Good evening girlz!!!
S - Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
O - God is ready to give us the grace and mercy we need to get through the rough times.
A - It's so hard to keep my eyes on the long term goal. I want the here and now. The immediate results. Perseverance can be so hard.
P - Lord I pray for strength to see the good and the value in what I am doing now and how that will help get to the ultimate goal. May I rely on You and Your Word when I want to give up. I pray for strength to keep going.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Karlyn M2C Day 11
Good Afternoon Girlz!!
S - Hebrews 4:16 Let us approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
O - Am I the only one that feels like my time of need is ALL the time? I feel like I'm needing his grace and mercy all day long, whether it's in training my kids, working with others, my attitude, my forgetfulness, my everything.
A - I'm soo thankful that his grace and mercy never run out and he has more than enough for me every day! I also loved her view of the garden it made me think a lot about brokenness and redemption. I'm not broken enough over my sin.
P - Lord thank you for never ending grace and mercy that I don't deserve and need all the time. Help me to be broken over my sin and fall into redemption in you!
By the way...bad food day I've eaten everything in sight. I need self control! I guess I should pray for it.
S - Hebrews 4:16 Let us approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
O - Am I the only one that feels like my time of need is ALL the time? I feel like I'm needing his grace and mercy all day long, whether it's in training my kids, working with others, my attitude, my forgetfulness, my everything.
A - I'm soo thankful that his grace and mercy never run out and he has more than enough for me every day! I also loved her view of the garden it made me think a lot about brokenness and redemption. I'm not broken enough over my sin.
P - Lord thank you for never ending grace and mercy that I don't deserve and need all the time. Help me to be broken over my sin and fall into redemption in you!
By the way...bad food day I've eaten everything in sight. I need self control! I guess I should pray for it.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Ginny - M2C day 10
Good Morning Girlz!!!
Karlyn, y'all have fun at tball! Jenifer praying for y'all while Dan is on his mission trip. Cindy give Owen a big hug from me! Amber glad babies are still doing good, praying for comfort for you. I'm headed down to one of my customer's ranches tomorrow. He has an annual BBQ and ropin, and it's always a lot of fun. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!
S - Do not love the world or anything in the world...For everything in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - comes not from the Father but from the world.
O - Where does my significance come from? The things the world says are important, or the truth of my Father?
A - I have found that giving in to cravings do satisfy, but that satisfaction doesn't last. Either we keep having to give in to the craving, or we have to change our ways. Change is hard. I'm good at coming up with excuses to why I should just give in. I love Karlyn's idea of having scriptures on hand to read when the cravings hit. I'm gonna do that too! Thanks Karlyn!
P - Lord, I pray for strength. Strength to not give in, see the big picture, and stand firm on Your truth.
Karlyn, y'all have fun at tball! Jenifer praying for y'all while Dan is on his mission trip. Cindy give Owen a big hug from me! Amber glad babies are still doing good, praying for comfort for you. I'm headed down to one of my customer's ranches tomorrow. He has an annual BBQ and ropin, and it's always a lot of fun. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!
S - Do not love the world or anything in the world...For everything in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - comes not from the Father but from the world.
O - Where does my significance come from? The things the world says are important, or the truth of my Father?
A - I have found that giving in to cravings do satisfy, but that satisfaction doesn't last. Either we keep having to give in to the craving, or we have to change our ways. Change is hard. I'm good at coming up with excuses to why I should just give in. I love Karlyn's idea of having scriptures on hand to read when the cravings hit. I'm gonna do that too! Thanks Karlyn!
P - Lord, I pray for strength. Strength to not give in, see the big picture, and stand firm on Your truth.
Karlyn M2C Day 10
Happy Friday everyone! We have tball this weekend because we were rained out last weekend. So far it's really been fun. Hope everyone else has a great last weekend in April.
S - Genesis 3:6 Eve's encounter with the fruit.
O - physical, material, significance craving: these are exactly what I'm battling right now more than ever it seems. Which tells me I'm way too focused on myself and my desires instead of focusing on Christ.
A - I want so much to resist and answer Satan like Jesus with "wanting God more, quoting truth, resisting, and being rewarded for it" My goal for the weekend is to write down a couple of verses to have on hand all weekend for when temptation comes.
P - God help me to not be self centered and focused on what I want but to focus on YOU and being rewarded by you.
S - Genesis 3:6 Eve's encounter with the fruit.
O - physical, material, significance craving: these are exactly what I'm battling right now more than ever it seems. Which tells me I'm way too focused on myself and my desires instead of focusing on Christ.
A - I want so much to resist and answer Satan like Jesus with "wanting God more, quoting truth, resisting, and being rewarded for it" My goal for the weekend is to write down a couple of verses to have on hand all weekend for when temptation comes.
P - God help me to not be self centered and focused on what I want but to focus on YOU and being rewarded by you.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Ginny - M2C day 9
S - The theif comes only to steal and kill and destory; I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full - John 10:10
O - Satan's objective is to hurt us. To see us fall. Jesus wants us to be blessed beyond all measure.
A - I would like to experience abundant joy in my eating, but right now I feel like I am stuck with no will power to turn Satan away and choose the better road. It's so hard sometimes!
P - Lord I know I am missing out of fullness & peace. Please help me stand firm against Satan and his temptations. May my lifestyle honor You.
O - Satan's objective is to hurt us. To see us fall. Jesus wants us to be blessed beyond all measure.
A - I would like to experience abundant joy in my eating, but right now I feel like I am stuck with no will power to turn Satan away and choose the better road. It's so hard sometimes!
P - Lord I know I am missing out of fullness & peace. Please help me stand firm against Satan and his temptations. May my lifestyle honor You.
Karlyn M2C Day 6-9
Thea hasn't felt well this week so that means no sleep for me and just trying to survive! But thank goodness we slept last night and it's a brand new day! I have loved each daily devotional and they have all been what I need to hear. Hear are my thoughts...
Day 6- 2 Thessalonians 3:5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance. Perseverance is hard for me. I get in the middle of something and when it gets hard I want to quit. If I focused on it being God's helping me persevere I would be in a better place. He always loves me no matter if I stick it out or fail. I am made for victory
Day 7- Match it with the truth! My trigger for food is stress. If something the least bit gets out of whack I run to food. And I do it without even realizing I'm sitting there eating. I want so much to run to Christ instead of food. I need to replace my thoughts of food and chewing with what verses from God's word can fill my soul. Truth is always stable.
Day 8- Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful! Wish we would have put that last sentence in out Tri Chi prayer! "Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food" PEACE will this choice add to my PEACE! I needed that yesterday!
Day 9- I am made for more than compromise, I'm made for God's promises in every area of my life. This strikes so many areas of my life. It's so easy for me to compromise. Especially with things I think are LITTLE things, but we learned this week the little makes up the big! I don't want to compromise I want to look at Satan and say you are a LIAR and I'm made for more!
One of my biggest sins and distractors from God is my relationship with food. Seeking him first will change this and it's an hourly struggle sometimes. Especially when I can justify eating all the time because I'm hungry from breast feeding. Please pray that in all I do that I'm seeking him first and not myself!
Love y'all and hope you had a great birthday Jen! Praying for your Aunt Ginny and your family! Amber still praying for y'all. Cindy hope your family is great.
Day 6- 2 Thessalonians 3:5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance. Perseverance is hard for me. I get in the middle of something and when it gets hard I want to quit. If I focused on it being God's helping me persevere I would be in a better place. He always loves me no matter if I stick it out or fail. I am made for victory
Day 7- Match it with the truth! My trigger for food is stress. If something the least bit gets out of whack I run to food. And I do it without even realizing I'm sitting there eating. I want so much to run to Christ instead of food. I need to replace my thoughts of food and chewing with what verses from God's word can fill my soul. Truth is always stable.
Day 8- Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful! Wish we would have put that last sentence in out Tri Chi prayer! "Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food" PEACE will this choice add to my PEACE! I needed that yesterday!
Day 9- I am made for more than compromise, I'm made for God's promises in every area of my life. This strikes so many areas of my life. It's so easy for me to compromise. Especially with things I think are LITTLE things, but we learned this week the little makes up the big! I don't want to compromise I want to look at Satan and say you are a LIAR and I'm made for more!
One of my biggest sins and distractors from God is my relationship with food. Seeking him first will change this and it's an hourly struggle sometimes. Especially when I can justify eating all the time because I'm hungry from breast feeding. Please pray that in all I do that I'm seeking him first and not myself!
Love y'all and hope you had a great birthday Jen! Praying for your Aunt Ginny and your family! Amber still praying for y'all. Cindy hope your family is great.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Ginny - M2C day 8
Hi Girlz!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JENIFER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
O.K. so I don't even have my book in front of me and I am going off of memory (which can be scary!). No SOAP today, just thoughts :) Lysa talked about keeping the small things small and looking at the bigger picture which is PEACE. I am guilty of NOT keeping the small things small when it comes to healthy eating. Looking past the here and now in regards to food is VERY hard for me. I am an all or nothing type of gal when it comes to food. If I mess up a little at lunch, well the day is shot might as well go all out the rest of the day and eat whatever I want. WRONG! When I taught Weight Watchers I would tell my members, "If you're walking down the stairs and you trip do you just throw yourself down the rest of the way or do you grab the handle and try to steady yourself so you can keep walking?" Let's just say I throw myself down the stairs a lot of the time. I see it as the easy way out at the moment. This is exactly where I need prayer. Self-control to keep the small things small and work towards the bigger goal of PEACE.
Lastly, if y'all would pray for my Aunt Lynn again. Things are not going good. They keep finding things and her body is very week. Thanks girls!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JENIFER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
O.K. so I don't even have my book in front of me and I am going off of memory (which can be scary!). No SOAP today, just thoughts :) Lysa talked about keeping the small things small and looking at the bigger picture which is PEACE. I am guilty of NOT keeping the small things small when it comes to healthy eating. Looking past the here and now in regards to food is VERY hard for me. I am an all or nothing type of gal when it comes to food. If I mess up a little at lunch, well the day is shot might as well go all out the rest of the day and eat whatever I want. WRONG! When I taught Weight Watchers I would tell my members, "If you're walking down the stairs and you trip do you just throw yourself down the rest of the way or do you grab the handle and try to steady yourself so you can keep walking?" Let's just say I throw myself down the stairs a lot of the time. I see it as the easy way out at the moment. This is exactly where I need prayer. Self-control to keep the small things small and work towards the bigger goal of PEACE.
Lastly, if y'all would pray for my Aunt Lynn again. Things are not going good. They keep finding things and her body is very week. Thanks girls!
Monday, April 23, 2012
Jen- M2C Day 6
The weekend was fun! My friend, Claire, flew in from Denver. My other friend, Kenya, drove up from Waco and my friend Lauren and I drove over to Dallas. We stayed in Allen and had a blast. We love to yard sale so we did a little of that Friday and from 6:30- 1:30 Sat. I love a good bargin. Shopped at Waters Creek, the outlets, Sam Moon, and willow bend mall. Ate why too much food!! My favorite was Brio at Waters Creek.The Taliapa melted in your mouth! Also went to Roy's for the first time, which was good.
Ginny- can't wait to see what you make. I have my mom's old sewing Machine in my closet and i keep saying I'm going to take a class!
Things are real busy this week. Dan is leaving at 5am for Senegal. I'm a little anxious about him leaving. The boys are having a hard time with it especially Micah. He's my tenderhearted and sensitive one.
S- I also did like you Ginny.
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
O- There is nothing in the entire world that can come between me and God. I can try and try to run away, make excuses, or find distractions. All that doesn't matter because God is always present, watching , and waiting for us to respond.
A- I need to come to him as I am without excuses. He loves me for all that. He's the one who created me. He wants to use me for His glory and to carry out His plans for his kingdom. Sometimes, actually, alot of times I forget that. Alot times I sit in my little corner of self pitty and think why would God want to use me. I have nothing to offer. There are other people out there that will do a better job than me. I really like at the end where she says that God doesn't want us to be stuck. We were made for more and that is victory.
P- Thank you for accepting me again and again. No matter what I look like or what I am going through you have your arms wide opened to accept me back into your arms. Help to remember that you made me for me.
Ginny- can't wait to see what you make. I have my mom's old sewing Machine in my closet and i keep saying I'm going to take a class!
Things are real busy this week. Dan is leaving at 5am for Senegal. I'm a little anxious about him leaving. The boys are having a hard time with it especially Micah. He's my tenderhearted and sensitive one.
S- I also did like you Ginny.
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
O- There is nothing in the entire world that can come between me and God. I can try and try to run away, make excuses, or find distractions. All that doesn't matter because God is always present, watching , and waiting for us to respond.
A- I need to come to him as I am without excuses. He loves me for all that. He's the one who created me. He wants to use me for His glory and to carry out His plans for his kingdom. Sometimes, actually, alot of times I forget that. Alot times I sit in my little corner of self pitty and think why would God want to use me. I have nothing to offer. There are other people out there that will do a better job than me. I really like at the end where she says that God doesn't want us to be stuck. We were made for more and that is victory.
P- Thank you for accepting me again and again. No matter what I look like or what I am going through you have your arms wide opened to accept me back into your arms. Help to remember that you made me for me.
Ginny - M2C day 6
Can we just take a moment to say YIKES to this new blogger update! Hope everyone had a good weekend. I didn't end up doing any sewing. I got wrapped up in a book and ended up reading the whole thing. Sooooooo good! Karlyn, I hope t-ball was fun and Jenifer I want to hear about Dallas!!!
S - "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
O - So, I cheated and didn't use the verse of the day, instead I went with one of the verses she talks about on page 27. Lysa uses this verse to prove that God's love is not used on our performance. Did y'all ever think of this verse in that way? In relation to performance? I guess I kind of did, but just never put that word to it. I like it. He died for me knowing I was sinner, so it's not like He is waiting around for me to do enough or be good enough to convince Him to love me. He does inspite of me missing the mark.
A - O.K. girls I can't hear that enough. I don't have to earn God's love. I can mess up. I can make the wrong decision. I can do something I know is not right and He still loves me. I love the last part on page 27..."Yes, we are only one good choice away from being back on the path of perseverance. But no matter how far off the path or how long we are on it, God is patient withus and loves us as a dearly beloved child - part of His family." Thank you for an unconditional love that stays no matter how many redos I have.
P - Lord thank You for Your love. Where would I be without it? I'm gonna mess up. I'm gonna get off track, but You love me. Thank You for that never ending love. I love You back.
S - "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
O - So, I cheated and didn't use the verse of the day, instead I went with one of the verses she talks about on page 27. Lysa uses this verse to prove that God's love is not used on our performance. Did y'all ever think of this verse in that way? In relation to performance? I guess I kind of did, but just never put that word to it. I like it. He died for me knowing I was sinner, so it's not like He is waiting around for me to do enough or be good enough to convince Him to love me. He does inspite of me missing the mark.
A - O.K. girls I can't hear that enough. I don't have to earn God's love. I can mess up. I can make the wrong decision. I can do something I know is not right and He still loves me. I love the last part on page 27..."Yes, we are only one good choice away from being back on the path of perseverance. But no matter how far off the path or how long we are on it, God is patient withus and loves us as a dearly beloved child - part of His family." Thank you for an unconditional love that stays no matter how many redos I have.
P - Lord thank You for Your love. Where would I be without it? I'm gonna mess up. I'm gonna get off track, but You love me. Thank You for that never ending love. I love You back.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Ginny - M2C day 5
Happy Friday everyone!!! I am going to be sewing this weekend!!! I know! Get excited! My parents got me a sewing machine for an early bday present and it arrived Wednesday. I am so excited!!! So my weekend will be laying out and reading during the day and sewing when it's dark. Hope everyone has a fun-filled couple of days!!!
Also, I know my Aunt Lynn is back home, but I'm not for sure how she is doing. I think they are still waiting to see how antibiotics work. I'll keep y'all posted. Thanks for praying!!!
S - You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. LET perseverance finish its work. James 1:3-4A
O - Ugh! Really? Why can't it be a quick fix? Why can't skinny thighs come over night?!?! James 1:3-4 tells me good things come to those who stick to it. We will reap if we do not grow weary. The finish line is worth it.
A - There is a line from yesterday that has stuck with me. Lysa wrote, "Because tucked in with the lettuce & grilled chicken is the realization I am capable of self-control." That really hit home for me. It is the "why" to why I am doing this. It's not just about keeping within my weight watcher points and crossing off my exercise routine. It's the bigger picture...the obedience...the self-control...which is exactly what the Lord would desire for me. Lysa talks a lot about the "cycle of defeat" and how "we are made for more." Victory will only come through perseverance.
P - Lord I pray that I keep my eyes on the big picture. When temporal situations present themself and I am tempted in the area of food or others, may I keep firm to the race I am on.
HAPPY WEEKEND TO EVERYONE!!!
Also, I know my Aunt Lynn is back home, but I'm not for sure how she is doing. I think they are still waiting to see how antibiotics work. I'll keep y'all posted. Thanks for praying!!!
S - You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. LET perseverance finish its work. James 1:3-4A
O - Ugh! Really? Why can't it be a quick fix? Why can't skinny thighs come over night?!?! James 1:3-4 tells me good things come to those who stick to it. We will reap if we do not grow weary. The finish line is worth it.
A - There is a line from yesterday that has stuck with me. Lysa wrote, "Because tucked in with the lettuce & grilled chicken is the realization I am capable of self-control." That really hit home for me. It is the "why" to why I am doing this. It's not just about keeping within my weight watcher points and crossing off my exercise routine. It's the bigger picture...the obedience...the self-control...which is exactly what the Lord would desire for me. Lysa talks a lot about the "cycle of defeat" and how "we are made for more." Victory will only come through perseverance.
P - Lord I pray that I keep my eyes on the big picture. When temporal situations present themself and I am tempted in the area of food or others, may I keep firm to the race I am on.
HAPPY WEEKEND TO EVERYONE!!!
Karlyn M2C day 5
Praying for all of you! Amber I'll pray that you and Jeremy have tons of wisdom for all your decisions! Have fun in Dallas Jen! Cindy and Ginny have a great weekend! We have opening day of t-ball tomorrow!
S - James 1:3-4A You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work.
O- AHH perseverance can be soo hard! It goes back to yesterday choosing JOY! Consistency is NOT a strong point for me. Thinking in terms of PROTECTION PROVISION and PROCESS makes the task sound a little easier.
A - When perseverance becomes hard in any situation I'm going to try to think of how much closer I will be to God afterwards if I will just STICK with it.
P - Lord I need this perseverance stuff but you know how hard it is for me to stick with something till the end. Give me milestones along the way I can celebrate and be filled with JOY. Thank you for sticking beside me and never giving up!
S - James 1:3-4A You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work.
O- AHH perseverance can be soo hard! It goes back to yesterday choosing JOY! Consistency is NOT a strong point for me. Thinking in terms of PROTECTION PROVISION and PROCESS makes the task sound a little easier.
A - When perseverance becomes hard in any situation I'm going to try to think of how much closer I will be to God afterwards if I will just STICK with it.
P - Lord I need this perseverance stuff but you know how hard it is for me to stick with something till the end. Give me milestones along the way I can celebrate and be filled with JOY. Thank you for sticking beside me and never giving up!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Amber- Made 2 Crave
s.i have enjoyed the devotional so far and god spoken to me on many fronts. (sorry my phone is not letting me capitalize.) i have also enjoyed reading your posts, very enlightening. i'm just going to hit the highlights of the first 4 days.
day 1- unsettledness- a word i have used a lot inthe last few weeks. things aren't bad or anything, but just have been unsettled. in fact, jeremy told me the other night, " i think i'm just ready to settle someplace." we still feel called overseas, but we will have to find other ways to go. but the longing is there especially with three kids under the age of 2...settledness sounds good. but perhaps god doesn't want us to be settled, maybe he doesn't want us one location with lots of people we are comfortable with.
the night before this devotion ab woke up and i told jeremy that she was just unsettled. she is flexible, but with me going to the hospital many times, her sleep has been disturbed and different people have been keeping her. she wanted jeremy to hold her, but didn't want me out of her sight. i started thinking about this. being unsettled can be a good thing if it drives us to cling to our father. perhaps that's where we are now, perhaps that's where we will always be. not such a bad place to be if we are clinging to the right things.
that's all for now!
Jen M2C Day 4
I won't be around tomorrow. I'm going with 2 of my friends who have recently moved away from Shreveport. We are meeting in Dallas for a girls weekend.
S-James 1:2 consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kind
O- This is very hard for me. I'm such an emotional person and react this way to almost every situation. A lot of the times its before I even know if its good or bad. That I have choice to let it eat me up or be joyful.I really liked the tought of the day. If do chose joy then I'll be blessed no matter what.
A- When it comes to my eating I have choice too. For me I have to have a plan if I don't then I'm tempted. When I give in I feel horrible and disappointed. Instead I need to chose joy and be glad that I even have option in my food choices. Also that I feel better about myself and closer to God when I make the right choices.
P- Lord, help me to find joy in all things. Help me not to be tempted to react negatively in sitautions.
S-James 1:2 consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kind
O- This is very hard for me. I'm such an emotional person and react this way to almost every situation. A lot of the times its before I even know if its good or bad. That I have choice to let it eat me up or be joyful.I really liked the tought of the day. If do chose joy then I'll be blessed no matter what.
A- When it comes to my eating I have choice too. For me I have to have a plan if I don't then I'm tempted. When I give in I feel horrible and disappointed. Instead I need to chose joy and be glad that I even have option in my food choices. Also that I feel better about myself and closer to God when I make the right choices.
P- Lord, help me to find joy in all things. Help me not to be tempted to react negatively in sitautions.
Karlyn M2C days 2- 4
Oh my goodness I'm so thankful for this devotional. I love how God knows our future and knows the scripture I'm going to need. Every day this week the verses have been right on point for what I needed that day!
Day 2 Ryan went and met with the principal of a school we were considering for Sawyer and Isaiah 41:10 was exactly what I needed. I needed strength and I needed him to hold me up. I also needed to be reminded that I can't let God down because he's the one holding me!
Day 3 Again Acts 5:29 was exactly what I needed! Being reminded that I don't need to please anyone but God was reassuring for my decisions from this week. I'm a people pleaser and I've been working on changing my mindset. Also defining my day and week by obedience and nothing else were powerful words for me. "The only true satisfaction we can seek is the satisfaction of being obedient to the Lord"
Day 4
S - James 1:2 consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.
O - It always makes me nervous when this verse comes up! "stick with what we've decided before the moment of temptation" "our feelings...don't need to dictate our decisions", "James 1:4 that you may be mature and complete not lacking anything", "instead of feeling deprived I will rejoice", "I am capable of self-control"
A - I'm glad she brought out "Consider It" b/c there's so many times I don't FEEL it! My sister signs off on everything with CHOOSE JOY. She's done this for a while because for 10 years she has gone through some rough times and realized that she had to find and keep her joy in everything or she would literally go nuts. Today I want to be joyful in everything and in every decision without feeling deprived, especially in the frustrating trial moments of the day.
P- Lord help me to consider your Joy and peace in every aspect of my day. Thanks you for providing Joy that we can get from nothing else! PLEASE give me self-control today.
Day 2 Ryan went and met with the principal of a school we were considering for Sawyer and Isaiah 41:10 was exactly what I needed. I needed strength and I needed him to hold me up. I also needed to be reminded that I can't let God down because he's the one holding me!
Day 3 Again Acts 5:29 was exactly what I needed! Being reminded that I don't need to please anyone but God was reassuring for my decisions from this week. I'm a people pleaser and I've been working on changing my mindset. Also defining my day and week by obedience and nothing else were powerful words for me. "The only true satisfaction we can seek is the satisfaction of being obedient to the Lord"
Day 4
S - James 1:2 consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.
O - It always makes me nervous when this verse comes up! "stick with what we've decided before the moment of temptation" "our feelings...don't need to dictate our decisions", "James 1:4 that you may be mature and complete not lacking anything", "instead of feeling deprived I will rejoice", "I am capable of self-control"
A - I'm glad she brought out "Consider It" b/c there's so many times I don't FEEL it! My sister signs off on everything with CHOOSE JOY. She's done this for a while because for 10 years she has gone through some rough times and realized that she had to find and keep her joy in everything or she would literally go nuts. Today I want to be joyful in everything and in every decision without feeling deprived, especially in the frustrating trial moments of the day.
P- Lord help me to consider your Joy and peace in every aspect of my day. Thanks you for providing Joy that we can get from nothing else! PLEASE give me self-control today.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Ginny - M2C day 3
S - We must obey God rather than human beings!
O - Huh, there's an exclamation point at the end of that. Do you think the Lord knew we needed to hear this loud and clear? I know I do! So much, other than obedience to God, takes precedence in my day. I invest more into striving after man's approval than a righteous heart.
A - When I think about what defines my week...day...moment, obedience is not the first thought that pops into my head. By the grace of God, He has given me a lot of freedom in this area. For awhile I was really hung up on this one person and the relationship we had that determined what my mood was and how I acted. God is still carrying me through the process of letting that relationship go, but at least I've made forward progress :) It's not easy to make the "unseen" priority in a world of instant gratification, but as He teaches me, I grow to see that obedience to Him is well worth it and exactly where I want to be.
P - Lord forgive me when I make other's approval or other things more imporant than following You. I want to be obedient.
O - Huh, there's an exclamation point at the end of that. Do you think the Lord knew we needed to hear this loud and clear? I know I do! So much, other than obedience to God, takes precedence in my day. I invest more into striving after man's approval than a righteous heart.
A - When I think about what defines my week...day...moment, obedience is not the first thought that pops into my head. By the grace of God, He has given me a lot of freedom in this area. For awhile I was really hung up on this one person and the relationship we had that determined what my mood was and how I acted. God is still carrying me through the process of letting that relationship go, but at least I've made forward progress :) It's not easy to make the "unseen" priority in a world of instant gratification, but as He teaches me, I grow to see that obedience to Him is well worth it and exactly where I want to be.
P - Lord forgive me when I make other's approval or other things more imporant than following You. I want to be obedient.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Cindy - M2C day 2
S - Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
O - There is no need to be afraid or have fear because God is with me. He says He will give me strength and help me. He doesn't say that He will sometimes, maybe, if I have time, if I think about it...no loop holes. He says He will.
A - My focus doesn't need to be on my insecurities, my weaknesses or my fear; but needs to be on the Lord. When I have the right perspective then I can see God's power at work. He is able to use me in ways I can't even fathom. When I am focused on Him and His will then I am secure in Him, strong with Him and confident because of Him.
P - Lord, You are my strength and my help. I choose to focus on You and Your power and not my inadequacies. Make me into the woman of God that You want me to be.
O - There is no need to be afraid or have fear because God is with me. He says He will give me strength and help me. He doesn't say that He will sometimes, maybe, if I have time, if I think about it...no loop holes. He says He will.
A - My focus doesn't need to be on my insecurities, my weaknesses or my fear; but needs to be on the Lord. When I have the right perspective then I can see God's power at work. He is able to use me in ways I can't even fathom. When I am focused on Him and His will then I am secure in Him, strong with Him and confident because of Him.
P - Lord, You are my strength and my help. I choose to focus on You and Your power and not my inadequacies. Make me into the woman of God that You want me to be.
Ginny - M2C day 2
Good Morning Girlz!!! Started the day out renewing my drivers license - oh the sights! Did you know you need to bring your dog with you to the drivers license office? Yes. It's how it works down here. Crazy, crazy people!!!
S - Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
O - This is my favorite verse! I love Isaiah 41:10! I love it because it reminds me it's not up to me. I don't have to make sure this happens. I don't have to fret. I don't have to hold my breath hoping it all gets taken care of. God has it! It's all in His hands. I'm in His hands.
A - A couple of things I really liked from today:
"When I don't have peace physically, I don't have peace spiritually. I can't separate the two." Eating healthy and how I feel about my appearance is the pivot point to me. It affects everything. When I'm on track with my eating & exercising the house stays cleaner, I'm better with time management, I have more time to relax, I enjoy getting things done, the finances are in better order, etc. etc. It affects everything! I like how Lysa makes the connection of physical determination to spiritual motivation.
"How can you let God down when you weren't ever holding Him up?" What a good truth! He is not depending on me. He's got it. All on His own. He's where I put my hope, not vise versa.
P - Lord I pray I live today in the truth that You've got it. You are holding me up by Your arm, and there is no better place to be.
S - Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
O - This is my favorite verse! I love Isaiah 41:10! I love it because it reminds me it's not up to me. I don't have to make sure this happens. I don't have to fret. I don't have to hold my breath hoping it all gets taken care of. God has it! It's all in His hands. I'm in His hands.
A - A couple of things I really liked from today:
"When I don't have peace physically, I don't have peace spiritually. I can't separate the two." Eating healthy and how I feel about my appearance is the pivot point to me. It affects everything. When I'm on track with my eating & exercising the house stays cleaner, I'm better with time management, I have more time to relax, I enjoy getting things done, the finances are in better order, etc. etc. It affects everything! I like how Lysa makes the connection of physical determination to spiritual motivation.
"How can you let God down when you weren't ever holding Him up?" What a good truth! He is not depending on me. He's got it. All on His own. He's where I put my hope, not vise versa.
P - Lord I pray I live today in the truth that You've got it. You are holding me up by Your arm, and there is no better place to be.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Made to Crave Day 1
I'm back!!! I have been doing a couple of studies the last few weeks at our church so that's where I've been. We just finished Love and Respect. WOW! Talk about stepping on your toes. I never realized that a lot of my thoughts about marriage and relationships were based on the world's view and not God's word. If any of ya'll do be prepared that the first 5 chapters hit women hard. We had many girls in our group quit because they couldn't handle it.
Another big thing is Grant went to the front of the church yesterday. He became a Christian on April 3rd. During all those bad storms. He will be baptized the next time my dad comes for a visit.
S- The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in Heaven. Hebrews 1:3
0- Unsettled- I never would have used this word but its true. The whole last year I've felt very unsettled but I'm finally seeing the light. I took on losing weight and I kept 25lbs off for a year now. Still trying to be content in that. Our Sunday School class at church went through a split back in the fall and things finally seem to be settling down from that. It was hard for Dan and I not to take it personally since we are the leaders of the class. In fact our class just came back from a family mission trip to N.O. It was amazing and honestly the trip would have never happened if we hadn't split. There is now unity.
Right now I feel unsettled because Dan is leaving on the 27th for Senegal Africa for 9 days. I'm already nervous about him being gone and wondering about the what if's like what if I have one of my panic attacks, if something happens to him, etc... Also with my groups of friends. So many of our close friends have moved away in the last few months. I start wondering ok who's going to be my boys friends. Who is going to keep them out of trouble if they don't have that close group of christian friends. And the other thing has me unsettled in Grant's school. We love but no one from our church or neighborhood goes to that school. He's fine and is thriving. But sometimes I wish he did go to school with people we see on a regular basis. I struggle with keeping there or testing him again for one of the magnet schools. We finally have settled on Micah doing another year of preschool since his birthday is Sept. 26th. He could use an extra year.
A- I need to remember that God sees the big picture. That being unsettled is a good thing sometimes because I grow from feeling this way.
P- Lord, encourage me in all my battles that I have going on in my life. Help me to fight them with your word and give me complete understanding.
Another big thing is Grant went to the front of the church yesterday. He became a Christian on April 3rd. During all those bad storms. He will be baptized the next time my dad comes for a visit.
S- The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in Heaven. Hebrews 1:3
0- Unsettled- I never would have used this word but its true. The whole last year I've felt very unsettled but I'm finally seeing the light. I took on losing weight and I kept 25lbs off for a year now. Still trying to be content in that. Our Sunday School class at church went through a split back in the fall and things finally seem to be settling down from that. It was hard for Dan and I not to take it personally since we are the leaders of the class. In fact our class just came back from a family mission trip to N.O. It was amazing and honestly the trip would have never happened if we hadn't split. There is now unity.
Right now I feel unsettled because Dan is leaving on the 27th for Senegal Africa for 9 days. I'm already nervous about him being gone and wondering about the what if's like what if I have one of my panic attacks, if something happens to him, etc... Also with my groups of friends. So many of our close friends have moved away in the last few months. I start wondering ok who's going to be my boys friends. Who is going to keep them out of trouble if they don't have that close group of christian friends. And the other thing has me unsettled in Grant's school. We love but no one from our church or neighborhood goes to that school. He's fine and is thriving. But sometimes I wish he did go to school with people we see on a regular basis. I struggle with keeping there or testing him again for one of the magnet schools. We finally have settled on Micah doing another year of preschool since his birthday is Sept. 26th. He could use an extra year.
A- I need to remember that God sees the big picture. That being unsettled is a good thing sometimes because I grow from feeling this way.
P- Lord, encourage me in all my battles that I have going on in my life. Help me to fight them with your word and give me complete understanding.
Ginny - M2C day 1
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in Heaven. Hebrews 1:3
O - Jesus fulfilled all. He took care of it. Left no stone unturned. It is through His completeness that I find remedy for my unsettledness.
A - When I think of unsettled I think of my identity. Who am I and who do I want to be? Questions you would think would be figured out by 33, but there are days...many days. I know my identity is found in Christ and when I am secure in Him, then I am secure with who I am, but that can be a swinging pendulum. All the temporal things are good...I love my job, I love where I live, I absolutely love my life, but those deeper questions of the heart are where I find my unsettledness.
P - Lord I pray that I may continue to seek You in the light of knowing who I am in You. Speak to my heart, I pray.
S - The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in Heaven. Hebrews 1:3
O - Jesus fulfilled all. He took care of it. Left no stone unturned. It is through His completeness that I find remedy for my unsettledness.
A - When I think of unsettled I think of my identity. Who am I and who do I want to be? Questions you would think would be figured out by 33, but there are days...many days. I know my identity is found in Christ and when I am secure in Him, then I am secure with who I am, but that can be a swinging pendulum. All the temporal things are good...I love my job, I love where I live, I absolutely love my life, but those deeper questions of the heart are where I find my unsettledness.
P - Lord I pray that I may continue to seek You in the light of knowing who I am in You. Speak to my heart, I pray.
Unsettled, Karlyn
Happy Monday Everyone!
S - Hebrews 1:3 The Son is the RADIANCE of GOD"S GLORY and the exact representation of his BEING, SUSTAINING all things by his powerful WORD. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
O - Being unsettled is exactly what I feel right now. We are trying to make decisions about Sawyer's school for next year and all I have felt is unsettled. This has been the hardest decision we've had to make in a long time and I just want him to be where God wants us to be where his heart can be protected and he can continue to be drawn to Jesus. I also need to be unsettled in my heart for others. I've become way to comfortable. Her use of distractions and destructions best describes me right now:)
A - I need more compassion for others and be unsettled for them and I need to work on self control with my eating. I've got the excercise happening now I need to release the food addiction!
P - Father clearly show us where to put Sawyer in school and give me a more compassionate heart towards others!
S - Hebrews 1:3 The Son is the RADIANCE of GOD"S GLORY and the exact representation of his BEING, SUSTAINING all things by his powerful WORD. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
O - Being unsettled is exactly what I feel right now. We are trying to make decisions about Sawyer's school for next year and all I have felt is unsettled. This has been the hardest decision we've had to make in a long time and I just want him to be where God wants us to be where his heart can be protected and he can continue to be drawn to Jesus. I also need to be unsettled in my heart for others. I've become way to comfortable. Her use of distractions and destructions best describes me right now:)
A - I need more compassion for others and be unsettled for them and I need to work on self control with my eating. I've got the excercise happening now I need to release the food addiction!
P - Father clearly show us where to put Sawyer in school and give me a more compassionate heart towards others!
Friday, April 13, 2012
Proverbs 5, Karlyn
Sorry I've been absent this week, only absent in posting not reading:)
Excited to start new devotional next week!
Praying for Aunt Lynn and Natalie!!! Hope you have a great weekend.
Amber, praying for the health of those sweet babies and you!
S- v1-2 My son give attention to my wisdom Incline your ear to my understanding. That you may observe discretion and your lips may reserve knowledge.
O- I know this passage is about an adulterous woman but these verses really struck me. The more I listen to his instruction, understand it, observe discretion, and keep His knowledge on my lips the better off I will be and the less sin takes over!
A - today especially I need his wisdom and understanding. It's one of those days where I'm trying to think through some important decisions. These seem to be the times where Satan tempts me most because I can get so distracted!
P- Lord help me to have your discernment and wisdom today!
Excited to start new devotional next week!
Praying for Aunt Lynn and Natalie!!! Hope you have a great weekend.
Amber, praying for the health of those sweet babies and you!
S- v1-2 My son give attention to my wisdom Incline your ear to my understanding. That you may observe discretion and your lips may reserve knowledge.
O- I know this passage is about an adulterous woman but these verses really struck me. The more I listen to his instruction, understand it, observe discretion, and keep His knowledge on my lips the better off I will be and the less sin takes over!
A - today especially I need his wisdom and understanding. It's one of those days where I'm trying to think through some important decisions. These seem to be the times where Satan tempts me most because I can get so distracted!
P- Lord help me to have your discernment and wisdom today!
Ginny - Proverbs 5
Good Morning Girlz!!! Hope everyone has a fun weekend planned!
S - Drink water from your own cistern And fresh water from your own well.
O - The entire chapter of Proverbs 5 basically is saying don't go looking for trouble. Stay where you are and don't go getting mixed up in things you shouldn't.
A - This reminds me a lot of my verse from yesterday...keeping your focus forward. I need this today. I had a situation come up yesterday that got my spirit all out of sorts. I had to stop and remind myself, "Is any of this known, true fact? Don't go barrowing worry when you don't even know it to be true. Face forward. Keep walking on."
P - Lord my desire is to walk in a way that honors You. I don't want to go and get mixed up with things and people that aren't also walking in Your light. Help me stand strong.
S - Drink water from your own cistern And fresh water from your own well.
O - The entire chapter of Proverbs 5 basically is saying don't go looking for trouble. Stay where you are and don't go getting mixed up in things you shouldn't.
A - This reminds me a lot of my verse from yesterday...keeping your focus forward. I need this today. I had a situation come up yesterday that got my spirit all out of sorts. I had to stop and remind myself, "Is any of this known, true fact? Don't go barrowing worry when you don't even know it to be true. Face forward. Keep walking on."
P - Lord my desire is to walk in a way that honors You. I don't want to go and get mixed up with things and people that aren't also walking in Your light. Help me stand strong.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Ginny - Proverbs 4
Good Afternoon Girlz!!!
S - Do not turn to the right nor to the left 4:27
O - Face forward. Keep going straight ahead. Don't get mixed up in all the fluff. Keep putting one foot in front of the other.
A - There were lots of good verses in today's chapter, but this is one I often quote to myself. Don't turn to the right or left. Keep facing forward. How easy it is to get distracted by all the other stuff? It's enticing. Tempting. Persuasive. That's when I have to stop and tell myself, "keep facing forward." Stay on the straight and narrow.
P - Lord I pray for strength to keep going straight. How tempting it is to get distracted by other things. Help me keep my eyes on what is right and not get caught up in all the distractions.
S - Do not turn to the right nor to the left 4:27
O - Face forward. Keep going straight ahead. Don't get mixed up in all the fluff. Keep putting one foot in front of the other.
A - There were lots of good verses in today's chapter, but this is one I often quote to myself. Don't turn to the right or left. Keep facing forward. How easy it is to get distracted by all the other stuff? It's enticing. Tempting. Persuasive. That's when I have to stop and tell myself, "keep facing forward." Stay on the straight and narrow.
P - Lord I pray for strength to keep going straight. How tempting it is to get distracted by other things. Help me keep my eyes on what is right and not get caught up in all the distractions.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Ginny - Proverbs 2 & 3
S - For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, Proverbs 2:6-7
How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13
O - Wisdom, knowledge, understanding...it all comes from the Lord. If I want these things, I must know my Lord and knowing Him takes being in His Word, talking to Him, listening to Him & seeking Him.
A - Just within the last couple of days the Lord has pressed upon my heart the need to return to the basics. The basics of what is right and wrong. For instance how I will let myself tell a white lie, but a white lie is still a lie and it is still wrong. I want my actions to be honorable. I don't want to do what is easy or a shortcut I want to do and stand up for what is right. I've seen a lot of examples in my life lately of people that are doing what is right no matter if it is popular or not, and I want to be like them. I want to walk in integrity (2:7).
P - Lord I ask for knowledge and understanding. May I see things the way You see things. May I do what is right in Your eyes. Help me to be a witness of honor and integrity to those around me.
I have a couple of other prayers requests today. While I was writing this entry I got an email from my mom that my Aunt Lynn (the one in Tulsa that has the cancer) has lost 12 pounds and they are in the hospital in Tulsa. My cousin, Stacie, flew in from Houston this morning. Please pray for all of them and that the antibiotics they are hoping her body takes, work.
Next, I ask that you pray for my friend Natalie. She was one of my Weight Watcher members. She is a doll! She's mid-twenties and is 4'2" and her last name is "Short." Is that not great! Anyhow, she is cute as a bug with a definite wild streak. Seriously, the girl really is "too cool" to hang out with me, but I love her and we have the best time. I have been praying for Natalie's salvation for a couple of months now. We get together for lunch about twice a month and today at lunch the Lord opened some doors of conversation that allowed us to talk about some "Christian" things. The Lord has put a lot of good Christians in Natalie's path lately, and she even told me about a book she is reading by this "Beth Moore lady, ever heard of her?" Ha! Love it! So, my prayer is....grow seeds grow! There is so much planting going on in her life right now. I know Natalie and I wouldn't have kept in touch after I quit Weight Watchers had the Lord not had bigger plans. He is in this and I want to be a help and friend to Natalie.
Thank y'all for praying! Love you gals!
How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13
O - Wisdom, knowledge, understanding...it all comes from the Lord. If I want these things, I must know my Lord and knowing Him takes being in His Word, talking to Him, listening to Him & seeking Him.
A - Just within the last couple of days the Lord has pressed upon my heart the need to return to the basics. The basics of what is right and wrong. For instance how I will let myself tell a white lie, but a white lie is still a lie and it is still wrong. I want my actions to be honorable. I don't want to do what is easy or a shortcut I want to do and stand up for what is right. I've seen a lot of examples in my life lately of people that are doing what is right no matter if it is popular or not, and I want to be like them. I want to walk in integrity (2:7).
P - Lord I ask for knowledge and understanding. May I see things the way You see things. May I do what is right in Your eyes. Help me to be a witness of honor and integrity to those around me.
I have a couple of other prayers requests today. While I was writing this entry I got an email from my mom that my Aunt Lynn (the one in Tulsa that has the cancer) has lost 12 pounds and they are in the hospital in Tulsa. My cousin, Stacie, flew in from Houston this morning. Please pray for all of them and that the antibiotics they are hoping her body takes, work.
Next, I ask that you pray for my friend Natalie. She was one of my Weight Watcher members. She is a doll! She's mid-twenties and is 4'2" and her last name is "Short." Is that not great! Anyhow, she is cute as a bug with a definite wild streak. Seriously, the girl really is "too cool" to hang out with me, but I love her and we have the best time. I have been praying for Natalie's salvation for a couple of months now. We get together for lunch about twice a month and today at lunch the Lord opened some doors of conversation that allowed us to talk about some "Christian" things. The Lord has put a lot of good Christians in Natalie's path lately, and she even told me about a book she is reading by this "Beth Moore lady, ever heard of her?" Ha! Love it! So, my prayer is....grow seeds grow! There is so much planting going on in her life right now. I know Natalie and I wouldn't have kept in touch after I quit Weight Watchers had the Lord not had bigger plans. He is in this and I want to be a help and friend to Natalie.
Thank y'all for praying! Love you gals!
Monday, April 9, 2012
Ginny - Proverbs 1
S - For the waywardness of the naive will kill them, And the complacency of fools will destroy them. “But he who listens to me shall live securely And will be at ease from the dread of evil.”
O - God wants to protect us. He has given His Word and His Spirit to direct us. When we stick with Him and seek to do what is right, He protects us from evil.
A - You know it's easy to make the wrong decision, and it's not easy to make the right decision. It doesn't take much for me to get off track. Not that life is a game of 3 strikes you're out, but it certainly is easy to miss the pitch. I love the words "live securely." Security means no matter the pitch...fast, curve, change up, slow...and no matter my swing...strike, homeroom, foul...my security is found in Him. I don't have to worry about it. I know my Father will protect me. How many times have I listened to the world and gotten nervous, or compromised my convictions, or mixed up my priorities. I'd rather live securely and that takes LISTENING to Him. He will help me through, no matter the pitch.
P - Lord help me to stop and listen to You. May I find my security in You and not in the ways of the world. May my confidence come from You.
O - God wants to protect us. He has given His Word and His Spirit to direct us. When we stick with Him and seek to do what is right, He protects us from evil.
A - You know it's easy to make the wrong decision, and it's not easy to make the right decision. It doesn't take much for me to get off track. Not that life is a game of 3 strikes you're out, but it certainly is easy to miss the pitch. I love the words "live securely." Security means no matter the pitch...fast, curve, change up, slow...and no matter my swing...strike, homeroom, foul...my security is found in Him. I don't have to worry about it. I know my Father will protect me. How many times have I listened to the world and gotten nervous, or compromised my convictions, or mixed up my priorities. I'd rather live securely and that takes LISTENING to Him. He will help me through, no matter the pitch.
P - Lord help me to stop and listen to You. May I find my security in You and not in the ways of the world. May my confidence come from You.
Ginny - from Lysa
Hey Girlz!!!
Since we've decided to take the Lysa route, I wanted to share with y'all my all time favorite blog of her's. It's from Easter last year, and even this year as I sat in the pew Sunday morning I thought of her words. I hope your heart is revived as mine was at her simple thought...the stir.
The Stir
You know what my favorite part of the Easter miracle is? It’s hard to choose a favorite, but I have one.
It’s not the stone rolling away.
It’s not the burial clothes left behind.
It’s not the disciples reaction when they saw our risen Lord.
It’s not the nail marks still present. It’s not what Jesus said before ascending to heaven. Although each of those snapshots of reality represent truth so profound the breath slips from my chest, they aren’t what makes my soul leak tears.
No.
It’s the stir.
The stir no one saw.
That first second Jesus twitched beneath the burial clothes and death lost her sting. Hope, glorious, glorious hope rose in that second when the world still felt the weight of death. Hope twitched. Hope moved. Hope stirred. And Jesus arose.
God reminds us of the stir in so many ways.
A branch looks dead and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. Places that soon burst forth green life.
A drought threatens to dry out the life of everything planted and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. A wind shifts, a cloud bursts, and heaven pours forth.
A woman is told her womb will not and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. Her baby will come through a stranger’s womb and in an instant her arms are filled.
The stir no one saw.
The stir we so often miss.
The stir we so desperately need to remember.
The stir was.
The stir is.
The stir will forever be.
Even when we can’t see it.
He is risen, my friend. And because He is risen we can know there is a stir happening behind whatever tomb threatens to close over our hope today.Yes, there is a stir happening in places we can’t see. He is risen indeed.
Since we've decided to take the Lysa route, I wanted to share with y'all my all time favorite blog of her's. It's from Easter last year, and even this year as I sat in the pew Sunday morning I thought of her words. I hope your heart is revived as mine was at her simple thought...the stir.
The Stir
You know what my favorite part of the Easter miracle is? It’s hard to choose a favorite, but I have one.
It’s not the stone rolling away.
It’s not the burial clothes left behind.
It’s not the disciples reaction when they saw our risen Lord.
It’s not the nail marks still present. It’s not what Jesus said before ascending to heaven. Although each of those snapshots of reality represent truth so profound the breath slips from my chest, they aren’t what makes my soul leak tears.
No.
It’s the stir.
The stir no one saw.
That first second Jesus twitched beneath the burial clothes and death lost her sting. Hope, glorious, glorious hope rose in that second when the world still felt the weight of death. Hope twitched. Hope moved. Hope stirred. And Jesus arose.
God reminds us of the stir in so many ways.
A branch looks dead and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. Places that soon burst forth green life.
A drought threatens to dry out the life of everything planted and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. A wind shifts, a cloud bursts, and heaven pours forth.
A woman is told her womb will not and yet a stir is happening in places we can’t see. Her baby will come through a stranger’s womb and in an instant her arms are filled.
The stir no one saw.
The stir we so often miss.
The stir we so desperately need to remember.
The stir was.
The stir is.
The stir will forever be.
Even when we can’t see it.
He is risen, my friend. And because He is risen we can know there is a stir happening behind whatever tomb threatens to close over our hope today.Yes, there is a stir happening in places we can’t see. He is risen indeed.
Next up...
Ginny did your friend come to church? I hope so. And I hope everyone had a great Easter, we did.
I would love to do the Lysa devotional. Is it available as an ebook or do I need to go get the book? I'm also interested in the other author you mentioned. Would you want to keep going every day and start with Proverbs 1 until I can get the Lysa book? I need this accountability!
Saturday was my long day to run and I did 4 miles. The first mile and 1/2 I ran the rest I did intervals. I was barely able to move the rest of the night:) but wasn't sore yesterday! Feels good to be back running again I just need to get some good playlists!
Thinking of everyone and praying for all of you! Amber hang in there, Cindy hope you're getting sleep, Jenifer I miss ya, and Ginny have fun at work this week!
I would love to do the Lysa devotional. Is it available as an ebook or do I need to go get the book? I'm also interested in the other author you mentioned. Would you want to keep going every day and start with Proverbs 1 until I can get the Lysa book? I need this accountability!
Saturday was my long day to run and I did 4 miles. The first mile and 1/2 I ran the rest I did intervals. I was barely able to move the rest of the night:) but wasn't sore yesterday! Feels good to be back running again I just need to get some good playlists!
Thinking of everyone and praying for all of you! Amber hang in there, Cindy hope you're getting sleep, Jenifer I miss ya, and Ginny have fun at work this week!
Ephesians 6:19-24, Karlyn
S - And pray for me too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldy explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for the Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now still preachig this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him as I should. TO bring you up to date Tychicus will give you a full report about what I am doing and how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faitful helper in the Lord's work. I have sent him to you for this very purpose to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. Peace be with you, dear brothers and sisters and may God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you love with faithfulness. MAy God's grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus christ.
O - Boldy explpain God's plan...there have been several instances lately that I have felt I need to go to some folks and invite them to our church and I haven't taken that opportunity or even just begin a conversation with them to start a relationship.
A - I need boldness. I cower down very easily and I want to be bold for Christ. I want everyone I encounter to know with out a doubt that I serve the Lord and He is my everything. I don't want them to even have to wonder.
P - Lord I pray for boldness to share you and to live for you and to proclaim who you are to me. Help me to never be ashamed of all you are and what you ahve done in my life! Show me how to live boldly in Christ!
O - Boldy explpain God's plan...there have been several instances lately that I have felt I need to go to some folks and invite them to our church and I haven't taken that opportunity or even just begin a conversation with them to start a relationship.
A - I need boldness. I cower down very easily and I want to be bold for Christ. I want everyone I encounter to know with out a doubt that I serve the Lord and He is my everything. I don't want them to even have to wonder.
P - Lord I pray for boldness to share you and to live for you and to proclaim who you are to me. Help me to never be ashamed of all you are and what you ahve done in my life! Show me how to live boldly in Christ!
Ephesians 6:18, Karlyn
S - Pray in the Spirit at all times and in every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
O - Having a heart that is ready for conversations with the Lord at all times is very important. To be able to communicate our needs, wants, worship, and to intercede for others.
A - I find myself praying for needs and wants more than worship and intercession. My desire is to get better at the second part! I want to put Him and others first not myself.
P - Lord I praise you for who you are and for being the One true risen Lord. You are Holy and righteous and loving!
O - Having a heart that is ready for conversations with the Lord at all times is very important. To be able to communicate our needs, wants, worship, and to intercede for others.
A - I find myself praying for needs and wants more than worship and intercession. My desire is to get better at the second part! I want to put Him and others first not myself.
P - Lord I praise you for who you are and for being the One true risen Lord. You are Holy and righteous and loving!
Friday, April 6, 2012
Ginny - prayer request
Hey Gals,
I have a prayer request, if y'all wouldn't mind praying for. I just had a customer call in, and while we were talking and visiting I invited him to church on Sunday. I would love it if he would come. He knows he needs to get back in church, and I can see him liking the church I go to...it's small, people look nice but their clothes are not the newest fashion, it is such a loving congregation, & they don't try to be or look perfect. I just know this customer would like being at Monterey (my church). So, if y'all would, please pray that he just shows up. I told him where the church was located, but we didn't talk times, so maybe he'll call this weekend to get times. I didn't even tell him the name of the church, so he couldn't even get on the internet to check times. I just really, really want him to come. I'm almost positive he is a Christian, but I know he's not living it and I want so badly for him to walk closely with the Lord. I know it will take a miracle for him to come Sunday, so I also pray that the Lord doesn't let him rest all weekend. I pray our conversation stays in his head all weekend, and that he comes. Thank y'all for letting me call upon y'all to pray. We are mighty in numbers! Love you girls!
I have a prayer request, if y'all wouldn't mind praying for. I just had a customer call in, and while we were talking and visiting I invited him to church on Sunday. I would love it if he would come. He knows he needs to get back in church, and I can see him liking the church I go to...it's small, people look nice but their clothes are not the newest fashion, it is such a loving congregation, & they don't try to be or look perfect. I just know this customer would like being at Monterey (my church). So, if y'all would, please pray that he just shows up. I told him where the church was located, but we didn't talk times, so maybe he'll call this weekend to get times. I didn't even tell him the name of the church, so he couldn't even get on the internet to check times. I just really, really want him to come. I'm almost positive he is a Christian, but I know he's not living it and I want so badly for him to walk closely with the Lord. I know it will take a miracle for him to come Sunday, so I also pray that the Lord doesn't let him rest all weekend. I pray our conversation stays in his head all weekend, and that he comes. Thank y'all for letting me call upon y'all to pray. We are mighty in numbers! Love you girls!
Ginny - Ephesians 6:19-24
Good Morning Girlz!!! It's our last one today. I'm already looking forward to our next study! Karlyn, please keep us updated on what the Good Morning Girls do, and I will also be keeping my eyes and ears open to other studies. I've had a few thoughts...Lysa TeKeurst has a 60 day Made to Crave devotional. It is wonderful! I loved it more than the book! Yes, the premise is eating healthy, but the devotionals cross many areas - not just food. That would be a good one, or have y'all ever heard of Sarah Young? She has a few daily devotional books out and one you can even get an app for on your phone. Her stuff is very good. At the end of each day she has about 3 scriptures, so we could still do the SOAP method with her stuff. With Lysa, it might be a little hard to do the SOAP method, but I know we would get some great discussion with Lysa's book. Anyhow, things to think about. I'm up for anything. I have loved doing this!!!
S - and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love.
O - I love that last line..."love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love." A love that can not be destroyed. A love that never dies. A love that goes on forever and ever.
A - Does my love for the Lord show? Not all the time. Last night at our Maundy Thursday service the pastor talked a lot about the washing of the feet that Jesus did before the Last Supper. It was an act of service, but also of love. Jesus loved those men. He also loves you and me. I want to love Him back with an incorruptible love!
P - Lord THANK YOU! Thank You for dieing on the cross for my sins and then RISING FROM THE DEAD! Thank You for being ALIVE! Lord, I pray this Easter season that each one of us celebrate You with an incorrubtible love!
HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!!!
S - and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. But that you also may know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and that he may comfort your hearts. Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love.
O - I love that last line..."love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love." A love that can not be destroyed. A love that never dies. A love that goes on forever and ever.
A - Does my love for the Lord show? Not all the time. Last night at our Maundy Thursday service the pastor talked a lot about the washing of the feet that Jesus did before the Last Supper. It was an act of service, but also of love. Jesus loved those men. He also loves you and me. I want to love Him back with an incorruptible love!
P - Lord THANK YOU! Thank You for dieing on the cross for my sins and then RISING FROM THE DEAD! Thank You for being ALIVE! Lord, I pray this Easter season that each one of us celebrate You with an incorrubtible love!
HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!!!
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Ginny - Ephesians 6:18
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,
O - pray all the time
A - The power of prayer is mighty. Never give up. Keep praying.
P - Lord thank You for prayer and that we can come to You at any time as many times as we want to. Thank You for alwasy listening.
S - With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,
O - pray all the time
A - The power of prayer is mighty. Never give up. Keep praying.
P - Lord thank You for prayer and that we can come to You at any time as many times as we want to. Thank You for alwasy listening.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Ginny - Ephesians 6:16-17
S - in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
O - Be prepared because Satan will attack!
A - I mentioned yesterday about how Satan does a good job of attacking me in the area of attitude. These verses of spritual battle and be clothed with Jesus armor have really been timely for me. In order to win this battle of atttitude (which I know is a heart issue) I have got to be prepared. This morning I was reading Lysa TerKeurst's blog. I just love her! She writes like we were sitting at her kitchen table talking. Well, today's blog hit home with me in this area of attitude and goes hand in hand with Ephesians 6. Here is a little bit of what she had to say:
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone,” Colossians 4:6
It outlines how I want to honor God, honor one another, and honor the opportunities entrusted to me each day. I told my team that an easy way to remember this verse is with 3 G’s:
Graceful (full of grace)
Godly (seasoned with God’s truth)
ready to Go (fully prepared to answer everyone)
P - Lord, help me remember Graceful, Godly, Go. Through Your strength, may I see victory in this area.
O - Be prepared because Satan will attack!
A - I mentioned yesterday about how Satan does a good job of attacking me in the area of attitude. These verses of spritual battle and be clothed with Jesus armor have really been timely for me. In order to win this battle of atttitude (which I know is a heart issue) I have got to be prepared. This morning I was reading Lysa TerKeurst's blog. I just love her! She writes like we were sitting at her kitchen table talking. Well, today's blog hit home with me in this area of attitude and goes hand in hand with Ephesians 6. Here is a little bit of what she had to say:
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone,” Colossians 4:6
It outlines how I want to honor God, honor one another, and honor the opportunities entrusted to me each day. I told my team that an easy way to remember this verse is with 3 G’s:
Graceful (full of grace)
Godly (seasoned with God’s truth)
ready to Go (fully prepared to answer everyone)
P - Lord, help me remember Graceful, Godly, Go. Through Your strength, may I see victory in this area.
Ephesians 6:16-17, Karlyn
S - in addition to all taking up the SHIELD OF FAITH with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one and take the HELMET OF SALVATION and the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT which is the word of God.
O - All of my worries and anxiety would be completely taken away each day if I turned towards faith in God instead of faith in myself. That comes from trusting in my salvation and hiding his word in my heart.
A - I've got to use his word like a sword. When frustrations come, stress, worry - I need to get rid of it with the sword. There's so many promises and guidance in his word that I don't utilize every day.
P - Lord give me the ability to memorize your word and retain it and help me to pass that on to the kids. I want to be able to pull out your promises and wisdom when I need it!
O - All of my worries and anxiety would be completely taken away each day if I turned towards faith in God instead of faith in myself. That comes from trusting in my salvation and hiding his word in my heart.
A - I've got to use his word like a sword. When frustrations come, stress, worry - I need to get rid of it with the sword. There's so many promises and guidance in his word that I don't utilize every day.
P - Lord give me the ability to memorize your word and retain it and help me to pass that on to the kids. I want to be able to pull out your promises and wisdom when I need it!
Ephesians 6:13-15, Karlyn
S - Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able
to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.
Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING
PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH
THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;
O - Truth Righteousness Preparation of the Gospel of Peace, This should be my goal and to do list every day knowing and speaking truth, seeking God's righteousness, and preparing myself with the gospel which brings peace. So simple I need to write this on my wall
A - It's all about my priorities. Making this my priority daily will change my heart and grow me closer to Him.
P - Lord help me to see this preparation and the most important preparation of my day. Help me to be more diligent about putting you first and speaking truth, seeking righteousness, and preparing myself with the gospel of peace!
O - Truth Righteousness Preparation of the Gospel of Peace, This should be my goal and to do list every day knowing and speaking truth, seeking God's righteousness, and preparing myself with the gospel which brings peace. So simple I need to write this on my wall
A - It's all about my priorities. Making this my priority daily will change my heart and grow me closer to Him.
P - Lord help me to see this preparation and the most important preparation of my day. Help me to be more diligent about putting you first and speaking truth, seeking righteousness, and preparing myself with the gospel of peace!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Ginny - Ephesians 6:13-15
Good Morning Girlz!!!
S - Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;
O - Put on the armor of God that you may be able to fight the enemy.
A - Girls this is just so important. We can't fight off the enemy if we aren't prepared for battle. Satan has really been attacking my attitude lately. It's one of those deals I feel like I take 1 step forward and 2 steps back. It's frustrating. This verse has reminded me that I must come into the situation fully clothed in the armor of God. If I don't, then I am setting myself up to fail. His Word must be in my heart. His ways must be my priority, and His peace must capture my thoughts.
P - Lord I pray for my attitude. Please help me as I fight the enemy in this area.
S - Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE;
O - Put on the armor of God that you may be able to fight the enemy.
A - Girls this is just so important. We can't fight off the enemy if we aren't prepared for battle. Satan has really been attacking my attitude lately. It's one of those deals I feel like I take 1 step forward and 2 steps back. It's frustrating. This verse has reminded me that I must come into the situation fully clothed in the armor of God. If I don't, then I am setting myself up to fail. His Word must be in my heart. His ways must be my priority, and His peace must capture my thoughts.
P - Lord I pray for my attitude. Please help me as I fight the enemy in this area.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Ephesians 6:10-12, Karlyn
Happy Monday and Happy Easter!
S - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
O - I have to be prepared and dressed every day. I can't be strong in Him unless I'm dressed in Him! I can't be fully protected unless I'm fully dressed!
A - I need to stop taking for granted what I have in Christ, the protection-provision. Instead I need to make sure I have his armor completely on every second of every day.
P - Father give me the focus I need to put you first so that I can be fully prepared every day for what is to come!
S - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
O - I have to be prepared and dressed every day. I can't be strong in Him unless I'm dressed in Him! I can't be fully protected unless I'm fully dressed!
A - I need to stop taking for granted what I have in Christ, the protection-provision. Instead I need to make sure I have his armor completely on every second of every day.
P - Father give me the focus I need to put you first so that I can be fully prepared every day for what is to come!
Ginny - Ephesians 6:10-12
Good Morning Girlz!!! Hard to believe it's the last week!
S - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
O - What we are fighting against is not temporal "things" but rather the forces of light & dark.
A - Not that I completely understand this verse, but I do think I grasp it a little better the older I get. When I think of the struggles and challenges I face and I see in this world, it all boils down to we live in a fallen world. Sin runs rampant and Satan is deceiving. Whether it is a problem in our nation's goverment or a personal struggle with a friend; it's a heart issue. Christ is the answer.
P - Lord, keep me ready for battle. Keep me armed and in Your Word ready to fight the true enemy. Lord, I pray for our nation. I pray for our leaders nationally & locally. Lord I pray You put people in their paths that will lead them to You. I pray for their salvation that they may understand the fear of the Lord and govern in wisdom.
S - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
O - What we are fighting against is not temporal "things" but rather the forces of light & dark.
A - Not that I completely understand this verse, but I do think I grasp it a little better the older I get. When I think of the struggles and challenges I face and I see in this world, it all boils down to we live in a fallen world. Sin runs rampant and Satan is deceiving. Whether it is a problem in our nation's goverment or a personal struggle with a friend; it's a heart issue. Christ is the answer.
P - Lord, keep me ready for battle. Keep me armed and in Your Word ready to fight the true enemy. Lord, I pray for our nation. I pray for our leaders nationally & locally. Lord I pray You put people in their paths that will lead them to You. I pray for their salvation that they may understand the fear of the Lord and govern in wisdom.
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