Help me to remember the days before I was saved. Help me to use those experiences to have mercy and grace to others around me.
S- v.4-5 But- When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit.
O- It's all about Mercy and Grace. It is so easy to get wrapped up on doing all the good things for Him, but He didn't save us for that reason. I was just as guilty as the next person.
A- Mercy is low on my list of gifts and it shows. But it shows more towards Christians than non. I can be very hard fellow Christians. I always think well they know better and shouldn't be doing that. As far as nonchristians, I think well, their behavior doesn't bother me as much because they don't know better. I'll pray for them and feel a little sorry. I need to remember that I still sin everyday and its only because of God's love, mercy and grace that I'm renewed everyday. I need to be more loving towards more Christian brother and sisters when they have fallen.
P- Lord, help me to more merciful. Help me to remember the days before I was saved. Help me to use those experiences to have mercy and grace to others around me.
Amber- Philemon
S- v.8-10 "Therefore, though I might be very bold in Christ to command you what is fitting, yet for love's sake I rather appeal to you-being such a one as Paul, the aged and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ- I appeal to you for my son Onesimus..."
v. 21 "Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say."
O- If Paul was anything, he was bold in every area of his life represented in Scripture. I like the way he emphasizes Philemon's love and commends it at the beginning of the letter. Then he hits him with an action that will require love and could be very challenging for him to fulfill. There is a theme of reconciliation when a person becomes a believer despite of what may have occurred before. Also, Paul pleas on behalf of Onesimus, but then in verse 21 tells Philemon what He expects of him.
A- How often God has done a similar thing in my life. He will teach me through multiple avenues about a certain truth or Christ-like characteristic and then a situation comes along where I have to put what He has been teaching me into practice. I pray that I will always learn what He is teaching me well, so I will be willing to put the teaching into practice.
Paul had high expectations of Philemon. Sometimes I'm afraid in our churches and relationships that we are afraid to place high expectations on someone. Well, first it means that we have to be living it ourselves. Secondly, sometimes it's just easier to sit back and say nothing in certain situations. I believe it has to be done in the right spirit and in the context of a relationship.
P- Lord, may you always find me sensitive to your teaching. Not just learning it Lord, with my head, but learning it with my heart, so that it will truly make a difference in my life. May I live a life that is honoring to you. Make me bold Lord, in every area of life, not because of anything that I am, but because of the confidence I have in you.
v. 21 "Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say."
O- If Paul was anything, he was bold in every area of his life represented in Scripture. I like the way he emphasizes Philemon's love and commends it at the beginning of the letter. Then he hits him with an action that will require love and could be very challenging for him to fulfill. There is a theme of reconciliation when a person becomes a believer despite of what may have occurred before. Also, Paul pleas on behalf of Onesimus, but then in verse 21 tells Philemon what He expects of him.
A- How often God has done a similar thing in my life. He will teach me through multiple avenues about a certain truth or Christ-like characteristic and then a situation comes along where I have to put what He has been teaching me into practice. I pray that I will always learn what He is teaching me well, so I will be willing to put the teaching into practice.
Paul had high expectations of Philemon. Sometimes I'm afraid in our churches and relationships that we are afraid to place high expectations on someone. Well, first it means that we have to be living it ourselves. Secondly, sometimes it's just easier to sit back and say nothing in certain situations. I believe it has to be done in the right spirit and in the context of a relationship.
P- Lord, may you always find me sensitive to your teaching. Not just learning it Lord, with my head, but learning it with my heart, so that it will truly make a difference in my life. May I live a life that is honoring to you. Make me bold Lord, in every area of life, not because of anything that I am, but because of the confidence I have in you.
Karlyn - Philemon
S- Vs. 5-7 because I keep hearing of your trust in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God's people. You are generous because of your faith. And I am praying that you will really put your generosity to work, for in so doing you will come to an understanding of all the good things we can do for Christ. I myself have gained much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because your kindness has so often refreshed the hearts of God's people.
Vs. 19 I, Paul, write this in my own handwriting: "I will repay it." And I won't mention that you owe me your very soul!
O - I've been pretty blessed in my life with all the amazing women God has given me through the years that have been generous in their faith with me. Y'all are some of those women. You've given me comfort, joy, and lots of refreshment! I've loved seeing and hearing how you do that in others lives too! I want to continue to grow in these characteristics so I can "come to an understanding of all the good things we can do for Christ":)
I think vs. 19 is humorous! Paul isn't being subtle at all about making sure Philemon understands his Biblical duty:) I can't wait to meet Paul someday.
A- What are the things in my life that keep me from being generous with my faith - definitely my selfishness. I'm selfish with my time, my possessions, and my abilities. I've worked hard on looking at others before myself but that stinkin' selfishness loves to creep up when I think I'm doing "good".
P - Father I can't thank you enough for Ginny, Cindy, Amber, Jenifer, and the other women you've put in my life! You've used them to motivate me, convict me, and make me a better woman in Christ. Help me to be generous with my faith so others will see you today!
Vs. 19 I, Paul, write this in my own handwriting: "I will repay it." And I won't mention that you owe me your very soul!
O - I've been pretty blessed in my life with all the amazing women God has given me through the years that have been generous in their faith with me. Y'all are some of those women. You've given me comfort, joy, and lots of refreshment! I've loved seeing and hearing how you do that in others lives too! I want to continue to grow in these characteristics so I can "come to an understanding of all the good things we can do for Christ":)
I think vs. 19 is humorous! Paul isn't being subtle at all about making sure Philemon understands his Biblical duty:) I can't wait to meet Paul someday.
A- What are the things in my life that keep me from being generous with my faith - definitely my selfishness. I'm selfish with my time, my possessions, and my abilities. I've worked hard on looking at others before myself but that stinkin' selfishness loves to creep up when I think I'm doing "good".
P - Father I can't thank you enough for Ginny, Cindy, Amber, Jenifer, and the other women you've put in my life! You've used them to motivate me, convict me, and make me a better woman in Christ. Help me to be generous with my faith so others will see you today!
Cindy - Philemon
Philemon
S – So if you consider me a partner, accept him as you would me. And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it. Philemon 17-19
O – Paul shows compassion and personal sacrifice on Onesimus’ behalf in his letter to Philemon. Paul not only wants to help Onesimus and Philemon to be reconciled, but Paul also takes on the debt of Onesimus. Paul didn’t have lots of money nor a job that could provide the money; he was in prison. However, Paul didn’t let his circumstances keep him from being generous.
A – I am humbled at Paul’s actions. I have to ask myself, “Are there times when I could give but don’t because I am too wrapped up in my own circumstances that I miss the opportunity to worship through sacrificial giving?”
P – Lord, everything I have is Yours and it is because of Your blessing that I even have these things. Help me to not be selfish, but to give generously to help a brother or sister in Christ.
S – So if you consider me a partner, accept him as you would me. And if he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it. Philemon 17-19
O – Paul shows compassion and personal sacrifice on Onesimus’ behalf in his letter to Philemon. Paul not only wants to help Onesimus and Philemon to be reconciled, but Paul also takes on the debt of Onesimus. Paul didn’t have lots of money nor a job that could provide the money; he was in prison. However, Paul didn’t let his circumstances keep him from being generous.
A – I am humbled at Paul’s actions. I have to ask myself, “Are there times when I could give but don’t because I am too wrapped up in my own circumstances that I miss the opportunity to worship through sacrificial giving?”
P – Lord, everything I have is Yours and it is because of Your blessing that I even have these things. Help me to not be selfish, but to give generously to help a brother or sister in Christ.
Karlyn - Titus 3
S - NLT v. 1-2 Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient , always ready to do what is good. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.
O - These verses didn't say submit to government if you "LIKE" the officials. It says submit, be obedient, ready to do good, don't slander anyone, avoid quarreling, be gentle, show true humility. It's very easy for me to sit back and complain about our government and officials. When in line with scripture I should be submitting and praying for them. My dad has always quoted this to me, "authority is right, but authority isn't always right". I don't know who he got that from but it's a reminder that even though authority isn't always making the best decisions they are my authority and I have to obey and submit to them in line with scripture.
A - I want to specifically pray for our government officials local, state, national and not slander them. And have a mindset of gentleness and humility with everyone even when I don't agree with them.
P - Father thank you for giving us authority to live under and thank you even more for giving us the grace and your wisdom to know when they don't line up with your Word. Please give me wise words and humility when praying for them! Please protect our country and government and bring us back to you!
O - These verses didn't say submit to government if you "LIKE" the officials. It says submit, be obedient, ready to do good, don't slander anyone, avoid quarreling, be gentle, show true humility. It's very easy for me to sit back and complain about our government and officials. When in line with scripture I should be submitting and praying for them. My dad has always quoted this to me, "authority is right, but authority isn't always right". I don't know who he got that from but it's a reminder that even though authority isn't always making the best decisions they are my authority and I have to obey and submit to them in line with scripture.
A - I want to specifically pray for our government officials local, state, national and not slander them. And have a mindset of gentleness and humility with everyone even when I don't agree with them.
P - Father thank you for giving us authority to live under and thank you even more for giving us the grace and your wisdom to know when they don't line up with your Word. Please give me wise words and humility when praying for them! Please protect our country and government and bring us back to you!
Ginny - Philemon 1
Good Morning Girlz!
S - "I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus" Philemon 1:4-5
O - I am reminded today of how we need each other. When Paul heard about the good work the church was doing it encouraged him in his work where he was at. We need to know we aren't in this alone.
A - Oh girls, to be honest yesterday afternoon and this morning have been crummy. My heart is discouraged and I just want to throw up my hands and shout, "This is not fair!" There are some days that just stink! All that being said prayer and church family have already helped to see the bright spots. Whereas I wish yesterday and this morning had played out differently, I am still immensely grateful to our Savior and other brothers and sisters in Christ that can say, "It will be O.K." and I know that it will be.
P - My prayer is to get through the day. Everything is going to be good, but time helps and so I'm ready to get the day behind me.
Looking forward to everyone's Psalms tomorrow! Have a great, great day!
S - "I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus" Philemon 1:4-5
O - I am reminded today of how we need each other. When Paul heard about the good work the church was doing it encouraged him in his work where he was at. We need to know we aren't in this alone.
A - Oh girls, to be honest yesterday afternoon and this morning have been crummy. My heart is discouraged and I just want to throw up my hands and shout, "This is not fair!" There are some days that just stink! All that being said prayer and church family have already helped to see the bright spots. Whereas I wish yesterday and this morning had played out differently, I am still immensely grateful to our Savior and other brothers and sisters in Christ that can say, "It will be O.K." and I know that it will be.
P - My prayer is to get through the day. Everything is going to be good, but time helps and so I'm ready to get the day behind me.
Looking forward to everyone's Psalms tomorrow! Have a great, great day!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Amber- Titus 3
Good Afternonn Girls!
S- Titus 3:4-5 "But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds,which we have done in righteousness but according to His mercy by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior..."
Titus 3:14 "Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful."
O- Deeds are mentioned in v. 1, v. 5, v. 8, and v. 14. It is interesting that Paul continually urges the readers to be ready to do good deeds in these verses. Then in verse 5 he says very plainly the "He saved us, not on the basis of deeds...but according to His mercy." One more place it is written rather plainly.
A- Good Deeds...I need to be ready to do good deeds so I will not be unfruitful and I like the way he say in v. 14 to meet pressing needs. Sometimes those are the ones I have the most trouble with because I want to sit and think about it before I act instead of just acting because I am being compelled by Love.
P- Lord, May my eyes be open to opportunities I have to do good deeds, so that you may be glorified in me. Help me to pay attention and meet the pressing needs of those around me.
I realize that the prayer above may just rock my world! I sure hope I'm ready.
S- Titus 3:4-5 "But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds,which we have done in righteousness but according to His mercy by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior..."
Titus 3:14 "Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful."
O- Deeds are mentioned in v. 1, v. 5, v. 8, and v. 14. It is interesting that Paul continually urges the readers to be ready to do good deeds in these verses. Then in verse 5 he says very plainly the "He saved us, not on the basis of deeds...but according to His mercy." One more place it is written rather plainly.
A- Good Deeds...I need to be ready to do good deeds so I will not be unfruitful and I like the way he say in v. 14 to meet pressing needs. Sometimes those are the ones I have the most trouble with because I want to sit and think about it before I act instead of just acting because I am being compelled by Love.
P- Lord, May my eyes be open to opportunities I have to do good deeds, so that you may be glorified in me. Help me to pay attention and meet the pressing needs of those around me.
I realize that the prayer above may just rock my world! I sure hope I'm ready.
Cindy - Titus 3
Titus 3
S – Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness. Titus 3:1-2
O – These verses are a reminder of what Christians are to be doing. We are to be submissive to those over us, to authorities. To be submissive requires humility. We are to be obedient and “ready for every good work”. Being ready does not mean I need to do some things first, or that I have to be convinced that I need to do this, or even to just sit around and think about doing it or not. Being ready is just that… prepared, equipped and geared up to do every good work. He has even given us what we need so that we will be equipped and ready to do what He has asked us. God is in-to details. He knows what we need and when we need it. God has given us what we need for EVERY good work. He is in control of every situation. There is not a situation that overwhelms God! What a comforting fact that gives peace of mind!
Paul then gives two things that we should not do: slander and fight. Avoiding these things will help promote unity within the body. Next, Paul gives two things that we should do: be kind and always show gentleness. Kindness and gentleness are fruits of the Spirit. They also reflect the love of Christ. Being kind and always gentle will require showing grace and mercy to others.
A – I want to always be ready for what God has for me. This means for me to stop being a procrastinator and to have confidence in the Lord to do what He has asked me to do. I cannot let my own shortcomings prevent me from being obedient. I must act knowing my confidence and strength is in Christ!
P – Lord, thank You for showing mercy and grace to me. Help me to reflect You in my actions. Lord help me to be gentle and kind so that others may come to know You. I pray that You would continue to work in me, making me ready and equipped to do Your good works. Thank You.
S – Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to slander no one, to avoid fighting, and to be kind, always showing gentleness. Titus 3:1-2
O – These verses are a reminder of what Christians are to be doing. We are to be submissive to those over us, to authorities. To be submissive requires humility. We are to be obedient and “ready for every good work”. Being ready does not mean I need to do some things first, or that I have to be convinced that I need to do this, or even to just sit around and think about doing it or not. Being ready is just that… prepared, equipped and geared up to do every good work. He has even given us what we need so that we will be equipped and ready to do what He has asked us. God is in-to details. He knows what we need and when we need it. God has given us what we need for EVERY good work. He is in control of every situation. There is not a situation that overwhelms God! What a comforting fact that gives peace of mind!
Paul then gives two things that we should not do: slander and fight. Avoiding these things will help promote unity within the body. Next, Paul gives two things that we should do: be kind and always show gentleness. Kindness and gentleness are fruits of the Spirit. They also reflect the love of Christ. Being kind and always gentle will require showing grace and mercy to others.
A – I want to always be ready for what God has for me. This means for me to stop being a procrastinator and to have confidence in the Lord to do what He has asked me to do. I cannot let my own shortcomings prevent me from being obedient. I must act knowing my confidence and strength is in Christ!
P – Lord, thank You for showing mercy and grace to me. Help me to reflect You in my actions. Lord help me to be gentle and kind so that others may come to know You. I pray that You would continue to work in me, making me ready and equipped to do Your good works. Thank You.
Ginny - Titus 3
Good Morning Girlz!
S - "But when the kindness and love of of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spririt, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." Titus 3:4-7
O - You can't help but shout Hallelujah!!! We are so blessed! Nothing we did or could do; God simply loves us! Loves us abundantly!
A - I want to live everyday in the joy of my salvation. It is all about God and what He did for me. As I seek to "love what is good," may others see the Father through me.
P - Thank you for saving me Lord. Thank you for loving me and extending grace to a sinner. May I love what is good.
S - "But when the kindness and love of of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spririt, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life." Titus 3:4-7
O - You can't help but shout Hallelujah!!! We are so blessed! Nothing we did or could do; God simply loves us! Loves us abundantly!
A - I want to live everyday in the joy of my salvation. It is all about God and what He did for me. As I seek to "love what is good," may others see the Father through me.
P - Thank you for saving me Lord. Thank you for loving me and extending grace to a sinner. May I love what is good.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Karlyn - Can't get Enough!!
I wish you could see my face because I have a huge smile! Y'all all (nice slang) inspire my boots off! I can't wait to see what y'all get from the scripture every day because you teach me so much! Thank you for doing this with me!
I thought it was interesting that 3 of you desire so much to have an older mentor. The desire is the same on my end. Several months ago we were doing a ladies study at our church. For our small little congregation we now have about 6 women my age very involved and 2 older women! We've been desperate for older mentors and have really prayed about it. We finally felt the Holy Spirit telling us to wait and keep mentoring each other and those younger. So, we still don't have anyone investing in us but we are investing all we can in everyone else.
About 3 months ago there were several older women in our church who began seeing needs and taking the initiative to meet them! We couldn't believe it! Still not investing in us but to see them meeting needs in other areas was huge (our church body was almost to the point of death and no one was being responsible for anything). One lady even asked me if she could come in the mornings and sit with the boys so I could go run! WOW you better believe my mouth hit the floor!
So, all that to say, keep praying! We are too and I have faith that God will give these older women the courage to step out and share and teach us! Most of the time I believe it's not that they don't want to mentor they just feel inadequate.
Love y'all so much and thank you for mentoring me every day!
-K
I thought it was interesting that 3 of you desire so much to have an older mentor. The desire is the same on my end. Several months ago we were doing a ladies study at our church. For our small little congregation we now have about 6 women my age very involved and 2 older women! We've been desperate for older mentors and have really prayed about it. We finally felt the Holy Spirit telling us to wait and keep mentoring each other and those younger. So, we still don't have anyone investing in us but we are investing all we can in everyone else.
About 3 months ago there were several older women in our church who began seeing needs and taking the initiative to meet them! We couldn't believe it! Still not investing in us but to see them meeting needs in other areas was huge (our church body was almost to the point of death and no one was being responsible for anything). One lady even asked me if she could come in the mornings and sit with the boys so I could go run! WOW you better believe my mouth hit the floor!
So, all that to say, keep praying! We are too and I have faith that God will give these older women the courage to step out and share and teach us! Most of the time I believe it's not that they don't want to mentor they just feel inadequate.
Love y'all so much and thank you for mentoring me every day!
-K
Amber- Titus 2
James and Titus! I think I could spend weeks on each chapter truly striving to implement what they teach!
S- Titus 2:3-5 "Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored."
O- "so that the word of God will not be dishonored" I don't know about anyone else, but I have noticed more lately that the Bible uses very strong language when referring to sin. Another good reminder of the seriousness of sin.
A- Remembering the seriousness of sin in my life even the "little things" dishonor God and His Word. There are more characteristics that I need to strive for in my daily life. I am a checklist kind of person and I don't want these things to become another list of things I can check off, but a true heart change where these things are part of my character. I have also wanted to have an older lady to mentor me. I have good relationships with some of the elderly women and I learn a lot from them, but I really want an intentional relationship. I haven't come across anyone that the Lord has pointed out to me or someone that I "click" with.
P- Praying for the Lord to continue to point out even the "little" sins in my life. Praying that I would truly become a woman worthy to mentor (which I know you don't have to be "worthy" but you know what I mean) and humble enough to be mentored. Praying the Lord will provide the perfect mentor relationship in my life.
S- Titus 2:3-5 "Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored."
O- "so that the word of God will not be dishonored" I don't know about anyone else, but I have noticed more lately that the Bible uses very strong language when referring to sin. Another good reminder of the seriousness of sin.
A- Remembering the seriousness of sin in my life even the "little things" dishonor God and His Word. There are more characteristics that I need to strive for in my daily life. I am a checklist kind of person and I don't want these things to become another list of things I can check off, but a true heart change where these things are part of my character. I have also wanted to have an older lady to mentor me. I have good relationships with some of the elderly women and I learn a lot from them, but I really want an intentional relationship. I haven't come across anyone that the Lord has pointed out to me or someone that I "click" with.
P- Praying for the Lord to continue to point out even the "little" sins in my life. Praying that I would truly become a woman worthy to mentor (which I know you don't have to be "worthy" but you know what I mean) and humble enough to be mentored. Praying the Lord will provide the perfect mentor relationship in my life.
S- In the same way, older women are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine. They are to teach what is good, so they may encourage the young women to love their husbands and to love their children, to be self controlled, pure, homemakers, kind and submissive to their husbands, so that God’s message will not be slandered.
O- Older Women are to be mentors. They are to be role models just like the men. They are to teach younger generation. And likewise they are to have women to look up too. There is one lady at my church who is a great example of this verse, June Moore (If you remember Karen and Janet Moore form OBU than its their mom) She is someone who I strive to more like. I do feel especially in my church that we have failed at this verse. There are very few older women who are actively searching out younger women to mentor. There in many situations in my life that I don't to talk with someone in my peer group, but need wiser advice (Someone who's been there and already has overcome).
A- I feel like I'm doing my best with this verse to my fellow peer group and the one below. However, there is no one older that I feel like I can talk to personally. I see them from a far and talk to them, but there is nothing deep. My friend Lauren and I are trying to get a mentoring program started at our church. There is a huge gap in our church between the older and younger women. The older I get the more I feel drawn to the older women.
P- Lord, help me to be an example and a mentor to the young women. Direct towards someone who would be the right fit mentor fit for me. Help not to hesitate about asking the person. Open the doors so this ministry can happen at our church. There are so many women who never had a Christian role model who could benefit from an older Godly woman.
O- Older Women are to be mentors. They are to be role models just like the men. They are to teach younger generation. And likewise they are to have women to look up too. There is one lady at my church who is a great example of this verse, June Moore (If you remember Karen and Janet Moore form OBU than its their mom) She is someone who I strive to more like. I do feel especially in my church that we have failed at this verse. There are very few older women who are actively searching out younger women to mentor. There in many situations in my life that I don't to talk with someone in my peer group, but need wiser advice (Someone who's been there and already has overcome).
A- I feel like I'm doing my best with this verse to my fellow peer group and the one below. However, there is no one older that I feel like I can talk to personally. I see them from a far and talk to them, but there is nothing deep. My friend Lauren and I are trying to get a mentoring program started at our church. There is a huge gap in our church between the older and younger women. The older I get the more I feel drawn to the older women.
P- Lord, help me to be an example and a mentor to the young women. Direct towards someone who would be the right fit mentor fit for me. Help not to hesitate about asking the person. Open the doors so this ministry can happen at our church. There are so many women who never had a Christian role model who could benefit from an older Godly woman.
Cindy - Titus 2
Titus 2
S – In the same way, older women are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine. They are to teach what is good, so they may encourage the young women to love their husbands and to love their children, to be self controlled, pure, homemakers, kind and submissive to their husbands, so that God’s message will not be slandered. Titus 2:3-4
O – Level headed, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love, and endurance are the things that were listed under older men that “in the same way” are applicable to older women. I love that these verses remind us that, as women, we are setting an example for younger women to follow. However, we are not only setting an example by what we do because younger women are watching, but we are to be actively teaching them, instructing them, discipling them, mentoring them. We are to encourage them to be godly women and teach them what that looks like.
On the flip side, since we are not that old :), we are to be instructed by older women also. As we invest in the lives of younger women, we need older women investing in us.
A – I am very involved in investing in the lives of teenagers. However, the need is great!! Do any of you want to move to FL and help? :)
These verses are good in that it shows me I am only doing half the part. I do not have anyone investing in me, in a mentor/discipleship type of relationship. I have thought about it for a while (ok, so for the last several years) but I have not acted on it. I think partly because I don’t know who to ask...and then I get overwhelmed.
P – Lord, help me to be obedient to Your Word. Give me wisdom as I invest in others. Help me to be the things of Titus 2. Lord direct me in knowing who to ask to mentor me and give me the courage to do it.
S – In the same way, older women are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not addicted to much wine. They are to teach what is good, so they may encourage the young women to love their husbands and to love their children, to be self controlled, pure, homemakers, kind and submissive to their husbands, so that God’s message will not be slandered. Titus 2:3-4
O – Level headed, worthy of respect, sensible, and sound in faith, love, and endurance are the things that were listed under older men that “in the same way” are applicable to older women. I love that these verses remind us that, as women, we are setting an example for younger women to follow. However, we are not only setting an example by what we do because younger women are watching, but we are to be actively teaching them, instructing them, discipling them, mentoring them. We are to encourage them to be godly women and teach them what that looks like.
On the flip side, since we are not that old :), we are to be instructed by older women also. As we invest in the lives of younger women, we need older women investing in us.
A – I am very involved in investing in the lives of teenagers. However, the need is great!! Do any of you want to move to FL and help? :)
These verses are good in that it shows me I am only doing half the part. I do not have anyone investing in me, in a mentor/discipleship type of relationship. I have thought about it for a while (ok, so for the last several years) but I have not acted on it. I think partly because I don’t know who to ask...and then I get overwhelmed.
P – Lord, help me to be obedient to Your Word. Give me wisdom as I invest in others. Help me to be the things of Titus 2. Lord direct me in knowing who to ask to mentor me and give me the courage to do it.
Cindy - Titus 1
Titus 1
S – Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to build up the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. Titus 1:1
O – In the greeting of Paul’s letter to Titus, I love the way Paul begins with of who he is and his purpose. Even if we knew nothing about Paul before this, by saying he is a slave of God, we automatically know where his allegiance lies, and who he is obeying. There is also a job description or purpose of the letter to Titus: to encourage believers in their faith and in the Gospel which leads them to godliness.
A – I like this verse because it lays it out very simple and plainly. Like Paul, I want to be obedient to Christ. Every time I teach, every time I disciple/mentor, every time I counsel, I want to build them up in the faith, instruct them, help them know and understand God’s Word so that they would be continually striving toward godliness and being Christ-like. This is what I want for myself: To keep growing, understanding, and knowing the Bible so that it is put into action in my life. I desire to be Christ focused in every part of my life.
P – Lord, help me to be single-minded, to be Christ focused always. Help me to do nothing out of my own desire, but to do everything that You desire. Father, equip me to teach the Truth.
S – Paul, a slave of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to build up the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness. Titus 1:1
O – In the greeting of Paul’s letter to Titus, I love the way Paul begins with of who he is and his purpose. Even if we knew nothing about Paul before this, by saying he is a slave of God, we automatically know where his allegiance lies, and who he is obeying. There is also a job description or purpose of the letter to Titus: to encourage believers in their faith and in the Gospel which leads them to godliness.
A – I like this verse because it lays it out very simple and plainly. Like Paul, I want to be obedient to Christ. Every time I teach, every time I disciple/mentor, every time I counsel, I want to build them up in the faith, instruct them, help them know and understand God’s Word so that they would be continually striving toward godliness and being Christ-like. This is what I want for myself: To keep growing, understanding, and knowing the Bible so that it is put into action in my life. I desire to be Christ focused in every part of my life.
P – Lord, help me to be single-minded, to be Christ focused always. Help me to do nothing out of my own desire, but to do everything that You desire. Father, equip me to teach the Truth.
Ginny - Titus 2
Good Morning Girlz!
S - "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldy passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14
O - Yesterday Paul told us to "love what is good." (self-control, uprightness, holiness, discipline) Today he tells us how to love what is good, and the answer is...to turn from that which is bad. Sounds easy enough, right? Not so much, or at least not for me!!! Why does the "bad" always look so tempting and easier than going through the narrow gate? I think Paul understood that saying no was easier said than done, because he goes on to give us hope. That hope is all the joy, grace, and blessings we have through our risen Savior! Paul puts the emphasis on being thankful rather than looking at what we are giving up.
A - An attitude of gratitude, we even talked about this last night in my meeting. How often we make excuses for exercise, but at least we can move our arms and legs. We should be thankful for the bodies we have and therefore train them in a healthy way. Thankfulness produces a positive attitude and strength and perspective to say NO to what is not good. Often times I don't chose to love what is good because the other option is easier. It is easier to just dismiss someone who annoys me rather than be patient and love them. It is easier to use all my free time for me and what I want to do rather than give time to meet others' needs. It is easier to save and spend money only on what I need for the month rather than go out on a limb and meet a need of someone else. It is easier to make excuses why my house wouldn't be a good host home rather than open up my door for church get-togethers. It is easier... It is easier... It is easier...
P - Oh how I want to love what is good! I want to see things through God's eyes not through my selfish perspective. Lord, please prick my spirit that I may stop and think before I go down the easier road out of habit. May I be different for You, and when others notice may I point them to You.
S - "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldy passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good." Titus 2:11-14
O - Yesterday Paul told us to "love what is good." (self-control, uprightness, holiness, discipline) Today he tells us how to love what is good, and the answer is...to turn from that which is bad. Sounds easy enough, right? Not so much, or at least not for me!!! Why does the "bad" always look so tempting and easier than going through the narrow gate? I think Paul understood that saying no was easier said than done, because he goes on to give us hope. That hope is all the joy, grace, and blessings we have through our risen Savior! Paul puts the emphasis on being thankful rather than looking at what we are giving up.
A - An attitude of gratitude, we even talked about this last night in my meeting. How often we make excuses for exercise, but at least we can move our arms and legs. We should be thankful for the bodies we have and therefore train them in a healthy way. Thankfulness produces a positive attitude and strength and perspective to say NO to what is not good. Often times I don't chose to love what is good because the other option is easier. It is easier to just dismiss someone who annoys me rather than be patient and love them. It is easier to use all my free time for me and what I want to do rather than give time to meet others' needs. It is easier to save and spend money only on what I need for the month rather than go out on a limb and meet a need of someone else. It is easier to make excuses why my house wouldn't be a good host home rather than open up my door for church get-togethers. It is easier... It is easier... It is easier...
P - Oh how I want to love what is good! I want to see things through God's eyes not through my selfish perspective. Lord, please prick my spirit that I may stop and think before I go down the easier road out of habit. May I be different for You, and when others notice may I point them to You.
Karlyn - Titus 2
S - NLT V 10 (speaking about slaves) or steal,but must show themselves to be entirely trustworthy and good. Then they will make the teaching about God and our Savior ATTRACTIVE in every way.
NLT V 14 He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.
O- In verse 10 Paul is talking about slaves but I think this applies to me too. If i show myself to unbelievers to be trustworthy and good they will be attracted to the gospel. I'm seeing more and more that most people aren't trustworthy. And I've heard over and over from people at work that they just can't trust someone. This shows me just how important it is for me to be trustworthy. If I win someone's trust they will be more likely to want to know more about the gospel. I love that this translation uses the word ATTRACTIVE. When you're attracted to something you don't want to miss out.
V14 is a good reminder to me of just how huge a sacrifice it was for Jesus to die for me. I take for granted that his death freed me from "every kind of sin". There are some sins I still feel in "bondage" to. But God's word told me this morning that I'm free from those sins and I need to live that out "totally committed to doing good deeds"
A - No matter what I'm doing the character of being trustworthy needs to shine through. Especially at work where I'm surrounded by unbelievers. I don't need to give them a reason to not be attracted to God's Word!
Karlyn, let go of the sins you feel chained to, Jesus has already freed me from them and I need to live in freedom! How can I expect others to live in his freedom if I still hold on to guilt and feelings of being chained to sin.
P - Lord I'm so grateful for your Son's sacrifice and for "freeing me from every kind of sin" and cleansing me. Help me to live in that freedom to show others your grace and truth. Show me how to be trustworthy in the small things and big things in life so that everyone around me is attracted to you! Thank you thank you thank you for your sacrifice!
NLT V 14 He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.
O- In verse 10 Paul is talking about slaves but I think this applies to me too. If i show myself to unbelievers to be trustworthy and good they will be attracted to the gospel. I'm seeing more and more that most people aren't trustworthy. And I've heard over and over from people at work that they just can't trust someone. This shows me just how important it is for me to be trustworthy. If I win someone's trust they will be more likely to want to know more about the gospel. I love that this translation uses the word ATTRACTIVE. When you're attracted to something you don't want to miss out.
V14 is a good reminder to me of just how huge a sacrifice it was for Jesus to die for me. I take for granted that his death freed me from "every kind of sin". There are some sins I still feel in "bondage" to. But God's word told me this morning that I'm free from those sins and I need to live that out "totally committed to doing good deeds"
A - No matter what I'm doing the character of being trustworthy needs to shine through. Especially at work where I'm surrounded by unbelievers. I don't need to give them a reason to not be attracted to God's Word!
Karlyn, let go of the sins you feel chained to, Jesus has already freed me from them and I need to live in freedom! How can I expect others to live in his freedom if I still hold on to guilt and feelings of being chained to sin.
P - Lord I'm so grateful for your Son's sacrifice and for "freeing me from every kind of sin" and cleansing me. Help me to live in that freedom to show others your grace and truth. Show me how to be trustworthy in the small things and big things in life so that everyone around me is attracted to you! Thank you thank you thank you for your sacrifice!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Cindy - James 5
James 5
S – Brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name as an example of suffering and patience. See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful. James 5:10-11
O – I have been reading Jeremiah the last few weeks, so when I read these verses in James, it reminded me of the reading I have been doing. Jeremiah, along with the other prophets, endured much. Recently, I have been thinking about the hardships theses people endured. The ministry of the prophets was hard! They were ignored, persecuted and suffered immensely. However, even in the mist of hardship and discouragement, the Bible calls them blessed because they endured. It’s good to be reminded of God’s faithfulness in the mist of hard times. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful, praise the Lord!
A – I am encouraged to NOT be discouraged. Praise the Lord that He knows the outcome and is in control of it all! Reminder: Press on – Endure!
P – Pray that I will find my strength in the Lord and to be encouraged that the outcome is the Lord’s hands.
S – Brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the Lord’s name as an example of suffering and patience. See, we count as blessed those who have endured. You have heard of Job’s endurance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful. James 5:10-11
O – I have been reading Jeremiah the last few weeks, so when I read these verses in James, it reminded me of the reading I have been doing. Jeremiah, along with the other prophets, endured much. Recently, I have been thinking about the hardships theses people endured. The ministry of the prophets was hard! They were ignored, persecuted and suffered immensely. However, even in the mist of hardship and discouragement, the Bible calls them blessed because they endured. It’s good to be reminded of God’s faithfulness in the mist of hard times. The Lord is very compassionate and merciful, praise the Lord!
A – I am encouraged to NOT be discouraged. Praise the Lord that He knows the outcome and is in control of it all! Reminder: Press on – Endure!
P – Pray that I will find my strength in the Lord and to be encouraged that the outcome is the Lord’s hands.
Cindy - James 4
James 4
S – Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will travel to such and such a city and spend a year there and do business and make a profit.’ You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring – what your life will be! For you are like smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes. Instead you should say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’ James 4:13-15
O – In this passage, people are living life and making plans without God’s direction. James reminds us that life is a vapor and, instead of living life with our own agenda, we should be doing God’s agenda. He is the one who is in control and knows what tomorrow and the future will bring.
A – As high school graduations approach, I find myself talking with many teens and asking about their future plans. Some have thought about it, some haven’t. With both cases, the questions remain…Have you asked God what He wants of you? What does He want with your life? Where will He take you? How will He use you? These questions are easy to ask to someone who, like it or not, is facing a new chapter in life. But when I think about my life and where I am, how do these questions apply? Because my life too, is like smoke, a vapor, not knowing what tomorrow will bring. So I want to be the person that says, “Whatever God wants I will do, I will go, I will be…regardless of the cost or outcome.” I want to be obedient and willing in every aspect of life to do the will of the Father. I want to further the Kingdom in even the small details of life. I know He has brought me to this place, but am I doing ALL that He wants me to be doing? I don’t want to go along in my normal routine of life and not ask what God wants of me each day.
P – Pray that I would be sensitive to the Spirit, to know and do the things He is asking of me, especially the hard things. Also, pray that I would be mindful of how God wants to use me each day.
S – Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will travel to such and such a city and spend a year there and do business and make a profit.’ You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring – what your life will be! For you are like smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes. Instead you should say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’ James 4:13-15
O – In this passage, people are living life and making plans without God’s direction. James reminds us that life is a vapor and, instead of living life with our own agenda, we should be doing God’s agenda. He is the one who is in control and knows what tomorrow and the future will bring.
A – As high school graduations approach, I find myself talking with many teens and asking about their future plans. Some have thought about it, some haven’t. With both cases, the questions remain…Have you asked God what He wants of you? What does He want with your life? Where will He take you? How will He use you? These questions are easy to ask to someone who, like it or not, is facing a new chapter in life. But when I think about my life and where I am, how do these questions apply? Because my life too, is like smoke, a vapor, not knowing what tomorrow will bring. So I want to be the person that says, “Whatever God wants I will do, I will go, I will be…regardless of the cost or outcome.” I want to be obedient and willing in every aspect of life to do the will of the Father. I want to further the Kingdom in even the small details of life. I know He has brought me to this place, but am I doing ALL that He wants me to be doing? I don’t want to go along in my normal routine of life and not ask what God wants of me each day.
P – Pray that I would be sensitive to the Spirit, to know and do the things He is asking of me, especially the hard things. Also, pray that I would be mindful of how God wants to use me each day.
Amber- Titus 1
I did not get my James 5 post up Friday. I was so busy at work and currently we do not have internet at home, so I will try to post that one at some point this week also.
S-Titus 1:10-11 "For there are many rebellious men, empty takers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for sake of sordid gain."
O-What a great description of what is going on with our world whether it be Harold Camping or Rob Bell. There seem to be false teachers everywhere that people are following wholeheartedly. Whether these men are doing this for their own gain or because it's truly what they believe I'm not one to judge. People are following wholeheartedly because they like what they hear.
A- This chapter mentions "truth" or a form of the word several times along with words describing the Word, sound doctrine, etc. What a great reminder that I need to be constantly reading and understanding the Scriptures. There are many false teachers out there who sound good and "tickle the ears" of those who are listening. I need to know what the Bible says in all matters.
P- Praying that I will continually stay in the Word and truly understand it so that I will be ready to give an answer for the hope that I have. That I will be sensitive to the Spirit when He is showing me what is from Him and what is not.
S-Titus 1:10-11 "For there are many rebellious men, empty takers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for sake of sordid gain."
O-What a great description of what is going on with our world whether it be Harold Camping or Rob Bell. There seem to be false teachers everywhere that people are following wholeheartedly. Whether these men are doing this for their own gain or because it's truly what they believe I'm not one to judge. People are following wholeheartedly because they like what they hear.
A- This chapter mentions "truth" or a form of the word several times along with words describing the Word, sound doctrine, etc. What a great reminder that I need to be constantly reading and understanding the Scriptures. There are many false teachers out there who sound good and "tickle the ears" of those who are listening. I need to know what the Bible says in all matters.
P- Praying that I will continually stay in the Word and truly understand it so that I will be ready to give an answer for the hope that I have. That I will be sensitive to the Spirit when He is showing me what is from Him and what is not.
Jen Titus Chapter 1
S.v9- He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught;then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.
0-We need to dig into the Bible personally not just rely on what we have heard in church or from others.
How can we share the good news, be a comfort those in need,or fight for what we know is the Truth if we don't know the Word. An antheist knows his stuff and so do Jevoah Witnesses.
A- For too long I have relied on my pastor, Sunday school teacher and even my parents to know what the Bible has to say. It's only been in the last few years that I have really become to devour the Word. I want to be an encourager and I want to be able to hold my own when a family members disagrees about scripture (especially on moral issues). As a Sunday School teacher's wife and now a deacon's wife, I feel that I need to know the word even more and to be an example to other believers. How can I say to someone that they need to read the word and get to know it if I'm not doing it myself?
P- Lord, I pray that when I read your Word that I will fully understand and take something away. I don't want to read a few verses and say ok. Lord I did my part today. I want it to consume me and flow out of me. I want to encourage people going through all of lives up and downs. Amen
PS- I have to say that last week was the first week in a long time that I actually had a QT EVERY single day! I feel like I have so much more time in my day and that my spirit is better!
0-We need to dig into the Bible personally not just rely on what we have heard in church or from others.
How can we share the good news, be a comfort those in need,or fight for what we know is the Truth if we don't know the Word. An antheist knows his stuff and so do Jevoah Witnesses.
A- For too long I have relied on my pastor, Sunday school teacher and even my parents to know what the Bible has to say. It's only been in the last few years that I have really become to devour the Word. I want to be an encourager and I want to be able to hold my own when a family members disagrees about scripture (especially on moral issues). As a Sunday School teacher's wife and now a deacon's wife, I feel that I need to know the word even more and to be an example to other believers. How can I say to someone that they need to read the word and get to know it if I'm not doing it myself?
P- Lord, I pray that when I read your Word that I will fully understand and take something away. I don't want to read a few verses and say ok. Lord I did my part today. I want it to consume me and flow out of me. I want to encourage people going through all of lives up and downs. Amen
PS- I have to say that last week was the first week in a long time that I actually had a QT EVERY single day! I feel like I have so much more time in my day and that my spirit is better!
Ginny - Titus 1
S - "...one who loves what is good..." Titus 1:8
O- In this section Paul is listing the characteristics of an elder. "Love what is good." Well, that just about sums it up. If you are loving what is good, then you're staying away from all the other stuff. So, what is good? Paul goes on to clarify that too: self-control, upright, holy, and disciplined.
A - How I want to exemplify all four characteristics in my own life:
self-control: I always think of self-control in relation to food. That is just the red light area for me. My self-control is tested the most when I am baking. I love to bake, but I must control the bowl-licking and the taste-testing. I have lots of baking occasions coming up, and want to be victorious in self-control while in the kitchen.
upright: This sounds like someone who is always right. Someone who always says the right thing at the right moment. Someone who is never out of line. How wonderful that sounds! There is a lady at church named Debby who I lo-o-o-ve. She is wonderful! Debby reminds me of an upright woman. I need to be around Debby more.
holy: To be like Christ. To be set apart. Being different is what Christains are suppose to be. We are to make deliberate decisions that take us down the narrow road rather than the wide. Being different comes in the little things: how I spend my money, what I fill my time with, my choice to ignore drama rather than fuel it. It is about being happy and having a peace that others notice.
discipline: Discipline also produces a red light for me...running! I am 2 weeks into my running club. It is a blast and a half, but I know it will get harder as time goes on. Right now the runs are short which means I can get them in in the morning when it is cooler and not as windy. The longer we run I won't be able to fit my runs in in the morning and that is going to put a huge strain on the evenings. I chose to make this priority and stay disciplined throughout the training.
P - I pray for victory in the kitchen when I am baking. As Lysa says, "We are made for more!" I also pray for the running and that the Lord will provide the strength to complete every run to the best I can give. May I love what is good :)
O- In this section Paul is listing the characteristics of an elder. "Love what is good." Well, that just about sums it up. If you are loving what is good, then you're staying away from all the other stuff. So, what is good? Paul goes on to clarify that too: self-control, upright, holy, and disciplined.
A - How I want to exemplify all four characteristics in my own life:
self-control: I always think of self-control in relation to food. That is just the red light area for me. My self-control is tested the most when I am baking. I love to bake, but I must control the bowl-licking and the taste-testing. I have lots of baking occasions coming up, and want to be victorious in self-control while in the kitchen.
upright: This sounds like someone who is always right. Someone who always says the right thing at the right moment. Someone who is never out of line. How wonderful that sounds! There is a lady at church named Debby who I lo-o-o-ve. She is wonderful! Debby reminds me of an upright woman. I need to be around Debby more.
holy: To be like Christ. To be set apart. Being different is what Christains are suppose to be. We are to make deliberate decisions that take us down the narrow road rather than the wide. Being different comes in the little things: how I spend my money, what I fill my time with, my choice to ignore drama rather than fuel it. It is about being happy and having a peace that others notice.
discipline: Discipline also produces a red light for me...running! I am 2 weeks into my running club. It is a blast and a half, but I know it will get harder as time goes on. Right now the runs are short which means I can get them in in the morning when it is cooler and not as windy. The longer we run I won't be able to fit my runs in in the morning and that is going to put a huge strain on the evenings. I chose to make this priority and stay disciplined throughout the training.
P - I pray for victory in the kitchen when I am baking. As Lysa says, "We are made for more!" I also pray for the running and that the Lord will provide the strength to complete every run to the best I can give. May I love what is good :)
Karlyn -Titus 1
In light of the Harold Camping rapture incident God used Titus to speak to me Sunday morning.
S - vs 16 NAS They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.
O- vs 5-9 gives a description of the characteristics of elders, vs 10-16 gives a description of false teachers. The reason vs 16 stuck out to me is because it plainly states that a false teacher is going to know all the big words and profess to know GOD but their actions will eventually show different.
That's what I love so much about how God designed believers and unbelievers. Unbelievers/false teachers can pretend all they want and even fool some believers for a while but with time their heart can't be contained any longer. The same for Believers, if we are spirit filled it's impossible to look any different than CHRIST.
A- I've got to start every day with Christ in intentional prayer and intentional reading of His Word so I am spirit filled and I've confessed sin and I'm ready for what he's going to bring me every day. This way I can be able to detect the false teachers and be prepared to give an answer for what I believe is truth.
P- Father help me to design my days and nights so I can get up early enough to be filled with you. I don't want to be fooled by false teachers and I want to be able to stand on Truth! Thank you for giving us your Bible so that we can know truth. Help me to use your truth today to shed light on false teaching.
Have a great Monday!
S - vs 16 NAS They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.
O- vs 5-9 gives a description of the characteristics of elders, vs 10-16 gives a description of false teachers. The reason vs 16 stuck out to me is because it plainly states that a false teacher is going to know all the big words and profess to know GOD but their actions will eventually show different.
That's what I love so much about how God designed believers and unbelievers. Unbelievers/false teachers can pretend all they want and even fool some believers for a while but with time their heart can't be contained any longer. The same for Believers, if we are spirit filled it's impossible to look any different than CHRIST.
A- I've got to start every day with Christ in intentional prayer and intentional reading of His Word so I am spirit filled and I've confessed sin and I'm ready for what he's going to bring me every day. This way I can be able to detect the false teachers and be prepared to give an answer for what I believe is truth.
P- Father help me to design my days and nights so I can get up early enough to be filled with you. I don't want to be fooled by false teachers and I want to be able to stand on Truth! Thank you for giving us your Bible so that we can know truth. Help me to use your truth today to shed light on false teaching.
Have a great Monday!
Week 2
Goodmorning y'all! I didn't get any suggestions on where to begin this week so here's my idea. Let's do Titus and Philemon then end on Friday with everyone's favorite chapter in Psalms or Proverbs. If you have suggestions for next week let us know. Looking forward to hearing from you this week!
Karlyn
Karlyn
Friday, May 20, 2011
Jen James 5
S- Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
O- This is for fellow believers. This tells us to open up and share our hearts desires and concerns to other believers. There is strength in people coming to together and praying for a specific need. I was part of that first hand with some friends of our here whose husband has been in Uganda since the first of April waiting to bring their little boy home. We have been on our knees at home and together at church for the judge to rule. God answered our prayers today and baby Gideon is now able to come home next week!
A- I need to have more faith in my prayer. Also to really believe what I'm praying and not just spitting words out. I've just completed a study on Praying for the Lost and two things I took from it was to change my attitude about the way I was praying and having authority in my prayers. I have to firmly believe that GOD CAN save my child or friend or heal a sick person. Saying and believing it are too different things.
P- Too increase my faith and to be willing to share my requests.
O- This is for fellow believers. This tells us to open up and share our hearts desires and concerns to other believers. There is strength in people coming to together and praying for a specific need. I was part of that first hand with some friends of our here whose husband has been in Uganda since the first of April waiting to bring their little boy home. We have been on our knees at home and together at church for the judge to rule. God answered our prayers today and baby Gideon is now able to come home next week!
A- I need to have more faith in my prayer. Also to really believe what I'm praying and not just spitting words out. I've just completed a study on Praying for the Lost and two things I took from it was to change my attitude about the way I was praying and having authority in my prayers. I have to firmly believe that GOD CAN save my child or friend or heal a sick person. Saying and believing it are too different things.
P- Too increase my faith and to be willing to share my requests.
Ginny - James 5
S - "Therefore be patient. brethern, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains." James 5:7
O - A reminder that God's timing is never too late or never too early. He is always on time.
A - I am so thankful for the power of prayer! Thank you Jesus that the veil was torn and we can talk to you whenever we want. There were so many lines in James 5 that touched a heartstring with me, but these days I am keenly aware of crops and rain. The guys started planting last week and we are in a devastating drought. I talked to our insurance guy yesterday and all we did was throw out one scenario after another of this could happen, or this could happen, or what if this happens. We may not know tomorrow, but we know who holds tomorrow.
P - I pray for this year's cotton crop, and hold to the truth that the Lord knows exactly when we need rain.
This has been a wonderful week 1. I simply love "talking" with you gals every morning! May you all have a wonderful weekend. Any fun plans?
O - A reminder that God's timing is never too late or never too early. He is always on time.
A - I am so thankful for the power of prayer! Thank you Jesus that the veil was torn and we can talk to you whenever we want. There were so many lines in James 5 that touched a heartstring with me, but these days I am keenly aware of crops and rain. The guys started planting last week and we are in a devastating drought. I talked to our insurance guy yesterday and all we did was throw out one scenario after another of this could happen, or this could happen, or what if this happens. We may not know tomorrow, but we know who holds tomorrow.
P - I pray for this year's cotton crop, and hold to the truth that the Lord knows exactly when we need rain.
This has been a wonderful week 1. I simply love "talking" with you gals every morning! May you all have a wonderful weekend. Any fun plans?
Summer book club
Take a look at the Angie Smith link and the book club they are beginning in June. I think I'm going to participate and thought y'all might want to take a look too.
Karlyn - James 5
Wow this chapter is packed with so many warnings and instruction in just a few verses!
S - vs13-15 NLT
Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, annointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you ahve committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
O- These verses say to me.. for every situation wether good or bad there's an action that needs to follow it, not passiveness. If I'm happy people need to know the source of my happiness by seeing me praise Him, when I have needs don't worry or complain but pray, sickness - come together with my church body and pray. Too many times I sit back and complain or take credit for good things that happen instead of taking godly action to every situation. More people would see Christ in me if I would change that!
It's also a reminder that God's healing is different from an earthly idea of healing. I've can think of 3 situations with friends and relatives when I've been a part of praying for serious healing. One was Beth in Almyra who had cancer, my dad's brain tumor, and Rachel's hand. Beth who had cancer died quickly after diagnosis, dad's brain tumor wasn't cancer and is gone with no long term effects, Rachel's hand is in tact with some minor deformity. In all those situations we prayed for healing and with all 3 healing was granted but in different ways. For non-believers they would say helaing didn't happen in all those situations but for me as a Believer I know that Beth received ultimate healing by getting to go HOME and the healing that came in the other situations has been a platform for sharing God's grace and activity in their life!!!
A-I've got to stop being passive and listen intently to the actions God wants to follow with every situation so I can bring Glory to Him. Continue to pray for healing with believers and non believers so God can show up and show out and my action following is praising him out loud in my actions and words that HE was the one who healed!
P- Saw Holly briefly last night and didn't get to talk yet! Please pray that I take advantage of any opportunity God gives me with her, it's very hard for me to be honest with her.
Thank you Father for being Healer and for giving us opoprtunities to glorify you in every situation we're faced with. Give me an overwhelming desire to point others to you in all that happens in my daily life.
S - vs13-15 NLT
Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, annointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you ahve committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
O- These verses say to me.. for every situation wether good or bad there's an action that needs to follow it, not passiveness. If I'm happy people need to know the source of my happiness by seeing me praise Him, when I have needs don't worry or complain but pray, sickness - come together with my church body and pray. Too many times I sit back and complain or take credit for good things that happen instead of taking godly action to every situation. More people would see Christ in me if I would change that!
It's also a reminder that God's healing is different from an earthly idea of healing. I've can think of 3 situations with friends and relatives when I've been a part of praying for serious healing. One was Beth in Almyra who had cancer, my dad's brain tumor, and Rachel's hand. Beth who had cancer died quickly after diagnosis, dad's brain tumor wasn't cancer and is gone with no long term effects, Rachel's hand is in tact with some minor deformity. In all those situations we prayed for healing and with all 3 healing was granted but in different ways. For non-believers they would say helaing didn't happen in all those situations but for me as a Believer I know that Beth received ultimate healing by getting to go HOME and the healing that came in the other situations has been a platform for sharing God's grace and activity in their life!!!
A-I've got to stop being passive and listen intently to the actions God wants to follow with every situation so I can bring Glory to Him. Continue to pray for healing with believers and non believers so God can show up and show out and my action following is praising him out loud in my actions and words that HE was the one who healed!
P- Saw Holly briefly last night and didn't get to talk yet! Please pray that I take advantage of any opportunity God gives me with her, it's very hard for me to be honest with her.
Thank you Father for being Healer and for giving us opoprtunities to glorify you in every situation we're faced with. Give me an overwhelming desire to point others to you in all that happens in my daily life.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Jen James Chapter 4
S-4:13-17 Not going write all of it,but verse 17 stood out most.
"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it."
0- Wow- That was like a slap in my face. There are many times during the week where I know I shouldn't be doing something and still do it. Especially when it comes to the entertainment world. There are many shows that I know I shouldn't be watching, I even call it my guilty pleasure. It also made think about how I easily compare and point out other peoples sins and even advise people not take part in certain things, but I don't follow my own advise!I also like to do plan my life and have order, the total opposite of what God wants. He wants to be the driver not me.
A- I've been struggling with total obedience and giving up control. I like my life a certain way and I usually want to do life my way. I really need to relinquish control. I also need to be obedient in the hard areas, not just the easy ones. I've been feeling very
convicted of what I read and watch. I recently stopped my People subscription (go ahead and laugh!). For years I enjoyed reading it, but lately it has made feel very sad for the people mentioned and I disagree with a lot of the articles. These verse are so clear that God has a plan and no matter how we try to control it or plan it, the plan will ultimately be HIS. Life would be so much easier if we didn't fight Him and think I know better.
P- That I would be aware of HIS plans for me, not Jenifer's. That the things I read and watch will be pleasing to Him. I'm trying to find balance. I don't want to be one of those moms who is completely clueless to trends and media that kids are into. I want to know what's out there so I will know what my boys are facing. I don't want to be so hard and blind that my kids will rebel or go behind my back. I guess wisdom on how to put this in action.
"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it."
0- Wow- That was like a slap in my face. There are many times during the week where I know I shouldn't be doing something and still do it. Especially when it comes to the entertainment world. There are many shows that I know I shouldn't be watching, I even call it my guilty pleasure. It also made think about how I easily compare and point out other peoples sins and even advise people not take part in certain things, but I don't follow my own advise!I also like to do plan my life and have order, the total opposite of what God wants. He wants to be the driver not me.
A- I've been struggling with total obedience and giving up control. I like my life a certain way and I usually want to do life my way. I really need to relinquish control. I also need to be obedient in the hard areas, not just the easy ones. I've been feeling very
convicted of what I read and watch. I recently stopped my People subscription (go ahead and laugh!). For years I enjoyed reading it, but lately it has made feel very sad for the people mentioned and I disagree with a lot of the articles. These verse are so clear that God has a plan and no matter how we try to control it or plan it, the plan will ultimately be HIS. Life would be so much easier if we didn't fight Him and think I know better.
P- That I would be aware of HIS plans for me, not Jenifer's. That the things I read and watch will be pleasing to Him. I'm trying to find balance. I don't want to be one of those moms who is completely clueless to trends and media that kids are into. I want to know what's out there so I will know what my boys are facing. I don't want to be so hard and blind that my kids will rebel or go behind my back. I guess wisdom on how to put this in action.
Another Link
One of my favorite blogs is by Angie Smith's who's husband is in Selah. If you could add it to the links, it's: angiesmithonline.com I've been following her for two or three years since the loss of a child. If you go back and read some of her blogs they are amazing!
Amber- James 4
S- James 4:8-10 "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you."
O-These verses are full of a lot of commands (Draw near, Cleanse, Purify, Be miserable, Mourn, Weep, Turn laughter to mourning and joy to gloom, Humble yourselves). It really made me start thinking about how active, rather than passive, our relationship with the Lord is. We can't just coast through life and our relationship with the Lord and expect to grow.
A- Yes, there is a time to rest before the Lord, but our faith should be an active faith...One that deserves my utmost attention. Secondly, how long has it been since I have truly been broken before the Lord for my sins? I mean, mournful and weeping over my sin This passage made me think about how seriously (or not seriously) I take sin in my own life. Only when my view of sin becomes like that of the Lord's can I truly be humbled and ultimately be exalted and free from my sin.
P-I had my job interview today and I think it went well. It sounded as if they have been interviewing quite a few people, so we will see what the Lord has in store. I probably have some points against me since I have been out of the classroom for so long and it was in a public school.
Thanks for praying.
Praying that I will take the time to seriously look at the sin in my life and to mourn over it.
O-These verses are full of a lot of commands (Draw near, Cleanse, Purify, Be miserable, Mourn, Weep, Turn laughter to mourning and joy to gloom, Humble yourselves). It really made me start thinking about how active, rather than passive, our relationship with the Lord is. We can't just coast through life and our relationship with the Lord and expect to grow.
A- Yes, there is a time to rest before the Lord, but our faith should be an active faith...One that deserves my utmost attention. Secondly, how long has it been since I have truly been broken before the Lord for my sins? I mean, mournful and weeping over my sin This passage made me think about how seriously (or not seriously) I take sin in my own life. Only when my view of sin becomes like that of the Lord's can I truly be humbled and ultimately be exalted and free from my sin.
P-I had my job interview today and I think it went well. It sounded as if they have been interviewing quite a few people, so we will see what the Lord has in store. I probably have some points against me since I have been out of the classroom for so long and it was in a public school.
Thanks for praying.
Praying that I will take the time to seriously look at the sin in my life and to mourn over it.
Reading for next week and beyond
Does anyone have a suggestion for what we should begin reading next week? James has been great and I've gotten a lot more out of this time than I have before, especially because of all of your insights. So, if you have a suggestion for what to do starting Monday let us know. Have a great weekend everyone!
Karlyn - James 4
S - v15-17 What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember, it is SIN to know what you ought to do and then not do it.
My Bible cross referenced this with Luke 12:47-48B "And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions will be severely punished. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return: and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required."
O - I find myself playing stupid sometimes and pretend that I don't know what God is asking of me because I'm too tired or too lazy to be responsible. Why would I ever think I could hide my thoughts or heart from him. When it comes to planning I usually don't go to Him first and say, "OK what ya got on the books for us?" It's mainly what I have in mind. To be reminded it is SIN to disobey what I know he wants is humbling. In the past 2 weeks I have obeyed him immediately with a couple of issues instead of dragging my feet and the outcome was so much sweeter than fighting against what I know he wanted and delaying the obedience.
A- In planning my hours, days, weeks I've got to stop relying on me and going to him first. His schedule and timeline is always different and better than mine. I also need to be so conscious of when he's calling me to obey and follow immediately and stop pretending I don't know what he's asking me to do! Even with the things I already know I'm supposed to do without him pointing it out.
P- I will listen and obey just like I want my kids to do with me!!! I will be with Holly this weekend. I need prayers that I will have WISDOM to know what to say to her and how to help draw her near to Christ. She's been running for a long time. Not sure about her salvation. She tunes us out quickly so pray God softens her heart and ears. Praying for you today, Amber!
My Bible cross referenced this with Luke 12:47-48B "And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions will be severely punished. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return: and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required."
O - I find myself playing stupid sometimes and pretend that I don't know what God is asking of me because I'm too tired or too lazy to be responsible. Why would I ever think I could hide my thoughts or heart from him. When it comes to planning I usually don't go to Him first and say, "OK what ya got on the books for us?" It's mainly what I have in mind. To be reminded it is SIN to disobey what I know he wants is humbling. In the past 2 weeks I have obeyed him immediately with a couple of issues instead of dragging my feet and the outcome was so much sweeter than fighting against what I know he wanted and delaying the obedience.
A- In planning my hours, days, weeks I've got to stop relying on me and going to him first. His schedule and timeline is always different and better than mine. I also need to be so conscious of when he's calling me to obey and follow immediately and stop pretending I don't know what he's asking me to do! Even with the things I already know I'm supposed to do without him pointing it out.
P- I will listen and obey just like I want my kids to do with me!!! I will be with Holly this weekend. I need prayers that I will have WISDOM to know what to say to her and how to help draw her near to Christ. She's been running for a long time. Not sure about her salvation. She tunes us out quickly so pray God softens her heart and ears. Praying for you today, Amber!
Ginny - James 4
Good Morning Girlz!
S - v.9 NAS "Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom."
O - When I first read the above verse I thought, "That doesn't sound very fun." but then I switched over to the Message translation and this is what I found..."Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it is the only way you'll get on your feet." I am always amazed how the Lord is always there to take whatever I give Him. There is not a burden, worry, anxiety, mess-up, or stupid desire I voice to Him that He doesn't take on with open hands. The problem comes when I keep all those things to myself and try to figure them out on my own instead of giving them to Him.
A - Freedom in Christ is always a topic that has intrigued me. It is something I long to study more about. I experience freedom when I give it all to Him. When I throw up my hands and ask Him to take it from me, that's when I experience His freedom. I like how the Message said, "Get on your knees, that's the only way you'll get on your feet."
P - THANK YOU Lord Jesus for always being there to take my requests and concerns. May I never stray from telling you all that is on my plate and why I want you to handle it and not me. THANK YOU for loving me in spite of the silly, selfish requests I make to you. Forgive me for getting wrapped up in the temporal things of this world. I love You Father.
S - v.9 NAS "Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom."
O - When I first read the above verse I thought, "That doesn't sound very fun." but then I switched over to the Message translation and this is what I found..."Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it is the only way you'll get on your feet." I am always amazed how the Lord is always there to take whatever I give Him. There is not a burden, worry, anxiety, mess-up, or stupid desire I voice to Him that He doesn't take on with open hands. The problem comes when I keep all those things to myself and try to figure them out on my own instead of giving them to Him.
A - Freedom in Christ is always a topic that has intrigued me. It is something I long to study more about. I experience freedom when I give it all to Him. When I throw up my hands and ask Him to take it from me, that's when I experience His freedom. I like how the Message said, "Get on your knees, that's the only way you'll get on your feet."
P - THANK YOU Lord Jesus for always being there to take my requests and concerns. May I never stray from telling you all that is on my plate and why I want you to handle it and not me. THANK YOU for loving me in spite of the silly, selfish requests I make to you. Forgive me for getting wrapped up in the temporal things of this world. I love You Father.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Girls Trip
So where do we want to go? I was thinking Destin or somewhere around there because I think that's basically in the middle for everyone. They have really cheap flight tickets from here.
Also when? I was thinking in August or Sept. I can leave on a Thursday and come back on a Sunday night. Let me know. If only 3 of us can go I say we do it.
Also when? I was thinking in August or Sept. I can leave on a Thursday and come back on a Sunday night. Let me know. If only 3 of us can go I say we do it.
Jen- James Chapter 3
S-3:5-6 In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
0- Never really thought of the tongue being such a small but yet powerful body part.I knew it could damage. As I have taken part in causing damage and being hurt by the power of it. But how it describes the power of the tongue using a tiny spark to start a huge fire really struck me! It might start off as something small, but quickly gets out of control. You can try to do all you can on your own to control the damage but eventually you have to get help. The clean up is a long process and things may never look or be the same again.
A- The Lord has a really funny sense of humor! I have always had a problem with my tongue. However, this year my "IT" (the one prayer requests each family member has for the whole year)is to watch what I say and do. Eversense I made that my prayer request, I have been in many situations where I had to put this action. Sometimes I have succeed, but many times I have failed. Reading the fire description really gives me a new outlook and makes me want to try harder. But sometimes, I have to have the last word or prove my point!
P- That I would continue to strive and say only the wisest and truest words. I really don't want to gossip, hurt other people or just run my mouth. I need to learn that there is nothing wrong with remaining quite and speaking only occasionally!
BTW- Dan is going camping tomorrow with Ryan, Tim, Jarred, Matt and Aaron. I'm going to try my best to get on here Thursday and Frday. Things are crazy here with end of the year programs, parties, baseball,etc.. in addition to taking care of 3 kids!
0- Never really thought of the tongue being such a small but yet powerful body part.I knew it could damage. As I have taken part in causing damage and being hurt by the power of it. But how it describes the power of the tongue using a tiny spark to start a huge fire really struck me! It might start off as something small, but quickly gets out of control. You can try to do all you can on your own to control the damage but eventually you have to get help. The clean up is a long process and things may never look or be the same again.
A- The Lord has a really funny sense of humor! I have always had a problem with my tongue. However, this year my "IT" (the one prayer requests each family member has for the whole year)is to watch what I say and do. Eversense I made that my prayer request, I have been in many situations where I had to put this action. Sometimes I have succeed, but many times I have failed. Reading the fire description really gives me a new outlook and makes me want to try harder. But sometimes, I have to have the last word or prove my point!
P- That I would continue to strive and say only the wisest and truest words. I really don't want to gossip, hurt other people or just run my mouth. I need to learn that there is nothing wrong with remaining quite and speaking only occasionally!
BTW- Dan is going camping tomorrow with Ryan, Tim, Jarred, Matt and Aaron. I'm going to try my best to get on here Thursday and Frday. Things are crazy here with end of the year programs, parties, baseball,etc.. in addition to taking care of 3 kids!
Cindy - James 3
S – But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace. James 3:17-18
O – In chapter 1, James says if you lack wisdom then you should ask God for it. In these verses, James gives a list of what God’s wisdom looks like. This description falls on the heels of controlling the tongue and the damage the tongue can do. Then James says that this wisdom is without favoritism and hypocrisy which he had discussed the sin of showing favoritism in ch.2 and the danger and effects of hypocrisy in ch. 3 when he talks about the tongue both praising and cursing. He then goes on to say in verse 18 that peace should be cultivated and sown to produce the fruit of righteousness. The attitude of the heart should be words of peace that produce unity and the fruits of the Spirit.
A – I want the words of my mouth to produce the fruit of righteousness and fruit of the Spirit. I need to be mindful of the position of influence that I have over so many students. When reading this chapter, it was if I had my own visual right in front of me. Off and on for the last few months we have had major wildfires in the surrounding areas between Orlando and Georgia, which, even though they were not super close, we still had the effects of weird grey skies, and the stench of smoke and ash falling from the sky covering everyone and everything.
When James talked of the tongue being a fire and how a forest fire is started from a small fire, I totally had a visual image of the damage it can do. The truth is that even after the actual fire is out, there is so much damage that remains that it will take years to recover…if it ever does recover. Some things will never be the same, they will be lost forever. With the thoughts of words being destructive at the front of my mind, I am glad for verses 17 & 18. I don’t want to be a destroyer but a person of peace, gentleness and mercy. I want my words to lead people to saving grace of Christ. I want to help people not only be unified to one and another but to, most importantly, be reconciled to Christ.
P – Pray that my words would be full of gentleness, love and mercy…especially as I get frustrated with the poor choices our students continue to make. I think it’s hard because I want so much for them yet…they have no clue, or desire to want it for themselves.
O – In chapter 1, James says if you lack wisdom then you should ask God for it. In these verses, James gives a list of what God’s wisdom looks like. This description falls on the heels of controlling the tongue and the damage the tongue can do. Then James says that this wisdom is without favoritism and hypocrisy which he had discussed the sin of showing favoritism in ch.2 and the danger and effects of hypocrisy in ch. 3 when he talks about the tongue both praising and cursing. He then goes on to say in verse 18 that peace should be cultivated and sown to produce the fruit of righteousness. The attitude of the heart should be words of peace that produce unity and the fruits of the Spirit.
A – I want the words of my mouth to produce the fruit of righteousness and fruit of the Spirit. I need to be mindful of the position of influence that I have over so many students. When reading this chapter, it was if I had my own visual right in front of me. Off and on for the last few months we have had major wildfires in the surrounding areas between Orlando and Georgia, which, even though they were not super close, we still had the effects of weird grey skies, and the stench of smoke and ash falling from the sky covering everyone and everything.
When James talked of the tongue being a fire and how a forest fire is started from a small fire, I totally had a visual image of the damage it can do. The truth is that even after the actual fire is out, there is so much damage that remains that it will take years to recover…if it ever does recover. Some things will never be the same, they will be lost forever. With the thoughts of words being destructive at the front of my mind, I am glad for verses 17 & 18. I don’t want to be a destroyer but a person of peace, gentleness and mercy. I want my words to lead people to saving grace of Christ. I want to help people not only be unified to one and another but to, most importantly, be reconciled to Christ.
P – Pray that my words would be full of gentleness, love and mercy…especially as I get frustrated with the poor choices our students continue to make. I think it’s hard because I want so much for them yet…they have no clue, or desire to want it for themselves.
Amber- James 3
S-James 3:5, 3:9-10 "So also the tongue is a small part of the body and yet it boasts great things...With it we bless our Lord and Father and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be."
O-Verses that I have read many times, but a good reminder. It's amazing how the Lord has given me Scripture every day this week about things I have been dealing with. This Scripture is very convicting and so true. The tongue is so small, but it can destroy any situation in a second, but on the other hand in a second it can build others up. We are very good at praising the Lord one minute and turning right around and tearing someone down the next.
A-I have been a very difficult time with my tongue in one particular especially. I do not agree with many things that occur and people here are only concerned with themselves. I get irritated and then I run my mouth to others. It is so wrong, but I just get so frustrated. I am no better than them, perhaps worse when I sit and talk. I have been feeling very convicted about it and I have tried and tried to do better, but seem to fall back into it when the next incident occurs.
P- Pray that the Lord will give me the strength to do better in the area of the tongue. I want to be one to build up, not tear down!
O-Verses that I have read many times, but a good reminder. It's amazing how the Lord has given me Scripture every day this week about things I have been dealing with. This Scripture is very convicting and so true. The tongue is so small, but it can destroy any situation in a second, but on the other hand in a second it can build others up. We are very good at praising the Lord one minute and turning right around and tearing someone down the next.
A-I have been a very difficult time with my tongue in one particular especially. I do not agree with many things that occur and people here are only concerned with themselves. I get irritated and then I run my mouth to others. It is so wrong, but I just get so frustrated. I am no better than them, perhaps worse when I sit and talk. I have been feeling very convicted about it and I have tried and tried to do better, but seem to fall back into it when the next incident occurs.
P- Pray that the Lord will give me the strength to do better in the area of the tongue. I want to be one to build up, not tear down!
Karlyn - James 3
Reading intentionally really changes your perspective!!!
S - Vs 13-18 I won't write all of it but here are the standout words for me...
If you are wise and understand God's ways prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. If I have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in my heart don't cover it up with lying. This isn't God's kind of wisdom. Wherever there is jealous and selfish ambition = disorder and evil of every kind. God's wisdom is pure, peace loving, gentle at all times, WILLING TO YIELD TO OTHERS, full of mercy and good deeds, shows no favoritism, always sincere.
O- I want all of those positive qualities in my life so bad, but I have to fight so hard against the jealousy and selfish ambition and willing to yield to others. In James 1 I said I wanted wisdom and I've never thought about wisdom in terms of purity, peace loving, gentleness, etc. it truly is the Fruit of the Spirit. My jealousy and selfish ambition is usually related to those close to me and not so much with everyone in my life. My strong competitive nature is what gets me in trouble instead of being peace loving and gentle.
A- To get God's wisdom I'm going to have to be aware of what triggers the jealousy and selfish ambition and make myself quote the above scripture to remind myself of what God's wisdom is.
P- A desire for an attitude and heart of peace, gentleness, mercy, sincerity, and a willingness to yield to others when needed. Instead of being selfish do "good deeds" so that I'm taking myself out of the picture and putting Christ in it.
Just in 3 days I feel renewed hope y'all do too!
S - Vs 13-18 I won't write all of it but here are the standout words for me...
If you are wise and understand God's ways prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. If I have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in my heart don't cover it up with lying. This isn't God's kind of wisdom. Wherever there is jealous and selfish ambition = disorder and evil of every kind. God's wisdom is pure, peace loving, gentle at all times, WILLING TO YIELD TO OTHERS, full of mercy and good deeds, shows no favoritism, always sincere.
O- I want all of those positive qualities in my life so bad, but I have to fight so hard against the jealousy and selfish ambition and willing to yield to others. In James 1 I said I wanted wisdom and I've never thought about wisdom in terms of purity, peace loving, gentleness, etc. it truly is the Fruit of the Spirit. My jealousy and selfish ambition is usually related to those close to me and not so much with everyone in my life. My strong competitive nature is what gets me in trouble instead of being peace loving and gentle.
A- To get God's wisdom I'm going to have to be aware of what triggers the jealousy and selfish ambition and make myself quote the above scripture to remind myself of what God's wisdom is.
P- A desire for an attitude and heart of peace, gentleness, mercy, sincerity, and a willingness to yield to others when needed. Instead of being selfish do "good deeds" so that I'm taking myself out of the picture and putting Christ in it.
Just in 3 days I feel renewed hope y'all do too!
Cindy - James 2
S – Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith was active together with his works and by works, faith was perfected. So the Scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him for righteousness, and he was called God’s friend. James 2:21-23
O – James continues his talks about being hearers and doers of the Word into talking about faith and works. Abraham had faith in God, believed Him and trusted Him; because of his faith, Abraham obeyed God by doing what God had commanded him to do…sacrifice his son. Abraham’s works or actions were a result of his faith in God
A – In the same way as Abraham, I need/want to be obedient to God as an outpouring of my faith. No matter the cost or the sacrifice, living out faith is doing what God says. I believe God,therefore I "do".
P – Pray that I would always be mindful of living out faith with actions, not just talking about it but doing it.
O – James continues his talks about being hearers and doers of the Word into talking about faith and works. Abraham had faith in God, believed Him and trusted Him; because of his faith, Abraham obeyed God by doing what God had commanded him to do…sacrifice his son. Abraham’s works or actions were a result of his faith in God
A – In the same way as Abraham, I need/want to be obedient to God as an outpouring of my faith. No matter the cost or the sacrifice, living out faith is doing what God says. I believe God,therefore I "do".
P – Pray that I would always be mindful of living out faith with actions, not just talking about it but doing it.
Ginny - James 3
Good Morning Girlz!
S - "So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!" James 3:5
O - When I was a member at Weight Watchers my leader, Susan (love her!) did a very impactful meeting once. She came in the room asking us, "At what temperature do you declare it hot?" Members yelled out...90, 98, 100, degrees. Susan went on to say that at 112 degrees water boils. Not at 100, not at 105, not at 110, not at 111 degrees. That one degree more makes the biggest difference - it changes the state of matter.
A - That day in Weight Watchers Susan asked us what that one small thing is that we are neglecting in our weight loss that would make the biggest difference...writing down what you eat, getting your water in, eating vegetables, etc. This is a lesson applicable to James 3 as well. The tongue is a small mechanism, yet it has incredible power. Power for good or bad. The question I ask myself is, "What is that one small thing (that one degree more) that would make a big difference in my life? What do I need to get under control?"
P - I ask for prayer for that "one degree more." As Amber has mentioned in previous posts what is good that needs to be moved to the best? May our pots boil over girls!
S - "So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!" James 3:5
O - When I was a member at Weight Watchers my leader, Susan (love her!) did a very impactful meeting once. She came in the room asking us, "At what temperature do you declare it hot?" Members yelled out...90, 98, 100, degrees. Susan went on to say that at 112 degrees water boils. Not at 100, not at 105, not at 110, not at 111 degrees. That one degree more makes the biggest difference - it changes the state of matter.
A - That day in Weight Watchers Susan asked us what that one small thing is that we are neglecting in our weight loss that would make the biggest difference...writing down what you eat, getting your water in, eating vegetables, etc. This is a lesson applicable to James 3 as well. The tongue is a small mechanism, yet it has incredible power. Power for good or bad. The question I ask myself is, "What is that one small thing (that one degree more) that would make a big difference in my life? What do I need to get under control?"
P - I ask for prayer for that "one degree more." As Amber has mentioned in previous posts what is good that needs to be moved to the best? May our pots boil over girls!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
James Chapter 2
I agree with everything that has been written so far. I'm right there with you Ginny on the mercy.
S- 8. Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the scriptures:"Love your neighbor as yourself."9. But if you favor some people over others, you are commiting a sin.You are guilty of breaking the law.
O- One sin is not worse than another. They are all the same. My sin of jealousy or gossip is the same as the person down the street who maybe living with their boyfriend/girlfriend. That I need to follow Christ totally and not just in the areas I want too.
A- Mercy was the key word for me in this chapter. I sometimes think that I'm a better Christian because I do this and that and not that. I'm guilty of sin just as the next person. I can hold grudges and many times I'm harder on Christians than non believers, because we know better. I have more mercy for the homeless person than I do my fellow believer. I need to realize sin is sin no matter what it is. I know that there is probably many sins that I'm not even aware that I'm committing.
P- That He will reveal to me the areas of sin I haven't confessed of yet. That I would extend the hand of mercy and grace more. I think a lot times I don't is because I think it would take to long and I don't want to bother with it.
S- 8. Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the scriptures:"Love your neighbor as yourself."9. But if you favor some people over others, you are commiting a sin.You are guilty of breaking the law.
O- One sin is not worse than another. They are all the same. My sin of jealousy or gossip is the same as the person down the street who maybe living with their boyfriend/girlfriend. That I need to follow Christ totally and not just in the areas I want too.
A- Mercy was the key word for me in this chapter. I sometimes think that I'm a better Christian because I do this and that and not that. I'm guilty of sin just as the next person. I can hold grudges and many times I'm harder on Christians than non believers, because we know better. I have more mercy for the homeless person than I do my fellow believer. I need to realize sin is sin no matter what it is. I know that there is probably many sins that I'm not even aware that I'm committing.
P- That He will reveal to me the areas of sin I haven't confessed of yet. That I would extend the hand of mercy and grace more. I think a lot times I don't is because I think it would take to long and I don't want to bother with it.
Special Prayer
Okay girls! I just got a phone call for an interview Thursday at 12:30 p.m. It's for a part time teacher at a Christian school, only about 15 hours a week. Pray the Lord's will will be done in this situation. Thanks!
Links and Blogs
If there's links or blogs you follow that you want added to our list let me know and I'll add it. When we gonna start planning this get together trip??? The more I read from y'all the more I want to reach out and grab you!
Amber- James 2
S-James 2:14-17 "What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily
foods, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and be filled and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself."
O-Faith and Works can be a hot topic! One thing we do know from the these verses is that faith without works is useless. I like how the author gives a very specific example about someone who is needy. It's interesting because when I lived in Texas I did not face people begging as much as I seem to here. I have encountered many people in parking lots begging here.
Without going into the controversy of faith and works, we know that if we truly are believers there must be fruit in our lives. If there are no works to back up our faith, it's just lip service.
A- I have always been a rather merciful person. Perhaps that's why I have been drawn to the elderly and downtrodden. I deal with benevolence requests weekly in my work. They have made a policy lately that I do not agree with, but must follow. I'll just say it does make my job easier, but I'm not confident it's what the Lord has called us to. I have learned a little more about dealing with those in need, but sometimes it's much easier to send them on their way. Sometimes I think if I get involved in this it will take more time than I have and could be an ongoing messy situation. But the Lord has been speaking to me for lately that if I truly want to be His servant it will be messy sometimes and it will cost me time and energy.
Which leads me into faith and works...Along the same lines as yesterday. I know I have faith and I know works do not save me. There must be a point of conversion, but our salvation experience is truly a journey of sanctification. We must have fruit in our life because ours is a living faith.
P- Pray that I will have discernment in situations concerning the needy and feel the Lords prompting in situations where I need to get involved.
Pray that my life will be one of faith and works as evidence of my salvation as I'm on this journey of sanctification.
Praying blessings on you girls today!
foods, and one of you says to them, Go in peace, be warmed and be filled and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself."
O-Faith and Works can be a hot topic! One thing we do know from the these verses is that faith without works is useless. I like how the author gives a very specific example about someone who is needy. It's interesting because when I lived in Texas I did not face people begging as much as I seem to here. I have encountered many people in parking lots begging here.
Without going into the controversy of faith and works, we know that if we truly are believers there must be fruit in our lives. If there are no works to back up our faith, it's just lip service.
A- I have always been a rather merciful person. Perhaps that's why I have been drawn to the elderly and downtrodden. I deal with benevolence requests weekly in my work. They have made a policy lately that I do not agree with, but must follow. I'll just say it does make my job easier, but I'm not confident it's what the Lord has called us to. I have learned a little more about dealing with those in need, but sometimes it's much easier to send them on their way. Sometimes I think if I get involved in this it will take more time than I have and could be an ongoing messy situation. But the Lord has been speaking to me for lately that if I truly want to be His servant it will be messy sometimes and it will cost me time and energy.
Which leads me into faith and works...Along the same lines as yesterday. I know I have faith and I know works do not save me. There must be a point of conversion, but our salvation experience is truly a journey of sanctification. We must have fruit in our life because ours is a living faith.
P- Pray that I will have discernment in situations concerning the needy and feel the Lords prompting in situations where I need to get involved.
Pray that my life will be one of faith and works as evidence of my salvation as I'm on this journey of sanctification.
Praying blessings on you girls today!
Ginny - James 2
Good Morning Girlz!
S - "Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgement." James 2: 12, 13
O - I see the theme of complete popping up in James 2 as well. We don't not commit adultery, yet murder - it's both. We don't judge, yet expect mercy - it's both. We don't have faith, yet no works - it's both. It's all of it. It's completeness.
A - Mercy is a huge buzz word for me b/c it is an area I struggle in. I am much rather to think "buck it up" then "I feel sorry for you." Extending compassion is not my first reaction. The Lord is constantly working on this with me. (Funny how some lessons take longer to learn than others.)
P - My prayer has been and will continue to be that love goes before all. That it covers the path before I take a step. That I may be a loving person, so that others may see Christ in me. I also pray for my pride, and my desire to be merciful At the root of judgement (the opposite of mercy) is pride. Sometimes I don't even want to be merciful b/c it seems weak to me, and I truly think that person should get over it and move on...see I need a lot of work! Love, pride, & mercy - can use prayers for all three.
Love you gals!
S - "Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgement." James 2: 12, 13
O - I see the theme of complete popping up in James 2 as well. We don't not commit adultery, yet murder - it's both. We don't judge, yet expect mercy - it's both. We don't have faith, yet no works - it's both. It's all of it. It's completeness.
A - Mercy is a huge buzz word for me b/c it is an area I struggle in. I am much rather to think "buck it up" then "I feel sorry for you." Extending compassion is not my first reaction. The Lord is constantly working on this with me. (Funny how some lessons take longer to learn than others.)
P - My prayer has been and will continue to be that love goes before all. That it covers the path before I take a step. That I may be a loving person, so that others may see Christ in me. I also pray for my pride, and my desire to be merciful At the root of judgement (the opposite of mercy) is pride. Sometimes I don't even want to be merciful b/c it seems weak to me, and I truly think that person should get over it and move on...see I need a lot of work! Love, pride, & mercy - can use prayers for all three.
Love you gals!
Cindy - James 1
Ok ladies, I am really excited to go through the book of James with you all!! (even though I am blog illiterate and a day behind already...I will catch up) It is going to be fun :)
As I was reading James 1, there are so many areas to "camp out" and to apply! But really tried to simmer over one :)
S - But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but one who does good works - this person will be blessed in what he does. James 1:25
O & A - this verse really hit home. "looks intently into" - I really want to dig in, so I looked up the word intent - to plan or purpose, a state of mind, having full attention or focused on one thing, determined. When thinking about this in terms of Scripture, that is how I want be every time I open God's Word! I want to get into the passage, what God is saying, what He is teaching because the truth is that all Scripture is living and active and useful. I want to live like it is!
Next, "perfect law of freedom" - God's Word is perfect. It gives freedom to those who are in Christ.
"Not a forgetful hearer" - many times I find mysef as a forgetful hearer, reading the Bible or listening to a sermon and never thinking about it the rest of the day or applying it in the situations I face each day. I'm reminded of Ps 103:2 "My soul, praise the LORD, and do not forget all His benefits." More than once God tells us to remember what He has done and what He will do. I want to always be mindful of the things of God, what Christ did and what He promises to do.
"one who does good works" - I want to be found faithful in doing what God has called me to do
"will be blessed in what he does" - God is always faithful! He is always with us and providing for us. I want to be a doer of God's Word and not just a hearer. The section following this verse provides and interesting spin also. Before this verse, it talks about doing not just hearing. After this verse it talks about doing and not just talking about doing. I want to be active in my faith not just hearing but doing, not just talking about doing or giving advice to someone on doing but I want to be living it out daily.
P - pray that I would approach Scripture with hunger to glean the Truth and to apply it.
I do a lot of counseling with girls, pray that I would be effective in teaching truth to them and helping them deal with sin.
Karlyn - James 2
S- v. 10 NLT, For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God's laws.
v. 13, There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
v. 22, You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith COMPLETE.
O- I tend to still compare my sins to others and play the "but mine aren't as bad as theirs" game. In the past 6 months I've asked God to open my eyes to ALL my sin because I've let so much just hide in the background. If you ever do that be prepared because it gets very scary. You realize just how sinful you are and you're aren't as much of a "good" Christian as you thought. The hard thing is when he begins pointing all of it out to you, the accountability begins and you have to make the decision am I going to obey or willfully keep sinning.
Verse 22 strikes a chord with me because we've been praying for our church body for a long time now to see how much we need to ACT and not just show up on Sunday morning. In the past year we've seen a lot of individual growth but we still have a long way to go.
A- I've got to continue to be aware that my sin is just as bad as my neighbor who denies there is a God. The only difference, I've accepted forgiveness. Instead of judging others for their sins and hiding mine, I need to be more open about where I fail so that I can relate to people who aren't Christians and build a relationship with them (FAITH + ACTION) and draw them to Christ. Being complete sounds really good!
P- Jenifer's prayer for being REAL is definitely relevant for me too. That's why so many people in our community don't want to come to church because they say we aren't real and genuine. I also need to continue to see sin for what it is and be willing to obey and get rid of it.
Please pray for my niece Holly's salvation. There are days I don't know how to keep praying for her.
Have a great Tuesday! Love you.
-K
v. 13, There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
v. 22, You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith COMPLETE.
O- I tend to still compare my sins to others and play the "but mine aren't as bad as theirs" game. In the past 6 months I've asked God to open my eyes to ALL my sin because I've let so much just hide in the background. If you ever do that be prepared because it gets very scary. You realize just how sinful you are and you're aren't as much of a "good" Christian as you thought. The hard thing is when he begins pointing all of it out to you, the accountability begins and you have to make the decision am I going to obey or willfully keep sinning.
Verse 22 strikes a chord with me because we've been praying for our church body for a long time now to see how much we need to ACT and not just show up on Sunday morning. In the past year we've seen a lot of individual growth but we still have a long way to go.
A- I've got to continue to be aware that my sin is just as bad as my neighbor who denies there is a God. The only difference, I've accepted forgiveness. Instead of judging others for their sins and hiding mine, I need to be more open about where I fail so that I can relate to people who aren't Christians and build a relationship with them (FAITH + ACTION) and draw them to Christ. Being complete sounds really good!
P- Jenifer's prayer for being REAL is definitely relevant for me too. That's why so many people in our community don't want to come to church because they say we aren't real and genuine. I also need to continue to see sin for what it is and be willing to obey and get rid of it.
Please pray for my niece Holly's salvation. There are days I don't know how to keep praying for her.
Have a great Tuesday! Love you.
-K
Amber- The Best
Thanks Jen for sharing your life!
An update on my life! I shared a little bit about what has been going on, but there's more...
J and I have been married for a year and a half already! I must say the Lord has blessed me with a wonderful man of God. He strives to know the Lord better every day and I am so thankful for that. I am definitely glad I waited for the Lord to bring J into my life. He is the perfect one for me. AB is almost five months old and what a little blessing and ray of sunshine in my life. She was an unexpected surprise, I am so in love with my baby girl! I will be honest, sometimes I wish J and I would have had a little more time "just the two of us" before AB came along...Just time to travel, hang out, and grow together, but most of the time I stand in awe of how the Lord could have entrusted us with this precious gift who is full of joy! J and I are learning together what it means to be husband and wife as well as mom and dad.
We love the church where God has placed us! We have been there for a little over a year and I have learned so much about what a church should be. The people in leadership are amazing, humble servants, who are looking for ways in the community as well as abroad to bring people to Jesus. They are not concerned with the comfort of the members. The truth is taught, hard truth, that challenges me every Sunday. This life is not about my comfort, my pleasure, my desires...it's about God being glorified! The only thing J and I have not found is community. We have been to different small groups, but haven't found those people we really click with. It has been a time for us to grow individually and as a couple, but true intimate relationship with others is what we are desiring and needing at this point. Another reason why this group came at the perfect time.
My job is, well, less than desirable. I have a great desire to stay home with AB, but instead for now I am paying big bucks for daycare. I am currently looking at some other job options, hopefully part time. J recently got a new job, which will hopefully make me staying home more of a reality, but we are still working on that.
J and I are seeking what the Lord has for us. We are still wishing to go overseas, but have been rejected, so we are not sure what we should do now. We are trying to be faithful to serve where the Lord has us for now.
I will always remember a wise man telling me when I was in a somewhat difficult relationship. "This is good, this is very good, but is it the best, God's best?" That statement totally changed my perspective on everything. That's where I am now. Life is very good. But are we living the best? Not the best in our eyes as far as finances, position, ministry, vocation, comfort but God's best. I realize God's best may totally rock my world, but God's best is what I long for more than anything.
An update on my life! I shared a little bit about what has been going on, but there's more...
J and I have been married for a year and a half already! I must say the Lord has blessed me with a wonderful man of God. He strives to know the Lord better every day and I am so thankful for that. I am definitely glad I waited for the Lord to bring J into my life. He is the perfect one for me. AB is almost five months old and what a little blessing and ray of sunshine in my life. She was an unexpected surprise, I am so in love with my baby girl! I will be honest, sometimes I wish J and I would have had a little more time "just the two of us" before AB came along...Just time to travel, hang out, and grow together, but most of the time I stand in awe of how the Lord could have entrusted us with this precious gift who is full of joy! J and I are learning together what it means to be husband and wife as well as mom and dad.
We love the church where God has placed us! We have been there for a little over a year and I have learned so much about what a church should be. The people in leadership are amazing, humble servants, who are looking for ways in the community as well as abroad to bring people to Jesus. They are not concerned with the comfort of the members. The truth is taught, hard truth, that challenges me every Sunday. This life is not about my comfort, my pleasure, my desires...it's about God being glorified! The only thing J and I have not found is community. We have been to different small groups, but haven't found those people we really click with. It has been a time for us to grow individually and as a couple, but true intimate relationship with others is what we are desiring and needing at this point. Another reason why this group came at the perfect time.
My job is, well, less than desirable. I have a great desire to stay home with AB, but instead for now I am paying big bucks for daycare. I am currently looking at some other job options, hopefully part time. J recently got a new job, which will hopefully make me staying home more of a reality, but we are still working on that.
J and I are seeking what the Lord has for us. We are still wishing to go overseas, but have been rejected, so we are not sure what we should do now. We are trying to be faithful to serve where the Lord has us for now.
I will always remember a wise man telling me when I was in a somewhat difficult relationship. "This is good, this is very good, but is it the best, God's best?" That statement totally changed my perspective on everything. That's where I am now. Life is very good. But are we living the best? Not the best in our eyes as far as finances, position, ministry, vocation, comfort but God's best. I realize God's best may totally rock my world, but God's best is what I long for more than anything.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Ginny - James 1
(O.K. I'm a bit slow. Originally had this as a comment under Jen's first post, but now I'm catching on and am reposting. I promise I won't be this redneck all 3 months!)
S - "Consider it all joy, my brethern, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4
O - I love James b/c it reminds me of a pep talk in the locker room at half time when you are down by 7, all beat up, tired, don't know what else to try, and you want to give up. However, instead of "Remember the Gipper" James chants, "Consider it all JOY!" Not always what I want to hear, but a good reminder that life is more than just the here and now. There is eternal purpose in what we do here on earth.
A - I think one of the ways we are able to "consider it all joy" is by seeing it through God's eyes, and that is done by getting to know Him and talking to Him. The Lord convicted me 2 months ago to rev up my prayer life. The Lord has given me a different attitude towards prayer and its priority in my life. It is certainly pure JOY to see Him answer those prayers!
P - My prayer is that my new found committment to prayer would not diminish, but continue to grow. That my heart would be open to see areas needing change and those attitudes needing adjusting.
James 1
Well, I will say this chapter has so many practical things in it, that it could last me for a month. I echo the same sentiments of Karlyn about being double minded and Jenifer in bridling the tongue...areas the Lord is definitely working in my life. Those are two of the many passages that stuck out to me. The one I am focusing on today is...
S- 22-25 "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude
themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who
looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away,
he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently
at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful
hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does."
O- So, this accountability group has come at the perfect time for me because as the
Scripture says about being one who looks "intently at the perfect law...and abides by
it." I haven't been looking very intently at much of anything lately. Then the verse
about being "doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves."
I have never noticed the "delude themselves" part, but that is important and true.
A- How does this apply to me? I have been in somewhat of a rut really ever since I got
pregnant. I was so sick, tired, and trying to work. I would get up, try to make it
through the day at work, then come home and go to sleep. Honestly, I couldn't even
think about opening my Bible. I was not in church regularly for a good four months
and that also affected me. I definitely pulled from my resources of Scripture I knew
during those times, but I missed the times of intently looking at the Word. Well, after
I had AB life began again with work, trying to juggle everything, surgery, and
list could go on and on. It's been tough to do much more than be a hearer, not finding
time to meditate on the Word.
Being a Christian for almost my whole life makes it easy to know the right things to
say. I have been really convicted lately about knowing in my head what the Word
says and even desiring to do it, but never really doing it. I have been a hearer for too
long really forgetting (by my actions) what the Word said and deluding myself, leading
myself to believe that I had it all together spiritually. Oh, how I long to be an
effectual doer of the Word!
P- Pray that I will find the time to look intently at the Word every day, learning how to
juggle working, being a wife, mother, keeping house, etc. etc. etc. I'm a bit
overwhelmed. I know everything will not be so overwhelming if I take time in the
Word.
Pray that I will do better about applying the Word in my life. Not that I am doing
anything terrible, but I just feel like I am being lazy.
Excited about this group...I miss you girls like crazy!
S- 22-25 "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude
themselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who
looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away,
he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently
at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful
hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does."
O- So, this accountability group has come at the perfect time for me because as the
Scripture says about being one who looks "intently at the perfect law...and abides by
it." I haven't been looking very intently at much of anything lately. Then the verse
about being "doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves."
I have never noticed the "delude themselves" part, but that is important and true.
A- How does this apply to me? I have been in somewhat of a rut really ever since I got
pregnant. I was so sick, tired, and trying to work. I would get up, try to make it
through the day at work, then come home and go to sleep. Honestly, I couldn't even
think about opening my Bible. I was not in church regularly for a good four months
and that also affected me. I definitely pulled from my resources of Scripture I knew
during those times, but I missed the times of intently looking at the Word. Well, after
I had AB life began again with work, trying to juggle everything, surgery, and
list could go on and on. It's been tough to do much more than be a hearer, not finding
time to meditate on the Word.
Being a Christian for almost my whole life makes it easy to know the right things to
say. I have been really convicted lately about knowing in my head what the Word
says and even desiring to do it, but never really doing it. I have been a hearer for too
long really forgetting (by my actions) what the Word said and deluding myself, leading
myself to believe that I had it all together spiritually. Oh, how I long to be an
effectual doer of the Word!
P- Pray that I will find the time to look intently at the Word every day, learning how to
juggle working, being a wife, mother, keeping house, etc. etc. etc. I'm a bit
overwhelmed. I know everything will not be so overwhelming if I take time in the
Word.
Pray that I will do better about applying the Word in my life. Not that I am doing
anything terrible, but I just feel like I am being lazy.
Excited about this group...I miss you girls like crazy!
Jen- Week 1
I have read James many times and like many books of the Bible different verses stand out or mean somthing all together differently than before.
S- James 1: 19-21 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters:You must all be quick to listen,slow to speak and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all flith and evil in your lives and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.
O- I so many times give into my earthly flesh when it comes to my tongue. The Lord has really convicted me of that during the last year. I know God does not want me responding in haste and without thought. Its easy to say that but a whole other in the hear of the momment! I never thought of being a humbling act to step back, take a breath and remember the Truth.
A- To control my tongue. Not to respond to people and situations as soon as people come to me for advice or if I find something out. I really need to go to God before I even talk to Dan or other friends. I need to learn that sometimes there is a time when I don't need to say or do anything. God will reveal to me when the time is right.
P-I have been hurt a lot by people who I thought were my true friends.I had confided in them and they have gossiped. People's true characters have come out. Its really made me put walls up and pull back. I no longer feel comfortable sharing what's truly on my heart to them. I have been really angry and have said things that I shouldn't have said (I was wrapped up in the moment). Those friendships are now changed. Through this I have found out who my true friends are and the ones I can share openly with about anything.He has also placed many new friends in my path that I might have not met or taken the time to get to know. I have also realized I don't have to be with friends with everyone.(That has been huge for me!) I guess my prayer is that healing will take place and that I will be slow to speak and to get angry. Also part of me wants to warn my other friends of the other people's behavior. I don't want to step across that line but I don't want to see other people get hurt like I did. So I guess wisdom.
This has really been eating me up. The only people I have shared the above with is ya'll, Dan, Kay Denny (She lives here now and her son and Grant are best buds. We have gotten really close in the last year and half.), and my best friend here Lauren.
Love you girls!
S- James 1: 19-21 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters:You must all be quick to listen,slow to speak and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all flith and evil in your lives and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.
O- I so many times give into my earthly flesh when it comes to my tongue. The Lord has really convicted me of that during the last year. I know God does not want me responding in haste and without thought. Its easy to say that but a whole other in the hear of the momment! I never thought of being a humbling act to step back, take a breath and remember the Truth.
A- To control my tongue. Not to respond to people and situations as soon as people come to me for advice or if I find something out. I really need to go to God before I even talk to Dan or other friends. I need to learn that sometimes there is a time when I don't need to say or do anything. God will reveal to me when the time is right.
P-I have been hurt a lot by people who I thought were my true friends.I had confided in them and they have gossiped. People's true characters have come out. Its really made me put walls up and pull back. I no longer feel comfortable sharing what's truly on my heart to them. I have been really angry and have said things that I shouldn't have said (I was wrapped up in the moment). Those friendships are now changed. Through this I have found out who my true friends are and the ones I can share openly with about anything.He has also placed many new friends in my path that I might have not met or taken the time to get to know. I have also realized I don't have to be with friends with everyone.(That has been huge for me!) I guess my prayer is that healing will take place and that I will be slow to speak and to get angry. Also part of me wants to warn my other friends of the other people's behavior. I don't want to step across that line but I don't want to see other people get hurt like I did. So I guess wisdom.
This has really been eating me up. The only people I have shared the above with is ya'll, Dan, Kay Denny (She lives here now and her son and Grant are best buds. We have gotten really close in the last year and half.), and my best friend here Lauren.
Love you girls!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)