August 12, 2013
A Piece of my Puzzle...
There is something special about the plan of God and the steps it takes to receive the promises that have been given to us. The process that it takes to prepare us for the things that we await. Those days of true frustration, loneliness, impatience, and sometimes plain heartache. But it is through it all that we find ourselves being molded into the disciples that we have been called to be. I find myself amazed at all the things that God has done in my life. The hurt that only He could heal and the love that only He could give. I look at the promises that He has given me and I wonder how I could I ever be what He has spoken. It is in those times when I truly know that God loves us and wants to give to His children. I have prayed for a long time for God to fulfill His promises and wondered how He would ever accomplish what He said. But as I sit here today I see the puzzle being put together. I see the reason for the heartache, I see the reason for the times I cried in loneliness, I see the reason for tests, and I find myself thankful for a Father who cared that much to prepare me. The puzzle comes together and the picture is complete. Sometimes it takes us to be patient in what God is doing and know that there is a reason for what He is doing. Sometimes it doesn't feel good in the process, but when God puts it together that's when it really fits and the picture is complete.
April 6, 2013
The Power of the Resurrection...
A week ago tomorrow, I preached my very first Easter service. To those who have done this before this may not seem like a big deal, but to me… it’s huge. Coming from the world into the glorious church you find the message of the cross mesmerizing. A story of pure beauty and hope, something I find an honor to preach on.
The cross is more than a story of our Saviors love and adoration for us. To me the cross is the starting to the most beautiful miracle that ever took place. It is the place where true belief in Christ takes place and the complete message of salvation began.
The song At the Foot of the Cross rings in my ears, “at the foot of the cross, where grace and suffering meet… turn these aches into beauty and wear forgiveness like a crown”. What truth lies in the struggle between the possible and the impossible, a place where only God could show himself the one true God and people could see the power in believing that He is who He said He was. For so many it is easy to believe that Jesus died for our sins, but trying to grasp the true power of the resurrection is a true faith step in its own. How? Why? What?
When I think of resurrection Sunday, I think of its importance. If I want people to believe in the Holy Ghost, desire and want it, I must be in love with the power of the resurrection. For the Word of God tells me that the same spirit that rose Him up out of the grave is the same spirit that will raise me up when He comes back for His church. To leave this world behind and to have the hope of spending eternity with Him, I must have that same spirit. The spirit that say, grace and suffering meet together in my life and beauty is made out of the aches that I brought to my King. I wear forgiveness like it is my reigning purpose and this is all because of the spirit that lives in me.
Without the resurrection, God would have just died for my sins and hope would be forgotten. However, with the power of forgiveness and the spirit of God, I can know that some glorious day I will be up seated at his feet. O Glorious Day!
I look forward to the day where I can say to my Jesus… Thank you for the cross Lord… Thank you for the price you paid. It rings in my heart the importance of the cross and the power of the resurrection. My heart hurts when I hear people say on Easter Sunday, it isn’t really the day of the resurrection it isn’t really a big deal.
Well I tell you what… I’m going to take every opportunity that I can to preach the cross and the power of the resurrection. I want to celebrate the day whenever I can and if others will celebrate with me… praise God! I will take whatever I can get and speak on that day the power of what the resurrection did in my life.
The cross is more than a story of our Saviors love and adoration for us. To me the cross is the starting to the most beautiful miracle that ever took place. It is the place where true belief in Christ takes place and the complete message of salvation began.
The song At the Foot of the Cross rings in my ears, “at the foot of the cross, where grace and suffering meet… turn these aches into beauty and wear forgiveness like a crown”. What truth lies in the struggle between the possible and the impossible, a place where only God could show himself the one true God and people could see the power in believing that He is who He said He was. For so many it is easy to believe that Jesus died for our sins, but trying to grasp the true power of the resurrection is a true faith step in its own. How? Why? What?
When I think of resurrection Sunday, I think of its importance. If I want people to believe in the Holy Ghost, desire and want it, I must be in love with the power of the resurrection. For the Word of God tells me that the same spirit that rose Him up out of the grave is the same spirit that will raise me up when He comes back for His church. To leave this world behind and to have the hope of spending eternity with Him, I must have that same spirit. The spirit that say, grace and suffering meet together in my life and beauty is made out of the aches that I brought to my King. I wear forgiveness like it is my reigning purpose and this is all because of the spirit that lives in me.
Without the resurrection, God would have just died for my sins and hope would be forgotten. However, with the power of forgiveness and the spirit of God, I can know that some glorious day I will be up seated at his feet. O Glorious Day!
I look forward to the day where I can say to my Jesus… Thank you for the cross Lord… Thank you for the price you paid. It rings in my heart the importance of the cross and the power of the resurrection. My heart hurts when I hear people say on Easter Sunday, it isn’t really the day of the resurrection it isn’t really a big deal.
Well I tell you what… I’m going to take every opportunity that I can to preach the cross and the power of the resurrection. I want to celebrate the day whenever I can and if others will celebrate with me… praise God! I will take whatever I can get and speak on that day the power of what the resurrection did in my life.
March 9, 2013
Tomorrow...
As I sit in a bedroom that once was my brothers I find myself overwhelmed with the memories. The days when I would hear him pray to God from the top of his metal bunk bed. Prayers from a young boy, who knew a God greater and more powerful then the men on the baseball cards he hid in the ceiling tiles above his bed. The memory of that day that I found myself regretting my decision to mouth off to my brother and locking my bedroom door. It didn’t take long that the locksmith’s son, my brother, was taking my doorknob off and popping the pins off the hinges. I soon was hanging out my second story window dropping to the ground to get away.
The foundation that we build is the one that we will stand on for the rest of our lives. That is only if, it is one that is strong enough to resist the weather that life throws our way. The Word of God says that the man that is built on the rock will withstand the waves. That rock is Jesus and when it comes to building our houses we must make sure it is built on every principle that is instructed to us in the Bible.
I think often about the principles that I stand by and what I believe is right, the true morals that were instilled into me as a child, as well as the things that God has taught me as an adult. Those things are what I base my decisions on and the things that I go back to. The times I go to prayer for answers when I don’t know have came from the experiences of finding that the only way to get an answer is from prayer. This is because I choose everyday to build the foundation that was built underneath me as a child and make sure it is grounded in Christ.
I am sitting in the house that most of my childhood memories were built in, but it does not look like the house that I once knew. After a flood happened in my parent’s house a couple of years ago, they were forced to gut their house to the studs. The floor plan has changed a little bit but the house is still the house that I grew up in. It may look different on the inside but the foundation is still there.
This is like me. I was not raised in the church, but there are still things that God instilled into my parents to teach me that were biblical principles that I live by today. Some things in my life needed to be changed, updated, and cleaned up, but I still have the foundation that was there and it is my responsibility to build on it. God put people in my lives to start a foundation that was Godly but it is my responsibility to make sure I keep it strong. That I keep the termites from eating at my foundation and destroy what I God has given me.
Tomorrow brings changes and with changes brings new trials. However, I’ve came to appreciate each given day and the new challenges it brings. It is in those challenges that I must look to my foundation and look to the things I know are right. The Word, which I have hid in my heart and deep in the foundation of my soul, is what gives me the answers in those times.
Times may have changed and era’s may have come and gone, but God has not changed and will not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I must remind myself of that and no matter what tomorrow brings that I can stay reminded of the foundation I stand on. The foundation that God instilled into my parents to train me up in, as well as those things I have learned as an adult.
I write this today to say… tomorrow will come. Build the foundation underneath you strong a firm. Make sure the studs that hold up your memories are not what you hold on to. Make sure that it is the Word that is deep within you that keeps your studs up and standing strong. Make sure that it is God that is your foundation because He will stand the test of time.
The foundation that we build is the one that we will stand on for the rest of our lives. That is only if, it is one that is strong enough to resist the weather that life throws our way. The Word of God says that the man that is built on the rock will withstand the waves. That rock is Jesus and when it comes to building our houses we must make sure it is built on every principle that is instructed to us in the Bible.
I think often about the principles that I stand by and what I believe is right, the true morals that were instilled into me as a child, as well as the things that God has taught me as an adult. Those things are what I base my decisions on and the things that I go back to. The times I go to prayer for answers when I don’t know have came from the experiences of finding that the only way to get an answer is from prayer. This is because I choose everyday to build the foundation that was built underneath me as a child and make sure it is grounded in Christ.
I am sitting in the house that most of my childhood memories were built in, but it does not look like the house that I once knew. After a flood happened in my parent’s house a couple of years ago, they were forced to gut their house to the studs. The floor plan has changed a little bit but the house is still the house that I grew up in. It may look different on the inside but the foundation is still there.
This is like me. I was not raised in the church, but there are still things that God instilled into my parents to teach me that were biblical principles that I live by today. Some things in my life needed to be changed, updated, and cleaned up, but I still have the foundation that was there and it is my responsibility to build on it. God put people in my lives to start a foundation that was Godly but it is my responsibility to make sure I keep it strong. That I keep the termites from eating at my foundation and destroy what I God has given me.
Tomorrow brings changes and with changes brings new trials. However, I’ve came to appreciate each given day and the new challenges it brings. It is in those challenges that I must look to my foundation and look to the things I know are right. The Word, which I have hid in my heart and deep in the foundation of my soul, is what gives me the answers in those times.
Times may have changed and era’s may have come and gone, but God has not changed and will not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I must remind myself of that and no matter what tomorrow brings that I can stay reminded of the foundation I stand on. The foundation that God instilled into my parents to train me up in, as well as those things I have learned as an adult.
I write this today to say… tomorrow will come. Build the foundation underneath you strong a firm. Make sure the studs that hold up your memories are not what you hold on to. Make sure that it is the Word that is deep within you that keeps your studs up and standing strong. Make sure that it is God that is your foundation because He will stand the test of time.
February 11, 2013
A Voice in the Mist of the Rain...
There is nothing like watching the rain from the inside of your cozy home. Those moments in time while you enjoying the sound of a burning candle and its aroma that fills the bone chilling air. A moment in time that nothing seems to be going exactly has you scheduled but there is comfort in enjoying the atmosphere. That moment when you understand that God is in complete control and rest seems complete in the mist of the storm.
I’m reminded today of Peter while he was in the prison. Behind those iron bars was an atmosphere of regret, hatred, and spiritual oppression. An atmosphere that no matter, how many candles you burn or warm fleece blankets you wrap yourself in, there is no comfort outside of Jesus Christ.
The cold feeling of fear must have chilled the bones of the man Peter, but I believe that he found warmth in the mist of the storm. This terrible situation was made into a miracle because Peter kept His eyes on Jesus and off the situation at hand. No matter how cold the atmosphere got Peter was there for a purpose and to fulfill that purpose he had to keep his eyes on God and not on what the enemy had put before him.
I can’t say that I believe that my mom had a purpose to feel the prison walls of a Kenyan prison. But I can say that I know that God was with her. What the enemy meant for evil, God turned for good. There was no person who was saved behind those prison walls, but there was a bright light in the middle of the foggy oppression that filled those cells.
In our mission’s trip to Kenya, the atmosphere was cold, frightening, and truly filled with evil spirits. However, in the mist of that atmosphere stood a group of God fearing, Holy Ghost filled saints of God, which were there for a purpose and carried it out. We were there to break out the prisoners behind the iron prison walls and baptized hundreds of Trinitarian saints and pastors in the wonderful Name of Jesus Christ.
I believe that in every situation, every moment in time, that God has placed us there for a reason. It may seem like the air is thick with defeat and the mission at hand is impossible, but like Peter we are called. Called to purpose and that won’t happen without a little spiritual warfare.
As the times get harder and we feel that we are in the rain storm that will never end. We must remember where we are sitting in the ship with the greatest comforter there is. No matter what the weather maybe outside or even the atmosphere, God can be the brightest candle, give off the sweetest aroma, and bring us the greatest victory or blessing we have every imagined.
Look for the beauty in the mist of every situation and remember that every bad situation God made good. If God caused the rain he will bring the rainbow, if God caused the famine he will bring the mania. Find strength today in knowing that no matter what it looks like outside your windows… you can be living in paradise inside the temple of the Almighty God.
I’m reminded today of Peter while he was in the prison. Behind those iron bars was an atmosphere of regret, hatred, and spiritual oppression. An atmosphere that no matter, how many candles you burn or warm fleece blankets you wrap yourself in, there is no comfort outside of Jesus Christ.
The cold feeling of fear must have chilled the bones of the man Peter, but I believe that he found warmth in the mist of the storm. This terrible situation was made into a miracle because Peter kept His eyes on Jesus and off the situation at hand. No matter how cold the atmosphere got Peter was there for a purpose and to fulfill that purpose he had to keep his eyes on God and not on what the enemy had put before him.
I can’t say that I believe that my mom had a purpose to feel the prison walls of a Kenyan prison. But I can say that I know that God was with her. What the enemy meant for evil, God turned for good. There was no person who was saved behind those prison walls, but there was a bright light in the middle of the foggy oppression that filled those cells.
In our mission’s trip to Kenya, the atmosphere was cold, frightening, and truly filled with evil spirits. However, in the mist of that atmosphere stood a group of God fearing, Holy Ghost filled saints of God, which were there for a purpose and carried it out. We were there to break out the prisoners behind the iron prison walls and baptized hundreds of Trinitarian saints and pastors in the wonderful Name of Jesus Christ.
I believe that in every situation, every moment in time, that God has placed us there for a reason. It may seem like the air is thick with defeat and the mission at hand is impossible, but like Peter we are called. Called to purpose and that won’t happen without a little spiritual warfare.
As the times get harder and we feel that we are in the rain storm that will never end. We must remember where we are sitting in the ship with the greatest comforter there is. No matter what the weather maybe outside or even the atmosphere, God can be the brightest candle, give off the sweetest aroma, and bring us the greatest victory or blessing we have every imagined.
Look for the beauty in the mist of every situation and remember that every bad situation God made good. If God caused the rain he will bring the rainbow, if God caused the famine he will bring the mania. Find strength today in knowing that no matter what it looks like outside your windows… you can be living in paradise inside the temple of the Almighty God.
September 8, 2012
Worth Fighting For....
This week I lost a very loved and well respected classmate. At the age of 24 his life was tragically taken in a head on car crash, which took both him and his wife's life. He is the second classmate I have lost since graduation and in this time of grief all I can think of is how important our lives are and how important salvation is. We are not guaranteed tomorrow, in fact we are not guaranteed anything, but what we are guaranteed is the plan of salvation and that in which the Word has so perfectly displayed in it's importance to our eternal lives.
I am not writing today of the gloom of my classmates and where they are or are not going to be spending eternity. I'm writing today this very fact that Matthew wrote: Mt 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Our salvation is something worth fighting for and John the Baptist knew that. His soul purpose in life was to bring the message of the coming of the Messiah and the plan of salvation that would come. Grace was not in affect when he ministered, it was by action/sacrifice. In those days they knew what they were fighting for and what they were standing for. They would give their lives for the call of the Lord and stand for the message they knew was truth. It was what they fought for and was worth every sacrificed lamb.
The Word says in Philipians 2:12: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. We must have a fear of where we will spend eternity and not because of the fear of man but of the fear of God. Each person knows what God has given them, each person knows the ministry that He has put in their feet, each person knows that God is coming soon, and with all that we must know that it is time to start fighting for salvation.
I can not change the salvation of any person nor can I say if my classmates did or did not make it into heaven but I can say this, the Word says that I must repent, be baptised in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost to even see the kingdom of God. I must obey His Word and follow after Him... that I know and that I must do.
Now is not the time for us to get quiet about this gospel message that we know is true. It isn't time for us to silence our beliefs or remove our landmarks. This is the time where we stand firm on the foundation of the rock that we are built on. Speaking to every soul about this message and the coming of our Savior. Now is the time that we gather together speaking of all that He has done for us.
The Bible says that in the last days there will be a falling away from the church. If you have been watching it is happening and the truth is we must be careful that doesn't include us. I'm sitting here tonight saying it is time to take up the fight for our salvation and those around us.
It is time for the church to arise from the slumber. I speak of this from my heart and not that of any rebuke. I know that there are many in the church who are out spreading this gospel message but I also know their are some that are not who have fallen asleep in the delay of His coming and have been blinded by the ways of the enemy.
It is time for us to fight and I ask all prayer warriors to go to battle on their knees because this is war and we need prayer. Your salvation and every loss soul is worth fighting for!
I am not writing today of the gloom of my classmates and where they are or are not going to be spending eternity. I'm writing today this very fact that Matthew wrote: Mt 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Our salvation is something worth fighting for and John the Baptist knew that. His soul purpose in life was to bring the message of the coming of the Messiah and the plan of salvation that would come. Grace was not in affect when he ministered, it was by action/sacrifice. In those days they knew what they were fighting for and what they were standing for. They would give their lives for the call of the Lord and stand for the message they knew was truth. It was what they fought for and was worth every sacrificed lamb.
The Word says in Philipians 2:12: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. We must have a fear of where we will spend eternity and not because of the fear of man but of the fear of God. Each person knows what God has given them, each person knows the ministry that He has put in their feet, each person knows that God is coming soon, and with all that we must know that it is time to start fighting for salvation.
I can not change the salvation of any person nor can I say if my classmates did or did not make it into heaven but I can say this, the Word says that I must repent, be baptised in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost to even see the kingdom of God. I must obey His Word and follow after Him... that I know and that I must do.
Now is not the time for us to get quiet about this gospel message that we know is true. It isn't time for us to silence our beliefs or remove our landmarks. This is the time where we stand firm on the foundation of the rock that we are built on. Speaking to every soul about this message and the coming of our Savior. Now is the time that we gather together speaking of all that He has done for us.
The Bible says that in the last days there will be a falling away from the church. If you have been watching it is happening and the truth is we must be careful that doesn't include us. I'm sitting here tonight saying it is time to take up the fight for our salvation and those around us.
It is time for the church to arise from the slumber. I speak of this from my heart and not that of any rebuke. I know that there are many in the church who are out spreading this gospel message but I also know their are some that are not who have fallen asleep in the delay of His coming and have been blinded by the ways of the enemy.
It is time for us to fight and I ask all prayer warriors to go to battle on their knees because this is war and we need prayer. Your salvation and every loss soul is worth fighting for!
August 28, 2012
New View...
It has been to long since I've written and even though my intention was to write more I haven't felt inspired to write. Now that I am back from Uganda I feel that I don't know what to write. I pray that the Lord will lift this sadness from my heart this sadness of feeling like I need to be there. I miss the people and their love for God but even more the feeling that I'm right where I need to be.
I feel this strong burden to help the people in Uganda but know that right now God has me here. There is such a need for teaching and discipleship. I believe God is working on many regarding this training and pray that God's will, will become mans desire. To those who are reading this I ask for you to pray that God will put into place the training that these people are in need of and asking for.
There are many who are in need over in Uganda but I believe that God has given a burden that will help the people in their spiritual needs and physical needs. There is something in the spiritual realm going on right now and God is looking for those who are listening to His calling.
I believe that God wants more than just service by mouth but God is looking for people to give to bless because God has given to them. I am going to be posting some information on here regarding how you can become a sponsor of a young child in Uganda. If you can't do that I ask you to please pray that God will use someone else to give to these children. There is a big need and sometimes we forget that to give the spiritual needs of child of God we must supply there physical needs as well.
I don't know what to say more than this.... Uganda changed my life and my outlook on what God wants from me. I pray that you will keep me in your prayers as I find a clear direction from God. Sometimes the will of God is clear but the waves seem to big. However, we know the Lord in the bottom of the boat who is sleeping and saying "trust me".
Thank you to everyone who kept us in your prayers during our time in Africa. You're prayers were answered and God had His way. The enemy fought in the ways he could but God WON! As there were 26 Trinitarian pastors who were baptized in Jesus name as well as 100 saints who now have taken on the name of Jesus. Please pray that these men and women of God will be able to move forward in this Jesus name message walking fully in truth and standing against the enemy in Jesus name. Also pray that those who have not received the Holy Ghost will receive an upper room experience.
Together with Christ we can see a world wide revival that changes lives!
I feel this strong burden to help the people in Uganda but know that right now God has me here. There is such a need for teaching and discipleship. I believe God is working on many regarding this training and pray that God's will, will become mans desire. To those who are reading this I ask for you to pray that God will put into place the training that these people are in need of and asking for.
There are many who are in need over in Uganda but I believe that God has given a burden that will help the people in their spiritual needs and physical needs. There is something in the spiritual realm going on right now and God is looking for those who are listening to His calling.
I believe that God wants more than just service by mouth but God is looking for people to give to bless because God has given to them. I am going to be posting some information on here regarding how you can become a sponsor of a young child in Uganda. If you can't do that I ask you to please pray that God will use someone else to give to these children. There is a big need and sometimes we forget that to give the spiritual needs of child of God we must supply there physical needs as well.
I don't know what to say more than this.... Uganda changed my life and my outlook on what God wants from me. I pray that you will keep me in your prayers as I find a clear direction from God. Sometimes the will of God is clear but the waves seem to big. However, we know the Lord in the bottom of the boat who is sleeping and saying "trust me".
Thank you to everyone who kept us in your prayers during our time in Africa. You're prayers were answered and God had His way. The enemy fought in the ways he could but God WON! As there were 26 Trinitarian pastors who were baptized in Jesus name as well as 100 saints who now have taken on the name of Jesus. Please pray that these men and women of God will be able to move forward in this Jesus name message walking fully in truth and standing against the enemy in Jesus name. Also pray that those who have not received the Holy Ghost will receive an upper room experience.
Together with Christ we can see a world wide revival that changes lives!
June 29, 2012
Disaster...
Last week there was a terrible natural disaster that took place in my own state. Minnesota was hit with one of the most puzzeling natural disasters I can remember. We don't see much up in this northern part of our country but last week our state was hit with a true sign of the end times.
After a days of rain and not just sprinkles but down poors the city of Duluth was hit with a flash flood. A city that in Minnesota we look at as being on of the most impossible places to flood it happend.
Roads caved in by the mighty strength of water and weakness of mans creation. Homes destroyed by water stealing families of memories and years of hard work. The zoo losts several barn animals unable to get to higher ground. All this loss is not in the hands of any man nor is this terrible situation in the control of those who wish they could have reversed what took place.
In this I write today to say.... we need to pray more then ever before. Some places that are located in low lands on the Red River seem to know the season of flooding too well but unfortionately no one is every prepared for the loss. I'm asking all who read this article to ban with me in prayer to allow the saints of God to hear the cry of those who are in need of support, love, compassion, help, and peace. No time is better to bring God to people then the time where they are reaching for help.
Prayer for the city of Duluth and the people there. May God strengthen them and guide their foot steps to the souls of those who are seeking. To strengthen them for the loss they have endured and allow them to be used as a vessel of honor as they through the Holy Ghost find the peace that this unexplainable.
After a days of rain and not just sprinkles but down poors the city of Duluth was hit with a flash flood. A city that in Minnesota we look at as being on of the most impossible places to flood it happend.
Roads caved in by the mighty strength of water and weakness of mans creation. Homes destroyed by water stealing families of memories and years of hard work. The zoo losts several barn animals unable to get to higher ground. All this loss is not in the hands of any man nor is this terrible situation in the control of those who wish they could have reversed what took place.
In this I write today to say.... we need to pray more then ever before. Some places that are located in low lands on the Red River seem to know the season of flooding too well but unfortionately no one is every prepared for the loss. I'm asking all who read this article to ban with me in prayer to allow the saints of God to hear the cry of those who are in need of support, love, compassion, help, and peace. No time is better to bring God to people then the time where they are reaching for help.
Prayer for the city of Duluth and the people there. May God strengthen them and guide their foot steps to the souls of those who are seeking. To strengthen them for the loss they have endured and allow them to be used as a vessel of honor as they through the Holy Ghost find the peace that this unexplainable.
June 6, 2012
There is always hope...
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.
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.
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.
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