Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Judge or to be Judged?
Oooops, what a touchy subject. Yes, and even more so is what I just read in the Bible. If only we Christians, our churches would read I Corinthians 5 over and over. Like when we home-schooled our boys, and made them write...I will not hit my brother... 100 times. Read it and see if you're understanding it the same way I am. It actually says we, Christians are not to even eat with...no, not unbelievers, but fellow believers that are in sin. No, not fellow believers that are struggling, trying to work out their sins.(aren't we all) No, not fellow believers that make mistakes. (don't we all) But fellow believers that are in sin and give excuses for it, or think it's okay for them, or even deny it? And this chapter also says to associate freely with non-believers. Yes, those in sin. The same sin that fellow believers may be in. Whoa, you say. I didn't say to condone the sin, or engage the sin, but to associate with the non-believers freely. How can we, children of God be witnesses to the world if we hide from the non-believers? And how can we, children of God be witnesses if we associate with fellow believers who think they are okay to sin? Hmmmm. A little confusing. A little controversial. A little riskay! Read the chapter and share your thoughts.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Right or Wrong? God's the judge, not us.
Romans 14...this chapter has been a theme of my years as Christian. I've used it to explain why I do and why I don't do what I do. I've used it to teach our kids and the youth and teens I've worked with in church. Yet this morning as I read these verses again, a lightbulb went on in my brain. We, Christians are each made different, at different levels of maturity, made for different purposes, have different spiritual gifts and personalities. Why should we judge others for what God tells us? And...here is the kicker that I've struggled with my whole spiritual life, why should I feel guilty for doing something I feel is okay with God, and why should I feel pressured refraining from something God has told me to refrain from? I've always tore hard not to judge others, sometime not so successful. But one thing is for sure, I shouldn't have to fight others, especially other Christians to defend what I feel God is telling me. This chapter helps me realize that's relationship with God is what is important and only by listening to Him will I know what is right or wrong for me. I must trust and have faith. He'll tell me when I'm doing wrong, He always has and always will. That is if I keep in His word and prayer! For anything that is against the Bible is definitely wrong, and there's no questioning it. That's why relationship is where it's at, not religion.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Quiet time important?
Romans 12 today, as of right now, this is my favorite bible chapter. As I sit here and read and meditate on this scripture. As I listen to the birds singing this beautiful sunny morning. As I drink my tea while the rest if the family sleeps. This is my favorite bible scripture. What a way to be, loving and kind and obedient. If only I can keep this attitude and state of mind when faced with a coworker who picks and picks. A day where I'm being pulled in every direction expected to meet all needs only to mess up in the simplest deed. When a nice chewy chocolate chip cookie is waved under my nose. When I'm too tired to exercise or read my bible. When somebody hurts me or my family member. When I want to talk about somebody in a negative way, then is when I need to remember this chapter. This is one reason it's so important to keep in Gods word and prayer.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
The pitcher and the potty pot
Romans 9:20-21
Reading this scripture this morning about the potter creating whatever he wants brings to mind a potty pot. The ones that were used back before toilets. We, myself included tend to complain about who we are, out abilities, talents, purpose in life. Do we realize that we insult God, our Heavenly Father when we complain about what we look like or what we're capable of doing? A potter makes a pitcher to hold drinks. This pitcher is pretty, actually pretty fancy. To be used to serve in the kings palace. It's not only useful but attractive as a Decor for the dinning room. A show piece. This same potter makes a potty pot. Plain and simple. It's use is just as important, yet not a show piece and definitely not a piece you'd want out on display. Is one any less important than the other? Would you use the pitcher as a potty pot? How about a potty pot as a pitcher? Let me end with that visual.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Why Eat Healthy? Why Give your all to God?
This was yesterday's thought. I had it in my journal but neglected to post it in this blog.
The Healthiest people still get deadly diseases. Strong dedicated Christians still have tragic things happen. Then why? Why even bother?
Taking care of yourself definitely keeps a person from quite a few illnesses and mishaps. Being a committed Christian with a strong relationship with Christ definitely keeps a person out of quite a few mishaps and troubles.
But we all know that bad things happen to good people. We all know people who just didn't 'deserve' the tragic happening.
But this world is fallen and it rains on both the just and unjust. Bad things will happen to good people. But if those good people are strong in The Lord and strong physically they will make through those tragic happenings so much easier and come out on the other side even stronger and better. How Awesome is that? None of us are immune to what this world has to offer us. So why don't we snuggle under our Fathers wing.
Dead to sin, alive to God
That's the title to Romans 6 in my bible. The woman's study bible nkj.
This chapter has the verses that sound very confusing. But when pondered upon, I get it. I can't say I understand it well enough to explain. But I get it deep down in my soul.
In verse 12 and 13 don't obey lusts of the body but present ourself to God as being alive from the dead.
It gives a new perspective to my attitudes and daily decisions. I won't look at things the same way again.
Verse 23 says it all. Why would anybody not want eternal life?
I just love how Gods word comes alive! No matter how many times I read the same verses God speaks to me at the heart and soul! Our Holy Heavenly Father is the most awesome Dad!
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Live in the Moment
As long as your eyes are on Jesus! After reading Acts 27 and 28 talks about Paul's experience as a captive, on a boat, in a shipwreck, stranded on an island, and brought to Rome to face yet another trial. What an example this man is. Of course there's the obvious that's preached about around the world, but what stuck me was how he lived in the moment, one day at a time, always seeking and doing God's will, sharing with all who'd listen. He didn't complain and whine about his circumstances, he used them. He used them to honor God! and no matter what happened he gave Honor and Glory to God. I look at myself and wonder...why do I let life get to me? It's all about God. If it's all about God, He'll take care of us no matter what. If it's not all about God, better re-adjust the view. With Christ...Live in the moment!
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Putting a Puzzle Together Upside-Down
We
learned about I Samuel 13: 8-14 today in Children's Church. I say we because I
learn just as much as the children, if not more. One of the projects was to
make their own puzzle by coloring one side of an 8 x 10 piece of paper, tearing
it into pieces, turning it upside down and then moving it to their neighbor.
They then had 60 seconds to put the puzzle together upside-down. Then, they
were to turn the puzzle pieces over and again they had 60 seconds to put the
puzzle pieces together. It was a fun project and the object was to see that it
is much easier to put a puzzle together when we see what we're working with. Of
Course God knows the whole picture, past, present, and future. He sees
everybody and everything involved inside and out. We have no idea and must
trust God in ALL things. This part of scripture tells us that Saul took it upon
himself to offer a sacrifice. He was supposed to wait and let Samuel do this. A
simple thing. Nothing wrong with offering a sacrifice. In fact, it's a good
thing in the old testament to offer sacrifices. But the point was, Saul was told
not to. Because of his disobedience he lost a whole kingdom. One of the
children asked, Why wasn't he suppose to offer the sacrifice? Well I'm definitely
not a Bible scholar and couldn’t answer her question. But the point wasn't why,
it was to obey even if we don't know why. A very valuable lesson.
Case
and point: A grade school age child is told to wait in front of school for
their mom to pick them up. This child has strict instructions not to take a
ride with anybody, but to wait. The mom is running late and a neighbor offers
to take this child home. Now this child knows their neighbor and their parents
are good friends. Nothing wrong with taking a ride with their neighbor, except
of course the mom said not to.
So
the child takes a ride with the neighbor. The mom shows up and the child is not
there. The mom goes home to find the child at home safe and sound.
What
happened? Because of the child's disobedience the consequences were this child
did not get to go to grandmas for a week, get to spend time at an amusement
park or the water park. The mom was planning to surprise her child by bringing
her to meet the grandparents who stopped by on their way to their vacation.
This
is a silly illustration, but it's an example of our disobedience to our
almighty God who wants the best for us. I'm so grateful God is in control.
Please forgive me Lord for not always being obedient. Please help me Lord to
always keep my eyes on you and listen to your words of wisdom.
What do others think of me?
Acts 21 to 23
I find it interesting that dealing with Jesus and Paul both men who were responsibe for their release or death couldn't find anything wrong with them, yet they gave into what the people wanted, not wanting the people to be upset with them. How often do I do this? Do I care what others think of me? Do what others think of me guide my decisions? Unfortunately, more often than I'd like to admit the answer to this question is yes. God, Heavenly Father, please forgive me. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit to be strong in Christ to not only do and say what you'd have me to, but to know without question what you want me to say and do. Praise your Holy name!
Friday, May 30, 2014
I wonder if Christ would come back sooner if:
Acts 20 and 21
If we were all like Paul. Us Christians that is. If we Love God and let the Holy Spirit live in us as he did. Not letting anything come in the way of sharing the truth. People would be all the way in or all the way out. I wonder if one of satans sly tricks is to keep us all meliow. We know he loves confusion, to breakup families, marriages, tear apart churches. But if we are all mello, not taking charge of anything, doesn't that let satan have his foot in the door too? I Wonder...
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Worship Time not only at Church
My office is the best office! Sometimes is bustling, sometimes, like today, it's quiet. By myself most of the day I find a Christian concert online. Playing it on my computer while I worked was one of the most worshipful experiences I've had in a while. I felt moved, filled, encouraged, comforted by the Holy Spirit. It was an Awesome experience. Thank you God for loving just plain little ole me in spite of all my faults! What An Awesome God we serve!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Paul Challenges us to do Gods Will
Acts 20
Paul continued to do mighty miracles in Gods name. He continued to share the truth with everybody. He continued to go into countries knowing he would be beaten, thrown into prison, and even killed. He had a relationship with Christ so strong that it didn't matter what waited for him. And he reminds us that he took care if his needs by working with his own hands. He encourages us to take care of the weak.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Not all is as it seems
Acts 19
There's so much in this one chapter. I had a hard time picking out just one concept. V 1-7 talks about how Paul came across some disciples, from the outside they seemed like Christians, they thought of themselves as Christians, but of course Paul was so in tuned with God he knew they needed the truth. They were baptized with John the Baptist baptism but not by the Holy Spirit. Paul explained and they accepted and the Holy Spirit filled them. Then in v 13-16 some took it upon themselves to cast out demonds. They saw Paul do it and thought they could too. They called them out in Jesus name and Paul's. What I find interesting was that the demonds talked to them and told them they knew who Paul was and knew who Jesus was, but didn't know them. They came away beaten and stripped. Wow, powerful lesson. We have no earthly idea how strong the spiritual world is around us. We also have no earthly idea if the person next to is or who we see everyday knows our Heavenly Father and has the Holy Spirit living in them unless we ask. Lesson learned for me.
Monday, May 26, 2014
So many opportunities to share Gods Truth!
Acts 17 and 18
We, as a child of God must be imersed in Gods truth. We must be with Him constantly and be aware of what He wants us to do or say. Two seperate opportunities that would've been lost if Gods chosen would've not listened and obeyed, if they did not stay in Gods word to know Gods truth.
Acts 17:22-28
Paul and the unknown God worshipers.
Acts 18:24-28
Aquila and Priscilla and Apollos.
Sunday, May 25, 2014
When God talks What is He Saying?
Acts 14
Obeying God comes with a price. Paul was stoned and left for dead, but he stood back up and went back for more. Though this price is costly, it's worth more than our earthly minds can comprehend.
Not obeying God comes with a price. This price is high and costly with no benefit, only anguish and defeat. This price is NOT worth it! This price is a weight dragging us to the bottom of the departs sea with no hope for a breath.
Sunday, January 12, 2014
My Roman Road Testimony
“For all have sinned and
fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
Yes, pride has a way of blocking this truth. I realize if I’m truthful with myself that, still today I struggle with my attitude, thoughts, actions. I may not do the obvious sins like murder, steal, commit adultery…but I’m just as guilty at being selfish, feeling sorry for myself, pride, laziness, inconsistent, and lack of discipline. One sin keeps me away from God…who am I to judge anybody else?
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23
I can get myself really low sometimes and talk myself into a mess. I can be hardest on myself for my short comings. I’m so grateful that God knows me down to the core of my heart, better than anybody else, even myself. God knows the worse of me…yet He still loves me just as I am. He still wants me to live with Him for eternity! I find comfort in knowing that.
“Jesus replied I assure you; unless someone is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
This was the turning point verse. That August 1981 evening at my kitchen table at 2230 Campus Drive, St Charles Missouri. The preacher telling my new husband and me about how to be “saved”. I don’t remember a word he said, but this scripture. This scripture jumped out at me. God was talking to me. God was telling me that this was it, this was the second that would change my life…that very moment. Had I chose not to believe this verse and accept this truth, I shudder to think what my life would be like now. I would’ve been a mess. I truly believe I would not be writing this right now.
“Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
God had a plan all along. I can’t say I fully explains the concept of the Holy Trinity. Just that I accept it and believe in it. Being raised a Catholic I think helped me in this area. Continually being reminded this, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I feel sometimes the Catholic religion gets a bad rap at times. I don’t believe in all the Catholic traditions, but I do know there are practicing Catholic Christians.
“If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord. And believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. Now the scripture says, no one who believes on Him will be put to shame. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, since the same Lord of all is rich to all who call on Him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:9-13
"And He died for all so that those who live
should no longer live for themselves, but for the one who died for them and was
raised.” 2 Corinthians 5:15
Wow! Speaking of relationship…If we Christians…all of us would live this verse always, our world would be such a better place. I hate to admit it, but I’m the first to fail here, every day. I want to live for Christ, I really do…but I always seem to let my ‘self’ sneak through. I’m so glad God is a forgiving, patient, Holy God!
“Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and have dinner with him and he with me.” Revelation 3:20
Yes! I remember God knocking at my heart when I was young. My dad would talk to me about the Bible. I looked forward to going to church and religion school. I hungered for God’s Word. I prayed for God’s help in everything. I know now that it was God seeking me, knocking and waiting for me to answer. I’m so glad He knocked on my door.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that anyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
I love this verse. I’m terrible at memorizing, but this one verse I have memorized. Really, God doesn’t want anybody to go to Hell. He didn’t make Hell for men, He made it for satan and the fallen angels. We, man, chose to disobey the one and only rule we were given. And even then God sent His Son so we could still spend eternity with Him. But, sadly, many people still don’t get it…
Yes, pride has a way of blocking this truth. I realize if I’m truthful with myself that, still today I struggle with my attitude, thoughts, actions. I may not do the obvious sins like murder, steal, commit adultery…but I’m just as guilty at being selfish, feeling sorry for myself, pride, laziness, inconsistent, and lack of discipline. One sin keeps me away from God…who am I to judge anybody else?
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23
I can get myself really low sometimes and talk myself into a mess. I can be hardest on myself for my short comings. I’m so grateful that God knows me down to the core of my heart, better than anybody else, even myself. God knows the worse of me…yet He still loves me just as I am. He still wants me to live with Him for eternity! I find comfort in knowing that.
“Jesus replied I assure you; unless someone is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
This was the turning point verse. That August 1981 evening at my kitchen table at 2230 Campus Drive, St Charles Missouri. The preacher telling my new husband and me about how to be “saved”. I don’t remember a word he said, but this scripture. This scripture jumped out at me. God was talking to me. God was telling me that this was it, this was the second that would change my life…that very moment. Had I chose not to believe this verse and accept this truth, I shudder to think what my life would be like now. I would’ve been a mess. I truly believe I would not be writing this right now.
“Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
God had a plan all along. I can’t say I fully explains the concept of the Holy Trinity. Just that I accept it and believe in it. Being raised a Catholic I think helped me in this area. Continually being reminded this, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I feel sometimes the Catholic religion gets a bad rap at times. I don’t believe in all the Catholic traditions, but I do know there are practicing Catholic Christians.
“If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord. And believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. Now the scripture says, no one who believes on Him will be put to shame. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, since the same Lord of all is rich to all who call on Him. For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:9-13
Now here’s the
part I’ve been trying to tell those who think this is a religion. NO! Not a religion. A
RELATIONSHIP! One God-ONLY ONE! Religion is a way people worship God…some are
correct, some are not. But…whatever religion you are…without God, Jesus, the
Holy Spirit…without John 3:3, you are lost and doomed for HELL..BUT with God,
with John 3:3 you are a CHILD of GOD! A RELATIONSHIP! (now I’ll get off my soap box)
Wow! Speaking of relationship…If we Christians…all of us would live this verse always, our world would be such a better place. I hate to admit it, but I’m the first to fail here, every day. I want to live for Christ, I really do…but I always seem to let my ‘self’ sneak through. I’m so glad God is a forgiving, patient, Holy God!
“Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and have dinner with him and he with me.” Revelation 3:20
Yes! I remember God knocking at my heart when I was young. My dad would talk to me about the Bible. I looked forward to going to church and religion school. I hungered for God’s Word. I prayed for God’s help in everything. I know now that it was God seeking me, knocking and waiting for me to answer. I’m so glad He knocked on my door.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that anyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
I love this verse. I’m terrible at memorizing, but this one verse I have memorized. Really, God doesn’t want anybody to go to Hell. He didn’t make Hell for men, He made it for satan and the fallen angels. We, man, chose to disobey the one and only rule we were given. And even then God sent His Son so we could still spend eternity with Him. But, sadly, many people still don’t get it…
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