Wow. I just survived three days out of town with no car, no cell phone (and therefore no one's phone number), and NO INTERNET!! It is a miracle that I did not lose my mind. There are people who really appreciate an opportunity to be disconnected from the world and all alone in a little bubble. I am not one of them.
It was a really great weekend, though. We took a group of students to a conference in Chicago, and while the other leaders and kids went to the sessions I stayed home with the Caleb and Alison. It was hard to stay back knowing that they were having amazing experiences and phenomenal worship at the convention center. But it was a good opportunity for me, too.
Last week before we left I wrote about letting go. This weekend I realized that one of the things that I need to surrender to God is you. More specifically, our students; the young people in my life who I am so longing to see turn their lives over to Christ.
Matt and I can only do so much to draw these kids to God. Its kinda like the old saying, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink." But its hard to watch people you love making choices that lead them away from Jesus. It is SO hard to sit and listen to the conversation among girls who are finding their identity, security, and fullness in things that will ultimately leave them empty.
I love them all so much, but I have to let go. God has brought us here to tell the world (or, at least the Northwoods) about Himself. I need to be faithful with that, but then I need to trust Him to do the work inside. It isn't up to me if any of our young students choose to turn from life as they know it and follow Jesus. It is a choice that they have to make; one that God has to initiate within.
It was nice being there this weekend, despite the complete communication withdrawal. A good reminder that I am not in control and that it is not up to me.
Let go. Let God. And pray without ceasing for the ones you love who aren't convinced that He's worth it.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Letting Go
Have you ever heard that catchy Christian phrase "Let go and let God!"?? It is one that I usually say sarcastically. . . mostly because I have a general distaste for catch phrases like that one, which have the potential to create a completely wrong view of Christianity and God.
But you know what? The lessons I have been learning lately are making me rethink my sarcastic use of that phrase. I think I might actually have to take it seriously and allow it to challenge me and convict me.
You see, there a
re things in life right now that have me worried. I worry about our future, about our ministry, and about my kids. I don't know what is in store, and the more I worry the more I worry (I know that sentence doesn't make sense, but that's how it works). So what do I tend to do when things seem a little confusing and worry consumes me?
I hold on a little tighter, I try a little harder, and I exhaust myself in the process.
I wrap my little fingers around my dreams until the blood drains out. I consume myself with making sure the dreams come true and my plans succeed - which is an interesting pursuit when I remember that ultimately I have no control over what happens in the bigger picture of my life.
So what do we learn from "Let go and let God"? We learn to loosen our grip. Instead of holding on to our desires with every last ounce of our strength, we surrender them to God. I like
to think of it as holding them on open palms laid before our Savior. Letting go doesn't mean that the dreams don't come true. . . it only means that we have finally decided it will be ok either way.
I'm learning to let go and let God. Every day is an opportunity to choose to trust Him and not the plans that I want to make. It helps to remember how desperately and deeply He loves me. It is good to meditate on the truth of His word and the promises He has made. Sometimes it makes me laugh to think how hard I try to hold on to my own dreams and plans. . .
Let go. Let God. His plans are better than ours anyway.
But you know what? The lessons I have been learning lately are making me rethink my sarcastic use of that phrase. I think I might actually have to take it seriously and allow it to challenge me and convict me.
You see, there a
re things in life right now that have me worried. I worry about our future, about our ministry, and about my kids. I don't know what is in store, and the more I worry the more I worry (I know that sentence doesn't make sense, but that's how it works). So what do I tend to do when things seem a little confusing and worry consumes me?I hold on a little tighter, I try a little harder, and I exhaust myself in the process.
I wrap my little fingers around my dreams until the blood drains out. I consume myself with making sure the dreams come true and my plans succeed - which is an interesting pursuit when I remember that ultimately I have no control over what happens in the bigger picture of my life.
So what do we learn from "Let go and let God"? We learn to loosen our grip. Instead of holding on to our desires with every last ounce of our strength, we surrender them to God. I like
to think of it as holding them on open palms laid before our Savior. Letting go doesn't mean that the dreams don't come true. . . it only means that we have finally decided it will be ok either way.I'm learning to let go and let God. Every day is an opportunity to choose to trust Him and not the plans that I want to make. It helps to remember how desperately and deeply He loves me. It is good to meditate on the truth of His word and the promises He has made. Sometimes it makes me laugh to think how hard I try to hold on to my own dreams and plans. . .
Let go. Let God. His plans are better than ours anyway.
If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Mixed Signals
Well, I watched "The Price of Beauty" last night. I was curious after blogging about it if my assumptions were right or not. First of all, I can assure you that I will probably never be watching it again. Secondly, I am amazed at how people can be so oblivious to the complete contradictions that they are living and promoting (myself included).
On one hand, Jessica and her team had an opportunity to partake in many of the traditional beauty regimes of women in Thailand. Jessica said that she is searching for true beauty and is hoping that experiencing all of these different traditions and regimes will help. On the other hand, they were introduced to a woman whose skin was completely deformed by the creams that she was encouraged to use in order to lighten her skin. Jessica felt so badly for her and through tears tried to encourage her to keep her head held high and trust that things will be ok.
Then she immediately moved on in her search to find real beauty. And I found that to be seriously disturbing. . . because the lesson that we should learn from women like the one whose skin was completely destroyed in the pursuit of beauty (according to her own culture's standards) is that maybe pursuing beauty isn't exactly a healthy pursuit.
This whole issue of beauty and how we try to comfort those who are insecure has bothered me for years. When I was in college I went to a seminar for girls who struggle with insecurity and body image issues. I was really excited about it, until about 5 minutes in. The speaker was a young Christian woman who had struggled with eating disorders and insecurities for several years. Her story was powerful, but there was one really enormous elephant in the room that made it difficult to allow her story to change my life. She was beautiful. She was actually a beauty queen (a pageant girl), and her clothes and makeup and hairdo make me feel completely inadequate. I left that seminar feeling more self conscious that I did when I walked in. I wasn't listening to what she said about beauty, I was analyzing the ways that she made herself beautiful.
So here is the rub. We tell girls not to worry about being beautiful, but we're hypocrites because we worry about it too. We say it is ok to look nice as long as it doesn't become too consuming or trump our desire to please God, but I think this mixed message is doing more damage for some girls than good.
You know what I would love to see? I would really love to go to a seminar for girls on body image issues and have the speaker be totally average according to this world's standards. I would love to see someone standing up there in a t-shirt and jeans with no makeup. . . How awesome to see the self confidence of a woman who can truly say that she has given up the search for beauty and replaced it with the search for Christ.
If you want to make a list of the hypocrites in the Christian world who want to say those things but struggle to lay aside the beauty search you can put me at the top of the list. I'm not saying all of this because I am so spiritually mature that I don't struggle with it. I just know deep in my heart that if we want to convince young women to stop destroying themselves in an attempt to be more beautiful, then we have to actually stop doing it to ourselves and trying to cover it up or play it down.
Beauty comes from within. It comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. It comes in many forms that our culture might reject, but that God made out of intimate love and grace. A few months ago I blogged about not wearing makeup. You know, that isn't such a bad idea. We could all stand a little less obsessing about ourselves. . . and then when we're in the grocery store and we run into a young girl we know from church, or school, or work who is struggling with her appearance and feeling unpretty. . . well, maybe she'll find a little relief in knowing that we don't always look perfect either.
It isn't inherently wrong or sinful to wear make up or be beautiful. But I do think that for those of us who are mentors and examples for young women trying to walk with God, we need to remember that they watch us more than they listen. They will know what we value most by looking at our lives and how we present ourselves. I don't just want to tell them that they are beautiful no matter how God uniquely made them. I want to convince them that it is true by living my life in such a way that exemplifies this kind of attitude.
On one hand, Jessica and her team had an opportunity to partake in many of the traditional beauty regimes of women in Thailand. Jessica said that she is searching for true beauty and is hoping that experiencing all of these different traditions and regimes will help. On the other hand, they were introduced to a woman whose skin was completely deformed by the creams that she was encouraged to use in order to lighten her skin. Jessica felt so badly for her and through tears tried to encourage her to keep her head held high and trust that things will be ok.
Then she immediately moved on in her search to find real beauty. And I found that to be seriously disturbing. . . because the lesson that we should learn from women like the one whose skin was completely destroyed in the pursuit of beauty (according to her own culture's standards) is that maybe pursuing beauty isn't exactly a healthy pursuit.
This whole issue of beauty and how we try to comfort those who are insecure has bothered me for years. When I was in college I went to a seminar for girls who struggle with insecurity and body image issues. I was really excited about it, until about 5 minutes in. The speaker was a young Christian woman who had struggled with eating disorders and insecurities for several years. Her story was powerful, but there was one really enormous elephant in the room that made it difficult to allow her story to change my life. She was beautiful. She was actually a beauty queen (a pageant girl), and her clothes and makeup and hairdo make me feel completely inadequate. I left that seminar feeling more self conscious that I did when I walked in. I wasn't listening to what she said about beauty, I was analyzing the ways that she made herself beautiful.
So here is the rub. We tell girls not to worry about being beautiful, but we're hypocrites because we worry about it too. We say it is ok to look nice as long as it doesn't become too consuming or trump our desire to please God, but I think this mixed message is doing more damage for some girls than good.
You know what I would love to see? I would really love to go to a seminar for girls on body image issues and have the speaker be totally average according to this world's standards. I would love to see someone standing up there in a t-shirt and jeans with no makeup. . . How awesome to see the self confidence of a woman who can truly say that she has given up the search for beauty and replaced it with the search for Christ.
If you want to make a list of the hypocrites in the Christian world who want to say those things but struggle to lay aside the beauty search you can put me at the top of the list. I'm not saying all of this because I am so spiritually mature that I don't struggle with it. I just know deep in my heart that if we want to convince young women to stop destroying themselves in an attempt to be more beautiful, then we have to actually stop doing it to ourselves and trying to cover it up or play it down.
Beauty comes from within. It comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. It comes in many forms that our culture might reject, but that God made out of intimate love and grace. A few months ago I blogged about not wearing makeup. You know, that isn't such a bad idea. We could all stand a little less obsessing about ourselves. . . and then when we're in the grocery store and we run into a young girl we know from church, or school, or work who is struggling with her appearance and feeling unpretty. . . well, maybe she'll find a little relief in knowing that we don't always look perfect either.
It isn't inherently wrong or sinful to wear make up or be beautiful. But I do think that for those of us who are mentors and examples for young women trying to walk with God, we need to remember that they watch us more than they listen. They will know what we value most by looking at our lives and how we present ourselves. I don't just want to tell them that they are beautiful no matter how God uniquely made them. I want to convince them that it is true by living my life in such a way that exemplifies this kind of attitude.
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. 1 Peter 3:3-4Less of me, more of Jesus. I think that is the right answer for just about every issue we face, isn't it?
Monday, March 15, 2010
Beautiful in Christ. . . for free
So there is a new show debuting tonight called "The Price of Beauty." Jessica Simpson apparently travels all around the world to find out what makes women feel beautiful in different cultures. From the preview on last night it also seems like she talks to some young girls who struggle on very deep levels with not feeling beautiful at all. . .
And it made me sad. Because there is nothing that she can tell these girls that will ultimately help them to feel secure and comfortable in their own skin. I am sorry, but no amount of positive self-talk or encouragement makes a girl who feels ugly suddenly release her fears and insecurities. I know that this is one of Satan's greatest weapons against us, girls. He makes us feel so insignificant; so very far from the ideals that are placed upon us.
And in doing so, he drives a wedge between us and God. We become so consumed with our outer appearance (and how people perceive us) that we completely lose sight of who we are in Christ. We forget that it was our Maker and Savior who created us this way in the first place. . .
It might be interesting to watch the show and see what advice Jessica (and the panel of 'experts' that I'm sure she'll have surrounding her) gives to these young women. I wish I could be there to tell them about Jesus.
But at least I can tell you. Every one of you reading this has to know that there is so much more to life than what others think of us! Beauty is defined by our Creator, not by created beings who develop hierarchies to ensure their status.
We have to believe that Jesus is enough, and we have to know that His love covers every insecurity and fear we might ever feel. If you put your hope in the opinions of others you will end up disappointed and discouraged every time. But there is One in Whom you can place all of your hope and never be disappointed. There is One who will never leave you feeling insignificant. . .
And it made me sad. Because there is nothing that she can tell these girls that will ultimately help them to feel secure and comfortable in their own skin. I am sorry, but no amount of positive self-talk or encouragement makes a girl who feels ugly suddenly release her fears and insecurities. I know that this is one of Satan's greatest weapons against us, girls. He makes us feel so insignificant; so very far from the ideals that are placed upon us.
And in doing so, he drives a wedge between us and God. We become so consumed with our outer appearance (and how people perceive us) that we completely lose sight of who we are in Christ. We forget that it was our Maker and Savior who created us this way in the first place. . .
It might be interesting to watch the show and see what advice Jessica (and the panel of 'experts' that I'm sure she'll have surrounding her) gives to these young women. I wish I could be there to tell them about Jesus.
But at least I can tell you. Every one of you reading this has to know that there is so much more to life than what others think of us! Beauty is defined by our Creator, not by created beings who develop hierarchies to ensure their status.
We have to believe that Jesus is enough, and we have to know that His love covers every insecurity and fear we might ever feel. If you put your hope in the opinions of others you will end up disappointed and discouraged every time. But there is One in Whom you can place all of your hope and never be disappointed. There is One who will never leave you feeling insignificant. . .
Psalm 146
Praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD, O my soul.
I will praise the LORD all my life;
I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortal men, who cannot save.
When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the LORD his God,
the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them—
the LORD, who remains faithful forever.
He upholds the cause of the oppressed
and gives food to the hungry.
The LORD sets prisoners free,
the LORD gives sight to the blind,
the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down,
the LORD loves the righteous.
The LORD watches over the alien
and sustains the fatherless and the widow,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
The LORD reigns forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the LORD.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Beautiful, Unspeakable
If you have a moment this morning, check out The Journey blog that I have linked in the left column. Katie just wrote another post that is so encouraging and powerful. . . Such a beautiful testimony to the ways that God is working all over this world.
And you probably noticed the vimeo at the top of the page. . . I was so moved by the simple, powerful truth that was spoken about my God. He is awesome, and so is this little movie (the latter being awesome because of the former=). . . Check it out!
Have a phenomenal day, friends!
And you probably noticed the vimeo at the top of the page. . . I was so moved by the simple, powerful truth that was spoken about my God. He is awesome, and so is this little movie (the latter being awesome because of the former=). . . Check it out!
Have a phenomenal day, friends!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Obedience Redefined
So I am thinking more about this whole obedience thing. . . and I'm guessing that you might be confused as to how and why obedience would bring such freedom and joy. In our world it has negative associations, doesn't it? Kids want to rebel from authority, adults want to rebel from structure or expectation or conformity. . . to some level, I think we are all rebelling. We all see obedience as slightly distasteful in many of the circumstances we face.
But I think we completely miss the point when we lump obedience to Christ together with following the standards of this world. When we are suffocated by unrealistic expectations, or when we place those expectations on ourselves - it is draining and ultimately never satisfying. That's because the world's rules aren't made for our good. It isn't good for us to be so consumed with ourselves that we hurt the people around us.
God's rules are different because they were made for our good. God created each and every one of us and He knows how we are meant to function. He knows what is best! Following His design for life on this earth is simply like using a machine for the purpose for which it was created. On the contrary, trying to live life according to the standards of this world is like using a blender to wash your car.
It reminds me of Dancing with the Stars. Do you ever watch that show? It is hilarious. Why? Because you have the opportunity to watch people who were clearly made to dance alongside people who were obviously made to avoid dancing at all costs. It is actually painful to watch some people trying to dance. . . and I'm sure it is all the more painful for the individuals attempting it.
We were all created differently. We will have different gifts and abilities. . . And that is part of God's design for this world! It is through our differences that we exhibit the amazing creativity and nature of our God! But there are also ways that we were meant to function the same.
We were all meant to love and be loved. We were all meant to walk through this life side by side with our Creator. When sin entered the picture it destroyed our perception of God and His purpose for our lives.
Now rules seem bad. Obedience seems like something for the weak, or the goody-too-shoos. But the reality is that when we walk with Christ in obedience, we start functioning the way we were always meant to function. . . and all of a sudden we feel this insane amount of freedom and joy and life in this obedience!!
If you are one who struggles with finding a desire to obey God's standards or live in His ways, take some time to seriously reflect on why God made those standards in the first place.
I would much rather entrust my life to the God who made me and knows exactly how I'm supposed to function than to this world that wants me to strive for something I'll never be able to achieve anyway.
Freedom in Christ through obedience to Christ. Now that, my friends, is where real life begins.
But I think we completely miss the point when we lump obedience to Christ together with following the standards of this world. When we are suffocated by unrealistic expectations, or when we place those expectations on ourselves - it is draining and ultimately never satisfying. That's because the world's rules aren't made for our good. It isn't good for us to be so consumed with ourselves that we hurt the people around us.
God's rules are different because they were made for our good. God created each and every one of us and He knows how we are meant to function. He knows what is best! Following His design for life on this earth is simply like using a machine for the purpose for which it was created. On the contrary, trying to live life according to the standards of this world is like using a blender to wash your car.
It reminds me of Dancing with the Stars. Do you ever watch that show? It is hilarious. Why? Because you have the opportunity to watch people who were clearly made to dance alongside people who were obviously made to avoid dancing at all costs. It is actually painful to watch some people trying to dance. . . and I'm sure it is all the more painful for the individuals attempting it.
We were all created differently. We will have different gifts and abilities. . . And that is part of God's design for this world! It is through our differences that we exhibit the amazing creativity and nature of our God! But there are also ways that we were meant to function the same.
We were all meant to love and be loved. We were all meant to walk through this life side by side with our Creator. When sin entered the picture it destroyed our perception of God and His purpose for our lives.
Now rules seem bad. Obedience seems like something for the weak, or the goody-too-shoos. But the reality is that when we walk with Christ in obedience, we start functioning the way we were always meant to function. . . and all of a sudden we feel this insane amount of freedom and joy and life in this obedience!!
If you are one who struggles with finding a desire to obey God's standards or live in His ways, take some time to seriously reflect on why God made those standards in the first place.
I would much rather entrust my life to the God who made me and knows exactly how I'm supposed to function than to this world that wants me to strive for something I'll never be able to achieve anyway.
Freedom in Christ through obedience to Christ. Now that, my friends, is where real life begins.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Listen and Obey
Parenthood is a blast - but its hard. I have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, and while I spend a lot of time marveling in their little personalities and sweet spirits, I also face challenges in trying to train them up in the way they should go.
They are both so different that I have to really think through how I respond to them when they disobey. When Caleb was little I could get down low, give him a very stern and serious face, and speak in my "angry mommy" voice when he was naughty. . . and he would usually look straight at me and continue misbehaving (and I'm pretty sure - based on the look on his face - that he was thinking, "Que? No hablo inglese.") If I were to do the same for Alison she would fall to pieces and cry her little heart out over Momma being upset with her.
The end goal is the same (obedience), but the manner in which we achieve it for both of them is different. Ali only needs three magical words: Listen and obey. Usually her behavior immediately changes to ensure that we don't get upset.
I think sometimes I need to hear those same three words. I do a pretty good job of listening (most of the time), but I don't always carry it out in obedience. God has called us to a life of obedience, and it is through this obedience that we experience true intimacy, joy, and fullness in our walk with Him (Jn 14:15, 1 Jn 5:3-4).
But sometimes obedience doesn't come easy. Sometimes it feels like it would take a stern face and an angry voice to wake us up - and even then, sometimes we aren't convinced that obedience is better than what this world has to offer. But just like I love my kids, God loves us. He is patient with us - disciplining us for our own good, drawing us nearer to Him and helping us to see that His ways are better.
Today, I want to listen to what God has for me. And as I listen, I want to follow through with obedience. True life is waiting for me in that place. . . and my Savior is longing to meet me there.
They are both so different that I have to really think through how I respond to them when they disobey. When Caleb was little I could get down low, give him a very stern and serious face, and speak in my "angry mommy" voice when he was naughty. . . and he would usually look straight at me and continue misbehaving (and I'm pretty sure - based on the look on his face - that he was thinking, "Que? No hablo inglese.") If I were to do the same for Alison she would fall to pieces and cry her little heart out over Momma being upset with her.
The end goal is the same (obedience), but the manner in which we achieve it for both of them is different. Ali only needs three magical words: Listen and obey. Usually her behavior immediately changes to ensure that we don't get upset.
I think sometimes I need to hear those same three words. I do a pretty good job of listening (most of the time), but I don't always carry it out in obedience. God has called us to a life of obedience, and it is through this obedience that we experience true intimacy, joy, and fullness in our walk with Him (Jn 14:15, 1 Jn 5:3-4).
But sometimes obedience doesn't come easy. Sometimes it feels like it would take a stern face and an angry voice to wake us up - and even then, sometimes we aren't convinced that obedience is better than what this world has to offer. But just like I love my kids, God loves us. He is patient with us - disciplining us for our own good, drawing us nearer to Him and helping us to see that His ways are better.
Today, I want to listen to what God has for me. And as I listen, I want to follow through with obedience. True life is waiting for me in that place. . . and my Savior is longing to meet me there.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22
Monday, March 08, 2010
Enough
We had a great service this last Saturday. Per usual the sermon was fabulous. Francis Chan was talking about what God promises us in this life (via video - he hasn't started making weekly trips to Wisconsin yet - but a girl can dream, right?).
There are a lot of people who want God to promise health, wealth and happiness. There are churches that claim that He does promise these things. But if you read the Scriptures carefully, you'll see that those are not promises He makes for our lives here on earth. The truth of the matter is that He promises that our lives will be difficult here. We live in a fallen world, and until Jesus comes back to exercise His official reign over all things, the consequences of sin abound.
So what does God promise to carry us through? Himself. And the question that Francis posed for us was this:
Is that enough for you?
Seriously, is God enough? Do we live like He is enough? Do our words and thoughts and actions communicate to the nonbelievers (and believers) around us that God is enough?
I want to be satisfied with God no matter what difficulties this life may present. I long to find fulfillment and joy in knowing that He is with me no matter what comes.
click here for an old post on the same issue. . .
There are a lot of people who want God to promise health, wealth and happiness. There are churches that claim that He does promise these things. But if you read the Scriptures carefully, you'll see that those are not promises He makes for our lives here on earth. The truth of the matter is that He promises that our lives will be difficult here. We live in a fallen world, and until Jesus comes back to exercise His official reign over all things, the consequences of sin abound.
So what does God promise to carry us through? Himself. And the question that Francis posed for us was this:
Is that enough for you?
Seriously, is God enough? Do we live like He is enough? Do our words and thoughts and actions communicate to the nonbelievers (and believers) around us that God is enough?
I want to be satisfied with God no matter what difficulties this life may present. I long to find fulfillment and joy in knowing that He is with me no matter what comes.
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20In the end, that is all I need to know.
click here for an old post on the same issue. . .
Sunday, March 07, 2010
the B-I-B-L-E
I've been having an interesting conversation in the comment section of Friday's post. It is so awesome to have opportunities to express the depth of my convictions and beliefs about God's Word. I am so encouraged when I think about the extent to which I can know and trust that His word is truth. It is freeing to feel its authoritative power in my life. I love the bible!
And the more I talk about it - the more I love it! I think that's true about all of the different aspects of our faith. When we talk about what we believe, (especially to someone who might not agree) it reminds us of all the beautiful, mysterious, awesome details that we tend to take for granted! Philemon 6 says it like this:
See, the more we share, the more we understand. Rather than getting frustrated and defensive when someone challenges our beliefs, we should be thankful for the opportunity to explain! If you feel completely unqualified and incapable of giving an explanation, that should then serve as motivation to learn more and grow more.
The more I defend the truth of God's word and the reality of this Savior who gave His life for me, the more confidence I have in the authenticity of my faith. I hope that you have that same confidence. . . and I pray that if you don't - you will find opportunities to learn.
And as we stumble upon new opportunities to share what we've learned, we have to expect that there will be many who will not understand or agree. There will always be those who cannot - will not - accept God's word as it is. But that's ok - it isn't my job or your job to convince them. We simply speak what we know is truth, and then we let God do a work through it. There is power in the word because it is truth. . .
And the more I talk about it - the more I love it! I think that's true about all of the different aspects of our faith. When we talk about what we believe, (especially to someone who might not agree) it reminds us of all the beautiful, mysterious, awesome details that we tend to take for granted! Philemon 6 says it like this:
I pray that you maybe active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full under- standing of every good thing we have in Christ.
See, the more we share, the more we understand. Rather than getting frustrated and defensive when someone challenges our beliefs, we should be thankful for the opportunity to explain! If you feel completely unqualified and incapable of giving an explanation, that should then serve as motivation to learn more and grow more.
The more I defend the truth of God's word and the reality of this Savior who gave His life for me, the more confidence I have in the authenticity of my faith. I hope that you have that same confidence. . . and I pray that if you don't - you will find opportunities to learn.
And as we stumble upon new opportunities to share what we've learned, we have to expect that there will be many who will not understand or agree. There will always be those who cannot - will not - accept God's word as it is. But that's ok - it isn't my job or your job to convince them. We simply speak what we know is truth, and then we let God do a work through it. There is power in the word because it is truth. . .
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:11
Friday, March 05, 2010
Who am I
Well, if the sunshine isn't enough to brighten your day, you might want to take a few minutes to meditate on your identity in Christ. If you don't remember who you are (and Whose you are) it is way too easy to get caught up in the struggles of life and the distractions of this world.
Ephesians 1:4-5 says this:
Do you feel that? Do you understand what that means? If you have entrusted your life to Jesus then you have become a child of God!! A legitimate heir to the throne of Christ. . . You are chosen, loved, holy, and blameless.
What in this life should we fear if these things are true of us?!?! Nothing! I know that some of you are going through struggles. . . I know that you are hurting - sometimes at the hands of those who are supposed to be loving you and supporting you. But there is a love that can overcome every hurt. There is a destiny that can wipe away the insecurities and fears that so often control us all. . .
I am a child of the King, the bride of Christ, the beloved of my Savior and Lord. I am forgiven, accepted, indwelled, loved, lavished, protected, preserved, and beautiful in the eyes of God. Can you say that? Do you believe that?
Oh, if you are in a place of hurt or fear do not walk away from this computer without getting on your knees and begging God to make those things true in you. . . to transform your heart and life through the knowledge of who you are and Whose you are. And if you aren't even sure if you are a legitimate daughter of the King, then lift your eyes to heaven and ask God to reveal Himself to you. . . beg Him to draw you nearer to Himself that you might become grafted into His family.
Nothing else on this earth will satisfy you, and there is nothing more true and real than this God and this Savior who has promised us all of these things simply through trusting in Him.
Oh, God is good! And I, for one, am walking into this day with my head held high and my heart soaring with gratitude and confidence. I know who I am. I know whose I am. I have nothing to fear.
Ephesians 1:4-5 says this:
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will - to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.
Do you feel that? Do you understand what that means? If you have entrusted your life to Jesus then you have become a child of God!! A legitimate heir to the throne of Christ. . . You are chosen, loved, holy, and blameless.
What in this life should we fear if these things are true of us?!?! Nothing! I know that some of you are going through struggles. . . I know that you are hurting - sometimes at the hands of those who are supposed to be loving you and supporting you. But there is a love that can overcome every hurt. There is a destiny that can wipe away the insecurities and fears that so often control us all. . .
I am a child of the King, the bride of Christ, the beloved of my Savior and Lord. I am forgiven, accepted, indwelled, loved, lavished, protected, preserved, and beautiful in the eyes of God. Can you say that? Do you believe that?
Oh, if you are in a place of hurt or fear do not walk away from this computer without getting on your knees and begging God to make those things true in you. . . to transform your heart and life through the knowledge of who you are and Whose you are. And if you aren't even sure if you are a legitimate daughter of the King, then lift your eyes to heaven and ask God to reveal Himself to you. . . beg Him to draw you nearer to Himself that you might become grafted into His family.
Nothing else on this earth will satisfy you, and there is nothing more true and real than this God and this Savior who has promised us all of these things simply through trusting in Him.
Oh, God is good! And I, for one, am walking into this day with my head held high and my heart soaring with gratitude and confidence. I know who I am. I know whose I am. I have nothing to fear.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Here Comes the Son
I have pinpointed one of the main sources of my great joy and optimism over these last few days.
Sunshine.
It is amazing how God can use His physical creation to remind us of Himself and bring a sense of peace and contentment to our lives.
I am grateful for the sunshine and the joy it brings. But I also have to laugh because while the sunshine brings out the best me it simultaneously makes my house look like a complete pit. Have you ever noticed this? I wake up in the morning and see the sun beaming over the trees and think to myself, "Yay!! Sunshine!!" And then I walk out to my living room and think, "Oh my word - DUST!!!"
I don't want to over-spiritualize something mundane, but isn't that true about life too? A week or so ago I blogged about coming into the light. . . I talked about how hard it is to come into the light because it reveals the darkness within us. It highlights the dust bunnies collecting in our souls.
I have been so encouraged over these last days; coming back to a place of joy and contentment right where I'm at. Joy and contentment based not on my circumstances but on my Savior, Jesus Christ. . . And the reality is that while His joy fills my heart and lights my soul it will also illuminate the dark places and reveal the dust bunnies in my own life.
Don't be afraid of the light, or the dust bunnies. The joy and freedom that comes with the light is so much greater than the dirt that it must expose.
Tomorrow is supposed to be another great day. I think I will probably be wearing ballet flats and making good use of the swiffer sweeper. . .
And maybe while I'm enjoying the vitamin D and trying to clean my house I'll be able to meditate on the true Light of the world that came down to illuminate this earth with His love, grace, mercy, and truth. . .
Here comes the sun. .. and, oh, praise God for the One True Son!!
Sunshine.
It is amazing how God can use His physical creation to remind us of Himself and bring a sense of peace and contentment to our lives.
I am grateful for the sunshine and the joy it brings. But I also have to laugh because while the sunshine brings out the best me it simultaneously makes my house look like a complete pit. Have you ever noticed this? I wake up in the morning and see the sun beaming over the trees and think to myself, "Yay!! Sunshine!!" And then I walk out to my living room and think, "Oh my word - DUST!!!"
I don't want to over-spiritualize something mundane, but isn't that true about life too? A week or so ago I blogged about coming into the light. . . I talked about how hard it is to come into the light because it reveals the darkness within us. It highlights the dust bunnies collecting in our souls.
I have been so encouraged over these last days; coming back to a place of joy and contentment right where I'm at. Joy and contentment based not on my circumstances but on my Savior, Jesus Christ. . . And the reality is that while His joy fills my heart and lights my soul it will also illuminate the dark places and reveal the dust bunnies in my own life.
Don't be afraid of the light, or the dust bunnies. The joy and freedom that comes with the light is so much greater than the dirt that it must expose.
Tomorrow is supposed to be another great day. I think I will probably be wearing ballet flats and making good use of the swiffer sweeper. . .
And maybe while I'm enjoying the vitamin D and trying to clean my house I'll be able to meditate on the true Light of the world that came down to illuminate this earth with His love, grace, mercy, and truth. . .
Here comes the sun. .. and, oh, praise God for the One True Son!!
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Speak Up
I talk too much. I always have. Most of the time I talk before I think - and that, my friends, can get me in a world of trouble. I like to think out loud, though, and even though I stick my foot in my mouth on a fairly regular basis, I also have the best ideas and most inspiring revelations when I'm talking out loud.
I think that is why I like to blog. It is an opportunity to process "out loud." It has gotten more and more difficult for me to keep up with it over the last several months. . . and I miss it! I can tell that the more I blog the more I am consistently thinking and learning and growing. When I stop for a time, its like I'm on hold - waiting for life to slow down enough to afford me time to think and learn and grow. But I'm tired of waiting, and I think I need to demand it.
Because what I can say with absolute certainty is that I love Jesus more than I did 3 days ago, or 3 months ago, or 3 years ago. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He is here with me; guiding me, loving me, helping me walk through each day. Even when I don't manage to wake up an hour before the kids and spend time alone reading God's Word and thinking on Him, I am leaning on Him and loving Him (though don't get me wrong - those mornings are the sweetest moments of life and I am hungry for that routine again!!).
I feel like I could spend my whole life reading my bible and I still wouldn't have skimmed the surface of the depth that is available there. And I could probably talk about what I'm learning hours each day and not run out of things to say.
Right now, in the midst of the chaos, I am learning what it means to be content; trusting in God's bigger picture and being thankful for what He has provided. He is awakening my spirit to today and I am doing my best to live it fully for Him and through Him. It has been a difficult few months, but I am awakening from my slumber and refusing to stay on hold.
I'm talking now. And whether anyone really wants to listen or not, it means I'm thinking and learning and growing. I'm grateful for that. . . and for you.
I think that is why I like to blog. It is an opportunity to process "out loud." It has gotten more and more difficult for me to keep up with it over the last several months. . . and I miss it! I can tell that the more I blog the more I am consistently thinking and learning and growing. When I stop for a time, its like I'm on hold - waiting for life to slow down enough to afford me time to think and learn and grow. But I'm tired of waiting, and I think I need to demand it.
Because what I can say with absolute certainty is that I love Jesus more than I did 3 days ago, or 3 months ago, or 3 years ago. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He is here with me; guiding me, loving me, helping me walk through each day. Even when I don't manage to wake up an hour before the kids and spend time alone reading God's Word and thinking on Him, I am leaning on Him and loving Him (though don't get me wrong - those mornings are the sweetest moments of life and I am hungry for that routine again!!).
I feel like I could spend my whole life reading my bible and I still wouldn't have skimmed the surface of the depth that is available there. And I could probably talk about what I'm learning hours each day and not run out of things to say.
Right now, in the midst of the chaos, I am learning what it means to be content; trusting in God's bigger picture and being thankful for what He has provided. He is awakening my spirit to today and I am doing my best to live it fully for Him and through Him. It has been a difficult few months, but I am awakening from my slumber and refusing to stay on hold.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Phil. 4:11-13
I'm talking now. And whether anyone really wants to listen or not, it means I'm thinking and learning and growing. I'm grateful for that. . . and for you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)