Okay, I got about a page into this when my computer went out so let's try this again. Today in Sunday school, we were talking about Matthew and the Beatitudes, specifically about marriage and God's/the Biblical view on marriage and divorce. I just finished reading C.S. Lewis's Mere Christianity and he had such a great way of expressing his view on marriage as he sees it from the Bible. I can't do him justice in my own words so I will be quoting him a lot.
Since marriage is a vow made between two people and God, that the two will always be together forever, til death do us part. His first comment on it is that the the two must enter into marriage believing in permanent marriage. "If people do not believe in permanent marriage, it is perhaps better that they should live together unmarried than they should make vows they do not mean to keep. It is true that by living together without marriage they will be guilty (in Christian eyes) of fornication. But one fault is not mended by adding another: unchastity is not improved by adding perjury." Here I think he is just talking about not taking marriage casually, but taking it seriously with the intent to stay married.
His next point is about staying married. "The idea that 'being in love' is the only reason for remaining married really leaves no room for marriage as a contract or promise at all." "A promise must be about things that I can do, about actions: no one can promise to go on feeling in a certain way. He might as well promise never to have a headache or always to feel hungry." He then goes on to answer the question as to why does God want to keep two people together that may no longer be in love. He states a couple of practical reasons, children, and to protect the wife who may have given up her career, but he goes much deeper. Quoting Lewis "They (we) like thinking in terms of good and bad, not of good, better, and best, or bad, worse and worst." "Being in love is a good thing, but it is not the best thing. There are many things below it, but there are also things above it. You cannot make it the basis of a whole life. It is a noble feeling, but still a feeling. No feeling can be relied on to last in its full intensity, or even last at all." I have to laugh when he goes on to say that living for 50 years in the same euphoria of initial love would be unbearable. "What would become of your work, your appetite, your sleep, your friendships? But, of course, ceasing to be 'in love' need not mean ceasing to love. Love in this second sense - love as distinct from 'being in love' - is not merely a feeling. It is a deep unity, maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by (in Christian marriages) the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God. They can have this love for each other even at those moments when they do not like each other" "Being in love first moved them to promise fidelity; this quieter love enables them to keep the promise."
"People get from books the idea that if you have married the right person you may expect to go on 'being in love' for ever. As a result, when they find they are not, they think this proves they have made a mistake and are entitled to a change - not realising that, when they have changed, the glamour will presently go out of the new love just as it went out of the old one." "...it is just the people who are ready to submit to the loss of the thrill and settle down to the sober interest, who are then most likely to meet new thrills in some quite different direction." "..one little part of what Christ meant by saying that a thing will not really live unless it first dies." "It is because so few understand this that you find many middle-aged men and women maundering about their lost youth, at the very age when new horizons ought to be appearing and new doors opening all round them."
Well that's what I highlighted in that chapter about marriage in Mere Christianity. I had never heard things put quite that way, so I got a new perspective. Like the Bible, Lewis's view has a high standard for us sinning humans, but although we are sinners and continue to fail, C.S. Lewis said it best by saying "The only fatal thing is to sit down content with anything less than perfection." It's the effort, not the result that is important to God.
You gotta read this book.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
New favorite book
I am absolutely loving this book by John Eldredge called Epic. My pastor told me to read Wild at Heart which is also by this author. At Half Priced Books they didn't have that one, but they had a couple of other books by Eldredge.
It basically likens the "story" of God's creation to every great Epic story. It is an interesting, creative, and insightful way to explain God's true story. He makes an very compelling arguement for creationism versus evolution. He also almost answers the question of the meaning of life.
I have to say that I adore my God and savior Jesus Christ. However, I will admit that my closeness to Him seems to be a bit of a roller coaster. Sometimes I feel he is right there beside me and other times I long to feel his presence because I have neglected him. He doesn't move, I do. Life just gets in the way, but then that gets me off the hook a little too easily. I did find myself wondering how or even why would God care about little ole me? He has bigger fish to fry and probably many better followers or those in greater need than me. Why me? I almost found myself feeling jealous that God probably loved others more than me. The crazy things we tell ourselves. But then he answers my concern... Epic pg 72. - "The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth answer once and for all the question, "what is God's heart toward me?" At the point of our deepest betrayal, when we had run our farthest from him and gotten so lost we could never find our way home, God came and died to rescue us. You have never been loved like this. He has come to save you in every way a person can be saved. That is God's heart toward you." Whew!!! I love it. I love the way God will answer me when I have called upon him for wisdom, or direction. Sometimes the answers come sooner and some come later.
Life is surely an adventure. Every day is a new page in our chapter of His Story.
It basically likens the "story" of God's creation to every great Epic story. It is an interesting, creative, and insightful way to explain God's true story. He makes an very compelling arguement for creationism versus evolution. He also almost answers the question of the meaning of life.
I have to say that I adore my God and savior Jesus Christ. However, I will admit that my closeness to Him seems to be a bit of a roller coaster. Sometimes I feel he is right there beside me and other times I long to feel his presence because I have neglected him. He doesn't move, I do. Life just gets in the way, but then that gets me off the hook a little too easily. I did find myself wondering how or even why would God care about little ole me? He has bigger fish to fry and probably many better followers or those in greater need than me. Why me? I almost found myself feeling jealous that God probably loved others more than me. The crazy things we tell ourselves. But then he answers my concern... Epic pg 72. - "The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth answer once and for all the question, "what is God's heart toward me?" At the point of our deepest betrayal, when we had run our farthest from him and gotten so lost we could never find our way home, God came and died to rescue us. You have never been loved like this. He has come to save you in every way a person can be saved. That is God's heart toward you." Whew!!! I love it. I love the way God will answer me when I have called upon him for wisdom, or direction. Sometimes the answers come sooner and some come later.
Life is surely an adventure. Every day is a new page in our chapter of His Story.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
The book of John
In our Bible study, we are currently studying the book of John. I do love this book of the Bible. I like that it is a different gospel from the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark or Luke. John is more spiritual in his account of Jesus life. He wants people to understand WHO Jesus truly is.
John wants us to understand the difference in the spiritual and physical world. To him, life and death, light and darkness, are to represent our spiritual status rather than a physical state. Just as Adam and Eve lost their life by eating the forbidden fruit, they didn't physically die, but their spirit died. They were separated from the light into a world of spiritual darkness and loneliness. Guilt, shame, fear, sinfulness all were a result of their alienation from God.
Sometimes I have a hard time reconciling who God is as described in the Old Testament versus who Jesus tells and shows us God is in the New Testament. I guess we are not intended to truly understand this mystery. During our bible study, I mentioned this in class and Jodi, our pastor, asked me how I would explain this to a person that is searching and needs reassuring in their faith. So I thought about it and what I believe is that God has always been in control, yet purposely given us all freewill. You must choose to love or it isn't love at all. If you forced behavior and belief, then you get a bunch of Stepford people that just go through the motions. Also, you can't have good without evil. But that's another subject.
Jesus has been with God in the very beginning. He was not a creation that he sent to earth just for the purpose of salvation for his people. Jesus is his beloved son that was there with him as they created the earth. (John 1: 1-5, "the Word" is Jesus (in Hebrew and Greek) Jesus was with God though all of the Old Testament. The world of that day was very different than today and they had not really had an organized belief. Sacrifices and Prostitution for the sake of worship was commonplace in those days. In order to train God's chosen people, the Jews, to spread his desires for the world, he needed to set some rules in place to change their current way of life. They were strict and hard to follow rules. If you think about it, even though we are broken humans that are unable to live completely sin free, the rules that God handed down are for our own good. He knew that any deviation from these rules would only result in pain for ourselves, our loved ones, and for mankind as a whole. We can justify our own circumstances for every broken rule, but when everyone is doing that, there is sure destruction as we have seen. Also to get this world headed in the direction God wants he probably had to make some major decisions that we can not understand because we can't see from his perspective. The Old Testament is a preparation for Jesus as we can see in the prophetic books in the Old Testament (the last books of the Old Testament). Reading those still amazes me. God does have a plan. For God to send his Son to this cruel world and know that he will have to suffer had to be a sacrifice for God and Jesus. But he did so that Jesus can offer us LIFE not only after we die, but now. The spirit that had died with Adam and Eve, could be reborn with Jesus. This is what John wants us to understand.
Jodi did bring it to our attention that Nicodemus in John 3 is visiting Jesus at night in the protection of darkness to ask questions of Jesus and Jesus, clever as ever, replies that people that do evil love darkness. John 3: 19. Jesus explains that people say they need to see to believe, but he is giving them something to see and they still don't believe.
I also like how he uses the woman at the well to spread his ministry. A woman that was not accepted in polite society. (She was at the well during the heat of the day instead of in the evening with the other women). A sinner by all accounts, he revealed his identity to her and she told her village and many believed because of her account. Wow the first woman evangelist, by Jesus choosing. I love when he says "I am he". "I am he", sounds too normal in English. In Greek and Hebrew it means God. He said it to the captors that took him to be crucified and they fell back. It is the way the God introduced himself to Moses on the mountain. "I Am" (Yahweh). Just a little tidbit that I think loses some clarity in the translation. (Along with plenty of other things in the Bible)
As I have said before, I love my bible study. I always come out of it with clarity about something that I just can't wait to share. This insight is not really mine, but from our Disciple I study guide, Jodi our pastor, my classmates, my study Bible, and sometimes a little leading from the Holy Spirit. It all comes together. My hope is that anyone that reads this wants to learn more or has more to share with me or others.
John wants us to understand the difference in the spiritual and physical world. To him, life and death, light and darkness, are to represent our spiritual status rather than a physical state. Just as Adam and Eve lost their life by eating the forbidden fruit, they didn't physically die, but their spirit died. They were separated from the light into a world of spiritual darkness and loneliness. Guilt, shame, fear, sinfulness all were a result of their alienation from God.
Sometimes I have a hard time reconciling who God is as described in the Old Testament versus who Jesus tells and shows us God is in the New Testament. I guess we are not intended to truly understand this mystery. During our bible study, I mentioned this in class and Jodi, our pastor, asked me how I would explain this to a person that is searching and needs reassuring in their faith. So I thought about it and what I believe is that God has always been in control, yet purposely given us all freewill. You must choose to love or it isn't love at all. If you forced behavior and belief, then you get a bunch of Stepford people that just go through the motions. Also, you can't have good without evil. But that's another subject.
Jesus has been with God in the very beginning. He was not a creation that he sent to earth just for the purpose of salvation for his people. Jesus is his beloved son that was there with him as they created the earth. (John 1: 1-5, "the Word" is Jesus (in Hebrew and Greek) Jesus was with God though all of the Old Testament. The world of that day was very different than today and they had not really had an organized belief. Sacrifices and Prostitution for the sake of worship was commonplace in those days. In order to train God's chosen people, the Jews, to spread his desires for the world, he needed to set some rules in place to change their current way of life. They were strict and hard to follow rules. If you think about it, even though we are broken humans that are unable to live completely sin free, the rules that God handed down are for our own good. He knew that any deviation from these rules would only result in pain for ourselves, our loved ones, and for mankind as a whole. We can justify our own circumstances for every broken rule, but when everyone is doing that, there is sure destruction as we have seen. Also to get this world headed in the direction God wants he probably had to make some major decisions that we can not understand because we can't see from his perspective. The Old Testament is a preparation for Jesus as we can see in the prophetic books in the Old Testament (the last books of the Old Testament). Reading those still amazes me. God does have a plan. For God to send his Son to this cruel world and know that he will have to suffer had to be a sacrifice for God and Jesus. But he did so that Jesus can offer us LIFE not only after we die, but now. The spirit that had died with Adam and Eve, could be reborn with Jesus. This is what John wants us to understand.
Jodi did bring it to our attention that Nicodemus in John 3 is visiting Jesus at night in the protection of darkness to ask questions of Jesus and Jesus, clever as ever, replies that people that do evil love darkness. John 3: 19. Jesus explains that people say they need to see to believe, but he is giving them something to see and they still don't believe.
I also like how he uses the woman at the well to spread his ministry. A woman that was not accepted in polite society. (She was at the well during the heat of the day instead of in the evening with the other women). A sinner by all accounts, he revealed his identity to her and she told her village and many believed because of her account. Wow the first woman evangelist, by Jesus choosing. I love when he says "I am he". "I am he", sounds too normal in English. In Greek and Hebrew it means God. He said it to the captors that took him to be crucified and they fell back. It is the way the God introduced himself to Moses on the mountain. "I Am" (Yahweh). Just a little tidbit that I think loses some clarity in the translation. (Along with plenty of other things in the Bible)
As I have said before, I love my bible study. I always come out of it with clarity about something that I just can't wait to share. This insight is not really mine, but from our Disciple I study guide, Jodi our pastor, my classmates, my study Bible, and sometimes a little leading from the Holy Spirit. It all comes together. My hope is that anyone that reads this wants to learn more or has more to share with me or others.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Sacrifice and the Now Generation
I just loved the message today at church. I hope Pastor Jodi doesn't mind if I paraphrase what I got out of it. She started out telling a story about a man stuck in the desert and trying to find his way out. He knew it had to do with the sun so he started to follow his shadow which led him in circles and in the same place he started. So in order to find his way out, he needed to follow the sun (Son) to find his way out instead of rely on his own shadow.
The message was from Mark 8: 27, where Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is and several say John the Baptist and some say Elijah, but Peter gets it right, by saying the Messiah. He then tells them that the time to reveal this to others is not yet come. He starts to explain to them what is to happen. The Son of Man is to suffer many things and then will be killed and then rise on the third day. Peter rebuked Jesus by saying this can never happen and Jesus tells him "Satan get behind me", you do not know the things of God, but only the things of man.
Mark 8: 34 - Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35For whoever wants to save his life[c] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul.
She said that many believe to take up his cross means to bear a burden, but she made me see that to take up his cross and follow me, means we have work to do here. We are a generation of instant gratification. Me included in the worst way. I have no patience. I want everything now. I have always known this fault of mine, but try to control it.
This economy is built on a house of cards, credit, spending, and living above our means which are all sinful according to the Bible. The Bible teaches against living in debt. Why, because God knows it only causes strife a kind of slavery to the debtor. Man is he right. But I'm in it just like the rest of the country. So much that we are currently in a Dave Ramsey mode of living on less. We don't eat out or spend needlessly. God is always with us even in our shortfalls and is pulling for us to do the work we are called to do. But as I was saying we are a generation of now and don't want to wait or work for it first. Well we want to live an eternal life in heaven, but don't really want to do anything to have to get there. We are called to love God with all our heart and love others as ourselves. Within this is a bunch of service opportunities to share God's love with others...endless ways to do God's work.
But an analogy that really clarified it for me was about a musician. I spent the weekend at a Bluegrass Festival with numerous talented musicians. I constantly think I could never do that and I have no talent. But then she pointed out that to be a talented musician you have to work hard, work long and hard to get there. These fellas have been playing their whole lives, hours a day, every day. Nights without their loved ones, a non steady paycheck, hours of practice. They didn't just walk up and pick up an instrument and begin to play beautifully, they worked long and hard, with numerous sacrifices for that. Well, we want salvation, a live eternal in heaven, to live with our precious Jesus for all eternity, but we don't want to sacrifice for it. I know that salvation is not based on works, but as a follower of Christ with his spirit inside of you, you are here with a job to do. We all have a talent to lend to this job. Many different talents to do the work of our savior. We, his followers, are called to take up our cross and follow him.
The message was from Mark 8: 27, where Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is and several say John the Baptist and some say Elijah, but Peter gets it right, by saying the Messiah. He then tells them that the time to reveal this to others is not yet come. He starts to explain to them what is to happen. The Son of Man is to suffer many things and then will be killed and then rise on the third day. Peter rebuked Jesus by saying this can never happen and Jesus tells him "Satan get behind me", you do not know the things of God, but only the things of man.
Mark 8: 34 - Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35For whoever wants to save his life[c] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul.
She said that many believe to take up his cross means to bear a burden, but she made me see that to take up his cross and follow me, means we have work to do here. We are a generation of instant gratification. Me included in the worst way. I have no patience. I want everything now. I have always known this fault of mine, but try to control it.
This economy is built on a house of cards, credit, spending, and living above our means which are all sinful according to the Bible. The Bible teaches against living in debt. Why, because God knows it only causes strife a kind of slavery to the debtor. Man is he right. But I'm in it just like the rest of the country. So much that we are currently in a Dave Ramsey mode of living on less. We don't eat out or spend needlessly. God is always with us even in our shortfalls and is pulling for us to do the work we are called to do. But as I was saying we are a generation of now and don't want to wait or work for it first. Well we want to live an eternal life in heaven, but don't really want to do anything to have to get there. We are called to love God with all our heart and love others as ourselves. Within this is a bunch of service opportunities to share God's love with others...endless ways to do God's work.
But an analogy that really clarified it for me was about a musician. I spent the weekend at a Bluegrass Festival with numerous talented musicians. I constantly think I could never do that and I have no talent. But then she pointed out that to be a talented musician you have to work hard, work long and hard to get there. These fellas have been playing their whole lives, hours a day, every day. Nights without their loved ones, a non steady paycheck, hours of practice. They didn't just walk up and pick up an instrument and begin to play beautifully, they worked long and hard, with numerous sacrifices for that. Well, we want salvation, a live eternal in heaven, to live with our precious Jesus for all eternity, but we don't want to sacrifice for it. I know that salvation is not based on works, but as a follower of Christ with his spirit inside of you, you are here with a job to do. We all have a talent to lend to this job. Many different talents to do the work of our savior. We, his followers, are called to take up our cross and follow him.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Random
Well I haven't had time to write anything meaningful. I have been so busy lately. In fact, I think I have been too busy. My family, house, church, and friends are suffering for it. I am trying so hard to get everything done, that I have even neglected my faith. Then I wonder why I feel so far from God. Guess what...he hasn't moved, I have. I need to remind myself that I can do nothing without him. I need to renew that bond and climb that mountain top once again.
I got some new office space that I think will be a great thing and will help me be more productive at work. The business is good, I just need to sell, sell, sell more, more, more.
I am also looking forward to warmer weather. I am over winter. Come on spring!!!!
Hopefully I will be able to write more soon.
God Bless all.
I got some new office space that I think will be a great thing and will help me be more productive at work. The business is good, I just need to sell, sell, sell more, more, more.
I am also looking forward to warmer weather. I am over winter. Come on spring!!!!
Hopefully I will be able to write more soon.
God Bless all.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Friday, January 9, 2009
Christmas 2008
Not that many have been disappointed by this, but i'm sorry I haven't kept up on the daily Bible reading and blog. I want to do this and will, but I am into two pretty intense bible studies and they take a bunch of reading and time. Also, I am officially a chauffer for my sports lovin daughter. Not to mention trying to run a business. (which isn't always what it's cracked up to be) I love my business, but my boss is harder than any one I've ever worked for:-) I work way more than ever before and I stress a lot more. I'm also learning that I can't be as nice as I've always been. Sad so sad. Can you imagine me being tough? Ha Ha well I better figure it out or I might as well be a walking mat.
I had a great holiday vacation with my family. We did Christmas here at our house so Santa would know where we are. Then we drove 16 hours to my family in VA and NC. Ella puked twice and the DVD went out (May Day!!!) No worries though, we went to Walmart and bought every sanitizer and air freshener they had. We stayed with my Aunt Janie in Sugar Grove for two nights and visited my 94 year old Nana in Marion. We then went to a super Pickin Party at my new best buds Susan Trianosky and Tina Steffeys in Mountain City. I had a blast. There were three jams going at all times. I met so many of Dad's friends and they all had great things to say about him. There was something so exciting about being around those that knew and loved my Dad. Can't explain it, but it was magical. I was in love with everyone there. Jose had to drag me away at around midnight because we still had a hour drive back and poor thing he was exhausted from the 16 hour drive. I have pictures and videos to post soon so keep an eye out. Great stuff.
We then visited my uncles in Mouth of Wilson and Independence and headed on to NC to see my Mom. I was in heaven with her cookin and her company. I love to spend time with her. I wish we could live closer. My Mom gives the best back rubs and I have to have one every time I go in. I am so spoiled. I slept til 10 every day and we shopped and had a blast doing nothing. I love her so much I can't stand it. She's a keeper alright.
On our trip back Ella once again puked everywhere. I think when we wake up very early it does things to her tummy. Then we hit black ice in Asheville on the mountain and was stranded on the interstate for 2 hours while they cleaned up accidents. Thank God it wasn't us. But after 18 hours in the car, we arrived to our humble abode. I love my own bed. I love my family and we had a wonderful blessed Christmas.
One of the things that we are doing in 2009 as a family is following Dave Ramsey's get out of debt plan. We want to pay off everything, cars, house...everything. We are both psyched. May God give us strength to follow through. (Actually it's me that needs strength, Jose could live off of very little) Give him a Walmart and a Dollar Tree and he's set. He's so much like my Dad. :-) He doesn't need things to make him happy. I'm a woman though, and I need makeup and hair stuff and .....
I hope I get to go to more pickin parties in the future. Hint, Hint!!!
I love you all!
Until later...
I had a great holiday vacation with my family. We did Christmas here at our house so Santa would know where we are. Then we drove 16 hours to my family in VA and NC. Ella puked twice and the DVD went out (May Day!!!) No worries though, we went to Walmart and bought every sanitizer and air freshener they had. We stayed with my Aunt Janie in Sugar Grove for two nights and visited my 94 year old Nana in Marion. We then went to a super Pickin Party at my new best buds Susan Trianosky and Tina Steffeys in Mountain City. I had a blast. There were three jams going at all times. I met so many of Dad's friends and they all had great things to say about him. There was something so exciting about being around those that knew and loved my Dad. Can't explain it, but it was magical. I was in love with everyone there. Jose had to drag me away at around midnight because we still had a hour drive back and poor thing he was exhausted from the 16 hour drive. I have pictures and videos to post soon so keep an eye out. Great stuff.
We then visited my uncles in Mouth of Wilson and Independence and headed on to NC to see my Mom. I was in heaven with her cookin and her company. I love to spend time with her. I wish we could live closer. My Mom gives the best back rubs and I have to have one every time I go in. I am so spoiled. I slept til 10 every day and we shopped and had a blast doing nothing. I love her so much I can't stand it. She's a keeper alright.
On our trip back Ella once again puked everywhere. I think when we wake up very early it does things to her tummy. Then we hit black ice in Asheville on the mountain and was stranded on the interstate for 2 hours while they cleaned up accidents. Thank God it wasn't us. But after 18 hours in the car, we arrived to our humble abode. I love my own bed. I love my family and we had a wonderful blessed Christmas.
One of the things that we are doing in 2009 as a family is following Dave Ramsey's get out of debt plan. We want to pay off everything, cars, house...everything. We are both psyched. May God give us strength to follow through. (Actually it's me that needs strength, Jose could live off of very little) Give him a Walmart and a Dollar Tree and he's set. He's so much like my Dad. :-) He doesn't need things to make him happy. I'm a woman though, and I need makeup and hair stuff and .....
I hope I get to go to more pickin parties in the future. Hint, Hint!!!
I love you all!
Until later...
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The Shack
Boy I'm reading a great book, The Shack. Several people recommended it to me and it does not disappoint. I haven't finished it yet. The plot is that a man that had been through seminary although not very vigorous in his faith had a tragic event happen to his 6 year old daughter while camping. He is angry with God and overcome with "The Great Sadness" for 3 years until he receives a note in his mailbox from God asking him to meet him at The Shack (the place where his daughter was abducted 3 years ago.) He can't help himself but to go to see what is there. He spends time talking to God and from there it is amazing. It is fiction and not meant to be taken literally, but it does allow you to imagine the glory that waits ahead and teaches to not try to put God in a box based on our knowledge. He is so far more than we can imagine. It is funny, sad and I can't stop thinking about it. I want to share this book with all my friends.
Hope your enjoying your holidays! Having fun at my Mom's.
Hope your enjoying your holidays! Having fun at my Mom's.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Busy during the Holidays
I'm sorry everyone that I haven't been keeping up on this. I will catch up as soon as I get in the car for 16 hours. I'm busy getting last minute gifts, scrapbooks, baking, and wrapping done.
And by the way, I DO NOT like baking cut out sugar cookies. I don't even know why I do these. I think I keep forgetting how bad I am at it. I will just refer to them as modern art!
Anyway, Merry Christmas if I don't blog by then. May your hearts remember the reason for Christmas and rejoice in the promise our Lord and Savior brought to us.
And by the way, I DO NOT like baking cut out sugar cookies. I don't even know why I do these. I think I keep forgetting how bad I am at it. I will just refer to them as modern art!
Anyway, Merry Christmas if I don't blog by then. May your hearts remember the reason for Christmas and rejoice in the promise our Lord and Savior brought to us.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Our Heavenly FATHER
Sorry it has been so long since I've written. Things have been so busy. There have been several topics lately that I thought I wanted to mention. But in trying to stay focused, I wanted to focus on my latest Bible study on the later half of the book of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. I tell you, if you have trouble believing in that Jesus is the fullfillment of God's promise you have to read these books that were written more than 500 years before Jesus was born. What a convincing argument!
I believe the Bible should be read as a whole to understand the true character of God because if you pick out pieces here and there and not understand the whole thing you can make it say just about anything. The New Covenant (the New Testement) that God made was not to replace all of the old one, but to fulfill and continue the old one. God has reasons for everything he did. I don't even pretent to know all those reasons. No one here on earth is ever meant to understand his persective. Isaiah 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," We are setting ourselves up for frustration if we pretent to know or even try to understand everything he does. He sees way more than we will ever see. Trust Hiim is all we really need to do.
I know how people can question God's motives for certain events. I am studying apologetics specifically to learn an effective way to address those objections, but I have to admit they can be disheartening at times. I can read parts of the Bible and get so excited that I want to tell everyone what I figured out only to hear the objections or other side to these things. I just about let it get to me, but I realized that my certainness in God, his son Jesus and his Holy Spirit are based on knowing him and seeing how he has worked in my life. I hear his voice in my heart. He speaks to me in what I read. I know he is there. He has answered some amazing prayers for me and done what I believe are supernatural things around me. Yes you can argue the specifics and history about the basis for Christianity, but at some point there has to be a leap of faith that can only come from accepting Jesus and knowing your heart is ready for him and that you are willing to receive him and believe in his sacrifice for you. He has to be invited in, he won't come to you unless you ask. So I believe the Bible is a road map for me to my destination and how to travel there, but it is not the main reason I know my destination exists. Don't get me wrong, I think the history of the Bible and other historical documents can give a strong arguement that Jesus was who he says he was. But we all have to start somewhere so I will try to touch on a few points here. (It would take forever to discuss everything and I am certainly not qualified).
Isaiah was a profit in about 700 BC that predicted many things that came true. Not only in regards to the political environment, but in regards to God's plans for his people on earth. In Isaiah 41:1-4 Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A busied reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope. I believe he is talking about the coming Jesus here.
In Isaiah 47 Isaiah predicted the fall of Babylon more than 150 years before it happened. At that time, Babylon had yet to rise as the super power that it would become. This just goes to show him as a trustworthy source of information from God. Also God intended salvation for all people, not just the jews. See here in Isaiah 49 : 6 he says: It is too small a thing for you to be my servant (Israel) to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.
I can't write all of Isaiah 53, but it exactly explains that God would send a messenger that would die for our sins in great detail. Verse 7 says "he was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. Verse 10 - 11 says "yet it was the Lords's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities."
You know I got deeper into it than I planned. I haven't even touched on Jeremiah or Ezeikiel yet. I am going to eat Chinese food with my lovely husband so I will continue this later. Too Be Continued...
I believe the Bible should be read as a whole to understand the true character of God because if you pick out pieces here and there and not understand the whole thing you can make it say just about anything. The New Covenant (the New Testement) that God made was not to replace all of the old one, but to fulfill and continue the old one. God has reasons for everything he did. I don't even pretent to know all those reasons. No one here on earth is ever meant to understand his persective. Isaiah 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," We are setting ourselves up for frustration if we pretent to know or even try to understand everything he does. He sees way more than we will ever see. Trust Hiim is all we really need to do.
I know how people can question God's motives for certain events. I am studying apologetics specifically to learn an effective way to address those objections, but I have to admit they can be disheartening at times. I can read parts of the Bible and get so excited that I want to tell everyone what I figured out only to hear the objections or other side to these things. I just about let it get to me, but I realized that my certainness in God, his son Jesus and his Holy Spirit are based on knowing him and seeing how he has worked in my life. I hear his voice in my heart. He speaks to me in what I read. I know he is there. He has answered some amazing prayers for me and done what I believe are supernatural things around me. Yes you can argue the specifics and history about the basis for Christianity, but at some point there has to be a leap of faith that can only come from accepting Jesus and knowing your heart is ready for him and that you are willing to receive him and believe in his sacrifice for you. He has to be invited in, he won't come to you unless you ask. So I believe the Bible is a road map for me to my destination and how to travel there, but it is not the main reason I know my destination exists. Don't get me wrong, I think the history of the Bible and other historical documents can give a strong arguement that Jesus was who he says he was. But we all have to start somewhere so I will try to touch on a few points here. (It would take forever to discuss everything and I am certainly not qualified).
Isaiah was a profit in about 700 BC that predicted many things that came true. Not only in regards to the political environment, but in regards to God's plans for his people on earth. In Isaiah 41:1-4 Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A busied reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope. I believe he is talking about the coming Jesus here.
In Isaiah 47 Isaiah predicted the fall of Babylon more than 150 years before it happened. At that time, Babylon had yet to rise as the super power that it would become. This just goes to show him as a trustworthy source of information from God. Also God intended salvation for all people, not just the jews. See here in Isaiah 49 : 6 he says: It is too small a thing for you to be my servant (Israel) to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.
I can't write all of Isaiah 53, but it exactly explains that God would send a messenger that would die for our sins in great detail. Verse 7 says "he was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. Verse 10 - 11 says "yet it was the Lords's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities."
You know I got deeper into it than I planned. I haven't even touched on Jeremiah or Ezeikiel yet. I am going to eat Chinese food with my lovely husband so I will continue this later. Too Be Continued...
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Thankful!
I want to take some time to say what I thank God for everyday. I have been blessed beyond measure by God for some reason. I don't really see what he sees in me, but I'm glad I've caught his eye. I kind of feel like I'm walking around with a super power behind me. Not that I don't have problems or am invincible, but because he brings me through everything.
Recently I had some concerns that were weighing on me and I was actually visited by my deceased Father in my dreams from heaven. Of all my dreams of him that I remember, he is always visiting me and never just in a random dream. He gave me some valuable advise and I just felt like God allowed me to hear Him through my Dad. I was so excited that I woke myself up and was trying to go back to sleep so I could see him again. He was so beautiful in my dream and he was tickled to see me too. What a gift!?
First I am thankful for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Son of God, and his blessed Holy Spirit which resides in me daily. Without him, I would have absolutely nothing. I am thankful for my husband who loves me without end. He is my rock in all my craziness and he puts up with me which is no small task. He is organized and I'm not, he is thrifty (i'm being kind:-)) and I'm not, he is private and I'm not. I was watching Joyce Meyer once and she spoke a word that hit the spot for me. God gives us what we need for often the pair is better than the individuals. I think that is true for us. We balance each other.
I am thankful for my gorgeous, smart, sweet, and funny girls. They are my world and brighten my world. They teach me everyday and make me a better person. I am thankful for my Mom. She would do anything for me and she's my best friend ever. Thanks for being the only one that probably reads this, but since you love it, that's enough for me. She's always been my biggest fan. I'm thankful for all my family and friends. I've been so blessed by them.
I'm also thankful for our jobs, health, food, and my time spent with family and friends. I would have nothing without God's grace and blessings. I am also thankful for the opportunity to live in the greatest country ever.
All glory to God and peace to his people on earth. I look forward to a wonderful Christmas season. God bless you all!!
Recently I had some concerns that were weighing on me and I was actually visited by my deceased Father in my dreams from heaven. Of all my dreams of him that I remember, he is always visiting me and never just in a random dream. He gave me some valuable advise and I just felt like God allowed me to hear Him through my Dad. I was so excited that I woke myself up and was trying to go back to sleep so I could see him again. He was so beautiful in my dream and he was tickled to see me too. What a gift!?
First I am thankful for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Son of God, and his blessed Holy Spirit which resides in me daily. Without him, I would have absolutely nothing. I am thankful for my husband who loves me without end. He is my rock in all my craziness and he puts up with me which is no small task. He is organized and I'm not, he is thrifty (i'm being kind:-)) and I'm not, he is private and I'm not. I was watching Joyce Meyer once and she spoke a word that hit the spot for me. God gives us what we need for often the pair is better than the individuals. I think that is true for us. We balance each other.
I am thankful for my gorgeous, smart, sweet, and funny girls. They are my world and brighten my world. They teach me everyday and make me a better person. I am thankful for my Mom. She would do anything for me and she's my best friend ever. Thanks for being the only one that probably reads this, but since you love it, that's enough for me. She's always been my biggest fan. I'm thankful for all my family and friends. I've been so blessed by them.
I'm also thankful for our jobs, health, food, and my time spent with family and friends. I would have nothing without God's grace and blessings. I am also thankful for the opportunity to live in the greatest country ever.
All glory to God and peace to his people on earth. I look forward to a wonderful Christmas season. God bless you all!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Tonights Bible Study - Prophets Isaiah, Elijah, Amos
Tonight's Bible study was a good one filled with spirited discussion. We are studying Amos, Ahab, Elijah, Elisha, and Isaiah. The main questions were what makes someone a prophet? Do we have prophets today and who do we think they are? Why don't they perform miracles anymore and if they do would we still be skeptical? Would we listen to them if they spoke to us? What does God want us to do here? What were the Isrealites doing to make God so angry to send the prophets to warn them.
Our pastor Jodi leads this study and she brings all kinds of insight, language and history to the Bible that really makes things come together to give you a better understanding of it all. It something extra you just can't get reading alone. I know it's helped me a lot. Some of my friends seem impressed by what I have learned, but along with reading the Bible on my own, studies like this help to go a little deeper. The discussion is also a great way to hear what others get and then talk it through. I love it and Jodi does too. She's not afraid of spirited discussion. That's what I love about my church.
I also like leading others to a relationship with Jesus Christ by living a Christ filled life and showing others what he has done for us and maybe they will want what we have. That to me is so much more effective than brow beating someone into believing what you say. Don't just talk the talk, but walk the walk. I don't mean living a perfect life because we all know that is not possible. Even Moses and David sinned and they were very much annointed by God. God has shown all through the Bible how he works through ordinary, even sinful people to do his will. Just look at Paul who persecuted Christians and stood by while Stephen was stoned to death. I think the most important thing is to remember we are sinners and can do nothing without the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are called to love God above all other things and to love others.
This brings me back to our study tonight. The two things that prophets are opposed to is paganism (not putting God first in our lives) and injustice (lack of consideration for others and compassion for the weak). This sounds a lot like Jesus' summary of the 10 Commandments. The greatest commandment to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all you soul and with all your mind". Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments. Matthew 22 : 37 - 40 I learned this from our Pastor Jodi so I can't take credit for the insight, but I thought it was cool enough to share.
Do we have prophets today? Yes, we certainly do. Acts 2: 17 - 19 "in the last days, God says. I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughter will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they will prophesy. " The last days are from the time Jesus ascended into Heaven until he returns again. I believe there are many prophets alive and active today. I also believe that our Lord is performing miracles everyday. But just like Ahab after Isaiah tested their Baal gods and proved that God was indeed the one true God, he still didn't believe. How could you not believe after that great miracle? But they didn't and I know many of us see miracles and rationalize them away. We need to open our eyes and minds to see them.
The Israelites had grown so far away from God and their convenant with him. They were worshipping Baal and so concerned with maintaining their cushy, comfortable life that they were not concerned with the needy and even worse were mistreating them terribly. When I read God's warning to them through the prophets, I thought well THEY were terrible sinful people and deserved it, but then I started thinking and realized we are just like they were to some extent. We don't worship "Idols" per say, but we do put many things before God. We may not knowingly hurt the needy, but we don't always do what we can. I'm right there with everyone else on this one. I don't do all I can. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us and give us strength to do what is right in God's eyes. We can all do better.
So what are we supposed to do, we are called to put God first above all things and then love others as ourselves; in other words be prophets for God. Heaven's filled with great people for a reason. We are in training for Heaven. To love during this life so that we can move on to perfection and be ready to love in the next.
Our pastor Jodi leads this study and she brings all kinds of insight, language and history to the Bible that really makes things come together to give you a better understanding of it all. It something extra you just can't get reading alone. I know it's helped me a lot. Some of my friends seem impressed by what I have learned, but along with reading the Bible on my own, studies like this help to go a little deeper. The discussion is also a great way to hear what others get and then talk it through. I love it and Jodi does too. She's not afraid of spirited discussion. That's what I love about my church.
I also like leading others to a relationship with Jesus Christ by living a Christ filled life and showing others what he has done for us and maybe they will want what we have. That to me is so much more effective than brow beating someone into believing what you say. Don't just talk the talk, but walk the walk. I don't mean living a perfect life because we all know that is not possible. Even Moses and David sinned and they were very much annointed by God. God has shown all through the Bible how he works through ordinary, even sinful people to do his will. Just look at Paul who persecuted Christians and stood by while Stephen was stoned to death. I think the most important thing is to remember we are sinners and can do nothing without the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are called to love God above all other things and to love others.
This brings me back to our study tonight. The two things that prophets are opposed to is paganism (not putting God first in our lives) and injustice (lack of consideration for others and compassion for the weak). This sounds a lot like Jesus' summary of the 10 Commandments. The greatest commandment to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all you soul and with all your mind". Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and Prophets hang on these two commandments. Matthew 22 : 37 - 40 I learned this from our Pastor Jodi so I can't take credit for the insight, but I thought it was cool enough to share.
Do we have prophets today? Yes, we certainly do. Acts 2: 17 - 19 "in the last days, God says. I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughter will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days and they will prophesy. " The last days are from the time Jesus ascended into Heaven until he returns again. I believe there are many prophets alive and active today. I also believe that our Lord is performing miracles everyday. But just like Ahab after Isaiah tested their Baal gods and proved that God was indeed the one true God, he still didn't believe. How could you not believe after that great miracle? But they didn't and I know many of us see miracles and rationalize them away. We need to open our eyes and minds to see them.
The Israelites had grown so far away from God and their convenant with him. They were worshipping Baal and so concerned with maintaining their cushy, comfortable life that they were not concerned with the needy and even worse were mistreating them terribly. When I read God's warning to them through the prophets, I thought well THEY were terrible sinful people and deserved it, but then I started thinking and realized we are just like they were to some extent. We don't worship "Idols" per say, but we do put many things before God. We may not knowingly hurt the needy, but we don't always do what we can. I'm right there with everyone else on this one. I don't do all I can. We need to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us and give us strength to do what is right in God's eyes. We can all do better.
So what are we supposed to do, we are called to put God first above all things and then love others as ourselves; in other words be prophets for God. Heaven's filled with great people for a reason. We are in training for Heaven. To love during this life so that we can move on to perfection and be ready to love in the next.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Retreat that Changed My Life
I recently went to a spiritual retreat meant to prepare you to be disciples for Christ. It was a life changing experience to say the least. Before I went, everyone was telling me how wonderful it was and that I would love it. I have to tell you, I was pretty nervous. I didn't know what to expect and I don't like that much. My sponsor, the beautiful angel that she is, had gone to great lengths to arrange for me to get there, she checked on my family while I was gone, she picked me up, and she has been an all around spiritual advisor and friend before during and after the retreat. The big slogan that everyone says before this thing was "don't anticipate".
When we arrived, it was at a dude ranch type of facility. It was clean and fairly new. When our sponsors finally left, I felt like crying...Mommy! don't leave!!!! I don't know these people!!!! Did I mention that even though most people that know me don't realize it, I have a little of a social anxiety disorder or you could say I am very uncomfortable in those types of situations. The weekend went well. It was a lot of listening to talks and interacting with others. We laughed and we cried. We woke up early and went to sleep late. The accomodations were freaking me out a little. I never went to camp as a child because that was for rich kids. LOL But we slept in a bunk house with about 20 bunk beds, 3 showers, 2 toilets, 2 sinks, and 2 electrical outlets. I was with about 20 women in this room and wouldn't you know it, I got beside a snorer. I couldn't sleep and I was slightly uncomfortable with the lack of privacy and downtime. There was very little downtime and no privacy. We weren't allowed to have phones, watches, or any electronic devices. I was kind of ready to get out of there. I kept wondering when the great part would happen.
I can honestly say that every day is better than the last and by the last day, it had some memorable and amazing moments. I had entered this retreat with several things weighing heavily on me. I had prayed to God that he would lead me and do with my life what he wanted and to make his will, mine. God does amazing and miraculous things and he was at work there. Even though we weren't allowed to discuss our profession until the end, I was placed next to a person that happened to specialize in an area that concerned me and she was a blessing to sit with me and answer tons of questions for me. What a blessing she was! Also I had a woman come over to me and say she felt she was supposed to share a parable with me and she did. It was a very profound answer to a question I didn't know I had, but it made sense. Lastly, on my ride home with my lovely sponsor whom I adore, she said she had a dream about me and I was wrestling with God and that I was injured just like Jacob and that I would be forever injured to remind me. Well I would have to say that sometimes God speaks in a whisper, but sometimes he hits you with a brick and that seemed like a pretty big brick to me. When I returned home, I must of seemed different and I know my husband was concerned. But I am so amazed at how the Lord works. I always have vivid dreams (more on that at another time), but my husband never remembers his. But about a week later, he asked me who all I spoke with while I was at the retreat. I asked why and he said he had a dream that kind of freaked him out. A faceless woman came to him and said that he needed to support me and be there for me. He wasn't sure what to make of it. All I can think is that my wonderful and loving God was taking care of me...unworthy me. This is why I think God's miracles are all around us. We just have to look for them.
After it all, I can say that I didn't actually love the retreat, but it did change my life. I guess a little retrospect is what I needed to realize that. I would recommend it to anyone. Yet, I would say the devil was at work when I returned home because about three days later as I was watching the evening news, I recognized one of the pastors that led the retreat. I was shook up. He had been arrested for child pornography and was under investigation for months. I couldn't believe some of the charges. Completely discusting!!!! I didn't actually interact with this pastor much because I asked him a question during the week and I didn't agree with him so I didn't feel we were on the same page. Also, I look back now and I feel that something about him didn't seem right. All I know is that I can't believe I spent a whole weekend in the presence of such a sick person. I know we all sin and I know that clergy is not above sin, but this was different. This was sick stuff. I'm definately not worthy to be clergy and even I can't imagine the things he did. He did plead guilty.
This could have shook my belief of what I had learned, but I realized that it didn't. I couldn't allow that. God is good and he is forever reminding me of that. I wake up everyday with complete and total gratitude for all that I have. I am not worthy of it, but I am thankful he has blessed me. I only hope that he can use me to bless others. That's my prayer anyway.
I'm feel like I'm overflowing with love. Gots ta share it!!! May you see what God has in store for you. Ask Him and He will tell you. Blessings!
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/religion/stories/092608dnmetpastor.26ea14a.html
When we arrived, it was at a dude ranch type of facility. It was clean and fairly new. When our sponsors finally left, I felt like crying...Mommy! don't leave!!!! I don't know these people!!!! Did I mention that even though most people that know me don't realize it, I have a little of a social anxiety disorder or you could say I am very uncomfortable in those types of situations. The weekend went well. It was a lot of listening to talks and interacting with others. We laughed and we cried. We woke up early and went to sleep late. The accomodations were freaking me out a little. I never went to camp as a child because that was for rich kids. LOL But we slept in a bunk house with about 20 bunk beds, 3 showers, 2 toilets, 2 sinks, and 2 electrical outlets. I was with about 20 women in this room and wouldn't you know it, I got beside a snorer. I couldn't sleep and I was slightly uncomfortable with the lack of privacy and downtime. There was very little downtime and no privacy. We weren't allowed to have phones, watches, or any electronic devices. I was kind of ready to get out of there. I kept wondering when the great part would happen.
I can honestly say that every day is better than the last and by the last day, it had some memorable and amazing moments. I had entered this retreat with several things weighing heavily on me. I had prayed to God that he would lead me and do with my life what he wanted and to make his will, mine. God does amazing and miraculous things and he was at work there. Even though we weren't allowed to discuss our profession until the end, I was placed next to a person that happened to specialize in an area that concerned me and she was a blessing to sit with me and answer tons of questions for me. What a blessing she was! Also I had a woman come over to me and say she felt she was supposed to share a parable with me and she did. It was a very profound answer to a question I didn't know I had, but it made sense. Lastly, on my ride home with my lovely sponsor whom I adore, she said she had a dream about me and I was wrestling with God and that I was injured just like Jacob and that I would be forever injured to remind me. Well I would have to say that sometimes God speaks in a whisper, but sometimes he hits you with a brick and that seemed like a pretty big brick to me. When I returned home, I must of seemed different and I know my husband was concerned. But I am so amazed at how the Lord works. I always have vivid dreams (more on that at another time), but my husband never remembers his. But about a week later, he asked me who all I spoke with while I was at the retreat. I asked why and he said he had a dream that kind of freaked him out. A faceless woman came to him and said that he needed to support me and be there for me. He wasn't sure what to make of it. All I can think is that my wonderful and loving God was taking care of me...unworthy me. This is why I think God's miracles are all around us. We just have to look for them.
After it all, I can say that I didn't actually love the retreat, but it did change my life. I guess a little retrospect is what I needed to realize that. I would recommend it to anyone. Yet, I would say the devil was at work when I returned home because about three days later as I was watching the evening news, I recognized one of the pastors that led the retreat. I was shook up. He had been arrested for child pornography and was under investigation for months. I couldn't believe some of the charges. Completely discusting!!!! I didn't actually interact with this pastor much because I asked him a question during the week and I didn't agree with him so I didn't feel we were on the same page. Also, I look back now and I feel that something about him didn't seem right. All I know is that I can't believe I spent a whole weekend in the presence of such a sick person. I know we all sin and I know that clergy is not above sin, but this was different. This was sick stuff. I'm definately not worthy to be clergy and even I can't imagine the things he did. He did plead guilty.
This could have shook my belief of what I had learned, but I realized that it didn't. I couldn't allow that. God is good and he is forever reminding me of that. I wake up everyday with complete and total gratitude for all that I have. I am not worthy of it, but I am thankful he has blessed me. I only hope that he can use me to bless others. That's my prayer anyway.
I'm feel like I'm overflowing with love. Gots ta share it!!! May you see what God has in store for you. Ask Him and He will tell you. Blessings!
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/religion/stories/092608dnmetpastor.26ea14a.html
Monday, November 17, 2008
Kenmore Appliances Stink
I will not buy anymore Kenmore appliances and as much as my husband loves Craftsman's tools, he won't be buying those either. We built our home three years ago and used all Kenmore appliances. Our refrigerator, dishwasher, and now our dryer have all required service with the purchase of a computer panel about $200 per pop. Now we have been waiting to get our dryer fixed which apparently we received the wrong instructions for our dryer so no repairman can run the diagnostic codes except Sears. They can't seem to find the part and my husband has tried to order it himself and it is all back ordered. One minute they will tell me it is in the mail and then when it never arrives I find out they can't find it. This has happened several times. We went 3 months and then they had the nerve to stand me up after making me be home from 8 to 5 to wait on them to come. Then they rescheduled for the next Monday and no one showed. I finally decided to cancel our call and buy another dryer, but that day a technician called and said he could come in 30 minutes. He came and was very nice. He tried several things and then tracked down the part in Fort Worth and drove all the way out there and back the same day to get it taken care of. He was great no thanks to Sears.
Sears was horrible. I kept getting several calls from different departments and no one knew what the other was doing. I wrote letters to Corporate and I tried to talk to a manager, but was informed by the agent that she was the manager and no one above her was available. Right!! I kept saying, I haven't had a dryer in 3 months...does this sound okay? No one seemed to care. I got so mad that I boycotted laundry in my house. My husband did laundry and hung dry clothes for about 2 months. FYI, towels that havn't been dryed are SCRATCHY. Now it is fixed and life is back to normal. Thank God!!!!
They don't make things the way they used to. My parents basic appliances lasted 20 years. My nice front load $700 dryer didn't last 3 years. Even though the front load washer works, it stinks. Literally!!! What they don't tell you is that the gasket stays filled with water after a load and you have to wipe it out routinely. It is black yuck. Gag!!! You also have to run empty bleach loads to sanitize it. For some reason my towels still stink like mildew. One day, I may just buy a good old fashioned washer. What a shame.
So the moral of this story is to not buy Kenmore appliances. The Kenmore dryer is actually a Frigidaire repackaged so don't buy that either.
Sears was horrible. I kept getting several calls from different departments and no one knew what the other was doing. I wrote letters to Corporate and I tried to talk to a manager, but was informed by the agent that she was the manager and no one above her was available. Right!! I kept saying, I haven't had a dryer in 3 months...does this sound okay? No one seemed to care. I got so mad that I boycotted laundry in my house. My husband did laundry and hung dry clothes for about 2 months. FYI, towels that havn't been dryed are SCRATCHY. Now it is fixed and life is back to normal. Thank God!!!!
They don't make things the way they used to. My parents basic appliances lasted 20 years. My nice front load $700 dryer didn't last 3 years. Even though the front load washer works, it stinks. Literally!!! What they don't tell you is that the gasket stays filled with water after a load and you have to wipe it out routinely. It is black yuck. Gag!!! You also have to run empty bleach loads to sanitize it. For some reason my towels still stink like mildew. One day, I may just buy a good old fashioned washer. What a shame.
So the moral of this story is to not buy Kenmore appliances. The Kenmore dryer is actually a Frigidaire repackaged so don't buy that either.
Friday, November 14, 2008
God's Purpose in My Life
We are studying Beth Moore's "To Live in Christ" Life and Ministry of Paul at our weekly bible study. I love the way she teaches the bible. She makes you learn where to find things that is for sure. She has you flippin all over the place. Actually, I don't have many talents, but one of them that seems to impress people (I'll take all I can get) is I learned the books of the Bible in Sunday school when I was 8 and I can sing them. Although, it does gets strangle looks in church when we are trying to find a book and I seem to have to sing them. (Come on and admit that we do that too when we alphabitize things. Oh really...so I'm the only one. Oh well I don't do that either - never mind.) Beth Moore also makes you think and apply the lesson to our lives. This week we were asked what do we think God's purpose for our life is? That's a big one. Many wait their whole lives to figure that one out. I think I know, but I'm open to hear God's voice in case I'm wrong. I am truly a disciple in training. All I really know is that I can do nothing good without God and his support. I can do lots of stupid things without his help, but all good things come from him who gives me strength. I have to remind myself daily about that.
On to the question of what is God's purpose in my life. In the last year or so I have seen God do some amazing, supernatural things. I feel it is my purpose to share those with others. I hear people say why doesn't God do miracles like he did in the Old Testament or healings like in the New Testament and I believe it is because we don't look for it and we are not open to it. For those of you that know what I'm talking about, you may be thinking I'm not saying anything new. But I know there are many that don't see it ever. I want them to know he is active and well performing miracles everyday for those that believe and maybe for those that don't. For now that is all, I have to go play hangman with my beautiful daughter. TBC (to be continued)
On to the question of what is God's purpose in my life. In the last year or so I have seen God do some amazing, supernatural things. I feel it is my purpose to share those with others. I hear people say why doesn't God do miracles like he did in the Old Testament or healings like in the New Testament and I believe it is because we don't look for it and we are not open to it. For those of you that know what I'm talking about, you may be thinking I'm not saying anything new. But I know there are many that don't see it ever. I want them to know he is active and well performing miracles everyday for those that believe and maybe for those that don't. For now that is all, I have to go play hangman with my beautiful daughter. TBC (to be continued)
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