There is one book that I often feel as though I could highlight every word on the page. What didn't jump out at me the first time I'd read through it would the second or third time through. So in this book I have had to resort to more then one color in order to not end up with a solid yellow page. What is this book you ask? It is my Bible, and it is marked up with underlining, highlighting, circled words, and a few symbols. It might look like a mess to the casual observer but these have all helped me tremendously. I still remember the day I received my Bible as a gift from my husband. The pages were crisp and white and I was afraid to make a mark on the pages. I feared making mistakes and marking something only to change my mind later. I have long since gotten over my fear and yet I have made mistakes a long the way. I have found myself studying when I was tired and actually put wrong symbols over words. I've gotten a little to happy with the highlighter going into a sentence I didn't mean too. I started circling words that I thought were key to the sentence then after doing it one way 1/4 of the way in my Bible I changed my mind about the key word:) I've gotten quite creative trying to cover up my mistakes, lol. Sometimes I don't even try to. I'm sure if anyone else were to read through my Bible they'd struggle to make sense out of all my markings in it. But that doesn't matter to me, what matters to me most is that when I pick it up and read through the pages I quickly see at a glance those things that have impacted me to the core of my being. It is my style, it is eclectic, and it has brought depth and insight when studying.
I've shared all this with you because if you haven't started marking in your Bible already I want to encourage you to not be afraid to do so especially when a verse or word jumps out at you and grabs your attention or heart. You may want to ask others how they mark theirs or if your brave you can peek at mine, and then just start doing it. Don't worry about doing it perfectly, or do it perfectly if that's your nature but do it (just do it according to your learning style and if you refine what that is a long the way that's o.k. That's what I'm continually doing). It's your Bible and it's God's Word, it's powerful, living and sharper then a two edged sword...it is everything you need for life and godliness...it gives hope...renews your mind...transforms your thinking...points to Christ. I can never get enough of it, never exhaust all there is to learn from it, and every time I pick it up I see something new in it.
Here are some suggestions of possible ways to mark your Bible (remember you should do whatever works best for you and your learning style, not someone elses). O.k.grab your Bible and let's get started open up to the gospels and start marking every time you see Jesus name or reference to Him with a cross (can be red or I just use black pen. Precepts encourages you to use different colors and symbols when marking words but for my slightly ADD mind I find the colors too distracting)...or highlight Jesus words (if your Bible doesn't already), or highlight those verses or words that jump out at you and grab your attention such as references to grace. But whatever method you choose to do make sure to observe Jesus, the words He speaks, the methods He uses to get truth across, the way He speaks to those who try to establish their righteousness from the law (pharisees), the way He speaks to sinners, His responses to those who are in need. Don't get caught up in the method of study, but get caught up in the One you are studying about.
Take some time today reflecting on who you once were (dead in your sins, dust) and who you are now (still dust, but forgiven and loved) because of what Jesus has done for you (died in your place to pay your debt in full). Jesus knows you through and through; He knows where you've been, He knows where you are today, and He knows what you will become. He know you more then you know yourself and He loves you anyways. His love is sure, His mercies new each day, and His grace is greater then your sin. Run to Him who loves you purely precious daughters, and do not hide your faces, instead look into His radiant face and feel the warmth of His love envelop you. Remember He knows all about you and He loves you anyways. Sit in His presence today and thank Him for His selfless love and then share His love with others.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Secret to Contentment in Marraige
What is the secret of being content in your marraige? Is it possible to take two flawed and sinful human beings who come from completely different family dynamics and have different ideas on what it means to be a family together and have peace, harmony, and contentment in the home?
I believe it is possible! The key to peace, harmony, and contentment is found in Christ and the gospel when they are in their rightful places in the home. By this I mean that we wives are seeking Christ daily, spending time in His word, meditating on it and time in prayer. This doesn't have to be a two hour time alone. If you can that is awesome, but for those of you who can not get away for long periods of time each day have you considered taking what time you can squeeze of your schedule to pray, read a Scripture or two and as you go about your day chew on what that Scripture means? Roll it around in your head, prayerfully reflecting on it asking God to help you to fully understand it and grasp it, even to memorize. For mom's who are off and running with the first cry of an infant turning on the radio and listening to a Biblically grounded Pastor might be a solution or a Scripture tape. Or having a Bible flip calendar with Scripture and a devotional thought where you will see it each day. For those women who work another alternative might be listening to Scripture or an excellent sermon in your car on the way to work and back. Taking every thought to God in prayer praying without ceasing is another way to find satisfaction and contentment in life and marraige. Why? Because we are spending time with the only One who truly satisfies, He Jesus Christ is the one who alone can meet all our needs. When all our needs our met by Him then we will not put such a heavy burden on our husbands or children (if we have them) to meet those needs. Then and only then will we be free to truly love those God has given us as our neighbors...our husbands and any children we may have and others that cross our paths.
Some of you may know my story and some of you don't, I'm not going to go into the details here except to tell you I was once married to a man who hated God. While in that marraige I heard a wise person say "you are not their Holy Spirit" "it is not your job to change them." Wow, that freed me up. God is the one who does the changing not me. I just need to do as 1 Peter 3:3-6 says, be subject to my husband, be gentle and quiet, working on my inner beauty, be pure in word and conduct all by the grace of God and the power of His Spirit. Not that I will do this perfectly but that I strive for it as to the Lord for He is our first Husband. For I'm responsible for what I do, I stand before God for me alone and not for my husband and so do you Dear Sister.
I also do not want to neglect the spiritual benefits of spending time praising God. Are you feeling blue, worn out, unappreciated, tired? Consider turning on Christian radio or put in that praise CD that's collecting dust. Soon you will find that your mind has gone from dwelling on all that's wrong in your life to the only One who is worthy of our praise and Adoration. As you sing along you will be reminded of the unchangeable truths of God's Character and your flawed doubtful thoughts of God will be renewed and reminded that He does reign, He is Sovereign over all circumstance, and that you are "sinful and flawed but welcomed and loved." Try it!
I've shared so much already and must go for now. But before I do I want to share some excerpts from a book I've been reading called Counsel from the Cross By Elyse Fitzpatrick and Denis E. Johnson. Spend some time chewing on these words today and ask God to show you the truth in them:
"Focusing on the obligations of Scripture without mentioning the declarations of the gospel has resulted in a works-oriented perspective in family relationships and idolatry of the family, and in despairing of self-righteous husband and wives and children who wonder why it's so hard to obey. When we forget that Jesus is our Savior, seeing Him merely as our example, the motivation to love as He does eludes us."
"A wife who has forgotten the that she is sinful and flawed can be harsh and judgmental. She finds it easy to point out her husband's failures, and she thinks that her growth in maturity is hindered because her husband isn't leading as he should. When her husband prays, she criticizes his prayer in her heart. When he watches television, she remembers all the hours she has spent in Bible study, comparing herself to him."
"Because she has forgotten the gospel, she forgets that she already has a sinless Husband(Jesus). But this sinless Husband married a polluted wife with no beauty in her, either before she was saved or after. He loved her out of his pure, unmerited grace. This wife has also forgotten that her growth in maturity isn't contingent upon her earthly husband's leadership. Rather, it was purchased by the precious blood of her Savior, who bought her sanctification at the cost of His life."
I believe it is possible! The key to peace, harmony, and contentment is found in Christ and the gospel when they are in their rightful places in the home. By this I mean that we wives are seeking Christ daily, spending time in His word, meditating on it and time in prayer. This doesn't have to be a two hour time alone. If you can that is awesome, but for those of you who can not get away for long periods of time each day have you considered taking what time you can squeeze of your schedule to pray, read a Scripture or two and as you go about your day chew on what that Scripture means? Roll it around in your head, prayerfully reflecting on it asking God to help you to fully understand it and grasp it, even to memorize. For mom's who are off and running with the first cry of an infant turning on the radio and listening to a Biblically grounded Pastor might be a solution or a Scripture tape. Or having a Bible flip calendar with Scripture and a devotional thought where you will see it each day. For those women who work another alternative might be listening to Scripture or an excellent sermon in your car on the way to work and back. Taking every thought to God in prayer praying without ceasing is another way to find satisfaction and contentment in life and marraige. Why? Because we are spending time with the only One who truly satisfies, He Jesus Christ is the one who alone can meet all our needs. When all our needs our met by Him then we will not put such a heavy burden on our husbands or children (if we have them) to meet those needs. Then and only then will we be free to truly love those God has given us as our neighbors...our husbands and any children we may have and others that cross our paths.
Some of you may know my story and some of you don't, I'm not going to go into the details here except to tell you I was once married to a man who hated God. While in that marraige I heard a wise person say "you are not their Holy Spirit" "it is not your job to change them." Wow, that freed me up. God is the one who does the changing not me. I just need to do as 1 Peter 3:3-6 says, be subject to my husband, be gentle and quiet, working on my inner beauty, be pure in word and conduct all by the grace of God and the power of His Spirit. Not that I will do this perfectly but that I strive for it as to the Lord for He is our first Husband. For I'm responsible for what I do, I stand before God for me alone and not for my husband and so do you Dear Sister.
I also do not want to neglect the spiritual benefits of spending time praising God. Are you feeling blue, worn out, unappreciated, tired? Consider turning on Christian radio or put in that praise CD that's collecting dust. Soon you will find that your mind has gone from dwelling on all that's wrong in your life to the only One who is worthy of our praise and Adoration. As you sing along you will be reminded of the unchangeable truths of God's Character and your flawed doubtful thoughts of God will be renewed and reminded that He does reign, He is Sovereign over all circumstance, and that you are "sinful and flawed but welcomed and loved." Try it!
I've shared so much already and must go for now. But before I do I want to share some excerpts from a book I've been reading called Counsel from the Cross By Elyse Fitzpatrick and Denis E. Johnson. Spend some time chewing on these words today and ask God to show you the truth in them:
"Focusing on the obligations of Scripture without mentioning the declarations of the gospel has resulted in a works-oriented perspective in family relationships and idolatry of the family, and in despairing of self-righteous husband and wives and children who wonder why it's so hard to obey. When we forget that Jesus is our Savior, seeing Him merely as our example, the motivation to love as He does eludes us."
"A wife who has forgotten the that she is sinful and flawed can be harsh and judgmental. She finds it easy to point out her husband's failures, and she thinks that her growth in maturity is hindered because her husband isn't leading as he should. When her husband prays, she criticizes his prayer in her heart. When he watches television, she remembers all the hours she has spent in Bible study, comparing herself to him."
"Because she has forgotten the gospel, she forgets that she already has a sinless Husband(Jesus). But this sinless Husband married a polluted wife with no beauty in her, either before she was saved or after. He loved her out of his pure, unmerited grace. This wife has also forgotten that her growth in maturity isn't contingent upon her earthly husband's leadership. Rather, it was purchased by the precious blood of her Savior, who bought her sanctification at the cost of His life."
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Rubber-band Girl
Sorry, I haven't written in awhile!!! I'm still trying to get my bearings straight and recuperate from last week. Like most of you I have a busy schedule and adding a college class into my schedule has stretched me thinner then ever. Perhaps you have experienced this too, it's like when you know that if you were to add one more thing in your schedule you'd be stretched so thin that like a rubber-band that is stretched beyond it's elasticity it breaks and stings the one who is closest and often the one holding it. That was me last week, I had added another thing on top of my class and all my other things. I was stretched beyond what I should have allowed and the resulting snap stung my youngest and myself. Instead of responding in a nice but firm way to his growing requests for attention I sharply would snap at him "no, not now." I had no patience for my little guys continual interruptions because I had no cushion in my schedule. Once I had realized what I was doing I took him in my arms and apologized letting him know that it wasn't him but me. That "mommy is just crabby because she has to many things to do and not enough time." He forgave me, but then for an hour as only little ones can do he went on and on talking about my being crabby....lol!!! If that's no enough to aggravate an already overworked stressed out mom...lol. For me though it broke the ice...I had to laugh at his comments and that released some of the tension in the air. Though the tension was less, the weight of what I had yet to get done still weighed heavy on me. I kept my eyes toward the goal of the end of the week when I could start anew, afresh with just the ordinary stress. It was not until two days later that I finally was finished.
Lesson learned: Know my limits!!!! Sometimes it's good to say no!!!! I had added that one more thing into my schedule and I was stretched so thin I was unable to do my best in all the things I was responsible for and so most if not all suffered. My family suffered for I was on edge and though physically with them I was not mentally. Instead I was focused on the many things that were weighing on me.
"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-15
Lesson learned: Know my limits!!!! Sometimes it's good to say no!!!! I had added that one more thing into my schedule and I was stretched so thin I was unable to do my best in all the things I was responsible for and so most if not all suffered. My family suffered for I was on edge and though physically with them I was not mentally. Instead I was focused on the many things that were weighing on me.
"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-15
Thursday, January 21, 2010
"The Blessing of Thorns"
Last year I attended a conference for Christian women. As in most conferences there were tables filled with books and misc. items that were for sale. Amongst the many books I came upon a small treasure. It was a simple silver key chain that read "The Blessings of Thorns." I knew that I was in need of being constantly reminded that the difficult and painful circumstances we all face are blessings. By that I don't mean to sound as though I'm saying they don't hurt because I know full well they do. What I do mean is that for those who are God's children, those circumstances as unbearable and painful as they may seem at the time are allowed for our good and for God's purposes (Romans 8:28). We may not always see what the good is in this life, but we can be certain that someday when we meet Jesus face to face we will fully understand. I purchased this key chain and immediately added it to my other key chains. Today I was holding my keys and glanced down at this very key chain, I rubbed it's surface thinking about it's message in the context of the many thoughts that were weighing me down and running through my head...
Those many thoughts...that life is painful and that so many people struggle with navigating through this world. That I too have struggled navigating through this world and that apart from Christ I don't know how I would. There have been many times I've been sorely tempted to be crushed by the weight of the trials I've faced. Tempted to give up, I would cry out to my Savior and He alone would give me strength along with the courage that I needed to get up and keep going. It was in these times that I experientially learned that My God is faithful, He sustains, He heals the broken heart, He comforts when no one else can, He fights for you, He protects, He strengthens those who are weak, He forgives, He is just, He provides a timely word through others, He knows all about me and loves me anyways, and I could go on and on. It was also in these times that I've seen God tear down my idols, remove unhealthy desires and habits, transform my thinking from one that rebelled against His ways to one that longed for them, and I've seen Him purify my need for affirmation from others. Learning all this and more about our God is worth to me the sorrows and hardships I have had to face. This is the good that He has worked out in my circumstances. I may not yet see the good that I had longed or prayed to see, but this I know my God is faithful and He does supply all my need in Christ Jesus. So I continue on, but not in bitterness of heart for unanswered prayer. No, I continue on rejoicing for all that Christ has accomplished on my behalf, that is my salvation and sanctification that will one day be complete. It is in this that I hope, not in a perfect life here. No, I know that in this world I will have troubles and yet Christ will see me through. I long for everyone to know this hope that I have in Christ. This hope that carries me through the darkest of times...
Other thoughts that were running through my mind that spurred all of this on...I was sitting in a coffee shop today studying for my class. I've been studying the many different psychological theories and how they measure up when compared with the absolute truths in Scripture. When I noticed a young lady along with an older woman sit down next to me. I couldn't help but be curious since this was a weekday and the girl should have been in school. I noticed that they were obviously not mother and daughter for they did not look alike in any way. Though I tried not to listen I couldn't help but overhear some of their conversation since they were right next to me. The older woman was asking probing questions of the younger girl. I only herd bits and pieces because I truly was trying to study, but this is what I gathered: the girl has been having some problems and It was obvious this woman was there to help this young woman in some way. As a result of the bits and pieces I had overheard I became burdened for both these woman. I also became introspective...
I started to think about all those I personally know who are struggling right now. Those who though they need help have chosen to not get the help they need and continue on a destructive path. It's hard watching loved ones make choices that you know will in the long run hurt themselves and those that love them. Ugh!!! Sometimes I just want to shake them so they'll wake up. Releasing them to God, letting Him deal with them in His way, and on his time scale is hard for me. My professor said in one of our classes that a counselor is not a Savior. Whack! I felt that like a slap on the back of my head. Of course there is one and only Perfect Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!! Though I long to help those in need and it is a God given desire, I must always remember my rightful place. That is, I'm merely an instrument of God for the purpose of pointing others to Him.
All this brings me back to that simple silver key chain and the reminder that is engraved on it's face "The Blessings of Thorns." The "Thorns" in my life God used to bring me to my knees before Him in humble repentance and submission to His will, to rid me of sin (which is an ongoing process), to show me my need of Him, to cause me to depend on Him, taught me that all I need is found in Him alone, and that through the trials He taught me about Himself in ways that could never be learned by simply studying His word. Yes, the trials I've faced I can confidently say have been a blessing to me and if you are His daughter they can be a blessing to you too.
Dear Sister, if you are going through trials right now let me suggest that you have a choice before you. You can either respond in humility asking God to teach you through the trial you are facing or you can respond by fighting against it, letting anger and bitterness build up within you. One choice leads to a joy-filled hopeful life the other to misery. Which one will you choose today?
Never forget you are loved with a perfect, faithful, everlasting, and pure love Dear Sisters!!!!
Those many thoughts...that life is painful and that so many people struggle with navigating through this world. That I too have struggled navigating through this world and that apart from Christ I don't know how I would. There have been many times I've been sorely tempted to be crushed by the weight of the trials I've faced. Tempted to give up, I would cry out to my Savior and He alone would give me strength along with the courage that I needed to get up and keep going. It was in these times that I experientially learned that My God is faithful, He sustains, He heals the broken heart, He comforts when no one else can, He fights for you, He protects, He strengthens those who are weak, He forgives, He is just, He provides a timely word through others, He knows all about me and loves me anyways, and I could go on and on. It was also in these times that I've seen God tear down my idols, remove unhealthy desires and habits, transform my thinking from one that rebelled against His ways to one that longed for them, and I've seen Him purify my need for affirmation from others. Learning all this and more about our God is worth to me the sorrows and hardships I have had to face. This is the good that He has worked out in my circumstances. I may not yet see the good that I had longed or prayed to see, but this I know my God is faithful and He does supply all my need in Christ Jesus. So I continue on, but not in bitterness of heart for unanswered prayer. No, I continue on rejoicing for all that Christ has accomplished on my behalf, that is my salvation and sanctification that will one day be complete. It is in this that I hope, not in a perfect life here. No, I know that in this world I will have troubles and yet Christ will see me through. I long for everyone to know this hope that I have in Christ. This hope that carries me through the darkest of times...
Other thoughts that were running through my mind that spurred all of this on...I was sitting in a coffee shop today studying for my class. I've been studying the many different psychological theories and how they measure up when compared with the absolute truths in Scripture. When I noticed a young lady along with an older woman sit down next to me. I couldn't help but be curious since this was a weekday and the girl should have been in school. I noticed that they were obviously not mother and daughter for they did not look alike in any way. Though I tried not to listen I couldn't help but overhear some of their conversation since they were right next to me. The older woman was asking probing questions of the younger girl. I only herd bits and pieces because I truly was trying to study, but this is what I gathered: the girl has been having some problems and It was obvious this woman was there to help this young woman in some way. As a result of the bits and pieces I had overheard I became burdened for both these woman. I also became introspective...
I started to think about all those I personally know who are struggling right now. Those who though they need help have chosen to not get the help they need and continue on a destructive path. It's hard watching loved ones make choices that you know will in the long run hurt themselves and those that love them. Ugh!!! Sometimes I just want to shake them so they'll wake up. Releasing them to God, letting Him deal with them in His way, and on his time scale is hard for me. My professor said in one of our classes that a counselor is not a Savior. Whack! I felt that like a slap on the back of my head. Of course there is one and only Perfect Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!! Though I long to help those in need and it is a God given desire, I must always remember my rightful place. That is, I'm merely an instrument of God for the purpose of pointing others to Him.
All this brings me back to that simple silver key chain and the reminder that is engraved on it's face "The Blessings of Thorns." The "Thorns" in my life God used to bring me to my knees before Him in humble repentance and submission to His will, to rid me of sin (which is an ongoing process), to show me my need of Him, to cause me to depend on Him, taught me that all I need is found in Him alone, and that through the trials He taught me about Himself in ways that could never be learned by simply studying His word. Yes, the trials I've faced I can confidently say have been a blessing to me and if you are His daughter they can be a blessing to you too.
Dear Sister, if you are going through trials right now let me suggest that you have a choice before you. You can either respond in humility asking God to teach you through the trial you are facing or you can respond by fighting against it, letting anger and bitterness build up within you. One choice leads to a joy-filled hopeful life the other to misery. Which one will you choose today?
Never forget you are loved with a perfect, faithful, everlasting, and pure love Dear Sisters!!!!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The Good, the Bad, and the Messy
Organization has never come easy for me. In fact I distinctly remember fighting against it as a child to my poor mom's dismay since she was always neat, and always well organized. I on the other hand loved mess and it seemed I preferred it to orderliness. As an adult I've gotten myself in a lot of trouble as a result. I've missed Dr. appointments, birthdays, lost things (I have way to many safe places), etc...I wish I would have learned from my mom the discipline of organization instead of rebelling against it as a child. It is definitely much harder to change bad habits the longer you've practiced them.
Having said that I want you to know that I have come along way. I'm not where I once was, but yet I still have a long way to go. I also want to encourage you by letting you know that that the more organized I become the more I love it. In fact I prefer it. I love being able to find items right away and I've discovered that clutter along with piles of paper overwhelm me. If you decide to take this journey towards being more organized with me I can guarantee that you too will love the difference it makes in your life.
This section on organization will be about this journey towards being more organized. Notice I didn't say completely organized but more. I know my limitations and that I will never be a perfectly organized woman nor do I want to be. My desire is to simply continue to improve from where I am, understanding that I may have setbacks and slipping back into old habits. If I do, I will start again reminding myself to "forget, reach forward, press on" (Phil. 3:13) whenever I fail. This tip and many more which I'm sure I will continue to share with you I found in a book I've read by Donna Otto called "Get More done in Less Time."
I hope to honestly share with you both my successes and my failures. So that if there is any of you out there who struggle with being organized you will be encouraged to make small changes towards being more organized too. You are not alone and you are not a hopeless case destined to be buried in piles of stuff. There is hope!!!
One area where I have made improvement in is keeping the house tidy and the clutter down. At least on the main floor of the house, lol. Although with as many people living in our house as there is this is an ongoing challenge with days of failure. Keeping the house looking clean means that I have to go somewhere with all the stuff that commonly clutters a house. You know what I'm talking about: school and Sunday school papers, mail, misc. papers, and all those things you just don't no where to put but you know you shouldn't throw away. Usually I simply shove them in my cabinet above my computer. Or things other then paper get shoved into various closets and cabinets until they start overflowing getting to hard to close. My dad always joked calling these closets "Fibber McGee closets." This is from a popular radio show that aired from 1935-1959, every time Fibber McGee would open the closet door stuff would come pouring out at him making a lot of noise and causing a lot of laughter with him saying "I gotta get that closet cleaned out one of these days." Can anybody relate? I can!!!
Today I will begin organizing a "Fiber McGee" cabinet of mine above my desk. I'm posting the before pictures then when my cabinet is organized I will post the finished picture.
Reminds me of us. Sometimes we look like we've got it altogether on the outside, but if anyone were able to open up the doors to our insides they'd see that we're a mess. While I'm working on my cabinet and your waiting to hear the details why not meditate with me on these scriptures:
Having said that I want you to know that I have come along way. I'm not where I once was, but yet I still have a long way to go. I also want to encourage you by letting you know that that the more organized I become the more I love it. In fact I prefer it. I love being able to find items right away and I've discovered that clutter along with piles of paper overwhelm me. If you decide to take this journey towards being more organized with me I can guarantee that you too will love the difference it makes in your life.
This section on organization will be about this journey towards being more organized. Notice I didn't say completely organized but more. I know my limitations and that I will never be a perfectly organized woman nor do I want to be. My desire is to simply continue to improve from where I am, understanding that I may have setbacks and slipping back into old habits. If I do, I will start again reminding myself to "forget, reach forward, press on" (Phil. 3:13) whenever I fail. This tip and many more which I'm sure I will continue to share with you I found in a book I've read by Donna Otto called "Get More done in Less Time."
I hope to honestly share with you both my successes and my failures. So that if there is any of you out there who struggle with being organized you will be encouraged to make small changes towards being more organized too. You are not alone and you are not a hopeless case destined to be buried in piles of stuff. There is hope!!!
One area where I have made improvement in is keeping the house tidy and the clutter down. At least on the main floor of the house, lol. Although with as many people living in our house as there is this is an ongoing challenge with days of failure. Keeping the house looking clean means that I have to go somewhere with all the stuff that commonly clutters a house. You know what I'm talking about: school and Sunday school papers, mail, misc. papers, and all those things you just don't no where to put but you know you shouldn't throw away. Usually I simply shove them in my cabinet above my computer. Or things other then paper get shoved into various closets and cabinets until they start overflowing getting to hard to close. My dad always joked calling these closets "Fibber McGee closets." This is from a popular radio show that aired from 1935-1959, every time Fibber McGee would open the closet door stuff would come pouring out at him making a lot of noise and causing a lot of laughter with him saying "I gotta get that closet cleaned out one of these days." Can anybody relate? I can!!!
Today I will begin organizing a "Fiber McGee" cabinet of mine above my desk. I'm posting the before pictures then when my cabinet is organized I will post the finished picture.
Nice and tidy on the outside but don't be deceived quite messy on the inside.
Reminds me of us. Sometimes we look like we've got it altogether on the outside, but if anyone were able to open up the doors to our insides they'd see that we're a mess. While I'm working on my cabinet and your waiting to hear the details why not meditate with me on these scriptures:
Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;
for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth.
Psalm 26:2&3
8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
Matthew 15:8
"Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' "
Matthew 15:16-22
9 Hide your face from my sins
and blot out all my iniquity.
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
and sinners will turn back to you.
14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God,
the God who saves me,
and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
15 O Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:9-17
for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth.
Psalm 26:2&3
8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
Matthew 15:8
"Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. 17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' "
Matthew 15:16-22
9 Hide your face from my sins
and blot out all my iniquity.
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
and sinners will turn back to you.
14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God,
the God who saves me,
and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
15 O Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart,
O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:9-17
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Quieted by His Love
Dear immensely loved Daughters of the King of Kings,
My heart yearns for you to know the Love of the Father as I do. It is His love that strengthens me when I'm weary, brings light in the darkest moments, sustains me through dry times, brings joy despite sorrow, gives hope, compels me to obey Him, to follow Him wherever He leads, and encourages me when life is overwhelming. This love is not for me alone, but for you too. He loves you far more then anyone ever could. Perhaps today you are feeling hopeless, exhausted, fearful, anxious, forgotten, unloved, alone, weary, abused and or neglected. Or perhaps you are the one feeling as though you have no love to give, hatred, bitterness, anger, disappointed in those you love, guilt over sin, burdened by your circumstances. Whatever your circumstance, wherever you are at, I want you to know that Jesus grace, mercy, and love are more then sufficient for you and your situation. Listen to Jesus own words:
"Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matt. 11:28-29
Perhaps your reading this thinking He must be speaking those words to others and not you. Let me assure you He was talking to you. Jesus knows all about you, your every thought, and everything you've ever done. Nothing is hidden form Him, He saw it all and yet He loves you beyond measure. His love for you is as far as the east is from the west. Have you ever thought just how far the east is from the west? It is not like a globe circular so that at some point they meet, no it continues beyond what the eye or largest strongest telescope can see or the mind can comprehend, it is limitless going on and on forever. His love for you is so vast that He who alone deserves nothing but praise, glory and honor humbled Himself, though He had the power to wipe out the whole world, and suffered verbal abuse from us mere men, abandonment from everyone even those who were His closest friends and His own Father, and was physically tortured until He died, rising again on the third day. All this for you so that you might be His child someday. Did you know that to the cross He carried your sorrows, bore your griefs, was despised and rejected so that you might be welcomed by God, was scourged beyond recognition for your forgiveness of sins, all this and more so that we might have peace with God (Isaiah 53)? Did you also know that it was the will of the Lord to pour out His soul and die for you? For you my precious sisters!!! Hear the words of the Lord anew today:
"The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing." Zephaniah 3:17
Maybe your thinking but He doesn't know what I've gone through. Doesn't He? His book says that Jesus was tempted in all ways, yet did not sin. Do you think He doesn't understand suffering, or how hard it is to resist temptation? No, He does know and that is why for those who believe in Him He has provided His Spirit so that you to may be able to resist temptation and be overcomers despite your circumstances. Maybe your thinking He doesn't know what it's like to be betrayed by a close friend, a spouse, or a rebellious child. Oh but he does, he suffered it all only by more people then we can fathom for all of the human race are his creation. They are His children and all have turned their back on Him who is the only perfect parent, spouse, and best friend. No, dear sweet sister, He knows your pain and He has been right beside you all along ensuring you'd make it through. Even now He has led you here to remind you of His great love.
"You are loved with an everlasting love." That's what the Bible says. "And underneath are the everlasting arms." This is your friend Elisabeth Elliot.
.." that is what Elizabeth Elliott used to say every time she opened her radio show "Gateway to Joy." I loved to hear those words from her mouth, to be reminded by her that I am loved continually by God and that there is no end to that love for it is everlasting. Then to top it off, I am held by the everlasting arms of this loving Father. If you are His child then you are too Dear sister!!! If your not his child what are you waiting for? Why not call out to Him today asking for His forgiveness and know that you will receive forgiveness of sins, peace with God, and all the privileges of His children.
"For our sake he made Him who knew no sin to be sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Corinthians 5:21
Think your to far from God or that your sin is to great to be forgiven?
1 John 1:9 reminds us that "If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
You are so loved Sisters!!!! Rejoice and praise Him today for His grace that he lavished on you though you didn't deserve it!!!
My heart yearns for you to know the Love of the Father as I do. It is His love that strengthens me when I'm weary, brings light in the darkest moments, sustains me through dry times, brings joy despite sorrow, gives hope, compels me to obey Him, to follow Him wherever He leads, and encourages me when life is overwhelming. This love is not for me alone, but for you too. He loves you far more then anyone ever could. Perhaps today you are feeling hopeless, exhausted, fearful, anxious, forgotten, unloved, alone, weary, abused and or neglected. Or perhaps you are the one feeling as though you have no love to give, hatred, bitterness, anger, disappointed in those you love, guilt over sin, burdened by your circumstances. Whatever your circumstance, wherever you are at, I want you to know that Jesus grace, mercy, and love are more then sufficient for you and your situation. Listen to Jesus own words:
"Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matt. 11:28-29
Perhaps your reading this thinking He must be speaking those words to others and not you. Let me assure you He was talking to you. Jesus knows all about you, your every thought, and everything you've ever done. Nothing is hidden form Him, He saw it all and yet He loves you beyond measure. His love for you is as far as the east is from the west. Have you ever thought just how far the east is from the west? It is not like a globe circular so that at some point they meet, no it continues beyond what the eye or largest strongest telescope can see or the mind can comprehend, it is limitless going on and on forever. His love for you is so vast that He who alone deserves nothing but praise, glory and honor humbled Himself, though He had the power to wipe out the whole world, and suffered verbal abuse from us mere men, abandonment from everyone even those who were His closest friends and His own Father, and was physically tortured until He died, rising again on the third day. All this for you so that you might be His child someday. Did you know that to the cross He carried your sorrows, bore your griefs, was despised and rejected so that you might be welcomed by God, was scourged beyond recognition for your forgiveness of sins, all this and more so that we might have peace with God (Isaiah 53)? Did you also know that it was the will of the Lord to pour out His soul and die for you? For you my precious sisters!!! Hear the words of the Lord anew today:
"The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing." Zephaniah 3:17
Maybe your thinking but He doesn't know what I've gone through. Doesn't He? His book says that Jesus was tempted in all ways, yet did not sin. Do you think He doesn't understand suffering, or how hard it is to resist temptation? No, He does know and that is why for those who believe in Him He has provided His Spirit so that you to may be able to resist temptation and be overcomers despite your circumstances. Maybe your thinking He doesn't know what it's like to be betrayed by a close friend, a spouse, or a rebellious child. Oh but he does, he suffered it all only by more people then we can fathom for all of the human race are his creation. They are His children and all have turned their back on Him who is the only perfect parent, spouse, and best friend. No, dear sweet sister, He knows your pain and He has been right beside you all along ensuring you'd make it through. Even now He has led you here to remind you of His great love.
"You are loved with an everlasting love." That's what the Bible says. "And underneath are the everlasting arms." This is your friend Elisabeth Elliot.
.." that is what Elizabeth Elliott used to say every time she opened her radio show "Gateway to Joy." I loved to hear those words from her mouth, to be reminded by her that I am loved continually by God and that there is no end to that love for it is everlasting. Then to top it off, I am held by the everlasting arms of this loving Father. If you are His child then you are too Dear sister!!! If your not his child what are you waiting for? Why not call out to Him today asking for His forgiveness and know that you will receive forgiveness of sins, peace with God, and all the privileges of His children."For our sake he made Him who knew no sin to be sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Corinthians 5:21
Think your to far from God or that your sin is to great to be forgiven?
1 John 1:9 reminds us that "If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
You are so loved Sisters!!!! Rejoice and praise Him today for His grace that he lavished on you though you didn't deserve it!!!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Just Little o'l Me Processing
Ugh!!! I spent the morning reading a chapter from the book in which I'm supposed to be reading for my class. It took 2 and 1/2 hours for me to read 1 Chapter (approximately 50 pages). Granted there were interruptions and distractions from my four year old so it wasn't a continuous concentrated reading. Nonetheless I was discouraged and frustrated with the length of time it took me to read. I couldn't help but wonder if it takes everyone that long to read or if I'm really a slow reader/comprehender? In my head I know I should not be comparing myself to others and that I definitely should be cutting myself some slack since it's been so long since I've been in school. However I can't help but have all these fears and anxieties about whether or not I'm going to be able to do this. What if I fail...maybe I should have audited instead or taken an easier class? What was I thinking?!? It's to late now for me to be asking those questions, I already jumped into this schooling thing and there is no backing out now. O.k., so I just need to take a deep breath and give it my best effort. When all is said and done I will know that I put every effort into it and that I didn't give up. After all it is just one class and I'm a rooky who's rusty at this.
Not only was there the frustration and discouragement this morning over the time it took me to read one of three chapters that was assigned. But on top of that was the fact that when I finished I had questions running around in my head along with all these thoughts that I needed to process with no time to do so. I had to be somewhere in less then an hour. I had so many thoughts zooming around in my brain I felt like I would explode if I couldn't process through what I was thinking. Therefore I did the only thing I could think of, I quickly jotted down on the nearest piece of scrap paper those things that I most wanted to get back to. Then hopefully later I'd get to spend the needed processing time. I was fortunate to find the time, part of which is just my venting here! Thanks for listening:)
Not only was there the frustration and discouragement this morning over the time it took me to read one of three chapters that was assigned. But on top of that was the fact that when I finished I had questions running around in my head along with all these thoughts that I needed to process with no time to do so. I had to be somewhere in less then an hour. I had so many thoughts zooming around in my brain I felt like I would explode if I couldn't process through what I was thinking. Therefore I did the only thing I could think of, I quickly jotted down on the nearest piece of scrap paper those things that I most wanted to get back to. Then hopefully later I'd get to spend the needed processing time. I was fortunate to find the time, part of which is just my venting here! Thanks for listening:)
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