Reading and reflecting through the Bible in 90 Days, along with hundreds of others taking part in the Challenge, hosted at Mom's Toolbox.
Day 25 Reading: 1 Kings 7: 38 - 1 Kings 16: 1 - 20
Scriptures:
and he said: “Lord God of Israel, there is no God in heaven above or on earth below like You, who keep Your covenant and mercy with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts. 1 Kings 8:23
then hear in heaven, and forgive the sin of Your servants, Your people Israel, that You may teach them the good way in which they should walk
1 Kings 8:36A
“Blessed be the Lord, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised. There has not failed one word of all His good promise, which He promised through His servant Moses.
1 Kings 8: 56 (emphasis mine)
These passages were all a part of the beautiful prayer that Solomon prayed to the Lord, after the Temple was completed. I just love the reminders of the promises that the Lord gave to His people. The reminders of how Holy He is.
David longed to build a Temple for God. But, David was a King during wartime. Because of the valor of his leadership, his son Solomon took the throne in times of peace. And Solomon was allowed to bring the Temple to a reality.
Solomon accomplished so much good for the Kingdom of God.
But, because he did not heed the warnings of His Lord about taking foreign wives, (He had 700 wives. And that is not counting princesses and concubines) what was warned about of course became reality. Solomon's wives turned his heart away from the True God, and Solomon even built the high places for the gods of his wives.
The most famed celebrated King, in wisdom, and honor was the one who ultimately tore the Kingdom of Israel apart. After he died, Jeroboam, Solomon's servant, was made King of all of Israel, with the exception of the one tribe of Judah, which was being kept for David's people, according to the promise the Lord made with him. Solomon's son, Rehoboam, ruled in Judah.
Solomon was given great wisdom, fame, riches and honor from the Lord.
But it wasn't enough to keep him faithful throughout all his days.
Lesson to learn?
When God warns about something specific, take it seriously.
If Solomon can fall, and cause the Kingdom of Israel to be ripped apart, then how much more might we fall?
Showing posts with label Mom's Toolbox. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mom's Toolbox. Show all posts
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days: Day 17. Faith by osmosis....
#B90Days, Day 17. Judges 2:10.
Reading: Joshua 15: 1 - Judges 3 : 27
Scripture: Judges 2 : 10
After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.
Observations:
Joshua died, and when everyone who was alive at the time of the crossing of the Jordan passed away, they remembered the Lord no more.
All of a sudden the repetition in Deuteronomy urging them to love and serve God with all their mind, soul, heart and strength, and to diligently teach their children all the time, make sense.
Deuteronomy 6:7 says:
You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Something went wrong.
Maybe the glory of the Lord was so obvious to that generation that they took it for granted that the children would understand the magnitude of what He had done for them. The adults at the time reveled in the Glory of God, and the young children watched as their parents served. Perhaps the instruction, and talking about the laws never happened, because the adults didn't need the reminders.
When the adults passed on, and the children were grown, all of a sudden there is a generation of people that had been riding on the faith of their parents. If they had heard, and learned, they would have made it their own. But faith by osmosis cannot stand in the day of trials. Faith by osmosis is not faith at all.
So the grandchildren of the ones that crossed the Jordan grew up barely hearing mention of God.
And God knew it would happen. That's why He warned them over, and over again.... Don't forget. Don't become complacent. Remember all that I have done, and pass it along to your children.
But as it happened, a generation was raised that "knew neither the LORD, nor what He had done for Israel."
Application:
Faith is a personal journey. I could not bring my mother to the kingdom through my prayers for her. She had to find it on her own. And she did. And the faith of all of us cannot pray my sister into heaven. She has to find it on her own. She can pick up the details by osmosis.... and learn a little Christianese... but the bottom line is a relationship with our Creator and Savior.
My faith in God has to be lived out, every single day. It has to be in my words, and my actions.
My sons cannot hear my internal praying. I have to bring it all out in the open, for them, so that they can see faith in action.
We need to talk about the God that loves us, all the time. At the dinner table. When we are walking down the road. When we are driving in the car.
They need to see that trusting in the Lord is normal.
They need to see that making time to get up early to be in the WORD, to hear from Him is normal.
But more than seeing it....
They have to understand it, and choose it for themselves.
It needs to become their own.
Prayer:
Father God,
What a wake up call.
Thank you so much for my sweet son, who every morning comes down and asks me, "Mommy? Is your pray time with Jesus done?" Thank you for helping me to establish the pattern of getting up early to meet with you during the school year, and then providing the discipline and motivation to continue it on through the summer time!
Help us, as parents, to live our faith out loud to our children. Discussing You with them, all the time.
And help us to handle the boundary testing that is happening now with grace, and love...
Amen.
Reading: Joshua 15: 1 - Judges 3 : 27
Scripture: Judges 2 : 10
After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.
Observations:
Joshua died, and when everyone who was alive at the time of the crossing of the Jordan passed away, they remembered the Lord no more.
All of a sudden the repetition in Deuteronomy urging them to love and serve God with all their mind, soul, heart and strength, and to diligently teach their children all the time, make sense.
Deuteronomy 6:7 says:
You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Something went wrong.
Maybe the glory of the Lord was so obvious to that generation that they took it for granted that the children would understand the magnitude of what He had done for them. The adults at the time reveled in the Glory of God, and the young children watched as their parents served. Perhaps the instruction, and talking about the laws never happened, because the adults didn't need the reminders.
When the adults passed on, and the children were grown, all of a sudden there is a generation of people that had been riding on the faith of their parents. If they had heard, and learned, they would have made it their own. But faith by osmosis cannot stand in the day of trials. Faith by osmosis is not faith at all.
So the grandchildren of the ones that crossed the Jordan grew up barely hearing mention of God.
And God knew it would happen. That's why He warned them over, and over again.... Don't forget. Don't become complacent. Remember all that I have done, and pass it along to your children.
But as it happened, a generation was raised that "knew neither the LORD, nor what He had done for Israel."
Application:
Faith is a personal journey. I could not bring my mother to the kingdom through my prayers for her. She had to find it on her own. And she did. And the faith of all of us cannot pray my sister into heaven. She has to find it on her own. She can pick up the details by osmosis.... and learn a little Christianese... but the bottom line is a relationship with our Creator and Savior.
My faith in God has to be lived out, every single day. It has to be in my words, and my actions.
My sons cannot hear my internal praying. I have to bring it all out in the open, for them, so that they can see faith in action.
We need to talk about the God that loves us, all the time. At the dinner table. When we are walking down the road. When we are driving in the car.
They need to see that trusting in the Lord is normal.
They need to see that making time to get up early to be in the WORD, to hear from Him is normal.
But more than seeing it....
They have to understand it, and choose it for themselves.
It needs to become their own.
Prayer:
Father God,
What a wake up call.
Thank you so much for my sweet son, who every morning comes down and asks me, "Mommy? Is your pray time with Jesus done?" Thank you for helping me to establish the pattern of getting up early to meet with you during the school year, and then providing the discipline and motivation to continue it on through the summer time!
Help us, as parents, to live our faith out loud to our children. Discussing You with them, all the time.
And help us to handle the boundary testing that is happening now with grace, and love...
Amen.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 14 - It's not all that different.
Reading (and semi-regularly blogging) through the Bible in 90 Days, through the challenge hosted at Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: Deuteronomy 8:1 - Deuteronomy 23:11
Scripture: Deuteronomy 10: 12 (13)
12 “And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, ( 13 and to keep the commandments of the LORD and His statutes which I command you today for your good? )
Observations:
Verse 12 is very familiar. We hear it all throughout the New Testament. Serve/Love God with our whole hearts, with all our souls, and to walk in His ways.
No so different.
The difference is because of verse 13.
The New Covenant frees us from being under the commandments and the statutes. We are under GRACE.
Application:
He has not changed what He wants out of humanity over all of this time.
He wants us to CHOOSE HIM.
He wants us to FEAR HIM -- because He IS GOD -- He is HOLY.
He wants us to respect Him, and live the way that He is teaching us/commanding us.
He wants us to LOVE HIM. Because He first loved US.
How much easier we have it as believers under the New Covenant. We don't just have the invisible God. We have the Holy Spirit, there with us always. We have access to the throne of Grace, whenever we choose. And we have a Savior, that died for us, individually and corporately.
When we, 21st century Christians, are downhearted, perhaps we need to come back to Deuteronomy and remember what a Holy God we serve, and how completely grateful we should be every. single. day. for the Cross.
Prayer:
Oh Lord,
You have searched me, and You know my heart.
Help these words, these insights that you have given me last throughout the night and into tomorrow. Help these remembrances of you shape the new day tomorrow.
Help the gratefulness create the fragrance of You, and let it flow through our home, our community.
Thank you.
From the depths of my soul, and the deep of my heart,
thank you.
Amen.
Reading: Deuteronomy 8:1 - Deuteronomy 23:11
Scripture: Deuteronomy 10: 12 (13)
12 “And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, ( 13 and to keep the commandments of the LORD and His statutes which I command you today for your good? )
Observations:
Verse 12 is very familiar. We hear it all throughout the New Testament. Serve/Love God with our whole hearts, with all our souls, and to walk in His ways.
No so different.
The difference is because of verse 13.
The New Covenant frees us from being under the commandments and the statutes. We are under GRACE.
Application:
He has not changed what He wants out of humanity over all of this time.
He wants us to CHOOSE HIM.
He wants us to FEAR HIM -- because He IS GOD -- He is HOLY.
He wants us to respect Him, and live the way that He is teaching us/commanding us.
He wants us to LOVE HIM. Because He first loved US.
How much easier we have it as believers under the New Covenant. We don't just have the invisible God. We have the Holy Spirit, there with us always. We have access to the throne of Grace, whenever we choose. And we have a Savior, that died for us, individually and corporately.
When we, 21st century Christians, are downhearted, perhaps we need to come back to Deuteronomy and remember what a Holy God we serve, and how completely grateful we should be every. single. day. for the Cross.
Prayer:
Oh Lord,
You have searched me, and You know my heart.
Help these words, these insights that you have given me last throughout the night and into tomorrow. Help these remembrances of you shape the new day tomorrow.
Help the gratefulness create the fragrance of You, and let it flow through our home, our community.
Thank you.
From the depths of my soul, and the deep of my heart,
thank you.
Amen.
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 13
Blogging (sometimes) through the Bible in 90 Days. There are SO many people reading it together through the challenge hosted on Mom's Toolbox. This is my reflection and response to the reading for Day 13. Click here to read Amy's reflection.
Reading: Numbers 32:20-Deuteronomy 7:26
Scripture: Deuteronomy 6: 6-7
6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
Observations:
The Words of the Lord were/are supposed to be reflected upon more than a once a week, or even once a day. All the time, we are to be discussing the commands of our God, and teaching our children by living the lives that He called us to live.
Application:
These verses jumped out at me, because thanks for the inquisitive heart of our five year old, this is exactly what we are doing. He is asking questions all the time, and he is SO responsive to scriptural based correction. We talk at the dinner table. We talk when we are sitting on our porch. We talk when we are sitting together in the living room, in the middle of Angry Birds (he calls it Grumpy Birds) shots.
It was just a reminder that we need to be intentional about our sharing with him. And we need to establish the pattern, because our younger son might not have the same questions, and might not be as receptive, or as in tune with spiritual things.
We are training our young boys in the way of worshiping the Lord our God, so that they will become young men who worship and follow after God, and become fathers who worship and follow after God.
(whoa. My sweet son is starting Kindergarten in the fall. I don't want to fast forward that far yet!)
Prayer:
Father,
You are Holy.
Reading through Deuteronomy makes me realize just how Holy you are.
How often do I neglect the significance of the cross. That I, a gentile woman has the privilege of approaching your Throne of Grace, and calling you my Father, and that you are with me all of the time.
Lord, I am desperate to remain always thankful for the New Covenant.
Help me to live a live of overwhelming gratitude, that spills over onto every conversation with my son, with my co-workers, with my students, with my relatives, with my friends...
May Your commands, and Your WORD remain always on my mind, and may it become natural to teach, and not just answer questions.
In awe...
In humility,
Amen
Observations:
The Words of the Lord were/are supposed to be reflected upon more than a once a week, or even once a day. All the time, we are to be discussing the commands of our God, and teaching our children by living the lives that He called us to live.
Application:
These verses jumped out at me, because thanks for the inquisitive heart of our five year old, this is exactly what we are doing. He is asking questions all the time, and he is SO responsive to scriptural based correction. We talk at the dinner table. We talk when we are sitting on our porch. We talk when we are sitting together in the living room, in the middle of Angry Birds (he calls it Grumpy Birds) shots.
It was just a reminder that we need to be intentional about our sharing with him. And we need to establish the pattern, because our younger son might not have the same questions, and might not be as receptive, or as in tune with spiritual things.
We are training our young boys in the way of worshiping the Lord our God, so that they will become young men who worship and follow after God, and become fathers who worship and follow after God.
(whoa. My sweet son is starting Kindergarten in the fall. I don't want to fast forward that far yet!)
Prayer:
Father,
You are Holy.
Reading through Deuteronomy makes me realize just how Holy you are.
How often do I neglect the significance of the cross. That I, a gentile woman has the privilege of approaching your Throne of Grace, and calling you my Father, and that you are with me all of the time.
Lord, I am desperate to remain always thankful for the New Covenant.
Help me to live a live of overwhelming gratitude, that spills over onto every conversation with my son, with my co-workers, with my students, with my relatives, with my friends...
May Your commands, and Your WORD remain always on my mind, and may it become natural to teach, and not just answer questions.
In awe...
In humility,
Amen
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 9
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days, with Amy from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: Leviticus 14: 33 - 57 - Leviticus 26: 1 - 26
Scripture: Leviticus 18: 1-5
1 The Lord said to Moses,2 "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the Lord your God.3 You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices.4 You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God.5 Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.
Observations:
This section of scripture is in the middle the huge list of "don'ts" that basically make up the book of Leviticus. In fact, immediately following this beautiful statement is a long list of perversions the Israelites are to stay away from. They range from general human decency (don't sleep with your mother in law, she is your father's wife) to the very offensive (don't have sex with an animal). And then we see, in verse 26 - 27:
26 But you must keep my decrees and my laws. The native-born and the foreigners residing among you must not do any of these detestable things,27 for all these things were done by the people who lived in the land before you, and the land became defiled.
Ewwww!!!
No wonder God felt like He had to spell it out!!
The blanket statement "do not live like those people who lived here before" was not strong enough.
Application:
Stay focused of God.
Do what He has told me to do, live the way He has told us to live.
Do not be concerned, or focused on the way the others around us are living.
If I am the Lord's, I will obey Him.
Prayer:
Lord,
I am overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of what Jesus' death on the cross accomplished.
Thank you for having a plan in place to redeem us, and thank you for including all people, regardless of where we come from, or who we are.
Above all, thank you that the Law was completely fulfilled with the sacrifice of your Son.
(And thank you for the covenant with Noah about the whole not killing off the Earth with a flood again, because humanity is so depraved, you would have had to start over at least 1,000 times....)
I am so grateful to be going through the Old Testament again, for the reminder of your Majesty.
I am in awe of you.
Amen.
Reading: Leviticus 14: 33 - 57 - Leviticus 26: 1 - 26
Scripture: Leviticus 18: 1-5
1 The Lord said to Moses,2 "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the Lord your God.3 You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices.4 You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God.5 Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.
Observations:
This section of scripture is in the middle the huge list of "don'ts" that basically make up the book of Leviticus. In fact, immediately following this beautiful statement is a long list of perversions the Israelites are to stay away from. They range from general human decency (don't sleep with your mother in law, she is your father's wife) to the very offensive (don't have sex with an animal). And then we see, in verse 26 - 27:
26 But you must keep my decrees and my laws. The native-born and the foreigners residing among you must not do any of these detestable things,27 for all these things were done by the people who lived in the land before you, and the land became defiled.
Ewwww!!!
No wonder God felt like He had to spell it out!!
The blanket statement "do not live like those people who lived here before" was not strong enough.
Application:
Stay focused of God.
Do what He has told me to do, live the way He has told us to live.
Do not be concerned, or focused on the way the others around us are living.
If I am the Lord's, I will obey Him.
Prayer:
Lord,
I am overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of what Jesus' death on the cross accomplished.
Thank you for having a plan in place to redeem us, and thank you for including all people, regardless of where we come from, or who we are.
Above all, thank you that the Law was completely fulfilled with the sacrifice of your Son.
(And thank you for the covenant with Noah about the whole not killing off the Earth with a flood again, because humanity is so depraved, you would have had to start over at least 1,000 times....)
I am so grateful to be going through the Old Testament again, for the reminder of your Majesty.
I am in awe of you.
Amen.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 8 - God Takes Obedience Seriously
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days in a challenge hosted by Amy, at Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: Day 8 - Leviticus 1 - Leviticus 14: 1 - 32
What I Heard Today : God Takes Obedience Seriously
Scripture: Leviticus 10: 1 - 3
1 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, contrary to his command.2 So fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord.
3 Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the Lord spoke of when he said:
"'Among those who approach me
I will be proved holy;
in the sight of all the people
I will be honored.'"
Aaron remained silent.
Observations:
1. God is Holy.
2. God gives us instructions, and warnings for a REASON.
3. There are things that we do not understand.
Nadab and Abihu were literally and figuratively playing with fire.
All they had were God's instructions.
They knew what to do when.
I don't know if it was innocent in their intent -- a desire to give another fragrant offering to the Lord, or if it was just that they were reckless, and testing the boundaries. But -- it is not our job to understand why we are to do the things that He has told us to do.
Our job is to do them.
Application:
1. Do what the Lord is telling me, and has been telling me to do.
2. Do not do what the Lord has not told us to do yet.
I need to be obedient in both my action, and my inaction.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you that you are PROVED HOLY.
You are a mighty God...
And I will not endeavor to understand all that you are.
I will simply listen, obey, trust, and rest.
Thank you, my Savior, for the privilege of approaching your throne.
May never take it for granted.
Amen.
Reading: Day 8 - Leviticus 1 - Leviticus 14: 1 - 32
What I Heard Today : God Takes Obedience Seriously
Scripture: Leviticus 10: 1 - 3
1 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, contrary to his command.2 So fire came out from the presence of the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord.
3 Moses then said to Aaron, "This is what the Lord spoke of when he said:
"'Among those who approach me
I will be proved holy;
in the sight of all the people
I will be honored.'"
Aaron remained silent.
Observations:
1. God is Holy.
2. God gives us instructions, and warnings for a REASON.
3. There are things that we do not understand.
Nadab and Abihu were literally and figuratively playing with fire.
All they had were God's instructions.
They knew what to do when.
I don't know if it was innocent in their intent -- a desire to give another fragrant offering to the Lord, or if it was just that they were reckless, and testing the boundaries. But -- it is not our job to understand why we are to do the things that He has told us to do.
Our job is to do them.
Application:
1. Do what the Lord is telling me, and has been telling me to do.
2. Do not do what the Lord has not told us to do yet.
I need to be obedient in both my action, and my inaction.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you that you are PROVED HOLY.
You are a mighty God...
And I will not endeavor to understand all that you are.
I will simply listen, obey, trust, and rest.
Thank you, my Savior, for the privilege of approaching your throne.
May never take it for granted.
Amen.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Blogging through the #B90 Days: Day 7
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days with 900 others reading along at the same time. Learn more at Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: Exodus 29 - Exodus 40
Scripture: Exodus 31: 1 - 6
1 Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 2 “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. 3 And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, 4 to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, 5 in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship.
6 “And I, indeed I, have appointed with him Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you:
Observations:
Workmanship, and skill in artistry are gifts from God! Bestowed on certain individuals that God chose!
Application:
This portion jumped out off of the page (um... screen.... I was in the car reading on my YouVersion Bible App) at me since I am a musician.
I have always known that God gives talents, and God uses them in us for His glory.
But it was just beautiful to see the first mention of creative workmanship, and artistic skills being given by God for HIS purpose.
It was just a sweet love note from my Father, reminding me that I am who HE designed me to be, with the gifts, and talents that HE gave me. And that as a public school music teacher I may not be able to proclaim the Gospel in words, but my being their IS a part of my purpose.
And also, it was a gentle nudge to not neglect the area of music ministry, and preparing my library of worship songs, and improving my skills as a worship leader.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you so much for the things that you are showing me as I am reading through the Bible in its entirety for the second time. Help me to learn all that I can -- make my mind and heart open to your instruction.
And Lord, help what I learn to reveal itself in my daily life. Please forgive me for the grouch that I have been at times, and thank you for blessing me with a family that is quick to forgive.
You are everything.
You are my everything.
And I will adore you.
Amen.
Reading: Exodus 29 - Exodus 40
Scripture: Exodus 31: 1 - 6
1 Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: 2 “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. 3 And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, 4 to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, 5 in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship.
6 “And I, indeed I, have appointed with him Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you:
Observations:
Workmanship, and skill in artistry are gifts from God! Bestowed on certain individuals that God chose!
Application:
This portion jumped out off of the page (um... screen.... I was in the car reading on my YouVersion Bible App) at me since I am a musician.
I have always known that God gives talents, and God uses them in us for His glory.
But it was just beautiful to see the first mention of creative workmanship, and artistic skills being given by God for HIS purpose.
It was just a sweet love note from my Father, reminding me that I am who HE designed me to be, with the gifts, and talents that HE gave me. And that as a public school music teacher I may not be able to proclaim the Gospel in words, but my being their IS a part of my purpose.
And also, it was a gentle nudge to not neglect the area of music ministry, and preparing my library of worship songs, and improving my skills as a worship leader.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you so much for the things that you are showing me as I am reading through the Bible in its entirety for the second time. Help me to learn all that I can -- make my mind and heart open to your instruction.
And Lord, help what I learn to reveal itself in my daily life. Please forgive me for the grouch that I have been at times, and thank you for blessing me with a family that is quick to forgive.
You are everything.
You are my everything.
And I will adore you.
Amen.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 5
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: Exodus 1:1 - 15: 18
Scripture: Exodus 4:11
11 So the LORD said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?
Observations:
Moses is really, really intimidated by the task that God is asking of him.
I don't blame him. Especially with a speech impediment! Even being of capable speech, the thought of approaching Pharaoh and asking for the freedom of the thousands of Hebrews that were doing the work of making Egypt the grand place that was would be incredibly daunting.
But God starts to get annoyed with the continual choruses of, "God, why would Pharaoh listen to me, with my stuttering?"
To which He replies (more or less), " Hello? I am I NOT in CHARGE here? Did I make you this way? Did you ever consider that I created you, designed you for this very purpose? And that this thorn in your side that you keep complaining about is just the thing that is going to make you rely on MY strength?"
Application:
My God created me exactly the way that I am.
I laugh too loudly, and I try too hard to be funny. My sense of humor works with my 5th graders and garners eye-rolls from my high school students.
I feel things deeply, and care passionately.
I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I always have.
Until I felt the love of my Savior, I considered my sensitive nature a liability. Something to be ashamed of. But when I felt the arms of love around me, and saw things with new eyes, I realized that the sensitivity that had been the thorn in my side my whole life was truly a gift.
I am still trying to figure out how my everlasting struggle with my weight is a useful or necessary part of His design. But... I know there must be a reason, and I will keep trying to 'exercise' the discipline needed to bring my body under submission. (Okay, Lord... I get it.)
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you for your creativity in designing your people. We are all so different, with so much to offer.
Thank you for helping me to see my qualities the way that You see them, and teaching me to embrace the sensitive heart that you gave me.
Help me to use the areas in my life that where I need discipline teach me to have discipline in all areas.
Thank you for your faithfulness... you are amazing.
Amen.
Reading: Exodus 1:1 - 15: 18
Scripture: Exodus 4:11
11 So the LORD said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?
Observations:
Moses is really, really intimidated by the task that God is asking of him.
I don't blame him. Especially with a speech impediment! Even being of capable speech, the thought of approaching Pharaoh and asking for the freedom of the thousands of Hebrews that were doing the work of making Egypt the grand place that was would be incredibly daunting.
But God starts to get annoyed with the continual choruses of, "God, why would Pharaoh listen to me, with my stuttering?"
To which He replies (more or less), " Hello? I am I NOT in CHARGE here? Did I make you this way? Did you ever consider that I created you, designed you for this very purpose? And that this thorn in your side that you keep complaining about is just the thing that is going to make you rely on MY strength?"
Application:
My God created me exactly the way that I am.
I laugh too loudly, and I try too hard to be funny. My sense of humor works with my 5th graders and garners eye-rolls from my high school students.
I feel things deeply, and care passionately.
I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I always have.
Until I felt the love of my Savior, I considered my sensitive nature a liability. Something to be ashamed of. But when I felt the arms of love around me, and saw things with new eyes, I realized that the sensitivity that had been the thorn in my side my whole life was truly a gift.
I am still trying to figure out how my everlasting struggle with my weight is a useful or necessary part of His design. But... I know there must be a reason, and I will keep trying to 'exercise' the discipline needed to bring my body under submission. (Okay, Lord... I get it.)
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you for your creativity in designing your people. We are all so different, with so much to offer.
Thank you for helping me to see my qualities the way that You see them, and teaching me to embrace the sensitive heart that you gave me.
Help me to use the areas in my life that where I need discipline teach me to have discipline in all areas.
Thank you for your faithfulness... you are amazing.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Blogging through the #B90Days: Day 3 - GOD doesn't play favorites
Blogging through the Bible in 90 Days with Amy (and lots, and lots of others) at Mom's Toolbox.
Day 3: Genesis 28:20 - 40:11
Scripture:
Genesis 29:30
Then Jacob also went in to Rachel, and he also loved Rachel more than Leah....
Genesis 37:3
Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of this old age. Also he made him a tunic of many colors.
Observations:
Favoritism is not the best policy.
Jacob loved Rachel. If Laban had not tricked Jacob into marrying Leah first? Well, Jacob would not have a baseball team (plus some) of sons. But in doing so, because Jacob did not hide that his affection was for Rachel only, he created a deep bitterness between the two sisters.
In Genesis 37:3, it says that he loved Joseph more because he was the son of his old age... but we all know that it was because he was Rachel's boy.
Most parents know the ill effects of showing blatant favoritism among your children.
Choruses of "it's NOT FAIR" abound. Bitterness and anger hover in the air. But worst case scenario??
The other siblings gang up on the favored and decide to sell him into slavery.
Yikes. If that isn't a deterrent, then I don't know what would be!
Application:
God, You do not play favorites.
You have given each of us a job to do, and given each of us the tools and strength to complete it.
From your vantage point, we are all working together to create a Grand Design. There are no unimportant jobs, no unimportant people.
Your design is to reach all people with the news of Your love, and you see no difference between a man who humbly sweeps floors and cleans toilets, and a man who stands on a stage, teaching Your Word to thousands. You see no difference between a woman with a thriving ministry, reaching hundreds of thousands of women for Christ, and a young mother with two small children, raising them from home.
You do not play favorites.
Prayer:
Oh Lord,
How grateful I am that You are my Provider. And that just like Sarai found, You are the God who sees me.
You are such an artist, Lord. I pray that I would remember that my job is whatever You have given me to do. And if I do my job, then I am fulfilling my purpose in your Grand Design.
Thank you for not playing favorites among Your people.
Thank you for not giving up on us humans that do.
I am so overwhelmed by your Love, and especially your Mercy.
Amen.
Day 3: Genesis 28:20 - 40:11
Scripture:
Genesis 29:30
Then Jacob also went in to Rachel, and he also loved Rachel more than Leah....
Genesis 37:3
Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of this old age. Also he made him a tunic of many colors.
Observations:
Favoritism is not the best policy.
Jacob loved Rachel. If Laban had not tricked Jacob into marrying Leah first? Well, Jacob would not have a baseball team (plus some) of sons. But in doing so, because Jacob did not hide that his affection was for Rachel only, he created a deep bitterness between the two sisters.
In Genesis 37:3, it says that he loved Joseph more because he was the son of his old age... but we all know that it was because he was Rachel's boy.
Most parents know the ill effects of showing blatant favoritism among your children.
Choruses of "it's NOT FAIR" abound. Bitterness and anger hover in the air. But worst case scenario??
The other siblings gang up on the favored and decide to sell him into slavery.
Yikes. If that isn't a deterrent, then I don't know what would be!
Application:
God, You do not play favorites.
You have given each of us a job to do, and given each of us the tools and strength to complete it.
From your vantage point, we are all working together to create a Grand Design. There are no unimportant jobs, no unimportant people.
Your design is to reach all people with the news of Your love, and you see no difference between a man who humbly sweeps floors and cleans toilets, and a man who stands on a stage, teaching Your Word to thousands. You see no difference between a woman with a thriving ministry, reaching hundreds of thousands of women for Christ, and a young mother with two small children, raising them from home.
You do not play favorites.
Prayer:
Oh Lord,
How grateful I am that You are my Provider. And that just like Sarai found, You are the God who sees me.
You are such an artist, Lord. I pray that I would remember that my job is whatever You have given me to do. And if I do my job, then I am fulfilling my purpose in your Grand Design.
Thank you for not playing favorites among Your people.
Thank you for not giving up on us humans that do.
I am so overwhelmed by your Love, and especially your Mercy.
Amen.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 21
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 21
Scripture: John 21: 15 - 17
15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah,[b] do you love Me more than these?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”
16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah,[c] do you love Me?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Tend My sheep.”
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah,[d] do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”
And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”
Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.
Observations:
Three times Peter denied Jesus after he had been taken away.
Here, Jesus restores Peter, by giving him three chances to proclaim his love. After each time, Jesus gently commands Peter to "feed my sheep" and "tend my lambs."
Not only has Jesus given Peter the chance to make up for denying Jesus, He has given him a new mission.
Application:
After a betrayal like that, it would be reasonable to expect that the individual would no longer be trusted with important ministry work. It would be reasonable for human nature, but not our gracious, redeeming Savior!
I need to remember that life has a learning curve.
Discipleship is a lifelong process.
People (including (especially) me) make mistakes as we learn to follow Jesus.
Human nature is to write off anyone that betrays us.
Build up walls to protect us from further hurt.
Jesus' nature was to open His arms wide, and risk the hurt again, and again.
He loves us too much to give up on us in the process of learning.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you so much for loving us with such a complete, patient and overwhelming love.
Help me to remember that we are all in progress.
With complete gratitude,
Amen
Reading: John 21
Scripture: John 21: 15 - 17
15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah,[b] do you love Me more than these?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Feed My lambs.”
16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah,[c] do you love Me?”
He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.”
He said to him, “Tend My sheep.”
17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah,[d] do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”
And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.”
Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.
Observations:
Three times Peter denied Jesus after he had been taken away.
Here, Jesus restores Peter, by giving him three chances to proclaim his love. After each time, Jesus gently commands Peter to "feed my sheep" and "tend my lambs."
Not only has Jesus given Peter the chance to make up for denying Jesus, He has given him a new mission.
Application:
After a betrayal like that, it would be reasonable to expect that the individual would no longer be trusted with important ministry work. It would be reasonable for human nature, but not our gracious, redeeming Savior!
I need to remember that life has a learning curve.
Discipleship is a lifelong process.
People (including (especially) me) make mistakes as we learn to follow Jesus.
Human nature is to write off anyone that betrays us.
Build up walls to protect us from further hurt.
Jesus' nature was to open His arms wide, and risk the hurt again, and again.
He loves us too much to give up on us in the process of learning.
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you so much for loving us with such a complete, patient and overwhelming love.
Help me to remember that we are all in progress.
With complete gratitude,
Amen
Friday, July 8, 2011
Blogging through the Gospels: John 20
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 20
Scripture: John 20 : 19
19 Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
Observations:
The disciples were all together, and the doors were shut up tight.
They were hiding from the Jews.
And then, all of a sudden, Jesus is there.
He either walked through the walls, or he simply appeared.
Application:
One of my favorite parts of Psalm 139 talks about the Omni-presence of our loving Father.
7 Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
God is present everywhere.
In John 20:19, Jesus is taking it up a notch.
There is no place that He cannot reach.
There is no boundary too great, no barricade too difficult.
Our Jesus is with us.
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the reminder that everything on this Earth, everything in this life, is just temporary.
There is no place so far that you cannot reach.
There is no situation so dire that you cannot give comfort.
I am not alone.
Thank you, Lord!
Amen
Reading: John 20
Scripture: John 20 : 19
19 Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
Observations:
The disciples were all together, and the doors were shut up tight.
They were hiding from the Jews.
And then, all of a sudden, Jesus is there.
He either walked through the walls, or he simply appeared.
Application:
One of my favorite parts of Psalm 139 talks about the Omni-presence of our loving Father.
7 Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
God is present everywhere.
In John 20:19, Jesus is taking it up a notch.
There is no place that He cannot reach.
There is no boundary too great, no barricade too difficult.
Our Jesus is with us.
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the reminder that everything on this Earth, everything in this life, is just temporary.
There is no place so far that you cannot reach.
There is no situation so dire that you cannot give comfort.
I am not alone.
Thank you, Lord!
Amen
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 19
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 19
Scripture: John 19: 9-10
10 Then Pilate said to Him, “Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?”
11 Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”
Observations:
Pilate can feel that Jesus has done no wrong.
More than that, he can sense that there is something special, something powerful about Him. It certainly is not because of His attitude or demeanor. Jesus, in complete humility, accepts the charges and interrogations without jumping to his own defense.
Pilate is trying desperately to find something that can prove Jesus' innocence, and silence the chief priests once and for all.
Jesus' response: “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above..."
is something that is ringing in my heart and mind.
It brings to mind Job. Daniel in the lion's den. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednago in the fiery furnace. Stephen, martyred for the Gospel.
Our lives our in our Father's hand. He has the power to deliver. He has the power to hold us during the storm.
We do not always understand the circumstances. We don't know the reason for the losses that we experience. But we do know that our God sees the whole picture.
Application:
There are no situations in this life that out of the control of my Father.
While I don't at this time understand why He allowed certain circumstances (for example: the ectopic pregnancy) in our lives, I believe that there was a reason.
And it's not that I don't understand why I was the one to suffer. I am so happy to be able to help other women who have experienced a similar loss. I am grateful that I can empathize. But I can't understand how miscarriages are part of God's perfect design. Are they connected to the Fall somehow? I may never know this side of Heaven. And when I am on the other side, I doubt that I am going to care, or be consumed by this.
The bottom line?
My God is Faithful.
My God is Trustworthy.
My God is everything that I could possibly need.
In every situation, I need to remember that if God is not delivering me out of it, then there must be a purpose. And even while persecution looms on all sides, My God is faithful, and has a Plan.
This world is not my home.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for the reminder that all things are seen by you. Nothing is hidden.
Prepare me for the trials of the future, and help me to trust You completely.
Amen.
Reading: John 19
Scripture: John 19: 9-10
10 Then Pilate said to Him, “Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?”
11 Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”
Observations:
Pilate can feel that Jesus has done no wrong.
More than that, he can sense that there is something special, something powerful about Him. It certainly is not because of His attitude or demeanor. Jesus, in complete humility, accepts the charges and interrogations without jumping to his own defense.
Pilate is trying desperately to find something that can prove Jesus' innocence, and silence the chief priests once and for all.
Jesus' response: “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above..."
is something that is ringing in my heart and mind.
It brings to mind Job. Daniel in the lion's den. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednago in the fiery furnace. Stephen, martyred for the Gospel.
Our lives our in our Father's hand. He has the power to deliver. He has the power to hold us during the storm.
We do not always understand the circumstances. We don't know the reason for the losses that we experience. But we do know that our God sees the whole picture.
Application:
There are no situations in this life that out of the control of my Father.
While I don't at this time understand why He allowed certain circumstances (for example: the ectopic pregnancy) in our lives, I believe that there was a reason.
And it's not that I don't understand why I was the one to suffer. I am so happy to be able to help other women who have experienced a similar loss. I am grateful that I can empathize. But I can't understand how miscarriages are part of God's perfect design. Are they connected to the Fall somehow? I may never know this side of Heaven. And when I am on the other side, I doubt that I am going to care, or be consumed by this.
The bottom line?
My God is Faithful.
My God is Trustworthy.
My God is everything that I could possibly need.
In every situation, I need to remember that if God is not delivering me out of it, then there must be a purpose. And even while persecution looms on all sides, My God is faithful, and has a Plan.
This world is not my home.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for the reminder that all things are seen by you. Nothing is hidden.
Prepare me for the trials of the future, and help me to trust You completely.
Amen.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 18
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 18
Scripture: The very last part of John 18:37
37 Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”
Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
Observations:
Everyone who is of the Truth hears His voice.
It is just remarkable, and overwhelming, that I hear the voice of the God of the Universe.
And that all humanity, throughout all of the World, has the same opportunity.
There is no threshhold -- no maximum capacity.
He is an intimate, personal, involved God for every single person who ever was, is, and ever will be.
Application:
On a personal level:
I need to make sure that nothing in my life is preventing me from hearing His voice.
I need to actively be choosing Him above all.
On a broader level:
I need to show the Love that I have been given to everyone that I encounter.
I need to remember that the people I interact with do not see my internal struggle, and will not be able to separate my actions done in my flesh from my actions done in the spirit.
I need to remember that my life might be the only Bible that some ever read.
Prayer:
Help me to live my faith out loud.
Let the peace that I feel in my heart, because of You, shine out and soothe others,
Let my life carry the fragrance of You.
Thank you for speaking to me, for the privilege of hearing Your voice.
Amen.
Reading: John 18
Scripture: The very last part of John 18:37
37 Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?”
Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
Observations:
Everyone who is of the Truth hears His voice.
It is just remarkable, and overwhelming, that I hear the voice of the God of the Universe.
And that all humanity, throughout all of the World, has the same opportunity.
There is no threshhold -- no maximum capacity.
He is an intimate, personal, involved God for every single person who ever was, is, and ever will be.
Application:
On a personal level:
I need to make sure that nothing in my life is preventing me from hearing His voice.
I need to actively be choosing Him above all.
On a broader level:
I need to show the Love that I have been given to everyone that I encounter.
I need to remember that the people I interact with do not see my internal struggle, and will not be able to separate my actions done in my flesh from my actions done in the spirit.
I need to remember that my life might be the only Bible that some ever read.
Prayer:
Help me to live my faith out loud.
Let the peace that I feel in my heart, because of You, shine out and soothe others,
Let my life carry the fragrance of You.
Thank you for speaking to me, for the privilege of hearing Your voice.
Amen.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 17
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 17
Scripture: John 17:15
15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.
Observations:
In this part of the prayer, Jesus is praying for all of the believers that came to faith during His life on Earth. In the next section, He prays for all people who will ever come to faith in Him!
Jesus is praying for protection for the believers from the evil one.
And we know that when Jesus prays for something, we should probably take note of it.
We have a purpose here on Earth. Unfortunately, believing in the One is not an immediate ticket up to heaven. There is work to be done. Matthew 9: 37 tells us: “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few."
So we have work to do. And can we expect smooth sailing while we are doing what needs to be done?
No.
I Peter 5:8 tells us that: (o)ur enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
So we are to live out the lives we have been given, saved by grace, and spread love and hope to the world. But, even knowing that we have an enemy prowling around us, we take comfort in the fact that the Savior of the world is praying for us.
Application:
Every couple of years I go through a time where I have to actively remind myself that it is not about me.
My quality of life, and my level of comfort are not what matter in the long run. In Heaven, after my life is over, are they going to care what I had a complete Willow Tree Nativity set, or matching couches in our living room? Will my gadgets impress?
No.
My accounts will only detail what I did to advance His Kingdom while I was here on Earth.
The good news is that the God who created me has not created a "spiritual checklist" to which we all must adhere. If my matching couches help me to invite people into my home, and share the love of my Savior, the means do not diminish the result. If my Willow Tree Nativity set sparks a conversation about the true meaning of Christmas, or my gadgets allow me to show off different ways one can have access to the Word, the means to not diminish the result.
So -- applying all of this to my life:
Jesus is praying for me, for protection from the evil one.
I am to continue on my current course, living my life to share the love that I have been given.
Remember that my life has a purpose that has nothing to do with my level of comfort.
Keep my eyes focused on You, and be alert at all times.
Prayer:
Lord,
Help me to stay focused on the plan.
I am so self-centered. (So human.)
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to live my life for You.
Please don't give up on me.
Amen.
Reading: John 17
Scripture: John 17:15
15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.
Observations:
In this part of the prayer, Jesus is praying for all of the believers that came to faith during His life on Earth. In the next section, He prays for all people who will ever come to faith in Him!
Jesus is praying for protection for the believers from the evil one.
And we know that when Jesus prays for something, we should probably take note of it.
We have a purpose here on Earth. Unfortunately, believing in the One is not an immediate ticket up to heaven. There is work to be done. Matthew 9: 37 tells us: “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few."
So we have work to do. And can we expect smooth sailing while we are doing what needs to be done?
No.
I Peter 5:8 tells us that: (o)ur enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
So we are to live out the lives we have been given, saved by grace, and spread love and hope to the world. But, even knowing that we have an enemy prowling around us, we take comfort in the fact that the Savior of the world is praying for us.
Application:
Every couple of years I go through a time where I have to actively remind myself that it is not about me.
My quality of life, and my level of comfort are not what matter in the long run. In Heaven, after my life is over, are they going to care what I had a complete Willow Tree Nativity set, or matching couches in our living room? Will my gadgets impress?
No.
My accounts will only detail what I did to advance His Kingdom while I was here on Earth.
The good news is that the God who created me has not created a "spiritual checklist" to which we all must adhere. If my matching couches help me to invite people into my home, and share the love of my Savior, the means do not diminish the result. If my Willow Tree Nativity set sparks a conversation about the true meaning of Christmas, or my gadgets allow me to show off different ways one can have access to the Word, the means to not diminish the result.
So -- applying all of this to my life:
Jesus is praying for me, for protection from the evil one.
I am to continue on my current course, living my life to share the love that I have been given.
Remember that my life has a purpose that has nothing to do with my level of comfort.
Keep my eyes focused on You, and be alert at all times.
Prayer:
Lord,
Help me to stay focused on the plan.
I am so self-centered. (So human.)
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to live my life for You.
Please don't give up on me.
Amen.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 15 - True Vine, True Home
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 15
Scripture:
5 "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
Observations:
Verse 5 -
The branches apart from the vine wither and die. The vine is what gives the life, the sustaining nutrients.
It is a very vivid, memorable picture, that helps us to remember just how closely we have to be connected to our Savior.
Verse 19 -
When we become the Savior's, we are no longer of this World. Our true home is in Heaven. We are existing here, on this Earth, but the people of the Earth are not our brothers and sisters. Our lineage has changed. And the world can sense the difference, and the world does not like the One who will call us home.
Application:
Verse 5 -
In my own strength, everything I do vanishes. Nothing will benefit the Kingdom of God. Nothing will last. In my own strength it is all meaningless, all vanity.
In Him, truly resting, and abiding in Him, everything from the smallest encounter in the grocery store to the life changing decisions on Sunday morning benefits the Kingdom of God.
Verse 19 -
I do not need to worry about my standing in the community. I need to make sure that I am connected to the Vine. If the world hates me, the world hates me. If I am in the Vine, every moment will still be used for His Kingdom, no matter what the rest of the world thinks. The ones that being called will be called.
The praise of men means NOTHING.
And, therefore, the hatred of the same men means NOTHING.
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord,
I needed the reminder today.
Remain in You-- and all else will fade into the background.
Amen.
Reading: John 15
Scripture:
5 "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
Observations:
Verse 5 -
The branches apart from the vine wither and die. The vine is what gives the life, the sustaining nutrients.
It is a very vivid, memorable picture, that helps us to remember just how closely we have to be connected to our Savior.
Verse 19 -
When we become the Savior's, we are no longer of this World. Our true home is in Heaven. We are existing here, on this Earth, but the people of the Earth are not our brothers and sisters. Our lineage has changed. And the world can sense the difference, and the world does not like the One who will call us home.
Application:
Verse 5 -
In my own strength, everything I do vanishes. Nothing will benefit the Kingdom of God. Nothing will last. In my own strength it is all meaningless, all vanity.
In Him, truly resting, and abiding in Him, everything from the smallest encounter in the grocery store to the life changing decisions on Sunday morning benefits the Kingdom of God.
Verse 19 -
I do not need to worry about my standing in the community. I need to make sure that I am connected to the Vine. If the world hates me, the world hates me. If I am in the Vine, every moment will still be used for His Kingdom, no matter what the rest of the world thinks. The ones that being called will be called.
The praise of men means NOTHING.
And, therefore, the hatred of the same men means NOTHING.
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord,
I needed the reminder today.
Remain in You-- and all else will fade into the background.
Amen.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 13 - Humility
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 13
Scripture: John 13: 14 - 15
14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.
Observations:
I love that Peter is one of the disciples.
We see the other disciples acting petty at times, but never with the flair of Peter.
His pride needed to be broken. Seriously broken- or he would never be any use to Jesus. He was full of confidence in his own ability to be faithful, and to follow.
Humility: seeing ourselves as we truly are, in comparison to the infinite glory of Christ.
Jesus chose the most shocking example of servitude to demonstrate His point.
When guests arrived at a home, the master of the house would offer water, to wash the dust off of the traveler's feet. Sometimes a servant would be on hand to administer the task.
But never did the master of the house perform the task himself.
8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”
While I believe that Peter's reaction is more about Jesus lowering Himself, and Peter not feeling worthy to have His Lord performing such a base task, the root is still pride.
When Jesus answers Him, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me," Peter realizes his mistake and with characteristic zeal offers his whole body to be washed. Jesus assured that only the feet were getting washed that day.
After He had finished the task, He explained that He had given them the standard. Serve one another. In reaching hearts for the Lord, there are no jobs, no tasks that are "below" them. The true measure of a man is not his list of accomplishments, but his heart and willingness to serve.
Application:
Oh there are so many places that I need to hear and apply this lesson.
In my home: I need to serve my family by making every effort to keep our home clean.
In my classroom: I need to serve my students by being more organized, and therefore more efficient.
In my heart: I need to remember my definition of humility.
Humility: seeing ourselves as we truly are, in comparison to the infinite glory of Christ.
Prayer:
Lord,
This reminder is needed.
Even though it stings.
(But you knew that already.)
Thank you for your kind rebuke.
Help me.
Amen.
Reading: John 13
Scripture: John 13: 14 - 15
14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.
Observations:
I love that Peter is one of the disciples.
We see the other disciples acting petty at times, but never with the flair of Peter.
His pride needed to be broken. Seriously broken- or he would never be any use to Jesus. He was full of confidence in his own ability to be faithful, and to follow.
Humility: seeing ourselves as we truly are, in comparison to the infinite glory of Christ.
Jesus chose the most shocking example of servitude to demonstrate His point.
When guests arrived at a home, the master of the house would offer water, to wash the dust off of the traveler's feet. Sometimes a servant would be on hand to administer the task.
But never did the master of the house perform the task himself.
8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”
Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”
9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”
While I believe that Peter's reaction is more about Jesus lowering Himself, and Peter not feeling worthy to have His Lord performing such a base task, the root is still pride.
When Jesus answers Him, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me," Peter realizes his mistake and with characteristic zeal offers his whole body to be washed. Jesus assured that only the feet were getting washed that day.
After He had finished the task, He explained that He had given them the standard. Serve one another. In reaching hearts for the Lord, there are no jobs, no tasks that are "below" them. The true measure of a man is not his list of accomplishments, but his heart and willingness to serve.
Application:
Oh there are so many places that I need to hear and apply this lesson.
In my home: I need to serve my family by making every effort to keep our home clean.
In my classroom: I need to serve my students by being more organized, and therefore more efficient.
In my heart: I need to remember my definition of humility.
Humility: seeing ourselves as we truly are, in comparison to the infinite glory of Christ.
Prayer:
Lord,
This reminder is needed.
Even though it stings.
(But you knew that already.)
Thank you for your kind rebuke.
Help me.
Amen.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 12- No one is beyond redemption.
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 12
Scripture: John 12: 4-6
4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.
Observations:
Judas is called a thief by John. For him it was hindsight. After the betrayal it all made sense.
But Jesus knew exactly who Judas was.
Think about his chosen 12. He had a tax collector, someone that he knew was a thief, and would eventually betray him. Many of them were simple fishermen.
Application:
I find it so comforting that Jesus used ordinary people in his ministry.
And I find it so convicting that he deliberately chose the people that everyone else counted as beyond significance, beyond redemption.
Help me, Lord, to see people with your eyes, and not my own.
Prayer:
Lord,
You are so overwhelming.
Give me patience with my sons today.
Give me the eyes to see their hearts in the middle of the struggles.
Help me remember the truths that you showed me today when I encounter people. No one is beyond redemption.
Amen.
Reading: John 12
Scripture: John 12: 4-6
4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.
Observations:
Judas is called a thief by John. For him it was hindsight. After the betrayal it all made sense.
But Jesus knew exactly who Judas was.
Think about his chosen 12. He had a tax collector, someone that he knew was a thief, and would eventually betray him. Many of them were simple fishermen.
Application:
I find it so comforting that Jesus used ordinary people in his ministry.
And I find it so convicting that he deliberately chose the people that everyone else counted as beyond significance, beyond redemption.
Help me, Lord, to see people with your eyes, and not my own.
Prayer:
Lord,
You are so overwhelming.
Give me patience with my sons today.
Give me the eyes to see their hearts in the middle of the struggles.
Help me remember the truths that you showed me today when I encounter people. No one is beyond redemption.
Amen.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: True Compassion. John 11
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 11
Scripture:
While I spent a good deal of time researching verse 51 -- Caiaphas "prophesying," and all of that, it was not the verse that spoke to me again today, as nearly every time I read this chapter.
John 11: 35
Jesus wept.
Observations:
Mary and Martha are like sisters to Jesus.
Lazarus was like a brother.
Yet, he stayed away two more days after receiving the word that Lazarus ill.
By the time He and his disciples actually arrived back in Judea, Lazarus had indeed passed away, and had been in the tomb four days.
Separately the sisters run to Him, mourning and crying out that if He had been there, Lazarus would still be alive.
Even knowing what He was about to do -- even though He knew that in moments the tears of mourning would become tears of happiness, His heart still moved for the pain of His people.
Application:
We can understand being comforted in situations beyond our control.
But when we are the reason for the difficulties we are facing?
As human beings with "free will," we often get into situations that are our own fault.
And since we have a Just and Holy God, we have to deal with the consequences of our sin. And sometimes it gets really painful.
I John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us, and purify us from unrighteousness.
And Romans 8:1 tells us that there is no longer any condemnation from sin that has been forgiven.
But Jesus is more than just a forgiver of sins.
He is the sympathetic friend, the compassionate listener.
Even forgiven, we still have to live in and dwell in the circumstances we created by our sin.
He can wipe the slate clean, but it is not a magical reset button that affects everything around us. And since He can't take it all away, He weeps with us.
Oh how blessed we are!
Thank you, oh my Father - for giving us your Son!
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you for the reminders of how you carry us through the storm.
You are so much more than we deserve.
I am in awe.
Amen.
Reading: John 11
Scripture:
While I spent a good deal of time researching verse 51 -- Caiaphas "prophesying," and all of that, it was not the verse that spoke to me again today, as nearly every time I read this chapter.
John 11: 35
Jesus wept.
Observations:
Mary and Martha are like sisters to Jesus.
Lazarus was like a brother.
Yet, he stayed away two more days after receiving the word that Lazarus ill.
By the time He and his disciples actually arrived back in Judea, Lazarus had indeed passed away, and had been in the tomb four days.
Separately the sisters run to Him, mourning and crying out that if He had been there, Lazarus would still be alive.
Even knowing what He was about to do -- even though He knew that in moments the tears of mourning would become tears of happiness, His heart still moved for the pain of His people.
Application:
When we lost our second child in the early stages of pregnancy, through the worst sequence of events that I could have ever imagined, I felt Him. I prayed for Him to spare my child. I prayed for everything to miraculously be set right. I wept. Oh how I wept. And when the dust settled after the words "ectopic pregnancy" were introduced, I could feel Jesus sustaining me. And when the tears came again, I knew that He was weeping with me, for my grief, wishing that He could take it from me.
When a loved one suffers from cancer- Jesus is there.
When a baby is a victim of SIDS - Jesus is there.
When natural disasters strike, and all is lost - Jesus is there.
We can understand being comforted in situations beyond our control.
But when we are the reason for the difficulties we are facing?
As human beings with "free will," we often get into situations that are our own fault.
And since we have a Just and Holy God, we have to deal with the consequences of our sin. And sometimes it gets really painful.
I John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us, and purify us from unrighteousness.
And Romans 8:1 tells us that there is no longer any condemnation from sin that has been forgiven.
But Jesus is more than just a forgiver of sins.
He is the sympathetic friend, the compassionate listener.
Even forgiven, we still have to live in and dwell in the circumstances we created by our sin.
He can wipe the slate clean, but it is not a magical reset button that affects everything around us. And since He can't take it all away, He weeps with us.
Oh how blessed we are!
Thank you, oh my Father - for giving us your Son!
Prayer:
Lord,
Thank you for the reminders of how you carry us through the storm.
You are so much more than we deserve.
I am in awe.
Amen.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 10
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 10
I could barely keep my eyes open when I first got downstairs.
We had a rough night with the 15 month old. Up for a couple of hours.... twice.
And then, armed with my coffee in one hand, and Mom's Toolbox on the screen in front of me, I saw that the reading today was John 10!
This is my favorite chapter of the whole Bible!
So, I read it a few times, savoring the messages of love, protection, and ownership.
And then I read it again, with ears to listen and a heart to heart to hear what the Lord has for me today.
Scripture: John 10:16
16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
Observations:
He came for all who would believe.
Application:
When I read through this verse, I sensed the quiet assurance that He meant this one for me this morning.
It was another confirmation of the work He is preparing us for.
There are people in this community that are lost.... He has brought us here for them. And Jesus will include them, and be their Shepherd as well.
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord -
for the subtle, yet definite confirmation that we are here because You have brought us here, and that the work to be done has been ordained by You. In Your time (not ours), You will guide us, and lead us in the path that You have chosen.
Help us to not get ahead of you.
Help us to wait.
And in the mean time....
We will pray.
Thank you, Lord.
Amen.
Reading: John 10
I could barely keep my eyes open when I first got downstairs.
We had a rough night with the 15 month old. Up for a couple of hours.... twice.
And then, armed with my coffee in one hand, and Mom's Toolbox on the screen in front of me, I saw that the reading today was John 10!
This is my favorite chapter of the whole Bible!
So, I read it a few times, savoring the messages of love, protection, and ownership.
And then I read it again, with ears to listen and a heart to heart to hear what the Lord has for me today.
Scripture: John 10:16
16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
Observations:
He came for all who would believe.
Application:
When I read through this verse, I sensed the quiet assurance that He meant this one for me this morning.
It was another confirmation of the work He is preparing us for.
There are people in this community that are lost.... He has brought us here for them. And Jesus will include them, and be their Shepherd as well.
Prayer:
Thank you, Lord -
for the subtle, yet definite confirmation that we are here because You have brought us here, and that the work to be done has been ordained by You. In Your time (not ours), You will guide us, and lead us in the path that You have chosen.
Help us to not get ahead of you.
Help us to wait.
And in the mean time....
We will pray.
Thank you, Lord.
Amen.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Blogging through the #Gospels: John 9
Blogging through the Gospels with Amy, from Mom's Toolbox.
Reading: John 9
Scripture: John 9: 30 - 33
30 The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes! 31 Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him. 32 Since the world began it has been unheard of that anyone opened the eyes of one who was born blind. 33 If this Man were not from God, He could do nothing.”
Observations:
The man was blind, and had been since birth.
His friends and neighbors, rather than embracing a miraculous healing, a marvelous gift in the life of their friend, dragged him to the Pharisees because he had been healed on the Sabbath.
His own parents left him to face the Pharisees by himself, rather than admitting the truth and being permanently removed from fellowship.
But he knew. It was no ordinary man that healed him.
He had felt power from God.
And even though he was not a disciple of Jesus yet, when the Pharisees derisively made that comment (verse 28), it seemed like a pretty good idea.
Application:
Help me not to dismiss things that are from You just because they are happening in ways that are different than I expect.
Help me not to assume that my knowledge of you, and my experiences, are the only ways that you would reveal Yourself.
Help me to recognize Your handiwork, in the mundane and the marvelous.
Prayer:
You are amazing.
How does your heart not explode from the love that you feel for everyone, and the sadness at the ones who are lost?
Lord, give me Your heart to see everyone that I encounter.
Help me to accept the miraculous as part of the every day.
Amen.
Reading: John 9
Scripture: John 9: 30 - 33
30 The man answered and said to them, “Why, this is a marvelous thing, that you do not know where He is from; yet He has opened my eyes! 31 Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him. 32 Since the world began it has been unheard of that anyone opened the eyes of one who was born blind. 33 If this Man were not from God, He could do nothing.”
Observations:
The man was blind, and had been since birth.
His friends and neighbors, rather than embracing a miraculous healing, a marvelous gift in the life of their friend, dragged him to the Pharisees because he had been healed on the Sabbath.
His own parents left him to face the Pharisees by himself, rather than admitting the truth and being permanently removed from fellowship.
But he knew. It was no ordinary man that healed him.
He had felt power from God.
And even though he was not a disciple of Jesus yet, when the Pharisees derisively made that comment (verse 28), it seemed like a pretty good idea.
Application:
Help me not to dismiss things that are from You just because they are happening in ways that are different than I expect.
Help me not to assume that my knowledge of you, and my experiences, are the only ways that you would reveal Yourself.
Help me to recognize Your handiwork, in the mundane and the marvelous.
Prayer:
You are amazing.
How does your heart not explode from the love that you feel for everyone, and the sadness at the ones who are lost?
Lord, give me Your heart to see everyone that I encounter.
Help me to accept the miraculous as part of the every day.
Amen.
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