I'm going through a book right now, called "The Purpose Driven Life." It is an excellent book, and I have learned a lot from it! There are 40 chapters, and I am on Day 33, which is called "How Real Servants Act." I loved it so much, that I wanted to share it with you all here on my blog. Oh, and this is my 100th post, and I thought it was a good one for that, as well! :)
The Purpose Driven Life: Day 33 | How Real Servants Act | 10/23/12
We serve God by serving others.
The world defines greatness in terms of power, possessions, prestige, and position. If you can demand service from others, you've arrived. In our self-serving culture with it's me-first mentality, acting like a servant is not a popular concept.
Jesus, however, measured greatness in terms of service, not status. God determines your greatness by how many people you serve, not how many people serve you. This is so contrary to the world's idea of greatness that we have a hard time understanding it, much less practicing it. The disciples argued about who deserved the most prominent position, and 2,000 years later, Christian leaders still jockey for position and prominence in churches, denominations, and parachurch ministries.
Thousands of books have been written on leadership, but few on servanthood. Everyone wants to lead; no one wants to be a servant.We would rather be generals than privates Even Christians want to be "servant-leaders," not just plain servants. But to be like Jesus is to be a servant. That's what He called Himself.
While knowing your shape is important for serving God, having the heart of a servant is even more important. Remember, God shaped you for service, not for self-centeredness. Without a servant's heart, you will be tempted to misuse your shape for personal gain. You will also be tempted to use it as an excuse to exempt yourself from meeting some needs.
God often tests our hearts by asking us to serve in ways we're not shaped. If you see a man fall into a ditch, God expects you to help him out, not say, "I don't have the gift of mercy or service." While you may not be gifted for a particular task, you may be called to do it if no one gifted at it is around. Your primary ministry should be in the area of your shape, but your secondary service is wherever you're needed at the moment.
Your shape reveals your ministry, but your servant's heart will reveal your maturity. No special talent or gift is required to stay after a meeting to pick up trash or stack chairs. Anyone can be a servant. All it requires is character.
It is possible to serve in church for a lifetime without ever being a servant. You must have a servant's heart. How can you know if you have the heart of a servant? Jesus said, "You can tell what they are by what they do." (Matthew 7:16, CEV)
*Real servants make themselves available to serve. Servants don't fill up their time with other pursuits that could limit their availability. They want to be ready to jump into service when called on. Much like a soldier, a servant must always be standing by for duty: "No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him." (2 Timothy 2:4, NASB) If you only serve when it's convenient for you, you're not a real servant. Real servants do what's needed, even when it's inconvenient.
Are you available to God anytime? Can He mess up your plans without you becoming resentful? As a servant, you don't get to pick and choose when or where you will serve. Being a servant means giving up the right to control your schedule and allowing God to interrupt it whenever He needs to.
If you will remind yourself at the start of every day that you are God's servant, interruptions won't frustrate you as much, because your agenda will be whatever God wants to bring into your life. Servants see interruptions as divine appointments for ministry and are happy for the opportunity to practice serving.
*Real servants pay attention to needs. Servants are always on the lookout for ways to help others. When they see a need, they seize the moment to meet it, just as the Bible commands us: "Whenever we have the opportunity, we have to do what is good for everyone, especially for the family of believers." (Galatians 6:10, GWT) When god puts someone in need right in front of you, He is giving you the opportunity to grow in servanthood. Notice that God says the needs of your church family are to be given preference, not put at the bottom of your "things to do " list.
We miss many occasions for serving because we lack sensitivity and spontaneity. Great opportunities to serve never last long. They pass quickly, sometimes never to return again. You may only get one chance to serve that person, so take advantage of the moment. "Never tell your neighbors to wait until tomorrow if you can help them now." (Proverbs 3:28, TEV)
John Wesley was an incredible servant of God His motto was "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as you ever can." That is greatness. You can begin by looking for small tasks that no one else wants to do. Do these little things as if they were great things, because God is watching.
*Reals servants do their best with what they have.
Servants don't make excuses, procrastinate, or wait for better circumstances. Servants never say, "One of these days" or "When the time is right." They just do what needs to be done. The Bible says, "If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done." (Ecclesiastes 11:4, NLT) God expects you to do what you can, with what you have, wherever you are. Less-than-perfect service is always better than the best intention.
One reason many people never serve is that they fear they are not good enough to serve. They have believed the lie that serving God is only for superstars. Some churches have fostered this myth by making "excellence" an idol, which makes people of average talent hesitant to get involved.
You may have heard it said, "If it can't be done with excellence, don't do it." Well, Jesus never said that! The truth is, almost everything we do is done poorly when we first start doing it-that's how we learn.
*Real servants do every task with equal dedication. Whatever they do, servants "do it with all their heart." (Colossians 3:23) The size of the task is irrelevant. The only issue is, does it need to be done?
You will never arrive at the state in life where you're too important to help with menial tasks. God will never exempt you from the mundane. It's a vital part of your character curriculum. The Bible says, "If you think you are too important to help someone in need, you are only fooling yourself. You are really a nobody." (Galatians 6:3, NLT) It is in these small services that we grow like Christ.
Jesus specialized in menial tasks that everyone else tried to avoid: washing feet, helping children, fixing breakfast, and serving lepers. Nothing was beneath Him, because He came to serve. It wasn't in spite of His greatness that He did these things, but because of it, and He expects us to follow His example. (John 13:15)
Small tasks often show a big heart. Your servant's heart is revealed in little acts that others don't think of doing, as when Paul gathered brushwood for a fire to warm everyone shipwreck. (Acts 28:3) He was just as exhausted as everyone else, but He did what everyone needed. No task is beneath you when have a servant's heart.
Great opportunities often disguise themselves in small tasks. The little things in life determine the big things. Don't look for great tasks to do for God. Just do the not-so-great stuff, and God will assign you whatever He wants you to do. But before attempting the extraordinary, try serving in ordinary ways. (Luke 16:10-12)
There will always be more people willing to do "great" things for God than there are people willing to do the little things. The race to be a leader is crowded, but the field is wide open for those willing to be servants. Sometimes you serve upward to those in authority, and sometimes you serve downward to those in need. Either way, you develop a servant's heart when you're willing to do anything needed.
*Real servants are faithful to their ministry. Servants finish their tasks, fulfill their responsibilities, keep their promises, and complete their commitments. They don't leave a job half undone, and they don't quit when they get discouraged. They are trustworthy and dependable.
Faithfulness has always been a rare quality. (Psalm 12:1; Proverbs 20:6; Philippians 2:19-22) Most people don't know the meaning of commitment. They make commitments casually, then break them for the slightest reason without any hesitation, remorse, or regret. Every week, churches and other organizations must improvise because volunteers didn't prepare, didn't show up, or didn't even call to say they weren't coming.
Can you be counted on by others? Are there promises you need to keep, vows you need to fulfill, or commitments you need to honor? This is a test. God is testing your faithfulness. If you pass the test, you're in good company: Abraham, Moses, Samuel, David, Daniel, Timothy, and Paul were all called faithful servants of God. Even better, God has promised to reward your faithfulness in eternity. Imagine what it will feel like one day to have God say to you, "Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!" (Matthew 25:23, NLT)
By the way, faithful servants never retire. They serve faithfully as long as they're alive. You can retire from your career, but you will never retire from serving God.
*Real servants maintain a low profile. Servants don't promote or call attention to themselves. Instead of acting to impress and dressing for success, they "put on the apron of humility, to serve one another." (1 Peter 5:5, TEV) If recognized for their service, they humbly accept it but don't allow notoriety to distract them from their work.
Paul exposed a kind of service that appears to be spiritual but is really just a put-on, a show, an act to get attention. He called it "eyeservice" (Ephesians 6:6, KJV; Colossians 3:22, KJV)-serving in order to impress people with how spiritual we are. This was a sin of the Pharisees. They turned helping others, giving, and even prayer into a performance for others. Jesus hated this attitude and warned, "When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven." (Matthew 6:1, CEV)
Self-promotion and servanthood don't mix. Real servants don't serve for the approval or applause of others. They live for an audience of One. As Paul said, "If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." (Galatians 1:10, NIV)
You won't find many real servants in the limelight; in fact, they avoid it when possible. They are content with quietly serving in the shadows. Joseph is a great example. He didn't draw attention to himself, but quietly served Potiphar, then his jailer, then Pharaoh's baker and wine taster, and God blessed that attitude. When Pharaoh promoted him to prominence, Joseph still maintained a servant's heart, even with his brothers, who had betrayed him.
Unfortunately, many leaders today start off as servants but end up as celebrities. They become addicted to attention, unaware that being in the spotlight blinds you.
You may be serving in obscurity in some some small place, feeling unknown and unappreciated. Listen: God put you where you are for a purpose! He has every hair on your head numbered, and He knows your address. You had better stay put until He chooses to move you. He will let you know if He wants you somewhere else. Your ministry matter to the kingdom of God. "When Christ...shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too-the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity." (Colossians 3:4, Msg.)
There are more than 750 "Halls of Fame" in America and more than 450 "Who's Who" publications, but you won't find many real servants in these places. Notoriety means nothing to real servants because they know the difference between prominence and significance. You have several prominent features on your body that you could live without. It is the hidden parts of your body that are indispensable. The same is true in the Body of Christ. The most significant service is often the service that is unseen. (1 Corinthians 12:22-24)
In heaven, God is going to openly reward some of His most obscure and unknown servants-people we have never heard of on earth, who taught emotionally disturbed children, cleaned up after incontinent elderly, nursed AIDS patients, and served in thousands of other unnoticed ways.
Knowing this, don't be discouraged when your service is unnoticed or taken for granted. Keep on serving God! "Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort." (1 Corinthians 15:58, Msg.) Even the smallest service is noticed by God and will be rewarded. Remember the words of Jesus: "If, as my representatives, you give even a cup of cold water to a little child, you will surely be rewarded." (Matthew 10:42, LB)
Day Thirty-Three: Thinking About My Purpose.
*Point to Ponder. I serve God by serving others
*Verse to Remember: "If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." Matthew 10:42 (NLT)
*Question to Consider: Which of the six characteristics of real servants offers the greatest challenge to me?
Showing posts with label Joy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Joy. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Friday, October 12, 2012
My Testimony ♥
I don't know if I have ever shared my testimony on here or not. Anyways, I wrote it out September 25th, cause my Small Group leader asked me to share it with our Small Group Wednesday night, the 26th. So, I wrote it out, and then shared it at Youth Group with my Small Group. It's not only my testimony of how I got saved, but I also added where I am now, and how I got to the point I am today, in my walk with Christ. I hope you enjoy reading it! (oh, a couple times I say like last week or a couple weeks ago... Obviously I wrote this a couple weeks ago, so when it says that, it was more like a month or so ago.... but, whatever.) :)
I have had the amazing privilege of growing up in a Christian family for my entire life. I have gone to Church ever since I was born, and I have been taught from the Word of God from a very young age. I got saved at the age of just 4 years old. I don’t remember the date, I don’t remember the day of the week, I don’t remember the time (other than that it was at night right before bed time), I don’t remember who or what made me want to do it, or even what I said. All I know is that something inside my little heart, even though I was very young, wanted Jesus Christ to come and live inside my heart. Kneeling beside my bed, with the help of Mom, I said what is so often referred to as “the sinner’s prayer.” Being so young, it didn’t change or alter my life right away, in a huge way that I can remember, and it wasn’t until I was about 11 years old (the year 2006) when my sister Julianna asked Christ into her heart, that I really truly grasped what it meant to have Jesus living inside me. I wanted to know for sure that I was going to heaven when I died. So, on March 12th 2006 was when I “confirmed” my salvation, to have a date to remember and acknowledge my spiritual birthday. It was even later than this time, though, when I learned what it truly meant to live a poured out life for Christ (I am still learning even now, though, and don’t know even close to everything).
About a month after that, on April 16th, 2006, Easter Sunday, Susanna, Caleb and I got baptized. Sometime after that, I wrote about it in my Bible, and described it as “one of the best nights of my life.”
That was a long time ago, though, and I have come so far since then. I have gone through so much, and learned so much by reading God’s Word on a daily basis, studying the Scripture, memorizing verses, and reading insightful, and helpful books as well as going through many devotional books that have helped me in my pursuit of Christ.
The year 2011 was a tough year for me. No, it wasn’t all bad, but it was still tough. The separation of my parents, along with living at my Grandparents house for a while, as well as many other things, were what caused me to struggle so much. I sometimes failed to see God even in the small things of life, because I failed to look. God IS in each day, but we don’t always see Him, because we fail to look and fail to recognize Him. Although this time was tough, it was during that time that I learned what it meant to fully put my trust in God, and depend on Him for the strength I needed to get through the day. I learned and realized that He IS in control of my life, and I don’t need to worry or fret, because He has my future in His hands, and it‘s all planned out… I can let go of my life and let Him have full control! Also, during that time, I spent a lot of time with God. I learned that “In [his] presence is fulness of joy; at [his] right hand there are pleasures forevermore”, as it says in Psalm 16:11. John Piper once said: “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” In spending more time with God, I got to know Him better, was able to draw closer to Him (James 4:8), and started striving to be more like Him each and every day. That makes me think of the song titled “Little by Little” by Olivia Collingsworth. It goes: “Just yesterday, I was so small… I’ve been learning new things as I grow. Some people say I’m getting so tall, where did the little kid go? Inside and out God is making me new, you may not see it happen until He is through. Sometimes it seems that I’m so far away, from all I want someday to be. But His Word says, that He’ll finish someday, all that He started in me. I look at me, and I don’t understand, but God has a vision, and God has a plan. Little by little, I’m changing, I’m growing. Little by little, I hope that it’s showing. I’m not who I’ll be, I’m not who I was, I’m somewhere in the middle; But, God is changing me, little by little.” Now, looking back at that year, even though it was a painful and trying time, I can see God’s hand at work in my life, and how He was using it for my good. Romans 8:28 says: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
The year 2012, (so far, anyways) has been one of the best years of my life, for many different reasons. Not only were there many fun and exciting things I was able to do, new experiences I was able to have, and times of great joy, but there were also many times of serving, helping out, volunteering, babysitting during the summer, learning more about who God is, growing closer to Him, and just being able to be a blessing to other people, putting their needs above my own. That is truly what brings me the most joy, for it is when we put others needs above our own, and give to other people in need that we are truly blessed.♥ Proverbs 11:24-25, says: “There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” Luke 6:38, says: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” Benjamin Franklin said: “Who pleasure gives, shall joy receive.”
There are many commands that God gives us in the Bible, but there is one that God has shown me over and over again this past year, and that is becoming crystal clear to me just now. That command is found in the simple words of Luke 9:23. “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Italics added by me.)
Self-denial, Surrender, I must decrease, and die to self are phrases that became (and are still becoming) very dear to me… Words that God wants me to embrace as my own.
At the beginning of this year, I read something on a girl’s blog that I thought was very good, and I shared it on my own blog, as well. It said this:
For 2012...I have no resolutions other than...
to love a little deeper~
to stand a little taller~
to laugh a little louder~
to speak gently~
to give more profusely~
to live with reckless abandon~
to let faith grow stronger~
to smile in the face of adversity~
to wipe tears from weary faces~
to speak a little less~
to listen a little more~
to carry His burdens for this world~
to rock children to sleep~
to live for Him alone~
to point others to Him~
to radiate with His glory~
to pray more at His feet~
to dance a little freer~
to sing a little stronger~
to be an encouragement to those around me~
to die daily~
to surrender more freely~
to battle with more determination~
to give joy in all circumstances~
to love Him more.
~to be utterly transformed by His renewing grace~
evermore.
daily.
to be changed.
made stronger.
lift Him higher.
forget self.
abandon sin.
lay it all down,
nothing in my own strength
to know the truth
to draw closer
to Him
Daily.
~to see the beauty~
in the colors; taken for granted
in the rainbows that boast of a promise
in the laughter, that shows His heart
in the unknown path of the months to come
in the giving that holds nothing back
in the songs of birds
early spring rain
crisp autumn leaves
snow-capped mountains
desperate prayers
brokenness
surrender
but joy.
my journey home
~to learn to see...
the world with His compassion
to hope with absolute confidence
to serve with His kindness,
His gentleness,
His self-control,
His patience,
and to
abide in His peace
to learn a quiet heart
~to be still~
to radiate with an inner quiet grace
quiet grace
{All in all?}
To live a life that is not in vain.
Also, at about that time, we started up the meetings for the people going to Mexico in April, and we started going through the book “not a fan.” The main theme in that book was about denying yourself, taking up your cross daily, and following Him. In March, I started a book called “Experiencing God” the youth edition. It had Luke 9:23, as well as the call to deny self, and surrender your whole life to Christ, many times throughout. It was about that time that the “Surrender” series were started here in Youth Group. What were they about? Yes; Surrender, self-denial, and the like.
The words of the hymn “Turn your eyes upon Jesus” have become dear to me the past couple weeks, saying: Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
Those simple yet profound words beckon us to die to self, surrender, and give up everything for the sake of knowing, and loving our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A couple weeks ago, Pastor Landon started the series on Colossians. Then, last week, he talked about God having the preeminence in your life. He asked if we were willing to give up other things, in order that God would have the first place in our lives. Since then (last Wednesday), this past week, I have seen or heard those words (either Self-denial, Die to self, Surrender) multiple times each and every day,. Whether in a book, an article in a online magazine I read, a sermon I listened to, someone posting it on Facebook, an email from a friend, a song, or anything else, God is clearly speaking to me. He wants me today to die to self, surrender, and give up everything my flesh desires, so that I may know, love, and serve Him better. And it’s not a one time decision. It’s something I have to decide to do on a day by day, moment by moment basis. Elisabeth Elliot said this: “One does not surrender a life in an instant. That which is lifelong can only be surrendered in a lifetime.” (The verse Luke 9:23 and the words I mentioned came up many more times as well, I just can’t think of the specific times right now.)
My greatest desire as I seek to be more like Christ, and desire to know Him more, is that others see His light shining through me. I want others to feel His presence when they are around me. I want others to be able to look at me, and see His glorious face-not mine. As Hannah Thomas said: Lord I wanna be like a glow stick: bend me and break me until your light shines through me. Isaiah 64:8 says: But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. May I be moldable, so that He may mold me into the person He created me to be-all for His honor and glory. No, I’m not perfect, although I never will be. I’m still learning, and I still have a long way to go. Hebrews 12:1-2 says: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
“I am not what I ought to be, I am not what I want to be, I am not what I hope to be in another world; but still I am not what I once used to be, and by the grace of God I am what I am.” ~John Newton
Friday, September 21, 2012
Kisses From Katie: Introduction
I never meant to be a mother. I mean, I guess I did; not right now, though. Not before I was married. Not when I was nineteen. Not to so, so many little people. Thankfully, God's plans do not seem to be affected much by my own.
I never meant to live in Uganda, a dot on the map in East Africa, on the opposite side of the planet from my family and all that is comfortable and familiar. Thankfully, God's plans also happen to be much better than my own.
You see, Jesus wrecked my life. For as long as I could remember, I had everything this world says is important. In high school, I was class president, homecoming queen, top of my class. I dated cute boys and wore cute shoes and drove a cute sports car. I had wonderful, supportive parents who so desired my success that they would have paid for me to go to college anywhere my heart desired. But I loved Jesus.
And the fact that I loved Jesus was beginning to interfere with the plans I once had for my life and certainly with the plans others had for me. My heart had been apprehended by a great love, a love that compelled me to live differently. I had grown up in a Christian home, gone to church, and learned about Jesus all my life. Around the age of twelve or thirteen, I began to delve into the truths of Scripture. As I read and learned more and more of what Jesus said, I liked the life-style I saw around me less and less. I began to realize that God wanted more from me, and I wanted more of Him. He began to grow in me a desire to live intentionally, and different from anyone I had ever known.
Slowly but surely I began to realize the truth: I had loved and admired and worshiped Jesus without doing what He said. This recognition didn't happen overnight: in fact I believe it was happening in my heart long before I even knew it. It was happening as I explored the possibility of overseas volunteer work, it was happening as I took my first three-week trip to Uganda, it was happening as I fell in love with a beautiful country full of gracious, joyful people and immense poverty and squalor that begged me to do more. It was happening in so many ways, and I couldn't deny it. I wanted to actually do what Jesus said to do.
So I quit my life.
Originally, my quitting was to be temporary, lasting just one year before I went to college and returned to normal, American teenager life. But after that year, which I spent in Uganda, returning to "normal" wasn't possible. I had seen what life was about and I could not pretend I didn't know. So I quit my life again, and for good this time, I quite college; I quit cute designer clothes and little yellow convertible; I quit my boyfriend. I no longer have all the things the world says are important. I do not have a retirement fund; I do not even have electricity some days. But I have everything I know is important. I have a joy and a peace that are unimaginable and can come only from a place better than this earth, I cannot fathom being happier. Jesus wrecked my life, shattered it to pieces, and put it back together more beautifully.
During the first few months I lived in Uganda, in fall of 2007, I wrote, "Sometimes working in a Third World country makes me feel like I am emptying the ocean with an eyedropper." Today, it often still feel s that way. I have learned to be okay with the feeling because I have learned that I will not change the world. Jesus will do that. I can, however, change the world for one person. I can change the world for fourteen little girls and for four hundred schoolchildren and for a sick and dying grandmother and for a malnourished, neglected, abused five-year-old. And if one person sees the love of Christ in me, it is worth every minute. In fact, it is worth spending my life for.
Many days, I am still overwhelmed by the magnitude of the need and the incredible number of people who need help. Many days I see the destitute, disease-ridden children lining the streets in the communities I serve and I want to scoop up every single one of them, take them home with me, and feed and clothe and love them. And I look at the life of my Savior, who stopped for one.
So I keep stopping and loving one person at a time. Because this is my call as a Christian. I can do only what one woman can do, but I will do what I can do. Daily, the Jesus who wrecked my life enables me to do so much more than I ever thought possible. People often ask if I think my life is dangerous, if I am afraid. I am much more afraid of remaining comfortable. Matthew 10:28 tells us not to fear things that can destroy the body but things that can destroy the soul. I am surrounded by things that can destroy the body. I interact almost daily with people who have deadly diseases, and many times I am the only person who can help them. I live in a country with one of the world's longest-running wars taking place just a few hours away. Uncertainty is everywhere. But I am living in the midst of the uncertainty and risk, amid things that can and do bring physical destruction, because I am running from things that can destroy my soul: complacency, comfort, and ignorance. I am much more terrified of living a comfortable life in a self-serving society and failing to follow Jesus than I am of any illness or tragedy.
Jesus called His followers to be a lot of things, but I have yet to find where He warned us to be safe. We are not called to be safe, we are simply promised that when we are in danger, God is right there with us. And there is no better place to be than in His hands.
For as long as I can remember, one of my favorite Bible verses has been Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart." I used to believe it meant that if I did what the Lord asked of me, followed His commandments, and was a "good girl," He would grant all my desires and make my dreams come true. Today, this is still one of my favorite passages of Scripture, but I have learned to interpret it in a totally different way. It is not about God making my dreams come true but about God changing my dreams into His dreams for my life.
Today I am living the desires of my heart and I cannot imagine living any other life than the one that unfolds before me day by day. But believe me, I am by no means living my plan. I thought that I wanted to go to college with my high school boyfriend, get married, have a successful career and children, settle into a nice house down the road from my parents, and live happily ever after. Today I am a single woman raising a houseful of girls and trying to teach others the love of Jesus in a land that is a far cry from my hometown and my culture. This is not a life that I dreamed up on my own or even knew I had desired. I am watching God work, and as I "delight myself in the Lord" by doing what He asks of me and by saying yes to the needs He places in front of me, He is changing the desires of my heart and aligning them with the desires of His. As I go with Him to the hard places, He changes them into the most joyful places I could imagine.
It sounds beautiful, adventurous, even romantic in ways, right? It is beautiful. And the crazy thing is, it is so simple. Don't misunderstand; it is not easy. But it is simple in that each and every one of us was ultimately created to do the same thing. It will not look the same. It may take place in a foreign land or it may take place in your backyard, but I believe that we were each created to change the world for someone. To serve someone. To love someone the way Christ first loved us, to spread His light. This is the dream, and it is possible. Some days it is excruciatingly difficult, but the blessings far outweigh the hardships.
I have absolutely no desire to write a book about myself. this is a book about Christ. This is a book about a Christ who is alive today and not only knows but cares about every hair on my head. Yours too. I cannot really even pretend to fathom that, but I know it is true. I know this is true because I have seen it so profoundly in the very short amount of life that I have lived. I have seen it in extraordinary miracles and in moments so mundane that they are easily overlooked. And that is why I am writing this book. I am writing on the chance that a glimpse into the life of my family and me, full of my stupidity and God's grace, will remind you of this living, loving Christ, and what it means to serve Him. I am writing with the hope that as you cry and laugh with my family you will be encouraged that God still uses flawed human beings to change the world. And if He can use me, He can use you.
(This is an amazing video, you should definitely take the time to watch it. You won't regret it! I absolutely LOVE what she says at 2:30! SO amazing, and true!)
So, pretty much when I read that introduction of the book, I was like wow! I already love this book. And as I've been reading it each night (I'm now on chapter 6), I can see that what she said in the introduction was true. It's not a book about her. It's a book about Christ. I loved the part about Psalm 37:4. If you remembered my story about Mexico, that was a huge verse for me around that time, and I just love what she said about it, cause that's what I had to learn about it, too!
I can so totally see myself being Katie Davis someday in the future... Doing something like she's doing. I sometimes wish I could hop on a plane right now, and go to wherever God lead me to go, and just serve... Be His hands and feet to the hurting and broken people in this world. And although, I may do that someday, right now I feel called to serve the people that surround me each and everyday, each and every week. I feel like I need to be faithful in the small things right now that God has given me to do. If I'm not faithful in those things (things like getting to bed on time, getting up at a reasonable hour, so as to have time to spend time with Jesus), then what makes me think God is going to give me a bigger task in the future? If I'm not even willing to be where He wants me to be, and do what He wants me to be now, how can I expect Him to send me somewhere different in the future? Luke 19:17 says, "And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities." That's what I need to focus on right now, so that I will be prepared for whatever God calls me to do in the future! (:
I never meant to live in Uganda, a dot on the map in East Africa, on the opposite side of the planet from my family and all that is comfortable and familiar. Thankfully, God's plans also happen to be much better than my own.
You see, Jesus wrecked my life. For as long as I could remember, I had everything this world says is important. In high school, I was class president, homecoming queen, top of my class. I dated cute boys and wore cute shoes and drove a cute sports car. I had wonderful, supportive parents who so desired my success that they would have paid for me to go to college anywhere my heart desired. But I loved Jesus.
And the fact that I loved Jesus was beginning to interfere with the plans I once had for my life and certainly with the plans others had for me. My heart had been apprehended by a great love, a love that compelled me to live differently. I had grown up in a Christian home, gone to church, and learned about Jesus all my life. Around the age of twelve or thirteen, I began to delve into the truths of Scripture. As I read and learned more and more of what Jesus said, I liked the life-style I saw around me less and less. I began to realize that God wanted more from me, and I wanted more of Him. He began to grow in me a desire to live intentionally, and different from anyone I had ever known.
Slowly but surely I began to realize the truth: I had loved and admired and worshiped Jesus without doing what He said. This recognition didn't happen overnight: in fact I believe it was happening in my heart long before I even knew it. It was happening as I explored the possibility of overseas volunteer work, it was happening as I took my first three-week trip to Uganda, it was happening as I fell in love with a beautiful country full of gracious, joyful people and immense poverty and squalor that begged me to do more. It was happening in so many ways, and I couldn't deny it. I wanted to actually do what Jesus said to do.
So I quit my life.
Originally, my quitting was to be temporary, lasting just one year before I went to college and returned to normal, American teenager life. But after that year, which I spent in Uganda, returning to "normal" wasn't possible. I had seen what life was about and I could not pretend I didn't know. So I quit my life again, and for good this time, I quite college; I quit cute designer clothes and little yellow convertible; I quit my boyfriend. I no longer have all the things the world says are important. I do not have a retirement fund; I do not even have electricity some days. But I have everything I know is important. I have a joy and a peace that are unimaginable and can come only from a place better than this earth, I cannot fathom being happier. Jesus wrecked my life, shattered it to pieces, and put it back together more beautifully.
During the first few months I lived in Uganda, in fall of 2007, I wrote, "Sometimes working in a Third World country makes me feel like I am emptying the ocean with an eyedropper." Today, it often still feel s that way. I have learned to be okay with the feeling because I have learned that I will not change the world. Jesus will do that. I can, however, change the world for one person. I can change the world for fourteen little girls and for four hundred schoolchildren and for a sick and dying grandmother and for a malnourished, neglected, abused five-year-old. And if one person sees the love of Christ in me, it is worth every minute. In fact, it is worth spending my life for.
Many days, I am still overwhelmed by the magnitude of the need and the incredible number of people who need help. Many days I see the destitute, disease-ridden children lining the streets in the communities I serve and I want to scoop up every single one of them, take them home with me, and feed and clothe and love them. And I look at the life of my Savior, who stopped for one.
So I keep stopping and loving one person at a time. Because this is my call as a Christian. I can do only what one woman can do, but I will do what I can do. Daily, the Jesus who wrecked my life enables me to do so much more than I ever thought possible. People often ask if I think my life is dangerous, if I am afraid. I am much more afraid of remaining comfortable. Matthew 10:28 tells us not to fear things that can destroy the body but things that can destroy the soul. I am surrounded by things that can destroy the body. I interact almost daily with people who have deadly diseases, and many times I am the only person who can help them. I live in a country with one of the world's longest-running wars taking place just a few hours away. Uncertainty is everywhere. But I am living in the midst of the uncertainty and risk, amid things that can and do bring physical destruction, because I am running from things that can destroy my soul: complacency, comfort, and ignorance. I am much more terrified of living a comfortable life in a self-serving society and failing to follow Jesus than I am of any illness or tragedy.
Jesus called His followers to be a lot of things, but I have yet to find where He warned us to be safe. We are not called to be safe, we are simply promised that when we are in danger, God is right there with us. And there is no better place to be than in His hands.
For as long as I can remember, one of my favorite Bible verses has been Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart." I used to believe it meant that if I did what the Lord asked of me, followed His commandments, and was a "good girl," He would grant all my desires and make my dreams come true. Today, this is still one of my favorite passages of Scripture, but I have learned to interpret it in a totally different way. It is not about God making my dreams come true but about God changing my dreams into His dreams for my life.
Today I am living the desires of my heart and I cannot imagine living any other life than the one that unfolds before me day by day. But believe me, I am by no means living my plan. I thought that I wanted to go to college with my high school boyfriend, get married, have a successful career and children, settle into a nice house down the road from my parents, and live happily ever after. Today I am a single woman raising a houseful of girls and trying to teach others the love of Jesus in a land that is a far cry from my hometown and my culture. This is not a life that I dreamed up on my own or even knew I had desired. I am watching God work, and as I "delight myself in the Lord" by doing what He asks of me and by saying yes to the needs He places in front of me, He is changing the desires of my heart and aligning them with the desires of His. As I go with Him to the hard places, He changes them into the most joyful places I could imagine.
It sounds beautiful, adventurous, even romantic in ways, right? It is beautiful. And the crazy thing is, it is so simple. Don't misunderstand; it is not easy. But it is simple in that each and every one of us was ultimately created to do the same thing. It will not look the same. It may take place in a foreign land or it may take place in your backyard, but I believe that we were each created to change the world for someone. To serve someone. To love someone the way Christ first loved us, to spread His light. This is the dream, and it is possible. Some days it is excruciatingly difficult, but the blessings far outweigh the hardships.
I have absolutely no desire to write a book about myself. this is a book about Christ. This is a book about a Christ who is alive today and not only knows but cares about every hair on my head. Yours too. I cannot really even pretend to fathom that, but I know it is true. I know this is true because I have seen it so profoundly in the very short amount of life that I have lived. I have seen it in extraordinary miracles and in moments so mundane that they are easily overlooked. And that is why I am writing this book. I am writing on the chance that a glimpse into the life of my family and me, full of my stupidity and God's grace, will remind you of this living, loving Christ, and what it means to serve Him. I am writing with the hope that as you cry and laugh with my family you will be encouraged that God still uses flawed human beings to change the world. And if He can use me, He can use you.
(This is an amazing video, you should definitely take the time to watch it. You won't regret it! I absolutely LOVE what she says at 2:30! SO amazing, and true!)
So, pretty much when I read that introduction of the book, I was like wow! I already love this book. And as I've been reading it each night (I'm now on chapter 6), I can see that what she said in the introduction was true. It's not a book about her. It's a book about Christ. I loved the part about Psalm 37:4. If you remembered my story about Mexico, that was a huge verse for me around that time, and I just love what she said about it, cause that's what I had to learn about it, too!
I can so totally see myself being Katie Davis someday in the future... Doing something like she's doing. I sometimes wish I could hop on a plane right now, and go to wherever God lead me to go, and just serve... Be His hands and feet to the hurting and broken people in this world. And although, I may do that someday, right now I feel called to serve the people that surround me each and everyday, each and every week. I feel like I need to be faithful in the small things right now that God has given me to do. If I'm not faithful in those things (things like getting to bed on time, getting up at a reasonable hour, so as to have time to spend time with Jesus), then what makes me think God is going to give me a bigger task in the future? If I'm not even willing to be where He wants me to be, and do what He wants me to be now, how can I expect Him to send me somewhere different in the future? Luke 19:17 says, "And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities." That's what I need to focus on right now, so that I will be prepared for whatever God calls me to do in the future! (:
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Happy New Year!
Happy New Years everyone! I'm a little late, but oh well! :) I read this on Melanie's blog the other day (written by her), and I LOVED it, and so I wanted to share it on here with you all, as well! :)
For 2012...I have no resolutions other than...
to love a little deeper~
to stand a little taller~
to laugh a little louder~
to speak gently~
to give more profusely~
to live with reckless abandon~
to let faith grow stronger~
to smile in the face of adversity~
to wipe tears from weary faces~
to speak a little less~
to listen a little more~
to carry His burdens for this world~
to rock children to sleep~
to live for Him alone~
to point others to Him~
to radiate with His glory~
to pray more at His feet~
to dance a little freer~
to sing a little stronger~
to be an encouragement to those around me~
to die daily~
to surrender more freely~
to battle with more determination~
to give joy in all circumstances~
to love Him more.
~to be utterly transformed by His renewing grace~
evermore.
daily.
to be changed.
made stronger.
lift Him higher.
forget self.
abandon sin.
lay it all down,
nothing in my own strength
to know the truth
to draw closer
to Him
Daily.
~to see the beauty~
in the colors; taken for granted
in the rainbows that boast of a promise
in the laughter, that shows His heart
in the unknown path of the months to come
in the giving that holds nothing back
in the songs of birds
early spring rain
crisp autumn leaves
snow-capped mountains
desperate prayers
brokenness
surrender
but joy.
my journey home
~to learn to see...
the world with His compassion
to hope with absolute confidence
to serve with His kindness,
His gentleness,
His self-control,
His patience,
and to
abide in His peace
to learn a quiet heart
~to be still~
to radiate with an inner quiet grace
quiet grace
{All in all?}
To live a life that is not in vain.
For 2012...I have no resolutions other than...
to love a little deeper~
to stand a little taller~
to laugh a little louder~
to speak gently~
to give more profusely~
to live with reckless abandon~
to let faith grow stronger~
to smile in the face of adversity~
to wipe tears from weary faces~
to speak a little less~
to listen a little more~
to carry His burdens for this world~
to rock children to sleep~
to live for Him alone~
to point others to Him~
to radiate with His glory~
to pray more at His feet~
to dance a little freer~
to sing a little stronger~
to be an encouragement to those around me~
to die daily~
to surrender more freely~
to battle with more determination~
to give joy in all circumstances~
to love Him more.
~to be utterly transformed by His renewing grace~
evermore.
daily.
to be changed.
made stronger.
lift Him higher.
forget self.
abandon sin.
lay it all down,
nothing in my own strength
to know the truth
to draw closer
to Him
Daily.
~to see the beauty~
in the colors; taken for granted
in the rainbows that boast of a promise
in the laughter, that shows His heart
in the unknown path of the months to come
in the giving that holds nothing back
in the songs of birds
early spring rain
crisp autumn leaves
snow-capped mountains
desperate prayers
brokenness
surrender
but joy.
my journey home
~to learn to see...
the world with His compassion
to hope with absolute confidence
to serve with His kindness,
His gentleness,
His self-control,
His patience,
and to
abide in His peace
to learn a quiet heart
~to be still~
to radiate with an inner quiet grace
quiet grace
{All in all?}
To live a life that is not in vain.
~
I also read this over on Emily's blog, and I really liked it! I hope you are encouraged by it as well! :)
“Two little lines I heard one day,
Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart,
And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one,
Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet,
And stand before His Judgement seat;
Only one life,’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, the still small voice,
Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave,
And to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, a few brief years,
Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill,
living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
When this bright world would tempt me sore,
When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way,
Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Give me Father, a purpose deep,
In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife,
Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Oh let my love with fervor burn,
And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone,
Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, “twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one,
Now let me say,”Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call,
I know I’ll say “twas worth it all”;
Only one life,’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last. ”
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
And when I am dying, how happy I’ll be,
If the lamp of my life has been burned out for Thee.”
- C.T. Studd
I hope you all have a wonderful day! :)
In Christ, Kari§a││Romans 12 ♫♫♫♫♫♫♫
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Calvary's Love
If I belittle those whom I am called to serve, talk of their weak points in contrast perhaps with what I think of as my strong points; if I adopt a superior attitude, forgetting "Who made thee to differ? And what hast thou that thou hast not received?" then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I find myself taking lapses for granted, "Oh, that's what they always do," "Oh, of course she talks like that, he acts like that," then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I can enjoy a joke at the expense of another; if I can in any way slight another in conversation, or even in thought, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I can write an unkind letter, speak an unkind word, think an unkind thought without grief and shame, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I do not feel far more for the grieved Savior than for my worried self when troublesome things occur, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I can rebuke without a pang, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If my attitude be one of fear, not faith, about one who has disappointed me; if I say, "Just what I expected" if a fall occurs, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I am afraid to speak the truth, lest I lose affection, or lest the one concerned should say, "You do not understand," or because I fear to lose my reputation for kindness; if I put my own good name before the other's highest good, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I am content to heal a hurt slightly, saying "Peace, peace," where there is no peace; if I forget the poignant word "Let love be without dissimulation" and blunt the edge of truth, speaking not right things but smooth things, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I hold on to choices of any kind, just because they are my choice, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I am soft to myself and slide comfortably into self-pity and self-sympathy; If I do not by the grace of God practice fortitude, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I myself dominate myself, if my thoughts revolve round myself, if I am so occupied with myself I rarely have "a heart at leisure from itself," then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If, the moment I am conscious of the shadow of self crossing my threshold, I do not shut the door, and keep that door shut, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I cannot in honest happiness take the second place (or the twentieth); if I cannot take the first without making a fuss about my unworthiness, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I take offense easily, if I am content to continue in a cool unfriendliness, though friendship be possible, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I feel injured when another lays to my charge things that I know not, forgetting that my sinless Savior trod this path to the end, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I feel bitter toward those who condemn me, as it seems to me, unjustly, forgetting that if they knew me as I know myself they would condemn me much more, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If souls can suffer alongside, and I hardly know it, because the spirit of discernment is not in me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If the praise of others elates me and their blame depresses me; if I cannot rest under misunderstanding without defending myself; if I love to be loved more than to love, to be served more than to serve, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I crave hungrily to be used to show the way of liberty to a soul in bondage, instead of caring only that it be delivered; if I nurse my disappointment when I fail, instead of asking that to another the word of release may be given, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I do not forget about such a trifle as personal success, so that it never crosses my mind, or if it does, is never given room there; if the cup of flattery tastes sweet to me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If in the fellowship of service I seek to attach a friend to myself, so that others are caused to feel unwanted; if my friendships do not draw others deeper in, but are ungenerous (to myself, for myself), then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I refuse to allow one who is dear to me to suffer for the sake of Christ, if I do not see such suffering as the greatest honor that can be offered to any follower of the Crucified, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I slip into the place that can be filled by Christ alone, making myself the first necessity to a soul instead of leading it to fasten upon Him, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If my interest in the work of others is cool; if I think in terms of my own special work; if the burdens of others are not my burdens too, and their joys mine, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I wonder why something trying is allowed, and press for prayer that it may be removed; if I cannot be trusted with any disappointment, and cannot go on in peace under any mystery, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If the ultimate, the hardest, cannot be asked of me; if my fellows hesitate to ask it and turn to someone else, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I covet any place on earth but the dust at the foot of the Cross, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
That which I know not, teach Thou me, O Lord, my God.
~Amy Carmichael
Sunday, May 29, 2011
There
I read this the other day on ylcf.org, and thought it was really good, so I wanted to share it with you! Some of you may have read it, but I just wanted to put it on here anyways! :)
It was simply titled “There”, but it was one of the most powerful sermons I’d heard. The piece of paper on which I jotted the notes and main points is limp now, for each of the years that have passed since I first heard the sermon have proved to make the message it contained more relevant all the time.
It was a sermon about being There, right where God has asked us to be. It’s not always where we think we want to be, and most certainly not always the place that makes sense to us as humans, but being There is the only place we should be.
For Noah, there was preaching an apparently foolish sermon about something that had never happened before. There was to build a boat- a living testimony to his faith. There was to endure ridicule, reproach, to be called crazy and out of his mind for One Hundred and Fifty years. There was to wait in that arch until God opened the door. Not stepping out a moment sooner, not a moment later than God’s will for him and his family.
For Moses, there was in the palace of the king of Egypt. The king who was cruel to his people and hated his God. There was living the lonely and humble life of a shepherd for forty years, and there was standing in the palace and at the risk of everything, delivering the message to set God’s people free.
For Joseph, there was a servant in the house of a stranger, doing his very best only to be unjustly accused and thrown in to prison. There was then to serve God- and his superiors faithfully, no matter how long and tedious those years must’ve felt.
For Esther, there was in the palace of a heathen king, as Queen – for “such a time as this”- risking her life to save her people.
For Elijah, there was beside the little brook of Cherith, relying on Ravens to bring him food, and trusting that the little brook wouldn’t dry up, until God led him on.
There for him and for each one of these great bible heroes was right where God wanted them to be, and there is right where we need to be, no matter what.
Over the years, the lines from that sermon have often echoed in my heart when the place God asked me to be didn’t always feel so comfortable, didn’t always make sense to me, or so very beautiful as I thought I wanted, and again when I’ve caught glimpses of why He put me right there after all. And I’ve jotted my own notes under the outlines of the sermon, filling in the things that I have learned, that am always learning as I seek to truly be There. Right in the place that He has put me for today. No where else, just right there.
Truly, “the path where God leads the way may lie through the desert or the sea, but it is a safe path.”
May these little notes serve to encourage you in your “there” to be faithful, and to trust Him who makes all things beautiful in His time.
There is a place of perplexity. Sometimes I don’t know why God put me here. It’s uncomfortable, uncertain, and sometimes seems so far from where I want to be, or even where I think I should be right now. But if He puts me there, be there, no matter how perplexing or uncertain it seems, because I know that He knows what He’s doing. He sees the big picture, while I’m only catching a glimpse of the moment I’m in.
There is a place of promise. Our God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we ask or even imagine. No matter what There looks like, if we remain, trusting Him, He promises to make all things clear in His time, that we shall not lack any good thing, that He will be faithful. His word is full of promises to us, and the honor of His throne stands behind the fulfillment of those promises.
There is a place of providence. God has a plan, a beautiful plan for working out His purpose in our life. In our limited human vision, this is not often clear to us, but there is no chance in being there where He has asked us to be- just His promises, His providence. When we step out in faith, right there in the line of duty, providence meets us, and His way, His plans are always perfect.
There is a place of provision. God has more than a thousand ways to provide for every single one of our needs. He has promised to provide for us, and He will be faithful to that promise. If we choose our own place, instead of being There where He has called us, no matter how humble of a there it might be, God’s hand may still protect us, but His provision is not what it would have been or could have been had we faithfully remained there in his will.
There is a place of protection. While we are there, in His will, we will be under His care, even in the very path of danger. “The path where God leads the way may lie through the desert or through the sea, but it is a safe path.” Whatever happens there, God is in control and He will not allow anything to happen that is not according to His will, but we must never leave God’s appointed there for any other place, for no other place is as safe as right there where He wants us to be.
There is a place of prayer. Asking God to give us the good gifts that His word says that are ours for the asking, asking for his blessings on others, asking Him to take care of tomorrow, and to give us strength for today. Thanking Him for what He has done, and will do. Sharing with Him as your Friend and Confidant.
There is a place of praise. Praise God for his provision, protection, providence and for the promises that He has fulfilled. “Let His praise be continually on your lips.” We ask often for His blessings, as we should, but how little time we spend in praising Him and thanking Him for the great things that He has done. As we focus our eyes on the blessings He daily has poured out on us in this place, our heart will be overflowing with thanksgiving. Instead of “give me…” and “give me…” or “do this….” or “do that…”, the language of our heart becomes “Thank you”, “Thank you”, “Thank you”.
There is a place of patience. God has sent us there, and if “the brook of Cherith dries up”, if the door of the ark doesn’t open immediately, if the sun is still hiding behind those clouds, wait patiently on His plan, His time, His provision. No matter what appearances may say, stay there until He makes a way. “If there ever was a time for patient trust, it is right now” when you feel the least like waiting. Trust in his purposes, even when they do not make sense.
There is a place of peace. If you are there- in His will- you will have peace of mind and heart. If you are not there, you cannot have true peace or rest. “There” could be in a den of lions, in a fiery furnace, in a ship lost at sea, or in the middle of the most devastating of circumstances, but peace between your soul and God is there because peace is a gift that only God can give. And it is a gift that He delights to give those that trust in His will. It does not mean that there will never be any struggles, or that you will not have to keep putting your heart and mind back into the hands of God, but when you do this, the peace will come.
There is a place of privilege. It is a privilege to be There. Right there in God’s will, right there where He has called us to be. To be a part of His great plan is a privilege, and an honor that we should cherish. All of His instructions are a privilege, and more than a privilege, a joy for those who love Him to obey. And for each thing that He calls us to, He gives us strength and grace in great measure to accomplish. In light of this, why do we complain when there isn’t how we think it should be, when it is a place so filled with privileges and blessings?
This is a picture I saw on someone else's blog, and I really liked it, so I wanted to share this as well! I hope you all have a wonderful week! :)
"There"
It was a sermon about being There, right where God has asked us to be. It’s not always where we think we want to be, and most certainly not always the place that makes sense to us as humans, but being There is the only place we should be.
For Noah, there was preaching an apparently foolish sermon about something that had never happened before. There was to build a boat- a living testimony to his faith. There was to endure ridicule, reproach, to be called crazy and out of his mind for One Hundred and Fifty years. There was to wait in that arch until God opened the door. Not stepping out a moment sooner, not a moment later than God’s will for him and his family.
For Moses, there was in the palace of the king of Egypt. The king who was cruel to his people and hated his God. There was living the lonely and humble life of a shepherd for forty years, and there was standing in the palace and at the risk of everything, delivering the message to set God’s people free.
For Joseph, there was a servant in the house of a stranger, doing his very best only to be unjustly accused and thrown in to prison. There was then to serve God- and his superiors faithfully, no matter how long and tedious those years must’ve felt.
For Esther, there was in the palace of a heathen king, as Queen – for “such a time as this”- risking her life to save her people.
For Elijah, there was beside the little brook of Cherith, relying on Ravens to bring him food, and trusting that the little brook wouldn’t dry up, until God led him on.
There for him and for each one of these great bible heroes was right where God wanted them to be, and there is right where we need to be, no matter what.
Over the years, the lines from that sermon have often echoed in my heart when the place God asked me to be didn’t always feel so comfortable, didn’t always make sense to me, or so very beautiful as I thought I wanted, and again when I’ve caught glimpses of why He put me right there after all. And I’ve jotted my own notes under the outlines of the sermon, filling in the things that I have learned, that am always learning as I seek to truly be There. Right in the place that He has put me for today. No where else, just right there.
Truly, “the path where God leads the way may lie through the desert or the sea, but it is a safe path.”
May these little notes serve to encourage you in your “there” to be faithful, and to trust Him who makes all things beautiful in His time.
There is a place of perplexity. Sometimes I don’t know why God put me here. It’s uncomfortable, uncertain, and sometimes seems so far from where I want to be, or even where I think I should be right now. But if He puts me there, be there, no matter how perplexing or uncertain it seems, because I know that He knows what He’s doing. He sees the big picture, while I’m only catching a glimpse of the moment I’m in.
There is a place of promise. Our God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we ask or even imagine. No matter what There looks like, if we remain, trusting Him, He promises to make all things clear in His time, that we shall not lack any good thing, that He will be faithful. His word is full of promises to us, and the honor of His throne stands behind the fulfillment of those promises.
There is a place of providence. God has a plan, a beautiful plan for working out His purpose in our life. In our limited human vision, this is not often clear to us, but there is no chance in being there where He has asked us to be- just His promises, His providence. When we step out in faith, right there in the line of duty, providence meets us, and His way, His plans are always perfect.
There is a place of provision. God has more than a thousand ways to provide for every single one of our needs. He has promised to provide for us, and He will be faithful to that promise. If we choose our own place, instead of being There where He has called us, no matter how humble of a there it might be, God’s hand may still protect us, but His provision is not what it would have been or could have been had we faithfully remained there in his will.
There is a place of protection. While we are there, in His will, we will be under His care, even in the very path of danger. “The path where God leads the way may lie through the desert or through the sea, but it is a safe path.” Whatever happens there, God is in control and He will not allow anything to happen that is not according to His will, but we must never leave God’s appointed there for any other place, for no other place is as safe as right there where He wants us to be.
There is a place of prayer. Asking God to give us the good gifts that His word says that are ours for the asking, asking for his blessings on others, asking Him to take care of tomorrow, and to give us strength for today. Thanking Him for what He has done, and will do. Sharing with Him as your Friend and Confidant.
There is a place of praise. Praise God for his provision, protection, providence and for the promises that He has fulfilled. “Let His praise be continually on your lips.” We ask often for His blessings, as we should, but how little time we spend in praising Him and thanking Him for the great things that He has done. As we focus our eyes on the blessings He daily has poured out on us in this place, our heart will be overflowing with thanksgiving. Instead of “give me…” and “give me…” or “do this….” or “do that…”, the language of our heart becomes “Thank you”, “Thank you”, “Thank you”.
There is a place of patience. God has sent us there, and if “the brook of Cherith dries up”, if the door of the ark doesn’t open immediately, if the sun is still hiding behind those clouds, wait patiently on His plan, His time, His provision. No matter what appearances may say, stay there until He makes a way. “If there ever was a time for patient trust, it is right now” when you feel the least like waiting. Trust in his purposes, even when they do not make sense.
There is a place of peace. If you are there- in His will- you will have peace of mind and heart. If you are not there, you cannot have true peace or rest. “There” could be in a den of lions, in a fiery furnace, in a ship lost at sea, or in the middle of the most devastating of circumstances, but peace between your soul and God is there because peace is a gift that only God can give. And it is a gift that He delights to give those that trust in His will. It does not mean that there will never be any struggles, or that you will not have to keep putting your heart and mind back into the hands of God, but when you do this, the peace will come.
There is a place of privilege. It is a privilege to be There. Right there in God’s will, right there where He has called us to be. To be a part of His great plan is a privilege, and an honor that we should cherish. All of His instructions are a privilege, and more than a privilege, a joy for those who love Him to obey. And for each thing that He calls us to, He gives us strength and grace in great measure to accomplish. In light of this, why do we complain when there isn’t how we think it should be, when it is a place so filled with privileges and blessings?
This is a picture I saw on someone else's blog, and I really liked it, so I wanted to share this as well! I hope you all have a wonderful week! :)
In Christ,
Karissa :)
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Prayer, and Set Apart Femininity Part 1
I have been struggling with in the area of prayer recently. I actually have been for a while. A while back I felt I needed to pray more (and knew I did). I was doing pretty good for a while, and as of late, have been struggling more and more. Oh, you know, I'd say a prayer here and there throughout the day, and when I got in bed, tried to pray, but then I would fall asleep before barely starting. I know it's no excuse, but it seemed like every day I'd be like "I'm going to pray today (not just saying a prayer here and there, but really praying)," and before I knew it, it would be bedtime. I got so frustrated. Well... A couple days ago on Tenth Dot I read Colossians 1:3-12 which is a prayer of Paul for the believers. What did he pray about for these believers?
1. Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly, 2. And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice. 3. For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. 4. Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple. 5. The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head. 6. I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O Lord my God. 7. When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple. 8. They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy. 9. But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord. 10. And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.
For a number of very obvious reasons it’s a very good thing that I’m not God! Apart from all the gimme reasons, here’s one that should leave you with yet another sigh of relief. On my throne room would hang a sign: All who enter here had better be bringing pizza…or had better plan to leave without their head attached!" I know, it’s a little crude and a bit long for a small wood sign but hey, if I was a deity, that’s how I’d roll. Unlike you and me who can get tired of people knocking on our door asking for help, tired of our kids constantly saying “dad” or “mom” for the umpteenth million time, tired of that friend that always brings us down, tired of that phone that rings off the hook…God never tires of hearing from His children. Well, at least not in the way that you and I tire. Look at the sign posted at the doors to God’s throne: “Please approach this room boldly!” Wow! The Almighty God of the universe has opened His throne room to the public, and not just so we can come sneaking in like we’re the hired help, rather, so that we will come boldly! into His presence and seek His help: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. — Hebrews 4:16 How do you approach God in prayer? Of course, don’t confuse boldness with arrogance, or with the demanding name-it, claim-it attitude some have. But don’t cower in to God’s throne room, either. God opened up the passage way for us to commune with Him not so we’d apologize for walking in, but rather, so that we’d remember that OUR DADDY wants us to seek Him. He wants us to find Him. He wants us to ask for His help. He wants to meet our needs. And He wants us to ask with confidence, believing He will answer. James reminds us what doubt gets us: But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt…that man [the one who doubts]…should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does — James 1:6-8 And what does God command us to ask for in His throne room? He says we can ask for AND FIND mercy and grace to help in time of need. And I think it’s interesting that it’s not specifically stated that it’s our need. But when there is a need for mercy and grace, God’s throne room is open for the asking. And thankfully God’s supply of either, can never run out. God’s grace and mercy are there for us, not because of who we are, but because of who God is. Take time today to pray for God’s grace and mercy about a particular need. Maybe it’s yours. Maybe it’s the need of someone else. But as you pray, thank God that He opened up His throne room and invited you in. Thank Him that He offers mercy and grace in abundance. Thank Him that He supplies all our needs. Most of all, thank Him that you have a Daddy that cares enough to hear and respond to His children’s needs. Pray boldly, right now! --www.Tenthdot.com--
- He thanks God and prays for the strength of the believers faith.
- He thanks God for their love.
- He prays for the power of the Gospel from their testimony.
- He prays for them to grow in the knowledge of God's will.
- He prays for them to grow in spiritual wisdom and understanding.
- He prays that they will live a life worthy and honoring to God.
- He prays that their lives will bare spiritual fruit.
- He prays that their faith will have endurance.
- He prays for them to demonstrate patience.
- He prays for them to be thankful.
Matthew 5:44c
Pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
Matthew 6:6
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. (Notice that it says when thou prayest. Not if you pray, but when you pray.)
Matthew 21:22
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing.
We also see the results of people's prayer in the Bible.
Jonah 2:1-10
1. Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly, 2. And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice. 3. For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. 4. Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple. 5. The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head. 6. I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O Lord my God. 7. When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple. 8. They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy. 9. But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord. 10. And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.
There's more, but that is just one I found. So, we can see the power of "a real prayer." A while back I read Wrestling Prayer by Eric and Leslie Ludy. Very good book. If you have not read it, I highly suggest you do.
So, I am working on prayer right now. Working on not just saying a prayer here and there throughout the day, and then trying to pray when I crawl in bed at night super tired. *yawn* =) If you think of it, please pray for me in this area, that I would be more diligent in the time I spend in prayer each day.
(I started this last night and am now finishing it. I read the Tenth Dot for today, and thought it was good and went along, so I added it. =D )
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For a number of very obvious reasons it’s a very good thing that I’m not God! Apart from all the gimme reasons, here’s one that should leave you with yet another sigh of relief. On my throne room would hang a sign: All who enter here had better be bringing pizza…or had better plan to leave without their head attached!" I know, it’s a little crude and a bit long for a small wood sign but hey, if I was a deity, that’s how I’d roll. Unlike you and me who can get tired of people knocking on our door asking for help, tired of our kids constantly saying “dad” or “mom” for the umpteenth million time, tired of that friend that always brings us down, tired of that phone that rings off the hook…God never tires of hearing from His children. Well, at least not in the way that you and I tire. Look at the sign posted at the doors to God’s throne: “Please approach this room boldly!” Wow! The Almighty God of the universe has opened His throne room to the public, and not just so we can come sneaking in like we’re the hired help, rather, so that we will come boldly! into His presence and seek His help: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. — Hebrews 4:16 How do you approach God in prayer? Of course, don’t confuse boldness with arrogance, or with the demanding name-it, claim-it attitude some have. But don’t cower in to God’s throne room, either. God opened up the passage way for us to commune with Him not so we’d apologize for walking in, but rather, so that we’d remember that OUR DADDY wants us to seek Him. He wants us to find Him. He wants us to ask for His help. He wants to meet our needs. And He wants us to ask with confidence, believing He will answer. James reminds us what doubt gets us: But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt…that man [the one who doubts]…should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does — James 1:6-8 And what does God command us to ask for in His throne room? He says we can ask for AND FIND mercy and grace to help in time of need. And I think it’s interesting that it’s not specifically stated that it’s our need. But when there is a need for mercy and grace, God’s throne room is open for the asking. And thankfully God’s supply of either, can never run out. God’s grace and mercy are there for us, not because of who we are, but because of who God is. Take time today to pray for God’s grace and mercy about a particular need. Maybe it’s yours. Maybe it’s the need of someone else. But as you pray, thank God that He opened up His throne room and invited you in. Thank Him that He offers mercy and grace in abundance. Thank Him that He supplies all our needs. Most of all, thank Him that you have a Daddy that cares enough to hear and respond to His children’s needs. Pray boldly, right now! --www.Tenthdot.com--
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Now, the other day I posted about surrendering our all to the Lord, and letting Him have control of our whole life, not just parts. I said how sometimes I wonder if I would be willing to give something up if God so asked me too. I feel like I have surrendered everything to God. I've said, Lord, here's my life, do what You will for Your glory. I say to myself "oh, I'd be willing to give something up if God asked me to." But is there more?
Well, that night I read a part in Set Apart Femininity by Leslie Ludy, and I thought it went along pretty well with the topic I discussed! It seems recently that has been happening to me a lot. Every time I read something, or see it somewhere, I hear it, or see it, or read it either that day or the next day. God works in amazing ways sometimes to try and get your attention. (Really, the whole book is kind of on this topic, but I just decided to share this part with you since I read it right after posting the last post.) It was really long, so I am going to split it up into a few posts. This is 'part 1' (as you can see by my blog title). If you haven't read Set Apart Femininity, I hope this section of the book will make you want to read it, and if you have read it, well, that you will be all the more glad that you read it in the first place! =) And if there is a guy reading this, I'm not saying that you can't read what I wrote below, but this book is specifically written for girls. =) (And if you read what I wrote, you'll see what I mean. lol)
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Carnal Christians profess Christ as their Redeemer, but their actions and decisions are for the sake of their own interests and for who they are in themselves, rather then for God's interests and for who He is. Their minds are still the workshops of the devil, for he can persuade countless numbers of professing Christians to try and be Christians without Christ. -Ian Thomas
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There are some who would have Christ cheap. They would have Him without the Cross. But the price will not come down. -Samuel Rutherford
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Tell me in the light of the Cross, isn't it a scandal that you and I live today as we do? -Alan Redpath (Set Apart Femininity, pg. 57)
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Last week I opened a letter from a distressed college student named Jennifer. "I just can't seem to have intimacy with Jesus in the beautiful way you describe it in your books," she wrote. "I'm sick of living this half-Christian, half-worldly life. I go around saying I'm a Christian, but my Christianity is not based on a passionate relationship with Jesus. I want to find Him, but I don't knot how."
How many countless thousands of young women echo Jennifer's despair? Our Christianity is based upon the idea of who Christ is, not upon an actual, personal experience with Christ. We may have moments of intimacy with Christ-like during a worship service or reading an inspiring Christian book. But we don't abide with Him moment by moment throughout the day. And if we were to be totally honest, we'd admit that we often feel frustrated with God because He makes Himself so distant. We pray, and He seems not to hear us. We read the Bible, and it is just a blur of spiritual-sounding words. Why, we wonder, does He make being a Christian so difficult? If He really wants a relationship with us, why is He so hard to access?
Christ Himself gave us the answer. "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him" (John 14:21).
Jesus Christ reveals Himself to those who follow in His steps. He draws near to those who build their entire lives around His pattern. If we feel far away from Him, it is very likely that we aren't truly building our entire existence around Him; that we are living for more for self that for the glory of His name. (pg.68)
James 1:22 says, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." It's not enough to merely read God's Word and esteem it good. Until we actually begin living out what His Word says, we only deceive ourselves into thinking we are living a real Christian life. We might have a form of godliness, but it has no power to actually work in our daily lives (see 2 Timothy 3:5).
We can complain all we want about the fact that God seems so distant, but the reality is that He is not far from anyone who actually seeks Him (see Acts 17:27). He is ready to manifest Himself to anyone who doesn't just hear His Word, but lives it.
The moment we actually deny our self, pick up our cross, and follow Jesus Christ, is the moment we are surrounded with the power and presence of His Spirit-not just every once in a while, but every moment of every day.
We might admire women like Amy Carmichael and Gladys Aylward, but we will never showcase that kind of radiant, set-apart femininity unless we are willing to deny ourselves and follow Christ as radically as they did.
There is a sacred decorum of set-apart femininity, a pattern for daily living that marks a young woman as a true daughter of the King. When it comes to our clothes, words, actions, thoughts, pastimes, and pursuits, we must be, as Amy Carmichael put it, "dead to the world and its applause, to all the customs, fashions and laws of those who hate the humbling Cross." (pg. 69)
We must be consumed with honoring Christ far above meeting our own selfish desires. Not out of duty, but out of delight. Loving Him with such ardor that we relish the opportunity to lay everything we possess at His feet. I love how Amy Carmichael expressed it:
We must look upon the world, with all it's delights and all its attractions, with suspicion and reserve. We are called to a higher Kingdom, we are touched with a diviner Spirit. It is not that He forbids us this or that comfort or indulgence; it is not that He is stern, demanding us to follow a narrow path. But we who love our Lord and whose affections are set on Heavenly things voluntarily and gladly lay aside the things that charm and ravish the world, that, for our part, our hearts may be ravished with the things of Heaven that our whole being may be poured forth in constant and unreserved devotion in the service of the Lord who died to save us.
The sacred decorum of a set-apart young women might be labeled extreme and unnecessary to others, even other Christians. Mary of Bethany lavished her most precious possession upon Christ, pouring every bit of earthly treasure she possessed upon His head. It was an extreme act-a ridiculous outpouring that others viewed as wasteful. But to Christ, it was a beautiful, fragrant offering.
And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, "Why was this waste of the ointment made? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor." And they murmured against her. And Jesus said, "Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her." (Mark 14:3-9) (pg. 70) When it comes to pouring out all we possess in radical abandon to the King of all kings, there is no such thing as being too extreme. Nothing we offer to Him out of a heart of loving devotion is ever a wasted sacrifice. What about you? Are you willing to lay aside the things that charm and ravish the world so that your heart may be ravished by the things of heaven? Are you willing to live out the sacred decorum of set-apart femininity even if others labeled you as extreme? If you are, prepare to experience the power and presence of God in your life like never before. Prepare to discover a passionate, daily intimacy with Christ that far exceeds your hopes and expectations. Prepare to join the ranks of heroic, set-apart women throughout history. The answer to Jennifer's heart cry-and the cry of countless other disillusioned young Christians-is right here. If you love Me, says the gentle whisper of His Spirit, keep My commandments. Deny yourself, pick up your cross, and follow me. (pg. 71)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Loooong post :)
Hey everyone,
I am finally blogging again! Oh my! I don't have any pictures at this time, but hope to have some soon. :) Haha. I was going to write the other day but I didn't end up getting to. Oh well! To get on to what I want to blog about...
I am growing to love and look forward to my times with the Lord each day more and more. The other day when I was doing my devotions, I was praying and I just had a great feeling, like I was in the arms of Christ! It was a wonderful feeling. When I was done I had such a joy and peace in my heart, knowing that God is on control of my life, and He will take care of me. I can place my total trust in Him, knowing that whatever happens is all for the glory and honour of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour! I am so excited to continue to learn and grow each day, and see what God has for me to do for His Kingdom.
Recently, I have been praying and asking God that I would be content in the place He has placed me and although it may not be what I want, or I am not happy, that I would have a good attitude, and not be angry or whatever. Philippians 4:11 says I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. So, that is some of the things I have been learning, and God has been teaching me through His word recently! :D
Well, a while ago (almost two weeks now. Wow!), we went to the Deerfield fair. It was really fun. It started out to be a rainy day, but we prayed that God would have it be a nice day, and it was beautiful for the rest of the day. It was nice weather (not to warm, and not to hot), and there was a beautiful breeze! God was very good. (like always!) :) We enjoyed seeing all the animals (horses, cows, pigs, roosters, chickens, goats, sheep, etc), and also had a great time watching the pig scramble, the flying Wallenda's, the horse pull (horse pullin', at the Deerfield fair, you'll see no better, says the guy. Haha), the horse show, and others. Over all, it was a fun day! :)
This past weekend, we went to The Hanson's house for a harvest carnival! I was sick on Saturday, and that was really a bummer, but at least I was better Sunday and Monday, and get to have some fun. So, when we got there Friday night, just Kristi Phipps and Allie were there (and of course the Hanson's. Haha). So, after a little bit, the Johnson's get there, and everyone went crazy ("the bus is at the end of the driveway", "the bus is here"). So then everyone had ice cream, and after a little bit Emily, Thomas, Nicholas, Katie, Uncle Tom and Auntie Heather get there. So, for the rest of that night it was just playing and going to bed.
The next morning everyone had pancakes and fruit, etc. made by Kristi and Allie. I'm not all that sure what everyone did that day, since I was in bed, but I do know that the kids played some capture the flag, and other stuff, and the adults played some volleyball. Mrs. Robin had invited some other people, so there were lots of other "new" people to play and have fun with as well! Auntie Jenn and Uncle Dan came with Nate and Maria (who I didn't get to see :( hopefully next time :) ), and Kelly Poitier was also there. Mr. Johnson, Corbin and Lucas had to go home sometime Saturday to go to a karate thing, and Mr. J had to preach on Sunday morning....but they were back. Lunch that day was by us, sandwiches with turkey breast, bologna, etc. and chips and vegetables. Supper was by Mrs. Robin, which was beef stew. I didn't get to eat a lot of food that day, but I did have some, and what I ate was GOOD (so thank you to Kristi and Allie, Mom and Susanna, and Mrs. Robin for those delicious meals). So, I think Saturday was a good day filled with lots of fun!
Sunday, I woke up feeling muccchhh better, PTL! :) The breakfast was delicious! Waffles, fruit, biscuits and jelly, etc. Then we had a Church service, and Mr. Hanson shared some of his thoughts with us, as well as other people passing around some thoughts as well. After that was just kind of hanging out until lunch which was tacos made by Auntie Heather! They were soooo good (thanks for making that meal Auntie Heather)! After that it was just more hanging out, talking, having fun, playing, etc. The kids played a lot more capture the flag, and more. The Johnson's got back probably at about 3-3:30 I'd say. Supper Sunday night was Stromboli made by Mrs. Johnson (yum! Thanks Mrs. J for making that for us), and salad (I think they may have soup as well). After dinner was a time of singing with Mr. J playing the guitar. I really enjoyed that time of singing, it was just wonderful. You could sense the presence of the Lord in that room, that night!
After that was dessert. Leftovers (cookies, etc), plus apple pie that Mrs. J had made. Yummy! Oh! Mrs. J also made the yummy chocolate chex mix that's so good! :D And again after that it was just playing, and having some more fun before it was time to go to bed. We played some pole position, mappy and pac man on the tv. Caleb and Corbin (as well as Mr. Hanson, Mr. J, and Uncle Tom) played ping pong a lot, and had lots of fun with that. The next morning, last day ( :'( ), we woke up and had muffins made by Mrs. J, waffles, fruit, and a couple other things. After that we played outside for a while, before it was time to pack up. When we were about done packing, we stopped for lunch, which was leftovers (chips, pretzels, sandwiches with whatever meat was leftovers, etc.). Then right before we left to head for home, Corbin made everyone smoothies (either pineapple, strawberry, banana, or any combination with those three things). I had the regular strawberry banana like at the sand box this summer! :) Thanks Corbin for those delicious smoothies. After that, it was time to say our goodbyes and head for home! It was a great weekend, and everyone had lots of fun!
So, thanks to everyone who made it so fun, to all those who prepared the meals, and helped with cleanup, dishes, and anything else that went on. I hope next time, I won't be feeling yucky and I'll be able to help some more!
Well, that is all I am going to say for now. I am out of breath, and this is getting really long! Lol. I hope to get some pictures on here when I get the chance, and I hope you all have a great night! :)
I am finally blogging again! Oh my! I don't have any pictures at this time, but hope to have some soon. :) Haha. I was going to write the other day but I didn't end up getting to. Oh well! To get on to what I want to blog about...
I am growing to love and look forward to my times with the Lord each day more and more. The other day when I was doing my devotions, I was praying and I just had a great feeling, like I was in the arms of Christ! It was a wonderful feeling. When I was done I had such a joy and peace in my heart, knowing that God is on control of my life, and He will take care of me. I can place my total trust in Him, knowing that whatever happens is all for the glory and honour of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour! I am so excited to continue to learn and grow each day, and see what God has for me to do for His Kingdom.
Recently, I have been praying and asking God that I would be content in the place He has placed me and although it may not be what I want, or I am not happy, that I would have a good attitude, and not be angry or whatever. Philippians 4:11 says I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. So, that is some of the things I have been learning, and God has been teaching me through His word recently! :D
Well, a while ago (almost two weeks now. Wow!), we went to the Deerfield fair. It was really fun. It started out to be a rainy day, but we prayed that God would have it be a nice day, and it was beautiful for the rest of the day. It was nice weather (not to warm, and not to hot), and there was a beautiful breeze! God was very good. (like always!) :) We enjoyed seeing all the animals (horses, cows, pigs, roosters, chickens, goats, sheep, etc), and also had a great time watching the pig scramble, the flying Wallenda's, the horse pull (horse pullin', at the Deerfield fair, you'll see no better, says the guy. Haha), the horse show, and others. Over all, it was a fun day! :)
This past weekend, we went to The Hanson's house for a harvest carnival! I was sick on Saturday, and that was really a bummer, but at least I was better Sunday and Monday, and get to have some fun. So, when we got there Friday night, just Kristi Phipps and Allie were there (and of course the Hanson's. Haha). So, after a little bit, the Johnson's get there, and everyone went crazy ("the bus is at the end of the driveway", "the bus is here"). So then everyone had ice cream, and after a little bit Emily, Thomas, Nicholas, Katie, Uncle Tom and Auntie Heather get there. So, for the rest of that night it was just playing and going to bed.
The next morning everyone had pancakes and fruit, etc. made by Kristi and Allie. I'm not all that sure what everyone did that day, since I was in bed, but I do know that the kids played some capture the flag, and other stuff, and the adults played some volleyball. Mrs. Robin had invited some other people, so there were lots of other "new" people to play and have fun with as well! Auntie Jenn and Uncle Dan came with Nate and Maria (who I didn't get to see :( hopefully next time :) ), and Kelly Poitier was also there. Mr. Johnson, Corbin and Lucas had to go home sometime Saturday to go to a karate thing, and Mr. J had to preach on Sunday morning....but they were back. Lunch that day was by us, sandwiches with turkey breast, bologna, etc. and chips and vegetables. Supper was by Mrs. Robin, which was beef stew. I didn't get to eat a lot of food that day, but I did have some, and what I ate was GOOD (so thank you to Kristi and Allie, Mom and Susanna, and Mrs. Robin for those delicious meals). So, I think Saturday was a good day filled with lots of fun!
Sunday, I woke up feeling muccchhh better, PTL! :) The breakfast was delicious! Waffles, fruit, biscuits and jelly, etc. Then we had a Church service, and Mr. Hanson shared some of his thoughts with us, as well as other people passing around some thoughts as well. After that was just kind of hanging out until lunch which was tacos made by Auntie Heather! They were soooo good (thanks for making that meal Auntie Heather)! After that it was just more hanging out, talking, having fun, playing, etc. The kids played a lot more capture the flag, and more. The Johnson's got back probably at about 3-3:30 I'd say. Supper Sunday night was Stromboli made by Mrs. Johnson (yum! Thanks Mrs. J for making that for us), and salad (I think they may have soup as well). After dinner was a time of singing with Mr. J playing the guitar. I really enjoyed that time of singing, it was just wonderful. You could sense the presence of the Lord in that room, that night!
After that was dessert. Leftovers (cookies, etc), plus apple pie that Mrs. J had made. Yummy! Oh! Mrs. J also made the yummy chocolate chex mix that's so good! :D And again after that it was just playing, and having some more fun before it was time to go to bed. We played some pole position, mappy and pac man on the tv. Caleb and Corbin (as well as Mr. Hanson, Mr. J, and Uncle Tom) played ping pong a lot, and had lots of fun with that. The next morning, last day ( :'( ), we woke up and had muffins made by Mrs. J, waffles, fruit, and a couple other things. After that we played outside for a while, before it was time to pack up. When we were about done packing, we stopped for lunch, which was leftovers (chips, pretzels, sandwiches with whatever meat was leftovers, etc.). Then right before we left to head for home, Corbin made everyone smoothies (either pineapple, strawberry, banana, or any combination with those three things). I had the regular strawberry banana like at the sand box this summer! :) Thanks Corbin for those delicious smoothies. After that, it was time to say our goodbyes and head for home! It was a great weekend, and everyone had lots of fun!
So, thanks to everyone who made it so fun, to all those who prepared the meals, and helped with cleanup, dishes, and anything else that went on. I hope next time, I won't be feeling yucky and I'll be able to help some more!
Well, that is all I am going to say for now. I am out of breath, and this is getting really long! Lol. I hope to get some pictures on here when I get the chance, and I hope you all have a great night! :)
With his Love,
Karissa Noelle <3
1 John 2:15-17 (King James Version)
15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
17. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
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