Steadfast Love

I'm Moving

2009-08-29T22:38:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not physically moving...this blog is moving. After great deliberation, I have decided to move my blog over to WordPress. I will keep this blog up, just in case...but I doubt I'll be back. :D You can check out my new blog (and continue to follow God's faithfulness in my life as I journey towards Heaven) at: http://journeyoffaithfulness.wordpress.com/

Chick-fil-A…FB???

2009-08-27T14:36:00.001-04:00

This just made me laugh…what is this world coming to???

Power to the Powerless

2009-08-27T08:24:00.001-04:00

The loss of all confidence in ones self, is the first essential in the believer's growth in grace! The Christian, conscious of his own frailty, will turn unto the Lord for strength. "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak--then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:10

There must be consciousness of our weakness, before we shall turn to the Lord for help. While the Christian imagines that he is sufficient in himself; while he imagines that by the mere force of his will, that he shall resist temptation; while he has any confidence in the flesh--then, like 'boasting Peter'--so we shall certainly fail and fall. The plain fact is--that of ourselves we are utterly unable to practice a single precept, or obey a single command that is set before us in the Scriptures! Apart from Christ--we can do nothing! (John 15:5). The promise of God is, "He gives power to the faint; and strengthens the powerless!" Isaiah 40:29

The secret of development of Christian character, is the realization of our own powerlessness, and the consequent turning unto the Lord for help. A consciousness of our powerlessness, should cast us upon Him who has all power.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble!" Psalm 46:1

-Arthur Pink

Your Grace Is Enough

2009-08-26T08:22:00.001-04:00

Have you ever bought a cd and then somehow it gets buried and you never really listen to it? That is what I did with Arriving by Chris Tomlin. Last week I “discovered” a song that I has quickly risen to my Top 20 Favorite Worship Songs. This song has been very encouraging and truth focusing…

Great is Your faithfulness oh God
You wrestle with the sinner's heart
You lead us by still waters into mercy
And nothing can keep us apart

So remember Your people
Remember Your children
Remember Your promise
Oh God

Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough for me

Great is Your love and justice God
You use the weak to lead the strong
You lead us in the song of Your salvation
And all Your people sing along

So remember Your people
Remember Your children
Remember Your promise
Oh God

Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough for me [x2]

Heaven reaching down to us
Your grace is enough for me
God I see your grace is enough
I'm covered in your love
Your grace is enough for me
For me

Trials & Idols

2009-08-25T10:51:00.001-04:00

I recently heard someone say that God fashions our trials according to our greatest idols. Sometimes what I want the most, I want more than God. God doesn’t always say no, but wait. And in that waiting we find that our desires are much stronger than our love for God. It’s a great opportunity to find our satisfaction in Him. Not in our marital status. How accomplished we are. How amazing and “successful” our job is. We dream and desire, but ultimately our rest isn’t in life, but in Him and glorifying Him.

Popcorn

2009-08-24T22:39:00.001-04:00

Chica loves popcorn. Every time we pop it, she stands by the counter and waits for popcorn to fall to the floor. She recognizes the machine when I bring it out...it's very funny.

A Most Sovereign Antidote

2009-08-23T08:45:00.001-04:00

Then Moses said to Him, "If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here!" Exodus 33:15
God's presence is infinitely better than the presence of all outward comforts. God is with His people to counsel them in all doubtful and difficult cases, and to defend and secure them against all their enemies and opposers.
A sound sincere Christian can never have enough . . .
power against sin, nor
strength against temptation, nor
weanedness from this world, nor
ripeness for heaven, nor
of the presence of the Lord.
The special presence of God with His people, is a most sovereign antidote.
Troubles will be no troubles,
distresses will be no distresses,
dangers will be no dangers--
if God's presence is with you.
Mountains--will be molehills; stabs at the heart--will be as scratches upon the hand; if God's presence is with you.
God's special presence will turn . . .
storms into calms,
winter nights into summer days,
prisons into palaces,
weakness into strength,
poverty into plenty,
death into life.
Just so, while a Christian enjoys the singular presence of God with him, he will make nothing of this affliction and that affliction, of this trouble and that trouble, of this loss and that loss. God's presence makes . . .
heavy afflictions--light, and
long afflictions--short, and
bitter afflictions--sweet.
A man in misery, without this gracious presence of God, is in a very hell on this side hell. God's gracious presence makes every condition--to be a little heaven to the believing soul. There is nothing, there can be nothing, but heaven--where God is specially present.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1
"The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress!" Psalm 46:7

- Thomas Brooks

Beautiful!

2009-08-22T08:16:00.001-04:00

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Discovery is silhouetted against the dawn sky as it rolls out to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Groveling Among Baubles

2009-08-22T08:08:00.001-04:00

"He who overcomes will inherit all things!" Revelation 21:7
He shall have peace and plenty, profit and pleasure, everything desirable--full satisfaction of his most enlarged desires! Let the expectants of heaven, then, lift up their heads with joy. Let them gird up their loins, and so run that they may obtain; trampling on everything that may hinder them in their way to the kingdom. Let them never account any duty too hard, nor any cross too heavy, nor any pains too great--so that they may attain the unfading crown of glory.
Christians should behave suitably to their character and dignity--as heirs of the eternal glorious kingdom. Let your heart be in heaven. Let your souls delight in communion with God while you are on earth, since you look for your happiness in communion with Him in heaven. Let your speech and actions savor of heaven; and in your manner of life, look towards the heavenly country to which you are going.
Maintain a holy contempt of the world, and of the things of the world. Although others, whose earthly things are their best things, set their hearts upon them; yet it befits you to set your feet on them, since your best things are above. This world is but the alien country through which you must pass through, on your journey to Immanuel's land. Therefore, pass through it as pilgrims and strangers; and do not immerse yourself in its encumbrances, so as to retard you in your journey.
It is unworthy of one born to a palace--to set his heart to dwell in a poor hovel. It is unworthy of one running for a prize of gold--to depart from his path to gather pebbles and sticks. How much more is it unworthy of an heir of the kingdom of heaven--to be groveling among the baubles of this world, when he should be traveling on to receive his eternal inheritance!

-Thomas Boston

Joy In Everything

2009-08-21T07:53:00.001-04:00

Despair does not lie in being weary of suffering but in being weary of joy. -G. K. Chesterton

When ours are interrupted, his are not. His plans are proceeding exactly as scheduled, moving us always (including those minutes or hours or years which seem most useless or wasted or unendurable) "toward the goal of true maturity" (Rom 12:2). E. Elliott
When you and I hurt deeply, what we really need is not an explanation from God but a revelation of God. We need to see how great God is; we need to recover our lost perspective on life., Things get out of proportion when we are suffering, and it takes a vision of something bigger than ourselves to get life's dimensions adjusted again. -W. Wiersbe

The “Why?” becomes unimportant when we believe that God can and will redeem the pain for our good and his glory.... When I put the sovereignty of God beside his unfailing love, my heart can rest. -Verdell Davis

Where does your security lie? Is God your refuge, your hiding place, your stronghold, your shepherd, your counselor, your friend, your redeemer, your saviour, your guide? If He is, you don't need to search any further for security. -E. Elliott

In a way I wish I could take to heaven my old, tattered Everest and Jennings wheelchair. I would point to the empty seat and say, "Lord, for decades I was paralyzed in this chair. But it showed me how paralyzed You must have felt to be nailed to Your Cross. My limitations taught me something about the limitations You endured when You laid aside your robes of state and put on the indignity of human flesh." At that point, with my strong and glorified body, I might sit in it, rub the armrests with my hands, look up at Jesus, and add, "The weaker I felt in this chair, the harder I leaned on You. And the harder I leaned, the more I discovered how strong You are. Thank you, Jesus for learning obedience in your suffering...You gave me grace to learn obedience in mine." -Joni Eareckson Tada

Joy is not the absence of suffering. It is the presence of God. -Robert Schuller

The fact that disabled people hang in there does something for Christians. It's not about being an inspiration for others, it more than that.... it's a mystery. God somehow strengthens others by their faithfulness. They may feel like a burden to others, but God thinks the opposite. He thinks its necessary for others to take care of the disabled... they do more for one's spiritual well being than can be imagined. What's more is that it's all being credited to the disabled person's account, per Phillipians 1:25-26. -Joni Eareckson Tada

A Leaning Trust

2009-08-20T16:46:00.001-04:00

Let your mind be renewed by this: God cannot lie. God is love…. “The steadfast love of the Lord endures forever.” Do you know why the Bible tells us things like that? its because we’re tempted to think that it hasn’t endured… that it doesn’t reach me in 2009 in this situation. So God keeps speaking to us and telling us “no! it does! it endures forever. It lasts forever. It is for you… God gave up His own Son to death to save you from sin. And He points to that to show you how deeply he cares for you.

He asks you to measure His faithfulness and His love by the cross. If He would do that for me, how much more will he meet me when I’m growing weary in my sickness, when I’m wishing I had that relationship, when I don’t know what tomorrow holds. How much more is God going to care for me. God’s Word tells us that His arm is not too short to save. He is able to meet us in any circumstance… Look back on your life. Not ONE of God’s promises has failed. That doesn’t mean you haven’t faced disappointment. But look back. All of God’s promises to be with you and to be faithful… not one has failed. Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart. Not a partial trust.

SO here’s the idea I want you to think about … this kind of leaning (lean not on your own understanding) leaves us vulnerable. If this thing I’m leaning on were to go away I would fall flat on my face. And that leaves me off balance… this is a little scary. I’m trusting in something else. Leaning on the Lord leaves us off balance and we don’t like to feel off balance. A lot of us spend our entire Christian lives running away from the feeling of being off balance. That feeling of being vulnerable… of being held up by God… this is exactly where God created us to live…and that is exactly where we are the most secure than we’ve ever been.” Exceprt by Joshua Harris from sermon at CovLife on 8/9/09: Total Trust.

God Loves To Be A Slave, Do I?

2009-08-20T08:24:00.001-04:00

There are things I just do not like to do. There is no good reason for my dislike, but please don’t ask me to do them. Logic doesn’t enter into the picture when it comes to jobs and serving (but should it?). I do not like to take out the trash. I do not like to prepare coffee the night before. I DO NOT like to weed. I’ll do pretty much anything, serve however you ask, but don’t ask me to do those…

Some parents teach their kids to be passionate about sports. Others, reading or the arts. (All perfectly good and fun things to be passionate about!) My parents taught their children to be passionate about serving the body of Christ. I cannot remember a time when my parents didn’t serve. Long before dad became a pastor, I remember him showing up early on Sunday mornings. He ran the transparency machine (back in the day before PowerPoint) and set-up chairs. He and mom led a care group and we always had people in our house. Serving in our house was akin to breathing. As Christ’s redeemed sinners, it’s supposed to be our joy and delight to pour out our lives for others (& the Savior). Dad & Mom taught us this very early on. I love to serve, I feel weird when I can’t. There’s few things I enjoy more than gettin’ r’ done and making things run smooth so people can meet and experience God. But, I was convicted by Sunday’s sermon…very convicted.

“We should never settle for where we are.” – Jim Britt

On Sunday, I wrote in my notes, “I will never be like Jesus so I always have room to do better. You will never be fully sanctified, so there is always room for change, room to do better, and countless ways to reflect my Savior even more.”

I serve, but am I a slave? Do I wear myself out serving or do I serve when it’s convenient? Granted, we’re responsible for our bodies and we should be mindful of what we can and cannot/should and shouldn’t do. But, is itmy desire to serve with everything I have? Or to serve in the ways I prefer? Do I cheerfully take out the trash? Or do I just clean the kitchen? Do I serve in every way possible or do I only serve in ways I like? Do I serve when I’m tired and need some “me” time? Do I serve when I don’t feel good?

What’s my goal in serving? To do my duty (good thing)? Or is it fueled by a passionate desire to be like my Savior? To model Him and serve as much like Him as I can. A couple of things that dad said in his sermon which made me think:

“Stop being in charge (of your life), it’s a fool’s errand.

“We can risk all, look who He (God) is.”

I have a lot of room to grow. I often serve because it has become rote, not because I passionately want to serve Christ and His bride. I serve because I’m proud. And there are so many times I do not serve (especially at home), when I should.

Apart from God’s grace in the gospel (Ro. 1:16), I do not have the power to change or to serve at all. But, thankfully, I do not change or serve by myself. He is with me. All I need to do is repent and ask for help. God gives me the grace, power, and strength to be like Him. I try and He gives me the power and ability. I love my Savior!!!

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Phil. 4:13

You can download the sermon, sermon notes, and application questions HERE.

God CAN Open

2009-08-19T07:21:00.001-04:00

We never consider that God can open the eyes of the blind with clay and spittle, he can work above, beyond, and even contrary to means…’Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain, yet the valley shall be filled with water’ (2 Kings 3.17). God would have us depend on him though we do not see how the thing may be brought about…

— Jeremiah Burroughs, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment

Richer Mercies...Higher Service...Greater Glory

2009-08-18T19:37:00.001-04:00

The Lord empties before He fills. He makes room for Himself, for His love, and for His grace...thus does He bring the soul into great straits, lay it low, but to school and discipline it for richer mercies, higher service, and greater glory. Be sure ...of this, that, when the Lord is about to bless you with some great and peculiar blessing, He may prepare you for it by some great and peculiar trial.

-O. Winslow

Kept By God

2009-08-18T08:34:00.001-04:00

Thou Creator, Upholder, Proprietor of all things,

I cannot escape from thy presence or control, nor do I desire to do so.

My privilege is to be under the agency of omnipotence, righteousness, wisdom, patience, mercy, grace.

Thou art love with more than parental affection;

I admire thy heart, adore thy wisdom, stand in awe of thy power, abase myself before thy purity.

It is the discovery of they goodness alone that can banish my fear, allure me into they presence, help me to bewail and confess my sins.

When I review my past guilt and am conscious of my present unworthiness

I tremble to come to thee,

I whose foundation is in the dust,

I who have condemned thy goodness,

defied thy power,

trampled upon thy love,

rendered myself worthy of eternal death.

But my recovery cannot spring from any cause in me,

I can destroy but cannot save myself.

Yet thou hast laid help on One that is mighty, for there is mercy with the, and exceeding riches in thy kindness through Jesus.

May I always feel my need of him.

Let thy restored joy be my strength;

May it keep me from lusting after the world,

bear up heart and mind in loss of comforts,

enliven me in the valley of death,

work in me the image of the heavenly,

and give me to enjoy the first fruits of spirituality,

such as angels and departed saints know.

-The Valley of Vision

Are We Trusting God’s Sovereignty?

2009-08-18T07:46:00.001-04:00

To all these questions, I could add one more: “Are we trusting God’s sovereignty in the gospel?” God causes the deaf to hear and the blind to see. He melts hearts of stone and hardens others. Paul did not always see a favorable response to the gospel. Neither will we. God may send a season of blessing and revival or He may use us, like so many of the prophets to give one last warning of the judgment to come. Some will plant, some will water, and some will reap a harvest.

Our part is to do our part…But only God saves. It is right to plan and pray for “results” and plead with others to know Christ, but no one can change the number of God’s elect.

Remember that on that “great gettin’ up morning,” God will not reward churchgoers, or His churches for that matter, for being big and influential, or hip and culturally with-it, but for being good and faithful (Matt. 25:23). That’s all God asks of us-be good and faithful, which is right, because that’s the best we can do.

-Kevin DeYoung, Why We Love The Church

Why We Love The Church

2009-08-15T08:04:00.001-04:00

“Is a head still a head if it doesn’t have a body? Is a basement still a basement if there’s no house on top? Is a friend really your friend if you can’t stand his wife?

According to 1 Corinthians 3, the church is God’s building, with Jesus Christ as its foundation. To be sure, there can be no superstructure without a solid foundation. That’s obvious. But it should also be obvious that no one lays a foundation unless he plans to build on it. No one drives past a cement foundation in the dirt and thinks, “Looks like they’re about ready to move in.” We know that a foundation exists to be built upon, not lived in all by itself. Who wants to live in a basement without the rest of the house on top? On on I know, except for the Christians who want Jesus but not the Church.”

This was the first two paragraphs of the introduction for “Why We Love The Church”. I am hooked. I am screaming through this book at a pace (for me) that is earth shattering. I love it! It is amazing. I heartily recommend that you read it…multiple times. I recently read Josh Harris’ blog where he was talking about this book. He says that he likes it more than the book he wrote on the church (Which is saying something, ‘cause Josh’s book is VERY good.). I am confident many quotes from the book will find it’s way onto this blog. :D In fact, here are a couple:

Indeed, being part of a church-and learning to love it-is good for your soul, biblically responsible, and pleasing to God. – Kevin DeYoung

The church we love is as flawed and messed up as we are, but she’s Christ’s bride nonetheless. And I might as well have a basement without a house or a head without a body as despise the wife my Savior loves. –Keving DeYoung

We’re not perfect (far from it) but we love Jesus, we love the gospel, and we try our best to love other Christians. –Ted Kluck

You can purchase this incredible book HERE…the shipping is very cheap and they ship very fast!

The Father’s Love

2009-08-14T08:12:00.001-04:00

If you haven’t heard or listened to this cd (Sons & Daughters), let me strongly encourage you to immediately go to SGM’s store and purchase it. It is the best they have released to date! The theologically rich lyrics are amazing. I’ve listened to nothing else in my devotions, since I bought the cd. This is my favorite song on the cd:

How has the sinner been forgiven
How has the rebel been made clean
Or blinded eyes been made to see
How have the orphans been adopted
Who hated Your love and ran from grace
Despised and rejected all Your ways

Chorus
How wonderful the Father’s love
The Father’s love for us
That He would send His only Son
To come and rescue us
He has saved us, called us blameless
Guides us now and will sustain us
Oh how wonderful the Father’s love

Your mercy floods our lives with kindness
Your grace has colored all we see
And You have promised not to leave
You freely give Your Spirit to us
So we can be sure we’re sons of God
And rest in the hope of what’s to come

Bridge
Though sufferings may fill our lives
We’re confident we’re heirs with Christ
And so we cry, “Abba, Father”

This is a description of the cd:

Do you live with a nagging suspicion of God?
Many Christians understand that Jesus died in our place to take our punishment, that our sins have been forgiven, and that one day Christ will return. But inwardly we can be tempted to wonder whether God truly loves us, cares about us, or even thinks about us.
The gospel has brought us amazing news, but sometimes we don’t live in the good of it.
These songs are meant to direct our attention to the unfathomable love God has shown us in adopting us through Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:5). We are now part of God’s family—in Christ we will forever be the objects of God’s particular and passionate mercy and love. That biblical reality, rather than leaving us focused on ourselves, drives us once again to proclaim the greatness of the God whose grace turns hopeless rebels into precious children.
“And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!” (Gal. 4:6)

You can purchase the cd or download the MP3 HERE. Did I mention you should do it right now???

God The Father

2009-08-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

The relation between Jesus the Son and God the Father is unique. It is not to be understood on the pattern of human fatherhood. In neither Testament is God sexual, nor does he have a wife or mistress, as did many pagan deities. Human fatherhood derives from God the Father and is to be measured by him, not vice versa (Eph. 3:15). The Father has a unique relation to the incarnate Son within the being of God. God’s revelation as the Father does not refer to his general fatherhood with respect to all his creatures. Moreover, as Toon comments, the Father is not merely a simile (as if God is simply like a father) or even a metaphor (an unusual use of language drawing attention to aspects of God’s nature in surprising terms), but rather a definite personal name. In contrast, the term mother, when used in reference to God in the OT, is a simile, but never a metaphor, and it is completely absent in the NT. Father is the proper name for God and does not merely describe what he is like.

- Robert Letham, The Holy Trinity

Your Grumbling Is…Against The Lord

2009-08-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

16:1 They set out from Elim, and all the congregation of the people of Israel came to the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after they had departed from the land of Egypt. 2 And the whole congregation of the people of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness, 3 and the people of Israel said to them, “Would that we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the meat pots and ate bread to the full, for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”

4 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I am about to rain bread from heaven for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day's portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not. 5 On the sixth day, when they prepare what they bring in, it will be twice as much as they gather daily.” 6 So Moses and Aaron said to all the people of Israel, “At evening you shall know that it was the Lord who brought you out of the land of Egypt, 7 and in the morning you shall see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your grumbling against the Lord. For what are we, that you grumble against us?” 8 And Moses said, “When the Lord gives you in the evening meat to eat and in the morning bread to the full, because the Lord has heard your grumbling that you grumble against him—what are we? Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord.”

9 Then Moses said to Aaron, “Say to the whole congregation of the people of Israel, ‘Come near before the Lord, for he has heard your grumbling.’” 10 And as soon as Aaron spoke to the whole congregation of the people of Israel, they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the Lord appeared in the cloud. 11 And the Lord said to Moses, 12 “I have heard the grumbling of the people of Israel. Say to them, ‘At twilight you shall eat meat, and in the morning you shall be filled with bread. Then you shall know that I am the Lord your God.’” Exodus 16:1-12

14 Do all things without grumbling or questioning, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

How often do I think, “I wish I had…” or “Why do I have a headache again?” or “Has God forgotten me?”or “Why am I still fighting this sin?” Why, why, why. It’s clear in Scripture that it is ok to ask God why (Psalms & Job) as long as it comes from a trusting and obedient soul. But, trust is no where in the statements above. Those statements sound like I’m whining. Life isn’t the way I want it. I want a nice, easy life. I want a car that doesn’t break every half hour. I want to have perfect health. I want a husband & children. I want my sanctification process to be over and done, can’t I just be perfect?

“Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord.”

Ouch. My grumbling & questioning is a direct affront on God’s character. I might as well be looking Him in the face and charge Him with not knowing what He is doing, not being loving, and not doing what is good for me. Every time I complain, grumble, or question His will; that is what I am doing.

I find it interesting that Paul draws a direct correlation between not grumbling and being blameless & shining in the world. Grumbling and questioning is equated with the crooked and twisted generation, the world. It’s not a nice extra. Actually, there is no option. Paul (God) commands us in Phil. 2 to do ALL things without grumbling and questioning. And to do that we must have complete trust in our God and Savior. (But, that’s a completely different topic that I’ll get to at some point in another post. For now, let me recommend this sermon: Total Trust) All things, means all things. EVERYTHING. Complaining is a serious thing to God. It is a direct slam of His character.

I don’t know if you’re like me, but when I read and contemplate this command, I feel overwhelmed. But, there’s something else that strikes me in these passages. God’s patience and kindness. He should have struck the Israelites dead (or at best leave them to wander in the wilderness alone). And He does gently rebuke their complaining, but He also provides them with bread and meat! He grants their whining requests and reminds them Who He is…all at the same time. In Philippians Paul doesn’t say that if you do not grumble, then you are children of God. No! It is assumed that the people in Philippi are ALREADY children of God, with all the love and rights of being in that family.

God is patient and kind. He loves His children, He sent His Son to die for them. He knows our frame (Ps. 103:14). He does not expect us to run the marathon at lightning speed. He knows we are slow. However, He doesn’t expect us to sit and never race. Hence the reason we’re given a command. But, He empowers us to obey that command. We’re adopted heirs. We’re redeemed sinners. He loves us more than we can comprehend. He will finish the work that He began.

And the gospel is yet another reason to never complain. I have been saved, snatched from Hell. What else could I want? My eternal residence has been secured. I am loved by the Creator of the Universe. Now that’s a reason to party! :D

He Will Not Allow Your Foot To Be Moved

2009-08-12T08:28:00.001-04:00

"He will not allow your foot to be moved. He who keeps you will not slumber." Psalm 121:3
This is a choice stanza for pilgrims to the celestial city.

"He will not allow your foot to be moved." Though the paths of life are dangerous and difficult--yet we shall stand fast, for Jehovah will not permit our feet to slide; and if He will not allow it--we shall never be moved! If our foot will is thus kept--we may be sure that our head and heart will be preserved also! Those who have God for their keeper--shall be safe from all the perils of the way.
Among the hills and ravines of Palestine, the keeping of the feet is a great mercy. But in the slippery paths of a tempted, tried and afflicted believer, the blessing of upholding is of priceless value--for a single false step might cause us a fall fraught with awful danger! To stand 'steadfast' and pursue our holy way--is a blessing which only God can give. It is worthy of His divine hand--and worthy also of our perennial gratitude. Our feet shall move in heavenly progress--and we shall never be overthrown!
"He who keeps you will not slumber." We could not stand a moment--if our Divine Keeper were to sleep! We need Him by day and by night. Not a single step can be safely taken--except under His guardian eye. God is the convoy and body-guard of His people. When dangers are all around us--we are safe, for our Preserver is awake, and will not permit us to be moved. No fatigue of exhaustion can cast our God into sleep--His watchful eyes are never closed!

- Charles Spurgeon

J.C. Ryle Blog

2009-08-12T07:56:00.004-04:00

There is a new blog in the blogosphere…

J.C. Ryle Quotes - Christ. Gospel. Holiness.

I really like J.C. Ryle and I was excited to find an entire blog dedicated to quotes from his books. Check it out:

http://jcrylequotes.com/

“No man ever said, at the end of his days, ‘I have read my Bible too much, I have thought of God too much, I have prayed too much, I have been too careful with my soul.’” - J.C. Ryle

Pics from WorshipGod 09 & DC

2009-08-10T21:51:00.001-04:00

Road Trip!

2009-08-04T19:31:00.001-04:00

In 7 1/2 hours I will be up and getting ready to leave on a 9hr. road trip. :) I’m heading to Gaithersburg, MD. I will be attending the WorshipGod 09 conference and taking a lot of sound related seminars! WooHoo!!! Please pray that we (several folks from my church going) learn a lot, but more importantly, that we meet God and enjoy His presences.

I’ll be back next week.

Cords of Kindness

2009-08-04T07:23:00.001-04:00

Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk; I took them up by their arms, but they did not know that I healed them. I led them with cords of kindness, with the bands of love,
and I became to them as one who eases the yoke on their jaws, and I bent down to them and fed them. Hosea 11:3-4

One of my favorite phrases in Scripture is, steadfast love. This phrase is used much in the Psalms. Steadfast means:

1 a: firmly fixed in place : immovable b: not subject to change <the steadfast doctrine of original sin — Ellen Glasgow>

I love this descriptor of God’s love. It is a love that is firmly fixed in place. It is immovable. It is not subject to change. It is a lavish love that, for the Christian, never ends. Nothing cheers the soul more than the knowledge that the Creator of the universe loves me steadfastly. Trials may come, but He leads me with cords of kindness and bands of love. Often we may not understand why we are where we are. But, “the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness”. Oh the joy and peace in knowing that my Savior leads me with steadfast love!

Farm Pics

2009-08-03T22:40:00.001-04:00

My cousin, Lauren, getting eggs.

Perfect Peace

2009-08-01T15:23:00.001-04:00

"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
Unless the heart is kept quiet and peaceable--the life will not be happy. If calm does not reign over that inner lake within the soul which feeds the rivers of our life--the rivers themselves will always be in storm. Our outward acts will always manifest that they were born in tempests--by being tempestuous themselves.
We all desire to lead a peaceful and joyous life; the bright eye and the elastic foot are things which each of us desire; to carry about a contented mind is that to which most people are continually aspiring. Let us remember that the only way to keep our life peaceful and happy--is to keep the heart at rest--for come poverty, come wealth, come honor, come shame, come plenty, or come scarcity--if the heart is quiet, there will be peace and happiness manifested in the life!
But no matter how bright the sun shines outside--if the heart is troubled--the whole life must be troubled too!
"You will keep in perfect peace--all whose thoughts are fixed on You--because he trusts in You!" Isaiah 26:3

- Charles Spurgeon, "Gleanings among the Sheaves"

Notes From Care Group

2009-08-01T09:14:00.001-04:00

Last night was one of the best care groups ever! We were discussing Sunday’s sermon, 180 Gallons of Grace. It was so incredible, I had to post the notes I took from it.

Jesus gives the grace, we don’t.
Here’s what it was and here’s what it will be (purification water to wine).
It wasn’t just turning water into wine, He was accomplishing countless purposes (affecting our souls today) in that one act…He is so good.
He is surpassing our exceedingly growing expectations.
Me, I’m a terrible person to trust.
It’s pride all over again when you think that your circumstances are too big for God to work/move.
What a feeble place trusting in ourselves is.
He makes us weak so that we see that we need Him.
We don’t ask enough (more of Him, etc.).
We can see the glory of Christ in God’s goodness.

Duet. 31:6, Josh. 1:9, 1 Chr. 28:20, 2 Chr. 16:9, Ps. 35:10, Prv. 18:10, Isa. 28:2, Jer. 50:34, Ps. 94:14, 18-19, Ro. 8:22-39

Trouble Trusting?

2009-07-31T23:31:00.001-04:00

Duet. 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

1 Chronicles 28:20 Then David said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous and do it. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the Lord God, even my God, is with you. He will not leave you or forsake you…

2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him…

Psalm 35:10 All my bones shall say, “O Lord, who is like you, delivering the poor from him who is too strong for him, the poor and needy from him who robs him?”

Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

Isaiah 28:2 Behold, the Lord has one who is mighty and strong; like a storm of hail, a destroying tempest, like a storm of mighty, overflowing waters, he casts down to the earth with his hand.

Jer. 50:34 Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of hosts is his name. He will surely plead their cause, that he may give rest to the earth…

Psalm 94:14, 18-19 For the Lord will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage…When I thought, “My foot slips,” your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.

Ro. 8:22-39 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Obnoxious As Brimstone

2009-07-31T06:53:00.001-04:00

This is a strong expression--but most sadly true. When we offer prayer, is there not at times a sorrowful mixture of self-will, petulance, and impatience? Does not unbelief, which is quite as obnoxious as brimstone, too often spoil the sweet fragrance of our supplications? When we offer praise, is it all pure spices from the heavenly apothecary? Do not self-conceit and pride, frequently spoil the holy frankincense and myrrh? Alas! we fear that the charge must lie against us, and force us to a sorrowful confession!
As the priests of God, our whole life should be the presentation of holy incense unto God--and yet it is not so. The worldly ambitions and carnal lustings of our hearts, deteriorate and adulterate the spices of our lives! And Satan, with the sulphur of pride, ruins the delicate perfume of perfect consecration.
What astounding grace does the Lord display--in accepting our poor, imperfect offerings! What rich merit abides in our Lord Jesus! What sweet fragrance beyond expression dwells in Him--to drown and destroy our foul sulphurous offerings, and to make us accepted in the Beloved! Glory be unto our glorious High Priest, whose perfect life and sin-atoning death, is so sweet--that the Holy Judge is well pleased with us for His righteousness' sake--and accepts us in Him, even with our sulphurous incense!

-Charles Spurgeon

God Is NOT A God Of Waste

2009-07-30T07:23:00.001-04:00

God is not a God of waste. He uses even the things we miss Him on to teach us and bring us closer to Himself. We're not just mice in a maze trying to find cheese for God's enjoyment. We're not just batters swinging at the air, hoping to miraculously hit the ball once. He is not merely playing games with you. He's going somewhere with it all. God has eternal purpose in everything He does in our lives. What is God wanting to teach you?

-John Thomas

You’ll Provide For Me

2009-07-28T08:05:00.001-04:00

O Lord, You care for all the earth
The flowers and the birds
You provide their daily bread
How much more You have cared for me
You met my greatest need
When Christ hung on the tree
So I know that You’ll provide for me
So God, I trust in You
I trust in You, I trust in You
In whatever I may face
I will trust Your sovereign grace
I will always trust in You
O Lord, when all my hopes and plans
Are taken from my hands
And I cannot see the way
I will rest in Your sovereign plan
And bless Your gracious hand
I know Your promise stands
That I’ll see Your goodness in this land

Words & Music by Stephen Altrogee. © 2005 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI). All Rights Reserved

Calvary's Stupendous Scene!

2009-07-28T08:03:00.001-04:00

"It is finished!" John 19:30

Holy Father,
The heavens, the earth, and all that are therein, proclaim Your wondrous goodness. But Your love shines forth in surpassing luster--at Calvary's stupendous scene! At the cross we see Your heavenly grace removing the tremendous load of our iniquities from us--and heaping them all on Your beloved Son! We see Him standing as a transgressor in our place. We see Him, who knew no sin--made sin for us. We see Him, the all-holy One--accounted as a curse! We see Your justice leading the spotless Lamb to the slaughter--and rigorously demanding the full payment for all our sin-debt!
The avenging sword enters into His very heart!
The stream of sin-atoning blood flows!
Full recompense is meted out!
Divine Justice can ask no more.
Charges against us are all obliterated.
The debt-book is cancelled. If our sins are searched for, they cannot now be found!
The spotless Lamb is devoted to all anguish--that we may be inheritors of all joy.
He is cast off from You--that we may be brought near to You.
He is treated as Your enemy--that we may be welcomed as Your friends.
He is deserted by You--that we may be received to Your everlasting favor.
He is surrendered to hell's worst--that we may attain heaven's best.
He is stripped--that we may be clothed.
He is wounded--that we may be healed.
He thirsts--that we may drink of the water of life.
He is in darkness--that we may rejoice in the glories of eternal day.
He weeps--that all tears may be forever wiped from our eyes.
He groans--that we may sing an endless song.
He endures all pain--that we may rejoice in unfading health.
He wears a crown of thorns--that we may receive a crown of glory.
He bows His head in death--that we may lift up our head in heaven.
He bears earth's reproach--that we may receive heaven's welcome.
He is tormented--that we may be comforted.
He is made all shame--that we may inherit all glory.
His eyes are dark in death--that our eyes may gaze on unclouded brightness.
He dies--that we may escape the second death, and live forevermore.
O gracious Father, thus You spare not Your only begotten Son--that You may spare us! All our sins are cast behind Your back--all are buried in the ocean of reconciling blood!
We can only fall low and cry, "We adore You for the gift of Your Son as our substitute; for the death of Your Son as our ransom!"
Blessed Jesus, we have been standing beneath Your cross. The sight constrains us to the deepest humility. Our vile iniquity--is the cause of Your shame! We cannot fathom the sins which plunged You into such depths of unutterable woe! We cannot estimate the burden of wrath which thus crushed You. We cannot deny that the sins which stain us are evils of infinite malignity, since nothing but Your blood could wash away their guilty stains! As transgressors, we abhor ourselves before You.
While we humbly gaze--may we anxiously ponder, "Why, blessed Jesus--why did You thus die?" May His precious answer sound through every part of our hearts and souls,
"I die--that you may not die.
I lay down My life--to purchase your life.
I present Myself as a sin-offering to--expiate all your sins.
My blood thus streams--to wash out all your guilt.
The fountain is thus opened in My side--to cleanse you from all impurity. I thus endure your curse. I thus pay your debt. I thus rescue you from all condemnation. I thus satisfy divine justice for you!"

-Henry Law

Life Goal: God’s Glory?

2009-07-25T08:21:00.001-04:00

Philippians 1:12 I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. 14 And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former proclaim Christ out of rivalry, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice.

My church is going through the book of Philippians on Sunday mornings. As I have been attempting to study this book during the week, a particular portion of Scripture has haunted my thoughts. The Scripture above. Paul was at the end of his life. He has been beaten, shipwrecked, mocked, humiliated, and often lived in want. His life went from one of comfort to extreme discomfort. Now his suffering is worse, he is in prison. He is awaiting an audience with Nero. His last appeal. If anyone had the “right” to question God it was Paul. But, nowhere in this letter does he even hint that his trials are a burden. (Though I’m sure he had his moments.) What is his great joy? That in this new suffering, the gospel is going forth, his brothers and sisters have been emboldened, and God is getting the glory.

What?!?!?!

I have a rough allergy day and I want the world to be nice to me. Paul doesn’t give a second thought to how he feels. His life’s goal, the very air he breathes, is God’s glory. If God’s glory was my sole aim in life, how would it change my thoughts, motives, attitudes, and actions? I’d complain (Phil. 2:14-15) & question God’s mysterious working less. I would be more joyful. I would serve more. I would see trial and suffering for what it is, an opportunity to draw closer to my Savior and bring Him glory. Practically it looks like:

Sickness. Living life with allergies isn’t my preference. My family likes to tease me and tell me I’m allergic to everything. Mold. Mildew. Dust. Bleach. Latex. Pollen. Yellow Flies. Cats. And over the past couple of years we can add Nuts, Wheat, Gluten, and Artificial Coloring to the mix. Bleah. But, if God’s glory is my mantra, then sickness has a purpose. How can I bring God glory in this season (while I still pray for healing)? How can I point others to His faithfulness and care? How can I turn this trial on it’s head and magnify the glories of my Creator through it?
Vehicle. I always told my parents that I would own any car that God choose to give me, any car but a station wagon. I detest station wagons. I’m convinced they are the ugliest car on the planet! What do I own…yep…a station wagon. :) Over the past couple years it has decided to break down…a lot (like any other vehicle from 1999). I want something newer. But, God wants me to learn patience and contentment. I’m tempted to complain about all the things I don’t like and all the things that don’t work. But, if God’s glory is my mantra, than a “grandma car” (as my sister calls it) is an opportunity to glorify God. How can I use it to serve? How can I look for the good things (like a kickin’ sound system!!!) about my car? How about gratitude that I own a car and it runs!
Singleness. Yup, especially singleness. Singleness is a season unlike any other. And it’s uniqueness is an incredible opportunity to glorify God. How? Using this undistracted time to draw closer to God. Serving as much as humanly possible (there’s no family and obligations to limit your time). Joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment in God alone. A unique opportunity to learn contentment now, before you’re married. (My mom often tells me that discontentment is not silenced when you’re married. You will always find something to be discontent about.) Being an example. As you joyfully walk the path God has laid out for you, it encourages those around you. Singleness is a great opportunity to be an example to those younger than you. To serve them and model Christ’s love. Singleness may not be my preference, but there are endless ways to glorify God. And if God gets more glory in me being single than me being married, so be it! I want to be like Paul, it doesn’t matter the circumstances or means, as long as God gets the glory!

I could come up with many other examples. No matter the circumstance. No matter if it’s comfortable and my preference. Is my goal, my delight, God’s glory. Do I look at everything through the lense of God being glorified?

Master of the Unlikely

2009-07-25T07:39:00.001-04:00

Think about the Christians you know; thing about yourself; and you will remember that God is a master at using the unlikely. We serve the God who calls old men to father many nations and lead revolutions, young men to fight experienced warriors and to tell off kings to their faces. We serve the God who chose to bring his Son into the world through a young virgin. He called tax collectors for Rome to be friends with Israel’s Messiah, and a middle-aged academic bigot to take the gospel to the gentiles. He can use you and me. We are well within the scope of his sovereign ability to use us for his glory.

- Mark Dever, The Message of the New Testament: Philippians:Humility

A Loving Purpose

2009-07-25T07:24:00.001-04:00

"Let the LORD be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant." Psalm 35:27

What is "prosperity"? Is it threads of life weaved into a bright outcome? a full cup? ample riches? worldly applause? an unbroken circle? No, these are often a snare; received without gratitude; dimming the soul to its nobler destinies. Often spiritually, it rather means God taking us by the hand into the lowly Valleys of Humiliation; leading us as He did His servant Job of old--out of his sheep, oxen, camels, health, wealth, children; in order that we may be brought before Him in the dust, and say, "Blessed be His holy name!"

Yes! The very reverse of what is known in the world as Prosperity forms the background on which the Rainbow of Promise is seen. God smiles on us through these rainbows and teardrops of sorrows! He loves us too well. He has too great an interest in our spiritual welfare to permit us to live on in what is misnamed "Prosperity." When He sees duties languidly performed, or coldly neglected; the heart deadened, and love to Himself congealed by the absorbing power of the present world, He puts a thorn in our nest to drive us to the wing, and prevent our being grovelers forever!

I may not be able now to understand the mystery of these dealings. I may be asking through the tears, "Why this unkind arrest on my earthly happiness? Why so premature a lopping of my boughs of promise? Why such a speedy withering of my most cherished gourd?" The answer is plain. It is your soul’s prosperity He has in view. Believe it, your true Ebenezers will yet be raised close by your Zarephaths (the place of furnace).
His afflictions are no arbitrary appointments. There is righteous necessity in all He does. As He lays His chastening hand upon you, and leads you by ways you know not, and which you never would have chosen--He whispers the gentle accents in your ear, 'Beloved I wish above all things that you would prosper, and be in health.'

Rest in the quiet consciousness that all is well. Murmur at nothing which brings you nearer His own loving Presence. Be thankful for your very cares, because you can confidently cast them all upon Him. He has your temporal and eternal "prosperity" too much at heart to appoint one superfluous pang, one needless stroke. Commit therefore, all that concerns you to His keeping, and leave it there!

-John MacDuff

The Most Delusional

2009-07-24T12:39:00.001-04:00

I enjoy reading comic strips. However, most only make me smile. I rarely find them funny, but that’s no surprise, I have an odd sense of humor. There is one comic strip that has been known to make me laugh out loud, Get Fuzzy. I don’t know why, but it really cracks me up. I have a daily Get Fuzzy calendar on my desk and today’s comic was too good. I just had to share it. :D

Bucky (a cat. He wants to use Rob’s camera, because Satchel just broke his.): To borrow your camera I need, Robert, for I mean to be a model.

Satchel (a dog, who is talking to Rob): Nutty, Huh? Ha Ha!

Rob (Bucky and Satchel’s owner, talking to Satchel): Sure is. Certified Organic Nutty.

Bucky (in response to their mockery): You cannot deny this gorgeousness, you can only hope to handle it.

Rob: Of all the stupid things you’ve ever said…that was the most delusional.

Bucky (with a “roll of the eyes”, fed up look): Vogue.

Welcome to my sense of humor. :)

Sovereignty

2009-07-24T08:25:00.001-04:00

"The Lord reigns!" Psalm 93:1
No rainbow of promise in the "dark and cloudy day" shines more radiantly than this. God, my God, the God who gave Jesus--orders all events, and overrules all for my good! "When I," says He, "send clouds over the earth." He has no wish to conceal the hand which shadows for a time, earth’s brightest prospects. It is He alike who "brings the cloud," who brings us into it, and in mercy leads us through it! His kingdom rules over all. "The lot is cast into the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord." He puts the burden on, and keeps it on, and at His own time will remove it!
Beware of brooding over second causes. It is the worst form of atheism! When our most fondly cherished gourds are smitten; our fairest flowers lie withered in our bosom; this is the silencer of all reflections, "The Lord prepared the worm!" When the temple of the soul is smitten with lightning, and its pillars rent: "The Lord is in His holy temple!" Accident, chance, fate, destiny, have no place in the Christian’s creed. He is no unpiloted vessel left to the mercy of the storm. "The voice of the Lord is upon the waters!" There is but one explanation of all that befalls him: "I will be mute, I will open not my mouth, because You O Lord, did it."
Death seems to the human spectator, the most capricious and severe of all events. But not so. The keys of death and Hades are in the hands of this same reigning God! Look at the parable of the fig-tree. Its prolonged existence, or its doom as a cumberer, forms matter of conversation in Heaven; the axe cannot be laid at its root--until God gives the warrant! How much more will this be the case regarding every "Tree of Righteousness, the planting of the Lord?" It will be watched over by Him, "Lest anyone hurt it." Every trembling fiber--He will care for; and if made early to succumb to the inevitable stroke, "Who knows not in all these things, that the hand of the Lord has wrought this." Be it mine to merge my own will in His; not to cavil at His ways, or to seek to have one jot or tittle of His will altered; but to lie passive in His hands; to take the bitter as well as the sweet, knowing that the bitter cup is mingled by One who loves me too well to add one ingredient that might have been spared!
Who can wonder that the sweet Psalmist of Israel should seek, as he sees the rainbow spanning the lower heavens, to fix the arrested gaze of a whole world on the softened tints of this Rainbow of Comfort, "The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice!"

- John MacDuff

God’s Big Mysterious Will

2009-07-23T08:15:00.001-04:00

I’m a big fan of mystery novels. Not the trashy paperbacks you get at the airport, but the mysteries that have depth and writers that know how to suck you into the story. Put a book by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, or G.K. Chesterson in front of me and I’m a happy girl. I particularly like mysteries that I cannot figure out “who done it” or they throw that “where did that come from” twist towards the end of the book. When I read I like to be left in suspense, I like the thrill and confusion of not knowing answers until the last chapter.

However, I positively hate mystery when it comes to my life. Walking along the road of life, asking questions, but not getting answers right away. The past three years of my life have had a lot of confusion and “where did that come from” twists. There have been a lot of questions and not a lot of forward direction. I ask and the Holy Spirit tells me to sit, be faithful and wait. Do they give degrees for learning trust and patience? :) One of the things that I have wrestled with during this time is the subject of knowing God’s will/hearing God speak or lead. How do I know? How can I be sure? It’s been a very rich time of learning much about my Savior and learning to trust Him more than I ever have.

The bloggers over at Blazing Center (my favorite blog) have been doing a series of posts on the Lord’s will. And they have got me thinking, again. Why is it so hard for people to step out in faith and just do what they think they’re supposed to do? I’m so guilty of this. I constantly second guess myself. “Should I really share that Scripture with so and so? What if I’m wrong?” “Is this prophetic word from the Lord. Am I just being proud? What if it’s just me?” “Should I really go talk to that person, am I reading into things? Did God really tell me to or is it just me?” And the list goes on and on. For me the big sin is fear (i.e not trusting God). I simply do not want to walk out on a limb. I like to be safe and comfortable. I’m scared to do something wrong. I’m scared to be out of God’s will. I’m scared to be influenced more by my own feelings than God’s word. In short I paralyze myself in my indecision.

I’m aware that some of my fears are genuine and they should be weighed. I want to be godly, in God’s will, and influenced by His Word. But, often, I can swing the pendulum away from the middle (balance) of the issue and off to the far side. Legalism and fear become my friends. I become paralyzed. I do not live by faith, but but in fear. So, what’s the answer?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.

Proverbs 3:5-6

For me, I need to trust the Lord to protect my paths. As long as I’m actively seeking His will, counsel from others, and focusing on Him; I have nothing to fear. Sometimes (often times for me) God will put us in situations that we do not understand. Often He does not let us see why. He just requires us to step out on a limb and trust Him.

The bottom line is do I rest in His character as my Father, Savior, and Creator? Do I trust in God or my ability to control the situation? Whose glory am I pursuing? If I’m pursuing God’s than I’ll be willing to walk out on that limb. To obey (in the parameters I listed above) His leading, trusting that the limb won’t break. To walk (instead of sitting in indecision), knowing that if I’m walking in the wrong direction, He will redirect my course.

Answers

2009-07-23T07:33:00.001-04:00

“Rather than answers, I believe God wants you to see Jesus as the Answer. He’s the One who holds all the reasons in His hand. And having His hand to hold onto through this difficult time is enough!” Joni Erickson Tada

His Focus vs. My Focus

2009-07-22T08:11:00.001-04:00

Dad often says, “Be who you already are.” You’re a redeemed sinner, a child of God, so act like it. I’ve always heard this phrase and thought about sanctification. Since I’m already declared a child of the King, I should act like a child of the King. But, this morning it struck me differently. I was thinking about something that Matt said in his sermon, “We are not living in the reality of who we are.” “The slate is clean, no one is keeping a tally.”

How often do I keep a tally of my sin? How often do I remind myself that I just did “it” again? I keep track of things that God has no record of…

“ I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” Isaiah 43:25

Why do I focus on things that God does not? I AM NOT saying that sin is not a big deal. or that God is not full aware of it. But, He chooses to wipe our slate clean. He chooses to look at the sacrifice of His Son. He has counted us righteous. We are His children, clothed in robes of righteousness. His focus is His Son. My focus is my sin. Uh, Houston, we have a problem!

As I contemplated this difference, I was struck by my arrogance. Why should I have a different gaze than the Creator of the Universe? In essence I’m looking at my Redeemer and telling Him that though He says all my sins have been atoned for, they really aren’t. I need to mull over and beat myself over the head. I need to navel gaze. That’s the last little bit needed to make me righteous. Hello? Where do I have the right or the gall to look God in the face and tell Him that His Son’s sacrifice wasn’t enough? Besides the horrible arrogance, it’s just plain stupid. God has declared me righteous. It is His grace that gives me the strength to follow Him. He is making me into His image. I make puny attempts at obedience and He rewards me. He blesses me abundantly. He loves me extravagantly. He faithfully upholds me in trial. My response? Wow, look at my sin.

Somehow, that just seams to fall so short. Of course I need to be serious about my sin. But, should that be the focus? If someone gave me millions of dollars, what should my response be? To sit around and focus on all the duty that comes with that much cash? To focus on the hard work of being accountable for that much money? (Though that may be wise to do.) Or to be giddy and beyond excited? There’s a place for work and duty, but what would you expect me to spend most of my time doing? Being very happy and very grateful to my kind benefactor. I’ve been given a gift far more amazing than millions of dollars. My sins have been atoned for. I have been forgiven. I am an adopted child of the Creator of the Universe. What' should my response be? A checklist of duties to do or basking in the joy of the Savior that has redeemed me?

Joy should characterize every moment of my life. What is there to not be joyful about!!!

Psalm 103:8 The Lord is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
13 As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.
14 For he knows our frame; [1]
he remembers that we are dust.

Wise Love, Wise Lives

2009-07-22T07:30:00.001-04:00

Philippians 1:9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Paul prays that the Philippians’ love may more and more abound in knowledge. And he wants their love to abound in knowledge so that they might discern what is best. Their love should be a discerning love. Sometimes we do not think of love and wisdom together. But Paul knows that wise love makes wise lives and that foolish love makes foolish lives. Or as he says here, they must have wise love so that they can have lives marked by moral purity, blamelessness, and righteousness until Christ returns. He wants their relationships with God and with each other to prosper, always maintained with the great final day of Christ in view.

- Mark Dever, The Message of the New Testament: Philippians:Humility

I Need You

2009-07-21T08:24:00.001-04:00

This is fast becoming one of my favorite worship songs. I first heard it at Next 2009, in May of this year. My favorite version is done by the NA Band. You can download it HERE.

Verse 1
I am frail, broken easily
without fail, my strength keeps failing me
all alone, I'm powerless
to lift myself from the pit that I am in
Chorus 1
I need You Jesus
I need You Jesus
Verse 2
from Your throne in heaven's light
descended down into my broken life
to right the wrong, to make a way
to bear the load that I deserved to bear alone
Chorus 2
I need You Jesus
I need You Jesus
I need clean hands
I can't You can
I need You Jesus
Verse 3
on the cross on our behalf
the Son of God bore the Father's wrath
and by His blood, the scars and pain
the perfect Son, took the fall and took our place
Verse 4
in His grace and unfailing love
the risen King gave His hand to us
to lift us up, from the pit
and set our feet upon a rock that ever stands
Ending
on my own i've tried and tried
to save myself to fill my life
but the more I do the more I find
that I need You, I need You, I need You

CrossCurrent @ Frankie's

2009-07-20T00:21:00.002-04:00

CrossCurrent (parent/youth ministry) spent the evening at Frankie's Fun Park. And because I am on the CC admin. team, I had the privilege of spending the evening with them. I once again proved that I stink at mini golf. I had a score of 68 and that was with two hole-in-ones. I enjoyed playing laser tag on the "old persons" team. Yep, we beat the teens by 30,000 points. And for the record, I wasn't a lot of help. The highlight of the night (besides the fellowship) was coming in first on the go carts! :D

Happy Room! :)

2009-07-18T19:27:00.001-04:00

For the past two days I have been cleaning and organizing my office. Shredding, filing, wiping things down…all those fun kinds of things. The end result. A clean room/office and a very happy me!

At Least A Little Selfishness?

2009-07-18T07:51:00.001-04:00

Even amid thoughts of his own death, Paul is concerned for the Philippians. We tend to think our suffering justifies at least a little selfishness. Have you ever thought to yourself, “Times are real tough right now. Maybe under normal circumstances this would not be right. But God understands. I have a lot on my plate.” No sign of that in Paul. Paul’s chief concern, even when his own life is threatened, is the furtherance of the gospel in the lives of the Philippians.

- Mark Dever, The Message of the New Testament: Philippians:Humility

His Grace Will Sustain Us

2009-07-17T14:48:00.001-04:00

"You and I may indeed find ourselves overwhelmed at times – at the end of our rope and beyond. But we will never fall farther than the palm of His hand. And where He has called us, His grace will sustain us."

~Joni Earekson Tada~

Lunacy

2009-07-16T08:33:00.001-04:00

Unbelief does terrible things to people, like turn them into raving lunatics.

Don’t believe me? Look at what it did to the Israelites. They had been rescued by God from the hand of Egypt and were on the verge of entering the Promised Land. But when Israelite spies brought back reports of enemies on steroids, the Israelites had a total meltdown. They said:

Because the LORD hated us he has brought us out of the land of Egypt, to give us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us. (Deut. 1:27)

This is crazy talk. The Israelites were God’s chosen, beloved, precious people. He busted them out of Egypt, water-bombed Pharaoh and his army, led them through the wasteland, fed them with bread from heaven, and promised to bring them into a land of rest. God was good to Israel. God loved Israel.

But the sin of unbelief always leads to faulty thinking about God. In the face of the enemy, Israel’s faith in God evaporated. Suddenly they viewed God through the lens of unbelief, a lens which made God appear to be cold, unloving, and hateful. Israel failed to believe God’s promise, which led them to doubt and accuse God.

Read Entire Article

Pics of My Kiddos

2009-07-15T22:00:00.001-04:00

In his sister’s princess shoes. :)

Faithfulness in the ER

2009-07-15T08:50:00.001-04:00

At around 7pm last night I received a call, “Jess can you come take me to the ER.” My friend Emily had been in intense pain all day. Nausea had started a week and a half ago. Intense migraines started 5 days ago. Lower abdominal pain started on Sunday. The pain had increased and it hurt to move…any movement hurt. She was dizzy and nauseas if she stood up. We thought it might be her appendix. Not what you want. But, it would have been an answer. Emily has spent the past two years hearing “we don’t know what’s wrong with you.” You do have Celiac’s, but we don’t know the cause of your migraines, numbness, etc. We hoped to have some answers last night. They admitted her, gave her meds to help with the pain and nausea. They did blood work and a CT-Scan, it all came back clear. Her insides looked fine and healthy. (Yay! That was good to hear.) So at midnight, they sent her home. And she once again heard the words, “It’s a mystery, we don’t know what’s wrong with you.” They recommended getting a lower GI done.

As I sit here this morning (drinking lots of coffee to stay awake), my heart aches. I do not understand. I hate to see my friend in so much pain. I hate seeing her discouraged. I just want to make it all better. But, then I remember how much the Creator loves her. He died for her. He redeemed her. He has done amazing things in her life. She is not the same woman that walked into church almost 6 years ago. (I was freshly reminded of this fact as she gave a long list of “No’s” to the nurses questions last night.) He has provided for her again and again. He has used her to bring Him so much glory. But, I still can’t explain the why. Why has He allowed her to suffer so much? Why can’t the doctors figure this out?

I don’t know. My dad has said that you have to be comfortable with mystery. I cannot give a single answer to all the whys. But, this is what I know:

Psalm 121:5-8 The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

1 Corinthians 10:22 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

Luke 12:6-7 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.

Isaiah 54:10 For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

Psalm 27:13-14 I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!

Psalm 34:15 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Isaiah 64:4 From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.

Psalm 86:15 But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.

Psalm 103:13-14 As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.

2 Corinthians 12:9a My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

Isaiah 41:10 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Psalm 73:25-26 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 37:23-24 The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.

Isaiah 43:2a When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.

Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Lamentations 3:22-23 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 145:13b The LORD is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works. I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it.

Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else
in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ
Jesus our Lord.

I can’t explain suffering. But, I know that God uses it for our good. It’s no fun, but often times it produces the most fruit. I’ve have seen God’s faithfulness displayed more during seasons of suffering than at any other time in my life. Though my heart aches for my friend, my hope does not lie in answers. My hope lies in a risen Savior. He loves her more than I can begin to imagine. He died for her. He sustains her. He has a reason for this trial. I don’t understand it, but I trust Him. I know that He is perfectly good and everything He does is good. If it wasn’t not, than He would cease to be God. He is all-powerful and all-knowing. He sees the big picture. I trust His care, His love, and His wisdom for Emily. He knows. He is faithful. God provided an amazing staff of doctors and nurses. God displayed His love to Emily by giving her friends that surrounded her and cared for her. She now knows a lot of things that the pain is not. And most importantly, her loving Father has promised to never leave her and to uphold her.

So, it was a long night and I’m really tired this morning. But, it was so cool to watch God display His faithfulness and care in an ER room!

O Wondrous Love

O wondrous love that will not let me go
I cling to You with all my strength and soul
Yet if my hold should ever fail
This wondrous love will never let me go
O wondrous love that’s come to dwell in me
Lord who am I that I should come to know
Your tender voice assuring me
This wondrous love will never let me go
I’m resting in the everlasting arms
In the ever faithful heart
The Shepherd of my life
You’ll carry me on Your mighty wings of grace
Keeping me until the day
I look into Your eyes
O wondrous love that sings of Calvary
The sweetest sound this sinner’s ever known
The song of Your redeeming Son
Whose wondrous love will never let me go
O wondrous love that rushes over me
I can’t escape this river’s glorious flow
You overwhelm my days with good
Your wondrous love will never let me go

Psalm 121

2009-07-14T10:58:00.001-04:00

¹ I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

² My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

³ He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

⁴ indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

⁵ The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

⁶ the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

⁷ The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

⁸ the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Paul Knew

2009-07-14T07:28:00.001-04:00

What an amazing attitude! Paul had been heckled, hauled before a magistrate, and imprisoned, and now he sat in a jail praying and singing hymns at midnight. It was as if Paul knew God was in control and that everything had happened according to God’s plan.

-Mark Dever, The Message of the New Testament: Philippians:Humility

Trust In The Storm

2009-07-10T14:49:00.001-04:00

Have you never heard of the woman who was in a great storm at sea and terribly frightened? She saw her husband, who was the captain of the ship, perfectly composed even while the vessel was tossed about by the mighty billows, but he could not calm her troubled heart. So he drew a sword from its scabbard, and held it close to her breast. As he did so, he said to her, “Do you not tremble my wife?” “No,” she replied, “I am not in the least afraid.” “But this sword is close to you.” “I am not afraid of that” said she, “because it is in my husband’s hand.” “Well,” said he, “Is it not even so with this storm? Is it not in the hand of God; and if it be in his hand, why should we be alarmed?” So, if we have true faith in God, we shall accept whatever God sends us, and we shall not want to have things arranged according to our mind, but we shall quite agree with what His mind ordains.

Streams May Run Dry

2009-07-10T08:09:00.001-04:00

"For this God is our God for ever and ever! He will be our guide even unto death!" Psalm 48:14
August 6, 1785
My dear wife,
The Lord has preserved us through a long course of years, and in different situations, from various calamities which have overtaken others. Our obligations to thankfulness are singular and numerous.
Tell our niece Eliza that I love her very dearly. She would soon be well--if I could make her so. But she is in better hands than mine! I have a comfortable hope that her illness has been, and will be, sanctified to an end far more desirable than health or life itself. Therefore I leave her to the wise and merciful direction of the Lord, who loves her better than I can.
May the Lord bless this little separation to quicken us to mutual prayer, and to lead us to a thankful review of the mercy and goodness which have followed us through the many years we have been united.

How many changes have we seen!
Under how many trials have we been supported!
How many deliverances have we known!
How many comforts have we enjoyed!
Especially, what great advantages have we possessed, in knowing those things which pertain to our everlasting peace!

The years we have passed together--will return no more. The afflictions are gone, the pleasures likewise are gone, forever. The longer we live, such pleasures as this world can afford, will, more and more, lose their power of pleasing. Only our love, I trust, will exist and flourish to the end of life--yes, beyond it! It will always be a truth, that the Lord, in giving you to me--gave me the best temporal desire of my heart. But the shadows of the evening advance. Old age is creeping in upon us, and the days are approaching when we shall have no pleasure--but what we can derive from the good Word of God, and the consolations of his Holy Spirit. These, if we are favored with them, will sufficiently compensate for the abatement, or the loss, of all the rest. The streams may run dry--but the fountain of living waters will always flow! May His presence be near our hearts--and then all will be well.

(Letters of John Newton)

My Answer To 3 Scenarios

2009-07-09T09:14:00.001-04:00

Scenario 1: A friend of mine has been going through some trying times. Health, work problems, and God directing, but where does she go? She is having a hard time believing that God will provide. She is struggling to believe He will provide for her good. Recently she looked at me and said something like, “You’ve wanted a good thing for over 10 years and God hasn’t given it. Why would He grant my request?”

Scenario 2: I have another friend, who every time she hears me talking of couples courting, gets a pained expression on her face. She doesn’t understand why God hasn’t provided a husband for me. It makes her sad.

Scenario 3: I know of young teens and young single gals who sort of assume that they’ll have to wait to get married until they are in their late twenties.

I’m in my late twenties…thirty is fast approaching. And I’m nowhere near the possibility (at least by what I can see) of getting married. Is that my preference? HECK NO! There’s not a day that doesn’t go by that I do not pray for God to give me a man. Some days I lack faith and I’m discouraged. But, by God’s grace that is not where I live. I have so much joy and hope. It is hard to imagine a better life than mine. Why? Because I have an all access pass to the throne of grace. I am saved from my sins. I have an intimate relationship with the Creator of the Universe. What more could one want? He satisfies. He brings peace. He sustains. He provides. He upholds me in my weakness. He comforts me when I am discouraged. He brings joy to my soul, a smile on my face, and a light in my eyes. He is my all in all.

How do you answer the three scenarios listed above? Oh, that’s easy! :D

Scenario 1: I would first resist the urge to tell my friend that, that was the dumbest line of thinking I had ever heard! :) God doesn’t work the same way in every person life. Just because He has delayed in my life doesn’t mean He will delay in hers. Only He knows what He will do. We cannot take the reigns of our life and assume (tell God) what God will do. All she (we) can assume is that He will direct and will provide. He has promised to do what is best for her. Psalm 23:6, Job 34:21

Scenario 2: I would give my friend a huge hug and thank her for her care. And then I would remind her of God’s mysterious and gracious ways. “Does not he see my ways and number all my steps?” Job 31:4 (Job 34:21, Psalm 37:23) Our wise and all-knowing Father sees the big picture. We can only see the present. But, He sees the past, present, and future. We think we know what is best for our lives. But, we really don’t. We see so dimly. He sees all and knows all. He is God. He is the Creator. He is the Sustainer of all. He is my Savior. He sees my entire life in one glance. He knows what is best. And He gives grace and strength for whatever He requires of us. Being in His will is the most glorious place to be! That is where we MUST rest.

Scenario 3: Oh how I love our youth! I wish I could be with them more than I do. (Pardon the rabbit trail…I’m done now.) What would I say to a young girl who has grown up in the church and assumes you have to wait years to get married?

“God does not give us grace for our imaginations.” –Elisabeth Elliot

Don’t borrow trouble from the future. Since all (but two) of my childhood friends are married, I think we can assume I’m not the norm. :) And even if I was, only God knows what He will do in your life. Most girls I know get married before 28. BUT, not everyone does. Both options have their own struggles and trials. God WILL provide and direct. Don’t focus on what may or may not happen. Focus on Him. Keep your heart grounded on Him. If you stay there you will be just fine. Trust Him for tomorrow and focus on faithfully following Him today. He will provide and make all things clear in His timing.

And to all three I would point them to the cross. The source of all hope rest, and peace. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32 The cross is God’s ultimate display of His abounding love and faithfulness. The real question isn’t is God good? But, does God’s goodness ever end? And why does He give it to me? Take a good long look at the cross and all doubt will fade. He loves us more than we can comprehend. We can trust His mysterious workings because of the ultimate provision for our good.

Gaze upon the crucified Savior…all else will fade in importance.

Silly Song...

2009-07-09T00:09:00.000-04:00

...but it makes me laugh! :)

Next 2009 LIVE Worship Album

2009-07-08T20:02:00.005-04:00

The Next Worship Album is finally available for download. WooHoo!!! You can download it HERE for $5! Here is the song line-up:

God Over All (Devon Kauflin)
His Name is Jesus (All Hail the Power) (Judah Groveman)
He Is Jesus (Stephen Altrogge)
Praise the Lord (Doug Plank)
By This We Know Love (Judah Groveman)
All I Have (Jordan Kauflin)
Jesus Thank You (Pat Sczebel)
I Need You (Kristian Stanfill/Eddie Kirkland)
The Name above All Names (Judah Groveman)
What a Savior (Devon Kauflin)
I Will Glory in My Redeemer (Steve & Vikki Cook)
Blessed Is the One (Doug Plank)
Oh the Deep, Deep Love (Bob Kauflin)

All I Have Is Christ from Sovereign Grace Ministries on Vimeo.

And you can see a bunch of my friends in the video! :)

Scripture & Commentary

2009-07-08T07:45:00.001-04:00

Phil. 4:6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Paul echoes Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that believers are not to be anxious but are to entrust themselves into the hands of their loving heavenly Father, whose peace will guard them in Christ Jesus. Paul’s use of “guard” may reflect his own imprisonment or the status of Philippi as a Roman colony with a military garrison. In either case, it is not Roman soldiers who guard believers-it is the peace of God Almighty. Because God is sovereign and in control, Christians can entrust all their difficulties to him, who rules over all creation and who is wise and loving in all his ways. An attitude of thanksgiving contributes directly to this inward peace. –English Standard Version Study Bible

Heb. 4:16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Draw near is used consistently in Hebrews to present a person approaching God, who is possible only when one’s sins are forgiven through the sacrificial and intercessory ministry of a high priest. The encouragement to “draw near” to God’s throne implies that Christians have the privilege of a personal relationship with God. Confidence translates…”boldness,” “confidence,” “courage”…It indicates that Christians may come before God and speak plainly and honestly (yet still with appropriate reverence), without fear that they will incur shame or punishment by doing so. throne of grace. God the Father, with Jesus at his right hand graciously dispense help from heaven to those who need forgiveness and strength in temptation. –English Standard Version Study Bible

I Pet. 5:7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

The participle “casting” modifies the main verbal phrase “humble yourselves” from v. 6. Worry is a form of pride because it involves taking concerns upon oneself instead of entrusting them to God. Believers can trust God because, as their Father, he cares for them. –English Standard Version Study Bible

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be [1] against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?

Psalm 130

2009-07-08T06:53:00.001-04:00

My Soul Waits for the Lord

A Song of Ascents.

130:1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord!
2 O Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
to the voice of my pleas for mercy!

3 If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
O Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness,
that you may be feared.

5 I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope;
6 my soul waits for the Lord
more than watchmen for the morning,
more than watchmen for the morning.

7 O Israel, hope in the Lord!
For with the Lord there is steadfast love,
and with him is plentiful redemption.
8 And he will redeem Israel
from all his iniquities.

Amazing! Incredible!

2009-07-07T20:41:00.002-04:00

This gal is pretty darn talented...

Super Mario Theme

White Christmas

Anxiety: Anything & Everything

2009-07-07T09:30:00.001-04:00

I attended the Sovereign Grace Church in Apex, NC, this Sunday. Mickey Conolly spoke on Anxiety from Philippians 4:6-7.

…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

As he began to read the text, I laughed to myself. God was setting me up, this was a message I needed to hear. I need to listen to this sermon 20 more times. There is so much to glean from the many points that Mickey taught on. However, there were a couple of things that did stand out to me.

“Anxiety is a mild case of atheism. It denies that God will care from me.” Ouch. When I’m anxious (i.e. fret, worry, etc.) I am simply telling God that He does not care and that He is not in control. I can worry about anything and everything. Sadly, I worry much more than I realize. Every time I have an anxious thought I am practically denying the existence of God. I am charging God with not caring and not being God. Because God is either in control of all things or in control of nothing. If He is in control of nothing, He cannot be God.

The remedy to anxiety is prayer and thanksgiving. “In everything we haven an invitation to come to God in prayer.” In every situation, every circumstance we should lay our burdens at God’s feet. We should come to God with everything. (Heb. 4:16, 1 Peter 5:7, Ro. 8:32) Mickey made a couple of statements that I really liked:

“Prayer does not mean passivity.”

“You cannot do more than pray before you pray, but not after you pray.”

“God has authored these circumstances. We give thanks because it reminds us that God is at work.”

I was also struck by the end of verse 7. GOD will guard your hearts and minds.
So often I think that I’m responsible for guarding my heart and mind (which I am, but in His strength). But, this passage says that if I am bringing all worry to God in prayer and if I am thanking Him and remembering His past faithfulness that I will receive His peace. And that peace is what guards my hear and mind. It is God’s working, His power, His faithfulness. It’s not pulling myself up by my bootstraps. It’s once again sitting at His feet and trusting Him. I find that so hard to do. But, I’m slowly learning that it is the most wonderful place to be. Letting my soul rest in Him does bring a peace that passes all understanding. Resting in His sovereignty and omniscience. Not fretting about my future or things I do not understand. But focusing my heart and mind on Him. That is the best place to be!

You can download Mickey’s sermon HERE.(As of 9:30am, it is not online yet, but I’m sure it will be soon.)

“The root of anxiety is inadequate faith in our Father’s future grace.” John Piper

Vacation Update

2009-07-07T09:08:00.001-04:00

I’m confident that the millions of faithful followers of my blog have been waiting for me to post about my vacation. Well, maybe one person out of the 20, that’s probably closer to the mark. :) So, for that one person who is curious, here’s what we did.

We arrived in Durham around 10pm on Thursday evening. We had a great road trip and no one got in a wreck or killed. Great way to start a vacation. Christa C. and I shared a room (which we decided was a big mistake). Christa and I stayed up to 1am talking. No surprise! We woke up somewhat early (for vacation that is) on Friday and drove 2 1/2 hours (making a Starbucks stop!!!) to Wrightsville Beach. We drove around for about 30 minutes in search of a parking space. There were none to be found. So, Emily and I dropped Christa, Christa, and Wendy off at the beach (with our lunch, towels, boogie boards, and sand toys). We drove back over the bridge and found a very kind soul who let us park in his grass (no meters…woohoo!). Then Emily and I walked back over the bridge and to the beach. I don’t know how long the walk was, but it was a couple miles and that’s not a good thing to do in new flip flops. I gave myself very bad blisters. An hour and a half after we dropped the girls off, Emily and I arrived. We ate lunch and then the fun began. We spent most of the time in the water. I forgot how much fun waves are (I lived on the Gulf Coast most of my life). Around 6pm we had dinner at a nice seafood restaurant. Since I loathe seafood, I got a steak. It was yummy. After stopping at target for aloe (everyone was burnt, except for me!) and bandaids, we drove home. We decided to stop and get a snack and ice cream. Emily, Christa, and I went into the only grocery store that was open…and yes, it was very ghetto. We arrived back at Christa’s grandma’s house at around 10:30pm. We made pizzas, ate ice cream, took showers, and watched a movie. The next morning we woke up late. We had lunch at the mall, did a little shopping, and went to a movie. It was a slow day. No one was feeling that great. All four girls had bad sunburns, Emily had a migraine, and I had food poisoning (and was hobbling around with sore feet). Then we went to Duke gardens. It was beautiful!!!! I repressed the very strong urge to yell “Go Tigers!!!” at the top of my lungs. I wouldn’t want to add salt to an already sore wound. :) After the gardens we went to Whole Foods and then came home and watched fireworks on TV. I went to bed early. We went to the Sovereign Grace Church in Apex. It was so much fun. I got to see some old friends and the sermon was amazing!!!! We went out to lunch, packed, and left. Christa, Wendy, Emily (also known now as Ed), and myself got home around 8:30pm. It was a very relaxing and fun vacation!

Vacation Pictures

2009-07-06T22:29:00.001-04:00

Pictures from my 4th of July Vacation...

Happy 4th!!!

2009-07-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

Vacation!

2009-07-02T06:50:00.002-04:00

I leave today for an extended weekend. I am going up to visit one of my dear friends in the Raleigh/Durham area! If it’s a little quiet on the blog, it’s because I’m having way too much fun! Happy 4th!!!

Here’s a couple pics from this week:

True Worship Is About God

2009-07-01T08:49:00.001-04:00

This Sunday’s sermon was on worship. Matt hit it out of the park! As I was reviewing the sermon, I was having a hard time focusing on one thing and applying it. Not because I’m amazing and godly (ha!), but because there were so many things to apply. So many ways that you could take this sermon and allow it to affect your life. As I was reading through the passage (John 4:4-26), verses 23 and 24 stood out to me:

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

One of Matt’s points was, God is seeking true worshippers. He made the comment that, “we don’t deserve to be sought.” As I read these verses I was amazed. God is seeking people! God is seeking people to worship Him with all that they are. Matt also said, “He (God) wants what is best for us and what is best for us is Him”. God wants us to worship Him with all that we are (mind and body). Why? It brings Him glory and worshipping Him is the best thing for us. (Insert smoke coming out my ears at this point.) God seeks me out. God wants me to worship and glorify Him. Why? Because it is what will satisfy me and give me the most pleasure. God is so amazing and so different from me.

This leads to another question. If worship is so good for me, what should it look like? Oh, there are so many ways to answer this question. So many facets and aspects of worship. I believe I worship in everything I do. When I work, I worship. When I sleep, I worship. When I eat, I worship. When I play, I worship. When I’m on the internet, I worship. But, am I worshipping God or other things/people? Do I magnify, exalt, savor, enjoy, and bring glory to God in every day to day thing I do? And yet, it’s easy to focus on the doing. I think there’s a grander way to worship. The ultimate focus takes care of the doing, but keeps me from legalism and duty.

A simple point. Only 5 words. But, Matt’s second point, I think, is the key to worshipping God correctly. “True worship is about God.” I can get caught up in action (which is good) and forget that the end result of glorifying God is God. Jessica being a good, obedient Christian isn’t the ultimate goal. God is the goal. He is the satisfaction of my soul. He is the recipient of any glory and praise my life produces. I am patient with others because He is patient with me. I sleep as a declaration of my need and dependence on Him. I eat because He has created me as a dependent creature who needs His provision. I play because it brings Him joy. I blog/facebook to point others to Him. I raise my hands, dance, sing loudly, kneel, to proclaim the truth of His greatness. None of this is about me. It’s all about Him and His glory. It’s all about pointing to His greatness and power. And when I focus on Him, I am blessed. Because of His mercy towards me, I find peace, joy, satisfaction in Him when I attempt to glorify Him. That’s motivation to worship!

You can download Matt’s sermon HERE.

You can also get Sovereign Grace Church’s sermons via. iTunes…Click HERE.

Disappointment

2009-07-01T07:55:00.001-04:00

"Godliness with contentment is great gain." 1 Timothy 6:6

There is many a thing which the world calls 'disappointment', but there is no such a word in the 'dictionary of faith'. What to others are disappointments, are divine appointments to believers.
If two angels were sent down from heaven--one to conduct an empire, and the other to sweep a street--they would feel no inclination to change employments.

"I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in need." Philippians 4:11-12

(Letters of John Newton)

Peace

2009-06-30T11:10:00.001-04:00

CHORUS
Peace, You give me peace
When the storms come and I’m afraid
Peace, You give me peace
When I trust in the words You say
You give me peace

VERSE 1
If You can calm the sea
Then You can comfort me
If winds obey Your voice
Why should I fear their noise
And though my eyes can’t see
I know You’re with me

VERSE 2
When someone starts to fight
And does things I don’t like
I hear Your gentle voice
Saying I have a choice
To make an enemy
Or to spread Your peace

Two Things I Am Sure Of

2009-06-30T08:43:00.001-04:00

When I was young, I was sure of many things. But now that I am old, there are only two things which I am sure of:

One is that I am a miserable sinner!
Secondly, that Christ is an all-sufficient Savior!

He is well taught--who learns these two lessons.

"This saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance: 'Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners'--and I am the worst of them!" 1 Timothy 1:15

(Letters of John Newton)

Here My Hope Revives

2009-06-28T06:31:00.001-04:00

Dear friend,
Wickedness prevails and increases in our city to a dreadful degree! Our streets are filled with the sons of Belial, who neither fear God, nor regard man. I wish my heart was more affected with what my eyes see and my ears hear every day!

And surely, if He were strict to mark all that is amiss--I myself would tremble! Oh, were He to plead against me--I could not answer Him one word! Alas! my dear friend, you know not what a poor, unprofitable, unfaithful creature I am! If you knew the evils which I feel within, and the snares and difficulties which beset me from without--you would pity me indeed!

So much forgiven--yet so little love to Jesus.
So many mercies--yet so few returns.
Such great privileges--yet a life so sadly below them.

Indwelling sin presses me downwards; when I would do good, evil is present with me! I can attempt nothing--but it is debased, polluted and spoiled by my depraved nature! My sins of omission are innumerable. In a word, there is . . .

much darkness in my understanding,
much perverseness in my will,
much disorder in my affections,
much folly and madness in my imagination!
In short, I am a riddle to myself--a heap of inconsistency!

Alas! when shall it be otherwise? I have a desire of walking with God--but I cannot attain unto it. Surely it is far better to depart, and to be with Jesus Christ--than to live here up to the ears in sin and temptation!

But, "We have an Advocate with the Father." Here my hope revives! Though wretched in myself--I am complete in Him! He is my wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. On this "Rock" I build--for time and eternity!

(Letters of John Newton)

First Peach

2009-06-27T20:00:00.001-04:00

This is the first peach off of my parent’s newly planted peach trees. We have a small orchard in our front field. 12 peach trees and 12 apple trees. My mom was very excited about the first peach off of her trees. :)

The Lord Is Your Keeper

2009-06-27T08:27:00.001-04:00

Ps.121:1 I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
4 Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is your keeper;
the Lord is your shade on your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
8 The Lord will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore.

Comments from the ESV Study Bible:

“The help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth, and therefore no other power can hinder it.”

“The verses are dominated by the word ‘keep’ (to keep, guard, watch over, attend to carefully): the Lord who keeps Israel also keeps you. This means that he will not let your foot be moved (i.e., slip as you walk), nor will he let you suffer from the dangers of day and night.”

“…the Lord is your keeper at all times; he will neither slumber no sleep. Not only is God all-powerful, he is ever-watchful. This is the confidence the faithful are to enjoy.”

Death By Chocolate Brownies

2009-06-25T22:27:00.001-04:00

2 Brownie Mixes

2 cups of chocolate chips, divided

1 pkg. graham crackers

1 1/2 cups of brownie bits

1/2 cup of butter, softened

Powered sugar

Chocolate fudge (optional)

Make brownie batter according to box directions. Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips.

While making brownie batter, preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a baking sheet crumble graham crackers and brownie bits into small pieces, use cup to crush crackers and bits as needed. Mix in softened butter. Spray two cake pans with cooking spray. Put 1/3 of “cracker/brownie crust” into each pan. Place remaining 1/3 of bits in oven. Remove when brown. Pour brownie mix over “crust”. Bake according to box directions. Remove from oven and cool for 20 minutes. Place on serving platters. Crumble the browned “crust” over brownies. Sprinkle powdered sugar over brownies. Sprinke remaining chocolate chips over brownies. Drizzle chocolate sauce if desired.

*Disclaimer* This recipe is not gluten-free. But, could easily be made gluten-free.

He Is Not Safe, But He Is Good

2009-06-25T08:49:00.001-04:00

Luke 7:1 After he had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 Now a centurion had a servant [1] who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. 3 When the centurion [2] heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. 4 And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue.” 6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. 7 Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.

As I read this passage, this morning, I was once again reminded of Kevin DeYoung’s message at Next. The incredible power of God is once again on display. Christ’s astonishing display of compassion and mercy is once again clearly shown. How can the two mix? Jesus power over His creation and His compassion over His creatures. What an amazing God! I’m having difficulty putting into words the awe that this passage puts in my heart. God is so awesome! A couple of things stood out to me…

1. The humility of the centurion. He doesn’t come himself. He sends men that will have more influence than he, a lowly centurion. He doesn’t come to meet Jesus. He doesn’t want Jesus to come into his home. He is a Roman. He is in command of 100 men. He is probably wealthy and influential (he built the local synagogue). Because of the Roman occupation, he could have commanded Jesus to heal his servant. Yet, he asks.

2. The faith of the centurion. He is aware that Jesus is very powerful. He is aware that anything Jesus commands will happen. There is no need for Jesus to see or touch the servant. One word would heal him. The centurion knew that Jesus was in command of all. The ESV Study Bible comments on this: “The centurion responds, in effect, ‘I too do things because of the authority given me, so how much more can You!’

3. The power and kindness of God. It always boggles my mind. God is so powerful. He is in command and control of everything. He doesn’t have to care. He doesn’t have to show love, mercy, and compassion. Yet, He chooses to pour out His love onto His unlovely creatures. (Which proves that He is completely OTHER than me.) Jesus commanded the servant to be healed from a distance. This blows me away. It shows just how in control of health and the universe Jesus is. No sight or touch is found in this passage. The Creator healed the creature. End of story. Nothing human or physical is needed. This fills me with awe. When you begin contemplating the power of God, you get a little scared. He’s not the safe, loving God we as Americans have created. This reminds me of Narnia:

“Aslan a man!” said Mr. Beaver sternly. “Certainly not. I tell you he is the King of the wood and the son of the great Emperor-beyond-the-Sea. Don’t you know who is the King of Beasts? Aslan is a lion – the Lion, the great Lion.”

“Ooh!” said Susan, “I’d thought he was a man. Is he – quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.”

“That you will, dearie, and no mistake,” said Mrs. Beaver; “if there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking, they’re either braver than most or else just silly.”

“Then he isn’t safe?” said Lucy.

“Safe?” said Mr. Beaver; “don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King I tell you.”

- C.S. Lewis, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe

God isn’t safe, but He (the King over all) is so good! Not only is He my Creator, Lord, and King; but He is my Savior and Father. What a privilege, what an honor. I have an ongoing, personal relationship with the Creator, with my Lord and King, with the Savior of my soul, and with my Father. All power combined with unending mercy. Why do I ever doubt?

Gratitude & God’s Fatherly Disposal

2009-06-24T09:01:00.001-04:00

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you…Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:8-9, 11-13

I’ve never connected the dots between gratitude/thankfulness & peace. But, in verses 8-9, Paul is commanding the Philippians to think on everything that is worthy of praise & excellent. Think on everything that is pure, lovely, and commendable. What is the natural outflow after you think on good things? For the Christian it should be praise and gratitude towards their Creator & Redeemer. I think the “practice these things” (following Paul as he followed Christ), was tied in to the list preceding it. What amazes me is what Paul promises, “and the God of peace will be with you”. If you obey, if you think on good things, the God of peace will be with you. In other words, if you act like who you are, if you strive to look/think on good things, you will be grateful. And when one is grateful, one is full of the peace of the Savior. Gratitude turns us from ourselves to our Savior. That upward gaze fills our heart with peace. The presence of God that will never leave us.

I was also struck by the second half of this passage. Paul speaks of contentment. He speaks of being content no matter his circumstances. No matter how good or terrible they may be. I have often struggled with the phrase, “for I have learned in whatever situation I am content”. How can he say this? How is it possible? As much as I strive for contentment, I never perfectly achieve it! This statement seems impossible for my soul to make. I want to make it, but I am just too disquieted and sinful. But, this morning, it hit me. Paul did not make himself content. Paul also wasn’t saying that he never struggled or wished things were different. The secret didn’t lie in his frame of mind or what he did to make himself content. The secret was in the Rock of his soul, the Anchor to which he clung. His secret: “I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me.” His contentment wasn’t from himself. it was the grace and power of God that produced it in his soul. It was God’s doing. How often do I labor for contentment in my own strength? Shouldn’t I be asking for Him to produce contentment in my life? Contentment is produced by a quiet resting in the One Who holds me in His hand…

Christian contentment is that sweet, inward, quiet, gracious frame of spirit, which freely submits to and delights in God’s wise and fatherly disposal in every condition.

– Jeremiah Burroughs, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment

Do Not Let Your Heart Sink

2009-06-24T08:34:00.001-04:00

When things do not fall out according to expectation, when the tide of second causes runs so low that we see little in outward means to support our hopes and hearts, then the heart begins to reason as did he in 2 Kings 7:2: ‘If the Lord should open the windows of heaven how should this be?’ We never consider that God can open the eyes of the blind with clay and spittle, he can work above, beyond, and even contrary to means. He often makes the fairest flowers of man’s endeavours to wither and brings improbable things to pass, in order that the glory of the undertaking may be given to himself. Indeed, if his people stand in need of miracles to bring about their deliverance, miracles fall as easily from God’s hands as to give his people daily bread. God’s blessing many times is a secret from his servants so that they do not know from which way it is coming, as ‘Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain, yet the valley shall be filled with water’ (2 Kings 3:17). God would have us to depend on him though we do not see how the thing may be brought about; otherwise we do not show a quiet sprit. Though an affliction is on you, do not let your heart sink under it. So far as your heart sinks and you are discouraged under affliction, so much you need to learn this lesson of contentment.

- Jeremiah Burroughs, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment

Pics of Weekend

2009-06-23T08:53:00.003-04:00

Here are pictures from my extended weekend.

Dad's 20th Anniversary Celebration...

Reilly Concert...

20 years

2009-06-20T11:15:00.000-04:00

Happy 20 years of faithful pastoring dad! I hope you are surprised and blessed by this weekend!!! :)

This Is Why...

2009-06-18T15:57:00.003-04:00

...Jimmy and I should not be left unsupervised...:)

Work = Imitation

2009-06-18T08:23:00.001-04:00

“When we work, create, and order, we are imitating our God. God loves to see His creatures imitating Him.” - Stephen Altrogee

Source: Does Your Job Really Matter?

Sense of Humor

2009-06-18T07:34:00.005-04:00

I've discovered that I have a very odd sense of humor. I don't enjoy comedy, because most of the time it doesn't make me laugh and leaves me with a very quizzical look ("why do you think that's funny?). I have found that certain types of humor and certain movies leave me rolling on the floor....here's something that I find funny...

See I told you it is odd! :)

Audio Books For $7.49!

2009-06-17T07:51:00.001-04:00

From June 15th to July 3rd, christianaudio.com is having an incredible sale. Most of their audio books (download only) are selling for $7.49. I purchased the unabriaged Bible (ESV) for $7.49! I also purchased to Fiction books by my favorite author (Alcorn). It’s an amazing sale. Check it out!!!

http://www.christianaudio.com

Shunammite’s Obedience

2009-06-17T07:45:00.000-04:00

2 Kings 8:1 Now Elisha had said to the woman whose son he had restored to life, “Arise, and depart with your household, and sojourn wherever you can, for the Lord has called for a famine, and it will come upon the land for seven years.” 2 So the woman arose and did according to the word of the man of God. She went with her household and sojourned in the land of the Philistines seven years. 3 And at the end of the seven years, when the woman returned from the land of the Philistines, she went to appeal to the king for her house and her land. 4 Now the king was talking with Gehazi the servant of the man of God, saying, “Tell me all the great things that Elisha has done.” 5 And while he was telling the king how Elisha had restored the dead to life, behold, the woman whose son he had restored to life appealed to the king for her house and her land. And Gehazi said, “My lord, O king, here is the woman, and here is her son whom Elisha restored to life.” 6 And when the king asked the woman, she told him. So the king appointed an official for her, saying, “Restore all that was hers, together with all the produce of the fields from the day that she left the land until now.”

As I read this passage, I was struck by 3 things.

The Shunammite’s obedience. She packed her things, left all that she knew, and went to a foreign country. That is blind obedience. Elisha told her to go. She knew that he was speaking God’s words, so she went. No questions, no “what ifs”. She left for seven years. What must have gone through her head? She left all of her land, her home, her crops, her friends…everything.

God’s providence. The Shunammite woman arrives home and someone has taken possession of her land and house. She goes to the king. Elisha’s servant just “happens” to be there recounting the story of Elisha raising the Shunammite’s son from the dead. And the woman and her son walk in the room. What would have happened if Elisha’s servant would not have been there? God clearly orchestrated everyone to be at that place at that exact moment. That just wows me. God is so powerful and in control of everything!

God’s blessing. God rewarded the Shunammite for her obedience. Not only did He provide while she was away, but He restored her lands and home back to her. And if that wasn’t enough, she received the produce (which I would assume was probably the money/profit from the land) of those seven years away. She obeyed and God watched over her. She was making money and not even having to work for it. God abundantly provided. She didn’t deserve the provision. She was asking for abundance. But, God in His mercy and kindness, choose to give her more than she needed, expected, or had asked for.

Blessed Is The One

2009-06-16T08:13:00.001-04:00

Vs. 1

Blessed is the one who trusts You
Like a tree that cannot be moved
You say jump to arms wide open
I am scared but I am willing

For blessed is the one
Blessed is the one who trusts You

Chorus 1

(You), faithful, just and good
Shepherd of my heart
Lead me to where You are

Vs. 2
And I remember all Your goodness
Suffering through the desert places
You never said it would be easy
You just promised you'd be with me

For blessed is the one
Blessed is the one who trusts You

Chorus 2

(You), faithful, just and good
Shepherd of my heart
Lead me to where You are
You, who holds my destiny
I'll follow foolishly
Your love will be my song
So I will trust You

Bridge

I will trust You in the pain
When I can't see past today
When it's hard to lift my
hands to praise You, I will trust You

Chloe & Caroline's Birthday

2009-06-15T17:09:00.001-04:00

Last night I went to a birthday party. It was for a 6 year old! Kristen (Chloe's mom) told me that Jimmy, Katie, and I were on the top of her invite list. :) I had so much fun!!!

Great Day!!!

2009-06-13T21:51:00.001-04:00

Glitter glue…poster board…curly ribbon…sharpies…friends…oh what a great day!

And it’s all drying in our living room…my mom is my hero!

Anxiety

2009-06-12T13:43:00.001-04:00

“Anxiety is living out the future before it gets there…it betrays a lack of trust in the One who holds the future.” – Kevin DeYoung

Source: Just Do Something Kevin DeYoung

Seemingly Trivial Events

2009-06-12T08:45:00.003-04:00

"Ruth left and entered the field to gather grain behind the harvesters. She happened to be in the portion of land belonging to Boaz, who was from Elimelech's family." Ruth 2:3

"She happened." Yes, it seemed nothing but an accident--but how divinely was it overruled! Ruth had gone forth with her mother-in-law's blessing, under the care of her God--to humble but honorable toil; and the providence of God was guiding her every step! Little did she know, that amid the sheaves--she would find a husband; and that he would make her the joint owner of all those broad acres; and that she, a destitute foreigner, would become an ancestor of the great Messiah!

God is very good to those who trust in Him, and often surprises them with unlooked for blessings. Little do we know what may happen to us in the future; but this sweet fact should cheer us--that nothing which is really good for us--shall be withheld from us!
The word "chance" is banished from the Christian's vocabulary--for we see the hand of God in everything. The seemingly trivial events of today or tomorrow, may involve consequences of the highest importance. Take comfort--our Lord deals as graciously with all His servants--as He did with Ruth!

- Charles Spurgeon

In My Sleep

2009-06-11T15:01:00.001-04:00

Pretty soon I will be seeing black and red paper letters in my sleep. I have figured out that by the time I finish tracing and cutting them all out, I will have cut out around 500 letters. Good grief!!! But, the end result is so fantastic, it’s worth it. I love my job!!!

Random Musings From My Quiet Time

2009-06-11T08:44:00.001-04:00

Out of the Depths

Out of the depths, O Lord, I cry to You
When I am tempted to despair
Though I might fail to trust Your promises
You never fail to hear my prayer
And if You judged my sin
I’d never stand again
But I see mercy in Your hands
So more than watchmen for the morning
I will wait for You, my God
When my fears come with no warning
In Your Word I’ll put my trust
When the harvest time is over and I still see no fruit
I will wait, I will wait for You
The secret mysteries belong to You
We only know what You reveal
And all my questions that are unresolved
Don’t change the wisdom of Your will
In every trial and loss
My hope is in the cross
Where Your compassions never fail

At New Attitude ‘07, Bob Kauflin sang a spontaneous song during worship. I felt like the Holy Spirit was encouraging me to listen to it this morning. It was once again encouraging. Circumstances should not dictate my feelings. God is faithful, powerful, all-wise, and loving. My hope does not lie in what I do or don’t feel, but in my powerful Creator!!! Here are the words to the song:

How long O Lord? Must I keep knocking at Your door? How long must I be waiting? I’ve prayed to You, but I don’t hear You speak. I’m waiting still and I am getting weak. My child, I know what you’re going through. I know your fears because I created you. And each step you take I gave to you. And I prepared what you have been going through. And you want to understand, you want to know, but I have engraved you on the palm of My hand. You want to feel my nearness, to hear me speak, but my power is perfected in the humble and the weak. I’ve spoken words just for you. I gave my Son to deliver you. And forever you’ll hear the sound of my voice, saying I brought you near, so you can rejoice. But, for now I’m calling you to trust, I’m calling you to believe, that I am a faithful God to you. For now, I’m calling you to believe what you cannot see. But, what you know is true. I can hear you, I am near you.

…fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand…For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Fear not, you worm Jacob, you men of Israel! I am the one who helps you, declares the Lord; your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel…When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thrist, I the Lord will answer them; I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I wil open rivers on the bare heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys. I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.I will put in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive. I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane and the pine together, that they may see and know, may consider and understand together, that the hand of the Lord has done this, the Holy One of Israel has created it. Isaiah 41:10, 13-14, 18-20

Grace To Those Who Hear

2009-06-10T08:54:00.001-04:00

Do people hear grace when you speak?

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

I read this yesterday during my quite time. I’ve read this verse countless times, but yesterday it came alive. Many thoughts assailed my brain. There are so many things you can glean from this text. Here are a couple that came to me…

1. No corrupting talk. This is a command. It is not an option. Paul isn’t saying “Hey, I know it’s tough, but if you think about, try and keep those corrupting words off your lips.” No, it’s an absolute command. There is no way to get around it. No way to interpret it differently. No means none. Absolutely none. Zero. Nada. Zilch. No corrupting talk…absolutely nothing unkind, crude, contemptuous, slanderous, disparaging, divisive. If it corrupts, it should not come out of my mouth. Ouch!

2. As is good for building up, as fits the occasion. This phrase particularly struck home. It’s easy to assume that if you must speak gracefully, that you are always sticky sweet. You know, that sweet southern belle, the kind of person that niceness just drips from. She never says an unkind thing, but she also never confronts. What comes out of our mouths should be good for the occasion. Sometimes that means asking hard questions. Sometimes that means reading Scripture instead of running my mouth. Sometimes that means gently correcting my brother or sister in the Lord. It may mean not speaking. It may mean pointing out evidences of Gods grace. It may look like reminding my friend of where God IS working. It may be complimenting them on a new outfit. It may be kindly challenging them. There is no cookie cutter way to build up, it depends on the occasion and how the Holy Spirit is leading.

3. Grace to those who hear. What do people hear from my mouth? Do they hear grace? Do they hear the gospel? Are they more aware of God’s gracious working in their life or what they do wrong? As someone once asked, “Is my life a sweet aroma of the gospel?” Do I speak graciously? What do people hear the most from my mouth? Impatience? Things of this world? Or The Main Thing? Is it very apparent (in my speech) that The Main Thing (i.e. the gospel) is The Main Thing in my life?

4. Point 4 is a continuation of point 3. Do people see grace from my actions? I can communicate much and never speak a word. Does grace (and the gospel) permeate every aspect of my body?

After all of that, I realize just how far I have to go. And the temptation is to be overwhelmed with guilt and then to do nothing. But, that is when one of my favorite Bible verses comes into action… “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God…” I cannot change myself! Only one thing can (and does) change me. The power of God. The same power that spoke the Universe into existence, is the power that changes my sinful heart! I rest in the truth that, “He who began a good work in you will finish it to completion.” I must repent where I have sinned. And then I come to my loving Savior and beg for His help. Knowing that He gladly gives grace to the humble. Oh, the glories of the gospel! Oh, the amazing privilege of being a child of the King! It’s a hard journey, but, oh it’s so worth it! Sanctification is so difficult, but so exciting! I love looking back and seeing what God has done. It gives me so much faith for the future!!!

How about you? What do people hear from you?

God Work Of Grace In The Soul

2009-06-09T08:43:00.001-04:00

(Letters of John Newton)
"The soil produces grain--
first the blade,
then the stalk, and
then the ripe grain on the stalk."
Mark 4:28
The Lord compares the usual method of growth in grace--to the growth of grain, which is perfected by a slow and almost imperceptible progress.
The seed is hidden for a time in the soil; and, when it appears, it passes through a succession of changes--the blade, the stalk, and lastly the ripe grain.
And it is brought forward amidst a variety of weather: the dew, the frost, the wind, the rain, the sun--all concur to advance its maturity, though some of these agents are contrary to each other; and some of them, perhaps, seem to threaten the life of the plant! Yet, when the season of harvest returns--the grain is found ready for the sickle!
Just so is God's work of grace in the soul. Its beginnings are small, its growth for the most part slow, and, to our apprehensions, imperceptible and often precarious.

But there is this difference in the comparison: frosts and blights, drought or floods, may possibly disappoint the gardener's hopes. But the great Gardener of the soul--will not, and cannot be disappointed. What He sows--shall flourish in defiance of all opposition! And, if at times it seems to wither--He can and He will revive it!
For the most part, God's people are exercised with sharp trials and temptations; for it is necessary they should learn not only what He can do for them--but how little they can do without Him! Therefore He teaches them not all at once--but by degrees, as they are able to bear it.

"The soil produces grain--
first the blade,
then the stalk, and
then the ripe grain on the stalk."
Mark 4:28

Life on the Farm

2009-06-07T21:42:00.001-04:00

Mom’s garden.

CJ Mahaney – Session 4 – Monday

2009-06-06T08:48:00.003-04:00

Christ’s Death – My Notes

Mark 15:33-39

We cannot think of that death too often. C.H. Spurgeon

His death is a matter of first importance. Heaven is never indifferent of the cross. The cross involves more than the physical suffering of Christ.

The cup (of God’s wrath) dominates His soul in the garden.

Jesus prays for an alternative even though He knows there is none, it was motivated by the horror of One wholly of the Father.

If there was an alternative, God would have provided one. Cry from the cross is Gethsemane realized.

suffering, forsaken Savior
dying Savior
revealed Savior

By death we determine that we are not gods.

Romans 8:20

My Thoughts From The Message:

During CJ’s sermon I was once again (it happened a lot at the conference) overwhelmed by Christ’s passionate love for me. That Jesus (who is part of the Trinity) would die, that He would take on the full force of God’s wrath. It blew me away. Why? It seems to be the dumbest thing to do. Why would God die for rebellious creatures? Why not just kill us all. He doesn’t need us. He can easily receive glory another way. Why punish your Son? Why die, experiencing the full fury of your Holy Father? Why does He love me??? The knowledge of His awesome power and otherness was colliding with the knowledge of His extravagant love for me. The two should not go together. They don’t make sense. And yet, they do. This is when the smoke starts coming out my ears and my brain begins to overload. Jesus screamed the cry of the damned in my place. The awesome Creator of the Universe…He died for my sins. As goose bumps gallop over my body, I sit here once again amazed. Amazed at His otherness (which the cross so clearly displays). Amazed at His boundless love for me. Amazed at my testimony. Amazed at His protection and favor. Pretty much amazed at everything about Him.

You can download the sermon HERE.

You can also read a couple of great synopsis’ HERE and HERE.

Pics from Monday:

“Dear friends I am going to preach to you again upon the cornerstone of the gospel. How many times will this make, I wonder? The doctrine of Christ crucified is always with me. As the Romans sentinel in Pompeii stood to his post even when the city was destroyed, so do I…every thing else can wait, but this one truth must be proclaimed with a voice of thunder. Others may preach as they will but as for this pulpit it shall always resound with the substitutions of the Christ…Our blessed Savior would have us hold his death in great reverence; it is to be our chief memory we cannot think of that death too often.” – Charles Spurgeon

Another Sneak Peak

2009-06-05T12:44:00.001-04:00

Picnic Extravaganza Layout…I’m SO excited!!!!!

Kevin DeYoung – Session 3 – Sunday

2009-06-05T09:45:00.001-04:00

Christ’s Life – My Notes

Luke 8:22-56

Work of Jesus Christ as a declaration of the life of Jesus Christ. His death doesn’t matter unless His life was perfect…little more than a historical figure.

Don’t you realize Who is in the boat with you? No one rebukes the wind and the waves.

Ps. 65:67, Ps. 107

In Him they (wind and waves) live and move and have their being. As the storm comes, it is Jesus’ storm. The demons know who this is. Even the devil is God’s devil.

This is not a hard fight, it is a costly (cross) fight, but not a test of God’s power.

This is not entirely safe.

God’s holiness is more contagious than your uncleanness. You cannot exhaust God’s forgiveness.

The gospel is not about what you can do for God, but what God can do for you.

Who do you say that I am? Faith is moving from fear to fear.

My Thoughts from the Sermon:

Who is Kevin DeYoung? Out of all of the sessions, I was expecting this one to hit me the least. I didn’t know this dude, I didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t expecting God to knock me off my feet. Kevin went through “a day” in the life of Jesus. Teaching on Jesus calming the storm, healing the demon possessed Gentile, healing the women with an issue of blood, and raising Jairus’s daughter from the dead. I was in awe. Kevin made a comment that Jesus (God) was in control (Lord over, preeminent) of nature, demons, health, and death. Everything is subject to His power and word. I was amazed at the HUGE God I serve. The Trinity became that grander in my eyes. I know in my head of the power of Jesus Christ (He is God after all.), but this message brought it home. His power is unlike any other. He has the power to do ANYTHING. The Creator came to earth and became a creature. Wow! As Kevin was teaching the Holy Spirit was speaking. He was challenging my faith and my perspective. Why do I not ask Him to heal my allergies? ‘Cause I assume He won’t. I assume He will get the most glory by not healing me. Why ask? I know the answer, I don’t want to be disappointed and get my hopes up. That wasn’t the right response. As we entered into to prayer time, the Holy Spirit was telling me to ask. I didn’t want to. My stubborn streak (that doesn’t rear it’s head very often) was in rare form that night. I wanted to ask, but I didn’t want to. The Holy Spirit reminded me that I have no idea what is in God’s plan. Who do I think I am to know God’s will for my life? This all-powerful God has all the power to heal me if He so chooses. Who am I to dictate His decision for Him? I do not know the outcome, but I am being commanded to ask. Ask in faith. The decision is His, but I need to ask believing that He may heal. It became a matter of obedience. I needed to ask for healing because the Holy Spirit was telling me to. So, I spent probably a half of an hour on my knees crying and begging for God’s help. I wanted to ask, but I had no faith. None. I needed Him to give me faith. It was a sweet time with my Savior. I finished and I still have all my allergies. But, the desire and faith to be healed are still there. I daily ask my all-powerful Creator to heal me. If He chooses not to, that’s fine! But, both answers (no/yes) will glorify His name. I trust Him and His timing (healing on earth or in heaven). He knows if He will heal me. I just need to ask and ask often. Trusting Him and knowing that ALL He does is good!

It was a great message and I highly recommend it. You can download it HERE.

Sneak Peak

2009-06-04T19:38:00.001-04:00

For those of you that are attending SGC’s Picnic Extravaganza, here’s a sneak peak at the fun!

Puzzles, Pizza, & Chocolate

2009-06-03T22:27:00.001-04:00

Tonight I babysat for the Greer Care Group. I only had two kiddos, but boy did we have a lot of fun!!!

Asa and the puzzle he colored.

Asa colored a puzzle and Miss Jessica colored a puzzle. Can you figure out who colored which?

Random Cuteness

Talking to me on the phone while he was cooking me pizza and chocolate. This boy has obviously figured out the way to my heart! :)

The Author of Glorified Humanity

2009-06-02T07:56:00.001-04:00

When Jesus is presented by His parents for circumcision we see His submission to the Law of the covenant. Jesus now becomes an heir to the covenant of Israel. That the sanctions of the covenant are imposed upon the Son of God indicates both His humiliation and His glory. He now enters His role as the New Adam, the author of a glorified humanity. He is the One destined to fulfill the Law in every detail and to win the blessings of the covenant for His people. Where we fail and become covenant-breakers, deserving the curse of the covenant, Jesus, our champion, succeeds in His role as the New Adam, the supreme covenant-keeper.

We are not merely redeemed by the death of Christ; we are also redeemed by the life of Christ. His death on the cross reveals the nadir of His humiliation as He bears the curse for us. But that is only part of His redemptive achievement. It is not enough for us merely to have our sins atoned for. To receive the blessings of the covenant we must possess real righteousness. We need what we cannot supply for ourselves. This merit of righteousness is earned for us by Jesus’ life of perfect obedience.

- R. C. Sproul, The Glory of Christ

So In Love

2009-05-31T08:31:00.001-04:00

I am so in love with my church family! The best part of a conference is coming home and worshipping with them! They are so incredible and I am so grateful to God for them!