Parables in Everyday Life: The Light of the World

The drive home from the evening service at Gateway Baptist Church tonight was a long, dark, narrow, and winding way through the rain and misty fog. Even with our fog lights on, it was hard enough to see even six feet in front of us in many spots. Being in the country as we are, I was fully expecting a deer to jump headlong in front of us and I knew my reaction time would be greatly impaired given the weather conditions and wet roads. Nevertheless, home we went. Slowly, carefully, and ever watchful.

It seemed like forever when we finally turned down our quiet, dark dirt road, and then onto our driveway. The sight that I beheld almost left me breathless....

Light!

 A light in the darkness that, for us, signaled an end to our long and trying journey; rest for our weary bodies and minds. Hope, joy, and peace. 

Isn't that the meaning of the season? 

Hope. Joy. Peace.

At this wonderful sight of home, this light in the darkness, the echoes of the evening service we just left that little bit ago resounded in my head. The words of another Light in the darkness:

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

The same was in the beginning with God.

All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.

He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."

~John 1:1-14 

 The Light of the world that came to earth that evening in Bethlehem of Judea. With no room in the inn, the only place our blessed Savior could be born into this world was in a lowly stable, and the only place our wonderful King had to lay His precious head was in a rough and dirty manger. 

In the stillness and darkness of night came the Light, our redemption song, to take away the sins of the world that would crucify Him in the most brutal way, and to receive us back unto Himself through His undeserved Grace alone. 

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The light that announced the birth of our Lord, Savior, and King was but a shadow compared to the Light of the Word that had come to dwell among us in the dark of night.

The wise men knew it that night that the light in the night sky appeared. They knew the words of the prophet Isaiah:

“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.
Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.
For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Mid'i-an.
For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire.
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”
Isaiah 9:2-7

The Light had finally come! Into this dark and twisted world, the Light came to guide us home!

Our Savior came to give us hope, joy, peace, and rest in HIM!

From the humility of the manger to the disgrace of the cross, it all pointed to the glorious future that we would have in Him. 

Hope in eternity.

Joy in His salvation.

 Peace in His promise.

Rest in His bosom.

Where are your eyes fixed this Christmas season? 

Have you been traveling a path that is long, difficult, and burdensome?

I know of One who can give you  rest. 

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."

Matthew 11:28-29

In the busyness of this Christmas season do not forget to be still and simply rest in Him. Take a moment to stare at the stars and simply stand in awe of the Creator who, from nothing, created light, and then became our Light to guide our way Home.

The Light shines brightest in the dead of night.

So Jesus shines for us in our darkest hours. 

Seek His face, seek His embrace.

DO go towards that Light, fall at His feet and, basking in His everlasting glory, give your burdens to the One who has already overcome the world. Let the One who has already won the victory over sin and death carry your heavy load, just as He carried that heavy cross to Calvary, and take up His yoke, which will never be a burden to carry.

Rest in Him.

Parables in Everyday Life: On Spoons and Forks and Such

While washing dishes I stumbled across a playful metaphor as I stood, feet and back aching, staring at the last little bit in my sink. The silverware. Exhausted, I was tempted to just give up and say, "I'll take care of these later. It's not really that much anyway..." as I had so often done before. It really isn't that much in the grand scheme of things. I mean, what is thirty pieces of silverware compared to the plates, cups, pots, and pans I had just finished scrubbing? Compared to the fifteen minutes that I had spent cleaning the rest, what was another two? I mean, individually, these things are small and wouldn't take more than three seconds to wash. What it is about this task that draws me away after all that I had already invested? It just seemed so tedious, repetitive, and boring. The big stuff was really no biggie because progress was easy to see and results were more satisfying, but these... this compilation of many little things, was it really just too much? Or was it not enough? Was it not enough of a challenge to satisfy my quest for accomplishment? Was it a simple nagging inconvenience? Or was it just to trivial and insignificant to warrant my attention?

Perhaps this is why many grow away from the Christian faith after being redeemed and receiving the indwelling of the Spirit?

Prayer.

Bible study.

Church attendance.

The simple foundation works of our faith. Individually they are small in the grand scheme of things yet are they such HUGE tasks that we cannot seem to find the time in a day to devote to them? Or is it something deeper?

Prayer may take less than five minutes or more than thirty depending on the situation. Why do so many slack of in prayer; real communication with a real and living God?

Bible study could be as simple as taking a Psalm, or even one meaty verse, and meditating on it throughout the day with the initial investment being less than five minutes as well. Why do so many never seem to find the time to open their Bibles during the day?

Church attendance is a good thing at the right church. Uplifting, edifying, even convicting at times. During the one hundred and sixty eight hours of the week, church may request but a measly three, maybe four hours of your time? Yet, so many can't find the time to go even when they are off of work. Now, present them with tickets to a main attraction and that may prove a different story. Suddenly they will move mountains to be able to go. ;-)

So what is it about these small, seemingly insignificant things that make it so formidable and time consuming that time in a day is naught to be found?

Perhaps it goes back to the heart of the matter.

Perhaps prayer seems so unfulfilling and unrewarding because results are not immediate and noticeable.

Perhaps Bible study seems so insignificant because we already know how to live a good life, right?

Perhaps church doesn't seem so important because, well, what does one miss by skipping an hour of preaching, really?

OR

Perhaps it's just that simple underlying heart matter.

When I wash dishes for my family, there is a little part of me that does it so that my husband will come home and see that, hey, I did the dishes! That little part of me that wants him to reach for a clean plate, bowl, or cup and find it, then think of me. In a small, almost unnoticable way, I do it for....

ME....

So that when it comes down to the seemingly insignificant parts of the whole, what does it really matter? They are so small, my husband probably wouldn't even notice if some of the forks and spoons and such weren't washed, so what is the point? Why go through three more minutes of feet and back aching chores if no one will really care?

The difference is, I can SEE my husband and his reaction to my accomplishments, else some days I likely wouldn't do things at all! My husband is also flesh and blood man (surprise!) so he doesn't always see everything, and likewise doesn't always take notice of my intentions in his heart.

Our Lord is another story. He, I can't physically see. Not yet at least. I do not get the luxury of seeing His all knowing, all seeing reactions to my work for Him. Maybe this is why all these "big" little things always seem to take a back burner, that heart matter, that I won't get recognition, so what's the point?

Perhaps I need a little less me and a little more HIM in my daily walk.

I can find time to play on the PC (Facebook), blog, and all, but I can't find time for God? Really?

If I have learned anything in life, one thing is that we never have time for anything that we don't MAKE time for, and we never make time for anything unless it is important to us.

Perhaps we just need to do a little priority rearranging coupled with a little humbling thought, with faith the God DOES see the bigger picture, and rewards as is deserved in due time. It's not about me, not really. It's all about

"Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

That child that was born in Bethlehem. The King of the whole world who made Himself flesh, born of woman, so that He might redeem mankind back to His bosom. That King who humbled Himself to a servant's dirty work, and who walked that bloody path the Calvary to be made a curse being hung on a tree for ME, even when I cursed Him and hated Him.....

It's about Him.

And if the Creator of the heavens and the earth can wash His disciples feet without accepting anything in return, I can most certainly wash those spoons and forks and such with a joyful heart.

And if my Lord and Savior can spend those agonizing hours in prayer that night in Gethsemane, sweating blood for MY cause, even as I was about to crucify Him and spit in His face with my filthy sin, then I can most certainly make time for THE most important person in the entirety of creation in the form of prayer, Bible study, and church attendance.

Because it's all for HIS glory, not mine. I want JESUS to be glorified in the works of my hands, not myself. And if Jesus can receive glory for me finishing the task that I start, as He finished His work on the cross at Calvary, then that is something I can work for.

"She... worketh willingly with her hands" (Excerpt from Proverbs 31:13)

It's not about breastfeeding, cloth diapering, and the like....

I was privileged to hold a good, uplifting conversation with a friend this morning to help ease my hormonal mind and let the glimmering beams of compassion and understanding come flooding into my heart.

Honestly, I am human. I have flesh, just like everyone else. I am prone to take offense, I am prone to see a guilty verdict where none was intended, and I am definitely prone to letting my lips fly before I think about how the other person must be feeling. That being said, I do also have my convictions, and I will share those convictions, and defend them when called for as well. BUT, I have learned enough about the grace of Christ to know that my convictions are simply that: MY convictions. I do not expect ANYONE to live up to my convictions. Sin is a different story, I will unashamedly call out sin all day long, but convictions are a different story. Convictions are areas of life that Christ has called my husband and I to outside of the realm of sins, and it is personal ground.

Some of these convictions include welcoming children into our lives without seeking to actively hinder God's sacred process of timing of conception, wearing modest skirts, covering my head during prayer, and staying home to raise and educate my children.

There are other convictions too, that I believe are a bit "lesser" spiritually, but no less important in my heart. These are mostly research based and include the topics of breastfeeding, cloth diapering, non-vaccination, and non-circumcision.

~*~

That being said: in every waking moment I am reminded that it's not about my convictions. At least not when it comes to others. I stopped trying to win people over to my convictions a long time ago, because it's not about that. God cares only about sin, and where someone is not in sin, it is not my job to attempt to "correct" them to walk as I would walk.

While we are saved UNTO good works by the Spirit working in us for God's glory, it is not our works that God the Father sees when He looks at us. A Pastor once said, in truth I believe, that when the Father looks at us, He doesn't see us or our works; He sees the face of His only begotten Son and His finished work on the cross. The Blood that has redeemed and justified us is the covering of righteousness that our Father in Heaven sees when He looks upon our face.

If that isn't humbling, I don't know what is. It's not about US, it's about Jesus.

Photo Credit: http://www.nashvillescene.com/binary/bccf/1314071557-easter-cross.jpg

 This does not excuse walking contrary to the Spirit or the love that we are called to bear, thus, fulfilling the Law of Christ, but it gives us rather a new motivation. When we know that it is not our works that the Father sees, it inspires us to work to glorify Christ and uplift Him in our lives, rather than to seek for God to pat us on the back and tell us that we are doing a good job and to keep up the good work.

It's not about us, It's not about ME! It's all about HIM! Christ, our LORD and risen Savior! Our mediator between men and the Father, our sacrificed Lamb to atone for the sins of the world, that whosoever would believe may walk in righteousness and look forward to an eternity in Heaven, basking in the eternal Light of the Father.

So, you see, it's not about who wears pants and who doesn't. It's not about who chooses to breastfeed or to cloth diaper, and the circumcision of the flesh will not be remembered in eternity. Intention of the heart will be, but these temporal things will pass away. They don't matter one iota to God in the long run, only your intent matters: whether you are seeking Christ in everything or seeking to conform to and please the world.

Its not about breastfeeding, cloth diapering, government assistance or skirts. While each have their own issues and benefits, It's not about that at all.

In mothering, it's about loving your child and training them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Whether you choose public school, private school, or homeschool to do that, that is your choice. What you feed your baby or put on his little hiney won't matter one single bit compared to the impression that you will have on his precious soul, and his soul is what matters in eternity, not his flesh.

In feminine modesty, it is about seeking to glorify the Lord in apparel and appearance, as to not tempt others into the sins of the flesh. Whether you do that in pants, skirts, or dresses is relative and matters not in eternity as much as the intention of the heart does.

I would never seek to imply otherwise.

BUT if God is calling you to a conviction, do not deny that calling in favor of the world. Quench not the Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5:19. ALWAYS seek to rise to the Spirit's call on your life, independent of the world and the opinions surrounding you.

My preacher says a lot that there are commentators in this world, and they have their place, but just remember, at the end of the day, that's all they are: Common Taters. No commentary can replace the Word of God and the calling of the Spirit.

I am nothing. I am no one. I have nothing to offer for my own defense aside from the Blood of Christ that so mercifully and graciously covers my sins, and which has since the moment I first believed.

Never would I consciously seek to condemn another, or make another feel bad about their convictions that are not under sin. I will share my convictions openly, but I will never seek to tell another one how they must live their life. It's not about measuring up to MY standards, but rather about measuring up to God's standards.

It's not about me, and I would never want it to be.

Please forgive me now, if I have ever come across as such that I do not desire to be. It is not my intentions at all.

I implore all to seek to see only what is said, and not any supposed intent behind words. I am honest when I say that I say what I mean, and mean what I say. I will never hind malicious intent behind letters of black and white. That is not my heart, and it is sinful as well. Too many people are hurt daily by people reading more into what is there than there actually is meant to be.

Seek the Lord first, and all else will fall into place.

For his glory alone,

Be Still

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We lead busy lives. We all do. From the working mom, to the work at home mom, to the moms of many young children, the homeschooling mom, and to the "average" mom at home with her kids. There is always something to do, something that needs to be done. A spill that needs to be cleaned up, a fight or argument that needs to be referred, unkind and spiteful behavior that needs to be tended to, laundry that keeps piling up along with dishes and the toys that are scattered around the house. The woodwork needs a good polish, the windows need to be washed (else the outdoors looks like it is enveloped in a continual fog...), the floors need to be swept and vacuumed. Then, by the time that things start to get done, you discover that, not unexpectedly, little ones have made it a point to go along behind you and undo everything that you have made point to do! It is so much more fun to make a mess in a clean room, after all. Some days it just seems like a vicious, never-ending cycle.

We scrub, we clean, we cook, we clean, we wipe, we change, we lecture, we cuddle. We kiss the boo-boos and lovingly apply the all-powerful instant healing band-aid. We teach, we grade papers to some degree. We struggle alongside the "difficult" child who has trouble grasping certain concepts, all the while keeping the "know-it-all" toned down so that they do not discourage the other siblings who are struggling. We seek to instill biblical discipline and worth in our children while still keeping things light and fun.

We carry our blessed babies in utero for nine+ months, enduring every uncomfortable moment with the silent (or not so silent!) peace knowing that it will be so worth it in the end, to welcome an eternal soul into our home with joy, knowing that God is in perfect control. 

We labor over dinner with love and creativity. We do our best to be that soft place to land when our husband's come home from a long, difficult day at work. We encourage our husbands to lead in family devotions, even when he would like nothing better than to fall into bed (don't we know the feeling!), but he perseveres seeking first and foremost the will of God. We make sure that bellies are full and faces are happy, then we send them along to bed with hugs and prayers.

Then those few and far between moments of peace are filled with spouse-time, shower (when we're lucky!), chatting on the phone, and social networking before we finally fall into bed.

Yes, we do lead busy lives.

Yet, somehow I feel as if we are forgetting one simple thing. A key to peace in our hearts, lives, and homes.

We are forgetting, time and time again, to just be still. 

God says to be still and know that He is God.

I mean, sure, we can KNOW that He is God while we're running around each day, but to really stop and be still, that takes time, effort, and a reflection of a heart of worship.

God says in that still, small voice: be still.

Just stop. Put down the pot and sponge, stop the folding for one minute, turn the burner on simmer, turn off the computer, and just be still. 

Stop, a few minutes won't kill your schedule. Stop, empty yourself of your worries and cares at My feet, and just be still and KNOW that I am God. I will be exalted in the nations, and I desire to be exalted in your life as well. Just be still, and reflect on My promise, My presence, My provision, and My faithfulness. 

BE STILL.

In all of the hustle and bustle of the busy days, how often to we forget to just be still, and reflect on the Lord in His glory, goodness, and grace?

Too often, I am afraid.

Let us strive together, to learn to simply be still in His presence, and know that He is our God. All else can wait.

Thou shalt not pratice... birth control?

Conception is not a chance or a risk - babies are an intentional creation, every single one of them.  Acknowledging this is a huge step towards surrender.  It's not such a scary idea when we're not risking something.  And once we surrender Lordship to Christ, and open up our grip on our own plans for life so that we may receive what He has for us, then there is no perceived "loss".  Only gain.  And we gain freedom from feeling torn between desiring babies but fearing it would be irresponsible to have more due to life circumstances; freedom from guilty feelings that come with knowing we're out of obedience with our Lord; freedom from financial fears, because our priorities and values become new and God's provision is perfect.

Read the rest of this amazing post over at Large Families On Purpose

Boldness of Lions

"The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion." 

Proverbs 28:1

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Thoughts on the boldness of lions:

Think of a lion. Stop, close your eyes right now, and picture a lion.
What do you see?

Perhaps a lion watching over his pride with a majestic and intimidating gaze.

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Maybe you see a lion being social with his young cub.

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A lion and his lioness resting in the hot mid-day sun?

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Perhaps you see a lion fiercely defending his pride, his family, with all male gusto and confidence.

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Or maybe you even see them for the quiet, patience, stealthy hunters that they are.

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Either way, whatever you picture is likely true and accurate.

A lion is a great and powerful creature, hence the dubbing as the king of the jungle. They are fierce predators, and very loyal to and protective of their pride. They show great affection, both young and seasoned members, and can often be found playfully rough-housing with other pride members, cleaning one another, and even ushering the pride's cubs around, watching their every move with a protective eye.

Lions are very strong, powerful, and intimidating, and I believe that they inherently know that.
They walk in confidence knowing the source of their strength, and the might of their strength, having no fear of opposition or domination.

Lions do not attack, kill, or maim simply because they know they can, knowing the victim to be weaker than them. They do not compete within their own members simply for the sake of proving who is strongest or best. They will not overtake another pride and seek to dominate or take over them as a show of greater strength or power.

No.

Lions walk in a quiet confidence.

They have no need to display their strength unnecessarily, because they KNOW that they are strong. Everyone else ought to know that too, but lions don't go around making sure that everyone knows, because it doesn't matter if everyone else recognizes it or not. They rest in the knowledge themselves, and they are satisfied knowing the power that resides within.

~*~

As Christians, empowered by the strength of Christ through the Holy Spirit, so ought we to walk.
We know our source of power, we know the strength and depth of it.
We know that our faith can move mountains, God willing.
We have the promise of eternal life.
We are secure.
We rest in that.

We should not walk in ways to display our power simply for the sake of showing it off.
We shouldn't seek out battles that are not ours simply because we have the strength to compete.
We should not seek out other churches and attempt to overthrow them just because we think we have a better way.

No.

Rather, we ought to exhibit the source of our power through love, and through service.

Patiently watching, waiting, listening.
Be fierce and quick in defense, show no fear and stand our ground.
But in everything, rest in the source of our power, in Christ Jesus, knowing that the battle is not ours, that He has already overcome it all.

Just some thoughts

It is easy to judge others based on our own convictions, but not so very easy to judge with the righteous judgment that we are called to exercise in this world by the power and true discernment of the Holy Spirit. That being said, it is impossible not to judge, for any take on any given situation is a judgment call; that cannot be avoided. Throwing the term ‘judging’ around is non-beneficial to say the least, because it is a conundrum, for even stating that someone is judging another is, in turn, to exercise judgment: the very thing most people claim to be against. So, while judging is an unavoidable fact of life on all levels, we, as Christians, are called to righteous judgment.

I do stand firm and unwavering on the Word of God, and everything in it. In that I am unashamed. If God calls it sin, it is sin. Plain and simple, there is no getting around that fact without buying into this new age tolerance doctrine that is a danger to the very essence of what faith is all about. Christ did not die so that everyone could believe what they wanted to believe and do what they wanted to do anytime they wanted to. They would do that anyway. He died to give men another option: The option of eternal life if they would only believe. That is saving Grace. Salvation is not of works, lest any man should boast, but it is a free gift of God. The finished work of the cross and the ultimate sacrifice of God’s only begotten Son, virgin born into this sinful world as a man of flesh, is the only thing we need. No man or woman’s salvation should ever be judged by outward appearances or works. This does not excuse the fact that good works inspired by the Spirit for the glory of God should accompany salvation, but we who cannot see the heart cannot judge the heart, which is the root of salvation assurance.

I am an uncompromising Independent Fundamental Baptist. I am a King James Bible only, modest skirt/dress wearing, prayer covering, submissive to the authority of my own husband type woman who has laid the course of my childbearing years at the feet of the Creator. I also understand the concept of grace and the Law of Christ for those who are born-again by the Spirit, who are under faith instead of the Schoolmaster of old. These are my convictions. I am passionate about my convictions, and I will share them openly, but at the same time I understand that they are exactly that: MY convictions. I cannot force feed my convictions to ANYONE and have them accept them by my own power any more than I can plant a squash seed and cause a watermelon to grow instead. I did not come to my convictions because of anyone simply telling me that this is what I ought to do, it was a total Spirit led process, and I would now have it no other way. I would be quite wary of anyone who would do or accept anything based on the simple fact that someone else told them they should and pointed out a few Bible verses. Many cults and false teachings have begun that way. It HAS to be Spirit led, or it is false, fruitless, weak, and an empty shell of what should be faith. I can share my convictions and why God led me to them from dawn til dusk, but I can’t change anyone. Only God can, through the work of the Spirit. I am forever humbled to know that God may one day use me to help change another person’s life one day, but in the same breath, I know that it’s not about me, it’s about HIM and HIS righteousness alone.

I have noticed over the years that many look on things as sin that are not sin. People see a lack of or weak faith in others and call it sin. People see worry in others and call it sin. People see what I call the non-fruits of the Spirit in others (impatience, a lack of self-control, etc) and call it sin. There is a fine line. It is known that many of these traits can lead people into sin, but honestly these traits in themselves are not sin. I can find no place in which they are labeled as a sin rather than just a weakness that ought to be built up. We need to be careful what we label as sin, and instead of seeking to bring the whole doomsday type attitude to someone if they don’t straighten up fast, we should seek to find the root of the weakness, and then seek to edify the body, to build up and strengthen the person in need of said strength so that they may be equipped to serve the Lord with rejoicing and joy.

As in the case of the prodigal son: The father did not shun his son, nor does it say that he pestered him incessantly about his poor choices, and he didn’t even refuse to sell out early and give his son his part of his inheritance, but rather he acknowledged that his son was an adult, responsible before God for his own choices, and acknowledged that some lessons can only be learned, not taught, and stepped aside, undoubtedly in prayer, and let the Spirit work in His own time. So should our attitude be towards others who do not hold to the same convictions that we hold to. We ought to express our concerns, no doubt about that, and back them up as well, but leave it at that before it escalates into a fire that cannot be controlled. One we learn to accept that the battle is not ours, and that it isn’t about us, or who is right or wrong, many arguments will be extinguished, and many friendships preserved. Trust me, a single kind and compassionate (yet truthful and pointed) word will echo in the spirit longer than any heated debate will ever resound. The prodigal would not have returned if he felt as if he has been wronged or attacked by his father.

So we stand on the Word, the whole incorruptible and faithful Word of God, and we allow the Spirit to work in ways that we cannot. It’s not about us, our efforts to win people, our strengths, or even our smarts or unceasing arguments. It is only about Christ and His righteousness. It is only about the convicting work of the Spirit in the soul that mortal eyes cannot see. The sooner we realize that Jesus doesn’t need us to fight His battles for Him, the better off the Body of Christ will be, and the sooner we can seek to strive together in perfect harmony according to the power and message of our Lord and Risen Savior Jesus Christ. To God alone be the glory, in all things. When we remove ourselves from the picture and seek only to be a vessel through which God can work, without seeking to satisfy the fleshly desire to “win” the discussion point or have the last word, no matter how justified we believe that we are, God then can truly be uplifted and glorified as we silently fade into the backstage curtains in silent worship as we stand in awe of His amazing grace and glorious power.

For his glory alone, I am a faithful and humble servant. Never deserving of His grace and mercy, but God has been good beyond all measure nonetheless and blessed me in the midst of my despicable human state, and caused me to rise in honor by His power alone.

Independence Day

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I have noticed over the years a shocking trend. Gone is the terminology "Independence Day" and up and coming is the constant use of "Fourth of July" when naming celebrations, especially city-funded celebrations. What happened? When did we become so ashamed to name the fourth of July as our American Independence Day? When did we become too politically correct to celebrate the anniversary of our independence from British tyrannical rule?

I mean, sure, it's not just about a history lesson on the Revolutionary War. It's about more than that. It's about freedom. We all know that freedom is instituted by God in Christ, and we know that our military doesn't give or grant us freedom, but without them, our freedom would be essentially non-existent, as it was so long ago as British troops invaded homes and businesses, levying taxes which they had no fair right to levy, robbing the early Americans of their freedoms. Our founding fathers knew this, even that long ago, before we got caught up in politics and the everything-goes clause of government. They knew that without God, nothing would be possible, but they also knew and recognized that God instituted government and military action in order to protect His people and defend the freedoms that He has given them. Freedom isn't free, not even our freedom in Christ. Someone else always has to pay for it.


"What about our freedom, and this piece of ground? We didn't get to keep them by backing down."

Show me ONE person who hates our military, who brags the opinion that we should not fight, we should not bear arms. Show me one.You will find many unfortunately. Now show me one who would rather live in a law-less, military-less place such as Iran or Iraq instead. Show me one who would rather live under terrorist regimes like you would find in the middle east, or a communist dictatorship like you would find in North Korea, where their freedom to disagree with government would quickly be stripped under penalty of death. You will find none.

None.

Funny how that works out.

Now, it is true that we have wandered quite a ways from our foundation here in America. We have a split government (as President George Washington warned us against) and we have split agendas. Military and government as God instituted it was to honor God, and, well, not so much anymore. But you know what? No one is perfect in the flesh. God is still God, though, and the Bible still says that God sets up the rulers and kings (Psalm 75:7, Daniel 2:21) and it also still says that God will give rebellious men (and nations, as He did when He appointed Saul as king in  1 Samuel, because he was the type of king that the people wanted, even though God made it clearly known that he was not the type of king they needed,) over to their shameful lusts (Romans 1:17-32).

Does this mean that we as Christians should stop striving to do what is good? No! Does this mean that we, as Christians, should stop voting? No! Does this mean that the foundation that we are built upon is illegitimate? Absolutely not!

But it does mean that we reap what we sow. Thankfully, in Christ there is always room to turn around and do things the right way. There is always a chance, there is always hope.

This great country was founded on the Word of God and His righteousness, and the roots won't be shaken so easily if we stand up and defend them. If you let them strip us of our rights, they will, but if we stand to defend them, as our founding fathers stood against the British, first in peace, always by the grace of God, they will be stayed. Vote, boycott, be an activist (a peaceful one, mind you), exercise your free speech rights. SUPPORT our military, whom the government has lately been seeking to de-fund even more. THANK each service member that you have an opportunity to cross paths with. Jesus paid the price for our spiritual freedom on Calvary, these men pay the price daily for our physical freedoms. The LEAST we should offer are our prayers and thanks.

Photo Credit

Remember on this Independence Day that it is about the Revolutionary War and how we, as Americans, overcame the tyranny of Britain to form a God-fearing nation in the midst of a wilderness. They showed that they would rather have their God and their freedom while facing impossible odds and almost certain death rather than live another moment under a God-less rule. Remember the blood that gives us freedom. The blood of Christ as our spiritual freedom, and the blood of our soldiers who make freedom in this world possible.

Also remember that Independence Day is not only about the Revolutionary War, but it is about everything that has ensured us of our independence and freedom over the past 200+ years. Remember the blood of the civilians, the innocent people, of September 11th. LOOK at the pictures, READ the testimonials and articles, and THEN have the guts to stand up and say that we don't need a military. THEN stand up and say that we should not have killed Bin Laden. Think of the innocent American CHILDREN who had to pay the price of terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centers and those on the planes. THEN go picket a funeral of a service member who died so that YOU could HAVE that right to picket and voice your opinion, however wrong it is! They died to GIVE YOU A VOICE, and you hate them for it??

I know as well as the next American that this country has come a long way since the Revolutionary War. In some ways good, but in others bad. Nevertheless, the government cannot dictate what we hold dear, what we choose to remember and celebrate. Too many have died to ensure that right. YOU, America, choose what this Independence Day means for you. It's not all fireworks and BBQ, it's a road paved with blood of both civilians and service members, the sweat of our military and our blue-collar working men, and the tears of the widows and mothers who's husbands and sons gave all for this country. I want you to remember that this Independence Day, when you eat your BBQ and watch your fireworks, remember that blood.

But also remember that that blood is the same blood that runs through your veins, and mine. The blood of good, honest, God-fearing patriotism. The blood of someone who understands our foundational freedoms, given by Christ, protected by men, and knows that freedom is something worth dying for. Being able to choose to worship the one, true God without fear of being put to death is something worth dying for.


"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

And remember the words of another great patriotic hymn:

"Our fathers' God to Thee,

Author of liberty,

To Thee we sing.

Long may our land be bright,

With freedom's holy light,

Protect us by Thy might,

Great God our King."

 

Photo Credit

 Blessings upon you and yours, and upon our service men and their families for the sacrifice that they give to ensure our freedom each and every day.

 

A Woman's High Calling to Godliness : Study 2

A Woman's High Calling: 10 Essentials for Godly Living

Essential #1: Godliness

"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness..."  Titus 2:3

"How are we to live our lives as women with a high calling? Our calling is to godly behavior, to sacred behavior, to holy behavior. Our conduct must compliment our high calling in Christ."

"Can you fathom any higher calling than godliness? Any more important essential for godly living? Can you imagine any more wonderful way to spend your life and your time and your days and your moments than to spend them in the Lord, immersed in Him, looking to Him, desiring Him and the riches (and the richness!) of His grace above all that this poor world offers? You and I are above all others most blessed to possess such a glorious calling!"

In the first study, we looked at an example of godly behavior, and reviewed why the quality of godliness is so important in a woman of God's life. Now we will look at how we can apply the high calling of godliness and reverent behavior in daily life. 


As we look at the fact that we are called to be reverent in behavior, shewing forth behavior that becometh holiness, I notice that God places a lot of emphasis on the exterior. Behavior. A common argument among women in the church can be summed up in the following few words: "Well, God knows my heart." While that is true, God does indeed know our hearts better than even we know our own hearts, God does invariably place a huge emphasis on how we are to act, behave, and even look on the outside. Why is this, do you think?

The author offers a very accurate explanation:
"You see, our behavior stems from a state of mind, from what's going on (or not going on!) in our inner [and spiritual] life, and God desires that the behavior of His women to be reverent, behavior mirroring an internal sacred character."
As one pastor writes: The word reverent "has the root meaning of being priest-like and came to refer to that which is appropriate to holiness."

Mrs. George goes on to explain:
"That's quite a start, isn't it? Words such as consecrated, holy, sacred, and worship speak loudly of a heart and mind set on our thrice-holy God and the worship of Him. Such a one has to have a soul preoccupied with God, a soul immersed in a constant state of worship of God, a soul completely consecrated to God. Such a soul... and such resulting behavior, would then certainly point others to God!"

As we saw in the illustration of the Canterbury cathedral in the first study, and the example of the godly and holy behavior exhibited by those who served and worshiped in the cathedral which in turn calmed, quieted, and pointed others towards the Holy God whom they served, holy behavior, has an irreplaceable effect on those around us.

If holy behavior in a church has this kind of effect, what kind of effect could this have if put into practice in our homes? If we, as wives and mothers, placed this high calling to godliness, holy behavior, at the tip top of our priorities, and sought it unrelentingly each and every day, what kind of an impact could this have on the husband and children whom we serve and train? What if you could use every word and action as a living testimony to the most high God?

"We are to walk through the minutes and the hours, the days and the decades, of our life as a priestess would walk through and serve in a temple. We must apply to all of daily life the reverent demeanor, the sacred conduct, and the holy behavior of a priestess in a temple."
See the story of Anna in Luke 2:36-38 for an example of a woman who lived her life in holy reverence of God.

How can we follow our calling to godliness, to reverent holiness, in our homes and daily lives?

1. Pray ~ Prayer will most definitely affect our behavior! The act of prayer brings our soul into direct contact with the God we worship and love, so it stands to reason that the more we pray, the more we're aware of the presence of the Lord, and the more we reflect His beauty and godliness to others.

2. Purpose ~ to be more aware of god's presence. "Worship is an inward reverence, the bowing down of the soul in the presence of God,... a solemn consciousness of the Divine, a secret communion with the unseen." J.H. Morrison. Purpose to develop a solemn consciousness of the Divine and to deliberately bow down your soul in His presence. That awareness and God's enablement will cause you to be reverent in behavior.

3. Praise the Lord! ~ Elizabeth George explains that if we are unsure of how to praise the Lord, or if life just seems so overwhelmingly troubled that we do not feel like we can praise the Lord, it is a good idea and practice to make a habit of reading aloud one Psalm per day. Then allow the Psalm to feed your heart so that your lips gush with praise and worship to the Lord. "You are to consider this [reading] of a psalm as a necessary beginning of your devotion, something that is to awaken all that is good and holy within  you, that is to call your spirits to their proper duty, to set you in your best posture towards heaven and tune all the powers of your soul to worship and adoration. For there is nothing that so clears a way for your prayers, nothing that so disperses dullness of heart, nothing that so purifies the soul from poor and careless passions, nothing that so opens heaven, or carries your heart so near to it, as these songs of praise."

4. And praise Him  some more! ~ Perhaps this should be our theme song as we seek to live our lives in purposeful, reverent and holy behavior:  
"Fill thou my life, O Lord my God,
In every part with praise,
That my whole being may proclaim
Thy being and Thy ways.
Not for the lip of praise alone,
Nor e'en the praising heart,
I ask, but for a life made up
Of praise in every part."

5. Pick ~ a point for meditation. Thinking of a particular attribute of God, some act or teaching of Jesus, a promise from God's Word, or some calling from Scripture will tune your heart to the Lord.

6. Prize ~ your high calling to reverent behavior. Own your high calling! Prize it! Revel in it! And excel in it!

7. Plan ~  to act in ways that attract attention to the Lord rather than to yourself.

8. Ponder ~ your behavior and your choices, for by them you tell on yourself:
"You tell on yourself by the friends you seek,
By the very manner in which you speak,
By the way you employ your leisure time,
By the use you make of dollar and dime.


You tell what you are by the things you wear,
By the spirit in which your burdens bear,
By the kind of things at which you laugh,
By the records you play on he phonograph.


You tell what you are by the way you walk,
By the things of which you delight to talk,
By the manner in which you bear defeat,
By so simple a thing as how you eat.


By the books you choose from the well-filled shelves:
In these ways and more, you tell on yourself."

Next time: A Woman's High Calling to Godly Speech.


Blessings!

A Woman's High Calling to Godliness : Study 1

A Woman's High Calling: 10 Essentials for Godly Living

Essential #1: Godliness

"The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness..."  Titus 2:3


"How are we to live our lives as women with a high calling? Our calling is to godly behavior, to sacred behavior, to holy behavior. Our conduct must compliment our high calling in Christ."

"Can you fathom any higher calling than godliness? Any more important essential for godly living? Can you imagine any more wonderful way to spend your life and your time and your days and your moments than to spend them in the Lord, immersed in Him, looking to Him, desiring Him and the riches (and the richness!) of His grace above all that this poor world offers? You and I are above all others most blessed to possess such a glorious calling!"

Elizabeth George starts out this chapter, this first essential, by detailing a trip to England that her and her husband, Jim, went on together to attend their church's European missions conference. This trip is such a profound illustration of godliness, godly behavior, that I simply must share the highlights of the visit.

They went to the Canterbury Cathedral in Kent, England. She points out that the area of Kent has a rich Christian heritage dating back to the days of Saint Augustine and the Canterbury Cathedral is one of the finest cathedrals in England.

While her and her husband were walking through the cathedral, admiring the stunning architecture and furnishings, they became "quietly aware" of the people who served and worshiped in the cathedral. What brought these people to their attention was not any flashy displays, or loud voices of prayer, but rather their silent ways of movement and action that displayed a silent reverence for their surroundings. As she decribes:

"They moved reverently - never for a second forgetting that they were in a place of worship. They spoke little, if at all, and always in quiet tones. One could almost sense their awareness that they were in the presence of God. The already ethereal ambiance was further heightened by the sounds of a women's choir in rehearsal. Their voices and the strains of their hymns literally soared upward (and without the aid of a man-made audio system!) to the heights of the nave and the drifted down again, filling the 522 foot length of the cathedral with an inescapable sweetness. The women, singing without accompaniment as they practiced for the Evensong service to be held later that day, were nowhere in sight. In fact, we had to go searching for them. Peering through an iron gate, we caught a mere glimpse of them, all dressed alike in black skirts and white blouses, standing behind the aged wooden railings that marked out the choir loft, singing in unison to the Lord, quite oblivious to the many who sought to get a peek at them."

What a majestic picture of godliness, godly behavior. Mrs. George goes on to say that the visit to the Canterbury Cathedral was very spiritually uplifting. This was so not (only) because of the amazing architecture, but what contributed most to this experience for them were the people who served and worshiped in the cathedral. The reverence displayed in those who served also inspired the same attitude within them. She goes on to explain:

"Suddenly we found ourselves whispering. Why? They were quiet... therefore we were quiet. Without our noticing, our breakneck tourist pace slowed to a stroll. Why? Because they were moving silently, reverently, worshipfully (if there is such a word)... therefore we did, too. One couldn't help but pray in such a place. Again, why? Because the church attendants and choir seemed to be absorbed in worship and in the God they served... therefore we were, too. ... Somehow, the reverential behavior of others brought us to a fresh new awareness of God's presence."

Now, what does this experience have to do with US? Looking at the Scripture reference in Titus 2:3, we see the first of such 'pink passages' in the Bible, which states that women (aged women, likewise, but it is applicable to ALL women of God) should "be in behaviour as becometh holiness..." or should exhibit godly behavior. The high calling to godliness is the first and foremost calling in a woman of God's life.

In this, as the beginning, Elizabeth George issues a gentle warning:

"I must warn you - there's no tiptoeing into our calling. There's no warming up to the godly qualities that we'll be looking at in [these studies]. And there is no apprenticeship. No, God doesn't ease us into His summons on our ife. He instead commences His call right at the core, at the deepest (and highest!) level of our calling - and that is this first calling, a calling to Himself. Because what's inside our hearts affects our behavior, God asks that our relationship with Him be the catalyst that creates in us behavior befitting one who has a relationship with the living God. He wants our actions to be reverent, godly, worshipful, and holy."

Although Scripture addresses this verse directly to the older women in the Body of Christ, it is a high calling laid before each and every one of us, young and old. Why? Because it "points first to our spirit of worship and calls us to be reverent in all of our behavior."

And yes, it is a high calling indeed.

Next we will be learning about godliness, what it means, the Greek root words from whence it comes, and how it can be applied to daily life.

Blessings!

Grace and Mercy Undeserved

Lord, Lord, I'm trusting You

In everything I do,

With every step I take,

As every choice I make.

Your promises echo loud and clear

Assuring that you hold me dear,

Timeless as generations pass

That one day I'll be home at last.

You can see the days yet come,

You can hear the song yet sung.

In Your hand I'll always be;

Your faithfulness soon to see.

I have your Word I'll never beg

As I pray for daily bread.

When the future is unclear

I know in You I shall not fear.

This world it seeks to stifle me,

For what I have they can never be.

But from my lips praise still sings

With hope they too can know You're King.

Guide my hand, still my heart.

To my children, Your Word impart.

Fill me, stay me, as You have made me,

And as You would bless it, let all my days be.

Your glory, Your grace;

From all lips: praise.

All is perfect through Your blood

For in myself, I am no good.

Grace and mercy undeserved

Brought me peace I had never heard.

In You alone I put my trust,

For You alone are good and just.

Gracious to redeem my sins;

In your presence, every knee bends.

That love that made a way for me

Cost You everything on Calvary.

Then on that third day You rose again

Declaring victory over death and sin.

Into your hands I place my soul,

For You alone have made me whole.

Help me, Lord, as I pilgrim through,

Til that day I may come home to You.

"What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the Blood of Jesus."

Photo Credit 

 

A Woman's High Calling Study ~ Coming Soon

I am embarking on a study of what it means to be a woman of God, and how to live it out. I will be using the book A Woman's High Calling: 10 Essentials for Godly Living by Elizabeth George as my study guide, and I invite you all to follow along. I have read this book time and time again and each time found great inspiration and encouragement to follow my high calling as God would have me do, so I am now putting my study in print for future reference, as well as perhaps inspiration and encouragement to any ladies like me who are seeking the same in their life. Namely, the will of God.

A quick note: the topics that will be covered in this study include our high calling to

1: Godliness
2: Godly Speech
3: Personal Discipline
4: Encouraging Others
5: Marriage + Loving our husband
6: Family + Loving our family
7: Wisdom
8: Purity
9: Home
10: Goodness

Postings will be on Mondays and Thursdays of each week beginning Monday, June 27th. Mondays will be the initial posting, and Thursdays will be the follow-up of each essential and how it can be applied to daily life.

I am sure that we have all prayed a prayer for god to help us be a godly woman. I know I have for sure, many times over. Author Elizabeth George states that while a worthy prayer, there is one problem: it is vague. She says "therefore over the years I have begun not only to pray to be a godly woman but also to ask, 'What does a godly woman do? How does she act? What is it about her that marks her out as a godly woman?' "

With those questions to direct us, we will be setting out to discover our high calling in Christ and find out what it means to be a godly woman. This study is about what the author calls the 'pink passages' of the Bible, or those that apply directly to us as women of God.

As Mrs. George states in her forward, I will echo it to myself and to my readers who are up for the task of coming along on this journey:

"So, do you want to grow in knowledge and grace? Do you want to learn more about being 'a godly woman'? Do you want to develop a good set of worthwhile lifetime goals? Do you want to move toward fulfilling a life-long dream of becoming God's kind of woman?"

Then let us do so in all eagerness, honesty, humility, and with all that we have. This is my heart's prayer.

The storms of life

God never promised to take away the storms, only to see us through them. 

 "I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread." Psalm 37:25

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:" Philippians 1:6

No matter what you are facing, no matter what you are going through, God is bigger, and greater, and still a loving God. If you are in the center of His Will, and doing the best you can with what you have, and with a joyful heart, God will provide the rest, but on His terms. He never promised to provide in accordance to the world's standards, but to His. According to the Bible, if we have food and raiment, we are blessed, and how true that is. Sow contentment, reap joy in the Lord, for He is above our circumstances, and we are not of this world. 

ALL of this, every BIT of it is temporary. It will ALL pass away one day. Make sure your value and hope is in the eternal, not the temporal of this world. Fix your eyes on God and follow His Word, and you will be blessed beyond all measure. And never stop believing that God can and that God will. 

"Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." Mark 11:24

Never lose hope, for we have been given a Hope that has overcome the world. Be blessed, and bless the Lord. ♥

 "Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name." Psalm 103:1