This past weekend we had a wonderful revival service with Brother and Sister Stovall from Pairs, Arkansas. What a wonderful couple full of love for people and so godly. It was a very good time in the Lord and showed me the true importance of living life for God.
Hope is something that we all long for but have a hard time holding on to. Well at least I do maybe everyone else doesn't. It seems that we have the faith we need to trust in God but when it comes to having hope when the situation is hopeless we believe but just not enough. The valley's in our life seem to much like home and not a temporary situation. We can only enjoy the flowers down in the valley so long before we really just need God to take us to the top of the mountain.
Today I'm writing with full faith in the hope that God brings in our complete last straw before desperation. People say that God knows what we can handle and that is so true but it isn't what we can handle but what we do when we feel the pressure. Do we take His hand like a little kid in need of their parents strength or do we wobble ourselves down the road in complete stubbornness. Using words like "I know", "I can do this", "I'm fine", "Nothing". All these words that I have found such a large part of my vocabulary lately and really I'm in need of my Father's hand. I'm in need of the strength that I can't muster up.
People say that I am bull headed and I truly can't disagree. Sometimes it is a good thing and sometimes it isn't. I blame my stubborn side on the mixture of strong heritage that is in my blood. Many years of strong women standing up for themselves and working hard. I just need to learn to balance it out and not live in it.
I've learned something in my short time of living for God. It isn't always what you can do but what you can't do. When you can do so much you lean on your own understanding instead of God's. When you can work hard you find that things come your way but in that you find yourself leaning on yourself instead of God. So, when the hard times come you find yourself weary from trying to work things that only God can.
I share this today to say their is always hope. No matter what happens, no matter who you are, or how stubborn or strong you think you are their is always hope to get through the situations that seems to never end. You will see the sky soon and get to the top of the mountain. It may not be in the way you tried to figure it out but it will be perfect. He knows and will see you through it all.
June 6, 2012
May 27, 2012
History and Family...
As I rode through the lush trails of the land that once was my families stomping grounds I found myself moved by the thought that so much history lies on that very ground. History that tells the story of my Great-Great Grandma Meyers and her love for the Lord. Her hours spent on her knees praying to the God she worshiped in music and conversation. A woman who I never knew but know was a woman who I'd like to have known.
I have always had an interest in the history of my family. The stories of the homeland and the strong women who stood by their men as they worked long and hard to provide for their families by the land they were given. A life that portrayed the servant heart and the strong working hands that worked to provide for the family. The stories of the old time church meetings that were surrounded with fear of God and homes full of prayerful dinner tables. That is to me a history that I pray I never forget a history that I may, Lord will, teach my family of.
Many times in my life I wondered what it would feel like to go back into time and live the lives that make up my families heritage. To spend some time with the ladies who baked from scratch, picked the eggs for breakfast, milked the cows, and cleaned the close with a pot of water that was heated over the stove. To not know what it was like to shower daily, put on deodorant, or possibly even know what it felt like to have shaved legs or even being able to see clearly because the family didn't have enough money to get glasses. Could I really imagine what it would be like to live a life the way my family lived?
My family history on the Meyers side is so amazing to me and every time I go out that way I find myself amazed at the history and how the people in that area still try and keep it. Farmers still farm the land that there great grandparents first settled on as well as take care of the cemetery that has only a couple families represented. What a beauty to have such strong people who desire to keep the history of their town together, but what beauty to know that they still see value in the old time ways.
I've came to realize one thing and that is what a beautiful thing God did in designing man kind. His intention for us was to keep the ways that once were but the choose made by Adam and Eve started the evolution of what we see happening today. Sin and the mind of the corrupt man has tainted the things that once were intended for thankfulness into things of lesser value. The kind of things that taught hard work and appreciation, the kind of things that made man's heart grateful and in need of God.
A time when men worked to provide for their families and had scared hands to show it. Where women brought honor to their husbands and worked to nurture their children and love their husbands. A time when kids respected their elders and learned from their stories. A time when families gathered together for prayer and a time in the Word together. When Sunday was looked upon as the day of rest and even the local store closed down so that all would go to the house of worship. A time when children were children and not caused to grow up before their time. Where teachers were respected and students listened in fear they would be punished for their actions. When kids had one nice outfit to wear to church and shinned their shoes to make sure they gave their best to God.
Yes, not all places were like this and yes not all families were like this but through a time in history something took place and it wasn't for the better. I don't complain about the things that we have that they didn't then. I can go in an outhouse and not care but I don't know if I would like to do that all the time. I am not afraid of hard labor but I'm not sure if I'd like to milk a cow and pick the eggs before being able to eat. However, I also know that if I was raised that way I would know no different and maybe I'd look at life different.
I'm puzzled tonight as I write on the history and family life that we now have became acustomed to. Is it what I'd want to have for my family or will it be important to show my children the things of the past that we must not forget. The kind of things that build good Christian character and understanding, respect and value, as well as honor and morals.
I want to never forget the things that God loves and the heritage that makes me who I am. The lessons that God used to teach His people in the Old Testament are the same lessons that our families lived by. The one thing that families were built on and that was fear of God. They were built on the rock and they knew that it was God that got them through the tough times.
I want to remember the things that God wants and the things that I can learn from those who lived before me. To honor the people who fought for my freedom, to those who worked hard to provide for my loved ones, and to never forget that God was right there in the mist.
I have always had an interest in the history of my family. The stories of the homeland and the strong women who stood by their men as they worked long and hard to provide for their families by the land they were given. A life that portrayed the servant heart and the strong working hands that worked to provide for the family. The stories of the old time church meetings that were surrounded with fear of God and homes full of prayerful dinner tables. That is to me a history that I pray I never forget a history that I may, Lord will, teach my family of.
Many times in my life I wondered what it would feel like to go back into time and live the lives that make up my families heritage. To spend some time with the ladies who baked from scratch, picked the eggs for breakfast, milked the cows, and cleaned the close with a pot of water that was heated over the stove. To not know what it was like to shower daily, put on deodorant, or possibly even know what it felt like to have shaved legs or even being able to see clearly because the family didn't have enough money to get glasses. Could I really imagine what it would be like to live a life the way my family lived?
My family history on the Meyers side is so amazing to me and every time I go out that way I find myself amazed at the history and how the people in that area still try and keep it. Farmers still farm the land that there great grandparents first settled on as well as take care of the cemetery that has only a couple families represented. What a beauty to have such strong people who desire to keep the history of their town together, but what beauty to know that they still see value in the old time ways.
I've came to realize one thing and that is what a beautiful thing God did in designing man kind. His intention for us was to keep the ways that once were but the choose made by Adam and Eve started the evolution of what we see happening today. Sin and the mind of the corrupt man has tainted the things that once were intended for thankfulness into things of lesser value. The kind of things that taught hard work and appreciation, the kind of things that made man's heart grateful and in need of God.
A time when men worked to provide for their families and had scared hands to show it. Where women brought honor to their husbands and worked to nurture their children and love their husbands. A time when kids respected their elders and learned from their stories. A time when families gathered together for prayer and a time in the Word together. When Sunday was looked upon as the day of rest and even the local store closed down so that all would go to the house of worship. A time when children were children and not caused to grow up before their time. Where teachers were respected and students listened in fear they would be punished for their actions. When kids had one nice outfit to wear to church and shinned their shoes to make sure they gave their best to God.
Yes, not all places were like this and yes not all families were like this but through a time in history something took place and it wasn't for the better. I don't complain about the things that we have that they didn't then. I can go in an outhouse and not care but I don't know if I would like to do that all the time. I am not afraid of hard labor but I'm not sure if I'd like to milk a cow and pick the eggs before being able to eat. However, I also know that if I was raised that way I would know no different and maybe I'd look at life different.
I'm puzzled tonight as I write on the history and family life that we now have became acustomed to. Is it what I'd want to have for my family or will it be important to show my children the things of the past that we must not forget. The kind of things that build good Christian character and understanding, respect and value, as well as honor and morals.
I want to never forget the things that God loves and the heritage that makes me who I am. The lessons that God used to teach His people in the Old Testament are the same lessons that our families lived by. The one thing that families were built on and that was fear of God. They were built on the rock and they knew that it was God that got them through the tough times.
I want to remember the things that God wants and the things that I can learn from those who lived before me. To honor the people who fought for my freedom, to those who worked hard to provide for my loved ones, and to never forget that God was right there in the mist.
May 25, 2012
More Giving...
Have you ever thought for a minute all that you have, compared to all you are willing to give up? So often we can say that we are giving it all to God but for some of us, like myself, I don't feel that I really have. I give of my time and maybe a couple hours here and there. But my day is filled with work, house work, and some special time with God. I send a couple emails to my friends and check a little of the nonsense on Facebook, do a couple bible studies, study for a lesson, play the piano a little, and then I'm back to the daily routine of work.
As I evaluate my life and the very few sacrifices that I have made I feel that there is more to life then the daily routines that make up my day. An accomplishment of my day comes with more then a little sweat above my brow and some tears from my prayers to God. I know that I don't speak for all when I speak this but today I know that I have a heart beat to do more then just what I feel but what He is asking.
Today I'm truly feeling the pain and watching the hand of God provide in the mist of my sincere giving but lack of understanding. I have been blessed beyond measure and even more so if not for myself but my family. God has given me two parents who have been able to provide me with all the fleshly wants of my life and if not to purchase them to give me the skills to attain them or give me love.
I write today with great conviction and find myself in a different place with how I see what I give to God. How I live my life to please Him and show how much I really love Him. It is my desire from this day forward to fast like I have never fasted. To see through spiritual eyes the things that God sees. We keep our purity for the one who we will marry but sometimes we are more willing to give that up then give more to God.
I speak all of this from my own heart. Each have their own relationship with God and as God deals with me on sacrifice I ask that you see what God is asking of you. It may not be the same for you but there is always something God is trying to teach us and show us. From sacfrice to prayer to fasting to reading the Word to attitude changes to sincere worship and the list goes on with all we deal with.
Let your love grow and your spiritual eyes see the things that are ownly understood by the spirit.
As I evaluate my life and the very few sacrifices that I have made I feel that there is more to life then the daily routines that make up my day. An accomplishment of my day comes with more then a little sweat above my brow and some tears from my prayers to God. I know that I don't speak for all when I speak this but today I know that I have a heart beat to do more then just what I feel but what He is asking.
Today I'm truly feeling the pain and watching the hand of God provide in the mist of my sincere giving but lack of understanding. I have been blessed beyond measure and even more so if not for myself but my family. God has given me two parents who have been able to provide me with all the fleshly wants of my life and if not to purchase them to give me the skills to attain them or give me love.
I write today with great conviction and find myself in a different place with how I see what I give to God. How I live my life to please Him and show how much I really love Him. It is my desire from this day forward to fast like I have never fasted. To see through spiritual eyes the things that God sees. We keep our purity for the one who we will marry but sometimes we are more willing to give that up then give more to God.
I speak all of this from my own heart. Each have their own relationship with God and as God deals with me on sacrifice I ask that you see what God is asking of you. It may not be the same for you but there is always something God is trying to teach us and show us. From sacfrice to prayer to fasting to reading the Word to attitude changes to sincere worship and the list goes on with all we deal with.
Let your love grow and your spiritual eyes see the things that are ownly understood by the spirit.
May 18, 2012
Family is everything...
I just about missed my weekly post but here I am before the end of the day!
Things here in the great up north are wonderful and beautiful. Weather is warm and the sun is kissing our white skin. The joy of life is full of anticipation and full of new adventures. Summer always brings new things for me. I never know what the warm weather is going to do to me. I love this time of year as we get to take off the many layers, while still staying modest, and enjoy the beautiful landscape of Rainy Lake.
Lately we received news at work that our beloved, Mr. Wyatt will be leaving us for greener pastures. As much as we will miss his warm smile and wonderful customer service skills we are happy for him. We of course are praying in our own sadness for losing him that he will be blessed and be happy in his new occupation.
Since I was a little girl I've always thought of every employee here as family. I grew up with many uncles around some that probably were not the best example but always kind and warm hearted. Working in a small business you learn fast that you can either embrace those who are around you or live a life with no additions to the family unit. Being that we are a family owned and operated business we adopt all that work for us and bring them into the family unit. We care about them as if they were blood and feel their pain when they are having a hard time. So as you can imagine the loss of someone in the family to another job is always hard, but like any family we keep going and be happy for them. Stretching our love to them there and opening our arms to another addition.
Farm days at the Meyers Farm today (May 18, 2012). All the young kids from our area schools travel to the farm to enjoy Farm Days, Old McDonald style. These kids from Pre-School to Kindergarden get to experience hay rides, bunnies, cows, horses, ponies, and all sorts of different farm animals. Farm Days has been going on since the early eighties and has been like clock work every year during May. My grandparents love it and every year I can't believe how excited the young kids are.
I pray you are all blessed by the beauty that God has blessed us with and the family we have to share it with. Enjoy your weekends and live life like Jesus would want you to. Enjoy the beauty of His way and celebrate the wonderful blessings in your life. Embrace the family you have and open your arms to the many who will enter in too.
Things here in the great up north are wonderful and beautiful. Weather is warm and the sun is kissing our white skin. The joy of life is full of anticipation and full of new adventures. Summer always brings new things for me. I never know what the warm weather is going to do to me. I love this time of year as we get to take off the many layers, while still staying modest, and enjoy the beautiful landscape of Rainy Lake.
Lately we received news at work that our beloved, Mr. Wyatt will be leaving us for greener pastures. As much as we will miss his warm smile and wonderful customer service skills we are happy for him. We of course are praying in our own sadness for losing him that he will be blessed and be happy in his new occupation.
Since I was a little girl I've always thought of every employee here as family. I grew up with many uncles around some that probably were not the best example but always kind and warm hearted. Working in a small business you learn fast that you can either embrace those who are around you or live a life with no additions to the family unit. Being that we are a family owned and operated business we adopt all that work for us and bring them into the family unit. We care about them as if they were blood and feel their pain when they are having a hard time. So as you can imagine the loss of someone in the family to another job is always hard, but like any family we keep going and be happy for them. Stretching our love to them there and opening our arms to another addition.
Farm days at the Meyers Farm today (May 18, 2012). All the young kids from our area schools travel to the farm to enjoy Farm Days, Old McDonald style. These kids from Pre-School to Kindergarden get to experience hay rides, bunnies, cows, horses, ponies, and all sorts of different farm animals. Farm Days has been going on since the early eighties and has been like clock work every year during May. My grandparents love it and every year I can't believe how excited the young kids are.
I pray you are all blessed by the beauty that God has blessed us with and the family we have to share it with. Enjoy your weekends and live life like Jesus would want you to. Enjoy the beauty of His way and celebrate the wonderful blessings in your life. Embrace the family you have and open your arms to the many who will enter in too.
May 9, 2012
What I can see...
Lately I've been in need of answers, direction, and an understanding. In that time I've seen the power of prayer work and the true value it has in our lives. Not in times of trouble but in times of refreshing and clarity. Prayer is the venue in which all things can be cleansed and made clear. It is like cleaning your glasses after having hairspray on them. It is the one thing that connects us to the source in which all cares can be taken care of and focus can be made.
In our own carnality we struggle with direction and see things through foggy glasses. At a surface level things are not clear but they are still in focus. It isn't completely blurry but in your heart you know it isn't just what it should be. That is the time that we know that we are in need of some clarity and should desire that everyday of our life.
After a couple of weeks of praying and fasting for direction from God I believe I have received my answer. Sometimes we stress so much on making things work out that we can't see passed the foggy glass to see into the realm of sharp, bright, godly, clarity.
I speak from my own experience with all of this and say that I have always believed in prayer and believed in a faith that goes beyond seeing but I've also gotten to places where I've given up praying for a while instead of being persistent and what I know.
What I can see is that God is a all powerful and all knowing God. He will stress us in the mist of the biggest trials and give us answers at the last string. I find myself honored that God knows me so well that he will help me clear the foggy glasses and see clearly at the time when I can't handle anymore.
Now don't get me wrong I'm not talking about foggy from sin I'm talking foggy from just being tired. You know when you are so tired from doing something that your body feels like it will pass out. I'm speaking of that. The time in which we can not do anymore.
I believe in a prayerful and fasting lifestyle and know that it works. I may have had to feel a little frustrated for some time but I got the answers I needed and now I can watch as another puzzle piece is put into play in my chess game of a life.
Pray like you've never prayed and fast like you've never fasted. It is such a rewarding feeling to know that when you give it all in sacrificing the flesh you can truly see God work miracles.
In our own carnality we struggle with direction and see things through foggy glasses. At a surface level things are not clear but they are still in focus. It isn't completely blurry but in your heart you know it isn't just what it should be. That is the time that we know that we are in need of some clarity and should desire that everyday of our life.
After a couple of weeks of praying and fasting for direction from God I believe I have received my answer. Sometimes we stress so much on making things work out that we can't see passed the foggy glass to see into the realm of sharp, bright, godly, clarity.
I speak from my own experience with all of this and say that I have always believed in prayer and believed in a faith that goes beyond seeing but I've also gotten to places where I've given up praying for a while instead of being persistent and what I know.
What I can see is that God is a all powerful and all knowing God. He will stress us in the mist of the biggest trials and give us answers at the last string. I find myself honored that God knows me so well that he will help me clear the foggy glasses and see clearly at the time when I can't handle anymore.
Now don't get me wrong I'm not talking about foggy from sin I'm talking foggy from just being tired. You know when you are so tired from doing something that your body feels like it will pass out. I'm speaking of that. The time in which we can not do anymore.
I believe in a prayerful and fasting lifestyle and know that it works. I may have had to feel a little frustrated for some time but I got the answers I needed and now I can watch as another puzzle piece is put into play in my chess game of a life.
Pray like you've never prayed and fast like you've never fasted. It is such a rewarding feeling to know that when you give it all in sacrificing the flesh you can truly see God work miracles.
April 30, 2012
Beauty of Life...
The smell of fresh cut grass and the warmth of the sun kissed my cheeks with delight. There is something about nature that makes my heart beat with excitement and my life fill with life. Something about the change in the season that reminds me that life is living and that is what we should be reminded of daily... God lives and so should we in Him.
This weekend was beautiful and so full of accomplishments. So often I intend to do something productive like clean my house or try a new recipe I found but things change when I feel the warmth of the sun on my skin. It doesn't matter if I just see it... it is when I feel it that all energy comes into my heart. I feel like I could run a marathon or climb a mountain.
Sometimes our attitudes can be so stuck in a routine of life that we find ourselves so stuck. So unaware of our true need for a swift kick of life.
Take time to enjoy life and the beauty that God has blessed you with. If you enjoy the sun take a few minutes to let it kiss your skin. If you enjoy the sound of the birds, sit outside and take in the sound of their music. Enjoy the little things because life will take them away from you if you don't. Live your life don't let it live you.
I look at my life and I've found that even at a young age I have missed out on time that I spent feeling like I just couldn't. It was energy that was put to the inability instead of using that time of a few enjoyable minutes of living that minute. Fear, insecurity, sickness, and excuses used up time in my life to just enjoy each minute.
Life is beautiful and so is the Lord we serve. He has blessed us with so many things that we just don't take the time to enjoy. God loves beauty and that in which He created... why do you think he rested for a day? Or even said after everything it is good?
Enjoy the things God has given you and the beauty of life. Jesus lives so that we can live and sometimes we just stay in bondage to life. Enjoy life in Christ and the things that He wants and has blessed you with. LIVE! And live free....
This weekend was beautiful and so full of accomplishments. So often I intend to do something productive like clean my house or try a new recipe I found but things change when I feel the warmth of the sun on my skin. It doesn't matter if I just see it... it is when I feel it that all energy comes into my heart. I feel like I could run a marathon or climb a mountain.
Sometimes our attitudes can be so stuck in a routine of life that we find ourselves so stuck. So unaware of our true need for a swift kick of life.
Take time to enjoy life and the beauty that God has blessed you with. If you enjoy the sun take a few minutes to let it kiss your skin. If you enjoy the sound of the birds, sit outside and take in the sound of their music. Enjoy the little things because life will take them away from you if you don't. Live your life don't let it live you.
I look at my life and I've found that even at a young age I have missed out on time that I spent feeling like I just couldn't. It was energy that was put to the inability instead of using that time of a few enjoyable minutes of living that minute. Fear, insecurity, sickness, and excuses used up time in my life to just enjoy each minute.
Life is beautiful and so is the Lord we serve. He has blessed us with so many things that we just don't take the time to enjoy. God loves beauty and that in which He created... why do you think he rested for a day? Or even said after everything it is good?
Enjoy the things God has given you and the beauty of life. Jesus lives so that we can live and sometimes we just stay in bondage to life. Enjoy life in Christ and the things that He wants and has blessed you with. LIVE! And live free....
April 27, 2012
Praise Report...
Without sharing to much I will say that when we take those steps of faith when God says step.... it works. OBEY IT!!!!
Today after determining in my heart I was going to make the step he spoke... God blessed in ways that I didn't think would happen. I have learned that when we step back and look at things the way God does we will see that the only way we will see change is if we can take the step towards it.
So praise report to brighten up your weekend and start you into a new week. Take those little steps of faith.. those steps when it seems that you just can't see the end and you just can't see passed the situation.
It is interesting how boldness comes with strength, strength with obedience, and obedience with faith. They all connect in some way and in my situation all tied together coming down with FAITH! I'm looking forward to this next step in my life and of course will share with you when... well when all things fall into place.
Thank you all for your feedback either through comments or by emails. Your words of encouragement keep me writing and help me see that there are those out there who really are getting touched by what God has done in my life. Don't stop speaking, don't sit down and feel you need to be like everyone else. We are all made to help build the kingdom of God in every way we can. If there is anything that inspires me more is to hear from others who have taken something I learned and applied it to their live and saw results. How hearing about a situation that I was able to get through helped them stay strong THROUGH Christ until the end.
Smile..... Don't stop smiling! AND most of all don't stop praising God because you have praise reports too!
Today after determining in my heart I was going to make the step he spoke... God blessed in ways that I didn't think would happen. I have learned that when we step back and look at things the way God does we will see that the only way we will see change is if we can take the step towards it.
So praise report to brighten up your weekend and start you into a new week. Take those little steps of faith.. those steps when it seems that you just can't see the end and you just can't see passed the situation.
It is interesting how boldness comes with strength, strength with obedience, and obedience with faith. They all connect in some way and in my situation all tied together coming down with FAITH! I'm looking forward to this next step in my life and of course will share with you when... well when all things fall into place.
Thank you all for your feedback either through comments or by emails. Your words of encouragement keep me writing and help me see that there are those out there who really are getting touched by what God has done in my life. Don't stop speaking, don't sit down and feel you need to be like everyone else. We are all made to help build the kingdom of God in every way we can. If there is anything that inspires me more is to hear from others who have taken something I learned and applied it to their live and saw results. How hearing about a situation that I was able to get through helped them stay strong THROUGH Christ until the end.
Smile..... Don't stop smiling! AND most of all don't stop praising God because you have praise reports too!
April 25, 2012
In the Mist of the Dark...
As much as I believe in doing something that is good. I was saddened at the posters that were in shreds the day after young students posted fliers around International Falls and Littlefork.
Being that I am going to be going to Uganda in a matter of only months I find this launch of awareness as being a little disturbing. Don't get me wrong I think that this man needs to be stopped but I don't feel that posting awareness this way will be the source in which he will be stopped. I feel that if our young people believe enough in stopping this man that they must put their time and energy into speaking to the higher powers, government, among us who will be able to stop him.
During passed and present wars young people spoke their rights with pride and conviction as they sat on the steps of government agencies. Some even went as far as causing riots and breaking out in violence that caused nothing more then more hurt and pain. Not that I agree with their tactics I believe in their passion to make an effort to see things changed.
God's people are called to be a peculiar people. We are commanded to go out and speak the good Word to all. However, I have found that it is a difficult task for our young people to do. It is hard to be set apart and to stand on the things that are right. Like the young people did in my community this passed weekend they will stand for what is right in the black of the night to pin up signs that only last a night because of the rain but will not go to the government doors to speak in a respectful way to stand for what is right.
Please do not get my wrong I believe that what these young kids did was good and that they do believe in what they are doing, but do others? Many people around our community spoke against the signs that were hanging around town because they didn't know what KONY 2012 even meant. To the older generation it was just litter that had no purpose being put around our town.
In the mist of the night a group of young people posted posters around our community but in the mist of the day no one was informed on what they really meant. The older generation stood puzzled as they knew nothing about the cry of the silent child. Are we really getting the word out?
I'm stumped today as I think of this concept with living for God. We can't expect our young people and even older people to stand up for God in the mist of the night but not go out with voices through out the days.
We can be set apart with our dress and our attire but what is it that will get the message across. It won't be a sign or a poster that hangs in the doorway it will be the testimony in the light that shines in the darkness.
Our God is light... is our work being done in the light or is it being done in the mist of the darkness when questions are not answered? In a place where we are hiding because we can't voice and stand for things in fear that someone might come at us?
Be strong and know that God is with us and if He is then who can be against us. I'm sending out the challenge today... are you really willing to stand apart or are you afraid of what others may say?
April 24, 2012
Give of Your Talent...
Matthew 25:14-18
Look around you. Do you see what God has blessed you with? If you were to really think about what God has blessed you with you might be surprised to realize that you don't share that with many people. I'm talking about the ability to do something everyday that will bless more then just you. Not what you can do in the church but what you can do outside the church doors.
Is your life a testimony of what talents God has given to you in a humble way? Do you use the abilities you have to give glory to God in every day situations? Can people see that you are using your talent and that there is just something special about what you do?
Think about what God has given you today. Take a look at your life and see if you are really using your talents for God. I'm not talking about in the church... I'm talking about in your day to day life. I'm talking about what you do when you are outside the church doors because we have all been commanded to go out and preach. Your life is what will preach and if you are using the talents God has given you... your life will preach to all nations, tribes, and tongues right in the comfort of your daily life.
Come on lets take a challenge!
For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.Last night while I vacuumed my house I was reminded of something. God has given us each a talent and it is our responsibility to use it. As I looked around my house I saw all the many little blessings God has given me.
Look around you. Do you see what God has blessed you with? If you were to really think about what God has blessed you with you might be surprised to realize that you don't share that with many people. I'm talking about the ability to do something everyday that will bless more then just you. Not what you can do in the church but what you can do outside the church doors.
Is your life a testimony of what talents God has given to you in a humble way? Do you use the abilities you have to give glory to God in every day situations? Can people see that you are using your talent and that there is just something special about what you do?
Think about what God has given you today. Take a look at your life and see if you are really using your talents for God. I'm not talking about in the church... I'm talking about in your day to day life. I'm talking about what you do when you are outside the church doors because we have all been commanded to go out and preach. Your life is what will preach and if you are using the talents God has given you... your life will preach to all nations, tribes, and tongues right in the comfort of your daily life.
Come on lets take a challenge!
April 17, 2012
Stubborn and Strong...
As a young girl I was energetic, talkative, creative, and some may say very confident. As I got older I found myself discouraged in confidence, less likely to dance around, and more likely to listen then be the first to speak. Times changed and situations made my life what it is today but there are two characteristics that never were taken from me and that was my stubbornness and my strength that made me what I am.
Yesterday while I was looking at the overview of how many people have been looking at my page I was brought to a page of the ways that people found my blog. One of the google searches that was used was "having sex with an apostolic girl". Of course because of the words "apostolic girl" they were given my blog as one of the results. I pray they found out quick that they won't be getting what they thought as this strong and stubborn girl isn't weak.
I have had people tell me that putting my name on my blog was not wise. In fact some told me that I shouldn't just because there are weird people out there but I'm to stubborn to let someone stop me from voicing my beliefs and giving encouragement to those young girls who have found themselves in the same boat as me. Those young girls who have lost their energetic, fun loving self in the mist of trying to be the "ideal" girl and help them understand like I had to that they can get back what they feel was stolen and still be the godly girls/women they are called to be.
In a recent article a columnist wrote about how young girls are no longer little girls anymore. How society and the media have came together to destroy the energetic, talkative, creative, and confident young girls. The kind of girls who would sing a song about a turnip in the onion patch, dance with flaying arms and legs resembling a kick boxer more then a dancer, and drive a car that was made out of their closet as they closed the door and drove to the store with their teddy bear in the front seat with them. What happened to our young girls?
We now have girls who dance with hips that move in ways that they do not understand why, dress with shirts that are so low that when they play they fall down and show their chests that haven't developed yet, they wear real make up to school, and listen to songs like "shake it for me girl... shake it for me".
As I sit here writing I find myself wanting more then ever to stand up for what is right and voice my opinion regarding what makes a woman a woman. Have we lost so much of the passed that we can't see that searches like "having sex with an apostolic girl" are only a result of our not training our young girls how to be young girls. Teaching them to be stubborn and strong for the beliefs they have and the things they stand for. Stealing them of their innocence and truly making them into sex objects so that they feel their only true value is that which comes from a man.
Being a woman is a beautiful thing and in God's way can be beautiful when a man is attracted by the things that make a woman truly a woman. We have been made in the likeness of God to glorify Him in the beauty of His holiness. We have been made as fine gems as we grow closer to Him and shine in the virtue of the godly temples He designed us to be. Young girls will only be young girls if we show them what being a woman really is. Think about it....
Growing up the image of a woman that was portrayed was that which was pure. Our examples where mothers who desired for their girls to be girls and even more so they dresses us to be just that. Easter dresses were of flowers and frills with white gloves, shiny shoes, and hats. This was my time... when I grew up!
What was portrayed to me was that of a mother and a loving wife. Because my grandpa had a farm which I loved I desired to be a farmers wife and live off the land. That was the image to me of a good woman so what did I pretend. I pretended to be a farmers wife, with a baby, that cooked, baked, and cleaned while my husband did chores.
I'm praying today for all the young woman, mothers, and girls who are either examples or growing up. It is time for statements like "having sex with an apostolic girl" to make us stand strong for the things that are right and not just make us afraid and say well that is the sign of the end times. It is time for our young women to stand strong in the church and say I want young girls to know that they can keep their purity, innocence, and childhood.
Yesterday while I was looking at the overview of how many people have been looking at my page I was brought to a page of the ways that people found my blog. One of the google searches that was used was "having sex with an apostolic girl". Of course because of the words "apostolic girl" they were given my blog as one of the results. I pray they found out quick that they won't be getting what they thought as this strong and stubborn girl isn't weak.
I have had people tell me that putting my name on my blog was not wise. In fact some told me that I shouldn't just because there are weird people out there but I'm to stubborn to let someone stop me from voicing my beliefs and giving encouragement to those young girls who have found themselves in the same boat as me. Those young girls who have lost their energetic, fun loving self in the mist of trying to be the "ideal" girl and help them understand like I had to that they can get back what they feel was stolen and still be the godly girls/women they are called to be.
In a recent article a columnist wrote about how young girls are no longer little girls anymore. How society and the media have came together to destroy the energetic, talkative, creative, and confident young girls. The kind of girls who would sing a song about a turnip in the onion patch, dance with flaying arms and legs resembling a kick boxer more then a dancer, and drive a car that was made out of their closet as they closed the door and drove to the store with their teddy bear in the front seat with them. What happened to our young girls?
We now have girls who dance with hips that move in ways that they do not understand why, dress with shirts that are so low that when they play they fall down and show their chests that haven't developed yet, they wear real make up to school, and listen to songs like "shake it for me girl... shake it for me".
As I sit here writing I find myself wanting more then ever to stand up for what is right and voice my opinion regarding what makes a woman a woman. Have we lost so much of the passed that we can't see that searches like "having sex with an apostolic girl" are only a result of our not training our young girls how to be young girls. Teaching them to be stubborn and strong for the beliefs they have and the things they stand for. Stealing them of their innocence and truly making them into sex objects so that they feel their only true value is that which comes from a man.
Being a woman is a beautiful thing and in God's way can be beautiful when a man is attracted by the things that make a woman truly a woman. We have been made in the likeness of God to glorify Him in the beauty of His holiness. We have been made as fine gems as we grow closer to Him and shine in the virtue of the godly temples He designed us to be. Young girls will only be young girls if we show them what being a woman really is. Think about it....
Growing up the image of a woman that was portrayed was that which was pure. Our examples where mothers who desired for their girls to be girls and even more so they dresses us to be just that. Easter dresses were of flowers and frills with white gloves, shiny shoes, and hats. This was my time... when I grew up!
What was portrayed to me was that of a mother and a loving wife. Because my grandpa had a farm which I loved I desired to be a farmers wife and live off the land. That was the image to me of a good woman so what did I pretend. I pretended to be a farmers wife, with a baby, that cooked, baked, and cleaned while my husband did chores.
I'm praying today for all the young woman, mothers, and girls who are either examples or growing up. It is time for statements like "having sex with an apostolic girl" to make us stand strong for the things that are right and not just make us afraid and say well that is the sign of the end times. It is time for our young women to stand strong in the church and say I want young girls to know that they can keep their purity, innocence, and childhood.
April 16, 2012
What's next...
In our lives we get to a place where we wonder... what's next? Our faith is expanded as we trust in the mighty hand of God and know that He will take care of us but still we wonder what's next. I was moved by a statement made by Brother Richard Wittmeier during a Q&A of Launch Your Ministry at our Youth Convention this winter. He said "I am getting to a place in my life where I am looking to retire which will be a big change in my life but it doesn't mean that my ministry is over... it just means it will change. In ministry our work is always changing and will never get to a place where we feel like we have arrived".
Of course that was not word for word but what he was saying came down to the last statement, "in ministry our work is always changing no matter what age we are. We will never get to a place where we feel we arrived". There will always be a time in our lives when we feel like... what's next? Not in a way of always look to the future but knowing that in everything there is a season.
The word says " To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time to war, and a time of peace. Ecclesiastes 3
No matter where we are in our lives we will be at a place where we can say... What next? A place when we look to the sky and can truthfully say in our hearts... God what do you want from me?
Recently in my life I've been brought some very difficult decisions ones that truly only God can direct me in. I know that no matter what is next that God will help me through it and help me put away my own fleshly desires to be in the right season at the right time. Sometimes getting to a place where I don't get what I want is a good thing which brings to me the importance of fasting in my life. Not always will I get what I desire and not always is it good for me to get it.
I share this with you today in deep conviction. Is my life truly a testimony of what God can do and will do or is it a testimony of what God could have done and didn't do? My prayer today is this... life comes our way and situations make it change with time. Dream, dreams and make plans but don't allow yourself to feel like you failed when God sends you on a different path.
Don't fear the season of your life nor the path that God is taking you on. I truly can say that no matter what the season and no matter what is next it is all worth it. There is a reason for everything in your life and sometimes it is a matter of you just enjoying what is the here and now.
Of course that was not word for word but what he was saying came down to the last statement, "in ministry our work is always changing no matter what age we are. We will never get to a place where we feel we arrived". There will always be a time in our lives when we feel like... what's next? Not in a way of always look to the future but knowing that in everything there is a season.
The word says " To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time to war, and a time of peace. Ecclesiastes 3
No matter where we are in our lives we will be at a place where we can say... What next? A place when we look to the sky and can truthfully say in our hearts... God what do you want from me?
Recently in my life I've been brought some very difficult decisions ones that truly only God can direct me in. I know that no matter what is next that God will help me through it and help me put away my own fleshly desires to be in the right season at the right time. Sometimes getting to a place where I don't get what I want is a good thing which brings to me the importance of fasting in my life. Not always will I get what I desire and not always is it good for me to get it.
I share this with you today in deep conviction. Is my life truly a testimony of what God can do and will do or is it a testimony of what God could have done and didn't do? My prayer today is this... life comes our way and situations make it change with time. Dream, dreams and make plans but don't allow yourself to feel like you failed when God sends you on a different path.
Don't fear the season of your life nor the path that God is taking you on. I truly can say that no matter what the season and no matter what is next it is all worth it. There is a reason for everything in your life and sometimes it is a matter of you just enjoying what is the here and now.
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