Day 2 Biblical Womanhood "The Why"

The Why of Biblical Womanhood

In Titus 2:3-5, Paul calls for the older Christian women to teach the younger Christian women in how to live. These verses are instruction for all Christian women about Christian womanhood. We are not born knowing how to be a biblical mother, wife, and woman, it is not a matter of inclination . Biblical womanhood is developed through biblical teaching and training. It is something that you are trained in by those who have done it before you. Training in womanhood begins with sound doctrine.*1 
    Christian instruction does not begin with what you ought to do, but with what you ought to believe. Sound doctrine will always bring us to what our lives should look like in Christ. Gods word trains us how to live. A mind full of Gods word should result in a life that manifests Gods Word in our daily lives and actions. Titus's task as an elder is to teach sound doctrine that calls the older men and the older women to live godly lives. They then are to teach the younger men and women, respectively, how to live godly lives. Mature, godly women are called  to teach the younger women, training them to embrace biblical womanhood. In our verses, the older women are to be deliberate in encouraging and exhorting the younger women by setting an example in word and in deed of what it means to be a biblical woman.  This will mean an older Christian woman investing herself in the lives of younger Christian women with the intentional purpose of helping them to apply the Gods Word to their lives as women.
So, let me ask you:

• As a mature Christian woman, are you deliberately  teaching and training the younger women in what it means not only to be a Christian, but also to be a Christian woman, wife, and mother?
  
• As a younger Christian woman, are you actively  seeking out teaching and training from a mature Christian woman in what it means not only to be Christian, but also to be a Christian woman, wife, and mother? *2

Join me tomorrow as we start examining and applying Titus 2:3-5. 

End Notes

 *1The use of the term "doctrine" in Scripture is important for at least three reasons. First, it affirms that the primitive church was confessional. The first generation of believers confessed apostolic teaching about the significance of the life of Christ. They delivered a body of information that included facts about Christ with interpretation of their importance. Second, the use of the term reflects development of thought in the primitive church. Didaskalia [didaskaliva] is used in the Pastorals with reference to the sum of teaching, especially of that which had come from the lips of the apostles. Doctrine plays a small role in Judaism and in the New Testament apart from the Pastoral Epistles, and yet is very important in the latter. By the time of the Pastorals the apostolic message had been transformed into traditional teaching. Third, it affirms the indispensable link between spirituality and doctrine. Christianity is a way of life founded on doctrine. Some disparage doctrine in favor of the spiritual life. Paul, however, taught that spiritual growth in Christ is dependent on faithfulness to sound doctrine, for its truth provides the means of growth ( Col 2:6 ). The apostle John developed three tests for discerning authentic spirituality: believing right doctrine ( 1 Jo 2:18-27 ), obedience to right doctrine (2:28-3:10), and giving expression to right doctrine with love (2:7-11). Faithful obedience and love, then, are not alternatives to sound doctrine. They are the fruit of right doctrine as it works itself out in the believer's character and relationships.

Sam Hamstra, Jr.

Bibliography. J. G. Machen, Christianity and Liberalism; D. F. Wells, No Place For Truth: Or Whatever Happened to Evangelical Theology; TDNT, 2:160-63.

*2  This Introduction  has been adapted  from a sermon given on Titus 2:3-5 – Biblical Womanhood
by Eric Schumacher 

Day 1 Biblical Womanhood

The world's idea of what makes a woman significant is much different from the Biblical absolutes  in Scripture. If we are not careful as Christians, our minds will slowly be conformed to this world and not, as Paul writes in Rom 12:2, "transformed by the renewal of our minds" so that we may discern what God approves. God is the one who created women, wives, and mothers. Therefore, he is the one who defines what they ought to be. His opinion is the one that ought to matter to us—even if it offends and confuses the world. 
        For the Next 31 Days I will explore what  Biblical Womanhood means and how we can apply the Scriptures found in Titus 2:3-5. "In the same way instruct the older women to behave as women should who live a holy life. They must not be slanderers or slaves to wine. They must teach what is good, in order to train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, and to be keepers at home, kind, who submit themselves to their husbands, so that no one will speak evil of the message that comes from God. 
(Tit 2:3-5)." 
       See you tomorrow as we dive in and see whats Gods word has for us as Biblical women.  

Over-whelmed

Recipe for overwhelmed  stew:

1 big ole house hunt.

1 going through everything and getting rid of things we dont need.

1 Heaping bushel of Normal daily activities (homeschooling and homemaking) .

1 Boys Bedroom that has a little empty nest waiting for a grown Man to return in 8 months.( He is in a Intense discipleship program.)  I Miss Him.

1 Starting a new business with Usborne Books and More .

1 taking on new responsibility with Ministry (Husband and I) @ church.

1 Not spending enough time in the Word.

1 Not enough time for adequate prayer.

Mix all together well until your frazzled.....


 A Better recipe:

1 Gods Word  Daily

1 Daily Prayer time and then more prayer throughout the day.

1 Trust God With all the rest!

Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(2 Peter 1:1-8)

Head-dibs: My Darling Wife

 My sweetie posted this  for me! Awe!





Head-dibs: My Darling Wife

Dear Friends,
Regardless of what you think of Jesus, I think you will find this movie a compelling, powerful, inspiring and educational portrayal of the most famous person who ever lived – whose impact on the world is second to none.
For your reference, I have included some information about the film Here.

Like A Tree Planted By the Streams of Water

 Verses that Bless me .... Love these three

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish."
(Psalms 1:1-6)

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
(Jer 17:7-8)

"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock".
(Isaiah 26:3-4)

A Mothers Love

Naewa made her way down to the river to fill the water containers. She hopes she will make it back before the rain starts again. It is the long rainy season in Uganda, the the trip takes about an hour each way and being 7 months pregnant and wearing her 10 month old on her back was not making the task any easier. As she was walking she thought over the events of the day. Her neighbors small child had died from typhoid earlier in the morning. She often wondered if one of her children would also die.

 Naewa arrived at the river, she set down the containers and swung the baby around to the front so that she could nurse. It was better to take care of the baby now than to have to stop on the way back. While nursing she feels the contractions again, she knows that will not be able to nurse much longer or it will make the new child come to soon.

Naewa finishes taking care of the baby and swings the child back on to her back. She makes her way to the water and fills the containers. The trip back will be slower because the water is heavy. Naewa often wishes that her husband could come and get the water, but he has to tend their small farm so that they have enough to sell and also to eat. When the children are older they will be able to help her with getting water and also help tend the few animals they own.

 On the way back to her small mud hut she wonders if she will be able to get one of the village women to come and help her when it time for the baby to come. The nearest medical help is 3 km away from their village, which is a long way to walk when you are in labor.

 Naewa is finally home after the long walk from the river. She starts a fire outside the hut and starts to prepare her family's evening meal which consists of tilapia (fish) and ugali (a stiff maize porridge) and maybe some matoke (a cooked plantain/banana mash). She also has to boil the water that she just got from the river so that her family will stay well.

As Naewa gets ready for bed in the evening she feels the new child kicking. She already loves this small baby growing inside her as much as her other little one. She wants to feel that there is hope for her small family to be healthy and to earn enough to be able to survive. She hopes that there will be help from somewhere soon.

 Today is Mothers Day, lets celebrate and support mothers who are living in poverty, through ongoing support of a Compassion Child Survival Program or by making a one time donation. The Child Survival Program helps save the lives of babies and mothers in poverty by utilizing local churches to assist mothers of at-risk infants and toddlers. Mothers can give their children a fighting chance for healthy development with the supplies and training provided by the donations to this program. Will you help a Mother like Naewa have some hope for the future?

Matty the Mosquito

Poverty is hopeless and depressing. 

I’m Matty the Mosquito an agent of poverty—in the preventable disease division. 

I’m effective too. 

Every 30 seconds a child dies from malaria, and I get the assist.

 It’s enough to make a caring, God-fearing soul see red.

But who cares? Red is just a color, like the color of a blood cocktail with 50 thousand plasmodia, a genus of protozoa, several species of which cause malaria, transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito,

swimming in a drop the size of the period at the end of this sentence.

Image courtesy of Compassion International

Fifty thousand is overkill when it only takes one determined 

plasmodia to do what needs to be done.

I look for people that are not protected from me so that I can suck their blood and leave them with my very own present: sickness and death.

Half of the world’s population, 3.3 billion people, is at risk of malaria.  It kills approximately 655,000 children per year; many of who are under the age of 5 and most of who live in sub-Saharan Africa.  You can help thwart my efforts to spread malaria! 

Today is World Malaria Day 2013.

 Lets do something in recognition of World Malaria Day, head on over to  Compassion Internationals's Malaria Intervention  Page and make a donation.

Donations to this fund:

• provide households at risk with treated mosquito nets
• educate family members on malaria prevention
• treat children suffering from malaria, chagas disease and dengue fever

This fund was established by Compassion because it is one of the many ways we are able to release children from poverty in Jesus' name.  A healthy child can go to school. A healthy child can learn and play and develop. A healthy child can walk to the nearby church and hear the message of Christ.

Will you also sponsor a Child? Click  to read Our Compassion story.

Times are uncertain

Times are uncertain....there are rumors of war......earthquakes.... the economy is fragile... it seems our government has let us down.......  Where do we turn? To God of course!  His Word says: But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him"-- these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
(1 Corinthians 2:9-10 ESV)  No matter our circumstance He is there. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:37-39 ESV).  He loves us so much. He has our best interests at heart. We can trust Him! But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. (2 Corinthians 4:7-10 ESV) I am so encouraged that King Jesus is on the throne and He is Sovereign over all things. Amen! 

Shout for joy in the LORD, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright. Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings! Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the LORD is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness.
(Psalms 33:1-4 ESV)

Glad Game

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.
~Winston Churchill

I am by nature an optimist. I am a "Pollyanna" always looking to play the "Glad Game "
Just in case you don't know:  
Pollyanna is a best-selling 1913 novel by Eleanor H. Porter

 ("The Glad Game", is an optimistic attitude Pollyanna  learned from her father. The game consists of finding something to be glad about in every situation. It originated in an incident one Christmas when Pollyanna, who was hoping for a doll in the missionary barrel, found only a pair of crutches inside. Making the game up on the spot, Pollyanna's father taught her to look at the good side of things—in this case, to be glad about the crutches because "we didn't need to use them!"Pg 38-39) 

 Some People however are not optimistic and do not play the "Glad Game" it is not their nature. They can be very negative and hard to be around.

The Church Hill quote reminds me of how much we need Christ Like attitudes.

Obedience is about pleasing God, doing "what is well pleasing in His sight."  This is why Christ died for us. "He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again" (2Co 5:15). 

Living to please self is the ultimate disobedience to God.  ~Bob Hoekstra

 For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light  (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true),  and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. (Eph 5:8-10 ESV)


 We need  have proper heart posture  in order to please Him.

By abiding in Him we can choose to be pleasing and to do His will no matter what our nature is.

Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
(1Th 3:11-13 ESV)

 Are you Glad? Let God live through you and be a light and love to those around you.

Direction

 I have been trying to figure out what direction to take my blog.  I have visited many other blogs in the blogoshere  to "see" how to have an effective blog.  There are many types of blogs that cover many topics. I have found there is not a "right way" to blog. You just have to be your self. For me I have to also be true to my convictions and beliefs.

I am not here to be a braggart and tell everyone how many laundry loads I have done today and how many loaves of fresh homemade bread I cranked out in my homey little cozy kitchen. . I want to be real and be used of the Lord to encourage others in their Christian walks. That means transparency, it means being able to say "I blew it"  It also means seeking Godly counsel  and be willing to accept that counsel.   I will Keep Timeless Treasures Direction to reflect What God is teaching me about walking with Him With an occasional  recipe or frugal find.
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
(Pro 3:1-8 ESV)

Giveaway over at Christian Writer/Reader Connection

 Click Here to visit: Christian Writer/Reader Connection


 

Woohoo! One person will win all three of these fabulous Historical Romances. Here are the giveaway details:

1) You must be a Follower of Christian Writer/Reader Connection.

2) The giveaway is open to residents of the United States.

3) To enter, comment on this post.

4) You can get an additional entry for each of the following. (Let me know in the comments section what actions you've taken.)

     A) Post the contest details and link on your blog.

     B) Post it to your Facebook page.

     C) Post it on Twitter.

5) Contest deadline: Saturday, June 2, 2012, at midnight. The winner will be notified by email. If you do not leave me an email in the comments and do not respond to the Winner Announcement on the blog by Saturday, June 9, 2012, another winner will be selected from the entries.

Disclaimer: I have not received any payment from either the authors or the publishers for doing this giveaway. These books are from my personal collection.

Make your Own Laundry Powder

Each batch yields approximately 32 ounces (between 32-64 loads based on how many Tbsp used per load).
1 bar of shaved bar soap (Ivory,  Fels-Naptha or Dr Bronners bar soap ) I grate mine with the zesting part of my cheese grater.
1 cup of borax
1 cup of washing soda
Thoroughly stir together for 5 minutes.

Beauty for Ashes

Photo by:

365 project

 I was driving to church for ladies bible study one morning, I was thinking of what the LORD had been doing in my life. Each of us were to share per the request of our leader what the LORD was laying on our hearts. I knew of this assignment for two weeks but being the procrastinator that I am I waited till the last minute. I was just thinking "I will not share...I will just sit  and listen." I felt I had nothing and should  just be quiet. I prayed "Lord, what shall I do, what do you want me to share?" Just then I glanced to the right of the road, there sat a little blue house. I had seen it before as my family and I had traveled to and from church. The house was probably beautiful at one time, yet now it laid in ruin as it had caught fire and was badly damaged. I quickly looked away. I hated to stare at it for to long it made me uncomfortable.  I felt the Holy Spirit  nudge me.. He asked me "Why won't you look at that house?" I thought for a minute and I responded," I  do not like to look at the ruin ,the life that may have been lost, the utter destruction of personal property. The pain  the family must have had  when everything they owned was lost." 

 I felt like the Lord was telling me"Your spiritual life is like that house!" "You wont look at it long enough to deal with all your pains and hurts and trust me. You need to really look and feel and examine yourself...confess any sins that hinder you so that you may have fellowship with me."(If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1Jn 1:8-9 ESV) I started to cry.  I felt like He was telling me to share what he had just taught me with the women at church, I was hesitant I made excuses," I have no notes Lord." "I will help you I will give you the words to say", He replied. I arrived at church,  went in and sat anxiously waiting for the worship time to be over.  The Lord brought the scriptures below to my mind as I was waiting.

The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion-- to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.

(Isa 61:1-3 ESV)  

 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-dresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.

(John 15:1-4 ESV)

  I was the first to volunteer,  I do not like public speaking. I got up shared what He showed me on the way there and sat down.  I felt  His peace. Later afterward a few ladies thanked me for sharing and said that it ministered them. I replied do not to thank me, but Him because it is all Him not me. 

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.  (2Cor.4:16)

"Sometimes, the pain we have worked so hard to avoid is the one thing that leads us to where God calls us to go.  Sometimes, feeling our need is the greatest work of faith we can surrender to". ~Bonnie Gray, Faith Barista

Overnight Crock Pot Oatmeal

 This is a great recipe to prepare Saturday night so there is a nice warm breakfast for Sunday Morning.
2 cup steel cut or regular old fashioned oats (NO Quick Oats!)
4 cups water
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 TBS butter
1  tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Spray crock pot with Pam then combine all in crockpot and cook on low for 8hrs.  Serve with milk & cinnamon sugar.
optional add ins: Canned peaches, raisins, apples, bananas
 Add up to 1 C raisins, chopped fresh apples, bananas canned peaches/dried fruit before cooking.
You can also top with fresh fruit  or canned fruit (drained).
Add  butter or jam, or top with honey.

HIS Faithfulness

I have been going through my blog reading the "Timeless Treasures"  that I have recorded here. I  was greatly encouraged by the words written here, either by my own hand or the quotes and other devotionals that I had come across.  The Lord God is  so good and faithful.  He cares about every part of our humanity. He cares when we are sad, weary, confused, bitter, tired, emotionally exhausted. He cares when we feel like we cant go on...when we feel like we cant make it through the next day,  minute,  second, breath. I have had a huge upheaval in my life recently. Many changes here at home, they are good changes, but somehow very unsettling to me. My heart seems overwhelmed at times.  I was reading Lamentations chapter 3, God spoke quite clearly through the text "I am faithful you can trust Me."  "Rest in Me I am Faithful."

My soul is bereft of peace; I have forgotten what happiness is; so I say, "My endurance has perished; so has my hope from the LORD." Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. Let him sit alone in silence when it is laid on him; let him put his mouth in the dust-- there may yet be hope; let him give his cheek to the one who strikes, and let him be filled with insults. For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men.
(Lamentations 3:17-33)

The business of life.

I haven't been blogging for a long while. I apologize. I really do this blog to remind myself of Gods faithfulness in the things that he is teaching me and I slacked off. There is so much that he teaches me everyday. I would be remiss not to keep record.  I am going to do a fresh start and I will be diligent. I hope that somewhere along the way...you will be encouraged too. 

Amazing Love

Chris Tomlin
Amazing Love

I’m forgiven because You were forsaken,
I’m accepted, You were condemned.
I am alive and well, Your spirit is within me,
Because You died and rose again.
(Repeat x2)

(Chorus)
Amazing love,
How can it be
That You, my King, should die for me?
Amazing love,
I know it’s true.
It’s my joy to honor You,
In all I do, I honor You.

I’m forgiven because You were forsaken,
I’m accepted, You were condemned.
I am alive and well, Your spirit is within me,
Because You died and rose again.

(Repeat chorus x2)

You are my King
Jesus You are my King
(Repeat x4)

(Repeat chorus x2)

You are my King
(Repeat x8)

Wandering or waiting?

I was babysitting my granddaughter on DEC. 16th and I had to go pay a water bill down town . I was praying before hand that God would provide a good parking place that would be easy to accommodate the stroller assembly and be close to the building I need to go to. As I neared the building I saw that there was a place right in front. I was ecstatic. I parked and got out only to realize I was at the wrong building. Back into the van; drove to the right place, no parking spot. I went around the city block hoping that when I got back around something would have opened up...... nothing. I went around again.....nothing where I wanted, but there was one a little further down than I had wanted. On the third time around the block I heard God say to me,"You are an Israelite wandering in the desert". "I have provided a spot for you but it wasn't good enough for you." "It was not your perfect spot you wanted, but it was adequate." I humbly finished going around the block to find the one further back from the door still available. I started to park only to find that someone left up ahead of me and if I pulled up I could be closer to the "perfect" spot. I rushed to pull up and secure the spot, only to find out it was a loading zone and before I could move a Fed Ex truck parked me in. I waited for it to move and soon I was able to leave. Astonishingly the perfect spot came open and I pulled in and parked. I took the stroller out and fastened in the baby. There is always a long line in the water dept and I did not want to get a ticket so I fed the parking meter 50 cents for one hour. I went in to pay and to my amazement there is no one in line but me. I paid my bill and left. I was in there only 5 minutes. I took the baby back to the van buckled her in and put the stroller away.

I got in to start the van and it would not stay on. I then waited awhile, tried again still the van refuses to stay on. I find that I can drive if I keep my foot on the gas and the brake at the same time. I go a couple blocks and end up in front of a church we used to attend a few years back. I wait some more, visit with some of the staff. I returned to the van buckled the baby back in. I prayed for the van to start.
I felt God was telling me to buckle up. I buckled up, started it and it did not stay on. I prayed again and I felt HE was saying to drive off in faith this time and don't put your foot on the brake just drive. I did so in obedience and the car stayed on. I drove home.

Later that afternoon I had to drive again to pick up my daughter from work. The van was just fine no problems. As I was driving I was thinking over the events earlier in the day, I felt God nudging me and reminding me that what He was trying to say was much bigger that a parking spot. He was telling me that I may not really like my circumstances , but they are adequate...Not the perfect scenario but livable. That He had provided everything I need for life and Godliness.*1 I began to weep, I need to repent and thank Him for His provision. I drove a bit further and God Reminded me what today was: My Spiritual Birthday. On December 16th,1981 I recieved Christ as My Savior. More weeping but more from Joy than sorrow, that He is so merciful to remind me that He will complete the work He started in me.*2



1.His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
(2Pe 1:3-4 ESV)

2. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
(Php 1:6 ESV)

I am very contemplative and sad. I do not like where I am right now....spiritually, emotionally and I am really tired. I know God Cares for me.....I know who has won the battle......Weariness has set in. Please pray for me.


But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, and they will bring offerings in righteousness to the LORD.
(Mal 3:2-3 ESV)

Quote

"Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened."~~ Winston Churchill

Why settle for little?

Heb 5:12-14

"There has been enough time for you to be teachers---yet you still need someone to teach you the first lessons of God's message. Instead of eating solid food, you still have to drink milk. Anyone who has to drink milk is still a child, without any experience in the matter of right and wrong. Solid food, on the other hand, is for adults, who through practice are able to distinguish between good and evil."

I was feeding my cats the other day and I happened to spill some of the food quite a distance from the bowl. Before I could clean it up one of the cats decided to nibble on what had fallen to the floor. The other cat went to the bowl where there was plenty and had a nice feast. As I was watching the first cat, I thought, I am like that cat. I settle for little nuggets of Scripture here and there instead of diving into the real meal Of Gods Word. Lets not settle for little when there is plenty.

Grab life by the mane

"Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop criticizing and start creating. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshiping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Laugh at yourself. Keep making mistakes. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. And remember: if God is for us who can be against us?Unleash the lion chaser within!" ~~Mark Batterson

The New Covenant Promise of a New Heart

June 1

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. (Eze_36:26)
To live in obedience to the will of God, man needs more than his own best efforts and intentions. The history of Israel emphatically demonstrates this. God gave His law. He commanded them, saying,"Walk in My statutes, keep My judgments, and do them" (Eze_20:19). Israel had promised to obey. "All that the LORD has said we will do, and be obedient" (Exo_24:7). Nevertheless, they failed miserably. "Notwithstanding, the children rebelled against Me; they did not walk in My statutes, and were not careful to observe My judgments" (Eze_20:21).
In order to live obedient lives, people need a new life from God, followed by understanding in how to develop that new life. Here, we see a promise from God to supply that new life. "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you." These promises are related to the new covenant of grace that the prophets proclaimed for Israel some day. "Behold, the days are coming . . . when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel . . . not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt" (Jer_31:31-32). The book of Hebrews elaborates on this new covenant of grace and applies it to the church today: "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us" (Heb_10:19-20).
When anyone embraces the grace of God offered in Jesus Christ (the mediator, the great High Priest of the new covenant), that person is born again by the Spirit of God. "That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit" (Joh_3:6). This is a necessity. "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (Joh_3:3). Human "flesh-birth" brings with it a hard spiritual heart (a dead spirit). Spiritual new birth from God replaces this hard heart (this dead, non-responsive spirit). "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you."
Think of our desperate need for this work of God that brings us a new heart, a new life. Those not born again are described as living "in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God . . . because of the hardening of their heart" (Eph_4:17-18). Yet, whoever relies upon the grace of God offered in Jesus Christ becomes a newborn child of God. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2Co_5:17).
Dear Lord, giver of new life, I praise You for replacing my old, hard, dead heart with a new, living, responsive heart. Now, I long to grow in the newness that is in Christ, Amen.


Day-By-Day By Grace, by Pastor Bob Hoekstra, director of Living In Christ Ministries, seeks to illuminate the grace of God through daily devotions set to inspire the child of Christ toward the heart of his Creator and Benefactor.

Provided by Living in Christ Ministries
http://www.calvarychapel.org/livinginchrist/


Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.
(Heb 12:1-4)

etc....

I am sitting at the computer listening to the wind howl outside the front door, hoping a tree does not fall in the yard again. We haven't cut up the wood from the last trees that fell. We are without our van now for 3 months. This is a huge discouragement to me. We had it fixed but are still paying for the repair, so it is still at the dealership. Please pray for funding for this need.


Fig trees may no longer bloom, or vineyards produce grapes; olive trees may be fruitless, and harvest time a failure; sheep pens may be empty, and cattle stalls vacant-- but I will still celebrate because the LORD God saves me. The LORD gives me strength. He makes my feet as sure as those of a deer, and he helps me stand on the mountains.
(Hab 3:17-19)


Praise God !!!!!! This need has been met and we now have our van.

Thoughts on prayer from John Charles Ryle of Liverpool 1816-1900

This is an excerpt From an article called The Duties Of Parents.

Prayer is the very life-breath of true religion. It is one of the first evidences that a man is born again. "Behold," said the Lord of Saul, in the day he sent Ananias to him, "Behold, he prayeth" (Acts ix. 11). He had begun to pray, and that was proof enough.

Prayer was the distinguishing mark of the Lord's people in the day that there began to be a separation between them and the world. "Then began men to call upon the name of the Lord" (Gen. iv. 26).

Prayer is the peculiarity of all real Christians now. They pray, for they tell God their wants, their feelings, their desires, their fears; and mean what they say. The nominal Christian may repeat prayers, and good prayers too, but he goes no further.

Prayer is the turning-point in a man's soul. Our ministry is unprofitable, and our labour is vain, till you are brought to your knees. Till then, we have no hope about you.

Prayer is one great secret of spiritual prosperity. When there is much private communion with God, your soul will grow like the grass after rain; when there is little, all will be at a standstill, you will barely keep your soul alive. Show me a growing Christian, a going forward Christian, a strong Christian, a flourishing Christian, and sure am I, he is one that speaks often with his Lord. He asks much, and he has much. He tells Jesus everything, and so he always knows how to act.

Prayer is the mightiest engine God has placed in our hands. It is the best weapon to use in every difficulty, and the surest remedy in every trouble. It is the key that unlocks the treasury of promises, and the hand that draws forth grace and help in time of need. It is the silver trumpet God commands us to sound in all our necessity, and it is the cry He has promised always to attend to, even as a loving mother to the voice of her child.

Prayer is the simplest means that man can use in coming to God. It is within reach of all, the sick, the aged, the infirm, the paralytic, the blind, the poor, the unlearned, all can pray. It avails you nothing to plead want of memory, and want of learning, and want of books, and want of scholarship in this matter. So long as you have a tongue to tell your soul's state, you may and ought to pray. Those words, "Ye have not, because ye ask not" (Jas. iv. 2), will be a fearful condemnation to many in the day of judgment.

The Futility of Pride

Stange New year topic but oh well! I have been bothered by the topic of Pride! I hate it! It is a destructive force in the life of many. "When pride cometh, then cometh shame: But with the lowly is wisdom" (Pro11:2). "Only by pride cometh contentions" (Pro13:10). In the book of Proverbs, pride is used in two senses. (1) The good sense. In this sense, it is admirable and necessary. It is associated with self-respect and personal dignity. However, we must always avoid self-contempt. "I am a nobody" is not a way to gain respect from others. Acts 2:47 shows us that it is alright to have respect from other people. This kind of pride is acceptable. (2) The bad sense is associated with arrogance, self-esteem, self-importance, and all such similar vices. Webster defines it this way: The quality or state of being proud: as inordinate self-esteem: conceit. Let us keep pride as God wants it. The chin and head up, not our nose. The pride of life is a channel by which Satan tempts man to sin (1Jo 2:15-17). In John 13 we find the disciples would not wash one another's feet because it would show they were inferior and forfeit their position in the kingdom. Christ deflated their egos and pride by washing their feet, showing that He was the greatest of all and serves all. We see a lot of people in the church today fighting for the top, but very few reach for towels. There are many today that pride destroys. It kept Felix from obeying the gospel (Act 24:25). It also cost Ananias and Sapphira their lives. Mat 5:3 says, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." We must be willing to assume the role of beggar to enter the kingdom of heaven. Pride will cause us not to admit wrong or have compassion on our fellow man. It will cause us to live beyond our means (Rom 13:8). Pride leads to rebellion (Psa 10:4); also apostasy (1Ti 3:6). "He who stands on a pedestal has no place but to step off"-a Chinese proverb.

Home today

Well I have managed to acquire an ear infection! I haven't had one in 15 years....wow! Well things here have been pressured, stressed and perplexing. I want to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Things need to change. How do they get changed ? By prayer or Action? Oh and not to mention the discernment to know where to begin. Help us LORD Jesus!

How you should respond to the election results.

From Tom Nettles of Founders Ministries:

My friend, Dr. Wyman Richardson, pastors FBC of Dawson, GA. He sent the following "True-False Test" to me yesterday. It is timely and very helpful in giving us perspective on the presidential election. Take the test, then ask yourself how you should respond to the election results. Click this link below.

Perspective

Humility

The Higher the Bamboo Grows, the Lower It Bends
A government official who came into President Lincoln's office was startled to find the chief executive shining his shoes. "Sir," he gasped, "surely you do not polish your own shoes!" "Of course," replied the humble President. "Whose do you polish?" The greatness of a man is evidenced by his humility. In the words of an old Filipino saying, "The higher the bamboo grows, the lower it bends."
All of this is illustrated in the life of Jesus. "Jesus did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many" (Mat_20:28). The highest title God ever allows in His church is "servant." Am I willing to serve people as Jesus did? I know, I cannot die for people to save them as Jesus did, but I can "die to self" to enable me to tell people that Jesus died for their sins, and thus serve them in the greatest way possible.
When I humble myself, then God will give me the grace to grow into maturity where, I like the tall bamboo, can lower myself to serve those of "low esteem." Notice, "Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited" (Rom_12:16). How tall are you spiritually? Tall and flexible enough to serve people in all kinds of situations?

Isaiah Encouraging All to Wait on the Lord

I was just looking at the archives and realized I have been posting for 4 years. Wow where does the time go? I really have been weary lately.... then I read a devotional that was encouragement.
Here it is:


September 16


Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength . . . And I will wait on the LORD, Who hides His face from the house of Jacob; and I will hope in Him . . . And it will be said in that day: "Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for Him; we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation." (Isa_40:31; Isa_8:17; and Isa_25:9)
Isaiah's desire to live by grace was evident in his proclaiming that God's power was available for those who would admit their own weakness. Now, we see Isaiah's heart for God's grace in his encouraging all to wait on the Lord.
One of Isaiah's encouragements to wait on the Lord came in conjunction with God's promises to give power to the weak. "He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength . . . They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint" (Isa_40:29, Isa_40:31). This gracious work of God in people's lives hinged upon their waiting on the Lord. "Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength."
Another of Isaiah's encouragements to wait on the Lord occurred in a time when Israel was rebelling against God. "For the LORD spoke thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people" (Isa_8:11). The Lord strongly urged Isaiah to stand against Israel's rebellion, even though they were threatening the prophet. "Do not . . . be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled. The LORD of hosts, Him you shall hallow; Let Him be your fear" (Isa_8:12-13). Isaiah's encouraging testimony revealed that his heart was fully set on the Lord. "And I will wait on the LORD, Who hides His face from the house of Jacob; and I will hope in Him." God was not revealing Himself to rebellious Israel. On the other, Isaiah would "wait on the LORD" (that is, he would "hope in Him").
Isaiah's ultimate encouragement to wait on the Lord is related to God's establishing of His everlasting kingdom. "And it will be said in that day: 'Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for Him; we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation'." Those who place their hope in the Lord during their pilgrimage on earth will eventually rejoice forever when the Lord eternally implements the fullness of his salvation for His people!

Dear Lord, I am aware of my utter weakness, so I wait on You for Your strength and stamina. At times, I am intimidated by rebellious people, so I wait on You for protection and vindication. I have experienced so many earthly heartbreaks, so I wait on You for the joy and gladness of Your everlasting kingdom.


Day-By-Day By Grace, by Pastor Bob Hoekstra, director of Living In Christ Ministries, seeks to illuminate the grace of God through daily devotions set to inspire the child of Christ toward the heart of his Creator and Benefactor.

Provided by Living in Christ Ministries
http://www.calvarychapel.org/livinginchrist/

Im Done

I am tired of life. I have no strength. How can I go on?


Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable. Put into practice what you learned and received from me, both from my words and from my actions. And the God who gives us peace will be with you. In my life in union with the Lord it is a great joy to me that after so long a time you once more had the chance of showing that you care for me. I don't mean that you had stopped caring for me---you just had no chance to show it. And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have more than enough. I have learned this secret, so that anywhere, at any time, I am content, whether I am full or hungry, whether I have too much or too little. I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.
(Phi 4:6-13 GNB)







March 11 Day-by-Day By Grace

Three Wrong Responses to the Holy Spirit

You always resist the Holy Spirit . . . Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God . . . Do not quench the Spirit. (Acts 7:51; Eph 4:30; and 1Th 5:19)
It is the will of God that we walk in daily independence upon the Holy Spirit. It is God's desire that we seek Him for the fullness of the Spirit's work in and through our lives. Three wrong responses that undermine the will of God are resisting, grieving, and quenching the Spirit of the Lord.
When Stephen was on trial before the religious leaders of Israel, he preached a powerful sermon declaring the faithfulness of God toward His consistently unfaithful nation. He concluded his message with a pointed, radical, accurate evaluation. "You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you" (Acts 7:51). Here we are given the kind of attitudes that oppose the work of the Spirit. These people were "stiffnecked." They were stubborn and self-willed. They wanted their will, not the will of God. They also were "uncircumcised in heart and ears." They did not allow God to cut away the carnality of their inner being. They would not allow God to speak to them through His messengers. They were self-righteous and self-sufficient. When we conduct ourselves in this same manner, we also are "resist[ing] the Holy Spirit."
When Paul was writing to the church at Ephesus, he commanded them: "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit" In the next verse he indicated the dispositions that bring grief to the Spirit of God. "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice" (Eph 4:31). Yes, the Holy Spirit is a person, not a mere power or influence. He can be saddened by our behavior. When we, God's people, harbor bitterness in our hearts and malicious words in our mouths, then we are "griev[ing] the Holy Spirit of God."
When Paul wrote to the saints at Thessalonica, he instructed them: "Do not quench the Spirit." Just as a fire can be quenched, the promptings of the Holy Spirit can be stifled. As we read the word of God, the Spirit can be stirring a spiritual fire of conviction within us. Will we respond to that heavenly influence, or will we suppress it? When the Lord is igniting a vision of service unto Him, will we yield or will we extinguish it? When the Lord is calling us to intercessory prayer, will we cry out to Him or will we suppress that desire He is kindling? Will we allow the Spirit to blaze within our hearts; or will we "quench the Spirit"?

O Father, I am convicted by Your Spirit of times that I have behaved in these same ways. I have resisted and grieved and quenched the work of the Holy Spirit in my life. Lord, I repent, and I ask You to show me any area of my life that is not yielded to the full work of Your Spirit. This I pray through Christ, my Lord, Amen.





Day-By-Day By Grace, by Pastor Bob Hoekstra, director of Living In Christ Ministries, seeks to illuminate the grace of God through daily devotions set to inspire the child of Christ toward the heart of his Creator and Benefactor.

Provided by Living in Christ Ministries
http://www.calvarychapel.org/livinginchrist/

Happy New Year

Hmmmm resolution time? hmmmmm maybe just some goals instead........ maybe I need to address an issue or two.... maybe i I just need to work on pleasing Him (The Holy One)
God is working in you to make you willing and able to obey him. Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Then you will be the pure and innocent children of God. You live among people who are crooked and evil, but you must not do anything that they can say is wrong. Try to shine as lights among the people of this world, as you hold firmly to the message that gives life. Then on the day when Christ returns, I can take pride in you. I can also know that my work and efforts were not useless.
(Phi 2:13-16 CEV)

Prayer

The prayers of God’s saints strengthen the unborn generation against the desolating waves of sin and evil. Woe to the generation of sons who find their censers empty of the rich incense of prayer; whose fathers have been too busy or too unbelieving to pray, and perils inexpressible and consequences untold are their unhappy heritage. Fortunate are they whose fathers and mothers have left them a wealthy patrimony of prayer.
~~~E. M. Bounds PURPOSE IN PRAYER


See that no one render to any evil for evil, but pursue always what is good towards one another and towards all;
rejoice always; pray unceasingly; in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus towards you; quench not the Spirit; do not lightly esteem prophecies; but prove all things, hold fast the right; hold aloof from every form of wickedness.
Now the God of peace himself sanctify you wholly: and your whole spirit, and soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is faithful who calls you, who will also perform it . Brethren, pray for us. Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. I adjure you by the Lord that the letter be read to all the holy brethren. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

(1Th 5:15-28 Darby)

Anxieties Like Iron Filings

Joel C. Gregory recalls that when he was in junior high, "we did an experiment with iron filings on a piece of paper. When we poured the filings on the paper they fell into a disheveled pile. Then we put a magnet under the paper and, as if by magic, the iron filings lined up... and followed the magnet's shape and force of direction."
All our anxieties are like so many iron filings poured out on the surface of our lives. Jesus says, "Put My presence and My kingdom underneath your life, see Me as a habit, and you'll find that your worries will line up and take My shape." The greater gift is given, and the lesser ones will be taken care of."
That's His promise, and our choice.

Think about this

"There is today no lack of Bible teachers to set forth correctly the principles of the doctrines of Christ, but too many of these seem satisfied to teach the fundamentals oft he faith year after year, strangely unaware that there is in their ministry no manifest Presence, nor anything unusual in their personal lives. They minister constantly to believers who feel within their breasts a longing which their teaching simply does not satisfy. I trust I speak in charity, but the lack in our pulpits is real. Milton's terrible sentence applies to our day as accurately as it did to his: 'The hungry sheep look up, and are not fed'."

The Pursuit of God
by A.W. Tozer

THE WATER OF LIFE TURNED TO WINE!

"Whatsoever He saith unto you, do it. Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim."-- Joh_2:5-7.
DO NOT forget the necessity of obeying the inner voice of Christ, which may be recognised by these three signs--it never asks questions, but is decisive and imperative; it is not unreasonable nor impossible; it calls for an obedience which costs us some sacrifice of our own way and will. "Whatsoever He saith unto you, do it!"
Do as you are told. It was a severe test to obedient faith to fill up those big jars, which stood in the vestibule of the house. Each would contain about twenty gallons, and as they were probably nearly empty, it would be a long and tedious business to fill them, especially at a time when guests required other attention... "They filled them up to the brim!"
In your obedience, always give Christ brimful measure. It may be a very small thing He asks you to do--to teach a class of children, to pay a visit to some sick man or woman, to write a letter, to speak a word of comfort, to hold out the helping hand, to give the glass of cold water, but see to it that your response is hearty and brimful! The jar is your opportunity! A very common and ordinary one! An act that may seem needless or inconvenient; but out of it may come the greatest achievement of your life! When the Lord calls you into co-partnership, be sure not to say: "'Please do not ask me!" Nay, serve Him to the brim! He never asks you to do one small act for Him, without being prepared to add His Almighty grace to your weakness, thereby perfecting the act. It is an amazing thing that He should want our help. Let us give Him to the brim, and, as we do so, we shall see a wonderful and beautiful thing, which is "hidden from wise and prudent, but revealed to babes". "The servants who drew the water knew." Many of us realise that this miracle is constantly taking place. We fill our waterpots to the brim with water; but at the end of days of careful preparation we sadly review the result, and say to ourselves: "After all, it is very poor stuff, only water at the best!" But as we pour it out in service to others, we know that the Master has been collaborating with us, and has turned the water into wine! There are secrets between the Lord and those who obey Him! It is blessed when we are workers together with Christ. He knows, and you know. A smile passes between you and Him, and it is enough! The best wine is always kept in reserve!
PRAYER
Enable me to do not only what I like to do, but what I ought.
Cause me to be faithful in a little, and in common tasks to learn Thy deep lessons of obedience, patience, and conscientiousness. AMEN.


Our Daily Walk
daily devotions by Frederick Brotherton (F. B.) Meyer

oliver to the rescue

My neighbor just rescued a cat. It was cool!

tiredness

Well hello i havent posted since August. i have had a lot happen .....my dog died ....my brother died....my mom in law has been living here 8 months or so.......im working part time and i am tired and just want to have my life not so busy anymore.:o(

Why Not?

Why Not?
Why Not-give a friend a tract?
Why Not-help an older couple with their groceries?
Why Not-share with a neighbor in need?
Why Not-talk to a friend about his soul?
Why Not-help a friend with a personal problem?
Why Not-have a Bible study with a friend in your home?
Why Not-visit with the newcomer in your community?
Why Not-invite your children's friends to Bible study?
Why Not-show hospitality in your home?
Why Not-give encouragement to a new brother?
Why Not-give support to those who are having trouble in their marriage?
Why Not-encourage someone to take a Bible correspondence course?
Why Not-show concern to those who have lost a loved one?
Why Not-show to others that Christianity is worth sharing anytime, anywhere?
Why Not-invite the checkout person at the grocery to worship service?
Why Not-give a smile to someone today? Let them know that you are happy as a Christian?
Why Not-be nice to people even when you do not feel like it?
Why Not-let God work His purposes in your life?
Why Not-start loving your neighbors as yourself?

For His Glory

How oft have you sought some reward for a task you said was "for the Lord?" How oft have you felt a stinging slight and felt that you were not treated right? How oft have you said "I quit, I am through. Nobody says 'thanks'for the things I do."How oft have you felt the precious thrill that comes from just being in His will? How oft did you count earth's glory dim compared to the joy of serving Him? What is it your heart has longed for? Does praise of men or His smile mean more? I Thought this was good.

Headache

I have a headache. I hope it goes away soon. We are packing, getting ready to move and that is a headache all by its self. This devotional was very good. I wanted to share it.

February 17
SERVING THE LORD
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service."-- Rom_12:1.
THE FIRST thing for all of us to do is to present ourselves to God as alive from the dead, and our bodies as living sacrifices. The path of blessedness can be entered by no other gate. It is only as we refuse to be conformed to this world, and yield ourselves to be transformed by the free entrance of the Holy Spirit into our minds, that we can learn all that God will do for us. We are nothing; He is all. And He is prepared to be and do all things in us, if only we will He open to Him as the land lies open to the summer sun.
Those who really live the yielded life, do not need to ascertain God's Will by signs. They recognize it by the whisper of His voice and the touch of His hand. It is as we refuse to be molded by the world, and give ourselves up to the transfiguring Spirit of God, that we prove what is His good, acceptable, and perfect will. But more than that, we begin to live for others, and draw by faith from the fullness of God, that we may minister to them aright.
First, we understand what the Will of God is; then we present our bodies that it may fulfill itself through us; then we discover that it means goodwill to men, and we become the happy channels of heavenly ministry to those around us in one of the spheres enumerated in Rom_12:6-8 of this chapter. It is impossible to cherish jealousy, because the Head may use this member or that; it is equally impossible to be proud, because we have nothing that we have not received. Let us always remember that each has a special ministry to fulfill, and that we shall find in our daily lot the opportunity of fulfilling it. How many resemble the landowner of the Eastern story, who sold his property in order to go in search of diamonds, and lo! The man who purchased his property found it full of diamonds. Indeed it was the famous Golconda region. In the dally drudgery of life you will find your heavenly opportunity. How many who are pining for a great mission, will never be permitted to enter it, because they despise the low and narrow door of humble service to those in their immediate neighborhood.
But we can never realize these divine ideals of service merely by an external obedience. We must be constrained by a holy love to our Lord and to one another. What a despair these ideals would be apart from the Holy Spirit. That holy love comes from Him.
PRAYER
O God work in me, not only to will but to do of Thy good pleasure; and may I work out in daily life what Thou dost work in. AMEN.


Our Daily Walk
daily devotions by Frederick Brotherton (F. B.) Meyer

Head-dibs

Head-dibs

Check this out!

Been a while

Hi! I dont have my grinch on! no bah humbug is present ! Happy new year everyone!

GOD OUR DEFENCE AND DELIVERER

Hello ! I really do not know who reads this or who cares about what I write! I had a bad day And I am glad that God is in control of all things. I am reminded that we must remain yeilded to Christ and allow Him to work all things together for His Glory! To stay close to Him By reading His word and talking to Him everyday!

GOD OUR DEFENCE AND DELIVERER
"As birds flying, so will the Lord of Hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also He will deliver it, and passing over He will preserve it."-- Isa_31:5.

WE HAVE in this chapter three beautiful synonyms for God. He is Wise (Isa_31:1-3). The politicians of that time were boasting of their wisdom-in having secured the Egyptian alliance, but their cleverness and strategy were not destined to be of any help to them. Why did they not consult the Holy One of Israel, and seek the help of the Almighty? Was His wisdom only in heavenly and religious matters? Had He not the power to infuse men like Isaiah with a wisdom for earthly and human politics? Surely the boast of wisdom was mockery in the leaders of the people, at that dread hour of Jerusalem's history, when they turned away from the Light and Glory of the Shekinah to seek human counsellors and worldly stratagems. Not only in religious matters, but in the daily ordering of our human life, "if any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting!" (Jam_1:5.)
He is as a Lion (Isa_31:4). The lion is more than a match for the groups of shepherds who endeavour to stand against him with their crooks. He is not afraid of their shouting and views them with contempt. Does not this mean that the mighty presence and power of God would shelter the soul that trusts Him? All the nations might assail the city in vain whilst the Lion of the Tribe of Judah stood as sentry! If you are fearful of heart, and dread the attack of man, flee to God for refuge and defence (Psa_46:1).
He is as a mother-bird and her nest (Isa_31:5). How wonderful these words are! How near God comes to each one of us! We are reminded of our Saviour who longed to gather Jerusalem under His wings! Amid all the fret and worry and anxiety of your life, dare to believe in a Love that will not let you go!

PRAYER
O God our Father, how can we thank Thee for Thy Holy Word, and the many methods by which Thou wouldst gain our confidence and love! Give us grace to return unto our rest beneath the shadow of Thy wings! AMEN.
F.B. Meyer

I am stunned at the uglyness of satan!

I am stunned at the uglyness of satan! He stops at nothing to harrass the Christian that is on fire for God. We need to remember that the Battle is not our own! God is with us battling on our behalf!!! The good news is that He has already Won the Battle!


God will deliver us; we can trust Him for Salvation. In Daniel’s day he was shown a vision about the end times. He is shown a time where there will be great distress like never seen before, and at that time everyone who is written in the book will be rescued. Many who have already died will rise again to everlasting life, but others will rise to disgrace and contempt (Daniel 12:1-2). Today when we are discouraged and we face many trials, we need to remember that God is coming for us one day and is able to rescue us from this world to everlasting life with Him. We should rest in His peace and comfort one another with these words and continue to be His witnesses until that time comes (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 & 5:11-12).



It can get tough during the battle! We need to remember that God will empower us to do His will. When Joshua and Zerubbabel were rebuilding the temple they had oppositions and set backs. Haggai and Zechariah prophesied over them and they got it built (Ezra 6:14). One thing that Zechariah prophesied was, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel saying, not by might or by power, but by My Spirit says the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah4:1-6) Today in our lives and ministries we should not try to do things in our own power (flesh), but rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to do what God has called us to do by the strength of His might (Ephesians 1:18-23).

We can do all things thru Christ who strenghens us!

last one for now

1:42 am - Awesome thoughts from a devotional Wow this below is so what i needed to read ! I am very tired. I am almost finished with ot survey. I am very excited to be going on to new testament survey soon I am learing so much and am growing .......still have a lot to work on but growing !
Leslie
April 22

THE MIDNIGHT WRESTLE
"Jacob went on his way, and the Angels of God met him....And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day."-- Gen 32:1, Gen 32:24.

SUCH IS our mortal life! We meet angels before we encounter our Esaus! Their unseen squadrons must be counted on as one of our permanent assets.
"Oh purblind souls! We may not see our helpers in their downward flight, nor hear the sound of silver wings, slow beating through the hush of night?' But they are surely present (Psa 34:7; Heb 1:14). If we accustom ourselves to their presence and help, we may presently come, like Jacob, to an experience of the Eternal, before which all else will dwindle into insignificance. When our Rachels and Leahs, the babble of the children, the lowing of the herds are away; when the only sound is the low murmur of the brook, or the sigh of the night wind; when the sense of loneliness steals over the spirit, and the starry hosts expand overhead, it is then that we may come into personal contact with One, whose delights from of old were with the sons of men. He is the Word of God, but He is also the Saviour, the Lover and Friend of man.
In our first meeting, He will wrestle with us to break down our stubbornness; He will touch the sinew of our strength till we can hold out no more; He will withdraw from us till we insist that we cannot let Him go; He will awaken a mysterious longing and urgency within us, which He alone can satisfy. And as the memorable interview ends, He will have taught us that we prevail best when we are at our weakest, and will have whispered in our ear, in response to our entreaty, His own sublime Name, Shiloh, the Giver of Eternal Peace!
Why should you not meet that Angel, and let Him make you a prince?

PRAYER
Be not weary of me, Good Lord. I am all weakness, but Thou art Almighty, and canst put forth Thy strength perfectly in my weakness. Make me truly to hate all which Thou hatest, fervently to love all which Thou lovest--through Jesus Christ. AMEN.



from
Our Daily Walk

daily devotions by Frederick Brotherton (F. B.) Meyer

current mood: tired and .................
current music: Fan in background

and another

8:19 am - disapointment I struggle when things do not always go as planned. What it is it? Is it the loss of control that I feel? I need to let go of things that are not worth it, and embrace the the things that are worth it. But how do you tell which is which? Self control is a friut of the Spirit.. wow this(below) was todays devotional it guess is is fitting to how I am feeling now.

June 6

HOW TO MEET DISCOURAGEMENTS
"Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen.'-- 2Co_4:17-18.

NOTICE THE marvellous antithesis of this chapter: light and darkness; life and death; pressure, perplexity, pursuit, and persecution; but side by side, victory, elastic hope, and the brightness of Christian faith. The decay of the outward man and the renewal of the inward; the light affliction and the weight of glory; the brief moment of earth's pilgrimage contrasted with the eternity of reality and bliss.
It is very important that we should not miss the mighty blessing which is within the reach of every troubled soul. Of course it is quite possible to sit down before troubles and afflictions, hopeless and despairing, confessing that we are over-powered and defeated; it is also possible to be hard and stoical, bearing adversity because we cannot help or avoid it, bur the highest Christian way is to be thankful that the earthen vessel is breaking if only the torch will shine out; to be content that the dying of Jesus should be borne about in our mortal body, if only His life will thereby become manifest.
When through the deep waters I call thee to go, The rivers of grief shall not thee overflow; For I will be with thee in trouble to bless; And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

PRAYER
Fix my heart, O Lord, on Thyself, that amid the changes and chances of this mortal life I may be kept steadfast and unmoveable and ever abounding in Thy work. AMEN.


From Our Daily walk by, F.B Meyers

a blog from my other journal

2:55 pm - mothers day The Holy Spirit has been a great Teacher and something that occurred to me today is that our God leaves nothing undone.

Not only did He give us a voice, He also gave us a song; not only did He give us ears, but he also gave us music; not only sight, but also beauty; not only drive, but also ability; not only taste, but also food; not only heart, but also compassion; not only a mind, but also knowledge; not only a soul, but also Himself.

Without the latter, the former is lifeless. How blessed we are that God attends to every need, even the minutest detail.

Lord God, thank You for tending to our needs, both great and small. And, most of all, thank You for giving meaning, purpose, and life to us when we feel our lives have no meaning or purpose. You teach us that every life was created to have meaning and purpose to Your glory and the growth of Your Kingdom.

Thank You, Jesus, for loving us.

by a friend :Len

I like my new lay out I hope you do! I havent been posting at all latley ! I really am tired. I have to work full time the next 2 weeks . I will be very buzy. I hope too get 3 blogs that I have all on to this one blog we will see how it goes!
I thought this was good for today.

June 20

THE ROCK OF AGES
"Trust ye--the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is an everlasting rock."-- Isa_26:4 (R.V.).

THE LOVE of God, like a cleft rock, is the age-long shelter of His people, land rears itself above the tumultuous waters of time. The lightning that flashed from the thunder-clouds of Calvary has riven it. A cleft was made in it by the spear that pierced the heart of our Lord, and this was followed, as it was withdrawn from the gaping wound, by blood and water. But there sinful souls may hide! God had said to Moses: "Behold, there is a place by Me, and it shall come to pass that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with My hand while I pass by, for thou canst not see My face, and live." So he speaks to us all, and promises that the water and the blood shall be the double cure from the wrath and power of sin.
It is free. The sinner need not seek to acquire the shelter of that Rock of Ages by the labour of his hands, or the fulfilling of the demands of the law. It is not required that he should burn with a zeal that knows no respite, or flow with tears that refuse to be staunched. To be helpless and forlorn, to be in peril of condemnation, to be contrite and humble---this is all that is required. To have no Mediator, no Refuge, no Helper beside, and to lift the eyes of faith to the Saviour--that is the sole condition of being lifted by unseen hands into the cleft of that Rock.
It holds all that the soul needs. Is the soul naked? There is dress for it. Is it helpless? There is grace for it. Is it blackened by sin? There is cleansing for it. Is it sick? there is healing for it. Toplady, the Calvinist, and Wesley, the Arminian, agree here: "Thou, O Christ, art all I want; more than all in Thee I find."
It is for ever. It is the Rock of Ages! Time may beat upon it, but it cannot alter it or impair it. Whilst this fleeting breath is drawn, when eyes close in death, when unknown worlds are entered, when the judgment throne is set, always and for ever the soul may shelter in the cleft Rock of the unchanging Redeemer, and Peace, like a double window, intercepts alarm from the heart which is stayed on God and trusting in Him.

PRAYER
Rock of Ages! cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee. Let the water and the blood, From Thy riven side which flowed, Be of sin the double cure, Save me from its guilt and power. AMEN.
f.b. meyer (our daliy walk)