We had a busy and fun weekend. Friday night we just hung out together at home which was nice! Saturday Sawyer had soccer and then Fall Festival at our church Saturday night. Sunday afternoon I got to do some pumpkin decorating! Looking forward to starting NOVEMBER!! I LOVE Thanksgiving!!!!!
S - This is the message you have heard from the beginning: we should love one another. We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother. And why did he kill him? Because Cain had been doing what was evil, and his brother had been doing what was righteous.
O - I've never physically killed anyone, but there are many times that I haven't loved my fellow believer the way I should. i've gone as far to be jealous of others when they're following God's calling and I'm sitting on my calling and not following.
A - I need to fully LOVE everyone. I'm going to grow closer to Christ when I do.
P - Lord please help me to love with your love and follow your calling. I can only love when I'm following you!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Ginn - 1 John 3:11-12
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another; not as Cain, who was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil and his brother's were righteous.
O - You can't help but read the story of Cain and Abel and think jealousy, but what struck me this time is that when we deal with things in darkness it ends up affecting others too.
A - Cain's emotions of jealousy were not brought to the light and dealt with & therefore festered and eventually made way to murder. All the more reason to get out of the darkness - I don't want to hurt anyone or bring any one else down. No I am not talking about murder, but just the quenching of the spirit in others. As John says - love. Love one another and then you don't have to worry about acting out in wrong ways.
P - You know it's interesting how God always gets His point across. I've mentioned how I am doing a Beth Moore study at the same time as doing this, and the Lord is weaving them both together so well. Last night the Lord really convicted me about some very innocent actions that are not portraying the light. Please pray that I am able to resist temptations and stay in the light. Love you girls!
S - For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another; not as Cain, who was of the evil one, and slew his brother. And for what reason did he slay him? Because his deeds were evil and his brother's were righteous.
O - You can't help but read the story of Cain and Abel and think jealousy, but what struck me this time is that when we deal with things in darkness it ends up affecting others too.
A - Cain's emotions of jealousy were not brought to the light and dealt with & therefore festered and eventually made way to murder. All the more reason to get out of the darkness - I don't want to hurt anyone or bring any one else down. No I am not talking about murder, but just the quenching of the spirit in others. As John says - love. Love one another and then you don't have to worry about acting out in wrong ways.
P - You know it's interesting how God always gets His point across. I've mentioned how I am doing a Beth Moore study at the same time as doing this, and the Lord is weaving them both together so well. Last night the Lord really convicted me about some very innocent actions that are not portraying the light. Please pray that I am able to resist temptations and stay in the light. Love you girls!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Reflection I John 3:1-10, Karlyn
Lesson : Don't take for granted just how huge God 's love is for me. I am his child and b/c of his huge LOVING sacrifice I can know him.
God wants me to learn: Although my heart condition is what determines my salvation my actions speak volumes to others and the world that I am or am not following Christ faithfully.
Faith into action: Continue to ask God to reveal to me the sin that needs to be confessed and trust that he will help me grow in the weak areas and he can be in control and change me.
God wants me to learn: Although my heart condition is what determines my salvation my actions speak volumes to others and the world that I am or am not following Christ faithfully.
Faith into action: Continue to ask God to reveal to me the sin that needs to be confessed and trust that he will help me grow in the weak areas and he can be in control and change me.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 3:1-10
Good Morning Girlz!!! It's FRIDAY!!!!!!!! Get excited!!!!!!! What's everyone doing?
Lesson to remember: The Lord is continuing to show more and more about the concept of light & dark, and how sometimes good things can change into things of darkness. The Lord is also convicting me a lot about my moodiness. I don't want my mood to hinge on my circumstances. I want to be constant. I want people to know what to expect from me.
God wants me to learn: I can control this. I must stop and chose to not go down that road. Be aware of times when moodiness is moving in and stop it before it makes an appearance.
Faith into action: To continue to pray about this, and actually write out a plan of action for what I will do when I find myself being inconsistent with others.
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'm praying for you all! Lots of love!
Lesson to remember: The Lord is continuing to show more and more about the concept of light & dark, and how sometimes good things can change into things of darkness. The Lord is also convicting me a lot about my moodiness. I don't want my mood to hinge on my circumstances. I want to be constant. I want people to know what to expect from me.
God wants me to learn: I can control this. I must stop and chose to not go down that road. Be aware of times when moodiness is moving in and stop it before it makes an appearance.
Faith into action: To continue to pray about this, and actually write out a plan of action for what I will do when I find myself being inconsistent with others.
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I'm praying for you all! Lots of love!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 3:9-10
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.
O - Here are the qualifications. You say you are a child of God, then...do you do what is right and do you love?
A - 2 things: do what is right and love. How well am I doing these? Do others know I am saved based on the evidence of these two qualifcations? Do what is right. Am I doing what is right? I know I need to work on my attitude in general towards people. What about love? Is that my top priority in making decisions? I could use more love.
P - Lord thank You for Your Word and how it instructs us.
S - No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.
O - Here are the qualifications. You say you are a child of God, then...do you do what is right and do you love?
A - 2 things: do what is right and love. How well am I doing these? Do others know I am saved based on the evidence of these two qualifcations? Do what is right. Am I doing what is right? I know I need to work on my attitude in general towards people. What about love? Is that my top priority in making decisions? I could use more love.
P - Lord thank You for Your Word and how it instructs us.
I John 3:4-10 - Karlyn
Good Morning! It's been a totally crazy week and now I'm catching up!
S - Everyone who sins is breaking God's law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God. And you know that Jesus came to take away our sins, and there is no sin in him. Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him or understand who he is. Dear children do not let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born into God's family do not make a practice of sinning because God's life is in them. So they can't keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.
O - How do we know for sure we are believers and others are too? John says it here: if we are continuing in sin God's life isn't in us because sin is contrary to his nature and if we are new in him it will be contrary to our nature too.
A - With God's help I've had some wins over sin here lately. It seems to be never ending though b/c soon as I begin walking away from one thing he opens my eyes to something else. I'm so thankful that he covers all our sins when we accept him as Savior and I don't have to worry about losing my salvation when he reveals sin in my life to get rid of!
P - Lord please continue to open my eyes to continual sin in my life that needs to be removed and help me to lovingly help other believers too. Thank you thank you thank you for your forgiveness!
World Series: well we are BIG cardinal fans and were pretty surprised they even made it to the world series but we like the Rangers too so it's been fun to have 2 teams we like playing and not the YANKEES!!!!
Jen I'll be praying that God gives you a good friend to replace the void! I know it's been hard. My closest friend here moved to Houston in August so I understand a little how you feel. You can get through this!
CAN YOU BELIEVE AMBER IS HAVING TWINS!!!! So fun!
S - Everyone who sins is breaking God's law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God. And you know that Jesus came to take away our sins, and there is no sin in him. Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him or understand who he is. Dear children do not let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. Those who have been born into God's family do not make a practice of sinning because God's life is in them. So they can't keep on sinning, because they are children of God. So now we can tell who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.
O - How do we know for sure we are believers and others are too? John says it here: if we are continuing in sin God's life isn't in us because sin is contrary to his nature and if we are new in him it will be contrary to our nature too.
A - With God's help I've had some wins over sin here lately. It seems to be never ending though b/c soon as I begin walking away from one thing he opens my eyes to something else. I'm so thankful that he covers all our sins when we accept him as Savior and I don't have to worry about losing my salvation when he reveals sin in my life to get rid of!
P - Lord please continue to open my eyes to continual sin in my life that needs to be removed and help me to lovingly help other believers too. Thank you thank you thank you for your forgiveness!
World Series: well we are BIG cardinal fans and were pretty surprised they even made it to the world series but we like the Rangers too so it's been fun to have 2 teams we like playing and not the YANKEES!!!!
Jen I'll be praying that God gives you a good friend to replace the void! I know it's been hard. My closest friend here moved to Houston in August so I understand a little how you feel. You can get through this!
CAN YOU BELIEVE AMBER IS HAVING TWINS!!!! So fun!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 3:7-8
Good Morning Girlz!!! Half way through the week - yipppeee! Rangers play tonight and hopefully become the new World Series Champs, cold front moves in tomorrow & I will be pulling out all my sweaters, and parents come in Friday to celebrate their 60th bdays with a Tech football game. Lots of fun stuff! Hope each one of y'all is doing good and enjoying this time of year. Lots to be thankful for.
S - Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work.
O - This is like a big DUH! Hello McFly! The devil has been doing this for years. He's a pro. He's not planning on stopping anytime soon, so get your game on and be ready!
A - It always chaps my hide how the devil knows me so well! He knows just where my weaknesses are and how to really throw me off balance. He can really get to me! When I stop to think about how to win this battle, I realize it comes with the first step...the first turn of the head...the first rise of the eyebrow. In Weight Watchers I always tell my members that there is power in a small pause & asking ourselves "do I really want to do this?" before we dive-in. That 2 second pause can determine staying on program and losing weight, or forgetting it all and spriralling down hill. The first step is always the most crucial. So, when the devil comes with his temptations I must pause & chose righteousness or defeat.
P - Lord open my eyes to satan's schemes. Help me see light as light and dark as dark. I desire to be righteous. To follow Your example. To be like You.
S - Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work.
O - This is like a big DUH! Hello McFly! The devil has been doing this for years. He's a pro. He's not planning on stopping anytime soon, so get your game on and be ready!
A - It always chaps my hide how the devil knows me so well! He knows just where my weaknesses are and how to really throw me off balance. He can really get to me! When I stop to think about how to win this battle, I realize it comes with the first step...the first turn of the head...the first rise of the eyebrow. In Weight Watchers I always tell my members that there is power in a small pause & asking ourselves "do I really want to do this?" before we dive-in. That 2 second pause can determine staying on program and losing weight, or forgetting it all and spriralling down hill. The first step is always the most crucial. So, when the devil comes with his temptations I must pause & chose righteousness or defeat.
P - Lord open my eyes to satan's schemes. Help me see light as light and dark as dark. I desire to be righteous. To follow Your example. To be like You.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
I John 2:18-23
Sidenote, I found out yesterday that one of my very dear friend is moving away in 3 weeks. I knew she was probably moving soon but not that soon. Her husband is currently our youth minister. They are leaving for him to become a pastor in Columbus, Ms. I have had 3 very close friends move since June. Its been very hard and its very easy for me to want to slip into my old habits of pushing people away and building walls. It's my way of protecting myself.
S- v.19 These people left our churches because they never really belonged with us;otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left us it proved that they never belonged with us.
O- I see this all the time in the American church. People come to the church building because its expected, out habit, or out of guilt. These people never had a personal relationship with God. They are just going through the emotions. Our church has experienced a rapid growth in the last 2 years. We went from around 700 on Sunday mornings to over 1300. A lot of these people have come from sister churches that are having problems, a small percent are new believers, but the majority come for the social reasons. My prayer for everyone coming through our doors is that they each have a personal realtionship with God; that its a daily part of their life not just Sunday morning religion.
A- That I will reach out to these people in my church and in my community. That I need to be bold and not just assume. Many people in our churches will still be sitting in their chairs come rapture time.
P- Lord, help me to an instrument. Show me ways to show these type of people your love and how there is so much more than religion. Open the eyes of the people in the church who truly don't know you. Who may have head knowledge, but not heart. Amen
S- v.19 These people left our churches because they never really belonged with us;otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left us it proved that they never belonged with us.
O- I see this all the time in the American church. People come to the church building because its expected, out habit, or out of guilt. These people never had a personal relationship with God. They are just going through the emotions. Our church has experienced a rapid growth in the last 2 years. We went from around 700 on Sunday mornings to over 1300. A lot of these people have come from sister churches that are having problems, a small percent are new believers, but the majority come for the social reasons. My prayer for everyone coming through our doors is that they each have a personal realtionship with God; that its a daily part of their life not just Sunday morning religion.
A- That I will reach out to these people in my church and in my community. That I need to be bold and not just assume. Many people in our churches will still be sitting in their chairs come rapture time.
P- Lord, help me to an instrument. Show me ways to show these type of people your love and how there is so much more than religion. Open the eyes of the people in the church who truly don't know you. Who may have head knowledge, but not heart. Amen
Ginny - 1 John 3:4-6
Good Morning!!!
S - Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. You know that He appeared in order to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him.
O - "There is NO sin." I am so glad our God is perfect. Absolutely clean. There are no "little" sins or no-big-deal sins or white lies or gluttony every once in a while. He is white as snow. No blemish. No dirt. No sin.
A - I bring this out today because I have a decision to make that is one of those that rides the fence a little bit. It is not bad, but as a Christian why even go there? One of those "above reproach" things. You know what I mean? This verse is a good reminder that it can be black or white. Either it is good or it isn't.
P - Lord, I ask for wisdom to make the right decision. Please continue to show me truth and compell my heart and mind to the right decision.
S - Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. You know that He appeared in order to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him.
O - "There is NO sin." I am so glad our God is perfect. Absolutely clean. There are no "little" sins or no-big-deal sins or white lies or gluttony every once in a while. He is white as snow. No blemish. No dirt. No sin.
A - I bring this out today because I have a decision to make that is one of those that rides the fence a little bit. It is not bad, but as a Christian why even go there? One of those "above reproach" things. You know what I mean? This verse is a good reminder that it can be black or white. Either it is good or it isn't.
P - Lord, I ask for wisdom to make the right decision. Please continue to show me truth and compell my heart and mind to the right decision.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 3:1-3
S - See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be we know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is and everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
O - Family. We belong together. We are claimed.
A - Today I will rest in the fact I have a Savior. I am His child. Not gonna figure it all out today. I'm gonna live enjoying the fact I'm claimed. Sealed.
P - Lord, so much clouds my view. I get caught up in all kinds of goals and deadlines. Thank You for what You are showing me. I have so much to learn, but today I'm gonna start by enjoying You.
O - Family. We belong together. We are claimed.
A - Today I will rest in the fact I have a Savior. I am His child. Not gonna figure it all out today. I'm gonna live enjoying the fact I'm claimed. Sealed.
P - Lord, so much clouds my view. I get caught up in all kinds of goals and deadlines. Thank You for what You are showing me. I have so much to learn, but today I'm gonna start by enjoying You.
I John 3:1-3 - Karlyn
Happy Monday Morning!
You are soo right this year has flown by. When I look back I think it's been a little slower than the past few years. October usually flies by and I wonder how I got to December so fast but this month has been really good. I've intentionally tried to slow down the pace of our lives. There's things I've missed out on b/c of that but it has made life a whole lot less stressful. It's nice not to be busy 7 days a week from sun up to sun down. Hopefully we can carry over through 2012!
S - See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know him. Beloved now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when he appears, we will be like him, because we will see Him just as he is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on him purifies himself, just as he is pure.
O - Can I get a HALLELUJAH!!! This is exactly what I need to hear on a MONDAY morning and every morning for that matter. We are so BLESSED with a love from the ALMIGHTY and we are HIS CHILDREN. And the hope I have in him purifies me to be just like him!!!!
A - There are many times when I start self centered thinking and it puts me in a bad mood full of jealousy, pity on myself, and wondering who am I? This passage needs to be on the tip of my tongue. The world doesn't like me and that's fine b/c I have an ALMIGHTY FATHER who loves me with HIS love not the world's, purifies me, and makes me into a new creation just like HIM!
P - Lord thank you that there is NO other love like yours. I praise you that I can confess my sins to you and you purify me to be like you. I can't wait for the day that you come back for us and take us from a world that doesn't know you or love you. Help me today to be a light for you.
You are soo right this year has flown by. When I look back I think it's been a little slower than the past few years. October usually flies by and I wonder how I got to December so fast but this month has been really good. I've intentionally tried to slow down the pace of our lives. There's things I've missed out on b/c of that but it has made life a whole lot less stressful. It's nice not to be busy 7 days a week from sun up to sun down. Hopefully we can carry over through 2012!
S - See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know him. Beloved now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when he appears, we will be like him, because we will see Him just as he is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on him purifies himself, just as he is pure.
O - Can I get a HALLELUJAH!!! This is exactly what I need to hear on a MONDAY morning and every morning for that matter. We are so BLESSED with a love from the ALMIGHTY and we are HIS CHILDREN. And the hope I have in him purifies me to be just like him!!!!
A - There are many times when I start self centered thinking and it puts me in a bad mood full of jealousy, pity on myself, and wondering who am I? This passage needs to be on the tip of my tongue. The world doesn't like me and that's fine b/c I have an ALMIGHTY FATHER who loves me with HIS love not the world's, purifies me, and makes me into a new creation just like HIM!
P - Lord thank you that there is NO other love like yours. I praise you that I can confess my sins to you and you purify me to be like you. I can't wait for the day that you come back for us and take us from a world that doesn't know you or love you. Help me today to be a light for you.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:18-29 reflection
Good Morning! Good Morning! Good Morning! O.K. so we were talking this morning how fast 2011 has gone. Seriously, this year has flown by! It doesn't seem possible that the rest of the year is planned and 2012 will be here in a blink of an eye. Time passes so fast. Makes me even more grateful for y'all. Friends that stand the test of time. Love you gals and hope you each have a wonderful, wonderful weekend!
Lesson to remember: Letting outside circumstances determine my attitude blocks others from seeing Your light in me. Right now I see a lot of moodiness and inconsistency in my attitude based on the stresses in my life. I don't like being mad one day, quiet the next, sarcastic the next, and then all happy and easy going once the stress has calmed down.
God wants me to learn: Consistency in my mood comes from being grounded in His Truth. He is my rock when I am wishy washy. He is stable when I am slipping. He is logical when I am emotional. He is constant when I am random.
Faith into action: When the urge comes to be moody, mad, or just roll my eyes; I will stop and ask myself what is the truth. What type of person do I want to portray here? Am I living by love showing his light, or am I being selfish & letting the world determine the type of person I am. I will claim scripture and walk a road of dignity rather than spiratic emotions.
P.S. thanks for praying for my Aunt Lynn. My parents are going to Houston tomorrow for a visit. I'll let y'all know any updates I get. Praying for you all too!
Lesson to remember: Letting outside circumstances determine my attitude blocks others from seeing Your light in me. Right now I see a lot of moodiness and inconsistency in my attitude based on the stresses in my life. I don't like being mad one day, quiet the next, sarcastic the next, and then all happy and easy going once the stress has calmed down.
God wants me to learn: Consistency in my mood comes from being grounded in His Truth. He is my rock when I am wishy washy. He is stable when I am slipping. He is logical when I am emotional. He is constant when I am random.
Faith into action: When the urge comes to be moody, mad, or just roll my eyes; I will stop and ask myself what is the truth. What type of person do I want to portray here? Am I living by love showing his light, or am I being selfish & letting the world determine the type of person I am. I will claim scripture and walk a road of dignity rather than spiratic emotions.
P.S. thanks for praying for my Aunt Lynn. My parents are going to Houston tomorrow for a visit. I'll let y'all know any updates I get. Praying for you all too!
Reflection I John 2:18-29 - Karlyn
HAPPY HAPPY FRIDAY MORNING!!!
Lesson to remember: When you are a believer you can't help but pour out Christ. He will be evident in your life. To be completely full of him him his word needs to be poured in me.
God wants me to learn: I need to be more aware of what the Holy Spirit is teaching me. I don't have to wonder what is truth and what is lies because the Holy Spirit isn't going to conceal that from me.
Faith into action: When question of truth come up don't form my own opinion but go to prayer and ask Holy Spirit to make it clear and go to God's Word.
Have a great weekend everybody! Drink some hot chocolate eat something with pumpkin in it, and enjoy the weather.
Ginny still praying for your aunt and family.
Lesson to remember: When you are a believer you can't help but pour out Christ. He will be evident in your life. To be completely full of him him his word needs to be poured in me.
God wants me to learn: I need to be more aware of what the Holy Spirit is teaching me. I don't have to wonder what is truth and what is lies because the Holy Spirit isn't going to conceal that from me.
Faith into action: When question of truth come up don't form my own opinion but go to prayer and ask Holy Spirit to make it clear and go to God's Word.
Have a great weekend everybody! Drink some hot chocolate eat something with pumpkin in it, and enjoy the weather.
Ginny still praying for your aunt and family.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
I John 2: 28-29- Karlyn
Good Morning it's almost FRIDAY!
S - And now dear children remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. Since we know that Christ is righteous we also know that all who do what is right are God's children.
O - Here is a reminder that as Christians we need to spend time with other Christians. This is a great resource to point people to when they say I don't need to be in church to be a Christian. Being with other believers helps strengthen our faith and gives us courage to stand alone when we need to.
A - These verses and chapters will be a good resource for me to go back to with my kids when they ask questions about why we go to church and for new believers or those not believers yet when they don't understand the importance of being involved in church and with other believers.
P - Again Lord thank you for the freedom we have to be in fellowship with other believers. God I pray that you protect that freedom and not let there ever be a time in America that we can't worship you freely.
S - And now dear children remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. Since we know that Christ is righteous we also know that all who do what is right are God's children.
O - Here is a reminder that as Christians we need to spend time with other Christians. This is a great resource to point people to when they say I don't need to be in church to be a Christian. Being with other believers helps strengthen our faith and gives us courage to stand alone when we need to.
A - These verses and chapters will be a good resource for me to go back to with my kids when they ask questions about why we go to church and for new believers or those not believers yet when they don't understand the importance of being involved in church and with other believers.
P - Again Lord thank you for the freedom we have to be in fellowship with other believers. God I pray that you protect that freedom and not let there ever be a time in America that we can't worship you freely.
Ginny - 1 John 2:28-29
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - And now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming. If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone also who practices righteousness is born of Him.
O - I want to be ready to meet Him in the clouds!
A - If He came today, would I be ready? Yes, my salvation is secure. I know where I am spending eternity, but would I be proud of what my life is about or would I "shrink away?"
P - Lord I want to be confident of what I am about here on Earth, not shameful. May my days be filled with what matters.
S - And now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming. If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone also who practices righteousness is born of Him.
O - I want to be ready to meet Him in the clouds!
A - If He came today, would I be ready? Yes, my salvation is secure. I know where I am spending eternity, but would I be proud of what my life is about or would I "shrink away?"
P - Lord I want to be confident of what I am about here on Earth, not shameful. May my days be filled with what matters.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
I John 2:24-27 - Karlyn
S- So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father. And in this fellowship we enjoy the eternal life he promised us. I am writing you these things to warn you about those who want to lead you astray. But you have received the Holy Spirit and he lives within you so you don't need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know and what he teaches is true it is not a lie. So, just as he has taught you remain in fellowship with Christ.
O - There's plenty out there to lead us astray, but this passage tells me that even those who have little or no access to God's Word have the Holy Spirit to direct them in truth.
A - I need to be even more appreciative of the many copies of the bible I have and put into action memorizing so that when I don't have it in front of me the Spirit can bring to mind what I've learned and direct me in truth.
P - Thank you for all the privileges you given me Lord, freedom to go to the church I want, many Bibles and commentaries to read from, and the internet. Help me to not take your Word or the Holy Spirit for granted. Help me to listen to the truth that the Spirit is leading me to.
O - There's plenty out there to lead us astray, but this passage tells me that even those who have little or no access to God's Word have the Holy Spirit to direct them in truth.
A - I need to be even more appreciative of the many copies of the bible I have and put into action memorizing so that when I don't have it in front of me the Spirit can bring to mind what I've learned and direct me in truth.
P - Thank you for all the privileges you given me Lord, freedom to go to the church I want, many Bibles and commentaries to read from, and the internet. Help me to not take your Word or the Holy Spirit for granted. Help me to listen to the truth that the Spirit is leading me to.
Ginny - 1 John 2:24-27
Good morning/afternoon!!!
S - As for you, let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life. These things I have written to you concerning these who are trying to deceive you. And as for you, the annoiting which you recieved from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His annoiting teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.
O - The word "abide" is mentioned 5 times in this passage.
A - "Abide" is one of my favorite words. It is easy to get caught up in going and going and thinking of things to fix or make the situation better, when all we need to do is abide. To be connected to our Father. Close to Him so we can grow in Him.
P - Lord help me as I learn to abide. I pray the craziness and moodiness ceases and I draw myself to You. Thank you for Your love.
S - As for you, let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you also will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life. These things I have written to you concerning these who are trying to deceive you. And as for you, the annoiting which you recieved from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His annoiting teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.
O - The word "abide" is mentioned 5 times in this passage.
A - "Abide" is one of my favorite words. It is easy to get caught up in going and going and thinking of things to fix or make the situation better, when all we need to do is abide. To be connected to our Father. Close to Him so we can grow in Him.
P - Lord help me as I learn to abide. I pray the craziness and moodiness ceases and I draw myself to You. Thank you for Your love.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
I John 2:20-23 - Karlyn
S - But you are not like that, for the Holy One has given you his Spirit, and all of you know the truth. So I am writing to you not because you don't know the truth but because you know the difference between truth and lies. And who is a liar? Anyone who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son is an antichrist. Anyone who denies the Son doesn't have the Father, either. But anyone who acknowledges the Son has the Father also.
O - You cannot separate the trinity. You accept one you accept all.
-I know the truth and I use to think it was hard to tell the difference between those who were pretending to know Christ and those who really do but as I get deeper in the word I'm seeing that the evidence in our lives is plain as day. And when you acknowledge the Father and Son in your life there's no hiding or denying it. And when you deny one it's pretty obvious by what plays out in your life - no fruit.
A - Am I showing without a doubt that the Father Son and Holy Spirit are in me? Do my actions match up to my words? Am I hanging out on the fence a little too much so the world will accept me?
P - God I acknowledge that you are mighty God the only God and I ray that my words and actions match up to what my heart beats for you. Over fill me with you so that no one can deny your presence!
O - You cannot separate the trinity. You accept one you accept all.
-I know the truth and I use to think it was hard to tell the difference between those who were pretending to know Christ and those who really do but as I get deeper in the word I'm seeing that the evidence in our lives is plain as day. And when you acknowledge the Father and Son in your life there's no hiding or denying it. And when you deny one it's pretty obvious by what plays out in your life - no fruit.
A - Am I showing without a doubt that the Father Son and Holy Spirit are in me? Do my actions match up to my words? Am I hanging out on the fence a little too much so the world will accept me?
P - God I acknowledge that you are mighty God the only God and I ray that my words and actions match up to what my heart beats for you. Over fill me with you so that no one can deny your presence!
1 John 2:17
S--And this world is fading away along with everything it craves. But if you do the will of God you will live forever.
O- That even back then they struggled with the things of the world. They also had the daily struggle of honoring and following God's will.
A- To live each day as if it's my last. I need to strive and be in the Word so that I will clearly know God's will for my life. I need to store up treasures in Heaven and not here on earth.
P- Lord, help me to see the big picture. Take away all temptations and desires for earthly things. Help me to focus on your will for me and the things of Heaven.
O- That even back then they struggled with the things of the world. They also had the daily struggle of honoring and following God's will.
A- To live each day as if it's my last. I need to strive and be in the Word so that I will clearly know God's will for my life. I need to store up treasures in Heaven and not here on earth.
P- Lord, help me to see the big picture. Take away all temptations and desires for earthly things. Help me to focus on your will for me and the things of Heaven.
Ginny - 1 John 2:20-23
S - But you have an anointing from the Holy One and you all know I have not written to you because you do not know the truth but because you do know it and because no lie is of the truth who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ the one who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father; the one who confesses the Son has the Father also.
O - It's almost like John is saying, "O.K. people let's cut to the chase. This is how it works: you are either in the truth or a liar. One of the other - take your pick."
A - After all the talk and repetition it is time to draw a line in the sand. We've been reading about light and dark. We've read scripture after scripture talking about saying one thing but doing another. John has sounded like a broken record at times. Now is the time to ask myself, "What are you going to do about it?" What is it going to take to recognize the dark and turn from it? How long will I ride both sides of the fence? I don't want a divded heart.
P - Lord there are areas I need to clean up. Please help me. I don't want to be mediocre.
O - It's almost like John is saying, "O.K. people let's cut to the chase. This is how it works: you are either in the truth or a liar. One of the other - take your pick."
A - After all the talk and repetition it is time to draw a line in the sand. We've been reading about light and dark. We've read scripture after scripture talking about saying one thing but doing another. John has sounded like a broken record at times. Now is the time to ask myself, "What are you going to do about it?" What is it going to take to recognize the dark and turn from it? How long will I ride both sides of the fence? I don't want a divded heart.
P - Lord there are areas I need to clean up. Please help me. I don't want to be mediocre.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:18-19
Hey Gals!!! I'm doing a little catch up tonight :) Hope everyone is doing good. The race this weekend went great! There are very few vacations that I miss the place when it's over, but Marathon, TX is one. I could so easily live down there. I just love it!
Also, please continue to pray for my Aunt Lynn. They checked into MD Anderson today. The cancer is in her lungs, liver, and lymph nodes (sp?). They will be doing chemo everyday for 2 weeks and then she has 3 weeks off and then they start again. This type of cancer does respond very well to chemo, so we are praying that they get it all and she has many more years.
S - Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have arisen; from this we know that it is the last hour. They went out from us, but they were not really of us; for if they had been of us, they would have remained with us; but they went out, in order that it might be shown that they all are not of us.
O - The word loyalty comes to mind. You are either for us or against us.
A - If it's not of the light, let it leave. Seperate. Put distance between that which would hide the light. I want to confide in those that are in the Truth, not those that walk in darkness.
P - Lord thank You for the friends you have given me that are seeking You and Your ways. May we continue to hold each other accountable according to Your Word.
Ginny - Week 4 reflection
Good evening Girlz!!!
1. The Lord really opened my eyes last week to a pivot player in my darkness -- money. I am a big budgeter, which is good, but not when it starts determing my mood. I realized this week that 9 out of 10 times when I am testy and grouchy it is because I have been dealing a lot with finances and it is weighing down on me.
2. I feel the Lord wants me to learn to let it go. Budgets are good things, but I am missing out on the joy of the process. I need to loosen up a little and not let it consume so much, and certainly not let it determine my mood.
3. I am going to put my faith in action by not getting frustrated at the daily things. I will stop and recognize the situation and ask myself if I am about to react because I am wound tight or if this truly is a big deal that constitues frustration. Light. Living in the light. That's where I want to be.
I John 2:18-19 - Karlyn
Had dr appointment today and baby is growing right along:)
S - Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Anti Christ is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know the last hour has come. These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us.
O - This is an example of how we can be sure of those who are really and truly believers. When you have Christ in you, there is a desire to be like him and be with others who have him in them. You can only fake it for a little while and then the true colors come out.
- I can get really stressed out with people like this. Sometimes it's people who think they are "christians" but they really just don't get it and no matter how much you try to help they fall away because Christ wasn't in them to begin with. THen it's the people who know they aren't believers but still try to make others feel they are and then they fall away because they can't keep the lie.
A - What I've learned lately is not to get frustrated or stressed with them but to pray that the Holy Spirit continues to call their hearts and I'm available to help when they come asking. I'm not in control of their spirit, God is the only one who can change them. When they choose to leave I cannot stop them but just pray specifically for them.
P - Lord please place heavy conviction on David, Holly, and Jacque's hearts tonight. If they are your children I pray that they will listen to the Spirit calling their hearts to confession. Lord if they aren't your children I pray that the Spirit strongly calls their hearts to repentance. Help me to not get lazy in praying for them and to be ready to answer questions if they ask and ready to interact with them if you call me to that. Thank you for not giving up on us when we fall.
S - Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Anti Christ is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know the last hour has come. These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us.
O - This is an example of how we can be sure of those who are really and truly believers. When you have Christ in you, there is a desire to be like him and be with others who have him in them. You can only fake it for a little while and then the true colors come out.
- I can get really stressed out with people like this. Sometimes it's people who think they are "christians" but they really just don't get it and no matter how much you try to help they fall away because Christ wasn't in them to begin with. THen it's the people who know they aren't believers but still try to make others feel they are and then they fall away because they can't keep the lie.
A - What I've learned lately is not to get frustrated or stressed with them but to pray that the Holy Spirit continues to call their hearts and I'm available to help when they come asking. I'm not in control of their spirit, God is the only one who can change them. When they choose to leave I cannot stop them but just pray specifically for them.
P - Lord please place heavy conviction on David, Holly, and Jacque's hearts tonight. If they are your children I pray that they will listen to the Spirit calling their hearts to confession. Lord if they aren't your children I pray that the Spirit strongly calls their hearts to repentance. Help me to not get lazy in praying for them and to be ready to answer questions if they ask and ready to interact with them if you call me to that. Thank you for not giving up on us when we fall.
AUGH!!!!
I had a whole post written and then it disappeared!! Anyways I did post today but don't have time to write it again. Hopefully, tomorrow my post will show up. Have a great day!
Friday, October 14, 2011
I John 2:12-17 - Karlyn
GOOD FRIDAY MORNING!!!!!
Lesson remembered: I'm not young in the faith but I'm not mature in the faith yet either so being somewhere in between I'm strong in Christ and don't have to win the battle but I do need to undeniably live out who Christ is in me.
God wants me to learn: to be content in what he gives me and not desire more possessions or place anything on this earth as more important that my relationship with him.
Faith into action by: striving to be more mature in my faith by really knowing who Christ is and by digging into the truths of the Bible and leaving Baptist traditions out of it.
Ginny I'm praying for your aunt Lynn and family. I know this is scary and frustrating to all of you, praying God gives all of you peace and healing for her!
Jenifer, praying that you can "let go"! You have such a huge heart and just keep living out the truth the way you are, it will make a difference.
Amber I've been praying for you and your class. I hope it has been great so far!
Cindy congrats on the baby boy and I hope you aren't sick anymore!
Love y'all and thank you for this accountability!
Lesson remembered: I'm not young in the faith but I'm not mature in the faith yet either so being somewhere in between I'm strong in Christ and don't have to win the battle but I do need to undeniably live out who Christ is in me.
God wants me to learn: to be content in what he gives me and not desire more possessions or place anything on this earth as more important that my relationship with him.
Faith into action by: striving to be more mature in my faith by really knowing who Christ is and by digging into the truths of the Bible and leaving Baptist traditions out of it.
Ginny I'm praying for your aunt Lynn and family. I know this is scary and frustrating to all of you, praying God gives all of you peace and healing for her!
Jenifer, praying that you can "let go"! You have such a huge heart and just keep living out the truth the way you are, it will make a difference.
Amber I've been praying for you and your class. I hope it has been great so far!
Cindy congrats on the baby boy and I hope you aren't sick anymore!
Love y'all and thank you for this accountability!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
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Ginny - 1 John 2:15-17
Good Morning back atcha! I've risen and I'm shinin :)
S - Do not love the world, nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God abides forever.
O - The world is passing away. What we put so much value and time into isn't what matters.
A - Ever feel like you get bogged down in the things of life? I do! That's darkness to me...the "things" of life. I found this quote last night in my Luci book - "Never look down to test the ground before taking your next step: only he who keeps his eye fixed on the far horizon will find his right road." Light is keeping our eyes on the horizon -- not money, not food, not lists, but the Creator who knows all and knows me.
P - Lord teach me to take deep breaths in this area. To release the grip of control and loosen the reigns a bit so that my eyes aren't soley focused on the "things" but rather the horizon.
S - Do not love the world, nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God abides forever.
O - The world is passing away. What we put so much value and time into isn't what matters.
A - Ever feel like you get bogged down in the things of life? I do! That's darkness to me...the "things" of life. I found this quote last night in my Luci book - "Never look down to test the ground before taking your next step: only he who keeps his eye fixed on the far horizon will find his right road." Light is keeping our eyes on the horizon -- not money, not food, not lists, but the Creator who knows all and knows me.
P - Lord teach me to take deep breaths in this area. To release the grip of control and loosen the reigns a bit so that my eyes aren't soley focused on the "things" but rather the horizon.
I John 2: 15-17 - Karlyn
Good Morning Good Morning Good Morning it's time to rise and shine!
S - Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
O - Cravings and Pride...that pretty much sums it up for me. These are my struggles. When I crave something- possessions, food, sleep, time - the craving never really gets satisfied. Time with the Lord and reading his word are the only things that really satisfy my cravings or gets rid of them!!!
A - like yesterday...the more I memorize scripture the better I will be able to battle the cravings and pride in my life. When I'm filled with his love there's no room for anything else.
P - Lord thank you that there is an alternative to the pleasures of this world, something that actually fills and satisfies eternally! Help me today to keep your words on my tongue an heart so that I crave you instead of the world.
S - Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
O - Cravings and Pride...that pretty much sums it up for me. These are my struggles. When I crave something- possessions, food, sleep, time - the craving never really gets satisfied. Time with the Lord and reading his word are the only things that really satisfy my cravings or gets rid of them!!!
A - like yesterday...the more I memorize scripture the better I will be able to battle the cravings and pride in my life. When I'm filled with his love there's no room for anything else.
P - Lord thank you that there is an alternative to the pleasures of this world, something that actually fills and satisfies eternally! Help me today to keep your words on my tongue an heart so that I crave you instead of the world.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
I John 2:14 - Karlyn
S - I have written to you who are God's children because you know the Father. I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ who existed from the beginning. I have writen to you who are young in the faith because you are strong. God's word lives in your hearts, and you have won the battle with the evil one.
O - It seems like John is really having to repeat himself and confirm several times to these believers who they are in Christ and what he did for them. I shouldn't be surprised because I still need these reminders of who I am in him. It's easy to let the flesh creep in and believe that Satan has a stronghold. BUT he doesn't!
A- I need and want to be much more proactive with scripture memory. Having his word in my heart is what keeps me from slipping.
P - God thank you for winning the battle and leaving your word for us to read, ponder, and proclaim. Help me not to treat your word as anything less than pure gold and true wisdom for mine and others lives.
O - It seems like John is really having to repeat himself and confirm several times to these believers who they are in Christ and what he did for them. I shouldn't be surprised because I still need these reminders of who I am in him. It's easy to let the flesh creep in and believe that Satan has a stronghold. BUT he doesn't!
A- I need and want to be much more proactive with scripture memory. Having his word in my heart is what keeps me from slipping.
P - God thank you for winning the battle and leaving your word for us to read, ponder, and proclaim. Help me not to treat your word as anything less than pure gold and true wisdom for mine and others lives.
Ginny - 1 John 2:14
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men because you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
O - I love the connection between strong & Word of God. Knowing the teachings of our Lord makes us strong.
A - How much more I need to be in the Word. I can tell such a difference in my disposition when I am filled up with His scriptures than when I am not.
P - Lord may I give priority to being in Your Word. I ask for the strength that comes from knowing Your Word.
S - I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men because you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
O - I love the connection between strong & Word of God. Knowing the teachings of our Lord makes us strong.
A - How much more I need to be in the Word. I can tell such a difference in my disposition when I am filled up with His scriptures than when I am not.
P - Lord may I give priority to being in Your Word. I ask for the strength that comes from knowing Your Word.
1 John 2:13
S-I am writing to you who are mature because you know Christ, the one who is from the beginning. I am writing to you who are young because you have won your battle with Satan.
O- He has always be there and the battle is already won.
A- How quickly do I forget that He already knows the outcome of my life. He has already fought my battles. Why do I sometimes allow Satan to seep in and think that he has won, but he never has a chance with God by my side.
P- Lord, help to remember during the bad times, that you are there ready to help me fight.
O- He has always be there and the battle is already won.
A- How quickly do I forget that He already knows the outcome of my life. He has already fought my battles. Why do I sometimes allow Satan to seep in and think that he has won, but he never has a chance with God by my side.
P- Lord, help to remember during the bad times, that you are there ready to help me fight.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
I John 2:13 - Karlyn
S - I am writing to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ who existed from the beginning. I am writing to you who are young in the faith because you have won your battle with the evil one.
O - young or old in Christ the battle is won - Hallelujah. I forget often that I don't have to battle Satan because Jesus did it first and it's over.
A - Continue to live like a mature Christian by daily KNOWING Christ and living victoriously because Jesus already fought my battle - no defeat here!
P - Thank you Jesus for fighting my battles for me. Help me to live in you like a winner and not defeated. Thank you God for caring so much for us!
O - young or old in Christ the battle is won - Hallelujah. I forget often that I don't have to battle Satan because Jesus did it first and it's over.
A - Continue to live like a mature Christian by daily KNOWING Christ and living victoriously because Jesus already fought my battle - no defeat here!
P - Thank you Jesus for fighting my battles for me. Help me to live in you like a winner and not defeated. Thank you God for caring so much for us!
1 John Chapter 2:12
My Bible study has ended, so now I'm back to reading alon with ya'll. By the way if you are looking for a great and personal Bible study book, highly recommend Brave by Angela Thomas. The week about Thorns and Fear really convicted me and were powerful.
S- I am writing to you my dear children, because your sins have been forgiven because of Jesus.
O- I like how the word dear is used. It shows that John truly cared and loved these follow believers. They were just people who he randomly met, but he had formed realtionships with them.
A- I take this for granted all the time. I need to confess my sins on a daily basis.
P- Lord, help recall to memory everyday each sin that I've commited. Help me to confess each one with brokeness. Thank you for grace and mercy.
Ya'll can also pray for me to let go of being in charge and in control. This is a daily sin in my life. Right now in my realtionships and at church there is a lot going out on that I have no control over. I so want to jump in and fix the problems, shake people and tell them to wake up!!!! I'm to the point of frustration. Its all I can think about and I'm constantly in tears to see how such good Godly things are being torn down. Help me to see that God is in control and that HE knows what will happen and how. Jenifer is NOT in control.
S- I am writing to you my dear children, because your sins have been forgiven because of Jesus.
O- I like how the word dear is used. It shows that John truly cared and loved these follow believers. They were just people who he randomly met, but he had formed realtionships with them.
A- I take this for granted all the time. I need to confess my sins on a daily basis.
P- Lord, help recall to memory everyday each sin that I've commited. Help me to confess each one with brokeness. Thank you for grace and mercy.
Ya'll can also pray for me to let go of being in charge and in control. This is a daily sin in my life. Right now in my realtionships and at church there is a lot going out on that I have no control over. I so want to jump in and fix the problems, shake people and tell them to wake up!!!! I'm to the point of frustration. Its all I can think about and I'm constantly in tears to see how such good Godly things are being torn down. Help me to see that God is in control and that HE knows what will happen and how. Jenifer is NOT in control.
Ginny - 1 John 2:13
Ugh! I'm in a bad mood! I'm just admitting it. I know what did it too, and it's a stupid reason, but sometimes I just chose to be stupid. Boss's Day is coming up this weekend and every year we (the secretaries) go through this whole decision making pow-wow to decide what to do. By the time it is all said & done I just do my own thing which is great because that is what I want to do anyhow. It's so frustrating because I have to sit around and talk about all these options when I just want to say everyone fend for yourself and go buy something! See I told you it was stupid.
S - I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him how has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father.
O - I don't understand the part about young men overcoming the evil one. I need to look at some different translations to figure out exactly what that means because that doesn't make a lot of sense to me. I would think young men would be daily fighting the temptations of the evil one not conquering him.
A - Because I am in a bad mood & acting like a 5 year old I am having a hard time coming up with anything good for today's scripture, so I am going to skip to the prayer which I think we would all agree is what I need!
P - Yes, Father I pray for my attitude. It's not that big of a deal, but boy does it annoy me. Please help me get this back in perspective and be a little nicer about it all.
Also, if y'all would remember my Aunt Lynn. She is the one that lives in Tulsa. She is the fun aunt...always orders dessert first, always gives the best gifts, and makes everything fun. Last week they found a lot of drainage around her lung and a tumor in the other lung. They got results back yesterday and it is cancer. It is an agressive moving cancer, but it does respond well to treatment. They are going today to do a scan to see how far it has spread and that will determine what to do next. So, if y'all would please keep her, my Uncle Robert, and cousins Stacie & Chris in your prayers.
Love you all! (thank you for letting me whine this morning)
S - I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him how has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father.
O - I don't understand the part about young men overcoming the evil one. I need to look at some different translations to figure out exactly what that means because that doesn't make a lot of sense to me. I would think young men would be daily fighting the temptations of the evil one not conquering him.
A - Because I am in a bad mood & acting like a 5 year old I am having a hard time coming up with anything good for today's scripture, so I am going to skip to the prayer which I think we would all agree is what I need!
P - Yes, Father I pray for my attitude. It's not that big of a deal, but boy does it annoy me. Please help me get this back in perspective and be a little nicer about it all.
Also, if y'all would remember my Aunt Lynn. She is the one that lives in Tulsa. She is the fun aunt...always orders dessert first, always gives the best gifts, and makes everything fun. Last week they found a lot of drainage around her lung and a tumor in the other lung. They got results back yesterday and it is cancer. It is an agressive moving cancer, but it does respond well to treatment. They are going today to do a scan to see how far it has spread and that will determine what to do next. So, if y'all would please keep her, my Uncle Robert, and cousins Stacie & Chris in your prayers.
Love you all! (thank you for letting me whine this morning)
Monday, October 10, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:12
Let me just start by giving a shout out to Columbus! I love him! I didn't go to bed till 2:00 last night because I was reading a new book and didn't get out of bed till 9:45 this morning!!! It is wonderful! After this I'm going to drink coffee on the back porch. Thank you Columbus!!!
Glad y'all had fun at homecoming! It would have been so fun to see you all. I've seen fb pictures of the kids - adorable! Tech did not win Saturday, but we played better than we have all season. The game was a lot of fun! Somehow I ended up with a ticket to the suite, so I enjoyed the game in style. Watching the Red Raiders, eating prime rib. Doesn't get much better than that!
S - I am writing to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for HIs name's sake.
O - I am always baffled at the fact that we do nothing. It is all about Him. He is the one who cleanses me and takes away my sins. It is because of His grace that I am washed white as snow.
A - I am reminded again of the need for confession. To say what I am sorry for, confess my shortcomings, and turn to the light.
P - Lord I pray this week that I take seriously my time of confession. That I say out loud to you what I have done, thought, said, etc. that is not pleasing to You. Thank You for forgiving my sins.
I John 2:12 - Karlyn
Happy Monday Morning!
S - I am writing to you who are God's children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus.
O - Well here it is in black and white exactly what the message of the gospel is: sins are forgiven through Jesus and that makes us God's children. There's no mystery or confusion it's plain and simple.
A - So now this is a passage that I use to help others who are confused with what the Gospel's message is all about. John makes it very clear in this verse and in the 11 verses before.
P - Lord forgive me for complicating your Word and your message. Thank you that you've forgiven me through Jesus and I'm your child. Show me how to share that message with those around me today.
Missed you this weekend Ginny Amber and Cindy! We had a lot of fun!
S - I am writing to you who are God's children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus.
O - Well here it is in black and white exactly what the message of the gospel is: sins are forgiven through Jesus and that makes us God's children. There's no mystery or confusion it's plain and simple.
A - So now this is a passage that I use to help others who are confused with what the Gospel's message is all about. John makes it very clear in this verse and in the 11 verses before.
P - Lord forgive me for complicating your Word and your message. Thank you that you've forgiven me through Jesus and I'm your child. Show me how to share that message with those around me today.
Missed you this weekend Ginny Amber and Cindy! We had a lot of fun!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:1-11 reflection
Good Morning!!! I just love this blog! Love it! Love it! Love it! I love how my morning is not complete unless I write. This has been a very good thing.
1. O.K. I know I sound like a broken record, but the Lord is still teaching me so much about "light" and I know He's not done yet. The lesson that was reiterated to me this week is that light makes things simple. I know life is not meant to be easy, but it's not meant to be hard either! Light shows me where I am stepping, and knowing where to put my foot makes life easier.
2. The Lord wants me to learn how to identify when I am headed into darkness and to STOP, turn around, and find the light.
3. I am putting my faith into action by staying in His Word and surrounding myself with good, close friends that I can be open with and will hold me accountable for staying out of the dark.
I hope homecoming is won-der-ful!!! Makes me want to make some of that cinnamon, cranberry snack mix we ate so much of last year :) Karlyn I am so excited about your 5K next Saturday. We will each be thinking of the other as we move our legs! Much love to all of y'all!!!
1. O.K. I know I sound like a broken record, but the Lord is still teaching me so much about "light" and I know He's not done yet. The lesson that was reiterated to me this week is that light makes things simple. I know life is not meant to be easy, but it's not meant to be hard either! Light shows me where I am stepping, and knowing where to put my foot makes life easier.
2. The Lord wants me to learn how to identify when I am headed into darkness and to STOP, turn around, and find the light.
3. I am putting my faith into action by staying in His Word and surrounding myself with good, close friends that I can be open with and will hold me accountable for staying out of the dark.
I hope homecoming is won-der-ful!!! Makes me want to make some of that cinnamon, cranberry snack mix we ate so much of last year :) Karlyn I am so excited about your 5K next Saturday. We will each be thinking of the other as we move our legs! Much love to all of y'all!!!
I John 2:1-11 Reflection - Karlyn
Good Friday Morning!!!!
Lesson: Obeying God's commands is evidence of his presence in my life. And I show completely that I love him.
What God wants me to learn: Loving others goes hand in hand with following his commandments. It shows his manifestation in my lifle and it also keeps others from stumbling.
Faith into action: my love needs to be shown in my action and not just my words. The actions I feel prompted to do by Him I need to stop ignoring and do them immediately so I can share and show his love.
Have a great weekend everyone! Ginny don't have too much fun at the football game, we will miss everyone who doesn't get to come to Homecoming!
Lesson: Obeying God's commands is evidence of his presence in my life. And I show completely that I love him.
What God wants me to learn: Loving others goes hand in hand with following his commandments. It shows his manifestation in my lifle and it also keeps others from stumbling.
Faith into action: my love needs to be shown in my action and not just my words. The actions I feel prompted to do by Him I need to stop ignoring and do them immediately so I can share and show his love.
Have a great weekend everyone! Ginny don't have too much fun at the football game, we will miss everyone who doesn't get to come to Homecoming!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:9-11
Good Morning! Good Morning! Good Morning! So glad you are feeling better Karlyn! I missed you!
S - The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
O - Two words come to mind: LOVE and SIGHT. Love because that is the best way to show we are walking in the light, and sight because light makes it easier to see.
A - I want to love. Love even when I don't feel like it, or don't think the person deserves it. Love is what Jesus would do, and I want to be like Him. I love verse 11 because it plainly states the number one reason to walk in the light - you can see! Darkness is just that -- dark! We can't see what's in the dark. We trip in the dark. We hurt ourselves in the dark. We have no idea what's going on in the dark. Light lets us see!
P - Love and sight. Lord please grow both of these characteristics in my life that You may receive the glory. I love You.
One more day till our fun weekends! Karlyn & Jenifer - y'all will have to update us on how homecoming goes. I saw on fb where the Westmorelands were going to be there. Amber & Cindy hope all is going well and y'all have some fun plans this weekend. I'll be cheering the Red Raiders to victory. Next Saturday is my first 1/2 marathon - way pumped! Everyone have a GREAT day!!!
S - The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
O - Two words come to mind: LOVE and SIGHT. Love because that is the best way to show we are walking in the light, and sight because light makes it easier to see.
A - I want to love. Love even when I don't feel like it, or don't think the person deserves it. Love is what Jesus would do, and I want to be like Him. I love verse 11 because it plainly states the number one reason to walk in the light - you can see! Darkness is just that -- dark! We can't see what's in the dark. We trip in the dark. We hurt ourselves in the dark. We have no idea what's going on in the dark. Light lets us see!
P - Love and sight. Lord please grow both of these characteristics in my life that You may receive the glory. I love You.
One more day till our fun weekends! Karlyn & Jenifer - y'all will have to update us on how homecoming goes. I saw on fb where the Westmorelands were going to be there. Amber & Cindy hope all is going well and y'all have some fun plans this weekend. I'll be cheering the Red Raiders to victory. Next Saturday is my first 1/2 marathon - way pumped! Everyone have a GREAT day!!!
I John 2:3-6; 7-8;9-11
Good Morning, Sorry for my absence I've been kind of sick this week. Much better now.
Knox is getting his first haircut today, this will be an adventure!
S-And we can be sure that we know Him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims " I know God" but doesn't obey God's commandments that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. But those who obey God's word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
O - I had this conversation yesterday with someone. Someone can fake salvation for a little while. But id it's not REAL it will truly show up in obedience. We all are obedient to something. When Christ is in us we can't help but desire to obey his commands because we know it will make us more like Christ and he will provide for us!
A - There are several people in my life right now who have said through the years they love God but it's showing up more and more that they don't respect his commands. I need to pray diligently for their hearts and salvation.
S - Dear friends I am not writing a new commandment for you rather it is an old one you have had from the very beginning. This old commandment to love one another is the same message you heard before. Yet it is also new, Jesus lived the truth of this commandment and you also are living it. For the darkness is disappearing and the true light is already shining.
O - Love one another - I need this written everywhere I turn. The times that I choose to love others in spite of whatever frustrating things are happening are the times when life is just a little bit easier and enjoyable. Love one another - the only reason I can do this is because of Christ living in me and the example he lived.
A - my first thought today will be Love One Another inside and outside my house. Then tomorrow I need to wake up with the same attitude.
S - if anyone claims "I am living in the light" but hates a Christian brother or sister that person is still living in darkness. Anyone who loves another brother or sister is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. But anyone who hates another brother or sister is still walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go having been blinded by the darkness.
O - I'm so thankful for John's obedience to God in writing this passage. Christ was not filled with hate. When he comes into us and we take on his mindset we also cannot hate another. Is he only speaking about brothers and sisters who are believers or all people? Need to look this up.
A - There was a time when I held bitter feelings towards several other believers and caused a lot of hurt in my own life. I understand that hating does not line up with who we are in Christ and it keeps me from being in the light. Now I choose to ask God to fill my eyes and heart with overwhelming love for those who drive me crazy!! It's made several relationships a lot easier:)
P - Lord thank you for your example of love and the attitudes we are to have in our life because of you. Help me today to show your love and to keep my relationships right. You are a mighty Father filled with so much love. Please help me to spread it to those who need some today.
Knox is getting his first haircut today, this will be an adventure!
S-And we can be sure that we know Him if we obey his commandments. If someone claims " I know God" but doesn't obey God's commandments that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. But those who obey God's word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him. Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
O - I had this conversation yesterday with someone. Someone can fake salvation for a little while. But id it's not REAL it will truly show up in obedience. We all are obedient to something. When Christ is in us we can't help but desire to obey his commands because we know it will make us more like Christ and he will provide for us!
A - There are several people in my life right now who have said through the years they love God but it's showing up more and more that they don't respect his commands. I need to pray diligently for their hearts and salvation.
S - Dear friends I am not writing a new commandment for you rather it is an old one you have had from the very beginning. This old commandment to love one another is the same message you heard before. Yet it is also new, Jesus lived the truth of this commandment and you also are living it. For the darkness is disappearing and the true light is already shining.
O - Love one another - I need this written everywhere I turn. The times that I choose to love others in spite of whatever frustrating things are happening are the times when life is just a little bit easier and enjoyable. Love one another - the only reason I can do this is because of Christ living in me and the example he lived.
A - my first thought today will be Love One Another inside and outside my house. Then tomorrow I need to wake up with the same attitude.
S - if anyone claims "I am living in the light" but hates a Christian brother or sister that person is still living in darkness. Anyone who loves another brother or sister is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. But anyone who hates another brother or sister is still walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go having been blinded by the darkness.
O - I'm so thankful for John's obedience to God in writing this passage. Christ was not filled with hate. When he comes into us and we take on his mindset we also cannot hate another. Is he only speaking about brothers and sisters who are believers or all people? Need to look this up.
A - There was a time when I held bitter feelings towards several other believers and caused a lot of hurt in my own life. I understand that hating does not line up with who we are in Christ and it keeps me from being in the light. Now I choose to ask God to fill my eyes and heart with overwhelming love for those who drive me crazy!! It's made several relationships a lot easier:)
P - Lord thank you for your example of love and the attitudes we are to have in our life because of you. Help me today to show your love and to keep my relationships right. You are a mighty Father filled with so much love. Please help me to spread it to those who need some today.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:7-8
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. On the other hand I am writing a new commandment to you which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining.
O - 2 things: #1 Hallelujiah John at least acknowledgest that he's been repeating himself! Chapter 1 was full of "if, but, then you lie." A theme he kept going over and over and over. #2 "true light" - love it! I'm so glad John mentioned light again. I'm not done learning all about this light concept yet. I'm really liking going deeper with the cocept.
A - It's an old commandment. In other words - DUH! You should have this down. Don't walk in darkness, stay in the light! At the same time, it's not too late to change your path. If you are piddling around with those things hidden in the darkness, change your ways and find the light. Light is simple. You can see, and sight helps!
P - Lord, please make it clear. I want to be in the light. Thank you for Your Word and thank You for Your patience as I learn this lesson over and over again.
S - Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. On the other hand I am writing a new commandment to you which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining.
O - 2 things: #1 Hallelujiah John at least acknowledgest that he's been repeating himself! Chapter 1 was full of "if, but, then you lie." A theme he kept going over and over and over. #2 "true light" - love it! I'm so glad John mentioned light again. I'm not done learning all about this light concept yet. I'm really liking going deeper with the cocept.
A - It's an old commandment. In other words - DUH! You should have this down. Don't walk in darkness, stay in the light! At the same time, it's not too late to change your path. If you are piddling around with those things hidden in the darkness, change your ways and find the light. Light is simple. You can see, and sight helps!
P - Lord, please make it clear. I want to be in the light. Thank you for Your Word and thank You for Your patience as I learn this lesson over and over again.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
I'm Alive
Sorry I've been MIA. Honestly, I just haven't had the time to be on my laptop to enter a post. Do ya'll know if you can do it from you smart phone? Anyways, I'm still breathing barely! Ya'll I really need prayer. This year has been the hardest most emotional year of my life. So much has happened and is happening. I have become very guarded and bitter in some relationships. In others, I have been totally opened and my heart has been crushed. There has been so many changes is my life this year. Satan has really been attacking me. I feel closer to God than ever before and I know that is one reason why this year has been hard. I could really use a weekend with you ladies. The last few months but especially the last couple of weeks, I've been missing what used to be the realtionships I once had, the people living close to me, family, church, etc.. So your prayers would be greatly coveted. Love ya'll lots and even though I'm not on here regularly, I do lift you up in my prayer journals.
Ginny - 1 John 2:3-6
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - "And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, "I have come to know Him," & does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him; the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.
O - "Abide" is one of my favorite words. It's not about running around "doing" things for Christ it is about abiding. Latched onto. Soaking Him up. I also like the phrase "walk in the same manner." At the bank when I walk around the top floor, I can see down to the first floor. Because of how the ceiling is I can't see the faces, but I can see from about the waist down when someone goes walking by. I love to guess who the person is just based on their walk. It's amazing how quickly I can identify the person just based on their walk.
A - That's what I want in my life! I want people to know who I am based on my walk. Am I walking in the light or dabbling in the darkness? Will others know I am a child of God or running from Him? It takes abiding. Clinging to Him. Growing in Him through His Word and prayer.
P - Lord, keep me in Your Word. May I not sacrifice the discipline of spending time in Bible Study each day. Keep that priority, so that others may recognize my walk as YOU. Lord, I also pray that you give each one of these girls a good day. May this Tuesday hold lots of bright spots for each one of them and their precious families. Thank you for sweet friends, and the opportunity to learn about You together. Love you!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Ginny - 1 John 2:1-2
Hello!!! Weekend was so fun!!! We all need to meet up in Round Top one year and shop till we drop! It was a blast! The next time is the first weekend in April, so I'll be sure and let y'all know the plans!
S - My little children I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.
O - Advocate. Capital A. When I think of an advocate I think of those CASA workers or CPS workers that I dealt with when I taught. They faught to make sure their kids were protected in the right place. Their main job was to give the child what was best for them. Jesus is our Advocate. He fights for us, wants to protect us, and wants what is best for us.
A - This whole "light" theme that was talked about in chapter 1 has really stuck with me. I catch myself before going into sticky situations saying, "stay in the light." This weekend the Lord continued to teach me about staying in the light. In order to get to the-middle-of-no-where Texas, you have to drive through a lot of middle-of-no-where places. Late Thursday night I was driving and it was lighting all around me, but it never rained. It was really pretty. There were deer, although they were all small due to the drought and I really think Boone could have taken them, but none the less I didn't go without my bright lights. When the occasional car would pass I would hate to turn my brights off. I always wanted to be able to see the sides of the road, and after a while of driving with my brights I found myself wanting to go brighter. What else is out there that I can't see? I want to know what is on the side of the road that may run out in front of me. So in the midst of all this I started thinking...this is what the Lord has been trying to tell me. The light is safe. When we are in the light we can see. So why do I dabble in the things of darkness? Why do I chose to walk a dark path that could harm me? Just like driving with my brights on, I want to be able to see and the longer I stay in the light I'm going to want more and more light.
P - Lord help me see the dark path and turn from it. Sometimes it looks so innocent. I want to be in the light. Thank you for fighting for me, never leaving me, and wanting me to get out of the dark and back into Your light. Thank you for what you are teaching me. Please continue to speak to me, and may I continue to listen to what it is You want me to know.
S - My little children I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.
O - Advocate. Capital A. When I think of an advocate I think of those CASA workers or CPS workers that I dealt with when I taught. They faught to make sure their kids were protected in the right place. Their main job was to give the child what was best for them. Jesus is our Advocate. He fights for us, wants to protect us, and wants what is best for us.
A - This whole "light" theme that was talked about in chapter 1 has really stuck with me. I catch myself before going into sticky situations saying, "stay in the light." This weekend the Lord continued to teach me about staying in the light. In order to get to the-middle-of-no-where Texas, you have to drive through a lot of middle-of-no-where places. Late Thursday night I was driving and it was lighting all around me, but it never rained. It was really pretty. There were deer, although they were all small due to the drought and I really think Boone could have taken them, but none the less I didn't go without my bright lights. When the occasional car would pass I would hate to turn my brights off. I always wanted to be able to see the sides of the road, and after a while of driving with my brights I found myself wanting to go brighter. What else is out there that I can't see? I want to know what is on the side of the road that may run out in front of me. So in the midst of all this I started thinking...this is what the Lord has been trying to tell me. The light is safe. When we are in the light we can see. So why do I dabble in the things of darkness? Why do I chose to walk a dark path that could harm me? Just like driving with my brights on, I want to be able to see and the longer I stay in the light I'm going to want more and more light.
P - Lord help me see the dark path and turn from it. Sometimes it looks so innocent. I want to be in the light. Thank you for fighting for me, never leaving me, and wanting me to get out of the dark and back into Your light. Thank you for what you are teaching me. Please continue to speak to me, and may I continue to listen to what it is You want me to know.
I John 2:1-2 - Karlyn
Happy Happy Monday Morning!
S - My dear children I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ the who is truly righteous. He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.
O- ADVOCATE - somebody who supports or speaks in favor of something, someone who acts or intercedes on behalf of another. Atone - to make compensation for a sin or a mistake. These are both actions that Jesus was willing to do even though he knew every wrong we would all do and what it would cost him. HE would have to be "truly righteous" to complete this.
A - Because of what Christ sacrificed to advocate and atone for me I've got to take sin very serious. It's so disrespectful for me to sin and think oh I'll just confess this later. Christ died and left heaven because of that sin!
P - Jesus thank you for being so willing to be my advocate and sacrifice all you did to atone for me. Help me to be very conscious and aware of sin and not treat it flippantly because you handle me with so much care!
S - My dear children I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ the who is truly righteous. He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.
O- ADVOCATE - somebody who supports or speaks in favor of something, someone who acts or intercedes on behalf of another. Atone - to make compensation for a sin or a mistake. These are both actions that Jesus was willing to do even though he knew every wrong we would all do and what it would cost him. HE would have to be "truly righteous" to complete this.
A - Because of what Christ sacrificed to advocate and atone for me I've got to take sin very serious. It's so disrespectful for me to sin and think oh I'll just confess this later. Christ died and left heaven because of that sin!
P - Jesus thank you for being so willing to be my advocate and sacrifice all you did to atone for me. Help me to be very conscious and aware of sin and not treat it flippantly because you handle me with so much care!
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