Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
A few years ago on a visit to my brother’s house, I noticed just how bright and shining the stars were that evening. Since I live in a larger city, the city lights downplay the brightness of the stars in the sky. He lives in a more rural area and the sky was captivating that evening. It was a clear night. So many stars. So bright and twinkling. So beautiful.
When I think of the stars in the sky, my mind always goes to the one beautiful star many years ago that led three very wise men to a stable. In that stable was a manger. In that manger was a newborn baby boy. His name was Jesus. He would grow up to heal the sick, to feed the hungry, to spread the word of God’s love, and to be brutally beaten and nailed to a wooden cross to die just to save us from our sins.
Would you have sacrificed your son to die for the sins of others? The next time you are star gazing, think of that little baby born in a stable, lying in a manger and the eternal love, hope, and peace he gave to the world.
Matthew 2: 9 – 11
...and the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Following the Lord's Command
By: Sandra Harris Frey
Last week, I wrote about Joseph and Mary making the journey to Bethlehem. Remember, nine months pregnant traveling via donkey? When they arrived in Bethlehem there was no room for them in the inn and Joseph had to find accommodations for them in a nearby stable.
However, we must back up a bit in the story to one of the greatest pledges of faith. Joseph was betrothed to Mary when he found out that she was with child. Not wanting to cause her any humiliation than was necessary, he decided to quietly end their relationship.
That night, an angel of the Lord came to Joseph in a dream and explained to him that Mary was to give birth to the child of the Holy Spirit and they were to call him Jesus for he would save the world from their sins.
Would you have listened to our Lord’s command from a dream? Would you have married and raised the child of God? Joseph had enough devotion and trust in our Lord’s word that he did exactly as the angel instructed.
Matthew 1:18 - 25
18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." 22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” - which means, "God with us." 24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Last week, I wrote about Joseph and Mary making the journey to Bethlehem. Remember, nine months pregnant traveling via donkey? When they arrived in Bethlehem there was no room for them in the inn and Joseph had to find accommodations for them in a nearby stable.
However, we must back up a bit in the story to one of the greatest pledges of faith. Joseph was betrothed to Mary when he found out that she was with child. Not wanting to cause her any humiliation than was necessary, he decided to quietly end their relationship.
That night, an angel of the Lord came to Joseph in a dream and explained to him that Mary was to give birth to the child of the Holy Spirit and they were to call him Jesus for he would save the world from their sins.
Would you have listened to our Lord’s command from a dream? Would you have married and raised the child of God? Joseph had enough devotion and trust in our Lord’s word that he did exactly as the angel instructed.
Matthew 1:18 - 25
18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." 22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” - which means, "God with us." 24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
God's Promises
You say: 'It's impossible'
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)
You say: 'I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: 'Nobody really loves me'
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: 'I can't go on'
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: 'I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: 'I can't do it'
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: 'It's not worth it'
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )
You say: 'I can't forgive myself'
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: 'I can't manage'
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)
You say: 'I'm afraid'
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)
You say: 'I'm not smart enough'
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: 'I feel all alone'
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)
You say: 'I'm too tired'
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: 'Nobody really loves me'
God says: I love you
(John 3:1 6 & John 3:34 )
You say: 'I can't go on'
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: 'I can't figure things out'
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5- 6)
You say: 'I can't do it'
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)
You say: 'I'm not able'
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: 'It's not worth it'
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )
You say: 'I can't forgive myself'
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: 'I can't manage'
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)
You say: 'I'm afraid'
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: 'I'm always worried and frustrated'
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)
You say: 'I'm not smart enough'
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: 'I feel all alone'
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)
Monday, December 3, 2007
The Basic Needs
By: Sandra Harris Frey
The holiday season is filled with shopping, decorating, cooking, baking, traveling, and of course, the family visits to your home or traveling to visit family. This can all become very stressful since we are always on a timeline and our list seems to grow and grow each year. We have it pretty easy considering everything that Mary and Joseph were faced with many years ago.
Can you imagine being nine months pregnant, traveling via donkey, and upon reaching your destination you find that there isn’t a room to be had? I need to emphasize the words nine months pregnant traveling via donkey. Joseph found basic needs for his family that night. A warm place to rest and food to eat. It was in a barn and our Lord was born in a manger, but Joseph had the faith to find a place to stay even if it wasn’t an inn.
Do we have that kind of faith? Do we just find what we need? Here’s an interesting concept. Let’s put the “wants” aside this holiday and give of ourselves to others in need. I’m pretty sure most of us have all that we need. Trust me, there’s someone out there today who could use a prayer, a coat, a warm place to sleep, a hot meal, and the story of Jesus being born in a manger.
Luke 2:1-7 - The Birth of Jesus
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
The holiday season is filled with shopping, decorating, cooking, baking, traveling, and of course, the family visits to your home or traveling to visit family. This can all become very stressful since we are always on a timeline and our list seems to grow and grow each year. We have it pretty easy considering everything that Mary and Joseph were faced with many years ago.
Can you imagine being nine months pregnant, traveling via donkey, and upon reaching your destination you find that there isn’t a room to be had? I need to emphasize the words nine months pregnant traveling via donkey. Joseph found basic needs for his family that night. A warm place to rest and food to eat. It was in a barn and our Lord was born in a manger, but Joseph had the faith to find a place to stay even if it wasn’t an inn.
Do we have that kind of faith? Do we just find what we need? Here’s an interesting concept. Let’s put the “wants” aside this holiday and give of ourselves to others in need. I’m pretty sure most of us have all that we need. Trust me, there’s someone out there today who could use a prayer, a coat, a warm place to sleep, a hot meal, and the story of Jesus being born in a manger.
Luke 2:1-7 - The Birth of Jesus
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
Friday, November 30, 2007
My Princess...I am your peace
I long to give you rest for your soul and peace in your heart. I know sometimes it looks like life has no peace to offer-just one problem after another. It's true that the world is filled with hatred, envy, pain, loss, and every sort of evil, so please don't be looking for peace in people or attempting to position yourself where there are no problems. The kind of peace the world tries to offer is built on false hope and man-made idols that will eventually crumble. The peace I give you will transcend any trial or tribulation that comes against you because it's supernatural. So position yourself completely in My care, and let go of all those things you cannot control. Then you will find true peace. In the middle of the chaos and confusion, I will always be your safe place-a place of peace. I'm asking you, My Princess, to share with others the peace I give freely to you.
Love,
Your King and your Perfect Peace
"Peace I leave you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Love,
Your King and your Perfect Peace
"Peace I leave you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Thursday, November 29, 2007
My Princess...Seek After Me
"The one thing I ask of the Lord- the thing I seek most - is to live in the house of the Lord" Psalm 27:4
I will wait for you as long as it takes. There is nothing that pleases Me more than when you, My princess, seek after Me. Like a lonely traveler seeking shelter from a storm, come to Me. Take comfort in my roof. Find security within My walls. Let Me be your hiding place. That is what I created you for. You were never meant to wander the cold, lonely streets of life alone. So seek Me in the morning, and seek Me throughout the day and into the evening. Pursue Me with all your heart. When you do, you will find more than shelter. You will find a place to lay down your burdens and rest. You will also discover that I have been pursuing you all along.
Love,
Your King and your Shelter
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
I will wait for you as long as it takes. There is nothing that pleases Me more than when you, My princess, seek after Me. Like a lonely traveler seeking shelter from a storm, come to Me. Take comfort in my roof. Find security within My walls. Let Me be your hiding place. That is what I created you for. You were never meant to wander the cold, lonely streets of life alone. So seek Me in the morning, and seek Me throughout the day and into the evening. Pursue Me with all your heart. When you do, you will find more than shelter. You will find a place to lay down your burdens and rest. You will also discover that I have been pursuing you all along.
Love,
Your King and your Shelter
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Monday, November 26, 2007
Be Still
"Be Still and know that I am God" Psalms 46:10a
When was the last time you were still during the holiday season? It's interesting that the Thanksgiving Holiday is purposefully to give thanks for our blessings. Christmas is to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our society doesn't seem to find quiet time during this time of year because we are rushed with activities. The remainder of this verse says "I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth". As you move into this hectic season, remember that God must be a vital part of of the activity and we are called to exalt Him.
--Pat
Pat Rohach, Director, WISC
http://womenministryleaders.blogspot.com
w.i.s.c@earthlink.net
When was the last time you were still during the holiday season? It's interesting that the Thanksgiving Holiday is purposefully to give thanks for our blessings. Christmas is to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our society doesn't seem to find quiet time during this time of year because we are rushed with activities. The remainder of this verse says "I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth". As you move into this hectic season, remember that God must be a vital part of of the activity and we are called to exalt Him.
--Pat
Pat Rohach, Director, WISC
http://womenministryleaders.blogspot.com
w.i.s.c@earthlink.net
Thursday, November 15, 2007
His Creation
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
I’ve talked much about walking with God and what we all have in store as we journey down the path of life. We must take one step at a time with him, listening intently and obeying his word.
It can be a hard journey in today’s world. Distractions seem to be at every corner. Land line telephone calls, cell phone calls, endless e-mails to write and answer, mountains of correspondence to plow through and we haven’t even begun to cross off anything on our daily list of “things to do” at home!
Sometimes those details distract us from enjoying the true beauty of each day. For me, it is nature and the beauty of the universe that calms my restless heart and revitalizes my soul. The Lord gives us the gift of such beauty every single day. The autumn colors of the mountains, the sun rising over the ocean, the first blossoms of the spring, the first snowfall of the winter. We can even find the beauty of a rainy day if we have the right attitude.
The vastness of his creation is something that should be celebrated. No distractions. Just the beauty of his creation. Celebrate it!
Psalms 118:24
Rejoice! This is the day the Lord has made.
I’ve talked much about walking with God and what we all have in store as we journey down the path of life. We must take one step at a time with him, listening intently and obeying his word.
It can be a hard journey in today’s world. Distractions seem to be at every corner. Land line telephone calls, cell phone calls, endless e-mails to write and answer, mountains of correspondence to plow through and we haven’t even begun to cross off anything on our daily list of “things to do” at home!
Sometimes those details distract us from enjoying the true beauty of each day. For me, it is nature and the beauty of the universe that calms my restless heart and revitalizes my soul. The Lord gives us the gift of such beauty every single day. The autumn colors of the mountains, the sun rising over the ocean, the first blossoms of the spring, the first snowfall of the winter. We can even find the beauty of a rainy day if we have the right attitude.
The vastness of his creation is something that should be celebrated. No distractions. Just the beauty of his creation. Celebrate it!
Psalms 118:24
Rejoice! This is the day the Lord has made.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Where Are Your Treasures?
Treasure! Just the sound of the word can be delightful. To the world, it conjures up images of buried pirate’s chest bursting with gold, silver, jewels, money, or other worldly desirables. People in our culture pursue these and other so-called treasures in order to gain the “good life”. However, once we have attained our lives are more lonely and empty than before. The treasures we accumulate are never enough because they cannot satisfy the genuine desire for purpose that inhabits the souls of all humanity. This dissatisfaction causes us to accumulate more and more of these meaningless treasures.
Still others desire treasures of fame, power, respect, knowledge, control, or prestige. We want to be recognized and listened to by influential people. We covet the admiration and envy of others. These vain pursuits also leave us feeling empty, restless, and striving for more.
When we accept Christ and become God’s child, our perception of treasure is eternally transformed. God’s Word reveals what our genuine treasures are and where we can find and accumulate the gifts He has for His children.
“Now we have this treasure in clay jars, so that this extraordinary power may be from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7 HCSB)
Paul reveals to us that one treasure we receive is the Spirit of God dwelling in us to enable God’s power to be evident to the world around us. Without this treasure, we can do nothing. With this treasure, we can do all things God asks us to do. As Christians, we all possess this treasure; therefore, our actions should bear witness to the power of God’s Spirit. Too often, however, we do not allow the Holy Spirit to control our thoughts or actions. We allow the enemy, Satan, to use our insecurities and doubts to manipulate us so that we are ineffective witnesses and workers. We must tap into this precious treasure and display God’s power and majesty to a seeking world. Only then will we find true fulfillment and joy in life.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34 HCSB)
As we allow the power of God’s Spirit to work in and through us, we lay up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The temporary treasures of the world no longer interest or entice us. When our treasures are in heaven, life is as God purposed it to be when He created us. We have the benefit of sweet fellowship with Him, the peace that passes understanding, and an abundance of joy flowing through our souls. We enjoy the earthly blessings God gives to us but they do not consume us. Our heavenly Father is lovingly caring for our treasures and we will receive them when we enter into His presence in our eternal home.
Where are you treasures? Please lay them in God’s secure and loving hands.
© 2007 by Ginny Holcombe. All rights reserved.
Still others desire treasures of fame, power, respect, knowledge, control, or prestige. We want to be recognized and listened to by influential people. We covet the admiration and envy of others. These vain pursuits also leave us feeling empty, restless, and striving for more.
When we accept Christ and become God’s child, our perception of treasure is eternally transformed. God’s Word reveals what our genuine treasures are and where we can find and accumulate the gifts He has for His children.
Paul reveals to us that one treasure we receive is the Spirit of God dwelling in us to enable God’s power to be evident to the world around us. Without this treasure, we can do nothing. With this treasure, we can do all things God asks us to do. As Christians, we all possess this treasure; therefore, our actions should bear witness to the power of God’s Spirit. Too often, however, we do not allow the Holy Spirit to control our thoughts or actions. We allow the enemy, Satan, to use our insecurities and doubts to manipulate us so that we are ineffective witnesses and workers. We must tap into this precious treasure and display God’s power and majesty to a seeking world. Only then will we find true fulfillment and joy in life.
As we allow the power of God’s Spirit to work in and through us, we lay up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The temporary treasures of the world no longer interest or entice us. When our treasures are in heaven, life is as God purposed it to be when He created us. We have the benefit of sweet fellowship with Him, the peace that passes understanding, and an abundance of joy flowing through our souls. We enjoy the earthly blessings God gives to us but they do not consume us. Our heavenly Father is lovingly caring for our treasures and we will receive them when we enter into His presence in our eternal home.
Where are you treasures? Please lay them in God’s secure and loving hands.
© 2007 by Ginny Holcombe. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 12, 2007
My Princess...You have Beautiful Hands
"I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with My victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10
Your hands are beautiful because they are blessed by Me. I want you to raise your hands to heaven and praise Me. Ask Me, and I will anoint your hands to heal those who are hurting and help those who are in need. I have given you those beautiful hands to touch others with My love, and when you use your hands to work for My Kingdom, I will bless all that you do. It is a privilege, My princess, to have the kind of power in your possession. I can do amazing things through you when you faithfully hold on to My promises. Be assured that while you are using your hands to help others, I, your King, will move My mighty hand in all areas of your life. So keep reaching out to the world, My love, and help them to know that I am real. Hold on to My hand, and know that I will never let you go.
Love,
Your King and the One who holds your hand
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Your hands are beautiful because they are blessed by Me. I want you to raise your hands to heaven and praise Me. Ask Me, and I will anoint your hands to heal those who are hurting and help those who are in need. I have given you those beautiful hands to touch others with My love, and when you use your hands to work for My Kingdom, I will bless all that you do. It is a privilege, My princess, to have the kind of power in your possession. I can do amazing things through you when you faithfully hold on to My promises. Be assured that while you are using your hands to help others, I, your King, will move My mighty hand in all areas of your life. So keep reaching out to the world, My love, and help them to know that I am real. Hold on to My hand, and know that I will never let you go.
Love,
Your King and the One who holds your hand
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
One Step At A Time
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
Last week, I talked about prayer and listening to what the Lord has in store for us. Prayer is extremely important for spiritual growth, but we must listen to his word and have the courage to move forward with his plan.
Moving forward. Are we fearful of moving forward? It is usually the fear of the unknown when our confidence may wan. It’s much easier to take the familiar path because we are such creatures of habit. However, venturing out on a new road gives us many more possibilities to reach others about God’s love.
Let’s all move forward one step at a time and fulfill God’s plan of sharing his love. It just takes one step to move forward. Do it today!
2 Thessalonians 3:5
May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance.
Last week, I talked about prayer and listening to what the Lord has in store for us. Prayer is extremely important for spiritual growth, but we must listen to his word and have the courage to move forward with his plan.
Moving forward. Are we fearful of moving forward? It is usually the fear of the unknown when our confidence may wan. It’s much easier to take the familiar path because we are such creatures of habit. However, venturing out on a new road gives us many more possibilities to reach others about God’s love.
Let’s all move forward one step at a time and fulfill God’s plan of sharing his love. It just takes one step to move forward. Do it today!
2 Thessalonians 3:5
May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Spiritual Transformation
"Spiritual transformation is essential, not optional for Christ-followers. Spiritual transformation is a process, not an event. Spiritual transformation is God's work, but requires participation."
John Ortberg, author
John Ortberg, author
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Spiritual Journey
Exert from Pat Rohach, Director of WISC
http://womenministryleaders.blogspot.com
"See how I love your precepts; preserve my life, O LORD, according to your love. All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal" Psalm 119:159
Over the past year I spent most of my free time, or more realistically, all my free time working on a dissertation project. Free time was at a minimum for me and now that this season of structure is returning to my life I am contemplating the depth of my spiritual life. I look around and see the order of the world, the preparation for changing seasons and ask myself am I growing deeper? Did I use so much time focused on my personal project of school, that I cheated myself from the intimacy with God during that time. In evaluating that, I find that I am in need of a deepening with God, a sort of going to the next level. So, how do I get there? The pathway is in the Living Word of God. It is imperative to be in the Word, studying and meditating as often as possible. The accountability of a regular, scheduled Bible Study with a group of believers provides the right incentive to stay committed to the goal of study.
I would like to invite you to join me on the spiritual journey to the next level.
http://womenministryleaders.blogspot.com
"See how I love your precepts; preserve my life, O LORD, according to your love. All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal" Psalm 119:159
Over the past year I spent most of my free time, or more realistically, all my free time working on a dissertation project. Free time was at a minimum for me and now that this season of structure is returning to my life I am contemplating the depth of my spiritual life. I look around and see the order of the world, the preparation for changing seasons and ask myself am I growing deeper? Did I use so much time focused on my personal project of school, that I cheated myself from the intimacy with God during that time. In evaluating that, I find that I am in need of a deepening with God, a sort of going to the next level. So, how do I get there? The pathway is in the Living Word of God. It is imperative to be in the Word, studying and meditating as often as possible. The accountability of a regular, scheduled Bible Study with a group of believers provides the right incentive to stay committed to the goal of study.
I would like to invite you to join me on the spiritual journey to the next level.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Listen
Submitted by Sandra Harris Frey
Do you find yourself calling upon the Lord countless times during the day? There are a multitude of reasons we find ourselves asking him for help. It may be for forgiveness of sin or to remember lost souls burdened on our hearts. Many find that they ask for his guidance when faced with tragedy or a difficult decision. We always call upon him and ask for his merciful blessing.
If you know to turn to the Lord for help and you have faith in him and his word, do you have the courage to listen when he speaks? The Lord always has an answer to our prayers. We may not like the answer or it may not be what we were expecting, but we must have the faith to push forward with his plan. It takes courage to walk down the path he has planned for us. There may be forks in the road like temptation or tragedy; however, with the help of the Lord to instill faith and confidence, we can get back on the right path. Listen to him. Let him guide you.
Psalm 86:6
Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy.
Do you find yourself calling upon the Lord countless times during the day? There are a multitude of reasons we find ourselves asking him for help. It may be for forgiveness of sin or to remember lost souls burdened on our hearts. Many find that they ask for his guidance when faced with tragedy or a difficult decision. We always call upon him and ask for his merciful blessing.
If you know to turn to the Lord for help and you have faith in him and his word, do you have the courage to listen when he speaks? The Lord always has an answer to our prayers. We may not like the answer or it may not be what we were expecting, but we must have the faith to push forward with his plan. It takes courage to walk down the path he has planned for us. There may be forks in the road like temptation or tragedy; however, with the help of the Lord to instill faith and confidence, we can get back on the right path. Listen to him. Let him guide you.
Psalm 86:6
Hear my prayer, O LORD; listen to my cry for mercy.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Prayerless Leader
By Becky Tirabassi in Sacred Obsession Devotional
"What sorrow awaits the leaders of my people-the shepherds of my sheep-for they have destroyed and scattered the very ones they were expected to care for," says the Lord. Jeremiah 23:1
In his classic book With Christ in the School of Prayer, Andrew Murray, a nineteenth-century South African church leader, asserted that the very core of a leader's life-his or her holiness-ability to run the long race of faith, or willingness to submit to the Holy Spirit is formed in prayer. He also believed that the devil works very strategically to keep a believer, especially the minister, from praying.
In February of 1984, I was an overworked youth worker who had no time for God. I read my Bible, not to hear His voice but to prepare a lesson. I didn't pray because I was too tired. I didn't even consider prayer a critical discipline in my life, primarily because I steered clear of most activities that required discipline!
They were startling realizations! I felt ashamed of myself. I had been given an awesome responsibility to shepherd hundreds of high school students-yet I rarely spent time in prayer with or for them.
These revelations prompted me to purchase a handful of Murray's books to glean more on prayer from one of the greatest Christian leaders of his century.
Murray was convinced that a prayerless leader is equally vulnerable to piety and perversion. He asserted that a prayerless leader cannot possess a robust, believing faith! And he was sure that no practice will reveal more of a person to God and more of God to that person than prayer.
In 1984, Murray convinced me, and I resolved to be a leader who prayed one hour a day for the rest of my life.
"What sorrow awaits the leaders of my people-the shepherds of my sheep-for they have destroyed and scattered the very ones they were expected to care for," says the Lord. Jeremiah 23:1
In his classic book With Christ in the School of Prayer, Andrew Murray, a nineteenth-century South African church leader, asserted that the very core of a leader's life-his or her holiness-ability to run the long race of faith, or willingness to submit to the Holy Spirit is formed in prayer. He also believed that the devil works very strategically to keep a believer, especially the minister, from praying.
In February of 1984, I was an overworked youth worker who had no time for God. I read my Bible, not to hear His voice but to prepare a lesson. I didn't pray because I was too tired. I didn't even consider prayer a critical discipline in my life, primarily because I steered clear of most activities that required discipline!
They were startling realizations! I felt ashamed of myself. I had been given an awesome responsibility to shepherd hundreds of high school students-yet I rarely spent time in prayer with or for them.
These revelations prompted me to purchase a handful of Murray's books to glean more on prayer from one of the greatest Christian leaders of his century.
Murray was convinced that a prayerless leader is equally vulnerable to piety and perversion. He asserted that a prayerless leader cannot possess a robust, believing faith! And he was sure that no practice will reveal more of a person to God and more of God to that person than prayer.
In 1984, Murray convinced me, and I resolved to be a leader who prayed one hour a day for the rest of my life.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Making the Effort
By Rachel Olsen from Proverbs 31 Daily Devotion
“Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.” Colossians 4:2 (WNT)
Devotion:
I was recently interviewed by a Christian radio station; following the release of our devotional book God’s Purpose for Every Woman. The interview began with a brief discussion of the nature of God’s promises and purposes for women. Next, the topic shifted to the daily discipline of spending time with God, communing with Him through the words of the Bible and prayer. Of course I said how important this was for Christian stability and growth. Then the interviewer challenged, “So bring this home. You are a wife, a mother, a university teacher, a writer, and a traveling national speaker. I’m guessing you are pretty busy. Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?”
There was a day when this question would have struck me deaf and dumb because I didn’t know what the answer was. I knew people who would spend an hour alone with God each day, and I wondered what their secret was. What was it that enabled them to do that? What kept them from falling asleep sitting there alone with the Bible? How did they know what to say, read or think about during all those minutes? How did they keep from getting distracted? How did they even manage to find an hour of free time each day? I kept waiting for a season of my life to come during which a block of time would regularly present itself and my spirit would drive me to God like my sweet tooth drives me to the freezer for chocolate ice cream. I wasted a lot of time idly waiting for that to happen.
“Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?” I don’t find the time,” I answered. “I have to make the time. I can’t expect to find time – that’ll never happen. There’s always going to be something needing my attention, calling my name. I have to make the time, and that means sometimes I have to let other things slide. I have to be OK with letting less important things slide,” I confessed.
I’ve come to realize it’s a matter of choice, a matter of discipline… and a matter of active investment. E.M. Bounds wrote, “The lazy man does not, will not, cannot pray, for prayer demands energy.” That is a simple but profound statement. When I don’t pray it’s because I simply don’t want to expend the energy on it. People who do not pray much probably claim to be too busy or too bored with it, but in reality are too lazy to press into God. Wow. Ouch!
We have to be earnest and unwearied in prayer as today’s verse urges. In the words of a little shoe company called Nike; we have to “just do it.” Let’s carve some time in our days to be quiet before the Lord, to read His words and pray. We can trade a small portion of our time and energy for a large portion of His grace and power.
Purpose to stick to it for several weeks until it sinks into your schedule and your soul. If you want some help being accountable on this, visit my blog listed below. I know we’ll find it is more than worth the effort.
Dear Lord, I want to make the effort and time to interact with You. I want to pray and seek your heart. I don’t want to be too lazy to connect to Your love, wisdom, power and grace. Help me in this, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer by Cheri Fuller
Rachel Olsen’s blog
6 Habits of Highly Successful Christians by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer
Application Steps:
If you are not in the habit of praying or regularly communing with God, commit to doing so. It doesn’t have to be for an hour - start with 10 minutes. Gather your Bible, some pen and paper and set the timer. For more tips see my blog.
Reflections:
Have you believed you were too busy to have a “quiet time” or pray?
Would you agree that you are too lazy to pray?
Has there been a time in your life when you were committed to regularly spending time alone with God? If so, what was the outcome of that spiritual practice?
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (NIV)
Mark 6:31, “Jesus said, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (NIV)
Mark 6:46, “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.” (NIV)
1 Corinthians 14:15, “So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” (NIV)
“Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.” Colossians 4:2 (WNT)
Devotion:
I was recently interviewed by a Christian radio station; following the release of our devotional book God’s Purpose for Every Woman. The interview began with a brief discussion of the nature of God’s promises and purposes for women. Next, the topic shifted to the daily discipline of spending time with God, communing with Him through the words of the Bible and prayer. Of course I said how important this was for Christian stability and growth. Then the interviewer challenged, “So bring this home. You are a wife, a mother, a university teacher, a writer, and a traveling national speaker. I’m guessing you are pretty busy. Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?”
There was a day when this question would have struck me deaf and dumb because I didn’t know what the answer was. I knew people who would spend an hour alone with God each day, and I wondered what their secret was. What was it that enabled them to do that? What kept them from falling asleep sitting there alone with the Bible? How did they know what to say, read or think about during all those minutes? How did they keep from getting distracted? How did they even manage to find an hour of free time each day? I kept waiting for a season of my life to come during which a block of time would regularly present itself and my spirit would drive me to God like my sweet tooth drives me to the freezer for chocolate ice cream. I wasted a lot of time idly waiting for that to happen.
“Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?” I don’t find the time,” I answered. “I have to make the time. I can’t expect to find time – that’ll never happen. There’s always going to be something needing my attention, calling my name. I have to make the time, and that means sometimes I have to let other things slide. I have to be OK with letting less important things slide,” I confessed.
I’ve come to realize it’s a matter of choice, a matter of discipline… and a matter of active investment. E.M. Bounds wrote, “The lazy man does not, will not, cannot pray, for prayer demands energy.” That is a simple but profound statement. When I don’t pray it’s because I simply don’t want to expend the energy on it. People who do not pray much probably claim to be too busy or too bored with it, but in reality are too lazy to press into God. Wow. Ouch!
We have to be earnest and unwearied in prayer as today’s verse urges. In the words of a little shoe company called Nike; we have to “just do it.” Let’s carve some time in our days to be quiet before the Lord, to read His words and pray. We can trade a small portion of our time and energy for a large portion of His grace and power.
Purpose to stick to it for several weeks until it sinks into your schedule and your soul. If you want some help being accountable on this, visit my blog listed below. I know we’ll find it is more than worth the effort.
Dear Lord, I want to make the effort and time to interact with You. I want to pray and seek your heart. I don’t want to be too lazy to connect to Your love, wisdom, power and grace. Help me in this, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Related Resources:
A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer by Cheri Fuller
Rachel Olsen’s blog
6 Habits of Highly Successful Christians by Brian T. Anderson & Glynnis Whitwer
Application Steps:
If you are not in the habit of praying or regularly communing with God, commit to doing so. It doesn’t have to be for an hour - start with 10 minutes. Gather your Bible, some pen and paper and set the timer. For more tips see my blog.
Reflections:
Have you believed you were too busy to have a “quiet time” or pray?
Would you agree that you are too lazy to pray?
Has there been a time in your life when you were committed to regularly spending time alone with God? If so, what was the outcome of that spiritual practice?
Power Verses:
Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (NIV)
Mark 6:31, “Jesus said, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (NIV)
Mark 6:46, “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.” (NIV)
1 Corinthians 14:15, “So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” (NIV)
Monday, September 17, 2007
My Princess...Go Where I Send You
"Be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." 1 Corinthians 15:58
You seek Me for your place in this world, and My answer to you is wherever you are standing. I love to hear you pray to be used by Me. Nothing pleases Me more than when your love flows warm and free. When you're willing, I am ready to strategically place you somewhere to be a blessing. Even the smallest effort can lift the burden of someone else when you are living by My power. You won't always understand why I send you to do things that no one will else will see, but you don't work for others--you work for Me. What you do now will be seen by all on the other side of eternity. So go where I send you today, knowing that I have prepared the way.
Love,
Your King who is the Way
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
You seek Me for your place in this world, and My answer to you is wherever you are standing. I love to hear you pray to be used by Me. Nothing pleases Me more than when your love flows warm and free. When you're willing, I am ready to strategically place you somewhere to be a blessing. Even the smallest effort can lift the burden of someone else when you are living by My power. You won't always understand why I send you to do things that no one will else will see, but you don't work for others--you work for Me. What you do now will be seen by all on the other side of eternity. So go where I send you today, knowing that I have prepared the way.
Love,
Your King who is the Way
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Monday, September 10, 2007
Just P.U.S.H
A man was sleeping one night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light, and God appeared. The Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to Push against the rock with all his might...
So, this the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sunup to sundown, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, Pushing with all his might!
Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Since the man was showing discouragement, the Adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: (He will do it every time)!
"You have been pushing against that rock for a long time and it hasn't moved." Thus, he gave the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure.
These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. Satan said, "Why kill yourself over this? Just put in your time, giving just the minimum effort; and that will be good enough."
That's what the weary man planned to do, but decided to make it a matter of Prayer and to take his troubled thoughts to The Lord.
"Lord," he said, "I have labored long and hard in Your Service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter.
What is wrong? Why am I failing?"
The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your job was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed.
But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back shiny and brown; your hands are callused from constant pressure, your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have.
True, you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be Obedient and to push and to exercise your Faith and trust in My Wisdom. That, you have
done.
Now I, my friend, will move the rock."
At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He Wants, when actually what God wants is just simple obedience and faith in Him.
By all means, exercise the Faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God Who moves The Mountains.
When everything seems to go wrong.......................just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down...................................just P.U.S.H.
When people don't do as you think they should.......just P.U.S.H.
When your money is "gone" and the bills are due.....just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you....................just P.U.S.H.
P = Pray
U = Until
S = Something
H = Happens
Author Unknown
So, this the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sunup to sundown, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, Pushing with all his might!
Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Since the man was showing discouragement, the Adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: (He will do it every time)!
"You have been pushing against that rock for a long time and it hasn't moved." Thus, he gave the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure.
These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. Satan said, "Why kill yourself over this? Just put in your time, giving just the minimum effort; and that will be good enough."
That's what the weary man planned to do, but decided to make it a matter of Prayer and to take his troubled thoughts to The Lord.
"Lord," he said, "I have labored long and hard in Your Service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter.
What is wrong? Why am I failing?"
The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your job was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed.
But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back shiny and brown; your hands are callused from constant pressure, your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have.
True, you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be Obedient and to push and to exercise your Faith and trust in My Wisdom. That, you have
done.
Now I, my friend, will move the rock."
At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He Wants, when actually what God wants is just simple obedience and faith in Him.
By all means, exercise the Faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God Who moves The Mountains.
When everything seems to go wrong.......................just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down...................................just P.U.S.H.
When people don't do as you think they should.......just P.U.S.H.
When your money is "gone" and the bills are due.....just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you....................just P.U.S.H.
P = Pray
U = Until
S = Something
H = Happens
Author Unknown
Walking with God
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
September is the month when the weather begins to cool from the summer’s oppressive heat, the leaves on the trees begin making subtle changes in color, and the long awaited college football season is just beginning.
However, it is also the month where six years ago such tragedy, grief, and despair was experienced on 9/11 that it rocked the faith of many. In the aftermath of 9/11, souls turned to God for answers, for him to heal their grieved souls and for the strength to cope with the agonizing fear of being attacked again. For those who lost loved ones, grief and despair is still not far away. One of my prayers during that time was for the hurt to lessen with time. We will never forget that day.
Turning to God during tragedy is pledge of faith. Walking with God each day gives us peace and strength and is a direct witness to others. His love shines in our whole being as we walk with him daily. May you always walk with God.
Chorus from the hymn In The Garden
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
September is the month when the weather begins to cool from the summer’s oppressive heat, the leaves on the trees begin making subtle changes in color, and the long awaited college football season is just beginning.
However, it is also the month where six years ago such tragedy, grief, and despair was experienced on 9/11 that it rocked the faith of many. In the aftermath of 9/11, souls turned to God for answers, for him to heal their grieved souls and for the strength to cope with the agonizing fear of being attacked again. For those who lost loved ones, grief and despair is still not far away. One of my prayers during that time was for the hurt to lessen with time. We will never forget that day.
Turning to God during tragedy is pledge of faith. Walking with God each day gives us peace and strength and is a direct witness to others. His love shines in our whole being as we walk with him daily. May you always walk with God.
Chorus from the hymn In The Garden
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
We Can All Make a Difference!
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
I have been a loyal fan of the Larry King Live show for many years. He has charisma, confidence, phenomenal interview/people skills, and he's cute and I’m a sucker for a man in suspenders! His guest on 9/5/2007 was former President Bill Clinton. It was a great interview and as always, it motivated me to be more charitable and caring.
President Clinton made the point that one by one, we can all make a difference in society. It may be that $20 you send to the humane society each month or the Sunday School class you teach each week or maybe the hour or two each fall that you spend cutting your elderly neighbor’s shrubs. His main point was to get involved and change the world that you see needs change.
Many are in need and it just takes one act of kindness to transform a hopeless heart into a hopeful heart. It is a humbling experience to be a helper of mankind. Do it! Make a change today!
Galatians 6:9:
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
I have been a loyal fan of the Larry King Live show for many years. He has charisma, confidence, phenomenal interview/people skills, and he's cute and I’m a sucker for a man in suspenders! His guest on 9/5/2007 was former President Bill Clinton. It was a great interview and as always, it motivated me to be more charitable and caring.
President Clinton made the point that one by one, we can all make a difference in society. It may be that $20 you send to the humane society each month or the Sunday School class you teach each week or maybe the hour or two each fall that you spend cutting your elderly neighbor’s shrubs. His main point was to get involved and change the world that you see needs change.
Many are in need and it just takes one act of kindness to transform a hopeless heart into a hopeful heart. It is a humbling experience to be a helper of mankind. Do it! Make a change today!
Galatians 6:9:
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Attack...
At the Point of Spiritual Breakthrough
Satan will attack when a person comes to Christ, when they are a babe in their faith. I believe Scripture shows us that the devil will also attack when you are on the verge of a breakthrough, or at a time of important transition. This is the second battle we must fight.
In Matthew 3, we find Jesus at an absolutely critical time of transition in His life. We have not heard from Him since He was 12 years old. There has been about 30 quiet, unnoticed years where He presumably was working in His father’s carpentry shop.
That is when we read in Matthew 3:16-4:1,
When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately
from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him,
and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and
alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven,
saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be
tempted by the devil.
Jesus is about to enter public ministry. The sick will be healed; the poor will have the gospel preached to them; miracles will be worked; the Father will be revealed. So from this point, the battle is on. And we are given a bird’s-eye view of the conflict that occurs between Christ and the devil.
But I want to submit something to you. If it seems that all hell has broken loose in your life, maybe, just maybe, it’s because you are on the verge of a breakthrough in your life.
Maybe it’s a time of very important transition where God wants to lift you into a place where there is going to be greater influence and greater impact through your life.
From Answers with Bayless Conley Weekly Devotional - http://www.answersbc.org/
Satan will attack when a person comes to Christ, when they are a babe in their faith. I believe Scripture shows us that the devil will also attack when you are on the verge of a breakthrough, or at a time of important transition. This is the second battle we must fight.
In Matthew 3, we find Jesus at an absolutely critical time of transition in His life. We have not heard from Him since He was 12 years old. There has been about 30 quiet, unnoticed years where He presumably was working in His father’s carpentry shop.
That is when we read in Matthew 3:16-4:1,
When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately
from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him,
and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and
alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven,
saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be
tempted by the devil.
Jesus is about to enter public ministry. The sick will be healed; the poor will have the gospel preached to them; miracles will be worked; the Father will be revealed. So from this point, the battle is on. And we are given a bird’s-eye view of the conflict that occurs between Christ and the devil.
But I want to submit something to you. If it seems that all hell has broken loose in your life, maybe, just maybe, it’s because you are on the verge of a breakthrough in your life.
Maybe it’s a time of very important transition where God wants to lift you into a place where there is going to be greater influence and greater impact through your life.
From Answers with Bayless Conley Weekly Devotional - http://www.answersbc.org/
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Our deepest fear...
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” by Marianne Williamson
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Keep Coming
"Anna, a prophet was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer." Luke 2:36-37
Our culture presumes that people are most productive in their younger years--when their physical strength and energy levels are at a peak and their minds are most alert. But Anna's big moment came when she was a very, very old widow.
First, she chose to worship at the Temple day and night, continually fasting and praying. Even one of these spiritual disciplines repeated on a daily basis for decades would be an incredibly rigorous exercise for a person of any age. Yet she never tired of the routine, because she was a prophet waiting for God to rescue Jerusalem.
Herein lies Anna's secret. She had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem and wasn't going to miss His coming! Why didn't she give up after ten years or twenty years or fifty years? God told her to keep coming, to keep waiting, to keep waiting. And so she did...
When you hear Him tell you something--whether others agree or disagree--you must keep on trusting Him until you see it happen. And the more you seek Him, the more confident you become in waiting. And no matter how old you are, no matter how long you have waited, if He asks you to keep coming--you will!
This is the secret of faith--being sure of what you hope for certain of what you do not see!
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Our culture presumes that people are most productive in their younger years--when their physical strength and energy levels are at a peak and their minds are most alert. But Anna's big moment came when she was a very, very old widow.
First, she chose to worship at the Temple day and night, continually fasting and praying. Even one of these spiritual disciplines repeated on a daily basis for decades would be an incredibly rigorous exercise for a person of any age. Yet she never tired of the routine, because she was a prophet waiting for God to rescue Jerusalem.
Herein lies Anna's secret. She had been waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem and wasn't going to miss His coming! Why didn't she give up after ten years or twenty years or fifty years? God told her to keep coming, to keep waiting, to keep waiting. And so she did...
When you hear Him tell you something--whether others agree or disagree--you must keep on trusting Him until you see it happen. And the more you seek Him, the more confident you become in waiting. And no matter how old you are, no matter how long you have waited, if He asks you to keep coming--you will!
This is the secret of faith--being sure of what you hope for certain of what you do not see!
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
You Gotta Have Hope
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
Dedicated to my dear friends who have inspired me, trusted me, and accepted me for being Sandy Frey
I sat down last evening to write my weekly blog article and found that I stared at a blank page for five minutes. I ended up turning the computer off without a single word written. Not my style. Yesterday was one of those days filled with such pressure, stress, and grief that I wanted to go home and pull the covers over my head. Even a good book that evening wouldn’t get me out of my funk. In the past to solve the “funky blues”, I would eat an entire pint of ice cream. Make that chocolate ice cream with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. However, my physician and diabetes educator warned me last week that there are no more chances to avoid medication if I continue down that slippery road. What’s a girl to do?
The next day, I voiced my concerns of “anxiety ridden writer’s block” to a trusted friend and coworker who was experiencing high doses of tension as well. However, always the positive force, she said that she ended her prior day on a very bright note of celebration. She found out her dear friend is expecting her second child. She suggested that I write about the many ways that people overcome negative obstacles.
I began my research by asking others for their recipe for getting over that “bump in the road”. The one answer most consistent was that most relied on faith and prayer to gain strength and stability. Strength and stability for what? That’s simple. The hope for a better day.
Being a romantic Southern girl, I had to recall Scarlet's famous words. Remember Scarlet O’Hara’s last words in Margaret Mitchell’s famed novel Gone with the Wind? "After all, tomorrow is another day!"
Psalm 71:5
For you are my hope; O Lord God, you are my trust from my youth and the source of my confidence.
Dedicated to my dear friends who have inspired me, trusted me, and accepted me for being Sandy Frey
I sat down last evening to write my weekly blog article and found that I stared at a blank page for five minutes. I ended up turning the computer off without a single word written. Not my style. Yesterday was one of those days filled with such pressure, stress, and grief that I wanted to go home and pull the covers over my head. Even a good book that evening wouldn’t get me out of my funk. In the past to solve the “funky blues”, I would eat an entire pint of ice cream. Make that chocolate ice cream with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. However, my physician and diabetes educator warned me last week that there are no more chances to avoid medication if I continue down that slippery road. What’s a girl to do?
The next day, I voiced my concerns of “anxiety ridden writer’s block” to a trusted friend and coworker who was experiencing high doses of tension as well. However, always the positive force, she said that she ended her prior day on a very bright note of celebration. She found out her dear friend is expecting her second child. She suggested that I write about the many ways that people overcome negative obstacles.
I began my research by asking others for their recipe for getting over that “bump in the road”. The one answer most consistent was that most relied on faith and prayer to gain strength and stability. Strength and stability for what? That’s simple. The hope for a better day.
Being a romantic Southern girl, I had to recall Scarlet's famous words. Remember Scarlet O’Hara’s last words in Margaret Mitchell’s famed novel Gone with the Wind? "After all, tomorrow is another day!"
Psalm 71:5
For you are my hope; O Lord God, you are my trust from my youth and the source of my confidence.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Nonnegotiable Prayer
I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. Psalm 17:6
You must resolve this issue.
Do you believe that God answers your prayers? Do you even believe that God listens to you when you talk to Him?
Most of us have misconceptions about prayer. Some of us have been taught that God only listens to very important requests or to very important people. Some of us have been told not to bother God with repeated requests. Many of us are very haphazard in how often we pray or what we really believe about prayer—so we don’t pray effectively, passionately, consistently, or with power.
My Christian life dramatically improved when I searched for all the verses in the Bible that contained the words ask, believe, and pray. I realized that if I acted like I believed half of what the Bible said about prayer—I’d be living on the edge of excitement and adventure!
I discovered that Jesus was all about, all over prayer! He often went alone to talk to the Father to be restored and refreshed, as well as to receive counsel before making decisions. He taught His disciples how to talk and listen to the Father. Prayer was simply nonnegotiable in His life— is it in yours?
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
You must resolve this issue.
Do you believe that God answers your prayers? Do you even believe that God listens to you when you talk to Him?
Most of us have misconceptions about prayer. Some of us have been taught that God only listens to very important requests or to very important people. Some of us have been told not to bother God with repeated requests. Many of us are very haphazard in how often we pray or what we really believe about prayer—so we don’t pray effectively, passionately, consistently, or with power.
My Christian life dramatically improved when I searched for all the verses in the Bible that contained the words ask, believe, and pray. I realized that if I acted like I believed half of what the Bible said about prayer—I’d be living on the edge of excitement and adventure!
I discovered that Jesus was all about, all over prayer! He often went alone to talk to the Father to be restored and refreshed, as well as to receive counsel before making decisions. He taught His disciples how to talk and listen to the Father. Prayer was simply nonnegotiable in His life— is it in yours?
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Monday, August 27, 2007
Prayer...
"Lord take me where You want me to go,
Let me meet who You want me to meet,
Tell me what You want me to to say,
And keep me out of the way."
Chaplain Father Mychal Judge
Let me meet who You want me to meet,
Tell me what You want me to to say,
And keep me out of the way."
Chaplain Father Mychal Judge
Friday, August 24, 2007
The Dance
The dance is not about being the perfect partner, but about trusting the One who has asked me to dance and to lead me. Letting go of being in control and allowing my feet, placed upon His to guide me along through the Dance He has selected just for me.
By: Deborah Carmical, Director of Women's Community, Crossroads Christian Church
By: Deborah Carmical, Director of Women's Community, Crossroads Christian Church
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Prayer Life
"Put your hope in the Lord. Travel steadily along his path. He will honor you by giving you the land. You will see the wicked destroyed." Psalm 37:34
Hudson Taylor was a nineteenth-century British physician and missionary who took the gospel to China at a dangerous time in history.
What God asked of him and the God-size success that he achieved required such incredible sacrifice, humility, perseverance, and prayer...that it seemed impossible to conceive how he sustained his faith during repeated bouts of poverty, loss, and personal tragedy. Both the continued legacy of his ministry and his underlying love for God seem beyond the reach of the average Christian. Yet the only explanation for Hudson Taylor's exceptional life is his exceptional prayer life. The record of Taylor's mission work is not just sprinkled with prayer; his achievements were documented in prayer. His prayer life was...
-the source of his endless passion for the lost,
-the power behind incredible miracles,
-the strength to sustain his waiting upon God,
-the balm to comfort the loss of a child and spouse to illness, and
-the secret to his clear vision.
If there is any lesson that the average Christian might learn from Hudson Taylor, it is that the prayer life of a man or woman holds the key to success or failure for God.
Without hearing God's voice or being sustained by His Holy Spirit you simply cannot travel steadily down a long road that will deliver risk or pain. Without prayer, you will lose hope. But if you remain in constant communication with God, you will break through impossible barriers.
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Hudson Taylor was a nineteenth-century British physician and missionary who took the gospel to China at a dangerous time in history.
What God asked of him and the God-size success that he achieved required such incredible sacrifice, humility, perseverance, and prayer...that it seemed impossible to conceive how he sustained his faith during repeated bouts of poverty, loss, and personal tragedy. Both the continued legacy of his ministry and his underlying love for God seem beyond the reach of the average Christian. Yet the only explanation for Hudson Taylor's exceptional life is his exceptional prayer life. The record of Taylor's mission work is not just sprinkled with prayer; his achievements were documented in prayer. His prayer life was...
-the source of his endless passion for the lost,
-the power behind incredible miracles,
-the strength to sustain his waiting upon God,
-the balm to comfort the loss of a child and spouse to illness, and
-the secret to his clear vision.
If there is any lesson that the average Christian might learn from Hudson Taylor, it is that the prayer life of a man or woman holds the key to success or failure for God.
Without hearing God's voice or being sustained by His Holy Spirit you simply cannot travel steadily down a long road that will deliver risk or pain. Without prayer, you will lose hope. But if you remain in constant communication with God, you will break through impossible barriers.
From "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
The Week of the King
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
There is one word that evokes great excitement in our culture and the many cultures in the world. Elvis. I am an Elvis girl. I can still remember those Elvis LP's played on the phonograph my parents gave to me. I would fall asleep on the floor with my ear to the speaker. I was old enough to remember the televised 1968 Madison Square Garden concert. The black leather outfit and “jam session”. It was not the early years, Hawaii or Las Vegas years that made me the Elvis fan. It was 1968.
Elvis Week in Memphis just came to a close where there were thousands of adoring fans camped out to celebrate the 30 year anniversary of the King’s death. He was the King of Rock and Roll. Anyone of the “Elvis generation” can tell you exactly where they were the moment they found out Elvis had passed on. Many Kentuckians had tickets to attend his concert in Rupp Arena the next week. Most opted to keep their tickets instead of turning them back in for a refund.
In 2005, I had the opportunity to meet Priscilla Presley. It was an In the Interest of Women conference sponsored by Toyota Motor Manufacturing. I attend this conference every year and have met Wynona, Mary Higgins Clark and many others. Everyone was awestruck as you can imagine. Priscilla Presley was the closest to Elvis any of us would ever be. Her presentation was scripted and we all listened intently as she talked about her life with Elvis and beyond.
I am sure the untold stories that will never be heard must be bittersweet. There are things we choose to keep private in our own lives. Everyone has to have a part of their lives that stays truly with you and no one else. Incidentally, the part of her life that impressed me the most was not the fact that she married Elvis Presley. It was her charity work with the Dream Foundation.
Our perceptions of others should encompass their entire being and not just a part of them. What’s that old saying about not judging a book by its cover?
Romans 14:13:
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
There is one word that evokes great excitement in our culture and the many cultures in the world. Elvis. I am an Elvis girl. I can still remember those Elvis LP's played on the phonograph my parents gave to me. I would fall asleep on the floor with my ear to the speaker. I was old enough to remember the televised 1968 Madison Square Garden concert. The black leather outfit and “jam session”. It was not the early years, Hawaii or Las Vegas years that made me the Elvis fan. It was 1968.
Elvis Week in Memphis just came to a close where there were thousands of adoring fans camped out to celebrate the 30 year anniversary of the King’s death. He was the King of Rock and Roll. Anyone of the “Elvis generation” can tell you exactly where they were the moment they found out Elvis had passed on. Many Kentuckians had tickets to attend his concert in Rupp Arena the next week. Most opted to keep their tickets instead of turning them back in for a refund.
In 2005, I had the opportunity to meet Priscilla Presley. It was an In the Interest of Women conference sponsored by Toyota Motor Manufacturing. I attend this conference every year and have met Wynona, Mary Higgins Clark and many others. Everyone was awestruck as you can imagine. Priscilla Presley was the closest to Elvis any of us would ever be. Her presentation was scripted and we all listened intently as she talked about her life with Elvis and beyond.
I am sure the untold stories that will never be heard must be bittersweet. There are things we choose to keep private in our own lives. Everyone has to have a part of their lives that stays truly with you and no one else. Incidentally, the part of her life that impressed me the most was not the fact that she married Elvis Presley. It was her charity work with the Dream Foundation.
Our perceptions of others should encompass their entire being and not just a part of them. What’s that old saying about not judging a book by its cover?
Romans 14:13:
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
My Princess...Grow Where You Are Planted
"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28
I know you sometimes wonder if your life has any real worth. But I assure you that I can use you to impact those around you. Just as I used Paul in prison I will use you wherever you are or whatever circumstance you are in. Let Me water you with My holy Word, and you will begin to bloom wherever you are planted. Come to me in prayer and let Me empower you with My spirit. Even if you can't see the harvest of your work now, I promise that others will one day look back at the time you were in their lives and remember your acts of kindness, words of wisdom, and love for them. So for now, My valuable princess, let Me help you blossom in a world that is searching for the meaning of life.
Love,
Your King and Gardener or Life
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
I know you sometimes wonder if your life has any real worth. But I assure you that I can use you to impact those around you. Just as I used Paul in prison I will use you wherever you are or whatever circumstance you are in. Let Me water you with My holy Word, and you will begin to bloom wherever you are planted. Come to me in prayer and let Me empower you with My spirit. Even if you can't see the harvest of your work now, I promise that others will one day look back at the time you were in their lives and remember your acts of kindness, words of wisdom, and love for them. So for now, My valuable princess, let Me help you blossom in a world that is searching for the meaning of life.
Love,
Your King and Gardener or Life
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Tribute to Friendship
By: Sandra Harris Frey
This past Saturday, August 11, 2007 was a great celebration for one of my lifelong friends. It was her wedding day. Her wedding was held in the same church her parents were married in 45 years ago to the day. Everyone was dressed in their finest attire and many had traveled several hundred miles to witness this momentous event. It was a time of celebration and tribute.
The church was elegantly decorated with candle and floral arrangements. The musicians performed enchanting arrangements signifying the union of these two hearts. However, nothing can compare to the radiance of the bride and groom’s love and devotion to each other as they looked into each other’s eyes and recited their marital vows.
Later, as we all gathered at the reception hall, the celebration continued. There were friends who had not seen each other in over twenty years. Some grew up together in the same small town, some were college mates, and some were friends made upon entrance to the “real world”. Outward appearances may have changed, but all discovered that our core being was just the same as it had been all that time ago.
We talked about the lovely union we had just witnessed, our own weddings, our families, our lives now and what we think is in store for the future. There was the same sweet, vibrant spirit in all of us that we discovered about each other and the reason that we remain friends.
It really isn't about the quantity of time spent, but the quality of time spent together. The same feelings of friendship will still be in the heart whether you see that person once a week, once in five years, or once in twenty years. On August 11, 2007, those friendships were celebrated.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
This past Saturday, August 11, 2007 was a great celebration for one of my lifelong friends. It was her wedding day. Her wedding was held in the same church her parents were married in 45 years ago to the day. Everyone was dressed in their finest attire and many had traveled several hundred miles to witness this momentous event. It was a time of celebration and tribute.
The church was elegantly decorated with candle and floral arrangements. The musicians performed enchanting arrangements signifying the union of these two hearts. However, nothing can compare to the radiance of the bride and groom’s love and devotion to each other as they looked into each other’s eyes and recited their marital vows.
Later, as we all gathered at the reception hall, the celebration continued. There were friends who had not seen each other in over twenty years. Some grew up together in the same small town, some were college mates, and some were friends made upon entrance to the “real world”. Outward appearances may have changed, but all discovered that our core being was just the same as it had been all that time ago.
We talked about the lovely union we had just witnessed, our own weddings, our families, our lives now and what we think is in store for the future. There was the same sweet, vibrant spirit in all of us that we discovered about each other and the reason that we remain friends.
It really isn't about the quantity of time spent, but the quality of time spent together. The same feelings of friendship will still be in the heart whether you see that person once a week, once in five years, or once in twenty years. On August 11, 2007, those friendships were celebrated.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
Monday, August 13, 2007
My Princess...You're Never Alone
"And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20
You never need to hold on to anyone out of fear of being alone. My precious princess. I am with you wherever you are. I am the friend who walks in when the world falls out. I created you to have strong relationships, My love, and I see your desire to be close to someone. If you will seek Me first and come to Me with your wants and needs, I will choose your friends for you. I also will bless those friendships abundantly. Don't settle for less than My best just to fill your schedule with people to see and places to go. I want to reach you with the reality of My presence in you first, and then you will be ready for real relationships that are orchestrated by Me.
Love,
Your King and your Best Friend
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
You never need to hold on to anyone out of fear of being alone. My precious princess. I am with you wherever you are. I am the friend who walks in when the world falls out. I created you to have strong relationships, My love, and I see your desire to be close to someone. If you will seek Me first and come to Me with your wants and needs, I will choose your friends for you. I also will bless those friendships abundantly. Don't settle for less than My best just to fill your schedule with people to see and places to go. I want to reach you with the reality of My presence in you first, and then you will be ready for real relationships that are orchestrated by Me.
Love,
Your King and your Best Friend
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Obeying God's Laws
By: Sandra Harris Frey
Have you ever been speeding down the road, lost in thought, listening to some great music and suddenly those blue lights are flashing in your rearview mirror? The police officer asks you for your driver’s license, registration, and insurance card. If you are a law abiding citizen, you will have these documents with you. He collects them, goes back to his cruiser to run your plates and to write up a nice note telling you what you did wrong, how much you will need to pay, and the date you can visit with the judge. This is a traffic citation.
Some of you ladies may try to charm your way out of the ticket because you would rather spend your money on a new handbag, besides the speed limit is 35 miles per hour and that does seem a little slow for that stretch of road and 45 miles per hour seemed to get you there a lot faster. Some folks become argumentative and menacing. They threaten officers with their jobs because “they know someone downtown with a lot of influence”. Others know they have been speeding down that highway for years and should have had a hundred tickets by now. They are humbled and almost thankful the officer slowed them down. Their distractions may have caused an accident down the road. The blue lights flashing in the window signaled reality to return.
God gave us laws in the very beginning to follow, but temptation always seems to stand in the way of us keeping those laws holy. He put those laws in place in the beginning to show us our boundaries. The ideal outcome was to insure peace and harmony in the universe.
If you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror one day, remember to respect the law. That police officer is just insuring you obey the law. Respect him. He may save your life one day.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
Have you ever been speeding down the road, lost in thought, listening to some great music and suddenly those blue lights are flashing in your rearview mirror? The police officer asks you for your driver’s license, registration, and insurance card. If you are a law abiding citizen, you will have these documents with you. He collects them, goes back to his cruiser to run your plates and to write up a nice note telling you what you did wrong, how much you will need to pay, and the date you can visit with the judge. This is a traffic citation.
Some of you ladies may try to charm your way out of the ticket because you would rather spend your money on a new handbag, besides the speed limit is 35 miles per hour and that does seem a little slow for that stretch of road and 45 miles per hour seemed to get you there a lot faster. Some folks become argumentative and menacing. They threaten officers with their jobs because “they know someone downtown with a lot of influence”. Others know they have been speeding down that highway for years and should have had a hundred tickets by now. They are humbled and almost thankful the officer slowed them down. Their distractions may have caused an accident down the road. The blue lights flashing in the window signaled reality to return.
God gave us laws in the very beginning to follow, but temptation always seems to stand in the way of us keeping those laws holy. He put those laws in place in the beginning to show us our boundaries. The ideal outcome was to insure peace and harmony in the universe.
If you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror one day, remember to respect the law. That police officer is just insuring you obey the law. Respect him. He may save your life one day.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Come Near
Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Most of us will struggle to establish a daily appointment with God until something happens in our lives to convince us that there is nothing else we can do to find peace, help, hope, answers, or courage than to come to God in prayer. Unfortunately, prayer becomes a last resort, rather than our initial response.
I’ve spent over two decades teaching people to pray, and frankly, I’ve heard every imaginable excuse why people don’t pray…but what people most often fail to understand is what they are missing when they neglect to pray: power to overcome, comfort to sustain loss, courage to stand against temptation, faith that is invincible, and the ability to perceive the supernatural. These are the very real benefits of spending time with God.
Prayer will no longer be a passionless duty or a monotonous discipline if you get a glimpse of the moment-by-moment power and intervention of God available to you. When you hear God calling you to come near to Him, you must expect that He wants to give you more peace, power, and rest – look for it, ask for it, don’t leave your time without it.
Rosalind Rinker, one of InterVarsity’s first staff workers and author of Prayer: Conversing with God, called prayer “a dialogue between two persons who love each other.”
I can just hear Jesus saying, “Come to Me. I know your needs. I truly love you. Do not be afraid. Come, rest in Me.”
Exert from "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Most of us will struggle to establish a daily appointment with God until something happens in our lives to convince us that there is nothing else we can do to find peace, help, hope, answers, or courage than to come to God in prayer. Unfortunately, prayer becomes a last resort, rather than our initial response.
I’ve spent over two decades teaching people to pray, and frankly, I’ve heard every imaginable excuse why people don’t pray…but what people most often fail to understand is what they are missing when they neglect to pray: power to overcome, comfort to sustain loss, courage to stand against temptation, faith that is invincible, and the ability to perceive the supernatural. These are the very real benefits of spending time with God.
Prayer will no longer be a passionless duty or a monotonous discipline if you get a glimpse of the moment-by-moment power and intervention of God available to you. When you hear God calling you to come near to Him, you must expect that He wants to give you more peace, power, and rest – look for it, ask for it, don’t leave your time without it.
Rosalind Rinker, one of InterVarsity’s first staff workers and author of Prayer: Conversing with God, called prayer “a dialogue between two persons who love each other.”
I can just hear Jesus saying, “Come to Me. I know your needs. I truly love you. Do not be afraid. Come, rest in Me.”
Exert from "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Monday, August 6, 2007
My Princess...Pray with Power
My powerful princess, do now waste your walk through life today. Open your spiritual eyes. Prayer is needed everywhere. Anywhere you walk today I can and will order your steps, if you will let Me. Pray while you're driving, while you're cooking, and while you're doing laundry and running errands. Of all the weapons in the world, prayer is your most powerful resource. Don't let the day begin or end without letting your prayer to Me pave the way in all you do. Wherever you go, remember that part of your royal privilege is raising your voice to heaven. So hold on to the promises that are yours and pray!
Love,
The King and Intercessor
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Friday, August 3, 2007
Alone Time
"When you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you." Matthew 6:6
There is nothing like having the undivided attention of someone you love or respect. There is no price we wouldn’t pay to have a private meeting with someone who holds an esteemed title or a powerful position, or has access to a network we’d like to reach.
That is why it is so incredible how little effort, interest, or commitment we place on making and keeping an appointment with the King of kings.
To have an audience with the King of kings is the privilege of every child of God…but most of us – and this is not an exaggeration – are either too busy, too tired, or too lazy to pray. We resist setting aside time to be alone with God. Why? It is not convenient. Also, we’ve lost the awe-inspiring image of a personal, powerful God who waits for us…
We miss so much power, passion, and purpose when we do not make time daily to hear His voice and respond to Him with immediate acts of love and obedience.
Corrie ten Boom, Holocaust survivor, said, “Have an appointment with the Lord and keep it. A man is powerful on his knees.” Will you make an appointment with the King today – and every day for the rest of your life? If so, put it on your calendar. If not, you must ask yourself, Why not?
Exert from "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
There is nothing like having the undivided attention of someone you love or respect. There is no price we wouldn’t pay to have a private meeting with someone who holds an esteemed title or a powerful position, or has access to a network we’d like to reach.
That is why it is so incredible how little effort, interest, or commitment we place on making and keeping an appointment with the King of kings.
To have an audience with the King of kings is the privilege of every child of God…but most of us – and this is not an exaggeration – are either too busy, too tired, or too lazy to pray. We resist setting aside time to be alone with God. Why? It is not convenient. Also, we’ve lost the awe-inspiring image of a personal, powerful God who waits for us…
We miss so much power, passion, and purpose when we do not make time daily to hear His voice and respond to Him with immediate acts of love and obedience.
Corrie ten Boom, Holocaust survivor, said, “Have an appointment with the Lord and keep it. A man is powerful on his knees.” Will you make an appointment with the King today – and every day for the rest of your life? If so, put it on your calendar. If not, you must ask yourself, Why not?
Exert from "Sacred Obsession Devotional" by Becky Tirabassi
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
What Stands In Your Way?
Submitted by: Sandra Harris Frey
A few years ago, I had the privilege to work for a company who was committed to the personal and professional growth of its employees. They offered books, seminars, round table meetings, and conferences. They even brought in an outside group who conducted a series of activities to strengthen motivation and commitment.
One of the exercises had an objective to conquer the biggest obstacle in the way from your obtaining true happiness. Each employee was given an 8 x 10 piece of ply board and instructed to write the obstacle that kept you from achieving your goals on the board. As a symbol of overcoming this barrier, the counselors instructed each employee on the fine art of breaking the board. There was an art to it. A firm fist hit in the center would produce a clean break signifying victory. I kept my broken board for many years to remind me to always keep a sense of purpose as one of my professional and personal ideals.
What obstacle is standing in your way of being obedient to our Father? Are you afraid of change? Are you afraid others may judge you? Are you afraid of commitment?
What's written on your board? Will you break that board and declare victory?
Romans 16:17
I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.
A few years ago, I had the privilege to work for a company who was committed to the personal and professional growth of its employees. They offered books, seminars, round table meetings, and conferences. They even brought in an outside group who conducted a series of activities to strengthen motivation and commitment.
One of the exercises had an objective to conquer the biggest obstacle in the way from your obtaining true happiness. Each employee was given an 8 x 10 piece of ply board and instructed to write the obstacle that kept you from achieving your goals on the board. As a symbol of overcoming this barrier, the counselors instructed each employee on the fine art of breaking the board. There was an art to it. A firm fist hit in the center would produce a clean break signifying victory. I kept my broken board for many years to remind me to always keep a sense of purpose as one of my professional and personal ideals.
What obstacle is standing in your way of being obedient to our Father? Are you afraid of change? Are you afraid others may judge you? Are you afraid of commitment?
What's written on your board? Will you break that board and declare victory?
Romans 16:17
I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Hannah...Clinging to a Dream
Selections from 1 Samuel 1:
With a grieved soul Hannah prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. Making a vow she pleaded, "O Lord of Hosts, if You will take notice of Your handmaid's affliction and remember me and not get me and give Your handmaid a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life."...Although her lips were moving, her voice couldn't be heard, so Eli concluded that she was drunk..."Oh no, my Lord" Hannah replied..."I've been pouring out my soul before the Lord."...
Eli responded, "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant the petition that you've requested from Him."
Never dream without prayer. When we talk to other about the dreams in our lives, we often get blind stares of disinterested discouragement-roadblocks, rejection. But when we take our dreams to God, we begin and adventurous journey of faith. It may mean being broken along the way, but only to let our dream escape. It may mean going through seasons of searching, but only to determine how much our dream is selfish-and to prove how badly we really want God's way. Prayer keeps holy dreams alive.
Hannah was tested.
We are tested so our character will match our dreams. Christian character is a work in progress for us as believers. When God gives us a dream, we may need a lot of work on and in our lives to enable us to handle the dream. Our sufficiency and strength should always be in God-and God alone. As with Hannah, it usually is a pretty good clue that the test or the dream is from God when things don't work easily.
The greater the dream, the greater testing.
Do you have a dream that feels like it's dying in your life? Don't give up. Take it to God in prayer today. And trust Him to do more with your dream than you could ever do yourself.
Exert from "Women of Character" by Lawrence Kimbrough
With a grieved soul Hannah prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. Making a vow she pleaded, "O Lord of Hosts, if You will take notice of Your handmaid's affliction and remember me and not get me and give Your handmaid a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life."...Although her lips were moving, her voice couldn't be heard, so Eli concluded that she was drunk..."Oh no, my Lord" Hannah replied..."I've been pouring out my soul before the Lord."...
Eli responded, "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant the petition that you've requested from Him."
Never dream without prayer. When we talk to other about the dreams in our lives, we often get blind stares of disinterested discouragement-roadblocks, rejection. But when we take our dreams to God, we begin and adventurous journey of faith. It may mean being broken along the way, but only to let our dream escape. It may mean going through seasons of searching, but only to determine how much our dream is selfish-and to prove how badly we really want God's way. Prayer keeps holy dreams alive.
Hannah was tested.
We are tested so our character will match our dreams. Christian character is a work in progress for us as believers. When God gives us a dream, we may need a lot of work on and in our lives to enable us to handle the dream. Our sufficiency and strength should always be in God-and God alone. As with Hannah, it usually is a pretty good clue that the test or the dream is from God when things don't work easily.
The greater the dream, the greater testing.
Do you have a dream that feels like it's dying in your life? Don't give up. Take it to God in prayer today. And trust Him to do more with your dream than you could ever do yourself.
Exert from "Women of Character" by Lawrence Kimbrough
Monday, July 30, 2007
My Princess...Give Me Your Plans
I know you have an idea in your head on how everything should unfold in your life. Even today you have an agenda. Because I love you, I need you to give Me back all your plans for today and for all your tomorrows. If you let Me have your day, I can then intervene with something special. My intervention will give you more joy in your journey than your good intentions. I know all that your heart longs for, and I want to do more for you than you could ever do for yourself. So give Me a chance to change your agenda from ordinary to extraordinary, because that's the kind of life I've destined you to live, My beloved.
Love,
Your King and your Planner
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters for Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Are You In A Drought?
By: Sandra Harris Frey
The summer drought of 2007 has most of the state of Kentucky needing an additional 6 – 10 inches of rainfall in order to be properly hydrated.
It is almost an endless losing battle to water the grass, plants, and flowers because it’s time consuming and can become very costly. When the drought becomes critical to the area, communities must enforce water restrictions. Water restrictions conjure up images of wilted grass, flowers, and plants…unless you are prepared.
Prepared for a drought? The solution is simple. A rain barrel. What’s a rain barrel? The definition is “a barrel used as a cistern to hold rainwater”. A rain barrel catches the rainwater throughout the year and is a perfect outside water source.
Our plant life goes dormant and sometimes even dies if we do not give it the necessary nutrients and water. Our faith and commitment can also go through a “dry spell” if we do not give it what it needs to sustain. The constant demands of our daily lives become repetitive and tedious. We go through the motions, while our souls are in desperate need of refreshment. We do not always recognize our need until we are befallen with tragedy – an illness, an accident or even the death of a loved one. During these times, we either blame God or turn to him.
Is your soul in a drought? Are you prepared? Is our Lord your rain barrel?
Jeremiah 17:8
He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."
The summer drought of 2007 has most of the state of Kentucky needing an additional 6 – 10 inches of rainfall in order to be properly hydrated.
It is almost an endless losing battle to water the grass, plants, and flowers because it’s time consuming and can become very costly. When the drought becomes critical to the area, communities must enforce water restrictions. Water restrictions conjure up images of wilted grass, flowers, and plants…unless you are prepared.
Prepared for a drought? The solution is simple. A rain barrel. What’s a rain barrel? The definition is “a barrel used as a cistern to hold rainwater”. A rain barrel catches the rainwater throughout the year and is a perfect outside water source.
Our plant life goes dormant and sometimes even dies if we do not give it the necessary nutrients and water. Our faith and commitment can also go through a “dry spell” if we do not give it what it needs to sustain. The constant demands of our daily lives become repetitive and tedious. We go through the motions, while our souls are in desperate need of refreshment. We do not always recognize our need until we are befallen with tragedy – an illness, an accident or even the death of a loved one. During these times, we either blame God or turn to him.
Is your soul in a drought? Are you prepared? Is our Lord your rain barrel?
Jeremiah 17:8
He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
My Princess...Trust Me With Those You Love
"Those who trust in the Lord are secure in Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever." Psalm 125:1
I know your heart, and I know how much you love those close to you. I am your Creator and the Giver of every good gift. I have given you loved ones to share your life with. But you, My child, must remember those you love ultimately belong to Me--not to you. I didn't give you those special relationships to tear you apart or to control you through fear of the future. Like Abraham did with his only son, Isaac, I need you to open your heart and give back to Me those you love. Trust Me with everything that concerns you regarding them. Place your hand in Mine, and I promise I will walk you-and your loved ones-through all things this life brings.
Love,
Your trustworthy King
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
I know your heart, and I know how much you love those close to you. I am your Creator and the Giver of every good gift. I have given you loved ones to share your life with. But you, My child, must remember those you love ultimately belong to Me--not to you. I didn't give you those special relationships to tear you apart or to control you through fear of the future. Like Abraham did with his only son, Isaac, I need you to open your heart and give back to Me those you love. Trust Me with everything that concerns you regarding them. Place your hand in Mine, and I promise I will walk you-and your loved ones-through all things this life brings.
Love,
Your trustworthy King
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters from your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Monday, July 23, 2007
Be Joyful and Thankful
"Be joyful always; pray continuously; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18
When God tells us to be joyful, He doesn't mean that we're supposed to be happy about everything that happens to us. Some things are too painful for us to be happy about. But, joy comes from knowing that God is in control. He also wants us to pray about everything. He wants us to talk to Him about things in our life and to thank Him because He's molding us into His image through every circumstance.
When God tells us to be joyful, He doesn't mean that we're supposed to be happy about everything that happens to us. Some things are too painful for us to be happy about. But, joy comes from knowing that God is in control. He also wants us to pray about everything. He wants us to talk to Him about things in our life and to thank Him because He's molding us into His image through every circumstance.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Becoming a servant leader
Becoming a servant leader through putting others first
By Katie Brazelton & Christian Stevenson
Evan Almighty is a cute, summer-released, PG movie about a newly elected Virginia congressman, Evan Baxter, who faces a crisis of biblical proportions. God (played by Morgan Freeman) actually appears to him multiple times and asks him to build an ark. After much hilarity, Evan decides to step up to the plate and obey God, but he is abandoned by his family and friends, who – fair enough – think he's gone mad. As Evan, AKA Noah at this point, dives into the ark-building process by himself, he changes from a brash leader into a quiet servant on-assignment.
The remarkable thing about the flick is watching Evan, an important statesman, humbly do such back-breaking work, day-in and day-out. He seems to have found a level of contentment and joy as he goes about his endless tasks. Because of his calm persistence about his immediate mission in life, he eventually attracts a few followers (albeit his family and a whole lot of animals) to help him build the ark. Later, as a local dam breaks and a flood destroys a valley of homes, Evan also attracts the attention of congress, the media, and the public – as they better understand his visionary leadership. You and I may not be called upon by God to save followers from a real-life impending flood, but we are definitely asked by him to live our lives as servant-leaders.
So ... what might that look like for a Christian man or woman in today's world? How can we serve and lead a group, look out for everyone's needs – and do so joyfully and humbly – amidst so many critics? Read More
By Katie Brazelton & Christian Stevenson
Evan Almighty is a cute, summer-released, PG movie about a newly elected Virginia congressman, Evan Baxter, who faces a crisis of biblical proportions. God (played by Morgan Freeman) actually appears to him multiple times and asks him to build an ark. After much hilarity, Evan decides to step up to the plate and obey God, but he is abandoned by his family and friends, who – fair enough – think he's gone mad. As Evan, AKA Noah at this point, dives into the ark-building process by himself, he changes from a brash leader into a quiet servant on-assignment.
The remarkable thing about the flick is watching Evan, an important statesman, humbly do such back-breaking work, day-in and day-out. He seems to have found a level of contentment and joy as he goes about his endless tasks. Because of his calm persistence about his immediate mission in life, he eventually attracts a few followers (albeit his family and a whole lot of animals) to help him build the ark. Later, as a local dam breaks and a flood destroys a valley of homes, Evan also attracts the attention of congress, the media, and the public – as they better understand his visionary leadership. You and I may not be called upon by God to save followers from a real-life impending flood, but we are definitely asked by him to live our lives as servant-leaders.
So ... what might that look like for a Christian man or woman in today's world? How can we serve and lead a group, look out for everyone's needs – and do so joyfully and humbly – amidst so many critics? Read More
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Faith to Move Forward
By Sandra Harris Frey
I’m always amazed by the beauty of God’s creatures. The babies born in the spring are just now getting on their feet and becoming independent. Their parents teach them everything they need to know to get them on their way. We have some baby birds who are just learning to fly and how to balance themselves on the birdfeeder in our backyard. Their little peeps of song and their antics to impress their parents are always a welcome pleasure in the early evening.
Last Saturday as I was making my way across the yard to the storage shed, something caught my eye on the ground next to one of my “ailing azalea” plants. It was a baby rabbit. It had apparently been born under our deck in the back yard and was venturing out for the first time. It was about three or four inches long, with fur that looked soft and silky. Its little ears were peeled back and eyes that were large and dilated with what I’m certain was fear.
About the time that I discovered this little beauty, my husband was preparing to mow the backyard. I showed him our little visitor and cautioned him to be careful as he mowed in case there were others running about the yard. I pulled some sweet grass out of the ground and started to lay it at the baby rabbit’s feet to feed, but the little thing was frightened by my movements and scurried back under the safe haven of the deck.
When we venture out on a new adventure, we sometimes scurry back to what’s familiar or safe. Change is hard and new avenues to explore can be frightening. What motivates us take those next steps to discover new frontiers? The sweet taste of success naturally.
It takes courage and bravery to begin those first steps and God’s word always has the right answers for us. His word motivates and graces us with the right words to steer us to triumph. Have faith to continue your exploration.
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go.”
I’m always amazed by the beauty of God’s creatures. The babies born in the spring are just now getting on their feet and becoming independent. Their parents teach them everything they need to know to get them on their way. We have some baby birds who are just learning to fly and how to balance themselves on the birdfeeder in our backyard. Their little peeps of song and their antics to impress their parents are always a welcome pleasure in the early evening.
Last Saturday as I was making my way across the yard to the storage shed, something caught my eye on the ground next to one of my “ailing azalea” plants. It was a baby rabbit. It had apparently been born under our deck in the back yard and was venturing out for the first time. It was about three or four inches long, with fur that looked soft and silky. Its little ears were peeled back and eyes that were large and dilated with what I’m certain was fear.
About the time that I discovered this little beauty, my husband was preparing to mow the backyard. I showed him our little visitor and cautioned him to be careful as he mowed in case there were others running about the yard. I pulled some sweet grass out of the ground and started to lay it at the baby rabbit’s feet to feed, but the little thing was frightened by my movements and scurried back under the safe haven of the deck.
When we venture out on a new adventure, we sometimes scurry back to what’s familiar or safe. Change is hard and new avenues to explore can be frightening. What motivates us take those next steps to discover new frontiers? The sweet taste of success naturally.
It takes courage and bravery to begin those first steps and God’s word always has the right answers for us. His word motivates and graces us with the right words to steer us to triumph. Have faith to continue your exploration.
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go.”
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
What Was A Turning Point In Your Life?
A turning point in your life can be a minor incident, a major event, or a sudden realization which causes you to change, either for the good or bad, the course you are on. It is a time during which you take stock of your situation and then take action. It can be a dramatic wake-up call to stop doing something, or it can be a simple, conversational affirmation that makes you finally pay attention to one of your life dreams. What in your life has caused you to turn from Plan A to Plan B? And what was the result of that change in direction? God wants to be intimately involved in all the turning points of your life. He knows there is much at stake for his kingdom-building plans, and he wants to see you through!
Did You Change Your Course?
A turning point in your life could have been an illness, accident, graduation, household move, betrayal, major disappointment, or the realization that you were “bored out of your mind.” It could have been a joyful conversion to Christianity or complete surrender to Christ as Lord. It might have been an inheritance that dramatically improved your lot in life or unleashed sin in your life. It could have bee a baby’s birth or the death of a loved one. It could have been a job lay-off or a crumbled marriage.
What Was a Turning Point in Your Life?
Saul Had a Major Turning Point
Saul, a persecutor of Christians whose name was later changed to Paul, experienced a 180-degree turnaround in his life when he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. Read Acts 9:1-22. Have you allowed your turning points to draw you closer to God or to push you farther from him?
SCRIPTURE TO PONDER
Show me the way I should go, for to you I life up my soul.
(Psalm 143:8)
So…What Insight, Prayer, or Action Step Has God Laid on Your Heart Today?
Exert from "Praying for Purpose" by Katie Brazelton
Did You Change Your Course?
A turning point in your life could have been an illness, accident, graduation, household move, betrayal, major disappointment, or the realization that you were “bored out of your mind.” It could have been a joyful conversion to Christianity or complete surrender to Christ as Lord. It might have been an inheritance that dramatically improved your lot in life or unleashed sin in your life. It could have bee a baby’s birth or the death of a loved one. It could have been a job lay-off or a crumbled marriage.
What Was a Turning Point in Your Life?
Saul Had a Major Turning Point
Saul, a persecutor of Christians whose name was later changed to Paul, experienced a 180-degree turnaround in his life when he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. Read Acts 9:1-22. Have you allowed your turning points to draw you closer to God or to push you farther from him?
SCRIPTURE TO PONDER
Show me the way I should go, for to you I life up my soul.
(Psalm 143:8)
So…What Insight, Prayer, or Action Step Has God Laid on Your Heart Today?
Exert from "Praying for Purpose" by Katie Brazelton
Comments...
Realizing that some of you may be new to the world of blogging, here’s a quick tutorial on how to leave a comment after reading a post:
1. Click the word “Comments or No Comments” at the bottom of each post.
2. You’ll see the actual post page and any other comments people have left.
3. Type your thoughts in the “Leave A Reply” section near the bottom of the page. You can comment on the blog post itself or respond to what someone else had to say about it.
4. Enter your name, email and website IF YOU CHOOSE TO. You can post anonymously if you want to. We’re looking for conversation here more so than identity so feel free to remain anonymous.
5. Be sure to review your post with one last look before clicking on “Submit Comment.”
6. Once you submit, the rest of us can read your thoughts and possibly even respond with a comment of our own.
I know it sounds complicated, but it goes quickly once you get the hang of it.
So, give it a shot. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
1. Click the word “Comments or No Comments” at the bottom of each post.
2. You’ll see the actual post page and any other comments people have left.
3. Type your thoughts in the “Leave A Reply” section near the bottom of the page. You can comment on the blog post itself or respond to what someone else had to say about it.
4. Enter your name, email and website IF YOU CHOOSE TO. You can post anonymously if you want to. We’re looking for conversation here more so than identity so feel free to remain anonymous.
5. Be sure to review your post with one last look before clicking on “Submit Comment.”
6. Once you submit, the rest of us can read your thoughts and possibly even respond with a comment of our own.
I know it sounds complicated, but it goes quickly once you get the hang of it.
So, give it a shot. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Monday, July 16, 2007
My Princess...Come to Me
"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29
I saw you before you were born. Even then you were on My mind, My daughter. I knew you were coming, and I did everything possible to express My love to you and extend My invitation to you. Now that you are Mine, I want you to continue to come to Me. Come to Me when you feel strong and when you feel weary. Come to Me when you are rejoicing and when your spirit is crushed. I ask you to come not only to give you rest, but also because there is so much more I want to teach you. There is more of Me I want to reveal to you. You see, I did not create you for this fallen world. I created you for Paradise, but the curse of sin tore us apart. I've conquered sin and death for you through the death of My son, so come to Me...and live.
Love,
Your King who is waiting
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters From Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
I saw you before you were born. Even then you were on My mind, My daughter. I knew you were coming, and I did everything possible to express My love to you and extend My invitation to you. Now that you are Mine, I want you to continue to come to Me. Come to Me when you feel strong and when you feel weary. Come to Me when you are rejoicing and when your spirit is crushed. I ask you to come not only to give you rest, but also because there is so much more I want to teach you. There is more of Me I want to reveal to you. You see, I did not create you for this fallen world. I created you for Paradise, but the curse of sin tore us apart. I've conquered sin and death for you through the death of My son, so come to Me...and live.
Love,
Your King who is waiting
Exert from "His Princess: Love Letters From Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Thursday, July 12, 2007
What were your born to tell the world?
God has gifted you with a life message to share with the world. That message or idea is what he wants you to communicate to others. Being chosen as one of God’s spokepersons is both an important responsibility and an awesome privilege. Some women run from the task; others experiment with it for only a brief period of time; and some fully embrace it. Just remember that a message is not a message until it is delivered! It is your choice today to decide how you will respond to God’s invitation to carry his message to his world. It might be interesting for you to take note of what message your friends like to share with others for God! Uncovering their life messages will definitely give you a clue about God’s plan for their lives and why you like them so much. Perhaps their life message challenges you or helps you refocus.
God-Given Proclamations
Have you noticed that the same encouraging comment comes spilling out of your heart and mouth all the time? For example, Hope against all odds. Or, Jesus loves me. Do you sometimes feel like a preacher when you say someone: Serve as if you are serving Jesus. Or, you will find freedom in Christ. What Christlike theme ranks at the top of your list? Love one another. Or, surrender to Jesus Christ today. What do you wish you could shout from the mountaintop? Forgive one another. Or, protect unborn babies.
What Were You Born To Tell The World?
John the Baptist Had a Life Message from God
John the Baptist was sent to prepare the way for the Lord. His life message: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Read Matthew 3:1-12. How would you like to have been assigned John’s message and place in history?
SCRIPTURE TO PONDER
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task of the Lord Jesus has given me – task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)
So…What Insight, Prayer, or Action Step Has God Laid on Your Heart Today?
Exert from "Pathway to Purpose for Women" by Katie Brazelton
God-Given Proclamations
Have you noticed that the same encouraging comment comes spilling out of your heart and mouth all the time? For example, Hope against all odds. Or, Jesus loves me. Do you sometimes feel like a preacher when you say someone: Serve as if you are serving Jesus. Or, you will find freedom in Christ. What Christlike theme ranks at the top of your list? Love one another. Or, surrender to Jesus Christ today. What do you wish you could shout from the mountaintop? Forgive one another. Or, protect unborn babies.
What Were You Born To Tell The World?
John the Baptist Had a Life Message from God
John the Baptist was sent to prepare the way for the Lord. His life message: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Read Matthew 3:1-12. How would you like to have been assigned John’s message and place in history?
SCRIPTURE TO PONDER
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task of the Lord Jesus has given me – task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace. (Acts 20:24)
So…What Insight, Prayer, or Action Step Has God Laid on Your Heart Today?
Exert from "Pathway to Purpose for Women" by Katie Brazelton
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Conquering The Return to Reality Blues
By: Sandra Harris Frey
Vacation. This word rings such excitement! The daily routine of life can become very monotonous unless you “shake it up” with a great trip or two throughout the year!
You begin the process by selecting the destination, the date, the accommodations, and the activities for the length of your stay. The anticipation builds as you get closer to the date of the planned trip. You begin selecting your attire and ultimately begin the packing process (not one of my favorites). There are always purchases made in advance and it’s best to make a list. Sunscreen, camera batteries, a good book, board games or cards, hair care products, a new bathing suit if you're going to the beach, and don't forget to stop at the bank! Ladies, whatever you do, do not forget to pack your makeup! It could be an ugly week without this necessity.
The vacation date finally arrives and you are on your way for some fun! Your stay is a great one, but the days seem to be in fast forward. Before you know it, you are headed on that big highway back home.
For all of you who work outside the home, the first day back to work from vacation may bring on an onslaught of cranky behavior. It’s “back to the old grind”.
Why is that we have such fun during our week of leisure, but sometimes forget to have fun year round? Each day should be filled with fun, laughter, and excitement while fulfilling the purpose at hand. I don't think that a bathing suit is appropriate attire for your work/home life (unless you are a lifeguard), but why not make each day fun and fulfilling.
Here are some tips for adjusting to life after vacation:
* Be nice to everyone.
* Choose clothing or jewelry that makes you smile when you put it on. Why wear things that do not make you smile?
* Exercise extra patience with those around you – ESPECIALLY your loved ones at home. Isn't patience supposed to be a virtue?
* Devote more time to prayer. The Lord listens to each and every prayer and always seems to give us the right answers and soothes our weary souls.
Blessings and have an awesome week!
Vacation. This word rings such excitement! The daily routine of life can become very monotonous unless you “shake it up” with a great trip or two throughout the year!
You begin the process by selecting the destination, the date, the accommodations, and the activities for the length of your stay. The anticipation builds as you get closer to the date of the planned trip. You begin selecting your attire and ultimately begin the packing process (not one of my favorites). There are always purchases made in advance and it’s best to make a list. Sunscreen, camera batteries, a good book, board games or cards, hair care products, a new bathing suit if you're going to the beach, and don't forget to stop at the bank! Ladies, whatever you do, do not forget to pack your makeup! It could be an ugly week without this necessity.
The vacation date finally arrives and you are on your way for some fun! Your stay is a great one, but the days seem to be in fast forward. Before you know it, you are headed on that big highway back home.
For all of you who work outside the home, the first day back to work from vacation may bring on an onslaught of cranky behavior. It’s “back to the old grind”.
Why is that we have such fun during our week of leisure, but sometimes forget to have fun year round? Each day should be filled with fun, laughter, and excitement while fulfilling the purpose at hand. I don't think that a bathing suit is appropriate attire for your work/home life (unless you are a lifeguard), but why not make each day fun and fulfilling.
Here are some tips for adjusting to life after vacation:
* Be nice to everyone.
* Choose clothing or jewelry that makes you smile when you put it on. Why wear things that do not make you smile?
* Exercise extra patience with those around you – ESPECIALLY your loved ones at home. Isn't patience supposed to be a virtue?
* Devote more time to prayer. The Lord listens to each and every prayer and always seems to give us the right answers and soothes our weary souls.
Blessings and have an awesome week!
Monday, July 9, 2007
9 to 5 Sanctuaries
By: Glen Schneiders, Crossroads Christian Church, Lexington KY
Gordon MacDonald directed a ministry in downtown New York City. He became acquainted with the public transportation drivers because he regularly used their services. Every so often he would have breakfast with some of the drivers. At one particular breakfast a driver lamented his vocation.
He said to MacDonald, “I wish I had a job like yours that was making a difference in the lives of people.” MacDonald offered some very sage advice. “I want you to try something for me. When you get on your bus tomorrow morning, before you do anything else I want you to close the door and pray this prayer: God make this bus a sanctuary for your presence today and make me your instrument of mercy and kindness.”
The bus driver reluctantly agreed to pray that prayer but was quite skeptical that anything could possibly change his tedious, menial job into something as significant as a sanctuary for God to work. A month went by before MacDonald crossed paths with the driver again.
When he did, he found a man quite different from the one that he had dined with the month before. Incredulous, the man told story after story of how God had used him to minister to the pain and needs in the lives of his harried passengers. God had indeed made his ordinary bus into sanctuary to dispense God’s mercy and kindness.
I’m going to guess that some of you aren’t real thrilled with your occupation. You see no connection between what you do and what God wants to do in the loves of people.
Will you take a moment today, as soon as you can, to quietly say to God, “Make this office…make this classroom…make this shop…make this warehouse a sanctuary? Make me an instrument of your kindness and mercy today.”
Colossians 3:23 (NIV) “Whatever you do (italics mine), work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men…”
Instead of going to work today for your company, why not go to work for God? I look forward to hearing what God does through you and in you, because God will show up if we make our workplaces His sanctuary.
Gordon MacDonald directed a ministry in downtown New York City. He became acquainted with the public transportation drivers because he regularly used their services. Every so often he would have breakfast with some of the drivers. At one particular breakfast a driver lamented his vocation.
He said to MacDonald, “I wish I had a job like yours that was making a difference in the lives of people.” MacDonald offered some very sage advice. “I want you to try something for me. When you get on your bus tomorrow morning, before you do anything else I want you to close the door and pray this prayer: God make this bus a sanctuary for your presence today and make me your instrument of mercy and kindness.”
The bus driver reluctantly agreed to pray that prayer but was quite skeptical that anything could possibly change his tedious, menial job into something as significant as a sanctuary for God to work. A month went by before MacDonald crossed paths with the driver again.
When he did, he found a man quite different from the one that he had dined with the month before. Incredulous, the man told story after story of how God had used him to minister to the pain and needs in the lives of his harried passengers. God had indeed made his ordinary bus into sanctuary to dispense God’s mercy and kindness.
I’m going to guess that some of you aren’t real thrilled with your occupation. You see no connection between what you do and what God wants to do in the loves of people.
Will you take a moment today, as soon as you can, to quietly say to God, “Make this office…make this classroom…make this shop…make this warehouse a sanctuary? Make me an instrument of your kindness and mercy today.”
Colossians 3:23 (NIV) “Whatever you do (italics mine), work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men…”
Instead of going to work today for your company, why not go to work for God? I look forward to hearing what God does through you and in you, because God will show up if we make our workplaces His sanctuary.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
My Princess...
I Have Set You Apart
I have called you to be set apart, just as I called those who came before you. I know this calling will sometimes come with great cost, but the eternal rewards are priceless and beyond comparison. Just as I did with Queen Esther, I have given you the ability to walk in such a way so all will see that you are divinely Mine. Some will admire you for your dedication to Me, and some will want you to fail rather than follow your lead. You may fall because you are not perfect, but your mistakes can be the tutors that make you wiser. Don't put pressure on yourself to be perfect. I'm the only one who can perfect you, My princess. All I ask is that you let Me set you apart so that I use you as a witness for the world to see.
Love,
Your King who sets you apart
Exert from "His Princess: Love Lettes from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
"I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my spokesman to the world."
Jeremiah 1:5
Jeremiah 1:5
I have called you to be set apart, just as I called those who came before you. I know this calling will sometimes come with great cost, but the eternal rewards are priceless and beyond comparison. Just as I did with Queen Esther, I have given you the ability to walk in such a way so all will see that you are divinely Mine. Some will admire you for your dedication to Me, and some will want you to fail rather than follow your lead. You may fall because you are not perfect, but your mistakes can be the tutors that make you wiser. Don't put pressure on yourself to be perfect. I'm the only one who can perfect you, My princess. All I ask is that you let Me set you apart so that I use you as a witness for the world to see.
Love,
Your King who sets you apart
Exert from "His Princess: Love Lettes from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Make a Joyful Noise...
My morning drive to work takes about 25 to 30 minutes depending upon traffic. It’s the only time that I am alone during the day and it’s a good time to think about the day ahead or compile a “To Do” list to my “memory bank” or it’s just a good time to sing…and sing loud!
My morning commute is great entertainment for other drivers each day. Many of them catch me in mid-song at red lights (I’m an animated singer). Some may point, laugh or stare, but most smile knowingly because they are quite guilty of the same pleasure many times in their lives.
Some singers are famous. Some singers sing in a choir at church. Some singers sing their children lullabies at bedtime. Some singers sing to be joyful.
Singing can bring joy, peace, love, comfort, and happiness into our hearts. Remember hearing the bible verse “bring a joyful noise unto the Lord” when you were young? What better way to glorify the Lord than by singing his praises daily.
Let’s all become singers and sing a joyful song to the Lord each day.
By: Sandra Harris Frey
New iBloom Author
Meet Sandra Harris Frey, our newest contributing author to the iBloom blog.
Sandra Harris Frey began keeping a diary in her childhood years by jotting down humorous events of her day. To better develop and mold her writing interests, she enrolled in a creative writing class her senior year of high school at West Carter High School in Olive Hill, Kentucky and continued sharpening her skills by attending Morehead State University and Ashland Vocational Technical School.
Sandra Harris Frey began keeping a diary in her childhood years by jotting down humorous events of her day. To better develop and mold her writing interests, she enrolled in a creative writing class her senior year of high school at West Carter High School in Olive Hill, Kentucky and continued sharpening her skills by attending Morehead State University and Ashland Vocational Technical School.
Sandra is currently an Executive Secretary in Marketing and Community Relations at a local hospital in Lexington, where she is a contributing writer for their quarterly publication. She was previously affiliated with Jerrico, Incorporated from 1986 - 1990 and Thomas and King, Incorporated from 1990 – 2001, which are widely known corporations in the restaurant industry.
Sandra and her husband Jonathan reside in Lexington, Kentucky where they enjoy gardening, NASCAR racing, Thoroughbred racing, and relaxing on their back deck watching the wildlife. She is in the process of writing a "best seller" and hopes to have her works published in the next couple of years.
Sandra and her husband Jonathan reside in Lexington, Kentucky where they enjoy gardening, NASCAR racing, Thoroughbred racing, and relaxing on their back deck watching the wildlife. She is in the process of writing a "best seller" and hopes to have her works published in the next couple of years.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Clinging to a Dream...
Selections from 1 Samuel 1
With a grieved soul Hannah prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. Making a vow she pleased, "O Lord of Hosts, it You will take notice of Your handmaid's affliction and remember me and not forget me and give Your handmaid a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life"...Although her lips were moving, her voice couldn't be heard, so Eli concluded that she was drunk..."Oh no, my lord," Hannah replied..."I've been pouring my soul before the Lord."...
Eli responded, "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant the petition that you've requested of Him."
Never dream without a prayer When we talk to others about the dreams in our lives, we often get blind stares of disinterested discouragement--roadblocks, rejection. But when we take our dreams to God, we begin an adventurous journey of faith. It may mean being broken along the way, but only to let our dream escape. It may mean going through seasons of searching, but only to determine how much of our dream is selfish--and to prove how badly we really want God's way. Prayer keeps holy dreams alive.
Hannah was tested. Her rival-as-wife, Peninnah, taunted her relentlessly. Hannah was further upset each time she went to the temple at Shiloh. There, in the midst of families going to offer their worship and their sacrifices, she felt all alone without a child.
When his two wives were at each other's throats, Elkanah would try to smooth things over by asking, "Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?" What she needed and longed to hear from him was that she meant more to him than ten sons. God was using everyone in this woman's life to test her.
We are tested so our character will match our dreams. Christian character is a work in progress for us believers. When God gives you a dream, we may need a lot of work on and in our lives to enable us to handle the dream. Our sufficiency and strength will always be in God-and God alone. As with Hannah, it usually is a pretty good clue that the test or the dream is from God when things don't work out easily. The greater the dream, the greater the testing.
Do you have a dream that feels like it's dying in your life? Don't give up. Take it to God in prayer today. And trust Him to do more with your dream than you could ever do yourself.
Exert from "Women of Character" by Jim Henry
With a grieved soul Hannah prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly. Making a vow she pleased, "O Lord of Hosts, it You will take notice of Your handmaid's affliction and remember me and not forget me and give Your handmaid a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life"...Although her lips were moving, her voice couldn't be heard, so Eli concluded that she was drunk..."Oh no, my lord," Hannah replied..."I've been pouring my soul before the Lord."...
Eli responded, "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant the petition that you've requested of Him."
Never dream without a prayer When we talk to others about the dreams in our lives, we often get blind stares of disinterested discouragement--roadblocks, rejection. But when we take our dreams to God, we begin an adventurous journey of faith. It may mean being broken along the way, but only to let our dream escape. It may mean going through seasons of searching, but only to determine how much of our dream is selfish--and to prove how badly we really want God's way. Prayer keeps holy dreams alive.
Hannah was tested. Her rival-as-wife, Peninnah, taunted her relentlessly. Hannah was further upset each time she went to the temple at Shiloh. There, in the midst of families going to offer their worship and their sacrifices, she felt all alone without a child.
When his two wives were at each other's throats, Elkanah would try to smooth things over by asking, "Don't I mean more to you than ten sons?" What she needed and longed to hear from him was that she meant more to him than ten sons. God was using everyone in this woman's life to test her.
We are tested so our character will match our dreams. Christian character is a work in progress for us believers. When God gives you a dream, we may need a lot of work on and in our lives to enable us to handle the dream. Our sufficiency and strength will always be in God-and God alone. As with Hannah, it usually is a pretty good clue that the test or the dream is from God when things don't work out easily. The greater the dream, the greater the testing.
Do you have a dream that feels like it's dying in your life? Don't give up. Take it to God in prayer today. And trust Him to do more with your dream than you could ever do yourself.
Exert from "Women of Character" by Jim Henry
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
My Princess...
You are my Precious Daughter
You are a daughter of the King, and not just any king. You are My daughter, and I am the God of all heaven and earth. I am delighted with you! You are the apple of My eye. You're Daddy's girl. Your earthly father may love and adore you, but his love is not perfect, no matter how great--or small--it is. Only My love is perfect...because I am Love. I formed your body. I fashioned your mind and soul. I know your personality, and I understand your needs and desires. I see your heartaches and disappointments, and I love you passionately and patiently. My child, I bought you with a price so that we could have an intimate relationship together for all eternity. Soon we will see each other face-to-face--Father and daughter--and you will experience the wonderful place I have prepared for you in paradise. Until then, fix your eyes on heaven, and walk closely with Me. You will know that-although I am God-My arms are not too big to hold you, My beloved daughter.
Love,
Your King and your Daddy in heaven
Exert from "His Princess: Love Lettes from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
"And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty"
2 Corinthians 6:18
2 Corinthians 6:18
You are a daughter of the King, and not just any king. You are My daughter, and I am the God of all heaven and earth. I am delighted with you! You are the apple of My eye. You're Daddy's girl. Your earthly father may love and adore you, but his love is not perfect, no matter how great--or small--it is. Only My love is perfect...because I am Love. I formed your body. I fashioned your mind and soul. I know your personality, and I understand your needs and desires. I see your heartaches and disappointments, and I love you passionately and patiently. My child, I bought you with a price so that we could have an intimate relationship together for all eternity. Soon we will see each other face-to-face--Father and daughter--and you will experience the wonderful place I have prepared for you in paradise. Until then, fix your eyes on heaven, and walk closely with Me. You will know that-although I am God-My arms are not too big to hold you, My beloved daughter.
Love,
Your King and your Daddy in heaven
Exert from "His Princess: Love Lettes from Your King" by Sheri Rose Shepherd
Sunday, June 24, 2007
How Do You Define Success?
The world’s definition of success is centered around things of this world – things you can earn, buy, demand, manipulate, be, or make. God’s view of success is distinctly different: it is that we glorify him be obeying him. Are you ready today to think about prioritizing the two definitions and seeing whether you are more committed to the world’s view or to God’s? This is a great exercise if you want to finish well the race God has set out for you.
The Lure Of Success
What type of success beckons you? Is it fame, wealth, possessions, power, perfection, or popularity? Is it an impressive job title, getting invited to the right parties, or being a size eight? Is it having a company car and a key to the executive elevator? Is it academic excellence, looking good, meeting deadlines, or having an expense account? Is it being known on a first-name basis at the country club or having a reputation as a big tipper at restaurants? Or, is it more closely aligned with worshiping God with your life?
How Do You Define Success?
Zerubbabel Defined Success Well
Zerubbabel, governor of
SCRIPTURE TO PONDER
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 1:6)
So…What Insight, Prayer, or Action Step Has God Laid on Your Heart today?
Exert from "Praying for Purpose" by Katie BrazeltonFriday, June 22, 2007
Hear Me!!
O Lord, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God. For I pray to no one but you. Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:1-3
Through this psalm, King David taught much about the expectant attitude of a powerful pray-er.
He begins his prayer as if he is putting his hands on each cheekbone of the face of his God and saying, “Please pay attention to my pain and anguish. No one else who listens to my complaints has the power to change my circumstances as You do, O Lord, for You are the God above all gods. You are all-knowing, always present, and all-powerful.”
The truth taught in every psalm is this: God alone is Sovereign. The psalmists were convinced that they could petition the King of kings with the smallest or deepest angst of their hearts – He was neither too great not too busy nor too powerful to care about the singular needs of His followers. And David wasn’t going to wait until day’s end to speak with Him. No, the earliest hour of his day was barely soon enough.
Plan your appointment with the King one day in advance. Put it on your calendar as the first uninterrupted house of your day.
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