So many of you know what happened to Ronnie, my father-in-law. Praise God that he is doing so much better these days and it is only by the grace of God. If you had asked me a month ago if he was going to make it I would have said no, and so would have plenty of other people. So seeing him now in the shape he is I can only think "Thank you God for allowing him to continue living!!" He really is an amazing man. He is in a nursing home right now doing so rehab and hopefully will be able to come home soon. Most people that are in their right mind and have to sit in a place with a bunch of people moaning and groaning would be bitter. Not Ronnie. Although he is not thrilled with his situation he knows God has a plan. He tells me regularly that he is here for a reason, for his roommate.From what his roommate tells me, Ronnie has been nothing but encouraging, loving and caring for him.They sit and talk about how awesome God is and how He blesses them. Ronnie is reminding this man that God has a plan for him and that God has shown him grace in many ways. He is sharing the Gospel with him.
To me that is beyond inspiring and encouraging. Seeing Ronnie in the shape and situation that he is in and seeing that Ronnie is still following the commands of God, makes me think. I am way better off right now. What am I doing? Ronnie is sharing the Gospel and love of God in his situation so why can't I? Why is it that Ronnie can go out of his way to be kind and loving to this man that he BARELY knew, but I am not?? Ronnie has such a heart for others. I hope that I can learn from him and continue to grow in my spiritual life and be half the Christ follower that he is. :)
That's all. :)
Good night and God Bless!!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
This is Authority From God?!?!
I have been thinking a lot about our government and how it operates. Personally, I think it could be run a lot better. I have said before that I could do it better. Really though, it takes one heck of a strong person to sit in that office and take all that criticism and not lash out at the country; along with all the other pressures they have on them. They have an ENTIRE country to run! You think running that store or office is tough, try the country. So people talk all this junk about how they could do better and just what they would do...that's fine (you'll never understand) but what about all the people saying they are going to stop paying taxes because the government is robbing us blind. (Keep in mind we let these people get elected or we voted for...just saying) Well here's thing, do you know how much money it cost to run a government?? I don't.
My REAL question is...What does the Bible say about paying taxes and how we should react towards our government?
I looked at Romans 13:1-7 and Mark 12:1-17
Romans 13:1-7 says:
Mark 12:1-17 says:
I am unsure how literally we are suppose to take this considering our government's history in the last several years. However, I know that Jesus NEVER changes and His Word still stands firm today. With that being said, I believe that when it states we are subject to the governing authorities, I take it literally. We may not fully agree with what our government is doing but we have ways to change that. When was the last time you really prayed for our government and the people actively running it? I mean really prayed, for their wisdom, their heart, their salvation, or their safety? We just expect that the government is going to do what is best for me....I...all 311 millions of us. Like that is going to happen. The fact of the matter is that we should be wanting the government to make decisions in the best interest of God and His will. Then maybe we wouldn't find it so hard to be subject to the government and to pay our taxes. The Bible clearly states that we are not to resist authority and that we should give Caesar (the government) what is his and God what is God's (which is everything we are!!)
The parable in Mark is the perfect example. The man set up the vineyard, he did all the initial things and asked other to look after it. But the tenants did not want to give that made what was due to him...sound familiar?? In the end the tenants will be destroyed an others will take their place.
Even if we choose not to be subject to our government, there will be someone that will. If many of us do not, we will end up like all the other civilizations in the past...destroyed and read about in history books.
The same goes for our faith in God. Even if we choose not to follow God, others will. They will give the glory that is due to God. We should want to be a part of that...glorifying God for the things He has created for us and given us.
My REAL question is...What does the Bible say about paying taxes and how we should react towards our government?
I looked at Romans 13:1-7 and Mark 12:1-17
Romans 13:1-7 says:
Submission to the Authorities
1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.Mark 12:1-17 says:
The Parable of the Tenants
12:1-12pp -- Mt 21:33-46; Lk 20:9-19
1 He then began to speak to them in parables: "A man planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a pit for the winepress and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and went away on a journey. 2 At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants to collect from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3 But they seized him, beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4 Then he sent another servant to them; they struck this man on the head and treated him shamefully. 5 He sent still another, and that one they killed. He sent many others; some of them they beat, others they killed. 6 "He had one left to send, a son, whom he loved. He sent him last of all, saying, 'They will respect my son.' 7 "But the tenants said to one another, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' 8 So they took him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 "What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others. 10 Haven't you read this scripture: " 'The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; 11 the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes' ?" 12 Then they looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away.Paying Taxes to Caesar
12:13-17pp -- Mt 22:15-22; Lk 20:20-26
13 Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. 14 They came to him and said, "Teacher, we know you are a man of integrity. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? 15Should we pay or shouldn't we?" But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. "Why are you trying to trap me?" he asked. "Bring me a denarius and let me look at it." 16 They brought the coin, and he asked them, "Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?" "Caesar's," they replied. 17Then Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." And they were amazed at him.I am unsure how literally we are suppose to take this considering our government's history in the last several years. However, I know that Jesus NEVER changes and His Word still stands firm today. With that being said, I believe that when it states we are subject to the governing authorities, I take it literally. We may not fully agree with what our government is doing but we have ways to change that. When was the last time you really prayed for our government and the people actively running it? I mean really prayed, for their wisdom, their heart, their salvation, or their safety? We just expect that the government is going to do what is best for me....I...all 311 millions of us. Like that is going to happen. The fact of the matter is that we should be wanting the government to make decisions in the best interest of God and His will. Then maybe we wouldn't find it so hard to be subject to the government and to pay our taxes. The Bible clearly states that we are not to resist authority and that we should give Caesar (the government) what is his and God what is God's (which is everything we are!!)
The parable in Mark is the perfect example. The man set up the vineyard, he did all the initial things and asked other to look after it. But the tenants did not want to give that made what was due to him...sound familiar?? In the end the tenants will be destroyed an others will take their place.
Even if we choose not to be subject to our government, there will be someone that will. If many of us do not, we will end up like all the other civilizations in the past...destroyed and read about in history books.
The same goes for our faith in God. Even if we choose not to follow God, others will. They will give the glory that is due to God. We should want to be a part of that...glorifying God for the things He has created for us and given us.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
The TRUTH
God sent an awesome message to 2Springs today. It's hard to top what was said. That being said I am going to put the notes I took in red and put my thoughts on it in black.
The message was the final sermon in the Encounter Series; titled 'The man in search of truth' John 18:28-38. Everyone in life is looking for something. Have you ever felt like there is something missing in your life but you haven't been able to find it? Maybe you are looking for something to believe, some truth and standard to life. Our culture is so focus on telling us we have the right to be happy and we are entitled to 'stuff.' Whether that 'stuff' is the newest technology, newest in-fashion clothes, or the right to received love without having to return it. Yet this is not biblical. God does not say we deserve these things that we desire.
We also seem to think these things will fill a void or an emptiness in our life. In fact, they won't, at least not forever. Take for example the last newest technology you bought. How long did that happiness last? Are you still overjoyed and excited when you use it or see it. I know I am not. Jesus provides us lasting fulfillment, which warms my heart daily and anytime I need a uplifting. This is the TRUTH. Jesus is this TRUTH.
First let's look at how the TRUTH fits in our post-modern culture.
1.What is the stature of TRUTH? Where does it stand in our culture?
2. What is the nature of TRUTH?
3. What is the sufficiency of TRUTH?
The message was the final sermon in the Encounter Series; titled 'The man in search of truth' John 18:28-38. Everyone in life is looking for something. Have you ever felt like there is something missing in your life but you haven't been able to find it? Maybe you are looking for something to believe, some truth and standard to life. Our culture is so focus on telling us we have the right to be happy and we are entitled to 'stuff.' Whether that 'stuff' is the newest technology, newest in-fashion clothes, or the right to received love without having to return it. Yet this is not biblical. God does not say we deserve these things that we desire.
We also seem to think these things will fill a void or an emptiness in our life. In fact, they won't, at least not forever. Take for example the last newest technology you bought. How long did that happiness last? Are you still overjoyed and excited when you use it or see it. I know I am not. Jesus provides us lasting fulfillment, which warms my heart daily and anytime I need a uplifting. This is the TRUTH. Jesus is this TRUTH.
First let's look at how the TRUTH fits in our post-modern culture.
1.What is the stature of TRUTH? Where does it stand in our culture?
- It is relative. Truth is what you make it, whatever you want to believe and as long as you truly believe it then others cannot hold you at fault for you acting on it. For example, Hitler cannot be criticized for his actions because he truly believed that what he was doing was right. How twisted is that? Even though this is an extreme example it's how we operate in relation to religion. You can believe that the cat is holy and that is fine. What?!!?!
- It is being weakened. This because of the 'keep everybody happy' theory that we have in our culture. When was the last time you went to a restaurant, had a complaint and the person just said 'Oh well'....umm never. Some place apologize profusely and/or replace your food. Our society tells us that we should never be offended (or at least the majority). People are also so use to being catered to. We do not want to be hurt or told what we are doing wrong. People will quit going to church if the preacher or Sunday school teacher tells them (through the TRUTH of course) that what they are doing is wrong, they are very likely going to quit going to that church. How childish! Church is not for entertainment (even though my preacher is pretty entertaining!!). We are suppose to be instructed and taught (and build upon what we are studying at home) so that we can imitate Christ and spread the Good News!! The Truth is what it is, neglecting to hear it won't change the fact that it is the Truth.
- It's optional. We want to pick and choose what we want to believe. God offers salvation and grace and mercy, but he who never punish me! Ummm yes he would. That's the amazing thing about God's love. He disciples us when we need it, and for our own good!! This stems from the fact that we do not like for someone else to call the shots in "our" lives. The fact of the matter is, it is not our life. God is the one that gives us life therefore He is the ONLY one that has the authority to take is way from us or direct our life. We are blessed because he did give us freewill but for those that say they are in Christ, we should be surrendering to God our live. This is by far the hardest thing to do. I struggle every minute with this. I have matured a lot in my life, but this is by far the one thing I really struggle with. I don't like the feeling of not know what is next. Blessed are we that God sees our true hearts, and knows what we struggle with and what we would like to be.
2. What is the nature of TRUTH?
- It has a leader /a source. Jesus. God. Lord. Heavenly Father. Call Him what you want, He is where the Truth begins. There is no other source. All Scripture is God breathed. From Him and Him alone.(Timothy 3:16) Enough said on that!!
- It has a standard. This standard is unchanging regardless of the changes that go on around us. No matter how much technology advances or the standard of living changes, the standard is still the same. How awesome is it that we don't have to keep up with amendments or alterations to the Truth God gives us. One can believe what they want, say what they want, or be part of the majority, but that does not change the Truth. Just think of how hard it is to keep up with the law changing in our government. "This bill is going through Congress. Oh, and this one was rejected. Or was it the other way?"
- It is unending. The Truth does not stop. There is no point to where it does not apply anymore. There is great comfort knowing there is no end to Truth. There is not going to come a time where it won't be applicable in my life.
3. What is the sufficiency of TRUTH?
- The Truth is sufficient for us and our lives. Jesus is the final authoritative complete revelation of God to His Truth. Does this matter? Of course it does! Our emotions are flaky. Something may feel right but that doesn't mean it is. If our feelings go against what the Scripture says, it's an automatic red flag. You can pray all you want about something but if the result of that prayer, you feel "God" telling you to do something that is against Scripture, it is not really God. It is your feelings, or maybe even Satan. Our opinions and our ideas are not sufficient either.
Later :)
Sunday, August 7, 2011
God's Plan...
It's been forever since I posted..I have had a lot going on...good stuff though! The main thing is that I got a new job, that I enjoy so I finally quit McDonald's!! I am so ecstatic right now! God has blessed me so much. Words cannot describe how much he had. When I finally felt like I was at rock bottom, God showed me the light at the end of the tunnel. God tells us in His Word that He knows the plans He has for us. I know that and I have known that but when all things seem to be folding in on me I wonder " what are you thinkg God??' Don't you see my pain and struggling? Of course He did. It all taught me a lesson. I am not strong if He is not there with me. Also that I cannot do EVERYTHING! It's impossible. I think I finally got that...like REALLY got it. Maybe that is why God let me move on.
The funny thing about this job is the 'reason' I got it. My boss told me in the interview that in her experience people with fast food experience do better in this position. At first I was just like 'hmmm ok.' Then I got to thinking..so I just went to school for 4 years for nothing? I am getting this job because of my fast food experience?? What the crap. How pointless." This had me down for a few days. So I pondered on it for a little while, because I believe there is a reason for everything. God gives us meaning in everything. So, what if I hadn't gone to school, where would I be? Well I would have never started working at Bountyland...and probably not stayed at McDonald's as long as I did. Maybe I would have never broke up with my ex. If those are the case, then I would have never met Eli (who by the way, I will be married to for a year today!!). Ironically, if I had never met Eli then I wouldn't be at Double Springs. Double Springs is where I met a wonderful lady name Glenda!!! Who talked to my boss about me, who interviewed me. :) Wonderful chain of events huh? God's miraculous plan. Me, I would have NEVER thought things would work out like this. Makes me all the happier and more secure in my relationship with my Savior and Lord. IT could only work according to His plan!!
The funny thing about this job is the 'reason' I got it. My boss told me in the interview that in her experience people with fast food experience do better in this position. At first I was just like 'hmmm ok.' Then I got to thinking..so I just went to school for 4 years for nothing? I am getting this job because of my fast food experience?? What the crap. How pointless." This had me down for a few days. So I pondered on it for a little while, because I believe there is a reason for everything. God gives us meaning in everything. So, what if I hadn't gone to school, where would I be? Well I would have never started working at Bountyland...and probably not stayed at McDonald's as long as I did. Maybe I would have never broke up with my ex. If those are the case, then I would have never met Eli (who by the way, I will be married to for a year today!!). Ironically, if I had never met Eli then I wouldn't be at Double Springs. Double Springs is where I met a wonderful lady name Glenda!!! Who talked to my boss about me, who interviewed me. :) Wonderful chain of events huh? God's miraculous plan. Me, I would have NEVER thought things would work out like this. Makes me all the happier and more secure in my relationship with my Savior and Lord. IT could only work according to His plan!!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Being a manager...
It's been a while since I have posted anything; mostly due to opening of the McDonald's. I was told at the end of April that I would be transferring from the Seneca McDonald's to the West Union McDonald's, which is 45 mins from my house. For many reasons I was unhappy about this move. 1. It's further from my house. 2. I worked at the Seneca store for 6 years!! 3. I liked the people and mangers that I worked with and for. 4. It's new, unknown and different...a little scary. The West Union store had been closed and rebuilt to a new and beautiful store. So when the end of May came and I was released from the Seneca store to go set up the West Union store...it was bittersweet. I had been really negative about it and so not looking forward to it. But at the same time I was ready to go because things were really tense and stressful. So now we have been open for 2 days and I had been getting KILLED!! Mostly trainees and A LOT of people coming to eat..not so wonderful combination. So how does this relate to my walk with God??
I have always thought about why God has left me in the position that He has, at McDonald's. I have discovered that there are a lot of qualities that a manger must have that Christians are to understand and have, that God also has with us people. The only thing I can figure is that God is leaving me where I am so that I can learn to understand and have theses qualities. Not that I am just a terrible person but to help me see how God views me and therefore help me to see His other children this way. So what are some of these qualities?
1. Patience. Any person in this world that has worked in fast food, especially as a manger knows that patience is a must. You have trainees ALL the time (at least that is how it feels). They are clueless as to what is going on around them or what to do. When you are trying to run this $4 million business, the last thing you need is a person coming up to you asking about the schedule, clocking in or something else like that. Then there are the crew people that have been there a while that act like a trainee. Even worse. And there are those days where it feels like it's one disaster after another and you are ready to go home! God is patient with us every time we act like a "trainee". He knows that we do not have all the answers and know what to do all the time so He is patient and understanding with us.
2.Grace. People make mistakes. Trainees and established crew are not perfect human beings and even when you tell them what to do, sometimes you can't be specific enough with them. They don't always follow directions and don't always listen. Hmm. Sounds a lot like a Christian. God tells us what he wants us to do, yet no matter how specific He is with us, we ignore Him. However, He shows us grace because He knows we are not perfect and we have desires of the flesh that are more important to us now than the eternal blessing we will receive later; We act like this because we are selfish and would rather like to believe we know what is best. God gives us grace and does not punish or reprimand us. As a manager, I have to show grace to all the crew no matter what.
3. Mercy. Again, people make mistakes. Even when something is done wrong, it doesn't mean that the person should be punished. Maybe they are having a bad day. Sometimes they need a little mercy. God shows us mercy a LOT. Very often we deserve to be punished but God doesn't because He loves us and knows sometimes we just have bad days.
4. Optimism. Attitude really affects how we respond to issues. Since I found out I was being transferred to West Union I was really negative. People started telling me that I need to be positive about it because good things can come. So as the weeks dwindled down I just changed my attitude and started thinking about it all in a different light. I started saying everything was going to be great, as cheesy as it sounds. When you see someone walking around being negative about all the things in their life, do you really think they know God?? How could they?? Someone that knows God, knows that He has a plan and that He would never set out to harm us.
So these are a few. Feel free to share your experiences!!
I have always thought about why God has left me in the position that He has, at McDonald's. I have discovered that there are a lot of qualities that a manger must have that Christians are to understand and have, that God also has with us people. The only thing I can figure is that God is leaving me where I am so that I can learn to understand and have theses qualities. Not that I am just a terrible person but to help me see how God views me and therefore help me to see His other children this way. So what are some of these qualities?
1. Patience. Any person in this world that has worked in fast food, especially as a manger knows that patience is a must. You have trainees ALL the time (at least that is how it feels). They are clueless as to what is going on around them or what to do. When you are trying to run this $4 million business, the last thing you need is a person coming up to you asking about the schedule, clocking in or something else like that. Then there are the crew people that have been there a while that act like a trainee. Even worse. And there are those days where it feels like it's one disaster after another and you are ready to go home! God is patient with us every time we act like a "trainee". He knows that we do not have all the answers and know what to do all the time so He is patient and understanding with us.
2.Grace. People make mistakes. Trainees and established crew are not perfect human beings and even when you tell them what to do, sometimes you can't be specific enough with them. They don't always follow directions and don't always listen. Hmm. Sounds a lot like a Christian. God tells us what he wants us to do, yet no matter how specific He is with us, we ignore Him. However, He shows us grace because He knows we are not perfect and we have desires of the flesh that are more important to us now than the eternal blessing we will receive later; We act like this because we are selfish and would rather like to believe we know what is best. God gives us grace and does not punish or reprimand us. As a manager, I have to show grace to all the crew no matter what.
3. Mercy. Again, people make mistakes. Even when something is done wrong, it doesn't mean that the person should be punished. Maybe they are having a bad day. Sometimes they need a little mercy. God shows us mercy a LOT. Very often we deserve to be punished but God doesn't because He loves us and knows sometimes we just have bad days.
4. Optimism. Attitude really affects how we respond to issues. Since I found out I was being transferred to West Union I was really negative. People started telling me that I need to be positive about it because good things can come. So as the weeks dwindled down I just changed my attitude and started thinking about it all in a different light. I started saying everything was going to be great, as cheesy as it sounds. When you see someone walking around being negative about all the things in their life, do you really think they know God?? How could they?? Someone that knows God, knows that He has a plan and that He would never set out to harm us.
So these are a few. Feel free to share your experiences!!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Thoughtfulness
Today in my reading I read through 1 Chronicles 12. Short description: It's going through the mighty men who joined David against Saul to make David king. At this point in time David is at Ziklag (geographically I have no clue where that is and historically I know nothing of the place) but nonetheless, he is here hiding from Saul because Saul wants to kill David. I get a lot from David. He is a man that has great faith in God. However, in this particular moment I get different guidance from this passage. First it lists the men that deserted David because was with the Philistine to battle Saul, even though later the Philistines decided to not help David because of the danger to themselves. Double wammy there, David loses the men of Manasseh that were with him then loses the Philistines. But God comes through like he always does. Men came "day to day" to help David. The mighty men that come to David are listed here. So here is a brief rundown of who comes:
~Judah 6,800 armed troops
~Simeonites 7,100 men
~Levites 4,600 men
~prince Jehoiada with 3,700 men
~Zadok and 22 commanders
~Benjaminites (kinsmen of Saul) 3,000 men
~Ephraminites 20,800 men
~The half-tribe of Manasseh 18,000 men
~Issachar 200 Chiefs and all the kinsmen under their command
~Zebulum 50,000 seasoned troops
~Naphtali 1,000 commanders with "whom were" 37,000 men
~Danites 28,600 men
~Asher 40,00 seasoned troops
~Reubenites and Gadites and half tribe of Manasseh "from beyond the Jordan" 120,000 men
I did not add up all these men but that's a lot!! What amazes me is that the Benjaminites were men of Saul that we loyal to him until this point where they came to help David! That is God at work. But all these men came to help David. Imagine if we as a world would do that for one another! Or even as a workplace, family, community, or just in random places! Imagine the live that could be saved, physically on earth and even by the salvation of Jesus Christ! We can barely help the person next to us get through some menial task, whether it be personal issue, school work, something from the top shelf, or at work.
So maybe next time you see someone in need think of the men that helped David. They put their lives on the line to help a man that for all we know they had never met.
Thought provoking stuff. :)
~Judah 6,800 armed troops
~Simeonites 7,100 men
~Levites 4,600 men
~prince Jehoiada with 3,700 men
~Zadok and 22 commanders
~Benjaminites (kinsmen of Saul) 3,000 men
~Ephraminites 20,800 men
~The half-tribe of Manasseh 18,000 men
~Issachar 200 Chiefs and all the kinsmen under their command
~Zebulum 50,000 seasoned troops
~Naphtali 1,000 commanders with "whom were" 37,000 men
~Danites 28,600 men
~Asher 40,00 seasoned troops
~Reubenites and Gadites and half tribe of Manasseh "from beyond the Jordan" 120,000 men
I did not add up all these men but that's a lot!! What amazes me is that the Benjaminites were men of Saul that we loyal to him until this point where they came to help David! That is God at work. But all these men came to help David. Imagine if we as a world would do that for one another! Or even as a workplace, family, community, or just in random places! Imagine the live that could be saved, physically on earth and even by the salvation of Jesus Christ! We can barely help the person next to us get through some menial task, whether it be personal issue, school work, something from the top shelf, or at work.
So maybe next time you see someone in need think of the men that helped David. They put their lives on the line to help a man that for all we know they had never met.
Thought provoking stuff. :)
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
God will provide....
I stress out easy over just about anything. Anyone that really knows me, sees this. However, I have been working on. Over time the realization and the true understanding that God can do anything has really been sinking in. Have you ever seen something and believed it but never really taken it in? That's been most of my life. I have understood and seen all my life that God can do anything but I think I finally reached a point a while back where seeing and understanding aren't enough, I have show God through my actions that I truly trust Him. That means giving it all to God and trusting he will provide.
It gets a tad nerve racking thinking about it and all the what ifs but if I look back, even just the last few months it is so incredibly obvious that God has provided for us when we need it. So why should I think he wouldn't provide now? It's pretty awesome though. When the anxiety and worry comes in to my head I just tell myself "God will provide" or "It will work out" something like that. Then BAM! God provides. :) Why should I stress, God's got this!
Just saying. Something to think about...
It gets a tad nerve racking thinking about it and all the what ifs but if I look back, even just the last few months it is so incredibly obvious that God has provided for us when we need it. So why should I think he wouldn't provide now? It's pretty awesome though. When the anxiety and worry comes in to my head I just tell myself "God will provide" or "It will work out" something like that. Then BAM! God provides. :) Why should I stress, God's got this!
Just saying. Something to think about...
Natural Disasters, Not So Natural.
HAHAHA Though I posted this last week. But I didn't. :)
I managed to wait a week to post again but it will be ok. I sadly have not been keeping up with my daily reading. Most of this week has been waking up going to work coming home back to sleep then back awake and back to work...literally. McDonald's requires 9 hours between shift and that is what I was given Sunday night, Monday and Tuesday. So needless to say I caught up on some shut eye today.
Started reading my Sunday school lesson today and I'm liking it. Still on the 'The 10 lies about God'. I have never thought of this from any other perspective then God is in control of everything. However, my lesson mentions a different point of view, that is incorrect by the way. It mentions that God just lets the "natural" disaster happen. I say that with quotation marks because if God is the origin of these disasters then how are they natural. Anyways, this perspective states there are certain laws of the natural order that are happening and God is hands-off and had nothing to do with it. It was just a by product of nature. For example, the faults of the earth rubbing together to create an earthquake is solely a happening of nature. But I know that God is in control. Nothing happens with out His permission. God personally creates these incidents and he uses secondary means, like the faults of earth and the earthquake.
The lessons mentions people that say God is hands off in these instances and that God has nothing to do with them but then agree they are acts of God or thank God for the timing of them. Kind of contradicting yourself there pal!
There are several verses of Scripture that directly states God is in control of nature. Now if he is in control of nature how can it not be by His doing? But some people asks 'Why do these things happen?' We look to Genesis 3:17-18 "And to Adam he said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, 'You shall not eat of it,' cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field." The ground was cursed because of the acts of man. Makes sense, why should sinful man be allowed to live in a world that is perfect and good. The nature around us mimics our personal nature. Go figure. But just like we are redeemed in Christ and one day will live joyfully, so will nature be set free from it's curse. Romans 8:19-21 "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God."
I managed to wait a week to post again but it will be ok. I sadly have not been keeping up with my daily reading. Most of this week has been waking up going to work coming home back to sleep then back awake and back to work...literally. McDonald's requires 9 hours between shift and that is what I was given Sunday night, Monday and Tuesday. So needless to say I caught up on some shut eye today.
Started reading my Sunday school lesson today and I'm liking it. Still on the 'The 10 lies about God'. I have never thought of this from any other perspective then God is in control of everything. However, my lesson mentions a different point of view, that is incorrect by the way. It mentions that God just lets the "natural" disaster happen. I say that with quotation marks because if God is the origin of these disasters then how are they natural. Anyways, this perspective states there are certain laws of the natural order that are happening and God is hands-off and had nothing to do with it. It was just a by product of nature. For example, the faults of the earth rubbing together to create an earthquake is solely a happening of nature. But I know that God is in control. Nothing happens with out His permission. God personally creates these incidents and he uses secondary means, like the faults of earth and the earthquake.
The lessons mentions people that say God is hands off in these instances and that God has nothing to do with them but then agree they are acts of God or thank God for the timing of them. Kind of contradicting yourself there pal!
There are several verses of Scripture that directly states God is in control of nature. Now if he is in control of nature how can it not be by His doing? But some people asks 'Why do these things happen?' We look to Genesis 3:17-18 "And to Adam he said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, 'You shall not eat of it,' cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field." The ground was cursed because of the acts of man. Makes sense, why should sinful man be allowed to live in a world that is perfect and good. The nature around us mimics our personal nature. Go figure. But just like we are redeemed in Christ and one day will live joyfully, so will nature be set free from it's curse. Romans 8:19-21 "For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God."
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Free Will?
Many people wonder "If your God is such a loving God then why is there all this suffering in the world?" That is a loaded question. It reaches beyond. To me at least.
God gave us the freedom to make our own choices. If you disagree, think about this. How much glory would it bring to God if he made us glorify Him? Say you could make someone love you, does it really mean anything when you make them? Wouldn't you rather them love you based on their own choice? Same concept. So we have this freedom of choice..red or blue, hot or cold, East or West...whatever. Our choices affect someone else. The decision not to tutor someone in a class could cause that person to fail the course and become depressed. Look at Columbine massacre. Our choices affect others, period. Obviously, others are not the only one affected. The decisions we make affect us. If we make a poor decision we will have to live with those consequences, whether it's a punishment from God or just a result of the action.
This topic always brings up the question in my mind "If God is omniscience (all knowing) then He already knows what I am going to do, regardless of free will. Therefore, our destiny is already decided, right?" I've thought on this for many years and the more I read and the more I understand I have an answer that I feel is accurate. [Correct me if I'm wrong someone]. Even though God knows all, we still choose. God never chose for us. Therefore, even though He knows what the end will bring for each of us, we are the ones that chose our destiny. I personally find it hard to believe that God would create people with the intent of them going to Hell. He gives us all the opportunity we could ask for to choose Him, but many still turn away even though they 'believe'.
The whole thing still blows my mind just because I have a finite mind (while God's is infinite). His ways are not mine and my ways could never match up to the path He desires for me...that will benefit me more than I can image.
Later :)
God gave us the freedom to make our own choices. If you disagree, think about this. How much glory would it bring to God if he made us glorify Him? Say you could make someone love you, does it really mean anything when you make them? Wouldn't you rather them love you based on their own choice? Same concept. So we have this freedom of choice..red or blue, hot or cold, East or West...whatever. Our choices affect someone else. The decision not to tutor someone in a class could cause that person to fail the course and become depressed. Look at Columbine massacre. Our choices affect others, period. Obviously, others are not the only one affected. The decisions we make affect us. If we make a poor decision we will have to live with those consequences, whether it's a punishment from God or just a result of the action.
This topic always brings up the question in my mind "If God is omniscience (all knowing) then He already knows what I am going to do, regardless of free will. Therefore, our destiny is already decided, right?" I've thought on this for many years and the more I read and the more I understand I have an answer that I feel is accurate. [Correct me if I'm wrong someone]. Even though God knows all, we still choose. God never chose for us. Therefore, even though He knows what the end will bring for each of us, we are the ones that chose our destiny. I personally find it hard to believe that God would create people with the intent of them going to Hell. He gives us all the opportunity we could ask for to choose Him, but many still turn away even though they 'believe'.
The whole thing still blows my mind just because I have a finite mind (while God's is infinite). His ways are not mine and my ways could never match up to the path He desires for me...that will benefit me more than I can image.
Later :)
Does God have Obligations?
My head is spinning! I read my Sunday school lesson tonight (the first...maybe second...time I read the entire lesson with this book, cause I'm slacker like that--I promise I'm working on that) Back to the head spinning. I felt like my lesson went from being about believers of other religions to salvation of people to those that have never heard of God to being judged. This lesson would have worked a lot better for my brain if it had been outlined prior because it feels like the author is skipping around, when in fact, looking at all subjects mashed together they kinda fit. So I'm going to try this:
Have you ever wondered what happens to people that never hear of Christ?? Or people that believe other religions? And how these groups will be judged? Well that was what this lesson was on..it's in a series of 10 Lies about God [More on that later].
The title of this lesson: God is Obligated to Save Followers of Other Religions
According to my lesson this topic brings in a lot of controversy. Makes sense. One narrow path to Heaven...doesn't exactly go with society's view (which is simple if generalized--do what makes you feel good and benefits you). Controversy begins because people ask: Would a loving God send people to Hell that have had no chance to hear the Word of God? and the like. We are accused of being heartless, narrow minded, and believing that Christianity is above all other religions. Well the thing is that we are humans and God is God. We are to follow His rules not ours. He created us, not the other way around. The Bible is clear as a bell in that it says salvation can only be obtained through Christ Jesus. Then you have people that say, 'well God will redeem people because He knows what that person would have believed under different circumstances.' We all have free will. We decide how to live our lives and we have to live with the results of those choices. So what about that person in the middle of the dessert that the Gospel has yet to reach? They didn't choose to be born there and never be exposed to the Gospel. How will God judge them?
To me, the lesson goes off a little by mentioning various situations (referred to as exceptions). Such as, infants, the idea of the true intent of people, Gentiles, and Cornelius (Acts 10--I recommend reading the entire chapter to fully understand). I'm not getting in to these things because this blog would be forever long and probably throw you off for a little bit like it did me.)
***A major thing to understand is we as humans have our own definitions of words--such as fairness, just, etc--God's are not ours. Unless it came directly from the Bible or from God to you, there is a huge chance that you are wrong in your definition. I know I am. What is fair to God may not be what we think is fair. Think in terms of your child if you have one. When you punish them for disobedience they may not see it as fair, but you being the one that has been through more and see the greater picture, see it as fair.***
By now my head is so confused it's ridiculous. I have a major issue with Bible studies using scripture that don't directly relate to the topic or are used out of context. This study seems to do that a lot. To answer the question 'What happens to those that have never heard of Christ' it uses Romans 1:18-21 [this however speaks of those who 'suppress the truth'...not those that have never heard the truth], Genesis 18:25 [this is Abraham talking to God about Sodom..who as far as I know knew the truth and refused it], and Roman 9:14-16 [ this talks about God having compassion on who He has compassion and mercy on who He has mercy]. This answers nothing in my opinion.
The lesson also mentions general revelation. This refers first to people knowing of God based on what God has reveal in nature and how God displays His eternal power and divine nature in creation. Second, through God-consciousness and an innate sense of what is right and wrong. He references no scripture but I am inclined to follow this because I have heard it before in church/sermon settings.
In the end, my conclusion from the lesson and the scripture provide (also reading before and after the given scripture) that it is none of my business what God has planned for those that have not heard or non-believers that are sincere in their beliefs. My task at hand is to take what I know and learn in the scripture and teach it to the people I can reach.
Some scripture that was given if you choose to research more:
"Gain understanding into this perplexing issue": Ps 119:18,125
Salvation: John 14:6, Acts 4:12, 1 Tim 2:5-6
Cornelius: Acts 10:34-35
God's picture vs our picture: Isa 55:8-9
General revelation Romans 1:18-21
God's judgement: Genesis 18:25, Rom 9:14-15
From my husband: Rom 5:12-13
***With the exception of the last one, these are listed in my Bible Study.***
What confusion...within reading all this I have already been forming a new blog in my head: Is it really free will if God already knows our choices?? :)
Have you ever wondered what happens to people that never hear of Christ?? Or people that believe other religions? And how these groups will be judged? Well that was what this lesson was on..it's in a series of 10 Lies about God [More on that later].
The title of this lesson: God is Obligated to Save Followers of Other Religions
According to my lesson this topic brings in a lot of controversy. Makes sense. One narrow path to Heaven...doesn't exactly go with society's view (which is simple if generalized--do what makes you feel good and benefits you). Controversy begins because people ask: Would a loving God send people to Hell that have had no chance to hear the Word of God? and the like. We are accused of being heartless, narrow minded, and believing that Christianity is above all other religions. Well the thing is that we are humans and God is God. We are to follow His rules not ours. He created us, not the other way around. The Bible is clear as a bell in that it says salvation can only be obtained through Christ Jesus. Then you have people that say, 'well God will redeem people because He knows what that person would have believed under different circumstances.' We all have free will. We decide how to live our lives and we have to live with the results of those choices. So what about that person in the middle of the dessert that the Gospel has yet to reach? They didn't choose to be born there and never be exposed to the Gospel. How will God judge them?
To me, the lesson goes off a little by mentioning various situations (referred to as exceptions). Such as, infants, the idea of the true intent of people, Gentiles, and Cornelius (Acts 10--I recommend reading the entire chapter to fully understand). I'm not getting in to these things because this blog would be forever long and probably throw you off for a little bit like it did me.)
***A major thing to understand is we as humans have our own definitions of words--such as fairness, just, etc--God's are not ours. Unless it came directly from the Bible or from God to you, there is a huge chance that you are wrong in your definition. I know I am. What is fair to God may not be what we think is fair. Think in terms of your child if you have one. When you punish them for disobedience they may not see it as fair, but you being the one that has been through more and see the greater picture, see it as fair.***
By now my head is so confused it's ridiculous. I have a major issue with Bible studies using scripture that don't directly relate to the topic or are used out of context. This study seems to do that a lot. To answer the question 'What happens to those that have never heard of Christ' it uses Romans 1:18-21 [this however speaks of those who 'suppress the truth'...not those that have never heard the truth], Genesis 18:25 [this is Abraham talking to God about Sodom..who as far as I know knew the truth and refused it], and Roman 9:14-16 [ this talks about God having compassion on who He has compassion and mercy on who He has mercy]. This answers nothing in my opinion.
The lesson also mentions general revelation. This refers first to people knowing of God based on what God has reveal in nature and how God displays His eternal power and divine nature in creation. Second, through God-consciousness and an innate sense of what is right and wrong. He references no scripture but I am inclined to follow this because I have heard it before in church/sermon settings.
In the end, my conclusion from the lesson and the scripture provide (also reading before and after the given scripture) that it is none of my business what God has planned for those that have not heard or non-believers that are sincere in their beliefs. My task at hand is to take what I know and learn in the scripture and teach it to the people I can reach.
Some scripture that was given if you choose to research more:
"Gain understanding into this perplexing issue": Ps 119:18,125
Salvation: John 14:6, Acts 4:12, 1 Tim 2:5-6
Cornelius: Acts 10:34-35
God's picture vs our picture: Isa 55:8-9
General revelation Romans 1:18-21
God's judgement: Genesis 18:25, Rom 9:14-15
From my husband: Rom 5:12-13
***With the exception of the last one, these are listed in my Bible Study.***
What confusion...within reading all this I have already been forming a new blog in my head: Is it really free will if God already knows our choices?? :)
Monday, April 25, 2011
Exists or Not Exists
Yesterday (Easter Sunday) I had in my mind this blog working. Between falling asleep and not remembering what I was thinking about and not feeling great I completely skipped it. So sad cause I felt like it was an awesome blog (in my head) and now I can't remember how I was putting it all together. But today I was checking my email and got a great forward from my dad! I'm one of those people that doesn't know how to respond when people say God doesn't exist or that the Bible is a fairy tale. This is the email:
A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began
to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects.
When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said: 'I don't believe that God exists.' 'Why do you say that?' asked the customer. 'Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist. Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people; would there be abandoned children?
If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine a loving God who would
allow all of these things.' The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument. The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barbershop again and he said to the barber:
'You know what? Barbers do not exist.' 'How can you say that?' asked the surprised barber. 'I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!'
'No!' the customer exclaimed. 'Barbers don't exist, because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside.''Ah, but barbers DO exist! That's what happens when people do not come to me.'
'Exactly!' affirmed the customer. 'That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! That's what happens when people do not go to Him and don't look to Him for help. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in
the world.'
Wonderful! I loved it. So there is a response if you ever need one! :)
Hopefully tomorrow I will post something I actually put some thought into!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Some Plans Change...
Jer 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. 13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. 14 And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive (KJV)
~~~~~~
Jer 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you, declares the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile. (ESV)
~~~~~~
I found out a few days ago that I will be transferred from my Seneca McDonald's to the West Union McDonald's. I have been at Seneca since 2005...6 years!!! Needless to say I was incredibly unhappy when I was informed about this decision for several reasons, I'll list a few of them.
1. I LOVE the managers I work with and many of the crew people. I have meet so many wonderful people that have really made me stop and think about myself and evaluate how I am. The interactions have really improved and challenged my walk.
2. It's change. A whole new store, new crew, new store manager, and some new managers. WHAT!?! TOO MUCH change for me!! I like to be eased into somethings. It's not that I can't adjust it's just A LOT to take in at one time.
3. It's further away. I will be driving about 15 mins more for each trip there and back. That's 2 1/2 hours more driving a week. A cheap estimate is 25 bucks a week in gas...125 bucks a month. That's a pay cut we cannot afford right now.
4. No one bothered to see what I wanted. I believe that happy employees can produce a well run business.
So those are just a few. But I'm not trying to just complain here I promise!! I'm lucky to have a lot of supportive people in my life, people that support me the way God wants; and I have been talking to these people about this situation. There have been a few different options brought up and I just don't know what to do.
"For I know the plans I have for you" was the first thing that came to mind (after being upset). God has a plan for my life, but why can't I see it or understand how McDonald's fits in it?? "You will call upon me and come and pray to me." I pray, I talk to God, but not like I should. This is the first time in my life that I really understand what being a Christian is and having God as my Lord AND Savior, so I'm still learning to give it to God. My conclusion: I'm not seeking God like I need to be. How do I know this? "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." He promises that I will find Him. God is by far the only one that stands by ALL His promises. So if I was seeking like I should then God would hear me. I may not understand His plan but I will find Him. Submitting to Him is the only way to live my life.
Here is my issue: I have grown up dealing with my own issues and supporting myself. If I wanted something done I needed to do it myself because 90% of the time no one else would or could do it for me. So the idea of handing EVERYTHING in my life to someone else seems insane. I haven't been able to (or wanted to) depend on others because they let me down. Not to mention HOW do you do this? How does one just hand something over that is not a physical object. Do I just stop worrying about it? Not think about, just go on about my day and wait and see what happens??
I'm not sure. I know I have to seek Him though, with all my heart otherwise it is rebellion. I know that whatever plans God has for me has nothing to do with what I deserve or what I do to try and deserve it.
**Ironically, this went from how my transfer fits into God's plan for me into how to find peace with God's decisions for my life and how to discover God's plan. :) God is beyond words, that's for sure. :)
~~~~~~
Jer 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you, declares the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, declares the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile. (ESV)
~~~~~~
I found out a few days ago that I will be transferred from my Seneca McDonald's to the West Union McDonald's. I have been at Seneca since 2005...6 years!!! Needless to say I was incredibly unhappy when I was informed about this decision for several reasons, I'll list a few of them.
1. I LOVE the managers I work with and many of the crew people. I have meet so many wonderful people that have really made me stop and think about myself and evaluate how I am. The interactions have really improved and challenged my walk.
2. It's change. A whole new store, new crew, new store manager, and some new managers. WHAT!?! TOO MUCH change for me!! I like to be eased into somethings. It's not that I can't adjust it's just A LOT to take in at one time.
3. It's further away. I will be driving about 15 mins more for each trip there and back. That's 2 1/2 hours more driving a week. A cheap estimate is 25 bucks a week in gas...125 bucks a month. That's a pay cut we cannot afford right now.
4. No one bothered to see what I wanted. I believe that happy employees can produce a well run business.
So those are just a few. But I'm not trying to just complain here I promise!! I'm lucky to have a lot of supportive people in my life, people that support me the way God wants; and I have been talking to these people about this situation. There have been a few different options brought up and I just don't know what to do.
"For I know the plans I have for you" was the first thing that came to mind (after being upset). God has a plan for my life, but why can't I see it or understand how McDonald's fits in it?? "You will call upon me and come and pray to me." I pray, I talk to God, but not like I should. This is the first time in my life that I really understand what being a Christian is and having God as my Lord AND Savior, so I'm still learning to give it to God. My conclusion: I'm not seeking God like I need to be. How do I know this? "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." He promises that I will find Him. God is by far the only one that stands by ALL His promises. So if I was seeking like I should then God would hear me. I may not understand His plan but I will find Him. Submitting to Him is the only way to live my life.
Here is my issue: I have grown up dealing with my own issues and supporting myself. If I wanted something done I needed to do it myself because 90% of the time no one else would or could do it for me. So the idea of handing EVERYTHING in my life to someone else seems insane. I haven't been able to (or wanted to) depend on others because they let me down. Not to mention HOW do you do this? How does one just hand something over that is not a physical object. Do I just stop worrying about it? Not think about, just go on about my day and wait and see what happens??
I'm not sure. I know I have to seek Him though, with all my heart otherwise it is rebellion. I know that whatever plans God has for me has nothing to do with what I deserve or what I do to try and deserve it.
**Ironically, this went from how my transfer fits into God's plan for me into how to find peace with God's decisions for my life and how to discover God's plan. :) God is beyond words, that's for sure. :)
Friday, April 15, 2011
Regret and Repetition
I have two things I want to talk about today!!
Topic 1: Regret
I picked up where I left off in my reading through the Bible, 1 Chronicles 9-11. Hmmm...how to start. Chapter 9 was more genealogy, which I mentioned in the last blog. Chapter 10 talks about Saul and his death, it sounds familiar, like I've read it before. I started to get really confused and frustrated because where did Saul come from and why was he so important. It seemed so random. the passage is going on about genealogy and after Saul's genealogy it switches to his death. I backed and stopped and thought. He has to have been mentioned before because it sounds familiar and it was important enough to mention in a (seemingly) odd place (to me at least); so I used the center column where it references previous scripture. 1 Samuel was referenced. Flipped back and bam! There is was! Several chapters on Saul. Clarification. Awesome. Another reason I looked back was because in 1Chronicles 10:13 it said Saul died because of breach of faith. I began skimming the passages and found out what the breach of faith was...but while skimming 1Samuel 15:35 I found an interesting phrase. It said "the LORD regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." Why would the LORD regret his decision that he already knew would happen. Next step, used my eSword for other translations of the Bible and see what other word is used. :) (Yes I am very happy with myself because this is the first time I am really STUDYING my Bible and not just reading it.) Anyways back on topic. ESword has this neat thing that I can look at various concordances and such. So in the KJV+ it has these codes next to words. This is was came up next to regretted (repented in this translation): A primitive root; properly to sigh, that is, breathe strongly; by implication to be sorry, that is, (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself): - comfort (self), ease [one’s self], repent (-er, -ing, self). To me 'sigh' makes sense. The LORD 'sighing' at our decisions makes more sense and brings more clarification. Hope it brings light to you as well!
Topic 2: Repetition
So looking back through previous read passages brought two things to mind. 1) I don't retain information like I used to and 2) God repeats himself. It reminds me of something Kyle use to say. Something to the effect of repetition means it's important (correct me or whatever Kyle!) Take Saul's genealogy for example, it was mentioned twice within two sequential chapters. Paul's life was mentioned twice in 5 chapters. Saul obviously did something that the Lord wants us to take notice of. :)
Just saying!
Topic 1: Regret
I picked up where I left off in my reading through the Bible, 1 Chronicles 9-11. Hmmm...how to start. Chapter 9 was more genealogy, which I mentioned in the last blog. Chapter 10 talks about Saul and his death, it sounds familiar, like I've read it before. I started to get really confused and frustrated because where did Saul come from and why was he so important. It seemed so random. the passage is going on about genealogy and after Saul's genealogy it switches to his death. I backed and stopped and thought. He has to have been mentioned before because it sounds familiar and it was important enough to mention in a (seemingly) odd place (to me at least); so I used the center column where it references previous scripture. 1 Samuel was referenced. Flipped back and bam! There is was! Several chapters on Saul. Clarification. Awesome. Another reason I looked back was because in 1Chronicles 10:13 it said Saul died because of breach of faith. I began skimming the passages and found out what the breach of faith was...but while skimming 1Samuel 15:35 I found an interesting phrase. It said "the LORD regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." Why would the LORD regret his decision that he already knew would happen. Next step, used my eSword for other translations of the Bible and see what other word is used. :) (Yes I am very happy with myself because this is the first time I am really STUDYING my Bible and not just reading it.) Anyways back on topic. ESword has this neat thing that I can look at various concordances and such. So in the KJV+ it has these codes next to words. This is was came up next to regretted (repented in this translation): A primitive root; properly to sigh, that is, breathe strongly; by implication to be sorry, that is, (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself): - comfort (self), ease [one’s self], repent (-er, -ing, self). To me 'sigh' makes sense. The LORD 'sighing' at our decisions makes more sense and brings more clarification. Hope it brings light to you as well!
Topic 2: Repetition
So looking back through previous read passages brought two things to mind. 1) I don't retain information like I used to and 2) God repeats himself. It reminds me of something Kyle use to say. Something to the effect of repetition means it's important (correct me or whatever Kyle!) Take Saul's genealogy for example, it was mentioned twice within two sequential chapters. Paul's life was mentioned twice in 5 chapters. Saul obviously did something that the Lord wants us to take notice of. :)
Just saying!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Begat
I have been attempting to read the Bible from beginning to end just because. No specific reason I chose that way other than that's the way it is written. Odd for me because of my organization. To me reading it chronologically would make more sense since that is the order of events and my brain processes order and organization. Yet, the Bible is written this way for a reason so that's how I'll read it for now.
I'm sure you saw that I am 'attempting'. Here's the deal...I keep getting stuck at the parts that are genealogy. This is my thing, why do I need to know who begat who?? What growth is there in that? I don't get it. I'm sure there is a reason because it wouldn't be in the Bible if God didn't find it important for me to know. Still, half those people I don't know and I don't who is who. Just like there are multiple Johns out there now, back in that time there was the same thing. So how do I know which one is the one that becomes the king or whatever!? It gets frustrating.
If anyone has any idea I would love to hear it. I know that there are things that we just aren't meant to understand but still, if there is an answer why shouldn't I know it?
BTW...I need a send off phrase...just saying. :)
I'm sure you saw that I am 'attempting'. Here's the deal...I keep getting stuck at the parts that are genealogy. This is my thing, why do I need to know who begat who?? What growth is there in that? I don't get it. I'm sure there is a reason because it wouldn't be in the Bible if God didn't find it important for me to know. Still, half those people I don't know and I don't who is who. Just like there are multiple Johns out there now, back in that time there was the same thing. So how do I know which one is the one that becomes the king or whatever!? It gets frustrating.
If anyone has any idea I would love to hear it. I know that there are things that we just aren't meant to understand but still, if there is an answer why shouldn't I know it?
BTW...I need a send off phrase...just saying. :)
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
It is High Time
I told myself the next blog wasn't going to be Wednesday's sermon, but alas God had other plans! Tonight's service hit that spot that screams "you have to share this!" So here I am.
Romans 13:11-14 and Matt 24:3-21
The part that really hit me was the beginning. The Greek used here gives urgency to what Paul is saying (wish I knew all this but I must give credit where credit is due..Kyle). Paul is talking about how now is the time to wake up to the time we are in and our personal state, spiritually apathetic. Here comes the hitting part....our salvation is nearer now than when we became believer, talking about the coming of Christ. **Clarification: Even though Paul was talking about the coming of Christ 2,000 years ago and it still has not occurred that does not negate what it being said. We as humans have finite minds while God's in infinite...our "soon" is different that God's "soon". We can't put God on our level of thinking or anything else. **
Back to the coming of Christ. We referenced Matt 24:3-21. The disciples asked what to look for when ?Jesus was coming back. For those who won't look in you Bibles or online here is the text in ESV:
3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?" 4 And Jesus answered them,"See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for thismust take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9 "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake. 10 And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another.11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. 12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
While reading this I was amazed at how absolutely close we are. I hear people all the time talking about it but never really compared what was going on in our world now to scripture. "Wars and rumors of wars". How true is this? That's all there is going on in our nations. Country against country and even people against government. The list goes on. Verse 8 gets me...this is only the start. It will get worse before it gets better (coming of Christ of course). Gets me thinking, when will Christ come back? What if it is tomorrow?? What will Christ catch me doing or see me doing? Is this life that I am living really how I want Christ to catch me living face to face? (He already sees me anyway but because of my finite minds I sometimes neglect to care...bad I know but I've never claimed to be the #1 Christian).
So maybe now it is time for me to REALLY make some changes. How about you??
**Again, must give credit where credit is due...most of this came from Kyle Caudell***
Romans 13:11-14 and Matt 24:3-21
The part that really hit me was the beginning. The Greek used here gives urgency to what Paul is saying (wish I knew all this but I must give credit where credit is due..Kyle). Paul is talking about how now is the time to wake up to the time we are in and our personal state, spiritually apathetic. Here comes the hitting part....our salvation is nearer now than when we became believer, talking about the coming of Christ. **Clarification: Even though Paul was talking about the coming of Christ 2,000 years ago and it still has not occurred that does not negate what it being said. We as humans have finite minds while God's in infinite...our "soon" is different that God's "soon". We can't put God on our level of thinking or anything else. **
Back to the coming of Christ. We referenced Matt 24:3-21. The disciples asked what to look for when ?Jesus was coming back. For those who won't look in you Bibles or online here is the text in ESV:
3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?" 4 And Jesus answered them,"See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for thismust take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9 "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake. 10 And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another.11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. 12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
The Abomination of Desolation
15 "So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand),16 then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 17 Let the one who is on the housetop not go down to take what is in his house, 18and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. 19 Andalas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! 20 Pray that your flight may not be in winter or on a Sabbath. 21 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. 22And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. 23Then if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or 'There he is!' do not believe it. 24 For false christs and false prophets will arise andperform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.While reading this I was amazed at how absolutely close we are. I hear people all the time talking about it but never really compared what was going on in our world now to scripture. "Wars and rumors of wars". How true is this? That's all there is going on in our nations. Country against country and even people against government. The list goes on. Verse 8 gets me...this is only the start. It will get worse before it gets better (coming of Christ of course). Gets me thinking, when will Christ come back? What if it is tomorrow?? What will Christ catch me doing or see me doing? Is this life that I am living really how I want Christ to catch me living face to face? (He already sees me anyway but because of my finite minds I sometimes neglect to care...bad I know but I've never claimed to be the #1 Christian).
So maybe now it is time for me to REALLY make some changes. How about you??
**Again, must give credit where credit is due...most of this came from Kyle Caudell***
Monday, April 11, 2011
Psalms 23
So at my church Double Springs Baptist (AKA 2Springs) we are going through a series called "The Psalms: Cultivating A Heart For God". So far a great series; I am really enjoying it. We are working our way through Psalms 23 and have made it through verses 1-3 and halfway through 4. It still amazes me how one person can read something and get such a deep meaning out of it.
We have talked about how God's presence is our peace in verses 1-3. The use of the analogy of the shepherd and his sheep is interesting to me because of the difference of what a shepherd was back then and what one is now. BIG difference. So as Kyle (my preacher) says context context context. A shepherd took care of his sheep, they had nothing to worry about just to eat and be merry (if that's a possibility). So we are the sheep and the Lord is the shepherd. The Lord will take care of us and we won't want anything; we all know that when we are taken care of we are at peace. How awesome is that!! To know that there is someone (way greater and mightier than us) taking care of us and providing for us...we should be at peace with that thought!
In verse 4 we see there is protection in the presence of God. Everyone has those points in life where we are down and depressed, the valleys of life. Well in the first half of the verse I have seen that we WALK through valleys. Here is where the deep thoughts come in....when we walk we are calm. The scripture does not say we run through these valleys, running is frantic. We have a calm assurance with the presence of God. I have also seen that we go THROUGH the valleys. The Lord does not say we sit it them or linger around. That alone makes me ecstatic! To know that when I am going through something I won't be there forever! The last thing revealed is that we are in the SHADOW of the valley of death, not in valley of death. Where there is a shadow, light is around some where (light being the Lord). Again his presence is peace, and we can rely on that.
God shows himself in amazing ways. This sermon could not have come at a better time in my life. This was definitely something I need to hear. Everything that was talked about I felt. Knowing that God was with me and that I would not be in the valley forever gave me peace and a sense of calmness. I wasn't anxious and nervous about the outcome. :) God is beyond good!
*Giving credit where credit is due: almost all of this is directly from Preacher Kyle's sermon at my church
We have talked about how God's presence is our peace in verses 1-3. The use of the analogy of the shepherd and his sheep is interesting to me because of the difference of what a shepherd was back then and what one is now. BIG difference. So as Kyle (my preacher) says context context context. A shepherd took care of his sheep, they had nothing to worry about just to eat and be merry (if that's a possibility). So we are the sheep and the Lord is the shepherd. The Lord will take care of us and we won't want anything; we all know that when we are taken care of we are at peace. How awesome is that!! To know that there is someone (way greater and mightier than us) taking care of us and providing for us...we should be at peace with that thought!
In verse 4 we see there is protection in the presence of God. Everyone has those points in life where we are down and depressed, the valleys of life. Well in the first half of the verse I have seen that we WALK through valleys. Here is where the deep thoughts come in....when we walk we are calm. The scripture does not say we run through these valleys, running is frantic. We have a calm assurance with the presence of God. I have also seen that we go THROUGH the valleys. The Lord does not say we sit it them or linger around. That alone makes me ecstatic! To know that when I am going through something I won't be there forever! The last thing revealed is that we are in the SHADOW of the valley of death, not in valley of death. Where there is a shadow, light is around some where (light being the Lord). Again his presence is peace, and we can rely on that.
God shows himself in amazing ways. This sermon could not have come at a better time in my life. This was definitely something I need to hear. Everything that was talked about I felt. Knowing that God was with me and that I would not be in the valley forever gave me peace and a sense of calmness. I wasn't anxious and nervous about the outcome. :) God is beyond good!
*Giving credit where credit is due: almost all of this is directly from Preacher Kyle's sermon at my church
The Typical Introduction
So I have wanted to start a blog for a while, not sure why but I did. However, I didn't want one that just shared my personal life because A) I don't want everyone knowing my personal business, I tell who I want to tell and B) no much goes on in my life, I go to work and come home mostly...every once and a while me and Elijah will go out, but mostly chilling at the house is what we do!
So I wanted something more. So it finally came to me! I will write about my spiritual journey, something to help me process my thoughts in some organized manner. Even more important, hopefully some one out there will read this blog and maybe start thinking of the condition of their own heart, saved or unsaved.
One thing you need to understand about me is that English/ Language Arts was never my strong suit. Especially the part where you read a paragraph or story and interpret information. That being said, don't expect some deep, though out, or "rich" interpretation from me! I get the basics, people like my husband and my preacher(s) are the ones that really bring life to the scripture for me and bring a clear understanding to it. So thanks to them in advance cause they will have a lot of input on this whether they realize it or not! :)
So enjoy!
So I wanted something more. So it finally came to me! I will write about my spiritual journey, something to help me process my thoughts in some organized manner. Even more important, hopefully some one out there will read this blog and maybe start thinking of the condition of their own heart, saved or unsaved.
One thing you need to understand about me is that English/ Language Arts was never my strong suit. Especially the part where you read a paragraph or story and interpret information. That being said, don't expect some deep, though out, or "rich" interpretation from me! I get the basics, people like my husband and my preacher(s) are the ones that really bring life to the scripture for me and bring a clear understanding to it. So thanks to them in advance cause they will have a lot of input on this whether they realize it or not! :)
So enjoy!
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