I'm not a big fan of love stories. I'm too much of a realist to enjoy sappy endings and predictable plots that come with romantic comedy movies and brain-candy books. You know, boy and girl meet under anger-inducing circumstances, they avoid each other and realize they need each other, and so it goes. I want to cry... get a plot!
The last two weeks though, I have read a fantastic love story played out in a hospital room. The story begins long before then, however. The plot involves a couple who were blessed to become parents to a little girl just over two weeks ago. During the birth, however, serious complications arose and the mother's (Dara) life was at risk. As a matter of fact, the particular complication is so rare that most doctors will never encounter it, and so serious the mortality rate is around 80%. Hundreds of people around the world have gathered on their knees to interecede for this couple and their new daughter. I've seen posts from Japan, heard of people praying in Germany and El Salvador; Watseka, IL and Morenci, AZ.
Here's the "love story": throughout all this uncertainity, David has consistently gone to the Father. David loves Dara, but she is not his primary love. (She's good with that, by the way!) David's primary love is for His Father, the One who creates life itself. David knows that God's love does not change. He knows that had God not created a miracle (which He did) and saved Dara's life, God still loves him and cares for him. David's love and commitment to God first has been an encouragement to so many. Because he realizes God's love, he is able to love his wife, no matter the outcome of this situation. Because he realizes God's love, he can love and care for his daughter, raising her to become a woman who loves God first.
The end of the story has been written. Because of David and Dara's love for God and realization that Jesus Christ has forgiven them, they will live eternally. In the end, Jesus wins. And that is what makes this love story so inspiring. David knows that no matter the outcome, Jesus has won. The love story, you see, isn't one between David and Dara (though that is a good story, too). It's not about David and Dara and their daughter and hundreds of prayer warriors. The true love story is one of a loving God desiring His people to come to Him so much that He sent His Son to be victorious for us.
By the way, God has been working a miraculous healing in Dara. She has been walking and is growing stronger each day. There are still some health issues, some therapy. But, I am praising God for her recovery.
Want to help David and Dara? There is a cookie walk Dec. 10 at Trinity-Watseka. All proceeds will go to help with medical expenses. Donations will be accepted, as well. More info will be posted on Facebook soon.
Thursday, December 01, 2011
Monday, October 31, 2011
I have an amazing opportunity every week. I get to (literally) set the stage for 125 or so people to worship our God. Our multi-site meets in an old elementary school about 20 miles from my home. Thirty minutes into the process, the large middle screen is up and audio gear is out of storage. An hour into it, and the stage is up, lights are on and being set, and audio is well on its way to being done. 90 minutes, beginning to end, and a small gymnasium becomes a place worship. We have a great crew of men and women who dedicate this time each week, and they rock!
There is a process that occurs each and every time we do this--the screen is set while audio gear is hauled from the practice/storage rooms, the stage goes up while lights are set. Audio goes on-stage as platforms are put up. Stage is set while chairs are put out and projectors aimed. Soundboard is programmed while final tweaks occur with lights and projectors.
While we have gotten into a smooth rhythm, but it took a while, and there is still a process. The gym doesn't become a worship center by doing the work itself.
The same is true with our spiritual lives. We cannot transform ourselves into "holier" people without the work of the Holy Spirit. HE must set the stage. He must reveal those things which need repair or removal. HE must work in us. And, we must let Him. I posted this earlier:
Father, I thank You that You use this imperfect person to reach an imperfect world with Your perfect love and forgiveness. Help me to remember that Your work of perfecting me will not be comlete on this earth. Help me to not be frustrated when I don't get it right, but to instead trust in You every step of the way.
There is a process that occurs each and every time we do this--the screen is set while audio gear is hauled from the practice/storage rooms, the stage goes up while lights are set. Audio goes on-stage as platforms are put up. Stage is set while chairs are put out and projectors aimed. Soundboard is programmed while final tweaks occur with lights and projectors.
While we have gotten into a smooth rhythm, but it took a while, and there is still a process. The gym doesn't become a worship center by doing the work itself.
The same is true with our spiritual lives. We cannot transform ourselves into "holier" people without the work of the Holy Spirit. HE must set the stage. He must reveal those things which need repair or removal. HE must work in us. And, we must let Him. I posted this earlier:
But the good news is this: while our refining is an on-going process, the end result is someone beautiful, someone pure, someone who has been made holy and can worship IN THE PRESENCE of a holy God. The God who created us, knowing we would struggle, stumble, and sin. The perfect God who sent His perfect Son to redeem an imperfect people. The loving God who gives us the Holy Spirit as our refiner.
Father, I thank You that You use this imperfect person to reach an imperfect world with Your perfect love and forgiveness. Help me to remember that Your work of perfecting me will not be comlete on this earth. Help me to not be frustrated when I don't get it right, but to instead trust in You every step of the way.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Before time
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob; he who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Isaiah 43:1,2 ESV, emphasis mine
I came across this gem the other day. I've been in a season of refining and pruning. I've been beaten by the enemy, and though I am bruised and scarred, I am not defeated.
Back to our passage. I read this on a day full of confusion and self-doubt. God used His word here to remind me to whom I really belong. I reread this passage today, and something else stood out. God is telling His people, 700 years before Christ, that He HAS redeemed them. The redemption, the salvation, of His people had been His plan all along. The ultimate sacrifice had not yet been made, but the resulting redemption was complete.
Have I failed as a friend, a sister, a daughter? Have you missed the mark as a wife, a mother, an employee, a supervisor? Have you been wounded by the words or actions of others? Have you done the wounding? I can answer "yes" to many of these. Today, even. But the good news is, Christ has completed our redemption, even before time began, He says to us, "I HAVE redeemed you," no matter what, He loves us. He is FOR us.
Father God, Creator of all that is, and the One who formed me, I stand in awe that, even before You created time, you had MY redemption in mind. You knew my failures before I was created, and yet You chose to form me anyway. God, take my short-comings and my failures, and use them to grow me. Take my wounds and use them to make something beautiful. My life is Yours, God.
I came across this gem the other day. I've been in a season of refining and pruning. I've been beaten by the enemy, and though I am bruised and scarred, I am not defeated.
Back to our passage. I read this on a day full of confusion and self-doubt. God used His word here to remind me to whom I really belong. I reread this passage today, and something else stood out. God is telling His people, 700 years before Christ, that He HAS redeemed them. The redemption, the salvation, of His people had been His plan all along. The ultimate sacrifice had not yet been made, but the resulting redemption was complete.
Have I failed as a friend, a sister, a daughter? Have you missed the mark as a wife, a mother, an employee, a supervisor? Have you been wounded by the words or actions of others? Have you done the wounding? I can answer "yes" to many of these. Today, even. But the good news is, Christ has completed our redemption, even before time began, He says to us, "I HAVE redeemed you," no matter what, He loves us. He is FOR us.
Father God, Creator of all that is, and the One who formed me, I stand in awe that, even before You created time, you had MY redemption in mind. You knew my failures before I was created, and yet You chose to form me anyway. God, take my short-comings and my failures, and use them to grow me. Take my wounds and use them to make something beautiful. My life is Yours, God.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Keep praying
Thanks to Facebook, I have reconnected with long-lost friends around the world and down the street. You know how it goes--you read their posts, maybe comment, and go on to the next obscure comment about children's bodily functions. And thus, we feel like we're doing our part as a "friend".
I'm going to share a bit today about my friend Bill (not his name, I told him I wouldn't post his name), and how God has used social networking to reconnect us.
Bill and I met in college. I was a junior and he was a freshman. Over the course of that year, we spent time eating, walking, and praying together. We never dated, but developed a great friendship. I look back on that time fondly. Bill decided to attend a satellite campus on the east coast the next year, but we stayed in touch through email and IM (no Facebook in the last century). A few weeks into the term, Bill came out of the closet and left school. I was devestated. For some reason, we lost contact for a few years, before I found him on MySpace. We reconnected for a few months, then it was years before I heard from him again, this time on Facebook. By this time, he had lived a pretty wild life and was HIV positive. My heart broke for him.
You see, even though we hadn't had contact for several years, I never ceased to pray for him. I knew that God, in His omniscience, knew exactly where Bill was, knew what Bill needed. I prayed for godly people to come into Bill's life. I prayed for opportunity to witness to Bill, to encourage him. I've not always gotten it right, but something is happening.
I hadn't talked with Bill on the phone for over five years. So, imagine my surprise when my voicemail has a message from Bill a few months ago. I stopped in my tracks, tears streaming, because Bill is beginning to seek peace in the Lord. Thirteen years of prayer, now being answered. Not overnight, because I know Bill is still seeking, but now has hope. We've not connected yet, but I anticipate that day. So much more can be said by voice than by Facebook.
So, my point today is this: what have you been praying for, maybe for years, though it seems that the prayers are falling short of God's ears? Don't give up! God is working even when we can't see it. Our response to that is called faith. Keep praying, friends. You never know when God is going to knock your socks off.
I'm going to share a bit today about my friend Bill (not his name, I told him I wouldn't post his name), and how God has used social networking to reconnect us.
Bill and I met in college. I was a junior and he was a freshman. Over the course of that year, we spent time eating, walking, and praying together. We never dated, but developed a great friendship. I look back on that time fondly. Bill decided to attend a satellite campus on the east coast the next year, but we stayed in touch through email and IM (no Facebook in the last century). A few weeks into the term, Bill came out of the closet and left school. I was devestated. For some reason, we lost contact for a few years, before I found him on MySpace. We reconnected for a few months, then it was years before I heard from him again, this time on Facebook. By this time, he had lived a pretty wild life and was HIV positive. My heart broke for him.
You see, even though we hadn't had contact for several years, I never ceased to pray for him. I knew that God, in His omniscience, knew exactly where Bill was, knew what Bill needed. I prayed for godly people to come into Bill's life. I prayed for opportunity to witness to Bill, to encourage him. I've not always gotten it right, but something is happening.
I hadn't talked with Bill on the phone for over five years. So, imagine my surprise when my voicemail has a message from Bill a few months ago. I stopped in my tracks, tears streaming, because Bill is beginning to seek peace in the Lord. Thirteen years of prayer, now being answered. Not overnight, because I know Bill is still seeking, but now has hope. We've not connected yet, but I anticipate that day. So much more can be said by voice than by Facebook.
So, my point today is this: what have you been praying for, maybe for years, though it seems that the prayers are falling short of God's ears? Don't give up! God is working even when we can't see it. Our response to that is called faith. Keep praying, friends. You never know when God is going to knock your socks off.
Saturday, September 03, 2011
Refined
In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith--morerecious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. I Peter 1:6, 7 (ESV)
A couple of weeks ago, I shared that I had texted something in anger and frustration that caused a rift with a friend. I'd like to say this rift has been healed. It hasn't, but something better has been happening. I'm being refined.
We've all heard, said, and sang about being refined. But, do we know what it means to be refined? If you've been in church any length of time, you probably have heard that refining means "to make pure." That is true. Bur do we know what that means?
I didn't, so I did some research. I found two methods used to refine gold, one ancient and one more modern. The ancient method I found was mainly used to separate gold from silver (the two metals were often found together in an alloy called electrum). It is this method that caught my eye. The nuggets are placed in a clay crucible, along with clay dust and (get this) salt. The crucible is covered and placed in a furnace, which has been heated to 1112-1472 degrees farenheit. After several hours (up to a whole day!) the crucible is removed, uncovered, and the resulting silver chloride and other impurities are removed, leaving behind gold, which is then hammered into sheets. The process can be repeated for more purification.
In the modern version, the a chemical called aqua regia is added to the gold. This causes a reaction that separates impurities from the gold in a liquid suspension which is filtered. There are many steps to this process, and it creates toxic fumes. This method can be used in the melting of scrap gold, such as jewlery.
Did you catch that? Refining is an on-going process. As gold is not refined in a day, neither are we. Our sanctification (being made holy) is an ONGOING process.
It involves separation from impurities.
It involves being hammered.
Sometimes, the process causes toxic fumes. The impurities in our lives come to the surface. They are revealed, not only to us, but to those around us.
But the good news is this: while our refining is an on-going process, the end result is someone beautiful, someone pure, someone who has been made holy and can worship IN THE PRESENCE of a holy God. The God who created us, knowing we would struggle, stumble, and sin. The perfect God who sent His perfect Son to redeem an imperfect people. The loving God who gives us the Holy Spirit as our refiner.
Father, while the refining process is often painful, while it is sometimes hard and tedious, while it requires sifting and steadfastness, I am thankful that you are patient. You reveal impurities and refine me into someone holy through the blood of Christ.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
A couple of weeks ago, I shared that I had texted something in anger and frustration that caused a rift with a friend. I'd like to say this rift has been healed. It hasn't, but something better has been happening. I'm being refined.
We've all heard, said, and sang about being refined. But, do we know what it means to be refined? If you've been in church any length of time, you probably have heard that refining means "to make pure." That is true. Bur do we know what that means?
I didn't, so I did some research. I found two methods used to refine gold, one ancient and one more modern. The ancient method I found was mainly used to separate gold from silver (the two metals were often found together in an alloy called electrum). It is this method that caught my eye. The nuggets are placed in a clay crucible, along with clay dust and (get this) salt. The crucible is covered and placed in a furnace, which has been heated to 1112-1472 degrees farenheit. After several hours (up to a whole day!) the crucible is removed, uncovered, and the resulting silver chloride and other impurities are removed, leaving behind gold, which is then hammered into sheets. The process can be repeated for more purification.
In the modern version, the a chemical called aqua regia is added to the gold. This causes a reaction that separates impurities from the gold in a liquid suspension which is filtered. There are many steps to this process, and it creates toxic fumes. This method can be used in the melting of scrap gold, such as jewlery.
Did you catch that? Refining is an on-going process. As gold is not refined in a day, neither are we. Our sanctification (being made holy) is an ONGOING process.
It involves separation from impurities.
It involves being hammered.
Sometimes, the process causes toxic fumes. The impurities in our lives come to the surface. They are revealed, not only to us, but to those around us.
But the good news is this: while our refining is an on-going process, the end result is someone beautiful, someone pure, someone who has been made holy and can worship IN THE PRESENCE of a holy God. The God who created us, knowing we would struggle, stumble, and sin. The perfect God who sent His perfect Son to redeem an imperfect people. The loving God who gives us the Holy Spirit as our refiner.
Father, while the refining process is often painful, while it is sometimes hard and tedious, while it requires sifting and steadfastness, I am thankful that you are patient. You reveal impurities and refine me into someone holy through the blood of Christ.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Monday, August 15, 2011
Be careful
"Be careful little eyes what you see. Be careful little ears what you hear. For the Father up above is looking down with love. Be careful little ears what you hear." Many of us who attended Sunday School or children's church or VBS in the eighties are familiar with this sing that warns us to have purity in what we view, hear, and say. In the nineties, it was "Input, Output", but the idea was the same. What we allow ourselves to view, etc. will eventually come out. This lesson became all too real to me this weekend, and the result means hard work in repairing a cherished relationship.
For the last year or so, I have struggled with spiritual dryness and emotional depression. I denied the problem outwardly because Christians aren't supposed to have these issues, right? Especially if they are being developed into leaders in ministry. Unfortunately, ignoring a problem only works for so long.
As stress from life, external and internal, mounted in the last few months, I found a lot of bad habits begin to resurface. I grew increasingly self-centered and self-focused. I questioned my roles in the church body. I doubted that God truly had a plan for my life. (I'm using the past tense here because I want these things gone, not because they are yet.) as the pressure mounted, I began expelling black ink instead of orange juice (obscure sermon reference for you who don't attend the same place of worship as I do).
Last weekend, I broke emotionally added to someone's workload on a Sunday morning. This weekend, I nearly destroyed a good friendship. With one word. By text. Because I was being selfish and expressing my disappointment in life and anger at someone who didn't deserve it. "Be careful, little thumbs, what you type."
Through counsel with my campus pastor and a few long conversations with friends and partners in ministry, God has shown His unending grace upon me and once again opened my eyes to destructive habits I thought were dead long ago. In Deuteronomy, Moses begins by telling the people their story. A friend came across this gem the other day, and it is SO appropriate for my life right now: "you have been traveling around this mountain long enough. Turn northward..." (Deut. 2:3, ESV). I already have a lot of changes on my plate, but this is the most important one I need to make right now. "Turn northward"--leave what you have known, and follow My direction. It won't be easy or comfortable (the Israelites faced a long march and difficult battles), but the end result will be more than woth it.
What is God calling you to change? What is holding you back? Where is He leading you?
Father, I thank you that your grace is more than sufficient, and that you promise to heal all hurts. You promise to repair shattered dreams (even for me!). You promise to lead in righteousness, to reveal your plan, to restore damaged relationships. I lay all of these at your feet, and trust you to move. And I trust you to move me. In Jesus's name, amen.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
For the last year or so, I have struggled with spiritual dryness and emotional depression. I denied the problem outwardly because Christians aren't supposed to have these issues, right? Especially if they are being developed into leaders in ministry. Unfortunately, ignoring a problem only works for so long.
As stress from life, external and internal, mounted in the last few months, I found a lot of bad habits begin to resurface. I grew increasingly self-centered and self-focused. I questioned my roles in the church body. I doubted that God truly had a plan for my life. (I'm using the past tense here because I want these things gone, not because they are yet.) as the pressure mounted, I began expelling black ink instead of orange juice (obscure sermon reference for you who don't attend the same place of worship as I do).
Last weekend, I broke emotionally added to someone's workload on a Sunday morning. This weekend, I nearly destroyed a good friendship. With one word. By text. Because I was being selfish and expressing my disappointment in life and anger at someone who didn't deserve it. "Be careful, little thumbs, what you type."
Through counsel with my campus pastor and a few long conversations with friends and partners in ministry, God has shown His unending grace upon me and once again opened my eyes to destructive habits I thought were dead long ago. In Deuteronomy, Moses begins by telling the people their story. A friend came across this gem the other day, and it is SO appropriate for my life right now: "you have been traveling around this mountain long enough. Turn northward..." (Deut. 2:3, ESV). I already have a lot of changes on my plate, but this is the most important one I need to make right now. "Turn northward"--leave what you have known, and follow My direction. It won't be easy or comfortable (the Israelites faced a long march and difficult battles), but the end result will be more than woth it.
What is God calling you to change? What is holding you back? Where is He leading you?
Father, I thank you that your grace is more than sufficient, and that you promise to heal all hurts. You promise to repair shattered dreams (even for me!). You promise to lead in righteousness, to reveal your plan, to restore damaged relationships. I lay all of these at your feet, and trust you to move. And I trust you to move me. In Jesus's name, amen.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Lost
Behold, I go forward, but He is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive Him; on the left hand when He is working, I do not behold Him; He turns to the right hand, but I do not see Him. But He knows the way that I take; when He has tried me, I shall come out as gold. Job 23:8-10
I enjoy traveling, especially if I can get off the highway and drive through little towns that avoid the "tourist trap" mentality. Sometimes, these side trips produce lasting memories. A few years ago, a friend and I drove from Illinois to Glacier National Park in Montana. Along the way, we camped in Medora, ND. Upon leaving town in the morning, I went back out the way we came in, thinking we could continue west. Unfortunately, we could only go east. I saw an exit for a "turn around" rest area. This little side-trip provided an absolutely amazing sunrise over the bluffs of western North Dakota. Sometimes getting lost produces long-lasting results.
I have to think that Job felt the same way. While He wasn't physically lost, he describes feeling like he's far from God. The Father can't be found, no matter where Job looks. I've felt that way a lot lately. I look all around and cannot see Him through the circumstances I face. I worship, I pray, I seek, but I cannot find. It's easy to become discouraged and to feel defeated.
But that's the good news. One thing I've learned, on thing Job realized, is that what we feel, what we see, is often not the truth. Just as I had to seek a place to turn around in order to reach my destination, we must constantly be searching--through Scripture, in song, on our knees. Our Father knows where we are. He knows, and when we come out of our time of pain and trial, He will have produced in us gold.
Read further: Psalm 139. Think about where God has you right now, then thank Himfor His eternal goodness.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
I enjoy traveling, especially if I can get off the highway and drive through little towns that avoid the "tourist trap" mentality. Sometimes, these side trips produce lasting memories. A few years ago, a friend and I drove from Illinois to Glacier National Park in Montana. Along the way, we camped in Medora, ND. Upon leaving town in the morning, I went back out the way we came in, thinking we could continue west. Unfortunately, we could only go east. I saw an exit for a "turn around" rest area. This little side-trip provided an absolutely amazing sunrise over the bluffs of western North Dakota. Sometimes getting lost produces long-lasting results.
I have to think that Job felt the same way. While He wasn't physically lost, he describes feeling like he's far from God. The Father can't be found, no matter where Job looks. I've felt that way a lot lately. I look all around and cannot see Him through the circumstances I face. I worship, I pray, I seek, but I cannot find. It's easy to become discouraged and to feel defeated.
But that's the good news. One thing I've learned, on thing Job realized, is that what we feel, what we see, is often not the truth. Just as I had to seek a place to turn around in order to reach my destination, we must constantly be searching--through Scripture, in song, on our knees. Our Father knows where we are. He knows, and when we come out of our time of pain and trial, He will have produced in us gold.
Read further: Psalm 139. Think about where God has you right now, then thank Himfor His eternal goodness.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
A Prayer For Singles
Last week I shared a brief story and prayer for couples. I have been pondering what I would pray for my single counterparts. This shouldn't be difficult, you would think, considering that I am single myself. Unfortunately, I found myself hesitant to share such personal prayers with the five people who actually read this. But, I'll be transparent and share them with you, hoping that God can use them to encourage and edify the body of believers (and maybe some unbelievers, as well).
Father, as difficult as the lonely days and nights may be, I thank You for this season in my life. You are the perfect provider, the One who gives good and perfect gifts. It's hard, God, to see married friends, knowing that I'll return each night to an empty home. But You are my Comfort. I pray for my single friends, that we would find our comfort inYou, that we would cherish this season in our lives, deepening our relationship with You. If you would have marriage in our futures, shape and mold us into the husbands and wives you want us to be. If Your plan is for us to remain single, strengthen us in purity. Grow us in You and you alone, Lord, and use us to minister to others according to Your purposes. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Be encouraged, friends. Our God is for us. Even when we feel alone, even when we struggle in thought and desire, He is for us. Tzurn to Hom and Him alone. Why not take a moment to turn to Him?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Father, as difficult as the lonely days and nights may be, I thank You for this season in my life. You are the perfect provider, the One who gives good and perfect gifts. It's hard, God, to see married friends, knowing that I'll return each night to an empty home. But You are my Comfort. I pray for my single friends, that we would find our comfort inYou, that we would cherish this season in our lives, deepening our relationship with You. If you would have marriage in our futures, shape and mold us into the husbands and wives you want us to be. If Your plan is for us to remain single, strengthen us in purity. Grow us in You and you alone, Lord, and use us to minister to others according to Your purposes. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Be encouraged, friends. Our God is for us. Even when we feel alone, even when we struggle in thought and desire, He is for us. Tzurn to Hom and Him alone. Why not take a moment to turn to Him?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Monday, June 13, 2011
A Prayer For Couples
I admit to being caught up in deep selfishness and self-pity. It's an ongoing thing me, one I know God can help me overcome. A conversation I had recently showed mw just how deep in this I've been.
I recently had a conversation with a friend who admited that they and their spouse were struggling, and that admitting such was difficult. No details were given (which I appreciated), and I didn't press. As I prayed for my friend, the spouse, and their marriage, I began thinking of other friends who are married (and being 34, that's quite a few!). So, here is my prayer for marriages:
Father, I thank you for the blessing of friendship, for the many people you have placed in my life. I thank you for the examples of Christian leadership, friendship, and marriage they all are to so many around them. Forgive me, Lord, for ever thinking that I have more important issues than they do. Bless each marriage, Lord. Speak to husbands and wives Your truth for their marriages. Show each one Your plan and purpose. Grant them wisdom and understanding to overcome difficulties. Strengthen them by the power of your Holy Spirit. Mold them into the husbands and wives you want them to be. In Jesus mighty name, amen.
Singles, watch for an upcoming post for you!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
I recently had a conversation with a friend who admited that they and their spouse were struggling, and that admitting such was difficult. No details were given (which I appreciated), and I didn't press. As I prayed for my friend, the spouse, and their marriage, I began thinking of other friends who are married (and being 34, that's quite a few!). So, here is my prayer for marriages:
Father, I thank you for the blessing of friendship, for the many people you have placed in my life. I thank you for the examples of Christian leadership, friendship, and marriage they all are to so many around them. Forgive me, Lord, for ever thinking that I have more important issues than they do. Bless each marriage, Lord. Speak to husbands and wives Your truth for their marriages. Show each one Your plan and purpose. Grant them wisdom and understanding to overcome difficulties. Strengthen them by the power of your Holy Spirit. Mold them into the husbands and wives you want them to be. In Jesus mighty name, amen.
Singles, watch for an upcoming post for you!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Battle
Been a long time since I've posted my thoughts, mostly because I've walked through a short valley. No one wants to read the self-centered, self-pitying arguments that have run through my mind. Not that I didn't learn anything in this time. I've learned quite a bit, actually, about my"self"; things that caused me to pause and reevaluate, things that I wish hadn't been brought to light, things that I am glad were revealed to me. I've mulled over many things the past couple of months. I've wanted to cry out in frustration to those around me; to kick and scream and hit out in anger; I've doubted everything I've been taught because all I see are fallen, dying people living on a fallen, dying planet talking at others like they have it all together, when in reality they are just as hurt and lost and untrusting as I am. I've desired to be accepted and appreciated for WHO I am, not WHAT I do. I've wanted to stop doing what I do because I lost sight of the end goal. The valley is a dark place. The shadows are long and dark, the obstacles looming large, the distractions of everyday survival all-consuming. I'm not even sure, at times, if there is an end to the valley.
Then, Someone comes along and sends encouragement. "Though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear NO evil." "I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future." "Then you will call on Me and I will answer you and show you GREAT things which you do not know." "You hem me in, behind and before, and lay Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it."
And, suddenly, the battle, though long, doesn't seem as intense, if only for a few brief moments. The situation hasn't changed. The enemy still lurks in the shadows, firing dart after dart after flaming dart. The wounds still hurt. The loneliness is still heavy. The doubt still a fog along the path. The shame still hovers. But, the Lord still reigns. He is still victorious, as He was in the beginning and shall be forevermore. The Spirit is still my light, my lamp, my guide. The Word is still my sword, salvation my helmet, and faith my shield.
Father, I am weary of the everyday battle. I admit that, at times, I want to give up the fight. I am weak and cannot do this alone. My mind says just that, that I am alone. But Your Word is true and says that You will never leave me nor forsake me. On this I stand, that Jesus Christ is victorious, that He is my Refuge, my Rock, my Salvation. Help me, God, to fall more and more in love and dependence on the One Who gave Himself for me. Forgive me for being short-sighted and self-centered. You are the One I cling to.
Then, Someone comes along and sends encouragement. "Though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear NO evil." "I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future." "Then you will call on Me and I will answer you and show you GREAT things which you do not know." "You hem me in, behind and before, and lay Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it."
And, suddenly, the battle, though long, doesn't seem as intense, if only for a few brief moments. The situation hasn't changed. The enemy still lurks in the shadows, firing dart after dart after flaming dart. The wounds still hurt. The loneliness is still heavy. The doubt still a fog along the path. The shame still hovers. But, the Lord still reigns. He is still victorious, as He was in the beginning and shall be forevermore. The Spirit is still my light, my lamp, my guide. The Word is still my sword, salvation my helmet, and faith my shield.
Father, I am weary of the everyday battle. I admit that, at times, I want to give up the fight. I am weak and cannot do this alone. My mind says just that, that I am alone. But Your Word is true and says that You will never leave me nor forsake me. On this I stand, that Jesus Christ is victorious, that He is my Refuge, my Rock, my Salvation. Help me, God, to fall more and more in love and dependence on the One Who gave Himself for me. Forgive me for being short-sighted and self-centered. You are the One I cling to.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Enough
I have found in recent years that I really do not enjoy the holiday season. Somewhere around the beginning of November, I begin to sink into the winter doldrums. I don't like the idea of winter weather, cold temperatures, and short days. I don't like all the commercialism, the "buy, buy, buy" mentality that seeps into our culture. I don't like the busy-ness, the re-decorating (only to be taken down after a month), the neighbors trying to "one-up" each other with lights and inflatable yarn ornaments. Sorry, Clark Griswold.
This year, though, I realized what may be the root of my discontent during the holidays. I discovered this year that I turn into a self-centered, self-pitying little brat during the holiday season. I wanted people to notice me, to extend an invitation, to give a gift. I spent more time whining (at least inwardly) that I only got gifts from family, that I didn't have the energy to enjoy spreading JOY this year. I snapped at my family during our get together. I (again, inwardly) resented friends who were having restful, relaxing, fun-filled days with their families. I felt sorry for myself when no one included me on their gift list. I resented close friends for their lack of consideration. I blamed them for ignoring me. Didn't they know that I was hurting inside? Didn't they know I just wanted to be recognized? The more I focused on me, my situation, my feelings, the deeper into loneliness and depression I sunk.
Mark records a teaching that strikes at the heart of this. "And He said, 'What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.'" (Mark 7:20-23, ESV). This passage is part of a teaching to the disciples in which He basically abolishes the idea of clean and unclean foods. But, I don't think that is the main thrust of this teaching. What Jesus is really getting at runs much deeper than physical nourishment. Jesus is telling us that our hearts need to be clean before we start worrying about the food we eat. Our hearts determine what comes out of us in words and in speech. My heart had not been right, and it caused me even more emotional pain than the original situation. Instead of rejoicing that friends had family get togethers and received wonderful gifts, I was wallowing in self-pity that I didn't have those things. Instead of enjoying the time I did have with family and receiving the gifts I did receive, I griped because it wasn't enough. Envy. Selfishness, which is essentially, pride. Coveting. Slander (even if it was internal and never expressed). All of these evil things came out of me.
But there is hope. And, as I sat in service on Christmas Eve, I realized all my negativity was not caused by another person. Rather, I had given in and given up. I let the enemy win ground that he didn't deserve. As I listened to Pastor Dave's sermon, I realized that JESUS CHRIST IS ENOUGH. He is enough to overcome the loneliness that plagues me. He is enough to fill the voids in my heart. He is enough to....
Father, thank You for Your patience with me. I would have given up on me a long time ago. I don't deserve the blessings You HAVE placed in my life, let alone the things I THINK I want. YOU ARE ENOUGH for whatever I face.
This year, though, I realized what may be the root of my discontent during the holidays. I discovered this year that I turn into a self-centered, self-pitying little brat during the holiday season. I wanted people to notice me, to extend an invitation, to give a gift. I spent more time whining (at least inwardly) that I only got gifts from family, that I didn't have the energy to enjoy spreading JOY this year. I snapped at my family during our get together. I (again, inwardly) resented friends who were having restful, relaxing, fun-filled days with their families. I felt sorry for myself when no one included me on their gift list. I resented close friends for their lack of consideration. I blamed them for ignoring me. Didn't they know that I was hurting inside? Didn't they know I just wanted to be recognized? The more I focused on me, my situation, my feelings, the deeper into loneliness and depression I sunk.
Mark records a teaching that strikes at the heart of this. "And He said, 'What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.'" (Mark 7:20-23, ESV). This passage is part of a teaching to the disciples in which He basically abolishes the idea of clean and unclean foods. But, I don't think that is the main thrust of this teaching. What Jesus is really getting at runs much deeper than physical nourishment. Jesus is telling us that our hearts need to be clean before we start worrying about the food we eat. Our hearts determine what comes out of us in words and in speech. My heart had not been right, and it caused me even more emotional pain than the original situation. Instead of rejoicing that friends had family get togethers and received wonderful gifts, I was wallowing in self-pity that I didn't have those things. Instead of enjoying the time I did have with family and receiving the gifts I did receive, I griped because it wasn't enough. Envy. Selfishness, which is essentially, pride. Coveting. Slander (even if it was internal and never expressed). All of these evil things came out of me.
But there is hope. And, as I sat in service on Christmas Eve, I realized all my negativity was not caused by another person. Rather, I had given in and given up. I let the enemy win ground that he didn't deserve. As I listened to Pastor Dave's sermon, I realized that JESUS CHRIST IS ENOUGH. He is enough to overcome the loneliness that plagues me. He is enough to fill the voids in my heart. He is enough to....
Father, thank You for Your patience with me. I would have given up on me a long time ago. I don't deserve the blessings You HAVE placed in my life, let alone the things I THINK I want. YOU ARE ENOUGH for whatever I face.
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