Do you love Christmas music ~ or do you get sick of it after a while? I'm one of those that could listen to it all year round. I loooove Christmas music.. and my all-time FAVORITE Christmas song is O Holy Night.
Let this sink in today:
Long lay the world, in sin and error pining
TIL HE APPEARED, and the soul felt its worth!
Compare these lyrics with Galatians 4:4-5
But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.
Can you relate to this on a personal level? I sure can! Along with the whole world, I have personally been corrupted by sin, wallowing in my own grievous errors.. and PINING for someone to rescue me.
Then that SOMEONE appeared!! "When the fullness of the time came", Jesus Christ appeared.. and my soul felt its worth. My worth comes from HIM. He redeemed me; He adopted me; He made me HIS DAUGHTER! Has your soul felt the worth given to you by Jesus Christ? He came to rescue you; to redeem you; to make you HIS DAUGHTER.
Fall on your knees... worship the King. Emmanuel: God with us.
NOTHING and NO ONE compares with our Jesus.
Merry CHRISTmas!!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
A little help
Alright ladies, I'm working on the last lesson for this semester, "Going Deeper in Service" and I could use your input. Could you let me know what hinders you from serving the way you'd like to? What comes to mind when "serving" is mentioned?
Thanks girls!
See you on the 14th!! Don't forget the Sarah Bauer concert starting at 6:30! Woo Hoo!
Thanks girls!
See you on the 14th!! Don't forget the Sarah Bauer concert starting at 6:30! Woo Hoo!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A Song That No One Else Can Sing
Girls, in a nutshell, this post is about how incredibly special you are to God. You are fabulously unique and irresistably precious to him!! And did you know that he has given you a song that NO ONE ELSE can sing? HE HAS!!!!
Check out Revelation 14. The scene is heaven. The 144,000 are from the 12 tribes of Israel. They suffered severe persecution for their faith in Christ and did not waiver. The apostle John records what he saw:
And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps. And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.
Okay, so maybe you're thinking.. uhhhh.. I'm not one of the 144,000. True. But if you are a daughter of the Most High, then he has given you a special song of your very own. The psalms are FULL of exhortations to SING A NEW SONG, and also tell us that God Himself has "put a NEW SONG in my mouth; a song of praise to my God". (Psalm 40:3)
Only as we experience life WITH OUR GOD are we able to sing a new song TO OUR GOD! And because we have our own unique relationship with Christ, our own sweet love story, we also have a song that NO ONE ELSE CAN SING!!
I used to walk around in shame, believing that if I opened my mouth to speak about my past that I would bring dishonor to God. Guess what, ladies?? The opposite is true. Because it isn't about ME and what I've done at all. It's fully 100% about JESUS and what he has done. He took my shame away. He took YOUR shame away. And he enables us to proclaim THIS:
I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bride with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10
Now doesn't that make you want to open up your beautiful mouth and sing your own special GOD SONG - the song that no one else can sing!?! OH, SING IT, GIRLS!!!
Check out Revelation 14. The scene is heaven. The 144,000 are from the 12 tribes of Israel. They suffered severe persecution for their faith in Christ and did not waiver. The apostle John records what he saw:
And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps. And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.
Okay, so maybe you're thinking.. uhhhh.. I'm not one of the 144,000. True. But if you are a daughter of the Most High, then he has given you a special song of your very own. The psalms are FULL of exhortations to SING A NEW SONG, and also tell us that God Himself has "put a NEW SONG in my mouth; a song of praise to my God". (Psalm 40:3)
Only as we experience life WITH OUR GOD are we able to sing a new song TO OUR GOD! And because we have our own unique relationship with Christ, our own sweet love story, we also have a song that NO ONE ELSE CAN SING!!
I used to walk around in shame, believing that if I opened my mouth to speak about my past that I would bring dishonor to God. Guess what, ladies?? The opposite is true. Because it isn't about ME and what I've done at all. It's fully 100% about JESUS and what he has done. He took my shame away. He took YOUR shame away. And he enables us to proclaim THIS:
I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bride with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10
Now doesn't that make you want to open up your beautiful mouth and sing your own special GOD SONG - the song that no one else can sing!?! OH, SING IT, GIRLS!!!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Who's Right??
Hey ladies!! I was recently reading in the book of Acts and came across a passage that has often caused me to ask, "Who was right? Paul or Barnabas??"
Paul and Barnabas were partners together in spreading the gospel; traveling long distances, spending countless hours teaching and discipling new converts, and experiencing persecution together. Certainly a deep bond was forged between them. At one point in their ministry, they "had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company". OUCH!!
How is this possible? How could someone so supremely in love with Jesus as Paul part company with his partner in ministry on bad terms?? If your curiousity is piqued and you want to know what they argued about, see Acts 15:36-41.
The point here is this: When an argument or disagreement occurs among us, do we typically take sides? Do you find that it's our nature to try to determine who is right and who is wrong in the matter? I sure do!
I've struggled over this particular passage - not having all the facts - I haven't been able to decide who was right and who was wrong! But what if they were both right? What if neither of them were just being selfish, or foolish, or stubborn - and instead, what if the Holy Spirit was directing BOTH OF THEM, but in opposite directions.
Paul and Barnabas had done great things for God together. Perhaps it was time to go their seperate ways, each with a new disciple to mentor, and to reach a greater number of people than they could have reached by staying together! I wouldn't be surprised if, in time, Paul and Barnabas were able to see the hand of God in their dispute, and to acknowledge His plans are always the best.
If we become aware of a dispute in the body of Christ, before we decide who's right and who's wrong, before we jump to conclusions and start passing judgment, before we take sides and try to persuade others to our viewpoint, let's seek God and his purposes. I confess that it's not my first instinct to respond this way, and I'm guessing it's not yours. But by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be transformed.... day by day... minute by minute.
And one thing we can all agree on: God is ALWAYS right!
Paul and Barnabas were partners together in spreading the gospel; traveling long distances, spending countless hours teaching and discipling new converts, and experiencing persecution together. Certainly a deep bond was forged between them. At one point in their ministry, they "had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company". OUCH!!
How is this possible? How could someone so supremely in love with Jesus as Paul part company with his partner in ministry on bad terms?? If your curiousity is piqued and you want to know what they argued about, see Acts 15:36-41.
The point here is this: When an argument or disagreement occurs among us, do we typically take sides? Do you find that it's our nature to try to determine who is right and who is wrong in the matter? I sure do!
I've struggled over this particular passage - not having all the facts - I haven't been able to decide who was right and who was wrong! But what if they were both right? What if neither of them were just being selfish, or foolish, or stubborn - and instead, what if the Holy Spirit was directing BOTH OF THEM, but in opposite directions.
Paul and Barnabas had done great things for God together. Perhaps it was time to go their seperate ways, each with a new disciple to mentor, and to reach a greater number of people than they could have reached by staying together! I wouldn't be surprised if, in time, Paul and Barnabas were able to see the hand of God in their dispute, and to acknowledge His plans are always the best.
If we become aware of a dispute in the body of Christ, before we decide who's right and who's wrong, before we jump to conclusions and start passing judgment, before we take sides and try to persuade others to our viewpoint, let's seek God and his purposes. I confess that it's not my first instinct to respond this way, and I'm guessing it's not yours. But by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be transformed.... day by day... minute by minute.
And one thing we can all agree on: God is ALWAYS right!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Are You Like a Sweet Honeycomb.. or a Scorching Fire?
Over the last several months, I've noticed something more and more. My sister and I have discussed it. A few friends and I have discussed it, as well. It's something we've all begun to notice. It's the whole idea of how something can be used for GOOD or for EVIL. And in this age of technology we're in, we've found it to be evident yet again. We have this whole new world of social networking - facebook, twitter, blogging, message boards, etc.
In this new 'social networking world', I've seen countless examples of GOOD and EVIL. This blog, for example, has been an attempt to touch others for GOOD. Along with many of my friends, I attempt to use facebook for GOOD. I praise God that facebook CAN, in fact, be used for good. Just last week, I received an email from a facebook friend, who also happens to be a family member. She informed me about the impact I've had on her through my facebook comments - dating back to over a year ago. I was thrilled to read that she had surrendered her life to Christ, and floored to know that in part, it was because of our connection via facebook. What an AMAZING God. He truly can use ANYTHING and ANYONE.
On the other hand, I've seen and heard enough to know that some people use these tools to 'air their dirty laundry' so-to-speak. Some people take jabs at others because it seems "safe" to do it in front of an audience, without naming names, but knowing their intended target will get the message loud and clear. Anyone else know what I mean? That's using these devices for EVIL, girls. God is NOT pleased.
Proverbs 16:23-24 A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. Pleasant words are a HONEYCOMB, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Proberbs 16:27-28 A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip seperates close friends.
Before we "tweet" or "update our status" with the latest drama in life, or before we go blogging away for the world to read our personal 'stuff', let's stop and THINK.. and PRAY about what it is we really want to do: GOOD or EVIL? Do we want to be a SWEET HONEYCOMB or a SCORCHING FIRE?
In this new 'social networking world', I've seen countless examples of GOOD and EVIL. This blog, for example, has been an attempt to touch others for GOOD. Along with many of my friends, I attempt to use facebook for GOOD. I praise God that facebook CAN, in fact, be used for good. Just last week, I received an email from a facebook friend, who also happens to be a family member. She informed me about the impact I've had on her through my facebook comments - dating back to over a year ago. I was thrilled to read that she had surrendered her life to Christ, and floored to know that in part, it was because of our connection via facebook. What an AMAZING God. He truly can use ANYTHING and ANYONE.
On the other hand, I've seen and heard enough to know that some people use these tools to 'air their dirty laundry' so-to-speak. Some people take jabs at others because it seems "safe" to do it in front of an audience, without naming names, but knowing their intended target will get the message loud and clear. Anyone else know what I mean? That's using these devices for EVIL, girls. God is NOT pleased.
Proverbs 16:23-24 A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. Pleasant words are a HONEYCOMB, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Proberbs 16:27-28 A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip seperates close friends.
Before we "tweet" or "update our status" with the latest drama in life, or before we go blogging away for the world to read our personal 'stuff', let's stop and THINK.. and PRAY about what it is we really want to do: GOOD or EVIL? Do we want to be a SWEET HONEYCOMB or a SCORCHING FIRE?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Random
I have a ton of things running through my mind. I couldn't think of a clever way to tie them all together so I just compiled a list instead. Don't put too much emphasis on the order in which they appear. :-)
#1. I am SO excited about the Sarah Bauer FREE concert on 12/14! I hope you are coming and bringing ALL of your girlfriends! What a way to end this awesome semester!!
#2. Have you joined the Ignite for Women group on facebook?
#3. What's been your favorite lesson so far this semester??
#4. Ignite is selling candles!www.candlesthatcare.org/ignite
#5. Linda will be teaching a study just for step moms beginning in January!
#6. We're meeting on the 23rd to pack all the goodies we have collected for the Shepherd Community Center college kids!
#7. I have developed a new liking for raisins.
#8. If you have a heart for inner-city ministry and would like to work with women, I could really use you. Email me at Paulette@ignitewomen.com.
#9. I can't wait to eat my mom's dressing for Thanksgiving.
#10. And last but not least, courtesy of Beth Moore's Believing God study:
God is who He says He is!
God can do what He says He can do!
I am who God says I am!
I can do all things through Christ!
God's Word is alive and active in me!
I'm Believing God!!
Woo Hoo!!
#1. I am SO excited about the Sarah Bauer FREE concert on 12/14! I hope you are coming and bringing ALL of your girlfriends! What a way to end this awesome semester!!
#2. Have you joined the Ignite for Women group on facebook?
#3. What's been your favorite lesson so far this semester??
#4. Ignite is selling candles!www.candlesthatcare.org/ignite
#5. Linda will be teaching a study just for step moms beginning in January!
#6. We're meeting on the 23rd to pack all the goodies we have collected for the Shepherd Community Center college kids!
#7. I have developed a new liking for raisins.
#8. If you have a heart for inner-city ministry and would like to work with women, I could really use you. Email me at Paulette@ignitewomen.com.
#9. I can't wait to eat my mom's dressing for Thanksgiving.
#10. And last but not least, courtesy of Beth Moore's Believing God study:
God is who He says He is!
God can do what He says He can do!
I am who God says I am!
I can do all things through Christ!
God's Word is alive and active in me!
I'm Believing God!!
Woo Hoo!!
Friday, October 30, 2009
Who ARE you?
Hi ladies! Some of you heard me tell this story about my 15 year old son a few weeks ago, and as I was thinking about it again this morning, I decided it was worth repeating!
So sitting around our living room one day, our son asked my husband and me if it is wrong to pretend to be something you aren't. We said that it is and asked him the reason for his question. He very seriously replied, "Sometimes I pretend to be skinny." We, of course, couldn't help but laugh and explained to him: #1, you ARE skinny.. and #2, you can't pretend to be skinny. Either you are or you aren't. He defended his position by proclaiming, "Well, I do it. Sometimes I suck it in."
This got me thinking about other areas of life where we all do this from time to time. We pretend to be something, or someone, that we aren't. We do this for any number of reasons - dissatisfaction with who we are, jealousy of who someone else is, pride, shame, fear, etc.
I've experienced this in my own life and in choosing to obey God and share my personal testimony, I've had several people say to me that it would have been so much easier for me to keep my past in the past, to just move on; particularly since I moved out of state where the people who knew my story, now lived miles and miles away.
Now I'll be the first to agree that it is NOT EASY to share my story with others, whether it's in a group or when the Holy Spirit is prodding me to share one on one. But where I disagree is that it surprisingly would NOT have been easier to stay silent. Staying silent would mean I am pretending to be someone I am not. Staying silent would mean that Satan still has control over that part of my life. Staying silent would mean living in chains, instead of living free.
Ladies, it is Satan who wants you to "suck it in", whatever it is you're trying to hide. It is Satan who wants you to go on pretending to be something or someone you aren't. It is Satan who wants to keep that part of your life in the dark, where he can then effectively keep YOU in the dark.
But your Savior Jesus has brought you into his marvelous light!!! And so whatever it is that you think he can't use or he can't redeem, I challenge you today to give him the chance. I guarantee, he will prove you wrong.. and you will be SO GLAD he did!!
So don't pretend to be skinny. Be who you ARE in Christ Jesus today.. that's the most BEAUTIFUL you there could ever be.
So sitting around our living room one day, our son asked my husband and me if it is wrong to pretend to be something you aren't. We said that it is and asked him the reason for his question. He very seriously replied, "Sometimes I pretend to be skinny." We, of course, couldn't help but laugh and explained to him: #1, you ARE skinny.. and #2, you can't pretend to be skinny. Either you are or you aren't. He defended his position by proclaiming, "Well, I do it. Sometimes I suck it in."
This got me thinking about other areas of life where we all do this from time to time. We pretend to be something, or someone, that we aren't. We do this for any number of reasons - dissatisfaction with who we are, jealousy of who someone else is, pride, shame, fear, etc.
I've experienced this in my own life and in choosing to obey God and share my personal testimony, I've had several people say to me that it would have been so much easier for me to keep my past in the past, to just move on; particularly since I moved out of state where the people who knew my story, now lived miles and miles away.
Now I'll be the first to agree that it is NOT EASY to share my story with others, whether it's in a group or when the Holy Spirit is prodding me to share one on one. But where I disagree is that it surprisingly would NOT have been easier to stay silent. Staying silent would mean I am pretending to be someone I am not. Staying silent would mean that Satan still has control over that part of my life. Staying silent would mean living in chains, instead of living free.
Ladies, it is Satan who wants you to "suck it in", whatever it is you're trying to hide. It is Satan who wants you to go on pretending to be something or someone you aren't. It is Satan who wants to keep that part of your life in the dark, where he can then effectively keep YOU in the dark.
But your Savior Jesus has brought you into his marvelous light!!! And so whatever it is that you think he can't use or he can't redeem, I challenge you today to give him the chance. I guarantee, he will prove you wrong.. and you will be SO GLAD he did!!
So don't pretend to be skinny. Be who you ARE in Christ Jesus today.. that's the most BEAUTIFUL you there could ever be.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Forgive that?!?
Hey ya'll, I need your help for our Ignite lesson on 10/12 ~ Going Deeper in Forgiveness. Some things just seem impossible to forgive, don't they? Please share with me (anonymously is FINE) something you've had a hard time forgiving, either past or present. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Funky?
Have you ever been funky? Just because you're, well,,, funky? I'm going to bet the answer is yes only because I know that if you're actually reading this, you're female, and well, we females get funky. I'm funky today. What exactly is funky, anyway? I think it's a mixture of grouchy + irritable + a little blue. It's not the greatest feeling in the world, but not the worst either. Just a mood. Know what I mean? Well, something new dawned on me this morning on my way to work - but first I have a confession to make. I slept in a little too much this morning and missed my regular time with Jesus. Why? Because I woke up funky. I didn't want to go spend my regular time with Him because I knew that I would have to 'straighten up,' you know - shake of the funkiness. At least I thought I would. So, back to what dawned on me on my way to work. I was listening to the radio and I heard the song "You never let go" and it hit me. I don't have to 'straighten up' to spend time with Jesus. He invites me to come just as I am, funky and all. And here's the kicker - all I really needed to do this morning was to curl up at His feet and just be with Him. I missed a great opportunity to have my funkiness tended to by the only One who is able to - without making me funkier. (Surely some of you know exactly what I'm talking about. Seems when other people try to bring me out of my funkiness, I tend to get funkier.!?)
I did get some time in the Word this morning and I am pleased to report the funk is beginning to lift a bit.
I hope all of you are having a funk-free day, but if you're not - I can only think of One who doesn't mind it. He actually still wants to be with you. Wow. There is no One like Jesus.
I did get some time in the Word this morning and I am pleased to report the funk is beginning to lift a bit.
I hope all of you are having a funk-free day, but if you're not - I can only think of One who doesn't mind it. He actually still wants to be with you. Wow. There is no One like Jesus.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
A or B?
Hey there Ignite gals! What a great kick-off for the fall semester of "Going Deeper!" It took me forever to fall asleep last night because I still had 'Going Deeper in Responsibility' on the brain! I love God's Word so much! There is nothing else on the planet like it. It has the perfect ability to slice me to the bone with conviction and at the very same time, heal me with the love, forgiveness and grace of the Father. I'm astounded at His relentless pursuit of me. I hope today you will be deliberate about spending time with Him in His Word. He waits for us to meet with Him. He waits for us to come to Him to receive exactly what we need. I love Him so!
I'm still stuck on "Person A or Person B" - right out of Luke 8:18. Either we are Person A - the one who has much and will be given more; or we are Person B - the one who has nothing and even what we think we have we will lose. There is no Person C! No other option here! What are we doing with the truth that confronts us from God's Holy Word?
Let's be a group of women who respond to the words of Jesus, "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk!" Let's go girls. Let's DO something with what we have been given! It's expected of us! And remember, He gives us exactly what we need to do what He wants us to do! (Hebrews 13:21).
It was great to see so many familiar faces last night along with many new faces as well! I hope to see you all again on September 28th! I can hardly wait!!
I'm still stuck on "Person A or Person B" - right out of Luke 8:18. Either we are Person A - the one who has much and will be given more; or we are Person B - the one who has nothing and even what we think we have we will lose. There is no Person C! No other option here! What are we doing with the truth that confronts us from God's Holy Word?
Let's be a group of women who respond to the words of Jesus, "Get up, pick up your mat, and walk!" Let's go girls. Let's DO something with what we have been given! It's expected of us! And remember, He gives us exactly what we need to do what He wants us to do! (Hebrews 13:21).
It was great to see so many familiar faces last night along with many new faces as well! I hope to see you all again on September 28th! I can hardly wait!!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Pictures!!
We've come a long way in just one year, girls!!
Lookin' good!!
Praying away the storm! Thank You Jesus!!
"Pretty in Pink!"
Monday, August 31, 2009
Big Prayers, Big Answers, Part 2!
Alright ladies, I am receiving tons of e-mails with great stories of how God moved in your life this past weekend. It's time to share your stories with others! Let's hear how God spoke to you through His Word this weekend and some of the decisions you have made!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Big Prayers - Big Answers!
Hello Ladies! I am so excited to share with you what I'm about to say I can hardly stand it! Leading up to the Beth Moore simulcast this weekend I have been reading and praying Isaiah 29:13-14. I have desperately prayed that God would cause His daughters to no longer draw near to Him with only their mouths and honor Him with only their lips and yet have hearts that are far from Him. I have prayed that our worship of Him would be authentic and not be made up merely of rules taught by men (v. 13). I believe with my whole heart that God wants to astound us with wonder upon wonder (v. 14) and that He will, if we will turn our hearts back to Him in true worship and repentance. Oh how I prayed that for us this weekend! A group of us gathered every week and prayed for God to tear down the walls that divide us like denominational walls, racial walls, socioeconomic walls, etc. These are issues that were heavy on our hearts as we met with God and poured our hearts out to Him before this weekend's event.
For those of you reading this that were there, you know without a doubt that God answered Big Time! There is not enough space here to share every detail of how God moved this weekend, but I want to highlight the two of the most obvious.
First, we had serious issues with our satellite feed on Friday evening due to the storm and at the worst point, actually lost feed altogether. That's when so many of you hit you knees and so many of you stood to your feet and we sent desperate cries to our Father to move His mighty hand over the storm, part the clouds and make a way for us to receive the Word He had for us that night.... and He did! Just in time to hear the message He had laid on Beth's heart. And we heard the entire thing without so much of a glitch! Praise His Holy and Mighty Name!! What a wonderful show of His power! I LOVE it when He shows up just in time like that!!
Secondly, God answered our prayers of tearing down the denominational walls in a HUGE way! When I got home last night I began thumbing through the cards you filled out that asked what church you were visiting us from. Now I figured the numbers were going to be high because there were so many of you there this weekend, but I had no idea the surprise I was in for when I began to make a list of all the different churches. Are you ready for this??? There were ONE HUNDRED AND ONE different churches represented there this weekend!!! Glory to God! We had ladies there from every denomination you can think of from Catholic to Lutheran to Methodist to Baptist and everything in between! Only God can do that! What a beautiful picture of the unity Jesus spoke of in John 17! I know He delighted in seeing His daughters worship Him in unity!
I want to say thank you to all of you who were there this weekend and thank you to all of you who worked so hard to make sure this weekend was a success. I hope that we will remember what we learned - God delights in us and our biggest delight in life is when we learn to delight in Him. He is the Ultimate Desire of our hearts!
I love you all dearly!
For those of you reading this that were there, you know without a doubt that God answered Big Time! There is not enough space here to share every detail of how God moved this weekend, but I want to highlight the two of the most obvious.
First, we had serious issues with our satellite feed on Friday evening due to the storm and at the worst point, actually lost feed altogether. That's when so many of you hit you knees and so many of you stood to your feet and we sent desperate cries to our Father to move His mighty hand over the storm, part the clouds and make a way for us to receive the Word He had for us that night.... and He did! Just in time to hear the message He had laid on Beth's heart. And we heard the entire thing without so much of a glitch! Praise His Holy and Mighty Name!! What a wonderful show of His power! I LOVE it when He shows up just in time like that!!
Secondly, God answered our prayers of tearing down the denominational walls in a HUGE way! When I got home last night I began thumbing through the cards you filled out that asked what church you were visiting us from. Now I figured the numbers were going to be high because there were so many of you there this weekend, but I had no idea the surprise I was in for when I began to make a list of all the different churches. Are you ready for this??? There were ONE HUNDRED AND ONE different churches represented there this weekend!!! Glory to God! We had ladies there from every denomination you can think of from Catholic to Lutheran to Methodist to Baptist and everything in between! Only God can do that! What a beautiful picture of the unity Jesus spoke of in John 17! I know He delighted in seeing His daughters worship Him in unity!
I want to say thank you to all of you who were there this weekend and thank you to all of you who worked so hard to make sure this weekend was a success. I hope that we will remember what we learned - God delights in us and our biggest delight in life is when we learn to delight in Him. He is the Ultimate Desire of our hearts!
I love you all dearly!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Don't Waste Your Breath!
Paulette has talked a lot about Joshua lately, and though I've read the book before, I decided to read it afresh, with new eyes, an open heart, and a listening ear. Let me tell ya, God is faithful and it fell FRESH.
So I was reading Joshua 1 and I noticed in vs. 9 that God told Joshua, "Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged..". Now we know that God would never waste his breath, right? He'd never say something that doesn't need to be said. So the obvious implication is that Joshua was terrified and discouarged! Moses was dead. Joshua was now the leader of the Israelites. He was in charge of getting them into their promised land!!! That would be enough to make me scared out of my mind, too! So what happened after God COMMANDED Joshua NOT to be afraid and worried?
Verse 10 - "So Joshua ordered the officers of the people..."
Yep - he BELIEVED what God said and TOOK ACTION accordingly.
But that is not exactly where I'm going with this. That seems to be the more obvious point, right? When God speaks, take action! Believe Him! What struck me the most is that if God doesn't waste words, then I shouldn't either!!! OUCH.
How often do I waste my words ~ saying something that someone else does NOT need to hear? Something that I WANT them to hear, but is it life-giving and encouraging and full of truth? And on the flip side, how often do I miss opportunities, or even worse, how often do I fail (BY CHOICE) to tell others what they DO need to hear? If my husband has had a rough day, am I too consumed with myself to encourage him because, "Hey! I've had a rough day, too!" The examples are endless, aren't they?
The point is: God ALWAYS tells us what we need to hear.. and He NEVER tells us what we don't need to hear. I plan to make this a personal goal in my relationships... while fully submitting to the awesome power of the Holy Spirit to bring it about! Wanna join me?
So I was reading Joshua 1 and I noticed in vs. 9 that God told Joshua, "Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged..". Now we know that God would never waste his breath, right? He'd never say something that doesn't need to be said. So the obvious implication is that Joshua was terrified and discouarged! Moses was dead. Joshua was now the leader of the Israelites. He was in charge of getting them into their promised land!!! That would be enough to make me scared out of my mind, too! So what happened after God COMMANDED Joshua NOT to be afraid and worried?
Verse 10 - "So Joshua ordered the officers of the people..."
Yep - he BELIEVED what God said and TOOK ACTION accordingly.
But that is not exactly where I'm going with this. That seems to be the more obvious point, right? When God speaks, take action! Believe Him! What struck me the most is that if God doesn't waste words, then I shouldn't either!!! OUCH.
How often do I waste my words ~ saying something that someone else does NOT need to hear? Something that I WANT them to hear, but is it life-giving and encouraging and full of truth? And on the flip side, how often do I miss opportunities, or even worse, how often do I fail (BY CHOICE) to tell others what they DO need to hear? If my husband has had a rough day, am I too consumed with myself to encourage him because, "Hey! I've had a rough day, too!" The examples are endless, aren't they?
The point is: God ALWAYS tells us what we need to hear.. and He NEVER tells us what we don't need to hear. I plan to make this a personal goal in my relationships... while fully submitting to the awesome power of the Holy Spirit to bring it about! Wanna join me?
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Are you GLAD in God?
I rented The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh a couple nights ago. One would think a movie rental like that is solely for my sweet 4 year old daughter, Lauren. But actually, the entire family loves to watch it. I mean, really... who honestly outgrows Pooh Bear?!
Every time we watch the movie, I am reminded of when my two older children were Lauren's age. They are now 13 and 14 and yet at certain points in the movie they laugh REALLY HARD, you know the kind of laugh I mean, a TRUE BELLY LAUGH, and it takes me back 10 years immediately because they are laughing at the SAME PARTS now that made them so giggly and happy back then!
So what's the point? Well, it's simple.. and child-like, really. Are you so HAPPY in your relationship with God that spending time with Him makes you GIDDY WITH JOY!? Do you get to "certain points" of your life that bring back memories of your relationship with God.. so much so that it makes you want to LAUGH and maybe even DANCE a little?! Does your God bring out the little girl in you.. filled with child-like wonder at how AMAZING your Daddy is.. and how GLAD you are to be with Him?
I find my God so very incredible.. more and more each day. I would love to hear how God has shown Himself to you in a way that made you want to LAUGH, or DANCE, or even CRY WITH JOY for what He has done.. what He is doing.. or simply a reminder of Who He is to you. Will you share with others today why you are GLAD IN GOD?
Every time we watch the movie, I am reminded of when my two older children were Lauren's age. They are now 13 and 14 and yet at certain points in the movie they laugh REALLY HARD, you know the kind of laugh I mean, a TRUE BELLY LAUGH, and it takes me back 10 years immediately because they are laughing at the SAME PARTS now that made them so giggly and happy back then!
So what's the point? Well, it's simple.. and child-like, really. Are you so HAPPY in your relationship with God that spending time with Him makes you GIDDY WITH JOY!? Do you get to "certain points" of your life that bring back memories of your relationship with God.. so much so that it makes you want to LAUGH and maybe even DANCE a little?! Does your God bring out the little girl in you.. filled with child-like wonder at how AMAZING your Daddy is.. and how GLAD you are to be with Him?
I find my God so very incredible.. more and more each day. I would love to hear how God has shown Himself to you in a way that made you want to LAUGH, or DANCE, or even CRY WITH JOY for what He has done.. what He is doing.. or simply a reminder of Who He is to you. Will you share with others today why you are GLAD IN GOD?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
I'd rather have Jesus
This Sunday I had the privilege and joy of attending church with my mom and dad! They attend a Baptist church where they reside in The Villages, FL. It's an interesting thing to visit a church in a retirement community.. and I mean that in a really, really good way!
Take for example, an 83 year old man, standing in front of the congregation to give his testimony of accepting Christ in 1934 and sharing life stories of what God has done since then. I could hardly keep the tears at bay.
Then you have the singing... aaahhhhh, the singing... straight from the hymnals. I LOVE THAT!!! Old, familiar hymns so full of life and truth. More tears...
Then the pastor teaching about WHO WE ARE IN CHRIST and two women singing together, "I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today."
Please rejoice with me today... if Jesus Christ is your Savior, then His Spirit LIVES within you. It is He who even gives us the DESIRE to DESIRE HIM!!! And oh ladies... I'd rather have Jesus than ANYTHING this world offers me. ANYTHING. And I thank God for that desire. Don't you?
Take for example, an 83 year old man, standing in front of the congregation to give his testimony of accepting Christ in 1934 and sharing life stories of what God has done since then. I could hardly keep the tears at bay.
Then you have the singing... aaahhhhh, the singing... straight from the hymnals. I LOVE THAT!!! Old, familiar hymns so full of life and truth. More tears...
Then the pastor teaching about WHO WE ARE IN CHRIST and two women singing together, "I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today."
Please rejoice with me today... if Jesus Christ is your Savior, then His Spirit LIVES within you. It is He who even gives us the DESIRE to DESIRE HIM!!! And oh ladies... I'd rather have Jesus than ANYTHING this world offers me. ANYTHING. And I thank God for that desire. Don't you?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Deep Thoughts...
"Pray for a passion that leads to a vision that will give you a story"
Deep thoughts for a rainy Wednesday. :-)
Deep thoughts for a rainy Wednesday. :-)
Monday, July 13, 2009
Nose Picker?
So I'm on my way to work this morning really enjoying the cool air with the top down in the car (I drive a mini cooper convertible and I'm not going to lie - she's F.U.N.) but that's not my point. I pass this dude in a little green car and you guessed it, he's SO picking his nose. So what do I do? I yell. "Dude! Stop picking your nose! I can SO see you! I am RIGHT HERE!!" Then I kid you not he held on to the evidence. You know what I'm sayin'?? Why do we think we are invisible in our cars? Do we think all cars are like Wonder Woman's invisible plane and no one can see what we're doing once we shut the door?
Don't we do that in other areas of our life? We think no one knows what we're doing. We think we're doing a pretty good job of hiding the evidence but in reality? It shows. Our secrets tend to show up in our attitudes, our beliefs, our treatment of our friends and family. Even if we do a great job of hiding it, there is always Someone who knows. We aren't going through life hiding in an invisible plane, He sees. I wonder if He would ever yell our way "I can SO see you, I am RIGHT HERE!"
Thankfully, He always stands to offer forgiveness and help in our darkest time of need. And I know His tone is totally different than mine was today.
Just something to think about.
Don't we do that in other areas of our life? We think no one knows what we're doing. We think we're doing a pretty good job of hiding the evidence but in reality? It shows. Our secrets tend to show up in our attitudes, our beliefs, our treatment of our friends and family. Even if we do a great job of hiding it, there is always Someone who knows. We aren't going through life hiding in an invisible plane, He sees. I wonder if He would ever yell our way "I can SO see you, I am RIGHT HERE!"
Thankfully, He always stands to offer forgiveness and help in our darkest time of need. And I know His tone is totally different than mine was today.
Just something to think about.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Did you get a good tan?
That's a question you won't hear God ask at the final judgment.
"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth."
Col. 3:1-2
I thought it would be fun.. and get us thinking about what's important in life to think of questions God will NOT ask us when all is said and done.
Post yours!!
"Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth."
Col. 3:1-2
I thought it would be fun.. and get us thinking about what's important in life to think of questions God will NOT ask us when all is said and done.
Post yours!!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
I'm praying for you today...
Has someone ever said they would be praying for you.. and you knew the person well enough to know that it was absolutely true.. and it gave you such a sense of peace and security to hear those words? You knew that YOUR NAME was being lifted up into the throne room of the Most High God and you had peace and rest because the One who sits on the throne is GOOD and ABLE and HEARS the cries of His saints. That happened to me last week when my husband ever so sweetly spoke those words to me, "I'll be praying for you today." Those are cherished words, aren't they? Nothing is more powerful than prayer. Because no one is more powerful than our God.
Each Wednesday, I can tell you emphatically, that you are being prayed for. If you are a part of Ignite, if you ever will be a part of Ignite, or if you are simply reading this blog, then you can know, "I'm praying for you today". And so are a host of other women at Ignite. We have committed to praying for you each Wednesday all summer long. We don't know your exact circumstances, but we are entrusting you to the One who knows your name and knows your every need. And He is GOOD and He is ABLE and He HEARS our cries on your behalf.
So rest today, in the peace and security of the One who inclines His ear to hear the afflicted and needy, the One who lifts heavy burdens and removes the chains of sin, the One who makes all things new, clothes you in righteousness, gives you a new heart and a new spirit, and makes you a display of His splendor.
I'm praying for you today....
Linda
Each Wednesday, I can tell you emphatically, that you are being prayed for. If you are a part of Ignite, if you ever will be a part of Ignite, or if you are simply reading this blog, then you can know, "I'm praying for you today". And so are a host of other women at Ignite. We have committed to praying for you each Wednesday all summer long. We don't know your exact circumstances, but we are entrusting you to the One who knows your name and knows your every need. And He is GOOD and He is ABLE and He HEARS our cries on your behalf.
So rest today, in the peace and security of the One who inclines His ear to hear the afflicted and needy, the One who lifts heavy burdens and removes the chains of sin, the One who makes all things new, clothes you in righteousness, gives you a new heart and a new spirit, and makes you a display of His splendor.
I'm praying for you today....
Linda
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
He calls me by my name
We've all heard the phrase and have probably said it once or twice ourselves, "He calls me by my name." This phrase took on a deeper meaning to me today. I was talking to one of my favorite gals that I have had the pleasure of developing a relationship with through my job here at the shelter. She popped in to see me this morning and was happily telling me about her new boyfriend. Now typically I cringe when she tells me of her boyfriends; I have watched her go from one abusive relationship to another, often evidenced by a bruised and shame covered face. But today was different. She was all smiles as she said this to me, "He doesn't ask anything of me and he calls me by my name." Now normally I do a pretty good job of handling lots of things at work but this one took me by surprise girls. My hand immediately flew over my heart and the tears in my eyes gave me away as I realized the implications of what she was telling me. Do you hear what she was saying?Relationship after relationship has brought her nothing but pain and heartbreak. This one is different. Now I don't know how "healthy" the relationship really is but I do know this: she is learning some important life lessons. She is soaking in some things that are new to her; a boyfriend that doesn't take advantage of her and he calls her by her name. Makes you wonder what she's been called in the past, doesn't it?
I thanked God today for the reminder that He calls me by my name. I don't want to forget the sweetness of it, the tenderness of it. If you have ever been called things that were cold and hurtful, I hope that you will relish in the truth today that Jesus calls you by your name. What an amazing Savior.
I love you all dearly.
I thanked God today for the reminder that He calls me by my name. I don't want to forget the sweetness of it, the tenderness of it. If you have ever been called things that were cold and hurtful, I hope that you will relish in the truth today that Jesus calls you by your name. What an amazing Savior.
I love you all dearly.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Amazing Grace.. My Chains are GONE!
Blog post submitted by Danielle:
It all began last fall when I had a miscarriage. As devastated as I was, I thought I was over the emotional pain. Every time I went to the store and saw a brand new baby held by a proud mother I’d cry instantly without warning. There was nothing else I could do but seek God. Through much prayer and an emotional depressive state, God answered my prayers in a HUGE way!
January rolls around and I was super excited to go to the kick-off of Ignite and have an authentic relationship with God and these ladies that attended. The second Ignite meeting had me sitting at a very full table of women ready to discuss. I was excited to be the table leader because the women seemed so into the message that night. We were of all ages and all backgrounds. The discussion was rich and phenomenal. After that night’s discussion Erika and Kim said to me, “Be our friend. We all had pregnancy problems.” I didn’t think too much of it because many of us ladies are superficial sometimes in that we want to call people our friends, yet not have that commitment that it takes to keep a friendship strong.
That following week/weekend I received an email asking about a time to meet for dinner on Monday. I was included in the email as if I really had an opinion (haha). I get to Damon’s on Monday and meet Erika, Kim, and Amy. The atmosphere and discussion just felt right from the beginning.
Come to find out, God made us into accountability partners!! We decided to take our group further and study Breaking Free. Kim was struggling with unbelief as her captive or bondage. She was completely unaware of this problem until she started studying deeper. Through Kim’s experience the three of us girls got together and prayed over her every day. Few wanted guidance on what to say to her to keep her accountable. That next Monday when we were all a bit nervous of how the night was going to play out, wouldn’t you know it that God already took care of it! Kim came to us professing her unbelief (even though she was saved and baptized at a young age) and wanted to draw the line in the sand and give her life fully to God.
Monday, May 25, 2009 Kim rededicated her life to God by professing He is Lord who died on the cross and rose again for HER! Monday, June 1, 2009 Kim was re-baptized as a symbol that her unbelief, though will be challenged by the enemy, is gone and she will seek the Truth!
Ladies, come join Breaking Free!!! God is using Beth Moore’s lessons to draw us closer to Him! This study will reveal bondages or captivities that you don’t even think you have! Jesus can draw us closer to Him the more we see what our captivities are. Are you willing to step out on that oh so uncomfortable ledge and let God take over? Giving my YES to God to facilitate this study has felt so good! He’s got so much more planned for me! Let’s find out what He has planned for you!
It all began last fall when I had a miscarriage. As devastated as I was, I thought I was over the emotional pain. Every time I went to the store and saw a brand new baby held by a proud mother I’d cry instantly without warning. There was nothing else I could do but seek God. Through much prayer and an emotional depressive state, God answered my prayers in a HUGE way!
January rolls around and I was super excited to go to the kick-off of Ignite and have an authentic relationship with God and these ladies that attended. The second Ignite meeting had me sitting at a very full table of women ready to discuss. I was excited to be the table leader because the women seemed so into the message that night. We were of all ages and all backgrounds. The discussion was rich and phenomenal. After that night’s discussion Erika and Kim said to me, “Be our friend. We all had pregnancy problems.” I didn’t think too much of it because many of us ladies are superficial sometimes in that we want to call people our friends, yet not have that commitment that it takes to keep a friendship strong.
That following week/weekend I received an email asking about a time to meet for dinner on Monday. I was included in the email as if I really had an opinion (haha). I get to Damon’s on Monday and meet Erika, Kim, and Amy. The atmosphere and discussion just felt right from the beginning.
Come to find out, God made us into accountability partners!! We decided to take our group further and study Breaking Free. Kim was struggling with unbelief as her captive or bondage. She was completely unaware of this problem until she started studying deeper. Through Kim’s experience the three of us girls got together and prayed over her every day. Few wanted guidance on what to say to her to keep her accountable. That next Monday when we were all a bit nervous of how the night was going to play out, wouldn’t you know it that God already took care of it! Kim came to us professing her unbelief (even though she was saved and baptized at a young age) and wanted to draw the line in the sand and give her life fully to God.
Monday, May 25, 2009 Kim rededicated her life to God by professing He is Lord who died on the cross and rose again for HER! Monday, June 1, 2009 Kim was re-baptized as a symbol that her unbelief, though will be challenged by the enemy, is gone and she will seek the Truth!
Ladies, come join Breaking Free!!! God is using Beth Moore’s lessons to draw us closer to Him! This study will reveal bondages or captivities that you don’t even think you have! Jesus can draw us closer to Him the more we see what our captivities are. Are you willing to step out on that oh so uncomfortable ledge and let God take over? Giving my YES to God to facilitate this study has felt so good! He’s got so much more planned for me! Let’s find out what He has planned for you!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
"Out of the Mouths of Babes"
Hi ladies!! I have to agree with Paulette's sentiments below: I LOVE SUMMER!!! And I love it when God so graciously gives me just what I need. He's amazing like that, isn't He? I was having a particularly trying day (okay, actually a trying few days!) with my 14 year old son. And no, he's not exactly a baby, as the title of this post would suggest, but all the moms can probably relate that our kids will always be OUR babies no matter how old they are. So enough rambling...
I was having an extra hard day with his teenage attitude today. He is a little too much like me at that age. Self-absorbed, rebellious at heart, and well.. self-absorbed. This, of course, invokes all kinds of emotions in me. Fear, however, isn't one of them because I truly trust God thoroughly and completely and have a real sense of peace that this stubborn son of mine is going to do GREAT things for the kingdom of God. (Is. 61:3)!! Nevertheless, I do experience a great amount of sadness and anger over his blatant disrespect and self-centered behavior. The boy really tries me in my patience and even my maturity as an adult!! LOL..
A little while ago, my son came and wanted to talk to me about God. This isn't really uncommon and he is at the age where he asks A LOT of questions, which is great! I love having spiritual discussions with my kids. LOVE IT!! And when he isn't being stubborn, he is very, very open and has some spiritual wisdom that goes beyond his young 14 years. One of the things he said to me was that it seems like most non-Christians have a lot of confidence in themselves and some of them even do good things for others. He went on to say that Christians come to God because they know they are failures, but they don't really seem to have much confidence.
I immediately 'got' what he was saying! Do you see it? As Christians, we come to Christ because we know that we need Him and that's GOOD!! But too often we don't live with the confidence of those who are saved by RADICAL GRACE. We don't live FREE. Yes, I'm still on that FREEDOM thing! I was amazed that even my 14 year old observed this truth. We do come to Christ because we know we are failures, we are sinners... but too often we continue on as though we are STILL failures! Is that what we want our children to observe in us?? Is that what we want our co-workers and friends to observe in us?? What is the draw to knowing Christ and making Him known if we aren't living free? If we aren't BOLDY approaching the throne of grace for our children and others to see? If we aren't reaching out to the oppressed and the lost and hurting with the message of HOPE? We have GOOD NEWS to share and our lives should reflect that.
I am thankful for my stubborn, strong-willed son today. I pray and believe that he will be stubborn and strong-willed for Jesus Christ ~ that he will know Him and make Him known. May our lives be an exciting example of life in Christ to EVERYONE who is watching.
Love you girls!
Linda
I was having an extra hard day with his teenage attitude today. He is a little too much like me at that age. Self-absorbed, rebellious at heart, and well.. self-absorbed. This, of course, invokes all kinds of emotions in me. Fear, however, isn't one of them because I truly trust God thoroughly and completely and have a real sense of peace that this stubborn son of mine is going to do GREAT things for the kingdom of God. (Is. 61:3)!! Nevertheless, I do experience a great amount of sadness and anger over his blatant disrespect and self-centered behavior. The boy really tries me in my patience and even my maturity as an adult!! LOL..
A little while ago, my son came and wanted to talk to me about God. This isn't really uncommon and he is at the age where he asks A LOT of questions, which is great! I love having spiritual discussions with my kids. LOVE IT!! And when he isn't being stubborn, he is very, very open and has some spiritual wisdom that goes beyond his young 14 years. One of the things he said to me was that it seems like most non-Christians have a lot of confidence in themselves and some of them even do good things for others. He went on to say that Christians come to God because they know they are failures, but they don't really seem to have much confidence.
I immediately 'got' what he was saying! Do you see it? As Christians, we come to Christ because we know that we need Him and that's GOOD!! But too often we don't live with the confidence of those who are saved by RADICAL GRACE. We don't live FREE. Yes, I'm still on that FREEDOM thing! I was amazed that even my 14 year old observed this truth. We do come to Christ because we know we are failures, we are sinners... but too often we continue on as though we are STILL failures! Is that what we want our children to observe in us?? Is that what we want our co-workers and friends to observe in us?? What is the draw to knowing Christ and making Him known if we aren't living free? If we aren't BOLDY approaching the throne of grace for our children and others to see? If we aren't reaching out to the oppressed and the lost and hurting with the message of HOPE? We have GOOD NEWS to share and our lives should reflect that.
I am thankful for my stubborn, strong-willed son today. I pray and believe that he will be stubborn and strong-willed for Jesus Christ ~ that he will know Him and make Him known. May our lives be an exciting example of life in Christ to EVERYONE who is watching.
Love you girls!
Linda
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Be Deliberate!
I love summer. No wait, I don't think I said that loud enough. I LOVE SUMMER!!!!! When it finally starts getting hot enough to make me sweat I sincerely wonder how I made it through the winter. How in the world did I go all of those months with no flip-flops?? Seriously.
This summer I have decided to do things a little differently. I am going to rest. I am making a conscious decision not to get involved in anything new, not take any summer classes (!) and.... are you ready for this? Drum roll please........ I am giving up TV for the summer! (Did I hear gasps?) Yep, you heard me right. No TV! Not only am I going to rest this summer, I am going to grow. Which part of me is going to grow you may be wondering? Well, sadly I won't be growing a few inches taller like I'd like to, but I am going to take steps to deliberately grow my relationship with Jesus. I have adopted Philippians 3:10 out of the Amplified Version as my summer goal:
"For my determined purpose is to know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His person more strongly and more clearly."
Isn't that just awesome? That's what I'm aiming for this summer. To KNOW Him. I can't think of anything worth pursuing more than that. Hence me giving up TV. (Were you wondering if I was going to get back to that?) That's where the "being deliberate" comes in. During those times I would normally veg in front of the TV, I am instead going to spend time in the Word, in a good book (Jesus by Charles Swindoll has been recommended to me), and in a good Bible study. I am being deliberate in my pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ.
What about you? Have any of you decided what you are going to do to pursue Jesus this summer? I'd love to hear the books you may be reading or any studies you may be attending. (Here's where I shamelessly plug Breaking Free at The Creek powered by Ignite, beginning June 8th.)
Let's be deliberate in our pursuit girls. He is so worth it!
Love you all dearly!
This summer I have decided to do things a little differently. I am going to rest. I am making a conscious decision not to get involved in anything new, not take any summer classes (!) and.... are you ready for this? Drum roll please........ I am giving up TV for the summer! (Did I hear gasps?) Yep, you heard me right. No TV! Not only am I going to rest this summer, I am going to grow. Which part of me is going to grow you may be wondering? Well, sadly I won't be growing a few inches taller like I'd like to, but I am going to take steps to deliberately grow my relationship with Jesus. I have adopted Philippians 3:10 out of the Amplified Version as my summer goal:
"For my determined purpose is to know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His person more strongly and more clearly."
Isn't that just awesome? That's what I'm aiming for this summer. To KNOW Him. I can't think of anything worth pursuing more than that. Hence me giving up TV. (Were you wondering if I was going to get back to that?) That's where the "being deliberate" comes in. During those times I would normally veg in front of the TV, I am instead going to spend time in the Word, in a good book (Jesus by Charles Swindoll has been recommended to me), and in a good Bible study. I am being deliberate in my pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ.
What about you? Have any of you decided what you are going to do to pursue Jesus this summer? I'd love to hear the books you may be reading or any studies you may be attending. (Here's where I shamelessly plug Breaking Free at The Creek powered by Ignite, beginning June 8th.)
Let's be deliberate in our pursuit girls. He is so worth it!
Love you all dearly!
Friday, May 15, 2009
I generally do not like to post a new blog so soon after one has been posted. If you have not read the last post written by Linda under this one please take the time to do so.
For those of you who don't know, I work as a Case Manager at the Salvation Army homeless shelter in downtown Indy. I have been in this position for many years and one of the benefits is getting to know some of the ladies who stay at the shelter very well. I met a special lady about 3 years ago named Sandy. She was one of the funniest people I had ever met. She had me in stitches every time she was in my office. Sandy struggled with alcoholism for almost 2o years. I had watched her fall time and time again, each time trying desperately to start over and stay clean. What broke my heart the most about Sandy was that she believed in Jesus; she had trusted Him to forgive her sins. Sadly, the relationship stopped there. I watched helplessly as Sandy lived her life in bondage. I could almost see the chains that wrapped around her keeping her in a real-life prison where she was unable to live the life God had planned for her. She fell prey to the lies of the enemy, "You'll never be able to stay sober. You are worth nothing. Your life will never amount to anything. God could never use you. You will never be free. You would be better off dead."
Girls, my heart is breaking as I write this. I received the news today that I have feared for years. Sandy passed away suddenly this Wednesday.
Ladies, if you ever hear me say anything, hear me say this; Jesus came to set us FREE. If we are believers in Him, we DO NOT have to live our lives in bondage! ANY bondage! The bondage of addiction, of depression, of guilt and shame as Linda spoke so powerfully about last Monday; ANY bondage!
If you have never done the study "Breaking Free: Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life" please consider doing so with Ignite this summer beginning June 8th. This incredible study teaches believers how to live FREE in Christ.
Life is short girls. Let's not waste it living in bondage, let's live it to the fullest. Let's live every moment of our God-given lives FREE - to His glory.
I love you all dearly.
For those of you who don't know, I work as a Case Manager at the Salvation Army homeless shelter in downtown Indy. I have been in this position for many years and one of the benefits is getting to know some of the ladies who stay at the shelter very well. I met a special lady about 3 years ago named Sandy. She was one of the funniest people I had ever met. She had me in stitches every time she was in my office. Sandy struggled with alcoholism for almost 2o years. I had watched her fall time and time again, each time trying desperately to start over and stay clean. What broke my heart the most about Sandy was that she believed in Jesus; she had trusted Him to forgive her sins. Sadly, the relationship stopped there. I watched helplessly as Sandy lived her life in bondage. I could almost see the chains that wrapped around her keeping her in a real-life prison where she was unable to live the life God had planned for her. She fell prey to the lies of the enemy, "You'll never be able to stay sober. You are worth nothing. Your life will never amount to anything. God could never use you. You will never be free. You would be better off dead."
Girls, my heart is breaking as I write this. I received the news today that I have feared for years. Sandy passed away suddenly this Wednesday.
Ladies, if you ever hear me say anything, hear me say this; Jesus came to set us FREE. If we are believers in Him, we DO NOT have to live our lives in bondage! ANY bondage! The bondage of addiction, of depression, of guilt and shame as Linda spoke so powerfully about last Monday; ANY bondage!
If you have never done the study "Breaking Free: Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life" please consider doing so with Ignite this summer beginning June 8th. This incredible study teaches believers how to live FREE in Christ.
Life is short girls. Let's not waste it living in bondage, let's live it to the fullest. Let's live every moment of our God-given lives FREE - to His glory.
I love you all dearly.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Where are the Adequate Words?
Do you know what I'm talking about, ladies? Has God ever done something so incredibly amazing in your life, or with your life -- and you just did not have words adequate enough to describe how absolutely mind-bogglingly (is that a word?... it is now!) ..how mind-bogglingly GOOD He is??? He did that for me on Monday night and I pray that a huge portion of His goodness was passed on, cuz I know my God loves me, but I also know He didn't just orchestrate Monday night for little ol' me and nobody else.. He did it for all of us.
Our Daddy wants us to experience His intimate grace, purchased at the highest price (have you been on your knees today?) and to spread that grace and goodness like wildfire where we live and BEYOND!!! My mind and heart are so full of that fire, passion, and dreaming I spoke about on Monday night and I never want to quench it again!
Can I share with you something so sweet the Lord did for me on Monday night? Here I go being radically authentic again ~ opening myself up and sharing what is deep inside, sharing things I've only shared with the Lord and those who are closest to me. A little over a year ago, I did Beth Moore's study on the life of David (A Heart Like His). I completed the study on my own (remember, I didn't venture out into women's bible study groups!).. and when I finished the study of his life, I actually said out loud: THAT WAS BEAUTIFUL and I wept with a hope and a longing that at the end of my life, Jesus would say to me "That was beautiful."
On Monday night, the first three women that approached me when our evening concluded, all said the same thing. Can you guess what it was??? They all said, "That was beautiful." I am crying as I write this... how does God DO that?? One of the women even added, "Your testimony is beautiful." And remember that for years I believed the lie that I didn't even HAVE a testimony!!!
Girls, I hope you know that I am not here tooting my own horn today.. NO WAY!! I am here blowing a trumpet for JESUS!!! I am here saying LOOK TO HIM because it is HE who makes us radiant. It is HE who keeps us from covering our faces in shame. And it is He who makes Himself KNOWN to us!!! Those ladies could NEVER have known what those three words would mean to me, but GOD KNEW!!! He knows you that intimately, too!! And I would LOVE to hear how God has shown Himself to you!! And if you aren't quite sure how to answer that, but you are longing for Him to do a work in you, then please know that I am praying for God to show Himself MIGHTY to each and every woman who is or will be a part of Ignite!
Don't forget, our sweet Danielle will be starting Beth Moore's Breaking Free on June 8th at The Creek ~ powered by IGNITE!!! You can reach her through www.ignitewomen.com and click on Contacts.
Live free TODAY!
Our Daddy wants us to experience His intimate grace, purchased at the highest price (have you been on your knees today?) and to spread that grace and goodness like wildfire where we live and BEYOND!!! My mind and heart are so full of that fire, passion, and dreaming I spoke about on Monday night and I never want to quench it again!
Can I share with you something so sweet the Lord did for me on Monday night? Here I go being radically authentic again ~ opening myself up and sharing what is deep inside, sharing things I've only shared with the Lord and those who are closest to me. A little over a year ago, I did Beth Moore's study on the life of David (A Heart Like His). I completed the study on my own (remember, I didn't venture out into women's bible study groups!).. and when I finished the study of his life, I actually said out loud: THAT WAS BEAUTIFUL and I wept with a hope and a longing that at the end of my life, Jesus would say to me "That was beautiful."
On Monday night, the first three women that approached me when our evening concluded, all said the same thing. Can you guess what it was??? They all said, "That was beautiful." I am crying as I write this... how does God DO that?? One of the women even added, "Your testimony is beautiful." And remember that for years I believed the lie that I didn't even HAVE a testimony!!!
Girls, I hope you know that I am not here tooting my own horn today.. NO WAY!! I am here blowing a trumpet for JESUS!!! I am here saying LOOK TO HIM because it is HE who makes us radiant. It is HE who keeps us from covering our faces in shame. And it is He who makes Himself KNOWN to us!!! Those ladies could NEVER have known what those three words would mean to me, but GOD KNEW!!! He knows you that intimately, too!! And I would LOVE to hear how God has shown Himself to you!! And if you aren't quite sure how to answer that, but you are longing for Him to do a work in you, then please know that I am praying for God to show Himself MIGHTY to each and every woman who is or will be a part of Ignite!
Don't forget, our sweet Danielle will be starting Beth Moore's Breaking Free on June 8th at The Creek ~ powered by IGNITE!!! You can reach her through www.ignitewomen.com and click on Contacts.
Live free TODAY!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Told ya so!
Today is one of those rare days when I get to say "I told ya so!" For those of you who were at last night's Ignite meeting, you know exactly what I'm talking about! I told you that Linda had something to say and did she ever! Thank you Linda for being radically transparent and radically authentic in front of us last night and for allowing God to speak through you such an incredible message of grace. All I can say is "Whew!" What an amazing, forgiving, merciful Savior we have.
"Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you." (The Message) Not anyone! Not yourself, not Satan, and not the self-righteous. Let's live FREE girls, just as Christ intends!
I love you all dearly!
"Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you." (The Message) Not anyone! Not yourself, not Satan, and not the self-righteous. Let's live FREE girls, just as Christ intends!
I love you all dearly!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Something to say
Ever had someone say something to you that struck a chord so loudly that you were barely able to hear anything else they said? That happened to me last week during a meeting. Here's what I heard: "When God gives someone something to say, you can tell. And when someone speaks even though God hasn't given them something to say, well, you can tell the difference." Ain't it the truth???!! When you listen to someone speak with such passion that you think they might just explode, and when they open the Word of God and read it with such strong emotion you sense their deep love for the Savior and you find yourself wanting Him more... it's contagious, is it not? On the flip side of that, we all know what it's like to listen to someone merely teach a lesson. We recognize when heart-felt passion is missing. It's obvious when someone has been given something to say by God Himself and it's obvious when someone is, well, just talking!
This Monday night we will be blessed to listen to someone who has been given something to say by God Himself. When I first approached Linda about speaking at Ignite, I knew that God had directed me to her. What I didn't know was that He had been giving her something to say for quite a while! Her willingness to be obedient was confirmed with the tears that began streaming down her face. Listen girls, God has given Linda a message that I have watched well up inside of her for months and it is burning a hole in her soul. When she opens her mouth Monday night, she will speak the Word of God with great boldness and clarity as God has enabled her to do (Acts 4:29, Col 4:4). I can hardly wait.
God has something to say to us on Monday night. Will we listen?
Love you all dearly!
This Monday night we will be blessed to listen to someone who has been given something to say by God Himself. When I first approached Linda about speaking at Ignite, I knew that God had directed me to her. What I didn't know was that He had been giving her something to say for quite a while! Her willingness to be obedient was confirmed with the tears that began streaming down her face. Listen girls, God has given Linda a message that I have watched well up inside of her for months and it is burning a hole in her soul. When she opens her mouth Monday night, she will speak the Word of God with great boldness and clarity as God has enabled her to do (Acts 4:29, Col 4:4). I can hardly wait.
God has something to say to us on Monday night. Will we listen?
Love you all dearly!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Responses NEEDED for May Ignite Lesson on GUILT
Hi ladies ~ would you be so kind as to post a LIE or two (or more!) that Satan has used against you in battling guilt and/or shame in your life? Whether past or present... just think about the LIES you've heard him speak to you over 'that issue' or 'that sin'. You know the issue or sin because he has tried to make sure you NEVER forget! Feel free to post anonymously if you'd like!
THANK YOU!!!
THANK YOU!!!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Our Promised Land
Hi ladies!!!! I'm still pondering the beautiful truth that Paulette spoke so clearly to us on Monday night:
What was true for the Israelites in the PHYSICAL sense is true for New Testament believers in the SPIRITUAL sense.
We could have lesson after lesson on this glorious, deep truth alone!!! I've been encouraged to remember and apply this to my life ANY and EVERY time I study Old Testament scriptures related to God's chosen nation. As New Testament believers, we have become part of His chosen people and there is sooooo much we can glean from what God has done through His people already!!!
I've always loved the term "promised land". There's something so wonderful about it, sooo... well ... PROMISING! And even more so, because the promise comes from God ~ and so we know absolutely, no doubt about it, that He is faithful and will keep His promise!! Each and every one of us has a promised land that God has planned for us to live here on earth before we get to the ultimate promised land of Heaven!!!
I don't know about you, but that gets me EXCITED and I am determined to WALK IN IT!!! I have wasted so many years of my life in the desert, wandering around ~ worshipping other gods ~ trying to find that certain something to satisfy my emptiness, my craving ~ and yet all that searching for something or someone other than Jesus just produces pain and heartache and CONSEQUENCE. I am SO DONE with that kind of life and I believe the women of IGNITE are, too!
I believe we are all longing for a deeper relationship with Jesus and with one another.. and IGNITE is the beginning of something BIG that God is doing in our community! May we never, ever again be like the Israelites who said it would be better to return to Egypt! NO WAY, JOSE!!! We will not give in to the enticements of the enemy.
We will choose TRUTH! (His word is truth)
We will choose to THINK DIFFERENTLY! (by renewing our minds with THE WORD)
We will choose to BELIEVE GOD! (not the old familiar lies of the enemy)
We will choose to make PHYSICAL CHANGES! (replacing sinful habits with God-honoring obedience - resulting in JOY and PEACE)
Thank you, Paulette, for sharing your heart.. and God's heart.. with us on this matter of idols.
He alone is worthy and the women of Ignite will lift up His Name alone!!!
AMEN?? Let's hear from you, sisters! What is God doing in YOUR life this week?
What was true for the Israelites in the PHYSICAL sense is true for New Testament believers in the SPIRITUAL sense.
We could have lesson after lesson on this glorious, deep truth alone!!! I've been encouraged to remember and apply this to my life ANY and EVERY time I study Old Testament scriptures related to God's chosen nation. As New Testament believers, we have become part of His chosen people and there is sooooo much we can glean from what God has done through His people already!!!
I've always loved the term "promised land". There's something so wonderful about it, sooo... well ... PROMISING! And even more so, because the promise comes from God ~ and so we know absolutely, no doubt about it, that He is faithful and will keep His promise!! Each and every one of us has a promised land that God has planned for us to live here on earth before we get to the ultimate promised land of Heaven!!!
I don't know about you, but that gets me EXCITED and I am determined to WALK IN IT!!! I have wasted so many years of my life in the desert, wandering around ~ worshipping other gods ~ trying to find that certain something to satisfy my emptiness, my craving ~ and yet all that searching for something or someone other than Jesus just produces pain and heartache and CONSEQUENCE. I am SO DONE with that kind of life and I believe the women of IGNITE are, too!
I believe we are all longing for a deeper relationship with Jesus and with one another.. and IGNITE is the beginning of something BIG that God is doing in our community! May we never, ever again be like the Israelites who said it would be better to return to Egypt! NO WAY, JOSE!!! We will not give in to the enticements of the enemy.
We will choose TRUTH! (His word is truth)
We will choose to THINK DIFFERENTLY! (by renewing our minds with THE WORD)
We will choose to BELIEVE GOD! (not the old familiar lies of the enemy)
We will choose to make PHYSICAL CHANGES! (replacing sinful habits with God-honoring obedience - resulting in JOY and PEACE)
Thank you, Paulette, for sharing your heart.. and God's heart.. with us on this matter of idols.
He alone is worthy and the women of Ignite will lift up His Name alone!!!
AMEN?? Let's hear from you, sisters! What is God doing in YOUR life this week?
Friday, April 10, 2009
Come Home
Along with many of you, I am reflecting today on the amazing sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus. I am humbled, broken, and in awe of Him. I am sooo incredibly in love with Him and would be nothing without Him ~ nothing. Can anyone relate???? I bet you can!
I'd like to share the words of a song by Stephanie Wojnicki. She is my former pastor's daughter from Missouri. I watched her grow up physically and spiritually. She is beautiful inside and out, and is now married to a pastor herself! This is what Stephanie says about the inspiration for this song:
God planned an unlikely meeting some time ago between a woman who was dying from kidney failure and myself. The reality that she faced both spiritual death and imminent physical death put me on my knees, praying she would run into the arms of Christ. My experience of sharing the gospel with this woman caused me to ponder the scope of God’s redemptive plan.
The song is titled Come Home:
Before the earth was formed, the Father ordained a plan
To send His dear beloved Son to rescue the souls of man
The Savior died upon the cross, our sins He did atone
To purchase a possession, a people for His own
I see it in your eyes, the sorrow and pain you bear
Besieged with doubts, alarmed, and burdened with every care
He frees you from the weight of sin, He pardons and forgives
His promised yoke is easy, He died so that you might live
Come home, O weary one, come home
The Father waits for you with open arms
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father looks with joy to welcome you
O Sinner, lift your eyes; Behold the Crucified
He has conquered all your foes! Death cowers at His side!!!
The Spirit beckons you with strength that's not your own
You rise and give Him GLORY ~ the Lamb upon His throne!
Welcome home, my dear child, welcome home
You'll join the glorious song of the redeemed!!
Welcome home, dear child, welcome home
We'll praise our Savior through eternity!
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father waits for you with open arms
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father runs with joy to welcome you!
You can hear an excerpt of Stephanie singing this beautiful song at www.stephaniewojnicki.com
Just click on 'launch music player' and select the song Come Home.
I pray that this Resurrection Sunday will be a time of great rejoicing and celebration for everything that Jesus has accomplished on our behalf! What amazing love.. what amazing grace.. and we are HIS!!!! Praise You, Jesus!!!!!
I'd like to share the words of a song by Stephanie Wojnicki. She is my former pastor's daughter from Missouri. I watched her grow up physically and spiritually. She is beautiful inside and out, and is now married to a pastor herself! This is what Stephanie says about the inspiration for this song:
God planned an unlikely meeting some time ago between a woman who was dying from kidney failure and myself. The reality that she faced both spiritual death and imminent physical death put me on my knees, praying she would run into the arms of Christ. My experience of sharing the gospel with this woman caused me to ponder the scope of God’s redemptive plan.
The song is titled Come Home:
Before the earth was formed, the Father ordained a plan
To send His dear beloved Son to rescue the souls of man
The Savior died upon the cross, our sins He did atone
To purchase a possession, a people for His own
I see it in your eyes, the sorrow and pain you bear
Besieged with doubts, alarmed, and burdened with every care
He frees you from the weight of sin, He pardons and forgives
His promised yoke is easy, He died so that you might live
Come home, O weary one, come home
The Father waits for you with open arms
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father looks with joy to welcome you
O Sinner, lift your eyes; Behold the Crucified
He has conquered all your foes! Death cowers at His side!!!
The Spirit beckons you with strength that's not your own
You rise and give Him GLORY ~ the Lamb upon His throne!
Welcome home, my dear child, welcome home
You'll join the glorious song of the redeemed!!
Welcome home, dear child, welcome home
We'll praise our Savior through eternity!
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father waits for you with open arms
Come home, weary one, come home
The Father runs with joy to welcome you!
You can hear an excerpt of Stephanie singing this beautiful song at www.stephaniewojnicki.com
Just click on 'launch music player' and select the song Come Home.
I pray that this Resurrection Sunday will be a time of great rejoicing and celebration for everything that Jesus has accomplished on our behalf! What amazing love.. what amazing grace.. and we are HIS!!!! Praise You, Jesus!!!!!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Be on Your Guard
Hello dear ladies, it is 2:09 and my cell phone alarm has just rung, reminding me to pray against evil. And pray I will ~ I'll be right back!!
Our pastor challenged us as a congregation a couple weeks ago to pray at 2:09 every day of 2009 (that's where the 2:09 came from).. specifically to pray against darkness; against evil. In taking up this challenge, I have been made keenly aware that we are truly at war ~ NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD, not against each other ~ but "against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
I have truly been in a spiritual battle over the last several days and I've not always been victorious! Yet in recognizing what is happening, my vision has cleared, my faith has been strengthened, and my resolve made firm. Our God REIGNS and He is VICTORIOUS. Satan would like nothing more than to sit us on the sidelines for the rest of the 'game', rendering us ineffective and useless to the cause of Christ. May it never be!!! Jesus paid too high a price for us to sit on the bench (or in the pew) and act as though nothing special has taken place. Something ~ make that Someone ~ SPECIAL has taken His place in your heart the day you asked him to do so. Live in the GLORY He created you for... live the STORY He created you for.. and if you don't yet know what that is... ASK HIM!!!
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5
A little side note here.. after Pastor Gary issued the challenge, I mentioned to some of our Ignite gals that our verse is also '209' - Jer. 20:9!! So 2:09 is also a time that I specifially pray for every woman who IS and who WILL BE a part of Ignite!!! And for GOD to be glorified in and through each one of us.
Remember to be on your guard!!!
"Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be (wo)men of courage; be strong."
Our pastor challenged us as a congregation a couple weeks ago to pray at 2:09 every day of 2009 (that's where the 2:09 came from).. specifically to pray against darkness; against evil. In taking up this challenge, I have been made keenly aware that we are truly at war ~ NOT AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD, not against each other ~ but "against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
I have truly been in a spiritual battle over the last several days and I've not always been victorious! Yet in recognizing what is happening, my vision has cleared, my faith has been strengthened, and my resolve made firm. Our God REIGNS and He is VICTORIOUS. Satan would like nothing more than to sit us on the sidelines for the rest of the 'game', rendering us ineffective and useless to the cause of Christ. May it never be!!! Jesus paid too high a price for us to sit on the bench (or in the pew) and act as though nothing special has taken place. Something ~ make that Someone ~ SPECIAL has taken His place in your heart the day you asked him to do so. Live in the GLORY He created you for... live the STORY He created you for.. and if you don't yet know what that is... ASK HIM!!!
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5
A little side note here.. after Pastor Gary issued the challenge, I mentioned to some of our Ignite gals that our verse is also '209' - Jer. 20:9!! So 2:09 is also a time that I specifially pray for every woman who IS and who WILL BE a part of Ignite!!! And for GOD to be glorified in and through each one of us.
Remember to be on your guard!!!
"Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be (wo)men of courage; be strong."
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Lesson Assistance
Hey Ladies! Hope you are all well and I sure am looking forward to April 13th! This month seems to be going on forever and ever....
I need your help.....I am in the process of writing the next lesson for Ignite titled "No other gods" and it's dealing with idol worship. I would love your input on what you think idol worship might look like in the life of a Believer in Christ. Can't wait to hear from you!
I need your help.....I am in the process of writing the next lesson for Ignite titled "No other gods" and it's dealing with idol worship. I would love your input on what you think idol worship might look like in the life of a Believer in Christ. Can't wait to hear from you!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Be of One Mind
"Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude." 1 Peter 3:8
Hi girls! I've been pondering the beauty of our unity in Christ today. Our prayer, the cry of our hearts, is that Ignite will be a place where ALL OF US will forge a bond of unity, of love, of RADICAL AUTHENTICITY with one another.
The night that Jesus was arrested, he was pouring out his heart to his Father.. and my sweet sisters in Christ, he prayed for US that night. Just after praying for his disciples, he prayed for "all who will ever believe in me through their (the disciples') message". Have you believed in him??? Then that's YOU!! And guess what he prayed? That we would be ONE. That we would be brought to COMPLETE UNITY. Jesus was about to face an excrutiating death.. and his prayer was that we be ONE. I'd say it's pretty important to him that we put aside petty differences, critical attitudes, judgemental spirits, etc.. and be UNITED to one another in love.
Ladies, let's continue the process of removing those silly and useless masks of "perfection" because there is no one without sin. It is a scheme of the devil to keep us silent about our struggles. It is the admission of our struggles and sinfulness that set us free and make Jesus all the more attractive.. and make His glory shine that much brighter to those around us. If we were saved from a perfect life, then what's the big deal and who are we equipped to help? And if our lives are really so perfect, then why would we even need saving? And what do we have to offer to others who are hurting, grieving, or to those struggling to overcome an addiction or sinful behavior? I don't know about you, but I was saved from a life of FILTH, SELFISHNESS, IMMORALITY, PAIN, SELF-DESTRUCTION... and yes, I could go on! But I've got a message of hope.. and his name is Jesus Christ!!!
Ladies, let's seriously remove the mask, heed the call to be unified in Him by 'getting real'... and then: "Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days - you would not believe if you were told." Habakkuk 1:5
That's the kind of awesome Savior we serve.. and the kind of excitement you can expect from a life of loving Him and others!!!!
Hi girls! I've been pondering the beauty of our unity in Christ today. Our prayer, the cry of our hearts, is that Ignite will be a place where ALL OF US will forge a bond of unity, of love, of RADICAL AUTHENTICITY with one another.
The night that Jesus was arrested, he was pouring out his heart to his Father.. and my sweet sisters in Christ, he prayed for US that night. Just after praying for his disciples, he prayed for "all who will ever believe in me through their (the disciples') message". Have you believed in him??? Then that's YOU!! And guess what he prayed? That we would be ONE. That we would be brought to COMPLETE UNITY. Jesus was about to face an excrutiating death.. and his prayer was that we be ONE. I'd say it's pretty important to him that we put aside petty differences, critical attitudes, judgemental spirits, etc.. and be UNITED to one another in love.
Ladies, let's continue the process of removing those silly and useless masks of "perfection" because there is no one without sin. It is a scheme of the devil to keep us silent about our struggles. It is the admission of our struggles and sinfulness that set us free and make Jesus all the more attractive.. and make His glory shine that much brighter to those around us. If we were saved from a perfect life, then what's the big deal and who are we equipped to help? And if our lives are really so perfect, then why would we even need saving? And what do we have to offer to others who are hurting, grieving, or to those struggling to overcome an addiction or sinful behavior? I don't know about you, but I was saved from a life of FILTH, SELFISHNESS, IMMORALITY, PAIN, SELF-DESTRUCTION... and yes, I could go on! But I've got a message of hope.. and his name is Jesus Christ!!!
Ladies, let's seriously remove the mask, heed the call to be unified in Him by 'getting real'... and then: "Look among the nations! Observe! Be astonished! Wonder! Because I am doing something in your days - you would not believe if you were told." Habakkuk 1:5
That's the kind of awesome Savior we serve.. and the kind of excitement you can expect from a life of loving Him and others!!!!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Love... even when it hurts.
Ladies, I loved our time together last night!!! I know some of you couldn't make it and we missed your sweet faces and fellowship. We are praying for all of you and for the specific requests turned in last night. Rest assured, we consider it a high privilege and priority to pray for you, our beloved sisters! Thank you, Stephanie and Dianne, for your continued willingness to feed us a helping of the Word when we meet. God is truly glorified in and through you.
I'd like to share something God has been speaking to my heart lately.. and that is the title of the post: Love - even when it hurts. Love - even when you don't feel like loving. Because this, sweet sisters, is the love that God speaks of in 1 Corinthians 13. We know those beautiful and irritating words, don't we ~ Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, etc. Can any of us live up to this type of loving others? I believe the answer is YES!!! Our love for Jesus compels us and indeed, makes it our privilege and JOY, to lay down our own desires, our own demands, our own 'rightness' (even when we really are right!!) in order to demonstrate love to someone who may not even want love from us.. or perhaps to someone who has been desperately in need of it. This is EXACTLY how God loves YOU and ME!!!!
His love for you is patient, his love for you is kind. God does not envy, boast, or display arrogance. God is not rude or demanding of his own way. He is not irritated by you and he keeps NO RECORD of being wronged by you. He doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices in truth. God's love never gives up on you!! His love for you means he never loses faith in you!! (And NEVER means NEVER!) He is always hopeful toward you and endures with you through every, single circumstance of life!!!
Revel in the love of your Savior today, girls. Say it out loud - Jesus, I love you. Jesus, you love me!! You really, really love ME. And then go share that love with others... even when it hurts. Even when you don't feel like it. Even when you get nothing in return. Even if the person never, ever acknowledges your kindness toward them. Because God in heaven, whose eyes are always upon you, will see - and He will take notice - and He will reward the love you demonstrate to others in FAITH. And surely YOU will be changed, even if no one else is!
Matthew 5:46-48 (The Message)
"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. In a word, what I'm saying is, 'Grow up'. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
We've probably all heard the phrase live by faith. Let's follow the example of our Lord Jesus: lay down self, take up our cross daily, and love by faith.
I'd like to share something God has been speaking to my heart lately.. and that is the title of the post: Love - even when it hurts. Love - even when you don't feel like loving. Because this, sweet sisters, is the love that God speaks of in 1 Corinthians 13. We know those beautiful and irritating words, don't we ~ Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, etc. Can any of us live up to this type of loving others? I believe the answer is YES!!! Our love for Jesus compels us and indeed, makes it our privilege and JOY, to lay down our own desires, our own demands, our own 'rightness' (even when we really are right!!) in order to demonstrate love to someone who may not even want love from us.. or perhaps to someone who has been desperately in need of it. This is EXACTLY how God loves YOU and ME!!!!
His love for you is patient, his love for you is kind. God does not envy, boast, or display arrogance. God is not rude or demanding of his own way. He is not irritated by you and he keeps NO RECORD of being wronged by you. He doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices in truth. God's love never gives up on you!! His love for you means he never loses faith in you!! (And NEVER means NEVER!) He is always hopeful toward you and endures with you through every, single circumstance of life!!!
Revel in the love of your Savior today, girls. Say it out loud - Jesus, I love you. Jesus, you love me!! You really, really love ME. And then go share that love with others... even when it hurts. Even when you don't feel like it. Even when you get nothing in return. Even if the person never, ever acknowledges your kindness toward them. Because God in heaven, whose eyes are always upon you, will see - and He will take notice - and He will reward the love you demonstrate to others in FAITH. And surely YOU will be changed, even if no one else is!
Matthew 5:46-48 (The Message)
"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. In a word, what I'm saying is, 'Grow up'. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
We've probably all heard the phrase live by faith. Let's follow the example of our Lord Jesus: lay down self, take up our cross daily, and love by faith.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Big Enough
I heard several of you say Monday night after Dianne spoke, "That was exactly what I needed to hear." Isn't that just like God? To meet us right where we are; whether it be in joy, sorrow or unspeakable pain, He meets with us and gives us what we need.
Some of you may not know, but Rhoda - our vigilant prayer warrior who heads up our prayer team, is home after a full knee replacement surgery this past week. After everyone left Monday, I went around and picked up your prayer cards and since Rhoda wasn't there, I carried them home with me with the intention of giving them to her this week. Early Tuesday morning during my time with Jesus, I pulled those cards out to pray over them and girls... I bawled my eyes out. I was overwhelmed by the hurt and pain some of you are dealing with, the vast needs and concerns including lost loved ones, broken marriages, lost jobs, financial crises, bondage due to things done in the past, and the list goes on. As I brought these before the Lord I was literally caught off guard with an intense feeling of helplessness. Then God sweetly reminded me of what I prayed Monday night before Dianne spoke. I acknowledged to God that He and He alone knows intimately all of the need that was represented there in the chapel that night. Then He spoke gently, "Paulette, not only am I aware of all the need, I am big enough to handle it." I started thinking about the immensity of that one statement. When I go before the Lord on my knees and pour my heart out to Him, He meets me there. I am at times so completely overwhelmed by His Presence that I can't even speak. I know He hears my every cry, my every petition, my every groaning and complaint. He doesn't just hear it...He's present with me in it. He takes the time to feel what I am feeling. Imagine that. The Creator of the universe takes the time to feel what I am feeling. Then I imagined each of you crying out to God in much the same way. He is just as present with you as He is with me. Only God can make us each feel as if we are the only one He is listening to at the moment. He is simultaneously present with us each individually. Blows my mind! I suppose my point is this: I can continue to pour out my heart to Him over all my needs and over all your needs and not have to feel overwhelmed because He is big enough to handle it! Praise God! He's Big Enough! I get to cast it all on Him. I guess if I had to sum it all up I'd say this: God is blowing me away with His "Big-ness" this week!
Thank you to those of you who took the time to fill out the prayer request cards. I pray you find peace and comfort in the One that is big enough to handle all of your hurts; past and present. Remember, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18
Some of you may not know, but Rhoda - our vigilant prayer warrior who heads up our prayer team, is home after a full knee replacement surgery this past week. After everyone left Monday, I went around and picked up your prayer cards and since Rhoda wasn't there, I carried them home with me with the intention of giving them to her this week. Early Tuesday morning during my time with Jesus, I pulled those cards out to pray over them and girls... I bawled my eyes out. I was overwhelmed by the hurt and pain some of you are dealing with, the vast needs and concerns including lost loved ones, broken marriages, lost jobs, financial crises, bondage due to things done in the past, and the list goes on. As I brought these before the Lord I was literally caught off guard with an intense feeling of helplessness. Then God sweetly reminded me of what I prayed Monday night before Dianne spoke. I acknowledged to God that He and He alone knows intimately all of the need that was represented there in the chapel that night. Then He spoke gently, "Paulette, not only am I aware of all the need, I am big enough to handle it." I started thinking about the immensity of that one statement. When I go before the Lord on my knees and pour my heart out to Him, He meets me there. I am at times so completely overwhelmed by His Presence that I can't even speak. I know He hears my every cry, my every petition, my every groaning and complaint. He doesn't just hear it...He's present with me in it. He takes the time to feel what I am feeling. Imagine that. The Creator of the universe takes the time to feel what I am feeling. Then I imagined each of you crying out to God in much the same way. He is just as present with you as He is with me. Only God can make us each feel as if we are the only one He is listening to at the moment. He is simultaneously present with us each individually. Blows my mind! I suppose my point is this: I can continue to pour out my heart to Him over all my needs and over all your needs and not have to feel overwhelmed because He is big enough to handle it! Praise God! He's Big Enough! I get to cast it all on Him. I guess if I had to sum it all up I'd say this: God is blowing me away with His "Big-ness" this week!
Thank you to those of you who took the time to fill out the prayer request cards. I pray you find peace and comfort in the One that is big enough to handle all of your hurts; past and present. Remember, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
The Big Event
All right ladies, we want to hear from you! We had a super great time on Monday night at the Ignite kick-off event and if you were there, we would love to find out what it meant to you.
Please share with us in your comments your thoughts about the following questions:
What really spoke to your heart Monday night?
Did you have an expectation when you came to the event that was met or unmet?
Do you attend The Creek or are you a sister in Christ from another church?
What do you hope to learn or gain from this semester's topic of "Radical Authenticity?"
Or, share something not listed above ~ whatever you like!
Can't wait to hear from you!
Please share with us in your comments your thoughts about the following questions:
What really spoke to your heart Monday night?
Did you have an expectation when you came to the event that was met or unmet?
Do you attend The Creek or are you a sister in Christ from another church?
What do you hope to learn or gain from this semester's topic of "Radical Authenticity?"
Or, share something not listed above ~ whatever you like!
Can't wait to hear from you!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Wanna Quit?
Tired? Frustrated? Irritated? Hopeless? Have you ever felt this way after you have spent a considerable amount of time praying for someone and have yet to see the fruit of those prayers? Are we to think that God isn't hearing us or that the ones we are praying for are too far out of His reach? I regret to admit that not too long ago I realized that I allowed my frustration to win. Because I had not seen any visible answers to my prayers for a certain person(s), I slowly but surely quit praying for them. Whoa. Isn't that exactly what the enemy wanted me to do?!? Not too long ago, I heard a story about a grandmother who faithfully prayed for her grandson. This child had no interest in God and grew into adulthood still having no interest in God. Still, the grandmother prayed. And prayed. And then prayed some more. This grandmother went to her grave without ever seeing any change in her grandson. Then years later, through circumstances and situations that only God could orchestrate, this grandson gave his life to Christ. Don't you know that grandmother was rejoicing in heaven with the angels over the salvation of her grandson? Girls, we have GOT to keep praying. "Pray without ceasing" is what the Apostle Paul tells us to do. Even when we don't see God's hand moving, we must believe that it is! In fact, we can KNOW that He is up to something. How can we know? Check out Isaiah 55:10-11:
"As the rain and snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, So is My Word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Becoming frustrated and tired to the point of giving up is exactly what the enemy is counting on. Let's stand firm girls and trust that as we are praying God's Word for those we love, He is indeed up to something, whether we can see it or not. Let's walk (and pray) by faith, not by sight. He says His Word will accomplish what He desires - Let's believe Him for it.
"...night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers..." 2 Timothy 1:3
"As the rain and snow come down from heaven and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, So is My Word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Becoming frustrated and tired to the point of giving up is exactly what the enemy is counting on. Let's stand firm girls and trust that as we are praying God's Word for those we love, He is indeed up to something, whether we can see it or not. Let's walk (and pray) by faith, not by sight. He says His Word will accomplish what He desires - Let's believe Him for it.
"...night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers..." 2 Timothy 1:3
Friday, January 16, 2009
Details, Details...
God is in the details.
God is in YOUR details.
Sometimes we just need to hear that, don't we?
See you soon...
God is in YOUR details.
Sometimes we just need to hear that, don't we?
See you soon...
Thursday, January 8, 2009
A little clarity....
Hey Ladies!
I hear there has been some confusion as to when we are kicking off Ignite again. Please check the home page of the website, www.ignitewomen.com, for all the upcoming meetings.
We're pretty pumped up about our first night on the 26th of this month! We're throwing an event complete with a praise and worship band in the chapel!! I hope to see you all there with a bunch of new faces so bring your girlfriends!! I'm praying for God to show up in a big way! Just this morning one of my girlfriends said to me, "I believe God is gearing up to set some hearts free this semester!" Yes, Jesus! May it be so!!
Can't wait to see you all again!!
Paulette :-)
I hear there has been some confusion as to when we are kicking off Ignite again. Please check the home page of the website, www.ignitewomen.com, for all the upcoming meetings.
We're pretty pumped up about our first night on the 26th of this month! We're throwing an event complete with a praise and worship band in the chapel!! I hope to see you all there with a bunch of new faces so bring your girlfriends!! I'm praying for God to show up in a big way! Just this morning one of my girlfriends said to me, "I believe God is gearing up to set some hearts free this semester!" Yes, Jesus! May it be so!!
Can't wait to see you all again!!
Paulette :-)
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Hey, this is fun! Me, talkin' to U!
My mom taught me that you should learn something new everyday. It doesn't have to be earth shattering, just a tidbit will do. What a wonderful lesson, it's like the gift that keeps on giving! Well, today I learned (again) how to get on here and add a post to our blog! So now I feel a little bit smarter, and perhaps a little powerful as well! I'd better watch myself, this strength is going to my head!
Now while I have your attention, allow me to take a moment and share something that has been plucking at my heart since I first learned about it. It is the base of this coming semester with Ignite. We are focusing on radical authenticity, being real, taking off the mask, peeling the layers away, I think you get the picture. This is going to such a powerful, dig-deep-into-the-Word, God blessed, devil smashing, hold me Jesus type of semester! There's a part of me that can't wait to get started, and a part of me that's ready to bolt. Feel the same? Good! Now I don't feel so alone. I'm ready to face my fears, conquer my giants,and see my Armor sparkling in the Son! Whew, get ready, set, see you gals on the 26th!
Now while I have your attention, allow me to take a moment and share something that has been plucking at my heart since I first learned about it. It is the base of this coming semester with Ignite. We are focusing on radical authenticity, being real, taking off the mask, peeling the layers away, I think you get the picture. This is going to such a powerful, dig-deep-into-the-Word, God blessed, devil smashing, hold me Jesus type of semester! There's a part of me that can't wait to get started, and a part of me that's ready to bolt. Feel the same? Good! Now I don't feel so alone. I'm ready to face my fears, conquer my giants,and see my Armor sparkling in the Son! Whew, get ready, set, see you gals on the 26th!
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