I am sharing no deep thoughts this week. You have enough pressure with TAKS.
If you attend private school or live in another state, be thankful you do not have to take the TAKS test. And say a prayer for all your friends here in Texas public schools.
All I have to say is still choose God first thing in the morning. Start your day with him by talking to him and worshiping him. I would highly recommend some awesome worship music each morning. Pump yourself for the test with God. And I do not just mean asking for you to past the test.
Here are a couple of songs to start your day with today. Some of you may remember singing these with me back in the good old warehouse days.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRYabSfiTtU : From God Above
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQmu2S7c2W4&feature=related : Take It All
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror and memorize: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for....
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see and remember what I have learned.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me write out each answer.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God
Monday, April 26, 2010
Test Stress!!!
For all of you in the state of Texas, it is TAKS week!!! The most dreaded week in the school year. Teachers have pressure on them for you to do well and you have pressure on you to do well. You would think your entire future depended on the test. It can be a little overwhelming.
First of all, breathe!!! While you do have to pass it and it is important you do well, please do not make yourself sick over it. Worrying over the the test will not help you. So just stop, breath and relax.
Do Not Worry
"25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. " Matthew 6:25-34
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror and memorize: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for worrying about the little things.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see and remember what I have learned.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me write out each answer.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God
First of all, breathe!!! While you do have to pass it and it is important you do well, please do not make yourself sick over it. Worrying over the the test will not help you. So just stop, breath and relax.
Do Not Worry
"25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. " Matthew 6:25-34
My sweet, young friend, life is not always easy. TAKS in Texas is part of your academic life. At this point time, you either know it or you don't. So do not worry about it. Trust me some of your teachers are stressing enough for all of us. And all that worry and stress is not healthy anyway. So take Jesus' advice and do not worry about tomorrow because tomorrow will worry about itself.
- Do not worry.
- Pray.
- Get plenty of sleep the night before.
- Eat a breakfast with protein.
- Smile and have a little confidence.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror and memorize: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for worrying about the little things.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see and remember what I have learned.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me write out each answer.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God
Friday, April 23, 2010
It is well
Today, my heart mourns as we lay to rest a precious teacher, mother, grandmother and friend, Mrs. Patsy. Yet I rejoice because she has gone home to be with the Lord.
This week and the following five weeks, I will run her computer lab. It is very difficult to sit in her room, but at the same time witness all the lives she has touched. Mrs. Patsy worked 27 years at this school. What a blessing she has been too so many faculty and students!
While we mourn, she is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord. And the song, "It is Well With My Soul," seems to be appropriate when you face a loss like this one.
You may not be familiar with this song. Some of the words may be hard to understand. But this song was written after great tragedy and loss.
What makes this song hit home is the story behind it. The article below is from http://christianmusic.suite101.com/article.cfm/hymn_it_is_well_with_my_soul
Text Author and Hymn-Writer Horatio G. Spafford
Spafford was born on October 20, 1828 in North Troy, New York. He was a successful lawyer in Chicago who maintained a keen interest in Christian activities, deeply spiritual and devoted to the scriptures.
Chicago Fire and a Son's Loss
Sometime in 1871, a fire in Chicago heavily devastated the city, and months before that , Spafford had invested hugely in real estate by the shore of Lake Michigan. The disaster greatly wiped out his holdings. Before the fire, Spafford also experienced the loss of his son.
Calm Before Spafford's Worst Life Storm
Two years after the fire, Horatio Spafford planned a trip to Europe for him and his family. He wanted a rest for his wife and four daughters, and also to assist Moody and Sankey in one of their evangelistic campaigns in Great Britain. He was not meant to travel with his family. The day in November they were due to depart, Spafford had a last minute business transaction and had to stay behind in Chicago. Nevertheless, he still sent his wife and four daughters to travel as scheduled on the S.S. Ville du Havre, expecting to follow in a few days. On November 22, the ship laden with his wife and daughters was struck by the Lockhearn, an English vessel, and sank in few minutes.
__________________________________________
After that tragedy is when he wrote the song. Read the words carefully.
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
let this blest assurance control,
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
and hath shed his own blood for my soul.
(Refrain)
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Refrain)
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
even so, it is well with my soul.
(Refrain)
Did you understand it? This man had lost everything. he was even suppose to be on the boat but his life was spared. But somehow as he went out to the ocean at the spot where his family had died, he found God.
I do not know what tragedy is in your life. You, like me, may be mourning the loss of someone close to you. Maybe you are in a battle for your own life. Maybe you feel you lost everything. Maybe all hope is gone. May you, like Horatio, feel God's presence and comfort in your life today.
Listen to the words and picture a man out at sea mourning the loss of his family. Listen to it again and claim those truths for your own life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOKQu4-ZVlk
This week and the following five weeks, I will run her computer lab. It is very difficult to sit in her room, but at the same time witness all the lives she has touched. Mrs. Patsy worked 27 years at this school. What a blessing she has been too so many faculty and students!
While we mourn, she is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord. And the song, "It is Well With My Soul," seems to be appropriate when you face a loss like this one.
You may not be familiar with this song. Some of the words may be hard to understand. But this song was written after great tragedy and loss.
What makes this song hit home is the story behind it. The article below is from http://christianmusic.suite101.com/article.cfm/hymn_it_is_well_with_my_soul
Text Author and Hymn-Writer Horatio G. Spafford
Spafford was born on October 20, 1828 in North Troy, New York. He was a successful lawyer in Chicago who maintained a keen interest in Christian activities, deeply spiritual and devoted to the scriptures.
Chicago Fire and a Son's Loss
Sometime in 1871, a fire in Chicago heavily devastated the city, and months before that , Spafford had invested hugely in real estate by the shore of Lake Michigan. The disaster greatly wiped out his holdings. Before the fire, Spafford also experienced the loss of his son.
Calm Before Spafford's Worst Life Storm
Two years after the fire, Horatio Spafford planned a trip to Europe for him and his family. He wanted a rest for his wife and four daughters, and also to assist Moody and Sankey in one of their evangelistic campaigns in Great Britain. He was not meant to travel with his family. The day in November they were due to depart, Spafford had a last minute business transaction and had to stay behind in Chicago. Nevertheless, he still sent his wife and four daughters to travel as scheduled on the S.S. Ville du Havre, expecting to follow in a few days. On November 22, the ship laden with his wife and daughters was struck by the Lockhearn, an English vessel, and sank in few minutes.
__________________________________________
After that tragedy is when he wrote the song. Read the words carefully.
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
when sorrows like sea billows roll;
whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well with my soul,
it is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
let this blest assurance control,
that Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
and hath shed his own blood for my soul.
(Refrain)
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Refrain)
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
the clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
even so, it is well with my soul.
(Refrain)
Did you understand it? This man had lost everything. he was even suppose to be on the boat but his life was spared. But somehow as he went out to the ocean at the spot where his family had died, he found God.
I do not know what tragedy is in your life. You, like me, may be mourning the loss of someone close to you. Maybe you are in a battle for your own life. Maybe you feel you lost everything. Maybe all hope is gone. May you, like Horatio, feel God's presence and comfort in your life today.
Listen to the words and picture a man out at sea mourning the loss of his family. Listen to it again and claim those truths for your own life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOKQu4-ZVlk
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Why Choose Not To Be Lazy
End of the school year is here. The last six weeks of school is all you have left. Motivation seems to be lacking. You are ready for testing and school to be over. Maybe you are so ready for it to be over, you are starting to slack off. Does it matter if you finish strong? Do you care? Does anyone care?
I cannot speak for others around you, but I do know one thing.
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24
Mmmm??? Does that include school work?
My theory is: people will be stupid and annoy us. You may desire not to do well in a class because you just do not like the teacher. Or maybe you are so tired of all the other kids behavior in class you just do not care. In the end you just give up.
If we have an "I don't care" attitude about school work, we are reflecting that attitude towards the work, teachers and education. Which in turn is reflecting a poor image of Christ.
So still confused or not convinced?
Other humans may cause you to give up or seriously lack motivation. Others may motivate you, but you feel what you do is not good enough so you give up. But when whatever we do is for the Lord, we can find motivation.
How does God motivate you? He created you. Remember, God loves you so much He sent His Son to die for you. Not only does Christ give earthly rewards, but as we live our lives for Him we are storing up treasures in Heaven. Sweet! And the rewards of the Lord are not just a happy face or gold sticker.
When you stand out because you always work your hardest and do your best (may not be perfect, but do your best), others notice. Fellow classmates and teachers notice there is something different about you. You are bringing glory to God and may even have the opportunity to share what motivates you.
So, when your teacher annoys you or makes you mad, make a mental note to remind yourself that you are working for the Lord.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses from Monday. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for not always doing my best and being lazy.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the times I am being lazy.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me share about him when others notice the difference.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
I cannot speak for others around you, but I do know one thing.
23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24
Mmmm??? Does that include school work?
My theory is: people will be stupid and annoy us. You may desire not to do well in a class because you just do not like the teacher. Or maybe you are so tired of all the other kids behavior in class you just do not care. In the end you just give up.
If we have an "I don't care" attitude about school work, we are reflecting that attitude towards the work, teachers and education. Which in turn is reflecting a poor image of Christ.
So still confused or not convinced?
Other humans may cause you to give up or seriously lack motivation. Others may motivate you, but you feel what you do is not good enough so you give up. But when whatever we do is for the Lord, we can find motivation.
How does God motivate you? He created you. Remember, God loves you so much He sent His Son to die for you. Not only does Christ give earthly rewards, but as we live our lives for Him we are storing up treasures in Heaven. Sweet! And the rewards of the Lord are not just a happy face or gold sticker.
When you stand out because you always work your hardest and do your best (may not be perfect, but do your best), others notice. Fellow classmates and teachers notice there is something different about you. You are bringing glory to God and may even have the opportunity to share what motivates you.
So, when your teacher annoys you or makes you mad, make a mental note to remind yourself that you are working for the Lord.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses from Monday. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for not always doing my best and being lazy.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the times I am being lazy.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me share about him when others notice the difference.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Will you choose not to throw the first stone?
Sunday night, she thought she had found the boy she would be with forever. She decided since she loved him, it would be ok. But she did not know by Monday that the whole school would know. He sent one text to his buddy about what they had done and by Monday morning, it seemed everyone knew. As she walked up to the school, the name calling, the pointing began. Some students even threw their trash as they called her names. She fell to the ground and buried her face. The shame she felt. Her decision, her sin was being judged by all her classmates.
You are her fellow classmate. You received the text. Are you going to judge? Are you going to shout names? Will you forward the text?
Read this story...
3The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" 6They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
Do you judge like the teachers of the law? Or do you respond like Christ?
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." 8Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
11"No one, sir," she said.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." (John 8)
Jesus said if you are without sin, you may cast the first stone. Well...I do not know about you, but I am not without sin. And I bet it is safe to say neither are you. So, how should you respond to a situation like the one above?
You and I have to be very careful not to throw stones with our words and actions. You should not agree with what she did. Maybe you are even brokenhearted for her. But you need to love the person just as Christ did. She may need to know that Christ still loves her even when she messes up.
Remember before you throw the stone, we all have sinned. We all are saved by grace.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses from Monday. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for my own sin and for judging others.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see those who need to know that Christ still loves them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak in love and not to participate in rumors.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
You are her fellow classmate. You received the text. Are you going to judge? Are you going to shout names? Will you forward the text?
Read this story...
3The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" 6They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
Do you judge like the teachers of the law? Or do you respond like Christ?
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." 8Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
11"No one, sir," she said.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." (John 8)
Jesus said if you are without sin, you may cast the first stone. Well...I do not know about you, but I am not without sin. And I bet it is safe to say neither are you. So, how should you respond to a situation like the one above?
You and I have to be very careful not to throw stones with our words and actions. You should not agree with what she did. Maybe you are even brokenhearted for her. But you need to love the person just as Christ did. She may need to know that Christ still loves her even when she messes up.
Remember before you throw the stone, we all have sinned. We all are saved by grace.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses from Monday. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I brush out my tangles, ask God to forgive me for my own sin and for judging others.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see those who need to know that Christ still loves them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak in love and not to participate in rumors.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Spring Fever Choices
The end of school is near!!! So exciting, yet the last few weeks can become so long and dreadful. Motivation for school work seems to be gone. And mean girl syndrome seems to take over the school. Can you survive the last weeks of school? Are you able to enjoy it at all?
To put it simply, you can make choices to survive and enjoy and the end of school. Or you can choose to become a little lazy and be involved in all the drama. In my opinion, I would go with the first set of choices.
What? Are you disagreeing or thinking it is impossible to avoid it all? Yes, I hear you describing all the drama and mean girls at your school. I spent three days last week in a high school and saw it with my own eyes. But I think you can still make choices to avoid some of it or ignore it.
1. Choose to turn the other cheek and not be a mean girl.
If the meanness is directed at you, choose not to strike back with mean words and actions. Lies and attacks will hurt but remember who you are in Christ and walk away. If you want to totally shock them, just say God loves me and He loves you too. And tell them to have a wonderful day. Smile and walk away. You stop the argument and probably leave them speechless for a few.
Luke 6:28-30 (New International Version)
28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.
2. Choose to shut up and not spread the gossip.
Do not continue rumors and insults about others! Did you hear me? No matter if it is the truth, shut up. I am not trying to sound rude, but do not be part of the rumor weed. (Watch Larry Boy and the Rumor Weed.) Like the old saying goes, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."
Proverbs 21:23-24 (New Living Translation)
23 Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut,
and you will stay out of trouble.
24 Mockers are proud and haughty;
they act with boundless arrogance.
3. Choose to be prepared for the battles.
Everyday I ask you to pray on the armor of God. I also have you pray for your mouth and eyes. This is very important before you go to school. As I heard on the radio, "Don't let the devil catch you in your underwear." You do not go to war without being prepared, so why would you enter the toughest battle ground, school, without being prepared.
Ephesians 6:12-18 (New International Version)
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
4. Choose to have your sword.
The best way to battle the lies and attacks is with your sword, God's Word. Put scripture of who you are in Christ on your phone, notebook and locker. God's truth is much more powerful than a classmate's words.
Hebrews 4:12 (New International Version)
12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses above. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the truth of who I am and the broken hearts around me.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak in love and not to participate in rumors.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
To put it simply, you can make choices to survive and enjoy and the end of school. Or you can choose to become a little lazy and be involved in all the drama. In my opinion, I would go with the first set of choices.
What? Are you disagreeing or thinking it is impossible to avoid it all? Yes, I hear you describing all the drama and mean girls at your school. I spent three days last week in a high school and saw it with my own eyes. But I think you can still make choices to avoid some of it or ignore it.
1. Choose to turn the other cheek and not be a mean girl.
If the meanness is directed at you, choose not to strike back with mean words and actions. Lies and attacks will hurt but remember who you are in Christ and walk away. If you want to totally shock them, just say God loves me and He loves you too. And tell them to have a wonderful day. Smile and walk away. You stop the argument and probably leave them speechless for a few.
Luke 6:28-30 (New International Version)
28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.
2. Choose to shut up and not spread the gossip.
Do not continue rumors and insults about others! Did you hear me? No matter if it is the truth, shut up. I am not trying to sound rude, but do not be part of the rumor weed. (Watch Larry Boy and the Rumor Weed.) Like the old saying goes, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all."
Proverbs 21:23-24 (New Living Translation)
23 Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut,
and you will stay out of trouble.
24 Mockers are proud and haughty;
they act with boundless arrogance.
3. Choose to be prepared for the battles.
Everyday I ask you to pray on the armor of God. I also have you pray for your mouth and eyes. This is very important before you go to school. As I heard on the radio, "Don't let the devil catch you in your underwear." You do not go to war without being prepared, so why would you enter the toughest battle ground, school, without being prepared.
Ephesians 6:12-18 (New International Version)
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
4. Choose to have your sword.
The best way to battle the lies and attacks is with your sword, God's Word. Put scripture of who you are in Christ on your phone, notebook and locker. God's truth is much more powerful than a classmate's words.
Hebrews 4:12 (New International Version)
12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror: Pick one of the verses above. The Proverbs might be best.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the truth of who I am and the broken hearts around me.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak in love and not to participate in rumors.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Friday, April 16, 2010
God loves you
Today, I want you to know one thing, God loves you.
God loves you today. While He may desire you to spend more time with Him and wants you to be obedient, it does change His love for you. You may have chosen poorly this week. I know I have stumbled a few times myself. But it does not and will not stop God from loving you.
Or maybe, you have beaten down by classmates, friends and/or parents this week. Everything in your world may seem to be falling apart. Oh my dear, sweet, little friend, God is still there and He loves you. God is your heavenly Father. Crawl into His lap, let it all out and let God love you.
In the pit of my stomach, I hear God telling me one simple thing. "Tell my girls I love them."
One or maybe more than one of you are struggling in believing those three little words. But I promise they are true. So I will say them again, God loves you!
God loves you today. While He may desire you to spend more time with Him and wants you to be obedient, it does change His love for you. You may have chosen poorly this week. I know I have stumbled a few times myself. But it does not and will not stop God from loving you.
Or maybe, you have beaten down by classmates, friends and/or parents this week. Everything in your world may seem to be falling apart. Oh my dear, sweet, little friend, God is still there and He loves you. God is your heavenly Father. Crawl into His lap, let it all out and let God love you.
In the pit of my stomach, I hear God telling me one simple thing. "Tell my girls I love them."
One or maybe more than one of you are struggling in believing those three little words. But I promise they are true. So I will say them again, God loves you!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
How To Learn From Our Choices
Today, I am not going to talk too much. I want you to do the writing. I just have a few guidelines.
I would like for you to print or use as an example the Choice/Consequence Journal. It is on my website on the Soul page underneath the study links heading.
http://www.bodysoulandhome.com/discography.html
I want you to use two pages to answer these two questions.
1.What choice did you make that pleased God (chose God over the world)?
2.What choice did you make that was against God's will (chose the world over God)?
After you finish, spend time talking to your Heavenly Father. Be honest about your answers and with God. What changes in choices do you need to make more godly choices? And remember, God does not condemn, He convicts. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, but do not let the the devil tear you down.
Proverbs 4:6
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Proverbs 2:10
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for repeating the same bad choices.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the consequences and learn from them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak what I learn to others so they do not make the same bad choice.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
I would like for you to print or use as an example the Choice/Consequence Journal. It is on my website on the Soul page underneath the study links heading.
http://www.bodysoulandhome.com/discography.html
I want you to use two pages to answer these two questions.
1.What choice did you make that pleased God (chose God over the world)?
2.What choice did you make that was against God's will (chose the world over God)?
After you finish, spend time talking to your Heavenly Father. Be honest about your answers and with God. What changes in choices do you need to make more godly choices? And remember, God does not condemn, He convicts. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, but do not let the the devil tear you down.
Proverbs 4:6
Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Proverbs 2:10
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for repeating the same bad choices.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the consequences and learn from them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak what I learn to others so they do not make the same bad choice.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Choose To Learn From Your Choices
We have been on our Choices journey for a few weeks now. I do not know about you, but I know I still do not always make the right choice. While I have greatly improved on recognizing the choices I make daily, I am still not perfect. (I know you are in total shock.;)
But tonight I am asking myself if I am learning from my bad choices? Or do I still continue to make the same dumb choice knowing the consequences?
As usual, God has been teaching me as He uses me to teach my son. As God gives me the words to say to my child, I realize they are for me, too.
Hopefully you read his blog yesterday. But if not here is the story. My child made a bad choice on where he choose to sit which led to one more stupid little bad choice. But, unfortunately the consequences have been big. Now he has recognized the consequences of his choices. In a very mature way, he owned up to them and sought forgiveness. At the same time, the enemy was tearing him down. All of this led to a discussion of learning from our bad choices.
So, here is what God taught me while I was teaching my child:
1.We have to take responsibility for our choice no matter how little it may be.
2.We need to evaluate the consequences of our choice. (Remember the Holy Spirit convicts not condemns.)
3.We need to apologize to those affected by our choice even if they do not realize how they were affected.
4.We have to choose if we want to learn from our choice.
Most likely we think we learn, yet we seem to soon forget and the bad choice repeats itself. So, how can we truly learn from our bad choices?
My thought is to write it down. When we make a good or bad choice, you and I write it down. We also write the bad or good consequence plus what God taught us. The next time we are faced with a similar choice, we can go back and look at it.
I am going to start a Choice/Consequence Journal. As I make the right choice and reap the benefits, I will record it as an encouragement of making the right but not so easy choice. I will also record the bad choices and the consequences to serve as a reminder if the choice comes before me again. Please also record the consequences of days when you put your focus on God and the days you choose to loose focus. Not only will the journal help you, it will be a teaching tool for others.
So, who is with me? Who wants to truly learn from our choices?
Choice/Consequence journal available on website: http://www.bodysoulandhome.com/discography.html
It is just one page but you can print as many as you need and put it in a pretty notebook or use it as an example to make your own.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Proverbs 2:10
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for repeating the same bad choices.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the consequences and learn from them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak what I learn to others so they do not make the same bad choice.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
But tonight I am asking myself if I am learning from my bad choices? Or do I still continue to make the same dumb choice knowing the consequences?
As usual, God has been teaching me as He uses me to teach my son. As God gives me the words to say to my child, I realize they are for me, too.
Hopefully you read his blog yesterday. But if not here is the story. My child made a bad choice on where he choose to sit which led to one more stupid little bad choice. But, unfortunately the consequences have been big. Now he has recognized the consequences of his choices. In a very mature way, he owned up to them and sought forgiveness. At the same time, the enemy was tearing him down. All of this led to a discussion of learning from our bad choices.
So, here is what God taught me while I was teaching my child:
1.We have to take responsibility for our choice no matter how little it may be.
2.We need to evaluate the consequences of our choice. (Remember the Holy Spirit convicts not condemns.)
3.We need to apologize to those affected by our choice even if they do not realize how they were affected.
4.We have to choose if we want to learn from our choice.
Most likely we think we learn, yet we seem to soon forget and the bad choice repeats itself. So, how can we truly learn from our bad choices?
My thought is to write it down. When we make a good or bad choice, you and I write it down. We also write the bad or good consequence plus what God taught us. The next time we are faced with a similar choice, we can go back and look at it.
I am going to start a Choice/Consequence Journal. As I make the right choice and reap the benefits, I will record it as an encouragement of making the right but not so easy choice. I will also record the bad choices and the consequences to serve as a reminder if the choice comes before me again. Please also record the consequences of days when you put your focus on God and the days you choose to loose focus. Not only will the journal help you, it will be a teaching tool for others.
So, who is with me? Who wants to truly learn from our choices?
Choice/Consequence journal available on website: http://www.bodysoulandhome.com/discography.html
It is just one page but you can print as many as you need and put it in a pretty notebook or use it as an example to make your own.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Proverbs 2:10
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for repeating the same bad choices.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the consequences and learn from them.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak what I learn to others so they do not make the same bad choice.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Monday, April 12, 2010
One Choice Has Many Consequences
Today, you are not going to listen to me. I want you to click on the link and read a fellow teen's blog on one choice. It is "Learning New Things."
www.littlecrackedpot.blogspot.com
Read it for today and we will discuss more tomorrow. But do think about a time when you made one bad choice and all the consequences that followed.
www.littlecrackedpot.blogspot.com
Read it for today and we will discuss more tomorrow. But do think about a time when you made one bad choice and all the consequences that followed.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
From the Inside Out
Yesterday we talked about choosing to live and choosing to live for Christ. I know you may feel that it is too late. You are too messed up. Maybe you feel your life is too far from God. My friend you are wrong.
No matter where you are in your life. No matter how much you have messed up. It is never too late to choose God. It is never too late to give God control. And it is time we start trying to change ourselves. Let's choose to let God consume us and change us from the inside out.
Listen to this song and read the words. I mean really read the words. His light shines when all else fades. A thousand times I fail but you remain. This song is so true. Make it your prayer to God. Cry out from your soul to Him. Choose to live for Christ.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tv0qZl_Qu84&feature=related
From the Inside Out (Hillsong United)
A thousand times I've failed
Still your mercy remains
And should I stumble again
Still I'm caught in your grace
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
My heart and my soul, I give You control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise, become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Your will above all else, my purpose remains
The art of losing myself in bringing you praise
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
My heart, my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
My Soul cries out to You
My Soul cries out to You
to You, to You
My heart, my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
From the inside out, O my soul cries out.
No matter where you are in your life. No matter how much you have messed up. It is never too late to choose God. It is never too late to give God control. And it is time we start trying to change ourselves. Let's choose to let God consume us and change us from the inside out.
Listen to this song and read the words. I mean really read the words. His light shines when all else fades. A thousand times I fail but you remain. This song is so true. Make it your prayer to God. Cry out from your soul to Him. Choose to live for Christ.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tv0qZl_Qu84&feature=related
From the Inside Out (Hillsong United)
A thousand times I've failed
Still your mercy remains
And should I stumble again
Still I'm caught in your grace
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
My heart and my soul, I give You control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise, become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Your will above all else, my purpose remains
The art of losing myself in bringing you praise
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
My heart, my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
My Soul cries out to You
My Soul cries out to You
to You, to You
My heart, my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring You praise
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
From the inside out, O my soul cries out
From the inside out, O my soul cries out.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Choose to Live
Sadly, I have known or known a friend of someone who has or attempted suicide this school year. Life has become overwhelming, too hard, too lonely and/or too much for so many teens.
I do not know where you are in your life. I do not know the struggles you are facing daily. Your home or school life may be a complete disaster. But I do know the pressure can be overwhelming. Life can be very competitive. And even if you have several hundred friends on facebook, you can still feel alone. And some things in life just completely stink.
So how do you handle all the stinkiness of life? How do you deal with all the yucky parts? Do you choose to give up? Or do you choose to live?
I pray you choose to live. But it is not only choosing to live but choosing what you live for.
If you and I choose to live for the world, live to please the world, live to be like the world, well life is going to get stinky. For one, the world changes what it likes and wants faster than we can keep up. Second, everyone else living for the world will not hesitate to trample all over you and tear you down for the world. It is just an ugly place.
But...and I mean BUT...if you live for Christ, well there are actually some benefits.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness " Colossians 2:6-7
(If life has become too much and you do not think you can choose to live, immediately get help from a youth pastor or worker. If possible talk to a parent. If you need someone, call me day or night. Your life is too precious to God and to me. 817-522-8231)
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for living to please the world.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the changes I need to make to live my life for Him.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak words that are pleasing to Him..
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
I do not know where you are in your life. I do not know the struggles you are facing daily. Your home or school life may be a complete disaster. But I do know the pressure can be overwhelming. Life can be very competitive. And even if you have several hundred friends on facebook, you can still feel alone. And some things in life just completely stink.
So how do you handle all the stinkiness of life? How do you deal with all the yucky parts? Do you choose to give up? Or do you choose to live?
I pray you choose to live. But it is not only choosing to live but choosing what you live for.
If you and I choose to live for the world, live to please the world, live to be like the world, well life is going to get stinky. For one, the world changes what it likes and wants faster than we can keep up. Second, everyone else living for the world will not hesitate to trample all over you and tear you down for the world. It is just an ugly place.
But...and I mean BUT...if you live for Christ, well there are actually some benefits.
- You do not battle the world alone. God fights for you.
- You are never alone. You are a friend of God.
- God's Word is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. It does not change.
- You are storing up treasures in Heaven. (Remember this earth is our temporary home.)
- You do not become the world, you get to rock the world for Christ.
Listen, my sweet young friend, you were created by God and you and your life are very important to God. (Remember, so important God has even numbered the hairs on your head.) God loves you so much that He sent His Son to die for your sin. God loves you and He will never leave you. So your life is worth living.
And (and this is a big AND), your life is worth living for God. As I said yesterday, most adults are messing up their own lives and others around them. God is calling you to live your life for Him. God has chosen you. Are you ready to live your life for Christ?
You have two choices, to live or to live your life for Christ. What have you got to lose? But just think what you have to gain!
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness " Colossians 2:6-7
(If life has become too much and you do not think you can choose to live, immediately get help from a youth pastor or worker. If possible talk to a parent. If you need someone, call me day or night. Your life is too precious to God and to me. 817-522-8231)
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror:
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for living to please the world.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the changes I need to make to live my life for Him.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak words that are pleasing to Him..
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Choose to Rock Your World
Have you ever noticed how stupid adults can be at times? They worry about too many things. It seems they are always busy. And why do they work so hard to have a lot of stuff that they have no time to enjoy? Most adults borderline on being hopeless. Unless God smacks them upside the head they will keep wandering around in endless circles.
But your generation has passion, wants to be different. You want to make a statement. The greater the challenge, the more you want to do it. I love that part of your generation. When you are young, you are ready to take the world.
Well, I think you should. You and your friends are being called to shake up this world. You are being called to take a risk. You are being called to action. God is calling you.
Now, my questions for you:
But your generation has passion, wants to be different. You want to make a statement. The greater the challenge, the more you want to do it. I love that part of your generation. When you are young, you are ready to take the world.
Well, I think you should. You and your friends are being called to shake up this world. You are being called to take a risk. You are being called to action. God is calling you.
Now, my questions for you:
- Will you answer His call?
- Are you willing to take a risk?
- You know God's truth, will you stand up for it?
- There will be sacrifices, will you make them?
- Do you want to rock this world for Christ?
Honestly, my friend, we can no longer wait for the adults to get their act together. Time is running out to reach the lost and heal the broken hearted. The world is falling apart before our eyes. We cannot depend on the government any longer. Sadly, we cannot even depend or trust in some churches.
My friend, will you choose to rock this world for Christ? Will you choose to share Christ without fear? Will you give your time to help those in need? Will you save your family from the world and get Christ back in your home? In your school?
I wish I could explain what I feel right now. I know there is a fire burning in each one of you. I know you are tired of adults letting your generation down. But I also know, you have been chosen and called to make something happen. Listen to God. He needs you. With God, you can do it.
Are you ready?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5AkNqLuVgY
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror :
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for not answering His call.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see the purpose He has for me now.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me speak up and rock this world for Him.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Choose to Know You Are Not Alone
Wow, I do not know about you, but I had an amazing Easter week and weekend. Not only did I get to particiapte in amazing worship, but I was able to see God's love for you.
What? Did I confuse you? Or do you think that I am talking about Christ dying on the cross for you?
Yes, Christ showed His love by dying on the cross for you, but I saw God's love in another way. And let me tell you, it is so cool!
When you are a teenager, you think adults do not understand how difficult it is for you. And I think I would have to agree with you. Your generation does not have it easy. Temptation has increased by it being at your fingertips 24/7 and the world's morals have plummeted. What I experienced at 15, some of you experience at 12 or even younger.
But do you want to hear the good news??? Well, I am going to tell you anyway. God hears your prayers. God sees you struggling with all these trials. God feels your pain and heartache.
How do I know this you ask? I witnessed God speaking to adults. Huh?? Did I confuse you? God spoke to me and others this week about the needs of all of you. The cool part is He spoke to us and when we shared it we realize He was telling us all the same thing.
Adults came before God and cried out for you. All ages of adults have felt the need to be praying for our teenagers. We are praying for you as you face each day, but we also know God wants to do some crazy and mighty things through your generation.
I know some of you are thinking Mrs. GaLynn is even more crazy than before. Which in ways I am a little more crazy. But it is a good crazy.
Today, you may face heartache. You may face trials. You may face temptation. Sadly, some of you may face another day of being alone. But my dear sweet friend, you are not alone and whatever you are facing, please know there are some of us lifting you up in prayer.
Choose to believe the truths of who you are in God. Choose to know God loves you so much and has prayer warriors praying for you. Choose to know I love you and I am praying for you. Choose to know my friend that in the midst of your pain and loneliness, you are not alone, God is with you. Choose to know God has a special plan for you and He is ready for you to rock this world for Him. God has chosen you, my friend.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror :
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for turning to the world instead of him.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see that there are people who love me and are praying for me.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me share the hope I have in Christ.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
What? Did I confuse you? Or do you think that I am talking about Christ dying on the cross for you?
Yes, Christ showed His love by dying on the cross for you, but I saw God's love in another way. And let me tell you, it is so cool!
When you are a teenager, you think adults do not understand how difficult it is for you. And I think I would have to agree with you. Your generation does not have it easy. Temptation has increased by it being at your fingertips 24/7 and the world's morals have plummeted. What I experienced at 15, some of you experience at 12 or even younger.
But do you want to hear the good news??? Well, I am going to tell you anyway. God hears your prayers. God sees you struggling with all these trials. God feels your pain and heartache.
How do I know this you ask? I witnessed God speaking to adults. Huh?? Did I confuse you? God spoke to me and others this week about the needs of all of you. The cool part is He spoke to us and when we shared it we realize He was telling us all the same thing.
Adults came before God and cried out for you. All ages of adults have felt the need to be praying for our teenagers. We are praying for you as you face each day, but we also know God wants to do some crazy and mighty things through your generation.
I know some of you are thinking Mrs. GaLynn is even more crazy than before. Which in ways I am a little more crazy. But it is a good crazy.
Today, you may face heartache. You may face trials. You may face temptation. Sadly, some of you may face another day of being alone. But my dear sweet friend, you are not alone and whatever you are facing, please know there are some of us lifting you up in prayer.
Choose to believe the truths of who you are in God. Choose to know God loves you so much and has prayer warriors praying for you. Choose to know I love you and I am praying for you. Choose to know my friend that in the midst of your pain and loneliness, you are not alone, God is with you. Choose to know God has a special plan for you and He is ready for you to rock this world for Him. God has chosen you, my friend.
This is my life, I choose:
Write this verse on my mirror :
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
* as I brush out the tangles, to ask God to forgive me for turning to the world instead of him.
*as I put on my contacts (eye makeup), ask God to help me see that there are people who love me and are praying for me.
*as I brush my teeth, to ask God to help me share the hope I have in Christ.
*as I put on my clothes, to put on the armor of God.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Footsteps to Remember
1After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
2There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
5The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
8So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." Matthew 28:1-10
2There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
5The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."
8So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." Matthew 28:1-10
If you look, you will see Jesus' footsteps once more. The footsteps start inside the tomb and walk right out. I'd like to see CSI explain that one. How amazing that day must have been!
But as we have looked at Jesus' steps to Jerusalem, to the cross and from the grave, have you stopped to examine your own?
If someone were to write about your steps, what would they say about your life? Do your steps lead to Christ, walk with Christ, or no where near Christ? Why?
You have looked at Jesus footsteps for a week. As you looked you saw the pain He endured, the prayers He cried, but most of all you saw Christ's love for you in each and every step. Knowing what Christ did for you, how have your desires changed to live for Him? Or have they changed? Why or why not?
My dear friend, Easter has come and gone. We cried at the cross. We celebrated the Resurrection. We cried at our sins that nailed Christ to a tree. We celebrate the new life we have in Him. But today a new story begins, a story of your steps.
Will your footsteps now take up your cross and follow Him?
The road will be long and will be bumpy at times. Your feet will tire and even get a few blisters along the way. But when your footsteps end, just like Christ's, you will rise and be with your Heavenly Father. Oh to hear my Father say about the footsteps of my life,
"Well done my good and faithful servant."
Now start the story of your footsteps, I know it will be amazing.
(We will return to our choices tomorrow)
Friday, April 2, 2010
The Last Footsteps
Footsteps of the crowd surrounded Christ again, but this time, oh this time, they did not shout Hosanna. With their feet planted firm, they shouted, "Crucify Him." In just a few days the shouts of praise turned to shouts of death. The same Jesus who they praised for His miracles was the one they now scorned.
22"What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?" Pilate asked.
They all answered, "Crucify him!"
23"Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!"
26Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified." Matthew 27:22-23,26
My Lord would not ride through the crowds, but now carry a cross down the long road. Those footsteps that started for Jerusalem a week ago, now would finish the journey to the cross. His steps were not firm, but weak. Jesus' feet could barely carry his beaten body, yet they carried the cross. Again, Christ would take step after step for me. He still knew where the road would lead, but His love for me, for you was so great that with what little strength He had left He walked down the road.
But wait, the footsteps have stopped. Look up my friend and see the feet that walked this long road for you. Jesus' feet now hang, nailed to the cross. Blood flows over and from them. Christ's blood covers His feet. Oh my friend, Christ's blood was shed for you, for me. It drips from His toes to forgive me, to forgive you.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
Do you understand it? Do you see it? Do you feel it?
Stop at the cross tonight. Sit below the feet that walked this earth and lived and died for you.
No matter where your feet have led you. Whether they follow close to or far from Christ, they are welcomed at the foot of the cross.
My friend, your Savior has made this journey for you. Praise God for sending His son as a sacrifice for you.
What burdens, what sins are you holding on to or trying to hide?
Confess them at the foot of the cross. They are already nailed with Christ.
Now be still, feel His blood fall on your head. Experience Christ's forgiveness.
Sit at the cross today...and wait. The footsteps have not taken their last step....
22"What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?" Pilate asked.
They all answered, "Crucify him!"
23"Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!"
26Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified." Matthew 27:22-23,26
My Lord would not ride through the crowds, but now carry a cross down the long road. Those footsteps that started for Jerusalem a week ago, now would finish the journey to the cross. His steps were not firm, but weak. Jesus' feet could barely carry his beaten body, yet they carried the cross. Again, Christ would take step after step for me. He still knew where the road would lead, but His love for me, for you was so great that with what little strength He had left He walked down the road.
But wait, the footsteps have stopped. Look up my friend and see the feet that walked this long road for you. Jesus' feet now hang, nailed to the cross. Blood flows over and from them. Christ's blood covers His feet. Oh my friend, Christ's blood was shed for you, for me. It drips from His toes to forgive me, to forgive you.
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
Do you understand it? Do you see it? Do you feel it?
Stop at the cross tonight. Sit below the feet that walked this earth and lived and died for you.
No matter where your feet have led you. Whether they follow close to or far from Christ, they are welcomed at the foot of the cross.
My friend, your Savior has made this journey for you. Praise God for sending His son as a sacrifice for you.
What burdens, what sins are you holding on to or trying to hide?
Confess them at the foot of the cross. They are already nailed with Christ.
Now be still, feel His blood fall on your head. Experience Christ's forgiveness.
Sit at the cross today...and wait. The footsteps have not taken their last step....
Thursday, April 1, 2010
By Your Side
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdjRmM0Q0qs&feature=related
My dear sweet friend,
Why are you striving these days
Why are you trying to earn grace
Why are you crying
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away
Why are you looking for love
Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough
To where will you go child
Tell me where will you run
To where will you run
And I'll be by your side
Wherever you fall
In the dead of night
Whenever you call
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
Look at these hands and my side
They swallowed the grave on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life
I want to give you life
Cause I, I love you
I want you to know
That I, I love you
I'll never let you go
Did you hear Him? He is holding you. Just as Christ spread out those arms thousands of years ago to die for you, He is spreading them out to hold you.
God loves you. He loves you so much that He drank the world's sin and swallowed the grave so He could give you life.
I plead with you my dear young friend, accept God's love and let Him in. Give you life to Him because God will never let go.
*Words in italics are the song, "By Your Side" by Tenth Avenue
My dear sweet friend,
Why are you striving these days
Why are you trying to earn grace
Why are you crying
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away
Why are you looking for love
Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough
To where will you go child
Tell me where will you run
To where will you run
And I'll be by your side
Wherever you fall
In the dead of night
Whenever you call
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
Look at these hands and my side
They swallowed the grave on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life
I want to give you life
Cause I, I love you
I want you to know
That I, I love you
I'll never let you go
Did you hear Him? He is holding you. Just as Christ spread out those arms thousands of years ago to die for you, He is spreading them out to hold you.
God loves you. He loves you so much that He drank the world's sin and swallowed the grave so He could give you life.
I plead with you my dear young friend, accept God's love and let Him in. Give you life to Him because God will never let go.
*Words in italics are the song, "By Your Side" by Tenth Avenue
Footsteps in the Garden
There many footprints leading to the garden this evening. But only one set continued to walk further into the garden. And when the footprints stopped, knee prints and an outline of a head would appear.
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will ." Matthew 26:29
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will ." Matthew 26:29
These prints would be covered in his sweat.
And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. Luke 22:44
Jesus knew what was about to happen. He did not wonder, he knew. And Jesus also knew the will of His Father. As He arose after praying, Christ footsteps would lead Him to the crowd that came to arrest Him. God's will was about to be done.
Jesus' steps would now lead to the cross. But tonight He would be mocked and beaten. If you look, you might see the first drops of blood in the footsteps.
I pray you take the time tonight to fall on your face before God. The God who sent His Son to be beaten, flogged, mocked and crucified for you. Not because you deserved to be saved, but because God loves you!
May tears of repentance and joy fall down your face as you come before the Lord.
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