tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54531399916944069452024-02-06T21:36:14.156-06:00A Life of FaithYou might be the only picture of God someone will ever see.Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.comBlogger292125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-87130038296840250982017-02-12T16:01:00.003-06:002017-02-12T16:01:26.007-06:00Are You Being Targeted?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As I was driving home the other day, a song came on the Christian radio station I keep on in my car that said, "the devil has a target on my heart and my soul". <br />
<br />
There have been so many things lately that truly made me see this in another light. From the movies being made and deemed "normal" and completely "okay" by a large amount of Christians (i.e. "Fifty Shades of Grey"), to the music that's being played, the hate people spew on one another, baby's being killed every second, and marriages being broken apart on a daily basis. You can clearly see Satan at work in our world.<br />
<br />
Here's the thing: Satan knows he cannot have you or get you to hell once you've accepted Jesus into your life (John 3:16, once saved you cannot lose your salvation). He cannot touch you; so his next priority is to keep you from making an impact on the world and bringing others to Jesus, whether it be convincing you that your sinful actions are okay, deceiving you into collecting ungodly friendships, filling your head with lies (i.e God doesn't love you, you're too broken to use, nobody cares about you, etc), or wells up pride inside of you and creates broken marriages...he hates Christians living a full and purposeful life for Christ. He has no power over you unless you allow him that power; again, he cannot touch you, but oh boy can he mess with your mind!<br />
<br />
1 Peter 1:13<br />
"Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ."<br />
<br />
Romans 8:5<br />
"For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit."<br />
<br />
I think one of the biggest lies Satan and his army have done a splendid job of convincing us of, is that if we have made mistakes, God can no longer use us. That there are certain things we can do to separate ourselves from His love and that He is too disappointed to use us to make an impact on the world. This is SO far from the truth!<br />
<br />
* King David committed adulatory and murder<br />
* Paul killed thousands of Christians<br />
* Noah got drunk<br />
* Abraham slept with another woman besides his wife (per his wife's request)<br />
* Jacob stole his brothers inheritance<br />
* Moses had an anger problem<br />
* Eve directly disobeyed God<br />
*Peter denied God 3 times<br />
<br />
So you're telling me, you are believing Satan when he tells you that you've made too many mistakes for God to use you? If you go through the books of the Bible, you will almost always find the people who the world would deem "too far gone", "too broken", or "sinned too badly" were the exact people God used for the most good. If He only used those who seem to have it all together, what would stop people from giving MAN the glory? When God uses those who haven't had the greatest track record, have many many faults, or have made a ton of mistakes, their impact MUST be seen as a miraculous work from HIM alone.<br />
<br />
Satan wants you to stay focused on yourself. If you're focused on all the ways you have failed, you cannot focus on all the ways God has <b><i>overcome</i></b>.<br />
<br />
I know this is hard to get past; y'all, I struggle with this almost on a daily basis. I have made mistakes in my past, hurt people, been hurt, have been so focused on my own misery that I wanted to take this life God gave me....and I STILL make mistakes. I will never be even close to perfect this side of heaven. But you know what? God likes to use perfectly imperfect people just like me. Because of my "brokenness" I have been able to talk to people about things that I wouldn't have had the chance to do had I had a perfect past. God doesn't make bad things happen to us; bad things happen because we live in a broken and sinful world, but God can (and WILL) bring good out of EVERY bad situation that happens.<br />
<br />
Peter wrote a letter to a group and said these words (good words, that we should still adhere to today):<br />
"Therefore <i><b>humble</b></i> yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your cares on Him, because <i>He cares for you</i>. Be of sober spirit, <b>be on the alert.</b> Your adversary, the devil, <i><b>prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour</b></i>. But resist him, <b>firm in your faith</b>, knowing that the <i>same experiences</i> of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself will <b><i>perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish</i> </b>you."<br />
<br />
Friends, life is hard. And to be honest, we usually don't help matters by moving away from our heavenly Father when things get tough. We don't want to bother Him, disappoint Him, take up His time, or sometimes we just don't know what to say to Him...but do you know what's so amazing about our amazing God? He doesn't care about any of that. His eye is on the sparrow and KNOWS when it falls, do you not think you, being His child, are more important than the birds? Peter denied Christ 3 times, and God still loved and DIED for him, do you not think He can forgive anything you've done? God knows every number of hairs on your head, do you not think He can make time for His children to come to Him in times of trouble, anger, stress, sadness, or pain? The bible tells us that when we do not know what to say, the Spirit will intercede on our behalf...even if we just come to God so confused and lost that all we can say is "Lord, I don't know what to say..." do you not know that He knows every detail about your life and your HEART and knows exactly what you need?<br />
<br />
One of my amazing mentors gave me analogy one time, and it has stuck with me since. Imagine you waking up and starting your day. Jesus was with you through the night, and is there the moment you wake up. You go about your day, and He sits at your table waiting for some one on one time. Pours Himself a cup of coffee and just waits. You go about your day, telling Him "I'll be there in just a minute, I need to finish ____". You continue your day passing Him by trying to get your day together, run some errands, and find time to finish your tasks. Before you know it, it's time for bed. And you never sat down with Him. HE was there the whole time, we just don't stop, be still, and just BE with Him.<br />
<br />
This is exactly what happens everyday. God is omnipresent. He can be there for everyone all at the same time. So to say He doesn't have time for us, is belittling the very promises that He has made us.The more we take time away from God, the more time we give Satan and his lies.<br />
<br />
<i>There is no stand still in our walk with Christ. We are either moving <b>towards</b> Him, or <b>away</b> from Him.</i><br />
<br />
<b><i>Who</i></b> has your heart? Who have you <i><b>entrusted</b></i> it to? Giving our hearts to earthly things will never satisfy us. That is how Satan distracts us from God's calling on our lives and makes us discontent. People will leave, things will fade away and rot, money will be gone (you can't take it with you when you die), whereas heavenly things will last forever. Building relationships, telling others about Christ, giving, volunteering our time....these things will make impacts that nobody can take away.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i> <span class="reftext"><b>Matthew 6:19-21 </b></span></i><br />
<b><i><span class="reftext"> </span>“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.<span class="reftext"></span> But
store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor
rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; <span class="reftext"></span>for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-69952574321813032692016-11-14T23:11:00.002-06:002016-11-14T23:11:41.121-06:00America The Hypocrite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm going to get a little bit political, a little bit biblical, and a little bit blunt for a minute.<br />
<br />
I'll be honest, I was both relieved and worried when I heard the results of the election. Relieved, because the candidate who lost was so far down the immoral line that it terrified me to know they may be the one leading our nation down a path of even more unrighteousness (in the biblical moral sense). Yet, the one who was elected also has beliefs that I do not agree with.<br />
<br />
There are a few things that have stuck out to me in the midst of the election. As always, the media digs up so called "dirt" on every candidate, which can be a good thing, but is mainly done to cause strife, drama, and hatred. Seriously, it's not to inform the people, it's simply to make people go crazy and force peoples votes one way or the other. It's like a big scam...the media doesn't report the news, they make it and tell us what they want us to hear.<br />
<br />
So let's start with the dirt dug up on Donald Trump. Women all over are outraged, horrified, and disgusted with the information leaked of what he said about women and the alleged accusations against him. Whereas I, too, find these things utterly horrible, I have a few questions for you: Your protests, fits, anger, dismay, and hatred towards him...<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where is that anger when women and children are being kidnapped and sold into sex trafficking? One of the sources I read (I'm sure there are many numbers, but this will do for my point) says that each YEAR there are 800,000 women and children trafficked across international boarders. </li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where was your anger when you watched your friend be treated with disrespect in her relationship?</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where were your protests for your friend/sister/mother/daughter when she went bar hopping and slept around with degrading, one night stand men? (is this not a form of disrespect to them as a person as well as their bodies?)</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where was your fit when men talked to you with less than respectful language? When men hit on you just to get something out of it then drop you like a bag of dirt when his temporary need was met? </li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where was your anger when you researched the product you buy and found out the food you eat is made by children being enslaved? Starved? Beaten? Raped?</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Where was your sadness and broken heart when you allowed your friends to feel dirty and unloved to a point that they ended their baby's life before it even entered the world?</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li> Where was your anger when you hear of the number of women being raped every year and not having anyone in their life to support them?</li>
</ul>
<b>Would you allow people to go back and review your entire life, then make public every single ugly/racist/foul thing that came out of your mouth and every mistake you've ever made? Maybe broadcast it to every news station, church, and your family reunion? </b><br />
My point is said so well by Jesus Himself.<br />
<br />
<div class="body1">
<i>"Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, <span class="reftext"></span>but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. <span class="reftext"></span>As
he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees
brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her
in front of the crowd.<span class="reftext"> </span>“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. <span class="reftext"></span>The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”</i><i><span class="reftext"> </span>They
were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against
him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. <span class="reftext"></span>They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, <b><span class="red">“All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”</span></b> <span class="reftext"></span>Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.<span class="reftext"> </span>When
the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with
the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with
the woman. <span class="reftext"></span>Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, <span class="red">“Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”</span></i></div>
<i><span class="reftext"> </span>“No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, </i><span class="red"><i>“<b>Neither do I. Go and sin no more.</b>” " -John 8:1-11</i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="red">I don't condone Donald Trump's words or action. My point is this: "You who has never sinned, cast the first stone." We all have a past. We have all made mistakes..some big, some small. We ALL have things we wish we could take back or go back and re-do. But this is the beauty of Christianity. It's not about US. It's about HIM. It's about our past being wiped clean when we ask forgiveness. It's about compassion, mercy, and grace. And these are all things we could give a little more of. Our nation doesn't need Trump to save us...<b><i>we need Jesus to save us.</i></b> The hate will not stop with one man. It will only stop when we go to THE ONE who actually has the power to make a difference in the hearts of America....the hearts of the entire WORLD. </span><br />
<span class="red"><i> </i></span><br />
<span class="red"><i>Jesus is, and has always been, the ONLY Savior of the world.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="red">You guys. Throwing fits (from EITHER side) will only make this world a more difficult place. Spewing hatred towards people because of thier beliefs, skin color, or background is not a peaceful life to live. Stand up for your beliefs, for who you are, but we have got to STOP with the degrading/hateful/bashing/racist/judgemental/evil words and actions. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="red"><i>Words have the power to give life, or take it. </i>And right now, we are killing our nation.</span><br />
<span class="red"><i> </i></span><br />
<span class="red">It's time we join together. Stop getting so freaking offended by every word spoken. Grow a spine. We have become a nation that takes for granted <b><i>EVERYTHING </i></b>we have been given. Wealth, freedom, work, religion, BRAINS....what would it be like if people went out and got jobs again, no matter the pay...just stood up and said "I want to make something of myself, and I'll do whatever it takes to get there"? What would happen if we spoke words of encouragement to people even when we felt down ourselves? What would it be like if we prayed even in the GOOD times? What would it be like if we lived purposeful lives? Lives lived in persuit of BETTER, not just for ourselves, but for our future generations? For our children and grandchildren to look back and say "Because of him/her, I have _______ and I will do everything in my power to use it wisely."</span><br />
<span class="red"><br /></span>
<span class="red">WHAT IF? </span><br />
<span class="red"><br /></span>
<span class="red">WHAT IF WE CAME TOGETHER?</span><br />
<span class="red"><br /></span>
<span class="red">WHAT IF WE ALLOWED JESUS TO MOVE IN US?</span><br />
<span class="red"><br /></span>
<span class="red">Life isn't easy. Life isn't free. Freedom isn't free. Money isn't free. It all takes work; it all costs something. It's past time we get up off our bum and say enough is <i>ENOUGH. </i></span><br />
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-1349035088957995292016-09-05T11:45:00.000-05:002016-09-05T11:49:14.165-05:00Fighting Your Fears<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
What do you fear?<br />
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>The unknown</li>
<li>Other people's opinions</li>
<li>Life</li>
<li>Failure</li>
<li>Financial struggles </li>
<li>Love</li>
<li>Raising a family</li>
<li>Being hurt</li>
<li>Change</li>
</ul>
I have had every single one of these, and still to this day struggle with some from time to time. Today, however, I am thankful to say that I am growing and moving forward. I have allowed fear to take over my life as early on as I can remember (as young as 4 years old). I've realized over the last few years that I've given Satan a hold on my life and faith by giving into his lies. Today I say <i><b>no more</b>.</i> No more standing on the edge of the stairway looking down but never taking a step. No more watching others live their lives fulfilling God's purpose for them while I sit back on the sidelines wondering if I will be good enough.<br />
<br />
<b><i>1 John 4 says:</i></b><br />
<b><i>"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment."</i></b><br />
<br />
Punishment. We think we deserve punishment instead of love from the Father. The guilt of our past failures and mistakes causes fear because we think, any moment, God will give us <b><i>what we deserve.</i></b> (Or at least what we think we deserve.) Something we too often forget, is that God has told us He decided over a couple thousand years ago that He was <b>NOT </b>going to give us what we deserve. We <i>deserve </i>eternity in hell. We <i>deserve </i>His wrath. But He, being a good Father, saw fit to give us grace and forgiveness.<br />
<br />
This well known verse says it all:<br />
<b><i>John 3:16-17 "<span class="text John-3-16" id="en-NIV-26137">For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.</span><sup> </sup><span class="text John-3-17" id="en-NIV-26138"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."</span></i></b><br />
<br />
Why do we not believe this verse? Why do we still condemn ourselves when condemnation is not from God? For me personally, I know I continually think I've just failed too many times for God to be able to use me. I'm afraid of failing Him again,and wondering how many times it will take before He gets tired of forgiving me and loving me after my mistakes. My heart gets weary. <b><i>I get tired trying to be perfect. </i></b>Did you know that there is not a single perfect person that has ever walked the earth outside of Christ Himself? He is our example for sure, but nowhere in the bible does it ever say we will be sinless this side of eternity. It's not possible, because <b><i>we are not God. </i></b>It is so hard for me to trust sometimes; hard for me to trust that He will still love me, that He hasn't left me when those really hard times come, and that He will still be there no matter what.<br />
<br />
<b><i>In Psalm 28:7, King David says:</i></b><br />
<b><i>"The Lord is my <u>strength</u> and my <u>shield</u>; my heart <u>trusts</u> in Him, and I am <u>helped</u>; therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him." </i></b><br />
<br />
<i>"My heart trusts in Him." </i>That is such a simple phrase, yet it has the power to calm a storm, enable a man to walk on water, stand up and walk, or get through some pretty tough times. <b><i> </i></b><br />
<br />
<b><i>So why do we still live in fear?</i></b><br />
<br />
I know personally, my fear starts growing bigger than my faith every time I cut off my daily connection with Christ. When I don't have that constant connection, my heart is more susceptible to attacks from the enemy. I start worrying, stressing, and wondering what the future holds. I try to take my life in my own hands because, sometimes, it just feels like <i><b>God isn't doing a good enough job.</b> </i>(Have you been there?) I saw a quote the other day that I fell in love with, and it is something I absolutely need to keep close by as a reminder!<br />
<br />
<b><i>"If you think you've blow God's plan for your life, rest in this. You, my beautiful friend, <u>are not that powerful</u>."</i></b><br />
<br />
Wow. Talk about a slap to the face. When our fears become greater than our faith, we tend to try and take control of things ourselves...but I don't think we really get to the depth of <b><i>why</i> </b>we are doing that. And it truly is simple: we either believe we are powerful enough to overcome all of these trials, stresses of life, and problems on our own and do a <b><i>better job </i></b>than God, or, we don't want to <i><b>bother Him </b></i>with our little problems. It's truly just the pride of our own hearts that puts us in messes like this. When our boat is rocked a little, instead of going to our knees or running to Him to give us wisdom, we start panicking that it's all going to fall apart. Where is our peace? Why are we not comforted? Well, it goes back to that connection.<br />
<br />
Here is an example:<br />
If you wake up late in the morning, rush to get ready for work, run out the door, speed through traffic to make it on time, get to your office/client's home and start your day from the beginning at a brain frazzled pace, how do you think you're going to react if anything else seems to go wrong or fall apart that day?<br />
<b>OR</b><br />
If you set an alarm with enough time so you have a few minutes of devotion or prayer time in the morning, grab a cup of coffee and a bite to eat, get in your car, and turn on some praise and worship music...how do you think your day would be different? How do you think you would handle any problems that pop up unexpectedly?<br />
<b><i> </i></b><br />
<i><b>John 14:27 says:</b></i><br />
<i><b>"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful."</b></i><br />
<br />
<b><i>Psalm 9:10 says:</i></b><br />
<b><i>"And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You."</i></b><br />
<br />
I haven't completely overcome my fears, and I promise you I won't ever be perfect this side of heaven. But I am slowly learning how to deal with them and use God's tools to combat them. Instead of sinking into depression or anxiety like I would have done in years past, I turn praise songs on or go to my bible and search out verses where God assures me He is always there and has my WHOLE life in His hands. What an amazing promise, to know we don't have to fix everything on our own, but that NOTHING comes into our lives before passing through God's hands. That doesn't mean we won't struggle or have trials, no, we are promised those will come; what it DOES mean is that nothing that comes our way is a surprise to God<b><i>. </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Isn't it time to fight your fears? Stand up and let Satan know he no longer has power over us. We are sons and daughters of the Most High King. The Creator of everything there is. We have a Leader in this battle against Satan that WILL win the fight, and that outcome will never change.</i></b><br />
<br />
<b><i> </i></b>It's time to take God's promises to heart and stand FIRM against those fears in your life, knowing He has control over it all, and has never once left your side. No matter how hard things get, no matter how lost you feel, no matter how big of a mess you feel your life is, Jesus is standing right beside you, holding you, waiting for you to hand everything over to Him. <b><i></i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>I will leave you with these lyrics of an old hymn.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<i>Is Your All On The Alter?</i><br />
<div class="document lyrics">
<i>
</i><br />
<div class="verses" data-editable="tt3_music|url=Is_Your_All_on_the_Altar|verses">
</div>
<div class="verses" data-editable="tt3_music|url=Is_Your_All_on_the_Altar|verses">
<i>You have longed for sweet peace,</i><br />
<ol>
<li class="first"><i>And for faith to increase,<br />And have earnestly, fervently prayed;<br />But you cannot have rest,<br />Or be perfectly blest,<br />Until all on the altar is laid.
</i><ul>
<li class="refrain"><i><span class="refrain">Refrain:</span><br />Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?<br />Your heart does the Spirit control?<br />You can only be blest,<br />And have peace and sweet rest,<br />As you yield Him your body and soul.</i></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><i>Would you walk with the Lord,<br />In the light of His word,<br />And have peace and contentment alway?<br />You must do His sweet will,<br />To be free from all ill,<br />On the altar your all you must lay. </i></li>
<li><i>Oh, we never can know<br />What the Lord will bestow<br />Of the blessings for which we have prayed,<br />Till our body and soul<br />He doth fully control,<br />And our all on the altar is laid. </i></li>
<li><i>Who can tell all the love<br />He will send from above,<br />And how happy our hearts will be made;<br />Of the fellowship sweet<br />We shall share at His feet,<br />When our all on the altar is laid<b>.</b></i></li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>
<br /></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-48379482811622849302016-04-21T18:17:00.000-05:002016-04-21T18:17:56.811-05:00The Perfect Gift <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i><b>Grace.</b></i><br />
<br />
It's a word many don't even know the meaning of anymore. Almost as if it's this fairytale word of an ancient story. But there's something very real about it that opens up once you've experienced and felt it within the very depths of your being.<br />
<i><b> </b></i><i><b></b></i><br />
<i><b>It's this raw, emotional word that brings life to the most desperate soul.</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
There's a song specifically written about this incredible word. "Grace, grace. God's grace. Grace that is greater than <b>all our sin</b>." Greater than our sin? How can anything be greater than the mistakes we've made, wrongful things we have done, and people we have hurt?<br />
<br />
This is where the raw beauty of the word comes in. Only God can give grace that surpasses every sin we have ever committed. Only God can cover us with His own blood, blood that He poured out in an agonizing death, to lovingly cover every area of our life that falls short.<br />
<br />
It's this unending grace that spills over from a never ending stream; it never ceases, it never tells us "this is the last time". It's a word straight from Christ Himself. It's love in the purest form.<br />
<br />
So many people today feel they've gone too far to receive grace. But this is mainly from the image Christians portray it. Why would there be a loving God who forgives, when those who follow Him are nothing close to that word? What visual do we give to people on a daily basis of our Creator? If we are not showing grace, why would anyone think it was real? Again, it seems more like a fairytale.<br />
<br />
Our lives are the visual we put out in this broken world of our Heavenly Father. What does that look like in your life?<br />
<br />
We have become fake, social media perfectionist, mask wearing Christians. How appalling it would be to show our <i><b>raw</b></i> emotions, our <i><b>real </b></i>life, how our hair <i><b>really </b></i>looks, the freckles we <i><b>cover up</b></i>, the children that drive us <i><b>crazy </b></i>sometimes, the house that is <i><b>sometimes </b></i>a disaster, days when we <i><b>desperately need prayer</b></i>, times when we feel <b><i>alone</i></b>. <i><b>What would people see if we let our lives be truly raw, show them we aren't perfect, we don't pretend to be, and that the reason we talk about grace is because WE need it everyday?</b></i><br />
<br />
It's time we stop pretending. Time to take off the mask.Meet people where they are; how they are. Jesus came to save the lost, not the perfect.<br />
<i><b> </b></i><br />
<i>"But He said to me: My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." -2 Corinthians 12:9</i><br />
<i><b></b></i><br />
<i><b>His power is made perfect in WEAKNESS. </b></i>God knows we don't have it all together. That's why He has this amazing way of showing His power and greatness THROUGH our weakness, brokenness, and failures. All throughout the bible He chose the ones nobody would have picked to do great things. Saul was a murderer, David was an adulterer and murderer, Noah got drunk, Moses disobeyed, Sarah lied, Abraham slept with another woman....yet Jesus did wondrous works through their lives.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Don't ever let someone tell you you're not good enough to come to the throne of grace. </i></b><br />
<br />
Christ died for all. His gift is for all. His love never ends. His forgiveness is given beyond our human comprehension. His power is great. And He can, and will, use you with every bit of brokenness you bring.<br />
<b><i> </i></b><br />
<b><i>You are loved. You are cherished. He died for YOU. Take hold of that and believe it with all your heart. </i></b></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-54832222109758299662015-09-26T22:17:00.000-05:002015-09-27T07:18:17.385-05:00Purpose Worth Pursuing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">We can look back on the earliest times in history and see patterns. Since the beginning of time man has wanted more. Just as Adam and Eve became greedy and wanted more knowledge, people in today's world want more as well. They think if they could read just one more book, article, take one more class, they would understand. </span><br />
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
But always this emptiness. Always something missing. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
When people come to a point where they believe they were somehow formed, accidentally flung into existence, they don't realize the negative impact that has on their thoughts...their entire brain changes with how it thinks, reacts, and affects how they feel as a person. To be taught your whole life that you being alive is merely an accident? God help us. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Some of the best selling books on the market today are in the self-help sections. That means people are searching everywhere they can to get answers:</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<i>-Who am I? </i></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<i>-Why am I here?</i></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<i>-What is my purpose?</i> </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
As humans, we would like to think that we are important, loved, and have some kind of meaning for being here on this earth. But in today's society, is it even possible to find our way through the noise, judgement, and lies thrown at us every day we wake? </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
As a follower of Christ, I am not immune from some of these feelings. I do, however, have a sort of map in my life, a reference to guide me through life when I am unsure. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
You see, as Christians, we have this unimaginable joy of KNOWING we were created with and for a purpose. It wasn't an accidental explosion that gave us the life we now live. But rather, words spoken with purpose and love, bringing us into existence because someone had a plan. A plan so miraculous that it could only come from an almighty, loving God who WANTED us here. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Our purpose? <i>To spend each day sharing His unmistakable love, while praising and worshipping Him for all He has done and continues to do.</i> He knew who we were long before time even began, and loved us so much even then, that when the time came for punishment for the many sins in this world, He sent His only Son as an offering to cover OUR sin and evil deeds. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<i>Did you catch that?</i> <b><i>BEFORE</i></b> <i>we were even born.</i></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
So, for this world to tell anyone they are simply an "accident" is incredibly disrespectful of that love, kindness, and unthinkable gift.</div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<b>God does not make mistakes. YOU are not a mistake. </b></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
I see so many hurting people, people searching for something greater than themselves. But how often do they get pulled into a worldview filled with empty promises and lies, simply because someone took the time to present their beliefs in a kind way? The lost meet someone who seems to genuinely CARE that they are alive, and they are willing to follow wherever they lead. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
Fellow believers, how can we expect people to know how special they are in the sight of their <i>CREATOR</i> if we don't ever open our mouths to tell them? What damage we do when the only words coming from our mouths are condemning, judgmental, and hateful. Whether in person, or behind a digital screen...our actions are to be images of Christ. And we wonder why so many see God as a hurtful, hateful God...when we show them nothing else. </div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #454545; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">
We live in a time where hate is fed, hurt is given out by the truck loads, and people do not care how their actions affect those around them. But as believers in the one true God, this is not our purpose. This is not our calling. We are to <b>STAND OUT</b> with our actions in the most positive way possible. We are to show love to a dying and hurting world. May God reach down and touch our hearts, cleanse them of the dirt we have allowed to build up inside; may we speak truth, filled with hope to a hopeless world in need of a Savior. </div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-1354555799200058552015-06-19T11:43:00.001-05:002015-06-19T11:43:40.284-05:00The Reason We Worship<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are so many posts, blogs, and articles by Christians complaining or bashing the praise and worship band. Although I can understand some of the viewpoints of those people, I have to respectfully disagree. As I sat in church this past Sunday morning, those posts came to mind as our song leader for the day was quoting scripture about God's power, might, and presence. How we don't come to church to sing words, but worship Him, and draw near to Him...to feel His presence.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've read the complaints about these kinds of bands....my church's band; they're "too loud", there's lights and fog...like a "rock concert"...or the fact that the worship team seems to be worshiping and not strictly leading the congregation. See, I grew up in churches where the song service had a single song leader instead of a worship team, a simple piano in the background instead of multiple instruments, with the congregation holding hymnals singing along instead of slide shows, seated in pews instead of standing with raised hands.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's the thing, before you go and get defensive, let me explain that I do not have a problem with the traditional worship service, hymnals, or a single instrument during song service. I have absolutely no issues with this style. I do, however, have a problem with people judging the heart of those praising God in this way, simply because it is not what THEY prefer. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me give my thoughts. Growing up in the traditional song service with no raising of hands, rarely standing unless told to, and reading words from a book...I never felt a lot of emotion during our song services. I was never moved. Now those who are traditional song leaders, that is not meant to discourage or degrade the job that you do! God has called you to this position; you're there for a reason, and what you're doing is meaningful.</div>
<div>
For me, this is a personal feeling, nothing against the job you have done.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Skip several years, and I joined a church that has a band, lights, a worship TEAM, and yes...even fog sometimes...heaven help us. I can honestly say I have learned another kind of worship.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want you to ask yourself this: do you feel like the traditional way of worshiping is better than the modern way because it's "not how you were raised", or because you don't really understand the meaning of worship? Now, I'm not judging. Your worship experience is between you and God. Not me. Not the person sitting next to you. Not your family. You and God. I have simply realized in my own life that I previously judged these bands because I was uncomfortable ...maybe even jealous...that these people were OPENLY worshiping. They weren't afraid to lift their hands to the Lord; cry tears of joy, sadness, or gratefulness. I grew up where you stood still, like a statue, and sang words from a page. Still to this day I love hymns, especially when my family sits together and sings, or my praise and worship group leads them...but do you really think people in heaven will be praising God in seated positions, hands in their lap, reading from a book? Do you think the voices and instruments will be soft? Or do you think people will be falling to their knees, singing with a LOUD voice, praising their King singing "holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God almighty"?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If praise and worship isn't for you, that is 100% okay. If that isn't how you get close to God, that is your business. But I want to warn you...be cautious of your judgments on those who give their time and talents to the Lord by leading </div>
<div>
these praise and worship services. Worship is a PERSONAL experience, and to judge others for worshiping one way, simply because YOU don't feel close to God in that time is a very dangerous place to be.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Sing to Him a new song; Play skillfully with a SHOUT of joy." -Psalm 33:3</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"SHOUT joyfully to God, all the earth; Sing the glory of His name; Make His praise glorious. Say to God, “How awesome are Your works!" Psalm 66:1-3</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I will praise the name of God with song and MAGNIFY Him with thanksgiving." -Psalm 69:30</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before Him with JOYFUL singing."</div>
<div>
Psalm 100:2</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I can honestly say I feel closer to God through my praise and worship band, seeing their emotions, joy, gratefulness, and LOVE for their Savior than I ever did standing in a pew. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Worship is personal. If you don't like one way of worship, seek out another. Don't bash those who feel God's presence in that place.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The beautiful thing about</div>
<div>
Christianity is that we are all 100% uniquely designed by the most loving, gifted artist there is. Use your story and time with God to touch and move other people. Not degrade their experience with their Savior. </div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-66482532086412023022015-05-21T10:11:00.002-05:002015-05-21T10:11:44.414-05:00A Beautiful Marriage <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today is a special day for two special people. It's a day we celebrate two of the most influential people in my life.<br />
<br />
It's my parents 27th anniversary!<br />
<br />
There are a few things you need to know about my parents.<br />
<br />
1: They told me, my brothers and sisters very early on in our lives that they wanted us to know with assurance that they would never get a divorce. They said they never wanted us to fear that one or the other would leave us.<br />
<br />
2: They have always worked together on everything.<br />
<br />
3: They are ALWAYS open with each other.<br />
<br />
4: They are best friends...and if you're around them longer than 2 minutes you can tell.<br />
<br />
5: I have NEVER heard my parents yell at or degrade one another. I'm sure they've had fights...I mean, they're married with 6 kids, it's inevitable...but they've never done it in front of us kids or other people.<br />
<br />
To grow up with a hard working mother, who did so much for my brothers and sisters on a daily basis....trained us to work hard, taught us how important it is to have character, how to love learning (reading specifically), and how to treat other people with respect, is something a lot of kids don't get these days.<br />
<br />
And my dad. He has always worked so hard to provide above and beyond what my family needed. We have always had a nice house. Plenty of food (maybe too much sometimes, ;) electricity, water, and we never lacked toys to play with or things to do.<br />
I've seen my dad stressed over work, bills, where to move, which job to take, churches....and through every choice he made, he made it completely selflessly based on how it would affect his family (which meant passing up sever really good job opportunities).<br />
My dad was always eager to help us if we had an interest in learning a new skill, or thought of something we might want to do for a living. Even if he thought it was silly, he bought the material and books to teach us that skill.<br />
I've sat through countless sermons of my dads, heard the conviction, felt the passion he has for his Lord, and seen the tears of his gratefulness and awe of Christ. Not many kids get that privilege. My dad is an AMAZING pastor. My favorite out of every pastor I've ever heard (no bias here).<br />
<br />
For the 23 years I've been alive, I have been able to witness a beautiful marriage. Lots of hard times, many unknown times, many stressful times....but my parents have stuck with it, grown closer, and continue to be an example of a Christ centered marriage to their children and everyone around. It's not about how perfect your life is....our family certainly has its struggles...but having my parents as the example always makes things a little brighter.<br />
<br />
I want to thank you, Mama and Daddy. For always believing in me, pushing me to do more, encouraging me, raising me, teaching me about the love of Christ, how to never stop learning, and how wonderful a marriage can be.<br />
<br />
I love you!!! </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-61718450420062798432014-11-05T10:04:00.001-06:002014-11-05T10:04:13.981-06:00Where Is Your Life Headed? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We hear about it on the news, read it on social media and in the papers, everyone we are around seems to have a little bit of it. It's taking over our lives, deteriorating our health, relationships, jobs, and finances, and we don't even see it. It's become so engrained in our lives, it's just an every day thing for us now. The more people we are around who are infected with it, the worse our condition becomes.<br />
<br />
Negativity.<br />
<br />
See, we have become so used to the sound of it, we don't even realize how badly it is affecting us.<br />
<br />
Health- When we are overtaken by negative thoughts for so long, our bodies begin to wear down and break down. There is only so much of it our bodies can take. Those worthless feelings you have? The aches in the morning? The strange mood you've developed? It's not just age, y'all. This is part of the result of living a negative lifestyle. Now I'm not saying its only those of us who seem to be stressed, worried, fearful, and never have a positive thing to say. No, it can be complaints about anything in your life that's "not going right."<br />
<br />
Relationships- Nobody ENJOYS being around someone who complains all the time. Even people who live that 24/7! When your friends/siblings/parents/<br />
spouse/children are always having to listen to you complain about your work, aches, car, finances, or depressing life, those relationships will begin to crumble right there in front of you. How can we expect for things to get better if we keep doing the same old routine day in and day out?<br />
<br />
Jobs- If you had a business, and you always heard 1 of your workers complaining, how long do you think you'd keep them? Probably not too long. Now, I am fully aware some people have horrible jobs. There are jobs out there that are so stressful, bosses who overwork you, underpay you, or are just downright degrading to you. I understand those feelings. I have been there before. It's not fun. I also understand that not everybody has the option of finding another job. But until your attitude changes, you will never find the perfect job, you will never be happy with your work no matter what it is.<br />
<br />
Finances- The more desperate and hopeless we feel, the more we tend to throw in the towel. We have $10,000+ in debt?<br />
-"Well, I have to have a new shirt for this birthday party coming up, what's $20 more going to do?"<br />
-"I'm already as bad as I can get, and a candy bar and soda will make me feel better about it. What's $5 more going to hurt?"<br />
See, it's the mindset that we have NO control over our situation, and responsibility for our own actions, that continually makes the situation worse.<br />
<br />
Come on now, how many things really go wrong and keep us down that we truly have NO control over?<br />
<br />
I have been noticing a huge increase in negativity in my own life the last few weeks. I feel like I'm fine, then I get this overwhelming feeling and just start to complain about everything. How I feel, paying my bills, people that have "irritated" me. The list could go on for awhile. But I've been stuck in this rut for weeks now, and it was until last night while I was reading a book that I was brought back to the truth. I have control over my actions, feelings, and words. I have CONTROL over my own life and how I react to everything that happens. I have chosen a negative mindset. Which has increased all of my negative feelings by 100.<br />
<br />
You see, it's not that we are stuck in this lifestyle. That is both the sad and exciting thing about it! The sad thing is, we have let others convince us, and have convinced ourselves, that our life is stuck the way it is; that we have no control over how we are living or what happens to us. I'm here to tell you that is a bold faced lie.<br />
<br />
A few bible verses to think about:<br />
<br />
Jesus said:<br />
"In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33 NKJV)<br />
<br />
He never promises us, anywhere in the bible, that our life will be easy. As a matter of fact, He tells us over and over that it will be hard, we will be laughed at, mocked, tortured for His name... And I know hating your job or struggling financially may not fall under the "mocking" or "torture" category, however, I'm sure many of us feel tortured in those instances. Life isn't going to be hard just because we are followers of Christ, it will be bar because of SIN. And sin says being unhappy, negative, and depressed is okay.<br />
<br />
Proverbs says:<br />
"A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones." (Proverbs 17:22 NKJV)<br />
<br />
When we allow ourselves to live in a life filled with negativity, it will affect us down to our bones, and will literally begin to make us sick. But a merry heart (a joyFUL person) is like medicine! Jesus says we are the medicine we need! If we have Him living inside of us, we HAVE that ability to make a change in our lives. We HAVE something to be happy about. We HAVE someone who will listen to us, and help us through this life's journey. No, it will not always be easy. There will be days when we want to be downright grumpy about our situation and circumstances. But Jesus gives us the power to overcome the entire WORLD if we let Him come by our side and give us the strength we need.<br />
<br />
So, we have a choice today. Where is your life heading? What's yours decision going to be? </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-40694625437477237192014-02-17T17:38:00.002-06:002014-09-13T20:05:15.611-05:00The Power of Unconditional Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.09375); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">Gods love doesn't require perfection. It doesn't require for us to have it all together. It doesn't even require us to always make the right choices. It simply requires us to come. The broken, alone, hurting, the ones with a "dirty" past; everyone can come before God, no matter their past or present.</span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.09375); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.09375); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">
<div>
Jesus stood up for the sinners. He loved them where they were. There was no condition to His love, because it was and has always been UNCONDITIONAL. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
How do we show Gods love today? Do we make other people think they have to be, live, act, dress, or talk a certain way for us to accept them? Do we show Gods love, or do we show the human nature love?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Do we judge before we even know, or do we learn to know so we don't need to judge?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Jesus said "he who is without sin cast the first stone", so I wonder, why do we go around throwing stones? Do we really think we are better than those who don't quite have it all together, or are we really just putting other people down so we lift ourselves up? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So many questions...but I know the answer to them. I judge, love on conditions, don't show people the love of Jesus, think more highly of myself than others... But I ask myself now; do I even have the right? And my answer is no. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am a sinner in a world full of sinners. The bible says if we have broken one commandment it is as if we have broken them all. So what is stopping me from seeing that in the midst of my everyday judging people? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Pride. I want to feel better about myself. Instead of going to my knees, I stick my nose in the air, acting as though I have made better choices than that girl, or that boy, or that husband/wife.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
People make mistakes. *I* make mistakes. Everyday. I simply try hiding them under my Christian belt as if I deserve to be left alone from judging eyes. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's wrong. Christianity isn't about being better than everyone else, but that remembering we are all in this life together. Our job is to be there for one another, lift each other up, pray for one another, be there when they need someone....and always, ALWAYS, remind them how much God loves them. No matter what they're going through or how much you don't agree with it, once someone feels the love of God and that acceptance He gives, they will want to do everything they can to please Him. It isn't our job to make them perfect or fix the way they look or act. That is between them and God. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The longer I allow myself to talk negatively about others and the choices they make, the way they live, and how they act...yes, sometimes I feel better about myself....but honestly it is just exhausting. Have you ever been there?</div>
<div>
I feel run down trying to control everyone's lives, and the negativity is quite a heavy load to carry. There are so many slap in the face moments in my life...this would be an important one. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When we give way to love and let go of pride and judgement, we become happier, healthier, and exude joy in every area of our lives. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want to spread joy to others, not judgement. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Will you join me?</div>
</span></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-83913246368440298362014-02-05T18:30:00.001-06:002014-02-05T18:30:26.637-06:00Searching For Joy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0898438); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;">Take notice of the blessings in your everyday life. Really, look around you. What do you see?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.09375); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;"><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I run, rush, stress, and worry through every day. Wondering if things will ever slow down, if they will ever be less complicated.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Through a series of events and several desperately needed books, I am finally learning to take life a little slower, stop and enjoy the small things, and pray more when my head is filled with worrisome thoughts. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think the life we all live is so stressful because we tend to rush right past prayer. It seems like we only pray and give thanks when something really bad is happening, or something amazing has just happened. It is so easy to forget to be thankful during our everyday life; not only that but to be VERBAL when thanking Jesus for all of those things He sends.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I still have freak out moments, I still struggle with self criticism, still get a head full of Satans lies on a daily basis. But I think those things will always be there. It is not about having a perfect life without struggles, but having a perfect Savior who calms and helps us overcome when those things happen. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When Satan says "you are not enough" Jesus says "you are more than enough". When Satan says "you will never overcome this" Jesus says "I have already overcome this". When Satan says "they do not think very highly of you" Jesus says "I treasure you more than the worth of all the precious jewels in the world". When Satan says "you won't ever get past this" Jesus says "I will walk with you and be your strength".</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For every lie Satan has, Jesus has a truth that is infinitely more powerful. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The sunsets, the promise of a new day, flowers blooming, the ability to work, spend time with friends and family; our health, the freedom we have to go to church, the sound of birds singing, the stars sparkling in the night sky, children's laughter, having a coat when it's cold, shoes on our feet, and people who love us.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Even when we have a hundred things that have gone wrong during our day, we can always find the same number of things that have gone right or that we can be thankful for. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is my journey. Ever treading along new paths, taking a glance at small things that I have been given. The amount of joy one can receive from any given day is endless. We simply have to be willing to look. </div>
</span></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-34200191759029703202013-09-09T22:43:00.000-05:002013-09-09T22:43:01.766-05:00The Journey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Ill be honest, I haven't written in awhile because of one reason: I feel unworthy of all my readers. I mean, nobody wants to hear about my struggles. </span><br />
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I got a phone call while at my grandparents one day and was reminded why I initially started writing years ago. I share my struggles because by sharing, I don't bottle things up and they don't feel so heavy. I want people to know I struggle every day, not to get pity, but so they know they aren't alone. I know how it feels to think you're the only one going through things like depression, pier pressure, break ups, being put down, pressure to be someone you're not... </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
All of these things people go through everyday and are treated like outcasts because of it. We have all of this pressure around us to be this perfect Christian; you can't make mistakes or do anything wrong in the eyes of your church, otherwise, you're cast out of the "holy" group. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Who in their right mind started the whole "hollier than thou" war? As if you can work your way to a higher level of holy or something. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
We weren't created to compete against each other; we were created to work together in harmony, to praise our maker. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
TOGETHER. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Sadly, there are many who profess to be Christians, yet lack the very root of Christ Himself. And that is love. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I strive every day to be more like Christ. But the thing is, I fail every day. As do we all.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
But, my goal in life is not to BE Christ, but strive to be more like Him. The bible says "there is none good, not even one." So, the Christians who think they can achieve a higher level of "good" than the rest are at a sad state indeed. Do I wish I could be a "good" person? Absolutely. Do I just stop trying to be more like Christ because I know I can't ever achieve perfection? Absolutely not. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
There's a quote, by whom I don't know, but I love it. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
"I am perfectly imperfect."</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
My goal in life isn't to do good and shove it in the face of those who We might think are "lesser" than us; our goal should be to follow Jesus in everything we say, do and think. Nothing more, nothing less. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
As another blogger said, the day I gave my life to Christ was the day I got a lifetime job. By now, I would have been fired by anyone else. Some days I don't show up for work or fail every task I'm given. But I'm given every lasting chances. They'll never run out. This is the love of God. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
This is what I strive to be. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
This is my journey. </div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-78665665273270997152013-08-06T12:22:00.000-05:002013-08-06T12:47:44.546-05:00Think Before You Dress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Modesty.<br />
<br />
Thinking of other people when you are dressing.<br />
<br />
This is not the true definition of the word, but it is what I like to think of when I choose what I'm going to wear. Now, I'm not saying everyone should go by what I say when it comes to clothes; everyone has their own convictions and that is their choice to make. I just thought I might talk a little about why I dress the way I do.<br />
<br />
See, people (mainly women) have a very strong power over mens minds that I don't think they think about very often. They say men should just watch their mind and not let it wander to places it shouldn't go. But my view on this is quite different.<br />
<br />
Because of the sin nature that has been in place very clearly for thousands of years since Adam and Eve, the mind is a very dangerous place. The mind of a man will think things before the man even realizes it. Yes, to a point men can certainly "help it" at times and guard their mind to not allow it to go certain places, but I truly believe it is a womens job to not tempt their minds or prey on their weak imaginations.<br />
That is not saying men are weak, quite the contrary, but the mind of a man is quite weak to a point in certain areas.<br />
<br />
As a women, I have the choice to allow men to have certain thoughts about me. Letting specific areas on my body show or "hang out" could be the difference between a man staying true to his wife or having impure thoughts. <br />
<br />
Think of it this way; if you had/have a young daughter (e.i. 12-15 yrs old), there are certainly things you would and wouldn't allow her to wear. Why is that? Most of the time I don't think it is because they would "look too old" but because there are things girls that young shouldn't be wearing for safety sake.<br />
<br />
Wearing dresses others can see all the way up when we bend over, letting your bottom hang out from your shorts, being able to see all the way down our shirt to our toes when we bend over. The sights that such brings are ones that get mens minds to rolling in ways I don't think many women would be comfortable with.<br />
<br />
Just as you would protect your young daughters against "showing off" certain areas, so should we as adults watch what we are showing.<br />
<br />
Now, I realize there are many people out there much more conservative than I am, and I am not trying to tell them to live like me, nor am I trying to get the more liberal women to be more conservative to become like my standards. I am simply writing what I have had on my heart for awhile.<br />
<br />
Women, if every thought that went through a mans mind when you dressed suggestively was spoken out loud, do you think you would be embarrassed? Are there not <i>thoughts</i> and <i>desires</i> you wish <b>only your husband to have?</b><br />
<br />
The world we live in today revolves around showing off womens bodies in so many vulgar ways it makes me sick. However, because "everyone" is doing it, women think men will just see it as "normal". This is not the case at all! No matter how times men see immodest women, they will always want to stare; sinful thoughts will ALWAYS race through their mind. Dances, songs, TV shows, live performances, movies, jokes....<i><b>everything</b></i> these days is starting to be based on sex. To have those thoughts drive through the minds of the people and make them accept it as being okay, when it is <b>very wrong</b>.When the people no longer have morals, we then become like <i>Sodom and Gomorrah</i>....we no are no longer a Godly people, a nation based on God...but a nation that is becoming like a city that <i>God had wiped out</i> because of their <b>filthy</b> lifestyle.<br />
<br />
We have the power to protect mens minds, and yes, whereas I think bikinis are very cute, and those tiny dresses could show off some nice curves, I have chosen against such things for one reason: I have certain parts of me that I want to save for my<b> husbands</b> eyes ONLY. I want certain thoughts going through my <b>husbands</b> head ONLY. And whereas I know I cannot stop every man I come in contact with to keep a pure mind around me, I know there are many things I can do to help the matter.<br />
<br />
Being modest doesn't mean you have to <b>give up</b> having cute clothes, being in style, or even <i>only wearing dresses and skirts</i> all the time! It simply means you <b><i>think before you dress.</i></b> Ask your husband/father what would go through a mans mind if he were to see you in _______. There will be things someday I will wear around my husband only, but thoughts going through a mans head that you are married to is okay! He has the right to think you look amazing, to touch you, etc. But these are thoughts I want him, and ONLY him, to have.<br />
<br />
I am no picture of perfection in this area, there are times I probably don't make the best dress choices, things I've regretted doing, wearing, saying...but the most important thing is to learn from mistakes, learn from pain and hurt, learn from the lessons you've been taught and simply MOVE ON. Do not live in the past, do not live with regret....simply be better. <br />
<br />
Ladies, lets do men a favor, help them out a little. We have the power to make a difference, <b>let us not waste it. </b><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-88076156034021650512013-06-05T18:20:00.002-05:002013-06-05T18:32:19.191-05:00Not So Happily Ever After: Misconceptions About Marriage. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I think there are many misconceptions about marriage, the biggest being the fairy tale ending of "and they lived happily ever after". Now before you stop reading abruptly for my "negativeness," let me explain.<br />
<br />
I think most people (women especially) have a perfect picture of what marriage should look like. People get along, they might have a disagreement about something, but the husband will give in and the wife will get her way therefore avoiding any confrontation. Things will go according to schedule, both of you and your in-laws will always get together, and you'll always have the money you need. <br />
<br />
<i>There's one major flaw. </i><br />
<br />
Here's the catch; <b>Satan. </b> <br />
<br />
Out of everything out there in this world, Satan hates a Godly marriage probably more than anything. When he sees one start to spring up and grow, he starts his attack. He puts pride in each others hearts, pushes them to hold grudges and puts a total halt to any loving actions. The couple then begins to loath even being around the other person, and we get yet another divorce.<br />
<br />
Why do we not fight for marriages anymore? Why do we think being married means we always get our way and will never have to give in to something WE want? Well, because Satan is attacking them more than anything else.<br />
<br />
There is absolutely such thing as having a happy marriage of 50, 60 even 70 years. I've seen couples 90+ years old and still being married to the person they first started with. It is possible. You simply have to stop making love a feeling and realizing everyday will be a choice whether to love that same person, despite their faults and quirks, or to hold every little thing against them and turn your heart away from them.<br />
<br />
There's a song that has been playing on the radio recently and I think it is absolutely a piece of marriage revival material! <br />
<br />
<b><i>Song by Chris August:</i></b><br />
<br />
<i>"Nobody's growing old together, we've made it easy just to quit.<br />
Love has become a negative percentage, why do we bother to commit?<br />
We've got a long list of excuses, ways we try to justify.<br />
Well, I propose to you the truth is, marriage does not have to die.</i>
<i><br />
I know you're feeling like it’s falling apart and it can't go on anymore.<br />
But God is a God who knows how to heal, so just give it up to the Lord,<br />
And He will restore.</i>
<i><br />
He said with this ring I promise, and with I do she said forever.<br />
But right now if they're being honest, they don't know if they'll stay together.<br />
Let's fast forward to the future, after struggling on their own.<br />
They finally figured out they needed Jesus in the middle.<br />
Now I'm watching God rebuild their home.</i><br />
<br />
<i>I know you're feeling like it’s falling apart and it can't go on anymore.<br />
But God is a God who knows how to heal, so just give it up to the Lord,<br />
And He will restore.</i>
<i><br />
The enemy tries to come and divide<br />
Trying to get us to give up the fight.<br />
But darkness will always lose out to light,<br />
'Cause we've got the power of Christ on our side.</i>
<i><br />
I see you growing old together.<br />
I pray I find a love like yours.</i>
<i><br />
So if you're feeling like it’s falling apart, and it can't go on anymore.<br />
God is a God who knows how to heal, so just give it up to the Lord<br />And He will restore. Like it was before, you may have strayed off course,<br />
But He will restore." </i><br />
<br />
Giving up, in most cases, is easier than going through the fire and trials of marriage. But I think the one thing people forget, is that they not only made a vow (promise) to each other to push through thick and thin, good and bad, whether they're rich or poor, sick or healthy...and yes, even if they start to change as the years go by (we're human, we're going to constantly grow and change!) but we made that vow to GOD as well.<br />
<br />
On a slightly different subject, on Christian vs. non Christian in a marriage.<br />
I have seen so many women who have made SUCH a huge difference in their marriage when they come to know Christ AFTER they were married, and their husband wasn't a believer. Through their example, through prayer and constant love for that person, their spouse came to know Christ. They stuck through it even though they changed and now may not agree as much in every area. They knew they made a promise in front of God and how important it was to keep that promise. NEW believers get that, why can't we all do this? Those of us who have known Christ for most of our lives. Why? I think it goes back to the "faith of a child" verse. New believers are typically more excited and on fire for God's word than those of us who have known him for a decade or more. (It is sad, but true in many cases.)<br />
<br />
I have definitely been one to give up on more things than I can count. But for me, when it comes to marriage, quitting is not even an option. As a matter of fact, there are no "options". I will stay with my husband until I die. I know there will be struggles, I know we will fight (even though at this point I can't imagine fighting with the man I love, I know it's going to happen occasionally,) I know there is a possibility we might struggle financially (nobody knows what their financial future will hold,) we might move and leave friends and have to start over frequently, and lastly, we will NEVER agree on every little thing in life. Those are facts. Things we need to think about before we say "I do".<br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -<br />
Just a side note:<br />
<br />
None of this is in any way trying to degrade those who have been through a divorce. I have sympathy for them, not anger or hatred. If you have been through a divorce, I know it was one of the hardest things you've ever had to go through. But I pray if you have married again, you would take to heart what God has said about choosing love over anger. You must choose, <i>every day</i>, to love your spouse. Just as God chooses to love us despite all the wrong we do. <br />
<br />
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -<br />
<br />
Nobody will have a perfect marriage, but you can most certainly have a great marriage! One that is centered on God and His truths; one that is ordained by God and blessed by Him. The best part of marriage is not that you will not have trials and tribulations, but that when those things come, you have someone to lean on, encourage you, cry with you, struggle with you....and someone who will pray for you and be there for you.<br />
<br />
I think one of the biggest things missing in marriages today is prayer. People just don't pray for each other anymore. Why is that? Do we think everything will always be perfect and our spouse won't ever go through something hard enough that they'd "need" prayer? Regardless of what people now days think about prayer, it is one of the more powerful things we can do. Praying requires faith, and faith can "move mountains". <br />
<br />
Just some things to think about. <br />
<br />
Pray for each other DAILY.<br />
Support each other through EVERYTHING. <br />
Do not go to bed ANGRY with one another.<br />
ALWAYS be willing to put the other person above yourself. <br />
<br />
Marriage is about two people. If one or the other begins making it about ONE person, it will start to fade and crumble quickly. Build your marriage on THE Rock (Jesus,) and it will do well. </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-19418133916985741142013-05-30T13:22:00.000-05:002013-05-30T13:33:01.308-05:00Facing The Fear<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">This past Sunday my pastor had me thinking deep, asking myself some serious questions, and coming to tears. The message had to do with Satan and how he tries his very best to get a hold of our lives. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">A discouraged soul can't do much for the cause of Christ. The more the devil can bring us down through bad situations, or even down on ourselves, that is more time we spend worrying on things outside of accomplishing things for Christ. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Ladies and gentlemen, meet one of the worlds worst self discouragement, fearful women. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Hi, my name is Jessica, and I suffer from fear of tomorrow. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I grew up in a loving, Godly home. I couldn't have asked for better, more Godly, parents. I have 3 brothers and two sisters so there was never a reason to feel lonely or bored. But, there has always been something different about me, and I've always been able to see it. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>I am fearful.</i> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I feared sadness because it means something bad has happened, I feared happiness because that meant it could be taken away, I feared safety because that can all disappear in a minute; I feared people, because there are bad people out there and, in my mind, they were all out to laugh at me, whisper about me, or hurt me. Don't laugh. I know it's overboard, and honestly I cannot tell you where I picked up so much fear. My dad always let me know he would protect me through anything, and if he couldn't, God would. But still the nightmares came, the constant roaming of eyes watching others eyes "fixed on me" (or so I thought,) what seemed like people following me every time I was alone. I didn't want to try new things because I was afraid I would fail...and because of that I wasn't good at a whole lot (how can you be good at something you've never tried?) I was an honest to goodness....phobic. Is that a word? Basically, I feared everything; and still do to some extent even today. Gosh, I even feared fear itself! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span>
</i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b>"The devil uses discouragement to take control of our lives."</b> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); line-height: 24px;"><b>I heard this and just sat there staring at my pastor...and I'm pretty sure my mouth was gaping open. I've heard basically that same sentence my whole life, but sometimes it takes a very specific wording to finally penetrate my thick skull. Discouragement is one of the biggest ways the devil can push us to the point of misery.</b> </span></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>If the devil can cause you to be afraid of him, then he can hinder you to remember Gods promise that he (satan) cannot defeat you. </b></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Fear, for me, is the one thing that can hinder me from doing just about anything. This shouldn't be the case, I am fully aware of that. I should fear nothing but God Himself. But when satan whispers those lies into my ear all day long...they start to become real, however unrealistic they may be in real life, in my mind they're possible and even probable. The only way to rid the devil of having this hold over me is to claim the promise that God gave to all of His children; <b>through Jesus, we have the authority to defeat the devil.</b> To stop him in his tracks, turn, and flee from the scene of our lives. The one thing many of us forget is just because we have told satan to get lost once, it doesn't mean he doesn't have the ability to ever bother us again. He will come at us our entire lives. We just have to remember we can tell him to beat it every time he starts twisting situations or circumstances, pushes us to blow up with anger, be hurtful to people, or hold on to bitterness. We won't always push aside his temptations, no, sometimes we will give in to our sin nature and follow through with something we shouldn't have done, but that is where God comes in. </span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">You see, this is where it gets beautiful. Whereas the devil is the father and lover of lies, Jesus is our <b>Father</b>, and<b> lover of our soul</b>. He <i>cherishes</i> us, and will <i>draw us near</i> to Him once again every time we stumble or fall. </span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>"Satan is a defeated foe, and on his way to being kicked out he tries to cause as much trouble as he can."</b></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">If people say they've never had problems and opposition with the devil...it's because they're going the same w. If they turn around they'll feel that tension and pressure. </span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">People are told all kinds of lies about how it is to be a Christian; I think the biggest one is that <i>"you will have a perfect life, and all your problems will disappear or be solved once you become a Christian!" </i></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Great sales pitch. So far from the truth. Now, the actual truth of the matter may seem a little backwards, and you will probably think " that is crazy! Why on earth would I want to be a follower of someone who said I wouldn't be treated well?" </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Well, because when you experience the truth of God and the true meaning of a relationship with Him, you are willing to bear through anything to let others know who He is and what He did for them. The pain won't last forever, the tears will one day be wiped away, our worry and fear will be removed and replaced with joy unspeakable. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">In the meantime, we must find the reason for our lives. See, Jesus has a very specific plan for each and every one of us. Once we find out what it is, we are to set our on that journey. We will struggle, have heartache, hardships, we will even fall flat on our face sometimes. But, unlike Hannity And Colmes on Fox News says, life is not always<i> "fair and balanced." </i>It's a pretty hardcore world out there, and the sooner we don't expect everything to go perfectly, the more we can relax and have faith that no matter what happens, God is right there building, growing, and strengthening who we are.</span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">There will be a day when Satan will be chained up and thrown into the lake of fire. That is his demise, and nothing he does will change his future. He knows where he will end up...but he wants to turn the hearts of men, as many as possible, towards him so when he is thrown into the fire, he can take as many people with him as he can. He knows he won't win in the end, but he will fight to get followers along the way. </span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I can blame whoever I want or any situation or circumstance for this overwhelming fear. Or, I can "take it like a man" and admit I have brought it on myself. I trust that God will protect me, and that anything He allows to happen in my life has a reason...but my trust goes as far as the good times most of the time. I have faith until I am tempted or treated bad, then I am terrified and worry to the point of being sick. To truly trust God, I must learn to trust Him through every situation no matter how hard it is. Lack of trust doesn't only affect my relationship with God, but with everyone else around me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">If you are like me, and have struggled in some of the same areas, you know the journey has been rough. We can't fix anything on our own, but at the same time, we have to take blame where we have allowed Satan to take over areas of our lives. To make a change, we have to change our way of thinking. When Satan whispers those lies into our ears, we must learn to ignore them. To say "you have no power over me, because you are already conquered!" </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">It is time we stop letting a defeated foe rule how much joy we have in our lives. It's time to hand over those lies to God. Time to not claim them as truth or as a regular part of our lives. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">We cannot see God, but through faith we know He is there, and because of that, we can have unspeakable joy through ANY circumstance. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>"</b><b>and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not
see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy
inexpressible and full of glory." </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>(1 Peter 1:8)</b></span></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-35927237609727238452013-05-15T12:16:00.000-05:002013-05-15T12:16:18.936-05:00Letting Go To Live<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Worry, worry, worry, worry....whether we like it or not.<br />
<br />
The past few months with multiple doctor visits, car problems and just your everyday life, I've been doing a lot of worrying.<br />
<br />
How many times will I have to keep going to the doctor?<br />
<br />
Will I ever stop having health problems?<br />
<br />
How will I afford a new car? <br />
<br />
What am I doing with my life? What am I accomplishing?<br />
<br />
Will I ever make a difference in someone's life?<br />
<br />
I'm sure you've had a few of these questions go through your head at some point, as well.<br />
<br />
I've been thinking lately, and I've noticed that my major worrying comes when I don't spend as much time with God as I should. I know this sounds like a broken record; we've always been told staying close to God will lessen our stress levels; we remember more easily to let go and hand them to Him. However, I can't be reminded too many times to draw near to God. It is something I need to be reminded of over and over and over.<br />
<br />
My life will be stressful; but keeping God close at hand, near to the heart, and always on the mind will definitely help me get through each day.<br />
<br />
Life gets busy. But if we have time to sit and watch our favorite TV series, go to the movies, take a nap, or play computer games, then we most certainly have time to spend with God. I admit, I do not spend near as much time reading my bible or simply being with God as I should. I say "I'm too busy" or "I'm too tired".<br />
<br />
Think of it like this: what if God gave us as much time as we gave to Him; how often would He be around? Think of it in reverse; what would it be like if we gave GOD as much time as He gives US? What would our relationship with Him look like? I can only imagine how much stress and worrying I could drop if I was in the presence of God that often!<br />
<br />
God not only gave His own life for us, but He has given eternity to be with us. Not because He has to, or because it is His "job". He spends every second trying to be a part of our lives, blessing us even when we don't deserve it, giving us grace, patience, forgiveness, and strength. Whether we deserve any of it or not, He still continues to show us love.<br />
<br />
I love this one part on the movie Fireproof . Kirk Cameron said (about his wife) to his dad "I did everything I could to demonstrate that I care about her; to show value for her. And she spat in my face. She does not deserve this. I'm not doing this anymore. <b>How am I supposed to show love to somebody over and over and over who constantly rejects me?</b>" His dad said "That is a good question" then looks at a cross. Kirk says "Dad that is not what I am doing." His dad says "Isn't it?"<br />
<br />
How are we supposed to truly live life without love? Love is the base of everything on this earth because God is love. If we spend our time worrying and stressing about everything that comes our way, we start pulling away from God, and that affects every relationship around us.<br />
<br />
That is how the two connect...in case you were wondering.<br />
<br />
When we spend all of our time thinking about what we don't have or all the things we have to do and pay for, we take away the time we could be spending with God.<br />
<br />
Worrying doesn't just affect you; it affects everyone around you and your very way of life. It's time we stop rejecting God when He tries to take our burdens. It's time we "trust and obey".<br />
<br />
Live life to it's fullest; you never know when you will run out of time. Trust in all things, love unconditionally, forgive relentlessly. Life is too short to live worrying about the future and the "what ifs" "should haves" and "if onlys". As my boyfriend constantly reminds me, live for today; because you never know if tomorrow won't come. </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-29543719736703713292013-04-08T13:27:00.000-05:002013-04-08T13:44:18.906-05:00Overwhelming Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">A few years ago during </span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Sunday morning</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> church service, I looked over to see one of the young men, a few pews in front of me, just sobbing. </span><br />
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I stood there and watched, a little concerned that something happened, then realized what was happening. The songs had moved him to such a state that all he could do was stand there, sister embracing him, and sob for, what I suspect, was the overwhelming love and grace he felt from his Savior. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
That image has been in my head ever since. When I saw him, after the concern was over, I was a little jealous. Why did It not bring tears to my eyes at the wave of love that came from my Savior? I thought about it for several weeks. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I have since come to the realization that my relationship with Jesus only depends on how deep or shallow <u><b>I</b></u> make it to be. It is my choice how much or little time I spend with Him; how much or little I allow Him in my everyday life. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
See, He is always there. He is our "constant" and desires to spend time with us; He wants us to bring our cares to Him, pray to Him, praise and thank Him. He desires it all, but how often do we truly open up our lives for Him TO work or move? Personally, I give the excuse that I am just "busy" all the time. I didn't have "time" to read my bible this morning or pray before my meal. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
The truth is this: we make time for what we want to do.<br />
<br />
This young mans name was Jimmy. This image I still hold is one of the hundreds of ways he inspired and encouraged me to push past the cares, worries and struggles of the world and to strive for not just a religion about Jesus, but a deep, personal, and emotional RELATIONSHIP with Him. Some people only see the wrath of Jesus; some choose to see only love. But Jimmy saw the beauty of everything God is put together, and that makes a masterpiece of awe and wonder. The beauty Jesus has created in the small areas of our lives, whether it be flowers, bees, dirt, trees or the sky. When you take the time to look at everything God has made as a form of artwork, you then can truly see it's beauty. To see the world (nature, weather, people,) as Jimmy did, that would be a true life changer indeed.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
The tears, inability to speak, falling to my knees all because of Gods overwhelming presence and love; that is the kind of relationship I want with my Jesus.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
That is the kind of praise God deserves, and so much more. What are we willing to give up to allow Him to give us new eyes, and a life overflowing with His presence?</div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-26591749261010836302013-03-04T14:03:00.001-06:002013-03-04T14:03:25.619-06:00Age of Electronics <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Have thought a lot about our electronic gadgets lately. The "social network" and "age of electronics" has been booming, while our real life relationships have been failing. <br />
<br />
I've seen so many couples out to eat, sitting in their car or just being with each other lately and they both have their phones out. The sad part? I do the same thing. And we wonder why relationships are failing. When you're with your boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife, put the phone down and give them your undivided attention. Show them you WANT to spend time with them and care about what they're saying. Believe me, it will make a huge difference. <br />
<br />
Relationships are built on choosing certain things. You have to CHOOSE to look past faults and realize your significant other is not perfect. You have to CHOOSE to love them each and every day all over again. However, if your time and attention is spent on everything BUT your partner, the relationship will begin to fail and you lose the ability to communicate. Face to face, real life relationships are almost an endangered species. We can "talk" to anyone about anything via text/Facebook/Twitter, but when we are around people we begin to feel uncomfortable and awkward. This isn't how it should be.<br />
<br />
I try and fail all the time to spend more time with people and less time with my face buried in a screen; and I will admit it loud and clear, I fail a lot. When I go on a date with my boyfriend and sit waiting on my food, my first reaction isn't to start a conversation with him. I pick up my phone and get on Facebook, Instagram or start texting people. That is an issue. When things get rough, my phone can't comfort me, be there for me, stand up for me or tell me it will be okay. It won't provide for me, love me or take me on adventures. If everything else fails me, it will be HIM who is there to be with me, not a single electronic device could do that.<br />
<br />
Life is about relationships. Good or bad, it's all about relationships. We need to start taking the ones we have more serious. Of course they will fail is we allow them to. Talking through problems, fears, frustrations or concerns is how you draw closer to people; just like our relationship with Christ. <br />
<i>("Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." -James 4:8)</i><br />
<br />
Any relationship in our life will require work. It won't always be easy. But going to our computer, tablet, or phone won't ever solve anything. Sure, people you go to through those things will give you advice or tell you how to handle the situation, but you being able to go to whomever you want means you will automatically go to those you know will tell you what you want to hear.<br />
<br />
I'll tell you, if I went to God as much as I went to Facebook, I would spend my whole day with Him. It's sad to think about, but it's the truth.<br />
<br />
The change we want in our lives, we have to start with ourselves. Turn that pointing finger around at ourselves for once. Find what WE are doing wrong and stop pointing at everyone else hoping that, by pointing out what's wrong with THEM, we somehow make ourselves better.<br />
<br />
It's time we realize relationships aren't one sided. ONE person can't give and give and give to make the relationship work. A person can only give so much, and when one person is doing the work of two people it will eventually drain them dry. Couple relationships are about each person giving 100%.<br />
<br />
Example: <br />
-Women- Your guy needs guy time. He can't always stay with you every time he isn't working.<br />
-Men- Sometimes sitting through a romance movie will mean more to her than a fancy dinner. <br />
<br />
Put the phone down, step away from the computer. Go build relationships that will last long past your phone or computers faddish style. </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-18975263327654371562013-02-27T12:59:00.001-06:002013-02-27T13:09:02.762-06:00Stones of Judgment <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>"Do not judge so that you will not be judged."</i></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I hear people quote this verse all the time and, whereas I think there is a lot to learn from it, I think people take it to all kinds of extremes and the end result is not love, but more judging.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There are those who think it is their job to point out every little thing in people's lives that is different from their own, making sure they let them know they are "wrong." As if it's okay to judge people for judging? Huh?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Those who are less conservative call the conservatives "legalistic" and those who are more conservative call those with less "rules" liberal. All of the non believers see the name calling and call us "crazy Christians."</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">We become so focused on being free in our beliefs that we think everyone else needs to be like us to be happy; this is typically when we become "loud" like a "gong or cymbal" <i>(If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 1 Corinthians 13:1 NASB).</i> In all honesty, we do not treat other believers with love, do we? Then there are the Christians who are a little more "out there" than us; we laugh at them, mocking their beliefs because they don't live as we do. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Who ever said we have the right to do this? I have been convicted at how little respect I have for people who don't believe the same things as I. Not to mention a lack of love. It makes me sad to know I have been a part of a problem instead of a revolution of love. I see people with tattoos, I judge their lifestyle. I see people who smoke, I roll my eyes and mumble remarks under my breath. I see people who are dressed differently than me, and I comment on how "weird" or "creepy" they look. Somebody has a lip ring? "That's just not right!" we say. See, people will believe differently than me depending on what they have convictions about, and that's okay! Tattoos, clothing styles, bad habits, piercings....all of these things are on the OUTSIDE, and because of my judgmental attitude, I won't ever meet them to see what their heart looks like. I have turned away a potential relationship with someone because of how they look? How totally un-Christ like! In John 4 we read about the women Jesus meets at the well. You find out she has been married 5 times and was living with a man whom she wasn't married to; did this stop Jesus from talking to her, from sharing with her the good news of eternal life? No! He openly shared with her. THIS is the example of Christ. Do we ever even get far enough past judgmental thoughts that we are even able to have a conversation with people?</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The only thing you should worry about in people's beliefs is whether or not they have Jesus as their Savior. That should be our first concern; no matter what else you think is important. Outside of that, NOTHING else is our business. We can teach in love what the bible says, but we have to let Christ convict people how HE pleases, not as WE think they should live.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now don't get me wrong, there will be people who don't listen to what God is saying and it's okay to point those out, as long as it is something specifically against God's word, and not our opinion.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">See, there are basically two kinds of Christians today: Conservatives and non-conservatives. </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The issue here is this: typically, both live to judge. The conservatives judge others for what all they DO in their lives, and the non-conservatives judge those who DON'T do certain things. Both thinking the others are in the wrong. The truth is, neither are bringing glory to God with their actions. Back when I was a kid there were many things I wasn't allowed to do. I was teased and laughed at a lot, so to make myself feel better, I would talk about the "other" people and what they wore, listened to and talked about. It made me feel better about myself and the things I did...because, in my mind, it made me feel "more holy" than they were.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Those "less-conservative" people truly think the only judgmental people are those who are "super conservative." So, you label them and laugh at them because they're different and have chosen not to do certain things, and that makes THEM the judgmental ones? How does that work?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>"Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. (Matthew 7:1-5 NASB)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When we spend all of our time worrying about what other people are doing, we stop paying attention to how we are living our own lives. This is a dangerous place, because the moment you stop holding yourself accountable for your actions, words and thoughts, they will begin to stray from the things of Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Don't expect perfection from everyone when you yourself cannot achieve perfection. Don't point out someone else' faults when you have your own mile long list.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>"Early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them. The scribes and the Pharisees *brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the center of the court, they *said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?” They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground. But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, </i></span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>“He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”</i></span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i> -John 8:2-7</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,<sup>"</sup> declares the <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>. <sup>"</sup>As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways </i><i>and my thoughts than your thoughts." -Isaiah 55:8</i></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-49346270688523399202013-02-14T11:24:00.003-06:002013-02-14T11:24:40.740-06:00New Perspective On Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">I hear many sides to Valentines Day and I think it's time we get a new perspective on the situation. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Some of the singles try to sound happy about being single, some even laugh and call it something like "Singles Awareness Day" (<i>SAD, how ironic.</i>) Some get depressed that they don't have a significant other. Some go have fun and are truly happy about their life. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Then there are those who have someone. Some husbands and wives are all about the traditional teddy bears, chocolates, flowers and going out to dinner. Some are miserable with each other and pretend like the day doesn't even exist. Some are just so in love they don't care what they do or what happens, they are just happy to be together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Well, I am here to say I have been through just about every emotion a person can have for Valentines Day. </span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">-I have been the depressed single, wishing my prince charming would come rescue me from loneliness.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">-I have been single, and content with it, because I felt loved by my friends. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">-I have been in a bad relationship and couldn't enjoy it like my friends who were happy.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">-I have been in a wonderful relationship and just wanted to do all I could for my guy to make him feel loved.</span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">You see, I've heard many different feelings for this holiday. Even people who say they think it's a waste to spend so much money on a single day. Here's the thing, whereas I can agree that it gets a little bit overdone with some people and the whole cheesiness factor does come in to play at times, BUT, I think the principal of the holiday is a good one. These days people's lives are so busy 24/7 that I think often times we forget to show our feelings. If it takes a "silly" holiday to remind us, then by all means, bring on the holiday!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">I know, it shouldn't take a holiday to remind us to show our love and appreciation for the people in our lives, but I think it has come to that point. If you're one who brings a little romance to your spouse/significant other year round, kudos to you! You've managed to do something that people have lost the desire to do. But the truth is, I still think it's a good idea to set aside, <u><i>at the very least</i></u>, one day out of the year to think about each other and nothing else. To spend a little money on a nice dinner, buy your wife or girlfriend some flowers (no, that has not gone out of style, we still love flowers!) or just sit and enjoy a good movie.</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">If you're <b>SINGLE</b>, do not be depressed! It is better to wait years for the <b>RIGHT</b> guy than spend time looking for "any" guy. Being in a relationship is not everything. If you're single, take advantage of it! Spend time with your friends, go on adventures, seek out God's plan for your life here and now. Don't push to be in a relationship when it might not be your time. I know the feeling, believe me, I've had many a things I wish I wouldn't have rushed into. I could have saved myself a lot of heartache by just being patient. But all I can do is offer my advice. Enjoy your life right where you are. God has amazing plans for you right now, just like he does for those who are in relationships. To search for love is to forget the <b>ONE</b> who has always loved you. </span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>Jesus.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Complaining about not being in a relationship won't make you happier. Going into a relationship you know isn't right won't make you happy. Complaining that your relationship isn't like your friends won't make you happy. Getting our of a "complacent" or "loveless" marriage won't bring you happiness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Happiness is a <i><b>choice</b></i>, and it is one we must all make for ourselves.</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"><i>Valentines Day is not about having somebody to love, but rather loving somebody you have.</i></span><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;"> </span></b></span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">Look around you.</span></i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px;">There are plenty of people deserving. </span><br />
<br />
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-63489210845771703042013-02-11T12:25:00.002-06:002013-02-11T12:28:12.876-06:00The Decay Of Relationships<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed how all of our "social networks" have begun making us less social? When out in public, instead of noticing the people around us, saying hi or smiling, we are looking down with our face glued to our phones.<br />
<br />
I know. People who know me know I, of all people, have absolutely no room to talk. I normally post on Facebook at least 15 times a day. And I have certainly not been the poster child for positive posts. But lately I've noticed the more I actually browse through the news feed, the more depressed or irritated I become (absolutely nothing against my friends, btw!)<br />
<br />
I have learned a few things about the subject of my posts. There are just some things we don't need to post for the world to see. <br />
<br />
Here are just a few things to think about when sharing your life with the whole world:<br />
<br />
<i>1. Is what you're about to post uplifting?</i><br />
(i.e. "People just need to leave me alone!") <br />
<br />
<i>2. Will your post cause unnecessary drama?</i><br />
(i.e "I hate it when my parents get all in my face and try to rule my life!") <br />
<br />
<i>3. Does your post have the potential start an argument that will end in you getting defensive/offensive?</i><br />
(i.e. "All you people out there need to just leave the government alone and let them do their job."<br />
<br />
<i>4. Are you willing to answer the questions people are bound to ask?</i><br />
(i.e. Sometimes, I just wish people could accept me for who I am and not talk about me behind my back.")<br />
<br />
<i>5. Though you may be going through a rough time with your family, friends, boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, your problems do not need to be of public knowledge. It is unnecessary, and we often become degrading towards that person in front of hundreds of people (which in turn, causes gossip and ruined relationships.)</i><br />
(i.e. "Why does my ______ have to treat me like this? I can't take it anymore. I'm done.")<br />
<br />
<i>6. Is there any meaning in what you're about to post, or are you wasting 3 minutes of your day to share a status nobody cares about?</i><br />
(i.e "I just ate a hamburger!")<br />
<br />
Now, I'm not saying don't ever post anything on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Flickr/MySpace. But if we would use these tools more of an encourager than a DIScourager, I think we would be amazed at how happier our lives would be. I think these networks have begun to replace a vital relationship in our lives. Our relationship with Jesus. We don't go to Him in prayer anymore, because we can just post our problems on Facebook for everyone to see; and of course, we will get PLENTY of feedback from our friends and their <i>"wisdom".</i><br />
<br />
When it comes to personal problems, if you want some of your friends to pray for you, or hear some encouragement, just send a text/personal message to them to ask. Or even better, give them a call! Talk to someone about what you're going through, don't post it on the internet where you can't take it back.<br />
<br />
One thing to ask yourself: If people were to describe me ONLY based on what I post on Facebook, what would they say about me?<br />
Are you the drama queen? The man/woman who hates their marriage and doesn't mind degrading their spouse in front of hundreds of people? The one who can't trust God? The friend who talks down about others behind their back? The mom who is never happy? The husband who can't wait to get out of the house? The boyfriend/girlfriend who can't ever be made happy? <br />
<br />
What do people say about you?<br />
<br />
See, you might think your "mistake" post can be deleted, but by the time you regret posting something and go remove it,<i> hundreds</i> of people have already seen it, and it will always be floating out there for someone to dig up someday. We think just because we don't have to say things to someone's face, we have the freedom to say whatever we want. That is the furthest thing from the truth. We should treat our social networks as <b><i>outreaches for Christ</i></b>, not<i> gossip chains</i> and<i> drama chat rooms.</i><br />
<br />
My goal lately has been to not share every time I don't feel well or have a bad day. I don't have to let everyone know what all I ate for lunch. Nobody needs to know when I'm having relationship issues (doesn't matter if it's family/friends, etc). My opinion about certain topics is just that; my opinion. If I post something that is confrontational, I better not get upset when people comment and have an opinion contrary to my own. If I know for a fact it will start an argument, then I better think twice before posting it.<br />
<br />
All of that to say, I've learned I have so much more time to work on the PERSONAL relationships around me when I'm less worried about keeping everyone updated on what I had for snack or that I just had to fill up my car and how much it cost me. I love that I can keep in touch with family and friends who don't live near me, but honestly, they don't need to know that kind of thing.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Think</i></b> before you post. <i><b>Build</b></i> relationships with people face to face. I guarantee you will see results, and be happy with the results you get! It is time we bring "being social" back to<i> real life.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>"Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established." </i></b>(Proverbs: 16:3 NASB)<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-52595249353827927972013-01-16T12:35:00.001-06:002013-01-16T12:35:32.139-06:00Change Of Heart<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (John </span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">5:39</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">, 40 NIV84)</span></i><br />
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Studying Gods word with the desire to do nothing more than gain knowledge to show others means we do not truly understand what God says. There are too many people who want the knowledge that Gods word offers, without taking in the grace, love and lifestyle. If we live for knowledge, we will not find what we're looking for. The amazing truths to the bible are found through a relationship. When we love someone we don't feel like we *have to* study them, but watch carefully, learning all we can about them so we know every aspect of their life.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
God is a very deep being. We will never know all He knows, nor will we ever know everything about Him. But He tells us that of everything we can learn, love is above all else.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<i>"If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part; but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NASB)</i></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
We can have all the knowledge of the world, but we are nothing if we do not have love. We can go serve communities, the homeless, widows and orphans; but if we do not have love, it means nothing. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
It really isn't that difficult. We are to be like God, serve as He served, talk as He talked, live as He lived; and the bible says "God is love". Everything we do in this life should have love rooted deep inside of it. If what we are about to say doesn't sound loving; we must hold our tongue. Doesn't matter if it is the truth, a fact, or an opinion; if it isn't out of love <i><u>DO NOT SAY IT.</u></i> If we are about to do something and it isn't loving or could be hurtful to another person, back away. I don't care what it is, how funny it will be or if "most" people wouldn't mind. If you damage your image of Christ for a SINGLE person, that is one more person that will never be open to the gospel. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
We have become a people that are too strong headed for our own good. We have gotten so fed up with "conservatives" ruining our fun that we have become a bunch of heartless beings; doing what we want, when we want...with no thought of the consequences. If it offends somebody, "Too bad. It's the truth and they need to learn to deal with it." </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Of course, because Jesus always spoke the truth dryly without a hint of love; right? See, here is the difference. When Jesus "spoke the truth" he was speaking out of compassion and kindness, realizing people needed to hear truth, but knowing WITHOUT LOVE, nobody would listen or think good of Him whatsoever. He would be doing more harm than good and would have turned away thousands and thousands of people from the gospel and they would have all gone to hell. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Think about it. Is it REALLY worth it to us to speak our mind freely, state our opinion, or prove we're right at the cost of another being going to hell? Oh, you don't think your one action could do that? Think again. One simple slip up on your part could mean the forever tormenting of another person. You say that's their fault for being offended too easily? Then you do not KNOW Christ. You know OF Him. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
It is stated very clearly. </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<i>"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. We love, because He first loved us. If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen." (1 John 4:7-11, 19-20 NASB)</i></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Love in our lives is proof we have Jesus living inside of us. If we do not have love, we cannot know Him.</div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
It's time we look at our lives. Do we produce the love that Jesus had for those around Him, or do we let other people know we care nothing about them by the bitterness we allow to cover our lives? </div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
It is time for a change. </div>
</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-64926196266431978372013-01-04T11:51:00.001-06:002013-01-04T12:04:32.988-06:00Renewal Through Repair<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The start of the New Year can be a time of new beginnings, but often for me, it is more of a reminder of all the things I never completed. It is easy to throw pity parties, so I throw the mother of all parties. Instead of moving forward and starting anew, I live in my past and all of the things I was too afraid to finish...or even start.<br />
<br />
Then it hit me. Having "New Years resolutions" isn't to accomplish everything you write down. We won't be able to complete every task we would like to accomplish; we are human, and life doesn't conform to our schedule. It is more of a resolution to oneself to say "I will use my time more wisely this year." So, a few examples would be: even if we don't go every week to volunteer somewhere, once a month is more than we did the year before. Even if we don't get our house perfectly organized, having is liveable is better than it was before. Even if we don't finish the whole bible in a year, reading every day is better than once a month the last year. <br />
Things like that. The New Year is a time of new beginnings. But as Christians, we can have this every day. Every morning when we get up, our past has been forgotten. It is a new day with new blessings.<br />
<br />
The biggest question we can ask is this: how are we using the days God has given us? Do we spend more time thinking of ourselves, or do we have a heart for others? Are we stuck in our past, living every day over and over because we can't let go and give our sins, mistakes and brokenness to God, or do we move forward every morning knowing God's blood has covered all of our sins and His healing over our brokenness?<br />
<br />
I will come right out and say it; I do the first in every area. <br />
<br />
See, I do not trust hardly anyone. I will be the first to admit it. I do not like other people being in control of what happens to me, because in my mind they won't know what's best for me as well as I do. If someone has hurt me, the next person that comes along must "prove themselves" before I will even consider trusting them. I'm not gullible enough to trust just anyone. But the number of people I hurt because I just can't let go of my past is saddening. Worst of all, I haven't trusted God like I used to in a long time.<br />
<br />
I can write that you need to lean on God in hard times, trust Him in every area of your life and let go of your past so God can take over your future....but lately I am very bad at practicing what I preach. My grasp is held so tightly on my wounds and the people who have caused them that I no longer find joy in things and people that I used to. The circulation is being cut off from my hands, and it is painful. I fear it being even more painful to let go; so I continue to live with this self inflicted pain day in and day out.<br />
<br />
Someone has made fun of how I look, I never trust people when they compliment my looks. <br />
Someone has made a comment about my weight, I become depressed and can't eat.<br />
Someone makes it their life goal to make me miserable, I no longer want to be around anyone, even my family, because who knows, they might be thinking the same thing about me.<br />
Someone teases me about my lack of knowledge, I am now an idiot in my mind, and I lose any desire to even TRY to learn.<br />
<br />
Basically I lose all desire to live my life to the fullest that is could be.<br />
<br />
Now before you begin to chastise me for thinking such things about myself, I know it is not right. I know I'm not dumb, ugly or fat. But, like Hitler said, <span class="st"><i>"Tell a lie often enough, loud enough, and long enough, and people will believe you."</i> So, I have started believing every negative thing people say to me. </span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">It is so easy to believe what people say, because you are around them all the time. Some people you're unable to get away from. Their nagging and lies ring through your head. They become voices that linger even after the people are gone...and at times, penetrate even our dreams.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">I am ashamed to admit it, but the only praying I've been doing lately is just sobs and begging God to make everything go away. But He doesn't just wave a magic wand and make every hurt disappear. I must choose to release it. </span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span>
<span class="st">It is a little harder to hear God when I'm constantly listening to the loud voices all around me. God doesn't speak like a raging wind. He speaks through a <i>still small voice</i>. </span><br />
<br />
<i><span class="st">"</span><span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">And, behold, the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>; but the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> was not in the earthquake: <sup class="versenum"></sup>And after the earthquake a fire; but the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice." -1 Kings 19:11-12</span></i><br />
<i><span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span></i>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">To hear God I have to tune out all of the other noise in my life. This can be one of the hardest things to do, especially when it feels like people get in your face and yell their little speeches. But <i>"with God, all things are possible" </i>and I know He can help mute the words of others. No matter what they say, I am not who they make me out to be. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">In God's eyes, I am who He made me to be. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I am a princess of the King. I have wisdom, because I have HIM. I am no better than anyone else on this earth, but the difference between me and them is that I have been made new by God's grace. I am more than any mistake I have ever made. I am set free by God's forgiveness of my sins. I have the freedom to choose whether or not I will be happy, because even when Satan throws everything at me to make my life miserable, as long as I have Jesus I STILL have something to be happy about. And Satan cannot take Jesus and my faith away from me. </span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">My New Years resolutions are probably not as elaborate as yours, but a few are these:</span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">-Decide to be happy despite my circumstances</span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">-Release my past. EVERY. DAY.</span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">-Go to God instead of myself</span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">The lines of communication between me and God are open. I simply have to make the decision to use them. </span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">My life is not what THEY say it is. I am not who THEY say I am. I am so much more. If people do not respect God enough to respect me, then they are unnecessary in my life. </span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">So, my request is this. Prayer. I need prayer to be able to mend the strong relationship I once had with God. I have allowed my wounds to pull me away from Him, and it is making me miserable. I need God more than I need anything or anyone else in my life, and I need the strength to stand up to those who try to tear me away from Him.</span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"> </span><span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400"> </span><br />
<span class="text 1Kgs-19-12" id="en-KJV-9400">Any of you out there who struggle with these things, know that God is always there for you. He cannot stop bad things from happening in your life, but He CAN and WILL be there when they do. He gives people the freedom to make their own choices...and they do not always make the right ones....those decisions can affect our lives. But it is OUR choice whether or not we let other people's sin make a negative impact on us, or we will turn our eyes and hearts to Jesus. If you want to know the one thing that makes Satan more angry than anything, it is praying for your enemy. Forgiving those who have done wrong against you even though they have not asked for your forgiveness. It makes Him mad, and makes you immune to the poison those people try to harm you with because you do not let their anger/hatred make you miserable. And they can't stand that. Together, you and I with God, we will get through pain. We will overcome the hurt we have had to endure. Christ died so that we don't have to live in the bondage or sin (our or other people's.) It is time we accept that part of our relationship with Him. </span></div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-63662430552540233652012-12-21T10:36:00.001-06:002012-12-21T10:41:37.513-06:00Decay Of Families<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Let's stop with Christmas here for a few minutes. Don't think about gifts, food, parties or "to do" lists.<br />
We're going to have a little talk about families (yes, even the dysfunctional ones.)<br />
<br />
What are your ideas on why our nation is falling apart? Do you really believe it's because of the politicians? Let's stop thinking about them for a little while. Totally block them from your mind. <br />
<br />
Since the beginning of time, families falling apart has caused a multitude of problems. When God created Adam and Eve they "became one". They were our modern day "marriage" and even when Cain killed Abel, they didn't separate because of hard times. Husband, wife and kids weren't just a random idea God had. Families were made to be the glue of the earth.<br />
<br />
You see, when families begin to fall apart so will the church, when the church begins to fall apart, so will the cities, when the cities begin to fall apart...well, you get the point. Our nation is falling apart because the term "family" is no longer of value.<br />
<br />
Young girls get pregnant at age 12 either by corrupt men, or because they find someone who they think truly cares for them...only to be left and forgotten....so the world says getting rid of the child becomes their only option. This, all from families not being able to love each other.<br />
Young teens go have sex for the fun of it; because as they see it, the rest of the world says it is okay to do before marriage. "It's no big deal; everyone has done it" they say.<br />
Husbands and wives are basically just "try outs" for people who think they MIGHT have feelings for one another...because they saw "fireworks" one time. They give marriage a try and if it doesn't seem to make them fairy tale happy, they just run down to the court and get a divorce. No big deal right? WRONG.<br />
<br />
Why do you think young people these days don't take marriage seriously? Be honest with yourself. How can you tell your child when you make the promise to your spouse and to GOD you must keep it....but not do so yourself? I know for a fact, every parents wants the person their son/daughter marries to love them unconditionally and stay with them through thick and thin....but how can they when they aren't given that example?<br />
Now, I have said many times before. I do not agree with divorce. But I also do not want to come across as degrading or judging those who have done so. That is the past, and though I don't believe it's right, me going and shoving my opinions down separated couples throats not only won't do any good, it is not Christ-like whatsoever.<br />
<br />
Christ-like. Do we remember what that is supposed to mean? Does it mean saying whatever you want to someone, just because you know you're right? Does it mean laughing at others faults, mistakes and differences?<br />
<br />
To be a "Christian" is to be "Christ-like." And Christ was NEVER in your face, He never laughed at sin, He never put other people down. He spoke the truth, but in a LOVING way. <br />
<br />
You see, Christianity today is a place where millions of people call each other "brother" and "sister" but go behind one anothers back talking, gossiping, and degrading them for differences.<br />
<br />
-Pride: <span class="text Prov-16-17" id="en-NASB-16858">"The highway of the upright is to depart from evil;</span> <span class="text Prov-16-17">He who watches his way preserves his life.</span><span class="text Prov-16-18" id="en-NASB-16859"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>Pride <i>goes</i> before destruction,</span> <span class="text Prov-16-18">And a haughty spirit before stumbling.</span><span class="text Prov-16-19" id="en-NASB-16860"><sup class="versenum"></sup>It is better to be humble in spirit with the lowly</span> <span class="text Prov-16-19">Than to divide the spoil with the proud."</span> -Proverb 16:17-19<br />
<span class="text Ps-10-2" id="en-NASB-14044">"In pride the wicked hotly pursue the afflicted;</span> <span class="text Ps-10-2"><sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NASB-14044b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]"></sup>Let them be caught in the plots which they have devised." -Psalm 10:2</span><br />
<br />
-Greed: "For the wicked boasts of his heart’s desire, And the <b>greed</b>y man curses and spurns the LORD." -Psalm 10:3 “For from the least of them even to the greatest of them, Everyone is <b>greed</b>y for gain, And from the prophet even to the priest Everyone deals falsely." -Jeremiah 6:13<br />
<br />
-Anger: "He who is slow to <b>anger</b> has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly." -Proverbs 13:29 "A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up <b>anger</b>." -Proverbs 15:1<br />
"A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But the slow to <b>anger</b> calms a dispute." -Proverbs 15:18<br />
<br />
-Forgiveness: "How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered!" -Psalm 32:1 "<span class="text Matt-18-21">Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up </span><span class="text Matt-18-21"><span class="text Matt-18-21">to seven</span> <sup></sup>times?”</span> <span class="text Matt-18-22" id="en-NASB-23750">Jesus said to him, <span class="woj">“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.</span></span><span class="text Matt-18-22" id="en-NASB-23750"><span class="woj"><span class="text Matt-18-21">”</span> " -Matthew 18:21</span></span><br />
<br />
Marriages fall apart because families don't care anymore. People have become greedy, filled with pride and have such anger over every little thing that relationships are going down in flames. Forgiveness is a thing of the past and everyone holds a grudge. Of course our families are falling apart! It goes 'round and 'round. When the family falls apart the church falls apart, and because the church falls apart it continues to decay what families are.When the church stops teaching what God's word says because it is filled with pastors full of fear of losing their jobs because they are teaching the truth...you know we're in big trouble.<br />
<br />
We need men and women who stand up for the truth of God's word.<br />
<br />
When we see things falling apart and we just brush it off as "times changing", my friends, that is when we are in the deepest trouble. Times change, God and the meaning of His word never will. We must still stand for <i>truth</i> and <span style="color: #e06666;"><b>morality</b></span> even when the world says certain things are okay.<br />
<br />
Please, please take your family seriously. Take your MARRIAGE seriously. Remember, the promise you made on the day you were married was not only to your spouse, but to GOD as well.<br />
Teach your kids what the bible says so they can have the truth they need to stand strong when the world tries to steal them away.<br />
<br />
Even more liberal Christians know it is crucial to follow God's word, because it is how we are to survive.<br />
I have been called liberal by some people, and legalistic by others. But I know I live the way I do because I feel it is where God leads me. <b><i>Not</i></b> to say I always get everything right or react to situations like I should.<br />
But I will tell you this, no longer will I allow people to tell me I should change who I am. It is not man who has the power to raise the dead; but my GOD can. Man cannot harm me or take away my faith. I stand my ground; telling everyone I will not conform to what they want me to be. I am who God made me to be; I am me, and I was beautifully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14.)<br />
<br />
Parents. love your children openly and OFTEN. Children, talk to your parents when you are going through hard times, husbands/wives, forgive often; remember what Christ forgave YOU for, and what He DID for you to give you life. <br />
<br />
No matter what you're going through. Whether it be hard times with your parents, kids, spouse, friends or church; remember that God is the ONE person you should be striving to please. When you do that, you will be amazed at how many areas of your life will begin to heal. </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-74913199897089451852012-12-10T22:30:00.000-06:002012-12-10T22:30:12.140-06:00The Rock<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Days are what you make them. There really shouldn't be labels for "good" and "bad" days, though circumstances change and some situations may not be the best, there is always something to be grateful for. Now don't take that as I don't think we "should" have good/bad days...because there are many things that will and can happen that will truly sadden your day; I just believe there are many days we ourselves make depressing by our actions or thought process.<br />
<br />
For example, here are a few things to be grateful for:<br />
-A house<br />
<br />
-A car<br />
-A job<br />
-Children<br />
-Parents<br />
-Friends<br />
-Food<br />
-Clothes<br />
<br />
I'm sure we have many more things we could add to the list, but the point is we have a lot and are thankful very little.<br />
<br />
My best friend is out of town for a whole week and I will not be able to communicate with them until they are back in town. Now, I will admit I cried the first two days they've been gone, because I really do miss them, but I have learned there is life outside of one person. There is joy in all things because, if I have Christ, I truly have all I <i>need</i>.<br />
<br />
Albeit, there is nothing wrong with having emotions that strong for people, but our life shouldn't revolve around one single person <i>EVERY DAY</i>. Even husbands and wives will learn they cannot base their marriage just on their emotions and how much they care for their each other. If a marriage is not based on Christ, centered and rooted in Him, it will have many problems and things will never be as one or the other believes they should be.<br />
<br />
My point is this: Christ is our Rock. He is what our foundation should be built on in any relationship or area of life. Otherwise we are simply building on sinking sand, and the ground will eventually wash out from under our feet.<br />
<br />
There are so many pluses to focusing all we have on Christ! <b> </b><br />
<b>One:</b> we won't worry or stress over SO many things because we are trusting in HIM to carry out what He wills.<br />
<b>Two:</b> we will strive more to do for others and not think only of ourselves.<br />
<b>Three:</b> since our minds will constantly be on Christ, we will concentrate more on making our actions pleasing to <i>HIM</i>. This will also make us more happy because people around us will be happy!<br />
<b>Four:</b> we won't think so much on whether or not "others" truly accept us or think we are good enough because we know <i>without a doubt </i>God's love for us is so deep and true that He gave His life for us. <br />
<br />
When we <i>KNOW</i> Jesus is the only One we have to worry about pleasing, everyone else' opinion just doesn't seem to matter as much.<br />
<br />
Build your house on The Rock. It will stand every storm Satan throws at you! </div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5453139991694406945.post-14475371922695109802012-12-03T11:50:00.000-06:002012-12-03T11:57:01.812-06:00Giving or Receiving This Holiday Season?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's nearly Christmas. Everyone suddenly remembers Christmas is in December, so they're all rushing around trying to buy everything on their list; the traffic is a pain; the stores are crowded. The Christmas spirit is still in people's eyes, and the kindness is still in the air. It's a pretty special time of year! How long will it last, you ask? Probably until two weeks before Christmas. At that point, people blame everyone else for their lack of planning and prioritizing. They push and shove through the stores, blare their horns in traffic and have no kindness left. <br />
<br />
Sound about right?<br />
<br />
Maybe to help the issue, we should all just cancel Christmas. Hmm... Not exactly the best solution. Right? <br />
<br />
Maybe we should try to change our attitudes instead?<br />
<br />
<i>"<span class="text 1John-4-7">Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.</span><span class="text 1John-4-8" id="en-NASB-30612"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.</span><span class="text 1John-4-9" id="en-NASB-30613"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him.</span> <span class="text 1John-4-10" id="en-NASB-30614"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30614AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></sup>the propitiation for our sins.</span> </i><span class="text 1John-4-11" id="en-NASB-30615"><i>Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.</i><sup><i>" -1 John 4:7-11</i></sup></span><br />
See, when our thought process is focused on "others" we suddenly make time to let other people cut in front of us; we can wait a few minutes in cashier lanes without showing great disgruntlement. We say "yes" to give to charities instead of thinking "I can't afford that" (as we spend hundreds of dollars on items for our children that they don't need).<br />
<br />
The very mindset for people around Christmas time is stress and greed. Parents are thinking "I must get my kids the items on their Christmas lists, or they will never forgive me" and kids can only think about what they will get on Christmas morning. A whole lot of thought usually doesn't go into the gifts. Is is "give me a list, I will see how much I can get off of it for you without going even further in debt". Is this not true in most cases? <br />
<br />
How many of you have ever received a gift of small (money) value, but it had visibly been given a lot of time and thought? It meant a lot to you, right? A framed picture of you and your spouse, a certificate for "a day with dad" or "a shopping trip with mom" or maybe a hand written letter? These things don't cost anything but time. But, we don't have time do we? So we do our regular list buying and rushing to get them all wrapped. By the time Christmas morning rolls around, we're so worn out we don't hardly enjoy any of it.<br />
<br />
How about this year we focus more on "thought" than we do "want"? Maybe we should go to those get togethers we never have time for, to show our friends/family we care about them? Maybe we should find a charity to send toys to or a shelter to send coats/blankets, a hot meal house to send some homemade food to help out...?<br />
<br />
Maybe we could just give a few minutes every day to pray for the many families that don't have anything we have. Pray for the lost souls that CAN'T celebrate Christmas in the most wonderful way; those who don't know about Jesus' birth. Maybe WE should make sure we remember that is the very reason WE celebrate Christmas; maybe?<br />
<br />
This time of year is all about getting; not receiving. If it were that, Jesus wouldn't have SENT His Son to this earth to be our Savior. Because when we're honest with ourselves, Jesus gift of His one and only Son is drastically larger than anything we can buy someone.<br />
<br />
<i>"</i><span class="text Acts-20-35" id="en-NASB-27662"><i>In everything I showed
you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and
remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, <span class="woj">‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’</span> " -Acts 20:35</i></span><br />
<br />
We need to think about Him this month. Start out right this December so our hearts will be in the right place to start off the new year.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/">Here</a> is a great place to help others this Christmas. <br />
A few other places I would recommend checking out if you're interested in hands on love, are <a href="http://missiontyler.com/get-involved/">Mission Tyler</a>, which also has many things with <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ChurchUnder?ref=ts&fref=ts">Church Under A Bridge</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/hunger4love">Hunger For Love </a><br />
<br />
HE is the reason for this Christmas season, and HIS desire is that we give of ourselves and of our time to show HIS love to everyone around us!</div>
Jessiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01454278297090239938noreply@blogger.com0