Jonah was trying to run as far as he possibly could to get away from God. Now this might seem silly to us because we know that God is everywhere, we can't run from Him, but if we are honest with ourselves sometimes we still try. How many of you are internally running as Priscilla mentions? I know I have on more than one occasion. How many times do I get caught up in the motions but my heart is far from God? Isaiah 29:13 says, "Then the Lord said, 'because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.'"
I don't want to be like that. As our culture says, I want to not only talk the talk but walk the walk. God doesn't want robots going through the motions, He wants our hearts! So sisters are you willing to do more than just go through the motions?
-Missy D
Monday, September 12, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Significantly Called
Have you ever felt insignificant? A wall flower, the girl that goes unnoticed or never invited to the party? I have. I could easily say that I have felt insignificant for most of my life. I've never done anything big. Never changed someone elses life in dramatic ways. Never felt significant.
I love that today's study is just for me, an insignificant girl living in Kansas in a very ordinary life. Mary, Esther, Rahab, Peter and even Jonah weren't anything special in this world. But in a moment it all changed. Each of them stood at a crossroads. One road lead to their planned path and the other was a divine intervention. Each man or woman had a choice to be independent or dependent on God. Don't get me wrong, I have no doubt that another book could have been written on those people that chose their own paths. The ones that remained insignificant.
"God's call and your willingness to obey make you significant."
There is hope for me, and for you! I may be living an ordinary, non-significant life today, but that can all change. "Lord, not my will but Yours be done." Sisters, eagerly await Him. We have a chance to let our stories begin, the story that will be told well beyond our lives. We have a chance to become significant!
~Andrea W.
I love that today's study is just for me, an insignificant girl living in Kansas in a very ordinary life. Mary, Esther, Rahab, Peter and even Jonah weren't anything special in this world. But in a moment it all changed. Each of them stood at a crossroads. One road lead to their planned path and the other was a divine intervention. Each man or woman had a choice to be independent or dependent on God. Don't get me wrong, I have no doubt that another book could have been written on those people that chose their own paths. The ones that remained insignificant.
"God's call and your willingness to obey make you significant."
There is hope for me, and for you! I may be living an ordinary, non-significant life today, but that can all change. "Lord, not my will but Yours be done." Sisters, eagerly await Him. We have a chance to let our stories begin, the story that will be told well beyond our lives. We have a chance to become significant!
~Andrea W.
Monday, September 5, 2011
I Am Jonah
Oh how true this statement is for me. The study of Jonah intrigued me because there have been several times I have told my husband, "I don't want to go to Ninevah". I don't want to get out of my comfort zone and if I do that person or people will probably not change or they deserve what they are getting so why do I need to try and help. Shame on me!
Priscilla opened the study with two points that really hit me. 1) interruptions are invitations from God to participate in something for Him and 2) am I putting more priority on my goal or God when I get frustrated with interruptions?
1) As she pointed out if Jonah could see his life as we see it in 4 chapters maybe he would have seen it as an invitation to participate in a supernatural event. Like Jonah we can't see our lives laid out from beginning to end we are active and writing the story as we go. Also like Jonah though we are given invitations from God to be a part of the story He wants for us. Do we say "I get it" or do we run in the other direction?
2) When I get frustrated with interruptions I am really telling God that my plan is better than His and a higher priority. What?! It sounds and looks completely ridiculous when you see it written down or hear it said but in truth that is what we are doing. As I mentioned in a previous post on the sell of our home I was not as patient as I should have been. There was the interruption in my life of having my house on the market for longer than I thought it should have been but exactly how long God wanted it. I put my goal of being sold in a week a priority over God's timing. How much better it was that it was God's timing and not my own! There are times when I am busy cleaning or packing right now and one of my boys wants me to look at something. This interruption can be seen as very frustrating to my packing schedule BUT this blessing from God wants to show me something important to him and I need to thank God for that interruption instead of getting frustrated.
She had an equation at the end of the study: Insignificant Person + Insignificant Task = Interruption
Significant Person + Significant Task = Divine Intervention
I defined it as when we are looking through our eyes we see mere interruption to the task at hand but if we try and see it from God's eyes we see it as an invitation from God to participate in His kingdom.
So, what are you placing at a higher priority your goals or God's will? It's easy to say God's will but are we living that way. I know if I am being honest with myself I have to say no, not 100% of the time. Let's all encourage each other to place the priority where it should be God's will!
Love you sisters!
~Missy D
Priscilla opened the study with two points that really hit me. 1) interruptions are invitations from God to participate in something for Him and 2) am I putting more priority on my goal or God when I get frustrated with interruptions?
1) As she pointed out if Jonah could see his life as we see it in 4 chapters maybe he would have seen it as an invitation to participate in a supernatural event. Like Jonah we can't see our lives laid out from beginning to end we are active and writing the story as we go. Also like Jonah though we are given invitations from God to be a part of the story He wants for us. Do we say "I get it" or do we run in the other direction?
2) When I get frustrated with interruptions I am really telling God that my plan is better than His and a higher priority. What?! It sounds and looks completely ridiculous when you see it written down or hear it said but in truth that is what we are doing. As I mentioned in a previous post on the sell of our home I was not as patient as I should have been. There was the interruption in my life of having my house on the market for longer than I thought it should have been but exactly how long God wanted it. I put my goal of being sold in a week a priority over God's timing. How much better it was that it was God's timing and not my own! There are times when I am busy cleaning or packing right now and one of my boys wants me to look at something. This interruption can be seen as very frustrating to my packing schedule BUT this blessing from God wants to show me something important to him and I need to thank God for that interruption instead of getting frustrated.
She had an equation at the end of the study: Insignificant Person + Insignificant Task = Interruption
Significant Person + Significant Task = Divine Intervention
I defined it as when we are looking through our eyes we see mere interruption to the task at hand but if we try and see it from God's eyes we see it as an invitation from God to participate in His kingdom.
So, what are you placing at a higher priority your goals or God's will? It's easy to say God's will but are we living that way. I know if I am being honest with myself I have to say no, not 100% of the time. Let's all encourage each other to place the priority where it should be God's will!
Love you sisters!
~Missy D
Friday, September 2, 2011
Courage Till the End
My sweet Sophie-girl had to have a lab drawn today, out of her sweet, tiny, never-before-punctured vein. It nearly broke my heart to tell her what was coming. She listened, and tried to understand as well as her 4-year-old mind could. I told her that when it began to hurt, she could not move her arm, no matter how much she wanted to. Then I drew her onto my lap and held her tightly against me. I watched as the needle penetrated her skin. I saw her eyes flicker first with pain and then with frustration and perhaps some confusion. Then the fat tears began to roll in buckets down her precious face. All the while, she held her arm perfectly in place while the technician drew a whole vile of blood from her arm. When it was over, she sat and cried on my lap for awhile, cuddled against me, before she hopped down from my lap and told the technician a quiet goodbye. Before we got to the lobby, she was all smiles (with the promise of a snow cone in her near future!).
What a lesson I learned today. My 4-year-old daughter’s courage was absolutely inspiring to me. How I long to follow exactly where God leads me – into uncertainty, threat of pain and sorrow – with no questions asked. All the while I will go believing that He will fulfill His promises – that He will work good through all things – and this is a necessary step in the story of my life! I want to know without a doubt that He is there with me, holding me, bringing me peace that passes all of my human understanding. And when it’s over… for that painful moment will one day end… I pray that I can move on into my future with a stronger heart, and more joy than ever before. For Christ has promised blessings if I follow Him. And He WILL make His glory known! Praise you, Lord Jesus.
Hebrews 3:6-8,10,12-14 “But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. So, as the Holy Spirit says: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert... That is why I was angry with that generation, and I said, ‘Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.’… See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.”
-Kelly T
What a lesson I learned today. My 4-year-old daughter’s courage was absolutely inspiring to me. How I long to follow exactly where God leads me – into uncertainty, threat of pain and sorrow – with no questions asked. All the while I will go believing that He will fulfill His promises – that He will work good through all things – and this is a necessary step in the story of my life! I want to know without a doubt that He is there with me, holding me, bringing me peace that passes all of my human understanding. And when it’s over… for that painful moment will one day end… I pray that I can move on into my future with a stronger heart, and more joy than ever before. For Christ has promised blessings if I follow Him. And He WILL make His glory known! Praise you, Lord Jesus.
Hebrews 3:6-8,10,12-14 “But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast. So, as the Holy Spirit says: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert... That is why I was angry with that generation, and I said, ‘Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.’… See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.”
-Kelly T
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
The past few days have been a bit tumultuous in my household. This Mommy put her foot down and my little one no longer gets milk in a bottle or in her crib. Needless to say, she is not very happy. Bedtime used to be carefree and easy. That has become a fleeting memory. As I rocked her and sang a few songs last night, she snuggled in. She clasped onto me as her safe haven. When she realized that I wasn't, you could see her heart breaking. The tears rolled, the feet stomped and the cries began. I sat outside her room crying alongside of her. I hurt for her. While the cries echoed down the hall, I turned to His word.
Then I pray to you, OLord.
I say, “You are my place of refuge.
You are all I really want in life.
He is my refuge. He is my comfort, my place of peace. He is always there, not down the hallway, not even on the other side of the door. He is with me. He is my place of refuge. When I am hurting or not understanding, He is there. When any of us seek Him, we will find Him. We are so blessed girls. Only our Father can be a place of refuge. As moms we desperately want to be there for our children, but we cannot compare to what Our God can be. One day as my girl grows up she will come to know our Father, our Protector, our place of Comfort. Seek Him and you will find Him. Turn to Him and He will always be there.
~Andrea W.
Then I pray to you, OLord.
I say, “You are my place of refuge.
You are all I really want in life.
He is my refuge. He is my comfort, my place of peace. He is always there, not down the hallway, not even on the other side of the door. He is with me. He is my place of refuge. When I am hurting or not understanding, He is there. When any of us seek Him, we will find Him. We are so blessed girls. Only our Father can be a place of refuge. As moms we desperately want to be there for our children, but we cannot compare to what Our God can be. One day as my girl grows up she will come to know our Father, our Protector, our place of Comfort. Seek Him and you will find Him. Turn to Him and He will always be there.
~Andrea W.
Monday, August 29, 2011
God's Timing Not Mine
I know the saying God's timing is best and have said it to myself and others on several occasions. Lately it has been one that I have been repeating to myself maybe trying to convince myself it really is best. We had our house on the market last year for several months with no bites and finally realized that God was telling us No, not yet. So this summer we felt after time in prayer and discussions we would try again. We listed it and hit the ground running. We had several showings our first week and several people came through our Open House. So, I began to get excited even though I was trying to hide it. Surely we would have an offer soon with all those people coming through our house and only positive feedback. To no avail we waited and waited with no word and the showings stopped. This is when I began to start doubting whether or not we should just take it off once again. After time in prayer asking God to show me if we should take it off or not, we had a lady that was going to meet with her lender to make an offer. So, of course I got excited and wouldn't you know she disappeared. Although I began to get frustrated I didn't feel the move to take the house off the market. That's when it happened out of the "blue" last Monday we received an offer, I found a home on craig'slist that had dropped its price a substantial amount, there was an offer on the home but the realtor couldn't meet with the seller until the next day which gave us time to make an offer, our realtor was able to present the offer to the seller and Wed night our offer was accepted. Now if you told that story to someone they might say what a coincidence, I just smile and say no God's timing! I could never have created a more perfect time frame than He did and the only reason it worked was because of Him! Now I know that we haven't signed papers and received the keys but I feel this home is where our family needs to be next.
Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
Although I was anything but anxious for nothing I brought my requests to God time and time again. I knew that His time was best and that He would provide far more than I could ever ask or imagine. So, next time you are getting discouraged or frustrated with things not going quick enough or just the way you thought, remember God's timing is best and He will be faithful. Take your requests to your Father in Heaven who can do far more than you could ever imagine!
~Missy D
Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
Although I was anything but anxious for nothing I brought my requests to God time and time again. I knew that His time was best and that He would provide far more than I could ever ask or imagine. So, next time you are getting discouraged or frustrated with things not going quick enough or just the way you thought, remember God's timing is best and He will be faithful. Take your requests to your Father in Heaven who can do far more than you could ever imagine!
~Missy D
Friday, August 26, 2011
Use It or Lose It
After buying my kids snow cones during a visit to the zoo, we promptly sat down with our friends to enjoy the treat. Unfortunately the baby became increasingly upset in his "My morning nap was cut very short for this place" stupor, and the kids and I headed for the exit with snow cones in hand. My 2-year-old son, who was riding in the double stroller with the baby, was adamant that he should hold his snow cone while in the stroller. I could picture how badly this would turn out, but I allowed him the pleasure.
The older girls walked along beside me, happily munching on their snacks. The 2-yr-old, however, gripped his snow cone tightly to his chest, refusing to eat it. Each time I would stop and attempt to pry the cold mess from his little grubbies, the result was screaming and clutching the snow cone tighter, all the while spilling more red ooze down his shirt and onto his shorts, legs, arms, stroller, etc.
I found myself quite amused at his insistence that he hold onto that snow cone despite his absolute unwillingness to eat it. Then God brought this to my heart as a truth of our Christian lives. Aren't there many of us who do this very same thing with the blessed Holy Spirit? Upon receiving the Spirit in the refreshing waters of baptism, we clutch the Spirit tightly to our chests, just sure that someone is going to attempt to take him from us. Yet in our comfort of that understanding - "yes, I have the Spirit!" - we often choose to do nothing with him. And this allows us to be nothing but stagnant Christians, just making big messes of our lives all while ignoring the Counselor that God blessed us with to help us fight through those very messes!!
1 Thess 5:19 tells us not to "put out the Spirit's fire." The longer I allow the Spirit to be unused in my life, the less obvious His voice will be to me. Soon after that, He is gone. Now where would that leave me?
I will be praying today that you and I, my Soul Sisters, have clarity to hear the voice of the Spirit - that we will be strong enough in the Lord to go where the Spirit leads us- and that the more we listen, the stronger His voice will be to our hearts!
Love to you all, dear Soul Sisters!
-Kelly T
The older girls walked along beside me, happily munching on their snacks. The 2-yr-old, however, gripped his snow cone tightly to his chest, refusing to eat it. Each time I would stop and attempt to pry the cold mess from his little grubbies, the result was screaming and clutching the snow cone tighter, all the while spilling more red ooze down his shirt and onto his shorts, legs, arms, stroller, etc.
I found myself quite amused at his insistence that he hold onto that snow cone despite his absolute unwillingness to eat it. Then God brought this to my heart as a truth of our Christian lives. Aren't there many of us who do this very same thing with the blessed Holy Spirit? Upon receiving the Spirit in the refreshing waters of baptism, we clutch the Spirit tightly to our chests, just sure that someone is going to attempt to take him from us. Yet in our comfort of that understanding - "yes, I have the Spirit!" - we often choose to do nothing with him. And this allows us to be nothing but stagnant Christians, just making big messes of our lives all while ignoring the Counselor that God blessed us with to help us fight through those very messes!!
1 Thess 5:19 tells us not to "put out the Spirit's fire." The longer I allow the Spirit to be unused in my life, the less obvious His voice will be to me. Soon after that, He is gone. Now where would that leave me?
I will be praying today that you and I, my Soul Sisters, have clarity to hear the voice of the Spirit - that we will be strong enough in the Lord to go where the Spirit leads us- and that the more we listen, the stronger His voice will be to our hearts!
Love to you all, dear Soul Sisters!
-Kelly T
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
This weekend my little family traveled to Arkadelphia, Arkansas so my husband could compete in a triathlon. The race ended around 8:00 that night and we had already planned on traveling to Branson, Missouri to sleep. So, I was the elected driver. No problem! Quickly into the journey I found myself sitting upright, two hands on the wheel rather tightly and my nerves became a mess! The roads between point A and point B were nothing I had ever driven on. They were twisty and turny and just plain awful! Just when I thought I couldn't take any more, the rain began to fall, lightning crashing in front of us and thunder scaring me out of my whits. Whew! This was a four and a half hour drive and I was ready to give up within half an hour. I kept telling myself, "you can do this", "take it slow", "take a deep breath". And then the fog moved in. Can't a girl catch a break??? I battled that road for quite some time before my husbands calm voice spoke up, "Andrea, turn your fog lights on, it will help." What? Fog lights? Oh yeah, fog lights! I definitely had an ah-ha moment in the middle of nowhere Arkansas. Those fog lights made the remainder of the journey much easier. My husband let me do it my way for a while before speaking up. My way wasn't working!
Sisters, we have fog lights to get us through this world and we don't use them! God is a whisper or a cry away! He gave us everything we need to get us there but we forget to use them! We become so focused in on "our way" or on the journey that we forget to turn the fog lights on! Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." God lets us maneuver our way through this life, our way. Time and time again, I hear Him calmly remind me to turn my fog lights on. The question is, do you listen? I guarantee you, after my frightening journey to no mans land, my fog lights are on! Are your fog lights on Sisters?
~Andrea W.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
Last night my daughter (nearing 2 years old) and I were in Target shopping. My incredibly sweet and adorable daughter decided to throw one of her very large and ugly temper tantrum. Recently she has also decided that she enjoys swinging at mommy. Unfortunately for her, when she does that she also gets a good spanking and a talking to. So as the screaming is commencing an employee of Target decided to join the party. She looked at me incredibly concerned and asked if my daughter was alright. I smiled and said "oh the terrible two's!" I am not exaggerating when I say that she looked at me like I was being ridiculous and possibly abusive. I was waiting for 911 to be called at any moment!
What has this society come to? I was raised in a time where a "switch" was always on top of the refrigerator (at my grandma's house), we had to choose which leather belt we wanted to be swat with and we truly feared our parents. We had chores at home and had to actually save our money to purchase things we wanted. Children have no chance anymore. They are raised in a world where parents give them what they want and WHEN they want it! Chores? What are those? The love that we have for our children has begun to smother them into rotten kids!
Sisters, we have hope! Our loving Father gave us instructions as parents. Proverbs 13:24 reads, "Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them." Toady's society wants us to believe that spanking or disciplining our child is abusive. That way of thinking is why our society is in such distress! We have children our of control, and they eventually grow up into adults out of control!
Children are a gift from God. Cherish that child, love that child and guide that child Sisters!
~Andrea W.
What has this society come to? I was raised in a time where a "switch" was always on top of the refrigerator (at my grandma's house), we had to choose which leather belt we wanted to be swat with and we truly feared our parents. We had chores at home and had to actually save our money to purchase things we wanted. Children have no chance anymore. They are raised in a world where parents give them what they want and WHEN they want it! Chores? What are those? The love that we have for our children has begun to smother them into rotten kids!
Sisters, we have hope! Our loving Father gave us instructions as parents. Proverbs 13:24 reads, "Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them." Toady's society wants us to believe that spanking or disciplining our child is abusive. That way of thinking is why our society is in such distress! We have children our of control, and they eventually grow up into adults out of control!
Children are a gift from God. Cherish that child, love that child and guide that child Sisters!
~Andrea W.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Unlikely Choice
When you think of choosing someone to be the captain of the team, or leader of the group what do you look for? Most the time we will choose the one who looks like they will fit the part well, at least most the time. Well, luckily for us God doesn't. He uses the unlikely to do His work. He uses the ordinary Joe to complete His task for that is when His glory is shown.
The last couple of Sundays we have been studying about Esther. Now she was an unlikely choice for God. The King chose her to be Queen because of her looks, so she looked the part but she definitely felt ill equipped for the task of saving her people. There were a couple of things that stuck out to me as I was studying her again. In Esther 4:14b "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” God used her where she was at, He used her position to save her people. God can use me where I am at, whether it is at my job, or at my child's school or at church, He can use me.
Second, in 4:16 " “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” She didn't take lightly what was being asked of her. Mordecai told her to go before the King and she knew there was danger in doing this without being called. Once she decided that she had to do this she asked them to fast for her and she would do the same. It was a serious thing she was getting ready to do and she wasn't taking it lightly. At the end of the verse she says "And if I perish, I perish" she knew there was great risk but she knew she had to try.
Another amazing thing to me about Esther is that it is the only book that doesn't mention God yet His providence is at work throughout the book. God used Esther where she was at and when the time was right she knew she had to be serious about the task at hand. God chooses the unlikely so that no one can boast on what they have accomplished, but that His glory will be seen!
~Missy D
The last couple of Sundays we have been studying about Esther. Now she was an unlikely choice for God. The King chose her to be Queen because of her looks, so she looked the part but she definitely felt ill equipped for the task of saving her people. There were a couple of things that stuck out to me as I was studying her again. In Esther 4:14b "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” God used her where she was at, He used her position to save her people. God can use me where I am at, whether it is at my job, or at my child's school or at church, He can use me.
Second, in 4:16 " “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” She didn't take lightly what was being asked of her. Mordecai told her to go before the King and she knew there was danger in doing this without being called. Once she decided that she had to do this she asked them to fast for her and she would do the same. It was a serious thing she was getting ready to do and she wasn't taking it lightly. At the end of the verse she says "And if I perish, I perish" she knew there was great risk but she knew she had to try.
Another amazing thing to me about Esther is that it is the only book that doesn't mention God yet His providence is at work throughout the book. God used Esther where she was at and when the time was right she knew she had to be serious about the task at hand. God chooses the unlikely so that no one can boast on what they have accomplished, but that His glory will be seen!
~Missy D
Friday, August 12, 2011
It's Gouging Time
My tooth hurts. It is causing me to have headaches, and jaw aches, and even aching under my eye. The longer I let it go, the more it's spreading. This morning as I was thinking about how I don't want to go to the dentist today, God helped me to focus on His truths in my life. This tooth is just like sin. If I don't take care of it when it's a small problem, it quickly becomes a big one.
Matthew 5:29 says, "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than fo ryour whole body to go into hell."
Christ is making a blatant point here - TAKE CARE OF YOUR SIN before it takes care of you! Ladies, the Word of God tells us that Satan is the father of lies. He is so good at convincing me that my sin is small and harmless. It's not a big deal to say this one thing about that other friend to this friend - after all, I'm concerned about her! It's just fine to go see that movie - I'm a big girl and I know how to handle myself! I'm just going to tell this one off-color joke - it will be good to make everyone laugh. I know these things and many others like them have found their way into my head in the past but they are all LIES!
If I don't gouge these things from my life, they will find me with a much bigger problem in the future. I may miss some blessings from God, I may find myself in a huge sin, or I may find that my children are reaping what I've sown - they see how I act, after all!
Today I desire to be a woman just like 1 Peter describes - to have a life of such purity and reverence that I can win over unbelievers. To shine that beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit - this is of great worth in God's sight!
Love to you, my dear Soul Sisters!
Kelly T
Matthew 5:29 says, "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than fo ryour whole body to go into hell."
Christ is making a blatant point here - TAKE CARE OF YOUR SIN before it takes care of you! Ladies, the Word of God tells us that Satan is the father of lies. He is so good at convincing me that my sin is small and harmless. It's not a big deal to say this one thing about that other friend to this friend - after all, I'm concerned about her! It's just fine to go see that movie - I'm a big girl and I know how to handle myself! I'm just going to tell this one off-color joke - it will be good to make everyone laugh. I know these things and many others like them have found their way into my head in the past but they are all LIES!
If I don't gouge these things from my life, they will find me with a much bigger problem in the future. I may miss some blessings from God, I may find myself in a huge sin, or I may find that my children are reaping what I've sown - they see how I act, after all!
Today I desire to be a woman just like 1 Peter describes - to have a life of such purity and reverence that I can win over unbelievers. To shine that beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit - this is of great worth in God's sight!
Love to you, my dear Soul Sisters!
Kelly T
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
If. Such a tiny word that is packed full. It's full of fear, doubt, worry, and on and on.
A few summers ago I did a summer Bible study. We did a Beth Moore study on Esther and it was a powerful study for me. She asked the question of "If"....and it forever changed me.
So, i ask you. If "this" happens, then...?
What is your "if"? What causes your worry, your doubt, your fear? Ask yourselves. Fill in those scary blanks. If I lose my job. If my marriage falls apart. If I get sick. If I go broke. If. If. If. What is your if? Now, ask yourself. If......then what? No matter what your question is, there is one answer.
THEN GOD.
If I lose my job, then God.
If my marriage fails, then God.
If I become Ill, then God.
Sisters, we allow the "ifs" in our lives to consume us. We allow the fears and anxieties of the "ifs" to take our thoughts over when the outcome is always the same. If the absolute worst happens in our lives....then God! If the absolute best happens in our lives...then God! If the mediocre happens...then God! Our mighty and powerful Father is the answer, He is the constant.
Matthew 6:33, 34, Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
THEN GOD.
~Andrea W.
A few summers ago I did a summer Bible study. We did a Beth Moore study on Esther and it was a powerful study for me. She asked the question of "If"....and it forever changed me.
So, i ask you. If "this" happens, then...?
What is your "if"? What causes your worry, your doubt, your fear? Ask yourselves. Fill in those scary blanks. If I lose my job. If my marriage falls apart. If I get sick. If I go broke. If. If. If. What is your if? Now, ask yourself. If......then what? No matter what your question is, there is one answer.
THEN GOD.
If I lose my job, then God.
If my marriage fails, then God.
If I become Ill, then God.
Sisters, we allow the "ifs" in our lives to consume us. We allow the fears and anxieties of the "ifs" to take our thoughts over when the outcome is always the same. If the absolute worst happens in our lives....then God! If the absolute best happens in our lives...then God! If the mediocre happens...then God! Our mighty and powerful Father is the answer, He is the constant.
Matthew 6:33, 34, Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
THEN GOD.
~Andrea W.
Monday, August 8, 2011
The heart of a child
Since we have finished up Ephesians for the rest of the month we will be doing our own readings until we start a new study in September. As I was trying to figure out what to share God gave me a moment with my son that went along with a scripture that one of my Soul Sisters shared and wanted to pass along.
This morning it began to rain (praise God) just before my mom was coming to pick up the boys. As the boys looked outside and saw the rain falling Caleb, who is 4, said I'm going to pray that it stops before Memaw gets here so we don't get wet. I tried to explain to him that we needed the rain, his response, "sorry it's too late I have already prayed 3 times." Now although the rain didn't completely stop it did let up so they didn't get soaked as they walked to the car.
Now, I tried to explain to him that even if it didn't stop raining God still heard his prayer but told him how happy I was that he wanted to go to God with his concern. My soul sister's verse this morning was from Mark 10:13-15 " 13 (A)And they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; (B)for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I say to you, (C)whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.”
Oh to be like a child, to have a heart of a child that seeks God. I thanked God for this "God-sighting" that He gave me today with my 4 yr old. Let us seek God with our concerns, our praises and everything because He is our Father and wants us to seek Him!
Have a great week!
~Missy D
This morning it began to rain (praise God) just before my mom was coming to pick up the boys. As the boys looked outside and saw the rain falling Caleb, who is 4, said I'm going to pray that it stops before Memaw gets here so we don't get wet. I tried to explain to him that we needed the rain, his response, "sorry it's too late I have already prayed 3 times." Now although the rain didn't completely stop it did let up so they didn't get soaked as they walked to the car.
Now, I tried to explain to him that even if it didn't stop raining God still heard his prayer but told him how happy I was that he wanted to go to God with his concern. My soul sister's verse this morning was from Mark 10:13-15 " 13 (A)And they were bringing children to Him so that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; (B)for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I say to you, (C)whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.”
Oh to be like a child, to have a heart of a child that seeks God. I thanked God for this "God-sighting" that He gave me today with my 4 yr old. Let us seek God with our concerns, our praises and everything because He is our Father and wants us to seek Him!
Have a great week!
~Missy D
Friday, August 5, 2011
Ageless Love
I remember it vividly: I saw them just as I was walking through the doors into the lockdown unit at the nursing home I worked at. (This is the unit where they keep those residents who might try to wander off.) They were sitting in the dining area. One of them was a frail whisp of a woman: grey and white hair intermingled, flat against her sweet, wrinkly face. She wore a bright red dress with white dots. This lady was a regular; I had seen her often sitting in that same chair at the nursing home, staring blankly at the opposite wall, occasionally calling out some unintelligible words to whoever was nearby to listen. That day was different, though. On that day, sitting to her right was a man. I could not see his face. He was in a sport jacket, and white hair rimmed his balding head. He sat ever-so-close to the woman, and he had his arm placed gingerly around her, pulling her close to him.
I stood, unbeknownst to them as I invaded their corner of the world, while fixed to my one square tile out in the hallway. Something about the way he sat, the way he held her, just made my insides fall to pieces. Yet as I watched, the man pulled his dear one close yet again, and gently placed a kiss on her precious, aging, dying face. As my heart sank deeper in my chest, I closed my eyes and turned to leave them to themselves. They never knew what a beautiful moment they had left etched in my mind, yet I will never forget.
As I walked that hall I found myself wondering: what is it that causes a man, still with all his physical and mental capabilities, to return day after day, in devotion and tenderness, to this woman who may not even know who he is? In that moment, I could hear God whispering to my soul: "Child, is that not what I have done for you?" He is always so good to remind me. When I chose not to know Him, when I wanted nothing to do with Him, when I asked Him to leave me be and let me do what I wanted, still He stayed, holding me close, longing for the day when I would turn to Him, with recognition lighting my eyes, and say, "My love, My King!"
As I finish Ephesians, I am praying that someday it may be said of me that I loved "our Lord Jesus Christ with an incorruptible love." (Eph 6:24, NASB) A love that doesn't die, it doesn't end, it cannot be corrupted, no matter what the cost. When I look at my life, and how He waited, and how He forgave, and how He continues to forgive me and love me... incorruptible love is the best I can give in return. For that, I cannot wait to hear him say, "Well done."
I stood, unbeknownst to them as I invaded their corner of the world, while fixed to my one square tile out in the hallway. Something about the way he sat, the way he held her, just made my insides fall to pieces. Yet as I watched, the man pulled his dear one close yet again, and gently placed a kiss on her precious, aging, dying face. As my heart sank deeper in my chest, I closed my eyes and turned to leave them to themselves. They never knew what a beautiful moment they had left etched in my mind, yet I will never forget.
As I walked that hall I found myself wondering: what is it that causes a man, still with all his physical and mental capabilities, to return day after day, in devotion and tenderness, to this woman who may not even know who he is? In that moment, I could hear God whispering to my soul: "Child, is that not what I have done for you?" He is always so good to remind me. When I chose not to know Him, when I wanted nothing to do with Him, when I asked Him to leave me be and let me do what I wanted, still He stayed, holding me close, longing for the day when I would turn to Him, with recognition lighting my eyes, and say, "My love, My King!"
As I finish Ephesians, I am praying that someday it may be said of me that I loved "our Lord Jesus Christ with an incorruptible love." (Eph 6:24, NASB) A love that doesn't die, it doesn't end, it cannot be corrupted, no matter what the cost. When I look at my life, and how He waited, and how He forgave, and how He continues to forgive me and love me... incorruptible love is the best I can give in return. For that, I cannot wait to hear him say, "Well done."
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
We have our armor. Belt, shoes, shield, helmet and sword. We are ready for battle. Each and every day we must clothe ourselves. Our days get busy and we might overlook putting our belt of truth on, or not take our sword with us because its hard to open the word of God daily. Sisters, there isn't a day that goes by that we are not attacked in one way or the other. We have been given the full armor of God, it's up to us to put it on!
Continue reading on into verse 18 and it gets better. God equips us with one more weapon, the weapon of prayer. The Message version reads, " In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each others spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out".
This verse is full of good news! It tells me that we aren't alone either! We are not a one woman army. Each of us that gets ready with Gods armor is heading into battle together! Sisters, pray hard and long! We have to stay alert and pray for others so that no one is left behind! Guard yourself in all that the Lord has given us, carry (and use) the sword which is the word of God, stay alert and remain in prayer, and the evils of this world have no chance. Each morning when we each take the time to properly clothe ourselves, I can just hear the devil cursing under his breath! Equip yourselves sisters and prepare for battle!
Continue reading on into verse 18 and it gets better. God equips us with one more weapon, the weapon of prayer. The Message version reads, " In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each others spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out".
This verse is full of good news! It tells me that we aren't alone either! We are not a one woman army. Each of us that gets ready with Gods armor is heading into battle together! Sisters, pray hard and long! We have to stay alert and pray for others so that no one is left behind! Guard yourself in all that the Lord has given us, carry (and use) the sword which is the word of God, stay alert and remain in prayer, and the evils of this world have no chance. Each morning when we each take the time to properly clothe ourselves, I can just hear the devil cursing under his breath! Equip yourselves sisters and prepare for battle!
~Andrea W.
Reading this week
M-6:14-15
T-6:16-17
W-6:18
Th-6:19-20
F-6:21-24
Monday, August 1, 2011
What are you wearing?
As girls we like to look cute, right? Also we like to wear something that is fitting for what we are doing. If we are going to be at home with the kids all day we don't pick an evening gown and if we are going out with our husbands we don't pick out the big t-shirt and sweatpants. In the same regard most of us like to look our best especially when going out. Nothing is worse than running into the grocery store your hair a mess, no make up and sweats and you run into your child's friends mom who looks like she just walked out of a magazine ad, or maybe that's just me.
We worry or spend so much time on our physical appearance but how much time do we spend on our spiritual wardrobe? I am ashamed to say that I spend much more time on my physical appearance everyday compared to my spiritual, but I want to get better and being in the word daily is a big step. Today's reading is Eph 6:14-15 NLT "Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared."
Girls we can look as cute, stylish or sporty as we want but if we don't dress ourselves with truth, God's righteousness, and peace we are an easy target for the evil one. He is looking for anyone he can get to and when we aren't dressed in our armor he will surely attack and we will not be prepared.
So, spend time working on your spiritual appearance too because in the end that is all that God cares about! Have a great week as we finish up Ephesians. I pray that this study has been a blessing to you!
We worry or spend so much time on our physical appearance but how much time do we spend on our spiritual wardrobe? I am ashamed to say that I spend much more time on my physical appearance everyday compared to my spiritual, but I want to get better and being in the word daily is a big step. Today's reading is Eph 6:14-15 NLT "Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared."
Girls we can look as cute, stylish or sporty as we want but if we don't dress ourselves with truth, God's righteousness, and peace we are an easy target for the evil one. He is looking for anyone he can get to and when we aren't dressed in our armor he will surely attack and we will not be prepared.
So, spend time working on your spiritual appearance too because in the end that is all that God cares about! Have a great week as we finish up Ephesians. I pray that this study has been a blessing to you!
Reading this week
M-6:14-15
T-6:16-17
W-6:18
Th-6:19-20
F-6:21-24
~Missy D
Friday, July 29, 2011
Stand
A good Christian woman, trying to live like Christ demands, must wear armor. I hope you have some - does your armor look like this one? Mine is pink and sparkly. God did make me a princess, after all. But there is one way my armor resembles this one. It covers all of me! When I wake up in the morning and put on my armor, I must be sure that I wear every piece of it. God's word tells me to put on the FULL armor!
*Sigh* I must admit... even as I'm writing this I've forgotten to bring my sword of the Spirit with me. A 4-year-old girl who was supposed to be cleaning her room, was instead making more mess... and I did not show her an example of a gentle and quiet woman of God.
It brings me to the ground in sorrow and frustration when I forget to wear part of my armor. That leaves me vulnerable to the enemy, unprepared for the next attack. And then the weakness is discovered, and Satan finds me sinking lower and lower, less able to stand up to him.
I want to STAND! I want to stand in readiness. I want to stand in strength. I want to fight so well that when all is done, and I don't think I could possibly stand one more moment for the extreme fatigue coursing through every muscle in my body, I still stand. Because HE makes me stand. His Word makes me stand. I just have to choose to wear His full armor!! Pink and sparkly, ladies.
-Kelly T
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
Summer jobs. Nobody really wants one but we all want the spending money. So when I was in high school, I got my first summer job. I worked at a Pool and Pond store. I use the word store very loosely! It was basically a greenhouse with a cash register, ponds full of koi fish, and me. Boy was that a hot summer job. It was a family owned business and I was left to man the store more times than not. At the beginning of the summer it was somewhat fun. I got to catch fish, get a tan and help the occasional customer. As the summer drug on and the temperature started to rise, my attitude got worse by the day. All I wanted to do was sleep in, paint my nails and watch TV. Not wade around algae infested fish tanks and sweat to death. And to not have the owners son follow me around pestering me all day. And I didn't want to deal with customers. Quickly, the enthusiasm was gone. The joy of the experience was out the window.
Since working that job I have encountered countless numbers of employees in all types of jobs just like me. Unhappy and incredibly lacking in enthusiasm for their job. Everyone probably wishes they were anyplace else, working for someone other than their boss and dealing with no customers. I get it. I understand the lack if joy. But when I went to that summer job, I was going for me. I wanted the paycheck, period. I did it selfishly.
In Ephesians 6, Paul tells us to, "Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."
Whoa! That changes EVERYTHING! Work for the Lord rather than for people! If I had gotten up every day, gone to work each morning with that attitude, don't you think that summer would have gone by a little differently? I was serving me. I was serving customers and the owners. I wasn't there serving my God. Even now in my life, with my job being "mom" what a change in my mindset it is reading this verse! On those days when it's frustrating, when it seems impossible to do anything right, I need to do it and do it enthusiastically! This is an ah-ha moment! Sisters, we have to change our attitudes. We have to live, breath, work for HIM! Not selfishly for ourselves or for what it will give us, but do it for our mighty Father! Verse 8 of chapter 6 tells us that He will reward us for the good we do. Sisters, don't get caught up in the earthly reward we get for working. Our reward will be grand because it will come from God!
Since working that job I have encountered countless numbers of employees in all types of jobs just like me. Unhappy and incredibly lacking in enthusiasm for their job. Everyone probably wishes they were anyplace else, working for someone other than their boss and dealing with no customers. I get it. I understand the lack if joy. But when I went to that summer job, I was going for me. I wanted the paycheck, period. I did it selfishly.
In Ephesians 6, Paul tells us to, "Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."
Whoa! That changes EVERYTHING! Work for the Lord rather than for people! If I had gotten up every day, gone to work each morning with that attitude, don't you think that summer would have gone by a little differently? I was serving me. I was serving customers and the owners. I wasn't there serving my God. Even now in my life, with my job being "mom" what a change in my mindset it is reading this verse! On those days when it's frustrating, when it seems impossible to do anything right, I need to do it and do it enthusiastically! This is an ah-ha moment! Sisters, we have to change our attitudes. We have to live, breath, work for HIM! Not selfishly for ourselves or for what it will give us, but do it for our mighty Father! Verse 8 of chapter 6 tells us that He will reward us for the good we do. Sisters, don't get caught up in the earthly reward we get for working. Our reward will be grand because it will come from God!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Obedience!
Ah obedience a word that we love and hate all at the same time. Today's reading I have read several times and can remember when I was younger hearing it and thinking it was pure torture. I mean come on what adult can really understand what a teenager is going through, ha. As a teenager I remember thinking my parents have no idea what I am going through and they are making all these rules just to make my life miserable. Paul tells us different "Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. Honor your father and mother. This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth." Eph 6:1-3 NLT
Obey your parents for this is right, it's not because God is wanting to make us miserable but he knows a secret that children and teenagers don't. God knows that your parents have been through things and life experiences that will help get their children through life. A parent tells a child not to go play in the street not because they are being mean but because they love that child and know that it is dangerous. Then when the child obeys the parent and doesn't go in the street they are protected. It may sound silly but its true.
I also liked how it says to obey your parents because you belong to the Lord and He gives a promise with it life will be better and longer if you obey. How many confrontations could have been avoided when I was younger if I just would have obeyed and honored my parents because they were my parents. Growing pains! Unfortunately I can't tell you how to get perfect children that will obey your every command, but I know that if we teach our children and teenagers God's word they will know the truth and if they see us living it they will be more apt to obey.
When we live our life obeying God's word and teaching this to our children then ultimately their obedience is not just to us but our heavenly Father. It's not about getting them to follow all the rules we lay out because we say so but teaching them and helping them to grow in the Lord.
Obey your parents for this is right, it's not because God is wanting to make us miserable but he knows a secret that children and teenagers don't. God knows that your parents have been through things and life experiences that will help get their children through life. A parent tells a child not to go play in the street not because they are being mean but because they love that child and know that it is dangerous. Then when the child obeys the parent and doesn't go in the street they are protected. It may sound silly but its true.
I also liked how it says to obey your parents because you belong to the Lord and He gives a promise with it life will be better and longer if you obey. How many confrontations could have been avoided when I was younger if I just would have obeyed and honored my parents because they were my parents. Growing pains! Unfortunately I can't tell you how to get perfect children that will obey your every command, but I know that if we teach our children and teenagers God's word they will know the truth and if they see us living it they will be more apt to obey.
When we live our life obeying God's word and teaching this to our children then ultimately their obedience is not just to us but our heavenly Father. It's not about getting them to follow all the rules we lay out because we say so but teaching them and helping them to grow in the Lord.
This Week's Reading
M-6:1-3
T-6:4-6
W-6:7-8
Th-6:9-10
F-6:11-13
~Missy D
Friday, July 22, 2011
A Marriage Made Like Heaven
At the end of Ephesians chapter 5, we are told that our marriages are like "Christ and the church." I have often read that and thought how cool it was that God designed marriage to be an illustration of Christ's love for the church.
However, today in my reading I was corrected in my thinking. My study Bible explained that the marriage relationship was compared to Christ and the church because Christ's beautiful, perfect relationship with his church is OUR illustration, OUR example of what our marriages should look like. Christ loved his church unconditionally, allowing himself to be murdered - brutally - because of his deep love for his bride.
I am embarrased that I have believed that our human, imperfect marriages could've been my example of Christ's love. Especially the way the world treats marriage - not even as sacred anymore and certainly not a commitment or selfless love. Christ longs for people to see his love for his church and mold their marriages more in THAT love!
I am more deeply in love with my husband the longer we are married. But when I read this passage and think about Christ's love for his church, I just long to go deeper yet in the love of our marriage. Praise you, Jesus, for knowing exactly what we would need to live and prosper on this earth! Yours truly are the words of life!
-Kelly T
However, today in my reading I was corrected in my thinking. My study Bible explained that the marriage relationship was compared to Christ and the church because Christ's beautiful, perfect relationship with his church is OUR illustration, OUR example of what our marriages should look like. Christ loved his church unconditionally, allowing himself to be murdered - brutally - because of his deep love for his bride.
I am embarrased that I have believed that our human, imperfect marriages could've been my example of Christ's love. Especially the way the world treats marriage - not even as sacred anymore and certainly not a commitment or selfless love. Christ longs for people to see his love for his church and mold their marriages more in THAT love!
I am more deeply in love with my husband the longer we are married. But when I read this passage and think about Christ's love for his church, I just long to go deeper yet in the love of our marriage. Praise you, Jesus, for knowing exactly what we would need to live and prosper on this earth! Yours truly are the words of life!
-Kelly T
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
Growing up as a little girl, I believed the books I read. I wholeheartedly believed in the love of fairy tales. There was a handsome prince that rode in on a white horse and would save me from the evil stepmother. He would see me and feel deeply in love despite the tattered clothes. We'd ride off together to the most beautiful cabin in a forest where birds sang all day every day. Our love would grew by the moment and fill a house full of perfect children who sparkled they were so clean. And of course, we would live happily ever after, with no effort at all.
Even writing that I get tickled. Life is not a fairy tale. I didn't wear tattered clothes and I didn't even have a stepmother, much less one that was evil. I live in a very non forest town and would probably would have avoided any fella who came near me on a horse! I do have a child, but trust me, she is far from perfect and rarely sparkles. The only part that really does exist is that love, that sort of fairy tale love. Only it wasn't created in childrens storybooks, but in Gods book.
In Ephesians 5 (the message version), it instructs the prince of your life to "go all out in your love for your wives." Paul speaks of this love that is "exactly as Christ did for the church-a love marked by giving, not getting". Sounds like fairy tale love doesn't it? But it isn't. It is how love was created! It is what marriage should be. As a woman, and not the husband, all I can do is give this same kind of love to my spouse. You get what you give. How can I hope to receive this amazing gift of love without giving it as well? Seek your true fairy tales of love sisters, it does exist!
-Andrea W.
Even writing that I get tickled. Life is not a fairy tale. I didn't wear tattered clothes and I didn't even have a stepmother, much less one that was evil. I live in a very non forest town and would probably would have avoided any fella who came near me on a horse! I do have a child, but trust me, she is far from perfect and rarely sparkles. The only part that really does exist is that love, that sort of fairy tale love. Only it wasn't created in childrens storybooks, but in Gods book.
In Ephesians 5 (the message version), it instructs the prince of your life to "go all out in your love for your wives." Paul speaks of this love that is "exactly as Christ did for the church-a love marked by giving, not getting". Sounds like fairy tale love doesn't it? But it isn't. It is how love was created! It is what marriage should be. As a woman, and not the husband, all I can do is give this same kind of love to my spouse. You get what you give. How can I hope to receive this amazing gift of love without giving it as well? Seek your true fairy tales of love sisters, it does exist!
-Andrea W.
Monday, July 18, 2011
What are you filled with?
What are you filled with? Sounds kind of like a funny question, have you ever thought about what you are filled with? We live our lives filling ourselves up with lots of different things from what we listen to, read, watch or even the people we are around. The reading for today from the New Living Translation reads:
"Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, 19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Paul tells us we are to be filled with the Holy Spirit and what comes out of that, singing psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, and making music to the Lord in our hearts! I don't know about you but that sounds like the way to spend a life. What we fill our lives with will determine what comes out of us. If we fill ourselves up with a bunch of junk then that is what will come out of us. The junk that we fill ourselves up with will ruin our lives, but if we fill ourselves up with the Holy Spirit our life will be a blessing to others and bring glory to God.
Dont' forget the last part of the reading either, "give thanks for everything to God the Father" He is our Father who has blessed us with so much don't forget to tell Him thanks! Have a great day and make it a great week!
"Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, 19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Paul tells us we are to be filled with the Holy Spirit and what comes out of that, singing psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, and making music to the Lord in our hearts! I don't know about you but that sounds like the way to spend a life. What we fill our lives with will determine what comes out of us. If we fill ourselves up with a bunch of junk then that is what will come out of us. The junk that we fill ourselves up with will ruin our lives, but if we fill ourselves up with the Holy Spirit our life will be a blessing to others and bring glory to God.
Dont' forget the last part of the reading either, "give thanks for everything to God the Father" He is our Father who has blessed us with so much don't forget to tell Him thanks! Have a great day and make it a great week!
This week's reading
M-5:18-20
T-5:21-24
W-5:25-27
Th-5:28-30
F-5:31-33
~Missy D
Friday, July 15, 2011
The God Thing
When the hubby and I lived in Oklahoma, we worked with some inner-city kids. I can remember when some of them came into my house - suddenly it was like it was a circus. They infiltrated every room, playing on the beds, running around the backyard, and.... what?!... are they getting food out of my fridge?! I recall with shame the horror I felt at their "rude" behavior. It seemed to me that these children needed to learn that when you go into someone's house, there was a certain way to act. Most importantly, you always ask before eating someone's food!!
My intentions were good - attempting to teach these kids how to "function" appropriately in society. But as I look back, I realize that those were not necessary lessons for young kids from inner-city Oklahoma. They were not acting out of rudeness or disrespect, they were acting out of cultural understanding. It was part of who they were and how they grew up to have a "my house is your house" mentality. Surely God would've preferred me to just let it go and love them right through their differences from me.
Ephesians 5:15 & 17 says, "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise... Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Paul says to "be very careful" when choosing how to live, and to figure out what God's will is. I must be cautious about making quick decisions that seem to be the right thing to my human mind (after all, Proverbs 3 tells me that I should not lean on my human understanding). Instead, I want to seek God in all my decisions and then wait for His leading (an hour? a day? a month? just wait and listen, dear one!). Then, and only then, will I have full assurance that I am not just choosing the "good" thing, but the God thing!
Love and Grace to you, my Soul Sisters!
-Kelly T
My intentions were good - attempting to teach these kids how to "function" appropriately in society. But as I look back, I realize that those were not necessary lessons for young kids from inner-city Oklahoma. They were not acting out of rudeness or disrespect, they were acting out of cultural understanding. It was part of who they were and how they grew up to have a "my house is your house" mentality. Surely God would've preferred me to just let it go and love them right through their differences from me.
Ephesians 5:15 & 17 says, "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise... Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Paul says to "be very careful" when choosing how to live, and to figure out what God's will is. I must be cautious about making quick decisions that seem to be the right thing to my human mind (after all, Proverbs 3 tells me that I should not lean on my human understanding). Instead, I want to seek God in all my decisions and then wait for His leading (an hour? a day? a month? just wait and listen, dear one!). Then, and only then, will I have full assurance that I am not just choosing the "good" thing, but the God thing!
Love and Grace to you, my Soul Sisters!
-Kelly T
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
With the scorching temperatures, I have been dreaming of Autumn. I love that time of year. I also love Halloween. I love the ghosts and goblins, and most of all the haunted houses. We have a love/hate relationship. I love being scared and screaming but hate it at the same time. The darkness that surrounds you. The unseen noises that creep around you. The tall frightening ghouls that linger in the dark.
A few years ago I helped work a haunted house. We toured during the day so we could have a good lay of the land. We were able to see the goblins hiding places, the sweet old men that wore the scary mask and the levers that blew air at you to send you into panic mode. So as night fell on that haunted house, the spooks weren't quite as spooky anymore. The illusion of the haunting wasn't so haunting anymore. The light exposed the mysteries.
Sisters, we are living in somewhat of a haunted house. When we lived in the darkness, the ghouls were frightening. Our surroundings caused fear and disillusionment of reality. Once we become alive in Christ, we are surrounded by light!
Ephesians 5 describes it perfectly, "For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.".
We no longer have to stumble around in the dark! We no longer live full of darkness. No more creepiness from the shadows. No more mysteries. No more fear. Live in the light sisters! Seek Him in every moment of every day and you will never be in the darkness again!
~Andrea W.
This week's reading
M-5:3-5
T-5:6-8
W-5:9-11
Th-5:12-14
F-5:15-17
Monday, July 11, 2011
Our dialect
You'll never guess what I just found out? Intriguing isn't it? Unfortunately it's phrases like this and what tends to follow that can get us in trouble, especially us girls. I'm talking about gossip. Now I know that everyone wants to know what's going on and most the time you are just passing on information, but I caution you of what you pass on to another person. There are lots of things you may find out in life and even be true but you don't necessarily need to pass it on to someone else. I am a person who likes to be in the know and unfortunately that has got me in trouble. I have to remind myself, "Missy you don't have to know everything that's going on!" Gossip though is so intriguing and tempting of course that is why God warns us against it. A good friend and I have a code word, if one of us starts gossiping we say the code word. It then stops the conversation and we move on to something else.
In our reading today I liked the Message version especially v 4, "Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don’t talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn’t fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect." (Ephesians 5:4 MSG)
Wow not only does it say not to gossip but that we, as followers of Jesus have better uses for the language. We have better things to talk about then what is going on with Suzy and Dan or what Jane was wearing. It goes on to say we need to have a dialect of thanksgiving. So Sisters let's have a dialect of thanksgiving and not talk silly. When we have things to say let them be uplifting and encouraging to those who are listening.
This week's reading
M-5:3-5
T-5:6-8
W-5:9-11
Th-5:12-14
F-5:15-17
-Missy D
In our reading today I liked the Message version especially v 4, "Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don’t talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn’t fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect." (Ephesians 5:4 MSG)
Wow not only does it say not to gossip but that we, as followers of Jesus have better uses for the language. We have better things to talk about then what is going on with Suzy and Dan or what Jane was wearing. It goes on to say we need to have a dialect of thanksgiving. So Sisters let's have a dialect of thanksgiving and not talk silly. When we have things to say let them be uplifting and encouraging to those who are listening.
This week's reading
M-5:3-5
T-5:6-8
W-5:9-11
Th-5:12-14
F-5:15-17
-Missy D
Friday, July 8, 2011
The Hightest Form of Flattery
You know how that old saying goes - "Imitation is the highest form of flattery." Or, if you have children, imitation can be the greatest source of regret to you as you see your own bad behavior mirrored back to you in them.
The first time I heard my son use the slang word, "Dangit," he was not even two years old yet! Oh how that hit me hard. It is not as if I was worried too much about the word itself, but something so foreign out of his mouth obviously came from one source - this lady who he spends his whole day with, watching, listening to and learning from. Children long to be like their mommmies and daddies. It is a scary and huge responsibility that we have been given to model gentle, loving, appropriate behavior! But, when one of my children imitates something good that I've done, it leaves me feeling tickled. It brings me an overwhelming understanding of their love for me.
My journey as a mom has taught me boundless truths about God's love for us, his children. This is yet another. Ephesians 5:1-2 says to "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children. and live a life of love." I long to imitate my God more than anything in this life. This verse goes on to say that Christ was a "fragrant offering" to God. Oh how I desire to be such a good imitator of Him that my fragrance wafts up to Heaven's gate. Picture it with me, dear Soul Sisters. There He is - our Father. He closes His eyes, breathes in deep, and slowly a smile spreads across his face as He says, "Aaaaaahhhhhhh. Kelly has been acting like me again. It smells of her love for me this morning."
Send up your fragrances today, my sisters! Let Him know how desperately you love him and how you long to be just like your Daddy!
-Kelly T
The first time I heard my son use the slang word, "Dangit," he was not even two years old yet! Oh how that hit me hard. It is not as if I was worried too much about the word itself, but something so foreign out of his mouth obviously came from one source - this lady who he spends his whole day with, watching, listening to and learning from. Children long to be like their mommmies and daddies. It is a scary and huge responsibility that we have been given to model gentle, loving, appropriate behavior! But, when one of my children imitates something good that I've done, it leaves me feeling tickled. It brings me an overwhelming understanding of their love for me.
My journey as a mom has taught me boundless truths about God's love for us, his children. This is yet another. Ephesians 5:1-2 says to "Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children. and live a life of love." I long to imitate my God more than anything in this life. This verse goes on to say that Christ was a "fragrant offering" to God. Oh how I desire to be such a good imitator of Him that my fragrance wafts up to Heaven's gate. Picture it with me, dear Soul Sisters. There He is - our Father. He closes His eyes, breathes in deep, and slowly a smile spreads across his face as He says, "Aaaaaahhhhhhh. Kelly has been acting like me again. It smells of her love for me this morning."
Send up your fragrances today, my sisters! Let Him know how desperately you love him and how you long to be just like your Daddy!
-Kelly T
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
Last night I was laying in bed holding a flashlight while my husband performed surgery on himself. Alright, that's a tad dramatic, but he did have needle in hand attempting to remove a deep splinter. Under bright lights I got a good look at his hands. They were covered in callouses, small cuts and of course a splinter. His hands show a lot of work. From hard yard work, to mundane tasks around the house, and the daily work of being a police officer. They aren't perfect hands or even soft to touch, but they are what I call, manly hands. They are honest, hard working, giving and loving hands.
My husband has Ephesians 4:28 hands....Paul tells us if we are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need."
He has chosen to not have perfect manicured hands. He has chosen to be a worker. He has chosen to get up every day, even when he doesn't want to, and give everything he has to that day. I am blessed to be married to a man with Ephesians hands. What do your hands look like sisters?
~Andrea W.
My husband has Ephesians 4:28 hands....Paul tells us if we are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need."
He has chosen to not have perfect manicured hands. He has chosen to be a worker. He has chosen to get up every day, even when he doesn't want to, and give everything he has to that day. I am blessed to be married to a man with Ephesians hands. What do your hands look like sisters?
~Andrea W.
This week's reading:
Mon-4:21-24
Tues-4:25-27
Wed-4:28-29
Thurs-4:30-32
Fri-5:1-2
Monday, July 4, 2011
New Life!
The reading today really hit me. This is from the Message Version:
"My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything - and I do mean everything - connected with that old way of life has to go. Its rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life - a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you." Eph 4:21-24 Message
This is the first time I have read this version but have read other versions before it always says to put off your old ways and put on your new ways. It takes effort to be different and live for Christ. There is no miracle that happens as soon as you believe in Christ you think like him, act like him and have no problem with sin. If you are thinking that way you will be setting yourself up for failure and disappointment. It takes work. You have to make a conscience decision to put off the old and put on the new.
What really hit me today was how this version said "we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything - and I do mean everything - connected with that old way of life has to go." "Get rid of it!" Now that we know the truth we have to live like it. We shouldn't hold on to little things no matter how little they are if they are ways of our old self. We are a new creation! The only way that we can put on the new self and live a life after God's own heart is if we make the decision to put off the old self and seek the Holy Spirit that dwells within us to live a "God-fashioned life".
Sisters I pray that we will all make the decision to put on the new and live a "God-fashioned life" for it will be far greater than anything we could ever imagine!
Have a happy, fun and safe 4th of July!
~Missy D
"My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything - and I do mean everything - connected with that old way of life has to go. Its rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life - a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you." Eph 4:21-24 Message
This is the first time I have read this version but have read other versions before it always says to put off your old ways and put on your new ways. It takes effort to be different and live for Christ. There is no miracle that happens as soon as you believe in Christ you think like him, act like him and have no problem with sin. If you are thinking that way you will be setting yourself up for failure and disappointment. It takes work. You have to make a conscience decision to put off the old and put on the new.
What really hit me today was how this version said "we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything - and I do mean everything - connected with that old way of life has to go." "Get rid of it!" Now that we know the truth we have to live like it. We shouldn't hold on to little things no matter how little they are if they are ways of our old self. We are a new creation! The only way that we can put on the new self and live a life after God's own heart is if we make the decision to put off the old self and seek the Holy Spirit that dwells within us to live a "God-fashioned life".
Sisters I pray that we will all make the decision to put on the new and live a "God-fashioned life" for it will be far greater than anything we could ever imagine!
Have a happy, fun and safe 4th of July!
~Missy D
This week's reading:
Mon-4:21-24
Tues-4:25-27
Wed-4:28-29
Thurs-4:30-32
Fri-5:1-2
Friday, July 1, 2011
Choosing to Smell Like God
Eleven days ago, on a Tuesday morning, we almost lost my new baby niece. God has big plans for that sweet Josie Christine, because he placed some awesome doctors and nurses in her path who worked to get her little heart beating again after it had stopped. However, that Tuesday, and the following day, we still weren't sure if she would live. They were some of the most hopeless days I've ever known.
On the second day of her life, as I left the hospital to return to my sister's house, Christ reprimanded me. He opened my Bible straight to Proverbs 3:5 and gently spoke to me... words that I already had written on my heart, but God knew I needed to see them written on the page on that day. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding..."
The message was very clear and I was ashamed of my lack of trust. MY understanding was that things were dire. MY understanding was that I may not watch my niece grow up. MY understanding was that she may have lifelong problems as a result of her post-birth experiences. But those thoughts were not of Christ. He was telling me to believe Him. He was reminding me that of utmost importance in that moment was to make HIS glory known.
And suddenly I felt His hope return. Christ offers us hope when the world can not. Hope that - thank you God!! - He will always lead us in triumph! He will always give us chances to spread the fragrance of Him to those around us.
In Ephesians 4:17, Paul is quite insistant with the Ephesians that they should no longer think in such futility as the world! The thinking of the world says there is no purpose for what my sweet Josie went through. The hope of Christ says, "Aaaaah, my child. Shine my glory, and let them breathe it in. It is so very sweet."
On the second day of her life, as I left the hospital to return to my sister's house, Christ reprimanded me. He opened my Bible straight to Proverbs 3:5 and gently spoke to me... words that I already had written on my heart, but God knew I needed to see them written on the page on that day. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding..."
The message was very clear and I was ashamed of my lack of trust. MY understanding was that things were dire. MY understanding was that I may not watch my niece grow up. MY understanding was that she may have lifelong problems as a result of her post-birth experiences. But those thoughts were not of Christ. He was telling me to believe Him. He was reminding me that of utmost importance in that moment was to make HIS glory known.
And suddenly I felt His hope return. Christ offers us hope when the world can not. Hope that - thank you God!! - He will always lead us in triumph! He will always give us chances to spread the fragrance of Him to those around us.
In Ephesians 4:17, Paul is quite insistant with the Ephesians that they should no longer think in such futility as the world! The thinking of the world says there is no purpose for what my sweet Josie went through. The hope of Christ says, "Aaaaah, my child. Shine my glory, and let them breathe it in. It is so very sweet."
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word!
This last fall, my husband and I were blessed to build a home. What a fascinating process. I found myself driving out everyday to see what had been done! There wasn't a handful of men that built our house, but countless numbers. A group of men were hired to dig the hole, then a new group were brought in to pour the foundation. Some that built the frame of the house, did the electrical, the plumbing, the sheetrock. They were nearly a hundred men that had a hand in building our house.
Each man specialized in something. They were extremely gifted in their specific job. I wouldn't want the plumber to lay the tile in my house, or the concrete pour-er to paint my walls. Each had an important and vital role in building what is now a home.
Paul tells us that we each have been given special gifts as well. Each of our gifts are unique and vital to building the body of Christ. The "gift" I've been blessed with isn't the same as yours. Trust me, you wouldn't want me standing from a pulpit. And I'm sure that some of you would agree that the last place you should be is on a tiny little chair singing Bible songs with a three year old!
The Lord knows what our gifts are because He gave them to us. He has fully equipped us to serve the body of Christ. Just as those who built my home, we are here to build His church! Each with different roles, God has a plan for us!
~Andrea W.
This week's reading:
Mon-4:7-8
Tues-4:9-10
Wed-4:11-13
Thurs-4:14-16
Fri-4:17-20
Mon-4:7-8
Tues-4:9-10
Wed-4:11-13
Thurs-4:14-16
Fri-4:17-20
Monday, June 27, 2011
Special Gift!
As a woman especially who doesn't like getting gifts?! This last weekend was my birthday and I was blessed to receive wonderful gifts from my friends and family. One of the best gifts this weekend was from my 13 yr old who sacrificed her sleeping in time to make me pancakes in bed. Now to a mom that was a very special gift, it was done on her own and although she had to sacrifie her extra sleep she wanted to do it for me.
In today's reading Paul tells us about a special gift, However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. That is why the Scriptures say,"When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people." (Ephesians 4:7-8 NLT)
Christ gave us special gifts, first he set us free from eternal captivity and led us to eternal freedom by dying on the cross for our sins. He set us free! He also gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit so that He can dwell in us. Then he gave us other gifts for us to serve how He wants us to. He equips us with what we need to fulfill the ministry He has for us.
Now I don't know about you but when I receive a gift I feel special and loved by the one who gave the gift. Christ loves us and gave us a very special gift! We need to remember that when we are feeling down on ourself, Christ gave us special gifts, we are special to Him!
This week's reading:
Mon-4:7-8
Tues-4:9-10
Wed-4:11-13
Thurs-4:14-16
Fri-4:17-20
-Missy D
In today's reading Paul tells us about a special gift, However, he has given each one of us a special gift through the generosity of Christ. That is why the Scriptures say,"When he ascended to the heights, he led a crowd of captives and gave gifts to his people." (Ephesians 4:7-8 NLT)
Christ gave us special gifts, first he set us free from eternal captivity and led us to eternal freedom by dying on the cross for our sins. He set us free! He also gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit so that He can dwell in us. Then he gave us other gifts for us to serve how He wants us to. He equips us with what we need to fulfill the ministry He has for us.
Now I don't know about you but when I receive a gift I feel special and loved by the one who gave the gift. Christ loves us and gave us a very special gift! We need to remember that when we are feeling down on ourself, Christ gave us special gifts, we are special to Him!
This week's reading:
Mon-4:7-8
Tues-4:9-10
Wed-4:11-13
Thurs-4:14-16
Fri-4:17-20
-Missy D
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
In my life, I have called on the Lord countless times. I have gone to Him in celebration, in fear, with high hopes, and I have gone before Him pleading for life. I have fallen at His feet as a child of God and stood on my tip toes shouting His name in admiration. I go before Him because He is mighty. My God is mighty and powerful.
Ephesians 3:20 reads, " Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.".
Can you grasp it? Not only is HE mighty, but his mighty power is at work in us! In little ole me. And you. He is working! Continue reading the end of the chapter you realize that it's even bigger. He is able to accomplish more than we even think or ask! It's big. Its bigger than we can imagine girls! So if you think that your problem is too small to take before Him, your wrong. If you think your problem is too big for God to handle, you are mistaken. If you don't think God has a plan, HE DOES!
I plan on spending the rest of my life going before my Lord. In those moments of celebration, in fear, in hoping and pleading, I will go before my God. HE is mighty, HE is able. All glory to God!
~Andrea W.
This week's reading:
Mon-3:17-18
Tues-3:19
Wed-3:20-21
Thurs-4:1-3
Fri-4:4-6
Mon-3:17-18
Tues-3:19
Wed-3:20-21
Thurs-4:1-3
Fri-4:4-6
Monday, June 20, 2011
Strength
Im not a very strong person and just by looking at me you can tell. I have skinny arms, skinny legs, and I don't work out. My physical strength is weak. Now there is also my spiritual strength which you can't see by just looking at me. I will be completely honest and say that my spiritual strength is not where I would like it but I am working on it. The best thing is though I don't have to rely on my strength. In today's readin it says 3:17-18 "Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is." As we know God at a deeper level by reading His word and experiencing His love we will begin to trust Him more. As we trust Him more our roots will grow deep in His love and we will be made strong. Our strength will be from Him, our roots will be in His love. When we trust Him and our roots grow deep within His love He will show us how deep, high, wide and long His love is. I know that my strength will come from Him if I allow myself to grow in Him, He will be my strength. I don't know about you but I want to be like Psalm 1:3 "He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,
Which yields its fruit in its season
And its leaf does not wither;
And in whatever he does, he prospers." Trees planted firmly by streams of water are strong. Their roots are deep and strong because they are continually being fed by the source. When we allow ourselves to grow in God our roots will become strong in His love and we will be able to show others His great love.
This week's reading:
Mon-3:17-18
Tues-3:19
Wed-3:20-21
Thurs-4:1-3
Fri-4:4-6
-Missy D
Which yields its fruit in its season
And its leaf does not wither;
And in whatever he does, he prospers." Trees planted firmly by streams of water are strong. Their roots are deep and strong because they are continually being fed by the source. When we allow ourselves to grow in God our roots will become strong in His love and we will be able to show others His great love.
This week's reading:
Mon-3:17-18
Tues-3:19
Wed-3:20-21
Thurs-4:1-3
Fri-4:4-6
-Missy D
Friday, June 17, 2011
Anointed
Every day I have four children in my house - oldest is 4, youngest is 9 months. Our days are a whirlwind of bottle feeding, reading books, breakfasts and lunches, wiping bottoms, blowing noses, playing on the swingset, breaking up arguments, bandaging boo boos... and the list goes on. I absolutely adore my children. I am beyond grateful to be home with them every day, teaching them what I want to teach them, holding them, wiping their tears, kissing their noses. But I must admit, that there certainly are days where I find myself wondering, "Is this all, Lord? Am I just a waste? Here we are, day after day, doing the same thing. There are people I want to reach out to! Your world is crying to know you and here we are, again today."
I am blessed to be participating in a study right now called "Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed." One of the authors, Priscilla Shirer, last night talked about David's anointing. At the age of 15 David was anointed as the future king of Israel, yet he didn't begin his job as such until the age of 37! So for 22 years, he continued to be what he'd always been - a shepherd. Sounds pretty menial and mundane, doesn't it? But for that 22 years, David was a shepherd who had the Spirit of God on him. Just David and the sheep. And the Spirit.
Our reading for today in Eph 3:16 (New Living Translation) says, "I pray that from his glorious unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his spirit." For us who believe, we come up from those waters of baptism and we have the same anointing as David - that amazing Spirit - that Ephesians tells us will empower us! And it is unlimited, dear friends. So sweet shepherd boy, David, needed God's anointing to watch over those sheep, to show compassion to his enemy, to slay a giant! All before accepting the BIG role that God had in mind for him.
And li'l ol' me? I plan to use that anointing this very day. My season in life, home with my precious babies, teaching and filling their hearts with lessons of life from God's perspective, is exactly where God desires me to be. I am ready to slay the giant of impatience, and shower compassion on those little ones who mess up yet again (they are only learning!). For I am anointed! And someday, if I am faithful with this job, He has more in store for me. But today, this IS my big job! Oh to hear him say, "Well done!"
-Kelly T
I am blessed to be participating in a study right now called "Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed." One of the authors, Priscilla Shirer, last night talked about David's anointing. At the age of 15 David was anointed as the future king of Israel, yet he didn't begin his job as such until the age of 37! So for 22 years, he continued to be what he'd always been - a shepherd. Sounds pretty menial and mundane, doesn't it? But for that 22 years, David was a shepherd who had the Spirit of God on him. Just David and the sheep. And the Spirit.
Our reading for today in Eph 3:16 (New Living Translation) says, "I pray that from his glorious unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his spirit." For us who believe, we come up from those waters of baptism and we have the same anointing as David - that amazing Spirit - that Ephesians tells us will empower us! And it is unlimited, dear friends. So sweet shepherd boy, David, needed God's anointing to watch over those sheep, to show compassion to his enemy, to slay a giant! All before accepting the BIG role that God had in mind for him.
And li'l ol' me? I plan to use that anointing this very day. My season in life, home with my precious babies, teaching and filling their hearts with lessons of life from God's perspective, is exactly where God desires me to be. I am ready to slay the giant of impatience, and shower compassion on those little ones who mess up yet again (they are only learning!). For I am anointed! And someday, if I am faithful with this job, He has more in store for me. But today, this IS my big job! Oh to hear him say, "Well done!"
-Kelly T
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
When I was a little girl, I used to play "mommy" all the time. I always knew I wanted to be a mom. When my husband and I were expecting I was overjoyed. Quickly, the excitement turned into a real and true fear! What did I know about being a mom? What if she was choking or spitting up? How do I really get that teeny tiny outfit over her head without hurting her? Do I scrub us both down with anti-bacterial every time we leave the house? I soon realized just how under qualified I was to be a mom. It was too late to back out, she was on her way! What have I done?
And then, there she was. Pink, tiny and perfect. And the strangest thing happened, I was a mom, one that actually knew what to do. I was under qualified but fully equipped with what I needed in order to be this little ones mom.
In Ephesians, Paul called himself under qualified too. He called himself the least deserving and not qualified to reveal Gods plan for us. He had no background experience in spreading the message and yet God saw more in him.
“God saw to it that I was equipped. (Ephesians 3:8)
Just like Paul, God equipped me for the job. I was once the least qualified to be a mother and here I am. God saw to it that I was prepared as well. My perfect little pink tiny baby did spit up, did choke and had a few outfits smooshed over her head in the last year and a half. But verse 7 of Ephesians explains my journey fully, “It came as a sheer gift to me, a real surprise, God handling all the details.”
~Andrea W.
And then, there she was. Pink, tiny and perfect. And the strangest thing happened, I was a mom, one that actually knew what to do. I was under qualified but fully equipped with what I needed in order to be this little ones mom.
In Ephesians, Paul called himself under qualified too. He called himself the least deserving and not qualified to reveal Gods plan for us. He had no background experience in spreading the message and yet God saw more in him.
“God saw to it that I was equipped. (Ephesians 3:8)
Just like Paul, God equipped me for the job. I was once the least qualified to be a mother and here I am. God saw to it that I was prepared as well. My perfect little pink tiny baby did spit up, did choke and had a few outfits smooshed over her head in the last year and a half. But verse 7 of Ephesians explains my journey fully, “It came as a sheer gift to me, a real surprise, God handling all the details.”
~Andrea W.
This Week:
Mon - 3:4-6
Tues - 3:7-9
Wed - 3:10-11
Thurs - 3:12-13
Fri - 3:14-16
Monday, June 13, 2011
Riches Inherited
Maybe we haven't experienced it first hand but we have heard of someone who has inherited something great from someone else. Now usually those who inherit something are very close to the person giving it, and if there is a big family those closest to the person get the best. Our heavenly Father is different. In verse 6 from the New Living Translation it says, "And this is God's plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God's children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus." Did you read that, all share equally in the riches because we belong to Christ Jesus. No matter your position here on earth you receive the same riches that all children of God are blessed with if you believe in the Good News! I don't know about you but that is exciting to me. I don't have to be the richest person here on earth, or be liked by the most people, or any of that, God says that if I believe in the Good News and belong to Christ Jesus I will inherit the riches he promises to all His children. What a blessing that we are all equal in His eyes.
This Week:
Mon - 3:4-6
Tues - 3:7-9
Wed - 3:10-11
Thurs - 3:12-13
Fri - 3:14-16
~Missy D
Friday, June 10, 2011
His Grace Reaches Me
I've always heard grace defined as being given something we don't deserve. But another common definition of grace is, "elegance or beauty of form... or action." In Ephesians 3:2, Paul writes that he was given the responsibility of showing God's grace to the Gentiles - those who were not Jews. As I got to thinking about this it hit me that God's grace to us (the Gentiles) was not just a gift we don't deserve, although that is the biggest part of it. Truly, isn't grace something of indescribable beauty to those who have been lost to death, and now are alive in Christ? An elegance of action, filled with love and a cherishing of those it's extended to?
Oh dear sister, do you question God's love for you? You know in your head, but your heart might say otherwise... Consider His grace - a gift we cannot deserve, but it's given anyway - and know, without a single sliver of doubt. He is madly, crazy in love with you!
Oh dear sister, do you question God's love for you? You know in your head, but your heart might say otherwise... Consider His grace - a gift we cannot deserve, but it's given anyway - and know, without a single sliver of doubt. He is madly, crazy in love with you!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
Years ago I traveled to rural Mexico on a mission trip. We were there to pour concrete floors in homes and provide bible classes for children. I went more for the “social aspect” and because all of my friends were going. I had no idea what I was getting into! We traveled deep into the mountains of Mexico where the local mode of transportation was donkey and the people defined poor. Each morning we divided up and traveled to different villages for bible classes. I had no idea which village to go to, so I selected the one that had only a handful of people. I soon realized why no one wanted to travel to La Cieneguita. It was the farthest away and the bumpiest of rides.
We arrived and I felt like I was walking into a dream. I was most definitely a foreigner. The houses were so rustic and it was hard to believe anyone lived in them. And I quickly realized that my limited Spanish was not quite enough to communicate properly. Within that first morning of classes, the language barrier didn’t matter. I instantly bonded with a little girl named Cecilia. She had no idea what I was saying but loved that I sang a song with her name in it, “Oh Cecilia, you’re breaking my heart…” For three days, I chose to make the long journey to La Cieneguita because of a little girl with the brightest smile. We never had a real conversation, much less a full sentence that either of us understood. And even though we were geographically foreigners to one another, we were “no longer strangers and foreigners” (Ephesians 2:19), but “members of Gods family.” When I left I was genuinely sad to leave my new friend but incredibly thankful that we were bonded in Christ Jesus.
~Andrea W.
We arrived and I felt like I was walking into a dream. I was most definitely a foreigner. The houses were so rustic and it was hard to believe anyone lived in them. And I quickly realized that my limited Spanish was not quite enough to communicate properly. Within that first morning of classes, the language barrier didn’t matter. I instantly bonded with a little girl named Cecilia. She had no idea what I was saying but loved that I sang a song with her name in it, “Oh Cecilia, you’re breaking my heart…” For three days, I chose to make the long journey to La Cieneguita because of a little girl with the brightest smile. We never had a real conversation, much less a full sentence that either of us understood. And even though we were geographically foreigners to one another, we were “no longer strangers and foreigners” (Ephesians 2:19), but “members of Gods family.” When I left I was genuinely sad to leave my new friend but incredibly thankful that we were bonded in Christ Jesus.
~Andrea W.
Reading Schedule:
Mon - 2:13
Tues - 2:14-16
Wed - 2:17-20
Thurs - 2:21-22
Fri - 3:1-3
Mon - 2:13
Tues - 2:14-16
Wed - 2:17-20
Thurs - 2:21-22
Fri - 3:1-3
Monday, June 6, 2011
Near to Him
People in general like being near to someone. They like knowing someone and having a close relationship with that person. In our world today we have movie stars, athletes, the President and even kings and queens in other countries but unless you are a part of the "in" crowd you will never be near them or have a close relationship with them. We serve a different King though that is not of this world! Ephesians 2:13 says, "But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ."
We have been brought near to Him and you know what the best part is to me, it's not because of what I did but through His blood that we are united with Christ. No matter how cool I try to be or try to be a part of the "in" crowd that doesn't matter. We serve a mighty King that is approachable for everyone. We were once far away like the crowds at a concert but then His son gave His life, shed His blood and brought us all near to Him.
I don't know about you but I am glad I serve our Lord who reigns in heaven and not the kings of this world. He loves us so much He wanted us to be united with His son that He made the ultimate sacrifice!
Reading Schedule:
Mon - 2:13
Tues - 2:14-16
Wed - 2:17-20
Thurs - 2:21-22
Fri - 3:1-3
-Missy D
We have been brought near to Him and you know what the best part is to me, it's not because of what I did but through His blood that we are united with Christ. No matter how cool I try to be or try to be a part of the "in" crowd that doesn't matter. We serve a mighty King that is approachable for everyone. We were once far away like the crowds at a concert but then His son gave His life, shed His blood and brought us all near to Him.
I don't know about you but I am glad I serve our Lord who reigns in heaven and not the kings of this world. He loves us so much He wanted us to be united with His son that He made the ultimate sacrifice!
Reading Schedule:
Mon - 2:13
Tues - 2:14-16
Wed - 2:17-20
Thurs - 2:21-22
Fri - 3:1-3
-Missy D
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Best He Has To Offer
While checking out at Walmart yesterday, I asked the cashier how her day had been. She said, "Ok." I commented about how that didn't sound promising, and she said that her day had not started well. She then said it was slowly getting better. Before I left I told her, "I hope your day keeps looking up." She gave a half smile and turned the next customer, but it seemed almost as if she were fighting back tears.
As I walked to my car, I was filled with frustration at myself. "I hope your day keeps looking up?" Was that really the best I had to offer? Ephesians 2:12 says that unbelievers are "without God and without hope." I could see that written on her face - the hopelessness, the despair. Yet all I could say was, "I hope your day keeps looking up."
Our amazing God created all of our human emotions and knew the ups and downs we would face. Yet He does NOT want us to live in despair. He LONGS for us to have hope!! Hope of His power in our lives, hope of His protection over us, hope of His grace for even me, hope of a life in Heaven so full of Him that we cannot do anything but stand and praise through tears of joy.
There are so many hopeless people around us, Soul Sisters. We must be willing to share with them that there IS a better way! (Romans 5:5 says that "hope does not disappoint!") So next time, I envision it going like this: as I zip up my wallet and gather my children, I'll glance at her name tag and say, "Shiela, I am going to pray for you. I hope you can feel God's love the rest of today!" And she'll smile and tell me thank you. And even if she doesn't, it will be worth it.
Oh Father God, put people in our lives that we can minister to today. We don't always know where to look, so bring them to us. We don't always know what to say, so give us your words. Help us to show them that You bring beautiful hope!
Love to you, Soul Sisters!
Kelly T
As I walked to my car, I was filled with frustration at myself. "I hope your day keeps looking up?" Was that really the best I had to offer? Ephesians 2:12 says that unbelievers are "without God and without hope." I could see that written on her face - the hopelessness, the despair. Yet all I could say was, "I hope your day keeps looking up."
Our amazing God created all of our human emotions and knew the ups and downs we would face. Yet He does NOT want us to live in despair. He LONGS for us to have hope!! Hope of His power in our lives, hope of His protection over us, hope of His grace for even me, hope of a life in Heaven so full of Him that we cannot do anything but stand and praise through tears of joy.
There are so many hopeless people around us, Soul Sisters. We must be willing to share with them that there IS a better way! (Romans 5:5 says that "hope does not disappoint!") So next time, I envision it going like this: as I zip up my wallet and gather my children, I'll glance at her name tag and say, "Shiela, I am going to pray for you. I hope you can feel God's love the rest of today!" And she'll smile and tell me thank you. And even if she doesn't, it will be worth it.
Oh Father God, put people in our lives that we can minister to today. We don't always know where to look, so bring them to us. We don't always know what to say, so give us your words. Help us to show them that You bring beautiful hope!
Love to you, Soul Sisters!
Kelly T
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Wednesdays in His word
I was raised by the hand of an incredibly loving mother. So many times when I struggle as a new mom, I stop and think to myself how my mother would have handled a particular situation. She was loving, kind, fun and most of all, she was full of mercy for me. As I grew up, our relationship strengthened and became a beautiful friendship. I would definitely consider her the best friend I ever had. But as I became an "adult" I developed an attitude. I thought I knew better. I was short with her and sometimes disrespectful. She took all of my words with stride. I have no doubt that they cut her to the bone but she never showed those emotions. I lost my mother eight years ago and to this day, I consider those actions my one regret in life. My point is, that even in those times of me being hard on my mom, she was full of love and mercy. Her love for me never changed.
I know that so many people don't have the same kind of mom. They weren't raised in a home that showed so much love and grace. But each of us do have that, except we have it tenfold. According to verse 4 of Ephesians, our God is so rich in mercy, he loved us even when we were dead because of our sins! He raised us from the dead with Christ! No matter what horrible and unmentionable things we have done in this world, He still loves us and is FULL of mercy! These words are full of hope. Full of love. He loves us so much that we are alive in Him and have a place in heaven waiting on us! Just as my mother loved me no matter what, Our Father does too. Ephesians 5, "He gave us life."
~Andrea W.
I know that so many people don't have the same kind of mom. They weren't raised in a home that showed so much love and grace. But each of us do have that, except we have it tenfold. According to verse 4 of Ephesians, our God is so rich in mercy, he loved us even when we were dead because of our sins! He raised us from the dead with Christ! No matter what horrible and unmentionable things we have done in this world, He still loves us and is FULL of mercy! These words are full of hope. Full of love. He loves us so much that we are alive in Him and have a place in heaven waiting on us! Just as my mother loved me no matter what, Our Father does too. Ephesians 5, "He gave us life."
~Andrea W.
Monday, May 30, 2011
It Comes Naturally
My oldest daughter this last year played Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun. One of the first songs is called "It comes Naturally". Now for those who have never seen the show Annie is a unrefined lady who is a little rough around the edges. Now the song is about how the things she needs to know she knows because it comes naturally. Our reading today shows us something different though. All we need to know as Christians does not come naturally at all.
Ephesians 2:1-3 "Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God's anger, just like everyone else."
Human nature is not good on it's own. These verses tell us that before we lived a life of sin, we were just like the world and followed Satan and were subject to God's wrath. The beautiful part of these verses are that they are past tense. Yes we still sin but we don't live a life of sin. We no longer serve the spirit of the air but the God almighty! It says in the Bible we can not love 2 masters we either serve God by obeying His commands or we obey the evil desires of our sinful nature. So next time you feel like serving God doesn't just come naturally you are right, it is supernatural and only done because we have the Holy Spirit at work within us! Praise God that there is more to this story!
-Missy D
Ephesians 2:1-3 "Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God's anger, just like everyone else."
Human nature is not good on it's own. These verses tell us that before we lived a life of sin, we were just like the world and followed Satan and were subject to God's wrath. The beautiful part of these verses are that they are past tense. Yes we still sin but we don't live a life of sin. We no longer serve the spirit of the air but the God almighty! It says in the Bible we can not love 2 masters we either serve God by obeying His commands or we obey the evil desires of our sinful nature. So next time you feel like serving God doesn't just come naturally you are right, it is supernatural and only done because we have the Holy Spirit at work within us! Praise God that there is more to this story!
-Missy D
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Joy of the Lord
"God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself." Ephesians 1:22-23 (New Living Translation)
For the last 31 years, music has been a big part of my life. I. LOVE. TO. SING! I am one of those people who can hear someone make a simple statement and it brings song lyrics so vividly to my head that I cannot help but break into chorus. Often I feel like my life is a musical (and sometimes I wish it were)! My God, ladies, knows this about me. And in His beautiful mercy, He will often use this against me. :)
Last night, I did not feel "full." After a draining day with an even-more-exhausting ending, I was on the fence between breaking into tears or just emotionally shutting down as I helped my children brush their teeth. I had gone all day calling on the power of the Lord in my life - and He had given it! And then I allowed Satan one too many wins, and I was crashing hard. As I harshly grabbed at toothpaste and spoke impatience to my beloved young ones, I heard this from the front room:
"The joy of the Lord, will be my strength. I will not falter, I will not faint..." It was my husband singing to the baby as he fed him his bottle. Ashamedly, my first thought was sarcasm. Oh yeah - the guy who is leaving in 20 minutes to go play racquetball with his buddies - of course he's got the "JOY of the Lord."
But almost as quickly as the sarcasm came, so too, did the truth. My child, if you want strength in this hour of your day, when you are feeling so EMPTY, listen to him. A smile crept across my face as I began to sing. "The joy of the Lord, will be my strength. I will not waiver, walking by faith. He is my shelter I am not afraid. The joy of the Lord is my strength."
All of a sudden, my grin was so big you'd've thought I was the cheshire cat. Oh how I felt the truth in these verses from Ephesians. If I allow Christ to be my head - direct my actions - then truly, I am full. This is my promised daily bread. Praise you, Jesus! Be head of my life and fill me today like only You can.
-Kelly T
For the last 31 years, music has been a big part of my life. I. LOVE. TO. SING! I am one of those people who can hear someone make a simple statement and it brings song lyrics so vividly to my head that I cannot help but break into chorus. Often I feel like my life is a musical (and sometimes I wish it were)! My God, ladies, knows this about me. And in His beautiful mercy, He will often use this against me. :)
Last night, I did not feel "full." After a draining day with an even-more-exhausting ending, I was on the fence between breaking into tears or just emotionally shutting down as I helped my children brush their teeth. I had gone all day calling on the power of the Lord in my life - and He had given it! And then I allowed Satan one too many wins, and I was crashing hard. As I harshly grabbed at toothpaste and spoke impatience to my beloved young ones, I heard this from the front room:
"The joy of the Lord, will be my strength. I will not falter, I will not faint..." It was my husband singing to the baby as he fed him his bottle. Ashamedly, my first thought was sarcasm. Oh yeah - the guy who is leaving in 20 minutes to go play racquetball with his buddies - of course he's got the "JOY of the Lord."
But almost as quickly as the sarcasm came, so too, did the truth. My child, if you want strength in this hour of your day, when you are feeling so EMPTY, listen to him. A smile crept across my face as I began to sing. "The joy of the Lord, will be my strength. I will not waiver, walking by faith. He is my shelter I am not afraid. The joy of the Lord is my strength."
All of a sudden, my grin was so big you'd've thought I was the cheshire cat. Oh how I felt the truth in these verses from Ephesians. If I allow Christ to be my head - direct my actions - then truly, I am full. This is my promised daily bread. Praise you, Jesus! Be head of my life and fill me today like only You can.
-Kelly T
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesdays in His Word
Three years ago my husband and I traveled to Louisville, KY for the Ironman competition. I know what you are thinking, “way to go Andrea!” But wait, before you do, it was definitely NOT me that competed. My Jeff trained for nearly two years to be in the very best condition he could and perform at the Ironman. It was literally a life changing experience for us both. I have never witnessed men and women of all ages push themselves to the limit. Their bodies were crying to stop but something kept pushing them. I was able to talk to Jeff in between the 112 mile bike ride and the start of the full marathon. The wife part of me wanted him to sit down and just throw in the towel. I didn’t want to send him out to do a full marathon, but I had to. I kissed him and told him with utter confidence “you can do this!” In the midst of all the athleticism that day, it was the spectators that blew my mind. They were up as early as the competitors. They stood by the sidelines wearing shirts with peoples names. They went without sitting or even food the entire day. They stood out in the exhausting heat and Kentucky humidity to get a glimpse of the athletes. They clapped and cheered for every person that crossed the finish line. The day was filled with amazing encouragement. When Jeff ran across the finish line the hundreds of people cheered and rejoiced with him!
You are that person, You are pushing yourself to the limit (or you should be). Except our race is this life before us. Some days our bodies want to give up, our minds want to throw in the towel. I’ve been there. I’ve been taken to my knees in exhaustion and defeat. But then, you turn the pages of Ephesians and find such hope. Such encouragement. Paul is writing to us to “be flooded with light so that we can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called.” Sisters, I have days that I am beaten down but I have someone out there praying that I be filled with the light! He is praying for us but he’s also encouraging us. I have a cheering section praying that I fulfill my calling! We have people on the sidelines praying for us and rejoicing in our victories. I can’t wait to meet Paul, because I know that he is one of those cheering me on!
~Andrea W.
You are that person, You are pushing yourself to the limit (or you should be). Except our race is this life before us. Some days our bodies want to give up, our minds want to throw in the towel. I’ve been there. I’ve been taken to my knees in exhaustion and defeat. But then, you turn the pages of Ephesians and find such hope. Such encouragement. Paul is writing to us to “be flooded with light so that we can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called.” Sisters, I have days that I am beaten down but I have someone out there praying that I be filled with the light! He is praying for us but he’s also encouraging us. I have a cheering section praying that I fulfill my calling! We have people on the sidelines praying for us and rejoicing in our victories. I can’t wait to meet Paul, because I know that he is one of those cheering me on!
~Andrea W.
Ephesians reading this week:
Mon - 1:15-16
Tues - 1:17
Wed - 1:18
Thurs - 1:19-21
Fri - 1:22-23
Monday, May 23, 2011
Known For
Today's verses out of the Message are 15 & 16 "That's why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldn't stop thanking God for you - every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks."
What stuck out to me today was "solid trust you have in the Master Jesus", solid! I looked up the definition of solid and these were the two definitions I really liked, "of a substantial character; not superficial, trifling, or frivolous" also "without separation or division; continuous". Paul was writing to the believers in Ephesus and he knew that they had a solid trust, not superficial, trifling or divided but solid trust in our Master Jesus Christ. Wow what a compliment to be known for your solid trust in your Master. Not only were they solid in their trust of who Jesus was but they lived a life of Jesus since they were also known for their outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus.
So, my question to you is what are you known for? What do others in the body and outside of the body know you for. Do they know you are a believer who has a solid trust in Jesus Christ? I pray that digging deeper in the Word daily will catapult your relationship with Christ to the next step which will get you to the point where Soul Sisters will be known as having a solid trust in our Master Jesus Christ.
What stuck out to me today was "solid trust you have in the Master Jesus", solid! I looked up the definition of solid and these were the two definitions I really liked, "of a substantial character; not superficial, trifling, or frivolous" also "without separation or division; continuous". Paul was writing to the believers in Ephesus and he knew that they had a solid trust, not superficial, trifling or divided but solid trust in our Master Jesus Christ. Wow what a compliment to be known for your solid trust in your Master. Not only were they solid in their trust of who Jesus was but they lived a life of Jesus since they were also known for their outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus.
So, my question to you is what are you known for? What do others in the body and outside of the body know you for. Do they know you are a believer who has a solid trust in Jesus Christ? I pray that digging deeper in the Word daily will catapult your relationship with Christ to the next step which will get you to the point where Soul Sisters will be known as having a solid trust in our Master Jesus Christ.
Ephesians reading this week:
Mon - 1:15-16
Tues - 1:17
Wed - 1:18
Thurs - 1:19-21
Fri - 1:22-23
Dig deep Soul Sisters!
~Missy D
Friday, May 20, 2011
Divine Intervention
Has anyone else ever felt that they just could NOT do something, be something, speak or act a certain way? I know I have. Yesterday was one of those days. I unfortunately was *gasp!* hormonal and quickly reeling out of control with my children. Yet after a comment from my almost-4-year-old that could've sent me further down that road, I found myself doubled over in fits of laughter. The relief on her face was enough to send me straight to my God, desperately calling for patience. The rest of the day was a beautiful mess. I wanted to clean the kitchen but my sweet girl wanted to play blocks. So we did. I wanted to read for 10 minutes while my kids watched Veggie Tales. But when they saw Mommy sitting down, they were done with their show and wanted attention. I fought it momentarily, but eventually put my book away and spent time focused on them.
Patience is not natural to me. Yet in our reading for today (Eph 1:13-14), I was reminded of just how I summoned up something that is- let's face it - NOT of me. Part of that scripture says, "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance." Oh yes, Lord. You marked me with your seal. You are claiming me - you own me! And you gave me Your Spirit as a reminder to me. Patience when I'm hormonal? Well, that's NOT human. It's divine. It is only Your Spirit that can accomplish that in my life. And You are using that to remind me today - my mental "guarantee" - that the best is yet to come! Oh praise you, Lord!! You are too much.
Call on His Spirit today, my Soul Sisters! You'll be so thankful you did.
-Kelly T
Patience is not natural to me. Yet in our reading for today (Eph 1:13-14), I was reminded of just how I summoned up something that is- let's face it - NOT of me. Part of that scripture says, "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance." Oh yes, Lord. You marked me with your seal. You are claiming me - you own me! And you gave me Your Spirit as a reminder to me. Patience when I'm hormonal? Well, that's NOT human. It's divine. It is only Your Spirit that can accomplish that in my life. And You are using that to remind me today - my mental "guarantee" - that the best is yet to come! Oh praise you, Lord!! You are too much.
Call on His Spirit today, my Soul Sisters! You'll be so thankful you did.
-Kelly T
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