2 Tim. 2:24 -26 "A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people's hearts, and they will learn the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil's trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants."
This has become one of my favorite verses as of late. My favorite part is that perhaps God will change their hearts. Their is so much hope wrapped up in that one little verse - PERHAPS GOD WILL CHANGE THOSE PEOPLE'S HEARTS. Isn't that awesome - that God would be gracious enough to change their hearts.
THEN THEY WILL COME TO THEIR SENSES AND ESCAPE THE DEVIL'S TRAP... Again - more hope. There is hope for people to escape from the devil's trap, because they have been held captive by him. They have been held captive by the lies.
There is a song that has become very popular recently that discusses the dysfunctionality of a relationship. When things are good, they're great but then someone blows up and they fall into the old routine of fighting and telling lies.
The biggest issue with this song is the message that it sends. The message that the dysfunctionality of relationships has become the "norm." When things are bad we tell each other lies to keep them from leaving us.
I've seen this pattern in the lives of many people. They know the relationship isn't healthy, they want to escape but they don't know how.
So we teach the truth. We teach the truth with love, patience and kindness - just as our God is loving, patient and kind toward us. We teach the truth of the Gospel in hopes that God will change their hearts.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Omission
Last night at Bible Study, our pastor pointed out an area in which David fell into sin that I had never noticed before. David did not fulfill his obligation as King when he failed to go to the battlefield with the rest of his men, therefore David committed the sin of omission.
And yes, using the term "sin of omission" is my attempt at being scholarly
Ahhh, I digress.
The sin of omission is not doing what we ought to do when it is in our ability to do it. When we see a brother or sister in need, we have the ability to meet those needs yet we don't do it. That is the sin of omission. As I thought about this sin that David committed, the sin of omission, I began to see the areas in my own life where I committ the same sin.
Applicably as well, are the more practical issues of life. God has made us stewards of our time, our money and our talents. When we don't do those things we ought to do, such as set up a budget or manage our time properly we reap the consequences or our actions. Debt and missed deadlines ensue.
But God in His great mercy always sends us forms of warning, that if we don't ignore, will help to bring us to repentance and place us back on track.
And yes, using the term "sin of omission" is my attempt at being scholarly
Ahhh, I digress.
The sin of omission is not doing what we ought to do when it is in our ability to do it. When we see a brother or sister in need, we have the ability to meet those needs yet we don't do it. That is the sin of omission. As I thought about this sin that David committed, the sin of omission, I began to see the areas in my own life where I committ the same sin.
Applicably as well, are the more practical issues of life. God has made us stewards of our time, our money and our talents. When we don't do those things we ought to do, such as set up a budget or manage our time properly we reap the consequences or our actions. Debt and missed deadlines ensue.
But God in His great mercy always sends us forms of warning, that if we don't ignore, will help to bring us to repentance and place us back on track.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Trying to be a hero.
How can people pick themselves up by their bootstraps if they don't even have boots?
I have to take a step back and realize that I am not God. Only God has the power to transform and change a person from the inside out. No amount of money, gifts, or things I throw at these people are going to save them or change their lives. The only life preserver I can really truly offer is Jesus.
The only reason I know this to be true is because it is only by God's grace that I have been changed. I am not the same person as I was 10 years ago. My goals, my attitudes, my priorities have all changed. To some extent, this is the natural course of life. But in other ways, I know it is the power of God working in my life.
And I know He can work in their lives too. All I can do is to continue to do the good works that God created me to do. I can love, serve, and encourage but that is where my responsiblity stops. The rest is up to God.
If only I could always remember this...
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Were they saying "Puppy cheeks" or "Puffy cheeks?"?
I have never been one for standing up for myself or for others and today I had a fight with one of my closest friends whom I will call *Anastasia (mostly because I think she'd like that name or perhaps she would prefer Annabelle). This is really the only second real fight that I've ever had when it comes to friendship.
I have always lived my life trying to please people. When I was in elementary school every day my friend would take my cupcake from the lunch my mom had packed me and every day I would fight back tears b/c I was so mad. I never said anything b/c I didn't want to lose my friend. Another story, I was always very chubby while I was growing up and everyone always thought it was cute to grab my cheeks and pinch them and say "PUPPY CHEEKS! PUPPY CHEEKS!" Although, now that I think about it maybe they were saying "PUFFY CHEEKS! PUFFY CHEEKS!" which would make more sense. At any rate I always fought back tears, not b/c the pinching hurt, but because I just wanted them to stop but I couldn't find the strength to fight back.
Any time conflict has arisen in my life I would always either given in and do what the other person thought was best or we would both go our separate ways never speaking to each other again. In the second scenario, I would put up a wall of defense and once again decide that I could never trust people and it wasn't worth the effort to let them into my life.
On those occasions when I gave in it was because I was afraid that they would hate me, never want to speak to me again and I would be disbanned from their lives forever. I placed my value as a person in their opinions.
Living a life to please other people has always caused a lot of stress and anxiety for me. In all actuality it has always been the number one cause of stress in my life, especially when I was growing up.
All that to say this. It is because of Anastasia that I am learning what true friendship is. A true friend will fight with you about something they are passionate about, not because they hate you but because they love you and want what is best for you. Both of you may be wrong, but in the end it is the growing and strengthening that matters.
*Anastasia has been used to protect the innocent
I have always lived my life trying to please people. When I was in elementary school every day my friend would take my cupcake from the lunch my mom had packed me and every day I would fight back tears b/c I was so mad. I never said anything b/c I didn't want to lose my friend. Another story, I was always very chubby while I was growing up and everyone always thought it was cute to grab my cheeks and pinch them and say "PUPPY CHEEKS! PUPPY CHEEKS!" Although, now that I think about it maybe they were saying "PUFFY CHEEKS! PUFFY CHEEKS!" which would make more sense. At any rate I always fought back tears, not b/c the pinching hurt, but because I just wanted them to stop but I couldn't find the strength to fight back.
Any time conflict has arisen in my life I would always either given in and do what the other person thought was best or we would both go our separate ways never speaking to each other again. In the second scenario, I would put up a wall of defense and once again decide that I could never trust people and it wasn't worth the effort to let them into my life.
On those occasions when I gave in it was because I was afraid that they would hate me, never want to speak to me again and I would be disbanned from their lives forever. I placed my value as a person in their opinions.
Living a life to please other people has always caused a lot of stress and anxiety for me. In all actuality it has always been the number one cause of stress in my life, especially when I was growing up.
All that to say this. It is because of Anastasia that I am learning what true friendship is. A true friend will fight with you about something they are passionate about, not because they hate you but because they love you and want what is best for you. Both of you may be wrong, but in the end it is the growing and strengthening that matters.
*Anastasia has been used to protect the innocent
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Christianity - A multiple choice exam?
Sometimes Christianity feels a lot like a mulitiple choice exam. You know the ones given by the really tough teachers. The answers to the questions are all similar except for one tiny little word.
Today, I recieved two pieces of mail from two different ministries. The one letter filled words like the name of Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Bible. PROMISED that all of my dreams would come true and that God wanted me to be rich and to prosper. This letter was filled with scriptures. As I sat reading the letter, which I knew was false from the start I began to feel a flood of emotions - mostly anger. 1)People are using God's word falsley to get rich 2) These predators are preying on people who are desperate, need hope and they do need God.
If you don't truly know who God is by studying His word and praying it is so easy to fall for these traps. The Bible even says that false teachers will come and that people will use the Word of God for their own benefit and to get rich. I could've totally fallen for this trap and sent this ministry my life savings - the letter was that convincing!!!!!! Oh and in return I would get a gold cross - a rare piece of Christian Jewelry to wear around my neck as my own personal good luck charm. Yippee!!!!!!
But I know Jesus. I hear and follow His voice because I read and STUDY my Bible. Not everything preached is true even though the Bible is filled with Truth. Read your Bible - it may just save you from spending your life savings :).
In all seriousness though we need to be studying our Bibles - not only for our own sake but also for the sake of others.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Why do good things happen to bad people?
I am deviating away just a little bit from a normal blog post but I feel compelled to discuss the age old question - "Why do bad things happen to good people?" I read a blog this morning that also attempted to answer the same question.
Perhaps we should flip the coin and ask the question "Why do good things happen to bad people?" We were all born sinners and continue to have the sin nature in us. Therefore we are all bad. It is through God's grace, mercy and His love for us that good things happen. ALL GOOD things come from God.
Asking the question "Why do bad things happen to good people?" in a way makes God out to be sadistic - even if you quote scriptures such as "All good things work together for the good of those who love God."
I understand that during the midst of a bad situation it is human nature to search for answers, to turn to God looking for answers. I don't believe that this age old question will ever be answered - I'm just saying that maybe if we look at the situations from a different perspective, perhaps it will help us to better understand God and come to know Him more as we see Him working through our bad situation.
Perhaps we should flip the coin and ask the question "Why do good things happen to bad people?" We were all born sinners and continue to have the sin nature in us. Therefore we are all bad. It is through God's grace, mercy and His love for us that good things happen. ALL GOOD things come from God.
Asking the question "Why do bad things happen to good people?" in a way makes God out to be sadistic - even if you quote scriptures such as "All good things work together for the good of those who love God."
I understand that during the midst of a bad situation it is human nature to search for answers, to turn to God looking for answers. I don't believe that this age old question will ever be answered - I'm just saying that maybe if we look at the situations from a different perspective, perhaps it will help us to better understand God and come to know Him more as we see Him working through our bad situation.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
31 Today
I will be 31 in a few days and I am still single, and it does not depress me!!! In fact, I'm totally loving it!! The single life has been a hot topic of conversation lately, I think mostly due in part to the movie He's Just Not That Into You.
I for one have known my whole entire life that should I be destined to be single forever I could totally be content with it. Yes, I do desire to get married and have a family, but there is also something very appealing to me about living the single life and there always has been. Singleness is a gift and a blessing, just as marriage is a blessing and a gift. However, like any gift, both can be taken for granted and abused.
With that being said, let me share a couple of scriptures regarding being single.
Matthew 19:10-12 Jesus, disciples said to him, "If this is the case, it is better not to marry!" "Not everyone can accept this statement," Jesus said. "Only those whom God helps. Some are born as eunichs, some have been made eunichs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."
Paul says this in 1 Corinthians 32-34 "I want you to be free from the concerns of this life. An unmarried man can spend his time doing the Lord's work and thinking how to please him. But a married man has to think about earthly responsiblities and how to please his wife. His interests are divided, in the same way, a woman who is no longer married has to think about her earthly responsiblities and how to please here husband. I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible."
What I get from both of these scriptures is not that Jesus or Paul is saying that one blessing is better than the other. They are both blessings, and each reaps its own benefits, each requires its own sacrifice and commitment.
In either situation, married or single, we can choose to live for ourselves, which is not what God intended. Many pastors have said that this is one reason marriages fail, each person in the relationship is living for themselves and not for the other person.
When you're single you don't have to live for anyone but yourself. But notice, both Paul and Jesus said that being single was for the beneift of the Kingdom, not for just receiving out of life what we want. We as single people are still called to love and serve one another and even more to a greater extent than those who are married.
There are things learned in marriage about God and having children that single people don't learn. And there are things that a single person learns about God that married people don't learn. Since I only have the perspective of a single person, and I'm almost 31, for sure I have gained some wisdom along the way, which I will save for another post.
I will close with this. Many of the great woman I admire, while not Christian, married later in life. They are very successful woman, who lived life for themselves to achieve what they wanted. I think the common thread among them, is that they realized that living for themselves and achieving success was not fulfilling. While they will never experience complete fulfillment without God, they did learn a Biblical Truth, whether they realize it or not. And how many of us know that the Bible is profitable to all, even if they don't know God? But, alas, I digress, I shall save that for another post. The truth these women learned is that our lives have meaning when we are living, loving and serving others. Just listen to Dr. Laura (a woman who married late in life), and she will tell you this is true.
I am 31, single, and totally rocking it!!!!!!
I for one have known my whole entire life that should I be destined to be single forever I could totally be content with it. Yes, I do desire to get married and have a family, but there is also something very appealing to me about living the single life and there always has been. Singleness is a gift and a blessing, just as marriage is a blessing and a gift. However, like any gift, both can be taken for granted and abused.
With that being said, let me share a couple of scriptures regarding being single.
Matthew 19:10-12 Jesus, disciples said to him, "If this is the case, it is better not to marry!" "Not everyone can accept this statement," Jesus said. "Only those whom God helps. Some are born as eunichs, some have been made eunichs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."
Paul says this in 1 Corinthians 32-34 "I want you to be free from the concerns of this life. An unmarried man can spend his time doing the Lord's work and thinking how to please him. But a married man has to think about earthly responsiblities and how to please his wife. His interests are divided, in the same way, a woman who is no longer married has to think about her earthly responsiblities and how to please here husband. I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible."
What I get from both of these scriptures is not that Jesus or Paul is saying that one blessing is better than the other. They are both blessings, and each reaps its own benefits, each requires its own sacrifice and commitment.
In either situation, married or single, we can choose to live for ourselves, which is not what God intended. Many pastors have said that this is one reason marriages fail, each person in the relationship is living for themselves and not for the other person.
When you're single you don't have to live for anyone but yourself. But notice, both Paul and Jesus said that being single was for the beneift of the Kingdom, not for just receiving out of life what we want. We as single people are still called to love and serve one another and even more to a greater extent than those who are married.
There are things learned in marriage about God and having children that single people don't learn. And there are things that a single person learns about God that married people don't learn. Since I only have the perspective of a single person, and I'm almost 31, for sure I have gained some wisdom along the way, which I will save for another post.
I will close with this. Many of the great woman I admire, while not Christian, married later in life. They are very successful woman, who lived life for themselves to achieve what they wanted. I think the common thread among them, is that they realized that living for themselves and achieving success was not fulfilling. While they will never experience complete fulfillment without God, they did learn a Biblical Truth, whether they realize it or not. And how many of us know that the Bible is profitable to all, even if they don't know God? But, alas, I digress, I shall save that for another post. The truth these women learned is that our lives have meaning when we are living, loving and serving others. Just listen to Dr. Laura (a woman who married late in life), and she will tell you this is true.
I am 31, single, and totally rocking it!!!!!!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Christian Feministas
I am single for several reasons. One major reason is because I have chosen to be. Let me explain.
I chose to pursue a career. I chose to further my education. I choose to spend all of my time in ways that are not conducive to dating and married life right now. I have chosen to become an independent, self-sufficient woman.
And I know why I have made all of these choices. One reason is because I have been a feminista. I did not have a healthy father/daughter relationship growing up. This I believe is an important key. There is so much to be learned about guys and their gender specific roles and this is best learned in a healthy father/daughter relationship. They are the ones who are to protect and lead. To learn more about men's and women's roles read Jessica's blog http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/04/bible-chauvenist-propoganda-pt-1.html and http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/05/bible-chauvinist-propoganda-pt-2.html.
Since I never had a man in my life who I could lean on, trust and depend on, I decided I would have to become independent and self sufficient and take care of myself, and I have, quite successfully actually.
I am a recovering Christian feminista. This has not necessarily been a bad thing. In fact, having realized how I made my decisions has helped me to accept and be content with where I am at at this point in my life. I know that soon my choices will change and I will be ready and able to embrace those changes.
I chose to pursue a career. I chose to further my education. I choose to spend all of my time in ways that are not conducive to dating and married life right now. I have chosen to become an independent, self-sufficient woman.
And I know why I have made all of these choices. One reason is because I have been a feminista. I did not have a healthy father/daughter relationship growing up. This I believe is an important key. There is so much to be learned about guys and their gender specific roles and this is best learned in a healthy father/daughter relationship. They are the ones who are to protect and lead. To learn more about men's and women's roles read Jessica's blog http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/04/bible-chauvenist-propoganda-pt-1.html and http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/05/bible-chauvinist-propoganda-pt-2.html.
Since I never had a man in my life who I could lean on, trust and depend on, I decided I would have to become independent and self sufficient and take care of myself, and I have, quite successfully actually.
I am a recovering Christian feminista. This has not necessarily been a bad thing. In fact, having realized how I made my decisions has helped me to accept and be content with where I am at at this point in my life. I know that soon my choices will change and I will be ready and able to embrace those changes.
Rock Star Wives Pt. 1
It has been my observation that many Christians marry at an early age. If this is the case, what is the age when one becomes a proverbial "Christian Old Maid."
While yes, it can be argued that there are some who will never marry and that both Jesus and Paul admonish the single life "Matthew 19:12-12; 1 Corinithians 7:32-34", statisitically 90% of Christians will marry at some point.
With that being said... why am I and so many of my Christian friends still single? Yes, it is true people are marrying older and older in life, but really this excuse can only last for so long.
Is it perhaps because we "good" Christian girls are faithful to church, while our guy counterparts are less likely to attend until after they are married.
Or what about the question - Is it Gods' will? Is it God's will that I marry or does His plan for my life involve staying single forever?
Am I not cute enough, flirty enough, giving enough? Am I too independent? Too strong? Too self-sufficient? Too confident? Too ambitious? Too accompolished?
Interestingly enough I watched a show on E True Hollywood Story about Rock Star wives. The show interviewed Rock Star Wives who have been with their husbands throughout their whole career. For example Alice Cooper has been married to the same woman for 0ver 29 years and has remained sober. Johnny and June cash are another great testimony to a long marriage.
The most interesting thing that wives said was that they had to be strong, independent and self-sufficient women. At the beginning of their careers, these rock stars were often addicted to drugs and alcohol and eventually had to go to rehab. Had it not been for their strong wives behind them these musicians never would have made it through.
Strong, independent, self-sufficient women.
The truth is that most of the women I admire for their great accompolishments married later in life - Dr. Laura and Tori Amos are just a couple of them.
I think once a woman discovers her strengths it scares guys. Woman truly have all of the power. Look at all of the power Eve had over Adam. She didn't force him to eat the apple. She offered it to him.
(To be continued.)
While yes, it can be argued that there are some who will never marry and that both Jesus and Paul admonish the single life "Matthew 19:12-12; 1 Corinithians 7:32-34", statisitically 90% of Christians will marry at some point.
With that being said... why am I and so many of my Christian friends still single? Yes, it is true people are marrying older and older in life, but really this excuse can only last for so long.
Is it perhaps because we "good" Christian girls are faithful to church, while our guy counterparts are less likely to attend until after they are married.
Or what about the question - Is it Gods' will? Is it God's will that I marry or does His plan for my life involve staying single forever?
Am I not cute enough, flirty enough, giving enough? Am I too independent? Too strong? Too self-sufficient? Too confident? Too ambitious? Too accompolished?
Interestingly enough I watched a show on E True Hollywood Story about Rock Star wives. The show interviewed Rock Star Wives who have been with their husbands throughout their whole career. For example Alice Cooper has been married to the same woman for 0ver 29 years and has remained sober. Johnny and June cash are another great testimony to a long marriage.
The most interesting thing that wives said was that they had to be strong, independent and self-sufficient women. At the beginning of their careers, these rock stars were often addicted to drugs and alcohol and eventually had to go to rehab. Had it not been for their strong wives behind them these musicians never would have made it through.
Strong, independent, self-sufficient women.
The truth is that most of the women I admire for their great accompolishments married later in life - Dr. Laura and Tori Amos are just a couple of them.
I think once a woman discovers her strengths it scares guys. Woman truly have all of the power. Look at all of the power Eve had over Adam. She didn't force him to eat the apple. She offered it to him.
(To be continued.)
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
What if?
Matthew 5:3 - 10 NLT "3) God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. 4) God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5) God blesses who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. 6) God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. 7) God blesses those who are merciful for they will be shown mercy. 8) God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. 9) God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. 10) God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of heaven is theirs.
Lately it seems that there has been a lot of searching going on, searching for purpose, for answers, for direction. Not only in my own personal life, but in regard to our country and to the entire world.
I've been of the mindset mostly, that it doesn't matter how things transpire in this life. Especially when it comes to politics. And what do I care about the environment since Jesus is coming back soon and then all of us good Christians are going to go to heaven?
And what if I have been wrong this whole time? As I read Matthew 5 I realized it says God blesses each of these people and the word bless is used in the present tense, not in future tense. It does not say they will be blessed when they get to heaven, but that He blesses them.
With that being said, what if my whole concept about Christianity has been wrong? What if the gospel is more than just preaching salvation, although salvation is a very fundamental and key principle of the gospel.
And what if the things I do here are meant to be more than just to earn another jewel in my crown, or to earn a bigger mansion. And what if Heaven is actually closer than we think? And what if our purpose is so much more?
And what if when we pray "your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" that prayer affects so much more than just my own personal life? It affects those around me and the entire world.
And what if I have been very selfish? "I am saved, phew I'm going to make it in to Heaven. Sorry all of you suckers who don't believe and have never prayed the sinners prayer, and don't even know whaalst salvation means. I've got a free ticket to Heaven."
And what if the gospel is more than just a political message? And what if God wants to raise up people who can help to make our politics a little less corrupt?
And what if it's not all about me? What if it's also about the children working in slave camps in China, or the homeless person living on the street, or the mother who is dying from aids in Africa?
And what if I have become so focused on my goals, my achievements, my success, my education, my money that I fail to see the needs of others? Others that are unable to help themselves.
And what if I get upset because I feel God has not blessed me like he has the person sitting next to me in church? Is that what Christianity is about, me being blessed?
And what if the gospel is more than just a bumper sticker formula as Pastor Scott put it.
What if the gospel is real and raw? It does have the power to heal, to save, to restore, to bring hope to a dying world who are lost.
And what if being lost is defined by more than just someone living in sin who doesn't go to church? What if being lost is truly defined by what it is... being lost from God and stumbling around trying to find their way back home, their way back to Him. Not because of their sin, but because their is no one out there to help them find their way home.
"I have found my way... you are on your own."
What if?
Lately it seems that there has been a lot of searching going on, searching for purpose, for answers, for direction. Not only in my own personal life, but in regard to our country and to the entire world.
I've been of the mindset mostly, that it doesn't matter how things transpire in this life. Especially when it comes to politics. And what do I care about the environment since Jesus is coming back soon and then all of us good Christians are going to go to heaven?
And what if I have been wrong this whole time? As I read Matthew 5 I realized it says God blesses each of these people and the word bless is used in the present tense, not in future tense. It does not say they will be blessed when they get to heaven, but that He blesses them.
With that being said, what if my whole concept about Christianity has been wrong? What if the gospel is more than just preaching salvation, although salvation is a very fundamental and key principle of the gospel.
And what if the things I do here are meant to be more than just to earn another jewel in my crown, or to earn a bigger mansion. And what if Heaven is actually closer than we think? And what if our purpose is so much more?
And what if when we pray "your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" that prayer affects so much more than just my own personal life? It affects those around me and the entire world.
And what if I have been very selfish? "I am saved, phew I'm going to make it in to Heaven. Sorry all of you suckers who don't believe and have never prayed the sinners prayer, and don't even know whaalst salvation means. I've got a free ticket to Heaven."
And what if the gospel is more than just a political message? And what if God wants to raise up people who can help to make our politics a little less corrupt?
And what if it's not all about me? What if it's also about the children working in slave camps in China, or the homeless person living on the street, or the mother who is dying from aids in Africa?
And what if I have become so focused on my goals, my achievements, my success, my education, my money that I fail to see the needs of others? Others that are unable to help themselves.
And what if I get upset because I feel God has not blessed me like he has the person sitting next to me in church? Is that what Christianity is about, me being blessed?
And what if the gospel is more than just a bumper sticker formula as Pastor Scott put it.
What if the gospel is real and raw? It does have the power to heal, to save, to restore, to bring hope to a dying world who are lost.
And what if being lost is defined by more than just someone living in sin who doesn't go to church? What if being lost is truly defined by what it is... being lost from God and stumbling around trying to find their way back home, their way back to Him. Not because of their sin, but because their is no one out there to help them find their way home.
"I have found my way... you are on your own."
What if?
Friday, January 23, 2009
Very cliche....
I have been thinking a lot lately about life, and one's purpose in life. Perhaps it is due to the fact that I have been reading The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren... very cliche I know. However, the book has prompted me to think about things more in depth.
One thing that has really been on my mind lately is dealing with other people. One of the chapter discussions pertains to our jobs and how they are not meant to define us. Rather, our jobs are more about interacting and creating relationships with the people we work with. Coming to this realization has helped me to be more tolerant of others, another cliche I know.
In the last few days I have had several run ins with store clerks, store managers and secretaries that normally would have truly annoyed me. Upon my initial meeting them I felt that these people were not appropriate for the positions they were in because a) they did not act professional enough or b) they were not intelligent enough. However, it was as if my eyes were opened and I began to see them as a person and not just as a clerk, or a manager or a secretary. I began to treat them with a little more dignity, respect and kindness.
I love how God is able to take these meaningless encounters with people to transform my whole life... it's truly incredible.
One thing that has really been on my mind lately is dealing with other people. One of the chapter discussions pertains to our jobs and how they are not meant to define us. Rather, our jobs are more about interacting and creating relationships with the people we work with. Coming to this realization has helped me to be more tolerant of others, another cliche I know.
In the last few days I have had several run ins with store clerks, store managers and secretaries that normally would have truly annoyed me. Upon my initial meeting them I felt that these people were not appropriate for the positions they were in because a) they did not act professional enough or b) they were not intelligent enough. However, it was as if my eyes were opened and I began to see them as a person and not just as a clerk, or a manager or a secretary. I began to treat them with a little more dignity, respect and kindness.
I love how God is able to take these meaningless encounters with people to transform my whole life... it's truly incredible.
Monday, January 19, 2009
The dreaded question
The other day a friend and I conversed about Christianity. They are of the persuasion that all roads lead to Heaven. Had I had this discussion with them 5 years ago I would have inevitably asked that great question, sure to bring a sinner to their knees "If you died tonight, do you know where you'd go?"
This particular question was posed before me at the end of every youth group meeting I attended. And each week it scared the hell out of me... I could see the flames of hell licking at my feet. I prayed "Please God, please let me go to Heaven if I die tonight." But what if I walked out the door and for a split second doubted God's existence and in that same second was hit by a bus, then surely I was going to go to Hell. I tried hard not to let my mind even question God's existence out of fear... I just had to believe, I JUST HAD TO, because I didn't know when my time would be up.
Fear is no way to instill faith in people. Jesus didn't use fear to persuade his followers. Instead he spoke truth and that truth brought light. We all know the story of Thomas. Jesus never said to Thomas "Thomas, if you died tonight, do you know where you would go?" Instead, he allowed Thomas to have his doubts. It was in Thomas' doubting that he became a seeker. He sought after Jesus, because he was seeking truth.
Many people doubt, and seek. I believe God wants us to seek, even if it sometimes takes us away from Him. It is in the seeking when we find God and then we either choose to believe or not believe.
I did not ask my friend that question, instead I wished them luck on their spiritual journey and said a quiet prayer for them.
This particular question was posed before me at the end of every youth group meeting I attended. And each week it scared the hell out of me... I could see the flames of hell licking at my feet. I prayed "Please God, please let me go to Heaven if I die tonight." But what if I walked out the door and for a split second doubted God's existence and in that same second was hit by a bus, then surely I was going to go to Hell. I tried hard not to let my mind even question God's existence out of fear... I just had to believe, I JUST HAD TO, because I didn't know when my time would be up.
Fear is no way to instill faith in people. Jesus didn't use fear to persuade his followers. Instead he spoke truth and that truth brought light. We all know the story of Thomas. Jesus never said to Thomas "Thomas, if you died tonight, do you know where you would go?" Instead, he allowed Thomas to have his doubts. It was in Thomas' doubting that he became a seeker. He sought after Jesus, because he was seeking truth.
Many people doubt, and seek. I believe God wants us to seek, even if it sometimes takes us away from Him. It is in the seeking when we find God and then we either choose to believe or not believe.
I did not ask my friend that question, instead I wished them luck on their spiritual journey and said a quiet prayer for them.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Disciple
A great friend will tell you the truth even when it hurts. A great friend will prod you to do something even when you get lazy and don't want to do it. A great friend will help you to discover who you are and bring light to your talents and abilities. A great friend is hard to find in this world. They are an endless source of undiscoverd treasure when you find them.
My great friend has reminded me more than once that I am more than just a pencil pusher and a cube dweller... it is easier though to hide under this guise than to actually do the things that God has instilled in me to do.
And so this brings me to the subject of discipleship, the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Perhaps, creating disciples is not about having all of the answers. Perhaps it is saying "Let's embark on this journey together. Let's grow and discover God together. Sometimes I will have the answers and the encouragement that you need, and sometimes you will have the answers and the encouragement I need." If I were to wait until I had all of the answers before engaging anyone in any sort of spiritual conversation then that day will never come and I will have robbed myself and others of the opportunity to discover new things.
I don't have all of the answers, and more often than not I struggle with my faith, but it is in the seeking and stumbling and searching that I truly discover God. This I believe is the greatest testimony any believer of Christ can offer. This is what is right for me.
My great friend has reminded me more than once that I am more than just a pencil pusher and a cube dweller... it is easier though to hide under this guise than to actually do the things that God has instilled in me to do.
And so this brings me to the subject of discipleship, the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Perhaps, creating disciples is not about having all of the answers. Perhaps it is saying "Let's embark on this journey together. Let's grow and discover God together. Sometimes I will have the answers and the encouragement that you need, and sometimes you will have the answers and the encouragement I need." If I were to wait until I had all of the answers before engaging anyone in any sort of spiritual conversation then that day will never come and I will have robbed myself and others of the opportunity to discover new things.
I don't have all of the answers, and more often than not I struggle with my faith, but it is in the seeking and stumbling and searching that I truly discover God. This I believe is the greatest testimony any believer of Christ can offer. This is what is right for me.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Is it possible that God is raising up a new generation of Christians? A generation of Christians who are not afraid of stepping outside of the proverbial Christian bubble. Christians who have faith in God and believe Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
Jessica wrote about a blog about cities of refuge http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/12/realization-about-levitical-cities-of.html.
Perhaps we have dwelled in our cities of refuge for too long, and God is saying to us, "You have had your refuge, your time of rest, growth and strengthing. Now it is time for you to go out and share the knowledge you have learned."
Too many times, we get caught up in the idea that we need to surround ourselves with only Christians, only listen to Christian Music, only buy Christian books, only watch Christian movies, Christian TV, etc... because this will keep us safe from the world.
But the truth is, that while we are trying to keep ourself safe from the world, the world is going to hell. We are so caught up in protecting ourselves that we forget Jesus' commandment about making disciples of all nations.
Do we have so little faith in the Truth that we believe we will fail?
Jesus made friends with the world. Matthew, the tax collector, was not a "Christian" before Jesus befriended him. By becoming Matthew's friend, did Jesus become a sinner like Matthew? No, Matthew saw the Truth of Jesus and tried to become more like Jesus.
The Truth ALWAYS prevails... why are we so afraid of the world? We already know who the conquerer is.
Jessica wrote about a blog about cities of refuge http://andnarrowistheway.blogspot.com/2008/12/realization-about-levitical-cities-of.html.
Perhaps we have dwelled in our cities of refuge for too long, and God is saying to us, "You have had your refuge, your time of rest, growth and strengthing. Now it is time for you to go out and share the knowledge you have learned."
Too many times, we get caught up in the idea that we need to surround ourselves with only Christians, only listen to Christian Music, only buy Christian books, only watch Christian movies, Christian TV, etc... because this will keep us safe from the world.
But the truth is, that while we are trying to keep ourself safe from the world, the world is going to hell. We are so caught up in protecting ourselves that we forget Jesus' commandment about making disciples of all nations.
Do we have so little faith in the Truth that we believe we will fail?
Jesus made friends with the world. Matthew, the tax collector, was not a "Christian" before Jesus befriended him. By becoming Matthew's friend, did Jesus become a sinner like Matthew? No, Matthew saw the Truth of Jesus and tried to become more like Jesus.
The Truth ALWAYS prevails... why are we so afraid of the world? We already know who the conquerer is.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
I have failed a million and two times!!!
I feel as if I am constantly losing focus on the priorities in my life, and shifting them to accommodate my needs. I know what I really want is to focus on building relationships with people getting to know them and becoming invested in their lives. And yet, what I constantly focus my time and energies on is getting through my to do list.
And this is what I have learned: When I have my priorities in order, that is focusing on other people that is not just doing things for other people - but spending time with people and building relationships, I find so much peace and joy and happiness. Could this possibly be because this is what God wants for us as His creation. Fellowship and Love. This is one way we truly experience God in our lives.
But when my priorities are out of whack... I am focusing and stressing about getting through my ever so long to do list. I become very, very selfish, bitter and cranky. Perhaps this is because I have taken the focus off of others and placed it all on myself.
Others Focused = Happiness, Peace, Joy
To Do List Focused = Stress, Crankiness, Selfishness
I'm trying very hard to learn balance between the two and most importantly listen to that still small voice inside.. you know the one that is so easy to ignore because we are too busy.... yeah, that one.
And, I ignored it today... even though I heard it several times. Thankfully though, God was still able to get through to me and I am able to follow through and rebuild a friendship that has been waning. A friendship that has really meant a lot to me over the years.
I feel as if I am constantly losing focus on the priorities in my life, and shifting them to accommodate my needs. I know what I really want is to focus on building relationships with people getting to know them and becoming invested in their lives. And yet, what I constantly focus my time and energies on is getting through my to do list.
And this is what I have learned: When I have my priorities in order, that is focusing on other people that is not just doing things for other people - but spending time with people and building relationships, I find so much peace and joy and happiness. Could this possibly be because this is what God wants for us as His creation. Fellowship and Love. This is one way we truly experience God in our lives.
But when my priorities are out of whack... I am focusing and stressing about getting through my ever so long to do list. I become very, very selfish, bitter and cranky. Perhaps this is because I have taken the focus off of others and placed it all on myself.
Others Focused = Happiness, Peace, Joy
To Do List Focused = Stress, Crankiness, Selfishness
I'm trying very hard to learn balance between the two and most importantly listen to that still small voice inside.. you know the one that is so easy to ignore because we are too busy.... yeah, that one.
And, I ignored it today... even though I heard it several times. Thankfully though, God was still able to get through to me and I am able to follow through and rebuild a friendship that has been waning. A friendship that has really meant a lot to me over the years.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Winter
Ecclisiastes 3:1 There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven--
Winter by Tori Amos
Snow can wait I forgot my mittens
Wipe my nose Get my new boots on
I get a little warm in my heart
When I think of winterI put my hand in my father's glove
I run off where the DRIFTS GET DEEPER
Sleeping beauty trips me with a frown
I hear a voice "You must learn to stand up for yourself
Cause I can't always be around"
He says when you gonna make up your mind
When you gonna love you as much as I do
When you gonna make up your mind
Cause things are gonna CHANGE so fast
All the white horses are still in bed
I tell you that I'll always want you near
You say that things change my dear
Boys get discovered as winter MELTS
Flowers competing for the sun
Years go by and I'm here still waiting
Withering where some snowman was
Mirror mirror where's the crystal palace
But I only can see myself SKATING around the truth who I am
But I know dad the ice is getting thin
When you gonna make up your mind
When you gonna love you as much as I do
When you gonna make up your mind
Cause things are gonna CHANGE so fast
All the white horses are still in bed
I tell you that I'll always want you near
You say that things change my dear
Hair is grey and the fires are burning
So many dreams on the shelf
You say I wanted you to be PROUD of me
I always wanted that myself
When you gonna make up your mind
When you gonna love you as much as I do
When you gonna make up your mind
Cause things are gonna change so fast
All the WHITE HORSES have gone ahead
I tell you that I'll always want you near
You say that things change my dear Never change
All the white horses
I'm in the season of winter. I read a great devotional the other day about the changing of seasons and how the process of change was created by God and serves a specific purpose. I know winter is coming because I begin to withdraw from others and seek a lot more alone time journaling. I also begin to seek God more and question areas in my life that I'm not satisifed with.
I can't say that being in the season of winter is fun and it never comes at a good time. Often winter for me is a cold, lonely, dark place and I must travel it all on my own, this lesson I've learned well. Oh, I could bring others with me but they would not survive my journey, and in the end, we would be forced to part bitter ways.
I used to fear this season... and would dread it's coming in my life... however, I've begun to realize it's purpose and I've learned how to prepare. For me, my winter protection is the Bible and the loving arms of God for I know no matter how dark and cold it gets He is there the moment I need Him. It is a season of strengthening, just as the trees are strengthened so that they can bloom in the spring. My season always ends with me being happier, rejuvinated and most importantly stronger.
The most difficult and challenging part about this season for me is holding onto relationships that are important to me. Too often, I somehow end up destroying friendships without meaning to... however, I'm learning... and sometimes I have to take a break from my season of winter to build a nice cozy fire and invite people in.
I don't know how long this season will last. All I ask is for is patience, because soon I'll be in the season of spring - the season of joy and happiness and lots of laughter. I just hope I don't cause too much damage along the way. Someday you'll have your season of winter and although it will differ from mine - I will be there at the end of your journey with a nice big mug of hot cocoa and lots of hugs.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Fuel
James 3:5-9 (NLT) - In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. (6) And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. (7) People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, (8) but no one can tame the tongue. (9) It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God."
"Sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God." When I curse someone made in the image of God, I am cursing God, since essentially He created the person I am cursing.
My biggest realization lately is that I am not always the one doing the cursing, and that sometimes I allow my ears to become someone else's garbage can. Often, what I don't realize is how easily I then fall prey to taking up someone else's offense.
There is a difference between listening to someone who is seeking advice and listening to someone who is just wanting to whine and complain. I think I am being a good friend by just listening, but I'm learning now how much it actually affects me, my relationship with God, and my relationship with the people involved.
By the same token, I have seen how much my whining and venting about others has also affected relationships. More often than not, and very humbling to admit, I am just looking for a sympathetic ear because I love to whine. I DO THIS ALL THE TIME!!!!
Why? Why do I curse people made in God's image? Especially knowing that according to verse 6 my tongue can set my whole life on fire. And yet, I constantly fuel the flame with my whining using the excuse that I'm venting, and I allow others to do the same. The thing is I always feel horrible afterwards. What I thought would be cathartic always leaves me feeling guilty and full of shame. That's how I know it is sin, and I run to God asking for forgiveness.
Although, I know God has forgiven me, the damage has been done, and fuel has been added to the fire.... a fire that starts out as a burning ember, just waiting for a little spark.
"Sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God." When I curse someone made in the image of God, I am cursing God, since essentially He created the person I am cursing.
My biggest realization lately is that I am not always the one doing the cursing, and that sometimes I allow my ears to become someone else's garbage can. Often, what I don't realize is how easily I then fall prey to taking up someone else's offense.
There is a difference between listening to someone who is seeking advice and listening to someone who is just wanting to whine and complain. I think I am being a good friend by just listening, but I'm learning now how much it actually affects me, my relationship with God, and my relationship with the people involved.
By the same token, I have seen how much my whining and venting about others has also affected relationships. More often than not, and very humbling to admit, I am just looking for a sympathetic ear because I love to whine. I DO THIS ALL THE TIME!!!!
Why? Why do I curse people made in God's image? Especially knowing that according to verse 6 my tongue can set my whole life on fire. And yet, I constantly fuel the flame with my whining using the excuse that I'm venting, and I allow others to do the same. The thing is I always feel horrible afterwards. What I thought would be cathartic always leaves me feeling guilty and full of shame. That's how I know it is sin, and I run to God asking for forgiveness.
Although, I know God has forgiven me, the damage has been done, and fuel has been added to the fire.... a fire that starts out as a burning ember, just waiting for a little spark.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
The Power of Orange Knickers
Sometimes we go into battle fighting the wrong enemy. But, we soon find out is that this enemy is actually our closest ally.
Who is this terrorist that smiles so kindly? This battle we believe to be our hardest one yet. We know for certain that underneath their petticoat their knickers are blue and our knickers are orange, and orange and blue knickers do not associate.
Perhaps this person is a husband or a wife, and the battle is the kids or how to run the house. Maybe this person is a co-worker who we view as more talented and qualifed than we are. It could be a mom or a dad who only wants what is best for their child.
But, what if the person is someone we've never met, someone we've only heard about through other people? We pass judgement and make a decision about the person based only on what we've heard about them. We view them as the enemy.
And so, we step into battle with our protective armor on, our swords outstrechted, ready to take the stance. And slowly, we begin the battle... only, the other person doesn't know that we are in full on battle mode. Instead, they begin to smile, and laugh. We try to pick up our sword and it is too heavy, and they come up beside us and help to lift the sword, still not understanding that the sword is meant to inflict harm on them.
We are surprised and thrown off guard by this sudden turn of events. And slowly, ever so slowly we begin removing pieces of our armor, still believing at any moment that the other person is going to draw their dagger and take us out. But, then they don't... instead, they begin to compliment us, and ask us for advice... and then, they show us their knickers and they are orange like ours.
Who is this terrorist that smiles so kindly? This battle we believe to be our hardest one yet. We know for certain that underneath their petticoat their knickers are blue and our knickers are orange, and orange and blue knickers do not associate.
Perhaps this person is a husband or a wife, and the battle is the kids or how to run the house. Maybe this person is a co-worker who we view as more talented and qualifed than we are. It could be a mom or a dad who only wants what is best for their child.
But, what if the person is someone we've never met, someone we've only heard about through other people? We pass judgement and make a decision about the person based only on what we've heard about them. We view them as the enemy.
And so, we step into battle with our protective armor on, our swords outstrechted, ready to take the stance. And slowly, we begin the battle... only, the other person doesn't know that we are in full on battle mode. Instead, they begin to smile, and laugh. We try to pick up our sword and it is too heavy, and they come up beside us and help to lift the sword, still not understanding that the sword is meant to inflict harm on them.
We are surprised and thrown off guard by this sudden turn of events. And slowly, ever so slowly we begin removing pieces of our armor, still believing at any moment that the other person is going to draw their dagger and take us out. But, then they don't... instead, they begin to compliment us, and ask us for advice... and then, they show us their knickers and they are orange like ours.
Friday, September 26, 2008
The Painter
People are not expendable. I think too many times we give up on people because we don't feel they are worthy of our time, efforts or energy. They are not going to bring anything to our already overly complicated, busy lives.
Sometimes, I think we view people as works of art. We see someone's life and we think we know how we can make it better. We take it into our hands what we believe to be this marred painting that is bleak and has nothing to offer and we try to turn it into our own masterpiece. And when we begin to see that the masterpiece is not turning into what we had hoped, we begin to tear it down and shred it up, until all that is left is a million little pieces that we can sweep under the rug. People begin to annoy us, they don't have the qualities we are after, and we wish they would just go away. This masterpiece that we once devoted so much time and effort to, is now just a nuisance. We begin to resent them for not turning into our masterpiece, until eventually, we abandon them and want nothing to do with them - ever.
We took what we saw as a marred piece of art and thought that we could refine it and make it into a masterpiece, when in reality, God is the only one who can do that. We are just merely the medium which God uses... there are so many torn up pieces of art that need to be put back together and accepted for the beautiful masterpiece they already are, the masterpiece that God created.
We cannot abandon any work of art simply because they don't fit into our agenda.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Pictures of Success
We all have our pictures of success. Those proud moments in our lives forever captured in a photograph. For some people it is a wedding day, the birth of a new baby, the job promotion, graduation or a first car. The thing is, no one ever has pictures of failure. Those moments in our lives when we made a bad decision, chose the wrong people to be friends with, were hateful towards someone or destroyed a relationship.
Our pictures of success are reminders to ourselves. Reminders that we have value, we're worth something and we can accomplish things. But, what happens when we cling to these pictures too tightly for too long? Sometimes we cling to them for so long in fact, that they become our identity, and this is how we want the world to view us. The danger in clinging too them for too long is that we get stuck where we are and never move foward.
Or, even worse, we refuse to admit that perhaps, right now our lives are a picture of failure. We wake up one day and realize we're fat, we're broke, our relationships have fallen apart, we haven't accomplished any of the things we set out to do 5 or 10 years ago. So we continue to cling to our pictures of success, because we believe it is easier to live in the past, to look at our past accomplishments rather than face the future.
The thing is, that our pictures of failure did not develop overnight, anymore than our pictures of success developed overnight. Our pictures of success, while taken in a single moment, are actually the culmination of a series of events leading up to that moment. The wedding day is a result of meeting someone, falling in love, a proposal and then the wedding. Graduation is the conclusion of years of study and gaining knowledge. This same principle is true for our pictures of failure.
We did not get fat in a single moment. We didn't go broke in a single moment. Our relationships did not fall apart in a single moment. Instead, all of these things are a result of a series of events that led us here. Eating too many calories, failing to budget properly, allowing oursleves to drift apart in our relationships.
To create new pictures of success, we must first stop clinging so tightly to our old pictures. They should only serve as reminders of the things we can do and the places we can go. You can lose the weight and be that thin girl again in the photo. You can recapture the love and admiration you had for the person in your wedding photo. You can create new pictures of success..... the Bible says it is healthy to do so ;).
Our pictures of success are reminders to ourselves. Reminders that we have value, we're worth something and we can accomplish things. But, what happens when we cling to these pictures too tightly for too long? Sometimes we cling to them for so long in fact, that they become our identity, and this is how we want the world to view us. The danger in clinging too them for too long is that we get stuck where we are and never move foward.
Or, even worse, we refuse to admit that perhaps, right now our lives are a picture of failure. We wake up one day and realize we're fat, we're broke, our relationships have fallen apart, we haven't accomplished any of the things we set out to do 5 or 10 years ago. So we continue to cling to our pictures of success, because we believe it is easier to live in the past, to look at our past accomplishments rather than face the future.
The thing is, that our pictures of failure did not develop overnight, anymore than our pictures of success developed overnight. Our pictures of success, while taken in a single moment, are actually the culmination of a series of events leading up to that moment. The wedding day is a result of meeting someone, falling in love, a proposal and then the wedding. Graduation is the conclusion of years of study and gaining knowledge. This same principle is true for our pictures of failure.
We did not get fat in a single moment. We didn't go broke in a single moment. Our relationships did not fall apart in a single moment. Instead, all of these things are a result of a series of events that led us here. Eating too many calories, failing to budget properly, allowing oursleves to drift apart in our relationships.
To create new pictures of success, we must first stop clinging so tightly to our old pictures. They should only serve as reminders of the things we can do and the places we can go. You can lose the weight and be that thin girl again in the photo. You can recapture the love and admiration you had for the person in your wedding photo. You can create new pictures of success..... the Bible says it is healthy to do so ;).
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