Jesus made His appearance here on earth in a very unassuming way. The very Son of God, the One who would bring salvation to all who would accept Him, was born in the lowliest of places. Jesus was born amidst the animals and placed in a manger (a feeding trough). "And she gave birth to her firstborn Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger . . . . ." (Luke 2:7)
Why did Jesus leave His throne in glory and make His appearance in such a lowly way? He did it for you. He did it for me. He came to bring salvation to ALL mankind. Yet, many did not notice Him. Today, many do not notice Him.
Don't miss Jesus! He isn't pushy. He isn't loud but He is here. If you have accepted His salvation, then He dwells within you and will never leave you. "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5b) Don't ignore Him. Don't get caught up in the trappings of the holiday season. Worship Him - the King of kings, the Lord of lords.
Don't miss Jesus this Christmas! Be still. Listen. Worship.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Hearing God
Having trouble hearing God? Maybe we just need to be still. "Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10) If we are never still and quiet before the Lord, how can we expect to hear from Him? Elijah did not hear God in the great and powerful wind, the earthquake or the fire. He heard Him in a gentle whisper. (1 Kings 19)
If we are always in a turmoil or busy, busy "doing," we may miss what God is saying to us. If we spend quiet time (being still before the Lord), in His Word and in prayer, we will hear Him.
He speaks to us through His Word at our point of need. "The word of God is alive and active." (Hebrews 4:12) Try spending some time in His Word, be still and listen - you will hear Him.
If we are always in a turmoil or busy, busy "doing," we may miss what God is saying to us. If we spend quiet time (being still before the Lord), in His Word and in prayer, we will hear Him.
He speaks to us through His Word at our point of need. "The word of God is alive and active." (Hebrews 4:12) Try spending some time in His Word, be still and listen - you will hear Him.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Throughout Eternity
God has a plan for our lives (I know you all know that!) - but have you thought about the fact that His plan for Christians reaches throughout eternity? Eternal life does not begin when we die. It begins when we accept Jesus as our Saviour. God has a plan for what He wants us to do now and throughout eternity.
Do you know what God's plan is for you today? For the near future? The distant future? If you don't know, ask Him. Seek His direction and then listen. Get quiet before Him so you can hear Him. Remember His plan for our lives will always include honoring Him and bringing glory to His Name.
Are you on the right path - the one God wants you to follow? Is your life bringing glory and honor to His Name?
Isaish 30:21 says, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it'."
We must seek His plan for our lives. He will show us which way to go if we truly seek His direction. He may only show us His plan for right now so we just have to trust Him with His future plans for us. Follow Him now and throughout eternity.
Do you know what God's plan is for you today? For the near future? The distant future? If you don't know, ask Him. Seek His direction and then listen. Get quiet before Him so you can hear Him. Remember His plan for our lives will always include honoring Him and bringing glory to His Name.
Are you on the right path - the one God wants you to follow? Is your life bringing glory and honor to His Name?
Isaish 30:21 says, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it'."
We must seek His plan for our lives. He will show us which way to go if we truly seek His direction. He may only show us His plan for right now so we just have to trust Him with His future plans for us. Follow Him now and throughout eternity.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
The Secret of Contentment
"Godliness with contentment is great gain." (1 Timothy 6:6)
Feeling a little discontented these days? Ask yourself, "Why?" Do a little soul-searching and while you are searching, remember that you are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). You are a unique creation of the Creator God.
Paul said in Philippians 4:11b, ". . . . .I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Paul had learned the secret of being content in every situation. That secret is found in Philippians 4:13 - "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." God can and will give us a spirit of contentment. We have to ask.
I confess, this is an area I have prayed about consistently because I often find myself lacking in the area of contentment. God gave me the verse in 1 Timothy 6:6 years ago when I was confessing my lack of contentment.
I desire above all else to be the godly woman God wants me to be, therefore, I must learn to have a spirit of contentment. The key (secret) can be found in learning to lean on Him and trust Him in everything. Contentment may not come quickly, but it will come when we completely depend on Him for our strength.
Feeling a little discontented these days? Ask yourself, "Why?" Do a little soul-searching and while you are searching, remember that you are "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). You are a unique creation of the Creator God.
Paul said in Philippians 4:11b, ". . . . .I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Paul had learned the secret of being content in every situation. That secret is found in Philippians 4:13 - "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." God can and will give us a spirit of contentment. We have to ask.
I confess, this is an area I have prayed about consistently because I often find myself lacking in the area of contentment. God gave me the verse in 1 Timothy 6:6 years ago when I was confessing my lack of contentment.
I desire above all else to be the godly woman God wants me to be, therefore, I must learn to have a spirit of contentment. The key (secret) can be found in learning to lean on Him and trust Him in everything. Contentment may not come quickly, but it will come when we completely depend on Him for our strength.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Have We No Shame?
The LORD was referring to all the people, even the prophets and priests, when He stated, ". . . .they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush" (Jeremiah 6:15b). The people had gotten so far away from God they had no shame.
America comes to mind. Have we no shame at all? Do we ever blush? The depths to which our morals (as a country) have fallen, cause many to have no shame about anything they do. Our country's standards may have changed, but God's remain the same. He remains unchanged. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). His commandments are still as applicable today as the day they were engraved on two tablets by God.
Prayer: Convict us Holy Spirit if we feel no shame when we sin against God. Lord, cause us to blush once again at the wrongs around us. Help us protect our eyes, ears and minds from anything that does not please you.
America comes to mind. Have we no shame at all? Do we ever blush? The depths to which our morals (as a country) have fallen, cause many to have no shame about anything they do. Our country's standards may have changed, but God's remain the same. He remains unchanged. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). His commandments are still as applicable today as the day they were engraved on two tablets by God.
Prayer: Convict us Holy Spirit if we feel no shame when we sin against God. Lord, cause us to blush once again at the wrongs around us. Help us protect our eyes, ears and minds from anything that does not please you.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Did I make the right decision?
I have been pondering all week the sermon Ray Pritchard preached at our Awaken service Sunday evening. He began with examples of people asking, "Did I make the right decision?"
Don't we all second-guess ourselves? What can you do now if you did make a wrong decision? Well, you can't change the decision you made in the past, you just have to go forward. One thing Ray said has stuck with me all week. "Quit trying to have a better past. It is what it is."
How many times have you wished you could change your past? The fact is, no one can change their past so let's "quit trying to have a better past." Let's get on with the process of living, of going forward because how we view our past affects how we live out our future.
Ray used Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for the good of them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose."
If this verse is true (and it most certainly is!), then even our past will work together for our good if we are one of His children.
Did I make the right decision when I (fill in the blank)? We may not know here on earth, but we can rest in the fact that God is Sovereign and He will work out even the wrong decisions for our good and for His glory if we will allow Him to.
Ray Pritchard: "I can't go back, I can't stay here, I must go forward."
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing!" (Isaiah 43:18-19a)
Don't we all second-guess ourselves? What can you do now if you did make a wrong decision? Well, you can't change the decision you made in the past, you just have to go forward. One thing Ray said has stuck with me all week. "Quit trying to have a better past. It is what it is."
How many times have you wished you could change your past? The fact is, no one can change their past so let's "quit trying to have a better past." Let's get on with the process of living, of going forward because how we view our past affects how we live out our future.
Ray used Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for the good of them that love God, to them that are called according to His purpose."
If this verse is true (and it most certainly is!), then even our past will work together for our good if we are one of His children.
Did I make the right decision when I (fill in the blank)? We may not know here on earth, but we can rest in the fact that God is Sovereign and He will work out even the wrong decisions for our good and for His glory if we will allow Him to.
Ray Pritchard: "I can't go back, I can't stay here, I must go forward."
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing!" (Isaiah 43:18-19a)
Monday, October 4, 2010
Seeing God In Everything
It is easy to see God in the good things in life. It's even easy to praise Him for all His blessings. But, if we could learn to see God in everything that happens to us, that would be a major breakthrough in our Christian lives.
Do you want to become more Christ-like? If you do, then learn to ask God what He wants to teach you through your difficulties rather than asking Him why you are having to experience tough things. Learn to see God in everything.
God always has a purpose in allowing everything that touches our lives. Sometimes, God takes me through difficult times because He sees something in my life that needs some pruning - some cutting away. He sometimes allows deep hurts so I will rely on no one or no thing except Him.
When we come to a place where we can truly say, "Your will, not mine Lord," then He will teach us. He will give us what we need to endure our trials and He will bring us out on the other side changed into one who looks more like Jesus. Isn't that what we desire - to be more Christ-like? (I confess, it is an ongoing process in my life.)
Because God is Sovereign, we must learn to see Him in everything. "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
Do you want to become more Christ-like? If you do, then learn to ask God what He wants to teach you through your difficulties rather than asking Him why you are having to experience tough things. Learn to see God in everything.
God always has a purpose in allowing everything that touches our lives. Sometimes, God takes me through difficult times because He sees something in my life that needs some pruning - some cutting away. He sometimes allows deep hurts so I will rely on no one or no thing except Him.
When we come to a place where we can truly say, "Your will, not mine Lord," then He will teach us. He will give us what we need to endure our trials and He will bring us out on the other side changed into one who looks more like Jesus. Isn't that what we desire - to be more Christ-like? (I confess, it is an ongoing process in my life.)
Because God is Sovereign, we must learn to see Him in everything. "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:5-6)
Friday, September 24, 2010
Is it Well With Your Soul?
Can you say, "It is well with my soul" no matter what happens in your life? As I listened and sang this song, It is Well With My Soul, at the funeral of one of God's saints who suffered from MS for over 34 years, I asked myself the question, "is it well with my soul?"
When life throws me curves, and it will, am I experiencing wellness of my soul? As I ponder this question, I think of my friends who have experienced really hard things - the loss of a spouse, prostate cancer, breast cancer, kidney transplant, broken wedding vows - my difficulties seem so trivial.
I have watched friends go through tough trials and most, if not all, can truly say, "It is well with my soul." How can we do that? By faith and trust in "Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20). There is no other way.
Our God is sufficient to meet all of our needs. He is able. We just have to trust Him to give us victory in our every day lives - whatever our circumstances.
"Praise God from whom all blessings flow." (Doxology)
When life throws me curves, and it will, am I experiencing wellness of my soul? As I ponder this question, I think of my friends who have experienced really hard things - the loss of a spouse, prostate cancer, breast cancer, kidney transplant, broken wedding vows - my difficulties seem so trivial.
I have watched friends go through tough trials and most, if not all, can truly say, "It is well with my soul." How can we do that? By faith and trust in "Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20). There is no other way.
Our God is sufficient to meet all of our needs. He is able. We just have to trust Him to give us victory in our every day lives - whatever our circumstances.
"Praise God from whom all blessings flow." (Doxology)
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Songs in the Night
God has a sense of humor, don't you think? It is amazing how He teaches me when I am preparing to teach others. As I prepared a lesson on how we respond to our difficulties, I realized I didn't score very well.
Paul and Silas were thrown in the inner cell of prison with their feet in stocks after they had been stripped, beaten and flogged (Acts 16). All this happened to them because they did the right thing - commanded the demonic spirit to come out of the slave girl, in the name of Jesus.
While Paul and Silas were in jail, "About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God." (Acts 16:25) Is that how you respond to difficulties?
Prayer is one of my early responses when difficulties come, but I often spend a lot of time in tears before the song comes. God is the only one who can give us songs in the night - songs in our suffering. "Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night?" (Job 35:10) The psalmist said, "at night His song is with me" (Psalm 42:8). We must surrender/release our hurts, difficulties and sufferings to Him and trust Him with them.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to surrender everything to You - all my hurts, disappointments, changes in my plans, interruptions, etc. As I learn to surrender, help me trust You with the results - even the timing of the results. Give me songs in the night.
Paul and Silas were thrown in the inner cell of prison with their feet in stocks after they had been stripped, beaten and flogged (Acts 16). All this happened to them because they did the right thing - commanded the demonic spirit to come out of the slave girl, in the name of Jesus.
While Paul and Silas were in jail, "About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God." (Acts 16:25) Is that how you respond to difficulties?
Prayer is one of my early responses when difficulties come, but I often spend a lot of time in tears before the song comes. God is the only one who can give us songs in the night - songs in our suffering. "Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night?" (Job 35:10) The psalmist said, "at night His song is with me" (Psalm 42:8). We must surrender/release our hurts, difficulties and sufferings to Him and trust Him with them.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to surrender everything to You - all my hurts, disappointments, changes in my plans, interruptions, etc. As I learn to surrender, help me trust You with the results - even the timing of the results. Give me songs in the night.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
God's Eyes Are On You
Most are aware that Satan roams throughout the earth and goes back and forth in it. (Job 1:7) What is his purpose? "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8 NIV) Satan, who is the thief, "comes only to steal, kill and destroy." (John 10:10 NIV) Satan wants to devour us, steal, kill and destroy. That paints a frightening scenario, but never fear, God is everywhere. He is Omni-Present. He doesn't have to roam, going back and forth, He is everywhere at the same time!
Did you know that God's eyes range throughout the earth? "For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." (2 Chronicles 16:9 NIV) Notice God's purpose is to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.
I am glad I serve the God who is Omnipresent, who is El Ro-i (the God who sees me). I am blessed to know Him personally for a very long time. But, Satan has a purpose and He is not easily discouraged. He sometimes gains a victory in my life for a time, but praise God, it is temporary. My God's eyes range throughout the earth to strengthen His children. His eyes are on ______________ (put your name in the blank if you are a believer.) He has promised He will not leave me (you), not ever.
Did you know that God's eyes range throughout the earth? "For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." (2 Chronicles 16:9 NIV) Notice God's purpose is to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.
I am glad I serve the God who is Omnipresent, who is El Ro-i (the God who sees me). I am blessed to know Him personally for a very long time. But, Satan has a purpose and He is not easily discouraged. He sometimes gains a victory in my life for a time, but praise God, it is temporary. My God's eyes range throughout the earth to strengthen His children. His eyes are on ______________ (put your name in the blank if you are a believer.) He has promised He will not leave me (you), not ever.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Am I Completing God's Work?
God has a plan for you and for me. "For I know the plans I have for you . . . . ." (Jeremiah 29:11). He has a work He wants each of us to accomplish here on earth. I have been doing a little soul-searching - Am I completing the work God gave me to do? Jesus did. "I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave me to do," (John 17:4).
I am asking myself, "What is my work here on earth? Am I completing it? Is teaching Sunday School and Bible studies my work or have I missed the boat?" My desire is to bring glory to God so I need to complete the work He has for me. I need to follow His plan. Do a little soul-searching and ask yourself similar questions about your work. Is it His work, His plan for you?
One day I want to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). If we have sought out and followed God's plan, completed His work (and not our own), then those words will be spoken over us. Aah! music to our ears!
I am asking myself, "What is my work here on earth? Am I completing it? Is teaching Sunday School and Bible studies my work or have I missed the boat?" My desire is to bring glory to God so I need to complete the work He has for me. I need to follow His plan. Do a little soul-searching and ask yourself similar questions about your work. Is it His work, His plan for you?
One day I want to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). If we have sought out and followed God's plan, completed His work (and not our own), then those words will be spoken over us. Aah! music to our ears!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Light Bulb Moments
Cartoons often use a light bulb to indicate the character has an idea or a revelation of some sort. Have you ever had a light bulb moment? I had one of those concerning life in general about three weeks ago. I usually clean certain areas of my house such as the breakfast room, keeping room and kitchen or our bedroom, bath and closet. That day I changed my routine and decided to clean all of the bathrooms first. When I finished cleaning all of them, I felt like a cartoon character with a light bulb in a balloon over my head. I asked myself, "Why? Why am I cleaning this many bathrooms and there are only two of us who live here?"
That day I realized it was time to downsize our home. Mind you, I had not been ready when we built this house almost three years ago but now, hmmmm I have different thoughts. I love our home and yard, but it goes beyond our needs and it does have to be cleaned. (Certain family members have accused me of being obsessive compulsive about cleaning. They shall remain anonymous.)
I had been reading The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn and I am sure that helped bring on the light bulb moment. His Treasure Principle Key #6 is "God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving." One of the scripture passages on which this is based is 2 Corinthians 9:11. "You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion."
God often blesses us so we can bless others, not just so we can have more and more material things. We really do enjoy giving to different ministries, missionaries, etc. God wants us to invest in eternal things more than earthly things.
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
I do not know God's timetable on downsizing our home (providing a buyer and just the right home for us), but I will be ready when the time is right. Have you had any light bulb moments lately? I would love to hear about them!
That day I realized it was time to downsize our home. Mind you, I had not been ready when we built this house almost three years ago but now, hmmmm I have different thoughts. I love our home and yard, but it goes beyond our needs and it does have to be cleaned. (Certain family members have accused me of being obsessive compulsive about cleaning. They shall remain anonymous.)
I had been reading The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn and I am sure that helped bring on the light bulb moment. His Treasure Principle Key #6 is "God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving." One of the scripture passages on which this is based is 2 Corinthians 9:11. "You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion."
God often blesses us so we can bless others, not just so we can have more and more material things. We really do enjoy giving to different ministries, missionaries, etc. God wants us to invest in eternal things more than earthly things.
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)
I do not know God's timetable on downsizing our home (providing a buyer and just the right home for us), but I will be ready when the time is right. Have you had any light bulb moments lately? I would love to hear about them!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Treasured Possession
Malachi 3:17 - "They will be mine, says the LORD Almighty, in the day when I make up my treasured possession."
What does it take to be included as God's "treasured possession?" According to Malachi 3:16, God will make up His treasured possession from "those who feared the LORD and honored His name."
To fear the LORD, we must know who He is - know Him personally. We must be in awe of Him. We also must honor His name. To honor means "to recognize the value of someone or thing and to act accordingly." (Holman Bible Dictionary)
In order to honor God's name, we must know His name/names. When one studies the names of God (and there are so many!), one gets a glimpse of who God really is. When we see God called the LORD in Scripture (all capitals), it is the name YAHWEH (YHWH) or Jehovah - self-existent One who reveals Himself, I AM. That is just one name! Others : Adonai - Lord, Master; Elohim - God, mighty, strong - you get the idea. God's names reveal to us His character, who He is. How can we help but honor His name?
Fear God, honor His name. Be a part of God's treasured possession.
What does it take to be included as God's "treasured possession?" According to Malachi 3:16, God will make up His treasured possession from "those who feared the LORD and honored His name."
To fear the LORD, we must know who He is - know Him personally. We must be in awe of Him. We also must honor His name. To honor means "to recognize the value of someone or thing and to act accordingly." (Holman Bible Dictionary)
In order to honor God's name, we must know His name/names. When one studies the names of God (and there are so many!), one gets a glimpse of who God really is. When we see God called the LORD in Scripture (all capitals), it is the name YAHWEH (YHWH) or Jehovah - self-existent One who reveals Himself, I AM. That is just one name! Others : Adonai - Lord, Master; Elohim - God, mighty, strong - you get the idea. God's names reveal to us His character, who He is. How can we help but honor His name?
Fear God, honor His name. Be a part of God's treasured possession.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
The Same Measuring Stick
Recently, I read something that gave me cause to ponder. It essentially was that God doesn't need or want my help in judging others. Of course, I knew that! But, I pondered how many times I try to help Him out just a little in this area.
Many of us are prone to judge others on what we see or even what we hear someone has said or an action they have taken. Don't we really know that God doesn't need our help? I think so, but the human spirit often tends to be critical and judgmental (the writer includes herself in this group - sorry to say).
God's Word says: "Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:1-2) These verses should serve as a deterrent for our judmental tendencies. I pray God will remind me that He will use the same measuring stick on me that I use on others.
God's judgment is wrapped in His mercy and grace. Let us strive to show mercy and grace to our fellowman. I think we will like that measuring stick a lot better!
Many of us are prone to judge others on what we see or even what we hear someone has said or an action they have taken. Don't we really know that God doesn't need our help? I think so, but the human spirit often tends to be critical and judgmental (the writer includes herself in this group - sorry to say).
God's Word says: "Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:1-2) These verses should serve as a deterrent for our judmental tendencies. I pray God will remind me that He will use the same measuring stick on me that I use on others.
God's judgment is wrapped in His mercy and grace. Let us strive to show mercy and grace to our fellowman. I think we will like that measuring stick a lot better!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Let Go and Let God
In Matthew 6:25 Jesus said, "Don't worry about your life. . . . ." In Philippians 4:6, Paul exhorts the Philippians, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Don't worry. Do not be anxious. Hm-m-m-m - sounds a lot like commands not suggestions, don't you think? Yet, many of us spend far too much time worrying about something over which we have no control. Many of us spend needless hours being anxious rather than presenting our concerns to God. Or, maybe you presented them to God, but then took them back. "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) Cast all you anxiety on Him and leave it there.
If we present our requests, our concerns to God instead of being anxious, we have a promise. That promise is, "And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)
Today, let's give our concerns to God and leave them there - let go and let God - and experience the peace of God all over us.
Don't worry. Do not be anxious. Hm-m-m-m - sounds a lot like commands not suggestions, don't you think? Yet, many of us spend far too much time worrying about something over which we have no control. Many of us spend needless hours being anxious rather than presenting our concerns to God. Or, maybe you presented them to God, but then took them back. "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) Cast all you anxiety on Him and leave it there.
If we present our requests, our concerns to God instead of being anxious, we have a promise. That promise is, "And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)
Today, let's give our concerns to God and leave them there - let go and let God - and experience the peace of God all over us.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Am I a Jonah?
Jonah was given the gift of prophesy. "The word of the LORD came to Jonah" (Jonah 1:1). He was quite happy using his gift as long as he could utilize it where he wanted to. As soon as God asked him to go to a different place (Ninevah) and a different people, he ran from God.
How many of us are like Jonah, at least for a time? I loved my ladies' Sunday School class. I loved teaching them. I loved what I was doing, but God drew me away from there. I was very comfortable sharing what God had taught me. The fact is, I was very attached to my class. For a time, I think I was very much like Jonah - I ran from God's calling.
God was calling me out of my comfort zone. I love teaching women, but I wondered how will the couples' class respond to my teaching? I didn't have to spend three days and nights in the tummy of a big fish, but I wonder if God had that ole fish ready for me.
Our gifts are from God. "Each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that." (1 Corinthians 7:7) They are to be used where and when He chooses and will often be out of our comfort zone. We must surrender to God's call and then trust Him to provide, Don't be a Jonah!
How many of us are like Jonah, at least for a time? I loved my ladies' Sunday School class. I loved teaching them. I loved what I was doing, but God drew me away from there. I was very comfortable sharing what God had taught me. The fact is, I was very attached to my class. For a time, I think I was very much like Jonah - I ran from God's calling.
God was calling me out of my comfort zone. I love teaching women, but I wondered how will the couples' class respond to my teaching? I didn't have to spend three days and nights in the tummy of a big fish, but I wonder if God had that ole fish ready for me.
Our gifts are from God. "Each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that." (1 Corinthians 7:7) They are to be used where and when He chooses and will often be out of our comfort zone. We must surrender to God's call and then trust Him to provide, Don't be a Jonah!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Why Forgive?
Why should I forgive? They really do not deserve it, do they? They haven't asked for forgiveness or even admitted they hurt me or wronged me, so why should I forgive? The answer is, because Jesus did. "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing'." (Luke 23:34)
If we truly want to experience freedom in our lives, we must forgive. Some of us need motivation to live out some of God's command. Here is the motivation - "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sin." (Mark 11:25)
Forgiving others, especially those who do not deserve it, cleanses us from within. Great freedom comes from allowing God to heal the hurt and help us forgive the one who caused the hurt. Forgiveness brings release from negative emotions and the root of bitterness will find no place to grow.
Is it your desire to be more Christ-like? When we forgive the undeserving, we may look more like Jesus than at any other time in our lives. Ask God to help you forgive the underserving (aren't we all) and then experience the freeedom He gives.
If we truly want to experience freedom in our lives, we must forgive. Some of us need motivation to live out some of God's command. Here is the motivation - "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sin." (Mark 11:25)
Forgiving others, especially those who do not deserve it, cleanses us from within. Great freedom comes from allowing God to heal the hurt and help us forgive the one who caused the hurt. Forgiveness brings release from negative emotions and the root of bitterness will find no place to grow.
Is it your desire to be more Christ-like? When we forgive the undeserving, we may look more like Jesus than at any other time in our lives. Ask God to help you forgive the underserving (aren't we all) and then experience the freeedom He gives.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Remember When
At our recent class reunion, there were a lot of conversations that began with "Remember when . . . . . ." These words can be made in the form of a statement or a question. How great to remember all the fun times we had together and to be reminded of some we had forgotten!
The Bible uses the word remember numerous times throughout Scripture. Many times God is telling us to remember what He has done in our lives in the past. "Remember the wonders He has done, His miracles and the judgments He pronounced." (1 Chronicles 16:12) It is beneficial for us to remember what God has done in our lives through the years, so we can see His faithfullness.
Sometimes God wants us to remember something we did that was not pleasing to Him so we won't repeat the behavior. God does not want us to remember something from our past to put us on a guilt trip but to keep us from taking the same trip again. In Ezekiel 16, the Lord said His people had broken His covenant, but He would remember His covenant (v. 60). In verse 63, He told His people that they would "remember and be ashamed." We need to remember bad behavior (be ashamed) and never repeat the behavior.
While it is fun to remember our high school years and reminisce with friends, it is of much greater importance to remember what God has done in our lives. Remember your day of salvation. Remember His faithfulness and provision in your life. Take a trip down memory lane and praise Him for His faithfulness..
The Bible uses the word remember numerous times throughout Scripture. Many times God is telling us to remember what He has done in our lives in the past. "Remember the wonders He has done, His miracles and the judgments He pronounced." (1 Chronicles 16:12) It is beneficial for us to remember what God has done in our lives through the years, so we can see His faithfullness.
Sometimes God wants us to remember something we did that was not pleasing to Him so we won't repeat the behavior. God does not want us to remember something from our past to put us on a guilt trip but to keep us from taking the same trip again. In Ezekiel 16, the Lord said His people had broken His covenant, but He would remember His covenant (v. 60). In verse 63, He told His people that they would "remember and be ashamed." We need to remember bad behavior (be ashamed) and never repeat the behavior.
While it is fun to remember our high school years and reminisce with friends, it is of much greater importance to remember what God has done in our lives. Remember your day of salvation. Remember His faithfulness and provision in your life. Take a trip down memory lane and praise Him for His faithfulness..
Saturday, July 3, 2010
How Are You Feeling?
How are you feeling about your life? Did you know that how you feel starts in your mind? "If we don't start thinking differently, we will never feel differently." (Beth Moore, When Godly People Do Ungodly Things, page 71)
Philippians 4:8 tells us "Whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, . . . . . . think on these things." Be careful what and how you think. It will change how you feel.
In Mark 12:28, a teacher of the law asked Jesus which commandment was the most important. Jesus answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." (Mark 12:30) It all starts in our minds.
Loving Jesus with all our minds will change how we think and how we think will eventually change how we feel. Take a little inventory of your thought life. What are you spending most of your time thinking about? Is it true, honest, just, pure, etc.?
Let's change how we think by loving God with all our hearts, souls and minds and saturating ourselves with God's Word. We will feel much better than when our thoughts are more focused on self.
Philippians 4:8 tells us "Whatever is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, . . . . . . think on these things." Be careful what and how you think. It will change how you feel.
In Mark 12:28, a teacher of the law asked Jesus which commandment was the most important. Jesus answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." (Mark 12:30) It all starts in our minds.
Loving Jesus with all our minds will change how we think and how we think will eventually change how we feel. Take a little inventory of your thought life. What are you spending most of your time thinking about? Is it true, honest, just, pure, etc.?
Let's change how we think by loving God with all our hearts, souls and minds and saturating ourselves with God's Word. We will feel much better than when our thoughts are more focused on self.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Be a Little Kinder
A few days ago in my Quiet Time, a sentence jumped out at me. "Today, be a little kinder than necessary to family members, friends, and total strangers." (365 Devotionals From Psalms for Women, page 169)
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)
God has called us as believers to be different. What if today - this week - we tried to be a little kinder than is necessary to everyone with whom we interact? I think people would notice and wonder why. It is easy to be kind to those who are kind to us, but not so easy to those who are unkind.
Let the love of Jesus overflow from your heart to others. Be a little kinder than is necessary and everyone will be blessed - most of all you!
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)
God has called us as believers to be different. What if today - this week - we tried to be a little kinder than is necessary to everyone with whom we interact? I think people would notice and wonder why. It is easy to be kind to those who are kind to us, but not so easy to those who are unkind.
Let the love of Jesus overflow from your heart to others. Be a little kinder than is necessary and everyone will be blessed - most of all you!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
My Deliverer, the LORD
In Psalm 18, God had delivered David from his enemies - Saul being one of the chief persecutors and pursuers of harm to David. David's response to God's deliverance was thankfulness. He recognized the fact that it was the LORD who delivered him. "I love You, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer, my God is my rock in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." (Psalm 18:1-2) Notice David's use of the personal pronoun my.
Many times difficulties in our lives draw us closer to God. We realize we can't handle the big things without Him. (In reality, we can't handle the small things either.) Our response should be one of praise and thankfulness when we realize God is our strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, stronghold, salvation and much, much more. He truly is All-Sufficient. Let's depend on Him for deliverance and strength. Let's make Him our refuge and be grateful. God is a very personal God. He is my God, my deliverer. If you are His child, He is your God and your deliverer.
Many times difficulties in our lives draw us closer to God. We realize we can't handle the big things without Him. (In reality, we can't handle the small things either.) Our response should be one of praise and thankfulness when we realize God is our strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, stronghold, salvation and much, much more. He truly is All-Sufficient. Let's depend on Him for deliverance and strength. Let's make Him our refuge and be grateful. God is a very personal God. He is my God, my deliverer. If you are His child, He is your God and your deliverer.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Delight Yourself in the Lord
"Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4) I love this verse! Think about what it means to delight in something. When we delight in something, it gives us great pleasure, joy and satisfaction. I delight in my family, my friends, a delicious meal, completion of a project or task, a clean house, weeded flower beds, etc., etc.
Do I delight in the Lord? Yes! Maybe not as consistently as I should, but yes, I do delight in Him. When you delight in Him, He gives you a promise - "He will give you the desires of your heart." What a great promise! The crux (heart, truth) of this verse is when we truly delight in Him, our desires change. His desires become what we desire. It is not about getting what we want. It is about the changing of our hearts and minds to align with His. When we delight in Him, we have right/righteous desires.
"Delight yourself in the Lord,." and watch your desires change.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Do I delight in the Lord? Yes! Maybe not as consistently as I should, but yes, I do delight in Him. When you delight in Him, He gives you a promise - "He will give you the desires of your heart." What a great promise! The crux (heart, truth) of this verse is when we truly delight in Him, our desires change. His desires become what we desire. It is not about getting what we want. It is about the changing of our hearts and minds to align with His. When we delight in Him, we have right/righteous desires.
"Delight yourself in the Lord,." and watch your desires change.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
It Has to Start Somewhere
While we were enjoying our first fresh green beans with new potatoes (and squash and of course cornbread), Eddie said, "I sure am glad I planted those green beans." I sat there thinking and got so tickled I couldn't eat. Eddie began to laugh and said he realized I had picked the green beans, snapped them, washed them, and then cooked them, but he laughingly said, "It has to start somewhere." He is exactly right.
The sowing of the seed of God's Word has to start somewhere. Are you willing to sow the seed and let someone else water? Are you willing to water what someone else has sown? God may call us to sow one time and water the next or lay the foundation this time and build the next. Let's just be available and willing to let God use us and then He will make things grow.
In 1 Corinthians 3:6, Paul said. "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow."
Is God calling you to plant some seed in someone's life? Is He calling you to water what has been sown? What is your answer?
The sowing of the seed of God's Word has to start somewhere. Are you willing to sow the seed and let someone else water? Are you willing to water what someone else has sown? God may call us to sow one time and water the next or lay the foundation this time and build the next. Let's just be available and willing to let God use us and then He will make things grow.
In 1 Corinthians 3:6, Paul said. "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow."
Is God calling you to plant some seed in someone's life? Is He calling you to water what has been sown? What is your answer?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Kaylee - Our Only Granddaughter
Kaylee is our only granddaughter and she is also our oldest grandchild. Where do I start?? What a joy she has been! I remember the excitement we experienced when we knew we were going to be grandparents and when the news came that it was a girl, well, I began sewing for her right away.
Kaylee made her appearance as a healthy little girl on July 24, 1990 and very soon it was obvious she had a mind of her own. It has served her well in her growing-up years. It has enabled her to stand up for her beliefs and convictions - standing alone if necessary.
What an outstanding personality she has, much like her dad. When she was between 3 and 4 years old, her mom and I were shopping at Talbots in Charleston, South Carolina and Kaylee infomed us she would sit at the bench near the front door in case anyone wanted to talk. I can assure you a number of people wanted to talk to this cute little blond!
Some of Kaylee's activities include swimming on the swim team when she lived in Atlanta, playing on the tennis team and serving as captain of the basketball cheerleaders at her high school, Briarcrest Christian School. In December of 2006, she decided to participate in the Miss Memphis Princess pageant and proceeded to win. She was also chosen as a Fan Favorite and Miss Congeniality in the Princess division. She was also selected by the Memphis Woman magazine as one of the 2007 outstanding young women of Memphis. She has attended Kanakuk Christian Sports Camp several summers and served as a counselor there last summer. She will also spend the last part of her summer this year as a counselor. She has been very active serving her community during her teen years. She has won other pageants and received other awards, but I can't remember them all!
Kaylee just finished her sophomore year at Mississippi State and has chosen to use six weeks of her summer on a mission trip with Campus Crusade for Christ. I couldn't be prouder of her for giving of herself and her time to share Christ with college students in Salerno, Italy. I miss her, and her mom, dad and brother really miss her, but I believe God is going to use her to make a difference in people's lives.
Kaylee made her appearance as a healthy little girl on July 24, 1990 and very soon it was obvious she had a mind of her own. It has served her well in her growing-up years. It has enabled her to stand up for her beliefs and convictions - standing alone if necessary.
What an outstanding personality she has, much like her dad. When she was between 3 and 4 years old, her mom and I were shopping at Talbots in Charleston, South Carolina and Kaylee infomed us she would sit at the bench near the front door in case anyone wanted to talk. I can assure you a number of people wanted to talk to this cute little blond!
Some of Kaylee's activities include swimming on the swim team when she lived in Atlanta, playing on the tennis team and serving as captain of the basketball cheerleaders at her high school, Briarcrest Christian School. In December of 2006, she decided to participate in the Miss Memphis Princess pageant and proceeded to win. She was also chosen as a Fan Favorite and Miss Congeniality in the Princess division. She was also selected by the Memphis Woman magazine as one of the 2007 outstanding young women of Memphis. She has attended Kanakuk Christian Sports Camp several summers and served as a counselor there last summer. She will also spend the last part of her summer this year as a counselor. She has been very active serving her community during her teen years. She has won other pageants and received other awards, but I can't remember them all!
Kaylee just finished her sophomore year at Mississippi State and has chosen to use six weeks of her summer on a mission trip with Campus Crusade for Christ. I couldn't be prouder of her for giving of herself and her time to share Christ with college students in Salerno, Italy. I miss her, and her mom, dad and brother really miss her, but I believe God is going to use her to make a difference in people's lives.
I can't wait to see what God is going to do through Kaylee. She is going to help change lives! God has blessed us with four dear grandchildren and I pray for Him to do wonderful things through each of them.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Trust Him in All Things
What a joy to serve a God of grace. Nothing is too hard for Him! "Ah, Sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You." (Jeremiah 32:17) We must learn to trust Him in all things - even the "impossible." When you serve an Almighty God, you can rest in Him and in His ability - that is trusting.
Have you wasted away the years of your life? Have you used your time carelessly? God can redeem the time you have wasted. "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten." (Joel 2:25) We really can not understand this principle, but we can trust a God who has proven Himself faithful through the ages.
Oh yes, there are consequesces for our sins. There are consequesces for wasting precious time, but we can trust our God to deal triumphantly in our lives when we trust Him in all things.
Have you wasted away the years of your life? Have you used your time carelessly? God can redeem the time you have wasted. "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten." (Joel 2:25) We really can not understand this principle, but we can trust a God who has proven Himself faithful through the ages.
Oh yes, there are consequesces for our sins. There are consequesces for wasting precious time, but we can trust our God to deal triumphantly in our lives when we trust Him in all things.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Josh - Our Youngest Grandchild
Josh is our actor, speaker, singer and is quite comfortable in front of a crowd (I knew this when I heard him give his report on grandparents day in the second grade!). Josh also swims on the swim team and is an avid reader. As long as I can remember Josh has wanted to help me cook - even if it meant only cracking an egg. He also takes an interest in our garden and my flowers.
Last summer (2009) will always stand out in my memory as a very fun time with Josh. Eddie and I had planned to travel out west in June and had mentioned to our grandchildren that we would love for them to go if their schedule permitted. It seemed at the time that they all had busy summers planned so we sort of forgot about it. About 9 o'clock the night before we were to leave, Eddie thought he better call Josh to see if he wanted to go (everyone else was busy at camp, etc.). About an hour later, Josh was at our house with his bags packed ready to go - thanks to a mom who got his things together rather quickly.
Very early the next morning, Eddie, Josh, Tigger and I began our trip to Durango, Colorado. Josh and Tigger have a very special bond - they happen to love each other. They were both excellent travelers - you have to be if you are going out west with Eddie because he drives, drives and drives!!! We reached our destination the following day.
We ate great food and saw beautiful scenery. Two of Josh's favorite activities, I think, were the Chuck Wagon Dinner Theater and the train ride from Durango to Silverton. Tigger and I drove to Silverton to get Josh and Eddie after the train ride. (I had ridden the train before and they didn't allow four legged creatures even if they think they are one of us.) The picture on this post was taken in Silverton, Colorado after the train ride.
Josh was a real trooper on this trip. He was easy to please and a joy to have along. Memories were made that won't soon be forgotten.
I can't wait to see how God will use Josh with all the talent He has given him. Josh is special and uniqe as are Kaylee, Kam and Case. I am so glad God has shared each of you with us. You are a blessing!
Obedience - Not Always the Easy Thing
For months I felt the Lord was leading me to do something different, but I just didn't know what it was. Maybe I had a hint, but just didn't want to be obedient. The Lord did speak to me telling me to "do the next thing." I accepted His word for me and just began trying to do what was in front of me. Then, wow! Everywhere I turned in my Quiet Time, He was speaking to me. I heard things like obedience is not always the easy thing, but it is the right thing and I must die to self and my plans and embrace His plans.
God assures us if we are obedient to Him, we will look more like Jesus. That is the desire of my heart - to look more like Jesus - so what could I do but be obedient to what He was telling me. I knew Eddie wanted me to help him teach the couples class he has been teaching for over four years, but he would not ask me to give up my class. Giving up my class, that is the hard part! Working alongside Eddie and helping him teach and minister to a great group of couples, that is the good part. Being obedient, that is the blessed part.
"Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground." (Psalm 143:10) "To obey is better than sacrifice." (1 Samuel 15:22)
God assures us if we are obedient to Him, we will look more like Jesus. That is the desire of my heart - to look more like Jesus - so what could I do but be obedient to what He was telling me. I knew Eddie wanted me to help him teach the couples class he has been teaching for over four years, but he would not ask me to give up my class. Giving up my class, that is the hard part! Working alongside Eddie and helping him teach and minister to a great group of couples, that is the good part. Being obedient, that is the blessed part.
"Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground." (Psalm 143:10) "To obey is better than sacrifice." (1 Samuel 15:22)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Laughter is Good for the Soul
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." (Proverbs 17:22 - KJV) "Laughter is good for the soul" the saying goes. Have you laughed lately? A good hearty laugh surely makes one feel so much better than mustering up the energy to frown!
What a testimony to the unbelieving world when Christians laugh and have a merry heart. Look for things that will make you laugh. Focus on the positive and don't dwell on the negative. Focus on the blessings God has given rather than on the difficulties of life. There will be more smiles and laughter and less frowning.
The word blessed in Scripture can often be translated happy. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 119:1-2 - "Happy are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the LORD. Happy are they who keep His statutes and seek Him with all their heart." Have you been seeking happiness in the wrong places? Christians find happiness in living a blameless (upright - without willful sin) life, walking according to God's Word, His teaching and instruction.
Another aspect of laughter is learning to laugh at ourselves. I had several occasions to laugh at myself last Sunday (it does not always come easy for me!). It was just one of those days. First I left my purse in the Sanctuary, then I wrote our memory verse on the board (Psalm 119:10-11) and left off the word not. It was a very important word - "that we might not sin against God." Read it without the not!! I could go on, but that is enough. How much better to laugh at ourselves than dwell on our inadequacies or mistakes. Laughter surely works good like a medicine. Don't forget to take your medicine!
What a testimony to the unbelieving world when Christians laugh and have a merry heart. Look for things that will make you laugh. Focus on the positive and don't dwell on the negative. Focus on the blessings God has given rather than on the difficulties of life. There will be more smiles and laughter and less frowning.
The word blessed in Scripture can often be translated happy. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 119:1-2 - "Happy are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the LORD. Happy are they who keep His statutes and seek Him with all their heart." Have you been seeking happiness in the wrong places? Christians find happiness in living a blameless (upright - without willful sin) life, walking according to God's Word, His teaching and instruction.
Another aspect of laughter is learning to laugh at ourselves. I had several occasions to laugh at myself last Sunday (it does not always come easy for me!). It was just one of those days. First I left my purse in the Sanctuary, then I wrote our memory verse on the board (Psalm 119:10-11) and left off the word not. It was a very important word - "that we might not sin against God." Read it without the not!! I could go on, but that is enough. How much better to laugh at ourselves than dwell on our inadequacies or mistakes. Laughter surely works good like a medicine. Don't forget to take your medicine!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
So All Went Well
The desire of our lives is often that things would go well for us. In Jeremiah, some key truths are given, that will help that desire be fulfilled.
"He did what was right and just, so all went well with him. He defended the cause of the poor and needy and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me? declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 22:15b-17)
When we truly know God, we obey His commands. We do what we know is right and just and we defend the cause of the poor and needy. To really know Him, we must spend time with Him - spend serious time in prayer and in His Word. He will reveal Himself and His will through the pages of His Word and as we communicate in prayer.
"So all went well" does not mean nothing ever goes wrong. We live in a sinful, imperfect world so bad things happen to good people. It does mean - "All things work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
Seek to know God with your whole heart so all will go well with you.
"He did what was right and just, so all went well with him. He defended the cause of the poor and needy and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me? declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 22:15b-17)
When we truly know God, we obey His commands. We do what we know is right and just and we defend the cause of the poor and needy. To really know Him, we must spend time with Him - spend serious time in prayer and in His Word. He will reveal Himself and His will through the pages of His Word and as we communicate in prayer.
"So all went well" does not mean nothing ever goes wrong. We live in a sinful, imperfect world so bad things happen to good people. It does mean - "All things work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
Seek to know God with your whole heart so all will go well with you.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Do the Next Thing
Are you overwhelmed? Do you think you have too much to do? You may be thinking - "Surely God wants me to give up something I am doing." That has been my thinking for months and I have been asking God for direction. I was convinced that He wanted me to give up at least one of my responsibilities, but I did not get clear direction of what it was to be. In November, I wrote in my Prayer Journal - "Lord, I will continue doing what I am doing right now until I hear from You." This was what I knew the Lord was saying to me at that time. I continued to pray for Him to show me what I was to give up.
Lately, everywhere I turn, I keep getting the same message - "Do what is in front of you right now." I received this same answer back in November. I guess I wanted to know what God wanted me to do this summer, this fall, etc. He had a different plan - keep on doing what you are doing until you hear from me. I trust He will give me what I need to keep on keeping on.
Priscilla Shirer shared the following quote from Elisabeth Eliot in Priscilla's Bible study, Discerning the Voice of God: "One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was 'Do the next thing.' ''
The Israelite elders told Moses to "Go near and listen to all that the LORD our God says. Then tell us whatever the LORD our God tells you. We will listen and obey." (Deuteronomy 5:27) The Israelites were afraid to hear from the Lord directly, but we can "come boldly to the throne of grace" (Hebrews 4:16) because Jesus opened the way through His death, burial, and resurrection. God desires the same thing from us as He did the Israelites - "listen and obey."
We need to listen to what God is saying to us and obey. Maybe He is telling you to give up something, but if not, just "Do the next thing."
Lately, everywhere I turn, I keep getting the same message - "Do what is in front of you right now." I received this same answer back in November. I guess I wanted to know what God wanted me to do this summer, this fall, etc. He had a different plan - keep on doing what you are doing until you hear from me. I trust He will give me what I need to keep on keeping on.
Priscilla Shirer shared the following quote from Elisabeth Eliot in Priscilla's Bible study, Discerning the Voice of God: "One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was 'Do the next thing.' ''
The Israelite elders told Moses to "Go near and listen to all that the LORD our God says. Then tell us whatever the LORD our God tells you. We will listen and obey." (Deuteronomy 5:27) The Israelites were afraid to hear from the Lord directly, but we can "come boldly to the throne of grace" (Hebrews 4:16) because Jesus opened the way through His death, burial, and resurrection. God desires the same thing from us as He did the Israelites - "listen and obey."
We need to listen to what God is saying to us and obey. Maybe He is telling you to give up something, but if not, just "Do the next thing."
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Spring Break 2010 For Case
I have such fond memories of Case as an infant. He is the only one of my grandchildren I had the privilege to keep for a period of time on a regular basis. While his mom worked part-time, Case went to our church's daycare. When I had Bible study or other meetings at the church, or just when I took the notion, I would pick him up at daycare and take him home with me. I did this every chance I got. He spent many afternoons with his Kay-Kay. He doesn't remember those days, but I sure do! He was such a good baby and such fun to be with.
Case has grown into a handsome young man of over 6 feet tall and still growing. He is a very conscientious student, but what I appreciate the most about him, is the fact that he has a mind of his own. He is not as easily influenced by his peers as many teenagers are. He became a Christian at a young age and enjoys being active in his youth group at church.
Case took part of his Spring Break to help the people of Bayou DuLarge Baptist Church. He stacked lumber at the saw mill one day and other days, helped in the building of a home for church members
who experienced a loss during a hurricane. When Eddie brought Case home that Sunday night, he asked him if he would like to go again. He said, "I would go again right now if I weren't so tired."
Case will always remember his Spring Break of 2010 and so will his grandfather. What a blessing grandchildren are! Our children and grandchildren are worth the investment we make in their lives.
"Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right." (Proverbs 20:11)
"Children's children (Kaylee, Kam, Case, and Josh) are a crown to the aged . . . . . " (Proverbs 17:6a) Well, I don't consider myself "aged" yet, but we are their thankful, and blessed grandparents.
Eddie said I would have been so proud of Case, and I assure you I am. I have a special place in my heart for all of my grandchildren. They are each unique creations of our Maker.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Don't Miss the Blessing of Obedience
Jessie sent his son David to check on his three oldest sons who had followed Saul to war. He sent food with him and requested that he bring a report back to him.
David arrived at the camp, left his grain, bread and cheese with the keeper of the supplies, and went to the front lines to greet his brothers. David heard the giant, Goliath make his threats causing all Israel to run in fear. David began to question the men concerning the Philistine giant. As he did his oldest brother began to belittle him and he burned with anger toward David. Eliab asked, "Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the desert? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle." (I Samuel 17:28b) David's response to those words is understandable. "Now what have I done? Can't I even speak?" (I Samuel 17:29)
David had come to bring food to his brothers, check on their well-being and take a report back to their father. Eliab's words were completely wrong, but I am sure his words stung. When family members mistreat us, it is more painful even that the wounds caused by others.
David did not let his brother's hurtful words deter him. He did what his father asked him to do and then he did what God called him and equipped him to do - kill the Philistine giant, Goliath!
Don't let a family member, friend, or others deter you from carrying out God's mission for you. Don't let their discouraging and hurtful words keep you from being obedient to God's calling. Don't let them cause you to miss the blessing of obedience.
"To obey is better than sacrifice." (I Samuel 15:22b)
David arrived at the camp, left his grain, bread and cheese with the keeper of the supplies, and went to the front lines to greet his brothers. David heard the giant, Goliath make his threats causing all Israel to run in fear. David began to question the men concerning the Philistine giant. As he did his oldest brother began to belittle him and he burned with anger toward David. Eliab asked, "Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the desert? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle." (I Samuel 17:28b) David's response to those words is understandable. "Now what have I done? Can't I even speak?" (I Samuel 17:29)
David had come to bring food to his brothers, check on their well-being and take a report back to their father. Eliab's words were completely wrong, but I am sure his words stung. When family members mistreat us, it is more painful even that the wounds caused by others.
David did not let his brother's hurtful words deter him. He did what his father asked him to do and then he did what God called him and equipped him to do - kill the Philistine giant, Goliath!
Don't let a family member, friend, or others deter you from carrying out God's mission for you. Don't let their discouraging and hurtful words keep you from being obedient to God's calling. Don't let them cause you to miss the blessing of obedience.
"To obey is better than sacrifice." (I Samuel 15:22b)
Thursday, March 18, 2010
I'M WEARY LORD
God sure turned my plans for this week upside down! Last week a good discription of me would have been tired, weak, powerless, discouraged, a little depressed, and yes, weary. I did not realize just how weary I was until God changed my plans.
My plan for this week included traveling Monday morning to New Orleans to take a class, returning late Wednesday afternoon, leaving early Thursday morning on a mission trip with Eddie's Sunday School class to south, very south, Louisiana. I packed my car with everything except my make-up kit Sunday afternoon. I woke up very early Monday morning thinking I should not make the trip. I got up, got on my face before the Lord, asking for His direction. He gave me a peace about not going. (I am thankful that unpacking takes a lot less time than packing!)
I didn't go on the mission trip either. God seemed to be telling me that I needed some time to relax, refresh, be refueled. I have had a quiet week at home (most people didn't know I was here). Sometimes we just need a little rest when we are tired and weary. God knows what we need even before we do. We just need to listen.
Several verses of Scripture came to my mind as I reflected on my lack of strength (my weariness) and on His All-Sufficient strength.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 2:9).
". . . nothing is too hard for You." (Jeremiah 32:17)
"He gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak" (Isaiah 40:29).
Are you a little weary? Listen to your body and especially listen to the Lord. He will help us take better care of ourselves. He will refresh us and renew us. I'm getting there!
My plan for this week included traveling Monday morning to New Orleans to take a class, returning late Wednesday afternoon, leaving early Thursday morning on a mission trip with Eddie's Sunday School class to south, very south, Louisiana. I packed my car with everything except my make-up kit Sunday afternoon. I woke up very early Monday morning thinking I should not make the trip. I got up, got on my face before the Lord, asking for His direction. He gave me a peace about not going. (I am thankful that unpacking takes a lot less time than packing!)
I didn't go on the mission trip either. God seemed to be telling me that I needed some time to relax, refresh, be refueled. I have had a quiet week at home (most people didn't know I was here). Sometimes we just need a little rest when we are tired and weary. God knows what we need even before we do. We just need to listen.
Several verses of Scripture came to my mind as I reflected on my lack of strength (my weariness) and on His All-Sufficient strength.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 2:9).
". . . nothing is too hard for You." (Jeremiah 32:17)
"He gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak" (Isaiah 40:29).
Are you a little weary? Listen to your body and especially listen to the Lord. He will help us take better care of ourselves. He will refresh us and renew us. I'm getting there!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Never Be Shaken
Psalm 15:5b - "He who does these things will never be shaken."
I don't want to be shaken - do you? Most of us want to be on firm ground, standing tall. What does a person have to do to avoid being shaken? The psalmist asked a question about who can dwell with God in Psalm 15:1 and proceeded to describe the kind of person who can. He, whose walk is blameless, is righteous, speaks truth from the heart, no slander is on his tongue, does his neighbor no wrong, casts no slur on his fellowman, and on and on. The person who does these things will dwell with the LORD and he "will never be shaken."
Dwelling with the LORD for a Christian, means spending time with Him in prayer and in His Word. The person who spends quality time with God is the person who will be blameless (without willful sin), righteous, honest, etc., and the one who "will never be shaken."
Everyone is a little shaken at times, but the one who dwells in God's presence on a continuous basis, will not be shaken permanently. God brings us back to a firm foundation and we will be strong in Him.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
I don't want to be shaken - do you? Most of us want to be on firm ground, standing tall. What does a person have to do to avoid being shaken? The psalmist asked a question about who can dwell with God in Psalm 15:1 and proceeded to describe the kind of person who can. He, whose walk is blameless, is righteous, speaks truth from the heart, no slander is on his tongue, does his neighbor no wrong, casts no slur on his fellowman, and on and on. The person who does these things will dwell with the LORD and he "will never be shaken."
Dwelling with the LORD for a Christian, means spending time with Him in prayer and in His Word. The person who spends quality time with God is the person who will be blameless (without willful sin), righteous, honest, etc., and the one who "will never be shaken."
Everyone is a little shaken at times, but the one who dwells in God's presence on a continuous basis, will not be shaken permanently. God brings us back to a firm foundation and we will be strong in Him.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Picture Added to Post about Kam
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Good News/Bad News
Have you ever had to deliver a difficult message to someone? Personally, I prefer to be the deliverer of good news or encouraging words, but sometimes God calls His children to deliver bad news (or His judgment). Jeremiah was one such person. In Jeremiah 20, he was the deliverer of the unpopular message concerning Babylonian captivity for the Israelite people.
Jeremiah wanted to quit, but could not. "But if I say, 'I will not mention Him or speak any more in His Name, His Word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot'."
God's Word burns in our hearts when the Holy Spirit teaches us and gives us insight into the truths of Scripture. Don't keep it in. Be like Jeremiah and deliver the Good News or the Bad News - whichever God calls you to do.
"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)
God's Word is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16), living, active, sharp, judges, and is like a fire. Take it in and give it out - Good News or Bad News!
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Jeremiah wanted to quit, but could not. "But if I say, 'I will not mention Him or speak any more in His Name, His Word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot'."
God's Word burns in our hearts when the Holy Spirit teaches us and gives us insight into the truths of Scripture. Don't keep it in. Be like Jeremiah and deliver the Good News or the Bad News - whichever God calls you to do.
"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)
God's Word is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16), living, active, sharp, judges, and is like a fire. Take it in and give it out - Good News or Bad News!
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Are You Listening?
There is a time to be still. "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." (Exodus 14:14) These were Moses' words to the Israelite people as they faced the Red Sea in front of them and the Egyptian army behind them.
There is a time to move on. "The LORD said to Moses ". . . . . . Tell the Israelites to move on." (Exodus 14:15b) God gave Moses instructions to raise his staff over the waters of the sea, so all night long Moses held his staff over the Red Sea. God sent a strong east wind to drive the sea back and dry the ground. That night God's angel moved from in front of the Israelites to the back. The clouds which had been in front of them moved behind them to provide darkness for the pursuing Egyptians.
The Israelites had to be still while they waited for God to do His thing and then it was time to move on. What would have happened if they had not been still when God told them to? What would have happened if they had not moved on across the Red Sea when God told them to move?
A huge miracle happened that day. The Israelites were still when God said to be still and they moved on when God said move on. Is God telling you to be still? Is He telling you to move on? Are you listening?
"Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
There is a time to move on. "The LORD said to Moses ". . . . . . Tell the Israelites to move on." (Exodus 14:15b) God gave Moses instructions to raise his staff over the waters of the sea, so all night long Moses held his staff over the Red Sea. God sent a strong east wind to drive the sea back and dry the ground. That night God's angel moved from in front of the Israelites to the back. The clouds which had been in front of them moved behind them to provide darkness for the pursuing Egyptians.
The Israelites had to be still while they waited for God to do His thing and then it was time to move on. What would have happened if they had not been still when God told them to? What would have happened if they had not moved on across the Red Sea when God told them to move?
A huge miracle happened that day. The Israelites were still when God said to be still and they moved on when God said move on. Is God telling you to be still? Is He telling you to move on? Are you listening?
"Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Friday, February 19, 2010
I Need a Little Sunshine (Son Shine)!
Mississippi has lived up to her reputation for lots of gray days in January and February! I need a little sunshine, Lord! Many of us become discouraged, down, and even depressed when we don't see the sun shine. When I think of being depressed, I often think of Elijah and I am reminded that I am not the only one who has dealt with this malady.
Eliajah, an outstanding servant of the Lord, had a great victory over the prophets of Baal. His faith was shining that day when he called fire down from heaven and proved that the God he worshiped was the one true God. Ah, but Jezebel heard of Elijah's victory over the prophets of Baal and determined to take his life . Elijah was afraid of one woman and he ran for his life (1 Kings 19:3). Elijah, the same prophet of God who had just experienced victory over 450 prophets of Baal, now ran from one woman! Granted, she was Jezebel, but Elijah's God is the same God who had given him victory.
Elijah went into the desert and prayed that he might die. He said, "I have had enough, LORD. Take my life." (1 Kings 19:4) He was tired, discouraged, and hungry and God sent His angel to minister to him. Elijah fell asleep under the tree and the LORD's angel woke him and told him to eat. He ate and drank and lay down once more and slept. Again the angel awakened him to eat and drink. After Elijah rested, ate, and drank, he was strengthened and was able to travel 40 days and 40 nights. Then Elijah stood in the presence of the LORD.
When we get down, discouraged, and/or depressed, sometimes we just need a little rest. Sometimes we need to eat healthier foods and take in plenty of fluids. Sometimes, we just need a little sunshine. Always, we need the Son to shine on us. Always we need the presence of the LORD!
"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, O LORD." (Psalm 89:15 NIV)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Eliajah, an outstanding servant of the Lord, had a great victory over the prophets of Baal. His faith was shining that day when he called fire down from heaven and proved that the God he worshiped was the one true God. Ah, but Jezebel heard of Elijah's victory over the prophets of Baal and determined to take his life . Elijah was afraid of one woman and he ran for his life (1 Kings 19:3). Elijah, the same prophet of God who had just experienced victory over 450 prophets of Baal, now ran from one woman! Granted, she was Jezebel, but Elijah's God is the same God who had given him victory.
Elijah went into the desert and prayed that he might die. He said, "I have had enough, LORD. Take my life." (1 Kings 19:4) He was tired, discouraged, and hungry and God sent His angel to minister to him. Elijah fell asleep under the tree and the LORD's angel woke him and told him to eat. He ate and drank and lay down once more and slept. Again the angel awakened him to eat and drink. After Elijah rested, ate, and drank, he was strengthened and was able to travel 40 days and 40 nights. Then Elijah stood in the presence of the LORD.
When we get down, discouraged, and/or depressed, sometimes we just need a little rest. Sometimes we need to eat healthier foods and take in plenty of fluids. Sometimes, we just need a little sunshine. Always, we need the Son to shine on us. Always we need the presence of the LORD!
"Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim You, who walk in the light of Your presence, O LORD." (Psalm 89:15 NIV)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Friday, February 12, 2010
Just Another Day in the Life of Kam
It was January 13, 2010. Kam, my 17-year-old grandson, started his day much like any other day. He drove his black F-150 pick-up to St. George's Academy (only a few miles from his home), where he is a junior and plays baseball. My guess is that he either skipped breakfast or grabbed something on the way out the door. Just an ordinary day in the life of Kam, but as his mom says, "Is any day really ordinary for Kam?"
Kam adds a little excitement to every day and always has. My job as his grandmother has always been to run interference for him - to try to keep him from getting in trouble with his parents. When he was young, I would try to distract him when he seemed to be pushing the envelope a litte too far. We have gone on walks down the beach and such to try to avoid getting in trouble. He wasn't bad, just fun and mischievous and had to see just how far he could go.
On January 13, 2010, I eased out of bed early in the morning as usual to begin my time of prayer and Bible study. Each morning of Kam's life, I have prayed for God's protection and I ask God to place His guardian angel over him (as well as my other grandchildren and their parents). I also ask for specific and personal needs. It is something God has compelled me to do so don't pat me on the back or anything. I tell you this to encourage you to pray for your children and grandchildren because "just another day" may turn out to be not "just another day." "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." (Psalm 91:11-12)
That Wednesday, Kam and his friends got out of school a little early, so they made a quick trip to Chick-Fil-A before going to The Batter's Box to work out. Everyone had left except Kam and his friends, Zach and Hunter. Zach backed out of his parking place next to Kam and Kam saw Zach trying to get his attention. He got out of his F-150 pick-up and walked back to Zach's Honda Ridgeline truck. As Kam stood there, they realized his truck was moving and it quickly penned him between his truck and Zach's. Hunter jumped out of Zach's truck and pulled Kam's truck forward. Try to imagine this frightening scene as Kam's big truck penned him against Zach's truck!
Kam thought he was miraculously okay and proceded to drive himself to The Batter's Box, only to come to the realization that he had just experienced a very serious accident. As he drove himself home, he called his mom to let her know he was okay. At that point, he became emotional. I think the enormity of what had happened to him and the fact that he had walked away, hit him right between the eyes.
His dad took him to Campbell Clinic for tests and they found no broken bones, just very deep bruises. God protected Kam that day and I choose to believe He honored a grandmother's prayer - a grandmother who really is very insignificant in the scheme of things - but who has a special place in her heart for Kam. Kam has very strong thighs from working out and playing catcher. Those thighs along with God's hands protected him from serious injury.
Don't forget to pray for your children, grandchildren, or other children in your lives. God honors our prayers. "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer . . . . . . . (1 Peter 3:12).
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
(A note to my other three grandchildren: I plan to write about each of you in the future. You have a special place in my heart just like Kam. Each of you is different and special in your own unique way. But, you don't have to have an accident for me to write about you!)
Kam adds a little excitement to every day and always has. My job as his grandmother has always been to run interference for him - to try to keep him from getting in trouble with his parents. When he was young, I would try to distract him when he seemed to be pushing the envelope a litte too far. We have gone on walks down the beach and such to try to avoid getting in trouble. He wasn't bad, just fun and mischievous and had to see just how far he could go.On January 13, 2010, I eased out of bed early in the morning as usual to begin my time of prayer and Bible study. Each morning of Kam's life, I have prayed for God's protection and I ask God to place His guardian angel over him (as well as my other grandchildren and their parents). I also ask for specific and personal needs. It is something God has compelled me to do so don't pat me on the back or anything. I tell you this to encourage you to pray for your children and grandchildren because "just another day" may turn out to be not "just another day." "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." (Psalm 91:11-12)
That Wednesday, Kam and his friends got out of school a little early, so they made a quick trip to Chick-Fil-A before going to The Batter's Box to work out. Everyone had left except Kam and his friends, Zach and Hunter. Zach backed out of his parking place next to Kam and Kam saw Zach trying to get his attention. He got out of his F-150 pick-up and walked back to Zach's Honda Ridgeline truck. As Kam stood there, they realized his truck was moving and it quickly penned him between his truck and Zach's. Hunter jumped out of Zach's truck and pulled Kam's truck forward. Try to imagine this frightening scene as Kam's big truck penned him against Zach's truck!
Kam thought he was miraculously okay and proceded to drive himself to The Batter's Box, only to come to the realization that he had just experienced a very serious accident. As he drove himself home, he called his mom to let her know he was okay. At that point, he became emotional. I think the enormity of what had happened to him and the fact that he had walked away, hit him right between the eyes.
His dad took him to Campbell Clinic for tests and they found no broken bones, just very deep bruises. God protected Kam that day and I choose to believe He honored a grandmother's prayer - a grandmother who really is very insignificant in the scheme of things - but who has a special place in her heart for Kam. Kam has very strong thighs from working out and playing catcher. Those thighs along with God's hands protected him from serious injury.
Don't forget to pray for your children, grandchildren, or other children in your lives. God honors our prayers. "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer . . . . . . . (1 Peter 3:12).
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
(A note to my other three grandchildren: I plan to write about each of you in the future. You have a special place in my heart just like Kam. Each of you is different and special in your own unique way. But, you don't have to have an accident for me to write about you!)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Pass It On
When you have something really good, don't you just want to pass it on? I love to share recipes that are really good. I love to pass them on. As believers in Christ, we have a commission to tell others about Jesus - especially parents to their children. After Joshua and his generation died, there was a serious problem. "Another generation grew up, who knew neither the LORD nor what He had done for Israel" (Judges 2:10b).
The result of that was, "Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods at all.) But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols" (Jeremiah 2:11). In Jeremiah 2:12, the LORD continues, "They have forsaken Me, the Spring of Living Water." This is what happens when one generation does not tell the next generation about God and what He has done in their lives. What a sad heritage for the children of that generation!
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). Children must be trained/taught the Right Way. They need that foundation, the heritage, of being taught about Jesus and what He has done in our lives. We must be well grounded in our own faith so we can pass it on.
"The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him" (Proverbs 20:7). Let's be righteous women and lead a blameless life so our children (and grandchildren) will be blessed! Let's pass it on.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
The result of that was, "Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods at all.) But my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols" (Jeremiah 2:11). In Jeremiah 2:12, the LORD continues, "They have forsaken Me, the Spring of Living Water." This is what happens when one generation does not tell the next generation about God and what He has done in their lives. What a sad heritage for the children of that generation!
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). Children must be trained/taught the Right Way. They need that foundation, the heritage, of being taught about Jesus and what He has done in our lives. We must be well grounded in our own faith so we can pass it on.
"The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him" (Proverbs 20:7). Let's be righteous women and lead a blameless life so our children (and grandchildren) will be blessed! Let's pass it on.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Monday, January 25, 2010
I Love God's Confirmation!
God blew me away this weekend as I attended the Siesta SMT Celebration in Houston, Texas. SMT stands for Scripture Memorization Team and the Siesta, well look on Beth's blog for an explanation. Beth Moore challenged her blog readers to memorize two Scriptures per month beginning in January 2009. Those of us who accepted her challenge would log on to her blog on the 1st and 15th of each month, type our Scripture, its reference, and our name and town. We each chose the verses we personally wanted to memorize. (This fact will be important as you read further in this post.) Months into the challenge, Beth decided she would host a celebration for those completing the challenge.
I immediately knew I wanted to attend this celebration, but would it work out for me to go? As the time drew nearer to register, I looked for someone to attend with me. I only knew one lady in Tupelo who was completing the challenge and she could not go. My husband volunteered to drive me because he wanted me to go, but did not want me to fly alone to Houston and have to get a taxi, etc. So my journey began.
As the day drew near, I began to question whether I was supposed to go, after all it was a long way for a short weekend. As soon as the celebration began, I received my answer. Don't you just love God's confirmation?! Travis Cottrell began our praise and worship time with "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God . . . . ." (Based on 1 Timothy 1:17 - one of my memory verses.) As Beth began to teach, her Scripture reference was from Psalm 119. My Sunday School Class has been reading through this longest chapter in the Bible during the month of January and I had pondered the thought of teaching through this Psalm. I couldn't believe it!
As Beth taught and read from the passage in Psalm 119, she read verses 10 and 11 - another of my memory verses. "I seek you with all my heart. Do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You." She could not possibly read all 176 verses from the chapter so it amazed me that she read these particular verses.
As Beth closed in prayer on Friday night, she referred to a passage in Isaiah which just happened to be another of my memory verses. "The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught." (Isaiah 50:4)
On Saturday morning, Beth read another of my memory verses as she began to teach from Psalm 119. "Your statutes are my heritage forever, they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping Your decrees to the very end." (verses 111-112)
God sent me two new friends, Judith and Lisha, who adopted me for the weekend. We shared a cab to and from the hotel to First Baptist Church, so Eddie did not have to get the car out of the parking garage and take me and pick me up. He got to relax in a very beautiful hotel - the Omni - hear FBC, Houston. I would definitely recommend it. Judith and Lisha were a blessing to me. During our Scripture share time on Saturday, we quoted our memory verses to each other. It was something to see 507 ladies quoting God's Word to each other!
This past year has been a blessing as I have quoted these verses every morning. Many of them were said as praises back to the Lord. When I would awaken in the night and could not go back to sleep, I would begin quoting my verses in my mind. Most of the time, I would fall asleep after quoting several. I only remember one time that I quoted all of them and started over before I fell asleep.
These are memories I will never forget. God's Word will always be in my heart and these twenty-four passages will always be extra-special to me.
Did I forget to mention that Eddie and I had a great time together traveling to Houston and back? When Eddie said, "We have really had a good time," I knew God had intended for us to go to Houston, Texas on January 22, 2010. I love God's confirmation!!
I immediately knew I wanted to attend this celebration, but would it work out for me to go? As the time drew nearer to register, I looked for someone to attend with me. I only knew one lady in Tupelo who was completing the challenge and she could not go. My husband volunteered to drive me because he wanted me to go, but did not want me to fly alone to Houston and have to get a taxi, etc. So my journey began.
As the day drew near, I began to question whether I was supposed to go, after all it was a long way for a short weekend. As soon as the celebration began, I received my answer. Don't you just love God's confirmation?! Travis Cottrell began our praise and worship time with "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God . . . . ." (Based on 1 Timothy 1:17 - one of my memory verses.) As Beth began to teach, her Scripture reference was from Psalm 119. My Sunday School Class has been reading through this longest chapter in the Bible during the month of January and I had pondered the thought of teaching through this Psalm. I couldn't believe it!
As Beth taught and read from the passage in Psalm 119, she read verses 10 and 11 - another of my memory verses. "I seek you with all my heart. Do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You." She could not possibly read all 176 verses from the chapter so it amazed me that she read these particular verses.
As Beth closed in prayer on Friday night, she referred to a passage in Isaiah which just happened to be another of my memory verses. "The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught." (Isaiah 50:4)
On Saturday morning, Beth read another of my memory verses as she began to teach from Psalm 119. "Your statutes are my heritage forever, they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping Your decrees to the very end." (verses 111-112)
God sent me two new friends, Judith and Lisha, who adopted me for the weekend. We shared a cab to and from the hotel to First Baptist Church, so Eddie did not have to get the car out of the parking garage and take me and pick me up. He got to relax in a very beautiful hotel - the Omni - hear FBC, Houston. I would definitely recommend it. Judith and Lisha were a blessing to me. During our Scripture share time on Saturday, we quoted our memory verses to each other. It was something to see 507 ladies quoting God's Word to each other!
This past year has been a blessing as I have quoted these verses every morning. Many of them were said as praises back to the Lord. When I would awaken in the night and could not go back to sleep, I would begin quoting my verses in my mind. Most of the time, I would fall asleep after quoting several. I only remember one time that I quoted all of them and started over before I fell asleep.
These are memories I will never forget. God's Word will always be in my heart and these twenty-four passages will always be extra-special to me.
Did I forget to mention that Eddie and I had a great time together traveling to Houston and back? When Eddie said, "We have really had a good time," I knew God had intended for us to go to Houston, Texas on January 22, 2010. I love God's confirmation!!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
God Is In All and Over All
God is in all and over all. That's a short explanation of the sovereignty of God. I am trying to get a better grasp of this truth about the God we serve, but I only have a glimpse of this monumental certainty.
God's sovereignty does not mean that everything that occurs in the world is His will because He has given us a free will and the freedom of choice. The Holman Bible Dictionary states: "The sovereignty of God involves God's self-limitation in order that His creation might choose freedom in Him." He lets us make the choice to choose Him. He never forces Himself on anyone. Yet, nothing ever happens to us that He has not allowed or caused - He is in all and over all.
When you study the book of Ruth, you get a glimpse of the sovereignty of God. It most likely was not God's perfect will for an Israelite man, Elimelech, to go the the pagan country of Moab when the famine hit Bethlehem, but God used those circumstances to bring about His plan. A young Moabite woman named Ruth married one of Elimelech's sons (Mahlon) while they sojourned in Moab. Elimelech's wife, Naomi, lost her husband and both of her sons while in Moab and then returned home to Bethlehem.
Ruth, one of Naomi's daughters-in-law, traveled back to Bethlehem with her and made a commitment to Naomi and Naomi's God. The sovereignty of God is written all over the life of Ruth as God took this young girl from a pagan country and placed her in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. ("Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth." (Matthew 1:5b)
When you think nothing is going as you planned (and I suspect that Ruth and Naomi had those thoughts), remember if you are God's child, God is at work. In His sovereignty, He is always at work even when we cannot see His hand orchestrating events.
When you reflect on your life, I hope you see the sovereignty of God written all over it. Watch Him place you in certain places at certain times and remember that is a small glimpse of His sovereignty. What a comfort to focus on the sovereignty of our God!
"One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:6)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
God's sovereignty does not mean that everything that occurs in the world is His will because He has given us a free will and the freedom of choice. The Holman Bible Dictionary states: "The sovereignty of God involves God's self-limitation in order that His creation might choose freedom in Him." He lets us make the choice to choose Him. He never forces Himself on anyone. Yet, nothing ever happens to us that He has not allowed or caused - He is in all and over all.
When you study the book of Ruth, you get a glimpse of the sovereignty of God. It most likely was not God's perfect will for an Israelite man, Elimelech, to go the the pagan country of Moab when the famine hit Bethlehem, but God used those circumstances to bring about His plan. A young Moabite woman named Ruth married one of Elimelech's sons (Mahlon) while they sojourned in Moab. Elimelech's wife, Naomi, lost her husband and both of her sons while in Moab and then returned home to Bethlehem.
Ruth, one of Naomi's daughters-in-law, traveled back to Bethlehem with her and made a commitment to Naomi and Naomi's God. The sovereignty of God is written all over the life of Ruth as God took this young girl from a pagan country and placed her in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. ("Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth." (Matthew 1:5b)
When you think nothing is going as you planned (and I suspect that Ruth and Naomi had those thoughts), remember if you are God's child, God is at work. In His sovereignty, He is always at work even when we cannot see His hand orchestrating events.
When you reflect on your life, I hope you see the sovereignty of God written all over it. Watch Him place you in certain places at certain times and remember that is a small glimpse of His sovereignty. What a comfort to focus on the sovereignty of our God!
"One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:6)
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Friendship
God created us as relational beings (to have relationships). Our relationship with Him is the most important relationship in our lives but we also have a need that is fulfilled in friendship. The right kind of relationships/friendships will help our relationship with God because the better we relate to our friends, the better we relate to God. I might also add that the better our relationship is with God, the better it will be with our friends.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one . . . . . . If one falls down, his friend can help him up . . . . . . Friends are an important aspect of our lives. They make us better beings. They help us know ourselves better.
Selwyn Hughes makes an excellent point in his devotional book Every Day Light. He warns that we are not to be friendly just to gain a friend because that is the wrong motive - it is self-centered. His point is that we must desire to be a friend more than we desire to gain a friend.
Many years ago, my husband and I were transferred to Tupelo, MS and I was lonely with 2 young children. I prayed for God to send me a friend and He brought Proverbs 18:24 (KJV)to my mind. "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly." I was very shy and I had not been very friendly. I knew the Lord was telling me I would have to be friendly if I wanted friends.
Be friendly! Be more interested in being a friend than in gaining a friend. I think you will be rewarded. I was!
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one . . . . . . If one falls down, his friend can help him up . . . . . . Friends are an important aspect of our lives. They make us better beings. They help us know ourselves better.
Selwyn Hughes makes an excellent point in his devotional book Every Day Light. He warns that we are not to be friendly just to gain a friend because that is the wrong motive - it is self-centered. His point is that we must desire to be a friend more than we desire to gain a friend.
Many years ago, my husband and I were transferred to Tupelo, MS and I was lonely with 2 young children. I prayed for God to send me a friend and He brought Proverbs 18:24 (KJV)to my mind. "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly." I was very shy and I had not been very friendly. I knew the Lord was telling me I would have to be friendly if I wanted friends.
Be friendly! Be more interested in being a friend than in gaining a friend. I think you will be rewarded. I was!
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Monday, January 4, 2010
CLEAN OUT, THROW AWAY, KEEP, SIMPLIFY
Whew! Just finished cleaning out the pantry. It's New Year's Day - a great day to start cleaning out, throwing away, and just generally simplifying my life. I began in my walk-in pantry. It's not huge, but it is large enough that it sometimes looks like a small grocery store. I frequently cook, so I like to keep ingredients on hand so a trip to the grocery store isn't necessary too often. As I cleaned, straightened, and organized my shelves, I checked for outdated items. Shocked, I was! I had a number of old dates on canned goods, boxes, etc. How long had it been since I had completed a thorough cleaning of my pantry?!!
You might imagine that I began to think about what I needed to clean out in my life. I began to ask myself - what do I need to get rid of, what do I need to clean up, what do I need to keep, and how can I simplify my life? At times, I try to do too much - too many different things - so I have been asking God what He wants me to keep and how does He want me to simplify my life. What does God want me to do with the resources with which He has equipped me?
God has a plan for my life and yours. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 29:11) How can we find God's plan for our lives? I think the verses following this verse shed some light on the question. "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." (Jeremiah 29:12-14a)
As I organized my pantry, I made decisions of what to keep and what to throw away. I need to do the same in my life, but it is not as simple as looking for a date on a can or a box. I need God to show me. Is it time for reflection and inventory? Is it time to seek God with all our hearts? Oh, yes! We have a whole new year in front of us so let's ask Him what He wants us to do with it.
Prayer: Lord, what do You want me to clean out, throw away, keep, and/or simplify in my life? Help me seek you with all my heart in 2010.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Note: Now on to closets, drawers, cabinets, etc.!! Wonder what all I will find?
You might imagine that I began to think about what I needed to clean out in my life. I began to ask myself - what do I need to get rid of, what do I need to clean up, what do I need to keep, and how can I simplify my life? At times, I try to do too much - too many different things - so I have been asking God what He wants me to keep and how does He want me to simplify my life. What does God want me to do with the resources with which He has equipped me?
God has a plan for my life and yours. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 29:11) How can we find God's plan for our lives? I think the verses following this verse shed some light on the question. "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." (Jeremiah 29:12-14a)
As I organized my pantry, I made decisions of what to keep and what to throw away. I need to do the same in my life, but it is not as simple as looking for a date on a can or a box. I need God to show me. Is it time for reflection and inventory? Is it time to seek God with all our hearts? Oh, yes! We have a whole new year in front of us so let's ask Him what He wants us to do with it.
Prayer: Lord, what do You want me to clean out, throw away, keep, and/or simplify in my life? Help me seek you with all my heart in 2010.
Serving Him,
Kay Martin
Note: Now on to closets, drawers, cabinets, etc.!! Wonder what all I will find?
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