"Your presence is all I am longing for Here in the secret place You nearness is all I am waiting for Here in the quiet place, here in the secret place My soul waits for You, alone..."
Once again, God has been pouring and revealing and planting so much Truth within me...but it's all in progress, like I can't sum it all up yet. (ie, the 2 posts I started earlier this week, but couldn't quite finish (until tonight)...it's as if the more I went into it, the harder it became to wrap my head around all of it, so I just stopped - I'm not sure if that's correct.)
I asked Him to put me back in awe, back in a state of childlike wonder (amazed by You!). Didn't realize that would come with a hefty dose of humility. Something neat - prayer works! =) I get so excited when I meet answered prayers...the Lord be exalted! haha, I also noticed a difference in my post titles (so far) for this month - they're not nice, ambiguous phrases - they're much more imperative. (I think that's how I'm finally learning to receive words that God gives me - definite. not optional.)
Spend time with Me. Believe what I say. Cast your cares at My feet - and leave them there.
"I will sing from the overflow of love in my heart Lifting high my response to Who He is in my life"
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. ~Romans 5:5
It's not my hope; it's His hope, through me...and that's the only reason I cannot be disappointed! Because His way is perfect, and I find my refuge in Him (Psalm 18:30).
Thankful ~ that I know this week will be a significant step outside of my comfort zone. and I'm not prepared. but God is! I'm honored, excited and even laughing at how unique God's plans are...=)
*Psalm 37...(AMP)
5Commit your way to the Lord [roll and repose each care of your load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also in Him and He will bring it to pass.
....
7Be still and rest in the Lord; wait for Him and patiently lean yourself upon Him; fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass.
8Cease from anger and forsake wrath; fret not yourself--it tends only to evildoing.
9For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait and hope and look for the Lord [in the end] shall inherit the earth.
10For yet a little while, and the evildoers will be no more; though you look with care where they used to be, they will not be found.
11But the meek [in the end] shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
....
23The steps of a [good] man are directed and established by the Lord when He delights in his way [and He busies Himself with his every step].
(Proverbs 20:24)~ A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?
Nice. If I don't quite understand why things are happening or where I'm being led - I must be doing something right. =) glory.
Also, totally receiving portions of Misty Edward's song, "Soul Cry" ~
"Hunger is an escort to the deeper things of you"
....
"Yesterday's depth is feeling really shallow - I've gotta go deeper, deeper still"
hm. sleepy now. something about spending time with my church family on Saturday nights, that wraps up some things, then fires up other things, and puts me on a blogging spree! =D ah, feels so good to take my time, and spend time in His Presence like this. Also (ugh, I need a different word...like moreover...further more...in addition...not to mention...paha, or I should just stop speaking/typing. oops.)
haha, ANYway (ah! perfect.), I Sabbathed today! Slept in, started my packing, figured out dance wardrobe, did some laundry, had a SUPER encouraging coffee date with a friend, got emptied out/filled up at church, laughed w/frands at dinner....=) just enjoyed a slower pace. *and Katherine! - now I have more of a concept/ideas for "Sabbath"*
To wrap up this Sabbath, I shall leave you with "My Life - According to iTunes." (you know, those quizzes where you put your library on shuffle, and whatever song you land on is the answer) hehe, Abbie and I must've spent an hour on this one evening last week...too funny. you should try it. =]
My life according to iTunes:
1.) How am I feeling today? Stay - Maurice Williams & The Zodiacs (pahaha, this just made us think of Dirty Dancing...totally did not apply)
2.) Where will I get Married? The King - Lecrae (sure, like IN the King/abiding in Him...it works....but, "these self-proclaimed kings braggin' cuz they on chrome, but 26 inches is a PRETTY LOW THRONE!" =) love this song.)
3.) What is my best friend's theme song? Oh Well - Sho Baraka (hm, it probably is..)
4.) What is/was highschool like? Your Grace is Enough - Worship Ensemble (truth. His grace was/IS enough!)
5.) What is the best thing about me? You Never Let Go - Matt Redman (yes! The best thing about me is HIM!)
6.) How is tomorrow going to be? Abba Father - Klaus feat. Kari Jobe ( =) I receive it.)
7.) What is in store for this weekend? Daily Bread - Jill Phillips (so good - He is enough)
8.) What song describes my parents? Word of God Speak - Big Daddy Weave (yeah! amen.)
9.) How is my life going? Love is Here - Tenth Avenue North (Abbie started giggling - I then reminded her the song is about JESUS. she kept laughing.)
10.) What song will they play at my funeral? Cry No More - KJ-52 (mm, cool. also reminded me of the dance Whitney did to this.)
11.) How does the world see me? Jump - Lecrae (actually, this is a really sweet point of confirmation for me, b/c I miss being able to literally jump..)
12.) What do my friends really think of me? Sweetly Broken - Daniel Bashta (praise God; I hope so.)
13.) Do people secretly lust after me? I Give You Glory - Klaus (hahaa, I don't care if they do - I'm too busy praising God!)
14.) How can I make myself happy? Stay Amazed - Klaus feat. Elizabeth Clark (AMEN.)
15.) What should I do with my life? Lean on Me - DC Talk (hehe, true. such a nice, old school song)
16.) Will I ever have children? Behold the Spirit - Trip Lee (ok)
17.) What is some good advice? Do Yo Thang! (Remix) - KJ-52 feat. B. Reith (hahaa, nice!)
18.) What do I think my current theme song is? You Say “I’m Rich” - Shane and Shane (hm, close.)
19.) What does everyone else think my current theme song is? You Hold Me Now - Hillsong (awesome. amen.)
20.) What type of men/women do you like?: Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin (heck yes!)
21.) Will you get married?: I Am Nothing - Shawn McDonald (dude. humility, much? I think so. only way for 2 to become 1.)
22.) What should I do with my love life? Selah - Hillsong (ok, love this - made me think of the AMP Bible whenver there's a "Selah," it says "Pause, and calmly think of that!" perfect. a time to pause.) =)
23.) Where will you live? I Will Run - Freddy Rodriguez (um, run after God??)
24.) What will your dying words be? Jesus Paid it All - Kristain Stanfill (perfect. done. the end.)
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
Be not dismayed
I'm pretty sure this trail started from Louie's "LIFT" series - look up, see WHO is walking with you, and realize that He's on your side.
last September I was told:
fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed for I Am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
~Isaiah 41:10
this past Wednesday I read:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
~Joshua 1:9
It's not 'do your best' or 'try your hardest' - it's "BE NOT."
Because we're not on our own. I AM your God. I AM with you.
I'm in such a different season right now...waiting on some things, acting on other things...and I realized that when I'm in need of patience, it's much easier to say that it's "God's timing" when a situation is moving slowly, rather than when pieces are connecting quickly and you have to move! haha, I felt so silly when this thought unfolded...like, I had gotten so used to waiting (and really, dangerously close to complacency), that when I saw the plans being established, I began questioning if this could still be God moving. Thankfully, my 'silliness' finally led to my repentance, for doubting God's attention to detail and ability to fulfill even (seemingly) petty requests. (and I'm being quite vague right now.....=/ sorry.)
The gist ~ God can move slowly. God can move quickly. But He's outside of time and space anyway, so we're not even talking/moving in the same terms. I guess my lesson would be to stand still and trust in HIS (greater) purpose, even when it seems like He's moving quicker (or slower) than I expected. annnd, this isn't anything especially new or groundbreaking. but that's ok.
*Something to be thankful for: the best co-workers in the world. =) God is so good. It had been such a long time since we'd had the chance for a nice, 2-hour lunch, with time to hear one another's hearts and discuss what God has been working on in us recently. and I really love being the youngest one there - such a helpful point of humility, and a good excuse to be picked on. =) (besides, they're old - it makes them feel better. hahahahaha!)
but really: "God didn't make you to be in a mold - He made you to be moldable." -Ashly
Yes and amen and thank you, Jesus, for the opportunity to increase my flexibility.
14The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.
16You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made.
18The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
(Psalm 145 ~ courtesy of PCC's summer reading)
Goodness...only 6 verses, and it still reveals how He is such a God of action!
He upholds, lifts, gives, opens, satisfies, fulfills, hears, saves...and all at the proper time. His time. Not mine.
God, be glorified!
I will not be dismayed.
Because YOU. are. with. me.
May I call on You in truth, and awaken to discover how near You are.
last September I was told:
fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed for I Am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
~Isaiah 41:10
this past Wednesday I read:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
~Joshua 1:9
It's not 'do your best' or 'try your hardest' - it's "BE NOT."
Because we're not on our own. I AM your God. I AM with you.
I'm in such a different season right now...waiting on some things, acting on other things...and I realized that when I'm in need of patience, it's much easier to say that it's "God's timing" when a situation is moving slowly, rather than when pieces are connecting quickly and you have to move! haha, I felt so silly when this thought unfolded...like, I had gotten so used to waiting (and really, dangerously close to complacency), that when I saw the plans being established, I began questioning if this could still be God moving. Thankfully, my 'silliness' finally led to my repentance, for doubting God's attention to detail and ability to fulfill even (seemingly) petty requests. (and I'm being quite vague right now.....=/ sorry.)
The gist ~ God can move slowly. God can move quickly. But He's outside of time and space anyway, so we're not even talking/moving in the same terms. I guess my lesson would be to stand still and trust in HIS (greater) purpose, even when it seems like He's moving quicker (or slower) than I expected. annnd, this isn't anything especially new or groundbreaking. but that's ok.
*Something to be thankful for: the best co-workers in the world. =) God is so good. It had been such a long time since we'd had the chance for a nice, 2-hour lunch, with time to hear one another's hearts and discuss what God has been working on in us recently. and I really love being the youngest one there - such a helpful point of humility, and a good excuse to be picked on. =) (besides, they're old - it makes them feel better. hahahahaha!)
but really: "God didn't make you to be in a mold - He made you to be moldable." -Ashly
Yes and amen and thank you, Jesus, for the opportunity to increase my flexibility.
14The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.
16You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made.
18The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
(Psalm 145 ~ courtesy of PCC's summer reading)
Goodness...only 6 verses, and it still reveals how He is such a God of action!
He upholds, lifts, gives, opens, satisfies, fulfills, hears, saves...and all at the proper time. His time. Not mine.
God, be glorified!
I will not be dismayed.
Because YOU. are. with. me.
May I call on You in truth, and awaken to discover how near You are.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Shut the door and open your Bible
*can't take credit for the title - found it in my notes from PCC's college gathering this past Monday night...it's not that hard to be alone with God - simply shut the door and open your Bible!*
Something I just realized, that "have I not commanded you?"
happens to rhyme with, "do you KNOW who you are talking to?!" (maybe God doesn't say it with quite that much emphasis, but that's the way I've heard Him lately.)
GOD is FOR. ME.
The MAKER of heaven and earth.
hallelujah.
I'm feeling so very put in my place. (which must mean that I had been out of my own place...)
"Because of who He is
if I'm worthy dying for,
yes this God is worth
living for because of who
He is He makes me want to
give Him more and more, so
I take my body and use it
for the glory of God
that's why I pray every day,
gotta pick up my cross, search
for the lost, no matter the cost..." --> Who He IS, Trip Lee
(is following Christ costing me anything? it should.)
mmm, Isaiah 12, ESV style~
:) the latest journal I filled up (just last week, actually...those 4 months flew by!) had Psalm 118:14 on everyyy single page~ "The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." He IS! and He has! Glory to God.
Found out last week that we're all *fountains*! Now, what type of fountain am I going to be? (I've read Proverbs enough times to know what a fountain of His Life ought to act/look like)
Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 13:14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 14:27
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 16:22
Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
Proverbs 18:4
The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
(also, Psalms)
Psalm 36:9
For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.
Sooo, a fountain of life flows because of:
Another good ignorance eliminator: God's Armor Bearer. (did not expect this book to impact me on so many levels!!) It was so helpful in analyzing how I order my priorities, compared to what God's priorities are...how to be an armor bearer (at the core, I think it boils down to having a genuine, servant's heart)...the importance of unity when it comes to working with/serving anyone with excellence...the need to die to my own purposes and dreams and submit them to God...haa, let me know if you want a full book report. 4 pages full of notes. so so so good.
*Significant point that I took away for my current season of life - "Run with the vision I have given her/him, and I'll (God) see to it that yours will be fulfilled."
As I'm still pursuing school and not exactly sure of what I intend to do with my degree, it's the perfect time to serve those that do know (specifically) what God has called them to do. Whether I'm working at the church, serving my pastor(s) & co-workers...at home, cleaning the kitchen to bring order & peace to my mother's life...with Refuge, pursuing one of our many projects :)...I have multiple, daily opportunities to die to myself and pour into the lives of others. I don't know if I'm supposed to have a more specific, clearer vision right now or not...I just know where & what God has called me to, today.
5And you shall love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being and with all your might.
Something I just realized, that "have I not commanded you?"
happens to rhyme with, "do you KNOW who you are talking to?!" (maybe God doesn't say it with quite that much emphasis, but that's the way I've heard Him lately.)
GOD is FOR. ME.
The MAKER of heaven and earth.
hallelujah.
I'm feeling so very put in my place. (which must mean that I had been out of my own place...)
"Because of who He is
if I'm worthy dying for,
yes this God is worth
living for because of who
He is He makes me want to
give Him more and more, so
I take my body and use it
for the glory of God
that's why I pray every day,
gotta pick up my cross, search
for the lost, no matter the cost..." --> Who He IS, Trip Lee
(is following Christ costing me anything? it should.)
mmm, Isaiah 12, ESV style~
The LORD Is My Strength and My Song
1You will say in that day:"I will give thanks to you, O LORD, for though you were angry with me, your anger turned away, that you might comfort me. 2"Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the LORD GOD is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation."
3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. 4 And you will say in that day:
"Give thanks to the LORD,
call upon his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples,
proclaim that his name is exalted.
5 "Sing praises to the LORD, for he has done gloriously;
let this be made known in all the earth.
6Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel."
:) the latest journal I filled up (just last week, actually...those 4 months flew by!) had Psalm 118:14 on everyyy single page~ "The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." He IS! and He has! Glory to God.
Found out last week that we're all *fountains*! Now, what type of fountain am I going to be? (I've read Proverbs enough times to know what a fountain of His Life ought to act/look like)
Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 13:14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 14:27
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 16:22
Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.
Proverbs 18:4
The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.
(also, Psalms)
Psalm 36:9
For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light.
Sooo, a fountain of life flows because of:
- a righteous mouth
- the teaching of the wise
- the fear of the Lord
- understanding
- a bubbling brook (flows like)
- His Light, God's Presence
Another good ignorance eliminator: God's Armor Bearer. (did not expect this book to impact me on so many levels!!) It was so helpful in analyzing how I order my priorities, compared to what God's priorities are...how to be an armor bearer (at the core, I think it boils down to having a genuine, servant's heart)...the importance of unity when it comes to working with/serving anyone with excellence...the need to die to my own purposes and dreams and submit them to God...haa, let me know if you want a full book report. 4 pages full of notes. so so so good.
*Significant point that I took away for my current season of life - "Run with the vision I have given her/him, and I'll (God) see to it that yours will be fulfilled."
As I'm still pursuing school and not exactly sure of what I intend to do with my degree, it's the perfect time to serve those that do know (specifically) what God has called them to do. Whether I'm working at the church, serving my pastor(s) & co-workers...at home, cleaning the kitchen to bring order & peace to my mother's life...with Refuge, pursuing one of our many projects :)...I have multiple, daily opportunities to die to myself and pour into the lives of others. I don't know if I'm supposed to have a more specific, clearer vision right now or not...I just know where & what God has called me to, today.
5And you shall love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being and with all your might.
6And these words which I am commanding you this day shall be [first] in your [own] minds and hearts; [then]
7You shall whet and sharpen them so as to make them penetrate, and teach and impress them diligently upon the [minds and] hearts of your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise up.
(Deuteronomy 6)
"If you do not exercise faith in life to reach a goal or vision, you will never achieve it. You are going to have to get up and work toward your goal. God blesses what you do."
Still seeking (God first).
Still trusting (God alone).
Still walking (by His side).
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Patient Endurance
2 Corinthians 1:6
If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.
Revelation 14:12
This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.
2 Thessalonians 3:5
May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.
Hebrews 10:36
Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.
2 Peter 1:6
and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness,
Revelation 2:2
“I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars.
Luke 21:19
By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls.
=)
seeing some fruit.
and it's not for me to eat.
but to share!
God, be glorified!
He is so much greater.
His plans are bigger.
than I ever realized.
I'm rather sleepy..
but this is fun!
like a hula hoop.
back to seriousness.
Jesus.
loves YOU.
pray & believe & don't doubt!
Patient.
Endurance.
in Christ alone.
(my solid Rock)
Learning to lift my expectation in Him...
only to see Him surpass my wildest dreams.
Higher thoughts.
Narrower ways.
No greater Love.
^_^
goodnight.
If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.
Revelation 14:12
This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.
2 Thessalonians 3:5
May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.
Hebrews 10:36
Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.
2 Peter 1:6
and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness,
Revelation 2:2
“I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars.
Luke 21:19
By your steadfastness and patient endurance you shall win the true life of your souls.
=)
seeing some fruit.
and it's not for me to eat.
but to share!
God, be glorified!
He is so much greater.
His plans are bigger.
than I ever realized.
I'm rather sleepy..
but this is fun!
like a hula hoop.
back to seriousness.
Jesus.
loves YOU.
pray & believe & don't doubt!
Patient.
Endurance.
in Christ alone.
(my solid Rock)
Learning to lift my expectation in Him...
only to see Him surpass my wildest dreams.
Higher thoughts.
Narrower ways.
No greater Love.
^_^
goodnight.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Pursued
I would say, "oh my goodness," except it's, "Oh HIS goodness!"
Driving home this evening after 1 1/2 hours of an incredibly rich worship service...I realized (just a little bit) of how much Jesus pursues me! Do I respond to His love as I ought to? I know that I've been drawing nearer to Him through His Word and prayer - and I cannot get enough of Him! I'm literally waking up each morning with a different song running through my head, like He's giving me a playlist to launch my day off. (it is SO. COOL.)
With the Father pouring out so much (deep) truth to me lately, I'm thinking it's another 'fresh wineskin' season...
36He also told them a parable: "No one tears a piece from a new garment and puts it on an old garment. If he does, he will tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old. 37And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins and it will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. 38But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. (Luke 5)
*fresh: not previously known or used; new or different...recently created or experienced and not faded or impaired...recently made or obtained; not canned, frozen or otherwise preserved...full of energy and vigor...bright or healthy in appearance...etc.
Praise the Lord - fresh season coming up! Totally lines up with a verse one of my "little sisters" shared with me earlier this week ~
amen. =) Father, let me be utterly (completely, absolutely, entirely, perfectly, unconditionally) abandoned to YOUR plans for this life.
Driving home this evening after 1 1/2 hours of an incredibly rich worship service...I realized (just a little bit) of how much Jesus pursues me! Do I respond to His love as I ought to? I know that I've been drawing nearer to Him through His Word and prayer - and I cannot get enough of Him! I'm literally waking up each morning with a different song running through my head, like He's giving me a playlist to launch my day off. (it is SO. COOL.)
Utterly abandoned to the Holy Ghost!
Seeking all His fullness, whatever the cost;
Cutting all the moorings, launching in the deep
Of His mighty power – strong to save and keep.
Utterly abandoned to the Holy Ghost!
Oh! The sinking, sinking, until self is lost!
Until the emptied vessel lies broken at His feet;
Waiting till His filling shall make the work complete.
Utterly abandoned to the will of God;
Seeking for no other path than my Master trod;
Leaving ease and pleasure, making Him my choice,
Waiting for His guidance, listening for His voice.
Utterly abandoned! No will of my own;
For time and for eternity, His, and His alone;
All my plans and purposes lost in His sweet will,
Having nothing, yet in Him all things possessing still.
Utterly abandoned! It’s so sweet to be
Captive in His bonds of love, yet wondrously free;
Free from sin’s entanglements, free from doubt and fear,
Free from every worry, burden, grief, or care.
Utterly abandoned! Oh, the rest is sweet,
As I tarry, waiting, at His blessed feet;
Waiting for the coming of the Guest divine,
Who my inmost being will perfectly refine.
Lo! He comes and fills me, Holy Spirit sweet!
I, in Him, am satisfied! I, in Him, complete!
And the light within my soul will nevermore grow dim
While I keep my covenant – abandoned unto Him!
~author unknown
With the Father pouring out so much (deep) truth to me lately, I'm thinking it's another 'fresh wineskin' season...
36He also told them a parable: "No one tears a piece from a new garment and puts it on an old garment. If he does, he will tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old. 37And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins and it will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed. 38But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. (Luke 5)
*fresh: not previously known or used; new or different...recently created or experienced and not faded or impaired...recently made or obtained; not canned, frozen or otherwise preserved...full of energy and vigor...bright or healthy in appearance...etc.
Praise the Lord - fresh season coming up! Totally lines up with a verse one of my "little sisters" shared with me earlier this week ~
Isaiah 42:9 "See the FORMER things have taken place, and NEW things I declare; before they spring into being I ANNOUNCE them to YOU."
amen. =) Father, let me be utterly (completely, absolutely, entirely, perfectly, unconditionally) abandoned to YOUR plans for this life.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Faith & Works...Works & Faith
18Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. 19This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence 20whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. (1 John 3)
14What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
......
20Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness"—and he was called a friend of God....26For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (James 2)
So, this concept of faith + works really hit me about a month ago...been processing through it all since then, and realized how directly/specifically I've gotten to walk this out in several different areas of my life. Just prayed and believed that God would do something - He did - but the work wasn't done! (Somethin' about working through us, strengthening us with HIS power, glorifying Himself in all of it...=) a glorious, recurring process.)
*Exhibit A: School - I wanted to get into Life University. Had some friends & family praying specifically about it, and declaring in faith with me, too - so I really wasn't the only one that wanted to get in. ;) I applied and got accepted! Now, a different sort of work begins. :) Believing for *continued* favor as transferred credits, finances and overall vision for the next few years are worked out. =) thank you, Jesus. (oh, plus the actual classes...hahaha, that might involve some work, too.) =]
*Exhibit B: Car - I wanted a "new" ;) car that I could pay for all at once & move on with my life. The ENTIRE car journey (death of Gadget, birth of R.u.b.y., haha) was such a clear picture for me of God's provision & perfect timing...still amazed! (I should not have had the funds for such a nice vehicle.) But, the Lord regularly reminded me of the word He gave me last fall when I was driving to school one morning, and my plastic window was flapping in the wind (haha! poor car):
"For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them." (Isaiah 61:8)
No, a silly car is not an everlasting covenant, BUT He IS just and knows my needs better than I do. Never, ever had any reason to worry or be anxious. But, I also had to get up early and go car hunting with dad a couple mornings before we found Ruby. Saw some duds, drove further than we had to, but God knew my budget and time frame (bound to happen when He holds the UNIVERSE in His hands). Then I had to get insurance, typical car needs (gas, oil change), and today I finallyyy went to get the title switched to my name. (woot!) Plus, I have such sweet, encouraging friends! :) Whether they lifted a prayer or e-mailed me a Craig's List possibility - God is faithful to work through His saints.
*Exhibit C: Quiet Time (just realized, I'm not listing these in any order of importance, because if I were, this would be first!) - Key for me: the "snooze" button is a trap! Resist in Jesus' Name! By getting back to early morning quiet times & a consistent prayer routine - life is getting sweeter and sweeter as I draw near to Him! It's like a massive dot-to-dot every week. (You know, those pictures in coloring books where you had to draw lines to complete the picture - LOVED those! Well, still do. praise God. =) ANYway, when I'm spending time with Him every day, I'm able to see how He'll take something that stuck out to me on Sunday morning, and keep unfolding/expounding on it each day. (He is SO AWESOME!) haha, it's usually Thursday or Friday that Jayme and I can finally hash out & share the crazy wonderful (and sometimes painful!) Truth that God has been unlocking for us all week.
*Exhibit D: Relationships - God brings so many people into our lives...what are we going to do with these blessings?! It's these precious people that are the ones who stand in agreement with me (or rebuke me! woohoo!)...they're the ones that I get to walk with as we try to grasp how wide/high/deep/long His Love is for us! Without all of the prayers & support I receive on a daily basis, I know that exhibits A, B, and C would not be feasible. There would be no one to decree/agree with, hold me accountable - my growth would be so stunted. I've got to be faithful to return the blessing by staying in touch, praying consistently, speaking their love language...I'm so done with taking people for granted.
I think it's the fruit of seeing my prayers answered (would that be like my faith being fulfilled??) that is meant to motivate & encourage perseverance (in order to be mature and complete - not lacking anything!). I've also been discussing Revelation with several friends recently, and these particular verses continue coming up:
"'I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you." (Revelation 3)
I believe it also ties in with choosing to be hot or cold, not lukewarm - if you're going to start the work but not finish it, then don't even start. (But I also know that there's grace, and God cares most about our heart's motives...can't be headstrong about "strengthening what remains," but humbly diligent.) I know that's where I'm prone to fall short, is completing the final step of whatever project/situation/etc I'm working on...paha, it could be something as simple as reading the last 2 chapters of a book! (sad, really) 'I've gotten the gist of it, isn't that enough?' Actually, no - stop being lazy and finish the flipping book. =)
Plus, it's not even my own strength anyway, it's HIS!
12So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2)
There's no getting escaping it ~ from Him and through Him and to Him are all things! Praise the Lord. Friends, I pray that you get the courage to ask God to take you deeper, bring you closer...all to lift Jesus higher. :) He is worth your everything! May you have a break through in your everyday routines and just spend time in His Presence - abide in His Love!
*exhale*
(this was especially long...not sure if I should say "haha, sorry!" or "you're welcome." =] your choice.)
I love you all.
grace & peace!
14What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
......
20Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness"—and he was called a friend of God....26For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (James 2)
So, this concept of faith + works really hit me about a month ago...been processing through it all since then, and realized how directly/specifically I've gotten to walk this out in several different areas of my life. Just prayed and believed that God would do something - He did - but the work wasn't done! (Somethin' about working through us, strengthening us with HIS power, glorifying Himself in all of it...=) a glorious, recurring process.)
*Exhibit A: School - I wanted to get into Life University. Had some friends & family praying specifically about it, and declaring in faith with me, too - so I really wasn't the only one that wanted to get in. ;) I applied and got accepted! Now, a different sort of work begins. :) Believing for *continued* favor as transferred credits, finances and overall vision for the next few years are worked out. =) thank you, Jesus. (oh, plus the actual classes...hahaha, that might involve some work, too.) =]
*Exhibit B: Car - I wanted a "new" ;) car that I could pay for all at once & move on with my life. The ENTIRE car journey (death of Gadget, birth of R.u.b.y., haha) was such a clear picture for me of God's provision & perfect timing...still amazed! (I should not have had the funds for such a nice vehicle.) But, the Lord regularly reminded me of the word He gave me last fall when I was driving to school one morning, and my plastic window was flapping in the wind (haha! poor car):
"For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them." (Isaiah 61:8)
No, a silly car is not an everlasting covenant, BUT He IS just and knows my needs better than I do. Never, ever had any reason to worry or be anxious. But, I also had to get up early and go car hunting with dad a couple mornings before we found Ruby. Saw some duds, drove further than we had to, but God knew my budget and time frame (bound to happen when He holds the UNIVERSE in His hands). Then I had to get insurance, typical car needs (gas, oil change), and today I finallyyy went to get the title switched to my name. (woot!) Plus, I have such sweet, encouraging friends! :) Whether they lifted a prayer or e-mailed me a Craig's List possibility - God is faithful to work through His saints.
*Exhibit C: Quiet Time (just realized, I'm not listing these in any order of importance, because if I were, this would be first!) - Key for me: the "snooze" button is a trap! Resist in Jesus' Name! By getting back to early morning quiet times & a consistent prayer routine - life is getting sweeter and sweeter as I draw near to Him! It's like a massive dot-to-dot every week. (You know, those pictures in coloring books where you had to draw lines to complete the picture - LOVED those! Well, still do. praise God. =) ANYway, when I'm spending time with Him every day, I'm able to see how He'll take something that stuck out to me on Sunday morning, and keep unfolding/expounding on it each day. (He is SO AWESOME!) haha, it's usually Thursday or Friday that Jayme and I can finally hash out & share the crazy wonderful (and sometimes painful!) Truth that God has been unlocking for us all week.
*Exhibit D: Relationships - God brings so many people into our lives...what are we going to do with these blessings?! It's these precious people that are the ones who stand in agreement with me (or rebuke me! woohoo!)...they're the ones that I get to walk with as we try to grasp how wide/high/deep/long His Love is for us! Without all of the prayers & support I receive on a daily basis, I know that exhibits A, B, and C would not be feasible. There would be no one to decree/agree with, hold me accountable - my growth would be so stunted. I've got to be faithful to return the blessing by staying in touch, praying consistently, speaking their love language...I'm so done with taking people for granted.
I think it's the fruit of seeing my prayers answered (would that be like my faith being fulfilled??) that is meant to motivate & encourage perseverance (in order to be mature and complete - not lacking anything!). I've also been discussing Revelation with several friends recently, and these particular verses continue coming up:
"'I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you." (Revelation 3)
I believe it also ties in with choosing to be hot or cold, not lukewarm - if you're going to start the work but not finish it, then don't even start. (But I also know that there's grace, and God cares most about our heart's motives...can't be headstrong about "strengthening what remains," but humbly diligent.) I know that's where I'm prone to fall short, is completing the final step of whatever project/situation/etc I'm working on...paha, it could be something as simple as reading the last 2 chapters of a book! (sad, really) 'I've gotten the gist of it, isn't that enough?' Actually, no - stop being lazy and finish the flipping book. =)
Plus, it's not even my own strength anyway, it's HIS!
12So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2)
There's no getting escaping it ~ from Him and through Him and to Him are all things! Praise the Lord. Friends, I pray that you get the courage to ask God to take you deeper, bring you closer...all to lift Jesus higher. :) He is worth your everything! May you have a break through in your everyday routines and just spend time in His Presence - abide in His Love!
*exhale*
(this was especially long...not sure if I should say "haha, sorry!" or "you're welcome." =] your choice.)
I love you all.
grace & peace!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Head up, Heart down
hm, I'm feeling kind of lazy...like I ought to be starting school tomorrow, instead of three months from yesterday. Thank you Jesus, for a change in routine, for the chance to grasp the NEW thing that You're doing.
Really excited to keep going deeper in this word I've gotten for the month of July - how I need to focus on taking root in His Word. (truly abiding in Christ - I can't be His branch if I'm not stemming from the same source!)
7 "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in him.
Kinda random - I found this fern + bamboo story below while I was going through my files at work last week. (hahaha, I am terrible at electronically organizing myself...but, God's grace is sufficient to sort it all out!) Anyway, I found its encouragement to sort of parallel with my root word - because, for a while, God may be the only one to see the fruit of finding my root in Him.
*Another something random ~ Shane and Shane's I Want it All...
use me, break me, waste me on You, Lord
Ruin me, take me, waste me on You
For to die is to live...
To starve is to feast
And less of me is more of Jesus
Lord, I want it all
Lord, I want it all
If i lose my life
I gain everything
And at the cross
Away with all death's sting
Lord, I want it all
Lord, I want it all
There is power in the blood
There is victory in Jesus
Come in power, wash me clean
Overwhelm me with Your presence
There is power in the blood
There is victory in Jesus
Help me glory in the cross
Help me find my gain in loss
Also, discovering a key to humility (heart down) - a shift of my focus (head up).
1I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
Really excited to keep going deeper in this word I've gotten for the month of July - how I need to focus on taking root in His Word. (truly abiding in Christ - I can't be His branch if I'm not stemming from the same source!)
7 "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in him.
8 He will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit."
(Jeremiah 17:7-8)
16Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. (Mark 4:16-17)
13Those on the rock are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (Luke 8:13)
Knowing my own personality and how I (honestly) strive to be optimistic & encouraging, I have to be extra sure that my motives/responses are sincere. ie: 'receiving something at once with joy' isn't too hard for me...it's a matter of applying that joy to various situations. And I don't want the joy to be a flighty facade, but a genuine lifestyle - because the fruit of the root is so worth it!
"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ..." (Ephesians 3:17-18)
"6So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." (Colossians 2:6-7)
Kinda random - I found this fern + bamboo story below while I was going through my files at work last week. (hahaha, I am terrible at electronically organizing myself...but, God's grace is sufficient to sort it all out!) Anyway, I found its encouragement to sort of parallel with my root word - because, for a while, God may be the only one to see the fruit of finding my root in Him.
A Story of Purpose
One day I decided to quit...
I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality... I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I asked, "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"
His answer surprised me...
"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.
I gave them light and water. The fern quickly grew. Its brilliant green covered the ground.
Yet, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But . . . I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year, the fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
Again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But . . I did not quit on the bamboo.
In year three, there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.
But I would not quit.
In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed.
I would not quit." He said.
"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.
Compared to the fern, it was seemingly small and insignificant. . .
But just 6 months later, the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.
I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
He asked me, "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots?"
"I would not quit on the bamboo and I will never quit on you."
"Don't compare yourself to others." He said.
"The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern, yet they both make the forest beautiful."
"Your time will come", God said to me.
"You will rise high."
"How high should I rise?" I asked.
"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned.
*Another something random ~ Shane and Shane's I Want it All...
use me, break me, waste me on You, Lord
Ruin me, take me, waste me on You
For to die is to live...
To starve is to feast
And less of me is more of Jesus
Lord, I want it all
Lord, I want it all
If i lose my life
I gain everything
And at the cross
Away with all death's sting
Lord, I want it all
Lord, I want it all
There is power in the blood
There is victory in Jesus
Come in power, wash me clean
Overwhelm me with Your presence
There is power in the blood
There is victory in Jesus
Help me glory in the cross
Help me find my gain in loss
Also, discovering a key to humility (heart down) - a shift of my focus (head up).
1I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
3He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
4Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
(Psalm 121:1-4)
*Look to You ~ Hillsong United
Hope you've enjoyed/been encouraged/challenged to think from this smorgasboard of everything that God has been tossing my way lately. =) It's going to be a good July...expectantly not knowing what to expect other than getting ready for God to surpass my expectations!
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