Podcast! Session # 3-Name Above All Names

Above All Retreat

Session #3- Name Above All Names

Read more...

Harking and Harolding

A familiar scene in the Nativity Story. Don't we always sing that traditional hymn about angels singing?

Luke 2:13-14

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.

I often find myself wondering what a multitude of angels in worship to God really sounds like. Probably a sound like none we have heard here on this earth. Most likely louder than our ears can handle and our mind will comprehend. I must admit, I get a bit jealous that the angels get the sole job of worshiping God ALL THE TIME. Sounds like a stellar job description to me!

Something has occurred to me, though. God has ten thousands upon ten thousands of angels in constant worship of His glory. But...BUT...who does He most want to worship His glory? Y.O.U. and M.E. hmmmm...Maybe our best worship that we give to Him is more meaningful than the enormous sounds of that grand multitude?

That would make sense, right. I mean, He didn't send Jesus to this earth as a baby to later die on the cross for the angels. God did that for you and for me. When I look at it that way, I am less intimidated by the thought of worship and I am free to just pour it all out for the sake of giving glory to my KING. It blesses my heart that the God of the Universe wants my worship. Check out what the book, Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge, has to say about this.

"A woman's worship brings Jesus immense pleasure and deep ministry...Jesus desires you to pour out your love on him in extravagant worship that minister's to his heart." (Captivating, page 125)

I can bring immense pleasure to Jesus just by singing my off tune heart out! YOU can minister to His heart by praising Him with your whole life!

Next time you think your harking and harolding doesn't make a difference, do it anyway knowing that He is pleased with your worship.

Read more...

Go Tell it On The Mountain

I would love for you to take a look at Luke 2:8-20...

It is so easy to gloss over the old, familiar passages in the Bible about the birth of Christ. Didn’t we learn all about the angels and the Shepherds during Nativity performances when we were younger?? Though you probably are very familiar with the story of the Shepherd’s encounter with the angels that one starry night in Bethlehem, take sometime to put yourself in their sandals and carry the Shepherd’s rod while you imagine what it would be like that one fateful night so long ago.

Take a few moments to imagine.

Feel the cool darkness of the night as you are tending the sheep just as you had the previous nights….



What are you talking about with your fellow Shepherds? Same old stuff, just a different night…



Are you weary of the job of being a “lowly Shepherd?”



Then, as the night sky blinds you with the glory of the Angels, how fast does your heart begin to beat? Maybe you fall to the ground in wonder…



Do you join in with the Angels singing, “Glory to God in the Highest…!”


Now…how quickly can you run back to Bethlehem to share the Good News? Are you even running or does it feel like your feet aren’t even touching the ground…?



~This kind of thing doesn’t always happen these days. How often do we experience angels singing and bright shining stars? However, you and I are now the bright shining stars who share the good news around the world about the birth of our Savior, Jesus. Just like the Shepherds did that first Noel, go…hurry…quickly… and enthusiastically tell others about your encounter with your LORD!

Luke 2:20 (ESV)
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told to them.

Read more...

Podcast! Session #2 Power Above All Power

This is the second session from the Above All Retreat. Please take a look at the video link below. It is a skit based on the song, Everything, by Lifehouse and I refer to it in the session.

Powered by Podbean.com

Read more...

Podcast! Session #1 Preparing for your Mountain Top Experience

Ok, so...I am trying a new thing. Trying to be more techy in this evolving technological world!

This is the first message for a retreat I lead in Asheville, NC. The attendees were some lovely ladies from Myrtle Beach, SC. “Above All” was the theme for this great getaway.

Preparing for your Mountain Top Experience

Powered by Podbean.com

Read more...

God Whispers

God whispers...does that sound weird to you? Sometimes we need a whisper in our heart, it makes us really listen to the quiet truths He wants us to know. Whispers make us lean in and try to hear a secret. But, God's whispers are not secrets-that is for sure. But still, whispers intrigue us and play to our nature of wanting to know something...well...intriguing.

God whispered to me this morning while sitting on the top deck over looking the Atlantic Ocean. Those of you who know me well, might be surprised that I jumped out of bed this early hour to go and meet with God. (I am NOT a morning person; I do NOT do my best thinking at 6am. In fact, most of my blogs are written in the late hours of the evening-get what I'm saying??) It must have been this invigorating sea breeze that kicked my mind in gear to tune in to His whisper.

Ephesians 3: 19 says:

And to know the LOVE of Christ that SURPASSES knowledge, that you may be filled with ALL the FULLNESS of GOD. (emphasis mine)

When we take time to breath in His glorious beauty and step outside of ourselves {our wants and needs} then we can rest in the knowledge that He has our wants and needs under control. Be filled with the fullness of God and realize that, though our requests are important to Him, they are just no big deal for Him. Rest in that truth.

Breath in that peace.

Listen to His whispers.

Be filled with the fullness of Him.

That fullness is sufficient.

That fullness is enough.

Read more...

Anticipation

As I am typing these words, my heart is racing and I have this rush of overwhelming relief flowing through my body. This feeling is so powerful that I might just cry right now. What in the world am I so emotional about? My handsome husband is on his way home from Iraq and our family will be reunited. Can I just say, I LOVE MY MAN! Anticipation! I can hardly get a grip on the fact that we will be together again in a matter of weeks.

So, of course this got me thinking about looking forward towards the future. I am the type of girl who is always jumping ahead and enthusiastic about the next big project or event. When that time comes, I throw myself in feet first and never look back. Its just how I operate. Some people would say that I am too passionate or too "worked up" about what I get involved in. But, now that I think about it, this character trait is what makes me so overwhelmingly excited about my future in Heaven...with Jesus!

This world is not the end for those who make Christ their Lord and King. Does this scare you or thrill you? Don't hear me say that we are not to make the most of our time here on earth while loving and serving our LORD with all of our mind, soul and strength (Matthew 12:30) If the thought of "this earth is not the end" frightens you, I encourage you to search the scriptures and ask the LORD to show you a sliver of what HE has in store for you in the eternal.

I'm dreaming of the day when I will see my KING face to face. No doubt that my heart will be exploding and HIS glory will blow my mind.

Ephesians 3:20-21
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Oh, and did I mention that I LOVE MY MAN?! The fact that we will get to worship Jesus together in Heaven is just the most amazing thing!

Read more...

Fun Stuff and Old Stuff

{fun stuff}

Check out She Seeks this week for an AWESOME giveaway contest. Help us spread the word about She Seeks and be entered in for a chance to win some fun prizes!












{old stuff}


Here is an old blog post from a couple of years ago. I will be working on getting back to a better blogging schedule very soon!


I got a hold of some great scripture cards that encourage praying specific scriptures and have been trying to memorize and pray a new scripture daily.

Today's verse:
" Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for Himself; the LORD will hear when I call to Him." Psalm 4:3

This verse is rich with so much meaning and is worth taking the time to look at what some of the words mean in Hebrew. In doing this, I get a tid bit of extra insight into what the writer of the Psalm was meaning when using that particular word. Alot of Hebrew words have deeper definitions than our English translation allows us to read.

The Hebrew for "set apart" means to be distinguished, to deal differently, to make a distinction. This means to me that God made me distinct from others and especially made me different from non believers. He sets apart His own to live godly, holy lives while holding us to a higher standard than the rest of the world. Once we become a follower of Christ, we are still going to mess up, but with the guidance of the Holy Spirit we can live that godly, holy life that is on par with God's standards. This should be our aim everyday...

But, also take note of the fact that the LORD sets apart the godly FOR HIMSELF. He doesn't just pick us out of the crowd, and then sluff us aside to be forgotten. The LORD saves us for HIMSELF,for His pleasure and delight. Boy do I want to live to delight the LORD!

But, how do I actually delight the LORD? This brings me back to the Hebrew meaning of the word, "godly." It means to be merciful, faithful, kind, benevolent, and gracious. This definition does not cover the whole meaning of the word but it gives us an idea of what the LORD is looking for in godliness. Christ lived this example out for us and we can turn to the New Testament for further instruction on godliness.

LIVE IT OUT application:
In the meantime, what are ways that I can be more merciful, kind or gracious to those around me? What are some things I can do today to delight the LORD with my faithfulness? How can I act as one SET APART?

LORD, you are worthy of our praise and worthy of our godly actions. Show me, through your Holy Sprit, how to live my life as one set apart. My goal is to delight you and to also delight and have joy in You.

Read more...

Whew! God is so Cool!

This has been such an amazing couple of weeks. We have been hard at work with She Seeks and the Lord has showed up BIG TIME! We heard from women all over the country and even all over the world-way fun!

Welcome to my blog if you are clicking over here from my She Seeks devo. I love meeting new friends so leave a comment and tell me a little about you!


Ok, wish I had time to blog, but I must get back to work! But, don't worry-I'm still working on my {heavenly drive}!


By the way, excuse all of the She Seeks logos on my sidebar. We are trying to decide on a design for a blog button!

Have a fantastic day-be radiant in Jesus!

Read more...

She Seeks!

I am so thrilled to be a part of this new ministry! We have been pouring our heart and soul into this website. I would be honored if you would check it out and even pass it along. Also, click on the different tabs and feel free to add your comment!

www.sheseeks.org

Read more...

Absolute Truth

ABSOLUTE

This is not a popular word in a society that prefers grey, anything goes, what works for me kind of culture.

ABSOLUTE

What comes to your mind when you read this word? Are you hesitant to even admit that anything ABSOLUTE makes you nervous? {something to think about...}

ABSOLUTE TRUTH

This should pique your attention. Does this phrase make you shudder at the thought of finality...something set in stone...unchanging...unwaivering. If your like most people, this phrase turns them off as if the idea of authority or finality is a dirty word. These days, its all relative.


Definition:
Absolute
~possessing unlimited power: having total power and authority

~unequivocal: completely unequivocal and not capable of being viewed as partial or relative
** absolute proof

~law- full and unconditional: complete and in no way conditional on any future evidence or behavior
(taken from the Encarta Dictionary)

ABSOLUTE TRUTH
What if I were to tell you that God's Word-the Bible-is unequivocal, full and unconditional, and unlimited in power-ABSOLUTE.

~Unchanging
~Irreversible
~Accurate
~Inerrant
~Authoritative

**Truthful
**Comforting
**Commanding
**Loving
**Irritating
**Condemning
**All encompassing
**Peace-giving
**Joyful
**Frightening
**Unforgettable

FINAL and ABSOLUTE

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (New International Version)
16All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

The very breath that God gave to Adam to bring life, the very breath that was given to each and every one of us on the day of our birth...that very BREATH gave us His ABSOLUTE Word.

A Word that is personal and speaks to each and everyone of us. God had Y.O.U. in mind when He breathed His word.

Is it your ABSOLUTE TRUTH?

Read more...

BOLD Faith Part 2

Here is the second installment of our study looking at Living Out a Bold Faith. We continue studying Moses and how he glorified the LORD with his bold faith.

Read more...

BOLD Faith Part 1

This is a Bible study that I am working on for a different project that I wanted to share. Would love to know your thoughts on how people in your life have LIVED OUT a Bold Faith!

Read more...

Hugs from Jesus

The biggest thrill in my life right now is when my 11 month old hugs me tight. Lately, he grabs hold of some part of my body (legs, neck, arms) and grasps hard letting me know that he loves me. Oh this is such a wonderful feeling. When the crack of dawn (5:45am) rolls around and he is calling out for me to come get him, all is well once I walk into his room, pick him up and he squeezes me tight. Ooooh!

I have been thinking, that as a mother, this is such a precious feeling that I crave and desire. Then I started thinking about how much pleasure and joy the LORD must feel when we call out to Him early in the morning and cling tight to Him as He gets us going for the day. God made us for His pleasure and His glory and I have no doubt in my mind that He wants you to hug Him tight all day long!

But, also, think about this... The very God of the Universe is hugging you back! Does that blow your mind?

Hebrews 4:16
16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

The way the LORD hugs you back is that He bestows upon you mercy, grace, strength, peace, joy and on and on. Its like a never ending embrace from your Lord.

Today, I needed a hug and I got one from my child. This warmed my heart to no end. But, even better, my LORD hugged my neck and filled my heart with exactly what I needed-His amazing love.

Read more...

1 Kings 18, HE Shows Off Big Time

God has been doing some awesome things in my life lately. He has put people together for His purpose and lined up other things for His glory. Too much to explain in detail, but just know that He has it all laid out meticulously and its really cool to see how the Lord brings it all together. Sorry for the vague words...

I call this Showing Off! God does it all the time, but do we open our eyes to see it and then open our hearts to give Him the credit?

Check out 1 Kings 18: 20-40. The prophet Elijah is boldly demonstrating why Israel needs to get rid of their Baal worship (totally a false and worthless god) and turn back to their One True God. I will let you read it and get the thrill of seeing how God blows them away-literally! But, take a look at the description of what the Lord does and then the reaction He gets from His people:

1 Kings 18:38-39 (New International Version)
38 Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.
39 When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, "The LORD -he is God! The LORD -he is God!"

Oh that I would have this dramatic of a response to the Lord Showing Off as the Israelites did!

What ways has God blown you away and Showed Off His glory? Do you think you have missed seeing it by not simply paying attention?

Just a thought...

Read more...

1 Kings 10-11, He Gives and Takes Away

Take a look at this video. This is one of my all time favorite worship songs and I think it describes what happens to King Solomon perfectly. It is by the NewsBoys.



Solomon took His father's place as King over Israel and became known as the wisest man on earth. This wisdom came straight from God.

1 Kings 4:29-30
29 God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. 30 Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the men of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt.

Did you catch the first two words of that verse: God GAVE Solomon the wisdom. He instilled this knowledge and wisdom in Solomon to bring Himself glory. When we use our gifts of talent in a pure and holy way, this pleases God greatly. Keep in mind, you don't have to just use your talent with in the area of ministry to please God. When we use our talent at work, or in raising our family and we do it 100%, this brings glory to God, too.

Solomon's wisdom was known to all around the world, when they came to visit him, you better believe that the visitors got a taste of who this Lord that Solomon worshiped. His talent and wisdom brought foreigners to God.

But...
God can easily TAKE away the things He gives. After warning Solomon of what would happen if he turned away from worshiping God alone, Solomon did in fact do just that. Solomon followed after his many wives(this is in and of itself wrong!) and began to worship their idols. Can you imagine?! The very God of the universe, who visited Solomon personally, was forgotten and mocked as he built temples and idols to these false gods. Here is why God TOOK it all away:

1 Kings 11:11 (New International Version)
11 So the LORD said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.

Our God is a jealous God. He demands nothing but full devotion from us. In return, because He loves us, God blesses us with material things (like the wealth of Solomon) as well as non-material things (like the wisdom of Solomon) But, because these things are the Lord's to begin with, He has all power and prerogative to take them away. Now, hear me on this, the Lord has His own reasons for taking away. It is not always because we are disobedient. BUT, if I have a gift from the Lord and I am misusing it, it is up to Him how He reconciles that with me. Oh man, I don't want to ever be in that position.

In the end, the Lord's Name should Always be blessed. It is all for His glory-what He gives us AND what He takes away. Blessed Be Your Name, Jesus!

Read more...

1 Kings 1-2, Well Done

Whether or not you are versed in the Bible or the Jewish Torah, you probably know the name King David. He made a name for himself so much that all these centuries later, we know who he is.

Is it human nature to want to be known for something? To want our life to matter to someone? I say, absolutely! Here's the problem: we will never measure up. There is always someone smarter, prettier, more talented, more this and more that than us. It is just a fact. When we try to measure up to those around us, we will never find ourselves where we think we should be on that scale!

But, I truly think that David strived not to be like this. Otherwise, he wouldn't have been called, "A man after God's own heart." (Could someone help me out with this reference? I couldn't find the Bible verse anywhere.)

You see, I am sure that David set out to live up to God's approval. Why else would he have written those intimate Psalms pleading and worshiping to the Lord? God's approval of us is the only one that truly matters. Don't you want the Lord to say this to you when you meet Him face to face:
Well done good and faithful servant! (see Matthew 25:23)
When all else fades away and the esteem of other wanes, God rewards those who esteem Him and live for His approval.

LIVE IT OUT! application:
Think about ways that you search for the approval of others and ask God to free you of that bondage. He can and He will! Just take it to Him.

Read more...

2 Samuel, David Gets Real

I just love how the Lord uses His Word to give me real examples of how He wants me to live. Although the whole big picture purpose of the Old Testament is to point the way to Jesus as The Messiah, I believe we can learn valuable lessons from the people with in the pages of this ancient book. David is a huge example, I mean, a guy after God's own heart! I pray that this would one day be said about me-oh how I long that this would sum up my life!

So, in 2 Samuel 15-18, David finds himself betrayed by his son, Absolom. Absolom actually wants David's place as King and goes after David's life with avengance. The beginning of chapter 18 describes Absolom's death as he was killed by one of David's men. Be clear, not killed by David himself!

What really struck me is how David was so real and raw with his emotions. He mourned, like any father would, but was chastised by his top officials for this grief. Take a look at how David outright writhes over the very son who sought to kill him.

2 Samuel 19:4
The king covered his face and cried aloud, "O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!"

You can just feel the raw emotion and almost want to cry with David.

Here is the lesson the Lord gave to me: as followers of Christ, we MUST be real with our emotions and how we express them. We must be real with others, and more importantly, we must be real with God! David didn't care that it was pretty much politically incorrect to mourn this wayward son of his. If we don't show our true emotions to others, we might miss out on an opportunity to share how the Lord ministers and tends to our emotions. Thus, we can't truly let Him in to tend to those raw feeling unless we are completely real with God. It all goes together.

The problem these days is that non-Christians think that we just try to be perfect. Oh how I wish this were not true. Too many of us put on that facade of "having it all together." My whole philosophy is that if I show that I don't have it all together and share something I am going through, then the Lord will use that situation to encourage someone else.

This past summer, after giving birth to my adorable son, I went through some major post partum depression. We are talking B-A-D. I felt so dark and alone. But, God led me to share this when I was teaching Sunday school. I had several of my friends come up to me saying how rare it was that people are truthful and outright about what they are going through. Oh I prayed so hard that one of those ladies related to my depression and was freed up to get real herself. In that situation, the Lord worked on my heart as well and started the healing process.

Get Real People! Putting on that mask takes too much energy and effort. Sooner or later, the real you will show up, and won't people be so surprised! Oh no!

Take it to the Lord. He so wants to nurture your soul and use you to bless someone else. Don't miss out on being a blessing!

Read more...

2 Samuel, David's Not Perfect

Ok, so I have not kept up with my blogging as I read through the Bible. Oh I pray that someone is following the reading plan with me. If you want to join now, go ahead, its never too late!

So, I'm now in 2 Samuel. Just some quick thoughts. First, I love to flip through the book of Psalms to see what Psalms David might have written as he was going through his trials recorded in 2 Samuel. Let's just say that King David didn't have it easy! Even his own son turned against him. Boy did David ever need the strength of the Lord.

Also, keep in mind how imperfect David was and God still used him in a mighty way. David is revered through out history, but he is definitely not perfect. Just like you and me. This should encourage us to recognize our sins and imperfections, repent and then move on to let Christ use us!

Here is one of the Psalms David wrote while in peril-check out how he was still praising the Lord.

Psalm 34

Of David. When he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away, and he left.
1 I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
2 My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

3 Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.

In your trials and even in your sinful defeat, KEEP PRAISING HIM!

Read more...

Quick Devotion, She Just Couldn't Leave

On this Easter morning, I am reflecting on how I would have handled my LORD Jesus dying on the cross right before my eyes. I can't imagine the agony His friends were going through, let alone the excruciating pain my Lord suffered. The passage in John about Mary Magdalene is something I think I can relate too.

Mary was so faithful to go and check on Jesus' grave. I imagine she just needed to be with her Lord, regardless of the situation. You see, Jesus was not only Mary's LORD, He was her friend, too. Mary had to make sure everything was right with her Friend's burial. John chapter 20 tells us that Mary went out there while it was still dark. How much do you want to bet that she didn't sleep at all the night before and just couldn't wait to go and check on Jesus. She must have been pretty distressed when she found the stone rolled away from the grave.

Then later at the end of the chapter when everyone had left, Mary couldn't tear herself away.

John 20:10-16
Then the disciples went back to their homes, 11but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
13They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"
"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." 14At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
15"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."
16Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
17Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "

There was no longer any reason to mourn! No longer any need to weep and relive the horrific events of three days prior. For, her LORD Jesus WAS ALIVE!! Everything He said He would do came to fruition and Mary was the first to witness it.

Jesus conquered death. What makes you think that He can't conquer your issues? Jesus defied everything they said He couldn't not do. Don't you think He can handle what ever you bring before Him?

I want to be like Mary. So close to Jesus that she couldn't wait to just check on Him. Because of Her need to be there, Mary was the first that Jesus revealed Himself to. I know Christ has things to reveal to each of us. We just need to make ourselves available and ready to hear His call.

Happy Easter! He is Risen!!

Read more...

1 Samuel, Your Mama Always Said...

Okay, so we've all heard it: "If so-and-so jumps off a bridge, will you do it to?" In the storm of our teenage angst, this is so not cool! I know you have been there too-just wanting to be like everyone else-even at the risk of losing who you are as an individual.

This brings to mind a silly little story of when I was in the 5th grade. The cool group of girls decided that Wednesday was going to be "Units Day." Don't you remember that early 90's fad of those cotton mix and match outfits with the colorful bandos to go with them? Well, Wednesday was going to be the day where everyone would wear their outfit. Here's the problem, it was Tuesday and I had already worn my own units outfit the day before! Uh OH! I decided that I would commit the cardinal sin of not wearing the same outfit in the same week and I would definitely participate in this fashion day. So, I had my mom wash my Units getup and I went on my merry way to school. I just know they were snickering when I showed up with the clothes I had just worn on Monday! The things we go through just to fit in-and it wasn't even that cute!

The Israelites were doing just this in the book of 1 Samuel. They were tired of having just a judge to oversee them and I am thinking that their worship in God was lacking. Check out the request they brought to Samuel:

1 Samuel 8:20

19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. "No!" they said. "We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles."

Let's just focus in on "be like all the other nations" right now. Here's the problem with that, the Israelites were the chosen people of God. They were to be holy and different from the pagan nations around them who worshiped false gods and rebelled against their Creator God.

This is where we, as Christians, fit into this picture. We are also chosen by God once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior. We are set apart for Him and chosen to be different than the world around us.

Philippians 3:19-20 (New International Version)
19Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. 20But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

Why would God want us to go through the trouble of being different? Most of the time, being different hurts and is frustrating. Our citizenship is in Heaven with our LORD. This world is temporary, but our eternal Home is where we want to get comfortable.

God calls us to stick out like a sour thumb, to go against the grain, to just be different because this makes people want to know what it is about us that makes us stand out. When we show love for an unloving neighbor, forgiveness to a mean co-worker, compassion during a mission trip, boldness as we stand up for the underdog and bravery as we proclaim the Word of God, this makes people around us want what we have. We are being a witness of Christ when we are citizens of Heaven.

So, next time are tempted to just go with the flow-resist! Being a follower of Christ is not always popular, but you can rest assured your reward will come one day when you make it to your eternal home as a citizen of Heaven.

Read more...

Quick Devotion-Don't Leave it for the Stones!

Oh how I love Easter season! The fact that Spring is in full bloom is very apropos for the celebration of our Resurrected King. Easter is a season of renewal and redemption, who wouldn't love that!

On this Palm Sunday, please read the following passage. I pray that you will be rejoicing and waving your "palms" right now in front of this computer screen!

Luke 19:38-40 (The Message)
37-38Right at the crest, where Mount Olives begins its descent, the whole crowd of disciples burst into enthusiastic praise over all the mighty works they had witnessed: Blessed is he who comes, the king in God's name! All's well in heaven! Glory in the high places!
39Some Pharisees from the crowd told him, "Teacher, get your disciples under control!"
40But he said, "If they kept quiet, the stones would do it for them, shouting praise."

Followers of this Glorious King-give Him praise boldly-don't shy back! The world around us tries to dumb down Easter and make it about candy and eggs, but we know it is a million times more than that. Proudly celebrate this holiday and exclaim to those around you why you are so full of joy (and its not just from that sugar rush!)

Don't leave it to the stones to shout for JOY! Give Him Praise!

Your sins are forgiven!

You are made new in Christ !

There is now no condemnation upon you-ever!

He reigns VICTORIOUS!

Hallelujah! AMEN!

Read more...

1 Samuel 1-4, Oh Don't Miss It!

I am now moving on to 1 Samuel. No, don't worry, I did not skip the book of Judges or Ruth. I apologize for not blogging on those books, life just got in the way!

Our new friend Samuel is the son of Hannah who prayed diligently for a son and committed him to the Lord. So, in the beginning of 1Samuel, we find little boy Sam ministering to the Lord in the temple under Eli.

Then one night, Samuel heard a call:

1 Samuel 3:3-5
and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was. 4 Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am." 5 And he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." But Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." So he went and lay down.

Take note of who Sam responded after hearing the call from the Lord...he went running to Eli. Before we get to that, I have to love how Samuel got up and RAN. He was eager to respond, but he just responded to the wrong person.

As the chapter continues, Samuel goes back to bed and goes thru this routine 3 more times before Eli realizes that it is God calling Samuel. He instructs Sam to properly respond.

What struck me here is that, even though he was eager to answer the call, Samuel didn't stop to really think about who was calling. He almost missed what the Lord had to tell him.

This might happen to us all the time and we don't even know it! Yikes! The best way to not miss God's call is to stop and take time to pray over the nudging from the Lord. Take time to digest what the Lord is saying to you and pray for peace and understanding over it. When we pray in this manner, we put ourselves in a better position to do exactly what the Lord has planned, not what we might have on our own agenda.

About two years ago, my husband and I were joking about how we just weren't ready to have kids. We loved our life and the simplicity and quietness of it. Greg and I would happily take care of our friend's kids, but we would also happily give them back. Then, one day, I felt this overwhelming need to be a mom. I tell you, it came out of no where! I just felt the Lord speak to my heart and tell me it was time to have a baby. You can only imagine how surprised my hubby was when I shared this with him. He was quite confused, especially sense we were literally just joking the week before about "no kids for us!

I am so very glad that I did not miss this call from God. Our 10 month old has turned our life upside down and then rightside up again. God called me to be a mommy and He has blessed me for my obedience with a wonderful, healthy, energetic little boy.

Don't miss your call. Don't go elsewhere when you hear His voice. Take it right back to the Lord and ask Him to make His call known to you. You WILL be blessed for your obedience!

Read more...

Judges 1, Spring Cleaning

Moving on to the book of Judges. Here is a little background. Israel is now in Canaan, the promise land and they continue the vicious cycle of disobeying God and falling for the false gods of the Canaanites. Take a look at Judges 1:27-36 to see why they keep falling into this pit of disobedience. Here is one verse of the list:

Judges 1:29
29 Nor did Ephraim drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer, but the Canaanites continued to live there among them.

This is just a snipet of the list of tribes that did not force out the pagans, yet they let these people dwell in their Promise Land alongside.

What's the problem here? Isn't this the peaceful way to exist? The problem that I see is in the clue that these people were pagans-they worshiped FALSE GODS! The ONE and ONLY God is very jealous and demands undivided attention and worship. So, when the Israelites allowed these Canaanites to live among them, they were subjecting themselves to the temptation to fall in line with the pagans and worship these false idols.

And, yes, this is exactly what happened. Thus, we now have the book of Judges. The Lord appointed a Judge to basically watch over and protect the Israelites and whip them in shape. We will read more about how and why these Judges were elected by God.

So, back to these false idols...the lesson here is that when we do not clean house and sweet out things that divide our attention, these pesks can creep in and do just that. Just like fleas or vermin, they find cracks in our house and slither their way in to turn us away from our one true God.

The Israelites should have done some major spring cleaning when they took over their inherited land. Do you have some sweeping out to do for yourself?

Read more...

Joshua 17-21, Just Take Hold Of It Already!

Its amazing how on short verse in the Bible can stop you in your tracks and make you say, "hmmm..." At this point in the book of Joshua, the Israelites are in the promise land and Joshua has the task of alloting all the land to the 12 tribes. I would think this would be a daunting task since everyone would have their specific requests as to what land they want. Chapter 18 starts out with a few tribes that had not taken over their inherited land. Take a look at this verse and just picture the expression and body language that Joshua must have exhorted as he made this statement:

Joshua 18:3 (The Message)
Joshua addressed the People of Israel: "How long are you going to sit around on your hands, putting off taking possession of the land that God, the God of your ancestors, has given you?


I love how the Message says it-How long are you going to sit on your hands and take hold of the glorious land that your Gracious Lord has blessed you with! I can see Joshua with his hands on his hips and an irritated tone in his voice.

Is the Lord saying this to you with the same tone as Joshua had with the Israelites? Are you sitting on your hands not exploring the gifts of your earthly promise land?

Joy and Peace
Total fulfillment as your Serve your Lord in the "land"
Blessings the world doesn't understand
Relationship with the Creator
Redemption from past mistakes
Relationships with other believers
Wonder-full worship of your God

The list could go on. So...get off your tushie and grab hold of this blessed life that the Lord gives those who call Him Savior!

Read more...

Joshua 10; He Holds it all together

By today, I have read through Joshua chapter 16 and I hope those who are reading with me have kept up too! I want to jump back to chapter 10 which is probably my favorite chapter thus far in the Old Testament. I love it because it shows Joshua's faith, God's power, and God's control over His own creation.

Joshua's Faith:
Take a look at the whole chapter to get the jist of the events unfolding. Joshua is leading the Israelites in victory after victory as they are conquering the Promise Land and defeating the pagan nations in their way. Verse 8 says that the Lord told Joshua outright that they would defeat the enemy and not to fear one bit. Easier said than done, right? Not for Joshua for he had seen the Lord come through time after time and this instance was no different. So, to buy them more time for victory, Joshua just plainly commanded the sun to stand still-and it did!

Joshua 10:12-14
12 On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: "O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon."
13 So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. 14 There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!

Now, please don't miss read this. Joshua, in no way himself, made the sun stand still. He simply had the faith to speak it knowing God would make it happen.

God's power over His creation:
The Lord stopped that sun just as Joshua asked. But, think about it... He basically stopped the rotation of the earth and the orbit around the sun. You might be thinking: so what? So, what do you think happens when the earth stops its rotation and orbit-probably chaos! God made this earth to function so precisely. Its like the dials on an old car radio. He set the dial specifically to sustain life on this planet. Dials of gravitational force, atoms and particle size, amount of gases in the atmosphere, and many more factors, some that we won’t ever even know about. In Joshua 10, God adjusts these dials to accomplish His purposes-He is the creator and can do any thing He wants with His creation. So, instead of everything going haywire when the “sun and the moon stood still,” God held it all together, no major cataclysmic effects of this happened.

So, if the Lord can hold the complexities of the earth together, don't you think He can hold the complexities of your life together? Its no big deal for Him!

I thought back to when Greg first got word that the Army wanted him back. We had so many unanswered questions which was not unusual for the Army. The thing is, we used to be accustomed to uncertainty when we were still in the Army. But, over the years, Greg and I were blessed with a certain amount of simplicity in our life. Well, God threw a wrench in that and our life was almost up in chaos-not unlike Joshua's sun standing still! Over time, the Lord spoke to our hearts and ministered to our need for answers. Things fell into place and we are doing just great during this deployment. It took faith on our part to tell that chaos to "stand still" and we believed God would hold us all together during the potential turbulence!

I challenge you to take up bold faith like Joshua and believe that God's got you covered.

Read more...

Deuteronomy 29-31, The Road Ahead

As we are just about finished with the book of Deuteronomy, the Israelites are on their way to the Promise Land of Canaan. You will remember from Exodus that Moses did not get to step foot on the land because of His disobedience. So, before he dies, Moses commissions Joshua to be the new leader of Israel. I just love Joshua and his faith. It seems so simple and real. He was a real guy with real fears, yet he chose to believe God. The words that the Lord spoke over Joshua just always touch my heart and I think we can all glean some encouragement through them.

Deuteronomy 31:7-8

7 Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, "Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their forefathers to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. 8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Check out verse 8. "The LORD HIMSELF goes before you." Did you catch that? The LORD Himself! Not the Lord's messenger. Not the Lord's substitute. The LORD HIMSELF!

He did, in fact, go before us...Jesus walked this earth over 2000 years ago. Before He died on the cross for our sins, Jesus experienced everything we do as humans. He knows what it is like to be us. He is Emmanuel-God with Us! The very creator of the universe empathizes with us and we can draw great strength in that.

God with US:

Not God who creates and leaves us to fend for ourselves .
For Us, not against us (Romans 8:31), He only wants the best for us .

The gospels give many accounts of Jesus interacting with Us (humans, his creation, disciples, Israelites, etc).

Jesus cried, needed diaper changes and nursed his mother’s breast just like any other baby.


Jesus walked with Us along the dusty country roads of Judea; he nursed blistered feet as he preached, healed, and gave hope.


Jesus danced and celebrated with Us at weddings, hoisting the bride and groom up on the wedding chairs. He also took part in the Mitzvah dance with the bride.

Jesus mourned with Us over His good friend, Lazarus lying dead in a tomb before He raised that friend back to life.

Take heart and know that the LORD knows the road ahead and He goes before you. That road might, at times, take sharp turns or unexpected detours, but it will always be traveled by your LORD first.

Read more...

Deuteronomy 28, Pure Obedience

I have to be perfectly honest, I have had a hard time writing devotional thoughts around the book of Deuteronomy! I know that every word in the Bible is pertinent, but this has been a slow one for me. I just know the Lord will reward each of us for our diligence in soaking up His Holy Word.

Chapter 28 is a good reminder for us as New Testament believers. Please note that, as followers of Christ, we do not live under the same laws stated in Deuteronomy. But, these laws serve us well to help us always remember what kind of God we serve.

He is perfectly holy, unprecedentedly pure, and completely set apart from His awesome creation. He is above everything and everyone.

These laws in Deuteronomy were given to make the Israelites pure before their Lord. Because God is everything stated above and more, He requires everything in His presence to be pure as well. With out these laws, the Israelites were considered unclean and not presentable before God. Can you imagine trying to remember all the details laid out in the chapters of Deuteronomy! I would think that it was next to impossible for anyone in those days to remain pure and holy ALL the time!

This is why the work of Christ on the Cross is such good news for us! He makes us clean, pure and holy before the Lord. It is by His blood that we are allowed into the presence and before the throne of the King.

Now, this is not to say that we can be disobedient and go with out recourse. The Lord deals with each of our disobedience as He sees fit. But, once we have accepted Christ, all it takes is asking for forgiveness for the slate to be wiped clean. With a repentant heart ready to make changes, God forgives and forgets.

Be sure to thank Christ today for purifying you by His blood so that you are pure and in the presence of the one and only God.

Read more...

Deuteronomy, Just Shout It Out!

Take a look at Deuteronomy 6:4-5:
"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul , and with all your strength."

I just love this proclamation. In the Jewish temple, this is known as the Shema, which is Hebrew for "to Hear." If you have never had the privilege of hearing this recited by a congregation of Israelites, it is always said with a sense of zeal and exclamation. This verse is a Jewish confession of faith and it is recited by the devout twice a day. What a shout out! This is such a poignant statement of faith in the One who is our LORD.

Just for some background, Moses continues this chapter with a recap of the Ten Commandments. But, what I want to focus on is what is also said in Deuteronomy 11:16:

"Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them, lest the LORD's anger be aroused against you..."

Moses was concerned about what would happen to the Israelites' faith once they crossed into the promise land of Caanan. Keep in mind, this land was not void of other people who had very different religious practices than the Jews. In fact, the Israelites were about to conquer a land that was VERY pagan. We won't get into their specific practices, but it was quite gruesome. Moses warned them to steer way clear of these cultures so they would not be drawn in and away from the One True God.

This is why the Shema is such an important practice. When we make a bold proclamation of faith, we are not only telling others of our intentions, we are ingraining it in our own heart. The Israelites were reminding themselves to stay true to their GOD, no matter what was going on around them.

This is an obvious lesson for us as New Testament believers. We need to make this proclamation personal and say it boldly, with conviction! The enemy wants us to be drawn in by the world around us. He wants us to step away from our One True God and towards the earthly "gods" that distract us from loving Jesus with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. It is so easy to get sidetracked by the latest gossip, celebrity worship, or allure of success. This is exactly what Satan wants; that we focus on these temporal things and not on our eternal King. Oh, I pray that we don't let this happen. Make the LOUD PROCLAMATION everyday. Let the enemy know that you mean business! Your God is LORD and the One and Only God!

LIVE IT OUT! application:
I challenge you to memorize these verses. In fact, go ahead and substitute your name as follows to make it even more personal.

"Hear, O (your name), The LORD our God, the LORD is one!..."

***NOTE: if you are reading thru the Bible with me, as of March 7, you should have read through Deuteronomy 20. I have not kept up with the devotions as the chapters go along and I appologize!

Read more...

Please indulge me

I don't often do this because I try to devote this blog to devotions and Bible Studies. But, I made the cutest video of my child and I want my family and deployed hubby to be able to see it right away.

So, here is Grayson-Mr. Professional Crawler.

Back to Deuteronomy tomorrow!

Read more...

Deuteronomy 1-4. A New Look Back

Ok, so I have to confess. I had to look back at my Bible to make sure that I am spelling Deuteronomy correctly! I am positive that I will be able to spell it in my sleep by the time we make it through the whole book. By the way, if anyone wants to join in my journey of reading through the Bible you can go here for the reading plan that I am following.

This book is written mostly by Moses before He dies and it is a recount of the Israelite journey through the wilderness thus far. The first four chapters are nothing new to us, but it serves a good reminder as to what we have read. I just love what Moses says to sum it all up in chapter 4:

Deuteronomy 4:39-40 (New King James Version)
39 Therefore know this day, and consider it in your heart, that the LORD Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. 40 You shall therefore keep His statutes and His commandments which I command you today, that it may go well with you and with your children after you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which the LORD your God is giving you for all time.”

This moment of remembrance of what the Lord has done got me thinking about how we should also go through times of remembrance of our own. People often do an "inventory check" at the new year and then let it go by the wayside.

Today, let's take sometime to do a check of our own spiritual lives. Paul says that we should always be growing in our faith.

1 Corinthians 3:1-2(NIV)

1Brothers, I could not address you as spiritual but as worldly—mere infants in Christ. 2I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. 3You are still worldly.

Paul is admonishing the Corinthians to not stay stagnant in their faith, but to instead grow and feed on more mature spiritual things.

Here are a few questions to meditate on. I hope you will take the time to read over them and put your answers to paper in order to solidify them in your mind.

**Where are you in your belief that "God is who He says He is" today compared to this time last year?

**What things are you doing more/less of in lieu of daily Bible study? If less, what could you do to enrich your time with the Lord on a daily basis?

**Has you concept of worshiping God changed and become more comprehensive lately? If not, define what worship is to you right now and if you think that definition is adequate.

**Do you commit more things to prayer AND believe that God listens and answers in His time? If so, what kinds of answers have you seen Him grant lately?

**Rate your spiritual temperature:

1=ice cold, blizzard alert/10=whoa-on fire-hair is smoking!

How can you move toward a 10?

I could go on and on... I hope you found this exercise to be helpful. Please feel free to post some answers as you feel comfortable.

Read more...

Read Thru The Bible-Numbers 32-33, Just Short

At this point in the book of Numbers, the Israelites are still wandering. I wanted to focus on chapter 32-the actions of the tribe of Ruben and Gad really intrigued me as I was reading today.



Basically, these people were satisfied with the mediocre! They were content with stopping just short of Cannan, the Promise Land, and settling in Gilead. Ruben and Gad just didn't want to cross over the Jordan River to experience the fullness of the Promise Land from God.



Number 32:5

5 If we have found favor in your eyes," they said, "let this land be given to your servants as our possession. Do not make us cross the Jordan."



I am just guessing here, but I imagine that the land of Gilead was not as exciting and filled with beauty as the Promise Land of Cannan. Why in the world would they want to stop short and not go all the way? I really don't have an answer to this-do you?



But, I did start thinking about how we, as Christians, stop short of the abundant life that God promises us while we are here on earth. The biggest thing that keeps us from living this exciting life is lack of faith and not believing that God is who He says He is. We don't truly comprehend that God can and will do what He says He can do. Lack of faith...lukewarm belief...see what Jesus has to say about this.

Now, I have to warn you, this is a pretty rough verse. The context is that it was written in Revelation and to the church of Laodicea. Apparently, this church was not getting any props from Christ what so ever. Even though its quite harsh, I think this verse speaks to us in our topic at hand.

Revelation 3:16
15-17"I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You're not cold, you're not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You're stale. You're stagnant. You make me want to vomit.

Ouch! How would you like Christ in all His glory and fire to be saying this about you personally?!

He doesn't have to, though! Choose to be Hot! Let the Holy Spirit light a mighty FIRE in you to believe God and have flaming faith. No need to be lukewarm-that's no fun! You would miss out on all kinds of cool things God has planned for you.

LIVE IT OUT! Application:
Is there something in your faith walk that you are lukewarm about? Or, are you just plane frigid? Take it to Jesus, let Him de-thaw and light that flame.

Read more...

White Knuckles part 2-Get a Grip!

The other day I posted about clinging so hard to Christ for strength that you had white knuckles. This concept really stuck with me and the Lord gave me more thoughts on this subject.

Get a Grip (this came from my lovely mom, by the way)
When you are gripping Christ so hard, there is no way that you are holding on to other things that might bind you and hold you back from that abundant life He promises in John 10:10. These things might be fear, anger, depression, obsession about body image, insecurity, addictions and so on. When we grip tightly to these binding things we, they don't let us go. It is hard to be free!
But, the only thing that frees us from that captivity is holding fast and firm to our Lord and Savior, Jesus. You can be free from all that junk and then be free to live the life that He planned for you.

How would you like to live a life that is full of joy, peace, fulfillment and hope. Do you have a dream that He has given you for your life? You are free to live that dream when you cling to Christ.

Take a look at Psalm 63:7-8 (The Message) in closing:
Because you've always stood up for me,
I'm free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life,
and you hold me steady as a post.

Hold on for DEAR LIFE! That LIFE is an exciting ride-don't miss out because you are clinging to the wrong things!

Read more...

Read Thru The Bible Update

I hope and pray that some of you are joining me on the journey of reading thru the whole Bible in a year. It has been great getting the whole context of the scripture so far.

I do have to appologize for not posting a devotion for a while. To be perfectly honest, the Lord hasen't given me anything meaningful to write and I don't want to waste your time with fluff!

With that said, you should be have read through Numbers 29 by today! We are making our way!

Keep in mind that the Lord rewards diligence. Especially diligence in reading His entire word. Keep it up!

Read more...

White Knuckles

As I was getting ready for work this morning a not-so-fun fleeting thought raced through my mind. I was a bit tired since I had been up since 5am with my bright sunshine of an 9 month old. It always seems like these not-so-fun thoughts come around when I am most vulnerable.

So, my mind wandered to the thoughts about getting through my husband's deployment and how September was a long way away. The thought then raced through my mind that I just wouldn't have a break from caring for my child until then. Would I grow weary? Would I be able to make it? I tried to catch my breath as a knot balled up in my stomach. The Lord then put a new thought into my head.

I was clinging hard to my Jesus' hand. I was holding so tight that my knuckles turned white. As I was holding His big, mighty hand, things seemed not so bad! What is it about this Jesus that I must cling so tightly to?

He is but a MIGHTY WARRIOR who will fight all of my battles for me and victoriously no less!
Revelation paints a picture of the End Times, but I think this image of Christ suits us just great as we visualized grasping tight to this mighty warrior, Jesus.

Revelation 19:11-16 (The Message)
Then I saw Heaven open wide—and oh! a white horse and its Rider. The Rider, named Faithful and True, judges and makes war in pure righteousness. His eyes are a blaze of fire, on his head many crowns. He has a Name inscribed that's known only to himself. He is dressed in a robe soaked with blood, and he is addressed as "Word of God." The armies of Heaven, mounted on white horses and dressed in dazzling white linen, follow him. A sharp sword comes out of his mouth so he can subdue the nations, then rule them with a rod of iron. He treads the winepress of the raging wrath of God, the Sovereign-Strong. On his robe and thigh is written, King of kings, Lord of lords.

Check that out: Faithful and True. Jesus is faithful to those who grasp His hand with all their might and His Truth of His Word will guide you along the straight path. This King of Kings is Sovereign-STRONG.

As I meditated on this image, my heart stopped palpitating. I realized that the very strength embodied by my Savior is in me, too.

Colossians 1:11-12
11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[a] to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

So, here I am, hours after that not-so-fun thought and my heart just beats with joy and thanksgiving that this MIGHTY WARRIOR is also my Loving Savior who lets me hold His hand as tight as I need to. I am allowed these crazy, not-cool thoughts every now and then. But, I must grip even harder and come to reality that I have His glorious power and strength on my side.

LIVE IT OUT! application:
Is there an area where you need reassurance and strength. Hold on tight, as tight as you can until you have those glorious white knuckles. He will be your Mighty Warrior too!

Read more...

Numbers 19-20, Don't Miss Out

Chapter 20 of Numbers is a hard passage to swallow with regards to Moses. Take a look at what God directed him to do and what he actually did.

Verse 8
8 "Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink."

Verse 11
11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.

Read very carefully at the slight discrepancy of Moses actions. He struck the rock instead of speaking to it to bring water. Kind of a small detail. That is why this chapter is so hard to comprehend.

Here is what the Lord had to say about it:
Verse 12
But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them."

Moses disobeyed God and lost His chance to see that very Promise Land that he was leading his people into. What is that all about?!!

This relates to us in a very real way. Hear me say this first, once you are saved and know Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can NEVER lose your salvation. Moses, with out a doubt went to heaven when he died. No question about that. But, when we do not follow God's direction, we can most definitely miss out on our earthly promise land. This earthly promise land is a life of abundance in God. Just like John 10:10 says that Jesus brings us life to the full, our abundant life in Christ is full AND fulfilling. We can miss out on that if we go our own way. If we strike the rock rather than talk to it as God directed, we separate ourself from God and miss out on the abundance and joy filled life He gives us.

So, here's the solution. Pay close attention to the LORD's guidance by staying plugged into the Holy Spirit. This Counselor will lead you down the correct road and right into the abundant life with Christ. Follow what the Bible says about how we should order our life. It is Truth, treat it as such! Finally, pray that you will have discernment when you are tempted to strike that rock. Don't miss out on the glory of the Lord while you are on this earth. Though it will pale in comparison to our eternal Promise Land, the earthly promise land with Christ is filled with joy, love, peace and abundance as you live in relationship with God here on this earth.

Read more...

Numbers 12-15, Don't be a Downer

Please take a look at Numbers chapter 13 and 14-the story about Caleb and Joshua. I just love those two guys! Out of that generation of Israelites, Caleb and Joshua were the only ones to see the Promise Land. These two chapters tell us exactly why-they BELIEVED GOD!

So, twelve spies were sent into the land of Cannan to check it out and report back. When they came to Moses with their report-boy were they Debbie Downers! All they could talk about was how scary the people were and how there was no way to conquer it. Did they forget that the had the Almighty leading them into their promised land?

Caleb and Joshua sure didn't forget:
Numbers 14:7-9
7 and said to the entire Israelite assembly, "The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. 8 If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. 9 Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us. Do not be afraid of them."

These two gentlemen looked at the glass half full. They mentioned that the land was exceeding good-isn't that where the LORD always brings us when we follow Him?? Check out what they said in verse 9-BUT the LORD IS WITH US! These two were not very popular, in fact the Israelites picked up stones to kill them.

I see a parallel with this story and our tough times today. These rough economic times can be as scary to us as the giants in the land of Cannan were to the spies. We can doubt the Lord and forget who is our protector.

Let us not be like the spies!!! Let us be Calebs and Joshuas to the world around us. When we follow Christ and obey Him, He leads us into a land that is good. Yes, we might have to go through a battle to get there. But, do not fear, the Lord is on your side.

You might not be popular with those around you when you take this stance. Although, they probably won't pick up stones...hopefully! But, be that light to your world around you. Proclaim the Lord's goodness and protection. Have faith that the LORD is good and will bring His people into their promise land His way and in His timing.

Read more...

Numbers 8-9, Straight Paths

As they were traveling in the desert, the Israelites knew their end point. It was the promised land, the land of milk and honey, the Land of Opportunity. At this point in their journey, they had no real idea what direction they would take to get there. Does this bother any of you? If you are a "Type A" kind of person like I am, it would have driven you nuts. People like me always have a plan and always know where they are going and how they are getting there. Anyone relate?

But for the Israelites, they had God's physical presence guiding them at every turn. God guided them with a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.

Numbers 9:16-17
16 That is how it continued to be; the cloud covered it, and at night it looked like fire. 17 Whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped.

How nice would that be to have exact direction as to where you are going and where you must stop on a day to day basis. We don't always have our endpoint set out for us. We usually don't have the exact directions to take as well. This has been a big struggle for me these days. I have been thrust back into the role of Army Wife (quite unwillingly, but that is part of this whole mapped out thing) We are not sure where God will take us and how these next several months will pan out. Is there some uncertainty in your life right now?

Here's the deal...God knows where He is taking you and what route you will go TOGETHER. Noticed the bold print. You are not alone in this journey. God goes with you every step. Let me rephrase that. He has His plan for you, how about you join Him. Go together, not by yourself. Together the path is straight. By yourself, it's pretty rocky and you will get side tracked.

Proverbs 3:5-6
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

In order walk that straight path, you must lean on His direction and His divine map. Through prayer and Bible reading, the Lord will take you where you need to go. My husband always has a time tested way to discern the Lord's will. After much prayer and reading, if He doesn't feel at peace about a situation, he either doesn't go through with it or he sits on it for awhile longer. Let God speak to your heart. If He is giving you the go ahead, you will feel at ease and the doors will open right up. On the other hand, if it is not the right turn and you don't feel that peace, don't try to manipulate the situation. Just stop where you are and go back to God for further direction.

Even though we don't have an exact visual like the cloud and the fire, the Holy Spirit is a very powerful GPS. Open your heart to God's guidance and He will lead you down His right and glorious road.

Read more...

Jesus, Fill My Cup

On this Valentine's Day I have been meditating on the concept of being satisfied. This is a quest of just about everyone, myself included. We have this need of our "cup" to be filled and often go to our spouse, friends or children to have that cup filled.

Here is the problem: no human can totally meet every need of ours. Our spiritual, emotional, physical and mental needs are so vast and so very complicated. Can anyone in our life really figure out how to fill that cup of ours in the very way we need them too? This is why we get frustrated with our husband or search for other ways to be fulfilled. Think about it, if that other person is trying to have their cup filled, there is no way on earth that they have enough "resources" to fill your cup too! I hope this makes since.

Here's the solution: Let JESUS fill your cup. Let Him meet your needs. Let Him give you the love, peace, joy, happiness and fulfillment that you crave. He is the only one who knows the very depths of your being. So, it makes since that He is the only one who can give you what you need, at the very moment you need it, in the amount that you need.

John 10:10 says, "...I have come that they may have life and have it ABUNDANTLY."

When we let Christ give us life abundantly, He fills our cup to overflowing. We have abundant love, joy, happiness, satisfaction and peace. Then, when our loved ones add to our cup, it is like icing on the cake. It is a joyous extra. It is like that extra whipped cream on your coffee. Because we don't depend on them to meet every need, when they do, it is such a blessing.

Whether you are married or single, take the burden off yourself and your loved ones to fill the cup. Let Christ give it to you in Abundance.

Let HIM be your Valentine EVERY day.

Read more...

Numbers 1-2, Are You Counted?

The book of Numbers starts out with God telling Moses to take a census of all His people and count them by tribe. No wonder they call it the Book of Numbers- duh! :)

Just a short thought on the idea of being counted. Christians are faithful followers of Christ...are you numbered in the faithful?

Standing up and being faithful is not an easy task as we are often called to do things (or not do things) that set us apart from the people around us. We are called to be pure and holy and a voice of Jesus to the world. Being counted as on of the LORD's is a big responsibility.

But, not with out rewards. When we stand numbered with God, we are automatically assured access to the King of Kings anytime, any place, 24/7. We are given the fruit of the Spirit which is better than any fruit a farmer can grow here on earth. Our Heavenly father plants the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control and faithfulness in our heart. He gives us His fruit in abundance as long as we accept Him and obey Him. This fruit will sustain us in any kind of battle we might face in our daily lives.

So, stand tall and be counted as Christ's own. Be bold and let other's know who Jesus is and that you are proud that He is your King and Savior.


Psalm 138
Of David.
1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me;you made me bold and stouthearted.

Read more...

Leviticus 24-27, Keep it Up!

Did you ever think you would actually make it through the book of Leviticus. Is your head swimming from all the laws and rules? Keep in mind that Christ paid the price for us. Because we are New Testament believers, we are not subject to those laws. They serve as a reminder to us that we are, in our flesh, unholy and not worthy of the Lord who requires only the most pure. But, thankfully, Christ makes us pure and holy when we truly accept Him as LORD, Savior and King.


So, keep up with me as we read through the Bible. Try to keep this verse in mind as encouragement:

Romans 15:4 The Message Translation
Even if it was written in Scripture long ago, you can be sure it's written for us. God wants the combination of his steady, constant calling and warm, personal counsel in Scripture to come to characterize us, keeping us alert for whatever he will do next.

Keep up the good work. The Lord will bless you greatly for reading His Word. He is glorified when We take what He says seriously!

Read more...

Leviticus 22-23, His Holy Name

I found this cute club on the internet called the NO CUSSING CLUB. This young boy was featured on shows like Dr. Phil introducing his club to end dirty language. It is so cute and it made me think about my own language.

As a Christian, my language should be pure and holy, just as we have been reading about in Leviticus. This includes not taking the LORD's name in vain. Oh this is a problem for me... it is so ingrained in our culture that there is even a texting abbreviation of OMG that teens us all the time. Even the TV LAND cable station had a OMG night of 80's movies last year. We don't think twice of using God's name in our everyday language.

But, the LORD specifically tell us not to take His name in vain.

Leviticus 22:32
32 Do not profane my holy name. I must be acknowledged as holy by the Israelites. I am the LORD, who makes you holy.

If we truly took to heart that the LORD is pure and holy and to be worshiped (even in our everyday language) we would be careful not to use His name lightly. We would make sure not to throw it around as slang or even along with four letter words. He is to be talked about with reverence and awe.

Praise His Name
Talk about Him to others
Sing with gladness about His holiness
Pray the Name of God

Psalm 8:1
LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens


LIVE IT OUT! application
Next time you are angry, take that anger to the LORD rather than using His name lightly.
Reevaluate your everyday language. Do you slip OMG in every now and then? Ask God to show you how amazing and awesome He is so that you won't want to even think about using His name lightly.r

Read more...

Leviticus 19-21, Make the Distinction

Leviticus has led us to read alot about the concepts of clean, unclean, holiness, being set apart, and God's Holiness. I found Leviticus 20:25-26 to be a good summary of the book. Although, I'll say it yet again, we are not required to partake in sacrifices or alot of the Laws in this book, the concept does apply to us today with regard to our holiness before God.

Leviticus 20:25-26:
25 " 'You must therefore make a distinction between clean and unclean animals and between unclean and clean birds. Do not defile yourselves by any animal or bird or anything that moves along the ground—those which I have set apart as unclean for you. 26 You are to be holy to me [c] because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.

Something interesting struck me with the words distinction and set apart. They are actually the same Hebrew word, "Badal," which means to distinguish, set aside, different than the surrounding people.

God Himself has set us apart as His children to obey, worship, love and extol Him. This requires that we are holy as He is Holy. (see previous posts) But what is also interesting is that, because we are set apart, we are required to make the distinction between things in this world that are holy, pleasing to God and things that are unclean or dishonoring of Him. As His children who are eager to please our Father, we are to set our lives around these holy things that reflect our love for Him. Make the distinction and then make the decision of whether or not to partake in that certain activity that could potentially displease our Holy Father.

Ephesians 5:15-17 wraps this concept up in a nice package with a pretty bow around it:

15Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

Take the words of Ephesians to heart. Act as one set apart to be holy and make the tough distinction. That decision will not be easy, but if you take the set apart road, you will most certainly be rewarded by God.

LIVE IT OUT! application:
What are some things or activities in the world around you that you need to distinguish between clean or unclean? Is it hard to stay away from the unclean things? Why? Take this to the LORD in prayer and ask Him to change your thoughts toward a more set apart mind willing to make the distinction.

Read more...

Leviticus 11-15, Clean=Holy

Oooh, these couple of chapters just make me cringe as I am sure they do for you as well. But, it really drives home how much God detests anything that is unclean or unholy. We have talked about the LORD's upmost Holiness and how it requires anyone in His presence to be nothing but holy as well. That is where we come in...

We are unclean. Fact of life. Because we live in a world made sinful after Eve ate the forbidden fruit, we are all born a sinner. Is this hard to digest for you? If it is, just watch the nightly news. If it bleeds, it leads. And there is a lot of bleeding. All caused by unadulterated sin.

But, God created us to be in relationship with Him. He wants us to know Him and love Him, and be loved by Him. One problem, we are unclean.

Unclean: our hearts are clogged up with gunk like hate, pride, jealousy, lust, greed, etc. Our minds are filled with thoughts that we can't imagine others knowing. Our spirit is downtrodden and yearning for the holiness and purity it was originally created for in Eden.

We get back to that original intent through the blood of Christ that washes us clean. He wipes away the dark space that once separated us from our Father.

Clean: filled with the Spirit of God. Satisfied with the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. All things that emulate Christ and make us more like Him.

Our holiness is important to God, why else would He send Jesus to the Cross? Make holiness important to you, too. Don't you want to stand in the amazing presence of the Lord, pure, clean, and worshiping Him like crazy!

Psalm 24:4-5
He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, Nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessing from the LORD, And righteousness from the God of his salvation.

Read more...

Leviticus 9-10, Affected

Are you affected by God's glory and majesty? I am not talking about the word, effected, but the word affected.

Here's a definition in case you get the two mixed up like I often do:
acted upon; influenced
speaking or behaving in an artificial way to make an impression
moved(p): being excited or provoked to the expression of an emotion; "too moved to speak"; "very touched by the stranger's kindness"

So, now that we have that all cleared up, I'll ask again. Are you moved, excited, impressed, or emotional about the Glory of God and His presence around you? Take a look at chapter 9 and see how the Israelites were affected.

22-24 Aaron lifted his hands over the people and blessed them. Having completed the rituals of the Absolution-Offering, the Whole-Burnt-Offering, and the Peace-Offering, he came down from the Altar. Moses and Aaron entered the Tent of Meeting. When they came out they blessed the people and the Glory of God appeared to all the people. Fire blazed out from God and consumed the Whole-Burnt-Offering and the fat pieces on the Altar. When all the people saw it happen they cheered loudly and then fell down, bowing in reverence. (The Message)

The Glory of God appeared-they actually saw a manifestation of God presence and it was a blazing fire. It must have been one awesome fire like none they have ever seen before! How did they react: cheered loudly and bowed down in reverence.

God's shows us His Glory in so many ways. It may not be as obvious as a big bonfire, so we have to be on the look out for it. If we ask Him to open our eyes to see it, I can assure you that the Lord will blow your mind. It might be in a strong emotion you get while worshipping. It could be that He speaks to you in your heart, or through someone else. It could be that He leads you to a certain Bible verse that speaks of His greatness and power. It could also be in a miracle or answer to prayer. So many ways, we just have to be open to recognizing it.

But, we can't just stop there. We must do as the Israelites did and praise the Lord for showing us His glory.

Matthew Henry speaks to this point quite interestingly:
They received it with the highest joy; triumphing in the assurance given them that they had God nigh unto them. And with the lowest reverence; humbly adoring the majesty of that God, who vouchsafed thus to manifest himself to them. That is a sinful fear of God, which drives us from him; a gracious fear makes us bow before him.

Humbly adoring the majesty, I love that phrase. Humbly in that we know He is far greater than us and that is a good thing! Adoring: gazing upon His majesty. Dwelling on Him, meditating on the different adjectives that describe His power and greatness. Praising OUT LOUD. Bowing down in completely reverence. These are all powerful ways to respond when we are affected by the Glory of God.

Allow yourself to be affected. Don't let pride or the distractions of the world make you miss seeing your incredible LORD.

Read more...