S-To Build Up
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Share Each Other's Troubles
"Share each other's troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone in need, you are only fooling yourself. You are really a nobody." Galatians 6:2-3
"They just have so many problems, how do you even begin to help someone with all those needs?"
Have these thoughts ever gone through your head?
Do you ever avoid asking specific people how they are, because you know they will unload on you, telling you all of their problems and needs? Yes, there are people like this, and brethren, even though there seems to always be a problem or a need, we still need to be listeners and helpers. Because Christ asks us too, and because He does it for us. Don't look at it as an inconvenience(that's being selfish), look at it as an opportunity to be a reflection of Christ. (His reflection is selfless)
Think back on the last conversation you had with the Lord, did you unload on Him, asking Him for help, and telling Him all your problems, struggles, issues, etc.? What did He do? He listened and before you even realized it, Jesus was meeting your needs (Not your wants).
When a passage starts with a command, it is to be taken literally and applied literally.
This is why the Body of Christ exists. To help one another, to encourage one another, to help carry the burden's of one another.
Look what Paul says over in Romans regarding this matter. "We may know that these things make no difference, but we cannot just go ahead and do them to please ourselves. We must be considerate of the doubts and fears of those who think these things are wrong. We should please others. If we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn't please himself. As the Scriptures say, Those who insult you are also insulting me. Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. They give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises. May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other-each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 15:1-6
Sweet Ones, this all begins within our homes. If our relationship with Christ is where it should be, then our desire to please Him, will overflow onto our families and others.
Be a listener and helper to someone in need today.
S-Share the gifts God has given you to bless another of His today.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Shout It Out!
Hey!
Lets get excited about Jesus today, what do you say?
How do we do that?
Think about all the good things He does every second for you!!!
Come on, just shout a few praises, and when people come running in or look at you, just keep on shoutin'. He's worth it!!
Heck, they might even join you!!
(I'll start). GOD IS AMAAAAAZING!
GOD IS MY HERO, REDEEMER, AND SAVIOR!!
Oh, and just so you know I really did scream those outside my house today, I even had Avery, Dax and their best friend T do it with me!
It rocked!!
Monday, August 12, 2013
What Kind of Friends Do You Have? What Kind of Friend Are You?
S-Accountable
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's gift of freedom
L-To Hold Accountable
"Dear brothers and sisters, if another Christian is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself." Galatians 6:1
As the Body of Christ we are called to help one another, to hold one another accountable and to encourage one another.
This passage can be a very touchy passage for some, because not everyone wants to be held accountable.
Let me ask you, the friends you are surround yourself with, are they followers of Christ? Do they hold you accountable or do they encourage you in your sin?
A true friend whose desire is to honor and serve the Lord will keep you accountable to His Word and His ways. If they see you struggling with a sin, whether it be gossip, pride, greed, jealousy, envy, addiction, anger, drunkenness, selfishness, etc. they will tell you! They will not agree with your behavior or decision.
Do your friends do this for you or do they partake in the sin with you? Maybe these are the friends you want, and if so, brethren understand they are doing more harm than they are good.
Do your friends push you to be better for Christ everyday? If your answer is no, pray and ask God to bring new godly friends into your life and to weed out the bad ones. He will do it!!
What about you? What kind of friend are you? Are you one that holds your brother and sister accountable in a gentle and humble manner, or do you agree with them because you don't want to upset them?
Sweet one, its not easy holding a brother or sister accountable, believe me I know, but in the end, it's what a true friend and a true follower of Christ does. Because its biblical and beneficial to the Body of Christ.
Before you approach them, spend time in prayer! Ask the Lord to give you discernment, understanding and wisdom to know how and what to say.
And always make sure you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you and speak through you.
It's also a good thing to make sure that your motives are pure not selfish.
If you have a godly friend that you know lives to please The Lord, ask them to help keep you accountable. And when they do, listen to them, don't get mad, defensive, or upset, rather thank them and pray about it.
Lets strengthen the Body of Christ not tear it down, or watch it fall apart because we were to afraid to say something.
S-Share with The Lord areas you would like to be held accountable and them allow Him and a godly friend to hold you accountable.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Altar Sunday
"The Lord helps the fallen and lifts up those bent beneath their loads" Psalm 145:14
Are you bent beneath your load, sweet one?
If so, there is a place at the altar for you to lay them before the Lord. He promises to lift you up, remove your load and take it upon Himself.
Will you give your burdens to Jesus today?
Find rest in Him.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
What's Your Percentage
What type of relationship do you have with Christ?
IF it were based on a percentage between 1 and 100, and a balanced relationship was 50/50, how would you rate your relationship with Christ?
What percentage do you bring to it?
He brings 100% at all times!
Friday, August 9, 2013
How Invested are You?
When Jesus said I want a relationship with you, He didn't say He wanted a casual or half hearted one.
He said, "I want ALL of you!"
"Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind." Matthew 22:37
Does Jesus have all of you?
Thursday, August 8, 2013
3 Things Not to Do
S-Let's Us Not
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Freedom from Sin's Control
L-3 Things Not To Do
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Freedom from Sin's Control
L-3 Things Not To Do
"Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another." Galatians 5:26
Conceited-excessively proud of oneself; vain
Irritate-to make someone annoyed, impatient, or angry.
Jealous-feeling or showing envy of someone or their achievements and advantages.
What do these three things have in common? They are all apart of our sinful nature. They all come from the root of insecurity, and the need for attention.
Why else would we need to act on them, if we didn't desire the praise of man.
When we can get to the point where we allow the Holy Spirit to lead, and we know who we are in Christ and that are security, confidence, strength and approval is for Him, about Him and because of Him, then we won't have that need to fulfill our sinful nature.
So tell me brethren, is this a struggle of yours? Has it become something that is so apart of you, you don't even realize how much it has taken root?
"Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don't think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing." Philippians 2:3-4
If so, it's never to late to confess it before the Lord, nail it to the Cross and die to it once and for all.
S-Rather than vie for the attention of man, seek the approval of God.
Why else would we need to act on them, if we didn't desire the praise of man.
When we can get to the point where we allow the Holy Spirit to lead, and we know who we are in Christ and that are security, confidence, strength and approval is for Him, about Him and because of Him, then we won't have that need to fulfill our sinful nature.
So tell me brethren, is this a struggle of yours? Has it become something that is so apart of you, you don't even realize how much it has taken root?
"Don't be selfish; don't live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don't think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing." Philippians 2:3-4
If so, it's never to late to confess it before the Lord, nail it to the Cross and die to it once and for all.
S-Rather than vie for the attention of man, seek the approval of God.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
It's the Greatest News EVER!
S-It's the greatest news today.
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Freedom From Sin's Control
L-He Destroyed It!!!
"If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirits leading in every part of our lives." Galatians 5:25
If we, who are in Christ Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit allow Him complete control of our lives, our thoughts will be more on Him than on ourselves. Our desires will be to please Him, not our sinful nature. If the Holy Spirit is in control our lifestyle will reflect that of Christ Jesus. We will be loving, kind, patient, gentle, express self-control, etc. It will not be that of our old way of life. This can only be done by the power of the Holy Spirit. We are unable to do it in our own human nature. It's impossible with out Christ!!
But here is the greatest news ever, "God destroyed sin's control over us by giving His Son as a sacrifice for our sins." Romans 8:3
Because of God's love for us, He destroyed sin's control over us by the blood of His Son. Do you understand how great of a sacrifice that was?
Are you living in that freedom today?
Oh, sweet one there is nothing greater than walking in the freedom of Christ's love and mercy. Sin no longer has control over us who are in Christ Jesus.
Let's be living examples of Christ's love and sacrifice by letting the Holy Spirit be in control of our lives.
S-Share the importance of the Holy Spirit with someone today. Tell them what God did for us when He sent His One and Only Son, Jesus to die for us and destroy sin's control over us. Then rejoice and give thanks for God's loving kindness.
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Freedom From Sin's Control
L-He Destroyed It!!!
"If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirits leading in every part of our lives." Galatians 5:25
If we, who are in Christ Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit allow Him complete control of our lives, our thoughts will be more on Him than on ourselves. Our desires will be to please Him, not our sinful nature. If the Holy Spirit is in control our lifestyle will reflect that of Christ Jesus. We will be loving, kind, patient, gentle, express self-control, etc. It will not be that of our old way of life. This can only be done by the power of the Holy Spirit. We are unable to do it in our own human nature. It's impossible with out Christ!!
But here is the greatest news ever, "God destroyed sin's control over us by giving His Son as a sacrifice for our sins." Romans 8:3
Because of God's love for us, He destroyed sin's control over us by the blood of His Son. Do you understand how great of a sacrifice that was?
Are you living in that freedom today?
Oh, sweet one there is nothing greater than walking in the freedom of Christ's love and mercy. Sin no longer has control over us who are in Christ Jesus.
Let's be living examples of Christ's love and sacrifice by letting the Holy Spirit be in control of our lives.
S-Share the importance of the Holy Spirit with someone today. Tell them what God did for us when He sent His One and Only Son, Jesus to die for us and destroy sin's control over us. Then rejoice and give thanks for God's loving kindness.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Nailed It!
S-Nailing it to the Cross
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Gift of Freedom
L-Crucify It
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there." Galatians 5:24
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Gift of Freedom
L-Crucify It
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there." Galatians 5:24
When Christ becomes the center of our life, and we have given Him complete control, we no longer desire to feed our sinful nature. Rather, we take each sin and nail them to the cross, one by one.
Brethren, Jesus was willing to die for our sins, let's be willing to die to them too. We must be willing to crucify our sins daily, because we sin daily.
Do you have a sin you are still holding on too? One that you have tried to lay down, but found that you picked it up as you left the altar.
There is a big difference between laying a sin down and nailing a sin to the cross.
Do you know the difference?
Brethren, it's never to late to nail your sinful nature and passions to the cross.
And there will never be a greater feeling of freedom than when you do.
S-Share with Christ the sins you are struggling with and ask Him to help you nail them to the cross once and for all.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Real Questions-Real Answers
"Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 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 28:18-20
Okay so I really need to ask, in hopes of some really honest answers from you.
How are you meeting the needs of those outside your family, the Church and those within your church?
How are you investing in the lives of those who are lost?
Are you able to put aside your selfish desires and wants in order to serve the least of His?
How often do you think of those who are lost and broken? If you do, are you using every opportunity to share Jesus with them?
Finally...
Are you taking an active role within your Church, or, are you a pew filler?
Jesus through Your Word we are learning there really are a rare few of those who have counted the cost and are following You. May those rare few be us. May we be living reflections of You that go out and make disciples of all nations. Let us not just talk the talk, Jesus, anyone can do that. May we actually walk and live out Your Word. Father, so many will be caught of guard, so many will hear, depart from Me I never knew you. Let that not be said of us. Amen
Okay so I really need to ask, in hopes of some really honest answers from you.
How are you meeting the needs of those outside your family, the Church and those within your church?
How are you investing in the lives of those who are lost?
Are you able to put aside your selfish desires and wants in order to serve the least of His?
How often do you think of those who are lost and broken? If you do, are you using every opportunity to share Jesus with them?
Finally...
Are you taking an active role within your Church, or, are you a pew filler?
Jesus through Your Word we are learning there really are a rare few of those who have counted the cost and are following You. May those rare few be us. May we be living reflections of You that go out and make disciples of all nations. Let us not just talk the talk, Jesus, anyone can do that. May we actually walk and live out Your Word. Father, so many will be caught of guard, so many will hear, depart from Me I never knew you. Let that not be said of us. Amen
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Altar Sunday
Do you have some business that needs to be handled with The Lord today?
If so, may the Altar be your place of meeting.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
60 Ways I Love You
1. I love your hunger and desire for Jesus
2. I love your heart for others
3. I love your devotion to your family
4. I love your passion for God's Word
5. I love that you always seek to be a peacemaker
6. I love your smile
7. I LOVE your laugh
8. I love your outlook on life-it inspires me
9. I love that you are always positive
10. I love that you have every one's best interest at heart, no matter what.
11. I love your energy
12. I love how you always listen, even if it is the same thing over and over.
13. I love how you always take a stand for Jesus
14. I love the wisdom that Jesus has filled you with
15. I love that you are always encouraging us
16. I love how you have believe in us, even when others didn't or don't
17. I love how humble you are
18. I love your love for farm life and chickens (I share that passion with you)
19. I love how excited you get about your cows and ducks and warm sunny days.
20. I love that you can grow the best garden...EVER
21. I love the time we spend together at Christmas making divinity and how much we laugh while we are doing it and that one spoonful never makes the paper, always our mouths.
22. I love your kindness
23. I love that you are always giving up yourself and time for those in need.
24. I love that in 33 years of my life, you have never once complained.
25. I love how much you love daddy
26. I love the relationship you have with him, and you both taught and showed us the importance of having a godly marriage.
27. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the way you love each of your grand babies.
28. I love how you make them each feel like they are special, important, smart, funny, and that they matter and have a purpose.
29. I love how you comfort us
30. I love how you always drop everything to come be with us, even if it is not the best time. You have always put us first.
31. I love your passion for prayer
32. I love how simple you are
33. I love how beautiful you are inside and out
34. I love that you always pull back the covers when we come home to snuggle.
35. I love how unbelievable patient you are.
36. I love how you love our husbands as though you birthed them yourself.
37. I love your ability to do whatever is needed in order to make it better for us.
38. I love how protective you are.
39. I love that you hold us accountable at all times
40. I love how good you always smell
41. I love that you were able to be a mommy and best friend all at the same time, without ever mixing the two.
42. I love your creativity
43. I love how you always prayed with us when our tummies hurt and how you and daddy would rotate shifts being with us at night.
44. I love that your main goal in life was that we spent eternity in heaven.
45. I love how you always open your home to those who don't have one
46. I love your strength
47. I love your concern for the lost
48. I love your homemade chicken noodle soup
49. I love that daddy is your best friend and favorite person ever
50. I love that you love putting puzzles together with me every Christmas
51. I love that we both love to be warm and sit by the fire.
52. I love how much I am like you
53. I love that every time I call you, you always answer, "Hi baby." and how good it makes me feel every time.
54. I love how you get me and understand me when I feel like no one else does.
55. I love how you stuck by me even when I made horrible decisions.
56. I love how you always disciplined us because you loved us and wanted nothing but the absolute best for us.
57. I love that when I look at you I see the most beautiful woman who has the cross etched within her.
58. I love that you are always honest and real. There has never been an ounce of fakeness within you.
59. I love that I get to spend forever and ever and ever with you in heaven
60. And finally, mama I love that Jesus chose YOU to be my mommy.
Happy Happy Birthday. May this day be filled with so much love your heart overflows.
Friday, August 2, 2013
Is Your Produce Fresh?
S-Is This Your Produce?
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Fresh or Rotten
Fresh produce can only come from the richest most fertile soil. The only way to achieve that rich fertile soil is by allowing the Holy Spirit to till up the hard ground within your heart and then replace it with soil that produces only the freshest of produce;
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" Galatians 5:22-23
Do you have some hardness within your heart that is keeping the roots from spreading down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love?
When the Holy Spirit is in control, our lives will produce love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is impossible for the Holy Spirit to produce anything other than the absolute best produce.
Do others see the fresh produce or the rotten produce?
Who do you allow to be in control, your sinful nature or the Holy Spirit?
You can always tell the answer to this question, by what is in your thoughts, speech, and actions.
Turn from your sinful nature and turn to Christ. Let Him fill you with the Holy Spirit who will produce within you the freshest, sweetest, and most nurturing produce there is.
S-Share your heart with Christ and let Him till up the hard ground in your heart.
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Fresh or Rotten
Fresh produce can only come from the richest most fertile soil. The only way to achieve that rich fertile soil is by allowing the Holy Spirit to till up the hard ground within your heart and then replace it with soil that produces only the freshest of produce;
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" Galatians 5:22-23
Do you have some hardness within your heart that is keeping the roots from spreading down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love?
When the Holy Spirit is in control, our lives will produce love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It is impossible for the Holy Spirit to produce anything other than the absolute best produce.
Do others see the fresh produce or the rotten produce?
Who do you allow to be in control, your sinful nature or the Holy Spirit?
You can always tell the answer to this question, by what is in your thoughts, speech, and actions.
Turn from your sinful nature and turn to Christ. Let Him fill you with the Holy Spirit who will produce within you the freshest, sweetest, and most nurturing produce there is.
S-Share your heart with Christ and let Him till up the hard ground in your heart.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
What Does Your Produce Look Like?
S-What Are You Producing?
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Fresh or Rotten?
"When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, your lives will produce these evil results: sexual immorality, impure thoughts, eagerness for lustful pleasure, idolatry, participation in demonic activities, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, divisions, the feeling that everyone is wrong except those in your own little group, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other kinds of sin. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God." Galatians 5:19-21
When our lives are filled with this type of living do you know what we produce?
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Fresh or Rotten?
"When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, your lives will produce these evil results: sexual immorality, impure thoughts, eagerness for lustful pleasure, idolatry, participation in demonic activities, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, divisions, the feeling that everyone is wrong except those in your own little group, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other kinds of sin. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God." Galatians 5:19-21
When our lives are filled with this type of living do you know what we produce?
Rotten fruit. And all it starts on the inside.
Brethren, if you saw one of these apples, you would never pick it up and buy it, would you? No, yet we do it everyday when we choose to follow the desires of our sinful nature.
We never have to ask if we are producing evil rotten fruit, it shows. It shows in our speech, our thoughts, our attitudes, and in our actions.
Brethren, only Christ can clean up the rotten within us. We can't do it without Him, nor should we try. Nor should we continue to live like this, because God says very specifically, "Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God." Galatians 5:21
There is nothing in all the world that can ever satisfy you like Christ can. Don't miss out on eternity, because you were to busy feeding your flesh with the things that lead to death.
S-Look through this list again, and as you do, ask Christ to show you the areas where bad fruit is being produced. As He reveals each one to you, confess them before Him, set yourself and fleshly desires aside and let the Holy Spirit take control.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Think About the Effect Before the Choice is Made
S-Live According To Your New Life
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Free Gift of Freedom
L-You Are Never Free From This Conflict
"So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. The old sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just opposite from what the Holy Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this conflict. But when you are directed by the Holy Spirit, you are no longer subject to the law." Galatians 5:16-18
He is four, yet so wise for his age. His struggle to comprehend what Christ does when He takes residency within him, leaves him frustrated and sad at times.
He struggles with making the right decisions. Therefore leaving him to question if Jesus is really even in his heart.
We have these conversations often.
"Mommy, I just don't know how to be good."
"Mommy, I just don't want the devil to be alive, I don't like it, it makes me so sad. "
"Mommy, I know Jesus is in my heart, but I just can't be good."
"Mommy, I just need someone to help me."
These words pour out of the mouth of our sweet four year old. They are heartbreaking, hard, real, challenging, eye-opening, and push us to our knees together often.
He is curious, He wants details, He has questions, He has a vulnerable heart. A strong willed nature. He has a mind that remembers EVERYTHING. He soaks everything in. He meditates and chews on all of it.
As we read stories in the Bible he asks questions and makes comments that literally amaze me and my husband.
He never wants to close the Bible until he has asked every question possible. His desire to understand and know is beyond comprehension.
So as I approached this passage, we began to talk. We have more grown up talks then we do mommy son talks. He challenges me, brethren.
Choosing Jesus and good decisions is a choice. It's one we will have to do until Jesus takes us home. But we don't have to do it alone, the Holy Spirit helps us. Jesus sent help!
The most powerful help there is.
This brings a calmness and peace to his little heart. It reassures me that he gets it. We remind him often that Jesus will help him, but he has to do his part, he has to make the choice to do right. And he can because of the Holy Spirit living within him. But he has to understand, if he seeks to be good on his own human effort, he will fail every time. But if he seeks the help of the Holy Spirit and allows Him to be in control, he will be able to resist bad choices and produce fruit. (Everyday we learn and talk about the effect our choices have on us, others, and on Jesus. This helps him understand and think about the effects and what choice would be the best, Jesus pleasing choice. This is a work in progress for all four of us.)
Brethren, this is something we all struggle with, whether we are 4, 44, 54, 64, or 84. The choice! Today, will I choose to live according to my new life in the Holy Spirit, or will I choose to do what my sinful nature desires. Will I seek to be good by my own human efforts or by the power of the Holy Spirit?
Sadly there are more that choose their sinful nature than the power of the Holy Spirit.
Do you know how much power is in the word "Choice?" More than we will ever be able to grasp.
Everyday we are given choices and every choice has a powerful effect!
The choice to love or hate
The choice to serve or be served
The choice to forgive or not to forgive
The choice to be angry or nice
The choice to be happy or joyful
The choice to gossip or build others up
The choice to obey or not to obey
The choice to be good stewards or greedy
The choice to be humble or greedy
The choice to use speak truth or lies
The choice to be merciful or merciless
The choice to be kind or hurtful
The choice to be humble or prideful
The choice to selfish or selfless
The choice to be first or last
The choice to praise or complain
The choice to be negative or positive
The choice to trust or doubt
The choice to be faithful or unfaithful
The choice to give or take
The choice to choose Jesus or deny Jesus
The choice to work hard or be lazy
The choice to be bitter or let go
The choice to hold records of wrong or to extend grace
The choice to want or be grateful
The choice to be free or live in enslaved
The choice to pure or impure
The choice to be used or useless
The choice to share the truth or not share the truth
The choice to reflect Christ or reflect the world
The choice to stand out or blend in
The choice to be transparent or fake
The choice to quarrel or be a peacemaker
The choice to want or be content
The choice to gripe or be grateful
The choice to give life or take life
The choice to be jealous or confident
The choice to be insecure or secure in Christ
The choice to be weak in flesh or strong in Christ
The choice to busy or available for Him
The choice to put self first or Christ first
The choice to commit or not commit
"And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this conflict." Galatians 5:17
What does your life produce?
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Free Gift of Freedom
L-You Are Never Free From This Conflict
"So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. The old sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just opposite from what the Holy Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this conflict. But when you are directed by the Holy Spirit, you are no longer subject to the law." Galatians 5:16-18
He is four, yet so wise for his age. His struggle to comprehend what Christ does when He takes residency within him, leaves him frustrated and sad at times.
He struggles with making the right decisions. Therefore leaving him to question if Jesus is really even in his heart.
We have these conversations often.
"Mommy, I just don't know how to be good."
"Mommy, I just don't want the devil to be alive, I don't like it, it makes me so sad. "
"Mommy, I know Jesus is in my heart, but I just can't be good."
"Mommy, I just need someone to help me."
These words pour out of the mouth of our sweet four year old. They are heartbreaking, hard, real, challenging, eye-opening, and push us to our knees together often.
He is curious, He wants details, He has questions, He has a vulnerable heart. A strong willed nature. He has a mind that remembers EVERYTHING. He soaks everything in. He meditates and chews on all of it.
As we read stories in the Bible he asks questions and makes comments that literally amaze me and my husband.
He never wants to close the Bible until he has asked every question possible. His desire to understand and know is beyond comprehension.
So as I approached this passage, we began to talk. We have more grown up talks then we do mommy son talks. He challenges me, brethren.
Choosing Jesus and good decisions is a choice. It's one we will have to do until Jesus takes us home. But we don't have to do it alone, the Holy Spirit helps us. Jesus sent help!
The most powerful help there is.
This brings a calmness and peace to his little heart. It reassures me that he gets it. We remind him often that Jesus will help him, but he has to do his part, he has to make the choice to do right. And he can because of the Holy Spirit living within him. But he has to understand, if he seeks to be good on his own human effort, he will fail every time. But if he seeks the help of the Holy Spirit and allows Him to be in control, he will be able to resist bad choices and produce fruit. (Everyday we learn and talk about the effect our choices have on us, others, and on Jesus. This helps him understand and think about the effects and what choice would be the best, Jesus pleasing choice. This is a work in progress for all four of us.)
Brethren, this is something we all struggle with, whether we are 4, 44, 54, 64, or 84. The choice! Today, will I choose to live according to my new life in the Holy Spirit, or will I choose to do what my sinful nature desires. Will I seek to be good by my own human efforts or by the power of the Holy Spirit?
Sadly there are more that choose their sinful nature than the power of the Holy Spirit.
Do you know how much power is in the word "Choice?" More than we will ever be able to grasp.
Everyday we are given choices and every choice has a powerful effect!
The choice to love or hate
The choice to serve or be served
The choice to forgive or not to forgive
The choice to be angry or nice
The choice to be happy or joyful
The choice to gossip or build others up
The choice to obey or not to obey
The choice to be good stewards or greedy
The choice to be humble or greedy
The choice to use speak truth or lies
The choice to be merciful or merciless
The choice to be kind or hurtful
The choice to be humble or prideful
The choice to selfish or selfless
The choice to be first or last
The choice to praise or complain
The choice to be negative or positive
The choice to trust or doubt
The choice to be faithful or unfaithful
The choice to give or take
The choice to choose Jesus or deny Jesus
The choice to work hard or be lazy
The choice to be bitter or let go
The choice to hold records of wrong or to extend grace
The choice to want or be grateful
The choice to be free or live in enslaved
The choice to pure or impure
The choice to be used or useless
The choice to share the truth or not share the truth
The choice to reflect Christ or reflect the world
The choice to stand out or blend in
The choice to be transparent or fake
The choice to quarrel or be a peacemaker
The choice to want or be content
The choice to gripe or be grateful
The choice to give life or take life
The choice to be jealous or confident
The choice to be insecure or secure in Christ
The choice to be weak in flesh or strong in Christ
The choice to busy or available for Him
The choice to put self first or Christ first
The choice to commit or not commit
"And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this conflict." Galatians 5:17
What does your life produce?
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
A HUGE Difference
S-A Call to Freedom
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's gift of freedom
L-The Difference in the Two
"For you have been called to live in freedom-not freedom to satisfy your sinful nature, but freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command; "Love your neighbor as yourself." But if instead of showing love among yourselves you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another." Galatians 5:13-15
Oh mercy, the conviction in these three verses. God knew, on this side of the Cross, that we would struggle with this.
Sweet One, the freedom God called us to, is the freedom to live for Him with no more condemnation, guilt or shame. It is also the freedom to love, to serve, to praise Him, to glorify Him, and to walk in His grace.
When we live in freedom of sin, we enslave ourselves to the sin and Satan. How? Think about a sin you struggle with. Whether it be, greed, jealousy, gossip, selfishness, laziness, shopping, bitterness, anger, pride, adultery, addiction, or whatever you feed your flesh with, it has enslaved you. You are in bondage to it. This is not what God has called you to.
God set you free from those things when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for you. He has given you the key to unlock the chains, to open the door to the prison cell you are in. Take it brethren, and when you do, make sure you leave all the sin behind you.
Now that we have been set free, let's live in the right freedom, the freedom God intended for us. The freedom to serve one another in love.
The word love, spoken in verses 13 and 14 mean "agape." A friend of ours describes these passages this way.
"I like to explain it this way. It is turning the direction of my love toward the direction of my love toward the other person. It's putting their needs first of course, but it's more than just that. It's pointing our love at them, and a good way to know where you're love is pointed is that your criticism is usually pointed the opposite direction. If my love is pointed at my wife, then I will be quicker to extend grace her direction, and criticism to myself. If that's backwards, then I have a problem."
Let those words sink in a minute. Convicted? So was I.
Let's seek the face of Christ and make sure we are living in the right freedom.
S-Serve others in love today, and lay down the desire to be critical.
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's gift of freedom
L-The Difference in the Two
"For you have been called to live in freedom-not freedom to satisfy your sinful nature, but freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command; "Love your neighbor as yourself." But if instead of showing love among yourselves you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another." Galatians 5:13-15
Oh mercy, the conviction in these three verses. God knew, on this side of the Cross, that we would struggle with this.
Sweet One, the freedom God called us to, is the freedom to live for Him with no more condemnation, guilt or shame. It is also the freedom to love, to serve, to praise Him, to glorify Him, and to walk in His grace.
When we live in freedom of sin, we enslave ourselves to the sin and Satan. How? Think about a sin you struggle with. Whether it be, greed, jealousy, gossip, selfishness, laziness, shopping, bitterness, anger, pride, adultery, addiction, or whatever you feed your flesh with, it has enslaved you. You are in bondage to it. This is not what God has called you to.
God set you free from those things when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for you. He has given you the key to unlock the chains, to open the door to the prison cell you are in. Take it brethren, and when you do, make sure you leave all the sin behind you.
Now that we have been set free, let's live in the right freedom, the freedom God intended for us. The freedom to serve one another in love.
The word love, spoken in verses 13 and 14 mean "agape." A friend of ours describes these passages this way.
"I like to explain it this way. It is turning the direction of my love toward the direction of my love toward the other person. It's putting their needs first of course, but it's more than just that. It's pointing our love at them, and a good way to know where you're love is pointed is that your criticism is usually pointed the opposite direction. If my love is pointed at my wife, then I will be quicker to extend grace her direction, and criticism to myself. If that's backwards, then I have a problem."
Let those words sink in a minute. Convicted? So was I.
Let's seek the face of Christ and make sure we are living in the right freedom.
S-Serve others in love today, and lay down the desire to be critical.
Monday, July 29, 2013
In It's Formless State, You saw It's Beauty
Here it is, in the rarest of forms, laid out before You. Broken, vulnerable, empty, a formless mass.
Though we can't see past what it appears before us, You can. You see the potential that lies within it.
You see the beauty it soon will be.
You know all that You fill with it, and all the world will fill it with.
There will be moments of sadness, anger, joy, hope, love, even rejection along with many more emotions experienced.
You Lord, You know its smallest details, thoughts, decisions, and choices.
And You loved it anyway.
It didn't stop You from shaping it, molding it, creating it.
Your attention to detail is beyond what our human eyes can obtain.
Your creativity is marvelous.
The power in Your voice that tells it what to do, is earth shaking.
The way You hover, reveals Your protective nature.
You have thought each step through. You have planned and organized every detail ahead of time.
The love and emotion You bring and place within it, is Your very image itself.
The covering You place upon it, in it, and around it, is the very sacrifice of Your only Son. In that alone reveals Your very character, mercy, love, and desire for fellowship.
With each completion, You stepped back to evaluate what You had done, and it pleased You. A smile formed up Your face and an overflowing joy, shook the heavens.
It's completion will be final, upon Your return, where then, it will rise up and be in Your very presence forever.
Though we can't see past what it appears before us, You can. You see the potential that lies within it.
You see the beauty it soon will be.
You know all that You fill with it, and all the world will fill it with.
There will be moments of sadness, anger, joy, hope, love, even rejection along with many more emotions experienced.
You Lord, You know its smallest details, thoughts, decisions, and choices.
And You loved it anyway.
It didn't stop You from shaping it, molding it, creating it.
Your attention to detail is beyond what our human eyes can obtain.
Your creativity is marvelous.
The power in Your voice that tells it what to do, is earth shaking.
The way You hover, reveals Your protective nature.
You have thought each step through. You have planned and organized every detail ahead of time.
The love and emotion You bring and place within it, is Your very image itself.
The covering You place upon it, in it, and around it, is the very sacrifice of Your only Son. In that alone reveals Your very character, mercy, love, and desire for fellowship.
With each completion, You stepped back to evaluate what You had done, and it pleased You. A smile formed up Your face and an overflowing joy, shook the heavens.
It's completion will be final, upon Your return, where then, it will rise up and be in Your very presence forever.
"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.
15
You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion,
as I was woven together in the dark of the womb.
16
You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed." Psalm 139:13-16
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Altar Sunday
Do you have a relationship that is coming between the relationship you should be having with Christ?
If so, lay it at the altar today and begin the relationship God so desires to have with you.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
How Would You Describe Your Relationship
"God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:9
Do you listen when He speaks?
Do you enjoy the things He enjoys?
Do find Joy in what He finds joy in?
Or is the relationship all about you?
Brethren, it is an honor to be in a relationship with Jesus. It is the one relationship we don't deserve, but should desire to have more than any other relationship.
Let's seek to be a better partner for Christ than we have in the past.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Persecuted for Speaking the Truth
S-Press On
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Persecuted for Speaking the Truth
When the truth of God's Word is spoken, many will be offended.
"Dear brothers and sisters, if I were still preaching that you must be circumcised-as some say I do-why would the Jews persecute me? The fact that I am still being persecuted proves that I am still preaching salvation through the cross of Christ alone. I only wish that those troublemakers who want to mutilate you by circumcision would mutilate themselves." Galatians 5:11-12
Are we willing to endure persecution, rejection, even death for Christ? Paul was, and many despised him because he spoke opposite of them.
There will come a day, when we, followers of Jesus Christ, will be persecuted. For some of us today, we have faced rejection from loved ones, because we stand for Christ. I say to you, sweet one, keep standing for Christ. No matter the difficulty, no matter the isolation you feel, remain faithful.
God is faithful and true. He is a just God. He is a God who saved us and is worthy of our devotion and praise. He is a committed God who is with us. We must remain in Him and draw near to Him.
"Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Brethren, many will find what we teach and preach about Christ to be foolish. Some will mock us, some will reject us, some will persecute us, but we must press on, just as Paul did.
S-Share the truth of the Good News with all who will listen, no matter the outcome of those who don't believe.
S-"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1
A-God's Grace
L-Persecuted for Speaking the Truth
When the truth of God's Word is spoken, many will be offended.
"Dear brothers and sisters, if I were still preaching that you must be circumcised-as some say I do-why would the Jews persecute me? The fact that I am still being persecuted proves that I am still preaching salvation through the cross of Christ alone. I only wish that those troublemakers who want to mutilate you by circumcision would mutilate themselves." Galatians 5:11-12
Are we willing to endure persecution, rejection, even death for Christ? Paul was, and many despised him because he spoke opposite of them.
There will come a day, when we, followers of Jesus Christ, will be persecuted. For some of us today, we have faced rejection from loved ones, because we stand for Christ. I say to you, sweet one, keep standing for Christ. No matter the difficulty, no matter the isolation you feel, remain faithful.
God is faithful and true. He is a just God. He is a God who saved us and is worthy of our devotion and praise. He is a committed God who is with us. We must remain in Him and draw near to Him.
"Study this Book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed. I command you-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Brethren, many will find what we teach and preach about Christ to be foolish. Some will mock us, some will reject us, some will persecute us, but we must press on, just as Paul did.
S-Share the truth of the Good News with all who will listen, no matter the outcome of those who don't believe.
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