Don't ever for even one second think that because God has his elects you are not one of them when you love Him and follow Him obediently! I fell into that trap. I fell into thinking what if I was just not cut out to be one of God's? I felt this way because school is disastrous at the moment. I am fighting to get a B in Anatomy and Nutrition I think. If I don't get the grades I cannot get into the major.(According to the stats) As these classes get harder I start to doubt God more because everyone else seems to be doing better and I seem to be doing worst. I am starting to think wow Does God just want me to drop out of college? Is he still even in charge of my life?
The thoughts just kept getting worst - to the point where I started even doubting if I was one of His own.
I started to just think about something that has been on my heart lately from Dr. Green's message about ”The Gracious Goel”. I've been realizing that God is surely the gracious goel who takes those who were once were strangers to himself and brings them into his own family. As long as I choose to want to follow Him He will not reject me.
Ruth was someone who was very foreign. Her people followed different gods. She had a change of heart when she told Naomi Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.
This story gives me a sense of hope. God in his mercy does not reject her even though he has his own people. He does not need to be good enough. I am free to join his family when I want. Once I decide to join his family, he will never turn his back from me no matter how far I stray.
Internally I battle between wanting to leave him - at the same time my heart wants to keep going back to Him. I know he is there, but my faith is weak, it says to my mind maybe He really isn't enough to provide for me.
God help me to fight my flesh and to abandon my heart to follow you in spirit and in truth.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Little things of the bible
There are sooo many frigging cool things in the bible. One's that help us to obtain more grace and peace in our lives.. Alot of times we think that oh that is only because he was Elijah, Moses, Peter, Paul, David.......... that is/was why God did those such things in their lives.. I was blown away by this today.
2Pe 1:1 Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2Pe 1:2 May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
Peter says it right here. He is only a servant of Christ. He says in his letter, WE ALL IN CHRIST HAVE RECEIVED A EQUAL STANDING BY THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF Jesus. Jesus' blood makes us all on the same level. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW... That is NUTS!
This past week I was told that you need a balance in your life of how much time to spend with God. My heart did not feel right with that. It was someone in authority who said that to me. In my heart I wanted to lash out because I was told I cannot depend 100 percent on God for my joy and happiness... Peter says it right here! IT IS IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF OUR God and of our Lord Jesus we may obtain more grace and peace...
I think this means we NEED TO fight the good fight. Make sure we can spend time with God. SEEK HIM SEEK HIM SEEK HIM
2Pe 1:1 Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2Pe 1:2 May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
Peter says it right here. He is only a servant of Christ. He says in his letter, WE ALL IN CHRIST HAVE RECEIVED A EQUAL STANDING BY THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF Jesus. Jesus' blood makes us all on the same level. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW... That is NUTS!
This past week I was told that you need a balance in your life of how much time to spend with God. My heart did not feel right with that. It was someone in authority who said that to me. In my heart I wanted to lash out because I was told I cannot depend 100 percent on God for my joy and happiness... Peter says it right here! IT IS IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF OUR God and of our Lord Jesus we may obtain more grace and peace...
I think this means we NEED TO fight the good fight. Make sure we can spend time with God. SEEK HIM SEEK HIM SEEK HIM
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Back from hiatus
I may read 1 peter for a week and blog about it. Took up the idea from Francis Chan.
1 Pet 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy he has caused us to be born again into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperisable, undefiled, and unfading kept in heaven for you who by Gods power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
This is WONDERFUL. For the past 2 weeks, the time where I wasn't blogging I have been feeling so far from God. It felt that God was silent, but that wasn't the case. I was just texting God. I would lift up a few prayers to God but not making an effort to hear back from him - through his word..
If we look down on the Israelites - I am just as sinful as they were/are. God had brought them out the desert and God had carried them out of egypt with his mighty hand. They turned away from Him for idols. It has been what 40 days?
For me, God had been so good to me and yet within days I would turn to idols..
Why is this verse so great?
GOD KNEW I WAS GOING TO MESS UP. GOD CHOSE ME AND SAVED ME KNOWING I WOULD TURN AWAY FROM HIM. GOD STILL CHOSE TO GIVE ME SOMETHING THAT WOULD NEVER FADE. HIS GIFT OF LIFE. HIS SALVATION. THE KING OF KINGS, THE LORD OF LORDS - HE IS CRAZY ABOUT ME. HE DOES NOT CARE ABOUT MY FLAWS. HE STILL WILLING TOOK MY SHAME AND GUILT AWAY FROM ME.
HE IS GOOD.
1 Pet 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy he has caused us to be born again into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperisable, undefiled, and unfading kept in heaven for you who by Gods power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
This is WONDERFUL. For the past 2 weeks, the time where I wasn't blogging I have been feeling so far from God. It felt that God was silent, but that wasn't the case. I was just texting God. I would lift up a few prayers to God but not making an effort to hear back from him - through his word..
If we look down on the Israelites - I am just as sinful as they were/are. God had brought them out the desert and God had carried them out of egypt with his mighty hand. They turned away from Him for idols. It has been what 40 days?
For me, God had been so good to me and yet within days I would turn to idols..
Why is this verse so great?
GOD KNEW I WAS GOING TO MESS UP. GOD CHOSE ME AND SAVED ME KNOWING I WOULD TURN AWAY FROM HIM. GOD STILL CHOSE TO GIVE ME SOMETHING THAT WOULD NEVER FADE. HIS GIFT OF LIFE. HIS SALVATION. THE KING OF KINGS, THE LORD OF LORDS - HE IS CRAZY ABOUT ME. HE DOES NOT CARE ABOUT MY FLAWS. HE STILL WILLING TOOK MY SHAME AND GUILT AWAY FROM ME.
HE IS GOOD.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Sonship
Wholly cow. Sonship and being an heir of Christ has never meant so much to me until today.When we were crucified with Christ, we took on a brand new citizenship. We became SONS of God. This includes the ladies too! We are not only the "children" of God but the Sons of God!
Back in the days the inheritance was given to the sons - not the women. Therefore to say that men and women will be Sons of God that means we will inherit the father's inheritance. People in Rome and people whom Jesus were talking to understood this.
Remember that we were saved by grace through faith in Christ. This is something we cannot ever lose; however you can tell by whether you are or are not saved. What kind of fruits are you bearing? Are you bearing what the Father would bear. We MUST be resembling the Father if we have any part of him. When Jesus was talking about the beatitudes, he was not saying only if you are this or that. From verses 3-10 he was building up to verse 11. You must be all of these things if you are going to keep reading up to verse 11. Remember if we are going to receive all the good things that belonged to the Father we will also receive the negative things. We need to expect persecution if we are truly his sons. Yes God calls us to be peacemakers because He was the ultimate peacemaker; however being a peacemaker means that you will need to stand firm through persecution because we are called to reconcile others to God like God reconciled us back to him. We're not going to be liked BUT REMEMBER YOU AND I are the Sons/heirs of Christ.
We follow the King of Kings. The LORD of Lords. The alpha and the omega. We will be glorified like Christ. We will be risen like Christ. We will be receiving our new heavenly bodies. We will one day be at a place where He will wipe every tear from ours eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. Bank on his promises. Find his promises in the scriptures!
My goodness this sonship is an amazing thing.
Back in the days the inheritance was given to the sons - not the women. Therefore to say that men and women will be Sons of God that means we will inherit the father's inheritance. People in Rome and people whom Jesus were talking to understood this.
Remember that we were saved by grace through faith in Christ. This is something we cannot ever lose; however you can tell by whether you are or are not saved. What kind of fruits are you bearing? Are you bearing what the Father would bear. We MUST be resembling the Father if we have any part of him. When Jesus was talking about the beatitudes, he was not saying only if you are this or that. From verses 3-10 he was building up to verse 11. You must be all of these things if you are going to keep reading up to verse 11. Remember if we are going to receive all the good things that belonged to the Father we will also receive the negative things. We need to expect persecution if we are truly his sons. Yes God calls us to be peacemakers because He was the ultimate peacemaker; however being a peacemaker means that you will need to stand firm through persecution because we are called to reconcile others to God like God reconciled us back to him. We're not going to be liked BUT REMEMBER YOU AND I are the Sons/heirs of Christ.
We follow the King of Kings. The LORD of Lords. The alpha and the omega. We will be glorified like Christ. We will be risen like Christ. We will be receiving our new heavenly bodies. We will one day be at a place where He will wipe every tear from ours eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. Bank on his promises. Find his promises in the scriptures!
My goodness this sonship is an amazing thing.
Monday, October 12, 2009
My King - he is the mighty one
Exodus 19:4 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you [a] will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.'
Read the whole chapter. I just thought these verses are key. I shared my struggle with school with Pittuur and a few folks today. I shared with Shelt last night just about the struggle. I've finally shared my struggles and had some prayers over these things.
Today I am reminded of how great my King is. I need to stop looking around at the stats. Statistics say a lot. There is a warrant behind many of the claims the stats show; however NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD.
I follow the King Almighty, I follow the one who is the first one in history to rise from the grave, and 3 days later ascended into the throne of the father.
Neither life nor death or anything of this world shall scare me.
"7(I) Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where(J) shall I flee from your presence?
8(K) If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
(L) If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
9If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10even there your hand shall(M) lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
11If I say,(N) "Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,"
12(O) even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you."
There is so much to learn from the Nation of Israel. The lesson is to KEEP OUR EYES on our King. We cannot look at other nations and say we want what they have. Our God is in charge.. Hang in there even when it gets tough. I need to say I dont think I have ever been this stressed out in my life before :p but I must say my relationship with God has gone to where it has never gone before..
GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME..
Read the whole chapter. I just thought these verses are key. I shared my struggle with school with Pittuur and a few folks today. I shared with Shelt last night just about the struggle. I've finally shared my struggles and had some prayers over these things.
Today I am reminded of how great my King is. I need to stop looking around at the stats. Statistics say a lot. There is a warrant behind many of the claims the stats show; however NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR GOD.
I follow the King Almighty, I follow the one who is the first one in history to rise from the grave, and 3 days later ascended into the throne of the father.
Neither life nor death or anything of this world shall scare me.
"7(I) Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where(J) shall I flee from your presence?
8(K) If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
(L) If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
9If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10even there your hand shall(M) lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.
11If I say,(N) "Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,"
12(O) even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you."
There is so much to learn from the Nation of Israel. The lesson is to KEEP OUR EYES on our King. We cannot look at other nations and say we want what they have. Our God is in charge.. Hang in there even when it gets tough. I need to say I dont think I have ever been this stressed out in my life before :p but I must say my relationship with God has gone to where it has never gone before..
GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME..
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Sonday
I've failed to write in my blog.. Recently
It's not a big deal. Its 3:15 in the afternoon and I am having AN AMAZING DAY. This whole day has seriously been all about Jesus and me. I went to church this morning and the holy spirit definitely convicted me.
We went over Genesis 32 where Jacob wresltes with God and God changes his name to Israel. Today's message was about Jesus is the true and better Jacob..
Jacob all his life has been going about life every wrong way possible. He had forgotten how good God is to those who love him, he had forgotten how good God was to his forefathers. God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
His lesson today for me is that before I can walk obediently to God submitting to his will, I need to DROP each and every thing in my life that I am wrestling with God about.
I need to drop my worries about getting into the college of nursing. I need to seek first the kingdom of God.. for the will of the Lord to become prevalent in my life..
Seriously this Sonday just continues to become better. The presence of God is just so HUGE right now. I am just sitting in my room watching a few youtube videos, studying, listening to some worship music.
Why is it so amazing? It's because the gospel does not get old. I am just reminded that the slaughter of the son of God the perfect one was crucified so that his righteousness could become mine. That man, that God, that Christ Jesus died and on the third day ascended into right hand of his father. For the first time in history, a man walked up to the doors of heaven and cried out, "Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.
The heavens become utterly shocked in silence and wonder. A brave one shouts out
"Who is this King of glory?" Who dare speaks to these doors. No man has ever came near these doors. "Who is this King of glory?" The ONE who has saved us answers
The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle."Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in."
Then for the first time his history, these gates finally open up for a man. The man the Christ walks through those doors. The angels prostrate and fall, hail the power of Jesus' name. They crown him Lord of all with many crowns. The Lamb finally returns to the throne. Walking up to his father BOLD with his rights, climbing the steps of his throne that makes Solomon's throne look like paper matte. He sits down without asking for permission. Looks at his Father as an affirmation and tells him Father it is finished. The Father says "Indeed".
Go watch Jesus Died! - Paul Washer.. Anyhoo...
GOD IS GLORIOUS..
This Sonday with Jesus was AMAZING.
It's not a big deal. Its 3:15 in the afternoon and I am having AN AMAZING DAY. This whole day has seriously been all about Jesus and me. I went to church this morning and the holy spirit definitely convicted me.
We went over Genesis 32 where Jacob wresltes with God and God changes his name to Israel. Today's message was about Jesus is the true and better Jacob..
Jacob all his life has been going about life every wrong way possible. He had forgotten how good God is to those who love him, he had forgotten how good God was to his forefathers. God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
His lesson today for me is that before I can walk obediently to God submitting to his will, I need to DROP each and every thing in my life that I am wrestling with God about.
I need to drop my worries about getting into the college of nursing. I need to seek first the kingdom of God.. for the will of the Lord to become prevalent in my life..
Seriously this Sonday just continues to become better. The presence of God is just so HUGE right now. I am just sitting in my room watching a few youtube videos, studying, listening to some worship music.
Why is it so amazing? It's because the gospel does not get old. I am just reminded that the slaughter of the son of God the perfect one was crucified so that his righteousness could become mine. That man, that God, that Christ Jesus died and on the third day ascended into right hand of his father. For the first time in history, a man walked up to the doors of heaven and cried out, "Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.
The heavens become utterly shocked in silence and wonder. A brave one shouts out
"Who is this King of glory?" Who dare speaks to these doors. No man has ever came near these doors. "Who is this King of glory?" The ONE who has saved us answers
The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle."Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in."
Then for the first time his history, these gates finally open up for a man. The man the Christ walks through those doors. The angels prostrate and fall, hail the power of Jesus' name. They crown him Lord of all with many crowns. The Lamb finally returns to the throne. Walking up to his father BOLD with his rights, climbing the steps of his throne that makes Solomon's throne look like paper matte. He sits down without asking for permission. Looks at his Father as an affirmation and tells him Father it is finished. The Father says "Indeed".
Go watch Jesus Died! - Paul Washer.. Anyhoo...
GOD IS GLORIOUS..
This Sonday with Jesus was AMAZING.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
1 Corinthians 7
Just thinking there is so much I need to learn. Friday night (tonight) I spent the night with my friend. He's very new to the faith and does not know much of the bible whatsoever. We spent the whole night talking about the goodness of God and how God saved us. We watched this video from a psycho televangelist named Jack Van Impe? I just shared my thoughts on how this really isn't right.
We ended up talking about sex,sexual immorality, living above reproach and all those good things the Lord has in stored for us. I was reading 1 corinthians 7 and now I am more lost than ever about some of these things the bible has to say about sex and marriage.
In this passage Paul does not say too many thus says the Lord. He explicitly says that he thinks and such and such.
I dont know what to think of that..
Whats the point of my post? I really don't know. I just want to put it out there now I want to know the meaning and intent for sex and marriage. I am glad I am wrestling with this because if I want to get in a relationship than I better be grounded in biblical sex and marriage.
We ended up talking about sex,sexual immorality, living above reproach and all those good things the Lord has in stored for us. I was reading 1 corinthians 7 and now I am more lost than ever about some of these things the bible has to say about sex and marriage.
In this passage Paul does not say too many thus says the Lord. He explicitly says that he thinks and such and such.
I dont know what to think of that..
Whats the point of my post? I really don't know. I just want to put it out there now I want to know the meaning and intent for sex and marriage. I am glad I am wrestling with this because if I want to get in a relationship than I better be grounded in biblical sex and marriage.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
My golden calf....
1 When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, "Come, make us gods [a] who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him."
2 Aaron answered them, "Take off the gold earrings that your wives, your sons and your daughters are wearing, and bring them to me." 3 So all the people took off their earrings and brought them to Aaron. 4 He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, "These are your gods, [b] O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt."
5 When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, "Tomorrow there will be a festival to the LORD." 6 So the next day the people rose early and sacrificed burnt offerings and presented fellowship offerings. [c] Afterward they sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.
7 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, 'These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.'
9 "I have seen these people," the LORD said to Moses, "and they are a stiff-necked people. 10 Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation."
11 But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. "O LORD," he said, "why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? 12 Why should the Egyptians say, 'It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth'? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people. 13 Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: 'I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.' " 14 Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.
Anyone who reads this will probably have a "The Nerve!", "Woooooooooooooow", and "Stuuuuuuuuuuuuuuupid" reaction because DUDE come on God has just brought you out of egypt, God gave Abraham a son when he shouldn't even be able to have a baby, God provided with Joseph, God had been good to Abaraham and his descendants. (Manna & quail..... etc!)
But wait a moment! We are exactly like them! I know I am.. From my last post look at the prayer requests I have lifted up to him! Even with all those answered prayers there are times when I think that some of those prayers were coincidental. Even with so many answered prayers I still have such crazy materialism!
So what? I deserve death like the Isrealites. Luckily for them Moses was a type of Christ, he interceded for those people when God wanted to smite them. So what? God's mercy IS TOO MUCH! He knew all along that his people was going to fail and he would still continue to show his mercy and love!
I deserved death but Christ has imputed his righteousness onto me. He has interceded to the father for my sakes..
God is GOOD all the time. Christ is enough and every idol in my life needs to be burned away.
2 Aaron answered them, "Take off the gold earrings that your wives, your sons and your daughters are wearing, and bring them to me." 3 So all the people took off their earrings and brought them to Aaron. 4 He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, "These are your gods, [b] O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt."
5 When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, "Tomorrow there will be a festival to the LORD." 6 So the next day the people rose early and sacrificed burnt offerings and presented fellowship offerings. [c] Afterward they sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.
7 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, 'These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.'
9 "I have seen these people," the LORD said to Moses, "and they are a stiff-necked people. 10 Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation."
11 But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God. "O LORD," he said, "why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? 12 Why should the Egyptians say, 'It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth'? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people. 13 Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: 'I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.' " 14 Then the LORD relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.
Anyone who reads this will probably have a "The Nerve!", "Woooooooooooooow", and "Stuuuuuuuuuuuuuuupid" reaction because DUDE come on God has just brought you out of egypt, God gave Abraham a son when he shouldn't even be able to have a baby, God provided with Joseph, God had been good to Abaraham and his descendants. (Manna & quail..... etc!)
But wait a moment! We are exactly like them! I know I am.. From my last post look at the prayer requests I have lifted up to him! Even with all those answered prayers there are times when I think that some of those prayers were coincidental. Even with so many answered prayers I still have such crazy materialism!
So what? I deserve death like the Isrealites. Luckily for them Moses was a type of Christ, he interceded for those people when God wanted to smite them. So what? God's mercy IS TOO MUCH! He knew all along that his people was going to fail and he would still continue to show his mercy and love!
I deserved death but Christ has imputed his righteousness onto me. He has interceded to the father for my sakes..
God is GOOD all the time. Christ is enough and every idol in my life needs to be burned away.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Lamentations 3 - Though He Slay Me, Yet Will I Trust in Him
I have never really touched this book before (Lamentations). Today (Monday) I could not stop thinking about Tuesday - My day in court to contest my ticket. I have never been to court before and it is a bit nerve racking. I really don't want to pay the fine - the worst thing would be if my insurance finds out because my rates would increase.
As I continue to blog each day, I find that I encounter more and more and more humble pie. During those days when I did not seek God - I felt like I barely encountered humble pie.
I do not believe in the prosperity gospel. I don't believe that God does not bless me because I am not doing enough of something. I believe that God loves me and knows what he is doing as the Sovereign King of the University.
I cannot put it better than Matthew Henry so I will copy and paste his commentary.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:1-20
(Read Lamentations 3:1-20)
The prophet relates the more gloomy and discouraging part of his experience, and how he found support and relief. In the time of his trial the Lord had become terrible to him. It was an affliction that was misery itself; for sin makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup. The struggle between unbelief and faith is often very severe. But the weakest believer is wrong, if he thinks that his strength and hope are perished from the Lord.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:21-36
(Read Lamentations 3:21-36)
Having stated his distress and temptation, the prophet shows how he was raised above it. Bad as things are, it is owing to the mercy of God that they are not worse. We should observe what makes for us, as well as what is against us. God's compassions fail not; of this we have fresh instances every morning. Portions on earth are perishing things, but God is a portion for ever. It is our duty, and will be our comfort and satisfaction, to hope and quietly to wait for the salvation of the Lord. Afflictions do and will work very much for good: many have found it good to bear this yoke in their youth; it has made many humble and serious, and has weaned them from the world, who otherwise would have been proud and unruly. If tribulation work patience, that patience will work experience, and that experience a hope that makes not ashamed. Due thoughts of the evil of sin, and of our own sinfulness, will convince us that it is of the Lord's mercies we are not consumed. If we cannot say with unwavering voice, The Lord is my portion; may we not say, I desire to have Him for my portion and salvation, and in his word do I hope? Happy shall we be, if we learn to receive affliction as laid upon us by the hand of God.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:37-41
(Read Lamentations 3:37-41)
While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the hope they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to God, and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to God. Our hearts must go with our prayers. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock God, and deceive ourselves.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:42-54
(Read Lamentations 3:42-54)
The more the prophet looked on the desolations, the more he was grieved. Here is one word of comfort. While they continued weeping, they continued waiting; and neither did nor would expect relief and succour from any but the Lord.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:55-66
(Read Lamentations 3:55-66)
Faith comes off conqueror, for in these verses the prophet concludes with some comfort. Prayer is the breath of the new man, drawing in the air of mercy in petitions, and returning it in praises; it proves and maintains the spiritual life. He silenced their fears, and quieted their spirits. Thou saidst, Fear not. This was the language of God's grace, by the witness of his Spirit with their spirits. And what are all our sorrows, compared with those of the Redeemer? He will deliver his people from every trouble, and revive his church from every persecution. He will save believers with everlasting salvation, while his enemies perish with everlasting destruction.
Surely God is good. I cannot just expect to receive the best of everything everytime. I must praise him while in the storm. His mercies are new each day and they are more than enough. The LORD is my portion forever and will always be sufficient.
Thinking back about some of the trials I faced in college - God came through faithful not for my sakes but because first he is faithful to his own name and character.
- ILSTU Housing which would've have forced me to pay at least $9,000 extra.
- Meeting new friends at IlSTU
- Struggle with purity
- Horrible grades 1st semester GPA of 2.33? to a GPA of 3.54? 2nd semester last year. I thought I was just meant to be a failure in college
- To stay with the Encounter ministry or not
- To find a church I can call home down here at school
- A few very faithful men of God
- Blossoming relationships with friends and especially the family
- Fixing that car this weekend
- Breaking free from materialistic addiction
- A way to get fed spirtually
These were just things that came off the top of my head that I was really anxious and worried about for a while down here at the ILSTU. Hopefully I can add on to that list tomrorow when I go to court.
In the future, I hope to be able to say that God was GLORIOUS in the major I decided to pursue and got into here at the ILSTU. Right now I feel like a whore - by wanting to leave my bridgegroom (Christ. I feel like those things in the past where God answered my prayers - those things were just coincidental.
Christ - I do not want to be unfaithful. I want to trust in your goodness. I want to trust that you know what you are doing. Please remove this unfaithfulness that is in my heart and my soul. I have a desire to rid my mind of those thoughts and feelings. I want to be able to cling onto you and your promises for me. In my heart I know you are good and you are faithful. In my heart I know you God work for the good of those who love you and who have been called according to your purpose.
Please pray this prayer for me also.
As I continue to blog each day, I find that I encounter more and more and more humble pie. During those days when I did not seek God - I felt like I barely encountered humble pie.
I do not believe in the prosperity gospel. I don't believe that God does not bless me because I am not doing enough of something. I believe that God loves me and knows what he is doing as the Sovereign King of the University.
I cannot put it better than Matthew Henry so I will copy and paste his commentary.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:1-20
(Read Lamentations 3:1-20)
The prophet relates the more gloomy and discouraging part of his experience, and how he found support and relief. In the time of his trial the Lord had become terrible to him. It was an affliction that was misery itself; for sin makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup. The struggle between unbelief and faith is often very severe. But the weakest believer is wrong, if he thinks that his strength and hope are perished from the Lord.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:21-36
(Read Lamentations 3:21-36)
Having stated his distress and temptation, the prophet shows how he was raised above it. Bad as things are, it is owing to the mercy of God that they are not worse. We should observe what makes for us, as well as what is against us. God's compassions fail not; of this we have fresh instances every morning. Portions on earth are perishing things, but God is a portion for ever. It is our duty, and will be our comfort and satisfaction, to hope and quietly to wait for the salvation of the Lord. Afflictions do and will work very much for good: many have found it good to bear this yoke in their youth; it has made many humble and serious, and has weaned them from the world, who otherwise would have been proud and unruly. If tribulation work patience, that patience will work experience, and that experience a hope that makes not ashamed. Due thoughts of the evil of sin, and of our own sinfulness, will convince us that it is of the Lord's mercies we are not consumed. If we cannot say with unwavering voice, The Lord is my portion; may we not say, I desire to have Him for my portion and salvation, and in his word do I hope? Happy shall we be, if we learn to receive affliction as laid upon us by the hand of God.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:37-41
(Read Lamentations 3:37-41)
While there is life there is hope; and instead of complaining that things are bad, we should encourage ourselves with the hope they will be better. We are sinful men, and what we complain of, is far less than our sins deserve. We should complain to God, and not of him. We are apt, in times of calamity, to reflect on other people's ways, and blame them; but our duty is to search and try our own ways, that we may turn from evil to God. Our hearts must go with our prayers. If inward impressions do not answer to outward expressions, we mock God, and deceive ourselves.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:42-54
(Read Lamentations 3:42-54)
The more the prophet looked on the desolations, the more he was grieved. Here is one word of comfort. While they continued weeping, they continued waiting; and neither did nor would expect relief and succour from any but the Lord.
Commentary on Lamentations 3:55-66
(Read Lamentations 3:55-66)
Faith comes off conqueror, for in these verses the prophet concludes with some comfort. Prayer is the breath of the new man, drawing in the air of mercy in petitions, and returning it in praises; it proves and maintains the spiritual life. He silenced their fears, and quieted their spirits. Thou saidst, Fear not. This was the language of God's grace, by the witness of his Spirit with their spirits. And what are all our sorrows, compared with those of the Redeemer? He will deliver his people from every trouble, and revive his church from every persecution. He will save believers with everlasting salvation, while his enemies perish with everlasting destruction.
Surely God is good. I cannot just expect to receive the best of everything everytime. I must praise him while in the storm. His mercies are new each day and they are more than enough. The LORD is my portion forever and will always be sufficient.
Thinking back about some of the trials I faced in college - God came through faithful not for my sakes but because first he is faithful to his own name and character.
- ILSTU Housing which would've have forced me to pay at least $9,000 extra.
- Meeting new friends at IlSTU
- Struggle with purity
- Horrible grades 1st semester GPA of 2.33? to a GPA of 3.54? 2nd semester last year. I thought I was just meant to be a failure in college
- To stay with the Encounter ministry or not
- To find a church I can call home down here at school
- A few very faithful men of God
- Blossoming relationships with friends and especially the family
- Fixing that car this weekend
- Breaking free from materialistic addiction
- A way to get fed spirtually
These were just things that came off the top of my head that I was really anxious and worried about for a while down here at the ILSTU. Hopefully I can add on to that list tomrorow when I go to court.
In the future, I hope to be able to say that God was GLORIOUS in the major I decided to pursue and got into here at the ILSTU. Right now I feel like a whore - by wanting to leave my bridgegroom (Christ. I feel like those things in the past where God answered my prayers - those things were just coincidental.
Christ - I do not want to be unfaithful. I want to trust in your goodness. I want to trust that you know what you are doing. Please remove this unfaithfulness that is in my heart and my soul. I have a desire to rid my mind of those thoughts and feelings. I want to be able to cling onto you and your promises for me. In my heart I know you are good and you are faithful. In my heart I know you God work for the good of those who love you and who have been called according to your purpose.
Please pray this prayer for me also.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Matthew 8
Wholly cow, I do not remmber eating so much humble pie in a week but hey that does not matter, I belong to the King of Kings!
My king has more compassion than anyone can ever have.
My king can heal just by the power of his word.
However, my king isn't very liked. The cost of following him will cost me my life. It will mean that nothing will be as important as following him faithfully and obediently.
My king calms the storms in the sea. My king does not fear any adversary.
Though theres so many problems in life, my king asks me to surrender all of my anxieties over to him. I will put my hope and trust in him for he is the king of kings. He is trustworthy, he is my refuge, my strength, and my Jesus.
My king has more compassion than anyone can ever have.
My king can heal just by the power of his word.
However, my king isn't very liked. The cost of following him will cost me my life. It will mean that nothing will be as important as following him faithfully and obediently.
My king calms the storms in the sea. My king does not fear any adversary.
Though theres so many problems in life, my king asks me to surrender all of my anxieties over to him. I will put my hope and trust in him for he is the king of kings. He is trustworthy, he is my refuge, my strength, and my Jesus.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Don't stop praising God
Just thought I would read the psalm about 46.
God was definitely good. Fixing my car only cost 10 bucks :( however, it was not fixed fixed. It was just looked at. I don't think the mechanic really knew the problem because he did not look into it!
Whatevers - Car runs and we did not need to fork out tons of money. The LORD is definitely good for he provides and watches over us. I praise Him not because he just provides but because he laid down his life for me!
I feel like once we stop praising God we forget how good he is. Throughout the Psalms it is these triumphs of God that make us remember He is out there. I know for me when I stop praising God or seeking God that is when things get much rougher.
I ate another piece of humble pie today. My car ate some new paint and it was my fault this time, but HEY that is not going to bring me down. God is in control of all things. I still have my life and my trials is what gives witness for the gospel to be made known!
8 God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne.
9 The nobles of the nations assemble
as the people of the God of Abraham,
for the kings [b] of the earth belong to God;
he is greatly exalted.
Thanks God for sitting on your throne watching over all things!
Glory be to him forever
AMEN
God was definitely good. Fixing my car only cost 10 bucks :( however, it was not fixed fixed. It was just looked at. I don't think the mechanic really knew the problem because he did not look into it!
Whatevers - Car runs and we did not need to fork out tons of money. The LORD is definitely good for he provides and watches over us. I praise Him not because he just provides but because he laid down his life for me!
I feel like once we stop praising God we forget how good he is. Throughout the Psalms it is these triumphs of God that make us remember He is out there. I know for me when I stop praising God or seeking God that is when things get much rougher.
I ate another piece of humble pie today. My car ate some new paint and it was my fault this time, but HEY that is not going to bring me down. God is in control of all things. I still have my life and my trials is what gives witness for the gospel to be made known!
8 God reigns over the nations;
God is seated on his holy throne.
9 The nobles of the nations assemble
as the people of the God of Abraham,
for the kings [b] of the earth belong to God;
he is greatly exalted.
Thanks God for sitting on your throne watching over all things!
Glory be to him forever
AMEN
I need the gospel of Jesus Christ Himself eachday.
My goodness. Sometimes I wonder when Jesus will come back already. All the worries and problems of this world is really destroying me. It is either that it is supposed to be hard or it is because I am not living and thinking Kingdom minded.
There was no big problem today. Didn't do so well on last week's quiz in theater not the problem. I did another oil change tonight on the Corolla. Filter was almost impossible to take out. I used the hammer and the screw driver method and even though it allowed the filter to spin out 2-3 turns it was still not enough. We pretty much destroyed the filter by the time we got it out.
We had such a hard time getting it out, I kind of suspected something went wrong. I tried to put on the new filter but it did not want to go in. Took a look at the STUD that allows the filter to screw in and it looks messed up.
So right now the car cannot run because we cannot put oil in otherwise it would just leak out. What's the big problem? I need to be back at ISU by Sunday Morning 10am. I commute to school. Not a big deal, I can take the train back and have someone drive me to where I stay grab my stuff and stay with a friend on campus.
When I think about it it really is not that bad. Where it gets tough for me is that my parents are getting old. Money becomes an issue each day. They will not be happy that I screwed up something that needs to get fixed which will probably cost quite some money? I guess it really isn't that bad because it just means my parents are going to get fustrated at me. I am not going to die or anything....
Hmm. I am glad I am writing this through because it helps me think it through.
I must pray that God will provide a way. I must pray that these things will only make me cling to the cross and not uncling myself from the cross.
Jesus you died for my sins. You were crucified so that your righteousness would become mine. Through your death on the cross, I am righteous in the fathers eyes, when you died upon that across you defeated death. You showed the world that are you the way, the truth, and the light. You say that when a man loses his life he finds it. If God is for me/us who can be against me/us?
I need the gospel each day.
Psalms 46
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
8 Come and see the works of the LORD,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear,
he burns the shields [b] with fire.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
11 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
There was no big problem today. Didn't do so well on last week's quiz in theater not the problem. I did another oil change tonight on the Corolla. Filter was almost impossible to take out. I used the hammer and the screw driver method and even though it allowed the filter to spin out 2-3 turns it was still not enough. We pretty much destroyed the filter by the time we got it out.
We had such a hard time getting it out, I kind of suspected something went wrong. I tried to put on the new filter but it did not want to go in. Took a look at the STUD that allows the filter to screw in and it looks messed up.
So right now the car cannot run because we cannot put oil in otherwise it would just leak out. What's the big problem? I need to be back at ISU by Sunday Morning 10am. I commute to school. Not a big deal, I can take the train back and have someone drive me to where I stay grab my stuff and stay with a friend on campus.
When I think about it it really is not that bad. Where it gets tough for me is that my parents are getting old. Money becomes an issue each day. They will not be happy that I screwed up something that needs to get fixed which will probably cost quite some money? I guess it really isn't that bad because it just means my parents are going to get fustrated at me. I am not going to die or anything....
Hmm. I am glad I am writing this through because it helps me think it through.
I must pray that God will provide a way. I must pray that these things will only make me cling to the cross and not uncling myself from the cross.
Jesus you died for my sins. You were crucified so that your righteousness would become mine. Through your death on the cross, I am righteous in the fathers eyes, when you died upon that across you defeated death. You showed the world that are you the way, the truth, and the light. You say that when a man loses his life he finds it. If God is for me/us who can be against me/us?
I need the gospel each day.
Psalms 46
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Selah
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
8 Come and see the works of the LORD,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear,
he burns the shields [b] with fire.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."
11 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
Friday, October 2, 2009
Hello
Man it is getting tough now to post =(. Laziness wants me to stop writing.
Another woe is me moment. I feel exactly like the Israelites. God has done so many amazing things in my life. Alot of times I find myself saying only if I can experience God like the man with leprosy (today's reading was Matthew 8)
To be honest. I am still really worried about making the Nursing college or not here at ISU.
I am having a real hard time letting go.
I am even struggling with trusting Jesus with everything. Today's passage is really hitting me at the heart. Trusting that God is real and is in control. I don't know where my faith has gone. I remember when I was younger I felt like my faith was so much stronger than those who were older than me; however the battle definitely is not over. There are so many things I need to fight against with the Lord on my side. The battle is on.
No wonder God told Joshua
I now see why it is so important to memorize God's word. It is so important to preach the gospel to myself each day and to remember If God is for us, who can be against us?
Help me God.
Another woe is me moment. I feel exactly like the Israelites. God has done so many amazing things in my life. Alot of times I find myself saying only if I can experience God like the man with leprosy (today's reading was Matthew 8)
To be honest. I am still really worried about making the Nursing college or not here at ISU.
I am having a real hard time letting go.
I am even struggling with trusting Jesus with everything. Today's passage is really hitting me at the heart. Trusting that God is real and is in control. I don't know where my faith has gone. I remember when I was younger I felt like my faith was so much stronger than those who were older than me; however the battle definitely is not over. There are so many things I need to fight against with the Lord on my side. The battle is on.
No wonder God told Joshua
| Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. |
I now see why it is so important to memorize God's word. It is so important to preach the gospel to myself each day and to remember If God is for us, who can be against us?
Help me God.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Woe to me
Today's passage was Matthew 7. It
For a period of time I've wanted to know what is up. This is probably my downfall I am not finding enough outside of my schedule to get to know this person. Whenever I see them in bible study it is just very easy for me to judge them from the outside in. Woe to me for I have not seen the speck in my own eye.
All along I should have been praying for God to open doors for the TRUE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST CRUCIFIED to be really revealed.
God change me from the inside out.
Amen.
Judging OthersAsk, Seek, Knock The Narrow and Wide Gates, A Tree and Its Fruit, and The Wise and Foolish Builder.
There is a fella who I have in my life who is just very hard to love. There are times where I get really tempted to see why they believes in what they believe in.There are times when you ask him/her a question he/she will just tell you they have no answer or no thoughts. The word of God just does not seem to hit the person.For a period of time I've wanted to know what is up. This is probably my downfall I am not finding enough outside of my schedule to get to know this person. Whenever I see them in bible study it is just very easy for me to judge them from the outside in. Woe to me for I have not seen the speck in my own eye.
All along I should have been praying for God to open doors for the TRUE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST CRUCIFIED to be really revealed.
God change me from the inside out.
Amen.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Today's Reading Psalm 144
Today was not too pretty of a day. Monday night I took a 2hr nap and stayed up all night studying for an exam. I studied over hours studying the structure of bones and everything! To my dismay - the exam did not even have more then 10 questions about bone structures!!!! I basically studied for the wrong thing and BOMBED the exam. After my exam and class, I just slept through the day.
Guess what? God is still good. This is something I started to remind myself each day. God is good, God is good, God is good. The more I meditated on God's goodness I just felt a peace that surpasses all understanding consume my body.
I need to say I can definitely see God changing this dead heart of mine. It has progressively been crazier about him and his Kingdom.
Today, I did some reading of other passages but thought I would write about Psalms 144.
There are definitely alot of moments in my life where I have been thinking if this God is still really out there, (alot more than ever) which is why today's passage struck me a bit.
(vs 1-2) In alot of the psalms, David and or the Sons of Korah will always praise God even if their souls are downcast - maybe we need to remind ourselves of all the things God has done for us in the past. We really need to reminiscence on the goodness of God otherwise we will forget how active he has been in our lives. We need to remember the depth of our fall and how far he has brought us.
Today, my new friend Jared told me I have been a blessing for him in his faith. Which is what I really needed. Lately I have not seen or heard God work in my small group nor in the campus ministry. So thank you God for being God and sitting on your throne controlling everything!
(vs 3-4) It is easy to forget that each day God wants to and continues to sanctify us. It is easy to take the righteousness he gives us and accredits us with and tell ourselves we are good people. But we definitely have forgotten that our unrighteousness was imputed upon Jesus when he laid his life on the cross. The righteousness that we have right now is from him. It does rock my mind wondering why Jesus loves me.
Key verse (15): Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the LORD.
I honestly don't know where God is going to place me in the future. I am not the best student ever. I am not the smartest person ever. It is RIDONKCULOUS knowing that though it looks like I am "losing" in life - I know that it is going to be okay because he has promised that when I lose my life that is when I will find it. God has each and every moment of my life planned out for me. If I seek first the kingdom of God everything else will fall into place.
This is such an awesome reassurance he gives us.
No retreat, no regrets, no reserve. Christ is worth it.
AMEN
Guess what? God is still good. This is something I started to remind myself each day. God is good, God is good, God is good. The more I meditated on God's goodness I just felt a peace that surpasses all understanding consume my body.
I need to say I can definitely see God changing this dead heart of mine. It has progressively been crazier about him and his Kingdom.
Today, I did some reading of other passages but thought I would write about Psalms 144.
There are definitely alot of moments in my life where I have been thinking if this God is still really out there, (alot more than ever) which is why today's passage struck me a bit.
(vs 1-2) In alot of the psalms, David and or the Sons of Korah will always praise God even if their souls are downcast - maybe we need to remind ourselves of all the things God has done for us in the past. We really need to reminiscence on the goodness of God otherwise we will forget how active he has been in our lives. We need to remember the depth of our fall and how far he has brought us.
Today, my new friend Jared told me I have been a blessing for him in his faith. Which is what I really needed. Lately I have not seen or heard God work in my small group nor in the campus ministry. So thank you God for being God and sitting on your throne controlling everything!
(vs 3-4) It is easy to forget that each day God wants to and continues to sanctify us. It is easy to take the righteousness he gives us and accredits us with and tell ourselves we are good people. But we definitely have forgotten that our unrighteousness was imputed upon Jesus when he laid his life on the cross. The righteousness that we have right now is from him. It does rock my mind wondering why Jesus loves me.
Key verse (15): Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the LORD.
I honestly don't know where God is going to place me in the future. I am not the best student ever. I am not the smartest person ever. It is RIDONKCULOUS knowing that though it looks like I am "losing" in life - I know that it is going to be okay because he has promised that when I lose my life that is when I will find it. God has each and every moment of my life planned out for me. If I seek first the kingdom of God everything else will fall into place.
This is such an awesome reassurance he gives us.
No retreat, no regrets, no reserve. Christ is worth it.
AMEN
Monday, September 28, 2009
Today's reading matthew 6.
Brian Bielby is one of the guys in my small group. He brought up a point I had not thought about it. I know it doesn't say anything in the bible about this, but I thought it was pretty legit.
He said, sometimes when we pray, we pray "father thank you for (fill in the blank), they've been such a blessing in my life, thanks for building them up to be the godly person they are." Everyone then starts saying "yes jesus" and a whole butt load of energy just comes from people.
Is that something we should do less of? I know alot of it has to just do with the heart; however sometimes it can even stumble others and make em think this is how to do it.
If someone is reading this, can you give me a comment if "5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in ful" may relate to that?
Is it wrong to thank God for things like that? Definitely no. Brian made a good point. He said that we should first tell the other person that, unless we are just in our rooms praying to the Lord by ourselves - otherwise it may just seem like we are just praying up a show. But yeah if you are reading this, don't think I am attacking anyone. I've been doing this a while.
But anyhoo, my time with the Lord has been getting much more solid and consistent. Now the prayer life. Hopefully my life will be known for a life of petition and intercession.
He said, sometimes when we pray, we pray "father thank you for (fill in the blank), they've been such a blessing in my life, thanks for building them up to be the godly person they are." Everyone then starts saying "yes jesus" and a whole butt load of energy just comes from people.
Is that something we should do less of? I know alot of it has to just do with the heart; however sometimes it can even stumble others and make em think this is how to do it.
If someone is reading this, can you give me a comment if "5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in ful" may relate to that?
Is it wrong to thank God for things like that? Definitely no. Brian made a good point. He said that we should first tell the other person that, unless we are just in our rooms praying to the Lord by ourselves - otherwise it may just seem like we are just praying up a show. But yeah if you are reading this, don't think I am attacking anyone. I've been doing this a while.
But anyhoo, my time with the Lord has been getting much more solid and consistent. Now the prayer life. Hopefully my life will be known for a life of petition and intercession.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
The promise:
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
The problem:
School has been getting rougher and rougher. God has placed more and more on my plate. The amount of people I met and got to know is ridiculous. I don't know who are the ones to be much more intentional with. Small group has been rough and it is discouraging because it makes me wonder what my purpose is here for. I feel like I just don't want to sheperd anymore - but I know I can't stop.
The thoughts from this weekend away;
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. When trials come, they will show where my hearts desire is. I have not always been the most amazing student ever. So lately I have been tihnking I need to hit the books as much as possible. My heart's desire has always been to know Christ and to make Him known. Joe reaffirmed that to me this weekend. If I really cared about a certain thing in my life I need to seek it - to make him known in my small groups and the relationships I have made with people this semester. I know I cannot mess up the plans God has for me. Jesus has said lose your life and you will find it - come and follow me.
Yes it has been tough and it will probably get tougher. I can only keep seeking Him because He promises that I/we will find Him.
The following is from a book I have byDietrich Bonhoeffer called The cost of Discipleship.
The cross is laid on every Christian. The first Christ-suffering which every man must experience is the call to abandon the attachments of this world. It is that dying of the old man which is the result of his encounter with Christ. As we embark upon discipleship we surrender ourselves to Christ in union with his death—we give over our lives to death. Thus it begins; the cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise god-fearing and happy life, but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ. When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. It may be a death like that of the first disciples who had to leave home and work to follow him, or it may be a death like Luther’s, who had to leave the monastery and go out into the world. But it is the same death every time—death in Jesus Christ, the death of the old man at his call.
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
The problem:
School has been getting rougher and rougher. God has placed more and more on my plate. The amount of people I met and got to know is ridiculous. I don't know who are the ones to be much more intentional with. Small group has been rough and it is discouraging because it makes me wonder what my purpose is here for. I feel like I just don't want to sheperd anymore - but I know I can't stop.
The thoughts from this weekend away;
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. When trials come, they will show where my hearts desire is. I have not always been the most amazing student ever. So lately I have been tihnking I need to hit the books as much as possible. My heart's desire has always been to know Christ and to make Him known. Joe reaffirmed that to me this weekend. If I really cared about a certain thing in my life I need to seek it - to make him known in my small groups and the relationships I have made with people this semester. I know I cannot mess up the plans God has for me. Jesus has said lose your life and you will find it - come and follow me.
Yes it has been tough and it will probably get tougher. I can only keep seeking Him because He promises that I/we will find Him.
The following is from a book I have byDietrich Bonhoeffer called The cost of Discipleship.
The cross is laid on every Christian. The first Christ-suffering which every man must experience is the call to abandon the attachments of this world. It is that dying of the old man which is the result of his encounter with Christ. As we embark upon discipleship we surrender ourselves to Christ in union with his death—we give over our lives to death. Thus it begins; the cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise god-fearing and happy life, but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ. When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. It may be a death like that of the first disciples who had to leave home and work to follow him, or it may be a death like Luther’s, who had to leave the monastery and go out into the world. But it is the same death every time—death in Jesus Christ, the death of the old man at his call.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Something I shared with my sg
Man, it is tough when those of the Faith have no desire for their father in heaven. Wed night we talked about being in the silence with God.. This is a message I sent to them to encourage them in their walks with God. In parenthesis are some of the thing's that this passage spoke to me about.
Psalms 1
1 Blessed is the man
(Satisfied is he who.... the Kingdom of God belongs to Him, cuz the one who is blessed is the one righteously following Him)
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
(how do we do this? According to psalms 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.)
or stand in the way of sinners (didnt share this but this came to my mind - being salt and light does not mean you tell people how to live, tell em by your life, dont try to be good cop)
or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
(God TEACHES us how to DELIGHT IN HIM, he teaches us HOW we can not feel distant from him, he tells us HOW TO DO IT, we would be foolish not to listen to it. Joshua 1:8Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. )
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
(We would be foolish not to SOAK in the promises of God and take His word on it... Apart from him you will bear no fruit - When you apart of the vine - when you belong to the faithful one YOU will be built up well - there is no other foundation greater than Jesus)
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
(The WAY everlasting is the only one that will allow you to reap GOOD)
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
(You feeling distant from God? Are you following him faithfully-obediently? Prob not... Take HIS word on it.)
Psalms 1
1 Blessed is the man
(Satisfied is he who.... the Kingdom of God belongs to Him, cuz the one who is blessed is the one righteously following Him)
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
(how do we do this? According to psalms 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.)
or stand in the way of sinners (didnt share this but this came to my mind - being salt and light does not mean you tell people how to live, tell em by your life, dont try to be good cop)
or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
(God TEACHES us how to DELIGHT IN HIM, he teaches us HOW we can not feel distant from him, he tells us HOW TO DO IT, we would be foolish not to listen to it. Joshua 1:8Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. )
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
(We would be foolish not to SOAK in the promises of God and take His word on it... Apart from him you will bear no fruit - When you apart of the vine - when you belong to the faithful one YOU will be built up well - there is no other foundation greater than Jesus)
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
(The WAY everlasting is the only one that will allow you to reap GOOD)
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
(You feeling distant from God? Are you following him faithfully-obediently? Prob not... Take HIS word on it.)
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Woe to me
I'll be honest, I was half awake when I wrote yesterday :p so Christopher would get off my back. I knew what I wanted to say yesterday but after I snoozed after 1-2 mins, I forgot my whole point.
I have been running around too much. Yesterday I spent 4hrs cooking fried rice, it could've fed 40-50 people. I don't have too many moments of peace because I am always in the midst of serving or always busy trying to get something done.
I am being exhausted because I am not giving Christ the time to give me rest. This is how this passage relates to Elijah. He had been going around and doing things in the name of God. At the end of the day, he flat out said to God in verse 4 "It is enough; now O LORD take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers."Elijah man of God got worn out, it was not until he went into the cave until he was refreshed.
So whats the point? Turn off the noise - which includes visual noices such as facebook, aim and such when you read your bible and spend that time meditating on the areas of our lives we need to surrender over to our Lord Jesus.
What was I saying yesterday? I am worrying about getting into the college of nursing, I am worried about leading my smallgroup, I am worried about my living situtation for next year. The problem is I am not spending my time in the quietness to let God speak. If I was letting him speak, I would be reminded of his promises - the ones he promised to us when we would let him be Lord of all.
I have been running around too much. Yesterday I spent 4hrs cooking fried rice, it could've fed 40-50 people. I don't have too many moments of peace because I am always in the midst of serving or always busy trying to get something done.
I am being exhausted because I am not giving Christ the time to give me rest. This is how this passage relates to Elijah. He had been going around and doing things in the name of God. At the end of the day, he flat out said to God in verse 4 "It is enough; now O LORD take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers."Elijah man of God got worn out, it was not until he went into the cave until he was refreshed.
So whats the point? Turn off the noise - which includes visual noices such as facebook, aim and such when you read your bible and spend that time meditating on the areas of our lives we need to surrender over to our Lord Jesus.
What was I saying yesterday? I am worrying about getting into the college of nursing, I am worried about leading my smallgroup, I am worried about my living situtation for next year. The problem is I am not spending my time in the quietness to let God speak. If I was letting him speak, I would be reminded of his promises - the ones he promised to us when we would let him be Lord of all.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Our biggest mistake
Todays reading 1 King 19We let Satan rob our lives too many times.
We need to learn how to live life and live it to the full. If I told you I worry about my future/career, spouse, current small group, grades, being the only christian in a pool of people, etc. Would you not tell me it is foolish to worry about it 24/7?
I knowfor myself I need to live my life with hands wide opened and take charg e of what is in front on my lsg.
Look at Elijah. He thought he was the only one who cared for God.. Many too many times we think that God does not have it in control. If I do believe he is the real thing why is my life not showing it!
Raymond A
We need to learn how to live life and live it to the full. If I told you I worry about my future/career, spouse, current small group, grades, being the only christian in a pool of people, etc. Would you not tell me it is foolish to worry about it 24/7?
I knowfor myself I need to live my life with hands wide opened and take charg e of what is in front on my lsg.
Look at Elijah. He thought he was the only one who cared for God.. Many too many times we think that God does not have it in control. If I do believe he is the real thing why is my life not showing it!
Raymond A
Matthew 5
The beautitudes and the sermon on the mount.
Jesus did not really preach anything new. Throughout time it has always been about the Kingdom of God. The only new thing that that the son of God would be the one to take away the sins of the world.
For me the scariest verse in the bible is mathew 7:24.
Jesus acknowledges that there are people who will do things in his name - he does not deny the miracles.
How do we know we will not be like the one who says Lord did we not prophecy inyour name?
Read the beautitude and the sermon on the mount in context. Jesus had been talking about blessed are you when...
Examine your own life, are you bearing fruit? In tough situtations are you being meek, poor in spirit, and etc...
The ones I have been being challenged with are being meek and being
Good night world its late!
Jesus did not really preach anything new. Throughout time it has always been about the Kingdom of God. The only new thing that that the son of God would be the one to take away the sins of the world.
For me the scariest verse in the bible is mathew 7:24.
Jesus acknowledges that there are people who will do things in his name - he does not deny the miracles.
How do we know we will not be like the one who says Lord did we not prophecy inyour name?
Read the beautitude and the sermon on the mount in context. Jesus had been talking about blessed are you when...
Examine your own life, are you bearing fruit? In tough situtations are you being meek, poor in spirit, and etc...
The ones I have been being challenged with are being meek and being
Good night world its late!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The day after the victory
Today's reading: Matthew 3
Before I start, I just want to throw a shout out to God. The unimaginable happened today. While cooking dinner, I thought about my pops and all the bad things I've said to him and the things I yelled at him for and how I brought him down. God placed it on my heart to go to Chicago soon to talk to him and apologize for the things in the past that I have said. I called him tonight and told him what I wanted to say - the same for my mum. If you know my family, we do not say things such as "I'm sorry" or things such as "I love you" This was not easy and I can now die a happy man having my family know know the love God has for me has transformed my life and they are living witnesses of that.
At Clearview church we have been going over a seruies called Jesus is the true and better (fill in the blank) which was inspired by Tim Keller. So far we have gone over Sabbath rest, Adam, Abel, and Abraham. For this month, I am going to read through Matthew. I got my idea of what to write today from the Clearview sermon series.
John the Baptist.. you are an awesome hero of the faith but I need to say that Jesus is the true and better John the Baptist. John the baptist said it himself, the one who will come after him is much more powerful than he is and he admits he cannot carry the sandals' of the one to come. Throughout time God has been patient. He has wanted to restore the perfect relationship between himself and his creation. He wanted to bring the message of the Kingdom of heaven, which is nothing new, it was something John the Baptist preached.
What are some similarities between JTB and Yeshu?
Jesus did not care about money or material possesion, he preached that God tells us not to worry because he will provide for us everything we need.
They both spoke the truth. They were not afraid that people would be offended. They preached the message of reprentence.
Why is Jesus much better?
Jesus was the one who fulfilled the prophecies of the past. Jesus came and brought the Kingdom of Heaven to earth. He is the one who restores the Kingdom of God. He is the one we confess to and find forgiveness through. He is the one who lived up to the will of the father - sinless. He was obedient to even death on the cross. He is the one who defeated hell and will not let the gates of hell prevail. He was the one who died and rose again to show us that he is the one with the key to an eternity in heaven with our creator - God.
Thanks Jesus for being far superior than anyone else and everything else.
Before I start, I just want to throw a shout out to God. The unimaginable happened today. While cooking dinner, I thought about my pops and all the bad things I've said to him and the things I yelled at him for and how I brought him down. God placed it on my heart to go to Chicago soon to talk to him and apologize for the things in the past that I have said. I called him tonight and told him what I wanted to say - the same for my mum. If you know my family, we do not say things such as "I'm sorry" or things such as "I love you" This was not easy and I can now die a happy man having my family know know the love God has for me has transformed my life and they are living witnesses of that.
At Clearview church we have been going over a seruies called Jesus is the true and better (fill in the blank) which was inspired by Tim Keller. So far we have gone over Sabbath rest, Adam, Abel, and Abraham. For this month, I am going to read through Matthew. I got my idea of what to write today from the Clearview sermon series.
John the Baptist.. you are an awesome hero of the faith but I need to say that Jesus is the true and better John the Baptist. John the baptist said it himself, the one who will come after him is much more powerful than he is and he admits he cannot carry the sandals' of the one to come. Throughout time God has been patient. He has wanted to restore the perfect relationship between himself and his creation. He wanted to bring the message of the Kingdom of heaven, which is nothing new, it was something John the Baptist preached.
What are some similarities between JTB and Yeshu?
Jesus did not care about money or material possesion, he preached that God tells us not to worry because he will provide for us everything we need.
They both spoke the truth. They were not afraid that people would be offended. They preached the message of reprentence.
Why is Jesus much better?
Jesus was the one who fulfilled the prophecies of the past. Jesus came and brought the Kingdom of Heaven to earth. He is the one who restores the Kingdom of God. He is the one we confess to and find forgiveness through. He is the one who lived up to the will of the father - sinless. He was obedient to even death on the cross. He is the one who defeated hell and will not let the gates of hell prevail. He was the one who died and rose again to show us that he is the one with the key to an eternity in heaven with our creator - God.
Thanks Jesus for being far superior than anyone else and everything else.
The depth I have fallen
Today's reading: Matthew 2 - the visit of the magi, the escape to egypt, the return to nazareth,
For the Israelites their closest moment and experience with God was their great escape from egypt to the promiseland. From there they dwelled with God, traveled with him, and just heard his voice to them through the prophets.
For me my greatest moment and experience with God was the death and resurrection of my Jesus. It was when I accepted in my heart that Jesus Christ laid down his life for me so that I could have life to the fullest.
What does this have to do with the passage and me? Well I am just going to share some thoughts that came up on my mind while reading this passage.
When you REALLY BELIEVE in something, you take action upon it. King Herod knew what God was capable of, he tried with all of his strength to not let Jesus take the throne. He took action on it. The Magis had an idea of the one who was going to save Israel - they went on a long journey to worship him.
Mary and Joseph knew GOD and they loved Him. They were obedient.
For the Israelites their closest moment and experience with God was their great escape from egypt to the promiseland. From there they dwelled with God, traveled with him, and just heard his voice to them through the prophets.
For me my greatest moment and experience with God was the death and resurrection of my Jesus. It was when I accepted in my heart that Jesus Christ laid down his life for me so that I could have life to the fullest.
What does this have to do with the passage and me? Well I am just going to share some thoughts that came up on my mind while reading this passage.
When you REALLY BELIEVE in something, you take action upon it. King Herod knew what God was capable of, he tried with all of his strength to not let Jesus take the throne. He took action on it. The Magis had an idea of the one who was going to save Israel - they went on a long journey to worship him.
Mary and Joseph knew GOD and they loved Him. They were obedient.
Everything has been about me lately. I have been exhausted from school and ministry. I know my relationship with God is genuine - I know he loves me and I know I love Him, but why is it that I don't act like it?
My devotion to the one I love has struggled these past few weeks. I have struggled with pursuing Him, I have struggled with honoring Him, I have struggled to love Him. I have not been feeding his sheep nor have I been feeding myself. I am Peter, I've made so many broken promises and he still chooses to stay close with me. God I love you, thank you for being so faithful and being true to your word. I pray today be a fresh start. I pray for faith that drives me to pursue you. I really do believe your love for me is real give, give me the grace to act on it. I am so glad your mercies are new each day. Your mercy extrends from the east to the west. Thank you for your forgiveness.
I will never forget this promise of yours that you repeat over and over again.
Ezekiel 37:27 - my dwelling place will be with them, I will be their God and they will be my people.
Jeremiah 24:6-7 - my eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land, I will build them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God, for they will return to me with all their heart.
I love you and thank you father.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)