Expectations

"The hopes of the godly results in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked are all in vain." Proverbs 10:28

It's this thing called "expectation" that can set your heart up for failure. It can even rob you of your joy.

We "expect" things in our jobs, marriages, friendships, relationships, homes, even with our children. What about our "expectation" when it comes to Jesus.

Do we "expect" something from the Lord? Do we "expect" Him to give us things, to get us "out" of things, to heal us? 

What is it that we "expect"?

Do we even know what "expect" means?  Better yet, do we even know what we expect?

It means to regard (something) as likely to happen or to regard (someone) as likely to do or be something.

The Bible's definition-to consider probable or certain; hope; assurance

Is it right or wrong to expect? It depends.

James describes it best. “If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can’t make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do.”  James 1:5-8

When we expect selfish things-Wrong

When we expect the Lord’s will-Right

When we expect with a doubtful heart-Wrong

When we expect with a trusting heart-Right

How often are our expectation of people, things, and the Lord selfish?

Do our expectations align with Christ’s expectations?

Jesus examine my expectations, test them under Your search light. Reveal to me any selfishness that is within them.  Align my expectations with Yours. In Jesus name amen

Altar Sunday

Today is not just another day. Today the tomb is empty and Christ has risen! He is alive! That's worth flooding the altar for.

What have you done for Him?

Whether you wait for holidays to attend Church or you go everyday. Just know that Jesus invests in you at all times. Not a second passes in your life that He does not know about.

His love for you extends way beyond what you could ever fathom.

He laid His life down for you! He took your sins upon Himself.

He overcame death for you!

What have you done for Him?

The Great Commission

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20

How do you celebrate the weekend Christ arose?

Do you go and share this wonderful story with as many as you can?

Jesus' last words to His disciples was the Great Commission. He commanded them to go and spread the Good News. We are commanded to the same thing.

This weekend is a great time to start spreading the Good News.

Jesus is alive!

Hope Beyond the Grave

The open wounds in His skin

His disfigured face and swollen eyes

The weakness in His body

The thorns in His head

The nails that pierce His hands and feet

The blood that flows...

The men, they laugh, spit, mock, and thrust Him upward as though it was every day business. They have not a clue.

We have not a clue.

The pain He endures as He hangs there.

The blood that flows...

The separation

 His final hour approaches, as the skies begin to darken, and the clouds roll in, bringing heavy winds.

And He knows...

This pain, suffering, and weight of every sin have been placed upon Him.

And He mutters, "It is finished!"

His last breath is taken.

The earth shakes, the curtain tears in two. His side is punctured...

And the blood flows.

Wrapped in white linen He was placed in a tomb

 But on the third day...

He was raised from the dead.

"After three days I will be raised from the dead."  Matthew 27:63

All for you and all for me!

"For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. How we thank God, who gives us victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ our Lord!" 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

It's more than bunnies and eggs.

"Because God's children are human beings-made of flesh and blood-Jesus also became flesh and blood by being born in human form. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the Devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he deliver those who have lived all their lives as slaves to the fear of dying."  Hebrews 2:14-15

It's more than bunny rabbits and Easter eggs. It's more than putting on your best dress and heading to church.

It's about Him and what He did.

Do you know what He did? Do your children know?

Do you know why He did it?

Take a peek in the mirror; do you see that person staring back at you? That's who He did it for.

You and Me!

He died, was buried, and ROSE AGAIN!

That is what Jesus did.

Life Everlasting! Love Everlasting!

Now and forever.

Thank You Jesus for Your Death, Burial, and Resurrection. Thank You that You did all for us, for me. May we teach our children what this time of year is really about. Forgive us for making it something it is not. Amen

Conscious Effort

“I called you so often, but you didn't come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. You ignored my advice and rejected the correction I offered.” Proverbs 1:24

This thought of not spending time with Jesus freaks me out! Yet so does the thought of spending time with Him out of habit or because I should, rather than because I desire to, need to, want to, have to.

Have you ever been in a conversation with someone yet you weren't really "in" the conversation. Meaning they were talking and you acted like you were listening but your mind was somewhere else. Then when they stop and look at you waiting for a response, you don't know what to say because you have no clue what they just said.

Have you ever done that? 

How often do we do that with the Lord? We get in the Word, yet our minds are elsewhere. Or we attend church and the whole time we are thinking about other things rather than the message Christ is speaking to us.

This bothers me a great deal. Jesus has said many times that you are to love ME with all of your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

How can I be giving Him all of myself, if I am distracted in my thought life?

This should sadden us more. It should move us to be in prayer more. It should motivate us to store His Word more.

It should cause us to be a lot more conscientious when we are spending time with Him.  Jesus has something to say to us, teach us, and show us. He wants to draw us closer to His holiness every day. He wants to share His heart with us.

Why would we want to miss out on that?

This bothers me that I have missed out on really listening to what my Father has to say and share, because my thoughts are elsewhere.

I can’t draw closer to Him, if I am not listening and engaging in our conversation. And if I don’t listen how can I obey Him and become more like Him.

These two they really do go hand in hand.

“My child, listen to me and treasure my instructions. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. “Proverbs 2:1-2

Conscious effort that is what is required.

Jesus forgive me for not being fully engaged in the time we spend together. You deserve better, and I want better, for the both of us. Amen

He never tires out or sleeps

"He will not let you stumble and fall; the one who watches over you will not sleep. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never tires and never sleeps. The LORD himself watches over you!" Psalm 121:3-5


Isn't it reassuring to know that the Lord never tires out or sleeps?

When you feel weary and tired, be assured that Jesus is not. So when you close your eyes to rest, know that Jesus is watching over you.

Thank You Jesus for watching over us and for never growing tired. It is so encouraging to know that You are watching over us at all times. Thank You! Amen

Altar Sunday

When you realize coming to the altar doesn't just mean the church altar. Nor do you have to wait for Sunday.

God's altar is available everyday all day.

Are you using it?

The Constant One

"Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Bible studies, babies, sickness, conferences, packing, moving, goodbyes, family, friends, last minute details, jitters, and staying on my face. These are all the things that have taken place within a two week period. 

To say the least, things have been a little overwhelming around the Morgan household. But can I just tell you the one thing that has been constant?

JESUS!

How in the world do people do it without Him? How in the world can anyone go through an entire day without Him?

Brethren I cannot breathe, function, or think without Jesus. He has been the only constant thing in my life. No matter how many changes occur in this life, I am always guaranteed one thing-Jesus will always be there.

Have you ever just needed something so badly, like a drink, food, rest, warmth or breath that you would die without it? That is how much I need Jesus on a second by second basis.

What about you? Has life been a little hectic for you lately? If so, may I encourage you today by telling you, Jesus is present, available, and will always be constant within you?

Jesus thank You for never leaving me. Thank You for being the most constant, sure thing in my life. I honestly could not do this without You, nor would I want to. Thank You. I trust You, I find comfort in You, and I praise You for Your continual presence in my life. Amen

Preparation

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Give these instructions to the people of Israel: The offerings you present to me by fire on the altar are my food, and they are very pleasing to me. See to it that they are brought at the appointed times and offered according to my instructions." Numbers 28:1-2

How do you prepare your heart for worship?

How do you prepare yourself to spend time with Jesus?

Do you prepare or just jump in? Is there a right or wrong way?

Can you come before the Lord if you are harboring sin?

Is confessing a part of your preparation?

"If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, my Lord would not have listened." Psalm 66:18

Just maybe the days leading up to Sunday are our days to prepare our hearts for worship. What kind of offering are you presenting to the Lord?

Women's Conference

"If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

This Friday March 30 and Saturday March 31 we will be holding our Women's Conference at First Baptist Jasper.

The Focus will be on Overcoming the "ME"

We have spent many months preparing and praying. Our biggest prayer is that God will show up in a HUGE way and change our hearts, thoughts and lives.

Please be in prayer if you will. We are expecting big things from Jesus!

It begins Friday @ 6:30. You can register at the door. It is 15 dollars and aide is available. It is our honor so don't hesitate to let us know.

For more information please contact Sue Gee at thegees@joshua2415.org or by phone at 409-489-6485.

We look forward to worshiping with you.

Altar Sunday

Maybe today you know of someone who could use some time at the altar. Maybe they are unable to go themselves, or stay back due to fear. Maybe they have no clue about the altar.

Whatever the reason might be, today you are able to go to the altar for them. Would you do that? Would you intercede in prayer for someone who needs it?

"Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere." Ephesians 6:18

Overwhelming

Because you are loved. 

Not for any other reason than because He knows the best for you comes at a cost.

His cost.

His love is overwhelming.

All

"From there you will search again for the LORD your God. And if you search for him with all your heart and soul, you will find him."  Deuteronomy 4:29

Have you ever done something with half of your heart, attention, effort, and thought? How did it turn out? Probably not as good as it would’ve if you had put your “all” into it.

Maybe we fill our plates to full. We believe that if we finish it that is good enough, but is it really good enough?

What about your relationship with Jesus? Do you give Him half of your attention, heart, thoughts, and effort? When you go to Church do you sit and think about a million other things, rather than give God all of your attention? When you sing are you singing with “all” your heart or out of habit? It is easy to move our mouths and our thoughts be somewhere else.

What about when we spend time in the Word? Do we do it with other things going on around us that steal our attention? Like our phones, TV, our kids, our job, etc. Or do we give God “all” of our attention and go to a quiet place where there are no distractions; thus giving Him “all” of our attention, heart, thoughts, and effort?

Notice in our passage God says, “If you search for Me with ALL your heart and soul you will find Me.”

Have you been in search for more of Jesus? If so check and see if your “all” has been into it.

Jesus You gave us all of you; forgive us for only giving you bits and pieces. It’s time we get serious in our search for You, and in doing so our all must be put into it. Amen

What is Your Agenda

"I have no one else like Timothy, who genuinely cares about your welfare. All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ." Philippians 2:20-21

Do you search God's Word with a self-agenda? Often times many of us will open the Word searching for the right passage that applies to our agenda.

It might be the only time we ever open our Bibles. Which is sad, but is probably done more than we realize.

I am not saying this is wrong by any means, but when it is done for selfish reasons, then, yes, I believe that is wrong. It just makes me feel like we "use" God. I don't ever want Him to feel used. I want Him to feel as loved as He makes me feel loved. Which I know is humanly impossible.

If we are just using Jesus to make ourselves look better, then our hearts are not where they should be. Our relationship with Christ is not where it should be.

If we search with self-agenda we are leading ourselves astray, because we are only taking bits and pieces of God's Word instead of as a whole.

The Holy Spirit guides each of us differently. He also lets us know when our motives in searching God's Word is for His glory or for our selfish gain.

Why do we have a relationship with Christ is the real question.

Why do you study or not study His Word?

Are we taking God's Word as a whole or in parts as we see fit, and as they apply to our wants?

Jesus show us very specifically our reasons for doing what we do when we study Your Word. Reveal to us every intention. Amen

Trust

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Jesus never said following Him would be easy. In fact He gave a huge warning that it would be hard! He never said standing for Him would be easy. He never said it would be fun. Nor did He say that when His light exposed the darkness that it would be awesome. It’s actually hard.

But He did promise to be there with us. He promised He would never leave. He promised He would lead us through it ALL.

We so desperately want to understand His decisions, but it is not for us to understand. All we are to do is trust Him.

Jesus we trust You and every decision You make. You are God, Creator of all things. You make this earth spin. You make our hearts beat and mouths move. You tell the Sun when to rise and when to fall. You know every star, every hair on our heads, every thought we have and every fear we have. You know us completely and fully. Thank You for walking through this daily life with us. We trust You and that is the best thing we can do. Amen

Are You Dead or Producing Fruit?

 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-24

Picture this with me. A fruit producing tree, except the fruit growing is not fruit you eat. It is a kind of fruit you live out, act out. It is a variety fruit tree; there is fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Imagine being able to go up to that tree and pick each one of those fruits.                                                

                                                                                           

Would you pick certain ones or would you pick all of them? Here is the deal. You don’t have a choice if the Holy Spirit lives within you. If He doesn't live within you, well, then this fruit is completely foreign to you.

So let me ask you this…

Are these fruits visible in your life?

Is Jesus Lord of your life?

If so then you are a part of Christ’s fruit producing tree, which means the Holy Spirit is producing all 9 types of fruit in you.

He is the one that makes them visible; He is the one in control.

“But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us.” Galatians 5:22

Christ says, “I will produce this fruit in you?”

Love

JOY

PEACE

PATIENCE

KINDNESS

GOODNESS

GENTLENESS

FAITHFULNESS

SELF-CONTROL

So where do you go from here? Begin by understanding you canNOT produce these fruits on your own. It is not in your makeup to do so. But it is in Christ’s makeup.

So the more you become like Him, the more of these fruits you will produce.

Maybe a good evaluation for us is to see what things we produce more.

Evil or Fruit

I know what you are thinking. I don’t produce evil. I think it too, but the more you see what Christ defines as evil the more your eyes are open and the more you realize just how much evil you do, have, or had produced.

Things that are evil-

Sexual immorality

Impure thoughts

Eagerness for lustful pleasure

Idolatry

Participation in demonic activity

Hostility

Quarreling

Jealousy

Outbursts of anger

Selfish Ambition

Divisions

The feeling everyone is wrong except those in your own little group

Envy

Drunkenness

Wild parties

Go back and place a check by the ones that have been produced in you. Stinks I know!

So what does a tree look like that produces these things?

A dead one!

Are you dead or producing fruit?

New Night

Women Seeking God-Community Women's Bible Study

is moving to a new night.

Monday


Place: Belle Jim


Time: 6:00-7:00

Altar Sunday

Won't you come to the altar today. He is calling you. Can you hear Him? He wants to tend to the brokenness. He wants to remove the dirt. He wants to be showered with praise.

Today is the day. Step out and go.

Jesus is there. Don't keep Him waiting. It will be the best thing you have ever done.

Remember

When it seems impossible just remember, He is the possible.

When you feel like you are broken in pieces, remember you are whole in Him.

When you feel like giving up, remember He went all the way to the Cross.

When you feel distant and alone, remember He is right beside you. Actually, He is within you.

When you look at someone and wonder why, remember God made them too.



"They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer." Psalm 78:35

To Be Searched

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24

To be cleansed is to be searched. To be searched is to be purified. To be purified is to be made whole.

Isn't that what you desire? His wholeness.

One year ago the most precious woman came into our lives. She has a heart for children bigger than Texas. And for those of you who know her would agree.

She has taken Dax in as though he was her own and Dax has fallen in love with her. There have been times when Dax feels bad that he will ask for her. At first that was hard for this mommy, but now it is totally okay. Because she is AMAZING.

Tonight this precious woman, known as Mrs. Parker to many and Dorothy to others needs our prayers.

Her husband has been placed in ICU due to his heart. This has been a long road for them and this, though expected came quicker than any of us wanted it to.

So tonight because I know many of you who follow Godly Gossip love Jesus and will begin to pray for her and her family. I wanted to share and ask you to begin praying. They have two boys so pray for them as they walk through this with Dorothy.

We are believing in Jesus and His power to heal. So pray and pray continually. Please!

I will update you as Dorothy updates me. I know Dorothy and the boys will appreciate all the prayers.

Dorothy and boys, as Dax says, "I love you so much." we do. All one thousand of us that you have blessed with your love.

Jesus thank You for this amazing family who blesses so many people. We love them so much. Be with Bubba, give him the strength to fight. Take hold of his heart and heal it completely and fully. Jesus You are the Creator and we are asking You to go beyond what we could ever imagine. Give them comfort. Wrap Your arms around Dorothy and the boys so tightly they feel Your presence. In Jesus name amen

He Listens

I love God because he listened to me, listened as I begged for mercy. He listened so intently as I laid out my case before him. Death stared me in the face, hell was hard on my heels. Up against it, I didn't know which way to turn; then I called out to God for help: "Please, God!" I cried out. "Save my life!" God is gracious—it is he who makes things right, our most compassionate God. God takes the side of the helpless; when I was at the end of my rope, he saved me. Psalm 116:1-6



Did you know Jesus hears you and He actually cares about what you have to say? He loves to visit with you. He never interrupts (well sometimes)and He never assumes you are saying one thing when you really mean something else. He knows exactly what you are saying and why you are saying it.

He is patient and understanding, and compassionate in His responses. Even if no one else gets you, He does.

He wants the best for you and He knows your heart. He knows your desire. He knows your fears. He knows your frustrations. He knows you!

That my brethren is an amazing thought.

So no matter what situation you are in, rest in the fact that God knows you, listens to you, understands you, gets you, and is with you.

It is about Him from start to finish so make sure He is included in every conversation, decision, and most of all make sure you listen to Him when He speaks.

Don't let man take His place. Seek Jesus first! Trust in His plans for you, and make sure you consult Him. He will listen, even when others won't.

Jesus thank You that You hear us, love us, and know everything about us. I trust You and praise You for I know You will reveal Your plans for us. Keep us from seeking man first and don't let us get ahead of You! Amen

I Need...

"He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need there is." Acts 17:25

How often do you utter the words "I need"? Probably more than you realize. What things follow those two words?

I need a break

I need more money

I need to lose weight

I need a new car

I need new clothes

I need...

The problem with our "I needs" is the fact that they are worldly things, which we do not need.

For those of us in Christ we have Our real needs satisfied.

Our need to breathe

Our need to think

Our need to understand

Our need to function

Our need to move

Our need to be cared for

Our need to be loved

Our need to...

They are met because of Christ. Isn't it comforting to know that Christ satisfies every need there is?

Maybe you have a need today, if so let Christ meet that need. For there is NO one better than the Creator Himself.

Praise God today for meeting your needs the ones you know of and the ones He meets that you are not even aware of.

Jesus thank You for satisfying every need there is. We take this gift for granted. We even fail to realize just how much You do meet our needs. Thank You. Forgive us for thinking we need things of this world. You are all we need. Remind us of that. Amen

When Emptied of Me Love is Found

Could this be our day's desire?

To again empty me.

What meaning does this have

To empty me?

To be stripped of

self and pride.

To remove the

desires of our flesh.

To throw away

the old and put on the new.

Oh, to empty me

Is to empty the world within me.

Could this be our desire today

To empty out all that clings to the me?

For Paul says it best,

when he says the emptied me 

is love in the simplest form.

"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud, or rude. 

Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged. It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

When emptied of me

love is found!

Altar Sunday

I approach the altar today, asking You, to empty me of me.

Empty me of selfishness, vain ambition, and the poison of my pride.

Empty me of any foolish thing my heart holds onto.

Empty me so I can be filled with more of You.

I will not move until the Holy Fire has burned away all that is not of You.

Empty me, so I can be like You.

Here on the altar empty me of all the disease.

Let me stay Father for You are all I need.

Here on the altar, I will leave it, all of me, in order to take all of You.

Jesus only You can empty me of me. So I am asking, here on my knees, empty me of me.

Less

It is the acceptance of the mess you are, and the simplicity of His Grace. That is what makes Him special, unique...God. His ability to make sense of your mess.

It really is okay to desire Jesus,  yet feel as though you don't desire Him enough. That is what keeps you searching for Him. It is what makes Him even more desirable, His ability to draw you in, close and sure.

It is okay to be less and be made less. Yet it is another thing to live in the state of less. Because the act of making ME really me, requires letting go.

And to let go, means losing control, and losing control means stepping back, stepping down. And to step back and step down means swallowing your pride.

And who can swallow their pride like Christ swallowed His. "..He did not demand and cling to his rights as God. He made himself nothing; he took the HUMBLE position of a slave and appeared in human form. And in human form he obediently humbled himself even further by dying a criminal's death on the a cross." Philippians 2:6-8


Only the one who knows that Christ must become GREATER AND GREATER and they must become less and less.


Jesus I want to become less and less so You can become GREATER and GREATER. May I no longer feed myself, but feed the Spirit. Amen

We Don't Know

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

We don't know what life is, until we live it IN Christ.

We don't know what true joy is, until we live IN the joy of Christ.

We don't know the quality of our fruit, until Christ IS the producer of our fruit.

We don't know the meaning of forgiveness, until we have witnessed the Cross.

We don't know the power of the Word, until we have been transformed by the Word.

We don't know His suffering, until we have shared in His suffering.

We don't know what love is, until we see it through His blood.

We don't know who we are, until we know whose we are.

We don't know our purpose, until we know the reason for our existence.

We don't know how to give, until we know what Christ has given us.

We don't know how to die, until we have died to ourselves.

We don't know the power of the cross, until we carry our own cross.

To be filled with Christ, is to be empty of self.


Jesus apart from You we know nothing, can do nothing, and have nothing. May we remain in You. Amen

Be Alert and Pray

"Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak." Matthew 26:41


Alert-The state of being watchful for possible danger.
       - Quick to notice any unusual and potentially dangerous or difficult circumstances.

In our world today, temptation is on every corner. It is in our homes, schools, work places, convenient stores, streets, etc.

If we don't stay alert and in constant prayer, we can be easily tempted, deceived, and eventually give into it.

Go back and look at the list of places we can be tempted. How have they tempted you? Did you give into that temptation? Was it an obvious temptation, or did it sneak up on you in subtle way?

Stay alert and prayerful brethren, at all times, in all places, and for all other brothers and sisters around the world who are being tempted with the same thing.

Be aware of the enemy. Don't let him catch you off guard.

Jesus help us to stay alert and in prayer, for then we will not be caught off guard, but prepared for whatever temptation comes our way. Thank You for the help of the Holy Spirit in warning us and letting us know when we are in danger. You are awesome Father, and You set the best example for us in overcoming temptation. Thank You. Amen

? ? ?

"For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen" Romans 11:36

Do you know how amazing God is?

Does your love and reverence for Him move you so much you fall to your face?

Does every part of you give God glory and honor?

Do you know why you even exist?

Even the trees, wind, seas, and animals know the Creator and their reason for existence. They praise Him, live for Him, and function because of Him. Do you?

Know Jesus, because you are nothing without Him.

Jesus we are crazy to think our existence is about us. Jesus I want You to be the biggest part of us that we spend every day praising You, honoring You, and on our faces before You. May these questions move someone closer to You. Open the eyes of the blind, soften the hard hearts, and draw the wondering back to You. Amen

Why You Exist

"He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didn't make. Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone." John 1:3


This mere existence of you and me is a big deal. We were not made to just exist. We were made for a reason. You and I were made by the very hands of God. He breathed life into us. He wrote out our life stories and placed the finishing period at the very end.

"Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed." Psalm 139:16


Can you imagine sitting next to Him as He writes out every detail? What would those moments be like? What words would you see Him writing out?  Look at your life up to this point, how has it played out thus far? Now imagine God writing them out with full knowledge of what you would and wouldn't do.

Eye opening isn't it?

We often overlook, ignore, or simply excuse the very fact that God created ALL things. Now understand me, God created all things, and human hands turned many of those things into evil.

Even our very lives we have turned over to sin, instead of to God, our Creator. We often hear comments, "If God is the God of love why do bad things happen to good people? Why is there so much sorrow, death, hurt, and illness?"

Well it all goes back to the beginning when two people, who were created by God, chose to listen to the enemy and eat the apple from the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

"You may freely eat any fruit in the garden except fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. If you eat of its fruit, you will surely die." Genesis 2:16-17


But none of that is the point, well it is the point, just not here, not at this moment. The point is for us to comprehend that we were created by God and FOR God. The point today is for us to understand that everything that exists He made.

How can we utter a word of pride about what we have, what we have accomplished or who we are? We can't when we understand our very existence came from God Himself. We can't when we understand that all we have is from God Himself.

We take a lot of credit for things that are not ours in the first place.

"Christ is the one through whom God created everything in heaven and earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can't see-kings, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities. Everything has been created through him and for him. He existed before everything else began, and he holds all creation together." Colossians 1:16-17


All too often we get caught up in believing that, in this existence, we should be able to do what we want, when we want, how we want, and with who we want. We get caught up in the here and now of pleasing ourselves. Brethren this existence of you and I is not so we can do what we want. Our existence is for Him and because of Him.

Maybe I can put it another way. God created us and sent His Son to die for us. He did both of those things for you and me.

He found you to be of importance, thus creating you. He found your life to be of importance, thus dying for you.

Jesus thank You for choosing me to exist for You. Amen

A Little Bit of Confession

This life of mine is CRAZY! And it's crazy because of the phrase I just used, "This life of mine." Did you notice that part?

It’s okay, I overlook it as well. This life is not mine, but when I live as though it is, well…it’s crazy, I’m crazy!

So here is where I am right now. I am WAY overloaded! I have managed to put more on my plate than I realized I could eat. Sometimes, my eyes are bigger than my stomach, or is it the other way around. However the saying goes, that's me. Except it’s not the food I fill my plate with. It’s family, Ministry, and me.

I have been having this nudging, annoying nudge I might add, to openly confess that I am a HUGE sinner who struggles with...self, self, self, laziness, anger, my way, and this horrible need to please me. 

Wow, did I really just write all that out? Don't judge me! It's true. 

There is no condemnation here, only truth. And who or where would I be if I didn't just tell the truth, hell probably. But I'm not. I am heaven bound!

And on my way to heaven I have to be real. So this is me, being real! 

Transparent too

Besides those annoying sins above, I get lost in God's Word and over think it way more than I should. I beat up on myself, I question my true faithfulness, especially in my "Me" moments, and I get mad at Satan for even existing.

Ya, he STINKS. Like those stink bugs that you don't like and know when you step on them it will be gross, but you do it anyway because you know the smell won't last long. That is Satan, a nasty stink bug that seems to multiply. But guess what? He will never overpopulate. 

I hate attention, but love to share God's Word with women. Does that even make sense?

I have OCD when it comes to cleaning and can't stand it when my husband cleans because I feel like he never does it right. See, demanding, my way "Me."

I refer to the "Me" as Miss "Me" and her and I talk quite often. You have probably caught me talking to her on occasion. Her and I don't mix, yet we do mix, and I don't like that.

She is sly and I often times wonder how in the world she showed up and I didn't even realize it. No I do not help. 

You have a Miss or Mr "Me" too.

I have had this huge desire lately to sell everything I own and give it to someone in need. The problem is, if I did that, we wouldn't be able to replace it. 

I get annoyed with how awesome my husband is and wonder how in the world I got so lucky, yet how I get so jealous of him.

You might be pondering on that but if you know G you know what I am talking about. If he was a woman no woman would like him and every man would love him. You might have to come back and read that again to grasp it.

I love my boys so much they annoy me at times. I want them near me at all times, yet I want them to just play in their play room for Pete sake.

Cooking drives me CRAZY, yet is the thing my husband loves the most. He probably does a majority of the cooking. Thank You Jesus! Again, jealous!

But that is by choice. I go into shock thinking about what meal to cook. He walks in and cooks a 5 course meal with three ingredients. Again blessed, but annoyed. I love that man!

Jesus knew I needed him.

Here is a confession for you, at night when I hit the bed, I seem to become paralyzed. So that leaves G getting up. It drives him crazy, so the times I regain feeling and get out of bed, he thinks the world stopped! Bad I know. Again blessed! (Please know I am not making light of those who really are, I am thankful, very, just admitting my laziness)

On another note…

I could spend all day reading God’s Word, and here is the part lately that has frustrated the mess out of me. When I do pull myself away from the Word, I have lately resorted right back to the crazy Miss “Me” and have neglected to live out or show what God has taught me. Oh, mercy, please tell me you know that feeling.

The more I have studied and prepared for this Women’s Conference the more I realize how much Miss “Me” is interweaved within me. Goodness I really despise her.

She is CRAZY!

I love to laugh, and laugh hard, but for a while I have been unable to find reason to laugh. Until last night when I began to show my husband some awesome dance moves I use to do as a cheerleader. We laughed so hard we almost cried. I am addicted to my husband and boys laugh. So I am determined to make us laugh more.

“…She laughs with no fear of the future.” Proverbs 31:25

 I love to pray and I get annoyed that we as a body don’t do it more. I love throwing myself at the altar, and wish I could just let it ALL out on Sunday’s but am afraid that they would call 911.

I love this honesty thing. I wish I could do a Q & A, but am not ready for the questions that hit to deep and expose some parts of me that I have reserved for my husband and the Lord to know only.

Maybe someday, just not now, not yet.

I never want people to see more of me that what I really am and that is a sinner, who by the Grace of God have been covered in His mercy!

I struggle with lots of things, but love Jesus more than any of those things. I spend a majority of my day confessing and will do that until the day He takes me home.

I love Him and feel as though I am never close enough to Him. I want to please Him every second, yet I realize every second how unworthy I am.

I can’t get enough of Jesus and I can’t stand that others don’t care to even have Jesus.

I don’t want to be known as a woman of the world. I want to be known as a woman who reflects Jesus. I fail though, yet I never stop trying, and in that I know every day I get a little bit closer and become a little more like Him.

I have to smash a lot of Satan’s stink bugs that he has birthed and find joy in hearing the crunch. I even hate capitalizing his name because he is not worthy of a capital S.

I am a HORRIBLE writer who has NO clue where to put a comma or stop a sentence. But I don’t really worry or care too much about it, because it is the message that matters the most. And God’s Message will always be delivered as He sees fit. So for that I am grateful and thankful.

I am passionate when I teach and I always, always get emotional when I talk about the Word of God. I just can’t help it. He inspires me, moves me, touches me, and He saved me.

The woman of Proverbs 31 stresses me out, and I don’t like how perfect she is, yet I love her and want to be just like her. Maybe it’s because Miss “Me” feels threatened by her and the Jesus in Kristi pushes me to please Jesus like her.

I often wonder who reads this blog and have even asked the Lord why I am still doing it, even though I know why.

I wonder why people rarely comment, but then again I know why.

So I write anyway. I share anyway. I could very easily make this about me and my family, but I don’t, except on rare occasions, and I know why I have to do it that way too. So I trust, I obey, and I believe, and I know in the end He will show me.

Altar Sunday

When the altar seems far away and your heart is in need, just hit your knees and there He will be.

Jesus thank You for being everywhere. Amen

Live out

Tell me- How do you live out God's Word?

“But he knows where I am and what I've done. He can cross-examine me all he wants, and I'll pass the test with honors. I've followed him closely, my feet in his footprints, not once swerving from his way. I've obeyed every word he's spoken, and not just obeyed his advice—I've treasured it.” Job 23:10-11

Is this true of you today? 

Are you at a point in your relationship with Christ that it is okay for Him to cross-examine you? Would you pass the test?

Do you follow Him so closely your feet land  in the footprints of His?

Are you obeying and treasuring His every Word?

Is your desire for Christ even that strong? 

I want these words of Job to become my words, my heart, my actions, my desire. I want to treasure God's every Word. And in making any of this happen I know I have to do my part. 

I have to spend time in His Word. I have to stay one step behind Him at ALL times so my steps will fall in line with His steps.

 I have to allow His Word to expose all sin and I have to confess those sins. I have to keep my eyes on Him at ALL times so I do not veer off from Him. 

My thoughts MUST be consumed with His Word at ALL times. 

My feelings must stay in check with His Word and not on me. They will lead me astray and even deceive me.

I have to be open and willing to be searched by the Lord at all times, and I must remain faithful to Him over anyone or anything. 

Jesus thank You for Your Word. I want to know it but more than that I want to live it. Amen

How do you know Jesus?


Do you only know of Him through what others have said or have you met Him personally?


Do you know Him on a Sunday basis or do you know Him on a day to day basis?


Do you know Him because of what He has done for others or do you know Him because of what He has done for you?


Do you know Him as an acquaintance or do you know Him as your personal Lord and Savior?


Do you know Him on a business level or do you know Him intimately?


How do you know Jesus? 


Does this verse describe you and how well you know Jesus?


"Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God's Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we've embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God." 1 John 4:13-16


Or will this describe how well you know Jesus?


"Knowing the correct password-saying 'Master, Master,' for instance-isn't going to get you anywhere with me. What is required is serious obedience-doing what my Father wills. I can see it now-at the Final Judgment thousands strutting up to me and saying, 'Master, we preached the Message, we bashed the demons, our God-sponsored projects had everyone talking.' And do you know what I am going to say? 'You missed the boat. All you did was use me to make yourselves important.  You don't impress me one bit. You're out of here.' Matthew 7:22-24

Jesus You have given us the two greatest resources to know You. The Bible and the Holy Spirit. May it become our greatest desire to know You more than we desire to know anything else. To know You is to know life in its fullest. Thank You for the Holy Spirit and Your Word that allow us to know You intimately and personally. Amen

Who is Jesus to you?

“Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.” Colossians 1:15

Is He the Son of God, the Son of Man, the Bread of Life, the exact representation of God? Is He the way, truth and life?

I hope you answered yes to all of the above, because Jesus is all of those. 

He also is the visible image of the invisible God-Colossians 1:15

Knowing Him is to know God. In Christ, God revealed Himself. In Christ, God made Himself in human form to be touched, seen, felt and heard. 

Jesus is God Himself, and when He added human flesh, He did it with purpose. He came right here to this tiny speck we call earth, to meet us where we are, and to show us Himself and our need for Him, all while providing a way through His death.

In Christ, God did not demand or cling to His rights as God. (Philippians 2:6) Rather He humbled Himself in the lowest manner possible. He lived as we lived, felt as we feel, laughed as we laugh, hurt as we hurt, and cried as we cry. He overcame temptation and showed us how to do the same. He made Himself available to us, He served, and did all that His Father asked Him to do.

It is through Christ we know God. It is through Christ we will one day live with God. It is through Christ we are made right with God.

“Anyone who has seen me has seen my Father.” John 14:9

How well do you know God?

For no other reason

"My heart has heard you say, 'Come and talk with me.' And my heart responds, 'LORD, I am coming." Psalm 27:8

No agenda. No because "We have to." No crisis. Not even because we need to prepare a lesson. Doing it for no other reason than because of the purest desire to be near Him, hear Him, and know Him.

Doing it, because in those moments with Him, you realize how much He did for you. How much He loves you, wants you, and desires you.

You do it because you realize in those "For no reason" moments true worship, true friendship, true intimacy, and every other need is found.

When you sit with Jesus, bask in His Word, and visit, for no reason other than your love and desire for Him, you realize the true meaning of love, in the purest form.

Have you experienced it? What is your reason?

Jesus it is my desire that all people experience the purest, sweetest, most intimate love that You offer. Give them a taste of You and Your love today. May it leave them with a desire to seek You for no other reason than because of the purest love that is found in You. Amen

Do you find it hard to follow Christ? Read the Scriptures before you answer

Many people find it hard to follow Jesus. I mean, giving up yourself, is not exactly the most popular or desired thing to do. It still isn't! But Jesus requires complete fellowship and complete devotion. We see many times throughout Scripture Jesus telling his disciples following Me requires less of you, less of your wants, and a whole lot of Me.

"Then he said to the crowd, 'If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life." Luke 9:23-24

"He said to another person, 'Come, be my disciple.' The man agreed, but he said, 'Lord, first let me return home and bury my father.' Jesus replied, ' Let those who are spiritually dead care for their own dead. Your duty is to go and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God.' Another said, 'Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family.' But Jesus told him, 'Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.' Luke 9:59-62

"You must love the Lord your God, with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' Luke 10:27

"If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters-yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And you cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me." Luke 14:26-27

"But don't begin until you count the cost-So no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me." Luke 14:28; 33

"The man replied, 'I've obeyed all these commandments since I was a child.' 'There is still one thing you lack,' Jesus said. ‘Sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.' But when the man heard this, he became sad because he was very rich.' Luke 18:21-23

We can have good intentions in following Christ, but our intentions must be followed by selfless actions that are totally sold out for Christ. 

What are some things Jesus is calling you to give up or leave behind? Maybe you can see yourself in one of these verses and you know what Jesus is asking of you. How will you respond?

Jesus I want to give You every part of me. I know the cost, I know the importance of carrying my cross. I also know I have and will fail You. I know there will be times I allow things to come in between You and me, so I am asking You to help me. Squeeze me so tight that there is no way anything can get in between us and our relationship. Amen

Altar Sunday

“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:9 NLT


When you approach the altar, be sure your not dwelling on the fault of someone who hurt you. Instead let the Cross remind you of the love and forgiveness Christ had for you.

May that be what leads you to the altar today.

Make Jesus Your Habit

"Everyone sees it. God's work is the talk of the town. Be glad, good people! Fly to God! Good-hearted people, make praise your habit." Psalm 64:9-10

When is the last time you went somewhere other than church and heard God being talked about? When is the last time you went to work and made God the topic of conversation?

It's not common anymore, talking about Jesus. It's actually becoming rare. But that can change, and you and I can make it change. We can make Him become the talk of the town, by talking more about Him. We can make praise become a habit by praising Him everyday.

How do we make Jesus our habit? The same way we have made eating, sleeping, and drinking a habit by doing it over and over and all throughout the day.

He's worth it!

Jesus there is nothing else more important than You. May You become the most talked about in our day than anything else. Amen