As we close out 2013, I look back.
All things point to this being my most difficult year ever. If I would have planned out this year, nothing that happened would have happened. Heck, I could have lost my life to a pulmonary embolism. But as I look back, it's hard for me to say this was in fact the most difficult year ever. Why? Because I had Jesus.
Let's look at the positive rather than the negative. I SURVIVED a major surgery. I SURVIVED a pulmonary embolism. I SURVIVED getting through it without the one I loved the most. In 2012, I was hospitalized for 8 weeks total. In 2013, I was hospitalized for 5 weeks total. That's an improvement, right? Right. And here I am the last day of the year about to close a huge chapter in my life and enter a new one. Every day I wake up with a song playing on repeat in my head. Todays was "This is the first day of the rest of your life... it's gonna be alright."
And alright it will be.
The past years I have looked ahead saying "This is going to be MY year." Or "This is going to be OUR year." This year I'm not saying it's mine or not mine. I'm not saying it's anything. All 2014 is is a new calendar... and none of the boxes on there are guaranteed. That's what this year showed me. We can fill up those boxes all we want, write something in them to plan months ahead... but plans change, people change and you just never know.
So I thank God for each box that is behind me and each new one He brings forth carrying me through. It's not the number of boxes/dates on a calendar we walk through, it's not even what is written in them... it's the substance within that you can't see. It's having Jesus in your heart knowing that no matter how many days you are given and what those days hold, you're going to be alright.
This isn't going to fit with all I'm writing here. It's going to sound out of place because it is. But it's something I wanted to share so I'm adding it in. At the end of 2012, a year ago, I thought about what my new year's resolution would be, just like everyone else. I decided to turn inward spiritually, instead of outward worldly in making that determination. My new year's resolution was to dedicate one day, each day, to someone I knew... and to pray for them that day, in addition to any other prayers. I am happy to say, today on December 31, 2013, is the first year I fully completed a new year's resolution. Even the days spent in the hospital, there wasn't one that past that I didn't dedicate and pray for someone I knew. And if you are reading this, most likely you had a day dedicated to you without even knowing it.
In addition, I started a prayer journal. When a specific situation arose, I wrote down the person's name and my prayer for them. I admit I was not as dedicated to this as to my daily dedications/prayer, but I tried to do it whenever I remembered. Looking back, I wrote about 60-70 specific prayers. About 40-50 of them have been answered. That is amazing! Absolutely amazing! It is beautiful to visually see prayers getting answered. And the 20 or so that were not answered, looking at them, most of them I requested something in a specific time frame on those. It reminds me, this is not my time, it is God's time. God will answer prayers in His way at His time. We must adjust, we must believe and we must hold on to the hope He gives us.
As we close out 2013, I look back. As we close out 2013, I look forward. And most importantly, as we close out 2013, I look up. And that is where I find peace. May that peace be carried with you also to bring closure on your past, life into your present, and faith about your future. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Bells from Heaven
First, I am so sorry I completely forgot to post here to let you all know what's going on. If you want to be clued in please read http://chronicallycheerful.blogspot.com/2013/12/what-stress-does.html Long story short, and even shorter than that post that briefly explains, I may not be blogging often or at all for a while as I'm dealing with something. I will try my best to get on here.
Next, wow, God is amazing. Truly amazing. I felt the urge to get on here and write about it. I know if you're reading this you may not know what is going on in my life right now and I can't post it here unfortunately. But just know this, I am going through an incredibly hard struggle that I've been placed within, on top of my health. But as long as I stay with God I am ok, I'll be ok. I truly believe that.
So just to show some "God- moments" as proof of Him working wonderfully in my life... I no longer think there are such things as coincidence. Lately, it's just been too much happening that just has to be worked out by the hands of God.
Briefly, today I was sitting here, thinking to myself, gosh I wish I knew someone going through a similar situation that I could talk to. I must have a friend who has a friend dealing with something like that that they can get me in touch with. And then a specific friend's name popped into my head without thinking about it. At that exact moment, that exact friend messaged me. What did she message me? She wanted to introduce me to someone and that someone to me because she felt God calling her to do so- because of the situations we are both in. Wow. Super duper spine filled chills all over with that one. It gets even more "coicidental" for lack of better word, but I'll leave it at that. Even if myself and this other person don't end up getting in touch for whatever reason, God is truly at work here.
Here's another one. Some of my friends and some family members have been a HUGE encouragement and of support to me going through this. I am so absolutely blessed to have them in my life and thankful for their time and kind words and gestures. So thankful. There is one woman in particular who I felt a connection with before even talking to. I felt I needed to contact her for some reason without knowing the reason. This was a little while back. After hearing back from her the very first time, I knew it was again God at work. She is meant to be in my life right now. She has been SUCH an amazing blessing to me. Well today I typed something and moments later she told me she had just written out almost that exact thing in a letter to mail to me. God is trying to deliver a message and I believe it has been received, or is in the process of being received. She and all my other friends and family who have shown support have been the reason for this.
Lastly, I'm sitting here and yet another friend messages me... about angels... and this comes after another just recently told me that I am surrounded by angels of hope, of protection, of good health and of God's love. And again, at that moment, what do I hear? Bells ringing and immediately the thought of those bells coming from angels and from Heaven came to me. It most likely was the tv in the basement, but you know what? Maybe it wasn't. It was pretty loud to have been the tv in the basement when I'm on the 2nd floor upstairs. It's God. He's telling me "Don't worry child, I got this." Thank you, God! Thank you, Jesus!
Thank you to all who listen to the voice of God and deliver His message. After all, isn't that what it's all about? We as Christians must keep one another encouraged and close to Christ Jesus. Don't ever let one another give up, stay down or stray away. Always be of positive light, encouragement, hope and love.
Life is SO much better when you have God and Jesus on your side. For if God is for us who could be against us?
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31
Next, wow, God is amazing. Truly amazing. I felt the urge to get on here and write about it. I know if you're reading this you may not know what is going on in my life right now and I can't post it here unfortunately. But just know this, I am going through an incredibly hard struggle that I've been placed within, on top of my health. But as long as I stay with God I am ok, I'll be ok. I truly believe that.
So just to show some "God- moments" as proof of Him working wonderfully in my life... I no longer think there are such things as coincidence. Lately, it's just been too much happening that just has to be worked out by the hands of God.
Briefly, today I was sitting here, thinking to myself, gosh I wish I knew someone going through a similar situation that I could talk to. I must have a friend who has a friend dealing with something like that that they can get me in touch with. And then a specific friend's name popped into my head without thinking about it. At that exact moment, that exact friend messaged me. What did she message me? She wanted to introduce me to someone and that someone to me because she felt God calling her to do so- because of the situations we are both in. Wow. Super duper spine filled chills all over with that one. It gets even more "coicidental" for lack of better word, but I'll leave it at that. Even if myself and this other person don't end up getting in touch for whatever reason, God is truly at work here.
Here's another one. Some of my friends and some family members have been a HUGE encouragement and of support to me going through this. I am so absolutely blessed to have them in my life and thankful for their time and kind words and gestures. So thankful. There is one woman in particular who I felt a connection with before even talking to. I felt I needed to contact her for some reason without knowing the reason. This was a little while back. After hearing back from her the very first time, I knew it was again God at work. She is meant to be in my life right now. She has been SUCH an amazing blessing to me. Well today I typed something and moments later she told me she had just written out almost that exact thing in a letter to mail to me. God is trying to deliver a message and I believe it has been received, or is in the process of being received. She and all my other friends and family who have shown support have been the reason for this.
Lastly, I'm sitting here and yet another friend messages me... about angels... and this comes after another just recently told me that I am surrounded by angels of hope, of protection, of good health and of God's love. And again, at that moment, what do I hear? Bells ringing and immediately the thought of those bells coming from angels and from Heaven came to me. It most likely was the tv in the basement, but you know what? Maybe it wasn't. It was pretty loud to have been the tv in the basement when I'm on the 2nd floor upstairs. It's God. He's telling me "Don't worry child, I got this." Thank you, God! Thank you, Jesus!
Thank you to all who listen to the voice of God and deliver His message. After all, isn't that what it's all about? We as Christians must keep one another encouraged and close to Christ Jesus. Don't ever let one another give up, stay down or stray away. Always be of positive light, encouragement, hope and love.
Life is SO much better when you have God and Jesus on your side. For if God is for us who could be against us?
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Grace
"They don't deserve anything!"
"They deserve to go to hell!"
"They are the scum of all scum!"
"They are horrible people!"
"They have some serious problems and need help!"
What do you think of those statements? They are quite harsh aren't they? I think so. And yet I can bet the majority of people have said one of these or something along these lines many times in life. Why?
Maybe they don't deserve anything.
Maybe they do deserve to go to hell.
Maybe they are scum in your eyes.
Maybe they are horrible people.
Maybe they do have serious problems and do need help.
You know what, though? Maybe you are/you do too. And that's not to be mean. We have such a subjective view, hypocritical, unfair and biased. We often think so highly of ourselves and our inner circle, but harshly of those with opposing views whether it be political, religious, personal, etc. when most of the time we don't truly know those people. We place judgement where judgement shouldn't be.
If you are human, you are a sinner. If you are human, you are not perfect. Without Jesus, we all deserve nothing, even worse, we deserve eternity in hell for all of our sins. We absolutely do not deserve Jesus to have nails pounded into him, suffering and dying on the cross for us.
That's where grace and mercy come in. We have a merciful God who blesses us tremendously with saving grace. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— Ephesians 2:8
Next time you start complaining about other people, calling someone a name, putting them down, stop. Just stop. Take a moment. Turn inward to yourself. Maybe you don't show the negative qualities they do, but you do have negative qualities even if they are different. Maybe you didn't commit the sin or crime they did, but you have sinned and done wrong. Maybe you are at a high place in your life, but at one point in the past or in the future you have and/or will be at a low point like maybe they are now.
What would happen if we all stopped pointing the finger? What would happen if we all strive to live as Jesus did and acted kindly no. matter. what. Not responding to what happens in a positive or negative way, but living in such a way to show kindness, love and compassion to all in every and any situation. Allowing our hearts to be transformed by the Holy Spirit.
Without Jesus, we are doomed. We will be cast away to hell for all eternity. We deserve nothing! And absolutely nothing we do can get us a place in Heaven because we could NEVER be good enough. But accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior is the only way into Heaven. Accept Him, pick up your cross, and carry it.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32
"They deserve to go to hell!"
"They are the scum of all scum!"
"They are horrible people!"
"They have some serious problems and need help!"
What do you think of those statements? They are quite harsh aren't they? I think so. And yet I can bet the majority of people have said one of these or something along these lines many times in life. Why?
Maybe they don't deserve anything.
Maybe they do deserve to go to hell.
Maybe they are scum in your eyes.
Maybe they are horrible people.
Maybe they do have serious problems and do need help.
You know what, though? Maybe you are/you do too. And that's not to be mean. We have such a subjective view, hypocritical, unfair and biased. We often think so highly of ourselves and our inner circle, but harshly of those with opposing views whether it be political, religious, personal, etc. when most of the time we don't truly know those people. We place judgement where judgement shouldn't be.
If you are human, you are a sinner. If you are human, you are not perfect. Without Jesus, we all deserve nothing, even worse, we deserve eternity in hell for all of our sins. We absolutely do not deserve Jesus to have nails pounded into him, suffering and dying on the cross for us.
That's where grace and mercy come in. We have a merciful God who blesses us tremendously with saving grace. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— Ephesians 2:8
Next time you start complaining about other people, calling someone a name, putting them down, stop. Just stop. Take a moment. Turn inward to yourself. Maybe you don't show the negative qualities they do, but you do have negative qualities even if they are different. Maybe you didn't commit the sin or crime they did, but you have sinned and done wrong. Maybe you are at a high place in your life, but at one point in the past or in the future you have and/or will be at a low point like maybe they are now.
What would happen if we all stopped pointing the finger? What would happen if we all strive to live as Jesus did and acted kindly no. matter. what. Not responding to what happens in a positive or negative way, but living in such a way to show kindness, love and compassion to all in every and any situation. Allowing our hearts to be transformed by the Holy Spirit.
Without Jesus, we are doomed. We will be cast away to hell for all eternity. We deserve nothing! And absolutely nothing we do can get us a place in Heaven because we could NEVER be good enough. But accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior is the only way into Heaven. Accept Him, pick up your cross, and carry it.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
What if you knew you were going to Hell?
It's been on my mind for a while now. Who am I writing this blog to? Who am I writing it for? Is it being delivered how God wants it to? I feel my thoughts get scattered and go off on tangents in different directions. I feel some of the message I write is for Christians, believers to stay on path with Christ. I feel much else of the message is for non-believers, those who don't have Christ. I pray that the message I write is inspired by God and that it touches the right person in the right way at the right time.
What is my purpose? Honestly, all I want is to fulfill both of those purposes mentioned above right there. I want to keep Christians, believers, on the path of Christ, as satan may often get in the way with temptation all around us. I want also to bring others to know Jesus, to lead them on the path of accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior. Within that right there, I feel it is so very important, yet unknown to many unbelievers, that they are in fact unbelievers. I know because I was there. Saying you are a Christian doesn't make you a Christian. Jesus makes you a Christian. You can't have Christianity without Christ; the name itself begins with Christ.
Why is this important? This is the most important thing in all of life, being a Christian. It is the most important thing because without Christ you will not, I repeat, you will not get to Heaven. I am saying this not from my own mouth but reiterating what is in the Bible. The ONLY, only way to Heaven is through Jesus. I encourage you if you haven't already, start reading the Bible. Don't be intimidated by its size or that you don't understand the words. I would encourage you to start in the New Testament, and also would encourage you to look up different translations of the Bible. I personally could not understand the King James Version. However, I find the New International Version and New Living Translation much easier to understand and both are often use within Christian churches. Also, I find God's Word and the Good News translations easy to understand. It is important that we find a version that we can understand, because we must understand the Word in order to be able to live it. Different versions do not mean different messages. The Bible is the Bible, period. However, just like we as humans talk differently, use different words, different languages, etc.. the Bible is in different translations so to give us a translation we can understand and relate to.
Being a Christian isn't a name tag, it's a life style, the only life style if you want to get to Heaven. Back up your declaration of being a Christian with actions. Profess with your mouth and believe with your heart that Jesus is Lord and you will be saved. It's not just believing in Jesus, it's trusting Him as your Lord and Savior, as your only pathway to Heaven... the way, the truth, the life.
I invite you to watch this video right here. It is under 15 minutes long and could be the most important 15 minutes of your life. Have you read the book "Heaven Is For Real"? It is about a young boy who during surgery went to Heaven and back. What an amazing testimony at such a young age. His father asked God, how could You do this to me? When we are in the moment of a trial, it is hard to see anything else besides the hardship we are dealing with. When we step outside, or when that trial has ended, we can see more clearly. God can see even clearer than that. He can perfectly see all things at all times, yes even what you try to hide from others. Perhaps his son's surgery and near death was not to harm them but to help them. They now have this powerful message to deliver to others, and I know in my heart it has helped others take that step needed to live a Christ filled life. And ultimately, that's what it's all about. Salvation of souls because this current life is just a short moment we're passing through compared to all eternity. Where do you want to spend your eternity? Please watch this video and let it help you decide. It's important you watch til the end.
God bless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdUGoFTfP7w
What is my purpose? Honestly, all I want is to fulfill both of those purposes mentioned above right there. I want to keep Christians, believers, on the path of Christ, as satan may often get in the way with temptation all around us. I want also to bring others to know Jesus, to lead them on the path of accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior. Within that right there, I feel it is so very important, yet unknown to many unbelievers, that they are in fact unbelievers. I know because I was there. Saying you are a Christian doesn't make you a Christian. Jesus makes you a Christian. You can't have Christianity without Christ; the name itself begins with Christ.
Why is this important? This is the most important thing in all of life, being a Christian. It is the most important thing because without Christ you will not, I repeat, you will not get to Heaven. I am saying this not from my own mouth but reiterating what is in the Bible. The ONLY, only way to Heaven is through Jesus. I encourage you if you haven't already, start reading the Bible. Don't be intimidated by its size or that you don't understand the words. I would encourage you to start in the New Testament, and also would encourage you to look up different translations of the Bible. I personally could not understand the King James Version. However, I find the New International Version and New Living Translation much easier to understand and both are often use within Christian churches. Also, I find God's Word and the Good News translations easy to understand. It is important that we find a version that we can understand, because we must understand the Word in order to be able to live it. Different versions do not mean different messages. The Bible is the Bible, period. However, just like we as humans talk differently, use different words, different languages, etc.. the Bible is in different translations so to give us a translation we can understand and relate to.
Being a Christian isn't a name tag, it's a life style, the only life style if you want to get to Heaven. Back up your declaration of being a Christian with actions. Profess with your mouth and believe with your heart that Jesus is Lord and you will be saved. It's not just believing in Jesus, it's trusting Him as your Lord and Savior, as your only pathway to Heaven... the way, the truth, the life.
I invite you to watch this video right here. It is under 15 minutes long and could be the most important 15 minutes of your life. Have you read the book "Heaven Is For Real"? It is about a young boy who during surgery went to Heaven and back. What an amazing testimony at such a young age. His father asked God, how could You do this to me? When we are in the moment of a trial, it is hard to see anything else besides the hardship we are dealing with. When we step outside, or when that trial has ended, we can see more clearly. God can see even clearer than that. He can perfectly see all things at all times, yes even what you try to hide from others. Perhaps his son's surgery and near death was not to harm them but to help them. They now have this powerful message to deliver to others, and I know in my heart it has helped others take that step needed to live a Christ filled life. And ultimately, that's what it's all about. Salvation of souls because this current life is just a short moment we're passing through compared to all eternity. Where do you want to spend your eternity? Please watch this video and let it help you decide. It's important you watch til the end.
God bless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdUGoFTfP7w
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Those People
Those people...
...those people who fake smile to your face then turn and talk bad about you once you walk away.
...those people who don't send you cards, gifts, even phone calls but expect the world given to them in return.
...those people who complain about everything and everyone until it is about them, then there are no complaints.
...those people who will have someone's back just because they are family or a friend even though they are doing something wrong and should instead help them to get on the right path.
...those people who make an excuse for everything they do that can be seen as wrong but in their own minds say it's ok.
...those people who lie and lie and lie some more for whatever reason or no reason at all.
...those people who never "like" or comment anything good to you on facebook but then chime in at every opportunity you make a mistake or something can be taken the wrong way to argue you on it.
...those people who buy themselves everything but turn the other way when asking for donations comes around.
...those people who only come out during election season to beat you to death with hurtful words about your choices.
...those people who claim to be Christian but never read the Bible or care what it has to say about being one.
...those people who volunteer to help you out however needed when you're feeling well then are no where to be found when you really need that help.
...those people who hurt you then tell you it's your fault or it's for your benefit.
...those people who hold their pride above everything and everyone else no matter how many people get hurt in doing so.
...those people who make a promise then rip it away when it's no longer convenient for them.
...those people who with their words say "love you" but with their actions kick you after you've already fallen down.
...those people who ask for more and more and more and different and this and that but don't even appreciate what they already have.
...those people who have no time when someone is in need but have all the time in the world to shop, party, go out to eat or watch football.
...those people who read this and think "that's so and so or so and so" pointing the finger, but never at oneself.
Don't be one of "those people." Look at this holiday season as a time to change your ways, your attitude, your heart. Reach out to those in need- whether it be the homeless, the disabled or just a family member, friend or acquaintance going through a tough time. And don't stop there. Do something nice for someone every single day. Or go through this list one by one each day and make sure you are not one of "those people".
This came to mind... the Prayer of St. Francis:
...those people who fake smile to your face then turn and talk bad about you once you walk away.
...those people who don't send you cards, gifts, even phone calls but expect the world given to them in return.
...those people who complain about everything and everyone until it is about them, then there are no complaints.
...those people who will have someone's back just because they are family or a friend even though they are doing something wrong and should instead help them to get on the right path.
...those people who make an excuse for everything they do that can be seen as wrong but in their own minds say it's ok.
...those people who lie and lie and lie some more for whatever reason or no reason at all.
...those people who never "like" or comment anything good to you on facebook but then chime in at every opportunity you make a mistake or something can be taken the wrong way to argue you on it.
...those people who buy themselves everything but turn the other way when asking for donations comes around.
...those people who only come out during election season to beat you to death with hurtful words about your choices.
...those people who claim to be Christian but never read the Bible or care what it has to say about being one.
...those people who volunteer to help you out however needed when you're feeling well then are no where to be found when you really need that help.
...those people who hurt you then tell you it's your fault or it's for your benefit.
...those people who hold their pride above everything and everyone else no matter how many people get hurt in doing so.
...those people who make a promise then rip it away when it's no longer convenient for them.
...those people who with their words say "love you" but with their actions kick you after you've already fallen down.
...those people who ask for more and more and more and different and this and that but don't even appreciate what they already have.
...those people who have no time when someone is in need but have all the time in the world to shop, party, go out to eat or watch football.
...those people who read this and think "that's so and so or so and so" pointing the finger, but never at oneself.
Don't be one of "those people." Look at this holiday season as a time to change your ways, your attitude, your heart. Reach out to those in need- whether it be the homeless, the disabled or just a family member, friend or acquaintance going through a tough time. And don't stop there. Do something nice for someone every single day. Or go through this list one by one each day and make sure you are not one of "those people".
This came to mind... the Prayer of St. Francis:
- Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace;
- Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
- Where there is injury, pardon;
- Where there is error, truth;
- Where there is doubt, faith;
- Where there is despair, hope;
- Where there is darkness, light;
- And where there is sadness, joy.
- O Divine Master, Grant that I may not so much seek
- To be consoled as to console;
- To be understood as to understand;
- To be loved as to love.
- For it is in giving that we receive;
- It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
- And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Monday, November 18, 2013
People Pleasing
I'll never be "right." I'll never be "good enough." I'll never be all you imagined me to be.
And I'm alright with that.
It is not my goal to be who others want me to be. I have no intention to be who others want me to be, especially when the word "others" refers to non-believers. Why? Because I strive to live a Christ-like life.
Living righteously in a wrong filled world is difficult. But, if you have opposing forces from non-believers, you know you are doing something right because the devil is trying to stop you. Don't let him. Use his fire to set you off on an even more righteous pursuit.
If you try to please people, you will never win. We weren't put here to please people. Where will that get us? Maybe a new job, maybe a new relationship, maybe this or that. How stable is any of that? Not at all if it can so easily be taken away. More importantly, how selfish is that? Extremely selfish... using each other to get ahead. Fleeting pleasures. Don't pursue them. The devil has set a trap.
You will also never win at this because every person is different. Every person has their own thought about who you should be, who they want you to be. You can't please all these different people all at once unless you create yourself multiple personalities. Frankly, that doesn't sound like a smart idea. Why we create this image and expect it but not create and expect it for ourselves is beyond me. Furthermore, if someone like this tries to frame you into a specific person, most likely you will never meet their individual expectations even if you only try to please one person. Their expectations will undoubtedly change as you near reaching their pictured image of you. They don't want you better. They want something to complain about. They want you lower than them. They speak poorly of you to increase their self esteem. They are probably the ones who need changing. And in the process of you moving closer to what they want of you, you will most likely lose yourself and have to go put all those pieces back together once you finally decide pleasing this person isn't worth your time.
If you surround yourself with non-believers and evil-doers that is who you will become. Of course as believers we want to bring others to a Christ-like life and we should do so. Love those who are hard to love, like Jesus did, but don't become like them. Plant that seed so that when their heart is softened by God the seed will grow into a beautiful plant. But, we should have a firm circle of believers, saved Christians, to help strengthen us into who God wants us to be.
What does this all come back to? Honesty. If you are going to lie, whether about yourself or anything else, really that's just saying who you truly are is no good. And if that's the case, or if you don't know who you truly are, perhaps some self reflection is necessary. In figuring out who you are or who you should be, talk to God. He already has the answer. And then be that person no matter what anyone else has to say about it... because the only ones who will say something bad about someone who is following Christ are non-believers and evil doers influenced by the devil. Being honest is as free as you can get. The truth will set you free!
Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10
And I'm alright with that.
It is not my goal to be who others want me to be. I have no intention to be who others want me to be, especially when the word "others" refers to non-believers. Why? Because I strive to live a Christ-like life.
Living righteously in a wrong filled world is difficult. But, if you have opposing forces from non-believers, you know you are doing something right because the devil is trying to stop you. Don't let him. Use his fire to set you off on an even more righteous pursuit.
If you try to please people, you will never win. We weren't put here to please people. Where will that get us? Maybe a new job, maybe a new relationship, maybe this or that. How stable is any of that? Not at all if it can so easily be taken away. More importantly, how selfish is that? Extremely selfish... using each other to get ahead. Fleeting pleasures. Don't pursue them. The devil has set a trap.
You will also never win at this because every person is different. Every person has their own thought about who you should be, who they want you to be. You can't please all these different people all at once unless you create yourself multiple personalities. Frankly, that doesn't sound like a smart idea. Why we create this image and expect it but not create and expect it for ourselves is beyond me. Furthermore, if someone like this tries to frame you into a specific person, most likely you will never meet their individual expectations even if you only try to please one person. Their expectations will undoubtedly change as you near reaching their pictured image of you. They don't want you better. They want something to complain about. They want you lower than them. They speak poorly of you to increase their self esteem. They are probably the ones who need changing. And in the process of you moving closer to what they want of you, you will most likely lose yourself and have to go put all those pieces back together once you finally decide pleasing this person isn't worth your time.
If you surround yourself with non-believers and evil-doers that is who you will become. Of course as believers we want to bring others to a Christ-like life and we should do so. Love those who are hard to love, like Jesus did, but don't become like them. Plant that seed so that when their heart is softened by God the seed will grow into a beautiful plant. But, we should have a firm circle of believers, saved Christians, to help strengthen us into who God wants us to be.
What does this all come back to? Honesty. If you are going to lie, whether about yourself or anything else, really that's just saying who you truly are is no good. And if that's the case, or if you don't know who you truly are, perhaps some self reflection is necessary. In figuring out who you are or who you should be, talk to God. He already has the answer. And then be that person no matter what anyone else has to say about it... because the only ones who will say something bad about someone who is following Christ are non-believers and evil doers influenced by the devil. Being honest is as free as you can get. The truth will set you free!
Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10
Monday, November 11, 2013
Write just write
I've been slacking on this blog... oops... it's actually because I haven't felt lead to write about anything specific. But then I rented a movie from the library and there was a line I caught in there spoken by a writer "Write... just write... 'write about what you know about'... but then if you wait and listen 'write about what you don't know about.'" Interesting. Writing about what I don't know...
I don't know a lot of things. I don't know people's true motives. I don't know their conscience. I don't know how much truth they hide. I don't know what the future holds.
So why do I try to alter that which I don't know?
Back to what I do know. I know God and I know I'm supposed to stay close to him doing what is right, what is good, what is true.
Up until this point in this post I had NO idea where I was going with this. I just decided, I haven't written here in a while and I should, so I let my hands go. Now I realize where this is taking me.
I know I'm supposed to live for God, righteously. I know people will come against me just as people went against Jesus. I know it's a narrow path to walk. I also know God will bless me for doing so. And that's all I need to know to do so. How do I know this? I am able to verify what's in my heart with what's in the Bible. I'm not perfect, I fault many times, but I know the way I need to live and strive to live is right there in the Bible.
If you don't read the Bible how do you know if you are living the way God wants you to live? Furthermore, if you don't care, how can you call yourself a Christian? Being a Christian is much more than "believing in God."
Taking this a level further... if you fall into that category of not reading the Bible and/or striving to live as God wants you to, how can you judge another? This goes off in two directions.
One- as Christians we are to keep one another on the right path.
Two- if you aren't a Christian, meaning a follower and disciple of Christ, you don't have the authority to lead others down any path... you first need to learn, the way and the truth.
So going off of number two... She should do this. She should do that. She needs to do this. This will help her. Oh she must be a bad person because of this or that. So on and so forth. Who are you to tell me or anyone else what to do or not do UNLESS you are a Christian striving to follow Christ and find that I have wondered off the path and your true intention is to get me back on it? If you are, then by all means, help me get back on track, but only by verifying what the right track is according to that which is in the Bible.
You see the Bible spells it out for us. I don't want to say it makes it easy because life and even the Christian life is not easy... but it does make it more rewarding. And it does make it really nice to know that we are for certain going to Heaven after this life on earth.
And so going off of number one... as a Christian I do strive to lead others to and keep others on that path of Christ.
I don't know what this all adds up to or if it even makes sense. I'm really not thinking about what I'm typing, I'm just typing. So hopefully this reaches someone in a meaningful way. I think basically what I'm trying to say is if you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you can't tell me or anyone else how to live. And more importantly, please consider the life of Christ. And if you have, then you must walk the walk and not just talk the talk. I want you to go to Heaven and God does too. Start by reading the book of Romans in the New Testament today.
For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:17
I don't know a lot of things. I don't know people's true motives. I don't know their conscience. I don't know how much truth they hide. I don't know what the future holds.
So why do I try to alter that which I don't know?
Back to what I do know. I know God and I know I'm supposed to stay close to him doing what is right, what is good, what is true.
Up until this point in this post I had NO idea where I was going with this. I just decided, I haven't written here in a while and I should, so I let my hands go. Now I realize where this is taking me.
I know I'm supposed to live for God, righteously. I know people will come against me just as people went against Jesus. I know it's a narrow path to walk. I also know God will bless me for doing so. And that's all I need to know to do so. How do I know this? I am able to verify what's in my heart with what's in the Bible. I'm not perfect, I fault many times, but I know the way I need to live and strive to live is right there in the Bible.
If you don't read the Bible how do you know if you are living the way God wants you to live? Furthermore, if you don't care, how can you call yourself a Christian? Being a Christian is much more than "believing in God."
Taking this a level further... if you fall into that category of not reading the Bible and/or striving to live as God wants you to, how can you judge another? This goes off in two directions.
One- as Christians we are to keep one another on the right path.
Two- if you aren't a Christian, meaning a follower and disciple of Christ, you don't have the authority to lead others down any path... you first need to learn, the way and the truth.
So going off of number two... She should do this. She should do that. She needs to do this. This will help her. Oh she must be a bad person because of this or that. So on and so forth. Who are you to tell me or anyone else what to do or not do UNLESS you are a Christian striving to follow Christ and find that I have wondered off the path and your true intention is to get me back on it? If you are, then by all means, help me get back on track, but only by verifying what the right track is according to that which is in the Bible.
You see the Bible spells it out for us. I don't want to say it makes it easy because life and even the Christian life is not easy... but it does make it more rewarding. And it does make it really nice to know that we are for certain going to Heaven after this life on earth.
And so going off of number one... as a Christian I do strive to lead others to and keep others on that path of Christ.
I don't know what this all adds up to or if it even makes sense. I'm really not thinking about what I'm typing, I'm just typing. So hopefully this reaches someone in a meaningful way. I think basically what I'm trying to say is if you haven't accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you can't tell me or anyone else how to live. And more importantly, please consider the life of Christ. And if you have, then you must walk the walk and not just talk the talk. I want you to go to Heaven and God does too. Start by reading the book of Romans in the New Testament today.
For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." Romans 1:17
Friday, October 18, 2013
Reversed
We as society have it all wrong.
Why are we on this earth? No I'm not asking the biological process. We as human beings as a whole are on this earth because God put us here. Yes I know the theory of evolution but even if, even if that were the case, how did it start? You can't get something from nothing. Where did that one particle or atom or whatever you want to call it come from? The absolute only answer is God. A divine being bigger and greater than our human minds can fathom.
So why on earth do we put God, the greatest that there is, last?
We try this and that and fail and try again and again and again. Then we cry out, maybe only half believing in His existence, God help me! And then we get angry when we don't get an answer immediately. Or maybe we've grown past that point and now we think of God but only in times of desperation or desire. We treat Him as a bank to take out money as opposed to honoring and respecting Him as the reason for our absolute being.
God wants you to ask Him for help. "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Matthew 7:7 But, God wants to be first in your life, as He should be. "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'" Matthew 7:22-23
We have it all wrong.
We should all be taught from the very beginning of our life on earth to honor God first and foremost. Furthermore, we should be taught about God for you can't honor someone you don't know. Focus throughout all of life should be centered around God. Family should be centered around God. We should be praising Him through all things and all times, the good the bad, the happy the sad. We should appreciate each and every blessing if we ever want to receive more. We are taught to honor our father and mother. Well, the Father of all of us is in Heaven above. We need to look up to Him, literally and figuratively speaking. Do all things to glorify Him. Be humble, be selfless, be a giver, love. Then He will bring us joy.
We have it all wrong.
Happy Meals. Are you kidding me? This thought just hit me today. Kids are raised to believe this meal is going to make them happy! That trickles down and around and all over into everything. Eat this, buy that, do this, see that... it'll make you so happy! Even the commercials on tv for prescription medication. They always float around or dance with a smile on their face as the voice over reads off all the serious side effects "which may include death". Marketing is so fake. And it's around us more than we even realize. And this is coming from someone who's title used to include the word marketing. I woke up.
All of this takes our focus off of what it should be on, God. Imagine if we removed all the gimmicks, all the marketing, all the false proclamations. Imagine if we all put God first in our lives. Imagine if we treated others the way we want to be treated, as the Bible tells us to. It would be a win - win - win situation all around. So why can't we? We can. It doesn't have to be imagined, it can be experienced.
Are we embarrassed to put God first? Are we scared to lose control? Are we too full of pride to let His will be done? Are we afraid of the unknown? Are we bitter towards the possibility of a higher being due to past transgressions or hurtful moments in time?
When we do something that is clearly defined as a sin or wrong doing in the Bible, we justify it in our own minds. Is that justification enough? No. Absolutely not. You cannot knowingly sin and tell yourself it's ok and expect God will be ok with it too. Do not sin. Do not divorce. Do not commit adultery. Do not kill. There are a lot of do nots but it is not to restrict you, it is to protect you. He feels the pain you feel. He wants the best for you. He knows your past, present and future. You can't hide anything from Him, so stop trying. Be an honest, kind human being and live for Him as Jesus died for you on the cross.
God is a forgiving God. But He is also more powerful than any other. And He has the power to determine where you will go for all eternity. Isn't that enough to give it up to Him? God MUST come first. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. Or the hour will come and you do not know when, and you won't be taken to the rewarding place He has to offer. And then... was that short moment of false happiness worth it?
Putting God first means just that. Put Him first! Pick up a Bible and read it.... daily. Follow it! Pray... constantly, through all things. Fellowship with Christians. Attend Church service. Maybe you think it's too much at once but if you're not all in, why be in at all? God isn't a one foot in one foot out being. There is one path to Heaven and it is a narrow one. You must accept Christ and walk that narrow path, hardships and all. God will provide the resources to get you through it. Non-believers will get in the way but they will pay the price on judgement day, do not worry about you having to punish them. God will take care of that. If you're a non-believer, take that leap of faith right now. Tonight.
You can't walk the wide road and do whatever you please then at the end of time jump on the narrow path and say ok I'm ready! For again, God will say away with you, I never knew you!
It's a step of faith, that it is. But since no one on this earth is perfect, including yourself, you can't put full trust in anyone or anything... except Jesus. Accept Jesus. Accept Him. He's calling YOUR name. Are YOU going to answer His call?
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eIGvuKIJZ0
Why are we on this earth? No I'm not asking the biological process. We as human beings as a whole are on this earth because God put us here. Yes I know the theory of evolution but even if, even if that were the case, how did it start? You can't get something from nothing. Where did that one particle or atom or whatever you want to call it come from? The absolute only answer is God. A divine being bigger and greater than our human minds can fathom.
So why on earth do we put God, the greatest that there is, last?
We try this and that and fail and try again and again and again. Then we cry out, maybe only half believing in His existence, God help me! And then we get angry when we don't get an answer immediately. Or maybe we've grown past that point and now we think of God but only in times of desperation or desire. We treat Him as a bank to take out money as opposed to honoring and respecting Him as the reason for our absolute being.
God wants you to ask Him for help. "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." Matthew 7:7 But, God wants to be first in your life, as He should be. "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'" Matthew 7:22-23
We have it all wrong.
We should all be taught from the very beginning of our life on earth to honor God first and foremost. Furthermore, we should be taught about God for you can't honor someone you don't know. Focus throughout all of life should be centered around God. Family should be centered around God. We should be praising Him through all things and all times, the good the bad, the happy the sad. We should appreciate each and every blessing if we ever want to receive more. We are taught to honor our father and mother. Well, the Father of all of us is in Heaven above. We need to look up to Him, literally and figuratively speaking. Do all things to glorify Him. Be humble, be selfless, be a giver, love. Then He will bring us joy.
We have it all wrong.
Happy Meals. Are you kidding me? This thought just hit me today. Kids are raised to believe this meal is going to make them happy! That trickles down and around and all over into everything. Eat this, buy that, do this, see that... it'll make you so happy! Even the commercials on tv for prescription medication. They always float around or dance with a smile on their face as the voice over reads off all the serious side effects "which may include death". Marketing is so fake. And it's around us more than we even realize. And this is coming from someone who's title used to include the word marketing. I woke up.
All of this takes our focus off of what it should be on, God. Imagine if we removed all the gimmicks, all the marketing, all the false proclamations. Imagine if we all put God first in our lives. Imagine if we treated others the way we want to be treated, as the Bible tells us to. It would be a win - win - win situation all around. So why can't we? We can. It doesn't have to be imagined, it can be experienced.
Are we embarrassed to put God first? Are we scared to lose control? Are we too full of pride to let His will be done? Are we afraid of the unknown? Are we bitter towards the possibility of a higher being due to past transgressions or hurtful moments in time?
When we do something that is clearly defined as a sin or wrong doing in the Bible, we justify it in our own minds. Is that justification enough? No. Absolutely not. You cannot knowingly sin and tell yourself it's ok and expect God will be ok with it too. Do not sin. Do not divorce. Do not commit adultery. Do not kill. There are a lot of do nots but it is not to restrict you, it is to protect you. He feels the pain you feel. He wants the best for you. He knows your past, present and future. You can't hide anything from Him, so stop trying. Be an honest, kind human being and live for Him as Jesus died for you on the cross.
God is a forgiving God. But He is also more powerful than any other. And He has the power to determine where you will go for all eternity. Isn't that enough to give it up to Him? God MUST come first. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. Or the hour will come and you do not know when, and you won't be taken to the rewarding place He has to offer. And then... was that short moment of false happiness worth it?
Putting God first means just that. Put Him first! Pick up a Bible and read it.... daily. Follow it! Pray... constantly, through all things. Fellowship with Christians. Attend Church service. Maybe you think it's too much at once but if you're not all in, why be in at all? God isn't a one foot in one foot out being. There is one path to Heaven and it is a narrow one. You must accept Christ and walk that narrow path, hardships and all. God will provide the resources to get you through it. Non-believers will get in the way but they will pay the price on judgement day, do not worry about you having to punish them. God will take care of that. If you're a non-believer, take that leap of faith right now. Tonight.
You can't walk the wide road and do whatever you please then at the end of time jump on the narrow path and say ok I'm ready! For again, God will say away with you, I never knew you!
It's a step of faith, that it is. But since no one on this earth is perfect, including yourself, you can't put full trust in anyone or anything... except Jesus. Accept Jesus. Accept Him. He's calling YOUR name. Are YOU going to answer His call?
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eIGvuKIJZ0
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
I am a sinner!
I have to say something and I have to get it out quickly before the thought leaves me....
I am not perfect. I am not even close to perfect. I am not even good. Do you hear that? I'm not! I am a sinner. A sinner I tell you. And you know why I'm a sinner? Because we all are. We live in a fallen world. That is why we must not trust in the world. That is exactly why we need a savior. We need someone to save us! Jesus Christ! He is our Lord and our savior and we belong to Him if we have been saved by Him. He is the ONLY way into Heaven. And if you don't get into Heaven, the other place is not going to be a joy to spend all eternity. PLEASE now is your chance. Give your life to Christ. You aren't giving up anything. You are in fact receiving the greatest gift that may ever be received. You are receiving salvation through our Lord. Please repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and become humble in Spirit.
I am currently reading- no that's verging on a lie- I am currently BROWSING through a book titled "Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. I say browsing through instead of reading because it is due in 2 days and this was the last of about 20 books, no joke, that I checked out from the library. So now I have to quickly scan through it and then check it out again later because someone currently has it on hold. Today I came across something that I stopped and read in full. I love it. It's exactly what I want to say without having the words to say it. And I quote:
"...a Christian is not a man who never goes wrong, but a man who is enabled to repent and pick himself up and begin over again after each stumble - because the Christ-life is inside him, repairing him all the time, enabling him to repeat (in some degree) the kind of voluntary death which Christ Himself carried out.
That is why the Christian is in a different position from other people who are trying to be good. They hope, by being good, to please God if there is one; or - if they think there is not - at least they hope to deserve approval from good men. But the Christian thinks any good he does comes from the Christ-life inside him. He does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us; just as the roof of a greenhouse does not attract the sun because it is bright, but bright because the sun shines on it.
And let me make it quite clear that when Christians say the Christ-life is in them, they do not mean simply something mental or moral. When they speak of being 'in Christ' or of Christ being 'in them', this is not simply a way of saying that they are thinking about Christ or copying Him. They mean that Christ is actually operating through them; that the whole mass of Christians are the physical organism through which Christ acts - that we are His fingers and muscles, the cells of His body."
Wow. That is powerful. This book has a lot of good thoughts to ponder and assist in the transformation of becoming more Christ-like or taking that first step. And so it is... we are ALL sinners and in order to get into Heaven we NEED a savior. Being Christian doesn't mean we are perfect or won't sin. Being Christian does NOT in any way mean we are better or think we are better than non-believers. It means that Christ is living in us and through Him we can do all things. All the glory goes to Him. We mustn't take it for ourselves. We must glorify Him in all good that we do and repent to Him when we go wrong. It's ok that we go wrong as long as we're striving to do right and have every intention of not repeating that sin or wrong doing again (even if we do).
Love God because He loves you. He loves every one of you and it would be a joy to Him and to all Christians to see YOU come to know Christ too. Whatever hurtful thing you did, whatever sin you committed, however far off track you think you are, however much you think there is no way or you can't do it... you CAN and you will. I believe in you and God does too. Don't give up. The blessing may be just a step away. But you have to take that step. Step into a life of Christ and fulfill your God given destiny.
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24
I am not perfect. I am not even close to perfect. I am not even good. Do you hear that? I'm not! I am a sinner. A sinner I tell you. And you know why I'm a sinner? Because we all are. We live in a fallen world. That is why we must not trust in the world. That is exactly why we need a savior. We need someone to save us! Jesus Christ! He is our Lord and our savior and we belong to Him if we have been saved by Him. He is the ONLY way into Heaven. And if you don't get into Heaven, the other place is not going to be a joy to spend all eternity. PLEASE now is your chance. Give your life to Christ. You aren't giving up anything. You are in fact receiving the greatest gift that may ever be received. You are receiving salvation through our Lord. Please repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and become humble in Spirit.
I am currently reading- no that's verging on a lie- I am currently BROWSING through a book titled "Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. I say browsing through instead of reading because it is due in 2 days and this was the last of about 20 books, no joke, that I checked out from the library. So now I have to quickly scan through it and then check it out again later because someone currently has it on hold. Today I came across something that I stopped and read in full. I love it. It's exactly what I want to say without having the words to say it. And I quote:
"...a Christian is not a man who never goes wrong, but a man who is enabled to repent and pick himself up and begin over again after each stumble - because the Christ-life is inside him, repairing him all the time, enabling him to repeat (in some degree) the kind of voluntary death which Christ Himself carried out.
That is why the Christian is in a different position from other people who are trying to be good. They hope, by being good, to please God if there is one; or - if they think there is not - at least they hope to deserve approval from good men. But the Christian thinks any good he does comes from the Christ-life inside him. He does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us; just as the roof of a greenhouse does not attract the sun because it is bright, but bright because the sun shines on it.
And let me make it quite clear that when Christians say the Christ-life is in them, they do not mean simply something mental or moral. When they speak of being 'in Christ' or of Christ being 'in them', this is not simply a way of saying that they are thinking about Christ or copying Him. They mean that Christ is actually operating through them; that the whole mass of Christians are the physical organism through which Christ acts - that we are His fingers and muscles, the cells of His body."
Wow. That is powerful. This book has a lot of good thoughts to ponder and assist in the transformation of becoming more Christ-like or taking that first step. And so it is... we are ALL sinners and in order to get into Heaven we NEED a savior. Being Christian doesn't mean we are perfect or won't sin. Being Christian does NOT in any way mean we are better or think we are better than non-believers. It means that Christ is living in us and through Him we can do all things. All the glory goes to Him. We mustn't take it for ourselves. We must glorify Him in all good that we do and repent to Him when we go wrong. It's ok that we go wrong as long as we're striving to do right and have every intention of not repeating that sin or wrong doing again (even if we do).
Love God because He loves you. He loves every one of you and it would be a joy to Him and to all Christians to see YOU come to know Christ too. Whatever hurtful thing you did, whatever sin you committed, however far off track you think you are, however much you think there is no way or you can't do it... you CAN and you will. I believe in you and God does too. Don't give up. The blessing may be just a step away. But you have to take that step. Step into a life of Christ and fulfill your God given destiny.
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24
Friday, October 4, 2013
When life gives you lemons
Life with Christ.
They say when life gives you with lemons, make lemonade. This is what I've discovered...
I'm going through the roughest period in my life. I have been for 15 months now... or 3.5 years... pretty much both. 14-15 months ago I found Jesus... or I should say, He found me and I accepted. Since then I continue to grow and move closer to Him. There are moments or days, however, that I struggle. I don't struggle because of the circumstances. I struggle because I get off track from my path with Christ. I struggle because I try to go at it my way instead of His way. I struggle because I start moving backwards onto worldly things rather than life with Christ. Don't get me wrong, every day is a struggle with what I'm going through. But, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 I live by that verse now.
When I am with Christ and have my mind set on Him, I don't want to say it's easy, but it's doable. I have an inner peace, contentment, spiritual joy. I know He is with me and that is the greatest feeling. Imagine when you are all hyped up happy about something and multiply it by a million. That is the feeling of Jesus in your heart. No matter what I go through, what difficulty I face, if I'm with Him, He says 'I got this' and I can be assured that He does. I'll be ok.
I must add this doesn't mean I can or you can do whatever you please and say "hey Jesus, get this for me." The point is to live righteously, not wrongly, live as the Bible instructs no matter what your circumstances. Other things and people who are not of Christ or have strayed or going through a rough patch will always get in your way. They will try to bring you down. The devil will try to intervene. Don't let them. Stay your path. Live your life of Christ. Even if they do take you off the path that Christ intended for you, He will get you back on it. It may take some detours, but stay on that road with Him. Love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8
However, when I start drifting off on a tangent of "why me" and "now what" and worrying about the future when I don't even know what the future holds, that's when I get into trouble. What am I doing right there? I am without words saying 'I can do this without You Jesus.' and I very quickly need to correct myself on that. I cannot do it without Him. I don't want to do it without Him. I don't even mean to indicate that I can do it without Him. But when I try to take control of a situation out of my control, that is exactly what I'm saying to Him and to the world. And when that happens that's when I start getting depressed, when I get angry, when I get bitter towards life and towards others. I have to remind myself the devil is happy about this, Jesus is not, remember who you are living for.
Let's put this into real world perspective. My situation is what it is. That part doesn't change (or at least hasn't yet). When my mind and heart are focused on Christ Jesus, I feel that inner peace. As I struggle today to talk or smile because MG has my face today, I stay with Jesus and think what does he want me to do today? My arms are working. I can write. I can write for Him. I won't focus on the inability to talk much, smile much or difficulty in chewing and swallowing. It's there, it reminds me, but I don't have to be controlled by it or try to control it.
Another example in the opposite direction. The other day after having a couple pretty good, stronger days, I received some not so great news. I let that news get to me. I know I shouldn't have but I did. I strayed from Christ at that moment. That night I got angry. I shook my head like I'm mad at God. It's not God's fault. God is on my side and God is trying to help me. I said some words I shouldn't have said. No one was around so all of this was in the mist of myself and God which probably makes it even worse. I woke up the next morning and started to drown in my misery, continuing to lay in bed and think about what 'could' be instead of what is. Where did that get me? No where. I snapped out of it like I always do and I'm back on the path with Christ. Devil be gone!
The devil is always pulling at us to come his way. He can trick us, he can fool us, he can use our friends and relatives and "things" to do all of the above. We mustn't give in. We must follow Jesus Christ always and forever. Again, if your time comes and you have been led too far away from Christ in the other direction, where will you go? If you are following the devil whether or not you feel you are, where will you go? The path to Heaven is through Jesus. It is a very narrow path to follow but the ultimate reward is greater than any.
We all have a choice. We have a choice in everything we do. We have more choices than we can count day to day to day. Most of them fade by us without even realizing we made them. The goal is to remain in His presence so that your will parallels that of God's will. We should remain in constant prayer and fellowship with Christ thanking him always especially upon request/asking Him for something. There shouldn't be such a thing as "prayer life" but instead prayer life should be life. Stay connected to our Father above. He will guide you righteously and lovingly.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade... with Jesus.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." John 15: 5-7
They say when life gives you with lemons, make lemonade. This is what I've discovered...
I'm going through the roughest period in my life. I have been for 15 months now... or 3.5 years... pretty much both. 14-15 months ago I found Jesus... or I should say, He found me and I accepted. Since then I continue to grow and move closer to Him. There are moments or days, however, that I struggle. I don't struggle because of the circumstances. I struggle because I get off track from my path with Christ. I struggle because I try to go at it my way instead of His way. I struggle because I start moving backwards onto worldly things rather than life with Christ. Don't get me wrong, every day is a struggle with what I'm going through. But, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 I live by that verse now.
When I am with Christ and have my mind set on Him, I don't want to say it's easy, but it's doable. I have an inner peace, contentment, spiritual joy. I know He is with me and that is the greatest feeling. Imagine when you are all hyped up happy about something and multiply it by a million. That is the feeling of Jesus in your heart. No matter what I go through, what difficulty I face, if I'm with Him, He says 'I got this' and I can be assured that He does. I'll be ok.
I must add this doesn't mean I can or you can do whatever you please and say "hey Jesus, get this for me." The point is to live righteously, not wrongly, live as the Bible instructs no matter what your circumstances. Other things and people who are not of Christ or have strayed or going through a rough patch will always get in your way. They will try to bring you down. The devil will try to intervene. Don't let them. Stay your path. Live your life of Christ. Even if they do take you off the path that Christ intended for you, He will get you back on it. It may take some detours, but stay on that road with Him. Love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8
However, when I start drifting off on a tangent of "why me" and "now what" and worrying about the future when I don't even know what the future holds, that's when I get into trouble. What am I doing right there? I am without words saying 'I can do this without You Jesus.' and I very quickly need to correct myself on that. I cannot do it without Him. I don't want to do it without Him. I don't even mean to indicate that I can do it without Him. But when I try to take control of a situation out of my control, that is exactly what I'm saying to Him and to the world. And when that happens that's when I start getting depressed, when I get angry, when I get bitter towards life and towards others. I have to remind myself the devil is happy about this, Jesus is not, remember who you are living for.
Let's put this into real world perspective. My situation is what it is. That part doesn't change (or at least hasn't yet). When my mind and heart are focused on Christ Jesus, I feel that inner peace. As I struggle today to talk or smile because MG has my face today, I stay with Jesus and think what does he want me to do today? My arms are working. I can write. I can write for Him. I won't focus on the inability to talk much, smile much or difficulty in chewing and swallowing. It's there, it reminds me, but I don't have to be controlled by it or try to control it.
Another example in the opposite direction. The other day after having a couple pretty good, stronger days, I received some not so great news. I let that news get to me. I know I shouldn't have but I did. I strayed from Christ at that moment. That night I got angry. I shook my head like I'm mad at God. It's not God's fault. God is on my side and God is trying to help me. I said some words I shouldn't have said. No one was around so all of this was in the mist of myself and God which probably makes it even worse. I woke up the next morning and started to drown in my misery, continuing to lay in bed and think about what 'could' be instead of what is. Where did that get me? No where. I snapped out of it like I always do and I'm back on the path with Christ. Devil be gone!
The devil is always pulling at us to come his way. He can trick us, he can fool us, he can use our friends and relatives and "things" to do all of the above. We mustn't give in. We must follow Jesus Christ always and forever. Again, if your time comes and you have been led too far away from Christ in the other direction, where will you go? If you are following the devil whether or not you feel you are, where will you go? The path to Heaven is through Jesus. It is a very narrow path to follow but the ultimate reward is greater than any.
We all have a choice. We have a choice in everything we do. We have more choices than we can count day to day to day. Most of them fade by us without even realizing we made them. The goal is to remain in His presence so that your will parallels that of God's will. We should remain in constant prayer and fellowship with Christ thanking him always especially upon request/asking Him for something. There shouldn't be such a thing as "prayer life" but instead prayer life should be life. Stay connected to our Father above. He will guide you righteously and lovingly.
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade... with Jesus.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." John 15: 5-7
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
What is Christianity?
Is what you are doing Biblical? Or does it go against the Bible? If you don't know or moreso don't care, are you really a Christian or any denomination within?
Christianity isn't about religion. It isn't about believing God exists. It isn't about thinking you'll get into Heaven. And it certainly isn't about doing whatever the heck you please then saying ok forgive me now.
Christianity is about Christ. Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior. Christianity is about a relationship with God, with Jesus. It is about knowing Him as opposed to believing in Him. Even the devil believes God exists but the Devil has to suffer in hell. Christianity is about living a life as a disciple of Christ, one of His own, striving to follow the Bible, learn the Bible, live the Bible. Christianity is about love because GOD IS LOVE.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
That does not say to hurt others, to please your own selfish desires, to do what you think/or can tell yourself in your own mind is ok if its not Biblically moral. Christianity is living those verses right there, right now.
Yes, God forgives. We are blessed to have a forgiving God. But repentance is a MUST. We must confess our sins, repent, ask for forgiveness and welcome Jesus into our heart in order to know God fully and receive God's grace and the gift of salvation and a place in Heaven. Repentance is moving AWAY FROM sin. It is every intention to live righteously and not wrongly.
Once you know what is right, once you've read any of this from the Bible or heard it spoken in a sermon or even from a friend or family member, you are told and guided in living righteously. If you've already committed a sin, or gone against that which is Biblical, God can forgive you if you ask for His forgiveness and mean it in all fullness in your heart. But if you haven't yet committed that sin but are moving in that direction knowing that it is Biblically wrong, you are knowingly going against God's will. Stop moving in that direction while you still can. And if you are supporting or encouraging someone who is doing that, you need to stop too.
Lately the topic of Christianity needing to be modernized has been a popular one. This is why we are where we are. Christianity does not change. It DOES NOT change. Christianity is Christ. Christianity is God the Father. The God who is and was and ever will be. We do not need to and cannot and should not seek to change something impossible to change to suit our selfish desires. Furthermore, we can attempt to "change" in our minds that which is but it won't change the end result. What needs to happen is we need to seek and discover the truth. WE need to change. WE need to improve upon ourselves. We need Jesus.
The Bible is the Bible and you can tell yourself whatever you want but in the end God is the judge. And we don't know when the end is for us or for anyone. What if the end was tomorrow? What if you didn't repent in time? What if you didn't ask forgiveness from God and from all those you've hurt and move righteously towards Jesus Christ?
We are not to support another's happiness or desires, we are to support their righteousness and Christ filled living.
This is your chance. This is your opportunity. Please ask Jesus into your heart today if you haven't already. Doing so requires prayerful repentance and the turning away from your wrong doing. He will fill you with all that is glory and power and love. Only He has the key to Heaven, and if your time comes before you know Him, where will you go without that key?
Ask for forgiveness if you have already done any of the following that the Bible speaks against. If you haven't yet, thank the Lord, and stop where you are now and do a 180 in the other direction. MOVE TOWARDS CHRIST. He wants to love you as His own, forever and ever. Your life with Christ is right up ahead. Amen!
- Lying
- Cheating
- Stealing
- Divorce
- Adultery
- Pride
- Selfishness
- Jealousy
- Greed
- Abortion
- Abuse
- Anything and everything that is wrong according to the Bible, according to Jesus Christ, anything that goes against His will and towards your own.
Bless you always.
I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Luke 13:3
Christianity isn't about religion. It isn't about believing God exists. It isn't about thinking you'll get into Heaven. And it certainly isn't about doing whatever the heck you please then saying ok forgive me now.
Christianity is about Christ. Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior. Christianity is about a relationship with God, with Jesus. It is about knowing Him as opposed to believing in Him. Even the devil believes God exists but the Devil has to suffer in hell. Christianity is about living a life as a disciple of Christ, one of His own, striving to follow the Bible, learn the Bible, live the Bible. Christianity is about love because GOD IS LOVE.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
That does not say to hurt others, to please your own selfish desires, to do what you think/or can tell yourself in your own mind is ok if its not Biblically moral. Christianity is living those verses right there, right now.
Yes, God forgives. We are blessed to have a forgiving God. But repentance is a MUST. We must confess our sins, repent, ask for forgiveness and welcome Jesus into our heart in order to know God fully and receive God's grace and the gift of salvation and a place in Heaven. Repentance is moving AWAY FROM sin. It is every intention to live righteously and not wrongly.
Once you know what is right, once you've read any of this from the Bible or heard it spoken in a sermon or even from a friend or family member, you are told and guided in living righteously. If you've already committed a sin, or gone against that which is Biblical, God can forgive you if you ask for His forgiveness and mean it in all fullness in your heart. But if you haven't yet committed that sin but are moving in that direction knowing that it is Biblically wrong, you are knowingly going against God's will. Stop moving in that direction while you still can. And if you are supporting or encouraging someone who is doing that, you need to stop too.
Lately the topic of Christianity needing to be modernized has been a popular one. This is why we are where we are. Christianity does not change. It DOES NOT change. Christianity is Christ. Christianity is God the Father. The God who is and was and ever will be. We do not need to and cannot and should not seek to change something impossible to change to suit our selfish desires. Furthermore, we can attempt to "change" in our minds that which is but it won't change the end result. What needs to happen is we need to seek and discover the truth. WE need to change. WE need to improve upon ourselves. We need Jesus.
The Bible is the Bible and you can tell yourself whatever you want but in the end God is the judge. And we don't know when the end is for us or for anyone. What if the end was tomorrow? What if you didn't repent in time? What if you didn't ask forgiveness from God and from all those you've hurt and move righteously towards Jesus Christ?
We are not to support another's happiness or desires, we are to support their righteousness and Christ filled living.
This is your chance. This is your opportunity. Please ask Jesus into your heart today if you haven't already. Doing so requires prayerful repentance and the turning away from your wrong doing. He will fill you with all that is glory and power and love. Only He has the key to Heaven, and if your time comes before you know Him, where will you go without that key?
Ask for forgiveness if you have already done any of the following that the Bible speaks against. If you haven't yet, thank the Lord, and stop where you are now and do a 180 in the other direction. MOVE TOWARDS CHRIST. He wants to love you as His own, forever and ever. Your life with Christ is right up ahead. Amen!
- Lying
- Cheating
- Stealing
- Divorce
- Adultery
- Pride
- Selfishness
- Jealousy
- Greed
- Abortion
- Abuse
- Anything and everything that is wrong according to the Bible, according to Jesus Christ, anything that goes against His will and towards your own.
Bless you always.
I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Luke 13:3
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Happiness?
I'm so happy. I didn't come here to be happy, in fact I thought I'd be everything but. I thought I'd be miserable. Furthermore, I was in no way looking for happiness, searching for it, trying for it, not even really thinking about it. Happiness- it's an emotion- it's fleeting. But, I'm happy.
Why am I happy? I'm happy because of Jesus. I have Jesus. I found Jesus. I devote my attention on Him and he blesses me with such goodness. I'm going through the absolute toughest times in my life with everything that many of you don't even know the start of because I can't talk about it on here. But in the toughest time I feel the most comfort, the most peace, the most relief, the most happiness. And it has absolutely nothing to do with or without anybody or anything else. It is completely irrelevant to any external matters.
Happiness isn't about how many "things" you have, how much money you have, what job you have or if you even have a job, not even about your family and friends. Any single one of these things can be gone in an instant. If your happiness was based on that person or that thing, and it leaves, then what? You are left without happiness.
Happiness, as in true joy, it is from within. When you repent your sins and turn to Jesus and make Him your Lord and Savior, following Him always in the mist of all you go through, the Holy Spirit lives within you. It's in the inside! This means no matter what you encounter in life, you always have that peace, comfort and joy from within. You can turn off all that is external and turn inward.
You can blame unhappiness on another, void things and people from your life thinking it'll take care of the problem, entirely up and change everything about yourself, but it all doesn't matter if you don't truly have Jesus. Without Him, happiness- it's fleeting. It'll come, it'll go, it won't last and it won't be the true and lifetime joy you can experience with Jesus in your heart.
I do not fear my circumstances when I focus my heart and mind on Jesus. I know what lies ahead for me after my short time on this planet. I know where I'm going because I know I am saved. I said Yes to Jesus and He said Yes to me! It's a love like never before. I just want everyone to experience and feel that love. Love and be loved. Really, that's all it comes down to. Everything else will fall into place if you give it up to Him and trust in Him. Be a good person. The Bible talks about living righteously not about trying to find your own happiness.
And by living righteously, I was given the gift of Happiness. Thank You Jesus.
Here's a challenge for all of you that leads kind of into a new topic I will talk about at a later time... Do you listen to Christian music? K-love radio station for example? If not, try to. Try to for 30 days. K-love gives this exact challenge for their station. Listen for 30 days and see if/how it blesses you. Being a Christian means putting Jesus first. Are you doing that? Are you doing that in every aspect of your life? Start right here by one simple change. I hope it blesses you immensely and brings you into a transformation you couldn't even imagine, that you ultimately then find your happiness also. http://www.klove.com/
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 1 Peter 3:14
Why am I happy? I'm happy because of Jesus. I have Jesus. I found Jesus. I devote my attention on Him and he blesses me with such goodness. I'm going through the absolute toughest times in my life with everything that many of you don't even know the start of because I can't talk about it on here. But in the toughest time I feel the most comfort, the most peace, the most relief, the most happiness. And it has absolutely nothing to do with or without anybody or anything else. It is completely irrelevant to any external matters.
Happiness isn't about how many "things" you have, how much money you have, what job you have or if you even have a job, not even about your family and friends. Any single one of these things can be gone in an instant. If your happiness was based on that person or that thing, and it leaves, then what? You are left without happiness.
Happiness, as in true joy, it is from within. When you repent your sins and turn to Jesus and make Him your Lord and Savior, following Him always in the mist of all you go through, the Holy Spirit lives within you. It's in the inside! This means no matter what you encounter in life, you always have that peace, comfort and joy from within. You can turn off all that is external and turn inward.
You can blame unhappiness on another, void things and people from your life thinking it'll take care of the problem, entirely up and change everything about yourself, but it all doesn't matter if you don't truly have Jesus. Without Him, happiness- it's fleeting. It'll come, it'll go, it won't last and it won't be the true and lifetime joy you can experience with Jesus in your heart.
I do not fear my circumstances when I focus my heart and mind on Jesus. I know what lies ahead for me after my short time on this planet. I know where I'm going because I know I am saved. I said Yes to Jesus and He said Yes to me! It's a love like never before. I just want everyone to experience and feel that love. Love and be loved. Really, that's all it comes down to. Everything else will fall into place if you give it up to Him and trust in Him. Be a good person. The Bible talks about living righteously not about trying to find your own happiness.
And by living righteously, I was given the gift of Happiness. Thank You Jesus.
Here's a challenge for all of you that leads kind of into a new topic I will talk about at a later time... Do you listen to Christian music? K-love radio station for example? If not, try to. Try to for 30 days. K-love gives this exact challenge for their station. Listen for 30 days and see if/how it blesses you. Being a Christian means putting Jesus first. Are you doing that? Are you doing that in every aspect of your life? Start right here by one simple change. I hope it blesses you immensely and brings you into a transformation you couldn't even imagine, that you ultimately then find your happiness also. http://www.klove.com/
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 1 Peter 3:14
Friday, September 13, 2013
Salvation Debate
So for some time now, God's been telling me to write on a certain topic. As you can see, I haven't written on this blog in quite some time. The main reason was I was unsure what to write. I don't know why I'm doubting. If God says "write" I'm sure once I start typing He will give me the words to send out. This is also a topic of controversy, but that shouldn't matter, since ultimately if I'm doing what God wants that's what matters.
Today a friend asked me something that had to do with Catholicism. This got me rattling off to her all about something which I later realized was the exact topic God told me to write about. God was definitely using my friend as a means to get through to me. It worked. So, here it goes...
Within Christianity, there are many denominations. Some Protestant Christians believe Catholicism isn't a Christian denomination. What I feel God wants me to do here is briefly describe some of the differences so that those reading can take that and go find out for themselves.
One major topic which I feel is the one God wants me to touch on is that of salvation- I mean that is pretty much the most important topic right? Our life here on Earth is extremely short compared to that which we cannot even fathom, that of eternity- are we going to spend it in Heaven?
Catholicism believes that you have to get baptized- preferably as a baby (and receive the other sacraments), have faith/trust in Jesus, and you must do good works all in order to be saved. Christianity outside of Catholicism believes in salvation by grace through faith alone.
So does salvation come through good works or through faith alone? The major conflict here is that one says you HAVE to do something in order to be saved. The other says that salvation is through faith alone. Are you going to get into Heaven without doing good works? I don't think you are. BUT I don't think that's the question to answer here. Why? Because of this... If you are saved by faith alone, ultimately you will be transformed into wanting to do good. So the result here is that both groups are striving to do good.
Still that doesn't answer it. But I'm not going to answer it. I'm not God. My advice is to search for your own answer. However, I must say, keep this in mind. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. For OUR sins. We were forgiven right there... for all the wrong that we would do in the future. We are human, we are sinners. We needed a Savior, Jesus Christ. A Savior. Dissect that thought right there.
I think that's all He wants me to write for now. I hope this makes someone out there, preferably many someones, want to go search for the answers themselves. Research your religion. Read the Bible. Find your answers in the Bible. Is what you've been taught found in the Bible? Does it need to be found in the Bible? If it's not, who taught it and what does that mean in regards to what you believe in? Do you have a religion or do you have a relationship with Jesus? Is Jesus in your heart?
God bless you.
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. -James 2:14-17
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
Today a friend asked me something that had to do with Catholicism. This got me rattling off to her all about something which I later realized was the exact topic God told me to write about. God was definitely using my friend as a means to get through to me. It worked. So, here it goes...
Within Christianity, there are many denominations. Some Protestant Christians believe Catholicism isn't a Christian denomination. What I feel God wants me to do here is briefly describe some of the differences so that those reading can take that and go find out for themselves.
One major topic which I feel is the one God wants me to touch on is that of salvation- I mean that is pretty much the most important topic right? Our life here on Earth is extremely short compared to that which we cannot even fathom, that of eternity- are we going to spend it in Heaven?
Catholicism believes that you have to get baptized- preferably as a baby (and receive the other sacraments), have faith/trust in Jesus, and you must do good works all in order to be saved. Christianity outside of Catholicism believes in salvation by grace through faith alone.
So does salvation come through good works or through faith alone? The major conflict here is that one says you HAVE to do something in order to be saved. The other says that salvation is through faith alone. Are you going to get into Heaven without doing good works? I don't think you are. BUT I don't think that's the question to answer here. Why? Because of this... If you are saved by faith alone, ultimately you will be transformed into wanting to do good. So the result here is that both groups are striving to do good.
Still that doesn't answer it. But I'm not going to answer it. I'm not God. My advice is to search for your own answer. However, I must say, keep this in mind. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. For OUR sins. We were forgiven right there... for all the wrong that we would do in the future. We are human, we are sinners. We needed a Savior, Jesus Christ. A Savior. Dissect that thought right there.
I think that's all He wants me to write for now. I hope this makes someone out there, preferably many someones, want to go search for the answers themselves. Research your religion. Read the Bible. Find your answers in the Bible. Is what you've been taught found in the Bible? Does it need to be found in the Bible? If it's not, who taught it and what does that mean in regards to what you believe in? Do you have a religion or do you have a relationship with Jesus? Is Jesus in your heart?
God bless you.
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. -James 2:14-17
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
Monday, August 26, 2013
The time is now.
In noticing that my views (how many people read my blog) on this blog are much less than my views on my other/health blog, I came to ponder the thought, why is it that so many don't want a God-centered life? Why is it that so many run from anything having to do with God? Why is God avoided?
In few discussions, much reading, and much thought on this, I've come across various reasons... "not ready", "don't want to", "God will limit me", wanting control and fearing the loss of that by giving your life to God, not believing, thinking you can do it on your own, thinking there is a better "way", thinking God is only for people who need help with something, believing evolution over God, not caring... etc. etc.
What have you got to lose by giving yourself to God? Really. Please answer that in your own thoughts. What have you got to lose? Nothing.
Losing control? Well if you haven't given your life to Christ then in fact the devil has control. Yes you make your own decisions, you are given free will. Free will is freedom of choice. And so you choose- God or devil. There is no in between. God will not limit you. God is limitless.
Thinking you can do it on your own? You can do all things... through Christ who strengthens you. You must give of yourself to receive Him. Want to do it on your own? Well, again, if it's not Christ it's the devil, so it's not really on your own then is it? God created this world, this entire world and everything within it. Don't you want someone like that on your side? If God is for us, who can be against us.
Thinking God is only for people who need help with something? Everyone needs help with something at some time. God is our strength. But in addition, we shouldn't "turn to God" in times of need. We should instead be putting God first at ALL times. We should be thanking Him continually for the gifts He has given us. We should be thanking Him through our struggles and especially after He brings us through them. God is love. And love makes the world go around doesn't it? Too many look at love as a feeling when instead it is an action. Go deliver it. God is for everyone.
Maybe you don't believe because in the past it hasn't "worked out" for you. Guess what? It hasn't "worked out" for anyone 100% of the time. If you give up now you might be giving up literally right before your blessing arrives. It is God's time remember, and God's plan. We must have faith and follow Him and trust in Him that His plan is coming together for the best. People pass away, it's bound to happen, and if you believe and they believed then you know they are in a better place. People get sick, again it's bound to happen, but there are also miracles and cures and remission and hope. People face tough times, but trials only strengthen us and our faith in God. Nothing will make perfect sense because God is the only one who can see it all, the past the present and the future and how it all comes together. Trust in Him.
Don't know how? Just start talking. Talk to God like you would a friend or family member- your closest one. If you really think He doesn't exist or you think He doesn't care, then really what have you got to lose here? And if you do believe in Him but are scared, don't be. Just talk. Tell Him what is on your mind. Tell Him your concerns. Tell Him you struggle with your faith and belief. Ask Him for guidance. Ask Him to come into your life. Make Him your God, your Lord, your Savior. Tell Him you love Him and give yourself to Him. And then listen. Always have your ears and heart open to hear Him. Follow Him. The Holy Spirit will lead you.
It's sad that society today is not only quiet about God but actually trying to rid Him from our lives... taking away prayer in schools, telling churches and organizations they have to cover certain healthcare that go against their beliefs... ok I'm not going to get into a political discussion here. But it's really sad how people are trying to remove God from life when LIFE is FROM GOD. People can try and try and try but God is and was and always will be bigger than anyone and anything. God will overcome evil. However, we as Christians must stand together and continue to stand together and stand up for our beliefs. We must stand up for Jesus...we must stand up for truth... Jesus is the way, the truth, the life. He got nailed to a cross for US. The least we could do is stand up for Him. Talk about Him. Witness to others. Lead others to know Christ.
Maybe you fear that you've already done too much wrong, sinned too bad. Guess what? God is the ONLY one who can save you from that sin. We are ALL sinners. Every single one of us. Don't compare yourself to another. Just strive to live like Jesus. Repent of your sins, ask God for forgiveness, welcome Jesus into your heart, and then follow Him. Jesus got nailed to the cross. Jesus took the punishment of our sins for us! We are forgiven! Here's the thing, even if you don't repent of your sins and don't choose God, God already knows everything! He knows what you are hiding, He knows the truth to what you are lying about, He knows your sins, He knows your heart. God already knows. So you aren't hiding anything by "keeping it from Him." So it's best we choose the ONLY way to Heaven, Jesus.
We're not going to be judged on the clothing we wear, the makeup we own, how many shoes we have, what type of car we drive, how many promotions at work we got... let go of worldly things. Change your focus to that of Christ. Have a Christ-centered, God-centered life. Put God first and He will bless you with the desires of your heart. Or don't put Him first and risk that your judgement day will come sooner than expected and it will be too late to have a change of heart. We never know when our time will come. So the time to choose God is now.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
In few discussions, much reading, and much thought on this, I've come across various reasons... "not ready", "don't want to", "God will limit me", wanting control and fearing the loss of that by giving your life to God, not believing, thinking you can do it on your own, thinking there is a better "way", thinking God is only for people who need help with something, believing evolution over God, not caring... etc. etc.
What have you got to lose by giving yourself to God? Really. Please answer that in your own thoughts. What have you got to lose? Nothing.
Losing control? Well if you haven't given your life to Christ then in fact the devil has control. Yes you make your own decisions, you are given free will. Free will is freedom of choice. And so you choose- God or devil. There is no in between. God will not limit you. God is limitless.
Thinking you can do it on your own? You can do all things... through Christ who strengthens you. You must give of yourself to receive Him. Want to do it on your own? Well, again, if it's not Christ it's the devil, so it's not really on your own then is it? God created this world, this entire world and everything within it. Don't you want someone like that on your side? If God is for us, who can be against us.
Thinking God is only for people who need help with something? Everyone needs help with something at some time. God is our strength. But in addition, we shouldn't "turn to God" in times of need. We should instead be putting God first at ALL times. We should be thanking Him continually for the gifts He has given us. We should be thanking Him through our struggles and especially after He brings us through them. God is love. And love makes the world go around doesn't it? Too many look at love as a feeling when instead it is an action. Go deliver it. God is for everyone.
Maybe you don't believe because in the past it hasn't "worked out" for you. Guess what? It hasn't "worked out" for anyone 100% of the time. If you give up now you might be giving up literally right before your blessing arrives. It is God's time remember, and God's plan. We must have faith and follow Him and trust in Him that His plan is coming together for the best. People pass away, it's bound to happen, and if you believe and they believed then you know they are in a better place. People get sick, again it's bound to happen, but there are also miracles and cures and remission and hope. People face tough times, but trials only strengthen us and our faith in God. Nothing will make perfect sense because God is the only one who can see it all, the past the present and the future and how it all comes together. Trust in Him.
Don't know how? Just start talking. Talk to God like you would a friend or family member- your closest one. If you really think He doesn't exist or you think He doesn't care, then really what have you got to lose here? And if you do believe in Him but are scared, don't be. Just talk. Tell Him what is on your mind. Tell Him your concerns. Tell Him you struggle with your faith and belief. Ask Him for guidance. Ask Him to come into your life. Make Him your God, your Lord, your Savior. Tell Him you love Him and give yourself to Him. And then listen. Always have your ears and heart open to hear Him. Follow Him. The Holy Spirit will lead you.
It's sad that society today is not only quiet about God but actually trying to rid Him from our lives... taking away prayer in schools, telling churches and organizations they have to cover certain healthcare that go against their beliefs... ok I'm not going to get into a political discussion here. But it's really sad how people are trying to remove God from life when LIFE is FROM GOD. People can try and try and try but God is and was and always will be bigger than anyone and anything. God will overcome evil. However, we as Christians must stand together and continue to stand together and stand up for our beliefs. We must stand up for Jesus...we must stand up for truth... Jesus is the way, the truth, the life. He got nailed to a cross for US. The least we could do is stand up for Him. Talk about Him. Witness to others. Lead others to know Christ.
Maybe you fear that you've already done too much wrong, sinned too bad. Guess what? God is the ONLY one who can save you from that sin. We are ALL sinners. Every single one of us. Don't compare yourself to another. Just strive to live like Jesus. Repent of your sins, ask God for forgiveness, welcome Jesus into your heart, and then follow Him. Jesus got nailed to the cross. Jesus took the punishment of our sins for us! We are forgiven! Here's the thing, even if you don't repent of your sins and don't choose God, God already knows everything! He knows what you are hiding, He knows the truth to what you are lying about, He knows your sins, He knows your heart. God already knows. So you aren't hiding anything by "keeping it from Him." So it's best we choose the ONLY way to Heaven, Jesus.
We're not going to be judged on the clothing we wear, the makeup we own, how many shoes we have, what type of car we drive, how many promotions at work we got... let go of worldly things. Change your focus to that of Christ. Have a Christ-centered, God-centered life. Put God first and He will bless you with the desires of your heart. Or don't put Him first and risk that your judgement day will come sooner than expected and it will be too late to have a change of heart. We never know when our time will come. So the time to choose God is now.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Healed
So this post is half for my other blog, half for this blog, but I have a feeling I need to post it here so that is what I am doing. I've been told to write this I think since yesterday. I put it off and said I would do it today. Then today rolled around and I'm worn out so I was thinking it's ok to do tomorrow. But then, I read a passage someone wrote to me, the same one I just talked on in my other blog. I took that as my cue to get on writing. I am including a link to my most recent post from my other blog here in case you want to read.
http://fightmg.blogspot.com/2013/08/medication-inclination.html
Anyways, I'm starting this new heart medication tomorrow. Yes, I'm a bit nervous considering my history of reaction to meds and its potential specifically in regards to MG. But I'm trying my best to give it up to God and trust completely 100% in Him.
So what I've been told to write on, and when I say told I am almost always referring to the voice of God I hear in my head... what I've been told to write on is... that I am healed.
I am healed. This is a bold statement to make. But I believe it, or I'm trying my best to believe it. Your thoughts lead to your future. God wants you to be positive. How can you have faith in Him if you talk negatively and expect the worst? God is able, in every sense of the way. God wants me healed. God will heal me. God has healed me. He knows my past, present and future. I want to be healed by God, not by medication. I will always praise Him for all things good in life.
So what are all these symptoms? Hey, maybe they take time to go away? All I know is I need to believe I am healed in order to be on the road to recovery. Full recovery. If God can take someone who had cancer and make that cancer disappear as some have reported... If God can take someone who is paralyzed and make them walk as some have reported... If God can create this entire world we live in... God can certainly heal me. And He will.
God wants you to dream big. He doesn't want you to ask for just the little things or think it's never going to happen. What message does that put out to him? That says I can't trust or don't trust that you will do this. We can't send that message. We need to send the message that we DO trust Him 100% and we know, we KNOW he wants the best for us. But at the same time we must ALWAYS send that glory up to Him, praise and thank Him, give Him the credit, not take it for ourselves.
Some can't turn their life to God because they think they will be giving it up, can't do it "their way." Well if only we all had the knowledge that we would want it the same that God wants it if we are gifted with the Holy Spirit and living in the Spirit. We want the best for us. He wants the best for us. The difference is, He KNOWS what's best for us. So let's give it up to Him and trust that He WILL take care of us. Always.
Back to that passage... He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
Lord, please Grant me faith the size of a mustard seed, and through that faith allow me to experience your healing in body and soul. Heal all areas of my life and the lives of my loved ones. Lord, please grant us all the trust to put You first, and glorify You in all good things we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
http://fightmg.blogspot.com/2013/08/medication-inclination.html
Anyways, I'm starting this new heart medication tomorrow. Yes, I'm a bit nervous considering my history of reaction to meds and its potential specifically in regards to MG. But I'm trying my best to give it up to God and trust completely 100% in Him.
So what I've been told to write on, and when I say told I am almost always referring to the voice of God I hear in my head... what I've been told to write on is... that I am healed.
I am healed. This is a bold statement to make. But I believe it, or I'm trying my best to believe it. Your thoughts lead to your future. God wants you to be positive. How can you have faith in Him if you talk negatively and expect the worst? God is able, in every sense of the way. God wants me healed. God will heal me. God has healed me. He knows my past, present and future. I want to be healed by God, not by medication. I will always praise Him for all things good in life.
So what are all these symptoms? Hey, maybe they take time to go away? All I know is I need to believe I am healed in order to be on the road to recovery. Full recovery. If God can take someone who had cancer and make that cancer disappear as some have reported... If God can take someone who is paralyzed and make them walk as some have reported... If God can create this entire world we live in... God can certainly heal me. And He will.
God wants you to dream big. He doesn't want you to ask for just the little things or think it's never going to happen. What message does that put out to him? That says I can't trust or don't trust that you will do this. We can't send that message. We need to send the message that we DO trust Him 100% and we know, we KNOW he wants the best for us. But at the same time we must ALWAYS send that glory up to Him, praise and thank Him, give Him the credit, not take it for ourselves.
Some can't turn their life to God because they think they will be giving it up, can't do it "their way." Well if only we all had the knowledge that we would want it the same that God wants it if we are gifted with the Holy Spirit and living in the Spirit. We want the best for us. He wants the best for us. The difference is, He KNOWS what's best for us. So let's give it up to Him and trust that He WILL take care of us. Always.
Back to that passage... He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
Lord, please Grant me faith the size of a mustard seed, and through that faith allow me to experience your healing in body and soul. Heal all areas of my life and the lives of my loved ones. Lord, please grant us all the trust to put You first, and glorify You in all good things we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Random Act of Love
I just got the chills... in a good way.
When I was in the hospital for surgery I decided to do something. I read something that was inspiring. So I took it and taped it on a random page on the daily calendar hanging in the hospital room. My thought was that God would place a specific person in that room on that day who needed to read that message. I wanted to provide some encouragement to them, because I know how tough being in the hospital and being sick can be. This led me to want to do more.
I had three separate hospital stays even though it was just a couple days in between each one from March-April. Each time I requested that the Chaplain visit me and each time without request the Chaplain brought me a Bible. Two were the same, one was different. I didn't need two of the same Bibles, so I took one and placed it in a drawer of the night stand in the room and added a note on top of it. Again, my hope is that God leads the right person to pick that up and that it brings joy to their day.
Then when I was staying in the hotel with my parents for a wedding, I again wrote a small note of encouragement and left it hidden. Maybe housekeeping will find it, maybe a guest will find it... but I know again it will be the person God leads to be inspired by those words.
I decided I wanted to keep doing this. I will never know who picks it up, if and how it affects them. But knowing that I could possibly lead someone to Jesus is all I need to keep me wanting to do this. Since I physically can't do nearly what I would like to, this is my very tiny way of doing a simple random act of kindness... better yet, random act of love. God's love. I've recently started a few other things too but I'll speak of those at a later time.
So today, I was reading a book from the library. As I flipped the pages guess what I found? A note from someone!!! The person says they are praying for whoever reads this, that this book may bless that person and inspire them to devote their life to God. Signed- Sister in Christ. Amazing! Absolutely amazing! God's Word is alive and well!
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38
When I was in the hospital for surgery I decided to do something. I read something that was inspiring. So I took it and taped it on a random page on the daily calendar hanging in the hospital room. My thought was that God would place a specific person in that room on that day who needed to read that message. I wanted to provide some encouragement to them, because I know how tough being in the hospital and being sick can be. This led me to want to do more.
I had three separate hospital stays even though it was just a couple days in between each one from March-April. Each time I requested that the Chaplain visit me and each time without request the Chaplain brought me a Bible. Two were the same, one was different. I didn't need two of the same Bibles, so I took one and placed it in a drawer of the night stand in the room and added a note on top of it. Again, my hope is that God leads the right person to pick that up and that it brings joy to their day.
Then when I was staying in the hotel with my parents for a wedding, I again wrote a small note of encouragement and left it hidden. Maybe housekeeping will find it, maybe a guest will find it... but I know again it will be the person God leads to be inspired by those words.
I decided I wanted to keep doing this. I will never know who picks it up, if and how it affects them. But knowing that I could possibly lead someone to Jesus is all I need to keep me wanting to do this. Since I physically can't do nearly what I would like to, this is my very tiny way of doing a simple random act of kindness... better yet, random act of love. God's love. I've recently started a few other things too but I'll speak of those at a later time.
So today, I was reading a book from the library. As I flipped the pages guess what I found? A note from someone!!! The person says they are praying for whoever reads this, that this book may bless that person and inspire them to devote their life to God. Signed- Sister in Christ. Amazing! Absolutely amazing! God's Word is alive and well!
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38
Monday, July 22, 2013
Disabled or Enabled
I post this in my MG blog but thought it was appropriate to post here too...
I'm not feeling good at all, haven't been and been declining in the last week. Not sure if it's MG, still the reaction to the prescription, or something else. A few days back it was my arms, hands, fingers and could barely type. Now it's my legs not really working at all. Anyways, I felt God telling me to write on a topic, so I'm listening to Him and writing.
When diagnosed with a serious chronic illness, many find themselves categorized under "disabled." It's true we have less physical abilities than we had before... many less. It's true we cannot physically do what the majority of society can do. It's true that we may need to use a handicap placard, wheel chair or other assistive devices. It's true that our lives have completely changed.
But we are looking at once sense of life here- the physical sense, worldly in fashion. In that sense, we are disabled. But are we truly disabled? When I say truly, Jesus is truth, so in the eyes of Jesus are we disabled? I don't believe so. In fact, I believe some of us actually become enabled... enabled with the Holy Spirit. That's what happened to me.
Everything is spoken about in context. The context of disability is related to physical. But if we change the context, perhaps many are disabled and few obtain the saving grace in becoming enabled.
Don't look at yourself as a body. Look at yourself as a soul with the gift of the Spirit. When you make that change, and separation in a sense, having a "disability" becomes, dare I say, easier. Your body becomes your job, to take care of and not quit. But YOU are your soul with the gift of the Spirit. Many won't make the separation or even understand the possibility of one. Many will focus strictly on the physical sense, the body. They will bring you down, live entirely in the worldly limits. But deep down inside you know the truth, the real life. Stay in that mindset. Stay positive, stay focused, and stay close to God guiding you. Take care of your body, but don't let it limit you.
Get outside of that box. I'm certain there are at least a few who read "don't let it limit you" and thought ok get out there, get a job or physically do more. Nope. I do not mean push yourself. We with MG know that is the worst thing we can do. But allow your soul to be redeemed. (I just looked that up to make sure I wasn't way off in what I just said as I didn't know- and I quote Psalms 49:15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. End quote. It's things like this that make me know I am writing in the Spirit and not the flesh because I did not know that verse before now.)
Everything is within context. What context are you living in? Worldly, in the flesh- I am disabled. In the Spirit- I am enabled. My wish for all is that you all become enabled. Allow it to happen. Give up preconceived notions, give up things, give up restrictions, give it all up to God and He will give it all to you.
This is more of a post for my other blog, so maybe I'll paste it into there too. But I was told to write it in this one, so I hope there is someone out there reading this who needs to hear this message. After all, I am a vessel for God. Let His message be delivered.
Love to all. And asking for prayers for my health and for my day, and let's just say for this whole week as it's not an easy one. Thank you!
I'm not feeling good at all, haven't been and been declining in the last week. Not sure if it's MG, still the reaction to the prescription, or something else. A few days back it was my arms, hands, fingers and could barely type. Now it's my legs not really working at all. Anyways, I felt God telling me to write on a topic, so I'm listening to Him and writing.
When diagnosed with a serious chronic illness, many find themselves categorized under "disabled." It's true we have less physical abilities than we had before... many less. It's true we cannot physically do what the majority of society can do. It's true that we may need to use a handicap placard, wheel chair or other assistive devices. It's true that our lives have completely changed.
But we are looking at once sense of life here- the physical sense, worldly in fashion. In that sense, we are disabled. But are we truly disabled? When I say truly, Jesus is truth, so in the eyes of Jesus are we disabled? I don't believe so. In fact, I believe some of us actually become enabled... enabled with the Holy Spirit. That's what happened to me.
Everything is spoken about in context. The context of disability is related to physical. But if we change the context, perhaps many are disabled and few obtain the saving grace in becoming enabled.
Don't look at yourself as a body. Look at yourself as a soul with the gift of the Spirit. When you make that change, and separation in a sense, having a "disability" becomes, dare I say, easier. Your body becomes your job, to take care of and not quit. But YOU are your soul with the gift of the Spirit. Many won't make the separation or even understand the possibility of one. Many will focus strictly on the physical sense, the body. They will bring you down, live entirely in the worldly limits. But deep down inside you know the truth, the real life. Stay in that mindset. Stay positive, stay focused, and stay close to God guiding you. Take care of your body, but don't let it limit you.
Get outside of that box. I'm certain there are at least a few who read "don't let it limit you" and thought ok get out there, get a job or physically do more. Nope. I do not mean push yourself. We with MG know that is the worst thing we can do. But allow your soul to be redeemed. (I just looked that up to make sure I wasn't way off in what I just said as I didn't know- and I quote Psalms 49:15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. End quote. It's things like this that make me know I am writing in the Spirit and not the flesh because I did not know that verse before now.)
Everything is within context. What context are you living in? Worldly, in the flesh- I am disabled. In the Spirit- I am enabled. My wish for all is that you all become enabled. Allow it to happen. Give up preconceived notions, give up things, give up restrictions, give it all up to God and He will give it all to you.
This is more of a post for my other blog, so maybe I'll paste it into there too. But I was told to write it in this one, so I hope there is someone out there reading this who needs to hear this message. After all, I am a vessel for God. Let His message be delivered.
Love to all. And asking for prayers for my health and for my day, and let's just say for this whole week as it's not an easy one. Thank you!
Monday, July 15, 2013
What's your choice?
Doing what is wrong or doing what is right.
Doing what is good or doing what is bad.
Living for Christ or living for the devil.
Yes, backup there a second... for Christ or for the devil? All which is good and right belongs to Christ. That which is wrong and bad is to the devil. God is ALWAYS there for us, always wants the best for us- better than we can even fathom, He will guide us... but, He won't make the decision for us. Why? Because we are given our own free will. So we are allowed to choose the bad, the wrong, the evil, the devil. God doesn't want us to choose that route, but He will allow it so not to impose on the free will He has given us.
Why do people choose what is wrong, bad, evil, of the devil?
I used to think that of the devil could only mean severe things such as killing, robbery, etc. I never related it to everyday evils we barely notice because they are much too common... lying, pride, jealousy, talking poorly about others. Now I clearly know that to be Christian means ridding myself of those evils, striving to do so as much as possible, living in a way that is a reflection of Jesus.
People don't realize how much the devil is present in this world, in our lives. He is CONSTANTLY trying to pull us away from God, from doing what is right, what is good, what is true. He is constantly deceiving us into thinking the wrong way is the right way. He deceives us through every possible medium out there- the media, strangers, friends and even family. I am not saying family members or friends or anyone are bad people... but the devil can and will use anything and anyone to get to you with gossip, jealousy, lying, anger, division within families. One the biggest ways he does so is through your own mind. He can talk you into anything... absolutely anything... make you believe that you are doing right, doing well. It's all a bunch of lies.
How can we discern then what is of Christ and what is of the devil? Again the devil will try and tell you that good people are actually bad people and so on and so forth. But all you have to do is open your Bible. Read it. Study it. Discuss it with other Christians. The Bible tells us everything we need to know. So, if you are trying to discern what is of Christ- is it biblical? If so, it is most likely of Christ. If you can't find it in the Bible to back it up, consider the devil is trying to deceive you and bring you down to a place you don't ever want to go. The Bible isn't something where you can pick and choose how you please. Why? Because in following Jesus you must follow him completely, because if you pick and choose then you really aren't following him at all. You can't carry only half the cross and claim it as your ticket to Heaven.
So again why do we choose evil? For the pleasure, excitement, experience, etc. that we are deceived into thinking is worth it. Maybe we feel we want to experience ALL of life- the good and the bad. But consider this- there are enough struggles out there without creating your own. You will encounter both good and bad without making a choice of it. We are still experiencing all that is life... but while doing so we are making the choices to remain faithful and righteous. We are not missing out on anything but instead actually making the most of everything.
Maybe you just feel you can't give your life to Christ because you'd be giving up your own free will, that choice. But think about it this way. You ARE making a choice right now if you aren't choosing Christ. If you are choosing evil, or anything other than good, truth and Jesus, you are in fact choosing the devil. You are CHOOSING the devil. So if you fear that you will "submit your life to Christ" and give up all freedom, look at it in the other sense that right now you are submitting your life to the devil and giving up all freedom. It's one or the other. If you aren't giving your life to Christ you are allowing the devil control over you.
Our life here on earth is nothing but a split second compared to all eternity in Heaven or hell. We cannot do whatever the heck we please, knowingly doing wrong, and then at the end say "Oh I'm sorry God, forgive me and take me to Heaven now." I don't think so. Once we know right from wrong, we MUST live righteously. And then if we make a MISTAKE, we repent and strive our very darn hardest never to repeat it.
Anyone who has gotten through some tough times, anyone who has witnessed or lived a miracle... what came before that? The struggle. How would there ever be miracles if there weren't struggles? Thus we must go through trials of sorts, strengthening of our faith, obstacles and overcoming evil, to get to the other side. For without the struggle, what kind of testimony would we have to receive the blessing? We need for the goal of the other side to still be with Jesus, with Him all along and in the end. We need the goal we are aiming for to be biblical. For if we remain faithful to Him no matter WHAT no matter how tough it gets, and we continue to praise Him and thank Him and trust in Him, we will get through it. Make it your goal not to live in evil but to OVERCOME evil.
When you read the Bible and make the decision to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and follow Him. Then start living in the spirit rather than the flesh. You have a choice. Which do you choose? Heaven or Hell?
And they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:26
Doing what is good or doing what is bad.
Living for Christ or living for the devil.
Yes, backup there a second... for Christ or for the devil? All which is good and right belongs to Christ. That which is wrong and bad is to the devil. God is ALWAYS there for us, always wants the best for us- better than we can even fathom, He will guide us... but, He won't make the decision for us. Why? Because we are given our own free will. So we are allowed to choose the bad, the wrong, the evil, the devil. God doesn't want us to choose that route, but He will allow it so not to impose on the free will He has given us.
Why do people choose what is wrong, bad, evil, of the devil?
I used to think that of the devil could only mean severe things such as killing, robbery, etc. I never related it to everyday evils we barely notice because they are much too common... lying, pride, jealousy, talking poorly about others. Now I clearly know that to be Christian means ridding myself of those evils, striving to do so as much as possible, living in a way that is a reflection of Jesus.
People don't realize how much the devil is present in this world, in our lives. He is CONSTANTLY trying to pull us away from God, from doing what is right, what is good, what is true. He is constantly deceiving us into thinking the wrong way is the right way. He deceives us through every possible medium out there- the media, strangers, friends and even family. I am not saying family members or friends or anyone are bad people... but the devil can and will use anything and anyone to get to you with gossip, jealousy, lying, anger, division within families. One the biggest ways he does so is through your own mind. He can talk you into anything... absolutely anything... make you believe that you are doing right, doing well. It's all a bunch of lies.
How can we discern then what is of Christ and what is of the devil? Again the devil will try and tell you that good people are actually bad people and so on and so forth. But all you have to do is open your Bible. Read it. Study it. Discuss it with other Christians. The Bible tells us everything we need to know. So, if you are trying to discern what is of Christ- is it biblical? If so, it is most likely of Christ. If you can't find it in the Bible to back it up, consider the devil is trying to deceive you and bring you down to a place you don't ever want to go. The Bible isn't something where you can pick and choose how you please. Why? Because in following Jesus you must follow him completely, because if you pick and choose then you really aren't following him at all. You can't carry only half the cross and claim it as your ticket to Heaven.
So again why do we choose evil? For the pleasure, excitement, experience, etc. that we are deceived into thinking is worth it. Maybe we feel we want to experience ALL of life- the good and the bad. But consider this- there are enough struggles out there without creating your own. You will encounter both good and bad without making a choice of it. We are still experiencing all that is life... but while doing so we are making the choices to remain faithful and righteous. We are not missing out on anything but instead actually making the most of everything.
Maybe you just feel you can't give your life to Christ because you'd be giving up your own free will, that choice. But think about it this way. You ARE making a choice right now if you aren't choosing Christ. If you are choosing evil, or anything other than good, truth and Jesus, you are in fact choosing the devil. You are CHOOSING the devil. So if you fear that you will "submit your life to Christ" and give up all freedom, look at it in the other sense that right now you are submitting your life to the devil and giving up all freedom. It's one or the other. If you aren't giving your life to Christ you are allowing the devil control over you.
Our life here on earth is nothing but a split second compared to all eternity in Heaven or hell. We cannot do whatever the heck we please, knowingly doing wrong, and then at the end say "Oh I'm sorry God, forgive me and take me to Heaven now." I don't think so. Once we know right from wrong, we MUST live righteously. And then if we make a MISTAKE, we repent and strive our very darn hardest never to repeat it.
Anyone who has gotten through some tough times, anyone who has witnessed or lived a miracle... what came before that? The struggle. How would there ever be miracles if there weren't struggles? Thus we must go through trials of sorts, strengthening of our faith, obstacles and overcoming evil, to get to the other side. For without the struggle, what kind of testimony would we have to receive the blessing? We need for the goal of the other side to still be with Jesus, with Him all along and in the end. We need the goal we are aiming for to be biblical. For if we remain faithful to Him no matter WHAT no matter how tough it gets, and we continue to praise Him and thank Him and trust in Him, we will get through it. Make it your goal not to live in evil but to OVERCOME evil.
When you read the Bible and make the decision to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and follow Him. Then start living in the spirit rather than the flesh. You have a choice. Which do you choose? Heaven or Hell?
And they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:26
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Judgement
Why is it that no matter what I say or how I say it, there are always people who twist my words like it's their job? Who go searching to pull out anything negative they can find in it. Who then take it and gossip to others about it. When all along what they are saying is not at all what I intended for it to mean. You can only try so much. You can't control another human being. And at the end, the only judgement that matters is that of God.
Does that mean we should not show any judgement? I would be wrong in stating what I just stated above if so since it appears to be of judgement. We should let people do whatever the heck they want? I don't believe so.
The Bible warns us to beware of evildoers. How are we to discern that? We need to know what the Bible states, how God wants us to live, and we need to strive to live in that way and stay away from evil.
We are to know the truth, live the truth and bring others to the truth. It is our responsibility as Christians to look out for and fellowship with other Christians. It is our responsibility to help them stay focused on God and that includes bringing sin to attention with a biblical resolution. We are not to judge with harsh criticism or self gain but with love and respect for one another, to help one another.
So are we or aren't we to judge is a difficult question to answer for it is both a yes and a no. Instead of a one word answer, our focus should be on if we are living how God wants us to live, in harmony with Him and with what the Bible says. And if that is what we are striving to do then the Christian life we are living. If not, well God will be the judge.
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
2 Timothy 4:2
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. 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
Does that mean we should not show any judgement? I would be wrong in stating what I just stated above if so since it appears to be of judgement. We should let people do whatever the heck they want? I don't believe so.
The Bible warns us to beware of evildoers. How are we to discern that? We need to know what the Bible states, how God wants us to live, and we need to strive to live in that way and stay away from evil.
We are to know the truth, live the truth and bring others to the truth. It is our responsibility as Christians to look out for and fellowship with other Christians. It is our responsibility to help them stay focused on God and that includes bringing sin to attention with a biblical resolution. We are not to judge with harsh criticism or self gain but with love and respect for one another, to help one another.
So are we or aren't we to judge is a difficult question to answer for it is both a yes and a no. Instead of a one word answer, our focus should be on if we are living how God wants us to live, in harmony with Him and with what the Bible says. And if that is what we are striving to do then the Christian life we are living. If not, well God will be the judge.
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
2 Timothy 4:2
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. 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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)