Heavenly Father,
You've been in control ever since before I was born.
Right here, with me,
It finally clicked that it's really truly been You all along
and it will always be You till the end...
So prepare my heart Father. Grant me the strength to pass any and every test. To sacrifice all I can for Your Glory... My love, my life, my world belongs to You. Bought at a price to high for me to pay, but a Love sooo great that I cannot fathom.
As I grow in resting in the FULLNESS of Your love,
Thank You Jesus for Your promise to abide in me as I continue to abide in You.
You said, ask anything in Your name and I will receive it.
Fame, fortunes, flatteries, acceptance by man...I do not desire.
Jesus I ask in Your name to make me whole in You.
God I ask that You will do for me what You have promised to do for me.
That's all I truly desire.
Thank You for my new life, thank You for Your peace, thank You for Your Joy...
Thank You for the invigorating new outlook for the amazing wonders and blessings You have in stow for me in my days ahead.
I Bless You Almighty, Amazing, Awesome Father. All Glory and Honor belongs to You. In Jesus' name. Amen
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
You called Lord...
First off I have to praise Jesus for His abiding strength that enables me to meet everything I have been committed in service to. I havent slept more than 7hrs in a long...long...time. And yes, for me that's hard to function on anything less. But God has seen me through it all and made it actually quite easier to bear. I can truly feel and see Jesus wanting and being more to me and my all. It's amazing to have a King who wants to love me and see to my every need...He's a beautiful wonder :o)
Last night returning from class, the Spirit told me to stay on the path I was walking on and veer along the water and eventually I would get to my destination = home. To shower, eat, pray with a friend, and sleep early... It was dark and a less busy road, but I had faith that my daddy was watching over me. And He was! I can't believe it, the new direction cut my usual travel time by 30 whole minutes!!! I praised God for the last 10mins home because I felt just that good and overjoyed. It was incredible and I thank God that He showed me with Him there's a much better, easier, and faster way to get to my intended destination. This stuck with me because how often do I set off doing things on my own because that's all I know how to and it's the familiar... I believe God challenges us to abandon the familiar and walk in confidence and joy in the uncertainty with Him....that is hard, but I'm going to stay on the course, veering however the Spirit leads me and trusting Him to order my steps and meet every need.
And to add on that, I was re-reading John. The first chapter is such an amazing opening...Jesus was with God before the world was made and nothing that exists was made outside of Him. I gather that Jesus is asking me to remember that everything was made by Him...especially when that person in your life is getting on your nerve and you would like to tell them about themselves, lol. He made even the mean grumpy bus driver who passes your stop even though you rang the bell...and me as his daughter...given that right according to John 1:12-13, I have to represent my Father in this world. Thereby revealing that Christ still lives on today in and through me.
Additionally, John 1 also highlights to me that when Jesus was ready to do His duties, He set about picking His disciples. He called a few and those few went and called others unto Him, who came and responded to His holiness with worship from their lips. Reflecting on this, I see how God is the one who calls us to Him, to be trained for service, and we are to respond accordingly. I believe there's no higher honor in life that to be called and used by God...King of Kings, Lord of Lords!!!
In this season of my life, Jesus has really been teaching me about His character and what He expects from me. I believe He has a purpose for my life and in due season it will come to pass. I'm soo excited for the beauty and grace being born in me. I'm grateful that He selected me to carryout a plan for Him. I realize now that there's no higher purpose than to live for Jesus. The will of God is that I remain in Jesus and live according to His word. Jesus, in His ever amazing and great wisdom broke it down for me...Love one another...kinda simple. To that I say Jesus, I can start one day at a time. Though I may stumble, You promised me that I would not fall. I promise to love a little harder, give a little more, encourage someone a little more, smile a little more, trust and forgive a little more. I can do all these and demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit because You Jesus live in me and the power of Your Spirit enables me to do just that.
Heavenly Father, creator of heaven and earth. Thank You for creating me. Thank You Jesus for my blossoming Faith relationship with You. Thank You for directing me, protecting me, loving me, encouraging me, comforting me, disciplining and convicting me. Thank You for transforming me into the woman You created me to be. Thank You for cleansing me of all unrighteousness and placing me in right standing with the Father. I offer all of me, mind, body, spirit, heart, and soul borne out of a grateful heart and in service to you. Teach me how to rely and rest in the fullness of Your grace and the love You have for me. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your son Jesus Christ to ransom me. Sweet, glorious Jesus, I lift Your name high, mangifying You, kissing Your feet in worship. That You would chose me for Your work, is all too overwhelming. In faith I thank You for Your promises that will come to pass in my life. Thank You for my new identity, my new life, my new mind. I desire for You to be Lord over all that I am and do. I do get wrapped up in Your praise, because words cannot express how AWESOME You are Jesus!!! Though I end here, I know I'm not dismissed from Your presence. Heavenly Father, to You belong all Glory, all Praise, and all Honor forever and ever...In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen
Last night returning from class, the Spirit told me to stay on the path I was walking on and veer along the water and eventually I would get to my destination = home. To shower, eat, pray with a friend, and sleep early... It was dark and a less busy road, but I had faith that my daddy was watching over me. And He was! I can't believe it, the new direction cut my usual travel time by 30 whole minutes!!! I praised God for the last 10mins home because I felt just that good and overjoyed. It was incredible and I thank God that He showed me with Him there's a much better, easier, and faster way to get to my intended destination. This stuck with me because how often do I set off doing things on my own because that's all I know how to and it's the familiar... I believe God challenges us to abandon the familiar and walk in confidence and joy in the uncertainty with Him....that is hard, but I'm going to stay on the course, veering however the Spirit leads me and trusting Him to order my steps and meet every need.
And to add on that, I was re-reading John. The first chapter is such an amazing opening...Jesus was with God before the world was made and nothing that exists was made outside of Him. I gather that Jesus is asking me to remember that everything was made by Him...especially when that person in your life is getting on your nerve and you would like to tell them about themselves, lol. He made even the mean grumpy bus driver who passes your stop even though you rang the bell...and me as his daughter...given that right according to John 1:12-13, I have to represent my Father in this world. Thereby revealing that Christ still lives on today in and through me.
Additionally, John 1 also highlights to me that when Jesus was ready to do His duties, He set about picking His disciples. He called a few and those few went and called others unto Him, who came and responded to His holiness with worship from their lips. Reflecting on this, I see how God is the one who calls us to Him, to be trained for service, and we are to respond accordingly. I believe there's no higher honor in life that to be called and used by God...King of Kings, Lord of Lords!!!
In this season of my life, Jesus has really been teaching me about His character and what He expects from me. I believe He has a purpose for my life and in due season it will come to pass. I'm soo excited for the beauty and grace being born in me. I'm grateful that He selected me to carryout a plan for Him. I realize now that there's no higher purpose than to live for Jesus. The will of God is that I remain in Jesus and live according to His word. Jesus, in His ever amazing and great wisdom broke it down for me...Love one another...kinda simple. To that I say Jesus, I can start one day at a time. Though I may stumble, You promised me that I would not fall. I promise to love a little harder, give a little more, encourage someone a little more, smile a little more, trust and forgive a little more. I can do all these and demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit because You Jesus live in me and the power of Your Spirit enables me to do just that.
Heavenly Father, creator of heaven and earth. Thank You for creating me. Thank You Jesus for my blossoming Faith relationship with You. Thank You for directing me, protecting me, loving me, encouraging me, comforting me, disciplining and convicting me. Thank You for transforming me into the woman You created me to be. Thank You for cleansing me of all unrighteousness and placing me in right standing with the Father. I offer all of me, mind, body, spirit, heart, and soul borne out of a grateful heart and in service to you. Teach me how to rely and rest in the fullness of Your grace and the love You have for me. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your son Jesus Christ to ransom me. Sweet, glorious Jesus, I lift Your name high, mangifying You, kissing Your feet in worship. That You would chose me for Your work, is all too overwhelming. In faith I thank You for Your promises that will come to pass in my life. Thank You for my new identity, my new life, my new mind. I desire for You to be Lord over all that I am and do. I do get wrapped up in Your praise, because words cannot express how AWESOME You are Jesus!!! Though I end here, I know I'm not dismissed from Your presence. Heavenly Father, to You belong all Glory, all Praise, and all Honor forever and ever...In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Follow me
Reflection based on John 21
The disciples went out with a purpose to catch fish but were unsuccessful in their attempt. But Jesus directed them where to cast their net and they caught more than they could carry. This tells me that Jesus has the blueprint for the perfect life for me, but I need His direction for the way He has chosen for me. I cannot do anything on my own.
Afterwards the disciples returned to shore, to find Jesus roasting fish and bread, ready for them to eat and regain strength. John noted that the net carrying the 153 Big fishes did not tear...telling me that Jesus' strength cannot be broken in me. This demonstrates to me that not only will Jesus direct my steps but He'll equip me and provide for me as I continue to trust Him.
The most salient message came through during the conversation Jesus has with Simon Peter. Jesus was asking Simon Peter to do a task for Him. As I read it over, though He asked Peter "Do you truly love me?"...I felt Jesus asking me the same question. For if I truly loved Him, I would give Him ALL OF ME. Unrestrained in thoughts, actions, and will. Allowing Him to work through me in this world....Jesus continues on with Simon Peter and gives a parable v18:
"I tell you the truth,when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go"...then Jesus said "Follow me"...
This are pretty clear instructions on what I must expect in my walk with Jesus. Especially when I pray "not my will but Your will". I believe God is clearly telling me to let go of my understanding, ways of old and walk into a new fellowship with Him. One that entails relinquishing all I've been holding unto and accept the way God has chosen for me. I may not like it sometimes or fully comprehend at times. I dont want to go back to my past life...I cannot go back...So I will walk the road laid out before me. Though blind, but there's the blessed assurance obtained by Faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. I will follow Jesus. Allowing Him to "dress me" and take me wherever. I may not always feel like it or want to, but Thank You Jesus for Your Spirit that dwells in me and enables me to do everything in Your name Jesus.
The disciples went out with a purpose to catch fish but were unsuccessful in their attempt. But Jesus directed them where to cast their net and they caught more than they could carry. This tells me that Jesus has the blueprint for the perfect life for me, but I need His direction for the way He has chosen for me. I cannot do anything on my own.
Afterwards the disciples returned to shore, to find Jesus roasting fish and bread, ready for them to eat and regain strength. John noted that the net carrying the 153 Big fishes did not tear...telling me that Jesus' strength cannot be broken in me. This demonstrates to me that not only will Jesus direct my steps but He'll equip me and provide for me as I continue to trust Him.
The most salient message came through during the conversation Jesus has with Simon Peter. Jesus was asking Simon Peter to do a task for Him. As I read it over, though He asked Peter "Do you truly love me?"...I felt Jesus asking me the same question. For if I truly loved Him, I would give Him ALL OF ME. Unrestrained in thoughts, actions, and will. Allowing Him to work through me in this world....Jesus continues on with Simon Peter and gives a parable v18:
"I tell you the truth,when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go"...then Jesus said "Follow me"...
This are pretty clear instructions on what I must expect in my walk with Jesus. Especially when I pray "not my will but Your will". I believe God is clearly telling me to let go of my understanding, ways of old and walk into a new fellowship with Him. One that entails relinquishing all I've been holding unto and accept the way God has chosen for me. I may not like it sometimes or fully comprehend at times. I dont want to go back to my past life...I cannot go back...So I will walk the road laid out before me. Though blind, but there's the blessed assurance obtained by Faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. I will follow Jesus. Allowing Him to "dress me" and take me wherever. I may not always feel like it or want to, but Thank You Jesus for Your Spirit that dwells in me and enables me to do everything in Your name Jesus.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I Surrender...
I did ask God to speak to me today and He sure did... I expected answers, but He showed me how my small mind of thinking had essentially given Him multiple choice questions with my pre-defined answer choices... And God, as He does best, blew up everything, bringing me to tears and crying out to Jesus...All, yes,... in one day... I admit I have no idea where my life is headed, and that scares me. For someone who plans and strategizes, that is hard and what He is asking of me is painful. But I know it is for my own good...He's asking me to let go and I want to but I just keep holding on...but what am I truly holding on to???...My way of knowing??? Doing things??? Handling things??? Responding to things???...These obviously havent worked thus far, if not I wouldnt be here at the throne of Grace & Mercy, in need of a major pouring & cleansing.
As I cried and prayed He led me to a devotional by Ruth Bell Graham. She states that trusting God involves:
Hillsong United "Take All Of Me". It starts with this verse:
"I love You
All of my hope is in You
Jesus Christ take my life
Take all of me"
And ends with:
"I love You so, and I give up my heart to say
I need You so, my everything"
Looking at all these...I believe that God is asking me to Let Go of where I put my securities and rely on Him alone and finding sufficiency in His Love. I shouldnt come with the mindset that "God bless me" or "Do this for me then I will entrust all of me to you"....uh-uh, God doesnt work this way... He is asking me to step out on Faith. Step out to meet Jesus, whose arms are outstretched, reaching out for me. For God already gave me what I didnt ask for, His son dying for me, my sins, to set me free. This leaves me thinking, now if I were a prisonner trapped in bondage, no amount of wealth or food would appease me...what I'd desire the most is freedom!!! And I believe Jesus has already given me the best thing I could ever ask for...eternal life. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me. He is my Savior and Lord of my Life now. Now God is asking me to let Him use my life to the extreme, to lead an impossibly great life for Him. And how can I refuse You God, You who has given me soo much...So I say YES!! With every fiber of my being.
Heavenly Father, Creator of the Heavens and Earth. You are crowned in full Glory, reigning over the world, King of Kings. Your dominion cannot be fathomed. Yet Jesus, You left Your throne, and came to rescue me from the death that was inevitable and impending. You laid down Your life for me only to pick it up once more in 3 days. I Love You and I THANK YOU...This is me offering You my heart to dwell in, my life to reign over. I may not know where I'm going, I relinquish control of my life both today and tomorrow, and I entrust ALL OF ME to You Jesus. I pray God that You would take me. If this poor servant, humbled by Your goodness can still be used in part of Your Great Plan...then Daddy I say yes and I need You Jesus. Teach me how to live for You - God. Teach me how to be obedient to You and Your will. To wear this world like a loose garment, soo easily removed. Teach me how to place my trust in You daily, for everything. I am nothing without You. Create within me a steadfast spirit and a grateful heart always. I Thank You for Loving me. Thank You God for delighting in me. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your protection and daily provision. Thank You for Your presence. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. I'm excited to see the new life, the new direction that You have for me Jesus. Thank You for moving me from Glory to Glory. I praise You Heavenly Father. In Faith I receive Your promises over me. I seal this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
As I cried and prayed He led me to a devotional by Ruth Bell Graham. She states that trusting God involves:
- Committing ourselves
- Committing our burden
- Committing our souls
- Committing our way
- Committing our cause
- Committing our works
Hillsong United "Take All Of Me". It starts with this verse:
"I love You
All of my hope is in You
Jesus Christ take my life
Take all of me"
And ends with:
"I love You so, and I give up my heart to say
I need You so, my everything"
Looking at all these...I believe that God is asking me to Let Go of where I put my securities and rely on Him alone and finding sufficiency in His Love. I shouldnt come with the mindset that "God bless me" or "Do this for me then I will entrust all of me to you"....uh-uh, God doesnt work this way... He is asking me to step out on Faith. Step out to meet Jesus, whose arms are outstretched, reaching out for me. For God already gave me what I didnt ask for, His son dying for me, my sins, to set me free. This leaves me thinking, now if I were a prisonner trapped in bondage, no amount of wealth or food would appease me...what I'd desire the most is freedom!!! And I believe Jesus has already given me the best thing I could ever ask for...eternal life. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for me. He is my Savior and Lord of my Life now. Now God is asking me to let Him use my life to the extreme, to lead an impossibly great life for Him. And how can I refuse You God, You who has given me soo much...So I say YES!! With every fiber of my being.
Heavenly Father, Creator of the Heavens and Earth. You are crowned in full Glory, reigning over the world, King of Kings. Your dominion cannot be fathomed. Yet Jesus, You left Your throne, and came to rescue me from the death that was inevitable and impending. You laid down Your life for me only to pick it up once more in 3 days. I Love You and I THANK YOU...This is me offering You my heart to dwell in, my life to reign over. I may not know where I'm going, I relinquish control of my life both today and tomorrow, and I entrust ALL OF ME to You Jesus. I pray God that You would take me. If this poor servant, humbled by Your goodness can still be used in part of Your Great Plan...then Daddy I say yes and I need You Jesus. Teach me how to live for You - God. Teach me how to be obedient to You and Your will. To wear this world like a loose garment, soo easily removed. Teach me how to place my trust in You daily, for everything. I am nothing without You. Create within me a steadfast spirit and a grateful heart always. I Thank You for Loving me. Thank You God for delighting in me. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your protection and daily provision. Thank You for Your presence. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. I'm excited to see the new life, the new direction that You have for me Jesus. Thank You for moving me from Glory to Glory. I praise You Heavenly Father. In Faith I receive Your promises over me. I seal this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
My invitation to God
Today I asked God to give me a sign, hope, that what I'm chasing after is truly from Him. I asked Jesus to speak to me today, because He can. And while getting ready for work, I was listening to Hillsong "Your Name High" on you tube with the intro about the church. One of the members was talking to the crowd gathered about how God should be God in our hearts. Allowing Him to truly do the work that He wants to do in us. What got to me was "I don't know what will happen if we truly allow God to invade our lives and invade our hearts"...
I believe God was responding to me as He always does, with questions that dont need answers. God asked me if whether what I was seeking is what I really needed to go out into the world to change the world for Him... Do I need to be a physician to touch lives? To make a difference? To create sustaining programs? That provide hope? How wrong I've been thinking that the title would open doors, get me access, respect, and the power to do what I want...when it's God who opens doors....How wrong I thought those skill sets can do anything anywhere, because they'll always be needed...What the world needs is God, nothing else...To do the change I desire and He wants to see, shouldnt I be going out in His name?
So my prayer today, is for God to remove all doubt, disbelief, and fear. To remove my ideas and plans, to cause a shift in me where I'm open to His will. Where I truly allow Jesus Christ to be the Lord of my life. To live for Him and not for myself. To see Him glorified in all that I do. In as much as I thought that I was living for You God, I now realize the errors of my ways. Forgive me for trying to get You to be in alignment with my will...how futile were all these efforts...And I thank You. Why would You give it to me, if it's not what Your will is for me?...God, You showed me that there's nothing wrong with these plans and desires. But how can You bring what You have for me in, if I keep trying to fill-up when You empty me??..I thank You that You did not fulfill them, for You're not a God who just gives because we ask. How would I truly learn that You're the living Great and Powerful God who created me for Your purpose and delight...You want to build Your character in me, a godly woman, who is ready to be called to serve anywhere at all times for You. That's all You ever promised to do for me...
So today, Almighty God, and Compassionate Jehovah, I ask for Your forgiveness. I am sorry for trying to do things my way. I'm sorry for not being patient enough to wait in the stillness of Your presence. I surrender myself to Your leadership. If You lead, I promise to follow. I truly desire You Jesus Christ to be the Lord of my life. To use me. I may not know where I'm going...but God, You have promised to lead me, the blind by ways I have not known. So I'll sit and wait on You God. Wait for Your prompting. Wait for You to put the pieces together. I say yes to whatever Your heart desires, whatever Your will is for me. I say Yes to You God. Yes! Please radically invade my heart and my life...The only expectation I have is that You will flood into me through Your Holy Spirit and make Your Glory known to the world. Grant me the strength to be faithful where You have placed me today. To seek out opportunities to be a blessing to those around me today. And to live not in forward future thinking, but in today's world. Rejoicing that You are all I need. In Faith I thank You and declare that I am free! In Jesus' name. Amen
I believe God was responding to me as He always does, with questions that dont need answers. God asked me if whether what I was seeking is what I really needed to go out into the world to change the world for Him... Do I need to be a physician to touch lives? To make a difference? To create sustaining programs? That provide hope? How wrong I've been thinking that the title would open doors, get me access, respect, and the power to do what I want...when it's God who opens doors....How wrong I thought those skill sets can do anything anywhere, because they'll always be needed...What the world needs is God, nothing else...To do the change I desire and He wants to see, shouldnt I be going out in His name?
So my prayer today, is for God to remove all doubt, disbelief, and fear. To remove my ideas and plans, to cause a shift in me where I'm open to His will. Where I truly allow Jesus Christ to be the Lord of my life. To live for Him and not for myself. To see Him glorified in all that I do. In as much as I thought that I was living for You God, I now realize the errors of my ways. Forgive me for trying to get You to be in alignment with my will...how futile were all these efforts...And I thank You. Why would You give it to me, if it's not what Your will is for me?...God, You showed me that there's nothing wrong with these plans and desires. But how can You bring what You have for me in, if I keep trying to fill-up when You empty me??..I thank You that You did not fulfill them, for You're not a God who just gives because we ask. How would I truly learn that You're the living Great and Powerful God who created me for Your purpose and delight...You want to build Your character in me, a godly woman, who is ready to be called to serve anywhere at all times for You. That's all You ever promised to do for me...
So today, Almighty God, and Compassionate Jehovah, I ask for Your forgiveness. I am sorry for trying to do things my way. I'm sorry for not being patient enough to wait in the stillness of Your presence. I surrender myself to Your leadership. If You lead, I promise to follow. I truly desire You Jesus Christ to be the Lord of my life. To use me. I may not know where I'm going...but God, You have promised to lead me, the blind by ways I have not known. So I'll sit and wait on You God. Wait for Your prompting. Wait for You to put the pieces together. I say yes to whatever Your heart desires, whatever Your will is for me. I say Yes to You God. Yes! Please radically invade my heart and my life...The only expectation I have is that You will flood into me through Your Holy Spirit and make Your Glory known to the world. Grant me the strength to be faithful where You have placed me today. To seek out opportunities to be a blessing to those around me today. And to live not in forward future thinking, but in today's world. Rejoicing that You are all I need. In Faith I thank You and declare that I am free! In Jesus' name. Amen
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Wait
I had to consult/re-visit my Bible study (By Faith) for this one. There's been "A Praise on the Inside" forgive me J. Moss, had to use it....no other way to explain. The anticipation rises everyday and the excitement causes me to praise God. Or maybe it's just the joy of salvation that has risen within me...Either way, I believe I'm about to cross over to my next level of faith. But till it happens I must stand on these principles according to my 2 favorites authors John & Lonnie. Please note, these are not mine. I used pronouns to make them more relevant to me when I re-read it. Some elaboration is included here and there.
1) God has a purpose for waiting.
-God is glorified while I wait.
-I develop a deeper knowledge of God and greater faith in God. (A result of longing and choosing to constantly rely on God's love for me).
-I develop godly character. (God wants me to reflect Him in character).
-God prepares other people to receive His will. (The anointing over me is for those around me. And God will work in me to bless them).
2)Waiting on God is the most challenging stage of Faith.
-I am to move myself out of the way because God exceeds reality and does not need my help in hurrying things to come to pass. He may give me the vision but I should not strategize to make sure the word comes to pass.
3) Dont walk by sight, walk in the Spirit.
-2 Corinthians 5:7
4) I must learn to live with an unmet need or desire.
-When God delays, no matter how tempted I am, I cannot take matters into my own hands...
According to John and Lonnie, I am on the right track = Waiting on God requires active seeking. And in this process I should
-Ask until I receive clarity
-Seek Specifically and expectantly
-As I knock, I should keep doing what God has called me to do.
Testing is to be expected
-Confusion & second-guessing
-Doubt resulting from my expectations of the outcome and not trusting God's timing
-Frustration from impatience
-Pain or difficulties
-Longing for the comfort zone
God intends Joy during waiting
As I reflect on these notes I see these themes in my life right now, which assures me that God is about to be glorified through me. Because God rewards completed faith...
Heavenly Father, God of All creation. All heaven and earth testifies to Your Greatness. I worship you this evening. Thank You for sending Your son, my Lord Jesus Christ, to die for me on the cross. I am not worthy of soo great a love...You are a loving and compassionate God. Forgive me of all my inequities and unrighteousness. Forgive me of doubt and disbelief and attempts to do things on my own. Heavenly Father, I'm sorry for placing limits on what You can do in my life. Thank You for daily provision throughout today. Especially seeing me through today's training creation and presentation... For supplementing my energy throughout today and enabling me to accomplish all that was set before me with peace, grace, and joy. Thank You for being my keeper, preserving me from all harm and evil today. Father, the time has come for You to be glorified in me. You've placed these desires and talents in me. Bring the harvest to pass for all those around me to join with me in praising your awesome name. God I relinquish all control over all areas of my life to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. I believe that every word You have said over me will come to pass. That Your purpose for creating me will come to pass. For You are a faithful God. I trust your decision, direction, and choices for my life. Not my will but Your Will Father. Not my way but Yours. Not me, but Your Glory. Increase in me and be reflected through me in every way. In Faith I thank You, for this is the confidence I have in approaching You. I know that when I call, You hear me. Therefore anything that I have asked of You, I already have it. Thank You for using me to demonstrate Your Power and Glory. I praise You, Hallelujah. In Jesus's name I pray and thank You. Amen
1) God has a purpose for waiting.
-God is glorified while I wait.
-I develop a deeper knowledge of God and greater faith in God. (A result of longing and choosing to constantly rely on God's love for me).
-I develop godly character. (God wants me to reflect Him in character).
-God prepares other people to receive His will. (The anointing over me is for those around me. And God will work in me to bless them).
2)Waiting on God is the most challenging stage of Faith.
-I am to move myself out of the way because God exceeds reality and does not need my help in hurrying things to come to pass. He may give me the vision but I should not strategize to make sure the word comes to pass.
3) Dont walk by sight, walk in the Spirit.
-2 Corinthians 5:7
4) I must learn to live with an unmet need or desire.
-When God delays, no matter how tempted I am, I cannot take matters into my own hands...
According to John and Lonnie, I am on the right track = Waiting on God requires active seeking. And in this process I should
-Ask until I receive clarity
-Seek Specifically and expectantly
-As I knock, I should keep doing what God has called me to do.
Testing is to be expected
-Confusion & second-guessing
-Doubt resulting from my expectations of the outcome and not trusting God's timing
-Frustration from impatience
-Pain or difficulties
-Longing for the comfort zone
God intends Joy during waiting
As I reflect on these notes I see these themes in my life right now, which assures me that God is about to be glorified through me. Because God rewards completed faith...
Heavenly Father, God of All creation. All heaven and earth testifies to Your Greatness. I worship you this evening. Thank You for sending Your son, my Lord Jesus Christ, to die for me on the cross. I am not worthy of soo great a love...You are a loving and compassionate God. Forgive me of all my inequities and unrighteousness. Forgive me of doubt and disbelief and attempts to do things on my own. Heavenly Father, I'm sorry for placing limits on what You can do in my life. Thank You for daily provision throughout today. Especially seeing me through today's training creation and presentation... For supplementing my energy throughout today and enabling me to accomplish all that was set before me with peace, grace, and joy. Thank You for being my keeper, preserving me from all harm and evil today. Father, the time has come for You to be glorified in me. You've placed these desires and talents in me. Bring the harvest to pass for all those around me to join with me in praising your awesome name. God I relinquish all control over all areas of my life to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. I believe that every word You have said over me will come to pass. That Your purpose for creating me will come to pass. For You are a faithful God. I trust your decision, direction, and choices for my life. Not my will but Your Will Father. Not my way but Yours. Not me, but Your Glory. Increase in me and be reflected through me in every way. In Faith I thank You, for this is the confidence I have in approaching You. I know that when I call, You hear me. Therefore anything that I have asked of You, I already have it. Thank You for using me to demonstrate Your Power and Glory. I praise You, Hallelujah. In Jesus's name I pray and thank You. Amen
Saturday, March 21, 2009
His Presence
It's amazing to enter God's presence to press on in and join an ongoing celebration with other Saints and all the angels. It's incredible, such peace, beauty...this morning I felt like I was floating in joy, just completely elated. I was in the presence of my Father and we talked and fellowshipped. I praised, prayed, worship, danced, and was completely liberated. Then He gave me His name choice...there's a development going on in my life right now that requires a stillness and me being set apart to clearly hear Him and be obedient to His instructions.
I'm believing God right now that His plans for me are what is being unfolded before me know, what is being spoken to me by the Holy Spirit. I've yielded my life, my way to the control of the Holy Spirit and believing that God will use me to tap into a world that only I can and where He has assigned me to go. Pray for me for clarity and obedience in spirit and in truth.
Heavenly Father, Indeed from whom all Blessings flow, praises to Your Holy, Magnificent, Glorious name. You promised in Your word that if we are faithful and do not get weary in doing good, in due season we will reap a harvest. I believe in my heart that you had planned something much better for me that only together with me would it be made perfect. So God, I ask for your vision. Holy Spirit I ask for clarity in God's instructions and I submit all of me, mind, body, spirit, heart, and soul to your guidance. Counsel me as I begin this journey for You know God best. Lord Jesus thank You for training me, equipping me with all that I need, and for praying for me. God I give you all my glory and all my praise, both now and forever. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You for hearing me. And In Faith I declare it done. Amen.
I'm believing God right now that His plans for me are what is being unfolded before me know, what is being spoken to me by the Holy Spirit. I've yielded my life, my way to the control of the Holy Spirit and believing that God will use me to tap into a world that only I can and where He has assigned me to go. Pray for me for clarity and obedience in spirit and in truth.
Heavenly Father, Indeed from whom all Blessings flow, praises to Your Holy, Magnificent, Glorious name. You promised in Your word that if we are faithful and do not get weary in doing good, in due season we will reap a harvest. I believe in my heart that you had planned something much better for me that only together with me would it be made perfect. So God, I ask for your vision. Holy Spirit I ask for clarity in God's instructions and I submit all of me, mind, body, spirit, heart, and soul to your guidance. Counsel me as I begin this journey for You know God best. Lord Jesus thank You for training me, equipping me with all that I need, and for praying for me. God I give you all my glory and all my praise, both now and forever. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You for hearing me. And In Faith I declare it done. Amen.
Friday, March 20, 2009
My Colors
Weakness, frailty, a gray world repeating itself.
Miserable, dejected, blue...yes...blue, my color of choice.
Greens and purples, not for me to want, much too cheerful for my taste.
Nor Shades of red, corruption, sin, temptation, and death.
John 3:16
Humility and daily repentance, the gray of the dawning of a new day.
Called to holy service and draped in blue.
I choose life and worship!!! Yes...I'll take the greens and purples!!!
I am forever marked in scarlet, forever God's beloved.
Miserable, dejected, blue...yes...blue, my color of choice.
Greens and purples, not for me to want, much too cheerful for my taste.
Nor Shades of red, corruption, sin, temptation, and death.
John 3:16
Humility and daily repentance, the gray of the dawning of a new day.
Called to holy service and draped in blue.
I choose life and worship!!! Yes...I'll take the greens and purples!!!
I am forever marked in scarlet, forever God's beloved.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
My Relationship With God
It's been a while coming but God has spoken/been speaking to my spirit that He is preparing to move me to another level of Faith. To cross my Jordan... Part of me rejoices for the newness it promises to bring, something different, but there's a fear of the new challenges that are also promised to come. While doing my daily devotion, I was flooded from His scriptures with these Holy Truths...I believe that my God who is Alpha & Omega had written about all the days ordained before me before one came to pass. I believe that He created me to last and to endure, for I am made just in His image. God dwells in me. He has promised me that even in the highest heights or lowest depths...even there His Spirit guides me and His right hand holds me fast. Even in my moments of uncertainty...He guides me on the way everlasting. I surrender me for His Glory. I surrender me for His pleasure...No longer will I resist, seek to control...I WILL TRUST God and all that He is doing in and through me.
I believe that God will put everything on the line to make us whole, even His relationship with us. He took a lot of clutter out of my life, distractions, people, activities, dreams...In order to cross the Jordan, the Joshua commanded the Israelites to get their supplies ready, which meant take only what is necessary. All I thought was gone was for my good. As He slowly puts pieces back in their right places in my life, I understand that only God is necessary to move ahead... Now I realize even after all pains, joys, frustrations, breakthroughs, grief, relief, reluctance to let go, favor, hurts, forgiveness, betrayals, trust, anger, patience, self-doubt, confidence, fear, peace, shame, beauty, mistakes, successes, rejections, edification,...He is God, He is my Father, He loves me, He delights when I please Him with all of me in all ways. He has, is, and will always be the Only One in my life who is always there. When all else is gone out of my life, His love has always been constant, bringing me joy, nursing me back to health and the fullness in Him.
As I walk into this new level of faith, all I have decided to bring with me is the promise that God is forever with me. "I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do. I will not forsake you" (Isaiah 42:16). I know now that it's not about the people, the haves, the situations....my story is about a God who loves me and has promised to be with me and to live life with me. So I praise Him from my utmost being, I praise Him with a grateful heart, I praise Him in a dance, I praise Him for being faithful, for being My God and My everything. I praise Him just because...
I believe that God will put everything on the line to make us whole, even His relationship with us. He took a lot of clutter out of my life, distractions, people, activities, dreams...In order to cross the Jordan, the Joshua commanded the Israelites to get their supplies ready, which meant take only what is necessary. All I thought was gone was for my good. As He slowly puts pieces back in their right places in my life, I understand that only God is necessary to move ahead... Now I realize even after all pains, joys, frustrations, breakthroughs, grief, relief, reluctance to let go, favor, hurts, forgiveness, betrayals, trust, anger, patience, self-doubt, confidence, fear, peace, shame, beauty, mistakes, successes, rejections, edification,...He is God, He is my Father, He loves me, He delights when I please Him with all of me in all ways. He has, is, and will always be the Only One in my life who is always there. When all else is gone out of my life, His love has always been constant, bringing me joy, nursing me back to health and the fullness in Him.
As I walk into this new level of faith, all I have decided to bring with me is the promise that God is forever with me. "I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do. I will not forsake you" (Isaiah 42:16). I know now that it's not about the people, the haves, the situations....my story is about a God who loves me and has promised to be with me and to live life with me. So I praise Him from my utmost being, I praise Him with a grateful heart, I praise Him in a dance, I praise Him for being faithful, for being My God and My everything. I praise Him just because...
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Daughter of Africa
Who Am I?
Question of the Ages.
Efforts to Define & Confine.
Black, Ugly,
Baby-making factory.
Ain't fit for nothing.
Used, Abused, Rejected, Raped,
Neglected, Abandoned.
Streams of tears.
Lost generations.
Yet!
Ever Resilient.
Ever Purposeful.
Ever Loving.
Ever You.
Oh! Look at You...African Queen!
Long slender exquisite neck,
Gracefully poised physique,
Elegant maneurisms,
Radiating dignity and life!
My African Sister,
Haven't you heard?!?
This whole earth beneath your feet belongs to You.
Who Am I?
I am Beautiful,
I am Exceptionally Amazing,
I am a proud Daughter of Africa.
Question of the Ages.
Efforts to Define & Confine.
Black, Ugly,
Baby-making factory.
Ain't fit for nothing.
Used, Abused, Rejected, Raped,
Neglected, Abandoned.
Streams of tears.
Lost generations.
Yet!
Ever Resilient.
Ever Purposeful.
Ever Loving.
Ever You.
Oh! Look at You...African Queen!
Long slender exquisite neck,
Gracefully poised physique,
Elegant maneurisms,
Radiating dignity and life!
My African Sister,
Haven't you heard?!?
This whole earth beneath your feet belongs to You.
Who Am I?
I am Beautiful,
I am Exceptionally Amazing,
I am a proud Daughter of Africa.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The Full Measure of My Love
Over and over again I keep revisiting Jesus' Love for me and the significance of the Cross. Why? Because I believe that this is the unbreakable link between me and God. At the Cross Jesus married me to the Father in pure perfect holy blood. And I desire to comprehend the fullness of that perfect beautiful Love that is available for me. I don't believe anyone or anything can ever offer me love soo absolutely true, beautiful, and awe-inspiring... God truly is an exciting wonder...
The Full Measure of Jesus' Love was captured in John 14-15 this morning while I was digging in the word. The Holy Spirit directed me to see that Jesus gave us 3 very important things:
1) LOVE COMMANDMENT: He demonstrated His version of LOVE to the apostles by washing their feet. He served. Afterward, Jesus tells His disciples "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you MUST love one another" (John 13:34). Here I believe that Jesus is reminding me that to love his way is to humble myself before others, to be of service, to be selfless, and to CHOOSE to Love others. The word MUST tells me that it is not up for discussion, more of an expectation. As an obedient daughter who seeks to Have Jesus glorified in and through me, I MUST choose to Love at all times. As always, much of my discipleship process is much easier said than done. But God has been faithful to move me from glory to glory over the years. I may not yet be there to fully demonstrate and walk in love at all times, but I'm not where I used to be...so Praise God :-D
2) His name "JESUS": The Son of God gave us FREE USE of His name. "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring Glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."(John 14:13-14) WOW!!! I see it like a credit card that I never have to pay back. And I love my shopping...though not as much in these times, lol...Every day I wake up the balance of this credit card has already been paid off in FULL!!!...That's exciting!!! But...just as credit cards come with rules or "terms" so does having access to Jesus' name come with conditions. First, His name is to be used by HIS Children, HIS Chosen ones, those who are His followers. He does not answer those who's hearts have evil motives. Secondly, we are allowed to ask and He will do "it"...according to His purpose and for the glory of GOD... Oftentimes, myself included, we see things and desire a particular outcome, but it may not necessarily be the same plan God has for that particular situation to play out... He is faithful to keep us and protect us, but God's WILL was what Jesus came to do and did, which is why everything He asked of the Father was given Him.
Through Jesus' name I realize that I also have full assurance aka peace. " Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27). This is my assurance and strength that in the midst of anything I have access to His peace. The very peace that kept Him together, when He was captured. Even when He was questioned by the authorities of this world, Jesus boldly stood up, declaring God's truth, representing His Father. Jesus knew who He was, to whom He belonged to, and that He was doing His Father's will....Jesus is awesome!!!! He did not waver. Even being tortured, Jesus had peace, even when the cross was brought, He had peace. He carried it with Him and was nailed on it...He did not struggle or try to run. He stood still, at peace....Amazing....
3) HOLY SPIRIT: "The Spirit of Truth"....Another amazing present. Jesus left us the wonderful counselor who lives in us. It's incredible to think that Jesus' Spirit dwells in me...Wow...As a guide, to "teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26) Like an internal compass you direct me. Teach me, mold me, convict me, direct me.
Thank you Jesus for loving me soo much that You not only died for me at the cross, but You gave me direction, Your name, and Your Holy Spirit to walk through this world. Though I'm in the world, I'm no longer of the world. I have been born again. I am a new creation. I am Yours. I have a new identity (Galatians 5:16:26). Jesus make me more worthy of Your Love. Cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Grant me strength to choose to Love always regardless of the situation, to believe in the Power of Your name that is mine to use, and to keep in step with the Holy Spirit. Be glorified in my life so that the Father may be glorified by Your name. Thank You God for orchestrating the perfect marriage of me to You. To You, God Almighty, I give all my praise, all glory, and all credit. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen
The Full Measure of Jesus' Love was captured in John 14-15 this morning while I was digging in the word. The Holy Spirit directed me to see that Jesus gave us 3 very important things:
1) LOVE COMMANDMENT: He demonstrated His version of LOVE to the apostles by washing their feet. He served. Afterward, Jesus tells His disciples "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you MUST love one another" (John 13:34). Here I believe that Jesus is reminding me that to love his way is to humble myself before others, to be of service, to be selfless, and to CHOOSE to Love others. The word MUST tells me that it is not up for discussion, more of an expectation. As an obedient daughter who seeks to Have Jesus glorified in and through me, I MUST choose to Love at all times. As always, much of my discipleship process is much easier said than done. But God has been faithful to move me from glory to glory over the years. I may not yet be there to fully demonstrate and walk in love at all times, but I'm not where I used to be...so Praise God :-D
2) His name "JESUS": The Son of God gave us FREE USE of His name. "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring Glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it."(John 14:13-14) WOW!!! I see it like a credit card that I never have to pay back. And I love my shopping...though not as much in these times, lol...Every day I wake up the balance of this credit card has already been paid off in FULL!!!...That's exciting!!! But...just as credit cards come with rules or "terms" so does having access to Jesus' name come with conditions. First, His name is to be used by HIS Children, HIS Chosen ones, those who are His followers. He does not answer those who's hearts have evil motives. Secondly, we are allowed to ask and He will do "it"...according to His purpose and for the glory of GOD... Oftentimes, myself included, we see things and desire a particular outcome, but it may not necessarily be the same plan God has for that particular situation to play out... He is faithful to keep us and protect us, but God's WILL was what Jesus came to do and did, which is why everything He asked of the Father was given Him.
Through Jesus' name I realize that I also have full assurance aka peace. " Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27). This is my assurance and strength that in the midst of anything I have access to His peace. The very peace that kept Him together, when He was captured. Even when He was questioned by the authorities of this world, Jesus boldly stood up, declaring God's truth, representing His Father. Jesus knew who He was, to whom He belonged to, and that He was doing His Father's will....Jesus is awesome!!!! He did not waver. Even being tortured, Jesus had peace, even when the cross was brought, He had peace. He carried it with Him and was nailed on it...He did not struggle or try to run. He stood still, at peace....Amazing....
3) HOLY SPIRIT: "The Spirit of Truth"....Another amazing present. Jesus left us the wonderful counselor who lives in us. It's incredible to think that Jesus' Spirit dwells in me...Wow...As a guide, to "teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26) Like an internal compass you direct me. Teach me, mold me, convict me, direct me.
Thank you Jesus for loving me soo much that You not only died for me at the cross, but You gave me direction, Your name, and Your Holy Spirit to walk through this world. Though I'm in the world, I'm no longer of the world. I have been born again. I am a new creation. I am Yours. I have a new identity (Galatians 5:16:26). Jesus make me more worthy of Your Love. Cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Grant me strength to choose to Love always regardless of the situation, to believe in the Power of Your name that is mine to use, and to keep in step with the Holy Spirit. Be glorified in my life so that the Father may be glorified by Your name. Thank You God for orchestrating the perfect marriage of me to You. To You, God Almighty, I give all my praise, all glory, and all credit. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Sight by Faith
John Ch 9 was a really good read, weaving the same thread of Jesus asking us to open our eyes and truly see. Jesus Christ is the light and He continually ask thus far in John that those who believe will be granted sight, eternal life that cannot die out. It's amazing that Jesus has an open invitation to any and the only requirement is "To Believe"...
How unfortunate we live in a society where we are taught to question things, approach them with skepticism, receive advice with a grain of salt. No womder God made His Gospel soo simple...in fact too simple that it surpassed the wise to comprehend that Yes!!!...it is that simple...the only requirement is believeing in the Son of God born of a virgin Mary, who died on the cross, rose on the third day and has been given authority over every power in earth and in heaven. (Romans 10:9-10).
One of the most powerful statements I believe in John 9 is when Jesus asked the man who's sight had been restored "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" (v.35) and the once blind man said " Tell me so that I may believe in him." (v.36). God had prepared the man's heart to receive a relationship offering through Jesus' act of restoring the blind man's sight. But the man still had the choice of saying "Yes God, I believe"...Kinda reminds me of bringing a horse to a stream, you cant force it to drink. It's choice. I'm thankful for a God who gives us the choice between life and death, hoping we would chose the former and make His heart glad...and Him being moved to reward us. God honestly just wants a relationship with us...being involved in ALL areas of our lives and being given the proper respect by allowing Him use us for His pleasure. That is total surrender, but the beauty of it is our God is a GOOD GOD. He ALWAYS has our Best interest at heart. His plans for us are for Good never to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11).
Heavenly Father, I thank You for loving me. I thank You for a brand new day to fellowship with You. To worship You. To walk beside You. Thank You for being such a good, awesome, wonderful God. I will say to myself the Lord is my portion. For all my daily provisions are met in You. Your faithfulness is seen everyday. Your promises always come to pass. I choose You God. I choose Your will for my life. I choose to wait on You. Your Spirit in me testifies to me that You are my God. Thank You for opening my eyes to Your love Lord Jesus Christ. I gladly confess that You are my savior. You died for my sins. Though I may struggle, grant me strength to confidently overcome every situation with grace and faith. Cleanse me, wash me anew, and annoint me once more Lord Jesus Christ. I ask for Your forgiveness God for meditations or acts by me that have dishonored or offended You. I thank You that it is that simple to ask and believe and it is done. Keep me, my family, and loved ones safe throughout today. I thank You for the BLESSED ASSURANCE of Your enduring, patient, matchless, endless, faithful, pure, perfect, amazing Love. To You I give ALL Glory and ALL Praise. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen.
How unfortunate we live in a society where we are taught to question things, approach them with skepticism, receive advice with a grain of salt. No womder God made His Gospel soo simple...in fact too simple that it surpassed the wise to comprehend that Yes!!!...it is that simple...the only requirement is believeing in the Son of God born of a virgin Mary, who died on the cross, rose on the third day and has been given authority over every power in earth and in heaven. (Romans 10:9-10).
One of the most powerful statements I believe in John 9 is when Jesus asked the man who's sight had been restored "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" (v.35) and the once blind man said " Tell me so that I may believe in him." (v.36). God had prepared the man's heart to receive a relationship offering through Jesus' act of restoring the blind man's sight. But the man still had the choice of saying "Yes God, I believe"...Kinda reminds me of bringing a horse to a stream, you cant force it to drink. It's choice. I'm thankful for a God who gives us the choice between life and death, hoping we would chose the former and make His heart glad...and Him being moved to reward us. God honestly just wants a relationship with us...being involved in ALL areas of our lives and being given the proper respect by allowing Him use us for His pleasure. That is total surrender, but the beauty of it is our God is a GOOD GOD. He ALWAYS has our Best interest at heart. His plans for us are for Good never to harm us (Jeremiah 29:11).
Heavenly Father, I thank You for loving me. I thank You for a brand new day to fellowship with You. To worship You. To walk beside You. Thank You for being such a good, awesome, wonderful God. I will say to myself the Lord is my portion. For all my daily provisions are met in You. Your faithfulness is seen everyday. Your promises always come to pass. I choose You God. I choose Your will for my life. I choose to wait on You. Your Spirit in me testifies to me that You are my God. Thank You for opening my eyes to Your love Lord Jesus Christ. I gladly confess that You are my savior. You died for my sins. Though I may struggle, grant me strength to confidently overcome every situation with grace and faith. Cleanse me, wash me anew, and annoint me once more Lord Jesus Christ. I ask for Your forgiveness God for meditations or acts by me that have dishonored or offended You. I thank You that it is that simple to ask and believe and it is done. Keep me, my family, and loved ones safe throughout today. I thank You for the BLESSED ASSURANCE of Your enduring, patient, matchless, endless, faithful, pure, perfect, amazing Love. To You I give ALL Glory and ALL Praise. In Jesus' name I pray and thank You. Amen.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Show me my path...or better yet, reveal Your Will 4 me
So I started reading "He Came to Set the Captives Free" by Rebecca Brown...PLEASE THIS IS SOME HEAVY STUFF AND SHOULD NOT BE APPROACHED LIGHTLY....Ok that's my caution. I was forewarned but thought "oh yea''....yea...i'll leave at that.
But essentially in the whole book, I see how God already usually has us on our way...our the predestined direction/assignment/purpose for our life but does not completely reveal it to us. He trains us and sows the initial seeds to desire the end outcome He seeks through us. We're not placed anywhere by chance. And yes, God allows the devil in sometimes to discipline us and it is for our good. Though the devil, like Good Friday, thinks it's his own doing and can stand a fighting chance to win..but God in His infinite wisdom (1 Cor 1:25) crafts and orders our steps. What the devil intended for our harm, is used by God for His Glory and our victory...Joseph, David, Job, even Jesus...God is always at work, strategically ordering our steps. For "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."(Proverbs 19:21). "He is mighty and firm in His purpose" (Job 36:5).
Heavenly Father. Thank You for loving me. Thank You for Redemption, sending Your Son to die for my sins. I gladly yield leadership and control of my life to Your Holy Spirit. Search my heart, renew my heart, make me over once more to reflect Your Son and the fruits of the Spirit. Daddy I ask for Your forgiveness for doubting Your ability to take care of every one of my needs today. I ask for Your forgiveness for what I meditated upon or said that was not worthy of You. Strengthen me Lord to take dominion over my thought patterns and my flesh. Discipline me in Your ways. Console me in the comfort of Your arms. Thank You guardian angel for petitioning God to take care of me. Watch over my steps and guide me on my path of righteousness. Thank You God for Your watchcare over me and my family and my loved ones. I plead the blood of Jesus Christ over all of them and thank You for availing Yourself to hear my humble prayer. Thank You for being such an Awesome God who knows and sees all of me with a love soo great that never changes. Thank You Jesus, I sought and called out to You. Wanting to know You more. Thank You for Your faithfulness to lead me to Your heart. You are soverign, donned with all splendor & majesty, glorious in all Your ways. I pray and Thank You in the name of Jesus. Amen
But essentially in the whole book, I see how God already usually has us on our way...our the predestined direction/assignment/purpose for our life but does not completely reveal it to us. He trains us and sows the initial seeds to desire the end outcome He seeks through us. We're not placed anywhere by chance. And yes, God allows the devil in sometimes to discipline us and it is for our good. Though the devil, like Good Friday, thinks it's his own doing and can stand a fighting chance to win..but God in His infinite wisdom (1 Cor 1:25) crafts and orders our steps. What the devil intended for our harm, is used by God for His Glory and our victory...Joseph, David, Job, even Jesus...God is always at work, strategically ordering our steps. For "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."(Proverbs 19:21). "He is mighty and firm in His purpose" (Job 36:5).
Heavenly Father. Thank You for loving me. Thank You for Redemption, sending Your Son to die for my sins. I gladly yield leadership and control of my life to Your Holy Spirit. Search my heart, renew my heart, make me over once more to reflect Your Son and the fruits of the Spirit. Daddy I ask for Your forgiveness for doubting Your ability to take care of every one of my needs today. I ask for Your forgiveness for what I meditated upon or said that was not worthy of You. Strengthen me Lord to take dominion over my thought patterns and my flesh. Discipline me in Your ways. Console me in the comfort of Your arms. Thank You guardian angel for petitioning God to take care of me. Watch over my steps and guide me on my path of righteousness. Thank You God for Your watchcare over me and my family and my loved ones. I plead the blood of Jesus Christ over all of them and thank You for availing Yourself to hear my humble prayer. Thank You for being such an Awesome God who knows and sees all of me with a love soo great that never changes. Thank You Jesus, I sought and called out to You. Wanting to know You more. Thank You for Your faithfulness to lead me to Your heart. You are soverign, donned with all splendor & majesty, glorious in all Your ways. I pray and Thank You in the name of Jesus. Amen
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Putting God in a box
I have been working on the book of John and God has really opened my eyes that we're not suppose to place conditional expectations on Him...the "suppose to"....We're not suppose to do this or because of X, Y, and Z, this is suppose to happen. Throughout, especially the 7th chapter where the pharisees blatantly elevated themselves because they're knowledgeable of the law compared to the gentiles denounced that Jesus could not be Christ because he's not from Galilee...or He is not a student of the law. How awesome when Jesus shows them the wisdom and knowledge that He posessed and that we too can have it because God our Father generously gives to those who ask. Additionaly, even the disciples were guilty of doubting or looking at Jesus' words at a horizontal level. In the begining they often only saw obstacles or what couldnt be done. Same thing when Jesus began healing people...but Jesus knew that he had to teach by showing.
I'm thankful God to serve You. A God who has an open invitation for me to come and worship Him. Who does not coerce me. Who loves me inspite of my mistakes and faults. Who sees me through the loving eyes of a Father. For I am covered by the blood of His Son. And by that fact I am Yours God now and for all eternity. I belong to You. Bought at a price I could not pay. I didn't ask to be bought. But out of the goodness of Your heart, Jesus You came and finished the work that God had started. This leaves me in awe of the Godhead. Perfect in all Your way. Wise beyond wisest man. Esence of Love, patience, kindness, discipline, grace, and mercy. Daddy I'm sooo grateful that You are my God. Forgive me for my moments of doubt. For the limitations of what I am able to see. Open my eyes to always see opportunity, for You to move and have Your perfect way. It is an honor to be used by you. I praise You with all that I am and You deserve all the credit & glory now and forevermore In Jesus' name. Amen
I'm thankful God to serve You. A God who has an open invitation for me to come and worship Him. Who does not coerce me. Who loves me inspite of my mistakes and faults. Who sees me through the loving eyes of a Father. For I am covered by the blood of His Son. And by that fact I am Yours God now and for all eternity. I belong to You. Bought at a price I could not pay. I didn't ask to be bought. But out of the goodness of Your heart, Jesus You came and finished the work that God had started. This leaves me in awe of the Godhead. Perfect in all Your way. Wise beyond wisest man. Esence of Love, patience, kindness, discipline, grace, and mercy. Daddy I'm sooo grateful that You are my God. Forgive me for my moments of doubt. For the limitations of what I am able to see. Open my eyes to always see opportunity, for You to move and have Your perfect way. It is an honor to be used by you. I praise You with all that I am and You deserve all the credit & glory now and forevermore In Jesus' name. Amen
Monday, March 2, 2009
I AM God's CHOSEN Daughter
Ephesians 1:3-6
2 Timothy 1:9
Ephesians 2: 8-9
While doing my devotion with My Father. The Holy Spirit led me to this wonderful piece by Ken Gilbert that I encourage everyone to read (http://community.valleychurch.org/people/kengilbert/ChoosingorChosen.pdf) . I pulled an excerpt that was incredible in putting into perspective my relationship with God:
"I receive God's gift of grace through which I believe, and because I believe I have faith that saves me, and therefore I am justified, made righteous, according to the work done by Christ on the cross when He died in my place. And all of this has nothing to do with anything I did or didnt do, so I can never boast, and so God gets all the credit and all the glory. I must decrease so that He may increase. All glory, all honor, and all praise belongs to our God, and none of any of it belongs to me..."
God initiates a Faith relationship. He therefore called me. " For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed in the likeness of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified."(Romans 8: 29-30). God chose me at the right time to pull me out of the world and train me for His Purpose in the body of Christ...Therefore any- and every- thing I do I cannot boast about. For it isn't me but the God in me enabling me to do it all in my new found identity. God WILL and ALWAYS get the glory...He's the Alpha and Omega. The eternal God. I didn't save myself from the world of sin...God did... I didn't have the strength to do it. If I did, I would have already been figured out this life thing already...but then I'd get the credit not God. And God does not share His glory with anyone. God is supreme. I still do struggle with the world, still waiting for Him to deliver me from a host of things....but God is yet still able to use me for His Glory, for His good work....In spite of my flaws and weaknesses...He is able to accomplish the supernatural in and through me. I'm not perfect. The only perfect part of me was bought by the blood of the Lamb of God = God's GRACE. He does all these so our natural response would be to worship Him and approach Him with a humbled spirit and grateful heart for His amazing goodness. Since my original parents sinned, and the wage of sin is death...I was redeemed by a God who loves me sooo much to send His Son to die for me...The only perfect acceptable offering to cleanse my sins once and for all... Unfortunately, I'm to live in this world with the carnal man i me. Forever stamped by the fall of man from Grace....But I am able to rise against the flesh by the Power of the Holy Spirit in me and the beautiful, sweet Grace of my Father. I CAN because God helps me. That's the only way to make it through. It is God, My Father, My strength, My Hope, with me through all of Life.
Thank You Father for creating me for You...For Your pleasure. Thank You for delighting over and in me. Thank You for choosing me - Your precious Daughter. I truly Am Your BELOVED...My DADDY IS AWESOME!!! :-D
" the Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children" (Romans 8:16)
2 Timothy 1:9
Ephesians 2: 8-9
While doing my devotion with My Father. The Holy Spirit led me to this wonderful piece by Ken Gilbert that I encourage everyone to read (http://community.valleychurch.org/people/kengilbert/ChoosingorChosen.pdf) . I pulled an excerpt that was incredible in putting into perspective my relationship with God:
"I receive God's gift of grace through which I believe, and because I believe I have faith that saves me, and therefore I am justified, made righteous, according to the work done by Christ on the cross when He died in my place. And all of this has nothing to do with anything I did or didnt do, so I can never boast, and so God gets all the credit and all the glory. I must decrease so that He may increase. All glory, all honor, and all praise belongs to our God, and none of any of it belongs to me..."
God initiates a Faith relationship. He therefore called me. " For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed in the likeness of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified."(Romans 8: 29-30). God chose me at the right time to pull me out of the world and train me for His Purpose in the body of Christ...Therefore any- and every- thing I do I cannot boast about. For it isn't me but the God in me enabling me to do it all in my new found identity. God WILL and ALWAYS get the glory...He's the Alpha and Omega. The eternal God. I didn't save myself from the world of sin...God did... I didn't have the strength to do it. If I did, I would have already been figured out this life thing already...but then I'd get the credit not God. And God does not share His glory with anyone. God is supreme. I still do struggle with the world, still waiting for Him to deliver me from a host of things....but God is yet still able to use me for His Glory, for His good work....In spite of my flaws and weaknesses...He is able to accomplish the supernatural in and through me. I'm not perfect. The only perfect part of me was bought by the blood of the Lamb of God = God's GRACE. He does all these so our natural response would be to worship Him and approach Him with a humbled spirit and grateful heart for His amazing goodness. Since my original parents sinned, and the wage of sin is death...I was redeemed by a God who loves me sooo much to send His Son to die for me...The only perfect acceptable offering to cleanse my sins once and for all... Unfortunately, I'm to live in this world with the carnal man i me. Forever stamped by the fall of man from Grace....But I am able to rise against the flesh by the Power of the Holy Spirit in me and the beautiful, sweet Grace of my Father. I CAN because God helps me. That's the only way to make it through. It is God, My Father, My strength, My Hope, with me through all of Life.
Thank You Father for creating me for You...For Your pleasure. Thank You for delighting over and in me. Thank You for choosing me - Your precious Daughter. I truly Am Your BELOVED...My DADDY IS AWESOME!!! :-D
" the Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children" (Romans 8:16)
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Day 5/ The end of labeling
Ok...so this vegetarian effort didnt work out. The meat from the baby shower...forgive me was sooo good. I really do love my meat and I think I do best when there's absolutely no food vs denial of essential food items. So I'm not doing the day counting thing...I'll just resolve to what I purchase as I eat down will be vegetarian healthy items. Plus...in about a week, I'll be preparing to minister Resurrection/Easter Sunday at church. Which means I have to place myself on a strict diet anyway...I really love our dance ministry because you do keep in shape. You have no choice...the thought of waging full on war with the enemy for 5 minustes solid while maintaining a confident smile and attitude, and also making it all seem effortless...definitely nudges me to hit the gym and get the cardio going.
Today I'm thankful that I'm never in the dark with God. I'm thankful for unique friendships who bring out the best in me. I'm thankful for the POWER of the Holy Spirit who gives me strength, when I cannot muster even the faintest smile. I'm thankful that there is a wonderful REST in GOD's LOVE 4 ME!!!!And I declare according to Your word in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "I AM a NEW creation, the old has gone and the new has come."
Face: Still drinking the apple cider vinegar, Cleansing once a day (mornings) with natural products. Evening with prescription stuff (till they run out)...I'm not breaking out as much and must admit, my face feels good, more moisturized...YAY!!!
Today I'm thankful that I'm never in the dark with God. I'm thankful for unique friendships who bring out the best in me. I'm thankful for the POWER of the Holy Spirit who gives me strength, when I cannot muster even the faintest smile. I'm thankful that there is a wonderful REST in GOD's LOVE 4 ME!!!!And I declare according to Your word in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "I AM a NEW creation, the old has gone and the new has come."
Face: Still drinking the apple cider vinegar, Cleansing once a day (mornings) with natural products. Evening with prescription stuff (till they run out)...I'm not breaking out as much and must admit, my face feels good, more moisturized...YAY!!!
Day 4
God is my keeper. The million and one things I'm involved in, somehow He makes sure that I get on time to the ones that He truly wants me to get to. Last night, the baby shower started late and I had Bible Study that overlapped. I really didnt want to miss this Bible Study and I'm thankful that excuses and words that were creeping into my mind to convince me to stay & skip did not work. For today is the first day of my RESTFUL life in God's love for me. 1 John 4:16. I abide in God and the Godhead abides in me. I have been made righteous by Jesus Christ and established in eternal Grace. I laid down my fears at the altar yesterday and I can breathe and trust God with my cares. For Jesus came to "enable [me] to serve Him without fear, in holines and righteousness before Him all [my] days" (Luke 1:74-75)
I believe God that there are no failures with Him. All things work together for my good. And He called me and donned me with full splendor of life. I am SOOO excited to see what He is going to do with my life. For His Glory. For His purpose. That is my peace and joy as I continue to seek His Kingdom being established not just in my life but within my sphere of influence.
Thank You God. Amen
I believe God that there are no failures with Him. All things work together for my good. And He called me and donned me with full splendor of life. I am SOOO excited to see what He is going to do with my life. For His Glory. For His purpose. That is my peace and joy as I continue to seek His Kingdom being established not just in my life but within my sphere of influence.
Thank You God. Amen
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