As water is to the body so God's word is to our heart and soul. Really that sink in.
There are times when I'm reading a common section of God's word and my flesh just wants to skip it as I've read it so many times and I think I know it inside out, and yet the Spirit within me always reminds me that His word is LIVING and active... therefore "I can give you some fresh new insight today Carrie, if you'll let me?"
So here I go... reading the common part of Luke 1 again. Famous Christmas story I've read hundreds of times and yet I do feel surrendered not resigned to the fact that I do want something fresh from it for today if possible.
So the first thing my attitude shift results in is, "Ok Carrie, rather than reading as Narrator, let's play a character. Take a portion and ask me to really make this real to you." So I do just that. I take the portion starting from Elizabeth finding out in her old age she will have a baby right up to the Mary staying with her than leaving. (Luke 1:24-56)
I began to think of both Mary and Elizabeth... I know... I was only supposed to be one, but it fascinated me so much I wanted to understand both of them. Both of them such godly women. Elizabeth was upright in the sight of God and obeyed all His commands blamelessly (v.6) And Mary, Highly favored by God. A young virgin pledged to be married and an old godly woman. hmmm... Both hold to God alone unwavering. Even though Elizabeth is married, keep in mind out of nowhere Zechariah can't speak and she is all of a sudden pregnant!!! In her old age?? Then she remains in seclusion for 5 months! (v.24) Who was her strength, who was her comfort?? God alone was. Did she trust Him, even through this upsurd situation even taking place in her very own body??? YES she did.
And little did she know that young Mary too was going through her own trial of trust in God alone somewhat similar only months behind her?? They didn't have facebook, or cells to communicate. No. So how did they know. God.
An angel appears to Mary out of know where, and interesting enough a young girl's response was quite different even from the Priest Zechariah who the same angel Gabriel appeared to. Though Zechariah questioned Mary responded with, "I am the Lord's servant."
Young ladies... can I encourage you with this powerful thought for a moment. Do you realize how valuable your trust in God and relationship with Him is. He will use you in ways you wouldn't believe if only you trust Him fully as Mary did.
From there I find this so interesting that God knows that both Mary and Elizabeth will find great comfort in each other at such a time and so let's Mary know that Elizabeth is 6 months pregnant! This is so cool!
So Mary without delay knowing that Joseph is inwardly struggling if he should divorce Mary (Matthew 1:19) is left feeling so alone and isolated again with chaos going on inside her very body as a baby is developing and she hasn't even had sex!!! and so she goes to Elizabeth.
She travels alone to her. What a road trip that would've been. Can you just imagine young Mary.... now when she arrives to Elizabeth having spent the last 5 months alone, she instantly through the Spirit of God is connected even to the baby in her womb when she feels the Spirit so strong come from her. Now Mary hasn't even told her she's pregnant and look at Elizabeth's response..."When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a LOUD voice she exclaimed, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored that the mother of MY Lord should come to me? Blessed is she who has BELIEVED that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" (v. 44,45)
Now what joy, encouragement, comfort Mary would've had. For she hadn't told her anything but Elizabeth had known from the Holy Spirit. And Mary didn't need all the comfort from lots of people, true godly people don't, to be honest. But this one divine encounter caused her great joy and peace so much that she expresses a song afterwards. (v. 46-55).
Elizabeth too was comforted in her time, as there was no way that Mary would've known about her situation either. Neither of them had their children in their arms, but them simply trusted God's plan to be good and in relationship with each other loved on each other and comforted each other through this hard time. Mary remained with her for 3 months.
This shows me the tenderness of God's heart even to His dear women. He knows childbearing is hard enough let alone done God's way which is completely opposite the world. He gives women good friends to relate and love on each other together. Greater than even a man may understand at that time as their bodies change etc. I pondered this gracious, carrying side of God and felt like mush in my Daddy's hand. He really gets us women. :)
THEN... if that wasn't enough... He was going to take this ancient penning of scripture and bring it alive to me in a modern day setting that night.
I have 2 of my beloved youth leader women, whom we've served together for the past few years and are truly my loved sisters, both are pregnant with their first child about 2 months apart. Well that night at midnight I get a text that the one is in the hospital already dilated 2 months premature, asking me to pray. I'm on it and texting back and forth as she lay in the hospital. Only to find out the other leader who's baby is due any day goes into labor and is having an emergency C section at the same time!! The premature labor is calmed down, some medicine, needles, etc... but she is to stay in that night and the next so the doctor's can watch her. The other leader had a beautiful baby boy, but after the hurt of a C section. I know, I've been there.
The most blessed part.... was that night as their wheeled into their rooms both in different emotional states with bodies hurting and not knowing they are both in there... YES!!!! their beds end up beside each other and they end up sharing the room together!!! NOW is that GOD or what??? How crazy was all of this to me to not only read it that morning but then witness again the great compassionate hand of our God in 2 women I love so dearly.
Nothing... absolutely.... nothing gets by God. Nothing is too small for Him.... and rather than us women making a man wrong for not knowing our pain or our hurt, I think Elizabeth and Mary took the cake for that one! They turned their face towards their Father and truly trusted Him. What wonderful women we have as examples to us here and now.
Ladies, truly let your Father extravagantly love you. HE knows... really knows.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Communication is Key
We spend so much money on enhancing communication, from latest gadgets to expensive seminars. Is it important? Absolutely!
As Brea gears up for her 16th birthday, I’ve introduced Liegmann Drivers Ed 101. Our recent trip to Vancouver requires her manual and full alertness. (And yes… this is my creative edition.) As we drive she answers all my questions from signs to traffic patterns. If she doesn’t know the answers she has to look it up, which I find solidifies a greater return on the memorization. As I’m teaching her, the Spirit teaches me.
Lesson: (Part A) When we signal in the car, it’s not for US but rather those around us to be aware of our intentions. It’s crucial. It promotes safe, smooth, and unified movement. What peace and joy to all!
Imagine if we never signaled? What chaos would be ours! LOL.
If that didn’t hit home, the Spirit was going to double up significance this teaching to me.
Lesson (Part B) Brea, Roger, and I recently went on an ATV tour in Whistler. Beautiful! We all had to wear helmets and goggles and follow single file up steep rocky mountains and through dense forests. We were all instructed to follow the leader and watch for his hand signal, because you obviously couldn’t hear his voice. It just so happened, that his machine’s chain kept coming off every 5 minutes. We kept starting and stopping, starting and stopping. You can imagine how much I enjoyed this part?? LOL. But as I watched I realized, no one really knew how long this was going to go on, as we weren’t able to communicate. On the 5th time 3 of us broke through the line to come to the leader to remove helmets and communicate solutions. Yes, I was one of them. And yes I ended up sharing my machine with the leaderJ
In both these situations it became plainly apparent that communication is essential in everything in life. Now not JUST essential, but that it brings joy and allows greater progress in any journey, from road trips to ATV adventures.
Conclusion: Now for my four way flashers.
How is our communication with God? Do we follow his lead, obey his laws and signal with obedience our intentions? Or do we wear helmets in which we don’t even hear His voice, only to frustrate ourselves? You see God has given us the GIFT of two-way communication with Him. His word and his Spirit declare His voice on anything and everything.
And our voice is given to us as a means to take off the helmet and ask sometimes when we don’t understand. So the question that we need to honestly ask ourselves is, “How’s OUR communication (God and Me)?” When we are tight, we become confident in our journey, and signal to those around us our intentions with joy, peace and a surety.
Don’t delay, grab the manual (bible), perhaps a good teacher in this area, and start using those two gifts God’s given you: your ears and your voice.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Holiness - Not for the "Common" Folk
When I say "Holy" what comes to mind? Really. Think about it. "Holy, holiness." What thoughts come to your mind?
Initially in my spiritual walk and even before, it seemed somewhat scary to me? Too religious, unattainable, even foreign. When we talk of it today many laugh, mock or roll their eyes to such a term. And yet today in my spiritual walk and growth of Him being in me, I find myself craving it more. Not to the world or what people think but in my own personal pursuit. I am blown away that God would deem me as a holy one of His.
So how does this happen in a young person? What does it look like? Does it mean I wear nun clothing, a wooden cross, ride a horse, eat only bread and water, and never watch a digital screen again? No. I realize that holiness is such a defining quality of our God. He's perfect and therefore holiness is Him. Holiness means to be "Set apart". I just read today this verse that made this come to light even more, in Ezekiel of all places. God is displaying his unhappiness about a few things that are very important to HIm. Ezekiel 22:26 "They do not distinguish between the holy and the common. They teach there is no difference between the clean and unclean." God is upset with His spiritual leaders that they have not taught the importance of this to the people.
Then I got thinking about this in my life. Do I teach this as a pastor to those around me? Not by just words, but how I live. You see holiness, is RARE. God says that. "They do not distinguish between the holy and the COMMON." Therefore the Holy things are uncommon. Do I feel uncommon in the world? Was my desire to be pure and abstain in sexual relationships before marriage made fun of? Oh yes, it sure was, even by reporters that were doing articles on me in newspapers. As a woman in my 30s who quite frankly enjoys love and the physical aspect of it, devoting herself and her body to GOD?? Why... because I want to be like Him. I DO want to be deemed as Holy. Why? Because that's a great quality in which God stands alone, He sets us apart with a desire to abstain from things of the world that we might be known as HIS.
Think of the Princess Kate and Prince William and the dignity they exude. The class and respect that is theirs. Do you know GOD WANTS that for us?? How do we do that?
When we don't fall to trashy common things. It's like smoking cigarettes. As I keep putting that in my body my lungs will be blackened and eventually maybe even cancerous.
What we keep letting into our soul will either become hazardous to us or nourish and refresh us. How does it get in? All of our senses/members (as Apostle Paul calls them) let these things in. Our eyes that lust, our ears that listen and take things in, our mouths that allow toxic things as well as let out profanity, sword slashing wreckage at times, our hands that touch things they shouldn't or hurt, our feet that rush into sin quickly taking us places we shouldn't be, etc,etc. You get it. So does that mean again I chain myself up and live a life of solitude?
No, it simply means, that I want my eyes to be careful what they filter to put in my soul. So yes I will turn away from a handsome man in his bathing suit as I simply want to keep my eyes desiring and pure always intoxicated for my husband and our love. As a result, our intimacy on this level is the best I have ever known, even to this weekend ;) I believe this is blessing God gives those who guard this! Perhaps you don't know because you haven't tried?
My mouth, can enjoy a glass of wine or two, but am I going to indulge in a way that the same mouth will then puke because my liver can't keep up? No. Why?? So I do things I don't remember later? I WANT to remember the things I do.
My hands might desire to use my credit card to buy something I don't need only working in tandem with my eyes, so I simply don't go to the mall to spend idle time, then I'm just tempted to see nice things that I really don't need. I could go on.. but you get the idea. Even the magazines and shows you watch will influence your obsessions with fashion, body image, sex, relationships,etc.... be careful. So why would I resist all of this?? There was a time when I didn't and you know what, I can honestly say the "high" lasts for a moment, maybe a few hours but then you come crashing again.
When you begin to get control by asking God in you to help you, He starts to help you come out of this common, hamster wheel cycle to realize that there's far greater things in life to be had most importantly a clear vision on the purpose of your very life.
One of the greatest promises that I am beginning to experience and long for more, is that the "pure in heart will see God". (Matt5:8) When we keep ourselves from the enemy's territory we realize the promise land that exists for us even here and now and we begin to see much more clearly God and His ways. Not only in our lives but even others. It's awesome.
So holiness.... it's an absolute full out pursuit and desire of mine, oh that the angels would one day begin to see more of Christ in me in His holiness. That more and more angels are needed to encamp around me as I become more and more of a threat to the enemy of bringing others to this great light. Stay focused. Ask HIM for help... then move towards the light... you will not go back.
Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)
Initially in my spiritual walk and even before, it seemed somewhat scary to me? Too religious, unattainable, even foreign. When we talk of it today many laugh, mock or roll their eyes to such a term. And yet today in my spiritual walk and growth of Him being in me, I find myself craving it more. Not to the world or what people think but in my own personal pursuit. I am blown away that God would deem me as a holy one of His.
So how does this happen in a young person? What does it look like? Does it mean I wear nun clothing, a wooden cross, ride a horse, eat only bread and water, and never watch a digital screen again? No. I realize that holiness is such a defining quality of our God. He's perfect and therefore holiness is Him. Holiness means to be "Set apart". I just read today this verse that made this come to light even more, in Ezekiel of all places. God is displaying his unhappiness about a few things that are very important to HIm. Ezekiel 22:26 "They do not distinguish between the holy and the common. They teach there is no difference between the clean and unclean." God is upset with His spiritual leaders that they have not taught the importance of this to the people.
Then I got thinking about this in my life. Do I teach this as a pastor to those around me? Not by just words, but how I live. You see holiness, is RARE. God says that. "They do not distinguish between the holy and the COMMON." Therefore the Holy things are uncommon. Do I feel uncommon in the world? Was my desire to be pure and abstain in sexual relationships before marriage made fun of? Oh yes, it sure was, even by reporters that were doing articles on me in newspapers. As a woman in my 30s who quite frankly enjoys love and the physical aspect of it, devoting herself and her body to GOD?? Why... because I want to be like Him. I DO want to be deemed as Holy. Why? Because that's a great quality in which God stands alone, He sets us apart with a desire to abstain from things of the world that we might be known as HIS.
Think of the Princess Kate and Prince William and the dignity they exude. The class and respect that is theirs. Do you know GOD WANTS that for us?? How do we do that?
When we don't fall to trashy common things. It's like smoking cigarettes. As I keep putting that in my body my lungs will be blackened and eventually maybe even cancerous.
What we keep letting into our soul will either become hazardous to us or nourish and refresh us. How does it get in? All of our senses/members (as Apostle Paul calls them) let these things in. Our eyes that lust, our ears that listen and take things in, our mouths that allow toxic things as well as let out profanity, sword slashing wreckage at times, our hands that touch things they shouldn't or hurt, our feet that rush into sin quickly taking us places we shouldn't be, etc,etc. You get it. So does that mean again I chain myself up and live a life of solitude?
No, it simply means, that I want my eyes to be careful what they filter to put in my soul. So yes I will turn away from a handsome man in his bathing suit as I simply want to keep my eyes desiring and pure always intoxicated for my husband and our love. As a result, our intimacy on this level is the best I have ever known, even to this weekend ;) I believe this is blessing God gives those who guard this! Perhaps you don't know because you haven't tried?
My mouth, can enjoy a glass of wine or two, but am I going to indulge in a way that the same mouth will then puke because my liver can't keep up? No. Why?? So I do things I don't remember later? I WANT to remember the things I do.
My hands might desire to use my credit card to buy something I don't need only working in tandem with my eyes, so I simply don't go to the mall to spend idle time, then I'm just tempted to see nice things that I really don't need. I could go on.. but you get the idea. Even the magazines and shows you watch will influence your obsessions with fashion, body image, sex, relationships,etc.... be careful. So why would I resist all of this?? There was a time when I didn't and you know what, I can honestly say the "high" lasts for a moment, maybe a few hours but then you come crashing again.
When you begin to get control by asking God in you to help you, He starts to help you come out of this common, hamster wheel cycle to realize that there's far greater things in life to be had most importantly a clear vision on the purpose of your very life.
One of the greatest promises that I am beginning to experience and long for more, is that the "pure in heart will see God". (Matt5:8) When we keep ourselves from the enemy's territory we realize the promise land that exists for us even here and now and we begin to see much more clearly God and His ways. Not only in our lives but even others. It's awesome.
So holiness.... it's an absolute full out pursuit and desire of mine, oh that the angels would one day begin to see more of Christ in me in His holiness. That more and more angels are needed to encamp around me as I become more and more of a threat to the enemy of bringing others to this great light. Stay focused. Ask HIM for help... then move towards the light... you will not go back.
Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Psalm 34:8)
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Who am I, REALLY?
I am untouchable until the day God has determined that I shall enter eternity. UNTOUCHABLE. Cool eh? God already knows.
I have asked my family not to spend money on a funeral but rather for them to buy a plane ticket to Israel and take my ashes and sprinkle them on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem. Then spend time in my favourite country in the world. :)
Is death a morbid thought to you? It shouldn't be. For those who have submitted their lives to Jesus have been given the gift of eternal life. For we only shall sleep in death as we pass through the valley of death He will walk with us. (Psalm 23)
As I journey daily with the God of the universe and His son Jesus Christ, by the power of HIS Spirit in me daily, I am diving deeper than ever beyond the mere thoughts of humans. Why not?
"Who's your teacher Carrie?"
" ... ahhh... God. Yes God Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth the sea and everything in it."
"And where exactly is HE?"
"He's in me and His text book that He constantly brings alive is the Bible."
In my studies this week... I'm simply so humbled that everything is about God. I regret to think that I was ever good at anything... really. I'm laughing thinking about it. We are but this little mist, maybe of 70 years, relative to thousands of years and billions of people.... do I really make that big of a difference?? lol.... Who are we?? Who are we next to God? Nothing. So what is my purpose here?
It is this... to bring glory to Him. That people would look at me and see more of Jesus. What does that look like? Nothing selfish, but sacrificially giving of myself. To look something entirely different than how others may be treading through life. That money, fame, honor wouldn't have a hold on me but that I'd be so relentlessly desiring His praise, His glory, His fame and wisdom to be shown off to so many.
Once a fellow pastor told me I was too zealous for God. I humbly took it away somewhat saddened and just asked Him as I always do when someone says something to me. I want Him to just tell me the truth. I trust Him.
"Lord am I too zealous? Do I need to tone it down a bit?"
"Carrie, when you get to heaven with me and I look upon you, do you think I will say, 'Carrie, you really shouldn't have been so excited about me??'" That's all I could hear Him say and instantly I chuckled with Him and was refreshed in my pursuit again of more of Him.
I won't ever push my God on anyone, especially my children as they develop their own journey. BUT ask anyone that knows me well, and even if I am so tired and quiet there is one thing that someone can ask me about and I'll somehow get all fired up and go on and on...... YES... Jesus.
God is so great and so awesome. No one is His equal. And it brings me SUCH joy to say that!! I don't need people to praise me, I don't need to be a great preacher, famous, or have millions of dollars, but I do want Him to know that there is no one greater to ME than Him. He's the apple of my eye, and quite frankly I love it when He shows of.
Even as I was reading Jeremiah 36:26 I chuckled that when you play hide and seek with God, you don't stand a chance. What He hides no one can find. So why do we worry, why don't we trust Him more? When we do we start to talk about everything with Him. We spend the majority of our days talking to Him and then looking to His word for His answers. (See how time in His word teaches us of Him but gives us hope and security in truth)
Even as I saw a clip today of New York Times Square on the news, I gave Him glory. Why?
Well I was there just this past year with my husband, sister and her finance. We had a great time. But as I looked all around at Times Square it BUSTLED with activity. Much like Vegas, but more corporate mixed with tourists and entertainment. There was so much going on in every inch of that square and yet today a LIVE picture showed it as a ghost town. Why? Because God is rolling through His power with a storm that causes everyone to be reminded that we're nothing next to His great power. And instantly I am reminded of His word, " I say to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour.' So that all people that He has made know His work, he stops everyone from their labor." Job 37:7
Awesome eh? So why Hurricane Irene? Well as your boarding up your homes, and even the NY subway shuts down, remember that God is God. His power beyond understanding. Let's simply humble ourselves with joy, remembering that "I am nothing.. but you my Lord are EVERYTHING."
May my life bring you glory, Lord. I am yours unashamedly.
xo
(Isaiah 45:14,21b, 46:9, 48:11)
I have asked my family not to spend money on a funeral but rather for them to buy a plane ticket to Israel and take my ashes and sprinkle them on the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem. Then spend time in my favourite country in the world. :)
Is death a morbid thought to you? It shouldn't be. For those who have submitted their lives to Jesus have been given the gift of eternal life. For we only shall sleep in death as we pass through the valley of death He will walk with us. (Psalm 23)
As I journey daily with the God of the universe and His son Jesus Christ, by the power of HIS Spirit in me daily, I am diving deeper than ever beyond the mere thoughts of humans. Why not?
"Who's your teacher Carrie?"
" ... ahhh... God. Yes God Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth the sea and everything in it."
"And where exactly is HE?"
"He's in me and His text book that He constantly brings alive is the Bible."
In my studies this week... I'm simply so humbled that everything is about God. I regret to think that I was ever good at anything... really. I'm laughing thinking about it. We are but this little mist, maybe of 70 years, relative to thousands of years and billions of people.... do I really make that big of a difference?? lol.... Who are we?? Who are we next to God? Nothing. So what is my purpose here?
It is this... to bring glory to Him. That people would look at me and see more of Jesus. What does that look like? Nothing selfish, but sacrificially giving of myself. To look something entirely different than how others may be treading through life. That money, fame, honor wouldn't have a hold on me but that I'd be so relentlessly desiring His praise, His glory, His fame and wisdom to be shown off to so many.
Once a fellow pastor told me I was too zealous for God. I humbly took it away somewhat saddened and just asked Him as I always do when someone says something to me. I want Him to just tell me the truth. I trust Him.
"Lord am I too zealous? Do I need to tone it down a bit?"
"Carrie, when you get to heaven with me and I look upon you, do you think I will say, 'Carrie, you really shouldn't have been so excited about me??'" That's all I could hear Him say and instantly I chuckled with Him and was refreshed in my pursuit again of more of Him.
I won't ever push my God on anyone, especially my children as they develop their own journey. BUT ask anyone that knows me well, and even if I am so tired and quiet there is one thing that someone can ask me about and I'll somehow get all fired up and go on and on...... YES... Jesus.
God is so great and so awesome. No one is His equal. And it brings me SUCH joy to say that!! I don't need people to praise me, I don't need to be a great preacher, famous, or have millions of dollars, but I do want Him to know that there is no one greater to ME than Him. He's the apple of my eye, and quite frankly I love it when He shows of.
Even as I was reading Jeremiah 36:26 I chuckled that when you play hide and seek with God, you don't stand a chance. What He hides no one can find. So why do we worry, why don't we trust Him more? When we do we start to talk about everything with Him. We spend the majority of our days talking to Him and then looking to His word for His answers. (See how time in His word teaches us of Him but gives us hope and security in truth)
Even as I saw a clip today of New York Times Square on the news, I gave Him glory. Why?
Well I was there just this past year with my husband, sister and her finance. We had a great time. But as I looked all around at Times Square it BUSTLED with activity. Much like Vegas, but more corporate mixed with tourists and entertainment. There was so much going on in every inch of that square and yet today a LIVE picture showed it as a ghost town. Why? Because God is rolling through His power with a storm that causes everyone to be reminded that we're nothing next to His great power. And instantly I am reminded of His word, " I say to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour.' So that all people that He has made know His work, he stops everyone from their labor." Job 37:7
Awesome eh? So why Hurricane Irene? Well as your boarding up your homes, and even the NY subway shuts down, remember that God is God. His power beyond understanding. Let's simply humble ourselves with joy, remembering that "I am nothing.. but you my Lord are EVERYTHING."
May my life bring you glory, Lord. I am yours unashamedly.
xo
(Isaiah 45:14,21b, 46:9, 48:11)
Sunday, August 21, 2011
What's YOUR Pleasure?
Where is truth? With so many religions to chose from, so many brands of every product, remedies, prescriptions, websites, so many so called "experts", how do you know what's right??
Why do we have such a hard time now drawing a line between right and wrong? Our kids are growing up that everything is acceptable. Teachers don't fail students or even put an "X" on an assignments. Is this good?? How will a child becoming an adult deal with rejection? Will they ever know true right and wrong?
If we don't have enough money, max out credit cards, loans, mortgages, car payments, etc.... If you don't like your look photo shop it and airbrush what you want\. If you don't like your job, quit. If you don't like your spouse just get a new one?? Do you see this pattern? Where is our faithfulness; our pursuit and perseverance to seek the truth, the right answer? Are we too gullible?
I look around and it is only spend time in His word do I find my own perceptions are reset to absolute truth. His word is my plumb line, my gauge for authentic truth. And to be honest I often feel alone in my views or too rigid and yet I have chosen to not let down that bar.
"I do DESIRE, more than ever, the absolute truth, Lord. I don't care what everyone else thinks I want YOUR opinion."
Are we more concerned with that or just fitting in? You see I will never fit in here again. Jesus has never been cool, and He won't be to the masses. So if I'm looking for a Jesus that everyone is going to love, it will not happen. For evil is abounding in great measure and the conviction of sin and desire to remain in our own dark ways causes human nature to hate God and light. Therefore I take comfort in the fact that the closer I draw to Him the more of a stranger to this world I become. I find joy in that. I have this smile that gently floods my heart and soul as I can hear His voice talk to me so readily as I ask what He sees in every situation.
I guess the question we must ask ourselves is, is it your desire to please God or people? I was so convicted of this as I read John 12:43 this week. "for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." Seek to please Him first and all other things will fall into place. My desire above all is to please Him. None of this will last. But one day we will stand before Almighty God and give an account for our lives spent here on earth. And as we look face to face will His eyes penetrate deep to your soul saddened or will His mouth flood into a grin that melts your very heart and soul into one immortal being as complete satisfaction, peace, love and joy unite you with Him? The sheer joy of knowing you chose Him here and now believing that one day you'd meet Him and as a result living for a kingdom now that is not of this world.
Turn your eyes to Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
Why do we have such a hard time now drawing a line between right and wrong? Our kids are growing up that everything is acceptable. Teachers don't fail students or even put an "X" on an assignments. Is this good?? How will a child becoming an adult deal with rejection? Will they ever know true right and wrong?
If we don't have enough money, max out credit cards, loans, mortgages, car payments, etc.... If you don't like your look photo shop it and airbrush what you want\. If you don't like your job, quit. If you don't like your spouse just get a new one?? Do you see this pattern? Where is our faithfulness; our pursuit and perseverance to seek the truth, the right answer? Are we too gullible?
I look around and it is only spend time in His word do I find my own perceptions are reset to absolute truth. His word is my plumb line, my gauge for authentic truth. And to be honest I often feel alone in my views or too rigid and yet I have chosen to not let down that bar.
"I do DESIRE, more than ever, the absolute truth, Lord. I don't care what everyone else thinks I want YOUR opinion."
Are we more concerned with that or just fitting in? You see I will never fit in here again. Jesus has never been cool, and He won't be to the masses. So if I'm looking for a Jesus that everyone is going to love, it will not happen. For evil is abounding in great measure and the conviction of sin and desire to remain in our own dark ways causes human nature to hate God and light. Therefore I take comfort in the fact that the closer I draw to Him the more of a stranger to this world I become. I find joy in that. I have this smile that gently floods my heart and soul as I can hear His voice talk to me so readily as I ask what He sees in every situation.
I guess the question we must ask ourselves is, is it your desire to please God or people? I was so convicted of this as I read John 12:43 this week. "for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." Seek to please Him first and all other things will fall into place. My desire above all is to please Him. None of this will last. But one day we will stand before Almighty God and give an account for our lives spent here on earth. And as we look face to face will His eyes penetrate deep to your soul saddened or will His mouth flood into a grin that melts your very heart and soul into one immortal being as complete satisfaction, peace, love and joy unite you with Him? The sheer joy of knowing you chose Him here and now believing that one day you'd meet Him and as a result living for a kingdom now that is not of this world.
Turn your eyes to Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Birthday Presence
My birthday has never been a really big thing for me , I’d much rather make the fuss on other’s special days. I keep getting asked what I want for my birthday, but to be honest I sincerely don’t need anything. To me the best gifts can never hold a price tag. And as I ponder this past year I am reminded of the priceless gift God has blessed me with this year. For 3 John 1:4 has found a new reality in my heart. “ I have no greater joy than to hear my children are walking in the truth.” All three of our kids have the deepest walk in truth I have yet witnessed. What joy to a parent’s heart, what a gift that I simply want to be joyfully thankful for this year.
I will share with you from this past week and the heart of my eldest while it is so fresh. I can honestly say, she brings me to my knees not only in thankfulness but in a deep and pure love for more of Him even in my own life. May I always press in enough that our children would having a living example before their eyes that spiritually leads them in truth despite the competition of worldly distractions and pleasures.
Recently Brea got her first job. Which in itself took a lot of work including Roger and I helping to encourage resume building, application, gathering, interviewing skills, etc. lol I felt as if I was working back at TELUS in job building skills.
Despite Brea only being 15 she was given an interview that day and the first of 20 applications was indeed the one that hired her. She is years younger than the other women in the teen clothing store, and yet her maturity had led to the belief that she was well beyond what her birth certificate reads. J
As Brea transitions to the “corporate world” I see her pure eyes awakened to the reality of pride, greed, money, ungratefulness, beauty at all costs, hard selfless grunt work, being taken advantage of, being an outlet of stress and still yet finding joy in learning and accomplishing and blessing other staff and customers with you joy and a cheerful attitude.
The stress and pressure, the injustice in 19 year olds lording it over your precious 15 year old rises the hairs on my neck and causes me many deep meditative breaths… ughhh… It’s one thing for me to deal with it, it’s a whole other thing to have your gentle gracious daughter taken advantage of. But yes there are lessons for all of us in this. Lol! So we debrief and talk constantly about what is really going on when she shares the situation and sure enough she seems the truth of it unfold shortly afterwards.
This is a turn in Brea’s life. In a few months she will begin to drive the car and I don’t ever want to hold her back but I have indeed upped my prayers for her and her protection. Interestingly God has been teaching her more than ever through this all.
She’s been faithfully reading through the entire bible every day. She won’t miss a day. We recently read the passage in John 6 where Jesus had just been deserted by so many as his teaching was too hard for them. And then He looks at his disciples and asks them if they too want to desert him? Peter responds, “Where would we go we know you are the Holy one of God.”
Then just this week at work Brea’s manager asked her in a poking fun tone, “Are you religious?”
The famous question… the stand that is so HUGE for every teen. Their identity and fitting in associated with God. She could hear this wrestle in her head wanting to please her boss and others, but knowing she did indeed love her Lord.
As she was telling me I was prepared that she felt pressure to confess she wasn’t “Religious” and just left it at that. BUT to my surprise she said, “No mom, I’m standing for my Lord.” And I said, “Yes I am.”
Her boss was taken back and made some comments that she noticed she never swore and such. But they left it at that. Later it seemed they were acting different towards her; trying to change their own choice of words and somewhat walking on eggshells. Brea called them out on it. (Again you can picture the look on my face as my mouth drops open!)
“Yeah Mom, I just told them they didn’t need to change for me. They should just be who they are I was fine with it. I don’t want to PUSH my religion on them.” Right away they were put at ease respected Brea even more for mentioning it and went back to normal.
I told Brea how proud I was of her. But more importantly God. He was testing her. I reminded her of the passage that declares if we are not ashamed of Jesus He will mention our names before the angels. Then I went on to bring the passage to life in a dramatic way replaying the heavenly conversation as we rode our bikes together. She smiled as did I . Powerful.
Then she added how that very night this happened on TV the Jesus film was playing and as soon as it came on, it came to that part of the verse I’d said earlier with Jesus looking at His disciples asking if they wanted to leave him? The odds were too divine. She then realized that this whole process from when she first read the verse to the practical application was all based on God teaching her intimately. I told her that God is calling her deeper into His relationship with her and she is right smack in the middle of His will. It’s so beautiful. So blessed my heart. An answer to my prayers. And to now encourage her boldly in this pursuit. We ended the conversation with Brea saying, “Mom I can have many conversations with so many people but they are never as deep and as filled with the Spirit as you and I.”
“Lord the very gift you gave me in my precious daughter I give to you fully. She is yours I simply pray that as she walks the road of life you would continue to be ever close to her, protecting and guiding her. I have no greater joy than to see this precious gift walking fully hand in hand with you, my first love. Now becoming her first love.”
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Recent Random Renderings
Recently God has blessed me with the counsel and advice of my very own Social Media Agent. Some of you are already laughing... but it's a gift to me and I know it will keep me on my toes in communicating in a more frequent way. So I'm starting today by working with him. My first prerequisite is to update my blog every Sunday. So ... I shall. :) I'll keep you posted as I've agreed to a twitter account, but haven't given into the facebook quite yet. We'll see.
A few random thoughts that have entered my heart and mind this week for you to chew on...
If only we were as vulnerable in our relationships and hearts as we are in the way our dresses.
On Jan 2, I spoke a sermon here with a reference to the value of a precious metal, gold. Declaring His word is worth far more than gold than much pure gold. (Psalm 19:10) Based on God's word over inflated man created paperbacks, etc, there is a precious gold God has created hidden in rocks that is of some value. Man can't alter it or create it, but rather it's a natural resource made by God's hand therefore the value I increase over time. With all the anxiety of the financial world currently interesting to see the price of gold skyrocket. BUT keep in mind again, worth more than that is God's word. Wow...
I was reminded of the story of Jesus healing the 10 lepers and how only one came back to thank Him. The power of thankfulness especially in today's ungrateful society shows a humility and how it so deeply speaks a language of love. One young man, often forgotten and overlooked, with no family that attends church but spending the year faithfully attending Sr.High was in Las Vegas of all places 2 weeks ago reflecting and talking with God, something He had never done before. Realizing He was embracing a new life He had found with joy wanted to use what money he had to buy me a stain glass cross necklace. I was blown away as he nervously approached me last Sunday. So moved in my heart and a tender but so thoughtful gesture. I realized how much more this young man had inspired me to show more often MY thankfulness to others, even after the fact. The cross now hangs on my wall in my room as a reminder.
I recently was bothered knowing something I needed had been stolen. When I approached the one who might have some understanding they dismissed it in unbelief of who I had thought it was. So I let it go to God asking that one day I might know. A month later, I found what had been taken by accident in one's bag. I was upset, angry, wanting to declare to the other.. I told them I knew who it was... but God convicted me to put it back as if I didn't know. Uggghhh.... the next morning that person would be gone and I wouldn't see it again. I did have the thought, it was mine and I could just take it rightfully and that would be it without even making a big deal about it... but again I was convicted. So I literally talked to God about it that morning along with the countless other things we speak about. I simply asked if there was a way He would have it given to me, but I didn't even believe it was possible. An hour later, there in front of me stood the person with the item in their hands claiming somehow it had gotten there by mistake. I was dumbfounded. Dumbfounded... ??? I simply was in awe as I waited on God once again He showed me He would take care of it. Once again my faith increases hourly these days. But to learn I must listen and obey. HIS way.. not mine.
We were at the beach last night as a family having a picnic, swimming and playing volleyball. As we sat there eating in the distance I noticed a man collecting pop cans out of the trash. As our family was laughing and talking, I interrupted to have Brea go over and offer him some food. Our kids used to be hesitant but have now seen the power in it and so she jumps up and offers to which he shocklingly but so gratefully takes some. The other children watch and she sits back down and jumps back into the laughter like it's nothing out of the ordinary. This blessed me a lot. I want to train our children that it is normal to keep our eyes open around us and love. As parents are we teaching our children this? The first couple times I needed to do it, to break the fear for the kids, even to the point to Roger pulling over the car at an intersection so I could reach to a young woman on a bike with a young boy in tow on a very inclement day. KNOWING she was forced to use her bike as transformation you should should of seen the look on her face as I embraced her hand with mine sliding some paperback to her. Proverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.
I have many thoughts and stories I would love to share, but I'll leave you with one simple verse that brings me to my knees yet again when I think of Jesus and how AWESOME He truly is. He doesn't worry about what anyone thinks, but His Father alone. John 2:24,25 "Jesus did not NEED man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man." I just love that. First, why are we more focused about what other's think of us rather than God?? May we concern with what He thinks first and foremost. And then secondly, He knew what was in a person. Left to ourselves we are NOTHING.. it is HE in us that creates a beauty and depth a priceless treasure that brings Him glory and shows a world a deep love. May we continue to strive to please ONE and as He continues to renew us and transform us daily, may we be simply obedient to listen to His Spirit that will cause us to be thankful, loving and no longer afraid to step out of the conformity of the world.
To Him, be ALL glory, honor and praise. NO ONE.... NO ONE compares with my Father!
c
A few random thoughts that have entered my heart and mind this week for you to chew on...
If only we were as vulnerable in our relationships and hearts as we are in the way our dresses.
On Jan 2, I spoke a sermon here with a reference to the value of a precious metal, gold. Declaring His word is worth far more than gold than much pure gold. (Psalm 19:10) Based on God's word over inflated man created paperbacks, etc, there is a precious gold God has created hidden in rocks that is of some value. Man can't alter it or create it, but rather it's a natural resource made by God's hand therefore the value I increase over time. With all the anxiety of the financial world currently interesting to see the price of gold skyrocket. BUT keep in mind again, worth more than that is God's word. Wow...
I was reminded of the story of Jesus healing the 10 lepers and how only one came back to thank Him. The power of thankfulness especially in today's ungrateful society shows a humility and how it so deeply speaks a language of love. One young man, often forgotten and overlooked, with no family that attends church but spending the year faithfully attending Sr.High was in Las Vegas of all places 2 weeks ago reflecting and talking with God, something He had never done before. Realizing He was embracing a new life He had found with joy wanted to use what money he had to buy me a stain glass cross necklace. I was blown away as he nervously approached me last Sunday. So moved in my heart and a tender but so thoughtful gesture. I realized how much more this young man had inspired me to show more often MY thankfulness to others, even after the fact. The cross now hangs on my wall in my room as a reminder.
I recently was bothered knowing something I needed had been stolen. When I approached the one who might have some understanding they dismissed it in unbelief of who I had thought it was. So I let it go to God asking that one day I might know. A month later, I found what had been taken by accident in one's bag. I was upset, angry, wanting to declare to the other.. I told them I knew who it was... but God convicted me to put it back as if I didn't know. Uggghhh.... the next morning that person would be gone and I wouldn't see it again. I did have the thought, it was mine and I could just take it rightfully and that would be it without even making a big deal about it... but again I was convicted. So I literally talked to God about it that morning along with the countless other things we speak about. I simply asked if there was a way He would have it given to me, but I didn't even believe it was possible. An hour later, there in front of me stood the person with the item in their hands claiming somehow it had gotten there by mistake. I was dumbfounded. Dumbfounded... ??? I simply was in awe as I waited on God once again He showed me He would take care of it. Once again my faith increases hourly these days. But to learn I must listen and obey. HIS way.. not mine.
We were at the beach last night as a family having a picnic, swimming and playing volleyball. As we sat there eating in the distance I noticed a man collecting pop cans out of the trash. As our family was laughing and talking, I interrupted to have Brea go over and offer him some food. Our kids used to be hesitant but have now seen the power in it and so she jumps up and offers to which he shocklingly but so gratefully takes some. The other children watch and she sits back down and jumps back into the laughter like it's nothing out of the ordinary. This blessed me a lot. I want to train our children that it is normal to keep our eyes open around us and love. As parents are we teaching our children this? The first couple times I needed to do it, to break the fear for the kids, even to the point to Roger pulling over the car at an intersection so I could reach to a young woman on a bike with a young boy in tow on a very inclement day. KNOWING she was forced to use her bike as transformation you should should of seen the look on her face as I embraced her hand with mine sliding some paperback to her. Proverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.
I have many thoughts and stories I would love to share, but I'll leave you with one simple verse that brings me to my knees yet again when I think of Jesus and how AWESOME He truly is. He doesn't worry about what anyone thinks, but His Father alone. John 2:24,25 "Jesus did not NEED man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man." I just love that. First, why are we more focused about what other's think of us rather than God?? May we concern with what He thinks first and foremost. And then secondly, He knew what was in a person. Left to ourselves we are NOTHING.. it is HE in us that creates a beauty and depth a priceless treasure that brings Him glory and shows a world a deep love. May we continue to strive to please ONE and as He continues to renew us and transform us daily, may we be simply obedient to listen to His Spirit that will cause us to be thankful, loving and no longer afraid to step out of the conformity of the world.
To Him, be ALL glory, honor and praise. NO ONE.... NO ONE compares with my Father!
c
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Arms To Hold Me
This morning I awake before the sun rises as I love to. I look across my bed, missing my husband's arms to awaken to and yet the arms of another calling me. Going on day four of missing my husband in his work travels and yet a peace extends to my soul that even he couldn't give me. I approach our dining room table in which I meet our Lord every morning, often long before anything stirs in our home. I love this peacefulness and I have come to find He speaks so clearly to me in this time. I share communion with Him, longing to partake of intimacy with my Lord. I turn to our daily reading that we've been doing together as a church and it takes me to Isaiah and Hebrews. Quite contrasting books. And yet many thoughts flood my spirit as I meditate on them. I see the awesomeness of our mighty God displayed in Isaiah and that same awesomeness displayed in a man named Jesus revealed in Hebrews, yet this awesomeness given as a sin offering a sacrifice for me. I see how there is so much more than what we see on earth. The tabernacle, the law, the burnt offerings, all of that was simply a shadow of what was coming, not the realities themselves. Isn't this amazing. Hebrews 10:1, "The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming - not the realities themselves." ONLY a shadow.... then I think wow...everything physical is only a shadow, it's temporary. My flesh, my physical being is a shadow. My reality of who I am is yet to come. Yet to be revealed... how exciting that is. In this my faith is encouraged and my spiritual eyes enlightened that I am living for a life eternal that is my reality. Therefore I find my attitude renewed even now. Jesus, God of all displayed such humility and commitment in 2 phrases that follow to His father. Hebrews 10:7 "Here I am... and "I have come to do your will, O God." My heart then utters to the Lord, "Help me Lord to confess those 2 statements constantly to you. " 1. Here I am. 2. I have come to do YOUR WILL O my Lord.
Changes my focus entirely for the day at hand that He would lead me to who and what He desires me to do. That I would simply be ready to say Here I am. Interesting but Isaiah's response was the exact same when God called Him. Isaiah 6:8.
Then I read Hebrews 11. What a fired up breath of inspiration that exudes! Rolling through great lives of faith, all of them looking forward to the REALITIES of eternity, a HOME and a city that didn't exist here. Oh once again I am fired up at the thought of the city He is preparing for us that will truly blow our minds. If this beauty of our world is a shadow... can you even begin to imagine the REALITY itself. ???
I am left with the gift God gives each of these men and women of faith in Hebrews 11:16 "Therefore God is NOT ASHAMED to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." Isn't that awesome! He's not ashamed to call Himself our God. We walk around thinking we own God, when I read that I stand in holy fear. He will be not be ashamed. He is glorious and awesome and deserves the best. I want to live a life of faith that makes Him proud. That simply means I believe this is all a shadow and that my Jesus holds the reality, the KEY that life eternal is found through Him.
Once I spend time digging through scripture like this I go to prayer, my conversations with God often in nature. Untouched nature that resists man made buildings and the busyness of people, often with worship music in my ipod.
Now here's He's how He blesses me when He puts my whole worship experience together.
Roger showed me this app called SoundHound that allows my ipod to hear any song and give me the name and title instantly anywhere. It's pretty cool and free. :) Sometimes I will hear a song and sense a strong anointing on it as my Spirit grabs hold of it. This happened a few weeks and I captured the song and left it on a stick note until I could download it on my ipod. Well I did last night finally. I'd never heard this woman before, Nicol Sponberg. As I'm praying and worshipping Him talking of how I long to be in His arms now, in the city prepared for me the song "Home" comes on. Well.. it overwhelms me. Overwhelms me. Every word. Captures all that I've read in scripture and my prayer now summed up in music in a picture that floods my heart as I listen to it, a gift from Him. All I can say at the end in the middle of huge forest all alone is "I love you Jesus" and as the words fall from my lips I burst with tears just longing to have that fulfillment of every word of that song, that I know will come in time for I believe. How did He put all of that together in one morning as if He was with me in every moment? He is. And in that moment I realize that though I love the arms of my husband more than any human being, the arms of my Lord, my First Love have embraced me from heaven this morning.
Jesus... do you know His warm embrace? This isn't a shadow but a reality.
Changes my focus entirely for the day at hand that He would lead me to who and what He desires me to do. That I would simply be ready to say Here I am. Interesting but Isaiah's response was the exact same when God called Him. Isaiah 6:8.
Then I read Hebrews 11. What a fired up breath of inspiration that exudes! Rolling through great lives of faith, all of them looking forward to the REALITIES of eternity, a HOME and a city that didn't exist here. Oh once again I am fired up at the thought of the city He is preparing for us that will truly blow our minds. If this beauty of our world is a shadow... can you even begin to imagine the REALITY itself. ???
I am left with the gift God gives each of these men and women of faith in Hebrews 11:16 "Therefore God is NOT ASHAMED to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." Isn't that awesome! He's not ashamed to call Himself our God. We walk around thinking we own God, when I read that I stand in holy fear. He will be not be ashamed. He is glorious and awesome and deserves the best. I want to live a life of faith that makes Him proud. That simply means I believe this is all a shadow and that my Jesus holds the reality, the KEY that life eternal is found through Him.
Once I spend time digging through scripture like this I go to prayer, my conversations with God often in nature. Untouched nature that resists man made buildings and the busyness of people, often with worship music in my ipod.
Now here's He's how He blesses me when He puts my whole worship experience together.
Roger showed me this app called SoundHound that allows my ipod to hear any song and give me the name and title instantly anywhere. It's pretty cool and free. :) Sometimes I will hear a song and sense a strong anointing on it as my Spirit grabs hold of it. This happened a few weeks and I captured the song and left it on a stick note until I could download it on my ipod. Well I did last night finally. I'd never heard this woman before, Nicol Sponberg. As I'm praying and worshipping Him talking of how I long to be in His arms now, in the city prepared for me the song "Home" comes on. Well.. it overwhelms me. Overwhelms me. Every word. Captures all that I've read in scripture and my prayer now summed up in music in a picture that floods my heart as I listen to it, a gift from Him. All I can say at the end in the middle of huge forest all alone is "I love you Jesus" and as the words fall from my lips I burst with tears just longing to have that fulfillment of every word of that song, that I know will come in time for I believe. How did He put all of that together in one morning as if He was with me in every moment? He is. And in that moment I realize that though I love the arms of my husband more than any human being, the arms of my Lord, my First Love have embraced me from heaven this morning.
Jesus... do you know His warm embrace? This isn't a shadow but a reality.
I attached a youtube video that has the song on it. BUT the only request I have is simply click it to play but will you close your eyes, even lay your head down and simply listen. Let it pour over your spirit. May it refresh you and embrace you as it did me in the wee hours of this glorious morning.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Taste Test
We are living in a time in which deception is at an all time high, but the bible warns us of this. Are we digging deeper to find the truth in all situations or do we just listen and accept what we're hearing? Are we teaching our children not to be so gullible but to ask questions, to discern, to seek advice, to ask for the Spirit of Truth?
Jesus words remind me today that He's given us a code that tells us of true Christ followers. It's the presence of good fruit.
Matthew 7:18-20
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
You will recognize them by their fruit. Hmm... think of that. The fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness, self control, goodness, longsuffering...
Rather than evaluating others first, I turn to look at my own life through this lense.
"Do I exude this presence of fruit Lord?"
When people mention my name what is the first things that come to mind? Is there something good I can offer them to taste and see, nourish and refresh them with? Our fruitfulness comes from Him. He causes our fruit to grow. Therefore are we spending that relational time growing with Him that we would overflow such a harvest to all those that would come around us?
With this thought I am convicted.
"Lord I want to bear an abundance of real fruit in this world, that many would know you. The goodness you offer, the love so real. Lord nourish me today with your presence that I could have the privilege of bringing Almighty God of the universe glory.
Authentic Christ followers bear good fruit.
Jesus words remind me today that He's given us a code that tells us of true Christ followers. It's the presence of good fruit.
Matthew 7:18-20
18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
You will recognize them by their fruit. Hmm... think of that. The fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness, self control, goodness, longsuffering...
Rather than evaluating others first, I turn to look at my own life through this lense.
"Do I exude this presence of fruit Lord?"
When people mention my name what is the first things that come to mind? Is there something good I can offer them to taste and see, nourish and refresh them with? Our fruitfulness comes from Him. He causes our fruit to grow. Therefore are we spending that relational time growing with Him that we would overflow such a harvest to all those that would come around us?
With this thought I am convicted.
"Lord I want to bear an abundance of real fruit in this world, that many would know you. The goodness you offer, the love so real. Lord nourish me today with your presence that I could have the privilege of bringing Almighty God of the universe glory.
Authentic Christ followers bear good fruit.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Commuter Convos
As I'm driving to work in the midst of so much change in my life, from my husband's job, my job, Brea just got a job! :), kids just finishing school, their step mom just had a baby, my husband travelling a lot, my whole family away right now in Fort Lauderdale on vacation, saying goodbye to some of my youth leaders that I've done ministry with for the past 3 years to release them to other spots in the world, to releasing many of the youth that have now graduated... and tears fill my eyes as I simply share my heart with the Lord. Lord I feel in the midst of all this change I stand empty handed knowing not what any of it beholds, and yet you remind me that I have you. My complete dependency is in you. When all is stripped away that really is what it comes down to. Seasons of change are never easy, but amidst the storm if I don't feet on the rock I'm doomed.
I thank Him for the reminder that HE is the guest that lives within me. His Holy Spirit. Wow. I truly am never alone, for He never leaves me nor forsakes me.
Then I turn to listen to my bible on cd, and am truly blessed by this thought in scripture. (Yes this is all happening on the way to work(the church.)). I'm listening to Acts wanting to be refreshed and reminded of the truest roll out of church from the very onset, not the thousands of books that teach us church their way. I desire HIS way. But as I'm listening Acts 5:40-42 new revelation hits me.
Here's Peter and the apostles in jail the night before, brought before the Sanhedrin and the high priest being questioned. Gamaliel gives an address that persuades the others to be careful for these men activity isn't of human origin but of God's. So they agree to let them go for now... but FIRST they beat them!!!
v. 40 " They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go."
I imagined myself coming into the the church foyer and a bunch of our police and city lawyers handcuffing me and saying "Pastor Carrie, we've had enough of you preaching about Christ." Then beating me and letting me go with threats that I can't mention Jesus again.
??? Honestly. How would I react? My first thought is to give my head a shake and call Roger to ask him if this is really the job for me?? And then I grab a hold of myself and the guest inside me arises with boldness and confidence. And I find my heart aching as I pray to Him for that same boldness. That if that did happen that I would react as they did.
v. 41" The apostles left the Sanhedrin, REJOICING because they had been counted WORTHY of suffering disgrace for the Name."
Wow... rejoicing! Again I picture myself being released with bloody nose, black eyes, wounds all over back into my car running into people in the parking lot, rejoicing. "No this is a good thing."
Dumbfounded they respond, "WHY????"
"Because...in this moment I have been counted WORTHY of suffering for my Jesus." Counted worthy. wow...
You see there is disgrace from the world when we stand for Jesus. It has always been that way and will continue. So why do we shy away from even the littlest conversations that we can feel him prompting us to share. Fear of rejection or disgrace? Perhaps it's a shift of our mind to release that a little disgrace and a lot of rejection should bring us some rejoicing and a passion to persevere.
v. 42 "Day after day in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ."
Would we go on stress leave from work or would we be bold enough to be at the next day? Really.
My simple prayer is "Lord rise up in me with a holy jealousy for your world and the people you so love. That I would boldly share your love to all and everyone, despite any opposition. But rather knowing opposition is often a sign of the enemy's jealousy. And nothing, absolutely nothing can separate us from the love of God."
Interesting... but it was in the previous chapter that they prayed for this boldness, (Acts 4:29,30) God was answering their prayer. Perhaps we have not, because we haven't asked for help?
And yes.. this was my Spirit taught devotional in the car on the way to work. LOL! And you wonder why don't need a lot of entertainment....duhhh...
I thank Him for the reminder that HE is the guest that lives within me. His Holy Spirit. Wow. I truly am never alone, for He never leaves me nor forsakes me.
Then I turn to listen to my bible on cd, and am truly blessed by this thought in scripture. (Yes this is all happening on the way to work(the church.)). I'm listening to Acts wanting to be refreshed and reminded of the truest roll out of church from the very onset, not the thousands of books that teach us church their way. I desire HIS way. But as I'm listening Acts 5:40-42 new revelation hits me.
Here's Peter and the apostles in jail the night before, brought before the Sanhedrin and the high priest being questioned. Gamaliel gives an address that persuades the others to be careful for these men activity isn't of human origin but of God's. So they agree to let them go for now... but FIRST they beat them!!!
v. 40 " They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go."
I imagined myself coming into the the church foyer and a bunch of our police and city lawyers handcuffing me and saying "Pastor Carrie, we've had enough of you preaching about Christ." Then beating me and letting me go with threats that I can't mention Jesus again.
??? Honestly. How would I react? My first thought is to give my head a shake and call Roger to ask him if this is really the job for me?? And then I grab a hold of myself and the guest inside me arises with boldness and confidence. And I find my heart aching as I pray to Him for that same boldness. That if that did happen that I would react as they did.
v. 41" The apostles left the Sanhedrin, REJOICING because they had been counted WORTHY of suffering disgrace for the Name."
Wow... rejoicing! Again I picture myself being released with bloody nose, black eyes, wounds all over back into my car running into people in the parking lot, rejoicing. "No this is a good thing."
Dumbfounded they respond, "WHY????"
"Because...in this moment I have been counted WORTHY of suffering for my Jesus." Counted worthy. wow...
You see there is disgrace from the world when we stand for Jesus. It has always been that way and will continue. So why do we shy away from even the littlest conversations that we can feel him prompting us to share. Fear of rejection or disgrace? Perhaps it's a shift of our mind to release that a little disgrace and a lot of rejection should bring us some rejoicing and a passion to persevere.
v. 42 "Day after day in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ."
Would we go on stress leave from work or would we be bold enough to be at the next day? Really.
My simple prayer is "Lord rise up in me with a holy jealousy for your world and the people you so love. That I would boldly share your love to all and everyone, despite any opposition. But rather knowing opposition is often a sign of the enemy's jealousy. And nothing, absolutely nothing can separate us from the love of God."
Interesting... but it was in the previous chapter that they prayed for this boldness, (Acts 4:29,30) God was answering their prayer. Perhaps we have not, because we haven't asked for help?
And yes.. this was my Spirit taught devotional in the car on the way to work. LOL! And you wonder why don't need a lot of entertainment....duhhh...
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Peaceful Mediation & Mindful Heated Wrestling
One of my youth leaders introduced me to a Hot Yoga class, bikram specifically. They'd been bugging me for a while to try it and I kept putting it off but lately I had been getting the question is Yoga ok or is it a more worldly way to worship other gods? SO.... wanting to answer with understanding of going myself and for simple fun with some of my youth leaders I went.
It was 90 minutes long and wow it was INTENSE! Seriously. It was hard, but good. Anyways here's what happens to me in that setting. My mind is supposed to stay focused on the poses and to rest and relax. lol! Well that's the furthest thing it's doing. It's really really hot in the room and by the end literally you are drenched with sweat. It gets so hot at one point near the end I can barely breathe let alone do a pose. So in my mind I find myself silently begging the instructor that she would open the windows just an inch to let in some air. But to no avail. Then I have this physical and spiritual revelation of the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man begging from hell to Abraham, " Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire." Luke 16:24. I encourage you to read Abraham's response in the following verse. Look it up.
I'm having this thought, that I have water and freedom to leave, but a moment sets in in my distress of heat and pain, that when we enter eternity those that reject God now will live forever in that isolation and extreme heat. And there will never be anyone to open the window for them. Wow... this desperation made me feel theirs in that moment and I felt overwhelming sadness that life is a reality. What are doing with it before it's too late. I also looked around the class filled with such order and peacefulness. Everyone so vulnerable in nothing but tanks and shorts, dripping sweat, hair pasted to their heads, lying down in complete submission to the leader. Complete peacefulness. I thought, wow... we don't even honor God really in this same devotion and stillness, we seldom bend a knee let alone lie face down on a hard floor. We can barely pray for 5 min. Don't get me wrong... I loved the order and stillness... I was racking my brain trying to think how I could incorporate this with prayer and meditation... lol. You know I'm not kidding. :)
Also the respect given to the teacher in complete obedience and effort to succeed despite the heat. Do we do this in our spiritual journey? Do I listen and trust my teacher (our Lord) with such devotion. Even when troubles and ailments of heat being turned up around me, do I press on to finish well, staying focused? Or do I roll up my mat and leave? No one left. No one dared. It was powerful to me.
I was also looking to see for myself in this class if I was pulled by any other spiritual forces or felt as if I was submitting to something evil as some wondered? I think it really depends on the yoga class and specifically the instructor. There are so many different kinds and I can't comment on all of them, but this one specifically was fine. They simply talk about the pose and then are completely silent. It was really no different than the most intense stretching class than I've ever been in in my life. Now again, I KNOW that it's not the same for all yoga classes. And you do need to be really careful. Don't give the enemy a foothold and it's the spiritual forces that are at war. I would encourage you to pray about it God will show you with conviction if you're in the class and it doesn't feel right. Honor Him and don't participate. If you still aren't sure invite a godly woman you know and respect to join you for one class to see what she says.
You see before I went into it I seriously prayed for a great protection of His Spirit, His armor over me, not knowing what I was going in to. God honors this.
As a teacher for God, I can sit and point fingers and say it's wrong but if I can't speak with an understanding to the specifics what good is that to my listeners? I want to be a great teacher of life in all things for His Glory. One that doesn't just talk about it but lives it. That all would know now... there is only one way to escape the heat of hell. That is Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life.
And when you give your heart to Him and He begins to live in you and love you. And you open your heart to trusting this love things in you begin to change and it's glorious!
So much so, that I can honestly say to put the list of sorrows from hell in order, to me it wouldn't be the intense heat, lake of fire, complete darkness, utter agony and pain, isolation, or even maggots eating away to me... although, that stuff is awful!! To me it would be the absolute absence of God and His presence forever. Even the thought of that in this moment makes me fill up. To not have Him forever... we have no idea what that will mean and I believe it is then that He will need to wipe the tears from our eyes as we see those we long to know the way that have rejected Him banished forever. May we reach in new ways to all those around us while we can, as our life is short. We are called to share this good news that there is a way of life for eternity!
It was 90 minutes long and wow it was INTENSE! Seriously. It was hard, but good. Anyways here's what happens to me in that setting. My mind is supposed to stay focused on the poses and to rest and relax. lol! Well that's the furthest thing it's doing. It's really really hot in the room and by the end literally you are drenched with sweat. It gets so hot at one point near the end I can barely breathe let alone do a pose. So in my mind I find myself silently begging the instructor that she would open the windows just an inch to let in some air. But to no avail. Then I have this physical and spiritual revelation of the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man begging from hell to Abraham, " Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire." Luke 16:24. I encourage you to read Abraham's response in the following verse. Look it up.
I'm having this thought, that I have water and freedom to leave, but a moment sets in in my distress of heat and pain, that when we enter eternity those that reject God now will live forever in that isolation and extreme heat. And there will never be anyone to open the window for them. Wow... this desperation made me feel theirs in that moment and I felt overwhelming sadness that life is a reality. What are doing with it before it's too late. I also looked around the class filled with such order and peacefulness. Everyone so vulnerable in nothing but tanks and shorts, dripping sweat, hair pasted to their heads, lying down in complete submission to the leader. Complete peacefulness. I thought, wow... we don't even honor God really in this same devotion and stillness, we seldom bend a knee let alone lie face down on a hard floor. We can barely pray for 5 min. Don't get me wrong... I loved the order and stillness... I was racking my brain trying to think how I could incorporate this with prayer and meditation... lol. You know I'm not kidding. :)
Also the respect given to the teacher in complete obedience and effort to succeed despite the heat. Do we do this in our spiritual journey? Do I listen and trust my teacher (our Lord) with such devotion. Even when troubles and ailments of heat being turned up around me, do I press on to finish well, staying focused? Or do I roll up my mat and leave? No one left. No one dared. It was powerful to me.
I was also looking to see for myself in this class if I was pulled by any other spiritual forces or felt as if I was submitting to something evil as some wondered? I think it really depends on the yoga class and specifically the instructor. There are so many different kinds and I can't comment on all of them, but this one specifically was fine. They simply talk about the pose and then are completely silent. It was really no different than the most intense stretching class than I've ever been in in my life. Now again, I KNOW that it's not the same for all yoga classes. And you do need to be really careful. Don't give the enemy a foothold and it's the spiritual forces that are at war. I would encourage you to pray about it God will show you with conviction if you're in the class and it doesn't feel right. Honor Him and don't participate. If you still aren't sure invite a godly woman you know and respect to join you for one class to see what she says.
You see before I went into it I seriously prayed for a great protection of His Spirit, His armor over me, not knowing what I was going in to. God honors this.
As a teacher for God, I can sit and point fingers and say it's wrong but if I can't speak with an understanding to the specifics what good is that to my listeners? I want to be a great teacher of life in all things for His Glory. One that doesn't just talk about it but lives it. That all would know now... there is only one way to escape the heat of hell. That is Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life.
And when you give your heart to Him and He begins to live in you and love you. And you open your heart to trusting this love things in you begin to change and it's glorious!
So much so, that I can honestly say to put the list of sorrows from hell in order, to me it wouldn't be the intense heat, lake of fire, complete darkness, utter agony and pain, isolation, or even maggots eating away to me... although, that stuff is awful!! To me it would be the absolute absence of God and His presence forever. Even the thought of that in this moment makes me fill up. To not have Him forever... we have no idea what that will mean and I believe it is then that He will need to wipe the tears from our eyes as we see those we long to know the way that have rejected Him banished forever. May we reach in new ways to all those around us while we can, as our life is short. We are called to share this good news that there is a way of life for eternity!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
A Slurpee of Love?
I love how the Spirit leads us. How He desires teach us and take us beyond our comfort zones. How He longs for our beautification and our perfection if only we would simply cooperate more often. How He wants to take our hand and pull us to places we couldn't even dream or imagine. And yes He is preparing me yet again to do that even with a new assignment here at the church. More to come on that after we've officially announced it to all members next week. Just KNOW I'm excited!!!
But as God is preparing me I've been digging into local areas by exploring them but with a prayer that says Lord let me see with the eyes of my heart what you see in these communities.
Needless to say here I am in a rougher area in a corner store stopped to get a drink watching the stream of teens bustle in just fresh from school. I witness a group of 3 girls all duded up buying slushies. The two of them are being somewhat mean and ignorant to the third, so much that they went ahead paid for the drink and left her. She ended up being behind me in line hiding behind her sunglasses. My heart was moved to simply love on her, show her that she was valued as much as Christ would see her right now... but HOW do I do that without freaking her out? Just extending love? Instantly the Spirit provides me His wisdom.
I pay for my drink and quietly ask the cashier to add to my bill what the girl behind me has in her hands. I pay the bill and without making a big fuss or anything leave to my car. Dressed in a business suit, I opened the door to my car. She came out, looked at me with a shocked but deep apprecition as she took off her sunglasses. "Thanks a lot" she murmered a little dumbfounded.
Her two friends already walking away on the sidewalk, now stopped wondering why she was talking to me? I smiled lovingly at her and said "You're welcome." And then got in my car.
As I drove away I could see her telling her friends the story and with shocked looks they all stared. But they brought her back into the threesome.
I realized in her rejection to be placed behind me in line God was going to use this for me to bless her. Sure it was a couple bucks, but it's not about the money, it's about extending love when He moves our hearts to. We don't need to understand, rationalize or even calculate but trust that He desires to show himself through us to all people.
Help me Lord more and more to yield to your loving Spirit and may I partner with you constantly to see what you see and therefore move with your hands and your feet to love as you love.
John 13:34,35
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
They shall know I am His disciple when I love one another.
May we rise to such a calling. Let's start with the little things. :)
But as God is preparing me I've been digging into local areas by exploring them but with a prayer that says Lord let me see with the eyes of my heart what you see in these communities.
Needless to say here I am in a rougher area in a corner store stopped to get a drink watching the stream of teens bustle in just fresh from school. I witness a group of 3 girls all duded up buying slushies. The two of them are being somewhat mean and ignorant to the third, so much that they went ahead paid for the drink and left her. She ended up being behind me in line hiding behind her sunglasses. My heart was moved to simply love on her, show her that she was valued as much as Christ would see her right now... but HOW do I do that without freaking her out? Just extending love? Instantly the Spirit provides me His wisdom.
I pay for my drink and quietly ask the cashier to add to my bill what the girl behind me has in her hands. I pay the bill and without making a big fuss or anything leave to my car. Dressed in a business suit, I opened the door to my car. She came out, looked at me with a shocked but deep apprecition as she took off her sunglasses. "Thanks a lot" she murmered a little dumbfounded.
Her two friends already walking away on the sidewalk, now stopped wondering why she was talking to me? I smiled lovingly at her and said "You're welcome." And then got in my car.
As I drove away I could see her telling her friends the story and with shocked looks they all stared. But they brought her back into the threesome.
I realized in her rejection to be placed behind me in line God was going to use this for me to bless her. Sure it was a couple bucks, but it's not about the money, it's about extending love when He moves our hearts to. We don't need to understand, rationalize or even calculate but trust that He desires to show himself through us to all people.
Help me Lord more and more to yield to your loving Spirit and may I partner with you constantly to see what you see and therefore move with your hands and your feet to love as you love.
John 13:34,35
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
They shall know I am His disciple when I love one another.
May we rise to such a calling. Let's start with the little things. :)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Tire"Less" Tears
I'm going to try to make a conscious effort to update my blog more frequently. Thank you for your encouragement. :)
It's in our most vulnerable moments that the enemy loves to pounce on us. He's crouching at the door, lurking like a lion seeking a perfect time to devour. The furthest thing is mercy on his mind but rather, "Just give it to her." He seeks to kill, steal and destroy. Not sure what is to be taken lightly about that???
As I say goodbye to Roger this morning as he travels for work, it's definitely been an adjustment for us and continues to be as a couple madly in love. YES! We really do both love each other's company. It's hard to say goodbye but being a single mom for 8 years I know quite well how an independent woman rises to the task. But I'm also sensitive to not resort back to "not desiring" or "needing" a husband to carry me through this alone time, but loving him from a far while fully continuing to rely on our Lord.
Needless to say, one of my least favourite things to take care of as a woman (you can ask many people around me) is maintenance of anything mechanical, especially car things. I just appreciate my acura new and clean, not having to worry about it. I know... perhaps a little princessy, but Roger has taken joy in caring for me in this. A few times I've had flat tires this year and it has left me crying at the side of road with a tire destroyed down to the rim.
You can see where this is going. ;)
So yes... I come out of a meeting at church RIGHT after saying goodbye to Roger and my back tire is completely flat.
I look around and see three amazing men of our church working on another project. I simply ask for their help and in a heart beat they are all around me, compressor, jack, spare tires, etc. I feel surrounded by heaven's help.
I head to the tire place again (4th time this year) frustrated as I love managing my time effectively while maximizing all moments. This has caused a major delay in the tasks for the day. Having been here so many times, the guy at the shop knows me instantly and doesn't even ask my name. (sigh)
He looks at it and says it's punctured and I need a new one. We will need to get it tomorrow. At this point I don't want to spend the money, come back, or even deal with it. I can't respond for fear of crying in front of him. I simply nodd my head.
He drives my car around and I feel convicted for a frustrated attitude which wasn't his fault and so I say, "I'm sorry." Then I try to choke back my tears but I start bawling. He's taken back... "Oh I know Miss... I'm sorry too. I know it's the last thing you want to buy is another tire..." I get myself together and bow my head humbly as I get in my car, embarrassed and still crying.
As I drive away... I ask "Why am I so distraught?" Then it's as if the Holy Spirit reveals the depth of my heart to me. "It's not the tire as much as it's the one thing you'd love Roger to be here for to help you with. It's his departure that causes the sadness and the enemy is looking to simply jump all over it."
I still need to cry for a bit just to let it out in the quietness of my car. But then I knew I simply needed to give it to God. The enemy works hard to separate marriages. I see it. But he's not going to stop we just need to get on our game. God's given us everything we need to win, but we need to play. His way.
So I start talking to Him (praying) and found myself reflecting on and thanking Him that He provided these 3 angels to take care of me, right at the church so I wasn't at the side of the road. And everyone worked instantly to help me. Then I asked simply that He'd give me some token or sign of His affection in that moment, even a verse that would comfort me of His presence.
So I turn to my audible bible cd, and sure enough, THERE HE IS. Right at that exact spot.
Philippians 4:6, 7 "Carrie, Don't be anxious about ANYTHING... not even tires or Roger's departure BUT in EVERYTHING (yes,even tires and Roger's departure) by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to Me. Then MY peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus."
See when I give it to Him, He provides. Provides peace that actually guards my heart in this moment to remind me that He is FOR ROGER AND I. That He loves "US" and me and cares about everything.
I am humbled in this moment to be reminded that the God of the universe and ancient of days is ever near to me even in trivial things.
I didn't even want to go on to my next assignment until I wrote this not only to encourage you but to give Him all the glory due Him.
He is MORE THAN ENOUGH. Try, test, see, taste, touch and I promise you if you seek Him with all your heart, no matter the situation He SHALL BE FOUND.
God, I am humbled that you love me. So much. So So much.
xo
It's in our most vulnerable moments that the enemy loves to pounce on us. He's crouching at the door, lurking like a lion seeking a perfect time to devour. The furthest thing is mercy on his mind but rather, "Just give it to her." He seeks to kill, steal and destroy. Not sure what is to be taken lightly about that???
As I say goodbye to Roger this morning as he travels for work, it's definitely been an adjustment for us and continues to be as a couple madly in love. YES! We really do both love each other's company. It's hard to say goodbye but being a single mom for 8 years I know quite well how an independent woman rises to the task. But I'm also sensitive to not resort back to "not desiring" or "needing" a husband to carry me through this alone time, but loving him from a far while fully continuing to rely on our Lord.
Needless to say, one of my least favourite things to take care of as a woman (you can ask many people around me) is maintenance of anything mechanical, especially car things. I just appreciate my acura new and clean, not having to worry about it. I know... perhaps a little princessy, but Roger has taken joy in caring for me in this. A few times I've had flat tires this year and it has left me crying at the side of road with a tire destroyed down to the rim.
You can see where this is going. ;)
So yes... I come out of a meeting at church RIGHT after saying goodbye to Roger and my back tire is completely flat.
I look around and see three amazing men of our church working on another project. I simply ask for their help and in a heart beat they are all around me, compressor, jack, spare tires, etc. I feel surrounded by heaven's help.
I head to the tire place again (4th time this year) frustrated as I love managing my time effectively while maximizing all moments. This has caused a major delay in the tasks for the day. Having been here so many times, the guy at the shop knows me instantly and doesn't even ask my name. (sigh)
He looks at it and says it's punctured and I need a new one. We will need to get it tomorrow. At this point I don't want to spend the money, come back, or even deal with it. I can't respond for fear of crying in front of him. I simply nodd my head.
He drives my car around and I feel convicted for a frustrated attitude which wasn't his fault and so I say, "I'm sorry." Then I try to choke back my tears but I start bawling. He's taken back... "Oh I know Miss... I'm sorry too. I know it's the last thing you want to buy is another tire..." I get myself together and bow my head humbly as I get in my car, embarrassed and still crying.
As I drive away... I ask "Why am I so distraught?" Then it's as if the Holy Spirit reveals the depth of my heart to me. "It's not the tire as much as it's the one thing you'd love Roger to be here for to help you with. It's his departure that causes the sadness and the enemy is looking to simply jump all over it."
I still need to cry for a bit just to let it out in the quietness of my car. But then I knew I simply needed to give it to God. The enemy works hard to separate marriages. I see it. But he's not going to stop we just need to get on our game. God's given us everything we need to win, but we need to play. His way.
So I start talking to Him (praying) and found myself reflecting on and thanking Him that He provided these 3 angels to take care of me, right at the church so I wasn't at the side of the road. And everyone worked instantly to help me. Then I asked simply that He'd give me some token or sign of His affection in that moment, even a verse that would comfort me of His presence.
So I turn to my audible bible cd, and sure enough, THERE HE IS. Right at that exact spot.
Philippians 4:6, 7 "Carrie, Don't be anxious about ANYTHING... not even tires or Roger's departure BUT in EVERYTHING (yes,even tires and Roger's departure) by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to Me. Then MY peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus."
See when I give it to Him, He provides. Provides peace that actually guards my heart in this moment to remind me that He is FOR ROGER AND I. That He loves "US" and me and cares about everything.
I am humbled in this moment to be reminded that the God of the universe and ancient of days is ever near to me even in trivial things.
I didn't even want to go on to my next assignment until I wrote this not only to encourage you but to give Him all the glory due Him.
He is MORE THAN ENOUGH. Try, test, see, taste, touch and I promise you if you seek Him with all your heart, no matter the situation He SHALL BE FOUND.
God, I am humbled that you love me. So much. So So much.
xo
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Holidays & Holy Moments
I’ve been blessed to enjoy my husband for the past 2 weeks as we marvel together at many of God’s great works, from France, Monte Carlo, Italy (Venice & Rome), Barcelona, Spain, Croatia, New York City, the Mediterranean Sea and a thing called Love. All glorious artworks of His. Not just the stunning beauty but the culture and the people that make each place despite how close in proximity so completely diverse. The Mediterranean Sea and the glorious unique blue that no other body of water shares. The way it can so quickly have huge waves and the next moment literally be a sea of glass. And mostly as Roger and I connect we find ourselves constantly fellowship not only with one another but our God. We feel a bit as Adam and Eve did as God desired to walk and BE with them. How blessed we are that He would allow us this privilege, He even upgraded us to an elaborate suite and despite the 10 cruises I’ve been on, I would say this one was the best thus far.
God gave us such unique timing to all of these places from witnessing the International Film Festival in France with Hollywood, to the days before the Monte Carlo Indy, to witnessing the protests in Spain first hand, a full moon on the Sea, having dinner with a world famous chef along with cooking lessons, glorious weather, even being able to pick up the Canucks game though away was fun. Roger and I never did the excursions that the tours arranged but always trusted God to lead us and every time what He brought us to and how He did it kept us marveling. Even others at the end of the day wanted to hear the stories. We even got to have dinner in the restaurant in Venice we ate in for our honeymoon! J
We toured Barcelona yesterday. What an incredible city!! It’s amazing. There’s one mountain there at the side of the city called Mount Montjuic. It’s a stunning park but with many beautiful buildings and landmarks on it as well, one being the stadium they held the World Olympics in right at the very top. As we toured it my heart was stirred to want to be there alone with God in the wee hours of the morning. This intensified as I realized the Jewish history of this mountain. ( I met many Jewish people on the Cruise and even attended their Shabbat Service. J )
Not just the mountain but the draw of this empty stadium in which representation from our world gathered not so long ago. Roger could see my heart stirring and without even asking he knew I’d want to run there in the morning and have my quiet time with God. J He so knows me… even before I say things. He reminds me though that we need to leave at 7am in the morning so that means I would need to head there at 5am. Remember it is our vacation. I say I want to.
And sure enough, 5am on the dark roads of Barcelona the hotel guy shows me the way to get there but claims I shouldn’t try to do one side to the other it’s too hard, just go back the way I came. We those that know me, know I hate back tracking. I’d rather blaze new trails whenever I can. So I went, worship music, I actually replayed the song “Imagine” 12 times, which has never been done for me before. As I ran up the front of this huge castle on the mountain I could simply wonder what it will be like to enter the gates of heaven. It was so surreal as no one was around these glorious attractions. I will include a picture so you can see it. I choked back the tears as I worshipped my Lord. I continued to the top where the stadium lies. Breathtaking in size. Somewhat to the Coliseum we saw in Rome but so much more modern. It was all closed up but as I went up to the main barred entrance I peered in seeing a vast array of thousands upon thousand seats. You would never guess all that lied behind the walls. Much like own hearts. So diverse, deep and complex inside; the most important part. As listened to the birds start to sing around me as they usher in God’s sunrise I find my heart burdened to the point of tears again, simply asking God “Oh that their would be a way again that He would bring our world together in a stadium like this in which we would just worship Him.” We came together in Barcelona physically celebrating just that with athletes, but could we come together again to celebrate the spirit. I could sense Him pulling me as He did with Joshua to run around the whole perimeter and pray about this. To believe and ask. (He has been teaching me more about prayer this past month than I’ve ever known!) So I did. I could feel even the physical locking was similar to how it is in the spirit currently, but not to give up. No matter how ridiculous this seemed, was I willing? I was!!
As I finished the loop the sun was just arising but as I came back there appeared these cats lingering at the front, in a sly way. Just days before I’d had a dream the enemy was clothed as a cat trying to attack. I realized too the significance of this. For every time I desire to advance by God’s prompting I know that the enemy to advances his troops, for it is a battle of the spiritual realm and principalities. He is teaching me the power I have in my prayers.
The cats didn’t phase me although they did remind me to pray that God would protect me from the evil one.
Oh gotta go… I’m sitting on the airport floor writing this while Roger is in the long customs security line… but he’s giving me the “look”. Lol! We’re next in line….
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