For a long time, hope wasn't something that I put in Christ. I didn't ever fully understand how much hope he gives us. I just saw hope as a desire to put in whatever to get what I wanted. It wasn't a God-thing for me. It just was there.
As I watch the world, it dawns on me more and more how hopeless people truly are. They won't admit it if you ask, they won't even think of it as one of their secrets. Honestly, I don't even think it'll enter their minds if they're having a good day. And yet, each person that doesn't know the hope of Jesus, endures that hopelessness every day of their life. Because if this earth is all that we're living for, there is no reason to have hope.
Fortunately, our hope is not in the world. It doesn't lie in people, it doesn't lie in the things we do or how we are or what we are. Our only cause for hope is Christ.
I trust in you;
do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
No one who hopes in you
will ever be put to shame,
but shame will come on those
who are treacherous without cause.
Psalm 25:2-3
The promise that God gives us is hopeful. Full of something this world cannot offer. The hope that we can take comfort in is the same hope that God has to give.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
Hope is defined as a "confident desire." When our hope is in Christ it is true hope because our God is bigger than everything else. He is the one orchestrating the universe. That desire can only be filled by Him. It is one of the only things to live in. God says, "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love." [1 Corinthians 13:13a]
The confident desire that we have that things will turn out okay, is something that WILL happen; but only, when our hope is in Christ.
Where does your hope lie? Is it in Him? Because if it isn't, it's futile.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Inspiration
What is it that truly inspires you?
Is it a beautiful sunset? An encouraging word? A deep thought? A well written book?
Inspiration can come from anything. But to me, inspiration comes from those around you. I truly love watching people do what they are good at, essentially, what they are created to do. It's nothing short of a miracle to watch people succeed at something. Whether it's just knowing the right answer to a difficult question, making a superb tasting coffee, or dancing beautifully. Regardless of what it is, it's an inspiration to me. I love getting to see people do what they are good at, because they are good at it. They know that they can succeed and that brings a sense of accomplishment. But what is even better, is watching someone do something great that they had no idea that they were good at. Especially when it is something that is beautiful. It blows my mind when I see people doing all these things that God intended them to do, and they don't have the faintest idea that He has intended them to do it.
My life purpose statement is "To love, encourage, and inspire people to Christ."
So how do you inspire people? How do you make them believe they can do anything in the world? How do you show them that they need to do what they have been created to do, even when they don't know what that is?!
Well, lets think about it. God has created us for a purpose. A very specific purpose. And we may not know what that is at this exact moment, but regardless, we should be willing to search for it.
To be honest, sometimes we're not inspired, and that is perfectly fine. You go through dry seasons, and in the end, you come out stronger than you were. Because you had to endure it. Yes, it might be hard, and sad, and maybe even a little frustrating. But it is worth it in the end, when you find out the reason for that dry season.
Is inspiration necessary? Absolutely not. Not to live, anyways. But is it helpful in motivating you to do what you love? Yes, most definitely.
So I encourage you, find out what inspires you, and do that so you will be pushed to do the things that you love. And, be an inspiration to those around you, because you just might, inspire someone to greatness.
Is it a beautiful sunset? An encouraging word? A deep thought? A well written book?
Inspiration can come from anything. But to me, inspiration comes from those around you. I truly love watching people do what they are good at, essentially, what they are created to do. It's nothing short of a miracle to watch people succeed at something. Whether it's just knowing the right answer to a difficult question, making a superb tasting coffee, or dancing beautifully. Regardless of what it is, it's an inspiration to me. I love getting to see people do what they are good at, because they are good at it. They know that they can succeed and that brings a sense of accomplishment. But what is even better, is watching someone do something great that they had no idea that they were good at. Especially when it is something that is beautiful. It blows my mind when I see people doing all these things that God intended them to do, and they don't have the faintest idea that He has intended them to do it.
My life purpose statement is "To love, encourage, and inspire people to Christ."
So how do you inspire people? How do you make them believe they can do anything in the world? How do you show them that they need to do what they have been created to do, even when they don't know what that is?!
Well, lets think about it. God has created us for a purpose. A very specific purpose. And we may not know what that is at this exact moment, but regardless, we should be willing to search for it.
To be honest, sometimes we're not inspired, and that is perfectly fine. You go through dry seasons, and in the end, you come out stronger than you were. Because you had to endure it. Yes, it might be hard, and sad, and maybe even a little frustrating. But it is worth it in the end, when you find out the reason for that dry season.
Is inspiration necessary? Absolutely not. Not to live, anyways. But is it helpful in motivating you to do what you love? Yes, most definitely.
So I encourage you, find out what inspires you, and do that so you will be pushed to do the things that you love. And, be an inspiration to those around you, because you just might, inspire someone to greatness.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Lightbulb!
With all of the crazy things thrown at me at this point in my life, I'm not super willing to hear anything other than what I know is truth. Simply because it's easier to cope that way. I know what I know because God has given me specific instruction, and truth to lean on. So, in other words, I don't feel like my eyes have been opened to see other people's perspectives; due to sitting in my pain and sadness. Yup, I'm willing to admit it.
Regardless of all this, my desire is see life from other people's perspectives. Empathize with their pain, joy, craziness and, above all else, who they are. It may seem silly, but this is something that I need to do. Not only for myself, but for those close to me.
I came to the realization that if I were one of my friends, I would worry about me. Not because of any surface matter, but because of the stuff I knew was goin on in my heart. Unfortunately, I haven't been willing to really dig deep and work through that. The bouncing off of ideas and thoughts hasn't been real high on my to-do list, if you know what I mean.
So, it comes down to this. Are you willing to let out what's going on in your heart? Do you have someone that you can be completely open and honest with? Are you able to bounce ideas, be real, let your guard down and be free to sound like a total moron? I am. At least, now I am. I'm ready. To take the next step, to stand in the gap and proclaim to the world that I want healing! I want my brokenness to mended, my wounds to be healed, and the moving forward to insist.
The best part is that I know that God wants this for me as well. He was just waiting for me to get this point. I'm ready, God. Let's go.
Regardless of all this, my desire is see life from other people's perspectives. Empathize with their pain, joy, craziness and, above all else, who they are. It may seem silly, but this is something that I need to do. Not only for myself, but for those close to me.
I came to the realization that if I were one of my friends, I would worry about me. Not because of any surface matter, but because of the stuff I knew was goin on in my heart. Unfortunately, I haven't been willing to really dig deep and work through that. The bouncing off of ideas and thoughts hasn't been real high on my to-do list, if you know what I mean.
So, it comes down to this. Are you willing to let out what's going on in your heart? Do you have someone that you can be completely open and honest with? Are you able to bounce ideas, be real, let your guard down and be free to sound like a total moron? I am. At least, now I am. I'm ready. To take the next step, to stand in the gap and proclaim to the world that I want healing! I want my brokenness to mended, my wounds to be healed, and the moving forward to insist.
The best part is that I know that God wants this for me as well. He was just waiting for me to get this point. I'm ready, God. Let's go.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
wishing i could think of kewler title names...
Good morning sunshine, the world says hello! -Willy Wonka (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory)
Even though technically, it's not morning here, i'm sure it is somewhere in the world. Just not here :)
Living. Breathing. Speaking. Singing. Doing. Hearing. Knowing. Loving.
Hmmm...Thoughts of the day:
God calls us to know his truth. But it's a concious decision to know his truth and to live in that truth every moment of the day. Cause sometimes, you can know it, but you won't always live in it.
Truth: God has a plan for us. His plan is a zillion times better than our plan. He wants us to surrender. Fully. Not just half-way. He wants us to be in complete surrender to Him. Meaning that, no matter what, we are letting him have control. But it's not just one day out of the 7 days of the week. It's second by second.
Fact: It's gonna be hard. God didn't tell us it would be easy.
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
The best part though, is knowing that God is with us.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
When our Father, the King of the Universe, the best friend who is always there, gives us attention, he will not turn away. So when you think he's not there, he is. Take comfort, my friends. Take comfort in Him.
Even though technically, it's not morning here, i'm sure it is somewhere in the world. Just not here :)
Living. Breathing. Speaking. Singing. Doing. Hearing. Knowing. Loving.
Hmmm...Thoughts of the day:
God calls us to know his truth. But it's a concious decision to know his truth and to live in that truth every moment of the day. Cause sometimes, you can know it, but you won't always live in it.
Truth: God has a plan for us. His plan is a zillion times better than our plan. He wants us to surrender. Fully. Not just half-way. He wants us to be in complete surrender to Him. Meaning that, no matter what, we are letting him have control. But it's not just one day out of the 7 days of the week. It's second by second.
Fact: It's gonna be hard. God didn't tell us it would be easy.
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
The best part though, is knowing that God is with us.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
When our Father, the King of the Universe, the best friend who is always there, gives us attention, he will not turn away. So when you think he's not there, he is. Take comfort, my friends. Take comfort in Him.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Word Vomit
Back in 2008, my english teacher told me that sometimes the best writing that we can come up with is when we are able to clear our heads completely and just write whatever comes to mind. But everything in your head just has to come out on paper...or in this case, on the web :) so here goes some stuff, just to clear my head and get everything on the perverbial table.
to understand and be understood. sometimes i wonder how anyone can really know what is going on in a persons head. we try to comprehend what people tell us about their lives and all that is going on, but really, we can't fully understand what they are trying to tell us, becase we don't know what exactly is going on in their head. As with most people, you never hear the full story. all you hear is what one person, from their perspective is telling you. you hear what you want to hear. yes, we all have selective hearing to an extent, even if you're not willing to admit it. and when people start talking, there is no stopping them. even with all of the stuff that we try to tell ourselves people aren't saying about us, it's probably coming out in not the most pleasant way. Yet, if we are willing to ask someone, it won't necessarily be the truth. but then that crosses the line of why we lie. i guess it's just a thing some do, but i just don't understand. it's all about what that person sees as right and wrong. and i don't think you'll ever fully agree with someone. mostly because you'll know their heart fully. they only person that will know you're heart fully is Jesus. He knows your every thought, every whim, every desire, every reason. there is nothing you can hide from him. and as you move forward and seek him, you will hear him so clearly. you will know him so much better. but the best part is that he will tell you what to do, where to go and how to do it. even when you think nothing is going the right way, and you just can't get anyone to understand. he does. he knows exactly how to help and the best way to do it. he knows what you need to hear and what to put in your path to know it's him and no one else. as i sit and comtemplate the omniscience of my God, i'm in awe. the reason is so simple, he knows what is going on in my head. he knows how to deal with me, he knows what my reasoning in, he knows that i'm not lying, he knows everything. and when i let him be my everything, things go so much smoother. the awesomest part of life is knowing that he has got it. i will never ever please the world like it wants me to, because i am called to a high standard. i will never be able to have everyone happy with me. it's just not possible. but learning that, accepting that, and moving forward with that is key. you can't just not do what God has told you to do because everyone and their mother is telling you not to. it's just not acceptable. no, my friends, do what He has called you to do. and do it whole heartedly.
to understand and be understood. sometimes i wonder how anyone can really know what is going on in a persons head. we try to comprehend what people tell us about their lives and all that is going on, but really, we can't fully understand what they are trying to tell us, becase we don't know what exactly is going on in their head. As with most people, you never hear the full story. all you hear is what one person, from their perspective is telling you. you hear what you want to hear. yes, we all have selective hearing to an extent, even if you're not willing to admit it. and when people start talking, there is no stopping them. even with all of the stuff that we try to tell ourselves people aren't saying about us, it's probably coming out in not the most pleasant way. Yet, if we are willing to ask someone, it won't necessarily be the truth. but then that crosses the line of why we lie. i guess it's just a thing some do, but i just don't understand. it's all about what that person sees as right and wrong. and i don't think you'll ever fully agree with someone. mostly because you'll know their heart fully. they only person that will know you're heart fully is Jesus. He knows your every thought, every whim, every desire, every reason. there is nothing you can hide from him. and as you move forward and seek him, you will hear him so clearly. you will know him so much better. but the best part is that he will tell you what to do, where to go and how to do it. even when you think nothing is going the right way, and you just can't get anyone to understand. he does. he knows exactly how to help and the best way to do it. he knows what you need to hear and what to put in your path to know it's him and no one else. as i sit and comtemplate the omniscience of my God, i'm in awe. the reason is so simple, he knows what is going on in my head. he knows how to deal with me, he knows what my reasoning in, he knows that i'm not lying, he knows everything. and when i let him be my everything, things go so much smoother. the awesomest part of life is knowing that he has got it. i will never ever please the world like it wants me to, because i am called to a high standard. i will never be able to have everyone happy with me. it's just not possible. but learning that, accepting that, and moving forward with that is key. you can't just not do what God has told you to do because everyone and their mother is telling you not to. it's just not acceptable. no, my friends, do what He has called you to do. and do it whole heartedly.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Emotional
How beautiful emotions can be. The ones that are happy, inspiring, lovely and make you feel like you can do anything. And then are the opposite, sadness, depression, apathy and all the rest we feel.
Emotions can be dangerous things. It is so easy to be swept up in the emotions of life. To feel things and let those feelings be the guiding light that you follow blindly. There are so many ways that we can be emotional and not be emotional at the same time. Someone once told me that it's okay to show emotion. It's okay to let them come out and be out in the open. But having emotions shows your vulnerability. It shows that you're human, that you can't do things on your own, and that you ARE NOT in control. I know, it's a crazy concept. For some reason, I had felt like I couldn't show emotion or be emotional cause I had to have it all together. I had to look like I could handle everything. And let me tell ya, it was hard at first. Espeically because I've always been an emotional person. You know when I'm happy, sad, frustrated, irritated, joyful, inspired, deep and every other emotion under the sun, because I wear it on my sleeve. Yup, you guessed it. My whole life I've been told that it's good to show emotion, but you also need to know how to show emotion.
God has given us emotions to glorify Him. He tells us to "rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn." He tells us to worship him and praise his name. He tells us to be joyful and love those around us. Our God is a God full of emotion! He says to fear him!
So how can we, as humans, say that we should have emotions, we shouldn't feel?!
Surely NOT!
Be emotional, but in keep Christ in mind. How does your emotion glorify him? For he is truly the God of our emotions :)
Emotions can be dangerous things. It is so easy to be swept up in the emotions of life. To feel things and let those feelings be the guiding light that you follow blindly. There are so many ways that we can be emotional and not be emotional at the same time. Someone once told me that it's okay to show emotion. It's okay to let them come out and be out in the open. But having emotions shows your vulnerability. It shows that you're human, that you can't do things on your own, and that you ARE NOT in control. I know, it's a crazy concept. For some reason, I had felt like I couldn't show emotion or be emotional cause I had to have it all together. I had to look like I could handle everything. And let me tell ya, it was hard at first. Espeically because I've always been an emotional person. You know when I'm happy, sad, frustrated, irritated, joyful, inspired, deep and every other emotion under the sun, because I wear it on my sleeve. Yup, you guessed it. My whole life I've been told that it's good to show emotion, but you also need to know how to show emotion.
God has given us emotions to glorify Him. He tells us to "rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn." He tells us to worship him and praise his name. He tells us to be joyful and love those around us. Our God is a God full of emotion! He says to fear him!
So how can we, as humans, say that we should have emotions, we shouldn't feel?!
Surely NOT!
Be emotional, but in keep Christ in mind. How does your emotion glorify him? For he is truly the God of our emotions :)
Friday, November 5, 2010
The Beauty of Simplicity
How I long to get away for just a day, maybe a few hours, to just sit, talk with my Savior, my King, the one who always makes sense.
I wish that everything we did was simple and easy, black and white. It would make it a whole lot easier to understand life, to cope with it. And yet, the beauty of Simplicity is God. He doesn't require us to handle things on our own. He would rather have us give it to Him, and let Him deal with it.
1 Peter 5:7 says, "Cast all your anxieties on Him, for he cares for you." Therefore, each of the cares that we have, the things we hold dear, the decisions we feel we have to make, the stresses that we are weighed down with, are not our burden to carry. They are His. He goes on to say, in Matthew 11:29-30, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Why do we hold on to the emotions of what is going on when we could let them go and give them to God, who actually DESIRES for us to let Him have them?! Beats me!
But that is my challenge to you. All of the things that you're holding onto, the temptations that you are giving into, give them to God. Right now, in this moment, make a commitment to Him that you won't take them back. You will let Him have them.
And if you need to, take that time to get away from the world, from the drama, from life, and spend some time just communing with your best friend. He'll love it! and so will you :)
I wish that everything we did was simple and easy, black and white. It would make it a whole lot easier to understand life, to cope with it. And yet, the beauty of Simplicity is God. He doesn't require us to handle things on our own. He would rather have us give it to Him, and let Him deal with it.
1 Peter 5:7 says, "Cast all your anxieties on Him, for he cares for you." Therefore, each of the cares that we have, the things we hold dear, the decisions we feel we have to make, the stresses that we are weighed down with, are not our burden to carry. They are His. He goes on to say, in Matthew 11:29-30, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Why do we hold on to the emotions of what is going on when we could let them go and give them to God, who actually DESIRES for us to let Him have them?! Beats me!
But that is my challenge to you. All of the things that you're holding onto, the temptations that you are giving into, give them to God. Right now, in this moment, make a commitment to Him that you won't take them back. You will let Him have them.
And if you need to, take that time to get away from the world, from the drama, from life, and spend some time just communing with your best friend. He'll love it! and so will you :)
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Understanding...and Forgiveness
Ah yes, that beautifully frustrating word. Understanding.
Do you understand? is a phrase often used when asking someone if something was clearly explained. It is used when one person is trying to get a point across. It is asked when a friend tells you that you can't be friends. It's asked in many different circumstances, many different ways and the result varies. But almost always, you walk away with a sense of "understand," whether you actually do or not.
How is one supposed to understand when a friend tells you that you can't be as close as you once were? How are you supposed to forgive them and understand that that is what God wanted? When do you make the distinction between being able to be understanding and just not caring anymore about it? How do you try to comprehend, to understand, what your mind is focused on when the only thing you want is it to go away?!
The Father calls us to forgive those who have hurt us, to love those who don't understand His love, and to be Him to all people, everywhere. The world is here, telling us not to be understanding. Not to give grace. But to hold onto the bitterness, the anger, the confusion. To live in blind rage. But our Jesus, our precious Savior, has loved us so much that He wants us to express that to those around us.
Matthew 18:21-22
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
It's not being understanding. It's understanding the pain, the brokeness, the hurt. Recognizing it, beginning the healing process and coming out stronger.
Sadly, though, some of the hurt and pain can change the person that you are. It can alter the way you think, the way you process things, the way you look at yourself. And even if you know that all the things that you are believing are lies, you still don't want to let it go.
but that is where God's truth can speak to us the most. I was talking to Him yesterday and He spoke to me about trust.
Proverbs 3:5 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understand; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."
So first, we have to trust Him. Trust that His plan is better than our own plan, and He will prosper us.
In Jeremiah 29:11, it says "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Then in Numbers 23:19, it says "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"
Therefore, God wants us to know He has the best plans for us. And He also says that He fulfills the promises that he has spoken to us, that he has given us. And with that we know that He is good to His promise. So trust Him. Trust that what he has done in your life, fits perfectly into what He has next for you.
Now the question is, will you trust Him?
Do you understand? is a phrase often used when asking someone if something was clearly explained. It is used when one person is trying to get a point across. It is asked when a friend tells you that you can't be friends. It's asked in many different circumstances, many different ways and the result varies. But almost always, you walk away with a sense of "understand," whether you actually do or not.
How is one supposed to understand when a friend tells you that you can't be as close as you once were? How are you supposed to forgive them and understand that that is what God wanted? When do you make the distinction between being able to be understanding and just not caring anymore about it? How do you try to comprehend, to understand, what your mind is focused on when the only thing you want is it to go away?!
The Father calls us to forgive those who have hurt us, to love those who don't understand His love, and to be Him to all people, everywhere. The world is here, telling us not to be understanding. Not to give grace. But to hold onto the bitterness, the anger, the confusion. To live in blind rage. But our Jesus, our precious Savior, has loved us so much that He wants us to express that to those around us.
Matthew 18:21-22
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."
It's not being understanding. It's understanding the pain, the brokeness, the hurt. Recognizing it, beginning the healing process and coming out stronger.
Sadly, though, some of the hurt and pain can change the person that you are. It can alter the way you think, the way you process things, the way you look at yourself. And even if you know that all the things that you are believing are lies, you still don't want to let it go.
but that is where God's truth can speak to us the most. I was talking to Him yesterday and He spoke to me about trust.
Proverbs 3:5 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understand; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."
So first, we have to trust Him. Trust that His plan is better than our own plan, and He will prosper us.
In Jeremiah 29:11, it says "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Then in Numbers 23:19, it says "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"
Therefore, God wants us to know He has the best plans for us. And He also says that He fulfills the promises that he has spoken to us, that he has given us. And with that we know that He is good to His promise. So trust Him. Trust that what he has done in your life, fits perfectly into what He has next for you.
Now the question is, will you trust Him?
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Idols
oh MAN! I heard this insane talk tonight about idols.
The guy preaching was going over Daniel 3 about how Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace. I can't begin to tell you how insane it was. He started off by giving us tons of background of the context and everything. And the fact that God wants us to be on fire for him! When we are, it's contagious to the people around us.
And how we, as humans, make anything an idol. Even when we think we haven't, if it is before God then we have made it something we're worshiping. Really take a look at your life and see if this is an issue for you. Are you putting anything before God? If your answer is yes, then you have an idol. The God we serve is a jealous God. He says in his commandments NOT to have ANY idols before. He wants all of you, every last part, and when you won't give everything to him he is jealous! Some things you know you haven't given to God completely and they are becoming an idol to you, and others you know that you're holding onto them too tightly and something needs to change.
So, whats yours?
The guy preaching was going over Daniel 3 about how Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace. I can't begin to tell you how insane it was. He started off by giving us tons of background of the context and everything. And the fact that God wants us to be on fire for him! When we are, it's contagious to the people around us.
And how we, as humans, make anything an idol. Even when we think we haven't, if it is before God then we have made it something we're worshiping. Really take a look at your life and see if this is an issue for you. Are you putting anything before God? If your answer is yes, then you have an idol. The God we serve is a jealous God. He says in his commandments NOT to have ANY idols before. He wants all of you, every last part, and when you won't give everything to him he is jealous! Some things you know you haven't given to God completely and they are becoming an idol to you, and others you know that you're holding onto them too tightly and something needs to change.
So, whats yours?
Friday, July 30, 2010
Understanding
I titled this understanding because for me, it's been a time of understanding. God is showing me how much he wants all of my heart, all of my love, all my mind, all of who I am...He wants as His.
At the beginning of the week he was telling me that one thing that he wants from me is to not depend on other people's words so much. My love language is words of affirmation, which means that i LOVE LOVE LOVE when people tell me what I mean to them and how great they think I am. It may sound vain, but it's not meant like that in any way, it's an encouragement, an affirmation in words. Tonight God hit me with the reality of what it looks like. He showed me that I tend to put others words first, before his. He wants the first spot. He wants to be my number one word encourager. The only one that truly matters is what he says to me about me.
I was writhing in pain emotionally, balling on the my knees before him after I realized that all he wants, is to be my number one word encourager. That everyone else might give me praise, but first and foremost, he wants His to be heard.
Lately, I've been feeling that no one is truly excited for me to go and do what God has called me to do. It's not just an opportunity, it's what God has told me that I need to do. Without question. And sometimes I doubt myself after hearing how much I'm needed at a particularly place. In Luke 5:5, Peter says, "...Because you said so..." In the context he's saying that simply because Jesus said to let down his nets he would. Even though to everyone else, it was pointless to do so. He could be mocked and ridiculed for what he did, because to the world it doesn't make sense why he would let down his nets after he just pulled them in...EMPTY. And yet, he does it because Jesus told him to. That was the only reason.
And really, what more reason do we need?
My goal now is to listen to his words first and base everything I do off of his words. Listening to other opinions is good, because of the perspective, but they should never go before what God has told you to do. Ever.
Live in that truth. I challenge you to do that. Whether it's big or small. Seek Jesus first, and when he talks, listen. Then obey.
At the beginning of the week he was telling me that one thing that he wants from me is to not depend on other people's words so much. My love language is words of affirmation, which means that i LOVE LOVE LOVE when people tell me what I mean to them and how great they think I am. It may sound vain, but it's not meant like that in any way, it's an encouragement, an affirmation in words. Tonight God hit me with the reality of what it looks like. He showed me that I tend to put others words first, before his. He wants the first spot. He wants to be my number one word encourager. The only one that truly matters is what he says to me about me.
I was writhing in pain emotionally, balling on the my knees before him after I realized that all he wants, is to be my number one word encourager. That everyone else might give me praise, but first and foremost, he wants His to be heard.
Lately, I've been feeling that no one is truly excited for me to go and do what God has called me to do. It's not just an opportunity, it's what God has told me that I need to do. Without question. And sometimes I doubt myself after hearing how much I'm needed at a particularly place. In Luke 5:5, Peter says, "...Because you said so..." In the context he's saying that simply because Jesus said to let down his nets he would. Even though to everyone else, it was pointless to do so. He could be mocked and ridiculed for what he did, because to the world it doesn't make sense why he would let down his nets after he just pulled them in...EMPTY. And yet, he does it because Jesus told him to. That was the only reason.
And really, what more reason do we need?
My goal now is to listen to his words first and base everything I do off of his words. Listening to other opinions is good, because of the perspective, but they should never go before what God has told you to do. Ever.
Live in that truth. I challenge you to do that. Whether it's big or small. Seek Jesus first, and when he talks, listen. Then obey.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Because you say so...
So I've been reading Luke for my personal devotion time. I ran across Luke 5...I remember talking about it a while ago when i was at a Bible study for my church, but hadn't really read it, i went cause Anthony and I were making this video for announcements. Anyways, one of the verses that stuck out to me was Luke 5:5 and it says...
Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
Can you imagine doing something regardless of fears and doubts and doing it simply because God said so?!
I can't wait to just do this! I've started already and boy is it freeing! I love the fact that we can just rely and trust in God for everything. There is no reason to be afraid and doubt what will happen because I know my God is in control of everything and he has my best interest in mind! it's INCREDIBLE! go GOD!!!
I challenge you to do things without doubt and fear and do it "because he said so" :)
Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
Can you imagine doing something regardless of fears and doubts and doing it simply because God said so?!
I can't wait to just do this! I've started already and boy is it freeing! I love the fact that we can just rely and trust in God for everything. There is no reason to be afraid and doubt what will happen because I know my God is in control of everything and he has my best interest in mind! it's INCREDIBLE! go GOD!!!
I challenge you to do things without doubt and fear and do it "because he said so" :)
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Modesty
Sometimes I don't understand the way girls dress. The motivation in their to dress the way they do is mind boggling to me. Even girls who know and understand what it means to be a follower of Christ and to be in relationship with him. I suppose I should watch what I say, but in all reality, why do girls dress immodestly?
I've heard it said that what you wear is an expression of what is in your heart. If you're heart is to grab attention, and not care about what you wear might make your brothers stumble, then dressing immodestly makes sense. Simply because your motivation is there. But if a young lady understands how visual guys minds are, they would know better the effects their clothing has.
It's not being legalistic, or putting too many rules on a person. It's understanding the reasons why we dress modestly. God gave us 2 greatest commandments, they were to first, love God with all your heart, soul and mind. The second is to love one another. Loving one another is putting them first, before yourself. The heart behind dressing modestly, is love. Do we love our brothers in Christ more than we love the attention that they could give us if we dress immodestly?
I'll be the first to admit that when we dress a certain way, we get attention, and as girls, we like that attention. But at the same time, we have to understand that that attention is not needed. God loves us for who we are, and he gives us all the attention we need! Isn't it more important to protect our brothers in Christ from stumbling, than it is to gain attention for ourselves? When we put ourselves first, it only brings glory to ourselves. Bringing glory to God is way more important than bringing glory to ourselves. What better way to do that then serving others by the way we dress.
Let's face it, the guy that God has for you, will give you attention even if you're wearing a long skirt and long sleeves. He will love you for who you are, not what you wear. God knows that, and he created it that way for a reason. By dressing and acting modestly, you will not only glorify God, but you will also be serving and loving your brothers in Christ.
Acting modestly is something I forgot to mention early. It's not just what you wear, but how you handle yourself. There can be a girl covered in clothing, but if her actions are portraying something other than modesty, that is just as bad as wearing immodest clothing. But that is also a heart condition.
Being modest may be drilled in your head, and it may be something that you've grown up with, but understanding the heart behind it can make all the difference. When you ask God to reveal his heart to you, he will show you that he wants us to live above reproach. If your heart isn't there yet, then ask him to give you that heart. Ask him to show you what it means to be a modest young woman in Him. You will bring glory to his name, i can guarantee it.
My challenge is for you to better know God's heart in this area, and ask him to give you his heart for it, so you may glorify him in actions and in dress.
I've heard it said that what you wear is an expression of what is in your heart. If you're heart is to grab attention, and not care about what you wear might make your brothers stumble, then dressing immodestly makes sense. Simply because your motivation is there. But if a young lady understands how visual guys minds are, they would know better the effects their clothing has.
It's not being legalistic, or putting too many rules on a person. It's understanding the reasons why we dress modestly. God gave us 2 greatest commandments, they were to first, love God with all your heart, soul and mind. The second is to love one another. Loving one another is putting them first, before yourself. The heart behind dressing modestly, is love. Do we love our brothers in Christ more than we love the attention that they could give us if we dress immodestly?
I'll be the first to admit that when we dress a certain way, we get attention, and as girls, we like that attention. But at the same time, we have to understand that that attention is not needed. God loves us for who we are, and he gives us all the attention we need! Isn't it more important to protect our brothers in Christ from stumbling, than it is to gain attention for ourselves? When we put ourselves first, it only brings glory to ourselves. Bringing glory to God is way more important than bringing glory to ourselves. What better way to do that then serving others by the way we dress.
Let's face it, the guy that God has for you, will give you attention even if you're wearing a long skirt and long sleeves. He will love you for who you are, not what you wear. God knows that, and he created it that way for a reason. By dressing and acting modestly, you will not only glorify God, but you will also be serving and loving your brothers in Christ.
Acting modestly is something I forgot to mention early. It's not just what you wear, but how you handle yourself. There can be a girl covered in clothing, but if her actions are portraying something other than modesty, that is just as bad as wearing immodest clothing. But that is also a heart condition.
Being modest may be drilled in your head, and it may be something that you've grown up with, but understanding the heart behind it can make all the difference. When you ask God to reveal his heart to you, he will show you that he wants us to live above reproach. If your heart isn't there yet, then ask him to give you that heart. Ask him to show you what it means to be a modest young woman in Him. You will bring glory to his name, i can guarantee it.
My challenge is for you to better know God's heart in this area, and ask him to give you his heart for it, so you may glorify him in actions and in dress.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Communication
Ah yes, the old adage, the better communicator understands more.
Okay, so maybe it's not an old adage but it's so true. This past week has shown me that in more ways than one. God has created us to be creators who desire to be in relationship. And I don't know if you know this, but being in any type of relationship requires work. Even if you don't think it does, it does. You need to understand that.But it also takes a lot of communication. Whether it be talking to one individual, small group or big group. If you don't communicate, it's very hard to operate within that relationship. What does God have to say about communication? He tells us to pray, talk to him and communicate with him. Yeah, the Creator of the Universe wants us communicating with him even though he knows everything we're saying, then you know it's important to do so with people, who know nothing about what is going to happen next.
When someone does not communicate with you, that thought/feeling doesn't exist. How in the world can you expect someone to pick up on that kind of stuff? There is no way to know what someone is thinking or feeling if they don't communicate in some way.
There are many ways to communicate. A few examples are with your body language, your eyes, your mouth, the computer, the telephone, instant messenger, text messages...and the list goes on. The best way to communicate, in my opinion, is face to face. In that context you are able to pick up on the tone of voice, influx in voice, body language and eyes. Each of these are important to notice during a conversation.
The Lord has a lot of ways of communicating with us. Some he talks to, some he gives dreams, some he gives visions, some he gives prophesies, some he gives knowledge, some he gives wisdom. But he knows the best way to get our attention which is why he communicates with everyone differently. God allows us to be who we are in him and he speaks to us in that way.
Remember that communication is key in any relationship. It can make or break it. As sad as that may seem, it's the truth. Don't be afraid to say something, because when that happens, nothing good comes of it. Someone's feelings get hurt cause they don't know what's going on and the relationship is broken, the trust gone down.
The moral of the story, COMMUNICATE! Not only with your family and friends, but with your Savior. First and foremost, your Savior, because then the rest will fall into place.
Okay, so maybe it's not an old adage but it's so true. This past week has shown me that in more ways than one. God has created us to be creators who desire to be in relationship. And I don't know if you know this, but being in any type of relationship requires work. Even if you don't think it does, it does. You need to understand that.But it also takes a lot of communication. Whether it be talking to one individual, small group or big group. If you don't communicate, it's very hard to operate within that relationship. What does God have to say about communication? He tells us to pray, talk to him and communicate with him. Yeah, the Creator of the Universe wants us communicating with him even though he knows everything we're saying, then you know it's important to do so with people, who know nothing about what is going to happen next.
When someone does not communicate with you, that thought/feeling doesn't exist. How in the world can you expect someone to pick up on that kind of stuff? There is no way to know what someone is thinking or feeling if they don't communicate in some way.
There are many ways to communicate. A few examples are with your body language, your eyes, your mouth, the computer, the telephone, instant messenger, text messages...and the list goes on. The best way to communicate, in my opinion, is face to face. In that context you are able to pick up on the tone of voice, influx in voice, body language and eyes. Each of these are important to notice during a conversation.
The Lord has a lot of ways of communicating with us. Some he talks to, some he gives dreams, some he gives visions, some he gives prophesies, some he gives knowledge, some he gives wisdom. But he knows the best way to get our attention which is why he communicates with everyone differently. God allows us to be who we are in him and he speaks to us in that way.
Remember that communication is key in any relationship. It can make or break it. As sad as that may seem, it's the truth. Don't be afraid to say something, because when that happens, nothing good comes of it. Someone's feelings get hurt cause they don't know what's going on and the relationship is broken, the trust gone down.
The moral of the story, COMMUNICATE! Not only with your family and friends, but with your Savior. First and foremost, your Savior, because then the rest will fall into place.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Fear
Here is just a little snibbit of part of the book i'm writing called Crazy Beautiful. Hence the name of the blog...
I didn’t realize, until recently, that the world is constantly telling us to do one thing over another. It’s everywhere. Almost every place I turn, I see how the world wants me to live and operate. How could I be blind to it? It’s been happening ever since I came into this earth. It’s the norm. It’s an every day occurrence. And yet, we are called to a higher standard than the world sets for us. Christ calls us to be set apart from the world. To be in it, but not of it. Impossible? No. Difficult? Most definitely.
We want to be accepted in this world. We want to be seen and be set apart. But we also want people to think we are beautiful and worth something.
Over and over God tells us not to fear. And yet, fear seems to be an almost daily occurrence for us, women. Whether it is fear of man, fear of self, or any number of other fears; fears are interwoven into society. Especially if we feel like we don’t measure up. Like when you don’t get into the school of your choice, or when you didn’t get the internship that you thought was yours. All the days that we walk with Jesus, he will wash away our fears if we ask. Yet, most of the time, we forget, because we don’t see it as fear, we see it about caring about what we say, how we dress, what we look like, and we don’t realize that the root of it, is fear.
If we let it, fear will determine how we act. I can name so many women that I know who let fear determine how they act. What gets me is the fact that they don’t even probably realize it. You know what though, most likely, I do the same thing. But I’m trying to make a change because God didn’t intend for us to live in fear. It’s not his good and perfect will for us. Yeah, it might be hard to do it fully, because we’re human. But I know that if God intended for us to live in fear he would’ve told us. God has created us to only fear him. A couple weeks ago I was talking with a friend, and we were talking about how much we want to have one fear, and that is of the Lord. We want every other thing that holds us back that is fear related to be gone.
Now, everyone has fears. You can have legitimate fears. There is always a reason behind the fear what we have. But God can bring healing.
The truth is, if you aren’t someone who has a fear of what people think of you and you start hanging out with people who do you WILL become like them. I know, I’ve been there. Our fear will always be there, if we let it.
Confidence means “with faith.” As Christians this means that we are going with faith in Christ. Every day God gives us new mercies. That fear that we hold onto can be taken away when we wake. Will you let it?
I didn’t realize, until recently, that the world is constantly telling us to do one thing over another. It’s everywhere. Almost every place I turn, I see how the world wants me to live and operate. How could I be blind to it? It’s been happening ever since I came into this earth. It’s the norm. It’s an every day occurrence. And yet, we are called to a higher standard than the world sets for us. Christ calls us to be set apart from the world. To be in it, but not of it. Impossible? No. Difficult? Most definitely.
We want to be accepted in this world. We want to be seen and be set apart. But we also want people to think we are beautiful and worth something.
Over and over God tells us not to fear. And yet, fear seems to be an almost daily occurrence for us, women. Whether it is fear of man, fear of self, or any number of other fears; fears are interwoven into society. Especially if we feel like we don’t measure up. Like when you don’t get into the school of your choice, or when you didn’t get the internship that you thought was yours. All the days that we walk with Jesus, he will wash away our fears if we ask. Yet, most of the time, we forget, because we don’t see it as fear, we see it about caring about what we say, how we dress, what we look like, and we don’t realize that the root of it, is fear.
If we let it, fear will determine how we act. I can name so many women that I know who let fear determine how they act. What gets me is the fact that they don’t even probably realize it. You know what though, most likely, I do the same thing. But I’m trying to make a change because God didn’t intend for us to live in fear. It’s not his good and perfect will for us. Yeah, it might be hard to do it fully, because we’re human. But I know that if God intended for us to live in fear he would’ve told us. God has created us to only fear him. A couple weeks ago I was talking with a friend, and we were talking about how much we want to have one fear, and that is of the Lord. We want every other thing that holds us back that is fear related to be gone.
Now, everyone has fears. You can have legitimate fears. There is always a reason behind the fear what we have. But God can bring healing.
The truth is, if you aren’t someone who has a fear of what people think of you and you start hanging out with people who do you WILL become like them. I know, I’ve been there. Our fear will always be there, if we let it.
Confidence means “with faith.” As Christians this means that we are going with faith in Christ. Every day God gives us new mercies. That fear that we hold onto can be taken away when we wake. Will you let it?
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Hopes and Dreams
So much of the time we're pushed to do things that other people want to us do or that they think we'd be good at and we do it cause we think we should. But has anyone asked you what you're hopes and dreams are for your future?
Do you ever wonder if they'll actually come to pass?
I wouldn't say i'm a dreamer, i wouldn't even say i day dream that much. I like living in the present; i like knowing what's going on and what will happen, but not necessarily dreaming about things.
But my one dream, my goal, my biggest desire is something that I will never ever back down from. It pushes me to do things now, so that I can reach my goal.
About a year ago a old high school friend about what my dream was and you know what he said to me, he simply said, "You can't." I'm not the kind of person that takes that lying down, you tell me I can't and i will prove to you that I most certainly can! Then I will say, "I told you so." Yes, i'm one of those.
In all seriousness, you have your own hopes and dreams for a reason. God put those desires in us to give us a goal. If you're like me, you press forward in the things you do so you can accomplish that dream. Don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't, cause with God all things are possible. He wants to bless us and show us the mighty things he can do in us. Let him guide you and show you his glory.
Dream big, don't be afraid to do that. And also remember, if God wants to make your dreams come true he will. Lift it up to him and know that his will is better than your own :)
Do you ever wonder if they'll actually come to pass?
I wouldn't say i'm a dreamer, i wouldn't even say i day dream that much. I like living in the present; i like knowing what's going on and what will happen, but not necessarily dreaming about things.
But my one dream, my goal, my biggest desire is something that I will never ever back down from. It pushes me to do things now, so that I can reach my goal.
About a year ago a old high school friend about what my dream was and you know what he said to me, he simply said, "You can't." I'm not the kind of person that takes that lying down, you tell me I can't and i will prove to you that I most certainly can! Then I will say, "I told you so." Yes, i'm one of those.
In all seriousness, you have your own hopes and dreams for a reason. God put those desires in us to give us a goal. If you're like me, you press forward in the things you do so you can accomplish that dream. Don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't, cause with God all things are possible. He wants to bless us and show us the mighty things he can do in us. Let him guide you and show you his glory.
Dream big, don't be afraid to do that. And also remember, if God wants to make your dreams come true he will. Lift it up to him and know that his will is better than your own :)
Monday, May 24, 2010
People and Relationships
This is one that i wrote a while ago...enjoy :)
this is one thing i've been thinking a whole lot about lately. one of my close friends asked me, "why even bother? you're gonna get hurt anyways. what's the point?"
the point is, that this is what were called to have here on earth. God placed us here for a reason, a purpose. and that's to bring people to His Kingdom. part of doing that is learning how to build relationship with others to show God's love and bless them. relationships are tricky things though. they deal with emotions, personalities, different ways of doing things, different ways of thinking. as people, were always going to mess up, one way or another. you're always going to get hurt by someone at some time. that's just reality. it's the price of being imperfect.
how are we able to go on without relationship though? God wants to have relationship with us. and he's the ultimate source of not being hurt. he's perfect. with him, we'll have an incredible relationship. he might do things we don't like, or we don't think is right for us. but he knows. so just don't mess with him. but you can talk to him. he can fill the void of the person that you're missing, or wishing you could talk to. and through that relationship with you, we are able to know how to have relationship with other people.
one of my big things is having relationship with people. i love it. it's one of my greatest joys in life. but no matter what, each person i have relationship with, will hurt me at some point. whether it be something they say, or how they treat me, or something they do. regardless, i'm willing to take the risk, take the chance, and simply trust. that's the one thing about relationship though, it takes trust. a wise friend once told me, "you can only trust someone as much as they trust you." in some cases this is wrong, but in my experience, it is true. Trust is a big issue for some people, because they've been hurt in the past or simply cause it's just not something that is a norm for them and they don't know how to let others in. But being in relationship with others is such an important part of being human. even for those of us who aren't normally relational people. The kewlest part of being in relationship with God is that when you have a strong relationship with him, relationship with others comes easier.
i was talking to my mentor, Jen, the other day and we were talking about relationships. She told me that the relationships i have now will not necessarily be life long relationships, even though that's what i want them to be. God puts people in our lives for a season, however long or short that season may be is up to him. but my mindset when she said that changed from, "yay! i love my friends and i can't wait to have them with me for the rest of time!" to " well, if they're not going to be my friends for long, why invest in them now? why even bother." ha. talk about extremes. what i realized later is that that was simply a ploy of the enemy to not want to be a good friend to others. God showed me that each of the relationships in our life has a purpose. There is a reason for each person that you come in contact with, especially those closest to you. and if they aren't going to be in your life forever, then why hold back now? you have a short time with these people and i want to make the most of that time!
i'm not saying to just spew all over them and don't think about what you say or what you reveal. But ask the Lord for guidance. Don't be afraid to talk to others and to love on them with Christ's love. It's important to do just that. who am i to stand in the way of God's plan for every person that i come in contact with? if i wait, i may miss an opportunity to show them God's love or learn from them. and i definitely don't want to do that.
As God places people in your life, remember that they are there for a reason. Whether you like them or not. Loving people is so important. It talks about how to love in 1 Corinthians 13 which has become scripture that i try to live by daily.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It always protects, always hopes, always trusts, always perseveres. Love never fails."
At church on Sunday, Pastor Bruce was talking about love and what it is. One of the things that he found in a translation said that love is not irritable. Then at college group Jen and J challenged us to work on something this week that had to do with what love is. So i'm working on love not being irritable. I didn't realize how much that happens. Here's what i do, i repeat the phrase "love is not irritable" when i am irritated and pray that God will help me. J also gave us this article that we read together (J is Jen, my mentor's, husband, for those who don't know). The whole article was talking about people and how to talk to them about Christ. One of the kewlest things that it said was how we need to "talk together rather than talk past each other." Listening and loving go hand in hand. Love is PATIENT! Meaning, LISTEN and be PATIENT! yeah, and that's true for me just as much as the next guy.
God truly loves us because he gave us the ability to relate to one another and he is willing to give us His love to love others. How can we pass that up? I sure can't and i never want to.
Take a moment and look at the scripture and I challenge you to do this! Try loving people in a way that you know you aren't to great at. God will bless you for loving others.
this is one thing i've been thinking a whole lot about lately. one of my close friends asked me, "why even bother? you're gonna get hurt anyways. what's the point?"
the point is, that this is what were called to have here on earth. God placed us here for a reason, a purpose. and that's to bring people to His Kingdom. part of doing that is learning how to build relationship with others to show God's love and bless them. relationships are tricky things though. they deal with emotions, personalities, different ways of doing things, different ways of thinking. as people, were always going to mess up, one way or another. you're always going to get hurt by someone at some time. that's just reality. it's the price of being imperfect.
how are we able to go on without relationship though? God wants to have relationship with us. and he's the ultimate source of not being hurt. he's perfect. with him, we'll have an incredible relationship. he might do things we don't like, or we don't think is right for us. but he knows. so just don't mess with him. but you can talk to him. he can fill the void of the person that you're missing, or wishing you could talk to. and through that relationship with you, we are able to know how to have relationship with other people.
one of my big things is having relationship with people. i love it. it's one of my greatest joys in life. but no matter what, each person i have relationship with, will hurt me at some point. whether it be something they say, or how they treat me, or something they do. regardless, i'm willing to take the risk, take the chance, and simply trust. that's the one thing about relationship though, it takes trust. a wise friend once told me, "you can only trust someone as much as they trust you." in some cases this is wrong, but in my experience, it is true. Trust is a big issue for some people, because they've been hurt in the past or simply cause it's just not something that is a norm for them and they don't know how to let others in. But being in relationship with others is such an important part of being human. even for those of us who aren't normally relational people. The kewlest part of being in relationship with God is that when you have a strong relationship with him, relationship with others comes easier.
i was talking to my mentor, Jen, the other day and we were talking about relationships. She told me that the relationships i have now will not necessarily be life long relationships, even though that's what i want them to be. God puts people in our lives for a season, however long or short that season may be is up to him. but my mindset when she said that changed from, "yay! i love my friends and i can't wait to have them with me for the rest of time!" to " well, if they're not going to be my friends for long, why invest in them now? why even bother." ha. talk about extremes. what i realized later is that that was simply a ploy of the enemy to not want to be a good friend to others. God showed me that each of the relationships in our life has a purpose. There is a reason for each person that you come in contact with, especially those closest to you. and if they aren't going to be in your life forever, then why hold back now? you have a short time with these people and i want to make the most of that time!
i'm not saying to just spew all over them and don't think about what you say or what you reveal. But ask the Lord for guidance. Don't be afraid to talk to others and to love on them with Christ's love. It's important to do just that. who am i to stand in the way of God's plan for every person that i come in contact with? if i wait, i may miss an opportunity to show them God's love or learn from them. and i definitely don't want to do that.
As God places people in your life, remember that they are there for a reason. Whether you like them or not. Loving people is so important. It talks about how to love in 1 Corinthians 13 which has become scripture that i try to live by daily.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It always protects, always hopes, always trusts, always perseveres. Love never fails."
At church on Sunday, Pastor Bruce was talking about love and what it is. One of the things that he found in a translation said that love is not irritable. Then at college group Jen and J challenged us to work on something this week that had to do with what love is. So i'm working on love not being irritable. I didn't realize how much that happens. Here's what i do, i repeat the phrase "love is not irritable" when i am irritated and pray that God will help me. J also gave us this article that we read together (J is Jen, my mentor's, husband, for those who don't know). The whole article was talking about people and how to talk to them about Christ. One of the kewlest things that it said was how we need to "talk together rather than talk past each other." Listening and loving go hand in hand. Love is PATIENT! Meaning, LISTEN and be PATIENT! yeah, and that's true for me just as much as the next guy.
God truly loves us because he gave us the ability to relate to one another and he is willing to give us His love to love others. How can we pass that up? I sure can't and i never want to.
Take a moment and look at the scripture and I challenge you to do this! Try loving people in a way that you know you aren't to great at. God will bless you for loving others.
The Beginning...
Well, hello blogging world. I just want to write a quick little diddy about this here blog that I've created for myself. This blog is intended to encourage and uplift young women, who are struggling or just need someone to relate to. It's focused on God's truth that he tells us in his word and the things that he has taught me. I feel like he wants me to share these things with you. Hence, this blog. I'm in the beginning stages of writing a book, so I'll put some of those thoughts in here as well as stuff God has been teaching me. If you don't like it, just read it and see what you think at the end. If you like it, read it and tell me what you liked. If you're just looking for something to read, have an open mind to see what God will do. You never know what he might teach you. This is as much for me as it is for you.
Don't think that O have all this stuff down, by any means. I'm human, i screw up and i know that i'm not perfect, i'm very far from it. But i'm learning, and growing.
If you have any thoughts that you want to be heard, just comment. I'll read 'em. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. I wanna know you're thoughts. :)
Blessings!
Don't think that O have all this stuff down, by any means. I'm human, i screw up and i know that i'm not perfect, i'm very far from it. But i'm learning, and growing.
If you have any thoughts that you want to be heard, just comment. I'll read 'em. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. I wanna know you're thoughts. :)
Blessings!
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