tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856908228911736782024-03-05T16:38:32.220-05:00Pursuing HimFor the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-53703672552678522002018-01-11T00:16:00.001-05:002018-01-11T00:18:46.233-05:00Look Up, Look In, Love Out<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">They will know you are Christians by your love.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There are so many hurting in the world all around you. Look up from your feet, from your business, and look into the eyes of those you pass. See their pain and feel what they feel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Each of them is not their political stance, their cause, or opinion. No, they are each a divine creation of God's making...one that He treasures and yearns for. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">No matter how despicable someone may be to you, to the Father, they are precious, valuable beyond what you can understand. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And so are you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You can begin this new year with the confident assurance of His immeasurable love for you. He rejoices over you with singing, and His thoughts toward you outnumber the grains of sand in the earth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">How great is His love for you! Out of that love should flow your love to others and that is how the world will know we are His.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Do a love evaluation today. Look at 1 Corinthians 13 and see what true love is and put yourself in those verses. Are you patient? Are you kind? Do you keep a record of wrongs? Are you boastful?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">Allow the light of the Word to illuminate and open the eyes of your heart today. There's a whole world that needs the love of Christ. It starts with each of us individually realizing by the Holy Spirit how much we are deeply loved by the Father through the Son.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-size: large;">God bless you and keep you today :)</span>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-60392897977651853342016-05-11T23:47:00.001-04:002016-05-11T23:50:42.348-04:00My Friend Tori <p dir="ltr">This is my little friend Tori. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Well, actually, she isn't so little anymore. But, when I met her, I fell in love with her. </p>
<p dir="ltr">As my friendship with her family grew, she and I formed a bond that I truly believe is devinely orchestrated. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I got to spend a special day with her. We ate and shopped and talked! We had so much fun. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I honestly found myself just riveted by her knowledge, wisdom and insight! I felt like I was just hanging out with a good girlfriend. </p>
<p dir="ltr">And why can't she be that? I'm amazed at how many people think you can't be friends with people of other ages! Some have called it weird. </p>
<p dir="ltr">To me, though, what's weird is seeing someone's value through the eyes of age. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I'm so thankful that Tom's grandmother, Ina doesn't treat me that way because I dearly treasure her friendship to me. </p>
<p dir="ltr">We need to do better in the family of God. We need to pull down the barriers and be Titus Women! All of us have someone we can be a friend too. </p>
<p dir="ltr">And don't get confused that I only mean chronological age! Someone can be older than you and be just a baby in the faith that needs help growing. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Give some thought to those in your sphere. Ask God to show you who needs YOU! Then, don't be afraid to step out. :) </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPjpzbrrLicnzyBqOuXwgwSMQaDVNfwIhx-HS6b5LjF8lER1cFcHw5srN9QIrOws-sOPfIy_YkSvyGxhN-FgB9ZyV9ZiL0gOgzQCkO4a9sAJF-yNk4atJNiwmUEG2CruAnBEGf91kX0c/s1600/20160212_084001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPjpzbrrLicnzyBqOuXwgwSMQaDVNfwIhx-HS6b5LjF8lER1cFcHw5srN9QIrOws-sOPfIy_YkSvyGxhN-FgB9ZyV9ZiL0gOgzQCkO4a9sAJF-yNk4atJNiwmUEG2CruAnBEGf91kX0c/s640/20160212_084001.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8_Kdci8a-ytsoSXsRkfuHuDs1LMsSA2smROLLZYpKIBTLkU38arsNawxug0PINhWVlPfp2wii9ejY9X42QmX_PJD-5YKwHgsDnTuA2cqyAjwJ-3fsIYHHSzBN1yKu6PGA_F8nZu0c5I/s1600/20160212_111912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8_Kdci8a-ytsoSXsRkfuHuDs1LMsSA2smROLLZYpKIBTLkU38arsNawxug0PINhWVlPfp2wii9ejY9X42QmX_PJD-5YKwHgsDnTuA2cqyAjwJ-3fsIYHHSzBN1yKu6PGA_F8nZu0c5I/s640/20160212_111912.jpg"> </a> </div>tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-70524740710257065592016-05-04T16:16:00.001-04:002016-05-04T16:27:44.202-04:00Pass It On<h1 class="passage-display" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px;">
<span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;">Titus 2:3-5</span><span class="passage-display-version" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline;">New Living Translation (NLT)</span></h1>
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<span class="text Titus-2-3" id="en-NLT-29872" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">3 </span>Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers.<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NLT-29872a" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NLT-29872a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus%202:3-5#fen-NLT-29872a" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</span> Instead, they should teach others what is good.</span> <span class="text Titus-2-4" id="en-NLT-29873" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">4 </span>These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children,</span> <span class="text Titus-2-5" id="en-NLT-29874" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">5 </span>to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes,<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NLT-29874b" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NLT-29874b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus%202:3-5#fen-NLT-29874b" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote b">b</a>]</span> to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.</span></div>
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<span class="text Titus-2-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">I've loved this portion of Scripture since I read it when I was newly married in my early 20's!</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Titus-2-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;"><br></span></span>
<span class="text Titus-2-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">Then, I was part of the "younger women," but now, exactly three months away from turning 40, I'm stretching into the "older women" category.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">That's okay though because, honestly, I really love to teach and train younger women in the Lord. I love to help them see who they are and how much they are valued!</span></div>
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<span class="text Titus-2-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">It's so amazing just to spend time with tweens, teens, and young adults who just want to learn from me and be loved on. :) How I wish I would've had someone like that as I grew and changed. So, I've kinda made it a life mission to make sure I am that to others.</span></span><br>
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<span class="text Titus-2-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">Today, I've been texting with these three cuties! I like keeping in contact, and I miss them so much. We had a challenge to take pics of stuff we did all day long and share them. So fun to me! It can seem like everyday little things are insignificant, but it's all those little things that come together to make something beautiful. Make the most of your little moments girls. They shape you into who you become and what you know.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Too many young ladies don't know who they are and Whose they are. Too many are lonely and hurting. Look for the mean ones...they are the ones hurting the most usually. Determine not to be moved by their actions and reactions; choose love because they need it.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Remember to take time to find joy in those little moments of your day. Take time to do something special for someone else. Look for ways to bless others and encourage them. It will make you feel good about yourself too. You are special. You are salt and light to a hard world. Go out of your way to give to others and do everything as if you are doing it for the Lord.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Don't be annoyed by those younger than you...remember, you were them not too long ago! See people as individuals, not groups. Spend time listening, really listening to little ones. Encourage them. Build them up. Make it a practice in your life now and you'll always do it as you grow and mature. Then you will become a Titus Woman. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have a favorite quote: "In a world where you can be anything, be yourself." Don't compare yourself to others or strive to be like them unless you see Jesus in them. Pick out the good things and then put your own spin on it. Nobody has your fingerprints or DNA. God did that for a reason! He likes different. Be different. Stand out. Don't blend in and fade away. Make your sweet mark on this world! It needs strong women who know who they are!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When you feel insignificant because you are only one person, remember that Jesus was only one person...as well as Moses, Ruth, Esther, David... All of them were one person depending on one HUGE God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">xoxo </span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-53267384997998347342016-03-28T17:50:00.003-04:002016-05-03T17:15:59.419-04:00What Is Faith?<div dir="ltr">
I would like to share a verse with you. I have a couple different versions so that you know that I'm not lying. Just ponder on these for a few minutes.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Hebrews 11:1 NKJV<br>Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Hebrews 11:1 NIV<br>Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Hebrews11:1 NLT<br>Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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I guess the real question I would like to pose is: what is the <i><b>OPPOSITE </b></i>of faith?</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Think about it for a minute.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Who said doubt, fear, or something like<br>that?</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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Pause for dramatic affect...</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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How about Certainty?</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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I was challenged the first time I heard Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church say this, but as I have chewed on it over the last few weeks I have come to truly believe it.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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If we are certain, we don't need faith. </div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">If I am certain of exactly how, when, and where something was going to happen, I wouldn't need faith in who is going to do it.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">Faith is confidence of what is hoped for. Hope means we don't know how or when or we wouldn't be hoping for it. So we hope for it and then faith gives us the confidence in WHO! </div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">I am confident in God, in His provision, in His ability. I am not and cannot ever be certain of how, when, or where or I would not need faith in Him. </div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">I am definitely not certain of my own strength or ability. All I can be is confident in Him and what He has called me to be and do.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div>
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I believe it is time to step out to do this thing. To do what God has told us to do and be confident in Him. Do it now before He finds someone else to do it.</div>
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Tom</div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-74474256366615650472015-08-15T17:57:00.002-04:002015-08-16T07:29:13.177-04:00What if?This has been stirring in me for quite some time but I haven’t been sure how to put it into words. I finally got some clarity a few weeks ago as I left on vacation with my family. I told my wife a story after which she said “That will preach!” At that point I realized that it was definitely an on time word but was still not completely clear in how to fill in the gaps. Since then I have been praying and seeking the Lord, and the Holy Spirit has been doing just that, filling in the gaps. He has been causing me to wonder why we ask “what if?” and letting me know that I already have the answer to that question. Don’t worry I will share the story at the end of this and hopefully bring everything together. <br /><br />Let me start with Noah. Genesis 6: 13 So God said to Noah, “I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. 14 So make yourself an ark… 22 Noah did everything just as God commanded him.” <br /><br />Stop! Before you go on I want you to stop and think about this. God has just commanded Noah to build the first ocean liner and Noah just “did everything as God commanded him.” What I want to know is if the person who penned this to paper, Moses, skipped some important details in this story. Really, he just “did everything God commanded him”??? If it were me I would have been standing there saying “A what? You want me to build a what? I don’t even know what an ark is. Besides, what if it doesn’t work?” Yes, that’s right, I would question if what God had spoken to me was real and if it would really happen. I would have asked over and over again “what if”.<br /><br />From the only history book that really matters we learn what happens from this point. Noah, against some very strong ridicule, builds that ark and God truly does save him, and thus all humanity, from a flood. I again ask the question, “What if it hadn’t worked?”<br /><br />Next, let’s talk about Abraham. He up and leaves his hometown, no questions asked, he just packs up and takes off. He doesn’t even know where he’s going, in Genesis 12: 1 The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” The land I will show you? Again I am thinking what if? What if something bad happens? What if I can’t sell this house I’m living in? What if I can’t find a job when I get to this “land You will show me”?<br /><br />What about when God told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. In Genesis 22: 3 it says “Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac.” Do you know how many “What ifs” pop into my mind reading this story? The first one that immediately comes to mind is “what if I didn’t really hear the Lord?” Think about it, would the Lord really say that? Would he really tell me to sacrifice something that I had waited so long for? Surely it must have been the enemy putting thoughts in my head. I couldn’t really be expected to give that up, could I?<br /><br />I have quite a few of these examples that I really want to discuss but I won’t completely break each of them down. I will let you derive your own “What Ifs” for each. There’s Moses going before Pharaoh. Really???? A stuttering, murderer is called to lead the entire nation of Israel out of Egypt and he has to go before one of the most powerful men on earth at that time. Don’t even get me started on all the things that happened leading up to and through the Exodus, or the time in the wilderness. Then, the story of Joshua leading the people across the Jordan, yeah, we are going to walk on dry land, or marching around a city 7 days in a row. <br /><br />The book of Judges is filled with “what if” stories like Gideon and his “fleece”. It is one definite example of a man who actually asked the question. He had to have God prove to him not once but twice that He had really spoken.<br /><br />The entire life of David was a sequence of “what if” events. When God told Samuel to anoint him as the next king can you imagine the thoughts that went through Samuel’s head? Then when David faced Goliath, if it had been me I would have immediately thought “what if these stones don’t do the trick?” Think about the time span of David’s life when Saul was chasing him around trying to kill him and David and his men couldn’t find a safe place anywhere. How about when he and his men lost all their families in Ziklag. I know I would have been thinking “what if this king business was all a mistake and my men kill me right here?”<br /><br />I would like to take a deeper look at some of these “what if” examples in the life of Elijah. It is actually one sequence of events, over a three year period, that provide a number of times where, if it had been me I would have truly questioned what God was speaking to me. The first was when Elijah was told to go the king and tell him there would be three years of drought. I would have been really? You want me to tell the king what? What if I say that and it rains tomorrow? Then the drought does start, I would have started thinking “what if I starve to death now?” He goes to the lady and asks her for her last little bit of food, there are multiple “what ifs” there. What if she refuses? What if I didn’t really hear right and I eat her last sandwich and then we all starve? What if I give him my last bit of food and he lives but my boy and I die?<br /><br />The story of Elijah continues with him surviving the drought and going back to face the king and all the priests of Baal. I can only imagine how much I would have been asking “what if?” What if they kill me as soon as I show up? You want me to put water on the alter and the sacrifice? What if it doesn’t work and I look stupid and they kill me? Then without a cloud in the sky, after three years of drought, he tells the king the rain is coming. What if it doesn’t? He prays and sends his servant, what if there are no clouds? Guess what, there were no clouds. Six times there were no clouds. I would have totally had a major case of the “what ifs”. What if I totally missed it and God is going to continue this drought?<br /><br />The rest of the Old Testament is filled with stories where I would have asked “what if?” I could go on and on with them, stories like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. That’s another favorite, in Daniel 3: 16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” They decided that they would answer the “what if” with it doesn’t matter we are doing it anyway.<br /><br />Let’s skip ahead about half a millennium and look at some stories in the New Testament. Think about John the Baptist in the wilderness telling people to repent and baptizing them. If God just tells me to tell someone He loves them or do something for them I question “what if”. What if they don’t respond well? What if they get mad at me? What if God really didn’t tell me that? But there he was calling people out preparing the way for our Savior.<br /><br />When Jesus called His disciples to come follow Him, if it had been me I would definitely have asked “what if this Jesus guy is just some nut case? He wants me to leave my livelihood and go where? What if we make people mad and they kill us all? What the heck is a fisher of men anyway?” Then He sent them out on their own, I would have thought “what if I can’t do any of the things He’s telling me to do?” <br /><br />Jesus told the rich young ruler he had to sell everything he had and give it to the poor. I can imagine him thinking “what if I do that and then I never have any possessions again?” That probably would have been my thought and I may have done the same thing he did.<br /><br />Then there was the time when Peter stepped out of the boat and onto the water. If it had been me I believe I would have thought “what if I sink?” I don’t think Peter thought that way, at least not at first. But when he let the “what if” in, he did sink.<br /><br />I would like to tell one last story from the Bible. After Saul, who became Paul, had the Damascus Road experience he became blind. God sent a man named Ananias to him to heal him. Can you imagine being Ananias? You want me to do what? This man is killing Christians. What if he kills me? God wouldn’t send me into a situation that could end my life would He? At least those would have been my thoughts.<br /><br />I would like to move ahead in time again, about 2000 years this time. In 2012 my maternal grandfather, J. T. McCracken passed away. My mother is the second oldest of 11 children and there are a very large number of grandchildren and great grandchildren, most of whom were at the funeral. At the start of the funeral the whole family filed into the church together in a very large “procession”. It was a pretty amazing site to see the legacy he was leaving behind. During the service my uncle began talking about his life. He told of when Grandpa was young he was definitely not a Christian. Within a few years of getting married, while living in Oklahoma with his wife and their first two children, he gave his life to Christ. Shortly thereafter he felt he was being called into the ministry, and, as I undoubtedly would, had the “what if” question. What if God wasn’t really calling him? Why would God call him to preach? He, like Moses, had a stuttering issue. Surely he was hearing wrong. I had heard most of this before and I had known that he had questioned but I never knew how much until my uncle told us the rest of the story. He said that my grandpa was at small airport and he actually said “God if you are really calling me make that plane crash.” And it did!<br /><br /><div>
I am not advocating doing that, I am just using this story to illustrate the point I am trying to get to and hopefully I will. You will notice in the stories above that I have inserted the questions I would have asked if God had called me to take those actions. I am not sure if the people in those stories had similar thoughts. However, I am pretty sure that if they did most of them stepped out anyway, and they did so very quickly. I did refer to a couple stories in which they didn’t, which brings me to the story that I promised I would eventually tell.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
My paternal grandfather, Bill Reynolds, was severely injured in World War II. He as on a PT Boat in the South Pacific and a bomb was dropped from a Japanese plane that just missed the boat. The bomb exploded on impact with the water sending shards of shrapnel into his body. One of the worst injuries was to his left arm. The shrapnel damaged tendons, muscles, and nerves in the arm and the doctors wanted to amputate. He begged them to let him keep it and they did. It did heal but he had very limited use of it including no use of the pinky and ring fingers on that hand and limited used of the other three fingers. The pinky and index fingers were drawn up into his palm and he could not straighten them out not even by pulling on them with his other hand. I tell you all of this to get to the main part of this story. In 1971 he went to a meeting where Kenneth Hagin was speaking. Kenneth Hagin was well known for meetings where people were miraculously healed and other things happened. In this meeting Mr. Hagin said that there was someone in the audience with a shriveled up left arm that God wanted to heal. My grandpa did not go up for healing, he did not have the man of God pray for him. After the service my dad asked him why he hadn’t gone up. My grandpa basically said he didn’t want to embarrass the speaker if he didn’t get healed. In other words he asked “What if it didn’t work?” My question and the question that started all of this is “What if it had worked?????”</div>
<div>
<br />That’s what I want to know from you, “What if it does work?” In the stories above, most did step out and I believe they got past the “what if it doesn’t” to the “what if it does” very quickly. Noah survived the flood. Abraham had a son and God provided a sacrifice. David killed Goliath, survived persecution, and became the king of Israel. My grandpa became a minister, raised a family the best he knew how, most of whom are serving the lord very fervently. He touched thousands of lives through his churches, and through his family. He never had a very large church but in the churches he had he touched lives and those lives touched lives and they touched many more. There’s literally no way of knowing how much of an impact he has had all because he stepped out. He got past the “what if”.<br /><br />What is your “what if”? What is it, big or small, that you feel God is calling you to do but can’t get past the “what if it doesn’t work?” We ask what if because we are only looking at ourselves and what we can do. We think, yeah, I know God can do that but surely He can’t use me to do it. We don’t think He can do it through us and we stop and ask “what if I fail” instead of “what if He succeeds?” I am challenging you, I am challenging myself, right now, get past the “what if”. Step out and do what God is asking. Will you always get the results you want or expect? Maybe not, you will; however, get His results, and you will know that you did it. You will know that you heard God and stepped out in faith to do what He has told you. And besides, what if it does work?</div>
tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-73401534735758647502015-02-16T13:55:00.002-05:002015-02-16T13:55:26.276-05:00Why Doesn't He Stop the Waves?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">God has continued to speak to me about faith. Specifically about trusting in Him no matter
what the circumstances might say. Kind
of a continuation on the last post I made about certainty being the opposite of
faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Take a look at Matthew 8 <span class="text"><sup>23 </sup>Then
he got into the boat and his disciples followed him.</span> <span id="en-NIV-23370"><sup>24 </sup>Suddenly a furious storm
came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was
sleeping.</span> <span id="en-NIV-23371"><span class="text"><sup>25 </sup>The
disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!”</span>
<sup>26 </sup>He replied, </span><span class="woj">“You of little faith, why
are you so afraid?”</span><span class="text"> Then he got up and rebuked the
winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.</span> I had always read this passage as Jesus calling out His
disciples for not having enough faith to quiet the waves themselves. However, He asked “Why are you so afraid?” He was not chastising them for not rebuking
the storm; He couldn't believe that they didn't trust Him enough to know that
He would protect them even in the middle of the storm. He didn't have to “let” the storm even
occur. He could have rebuked it as soon
as it started. There are all types of
scenarios but He chose to let it rage.
His disciples could have been asleep, resting in Him, just as He was
resting in His Father but they chose to look at the circumstances, the created
instead of the creator.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Reading again in Matthew 14: <span class="text"><sup>22 </sup>Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the
boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd.</span>
<span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-23621">23 </span></sup>After he had
dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that
night, he was there alone,</span> <span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-23622">24 </span></sup>and the boat was already a considerable distance
from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.</span> <sup>25 </sup>Shortly before dawn Jesus
went out to them, walking on the lake. <span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-23624">26 </span></sup>When the disciples saw him walking on the lake,
they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.</span> <sup>27 </sup>But Jesus immediately said
to them: <span class="woj">“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”</span> <span class="text"><sup>28 </sup>“Lord, if
it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”</span> <span class="woj"><sup>29 </sup>“Come,”</span><span class="text"> he said.</span> Then Peter
got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. <span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-23628">30 </span></sup>But when he saw the wind,
he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”</span> <sup>31 </sup>Immediately Jesus reached
out his hand and caught him. <span class="woj">“You of little faith,”</span><span class="text"> he said, </span><span class="woj">“why did you doubt?”</span> <span class="text"><sup>32 </sup>And
when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.</span> <span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-23631">33 </span></sup>Then those who were in the
boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” </span>Again in this passage Jesus could
have stopped the wind before calling Peter out into the water but He didn't. Peter stepped out into the water and as he
focused on Jesus he was walking on water.
Can you imagine that? What must
that have felt like? To be doing
something that only one other man in recorded history had or has ever done and
that other man was the Son of God Himself!
Peter began to look at the circumstances and began to sink. I don’t believe that it was the fact that he
looked at the circumstances that he sank.
I don’t believe that Jesus rebuked him for looking at them. Sometimes all we can see are the
circumstances surrounding us. I believe
that as Jesus said “why did you doubt?” He
was saying, yes there was wind, yes there were waves, but I had you! Isn't it enough to know that He has us?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text">I have gone through a lot of
storms. I have seen friends go through
and have friends who are currently going through storms. Some of these storms I wonder if I can make
it, I sometimes have wondered how I made it.
I wonder if my friends can make it.
I wonder if I were in their shoes could I hold up as well as I see them
holding up. I often wonder “why doesn't God just swoop in and fix it immediately?”
I am not saying that God can’t do that.
I am not saying that God won’t do that.
I have seen it happen many times, miraculous moves of God, immediate
restoration. What I am saying is that in
those darkest of times when things don’t happen in the way and the timing that
you are expecting and all hope seems to be lost don’t ask yourself “what am I
doing wrong?” Don’t ask “has God
forsaken me?” What you should think is “I
am going to go to the front of the boat and sleep with Jesus because he is in
control.” Choose to wrap yourself in the
knowledge that He has already proved His love for us in that while we were
still sinners He loved us so much that He sent His only Son to die for us
(Romans 5:8). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text">Another
passage in which I often find rest </span><span class="woj">“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power
is made perfect in weakness.”</span><span class="text"> Therefore I will boast all the more gladly
about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.</span> <span class="text"><sup><span id="en-NIV-29033">10 </span></sup>That
is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships,
in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.</span>
(2 Corinthians 12: 9 – 10)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It doesn't even have to be a
storm. It can be something that you believe God has spoken to you, something He
has put on your heart. For example, my
wife and I know that God has called us to adopt. I continue to try to figure out God’s plan
and wonder why He isn't doing something right now. Another example, our family is at a point where our oldest
son is getting ready to start his final year of high school and we wonder what
God has for him. Both of these things
are good things but they can bring fear into my life. Fear of the unknown, of failure, of how the
heck are we going to pay for it??? I
have to rest in the fact that He has already done it I just haven’t seen it
yet, “the evidence of things not seen.” I
have to realize it is okay to have uncertainty of how, when, or where as long as I have complete
confidence in who.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text">And lastly John 16: 33</span>“I have told you these things, so that in me
you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have
overcome the world.”</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span>tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-20646333115711040942015-02-01T11:51:00.001-05:002015-02-01T11:51:38.329-05:00What is Faith? <p dir="ltr">I would like to share a verse with you. I have a couple different versions so that you know that I'm not lying.  Just ponder on these for a few minutes. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Hebrews 11:1 NKJV<br>
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Hebrews 11:1 NIV<br>
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Hebrews11:1 NLT<br>
Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I guess the real question I would like to pose is, what is the OPPOSITE of faith?</p>
<p dir="ltr">Think about it for a minute. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Who said doubt, fear, or something like<br>
that?</p>
<p dir="ltr">Pause for dramatic affect...</p>
<p dir="ltr">How about Certainty? </p>
<p dir="ltr">I was challenged the first time I heard Pastor Steven Furtick of Elevation Church say this but as I have chewed on it over the last few weeks I have come to truly believe it.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If we are certain, we don't need faith.  If I am certain of exactly how, when, and where something was going to happen I wouldn't need faith in who is going to do it.  Faith is confidence of what is hoped for.  Hope means we don't know how or when or we wouldn't be hoping for it.  So we hope for it and then faith gives us the confidence in WHO!  I am confident in God, in His provision, in His ability.  I am not and cannot ever be certain of how,  when, or where or I would not need faith in Him.  I am definitely not certain of my own strength or ability.  All I can be is confident in Him and what He has called me to be and do. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I believe it is time to step out to do this thing. To do what God has told us to do and be confident in Him.  Do it now before He finds someone else to do it.</p>
tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-69103831604487351502014-09-11T15:22:00.000-04:002014-09-11T15:22:16.781-04:00His Voice<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It seems like for several weeks now my time of pursuing the Lord has been so personal that, when I go to type out something to share, I don't know what to say.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Do you ever have times like that? I don't know...like you are tucked away in a secret place with the Spirit of God, and He is whispering things to you faster than you can process them? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Please know that it is never that I don't <i>want </i>to share, but I've learned to be still and listen when the season changes too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This has been a sweet time of resting in the Lord for me. Through all the craziness that surrounded my surgery...despite everything that could have been, I'm so thankful that my eyes have been on eternity and my ears have been tuned to the voice of the King.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I feel so sorry for people who think God is a joke...that God doesn't speak...that He isn't loving or ever-present to help us by His Spirit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I hear the voice of the Lord so easily. I don't mean that boastfully in any way. I mean it to glorify Him. This should be our "normal" as His children. This was never meant to be something super-spiritual or mind-blowing or even something too outrageous to believe.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus tore the veil that separated us from the Father. He yearns to be with us minute-by-minute. He rejoices over us with singing and His thoughts toward us outnumber the grains of sand!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">He is a personal God. He cares.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">One can argue about the Bible. One can argue theology. At the end of the day, one cannot argue <i>my</i> experiences. They are mine, and I can never be convinced I haven't, time and time again, met with the One, True Spirit of God.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had a dear friend ask me some months ago how I know I am hearing the voice of the Lord. Wow, that is a hard question to answer about a voice that usually isn't audible!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I can only explain that I know my husband's voice. If I were blindfolded and could only hear Tom's voice, I would know it. I would know each of my children, my mom, my dad, my friends...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">How do we recognize the voices of those we love? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We have spent enough time with them that we "just know" them. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We can't really explain <i>how </i>we know, but we do, don't we? No one is going to convince us that isn't our child's voice we hear!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">That's how it is for me. I know the Lord's voice because I have spent much time with Him and He is now familiar. I know when I'm hearing Him and when I'm not.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I want to share some more on how I recognize the Lord, but for today, I leave you with this:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 500; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px;">
<span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;">John 10:14</span><span class="passage-display-version" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline;">Amplified Bible (AMP)</span></h1>
<div class="verse" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-top: 1em;">
<span class="text John-10-14" id="en-AMP-26494" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">14 </span>I am the Good Shepherd; and I know <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</i> recognize My own, and My own know <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">and </i>recognize Me—</span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-50253634917624906462014-06-26T23:36:00.001-04:002014-06-26T23:36:23.174-04:00Quiet TimeI have found myself wondering lately what others do for their personal quiet time with the Lord. There are so many ways to practice His presence! One of my favorite things to do is to take Scriptures or the devotionals I'm reading and turn them into prayers that I write out in my journal. This way, when I'm having a rough time and feel stuck or don't know how to pray, I just open my journal and read it aloud. It soothes my soul and reminds me of God's love, grace, and mercy. It helps me exalt him above every problem and circumstance. It's so easy to knock the personal, intimate time to the bottom of the shuffle in a busy day, but my day feels so off when I allow that! When I seek God first, I am just a much more peaceful person. I'm pretty sure everyone around me appreciates it. :) <br />
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-52993723743893207272014-03-27T14:55:00.000-04:002014-03-27T14:55:33.842-04:00Honor<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Looking further into aspects of humility, I studied honor with the Youth and Young Adults groups.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">By definition, honor is regarding something or someone as precious; reverence or respect. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">We no longer live in a culture where most people are taught to honor others. Oh, we hear terms like "tolerance," but to merely put up with something someone does is not the same as honoring them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Enjoy these discussion notes, based on the book, Honor's Reward by John Bevere.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b>Honor<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Before you
can honor another, you must <i>choose</i>
humility<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Honor</b> is to value; see as weighty and
precious; to reverence and respect<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
You receive
many blessings just by becoming a child of God through the acceptance of the
shed blood of Jesus Christ. But, there
are other blessings/rewards you only receive by honoring those God has
appointed in your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Think about
it like this: just by being your parents’
child, you receive some things like a place to live, clothes to wear, and food
to eat. By <i>honoring</i> your parents, however, you can receive other
privileges/rewards/blessings, such as driving a car, having a phone, or using
your parent’s credit card.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>By choosing humility and honor, you
determine which rewards you receive.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Obviously,
we know we should honor God above anyone else, but He has also set up a
kingdom, not a democracy! He has
appointed leaders in positions of authority.
If you say you honor authority yet refrain from submission and obedience
to it, you deceive yourself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Apostle
Paul wrote in Romans 13:1-2, “Let <i>every</i>
soul be subject to the governing authorities.
<b>For there is no authority except
from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God</b>. Therefore, <b>whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Paul is
referring to <i>all</i> areas of delegated
authority (this is authority entrusted to another; people are God’s delegated
authority on earth). The New Testament
speaks of 4 divisions of delegated authority: civil, social, family, and church. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Here are
some verses to give you an idea of what God expects of you in each area. Note, however, that though we are told that
all authority is <b>of</b> God, He doesn’t
say that all authority is godly!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Harsh
leaders <i>will</i> give an account to God,
but those placed under their rule will be tested like David under Saul. If they choose to honor, they will be
rewarded! It is profitable for us to
honor the position and our Father who placed the leader there, even if we
dislike them or disagree with them. Also
realize this though: you are not
required to obey a leader who is asking you to sin! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><u>Civil Authority/Honor: (government)<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Romans 13:3-7<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
3 For rulers
hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want
to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you
will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good.
But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.
They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.
5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of
possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>1 Peter 2:17<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
17 Show
proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the
king.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><u>Social Authority/Honor: (employers,
teachers, coaches, etc…)<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
(*These
verses refer to the work we have to do)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>1 Timothy 6:1<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
6 All who
are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full
respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 6:5-8<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
5 Slaves,
obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart,
just as you would obey Christ. 6 Obey them not only to win their favor when
their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your
heart. 7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, 8
because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do,
whether they are slave or free.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><u>Family Authority/Honor:<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 5:33<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
33 However,
each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must
respect her husband.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>1 Peter 3:7<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
7 Husbands,
in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with
respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of
life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 5:22<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
22 Wives,
submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Titus 2:4-5<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
4 Then they
(the older women) can urge the younger women to love their husbands and
children, 5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and
to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Psalm 127:3<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
3 Children
are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
(*The
following two verses can be applicable in the other areas of delegated
authority as well. “Little ones” can
mean children or newer believers in the faith.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Matthew 18:6-7<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
6 If anyone
causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be
better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be
drowned in the depths of the sea. 7 Woe to the world because of the things that
cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through
whom they come!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Matthew 18:10<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
10 “See that
you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels
in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 6:2-3<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
2 “Honor
your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— 3 “so
that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Leviticus 20:9<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
9 “‘Anyone
who curses their father or mother is to be put to death. Because they have
cursed their father or mother, their blood will be on their own head. (Thank heaven for Jesus and grace! God was pretty serious about this, wasn’t
He?)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Proverbs 29:15</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
15 A rod and
a reprimand impart wisdom, but a child left undisciplined disgraces its mother.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><u>Church Authority/Honor:<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 4:11<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
11 So Christ
himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and
teachers <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>1 Thessalonians 5:12-13<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
12 Now we
ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you,
who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest
regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Hebrews 13:17<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
17 Have
confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep
watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work
will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>John 13:20</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
20 Very
truly I tell you, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts
me accepts the one who sent me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Matthew 10:40-42<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
40 “Anyone
who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who
sent me. 41 Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s
reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will
receive a righteous person’s reward. 42 And if anyone gives even a cup of cold
water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that
person will certainly not lose their reward.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Do you treat all people with dignity and
respect (honor)? God makes it clear in 1
Peter 2:17 that He indeed means <b>all
people. <o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Do you find yourself criticizing, judging,
or making fun of others…even if it is in your mind but you don’t say it
aloud? Or maybe you do say it
aloud. Do you gossip about others behind their
back? Do you repeat things you've heard
and slander others? Do you know that God
says you will give an account for every idle word you speak? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Do you make it a point to be a friend to
those who others don’t deem worthy or are you too cool for that? Do you exclude others from your circle? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Do you do what authority asks of you with a
happy and willing heart? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Do you give honor where honor is due? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Honor is displayed through submission
(attitude) and obedience (action). <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Your honor determines your reward.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><i>Isaiah
1: 17-20<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>17 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead
the case of the widow. 18 “Come now, let
us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though
your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red
as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you
will eat the good things of the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel, you will
be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth
of the Lord has spoken.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-52188362703623739242014-03-27T14:49:00.002-04:002014-03-27T14:49:45.597-04:00Humility<span style="font-size: large;">In the Young Adults group at our church, we have been discussing humility. It was an eye-opening study! Enjoy these notes :)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: center;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: center;">Humility is not:</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Feeling
sorry for yourself <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Putting
yourself down<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Pretending
you can’t do anything right; God has given you gifts & abilities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Thinking/focusing
on yourself all the time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Lowering
yourself to other people and letting them walk all over you<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Completely
denying yourself (for example, taking a vow of poverty…that doesn’t make you
humble; that makes you poor!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Humility is:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Loving
yourself in a way that does not put you over <i>anyone</i> else; you are not better or worse than anyone!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Recognizing
that you are <i>who</i> you are and <i>what</i> you are because GOD gifted and
enabled you; you are not an amazing self-creation!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
~Submitting
to the will of God, believing He knows all the answers and the way to your best
life<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>James 4:6</b> God opposes the proud but
gives grace (His empowerment) to the humble.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>God provides His empowerment to those who
don’t rely on their own power and strength, but instead allow Him to lead the
way. The proud are those who believe
that they know best, try to do everything in their own power, by their own
ego. This doesn’t mean a person is to
just sit back and not act. It means one
watches and listens for His leading and follows Him. Therefore, greater humility is greater power. When you become less, God and others can become
more, and in return, God will exalt and promote you. Over and over, we are told in the Bible to
humble ourselves; it is our choice.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Humility
comes before honor<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Proverbs 15:33</b> The fear (the reverence,
awe, and honor) of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor
comes humility. (You can’t honor another
until you humble yourself.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Grace is
given to the humble<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>1 Peter 5:5-6 </b>You younger men,
likewise, be subject to your elders; and <b>all</b>
of you, <b>clothe yourselves</b> with
humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace
to the humble. <b>Humble yourselves</b>,
therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper
time. (You don’t have to make yourself
something great. You follow God and HE
will make you great for His glory.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Humility
goes hand-in-hand with prayer<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>2 Chronicles 7:14 </b>And My people who are
called by My name <b>shall humble
themselves</b> and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, <b>then</b> I will hear from heaven, will
forgive their sin, and will heal their land (their inheritance-what they have
been given and entrusted with).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Humilty and
faith<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Romans 12:3 </b>For through the grace given
to me, I say <b>to every man</b> among you
not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as
to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. (You may think you are better than others,
but God doesn’t see it that way!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*God has
given us the gift of grace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Ephesians 2:8-9 </b>For by grace you have
been saved through faith; and that <b>not
of yourselves, it is the gift of God</b>; not as a result of works, that <b>no one should boast</b>. (You have nothing to boast about; it’s all
God!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*We all fall
short <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Romans 3:23 </b>For <b>all</b> have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Humility
involves putting others first<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Philippians 2:3-11<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Do <b>nothing</b> from selfishness or empty
conceit, but <b>with humility of mind let
each of you regard one another as more important than himself</b>; do not
merely <b>look out for</b> your own
personal interests, but also for the interests of <b>others</b>. <b>Have this attitude
in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus</b>, who, although He existed in
the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but <b>emptied Himself</b>, taking the form of a
bond-<b>servant</b>, and being made in the
likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, <b>He humbled Himself by becoming obedient</b> to the point of death, even
death on a cross. <b>Therefore </b>also, <b>God</b> highly <b>exalted Him</b>, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every
name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those who are in
heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord, <b>to the glory
of God</b> the Father. (It’s not about you!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*Humility
shows we have been chosen by God<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Colossians 3:12 </b>And so, as those who
have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, <b>put
on</b> a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
(Your fruit will prove where your heart really is no matter what your words
say! Can others watch you and know you
are a Christian, or do they get confused or even turned away from Christianity because
your walk doesn’t match your talk?)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
*The humble
shall be exalted<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>Matthew 23:12 </b>And whoever exalts
himself shall be humbled; and whoever <b>humbles
himself</b> shall be exalted. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>Remember what God said to Cain in Genesis 4:6-7? “Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you
angry? Why is your face downcast? 7 If you do what is right, will you not be
accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it
desires to have you, but you must rule over it.’” Do you trust God to exalt you or do you find
yourself doing things to be accepted?
One of the saddest tragedies in life is to look back years later and
regret the actions or lack of actions of your youth. Choose humility.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-34225777148962218452014-03-07T14:23:00.001-05:002014-03-08T05:43:30.277-05:00Still Not Being Still<p dir="ltr">Sad how chaotic and crazy daily life has become in this culture. Most of us rush around, hustling and bustling families all over, from the time we roll out of bed until the time we fall into it! </p>
<p dir="ltr">Even if we can manage to squash our schedules enough to stop running so much, it seems we still contend with our minds that never stop racing thoughts here and there. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I had a blessed moment today while waiting to pick my son up from physical therapy. I had just zipped through the grocery store and gotten that checked off my to-do list and then, there I was...just sitting. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I was only sitting still because I didn't have enough time to get any other errand done! But what a gift in the middle of my day. </p>
<p dir="ltr">BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD... Prov. 46:10</p>
<p dir="ltr">I realized in my quiet moment that when I don't take the time to get still, I get wrapped up in trying to <i>be </i>God to myself and others. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I have to remember to slow down and be intentional. <br>
</p>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-66750040109243992072014-02-26T13:01:00.001-05:002014-02-26T13:01:57.321-05:00Hospitality<span style="font-size: large;">As I was cleaning the other day, I found myself getting very irritable. </span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Do you ever have those times when you go to clean or do a project around your home and you start seeing <i>all</i> the other things that need attention?</span><div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I admit that this overwhelms me some days! I think, "Wow, all I feel like I do is clean, but still filth is everywhere and how does this stuff get broken and when do they do this and...and...and...are you kidding me???"</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I live with five males. I don't think any of them notice what I notice. Three of them are young and they don't really equate things to money like I would like! They don't quite see the "big deal" about water rings on tables or carpet that hasn't been vacuumed and is accumulating dust!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have made A LOT of progress in letting some of this go and relaxing, but I will be honest and say that I often dread cleaning anything for I know I will get extremely bothered by what I see!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, just so you understand, I'm not some haughty, uppity, snob who has a million-dollar estate with designer furniture and knick-knacks! We are a "typical" (I guess) middle-class family, who lives on a budget and buys most things on sale!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have spent time in third-world countries witnessing true poverty unlike anything I have seen around the United States. I <i>know well</i> that because I have a vehicle and clean water, I am among the top 8% of the richest people in the world! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">That makes me feel utterly grateful and yet terribly guilty at the same time. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I have went through seasons of severe depression trying to reconcile what I have seen others live in and what God has given me when I return from mission trips.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">That has all helped me to relax and let uptight worries go in my beautiful, well-built, warm and spacious home. However, I am human and stuff still gets to me. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think in a way, seeing the poverty I've seen has made me more frustrated as far as trying to get my sons to understand that we should be good stewards because we have been given so much.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My husband and I believe with all our hearts that the only reason we are blessed with <i>any</i> of this is <i>TO BE</i> a blessing to others. We have had multiple people live with us over the years and will continue to do so as God directs us. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We have purposefully decided we will not hoard, be greedy, or turn anyone in need away if we have it to give and God says that is good ground in which to sow.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We will also not live in fear of giving because the Word says, "GIVE and it shall be given to you..." We realize we cannot "out-give" God!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">But as I was cleaning the other day and finding all kinds of things falling apart and needing fixing or deeply cleaned, or repainted, etc... I thought about all the traffic that flows through our home. I thought about how fast things get worn out and then I found myself getting anxious that we wouldn't be able to get it all taken care of in the time it would be needed.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Thankfully, I heard that still, small voice whisper. "This isn't your concern. You have no reason to fear. I know what you need. You take care of my sheep, and I will provide."</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then, I began to think how it seems I have NO good reason EVER to not be hospitable. I have found no exception to this verse: </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a class="bibleref" href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+4%3A9&version=ESV" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;">1 Peter 4:9</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #625529; font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 18px;"> Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't see sickness excusing me...even though when I was down after a surgery, I desperately wanted to tell people they couldn't come over and see the mess.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't see busyness excusing me...even though some days, after teaching my kids all day and running to appointments, I just want to collapse in bed!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't see my mood excusing me...even though some days I am so mentally and emotionally exhausted from dealing with other circumstances.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I don't see inconvenience or my husband's work schedule or my lack of neatness or organization or my non-designer furniture or decor or my fear of judgment from others or that something could not be replaced when needed... </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I can think of <i>nothing</i> I could grumble about inside my mind excusing me from God's call to open my door to others.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">OUCH! That is hard for me, how about you? But, I pray I will never stop having my heart laid bare before the Word of God. It indeed is living and active, dividing the intents of the heart!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Praise Him!</span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-90218315242903250902014-02-21T11:58:00.000-05:002014-02-21T11:58:16.618-05:00A Clean Slate<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Extending grace to others can sometimes challenge me. I try very hard to keep in mind how much God has forgiven me. I try to remind myself that no one else's sin is greater than my own. ALL sin put Jesus on the cross.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">In day-to-day life though, I find that I constantly get stretched to extend that grace. With my children, I especially have a hard time knowing when to offer more grace and when to discipline.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It hurts me when I see them sin. When they choose to do something that I know they know we have taught them not to do and that they know God doesn't want them to do, it just makes me ache.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Tom and I have tried to teach our sons that we don't have a list of rules, nor does God have a list of rules, they must follow to earn our love or salvation. Those things are free gifts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But God does give us a book of wisdom that teaches us how to live under His protection and have the most abundant life possible. His "rules" are actually guidelines to help us do things His right way. His way leads to life, not death. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course there are things in my own life that I'm certain makes God ache. He is my Father, and He probably mourns my choices and hurts for me. I crave His patience and understanding...His long-suffering love and His slowness to anger.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I can only guess that my children want the same from me, whether they can articulate that to me or not.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's so hard to extend these things when you feel like you have told someone over and over again what to do or not do...when you have discussed and forgiven and given chances time and time again!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We walked through some things this week, and I was so angry with two of my boys right before bed one night. The next morning when I woke, I heard the Holy Spirit nudging me to get up and make them their favorite breakfast.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, you know my flesh was fighting. "God, they don't <i>deserve</i> that!" And quickly, I realized how much I don't deserve grace or mercy either.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sigh. I made them breakfast. They were visibly shocked. They thanked me. They even apologized for their choices. We had a much better week.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Wouldn't you know it though, that one of them lied to me again yesterday. It was about something ridiculous that he just didn't feel like doing, but what we are trying to help him see is that if you can be trusted with little, you can be trusted with much.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Sigh again. It was time for me to offer some more grace and mercy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lamentations 3 </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold;">22 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Because of the</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">’s great love</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-20377AI" title="See cross-reference AI">AI</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">we are not consumed,</span><br />
<span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-22" style="position: relative;">for his compassions never fail.</span></span><div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold;">23 </span><span class="text Lam-3-23" id="en-NIV-20378" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">They are new every morning;</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Lam-3-23" style="position: relative;">great is your faithfulness.</span></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Each morning, God let's me start with a clean slate. It is mine to do the same for others.</span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-6092692070942861852014-02-13T23:52:00.001-05:002014-02-13T23:53:09.440-05:00Rejoice with Others<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Love in Action</span>~Romans 12</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 <span style="background-color: lime;">Rejoice with those who rejoice</span>; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[d] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[e]</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I have had this portion of Scripture running through my head a lot in the last week and maybe February 14th is a great time to talk about it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This passage is called "Love in Action" in the New International Version. There are so many great reminders here about how we should CHOOSE to treat one another, but the highlighted part above is what I have had running through my mind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Rejoice with those who are rejoicing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It's not that this particular sentence is more important than the rest; it's just that I have seen so many people struggling to do it lately!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I am the type of person who hears something great that happened to someone else and I may have a thought like, "Oh wow! They got a new car! I can't wait for that day for us!" But very quickly I forget about me and I am just genuinely happy for them. I don't struggle with being bitter or envious, etc... </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I have sadly noticed though that this isn't the case for some Christians. They covet each other's homes, vacations, clothes, even their spiritual gifts!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A couple weeks ago we found out that my husband won a very nice award for being the top engineer in his region. He also won an expensive trip to a luxury resort in Mexico!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course we were rejoicing! My husband works HARD! He travels most days of the year and our entire family makes a lot of sacrifices to make that happen. In my opinion, he absolutely deserves this award, though he would tell you, award or not, he does his job not for the </span>accolades<span style="font-family: inherit;"> of man, but for the glory of God. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This portion of Scripture came to my mind as I found myself hesitant to tell certain people about Tom's award because I new that they wouldn't just say congrats or be able to be happy for us, but they would say some remark about how nothing like that ever happens for them...blah, blah, blah.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I just don't get that. I get that life is hard and sometimes you don't get rewarded for hard work, but I don't understand not rejoicing with someone else.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am a firm believer that our attitude determines our altitude, meaning how we appear, act, and react, will have much to do with how we are promoted in this world. Nobody enjoys being around grumblers and incessant complainers...Negative Nellie's and Oh-Woe-Is-Me Mildred's!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We all have choices each day to become part of the problem or part of the solution...to be faithful in the little so we can be trusted with much. And just what do we do when we feel like we have been faithful and have worked hard? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We trust God and we wait patiently, believing that if we do not grow weary in doing well, if we do not grow faint, in due time we shall reap our reward.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When our eyes are on the reward, they are often not on the Rewarder. How do we change that? We seek Him. Hebrews 11:6 says that He is a rewarder of those who <i>diligently </i>seek Him. We seek Him diligently...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="header" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 2px; word-wrap: break-word;">
<h2 class="me" data-syllable="dil·i·gent" style="color: black; display: inline; font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
dil·i·gent</h2>
<span style="bottom: 1ex; font-size: 0.75em; height: 0px; line-height: 1; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;"></span> <span class="pronset"><span audio="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/audio/luna/D03/D0308300.mp3" default="http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/lunaWAV/D03/D0308300"></span> <span class="show_spellpr" style="display: inline;"><span class="prondelim" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[</span><span class="pron" style="display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="boldface" style="font-weight: 700;">dil</span>-i-j<span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;">uh</span><img alt="" border="0" class="luna-Img" src="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/graphics/luna/thinsp.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: text-top;" /><img alt="" border="0" class="luna-Img" src="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/graphics/luna/thinsp.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: text-top;" />nt</span><span class="prondelim" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">]</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="body" style="color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 13px; margin: 0em 0px 0em 0em; padding: 0px;">
<div class="pbk" style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<span class="pg" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 3px;"><span id="hotword"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">adjective</span></span></span><br />
<div class="luna-Ent" style="background-image: none; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px;">
<span class="dnindex" style="background-color: white; color: #7b7b7b; display: block; float: left; font-weight: bold; width: 28px;"><span id="hotword">1.</span></span><br />
<div class="dndata" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span id="hotword"><span style="background-color: lime;"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">constant</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">effort</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">to</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">accomplish</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">something;</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: lime;"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">attentive</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">and</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">persistent</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">in</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">doing</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">anything:</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><span class="ital-inline" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;"><span id="hotword"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">diligent </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">student.</span></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="luna-Ent" style="background-image: none; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px;">
<span class="dnindex" style="background-color: white; color: #7b7b7b; display: block; float: left; font-weight: bold; width: 28px;"><span id="hotword">2.</span></span><br />
<div class="dndata" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span id="hotword"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">done</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">or</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">pursued</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">with</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">persevering</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: white;">attention;</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span style="background-color: lime;">painstaking</span><span style="background-color: white;">:</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><span class="ital-inline" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;"><span id="hotword"><span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">diligent</span> <span class="hwc onclk" id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #9999ff; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: underline;">search</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">the</span> <span class="hwc" id="hotword" name="hotword">files.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;"><span class="hwc" name="hotword"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="dndata" style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;"><span class="hwc" name="hotword"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-84364289293520018882014-01-08T10:57:00.000-05:002014-01-08T11:25:39.596-05:00God "Is" (My take on Jonah)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I have been thinking about and
reading the book of Jonah recently.
Because it is only four chapters I actually read it multiple times, and
in a couple different versions Monday. So,
while sitting in my hotel room waiting for a part to be delivered I decided I
would try to express what God has been speaking to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
What initially got me thinking
about Jonah is the biggest thing God has put on my heart recently, the question
of “Who am I to try to limit God?” God
has really impressed on me that He “Is”.
What does that mean? I think
about when He told Moses to go the Pharaoh and say “I am” sent you. Or like the ebay commercial “whatever ‘it’ is”. God “Is”.
He is everything! He created everything! He knows everything! Is that enough everythings? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Jonah knew this, yet he, like I
often have, tried to force his will on God.
God told him to do something that he did not want to do, something that
made him uncomfortable (yes, God does do that).
And instead of doing it he ran.
He tried to hide from God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
We read later in chapters three and
four why he ran.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Jonah 3:10 When God saw what they had done and how they had
put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the
destruction he had threatened.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Jonah 4:1 <span class="text">This change of plans greatly upset
Jonah, and he became very angry.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="text"><b><sup><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"><span id="en-NLT-22547">2 </span></span></sup></b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">So he complained to the </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">about it: “Didn't I say before I left home
that you would do this,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and
compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are
eager to turn back from destroying people.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> </span></span><span class="text"><b><sup><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"><span id="en-NLT-22548">3 </span></span></sup></b><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Just kill me now,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"> </span></span><span class="small-caps"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">! I’d rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.”</span>
(NLT)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Jonah let his pride get in the way of him
doing what God wanted him to do. He was
more concerned about looking foolish in man’s eyes than obedient in God’s! To top it off while he was in the belly of
the fish he cried out to God and repented and God showed him mercy. Yet when the people of Nineveh cried out and
repented Jonah did not want God to show them mercy. Not just because they did not deserve it but
because he did not want to be wrong! He
said he would rather be dead than be wrong!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">At the end of the story Jonah still goes
up on a hill to watch and see if God will destroy the city. He still wanted God to do what he wanted Him
to do. He still tried to force his will
on God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">What God is saying to me through
this is that when I step out of His will I do open the door for the enemy to
come in and attack me (Jonah in the storm then the fish’s belly). However, He is faithful and just to forgive
me, 1 John 1:9, and He will redeem the plan that He has for me. I have to be willing to do what He is asking me even if it makes me look foolish. I cannot let my pride get in the way of His will. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">As stated earlier, the other thing I continue to hear is
that no matter what happens He “Is”. If
the plan is not what I wanted or expected He still “Is”. If it did not happen in my timing He still “Is”. God is my everything and I cannot limit what
He is going to do.</span></span></div>
tomoncewaslosthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01031505856208777300noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-14589550769690948402014-01-08T10:42:00.001-05:002014-01-08T10:42:52.450-05:00My Part<p dir="ltr">I love the quiet moments of the morning when I get to read something with no loud sounds or flourishing movements around me. Just the gentle lull of the refrigerator and furnace for which I am so grateful. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It is some degrees below zero outside with whistling wind. Why I am allowed to enjoy a cozy and warm home while others endure homelessness I do not know. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The question is what do I do with that? </p>
<p dir="ltr">I have thankfully been blessed to spend time in foreign countries and see how poor that poor can be. The images are seared into my mind. I can almost smell the nauseating smells and see the patches of missing hair from the malnourished. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Oh, to be sure, it has made me a giver. I try to listen intently to the Holy Spirit's leading and give everywhere He says to give. It never feels like enough though. Never. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I suppose it never can feel like enough. This side of heaven, in a fallen world, with hurt and hardship, turmoil and trial, I will never be able to meet all the need I see or feel. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I guess that's why we are each touched by different causes...so we can each do a part. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I pray we will all seek our part. I pray we can all find a quiet moment to get alone with the Father and seek His face and listen carefully for the still, small whisper. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Thank you for speaking Lord. </p>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-62502698492501977602013-03-12T19:11:00.001-04:002013-03-12T19:11:14.318-04:00Faithful to the Faithless<span style="font-size: large;">I was reading about the parable of the seeds in Luke today. It is interesting to think of all the Word that is sown and where it falls and what happens to it. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think of where I would be if I had not chosen to cling to the Word and see fruit grow. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think of how I have watched so many let the seed be snatched away so easily.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think of all the Bibles I have in my home and the people around the world who have none.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I think of the story I read my sons about the little child who wanted a Bible of her own so badly that she worked and saved and walked for miles to get one.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Why don't we make reading the Word and writing it on our hearts more of a priority?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We are such self-centered people who let business get in our way.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My dear friend, Carolyn, taught last Wednesday at women's group that BUSY means Being Under Satan's Yoke. I think this is an excellent reminder of what is happening when we are so otherwise occupied that we can't even get into the Word and sit at His feet.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lord, thank you that you love us wholly and completely, even when we drift. You are so faithful to the faithless! It humbles me today.</span>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-35679604115031334212013-02-26T01:13:00.000-05:002013-02-26T01:13:18.428-05:00Take Up Your Weapons and Fight!<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Let's recap. In the past posts, we have: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*looked at what we received from Jesus-grace and mercy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*examined whether we live reacting to our flesh and what the enemy throws at us or if we choose to be proactive</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*gleaned from Anna's example to live purposefully</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*saw in the Word how we can come boldly before the throne of God in grace and ask our requests</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*broke down why we should pray</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*understood the importance of Jesus' prayer life</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*learned that prayer cultivates a passion for God's presence</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*realized how to guard our hearts</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">*pondered how the Word changes us and our situations</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Now let's consider our authority...because let's face it, you can pray what is on your heart, even believe that God cares and is listening, and welcomes you before Him, BUT, if you don't think you have a "right," you probably aren't going to pray with power.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Luke 10...</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span class="text Luke-10-18" id="en-NLT-25350" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">18 </sup><span class="woj">“Yes,”</span> he told them, <span class="woj">“I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning!</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Luke-10-19" id="en-NLT-25351" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">19 </sup><span class="woj">Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Luke-10-20" id="en-NLT-25352" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">20 </sup><span class="woj">But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.”</span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When Adam and Eve made their choice to disobey God, they forfeited their authority...their power to rule and have dominion over the earth. That power became Satan's, and the Word shows us this when we read of Satan tempting Jesus in Luke 4...</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span class="text Luke-4-5" id="en-NLT-25037" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">5 </sup>Then the devil took him up and revealed to him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Luke-4-6" id="en-NLT-25038" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">6 </sup>“I will give you the glory of these kingdoms and authority over them,” the devil said, “because they are mine to give to anyone I please.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Luke-4-7" id="en-NLT-25039" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">7 </sup>I will give it all to you if you will worship me.”</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thankfully, Jesus loved God more than anything else and did not cave. Because He had spent time with the Father, He believed the Father would give Him all He needed in the end. Jesus went on with His earth mission and we were given back authority over the enemy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hebrews 2...</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8 </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You gave them authority over all things.”</span><sup class="footnote" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-29946c" title="See footnote c">c</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+2&version=NLT#fen-NLT-29946c" style="color: #b37162; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote c">c</a>]</sup><span class="text Heb-2-8" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now when it says “all things,” it means nothing is left out. But we have not yet seen all things put under their authority.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Heb-2-9" id="en-NLT-29947" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">9 </sup>What we do see is Jesus, who was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death for us, he is now “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Heb-2-10" id="en-NLT-29948" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">10 </sup>God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation. </span><span class="text Heb-2-11" id="en-NLT-29949" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">11 </sup>So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters.<sup class="footnote" style="vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-29949d" title="See footnote d">d</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+2&version=NLT#fen-NLT-29949d" style="color: #b37162; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote d">d</a>]</sup></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So we see we have this authority over ALL things...nothing left out. That's EVERYTHING! And then we read that we have not yet <i>seen</i> all things put under our authority. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, I believe it is not because we don't have the authority, but rather because we don't choose to PUT things under the authority we have been given and make it seen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a great, paraphrased illustration from John Bevere's book, Relentless:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A leader sends a soldier into battle, equipping him with all the best weaponry possible to defeat the enemy. When the enemy comes, the soldier, instead of taking up his weapons and fighting, calls the leader on the phone and begs, "Oh Leader, help me! Please help me! The enemy is attacking! I am so tired and just wish they would stop. Why is this happening? Oh woe is me."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The leader replies, "What? What are you doing? I have given you everything you need to fight these foes! They are attacking because they want what you have, but I gave you everything you need to overcome them! You are more than a conqueror! Now take up your weapons and FIGHT!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This changed me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had my understanding opened to all I have been letting the enemy do to me and mine! I don't have to tolerate or simply dodge the fiery arrows of the enemy! NO! I can take up every weapon that Jesus died to put in my hands and I can reign over the enemies of my soul!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, they are mad. Yes, they want what I have! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What do I have that they don't? Forever forgiveness, unending love, high favor, great blessing...and unbroken communion with the Creator of All.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have what the enemy of God can never, ever get back and so, heck yeah, they want to wear me down! We can very easily see what comes from the enemy and what comes from God by using this verse: John 10:10...</span><b>The thief comes only to steal and kill
and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You can bet if something feels like it is being stolen from you or will kill or destroy you, God isn't doing it! Every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father. There is NO darkness in God. He is not evil to His children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the Old Testament under the old covenant (the law), God did punish. Jesus had not come to take on the sin of mankind yet. But, under the new covenant of grace, God no longer seeks to pour out His wrath on you! He sees Jesus in your place, who is constantly making intercession on your behalf...reminding the Father that your debt has been paid in full.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't fear God...reverence and honor Him. Thank Him for grace and mercy that you cannot fathom, but rest in it. Don't be afraid of Him and His anger toward you because Jesus took care of it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Absolutely do not use grace as a license to sin or justify sin! Jesus certainly didn't die for that! But, show your love for Him by obeying what the Word says and bring glory to His wisdom and ways. His Word is meant to guide us and protect us and lead us into abundant life!</span><br />
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-17706066813819926012013-02-22T22:12:00.001-05:002013-02-22T22:12:16.005-05:00Inside Out<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I didn't grow up having prayer </span>modeled for me. I didn't go to any powerful prayer meetings or have parents that prayed in front of me. I wasn't quite sure what prayer should look like or sound like.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After I studied the life of Jesus and saw how important prayer was in His life, I knew I needed to practice it, but the how eluded me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the beginning years of marriage, we went through some pretty rough spots. All things that could have been prevented with some good discipleship when we were younger, but we had made choices and the consequences were not pleasant.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You know how in your selfishness you often see all the flaws of the other person, but justify your own thoughts, feelings, and actions? I used to get so aggravated with my husband. I thought if God could just fix him we would be fine!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's so laughable now. Goodness that man put up with a lot from me. I was so blinded of my own shortcomings! But God is good, and when I cried out for help, He sure met me where I was.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">He led me to a book called The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian. I will be honest that I actually, literally threw it down three times! I couldn't believe I bought a book about praying for my husband (you know, who had the problems) and this woman was telling me in the first chapter to forget about his junk and look at mine! </span></span><span style="font-size: large;">Maybe <i>she</i> had junk, but I wasn't "our" problem. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yeah right! Boy did I get and need an eye opener.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You know what I learned though, as I read this life-changing book? That we all have issues...that usually we are blind to them...that true 1 Corinthians 13 love covers a multitude of sins.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">At the end of each chapter in the book, the author had a prayer written that you could pray. The prayers were saturated with Scripture. That is how I learned to pray God's Word over my life and other people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">God's Word is His will. You can't go wrong when you pray what God says. It is true. And He tells us in Isaiah 55:11</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is the same with my word. </span><span class="text Isa-55-11" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; position: relative;">I send it out, and it always produces fruit. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It will accomplish all I want it to, </span><span class="text Isa-55-11" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; position: relative;">and it will prosper everywhere I send it.</span></b></span><br />
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<span class="text Isa-55-11" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">God's Word is living and powerful and will accomplish His will and not come back void of good fruit.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I meditated on the Word, let my character be shown in the light of it, and let my mind be transformed, my patience and compassion grew for my husband. I learned to be part of the solution instead of being part of the problem.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The enemy and my flesh had me blinded, but the light of God's Word opened my eyes of understanding. Truth set me free and changed me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pray God's Word over your life. Let your ears hear God's view and wisdom. Let it change you from the inside out. Watch it accomplish His will!</span>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-60478491645249751612013-02-21T21:16:00.001-05:002013-02-21T21:16:13.215-05:00Prayers of Thanksgiving Guard the Heart<br />
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<b>Philippians 4:6-7<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in
every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here it is! This is the verse that God anointed with revelation to my heart in the last couple of years!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">How many of us know this one? We can quote it...probably even know a couple different songs with it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">We have heard it in sermons, had others encourage us with it, probably felt guilty by it! But, I want to shout this out: if you can really get what God is saying in these two verses, you can change your daily life!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">All that I have been sharing in previous posts culminates right here!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Let's break it down.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">DO NOT be anxious...okay, not a suggestion here. Don't! Do not! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Don't waste your time being anxious-worried, troubled, but in EVERY SINGLE THING, by prayers and requests WITH THANKSGIVING, talk to God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">THEN, the peace of God...which goes beyond what makes sense to you, will guard your heart and mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now, link this to that famous portion of Proverbs<b> </b>4:23</span><b> Above all else, guard your heart, for
everything you do flows from it.</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I had never seen these verses linked together. Above all the other wisdom being poured out in Proverbs, we are told to guard our heart. I always wondered how to do that!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">NOW I know the how...by choosing to not allow myself to get anxious about anything, but turning every thought into a prayer of thanksgiving so the peace of God can reign in my heart and mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">My choices allow God to be exalted above my troubles and guard my heart so that what flows from it, will produce good fruit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Try to live like this each hour of each day. I dare you!!!</span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-44738483890066403542013-02-20T08:03:00.000-05:002013-02-20T08:03:11.229-05:00Passion for His Presence<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I'm very excited to share this post! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I recently started reading a book on Kindle called Pray What God Says. At the same time, I am doing a Bible study with some friends online, and we are studying the book of Luke. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I was kissed by God as these two resources overlapped one another about the prophetess Anna!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">The portion of Scripture is Luke 2:36-38, and the key points that jumped at me were these:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">*Anna departed NOT from the temple (His presence)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She served God with fasting (abstaining to focus on Him)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She served God with prayer (expressions of help or praise)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She served at night (seasons of challenge, darkness, valleys, dry places)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She served in the day (seasons of good times & blessings)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She gave thanks to the Lord</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">*She spoke of Him to all who looked for redemption</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">What a woman! Here, she lost her hubby, but instead of isolating herself, withdrawing from the Body, pouting or sulking in her pit of despair, Anna gave herself to God...and she did so for years!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">She was purposeful and proactive! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Maybe she learned something through her ordeal. Maybe the enemy's attack on her husband made her downright mad enough to stop being reactive and start doing things a little differently. We don't know. But what we do know, is that Anna <i>chose </i>to be a living sacrifice.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">She offered herself to God and created an atmosphere where His presence was welcome. Like Jesus, she withdrew long enough to seek the Father and came back full of passion and purpose...over and over again!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">She found out how to bring heaven to earth! Her prayer kindled her passion for His presence. It caused her to exalt God above all else. She came to experience what the Word says in Hebrews 11:6...that God is a rewarder of those who seek Him <i>diligently</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">She not only partook in the reward of speaking to those who looked for redemption, but she also got to see Redemption with her own eyes as she watched Simeon bless the baby Jesus when His parents brought Him to the Temple! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Get away. Seek God. Exalt Him above all else in your life. Talk to Him. Listen to Him. Bask in His presence. Let your passion for Him grow. Out of that passion, will spring an admiration for Him that you can't shut-up about, as well as rewards you never imagined!</span><br />
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-39400401770332760262013-02-19T17:24:00.001-05:002013-02-19T17:24:30.383-05:00Jesus Prayed & Glory Revealed<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jesus prayed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I know you know. But really, think about that for a few.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jesus needed to, so we better, don't ya think?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jesus desired, even seemed to crave time to talk with God. He rose early to do so. He pulled away from the crowd. He went away to solitary places to get alone with the Father!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">He is the one who tells us in Matthew 7:7-8 </span><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="text Matt-7-7" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">7 </sup>“Ask and it will be given to you;<sup class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23324E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup> seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Matt-7-8" id="en-NIV-23325" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;">8 </sup>For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds;<sup class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23325F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup> and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.</span></span></b><br />
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<span class="text Matt-7-8"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">When I studied this out once, it translated, "Ask, and keep on asking; seek, and keep on seeking; knock, and keep on knocking..."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed so earnestly that we are told He was sweating drops of blood. He knew what it was like to travail over the flesh in prayer. He longed to complete God's will.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He knew He couldn't do this life without the Father's help. He had to talk to His dad. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus didn't just react to what the enemy threw at Him! He needed God's power. And when the enemy came to wear Him down, He wielded the Sword of the Spirit...the Word! Jesus reminded Satan of who God was, and I believe this helped him remind Himself as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We kid ourselves if we think life on earth was easy for Jesus because He is the Son of God. We are also sons and daughters and it is NOT easy, but neither is it hopeless!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we know who we are and Who we belong to...when we know what has been done for us and what authority we have, we can reign in this life!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Even though Satan thought he had conquered the King of Kings, Jesus took captivity captive! But realize Jesus did so through reliance on the Father every hour of every day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We must make time to listen, talk, and obey. Then we will see the glory of the Lord revealed. </span></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-72744704286785015612013-02-18T06:45:00.000-05:002013-02-18T06:45:20.072-05:00Why Pray?<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Okay, I have to address this: why pray?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Are you thinking that? Are you like I was once upon a time? Are you thinking, "Okay, so I <i>can</i> go boldly if I want, but I don't really see why I should. I mean, if God is so big and amazing that He knows it all, then why do I need to? Why can't He just help me out without me having to say it?"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I get it. I really do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I do believe that many times God does indeed do just this...intervenes on our behalf when we don't even ask. I believe it because I have seen the evidence of it so many times in my life. I don't believe in coincidences.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">But, here is why I think God wants us to pray. You see, I try to think of God in relation to me as I am in relation to my children (for we are children of God). I also think of Jesus as I am in relation to my husband (you know, since the Church is the Bride of Christ).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This has helped me understand things in a much different way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I do a lot of things for my boys. Some they ask for, some they don't. I know a lot they don't know, as well as a lot they don't think I know! I do things for them to bless them, to help them, to show my love for them, to protect them, and to provide for them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many of these things they don't ever have to ask for, and have come to just expect because I have done them for so long. They don't even know all the ways I provide and protect around here!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then there are those times they come boldly to me and just ask for what they want. Sometimes I give it to them or help them, but other times I have to say no. They aren't always happy with the no's, but like I said, I know things they don't know and can't see yet. I am not going to give them something that would bring more harm than good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love when they come and share their heart with me. I love when they take time to just be with me. I mean, they are my kids, so they are here in my house. I chose them. I had them. They are mine forever. And I have them near me, but oh how different that is than having their attention and time...having them talk to me and listen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So yes...God sure is big and mighty enough to take care of us without our communion with Him. We don't have to talk for Him to know our hearts. </span><span style="font-size: large;">He sure loves it when we do though. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I believe prayer was ordained by God to keep us coming back because, after all, we were created as the crowning glory of His creation just so He could <i>be</i> with us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Adam and Eve forfeited that blessing. Jesus got it back for us. Don't throw it away!</span>Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-785690822891173678.post-10165624698904634802013-02-15T08:50:00.000-05:002013-02-15T08:50:19.988-05:00Go Boldly!<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">How important is it to listen to the Spirit of God?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here is a link to a previous post about what happened one morning in my life. Read it and see if you think my prayer made a difference. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">http://www.ourpassionatepursuit.com/2012/04/ill-pray-for-you.html</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the Garden of Eden, we are told about the sweet communion Adam and Eve experienced with the Father. He walked with them and talked with them. He gave some specific instructions, and He gave them incredible blessing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, they didn't follow His instructions, and they broke that sweet fellowship in the way they new it. They felt shame and heartache to the point of wanting to hide from Him! Everything about the world changed that day, and everything about mankind's interaction with God changed as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Good News is that though our ancestors went many dry years with only touches of the Spirit of God, Jesus came to give us unending and unbroken communion with Him once and for all!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hebrews 4:14-16 says </span><b>14 We have a great high priest who has gone
to live with God in heaven. He is Jesus the Son of God. So let us continue to
express our faith in him. 15 Jesus, our high priest, is able to understand our
weaknesses. When Jesus lived on earth, he was tempted in every way. He was
tempted in the same ways we are tempted, but he never sinned. 16 With Jesus as
our high priest, we can feel free to come before God’s throne where there is
grace. There we receive mercy and kindness to help us when we need it.</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Jesus tore the veil of separation that kept us from ongoing communion, and now, we can come BOLDLY before the throne of God and receive His help!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">If God went to such great lengths to send Jesus to bring us back legally by the shedding of a blood covenant...and if Jesus chose to endure all He did to fulfill God's plan...then why do we not boldly go???</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Why oh why do we spend our days flopping around, taking all the enemy throws at us, as if we have little hope or as if God doesn't WANT to help us?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Let this TRUTH sink down into the deepest part of you: God didn't even withhold His very SON from you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Romans 8:32 </span><span style="background-color: #fffefd; color: #001320; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify;"><b>Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won't he also give us everything else?</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #001320; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 20.99431800842285px;">Does God lie? No way! The Bible tells us He is not like man who lies. We can believe what we read with certainty that it has been written and preserved for us to count on!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #001320; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 20.99431800842285px;">Abba Father did not even withhold or spare His Son for our sake so why do we not believe we can go to Him for EVERYTHING else that concerns us?</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #001320; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 20.99431800842285px;">Go boldly and present your requests.</span></span></div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04394060683354956519noreply@blogger.com0