Good morning all-
Well the last couple of days has been filled with introspection and heartache. I have thought about the parents of those children a million times. I have thought about the women that tried to protect them a million times and I have sat, stood and laid down in prayer. So when I woke this morning I thought what will Jesus have me say today? And the first thought in my head as I popped my eyes open was speak of hope.
Hope is the key to faith and the two help us love. When devastation occurs we want to be angry, blame someone and especially ask, "Why God did you take them?" He gets it. He watched as His Son died on a cross and so did Mary. I'm sure she was thinking the same thing. Couldn't there have been a better way? We are not God and there is no way to know why this horrific event had to happen but it did and now we have to approach it with hope.
Each person grieving will respond to this incident differently. Marriages fail when these types of situations occur because one can't get over the loss, while the other tries to live and leave a legacy for their child. The world watched as a man gave a statement about his beautiful daughter. He will try to leave a legacy and I'm praying for his wife as we speak.
Without hope these families won't make it. The children of the women who died saving their students will go wild and try to find purpose where there isn't any. We need every parent, every child and every spouse to have hope that God is near and He feels their pain. We must ask God to surround them and to protect them and at every possible corner provide hope in the darkness.
I know what it's like to grieve. Accidents or random acts of violence are the worst because in one moment your precious loved one is gone and there are no more chances to hug them, tell them that you love them or simply say, "I'm sorry." That time just vanishes and your left with did I tell them enough, "I love you." I am sure for every person that lost their life last week, they knew they were loved. I'm sure that the caring touch of a teacher, a parent or a sibling was with them. Bad things do happen to good people but we must look for the rainbow and today, that is hope. When the sun rises and sets it's our marker to know that God is consistent. He is the same today as He will be tomorrow. He gives life and life is taken. We are born to die. And although we have an age in our head that's appropriate, not every angel makes it there. So, please join with me today and pray for hope. The season is upon us where a miracle occurred. Let's pray for a miracle. Let's pray for protection over our children and let's pray that people with mental illness can get help.
We don't need answers of what happened or how it happened; we need Christ. Feeling hopeless won't help those that are weak and grieving. Filling ourselves with the Holy Spirit and hoping for a brighter future will be the only way we can help these people. God must be in the middle of this tragedy. Everyone is asking, "Why." I just want God to be there and I want people to respond to His call. Jesus is the reason for this season and He is the only one that can help the families forgive and heal. This week will be difficult for all of us. I'm sure the televisions across the globe will be on the funerals of all these brave and wonderful souls. If you find yourself fascinated and feeling a little depressed, pray for hope, pray that these families will see God and pray that the children that survived will know God. At the end of the day, we must always look for Jesus.
1 Peter 1:13 NKJV:
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (IN JESUS NAME)
Just pray this Scripture today. I'm going to. I think it sums up everything very nicely.
Until tomorrow...
Monday, December 17, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
December 16, 2012
Good morning all-
As all eyes look toward the tragedy in the US, I hope we are looking for Jesus. I read today that the school psychologist of Shady Brooke thought her job was part of her Godly duty. She felt like she could help people. As I read that, I thought to myself, we are born to serve. Our time is now and that's all any of us know. We get up every morning, get ready and start our days and for most of us they end the same. I think that the routine of life becomes habitual and we never know when that routine will be rocked.
As I opened AOL up yesterday, I saw the face of a shocked man. I knew that his child had been killed and today as I read the newspaper; I was right. The world was shocked a few days ago and yet, we see people in churches and at vigils looking for something, my hope is they are looking for their Savior. For weeks to come, we will hear of the heroism of the teachers and administrators that saved the innocent, it was their time. There are no coincidences in this life. The angels that left this earth are with our King and the stories will remain as a piece of History. I doubt much of that will bring comfort to the families that will bury their sons and daughters this week but for me, they hold hope that God will do amazing things in Newtown and I hope all over the world.
I am just one woman with a journey of my own. My story begins with a babe born in a manger who sought me out and saved me. Every word I write is given to me by the Holy Spirit. I may not be a math major but I have always loved to write. From the time I was little, poetry and writing were my passions and after loss struck my life, God called me to write to His people. It is an honor I cherish. Every morning, I can feel the keyboard calling. What will Christ tell me to write today? I never know to be honest. It's like my fingers hit the keyboard and the Holy Spirit takes over. If I have a chance I try to go back and read my blogs later because you can always find something that needs to be edited. But whether my grammar or sentence structure is perfect, one thing remains holy and that's the word breathed into our Bibles. If you are looking for peace, prosperity, direction or love, pick up your Bible and look into the words of our forefathers; there you will find God.
Many will feel powerless in the days to come. Policemen, firemen, EMS, doctors and nurses were all prepared to send victims to the hospital but death had already occurred. As President Obama watched, I'm sure he felt powerless too. Great men, women and Presidents don't have the power to fix this senseless act. The governments of the world will never be able to stop the evil working in our countries. Only one will bring nations to peace and only one can save us. His name is Jesus, Immanuel, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. He is the Son of God brought to this earth to save you and me. He is our stronghold, our shield and our light. There is no man on earth that can fix this tragedy but Him. Pain and suffering will be part of the victims families but through their pain, Christ will be called and hopefully, they will accept His love.
As I sit here and write, I am thinking about Heaven. Not many people talk about Heaven but there is a place of beauty, with no pain and so much hope. It resides in a place far off, far from any telescope or satellite. It is protected by the almighty and its where these beautiful souls now reside. I think about how Christ asked God to take His cup and then said, "Your will be done." He took a murderer with Him that fateful day on the cross and Christ promised he would be in paradise. Those of us left behind will mourn our losses, we will cry until we can't cry anymore. Our greatest fears as parents came to light on December 14, 2012 but our greatest triumph will be seen through Jesus!
As I do so often, I come to you and ask that you will continually pray for these families. We have a massive problem with our boys all over the world. Suicides are at an all time high. Young men are hurting themselves and others. We must stand firm before the throne of Jesus and ask Him to intercede where we can't. He is watching the world and wondering who will step up and be called among His disciples. We can't change what has happened but prayer has changed world events. Think about it, the world should have been under the authority of Hitler and yet, the battle was won and the world was changed. Do you think that's a coincidence? Of course not. God saved His people and the millions that would have been under attack. We are under the worst attack of History. Our children are being deceived and the snake is weaving his evil through them. I want us to take the stand that Jesus is Lord and that when we pray, He hears. He might not fix every situation but prayer can change the course of History. Man makes History and since we are not all knowing, let's give Jesus a chance to work among the nations.
2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
John 6:33 NKJV:
"For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
Daniel 4:13 NKJV:
"I saw in the visions of my head while on my bed, and there was a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven.
John 1: 32 NKJV:
And John bore witness, saying, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him.
Proverbs 15: 29 NKJV:
The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.
1 Kings 8:49-53 NKJV:
and when they return to You with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their enemies who led them away captive, and pray to You toward their land which You gave their fathers, the city which You have chosen and the temple which I have built for Your name: then hear in heaven Your dwelling place their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause, and forgive Your people who have sinned against You, and all their transgressions which they have transgressed against You; and grant them compassion before those who took them captive, that they may have compassion on them (for they are Your people and Your inheritance, whom You brought out of Egypt, out of the iron furnace), that Your eyes may be open to the supplication of Your servant and the supplication of Your people Israel, to listen to them whenever they call to You. For You separated them from among all the peoples of the earth to be Your inheritance, as You spoke by Your servant Moses, when You brought our fathers out of Egypt, O Lord God."
We know that each one of us carries sin in our hearts. Let's repent so our hearts can be pure and our prayers go unhindered. Not every prayer will be fulfilled as we wish but every prayer counts and is heard. We are lucky to have been chosen for this time my sisters. We were born for this moment and we must seize it and become the women God has called us to be. We must love His people. We are only powerless if we believe we are. Power comes from prayer and we can pray! Please take time out today to love someone, to pray for victims in your nations and to love women all over the world. We come from different places, we speak different languages but we are one through Christ the King!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You today with just one request; heal the nations. Please forgive us of our sins and help us to pray for the sick and the lost. So many are suffering today, Lord and all we ask is that You comfort them in their hour of need. Nations are at war and people are attacking the innocent but I stand on my faith that You will be there for them and that victory will be won. Continue to infuse us with the Holy Spirit and encourage women all over the world to pray. Through prayer nations have been subdued, captives have been set free and peace has come. Our enemy is not with a country or a person, it is with Satan. You are the only one that can put the snake under Your foot, so please hear our cries and subdue evil on earth. We believe in You, we trust in You and we hold steadfast that although bad things happen to good people, You are near! Bring Your light upon this world and help a world grieve for the innocent. May Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
As all eyes look toward the tragedy in the US, I hope we are looking for Jesus. I read today that the school psychologist of Shady Brooke thought her job was part of her Godly duty. She felt like she could help people. As I read that, I thought to myself, we are born to serve. Our time is now and that's all any of us know. We get up every morning, get ready and start our days and for most of us they end the same. I think that the routine of life becomes habitual and we never know when that routine will be rocked.
As I opened AOL up yesterday, I saw the face of a shocked man. I knew that his child had been killed and today as I read the newspaper; I was right. The world was shocked a few days ago and yet, we see people in churches and at vigils looking for something, my hope is they are looking for their Savior. For weeks to come, we will hear of the heroism of the teachers and administrators that saved the innocent, it was their time. There are no coincidences in this life. The angels that left this earth are with our King and the stories will remain as a piece of History. I doubt much of that will bring comfort to the families that will bury their sons and daughters this week but for me, they hold hope that God will do amazing things in Newtown and I hope all over the world.
I am just one woman with a journey of my own. My story begins with a babe born in a manger who sought me out and saved me. Every word I write is given to me by the Holy Spirit. I may not be a math major but I have always loved to write. From the time I was little, poetry and writing were my passions and after loss struck my life, God called me to write to His people. It is an honor I cherish. Every morning, I can feel the keyboard calling. What will Christ tell me to write today? I never know to be honest. It's like my fingers hit the keyboard and the Holy Spirit takes over. If I have a chance I try to go back and read my blogs later because you can always find something that needs to be edited. But whether my grammar or sentence structure is perfect, one thing remains holy and that's the word breathed into our Bibles. If you are looking for peace, prosperity, direction or love, pick up your Bible and look into the words of our forefathers; there you will find God.
Many will feel powerless in the days to come. Policemen, firemen, EMS, doctors and nurses were all prepared to send victims to the hospital but death had already occurred. As President Obama watched, I'm sure he felt powerless too. Great men, women and Presidents don't have the power to fix this senseless act. The governments of the world will never be able to stop the evil working in our countries. Only one will bring nations to peace and only one can save us. His name is Jesus, Immanuel, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. He is the Son of God brought to this earth to save you and me. He is our stronghold, our shield and our light. There is no man on earth that can fix this tragedy but Him. Pain and suffering will be part of the victims families but through their pain, Christ will be called and hopefully, they will accept His love.
As I sit here and write, I am thinking about Heaven. Not many people talk about Heaven but there is a place of beauty, with no pain and so much hope. It resides in a place far off, far from any telescope or satellite. It is protected by the almighty and its where these beautiful souls now reside. I think about how Christ asked God to take His cup and then said, "Your will be done." He took a murderer with Him that fateful day on the cross and Christ promised he would be in paradise. Those of us left behind will mourn our losses, we will cry until we can't cry anymore. Our greatest fears as parents came to light on December 14, 2012 but our greatest triumph will be seen through Jesus!
As I do so often, I come to you and ask that you will continually pray for these families. We have a massive problem with our boys all over the world. Suicides are at an all time high. Young men are hurting themselves and others. We must stand firm before the throne of Jesus and ask Him to intercede where we can't. He is watching the world and wondering who will step up and be called among His disciples. We can't change what has happened but prayer has changed world events. Think about it, the world should have been under the authority of Hitler and yet, the battle was won and the world was changed. Do you think that's a coincidence? Of course not. God saved His people and the millions that would have been under attack. We are under the worst attack of History. Our children are being deceived and the snake is weaving his evil through them. I want us to take the stand that Jesus is Lord and that when we pray, He hears. He might not fix every situation but prayer can change the course of History. Man makes History and since we are not all knowing, let's give Jesus a chance to work among the nations.
2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
John 6:33 NKJV:
"For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."
Daniel 4:13 NKJV:
"I saw in the visions of my head while on my bed, and there was a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven.
John 1: 32 NKJV:
And John bore witness, saying, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him.
Proverbs 15: 29 NKJV:
The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.
1 Kings 8:49-53 NKJV:
and when they return to You with all their heart and with all their soul in the land of their enemies who led them away captive, and pray to You toward their land which You gave their fathers, the city which You have chosen and the temple which I have built for Your name: then hear in heaven Your dwelling place their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause, and forgive Your people who have sinned against You, and all their transgressions which they have transgressed against You; and grant them compassion before those who took them captive, that they may have compassion on them (for they are Your people and Your inheritance, whom You brought out of Egypt, out of the iron furnace), that Your eyes may be open to the supplication of Your servant and the supplication of Your people Israel, to listen to them whenever they call to You. For You separated them from among all the peoples of the earth to be Your inheritance, as You spoke by Your servant Moses, when You brought our fathers out of Egypt, O Lord God."
We know that each one of us carries sin in our hearts. Let's repent so our hearts can be pure and our prayers go unhindered. Not every prayer will be fulfilled as we wish but every prayer counts and is heard. We are lucky to have been chosen for this time my sisters. We were born for this moment and we must seize it and become the women God has called us to be. We must love His people. We are only powerless if we believe we are. Power comes from prayer and we can pray! Please take time out today to love someone, to pray for victims in your nations and to love women all over the world. We come from different places, we speak different languages but we are one through Christ the King!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You today with just one request; heal the nations. Please forgive us of our sins and help us to pray for the sick and the lost. So many are suffering today, Lord and all we ask is that You comfort them in their hour of need. Nations are at war and people are attacking the innocent but I stand on my faith that You will be there for them and that victory will be won. Continue to infuse us with the Holy Spirit and encourage women all over the world to pray. Through prayer nations have been subdued, captives have been set free and peace has come. Our enemy is not with a country or a person, it is with Satan. You are the only one that can put the snake under Your foot, so please hear our cries and subdue evil on earth. We believe in You, we trust in You and we hold steadfast that although bad things happen to good people, You are near! Bring Your light upon this world and help a world grieve for the innocent. May Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Saturday, December 15, 2012
December 15, 2012
Good morning all-
Yesterday, I was home when the news broke out about a horrific tragedy in the United States. I wrote my second blog of the day as I thought about the parents and children of the murdered victims. I was once again reminded that our time on earth is short and that we should make every moment count. And then I went to a High School basketball game and cheered on my son and his team. As I was looking at the young faces in the crowd, babies and toddlers, I thought of the love I saw on their parents faces and my heart weeped for a minute.
Most parents know what love means. Love is a feeling until you have a child and then its a life long commitment full of triumph and tragedy. As parents we mess up. Our children don't come with a manuel and often, we disappoint. But if you have love in your heart, you replace the moments of tragedy with victory because love conquers all. When the Oklahoma City bombing occurred, the US was devastated and so that we never forget a memorial was established. Many peoples lives were lost that day and there were a fair number of children. Now, we are seeing this stupid senseless loss of life happening on a daily basis and I was reminded that we don't have control over guns, people or anything! Only Christ does and what does He say, He said to love your enemy, your friend, your wife, your husband, your children; He said to love people.
So today as our nation mourns this horrific tragedy, I'm set to love people. I may never meet one of the victims families but they are written on my heart. At 4 am this morning I woke and all I could think about was the families effected by this act. We may never know what took place that day and really, does it matter. We need to concentrate on the brave women and men that protected children, that prayed over them and we must pray that the children turn toward God. Their journey has just begun. As we saw from the Columbine massacre, faith can play an intricate role in how all these children do in the future. I am confident that with the help of our Lord, we can love these people.
Many of you have faced tragedies in your life. You know what it is to mourn. The mourning of a child is great. I watched my parents grieve and so I know the effects of losing a child. Thank God I have not had to go through it but there is one that did and that was Mary. She was blessed among women because she was chosen to carry our Savior. And in the end, she watched as her precious Son hung on a cross. The grief and devastation of yesterday is known by God. Why? Because He sent His only Son to earth, to save man. Throughout History there have been senseless acts of violence, yesterday was no different.
I realize that nothing I write today or in the days to come can be more profound than the Scripture. I also realize that it may take some of the parents time to seek Christ but my hope is that the women that are dedicated to reading this blog and loving Christ, will ban together and pray. The only way to love those we don't know is to pray. Our God is a mighty and merciful God. Many of you may be questioning how a loving God could let this happen. I'm not God so I don't really know. My faith has to be in what He says and who He is. I have come to realize that I'm not as smart as our maker and I can't second guess why these angels had to go to Him now. What I do know is that prayer is powerful, it can keep evil at bay and shine love throughout the world.
Revelation was clear that there would be times of great tragedy all over the world until Jesus came to reclaim His rightful place here on earth. Although my brain wants to go to places like, "Why?" I'm not going to today. I want to sit at the feet of my Lord and watch as He brings a nation together. For a fraction of a minute yesterday, every head was bowed and every heart heavy for the families of Newtown. May the Lord we call Savior bring light into this town. Through tragedy, may we unite and call upon our Lord. I hate that it takes something like this to happen to make people come together but in the end, if they come to Christ all will not be lost.
I'm sure that your heart is heavy today too. I know that for me I wish I could fly to that town and hold the mothers and fathers that have lost loved ones. I'm mourning for each family and hoping that God does a miracle in this town. Please pray that many that have not come to Christ will through this event. Please pray for the children and teachers that waited in closets and corners. Please pray for everyone touched by this event. The US is not the only country dealing with horrific loss. There are places in the Middle East that are in War. Children will be victims as long as man is evil. I pray that the evil would be replaced by the glory of our Lord and that as we approach Christmas we will remember the miraculous story of Jesus's birth and what could happen if millions would come to know Him.
I'm reminded of the poem Longfellow wrote and that Casting Crowns recorded a couple of Years ago. You may have heard it, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." I'm praying that in their despair the families of these victims will hear the bells and know that God is near. If you know of someone that has lost a child this year, please spend time with them this season, they need you. I'm praying for you too. I don't know you and I can't touch you but my heart prays for you. I may never get to hug you or speak to you but God has written you on my heart and I know that as we come together, He will do great things throughout the world. We are not helpless my sisters. We are empowered because we have Jesus Christ. We may not be able to stop a massive shooting but we can spread love throughout the nations, we can light a path toward Christ and we can pray! We have more power than a young man with a gun for we know Jesus. Please stand with me this morning and take a moment to remember the families throughout the world that have lost someone and with all that you have please sing, "Glory, Glory is our God Almighty!" He is our hope in this fallen world. I will not rest until people know the love Christ has for them. In a world full of darkness, He is the light!
I hope this day finds you well; kiss your children, hug your husband or boyfriend and take time out to love someone. Love is the gift that keeps giving. At the end of the day, it's the only gift that counts.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, as a nation watches the devastation, we know you are near. A babe takes nine months to grow and years to culture and within minutes it can be cut down. Many lost their lives yesterday. This tragedy is happening everywhere. You know it and You are there. I would love to ask "Why?" But somehow it just doesn't seem appropriate. Millions are watching a town in Connecticut to see what You will do. I'm praying that the families of the victims and the survivors will come to know You in a mighty way. I pray that love would spread like wildfire through that community and hearts would be healed through You. The world is in a state of chaos. Children are turning against their parents, wars are everywhere and the world is self-destructing, but in the wake of man's mistakes, You are there. I believe that You are God. I believe that You hold the keys to good versus evil and I believe that if I pray, You will answer. Through this prayer, I am hoping millions will come before You and confess that You are Savior. I'm praying that Christ would be brought back into homes and schools and that the gospel would not be silent. Women all over the world are uniting and asking You today to protect the innocent, love the needy and bring restoration to our land. The generations we bear are Yours. So help us lift them up, love them and never forget that with every tragedy, You are there to pick up the pieces. Please protect the world as we come to You asking You to be there for us. We are only women Lord but You are God. I am honored to serve You and so thankful that You write people on my heart. I don't have all the answers, Lord, but You do. May we all come before You today pledging our hearts and prayers to families all over the world. Love conquers all and You are love! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Yesterday, I was home when the news broke out about a horrific tragedy in the United States. I wrote my second blog of the day as I thought about the parents and children of the murdered victims. I was once again reminded that our time on earth is short and that we should make every moment count. And then I went to a High School basketball game and cheered on my son and his team. As I was looking at the young faces in the crowd, babies and toddlers, I thought of the love I saw on their parents faces and my heart weeped for a minute.
Most parents know what love means. Love is a feeling until you have a child and then its a life long commitment full of triumph and tragedy. As parents we mess up. Our children don't come with a manuel and often, we disappoint. But if you have love in your heart, you replace the moments of tragedy with victory because love conquers all. When the Oklahoma City bombing occurred, the US was devastated and so that we never forget a memorial was established. Many peoples lives were lost that day and there were a fair number of children. Now, we are seeing this stupid senseless loss of life happening on a daily basis and I was reminded that we don't have control over guns, people or anything! Only Christ does and what does He say, He said to love your enemy, your friend, your wife, your husband, your children; He said to love people.
So today as our nation mourns this horrific tragedy, I'm set to love people. I may never meet one of the victims families but they are written on my heart. At 4 am this morning I woke and all I could think about was the families effected by this act. We may never know what took place that day and really, does it matter. We need to concentrate on the brave women and men that protected children, that prayed over them and we must pray that the children turn toward God. Their journey has just begun. As we saw from the Columbine massacre, faith can play an intricate role in how all these children do in the future. I am confident that with the help of our Lord, we can love these people.
Many of you have faced tragedies in your life. You know what it is to mourn. The mourning of a child is great. I watched my parents grieve and so I know the effects of losing a child. Thank God I have not had to go through it but there is one that did and that was Mary. She was blessed among women because she was chosen to carry our Savior. And in the end, she watched as her precious Son hung on a cross. The grief and devastation of yesterday is known by God. Why? Because He sent His only Son to earth, to save man. Throughout History there have been senseless acts of violence, yesterday was no different.
I realize that nothing I write today or in the days to come can be more profound than the Scripture. I also realize that it may take some of the parents time to seek Christ but my hope is that the women that are dedicated to reading this blog and loving Christ, will ban together and pray. The only way to love those we don't know is to pray. Our God is a mighty and merciful God. Many of you may be questioning how a loving God could let this happen. I'm not God so I don't really know. My faith has to be in what He says and who He is. I have come to realize that I'm not as smart as our maker and I can't second guess why these angels had to go to Him now. What I do know is that prayer is powerful, it can keep evil at bay and shine love throughout the world.
Revelation was clear that there would be times of great tragedy all over the world until Jesus came to reclaim His rightful place here on earth. Although my brain wants to go to places like, "Why?" I'm not going to today. I want to sit at the feet of my Lord and watch as He brings a nation together. For a fraction of a minute yesterday, every head was bowed and every heart heavy for the families of Newtown. May the Lord we call Savior bring light into this town. Through tragedy, may we unite and call upon our Lord. I hate that it takes something like this to happen to make people come together but in the end, if they come to Christ all will not be lost.
I'm sure that your heart is heavy today too. I know that for me I wish I could fly to that town and hold the mothers and fathers that have lost loved ones. I'm mourning for each family and hoping that God does a miracle in this town. Please pray that many that have not come to Christ will through this event. Please pray for the children and teachers that waited in closets and corners. Please pray for everyone touched by this event. The US is not the only country dealing with horrific loss. There are places in the Middle East that are in War. Children will be victims as long as man is evil. I pray that the evil would be replaced by the glory of our Lord and that as we approach Christmas we will remember the miraculous story of Jesus's birth and what could happen if millions would come to know Him.
I'm reminded of the poem Longfellow wrote and that Casting Crowns recorded a couple of Years ago. You may have heard it, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." I'm praying that in their despair the families of these victims will hear the bells and know that God is near. If you know of someone that has lost a child this year, please spend time with them this season, they need you. I'm praying for you too. I don't know you and I can't touch you but my heart prays for you. I may never get to hug you or speak to you but God has written you on my heart and I know that as we come together, He will do great things throughout the world. We are not helpless my sisters. We are empowered because we have Jesus Christ. We may not be able to stop a massive shooting but we can spread love throughout the nations, we can light a path toward Christ and we can pray! We have more power than a young man with a gun for we know Jesus. Please stand with me this morning and take a moment to remember the families throughout the world that have lost someone and with all that you have please sing, "Glory, Glory is our God Almighty!" He is our hope in this fallen world. I will not rest until people know the love Christ has for them. In a world full of darkness, He is the light!
I hope this day finds you well; kiss your children, hug your husband or boyfriend and take time out to love someone. Love is the gift that keeps giving. At the end of the day, it's the only gift that counts.
Isaiah 60:1 NKJV:
Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
Acts 26:17 NKJV:
I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.'
1 John 4:19 NKJV:
We love Him because He first loved us.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, as a nation watches the devastation, we know you are near. A babe takes nine months to grow and years to culture and within minutes it can be cut down. Many lost their lives yesterday. This tragedy is happening everywhere. You know it and You are there. I would love to ask "Why?" But somehow it just doesn't seem appropriate. Millions are watching a town in Connecticut to see what You will do. I'm praying that the families of the victims and the survivors will come to know You in a mighty way. I pray that love would spread like wildfire through that community and hearts would be healed through You. The world is in a state of chaos. Children are turning against their parents, wars are everywhere and the world is self-destructing, but in the wake of man's mistakes, You are there. I believe that You are God. I believe that You hold the keys to good versus evil and I believe that if I pray, You will answer. Through this prayer, I am hoping millions will come before You and confess that You are Savior. I'm praying that Christ would be brought back into homes and schools and that the gospel would not be silent. Women all over the world are uniting and asking You today to protect the innocent, love the needy and bring restoration to our land. The generations we bear are Yours. So help us lift them up, love them and never forget that with every tragedy, You are there to pick up the pieces. Please protect the world as we come to You asking You to be there for us. We are only women Lord but You are God. I am honored to serve You and so thankful that You write people on my heart. I don't have all the answers, Lord, but You do. May we all come before You today pledging our hearts and prayers to families all over the world. Love conquers all and You are love! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Friday, December 14, 2012
December 14, 2012 (2nd post)
Good morning all-
As I was preparing my home for Christmas, enjoying my day off and waiting for my surprise gift from my husband, I heard that 26 children were killed and 8 adults. The young man who terrorized a school killed himself after this horrific act. So, I'm sure you all have been thinking some of the same things that I have. I hate what the parents are going through. I hate that sons and daughters, husbands and wives will find out that their loved ones were taken without a single thought to life. I hate that evil lurks in this world and that senseless crimes happen every day. But I mostly hate that their are young people walking around carrying such hurt, hate and anger that they take their lives and those of the innocent.
We can bash the young man that did this but instead we need to be in prayer. Our thoughts must be on God at this time of great suffering and loss. We are surrounded by evil, our war is spiritual and its against the prince of darkness. Take hold of your faith ladies, ban together and pray that the God of light will come to this earth and heal all nations. We need to be praying for the innocent, the lonely, the hurting and the troubled. Our time is now. When schools are being bombed all around the world and now this, what's next? Why must we attack the innocent to make our point. Since I have no authority or power, I'm giving it to Christ. I'm praying that the families that have lost their loved ones will be comforted by people who believe in a Savior. They might not want to hear about Him now but they will one day and for those that are believers; I pray that their faith will stay in tact as they question the "Why's" of this tragedy.
This is a time to be rejoicing that our King was born to save nations. But like all things of this world, there is evil, there is loss and there is suffering. None of us will be free of these things but we all have a Savior to go too. This loss will be felt among the nations but more importantly, it will be felt by families as they bury their children before Christmas. My prayer will be that God Almighty will comfort them in their time of loss and that we will all remember that children are simply ours for the moment, they belong to God and no matter how hard we want to hold onto them, they are His. May those that lost their lives today and even for the shooter, my prayer is that they are on the streets of gold, where there is no pain or suffering.
Please pray for all countries, for all young men and women and for the souls of many. Ban together with me and praise the Lord. Find it in your heart to love one another and if you take away one thing from today, hug your loved ones; it might be the last day you see them.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, my morning started with praising You for coming to earth. As the day progressed, tragedy struck the US, where children and adults were struck down. I am coming to You as Your servant. I'm praying that women will ban together all over the nations and pray for people. There are so many that are killing for no reason and then killing themselves. It's time we asked the Lord of light to rain down on the masses, bring Your people to their knees and ask that the Holy Spirit will fill our nations, our leaders and our people. Women are coming together today to say, "HOLY HOLY IS THE LORD." I have always known that we are dealing with forces that none of us understand and that the world is getting more and more evil. Light our paths in the darkness, give us hearts for the lost and help us to continue our mission to speak of You wherever we can. You are the key to healing and only love from the Holy Spirit can heal this nation and the many that are losing lives all over the world. Killing is senseless and shooting innocents is horrible but I'm asking that You quiet the hurting and bring forth people that will stand by these families sides. Let us not forget so quickly what this day has brought and may we remember that You came because evil is here on earth. We just want to send our prayers up to You for all the families tonight. This evening and the days to come will be full of heartfelt grief for people we don't even know. Send Your Holy Spirit to the needy and remind all of us that love can heal nations! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
As I was preparing my home for Christmas, enjoying my day off and waiting for my surprise gift from my husband, I heard that 26 children were killed and 8 adults. The young man who terrorized a school killed himself after this horrific act. So, I'm sure you all have been thinking some of the same things that I have. I hate what the parents are going through. I hate that sons and daughters, husbands and wives will find out that their loved ones were taken without a single thought to life. I hate that evil lurks in this world and that senseless crimes happen every day. But I mostly hate that their are young people walking around carrying such hurt, hate and anger that they take their lives and those of the innocent.
We can bash the young man that did this but instead we need to be in prayer. Our thoughts must be on God at this time of great suffering and loss. We are surrounded by evil, our war is spiritual and its against the prince of darkness. Take hold of your faith ladies, ban together and pray that the God of light will come to this earth and heal all nations. We need to be praying for the innocent, the lonely, the hurting and the troubled. Our time is now. When schools are being bombed all around the world and now this, what's next? Why must we attack the innocent to make our point. Since I have no authority or power, I'm giving it to Christ. I'm praying that the families that have lost their loved ones will be comforted by people who believe in a Savior. They might not want to hear about Him now but they will one day and for those that are believers; I pray that their faith will stay in tact as they question the "Why's" of this tragedy.
This is a time to be rejoicing that our King was born to save nations. But like all things of this world, there is evil, there is loss and there is suffering. None of us will be free of these things but we all have a Savior to go too. This loss will be felt among the nations but more importantly, it will be felt by families as they bury their children before Christmas. My prayer will be that God Almighty will comfort them in their time of loss and that we will all remember that children are simply ours for the moment, they belong to God and no matter how hard we want to hold onto them, they are His. May those that lost their lives today and even for the shooter, my prayer is that they are on the streets of gold, where there is no pain or suffering.
Please pray for all countries, for all young men and women and for the souls of many. Ban together with me and praise the Lord. Find it in your heart to love one another and if you take away one thing from today, hug your loved ones; it might be the last day you see them.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, my morning started with praising You for coming to earth. As the day progressed, tragedy struck the US, where children and adults were struck down. I am coming to You as Your servant. I'm praying that women will ban together all over the nations and pray for people. There are so many that are killing for no reason and then killing themselves. It's time we asked the Lord of light to rain down on the masses, bring Your people to their knees and ask that the Holy Spirit will fill our nations, our leaders and our people. Women are coming together today to say, "HOLY HOLY IS THE LORD." I have always known that we are dealing with forces that none of us understand and that the world is getting more and more evil. Light our paths in the darkness, give us hearts for the lost and help us to continue our mission to speak of You wherever we can. You are the key to healing and only love from the Holy Spirit can heal this nation and the many that are losing lives all over the world. Killing is senseless and shooting innocents is horrible but I'm asking that You quiet the hurting and bring forth people that will stand by these families sides. Let us not forget so quickly what this day has brought and may we remember that You came because evil is here on earth. We just want to send our prayers up to You for all the families tonight. This evening and the days to come will be full of heartfelt grief for people we don't even know. Send Your Holy Spirit to the needy and remind all of us that love can heal nations! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
December 14, 2012
Good morning all-
Christmas is either a great season for people or its the worst time of year. Health issues, depression, money problems or family issues can effect the holidays. We tend to love Christmas if we can give to our hearts content but in reality we should be spreading love; that's what the world needs, people to care enough to share the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
We measure our worth by where we live, what we do for a living or by how much we make today. Jesus nor his parents had a beautiful place to live, more money than they could count or white collar jobs. His mother raised her children and his earthly father was in trade. They wandered from Africa to Nazareth until there son was of age. Today they would be considered minimum wage workers and I'm sure they were thankful to have God on their side.
Shepherds and wise men were called to a barn to witness the coming of the messiah. I'm sure they thought He had come to save Israel but today we know He came to save the Jew and the Gentile.
From that day forward our future was written. Hallelujah!
I wonder what it was like to look at a baby and see your future? Do you ever wonder that? If you've had a baby you know that from the minute they enter the world your hope is that they have a more blessed life than you did. You want them to feel safe and secure and yet, in Jesus's day there was no security, right? Fast forward several thousand years and countries like Israel, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and North Korean women could probably share many of their fears for there are many.
We have fears too. Men and women are killing each other, children are found daily killed or beaten. Evil lurks just like it did 2000 years ago but we can be steadfast in Jesus for He was born and died for you and me. So as we walk this earth, we have on assurance, that Jesus did come to save the nations. Kings witnessed it and followed a star to worship a babe in a manger. If we hold onto nothing else this season, please hold on to this. It's the essence of what we believe, the story should be told over and over again and Christ's name should be heard in every nation on earth. Praise and glory to our King, forever and ever! AMEN
Matthew 2:5-12 NKJV:
So they said to him, "In Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you shall come a Ruler who will shepherd My people Israel,'" Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he send them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I want to capture these words to my heart. You sent witnesses to Your Son's birth. You provided all Mary and Joseph's needs. Your Son was worshipped and prophesies fulfilled. Today, we forget this beautiful miracle. We worry about presents and things. As women of You, we come before You today recognizing that You were born in a manger and You are the only way to heaven. Through Your great love of people, many have been delivered from evil. We count ourselves fortunate to recant the story of old and to celebrate one of the greatest moments in History. Come to us in dreams and visions, bring passion for Your cause to our breasts and make us Yours to command. We are Your disciples, fulfill Your plan in our lives and as You do, we thank You for coming to this earth and saving us. We owe You our lives, our praise and our dedication. Come before us this season Lord, help us love Your people and prepare their way unto Your kingdom! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Christmas is either a great season for people or its the worst time of year. Health issues, depression, money problems or family issues can effect the holidays. We tend to love Christmas if we can give to our hearts content but in reality we should be spreading love; that's what the world needs, people to care enough to share the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
We measure our worth by where we live, what we do for a living or by how much we make today. Jesus nor his parents had a beautiful place to live, more money than they could count or white collar jobs. His mother raised her children and his earthly father was in trade. They wandered from Africa to Nazareth until there son was of age. Today they would be considered minimum wage workers and I'm sure they were thankful to have God on their side.
Shepherds and wise men were called to a barn to witness the coming of the messiah. I'm sure they thought He had come to save Israel but today we know He came to save the Jew and the Gentile.
From that day forward our future was written. Hallelujah!
I wonder what it was like to look at a baby and see your future? Do you ever wonder that? If you've had a baby you know that from the minute they enter the world your hope is that they have a more blessed life than you did. You want them to feel safe and secure and yet, in Jesus's day there was no security, right? Fast forward several thousand years and countries like Israel, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and North Korean women could probably share many of their fears for there are many.
We have fears too. Men and women are killing each other, children are found daily killed or beaten. Evil lurks just like it did 2000 years ago but we can be steadfast in Jesus for He was born and died for you and me. So as we walk this earth, we have on assurance, that Jesus did come to save the nations. Kings witnessed it and followed a star to worship a babe in a manger. If we hold onto nothing else this season, please hold on to this. It's the essence of what we believe, the story should be told over and over again and Christ's name should be heard in every nation on earth. Praise and glory to our King, forever and ever! AMEN
Matthew 2:5-12 NKJV:
So they said to him, "In Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you shall come a Ruler who will shepherd My people Israel,'" Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he send them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I want to capture these words to my heart. You sent witnesses to Your Son's birth. You provided all Mary and Joseph's needs. Your Son was worshipped and prophesies fulfilled. Today, we forget this beautiful miracle. We worry about presents and things. As women of You, we come before You today recognizing that You were born in a manger and You are the only way to heaven. Through Your great love of people, many have been delivered from evil. We count ourselves fortunate to recant the story of old and to celebrate one of the greatest moments in History. Come to us in dreams and visions, bring passion for Your cause to our breasts and make us Yours to command. We are Your disciples, fulfill Your plan in our lives and as You do, we thank You for coming to this earth and saving us. We owe You our lives, our praise and our dedication. Come before us this season Lord, help us love Your people and prepare their way unto Your kingdom! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
December 11, 2012
Good morning all-
I am writing as fast as I can because I'm going to feed my son a breakfast of champions. You know, eggs and bacon. At least that's what he thinks it is. Isn't motherhood splendid? I'm so glad I have these moments with him and his brother. They won't need me for much longer but at least I can serve while their still with me.
Service that's a strange word in this society. I wonder how many people truly serve. I had the television on why I was working on my computer last night and I watched as Extreme Makeover gave a wounded soldier a beautiful home to live in. At the end, Ty welcomed home the soldiers to the US and to their families. Many of them are coming home broken but when you see what a few people can do, you realize that service is the greatest gift of all.
Mary served all of us. She stands as the mother of our Savior. She will forever be that but what was most impressive to me was her belief in God. She never doubted that she would bear His Son. Interesting? We doubt everything and if we aren't doubting we are worried; but she rested knowing that God would take care of the details and celebrated that God had chosen her to bear His only Son. Amazing!
Service began with one woman believing that God would take care of everything and it ended on the cross. Many sacrifices came from being apart of Jesus's life but I doubt many cared. They believed that the government would bow down to Him and that one day He would return. Kings were sent with gifts to worship a babe, think on that for a minute. Life was not easy during Mary's time. It was full of strife and chaos. You could probably correlate a little of it to today. I often wonder what she was thinking, we only have a few thoughts as Mark and Luke recant her story.
I found this passage as I was reading into the journey of Jesus's birth. I sent it to my friend that still has not found healing. It's amazing what a Scripture can do to heal a heart, provide hope or just make us look at life and live. I read it twice because as I read it, it ministered to my heart. May today find you well and may you always seek God for every resource.
Luke 1:14 NKJV:
And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord." And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
Strong words from such a young girl but nevertheless, she was so right. She worshipped our Lord with all her might and felt blessed to be fulfilling the prophesy. Her joy was magnified! I thought about that a lot last night. Times get tough but every once in awhile our joy is magnified. It comes from deep down and only happens when we believe that He is our Savior and that He can do all things. May God bless you as you read this passage. I know it has me.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I love You with all my heart. I pray that one day the women of the world will shout, "We are blessed to be known by God." I pray for the souls of the lost and lonely, give them a dose of the Holy Spirit. I'm calling on You today to bring Your peace on earth, help the nations and wash away our sins. You are the almighty and once upon a time, You came to the world to save the sinner. Help all of us to be faithful to You so that we may preach the word of God!!! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I am writing as fast as I can because I'm going to feed my son a breakfast of champions. You know, eggs and bacon. At least that's what he thinks it is. Isn't motherhood splendid? I'm so glad I have these moments with him and his brother. They won't need me for much longer but at least I can serve while their still with me.
Service that's a strange word in this society. I wonder how many people truly serve. I had the television on why I was working on my computer last night and I watched as Extreme Makeover gave a wounded soldier a beautiful home to live in. At the end, Ty welcomed home the soldiers to the US and to their families. Many of them are coming home broken but when you see what a few people can do, you realize that service is the greatest gift of all.
Mary served all of us. She stands as the mother of our Savior. She will forever be that but what was most impressive to me was her belief in God. She never doubted that she would bear His Son. Interesting? We doubt everything and if we aren't doubting we are worried; but she rested knowing that God would take care of the details and celebrated that God had chosen her to bear His only Son. Amazing!
Service began with one woman believing that God would take care of everything and it ended on the cross. Many sacrifices came from being apart of Jesus's life but I doubt many cared. They believed that the government would bow down to Him and that one day He would return. Kings were sent with gifts to worship a babe, think on that for a minute. Life was not easy during Mary's time. It was full of strife and chaos. You could probably correlate a little of it to today. I often wonder what she was thinking, we only have a few thoughts as Mark and Luke recant her story.
I found this passage as I was reading into the journey of Jesus's birth. I sent it to my friend that still has not found healing. It's amazing what a Scripture can do to heal a heart, provide hope or just make us look at life and live. I read it twice because as I read it, it ministered to my heart. May today find you well and may you always seek God for every resource.
Luke 1:14 NKJV:
And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord." And Mary said: "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
Strong words from such a young girl but nevertheless, she was so right. She worshipped our Lord with all her might and felt blessed to be fulfilling the prophesy. Her joy was magnified! I thought about that a lot last night. Times get tough but every once in awhile our joy is magnified. It comes from deep down and only happens when we believe that He is our Savior and that He can do all things. May God bless you as you read this passage. I know it has me.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I love You with all my heart. I pray that one day the women of the world will shout, "We are blessed to be known by God." I pray for the souls of the lost and lonely, give them a dose of the Holy Spirit. I'm calling on You today to bring Your peace on earth, help the nations and wash away our sins. You are the almighty and once upon a time, You came to the world to save the sinner. Help all of us to be faithful to You so that we may preach the word of God!!! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Monday, December 10, 2012
December 10, 2012
Good morning all-
So we are approaching the anniversary of one of the greatest events in History. We are 15 days away from Christmas. Without Christ there would be no reason to celebrate this day. Like every thing else in the world we have a misperception of what it means to celebrate Christmas. We like to shop, wrap presents and put up the tree but we should really want to explore the depth of the Christmas story, that's where true joy and giving comes from.
Don't get me wrong, I love to see children unwrap presents. I love to go get the Christmas tree and of course, I love the whole regimen of tradition. Always, I put up the lights and then the boys wait until it's dark to put on the ornaments. I have so many memories of Christmas as a child. My mom and dad did not have much money but Christmas was always a special time in my house. The house was filled with aromas of baked goods, pine needles, and candles. It's one of my fondest memories growing up. I can remember all the special ornaments and all the fun we had putting up the tree. I wish I could say every Christmas was like that for my kids but there have been great moments of stress in our house around Christmas. I hope they don't dwell on those times but remember putting up lights on the back porch, listening to Christmas music and helping me trim the tree. I also hope that they remember that Jesus is everything and that without Him, we have nothing.
In the time of Jesus's birth, people did not have what they do now. There were no trees or thousands of lights. Houses weren't lit for the whole neighborhood to see. Presents weren't scattered around, most were in celebration of Hanukkah and were probably made. Things have changed so dramatically today but the one thing that hasn't is Jesus. As women that love Christ, we must infuse this once again into the hearts of our husbands and children. We must remember the sacrifices of Mary, Joseph and especially Jesus. We must never forget that Christmas is a time to celebrate the Lord, to make memories for future generations and to share Christ with the world. Once upon a time a baby was born in a barn, wrapped in cloth and put into a wood manger. That baby would save the world with His own life and we would all be blessed because of it. We must teach this and inspire others to share His story.
I hope this day finds you well and that as we partake into the story of Jesus' birth, we will all see God in a new way. May God reveal to You the splendor of Him and may we bow down before our Lord with our lives. Just like Jesus, we are here on a journey of purpose and we must fulfill it with our minds, hearts and souls. The Scripture below represents the prophesy of old that Jesus would be born and that He would be the Savior.
Isaiah 9: 6 NKJV:
Unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
My prayer today:
O, Lord, we come before You asking for our Savior to be seen here on earth. We know that Christmas is nearing, this time can be stressful and depressing. But You came unto Mary, a light unto a darkened world. You were prophesied of old and came when Your Father sent You, unto a virgin. We know the story Lord, since childhood we were told of Your birth. I am asking that every women, in every country will recant the story to future generations. I'm praying that with every word I write, You will help women become a light unto this world. Give all of us the strength to pray for our countries, our men and our children. If we love You, then we must pick up the cross. I know we are not men Lord but women have the power to pray, to nurture and to direct. Help us become strong in You: body, mind and soul. We worship You and call You wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace and Savior of the World. Bring forth Your chosen, hold them and convict all of us to spread the news to one person that really needs You. There are many that haven't truly heard Your message. Give them hope today and if at all possible, write someone on the hearts of Your prayer warriors. This season would mean nothing without You. The Father chose a women to carry a Savior. We have not been chosen for that task but we do bear Your children, so with that in mind, give us the wisdom to see, the hearts to hope and the soul to fulfill Your purpose. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
So we are approaching the anniversary of one of the greatest events in History. We are 15 days away from Christmas. Without Christ there would be no reason to celebrate this day. Like every thing else in the world we have a misperception of what it means to celebrate Christmas. We like to shop, wrap presents and put up the tree but we should really want to explore the depth of the Christmas story, that's where true joy and giving comes from.
Don't get me wrong, I love to see children unwrap presents. I love to go get the Christmas tree and of course, I love the whole regimen of tradition. Always, I put up the lights and then the boys wait until it's dark to put on the ornaments. I have so many memories of Christmas as a child. My mom and dad did not have much money but Christmas was always a special time in my house. The house was filled with aromas of baked goods, pine needles, and candles. It's one of my fondest memories growing up. I can remember all the special ornaments and all the fun we had putting up the tree. I wish I could say every Christmas was like that for my kids but there have been great moments of stress in our house around Christmas. I hope they don't dwell on those times but remember putting up lights on the back porch, listening to Christmas music and helping me trim the tree. I also hope that they remember that Jesus is everything and that without Him, we have nothing.
In the time of Jesus's birth, people did not have what they do now. There were no trees or thousands of lights. Houses weren't lit for the whole neighborhood to see. Presents weren't scattered around, most were in celebration of Hanukkah and were probably made. Things have changed so dramatically today but the one thing that hasn't is Jesus. As women that love Christ, we must infuse this once again into the hearts of our husbands and children. We must remember the sacrifices of Mary, Joseph and especially Jesus. We must never forget that Christmas is a time to celebrate the Lord, to make memories for future generations and to share Christ with the world. Once upon a time a baby was born in a barn, wrapped in cloth and put into a wood manger. That baby would save the world with His own life and we would all be blessed because of it. We must teach this and inspire others to share His story.
I hope this day finds you well and that as we partake into the story of Jesus' birth, we will all see God in a new way. May God reveal to You the splendor of Him and may we bow down before our Lord with our lives. Just like Jesus, we are here on a journey of purpose and we must fulfill it with our minds, hearts and souls. The Scripture below represents the prophesy of old that Jesus would be born and that He would be the Savior.
Isaiah 9: 6 NKJV:
Unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace
My prayer today:
O, Lord, we come before You asking for our Savior to be seen here on earth. We know that Christmas is nearing, this time can be stressful and depressing. But You came unto Mary, a light unto a darkened world. You were prophesied of old and came when Your Father sent You, unto a virgin. We know the story Lord, since childhood we were told of Your birth. I am asking that every women, in every country will recant the story to future generations. I'm praying that with every word I write, You will help women become a light unto this world. Give all of us the strength to pray for our countries, our men and our children. If we love You, then we must pick up the cross. I know we are not men Lord but women have the power to pray, to nurture and to direct. Help us become strong in You: body, mind and soul. We worship You and call You wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace and Savior of the World. Bring forth Your chosen, hold them and convict all of us to spread the news to one person that really needs You. There are many that haven't truly heard Your message. Give them hope today and if at all possible, write someone on the hearts of Your prayer warriors. This season would mean nothing without You. The Father chose a women to carry a Savior. We have not been chosen for that task but we do bear Your children, so with that in mind, give us the wisdom to see, the hearts to hope and the soul to fulfill Your purpose. In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Sunday, December 9, 2012
December 9, 2012
Good morning all-
It's a great day to be alive! I hope you're feeling that way. I spent time yesterday with my two nieces and it was beautiful. I watched as they decorated cookies and all I could think about was my mom. She baked and baked and baked all the way to Christmas. I think we had 10 different types of cookies, not to mention fudge and bread. She loved the season because it brought her so much joy to give.
Giving shouldn't just be apart of the Christmas story. Giving should happen every day. We should look for ways to give to ourselves, volunteer our time and make great things happen that are joyful and memorable. If you think about it, that's what Jesus did. He knew His life would be short and yet, He spent most of His time wandering through cities to spread the good news. Strangers became His friends and He gave not only with His time but with most of His energy. Why do you think He needed to be alone from time to time? He needed to rejuvenate Himself with His Father so that He could go back out and give some more.
If you can give money during this season, that's great. Money will always help. There are always charities that need support like World Vision, Hurricane Sandy or many others throughout the world. It's important if God blesses you with money that you give but time is so much better. I realized that yesterday as I watched those girls painstakingly decorating angels, santa clauses, mittens and more. It was so beautiful and I gave little of my time to watch the joy on their faces. Not to mention, I got to witness to my 7 year old niece. Her parents don't believe in Jesus so we talked about Heaven, what it looked like and who resided there and she was so cute. At one point I asked her, "Do you know who resides in Heaven?" She said, "Uncle Matt, Nana and Bpa?" I said, "You're right but it's Jesus that waits to receive us, He forgives us when we're bad and loves us all our days and all you have to say is, "Jesus, I believe, come into me and make me yours." I don't know if she got it but we will keep working on it. She is a beautiful girl and I think her faith could bring her parents to Christ. It's funny how trusting little children are and how much they love to believe. I wish we were all like that and then we would have a lot less chaos here on earth.
So if we believe that giving is important and that Jesus gave His life for us, then why is it so important to go back to the Christmas story? Well, without the Christmas story there is no Jesus. It's been said that Jesus could have been born in the spring but that we celebrate it in the winter. I'm not sure how all that got mixed up but nevertheless, we are nearing the season of our Lord. Jesus wasn't born to the rich, He was born to the poor. He wasn't even born in a bed, He was born on straw. He was destined to be the Lord of Lord's and His mother lay in a barn to bear Him. Think about that for a minute. His Father the Great I AM, chose to have His Son come in a barn. Interesting?
We grovel if we don't have a nice hotel to stay in and here is the mother of our Savior giving birth in a dirty barn, where all the animals are kept. I don't care how clean you make a barn, it's still dirty! Right? So if you're ever feeling like you don't have enough stuff, think on that for a minute. You have more than what Mary had and that's saying a lot. She was the mother of our King with much less then what we have today. She is an excellent role model for those of us that need comfort over faith. Wouldn't you agree?
As always, I hope this day finds you well and that you are thinking about more than presents and food. I hope you think about the presence of our Lord and what He has for You today. I pray that as you go off to church or stay at home, that you worship Him with all your heart. He's waiting to receive your praise, give it freely!
Luke 2:1-7 NIV84
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She rapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Holy Holy is the Lord! If you haven't said that lately, look at this passage and say it now. Mary, His mother wrapped Him in cloth and put Him in a manger, the Savior of the World. Profound and humbling if I do say so myself.
My prayer today:
Please write these words on our hearts. Take away the skepticism in the world and bring forth the knowledge that You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The houses are fighting and the wars are beginning. Horrific things cover the earth and only you can stop them from coming. The world has changed since You sent Your only Son but one thing remains, You are God. The Holy Trinity exists today as it did at the death of Jesus: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Teach the young to have faith in You and help the old to see. The older we become, we get jaded and forget that the Lord of light is with us. I love to think about where You reside, what the angels are doing and where Your people are. I love to think about sitting at Your feet and loving You today. I love to remember the Christmas story because it reminds me that You weren't born into things; You were born to save the world. Your pleasure and comforts were non-existent but Your love for Your people abounded and still does today. May God bless this nation and nations all over the world. Please protect the Syrians from harm, protect Israel and make it once again a great nation. We need You today as much as they did in the days of old. Come, bring Your Spirit to us, here on earth and let all of us sing, "Holy, Holy is the Lamb!" People are frightened Lord, they don't know what will happen tomorrow, but help Your people to be faithful in the chaos, to love You and to direct their eyes towards a God that can save! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
It's a great day to be alive! I hope you're feeling that way. I spent time yesterday with my two nieces and it was beautiful. I watched as they decorated cookies and all I could think about was my mom. She baked and baked and baked all the way to Christmas. I think we had 10 different types of cookies, not to mention fudge and bread. She loved the season because it brought her so much joy to give.
Giving shouldn't just be apart of the Christmas story. Giving should happen every day. We should look for ways to give to ourselves, volunteer our time and make great things happen that are joyful and memorable. If you think about it, that's what Jesus did. He knew His life would be short and yet, He spent most of His time wandering through cities to spread the good news. Strangers became His friends and He gave not only with His time but with most of His energy. Why do you think He needed to be alone from time to time? He needed to rejuvenate Himself with His Father so that He could go back out and give some more.
If you can give money during this season, that's great. Money will always help. There are always charities that need support like World Vision, Hurricane Sandy or many others throughout the world. It's important if God blesses you with money that you give but time is so much better. I realized that yesterday as I watched those girls painstakingly decorating angels, santa clauses, mittens and more. It was so beautiful and I gave little of my time to watch the joy on their faces. Not to mention, I got to witness to my 7 year old niece. Her parents don't believe in Jesus so we talked about Heaven, what it looked like and who resided there and she was so cute. At one point I asked her, "Do you know who resides in Heaven?" She said, "Uncle Matt, Nana and Bpa?" I said, "You're right but it's Jesus that waits to receive us, He forgives us when we're bad and loves us all our days and all you have to say is, "Jesus, I believe, come into me and make me yours." I don't know if she got it but we will keep working on it. She is a beautiful girl and I think her faith could bring her parents to Christ. It's funny how trusting little children are and how much they love to believe. I wish we were all like that and then we would have a lot less chaos here on earth.
So if we believe that giving is important and that Jesus gave His life for us, then why is it so important to go back to the Christmas story? Well, without the Christmas story there is no Jesus. It's been said that Jesus could have been born in the spring but that we celebrate it in the winter. I'm not sure how all that got mixed up but nevertheless, we are nearing the season of our Lord. Jesus wasn't born to the rich, He was born to the poor. He wasn't even born in a bed, He was born on straw. He was destined to be the Lord of Lord's and His mother lay in a barn to bear Him. Think about that for a minute. His Father the Great I AM, chose to have His Son come in a barn. Interesting?
We grovel if we don't have a nice hotel to stay in and here is the mother of our Savior giving birth in a dirty barn, where all the animals are kept. I don't care how clean you make a barn, it's still dirty! Right? So if you're ever feeling like you don't have enough stuff, think on that for a minute. You have more than what Mary had and that's saying a lot. She was the mother of our King with much less then what we have today. She is an excellent role model for those of us that need comfort over faith. Wouldn't you agree?
As always, I hope this day finds you well and that you are thinking about more than presents and food. I hope you think about the presence of our Lord and what He has for You today. I pray that as you go off to church or stay at home, that you worship Him with all your heart. He's waiting to receive your praise, give it freely!
Luke 2:1-7 NIV84
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She rapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Holy Holy is the Lord! If you haven't said that lately, look at this passage and say it now. Mary, His mother wrapped Him in cloth and put Him in a manger, the Savior of the World. Profound and humbling if I do say so myself.
My prayer today:
Please write these words on our hearts. Take away the skepticism in the world and bring forth the knowledge that You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The houses are fighting and the wars are beginning. Horrific things cover the earth and only you can stop them from coming. The world has changed since You sent Your only Son but one thing remains, You are God. The Holy Trinity exists today as it did at the death of Jesus: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Teach the young to have faith in You and help the old to see. The older we become, we get jaded and forget that the Lord of light is with us. I love to think about where You reside, what the angels are doing and where Your people are. I love to think about sitting at Your feet and loving You today. I love to remember the Christmas story because it reminds me that You weren't born into things; You were born to save the world. Your pleasure and comforts were non-existent but Your love for Your people abounded and still does today. May God bless this nation and nations all over the world. Please protect the Syrians from harm, protect Israel and make it once again a great nation. We need You today as much as they did in the days of old. Come, bring Your Spirit to us, here on earth and let all of us sing, "Holy, Holy is the Lamb!" People are frightened Lord, they don't know what will happen tomorrow, but help Your people to be faithful in the chaos, to love You and to direct their eyes towards a God that can save! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Saturday, December 8, 2012
December 8, 2012
Good morning all-
I hope this day finds you all well. I'm going to begin my journey into the Christmas season. Basically, the birth of our Lord. It's a reminder to us all that He came and He will come again. His birth was prophesied in the old testament and then it's recanted in the new.
Before I begin, I would like to give you an analogy, one that came to me as I was watching my son play basketball yesterday. He has been playing wonderfully, scoring, rebounding and defending. But yesterday something happened, his shots quit going in, he let his man get beyond him and you could tell his spirit dipped far into the ocean. As a spectator you just want to go out onto the court, hug him and say tomorrow will be okay. That's what we do as mothers, we nurture and protect but there's no protecting a 16 year old in a High School basketball game, just like there is no protecting children in war. We must watch, pray and give them the tools to overcome their obstacles.
Mary was a young woman when the angel came to her and spoke that she would carry the child of God. She was unmarried in a time when they stoned women for being out of wedlock and yet, that was the time God chose to bring His Son into the world. He didn't fast forward to today where getting pregnant isn't looked down upon, He chose that moment. I wonder what Mary's mom thought? Did she want to protect her? Did she understand what it meant? I doubt that anyone except Joseph really understood the full impact of what it meant; God had come to Him in dreams to reveal His purpose and He knew to take care of Mary and God's child.
And as the birth came near, the turmoil became greater. The King feared a more powerful person than himself and ordered all babies to be killed. Can you imagine Mary's fear? What would you have done? I think any mother that loves their child would protect them with their lives but sometimes we can't protect them, only our Father can. Because in the end whether it's Hunter, Mary or Jesus, we all belong to God, we are His!
Matthew 1:18-25 NIV84:
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"-which means, "God with us." When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
The conception and the dream were the beginning of the story we now know as the Christmas story. We will spend time looking into the Scripture to unravel the beauty of what God the Father did for us. This story is essential to our Christian walk. It holds the key to our beliefs of a Savior. Mary was chosen and Joseph did as God commanded him to do. Jesus was born and our Savior became man. He came in time of turmoil and delivered His people. He was and is Immanuel! Although Mary escaped divorce, ruin, and stoning, the journey would continue. Joseph would have to protect Mary and Jesus from the beginning. We will look more into this tomorrow but for today, I pray that the Lord we serve is with you and that you are blessed to know Him!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You in awe. As I read the beginning of Your life it has more power today than ever. You came into this world during turbulent times, You were born of a virgin and You were blessed by the Father. Your life was not Your own from the beginning. Your mother had to carry You knowing that she could die and yet, even though she was young, she carried You and stood by You to the very end. I think sometimes we forget that the young can do powerful things. They are full of confidence and courage. I'm praying for all the teenagers and young children throughout the earth, please put Your hand on them and guide them through this evil world. They are Yours and we as women want to lift them up to You. We can't save them but You can. I come before You asking Your Holy Spirit to come upon us as in the day of Joseph. Bring forth dreams and visions to guide Your people. Give us the strength to teach and believe. My prayer today is that every child and every adult that look upon this story will see You. They will believe the words, not interpret them but believe that what is written is right. I know Father that they are and I have seen first hand how You love us. You pick us up when we are weak and You save us from ourselves. Please forgive our sins for they are many and bring us closer to You. We desire a relationship and the knowledge of You. Your birth was only one vital event in History, there is so much more to come. Thank You for showing us Your story and for capturing it for the entire world to see. Reveal to those that don't know You this season and bring them forth to join Your great army. Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is to come! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I hope this day finds you all well. I'm going to begin my journey into the Christmas season. Basically, the birth of our Lord. It's a reminder to us all that He came and He will come again. His birth was prophesied in the old testament and then it's recanted in the new.
Before I begin, I would like to give you an analogy, one that came to me as I was watching my son play basketball yesterday. He has been playing wonderfully, scoring, rebounding and defending. But yesterday something happened, his shots quit going in, he let his man get beyond him and you could tell his spirit dipped far into the ocean. As a spectator you just want to go out onto the court, hug him and say tomorrow will be okay. That's what we do as mothers, we nurture and protect but there's no protecting a 16 year old in a High School basketball game, just like there is no protecting children in war. We must watch, pray and give them the tools to overcome their obstacles.
Mary was a young woman when the angel came to her and spoke that she would carry the child of God. She was unmarried in a time when they stoned women for being out of wedlock and yet, that was the time God chose to bring His Son into the world. He didn't fast forward to today where getting pregnant isn't looked down upon, He chose that moment. I wonder what Mary's mom thought? Did she want to protect her? Did she understand what it meant? I doubt that anyone except Joseph really understood the full impact of what it meant; God had come to Him in dreams to reveal His purpose and He knew to take care of Mary and God's child.
And as the birth came near, the turmoil became greater. The King feared a more powerful person than himself and ordered all babies to be killed. Can you imagine Mary's fear? What would you have done? I think any mother that loves their child would protect them with their lives but sometimes we can't protect them, only our Father can. Because in the end whether it's Hunter, Mary or Jesus, we all belong to God, we are His!
Matthew 1:18-25 NIV84:
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"-which means, "God with us." When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.
The conception and the dream were the beginning of the story we now know as the Christmas story. We will spend time looking into the Scripture to unravel the beauty of what God the Father did for us. This story is essential to our Christian walk. It holds the key to our beliefs of a Savior. Mary was chosen and Joseph did as God commanded him to do. Jesus was born and our Savior became man. He came in time of turmoil and delivered His people. He was and is Immanuel! Although Mary escaped divorce, ruin, and stoning, the journey would continue. Joseph would have to protect Mary and Jesus from the beginning. We will look more into this tomorrow but for today, I pray that the Lord we serve is with you and that you are blessed to know Him!
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You in awe. As I read the beginning of Your life it has more power today than ever. You came into this world during turbulent times, You were born of a virgin and You were blessed by the Father. Your life was not Your own from the beginning. Your mother had to carry You knowing that she could die and yet, even though she was young, she carried You and stood by You to the very end. I think sometimes we forget that the young can do powerful things. They are full of confidence and courage. I'm praying for all the teenagers and young children throughout the earth, please put Your hand on them and guide them through this evil world. They are Yours and we as women want to lift them up to You. We can't save them but You can. I come before You asking Your Holy Spirit to come upon us as in the day of Joseph. Bring forth dreams and visions to guide Your people. Give us the strength to teach and believe. My prayer today is that every child and every adult that look upon this story will see You. They will believe the words, not interpret them but believe that what is written is right. I know Father that they are and I have seen first hand how You love us. You pick us up when we are weak and You save us from ourselves. Please forgive our sins for they are many and bring us closer to You. We desire a relationship and the knowledge of You. Your birth was only one vital event in History, there is so much more to come. Thank You for showing us Your story and for capturing it for the entire world to see. Reveal to those that don't know You this season and bring them forth to join Your great army. Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is to come! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Thursday, December 6, 2012
December 6, 2012
Good morning all-
I hope as you read this your morning is going well. I sat down first thing this morning because my schedule has been so chaotic and I wanted to write. So here I am, even before my first cup of coffee. Hopefully, my brain can function.
Well, I'm going to be closing my section of hope today. I want to start working on the story that leads to Christmas and the coming of Jesus Christ, which whether any of us understand it or not is really our purpose for being on earth. We are here to carry the good news and to help the people of this world see something more than doom and gloom.
I hope the last posts have you thinking about our Lord and where your hope comes from. It surely has for me. I'm just like you, struggling, praying and asking for change to occur here on earth. There is no greater time than now to be petitioning our Lord. The world is in chaos and we hope in everything but Jesus. Our perceptions are totally wrong and we seek our own self-gratification. Well, hopefully for the women that read this blog you've found a new path. Seeking Christ and realizing that our hope is only in Him is the only way to live. Anything else brings disappointment, sadness and desires unfulfilled. He is the way, the truth, the light. I hope we all carry Him into this season so that others can see the glory of the God we serve!
With that I leave you with this Scripture, I hope you have enjoyed our walk through hope and if you have any suggestions after Christmas I would love them. The Holy Spirit is definitely in control but I would love to hear from my readers. Have a wonderful day and may God bless you as you follow Him.
1 John 3 NKJV:
And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, come before us and purify us, make us new. As I think about this month I think of the snow that normally comes. As it falls and hits the ground, each particle sparkles and is white as white can be. That's how your daughters want to be before you. We want to sing your praises, pray for others and serve your people. We want to raise the next generations with gladness in our hearts full of the story of you. As we approach the season of Christmas may we have you written on our hearts. This season is not the presents or the tree, it's completely about you. (But I love all those too) Be with us today and give us courage to love people, to pray for our enemies and to really seek you for wisdom. There is much turmoil throughout this world, unite the women in every country to pray for our leaders, our soldiers, our men. We must hope for a world full of you and so today, that's where my hope lies, just in You! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
I hope as you read this your morning is going well. I sat down first thing this morning because my schedule has been so chaotic and I wanted to write. So here I am, even before my first cup of coffee. Hopefully, my brain can function.
Well, I'm going to be closing my section of hope today. I want to start working on the story that leads to Christmas and the coming of Jesus Christ, which whether any of us understand it or not is really our purpose for being on earth. We are here to carry the good news and to help the people of this world see something more than doom and gloom.
I hope the last posts have you thinking about our Lord and where your hope comes from. It surely has for me. I'm just like you, struggling, praying and asking for change to occur here on earth. There is no greater time than now to be petitioning our Lord. The world is in chaos and we hope in everything but Jesus. Our perceptions are totally wrong and we seek our own self-gratification. Well, hopefully for the women that read this blog you've found a new path. Seeking Christ and realizing that our hope is only in Him is the only way to live. Anything else brings disappointment, sadness and desires unfulfilled. He is the way, the truth, the light. I hope we all carry Him into this season so that others can see the glory of the God we serve!
With that I leave you with this Scripture, I hope you have enjoyed our walk through hope and if you have any suggestions after Christmas I would love them. The Holy Spirit is definitely in control but I would love to hear from my readers. Have a wonderful day and may God bless you as you follow Him.
1 John 3 NKJV:
And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, come before us and purify us, make us new. As I think about this month I think of the snow that normally comes. As it falls and hits the ground, each particle sparkles and is white as white can be. That's how your daughters want to be before you. We want to sing your praises, pray for others and serve your people. We want to raise the next generations with gladness in our hearts full of the story of you. As we approach the season of Christmas may we have you written on our hearts. This season is not the presents or the tree, it's completely about you. (But I love all those too) Be with us today and give us courage to love people, to pray for our enemies and to really seek you for wisdom. There is much turmoil throughout this world, unite the women in every country to pray for our leaders, our soldiers, our men. We must hope for a world full of you and so today, that's where my hope lies, just in You! In Jesus name, AMEN
Until tomorrow...
Monday, December 3, 2012
December 3, 2012 revised
Good morning all-
I had a million things to do this morning so I won't be able to write now. I will come back tonight and finish this post. But before I leave you this morning I have one question for you, where does your hope come from? I love to ponder this question, especially when I'm doubting that God is God. I hope you meditate on this today and then I will come back and finish it up with a scripture and a prayer. May God be with all of you today and may he bless you and those you love.
Funny how your words can be tested when you least expect it. That's what happened a few hours after I wrote the above question. It never seems to amaze me how much our Lord wants us to trust in Him but then, it never seems to amaze me how much I question Him. So around 9 am yesterday morning, I got a phone call and it wasn't anything I was really expecting. I won't bore you with the details but it did impact my day and my husband's day. Although, I have to say I had a peace and a calm that is not normally in my nature, the only way I really knew it was stressing me out was my stomach. But then again, I am human.
I called a few of my prayer warriors to help me out and I talked to my friend that has been going through a big battle too. She told me that when she went off her medicine and gave it to God, she said, "I'm going to get out of Your way and trust You now." Powerful words from a woman that was so full of fear and a great dose of unbelief. But here she was talking to me about what she had learned and trusting that in my situation everything would be okay. Over and over, I came back to the words above. Who did I trust? Do I believe what I write? Of course I believe every word but do I really believe that God's will is best for my life and my families. Well that was put to the test. So as I sat in my car driving over 2.5 hours one way and then back, I praised Jesus, I thanked Him and I rested in Him. There were times I wanted to pick up that phone and rant and there were times I wanted to cry but I rested in Him and eventually everything worked out.
I decided to put my hope in the God I call Savior. I decided to not walk in fear but to walk in obedience. I decided to trust even though the outcome might have been very different than the way it turned out. I decided to live my life, humbled to my maker and to give Him everything and that's exactly what I did. Everything worked out and I'm going to keep praying. I'm especially going to pray for the people involved. I hope they find their trust in Him and I hope that I continue to know where my hope comes from. Because in the end, the only hope we have on earth is through Him, by Him and to Him.
I just wanted to take a moment to finish this post. I'm sorry that I didn't do it last night as promised but I was drained. It takes a lot to pray the way I was yesterday and resting isn't exactly my forte. I hope this morning finds you well and I hope that you really thought about where your hope comes from. I can honestly say it never left my mind the whole day. There is no greater joy than knowing what Christ put on Your mind in the morning would carry you through the entire day. May God bless you and keep you as you continue to find Him.
Titus 1:2 NKJV:
in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, thank You for being our master. I can not fix the world or even my problems but You can. If I have learned anything the last weeks, my hope must come from You, even if my way is not met. There are many people hurting today, starving or on the verge of dying. I come before You and ask them to have a renewed hope in You. It's hard when they are hungry, hurting or sick to see You. I'm asking that You would reveal Yourself to them and give them a renewed Spirit. They may be drained because they're questioning, "Where is Jesus?" Your right there, I know it but the outcome may not be what any of us wants. I have no great answers but I know You do. So with all my heart, I'm crying out for people that have lost hope or never had it. For the sinner that is hurting and for the weak to be made strong. I'm just one person that saw Your hand yesterday. Help us to be obedient and to trust that with each trial, You will be with us. I'm asking that Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Restore the world with a new heart and give us the courage to always come before You in praise and petition. Give us a spirit that never gives up and comfort us by still waters. We need rejuvenation and the world needs a Savior! In Jesus name, AMEN...
Until tomorrow...
I had a million things to do this morning so I won't be able to write now. I will come back tonight and finish this post. But before I leave you this morning I have one question for you, where does your hope come from? I love to ponder this question, especially when I'm doubting that God is God. I hope you meditate on this today and then I will come back and finish it up with a scripture and a prayer. May God be with all of you today and may he bless you and those you love.
Funny how your words can be tested when you least expect it. That's what happened a few hours after I wrote the above question. It never seems to amaze me how much our Lord wants us to trust in Him but then, it never seems to amaze me how much I question Him. So around 9 am yesterday morning, I got a phone call and it wasn't anything I was really expecting. I won't bore you with the details but it did impact my day and my husband's day. Although, I have to say I had a peace and a calm that is not normally in my nature, the only way I really knew it was stressing me out was my stomach. But then again, I am human.
I called a few of my prayer warriors to help me out and I talked to my friend that has been going through a big battle too. She told me that when she went off her medicine and gave it to God, she said, "I'm going to get out of Your way and trust You now." Powerful words from a woman that was so full of fear and a great dose of unbelief. But here she was talking to me about what she had learned and trusting that in my situation everything would be okay. Over and over, I came back to the words above. Who did I trust? Do I believe what I write? Of course I believe every word but do I really believe that God's will is best for my life and my families. Well that was put to the test. So as I sat in my car driving over 2.5 hours one way and then back, I praised Jesus, I thanked Him and I rested in Him. There were times I wanted to pick up that phone and rant and there were times I wanted to cry but I rested in Him and eventually everything worked out.
I decided to put my hope in the God I call Savior. I decided to not walk in fear but to walk in obedience. I decided to trust even though the outcome might have been very different than the way it turned out. I decided to live my life, humbled to my maker and to give Him everything and that's exactly what I did. Everything worked out and I'm going to keep praying. I'm especially going to pray for the people involved. I hope they find their trust in Him and I hope that I continue to know where my hope comes from. Because in the end, the only hope we have on earth is through Him, by Him and to Him.
I just wanted to take a moment to finish this post. I'm sorry that I didn't do it last night as promised but I was drained. It takes a lot to pray the way I was yesterday and resting isn't exactly my forte. I hope this morning finds you well and I hope that you really thought about where your hope comes from. I can honestly say it never left my mind the whole day. There is no greater joy than knowing what Christ put on Your mind in the morning would carry you through the entire day. May God bless you and keep you as you continue to find Him.
Titus 1:2 NKJV:
in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, thank You for being our master. I can not fix the world or even my problems but You can. If I have learned anything the last weeks, my hope must come from You, even if my way is not met. There are many people hurting today, starving or on the verge of dying. I come before You and ask them to have a renewed hope in You. It's hard when they are hungry, hurting or sick to see You. I'm asking that You would reveal Yourself to them and give them a renewed Spirit. They may be drained because they're questioning, "Where is Jesus?" Your right there, I know it but the outcome may not be what any of us wants. I have no great answers but I know You do. So with all my heart, I'm crying out for people that have lost hope or never had it. For the sinner that is hurting and for the weak to be made strong. I'm just one person that saw Your hand yesterday. Help us to be obedient and to trust that with each trial, You will be with us. I'm asking that Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Restore the world with a new heart and give us the courage to always come before You in praise and petition. Give us a spirit that never gives up and comfort us by still waters. We need rejuvenation and the world needs a Savior! In Jesus name, AMEN...
Until tomorrow...
Sunday, December 2, 2012
December 2, 2012
Good morning all-
I woke up this morning to the news of a football player killing his girlfriend and himself. What is happening in this world that men are killing the women they say they love and then killing themselves? Again, it is a lack of hope and faith in God. He left behind a 3 month year old child, grieving parents and family. No one could help him even though they tried. In one moment of bad judgement, two good people are gone and many are left behind with sadness and grief. That's all it takes, one bad night, one bad decision, one gun, one fist, that's it.
That's how fragile life is. We have to be praying and hoping that God will save our men. We must be petitioning for them and asking God to really show them their way. They are being attacked and unfortunately they are hurting themselves and those they believe they love. Anger is all around and so is murder. It's an epidemic of wide proportions and the only thing that will stop this craziness is for us to pray for them and lift them up.
In my head this morning a song keeps running through my mind, it's from Casting Crowns and I heard it the week before my mother passed away. It has stuck with me and now it's playing again, just like it did after she died, reminding me that peace on earth comes from God and good will of men can bring a nation back to life. The song is entitled, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." If you haven't heard it, I suggest you listen. Longfellow wrote it after losing his wife and when his country was at war. In his mind, there was no hope and then he heard the bells on Christmas Day.
We are in warfare ladies and we must pray that souls will be saved this advent season. We must not rest with our prayers or petitions. We must be strong and courageous; we must call on the Lord and ask Him to bring peace to the middle east, to be in the homes of men that are angered and in a rage, we must pray for the pedophile, for the teenager getting recruited into a gang, for every boy and girl in the world. This fight is not just in the US, it spans the world. Every nation is facing a crisis of angry sinners with no hope. It's our time to get on our knees and ask God to bring Peace on Earth. He is the only way, the only one, our only hope.
John 16:24 NKJV:
Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
Romans 8:24 NKJV:
For we were saved in this hope but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?
Romans 15:13 NKJV:
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
With every word of despair, there is a word of hope in the Bible. The Bible is the word and the word is alive. The stories and characters are real and they lived through some of the same things we are living through now. History repeats itself over and over again. Let's not be a statistic, let's be women that believe and have courage to say, "Jesus is the way, the truth, the light!" He really is all we need.
My prayer today,
O, Lord, I pray for those that are losing hope. The ones that believe violence and death are better than playing out their role here on earth. You know their names and You have counted them among Your people. Each one of us has a role to play and I'm asking that You give the power of the Holy Spirit to the women that are willing to intercede on the behalf of the broken, the downtrodden, the hopeless. We don't have to know their names, they are scattered among the nations, they are seeking something and we need to pray they find You. I'm coming before You today, asking that You would hold us, those that call You Father to the fire and convict us to pray for those that don't know You. Help us to be bold, to care for those we don't know and to find faith in the unseen. So many would say, "He can't be saved!" On the contrary, anyone can be saved that You wish to be in Your fold. I will believe that until my dying breath. Bless the nations of the women that are uniting for You. Hold us up, forgive us of our sins and light our paths. We thank You for every moment we are in Your presence, for every song You provide and for every time someone got on their knees and prayed for us. We thank You, In Jesus name. AMEN...
Until tomorrow...
I woke up this morning to the news of a football player killing his girlfriend and himself. What is happening in this world that men are killing the women they say they love and then killing themselves? Again, it is a lack of hope and faith in God. He left behind a 3 month year old child, grieving parents and family. No one could help him even though they tried. In one moment of bad judgement, two good people are gone and many are left behind with sadness and grief. That's all it takes, one bad night, one bad decision, one gun, one fist, that's it.
That's how fragile life is. We have to be praying and hoping that God will save our men. We must be petitioning for them and asking God to really show them their way. They are being attacked and unfortunately they are hurting themselves and those they believe they love. Anger is all around and so is murder. It's an epidemic of wide proportions and the only thing that will stop this craziness is for us to pray for them and lift them up.
In my head this morning a song keeps running through my mind, it's from Casting Crowns and I heard it the week before my mother passed away. It has stuck with me and now it's playing again, just like it did after she died, reminding me that peace on earth comes from God and good will of men can bring a nation back to life. The song is entitled, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." If you haven't heard it, I suggest you listen. Longfellow wrote it after losing his wife and when his country was at war. In his mind, there was no hope and then he heard the bells on Christmas Day.
We are in warfare ladies and we must pray that souls will be saved this advent season. We must not rest with our prayers or petitions. We must be strong and courageous; we must call on the Lord and ask Him to bring peace to the middle east, to be in the homes of men that are angered and in a rage, we must pray for the pedophile, for the teenager getting recruited into a gang, for every boy and girl in the world. This fight is not just in the US, it spans the world. Every nation is facing a crisis of angry sinners with no hope. It's our time to get on our knees and ask God to bring Peace on Earth. He is the only way, the only one, our only hope.
John 16:24 NKJV:
Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
Romans 8:24 NKJV:
For we were saved in this hope but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?
Romans 15:13 NKJV:
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
With every word of despair, there is a word of hope in the Bible. The Bible is the word and the word is alive. The stories and characters are real and they lived through some of the same things we are living through now. History repeats itself over and over again. Let's not be a statistic, let's be women that believe and have courage to say, "Jesus is the way, the truth, the light!" He really is all we need.
My prayer today,
O, Lord, I pray for those that are losing hope. The ones that believe violence and death are better than playing out their role here on earth. You know their names and You have counted them among Your people. Each one of us has a role to play and I'm asking that You give the power of the Holy Spirit to the women that are willing to intercede on the behalf of the broken, the downtrodden, the hopeless. We don't have to know their names, they are scattered among the nations, they are seeking something and we need to pray they find You. I'm coming before You today, asking that You would hold us, those that call You Father to the fire and convict us to pray for those that don't know You. Help us to be bold, to care for those we don't know and to find faith in the unseen. So many would say, "He can't be saved!" On the contrary, anyone can be saved that You wish to be in Your fold. I will believe that until my dying breath. Bless the nations of the women that are uniting for You. Hold us up, forgive us of our sins and light our paths. We thank You for every moment we are in Your presence, for every song You provide and for every time someone got on their knees and prayed for us. We thank You, In Jesus name. AMEN...
Until tomorrow...
Saturday, December 1, 2012
December 1, 2012
Good morning all-
Can you believe it's December? If only God saw fit to provide a little snow to the Midwest, that would surely get me into the mood for Christmas. Thinking about Christmas always makes me think about hope. What would my life be without it? It would be empty, meaningless and just plain sad. Those that are without hope, die, spiritually and physically. Truly, there is no reason to be here without hope. Why do you think suicide is on the rise in our teenagers here in the US? It's because they have nothing to hold onto in the dark, they are sightless and they believe that their lives mean nothing, when in essence they mean everything to God.
Yesterday, God once again painted the picture of hope and His glory. My son, who sat on the bench last year for varsity and who was demeaned by a coach, played the entire game yesterday. What's the difference? Hope. As we were going to school yesterday, I talked to him about where his hope lies and reminded him that absolutely everything he does comes from the Lord. The talent and desire he has for basketball is a direction from God and that he is to never take it for granted. He's 16 years old and as I said to him, "Let me pray over you before you go into school," he bowed his head and I praised our Lord. I want him to know now that his talent and his future come from the hope of our risen Lord. I don't ever want him to believe that he is the only way. That's destruction for mankind. Has he done everything in his power to get to the place he was yesterday? Absolutely. He totally blew my husband away. But, nevertheless, Christ is in control and what he has today can be gone tomorrow. Talent is fleeting, most MBA stars retire in their 30's. The hope of God to guide us into our future is the most important lesson any person can ever receive. Its the essence of why we were made. God is our hope, our future, our Savior. He is everything and we are just participants in His band.
I know my son heard me because I watched as coaches told him what to do and he responded. I watched as he led people on his team, encouraged them and worked hard to have victory. They didn't win last night but they did become a team. They have a dream, to win and my hope is in the Lord that He will bring these kids together for their school and for each other. Since the beginning of this journey, really since the beginning of watching my son grow into a 6'7" man, I have prayed that he would be God's man, that he would be the light in the dark and that his path would be lit along the way. He is attending one of the roughest schools in our area. This was the last school I or my husband wanted him to attend and yet, he's there with hundreds of kids that need a Savior. My hope is in Jesus and my faith that He can do great things holds true today. My hope remains that my son will be an example and that people will come to Christ because of His faith. Although I love to watch him have success, his true success will be leading others to the God he serves. AMEN!
Truly, the last year has been a faith journey for my entire family. I watched as a man that should have been a role model chose to knock my son to the ground, devastated him and made him feel like a failure. I saw my sons bury their grandfather and me, my dad. And I wondered, "Would there every be joy again?" The answer is yes. My husband and I have grown closer together through the tragedy in my life. We worked to protect our son and prayed about his direction. My oldest son has continued to pray for his brother and I continue to pray for both of them. And the words that you read and this blog were created with the hope that others would read it and that they would see God and someday, my prayer is to be speaking and writing for more and more people throughout the world. My heart has been written on by the King of Glory and I am truly blessed. By hoping in my future and in my families, I have built my faith and without a doubt in my mind, I follow the road of hope so that someday I can sit at the feet of Jesus and ask,"Was the job you gave me well done?" We will see, but for now, I don't have to worry about tomorrow because I have the hope of today.
My prayer for you today is that you will see the hope that God has given us in a rainbow, the sunrise, the moon or maybe even the stars. God created all of this and when you look around you will see the hope he had for mankind. Hope, faith and love, these three but the greatest is love. Hold onto these three words and they will surely set you free. May today find you well and may you be the light to someone today.
Psalm 130:5 NKJV:
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You so honored to be in Your presence. You are my delight and my reward for being Your child. There are millions of people without hope. They hope in things not of You and in the dark there is no light. I ask You to shine Your light on those that don't believe that Jesus is Lord and Savior. I ask You to provide the love and the hope to Your people so they can spread it across nations. We are a weak people, we disappoint, we waver and we don't deserve to be at Your feet. But You know this about us and You love us anyway. Our hope must come from You and we come before You now asking for the Lord we serve to light a path around the world, where every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that You are Lord. We worship You today, not just in words but in actions and we ask that You would hold us upright as we speak about You. Forgive us for our sins and take away any bitterness in our hearts, for we want to be servants unto You, speaking of Your hope, Your love and Your mercy. In all things we give You thanks and honor. Guide Your women to unite all over the world and give them the power to minister to the masses. Hold up our men, give them strength and courage so that they can guide the world. We love You Lord, we bow down to You and we thank You for every blessing You have bestowed on our lives. I am honored and so are the thousands of women You call daughters to be in Your house, to be in Your fields and for being a part of the great commission. With all that I am and all that I will ever be, I owe You my life. In Jesus name, AMEN.
Until tomorrow...
Can you believe it's December? If only God saw fit to provide a little snow to the Midwest, that would surely get me into the mood for Christmas. Thinking about Christmas always makes me think about hope. What would my life be without it? It would be empty, meaningless and just plain sad. Those that are without hope, die, spiritually and physically. Truly, there is no reason to be here without hope. Why do you think suicide is on the rise in our teenagers here in the US? It's because they have nothing to hold onto in the dark, they are sightless and they believe that their lives mean nothing, when in essence they mean everything to God.
Yesterday, God once again painted the picture of hope and His glory. My son, who sat on the bench last year for varsity and who was demeaned by a coach, played the entire game yesterday. What's the difference? Hope. As we were going to school yesterday, I talked to him about where his hope lies and reminded him that absolutely everything he does comes from the Lord. The talent and desire he has for basketball is a direction from God and that he is to never take it for granted. He's 16 years old and as I said to him, "Let me pray over you before you go into school," he bowed his head and I praised our Lord. I want him to know now that his talent and his future come from the hope of our risen Lord. I don't ever want him to believe that he is the only way. That's destruction for mankind. Has he done everything in his power to get to the place he was yesterday? Absolutely. He totally blew my husband away. But, nevertheless, Christ is in control and what he has today can be gone tomorrow. Talent is fleeting, most MBA stars retire in their 30's. The hope of God to guide us into our future is the most important lesson any person can ever receive. Its the essence of why we were made. God is our hope, our future, our Savior. He is everything and we are just participants in His band.
I know my son heard me because I watched as coaches told him what to do and he responded. I watched as he led people on his team, encouraged them and worked hard to have victory. They didn't win last night but they did become a team. They have a dream, to win and my hope is in the Lord that He will bring these kids together for their school and for each other. Since the beginning of this journey, really since the beginning of watching my son grow into a 6'7" man, I have prayed that he would be God's man, that he would be the light in the dark and that his path would be lit along the way. He is attending one of the roughest schools in our area. This was the last school I or my husband wanted him to attend and yet, he's there with hundreds of kids that need a Savior. My hope is in Jesus and my faith that He can do great things holds true today. My hope remains that my son will be an example and that people will come to Christ because of His faith. Although I love to watch him have success, his true success will be leading others to the God he serves. AMEN!
Truly, the last year has been a faith journey for my entire family. I watched as a man that should have been a role model chose to knock my son to the ground, devastated him and made him feel like a failure. I saw my sons bury their grandfather and me, my dad. And I wondered, "Would there every be joy again?" The answer is yes. My husband and I have grown closer together through the tragedy in my life. We worked to protect our son and prayed about his direction. My oldest son has continued to pray for his brother and I continue to pray for both of them. And the words that you read and this blog were created with the hope that others would read it and that they would see God and someday, my prayer is to be speaking and writing for more and more people throughout the world. My heart has been written on by the King of Glory and I am truly blessed. By hoping in my future and in my families, I have built my faith and without a doubt in my mind, I follow the road of hope so that someday I can sit at the feet of Jesus and ask,"Was the job you gave me well done?" We will see, but for now, I don't have to worry about tomorrow because I have the hope of today.
My prayer for you today is that you will see the hope that God has given us in a rainbow, the sunrise, the moon or maybe even the stars. God created all of this and when you look around you will see the hope he had for mankind. Hope, faith and love, these three but the greatest is love. Hold onto these three words and they will surely set you free. May today find you well and may you be the light to someone today.
Psalm 130:5 NKJV:
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope.
My prayer today:
O, Lord, I come before You so honored to be in Your presence. You are my delight and my reward for being Your child. There are millions of people without hope. They hope in things not of You and in the dark there is no light. I ask You to shine Your light on those that don't believe that Jesus is Lord and Savior. I ask You to provide the love and the hope to Your people so they can spread it across nations. We are a weak people, we disappoint, we waver and we don't deserve to be at Your feet. But You know this about us and You love us anyway. Our hope must come from You and we come before You now asking for the Lord we serve to light a path around the world, where every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that You are Lord. We worship You today, not just in words but in actions and we ask that You would hold us upright as we speak about You. Forgive us for our sins and take away any bitterness in our hearts, for we want to be servants unto You, speaking of Your hope, Your love and Your mercy. In all things we give You thanks and honor. Guide Your women to unite all over the world and give them the power to minister to the masses. Hold up our men, give them strength and courage so that they can guide the world. We love You Lord, we bow down to You and we thank You for every blessing You have bestowed on our lives. I am honored and so are the thousands of women You call daughters to be in Your house, to be in Your fields and for being a part of the great commission. With all that I am and all that I will ever be, I owe You my life. In Jesus name, AMEN.
Until tomorrow...
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