by Maya Angelou
"A woman's heart should be so hidden in Christ
that a man should have to seek Him first to find her."
When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'"
I'm whispering "I was lost, Now I'm found and forgiven."
When I say... "I am a Christian" I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.
When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.
When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible but, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... "I am a Christian" I still feel the sting of pain..
I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.
When I say... "I am a Christian" I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner Who received God's good grace, somehow!
Monday, October 29
Wednesday, October 24
Why Live By Faith?
Romans 1:17 The righteous will live by faith.
The gospel shows me that by trusting Christ my relationship is made right with God. God declares us to be righteous by faith and faith alone.
Faith is always active. Faith is all about our relationship with with God--do I trust God? I can't let my natural thinking get in the way. I have to get out of my own way so that I can see the light.
Psalm 18:28 You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.
Hebrews 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (NIV) "The assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen." (KJV)
There are 2 words that describe faith: sure and certain. I began my faith believing in God's character. I believe He is who He says He is. My faith believes in God's promises...that He will do what He says He will do. When I believe in God's promises then, even though in the natural world when I cannot see it happening, I know it is...that is FAITH!
Do you ever wish you could see Jesus, touch Him, hear His Words? Are there times when you just want to be with Him and get His advice? That's what Thomas wanted. I'm sure you've heard of "doubting Thomas". He wanted to see Jesus' physical presence.
John 20:24-28 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord". But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to Him, "My Lord and my God". Then He was real to Thomas.
But, you see, God had a better plan. He did not want to limit himself to a physical body. He wanted to be with us at all times. Every Where, Any Where, Any Time, Every Moment!
John 29-31 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen me and yet have believed."
So now He walks with me in the form of the Holy Spirit. I can talk to Him. That's what prayer is. He can talk to me too. His words are in the pages of the Bible.
Then my faith grows! See? Faith is the absolute certainty of something even though I cannot see it.
The gospel shows me that by trusting Christ my relationship is made right with God. God declares us to be righteous by faith and faith alone.
Faith is always active. Faith is all about our relationship with with God--do I trust God? I can't let my natural thinking get in the way. I have to get out of my own way so that I can see the light.
Psalm 18:28 You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.
Hebrews 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (NIV) "The assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen." (KJV)
There are 2 words that describe faith: sure and certain. I began my faith believing in God's character. I believe He is who He says He is. My faith believes in God's promises...that He will do what He says He will do. When I believe in God's promises then, even though in the natural world when I cannot see it happening, I know it is...that is FAITH!
Do you ever wish you could see Jesus, touch Him, hear His Words? Are there times when you just want to be with Him and get His advice? That's what Thomas wanted. I'm sure you've heard of "doubting Thomas". He wanted to see Jesus' physical presence.
John 20:24-28 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord". But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to Him, "My Lord and my God". Then He was real to Thomas.
But, you see, God had a better plan. He did not want to limit himself to a physical body. He wanted to be with us at all times. Every Where, Any Where, Any Time, Every Moment!
John 29-31 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen me and yet have believed."
So now He walks with me in the form of the Holy Spirit. I can talk to Him. That's what prayer is. He can talk to me too. His words are in the pages of the Bible.
Then my faith grows! See? Faith is the absolute certainty of something even though I cannot see it.
Tuesday, October 23
Who Is Jesus? The Greatest Man in History
Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!
Monday, October 22
4 Statements About Faith
So I have been getting up early every day to have quiet time with God. I need it. It sets the whole backdrop for my entire day. Here's what I learned today...
1) You can live a nice, clean moral life without faith.
2) James 1:6&7 Apart from faith we can receive nothing from God
3) The heart of all sin is disbelief. Did you realize that the only thing that Jesus ever rebuked his disciples for was a lack of faith. How many times in the Bible did we read where Jesus said "oh ye, of little faith"?
4) Faith is the act of believing God's Word plus praying in faith. See? Faith is the act; it is active not passive. When you pray in faith you are submitting yourself to God and that is what brings forth God's promises. Without faith His promises are urealized. When God gives a promise it always comes true when you ask by faith.
1) You can live a nice, clean moral life without faith.
2) James 1:6&7 Apart from faith we can receive nothing from God
3) The heart of all sin is disbelief. Did you realize that the only thing that Jesus ever rebuked his disciples for was a lack of faith. How many times in the Bible did we read where Jesus said "oh ye, of little faith"?
4) Faith is the act of believing God's Word plus praying in faith. See? Faith is the act; it is active not passive. When you pray in faith you are submitting yourself to God and that is what brings forth God's promises. Without faith His promises are urealized. When God gives a promise it always comes true when you ask by faith.
Thursday, October 18
An Email from A Friend and Sister in Christ
God's Word has in history been proven through countless testimonies of breakthrough, healing, prosperity, deliverance, restored relationships and an endless list of miracles. We as believers must take a stand to totally believe what He says in His Word and live accordingly.
2Chron 26:5 " He sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper."
We see here that it is God who makes us to prosper, He gives us the power to create wealth. How? By your words & action through faith!!! Do you believe the Word? Do you believe that if you seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness that He will add all those things in your life that you desire?
The world is lookig at us for we are believers. What are they seeing? Anything that will attract them to God? Are they seeing poverty, sickness, disease, negativity, discouragement, failure and/or a lifestyle that resembles the one they already have? I put my witness on the stand, under the magnifying glass before I gave my life to God. I wanted to make sure that my life was going to get better if I decided to give up my own control to Him. I actually took two full months of cross-examination before I finally saw that this women was real, was totally happy & blessed in Christ.
It is an awesome priviledge to be called a Christ-ian. It is also totally awesome to be loved, to be blessed, to be restored, to be forgiven, to be.......the list is just too long to define!! My life has never been the same. I experienced major deliverances, total healing, miraculous events & endless moments of basking in His love and in His presence.
He loves you too much to let you go. His promises won't let go of you. His Word is cemented in your heart and you are bound for eternity!!! Seek Him to love & obey Him.....let Him take care of the rest because He is faithful to His Word and He will see that you will receive everything that you have ever prayed for, everything you have ever believed for, everything you have ever hoped for......just because He is Lord Jehovah Jireh.....!! Amen?
Gisèle
2Chron 26:5 " He sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper."
We see here that it is God who makes us to prosper, He gives us the power to create wealth. How? By your words & action through faith!!! Do you believe the Word? Do you believe that if you seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness that He will add all those things in your life that you desire?
The world is lookig at us for we are believers. What are they seeing? Anything that will attract them to God? Are they seeing poverty, sickness, disease, negativity, discouragement, failure and/or a lifestyle that resembles the one they already have? I put my witness on the stand, under the magnifying glass before I gave my life to God. I wanted to make sure that my life was going to get better if I decided to give up my own control to Him. I actually took two full months of cross-examination before I finally saw that this women was real, was totally happy & blessed in Christ.
It is an awesome priviledge to be called a Christ-ian. It is also totally awesome to be loved, to be blessed, to be restored, to be forgiven, to be.......the list is just too long to define!! My life has never been the same. I experienced major deliverances, total healing, miraculous events & endless moments of basking in His love and in His presence.
He loves you too much to let you go. His promises won't let go of you. His Word is cemented in your heart and you are bound for eternity!!! Seek Him to love & obey Him.....let Him take care of the rest because He is faithful to His Word and He will see that you will receive everything that you have ever prayed for, everything you have ever believed for, everything you have ever hoped for......just because He is Lord Jehovah Jireh.....!! Amen?
Gisèle
Wednesday, October 17
Jesus Is The Son of God
How about your salvation? Do you believe Jesus is the Son of God? What if I told you that I was a saint? Remember, I asked, what if...And I only committed 3 small sins a day; not "big" sins; just 3 little ones and these just happened to be traffic violations. Nothing major and they were usually committed on the back roads where there was no other traffic around except for a policeman. So no one else was ever in harms way. Now everytime I commited these violations the policeman ticketed me, but it wasn't for a great offense. So, I'd stick the ticket in the glovebox and forget about it.
Finally, one day when I was old and grey (maybe 70 yrs. old) I got into an accident (through no fault of my own, of course) and when I went to court the judge just looked at me in amazement. You see, they had pulled a copy of my driving record and over a lifetime I had accumulated 70,000 tickets. Can you imagine the fines which were due? The fines were so big I couldn't pay them. I was doomed.
Well, our sins are that same way. The fine is so big that no one can pay them; so Jesus paid them for us. His last words were "It is finished". He meant "Paid In Full".
Isn't that remarkable? That He loved us so-o-o much that He gave His life for us to pay for our sins? That's why it is called the gift of salvation. He saved us from our sins. I would trust in someone who did that for me, wouldn't you? Will you accept His gift?
Finally, one day when I was old and grey (maybe 70 yrs. old) I got into an accident (through no fault of my own, of course) and when I went to court the judge just looked at me in amazement. You see, they had pulled a copy of my driving record and over a lifetime I had accumulated 70,000 tickets. Can you imagine the fines which were due? The fines were so big I couldn't pay them. I was doomed.
Well, our sins are that same way. The fine is so big that no one can pay them; so Jesus paid them for us. His last words were "It is finished". He meant "Paid In Full".
Isn't that remarkable? That He loved us so-o-o much that He gave His life for us to pay for our sins? That's why it is called the gift of salvation. He saved us from our sins. I would trust in someone who did that for me, wouldn't you? Will you accept His gift?
Tuesday, October 16
Ask Me What I Do?
If you ask me what I do, I'll tell you I am a part time minister disguised as a full time stay-at-home mom. At least that's what I'm working towards. Not a minister of a church, but a person who ministers to others...someone who listens to them, who cares about what they care about and someone who shares the gospel with them and tells them of God's Good News!
I want my walk in life to honor the Lord...not following mainstream Christians, but actually following the Lord. Trusting the Lord in all things and doing what I know is His clearly defined will for me.
I want to live a life of faith. All of my life. Because that's what I have decided to do.
You see, being a Christian isn't something you are born into. It's not like being a citizen of a country. It doesn't matter that my parents were Christians and I was raised in a Christian home. Sure, I went to Sunday School every week and was raised with Christian values, BUT that doesn't make me a Christian.
Being a Christian is being at a point in your life where you make a deliberate commitment and choice to trust the Lord.
See? That's where a lot of people get lost. They think because their parents are Christians that they are Christians. WRONG! Because of this they don't pursue being a Christian--they think they already are.
That just isn't the way it is.
I want my walk in life to honor the Lord...not following mainstream Christians, but actually following the Lord. Trusting the Lord in all things and doing what I know is His clearly defined will for me.
I want to live a life of faith. All of my life. Because that's what I have decided to do.
You see, being a Christian isn't something you are born into. It's not like being a citizen of a country. It doesn't matter that my parents were Christians and I was raised in a Christian home. Sure, I went to Sunday School every week and was raised with Christian values, BUT that doesn't make me a Christian.
Being a Christian is being at a point in your life where you make a deliberate commitment and choice to trust the Lord.
See? That's where a lot of people get lost. They think because their parents are Christians that they are Christians. WRONG! Because of this they don't pursue being a Christian--they think they already are.
That just isn't the way it is.
Thursday, October 4
Women of Love
Today we are going to talk about being Women of Love.
Here, through his teachings, Jesus tells us that it is God's commandment to "love one another as I have loved you!"
John 13:34&35 A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so must you love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Jesus says that his Christlike love will show that we are his disciples (followers). Do people see bitterness, jealousy, back-stabbing and gossip-spreading through your actions...or....do they know that you are a follower of Jesus because of your love, compassion, care and helpful nature?
Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Let's explore together a little bit of what this means.
Faith is the foundation and content of God's love.
Hope is the attitude and focus.
Love is the action.
You see,
God's is self-existent. His love has no beginning. He has always loved us. That's why he sent His Son to die on the cross for us, as payment for our sins, so that we may have everlasting life. How much more could you love someone than to give up your child to die in their place?
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.
God is eternal. His love has no end. God has always loved us, is loving us now and will always love us. Forever and a day. Now that's a lot!
God is infinite. His love has no limit. Love spreads like wildfire...it is contagious.
God is holy. His love is spotless and pure. God loved and accepted all people; He just hated their sins.
God is immense. His love is larger than the seas. It reaches every corner of our life. His love reaches out to the whole world. God's love is immeasurable and inexhaustible.
The attributes of love are clearly spoken in God's Word.
I Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails, but endures all things.
Love is the greatest of all human qualities. Love involves unselfish service to others to show that you care.
When faith and hope are in line with one another, only then can you love completely because you understand how God loves.
Most of us have learned how to pretend to love others. We help them out, speak kindly towards them, avoid hurting their feelings and pretend to be interested in their life. We may even be able to pretend that we are moved with compassion when we learn of their trials and difficulties. Maybe we even become indignant when we hear they have been treated unfairly. But this isn't the kind of love that God is commanding of us.
God is teaching us about a love which is real and sincere. It goes beyond pretending and being polite.
Sincere love requires concentration and effort. It means helping others become better people. It may demand some of our money and much of our time. It always demands all of our personal involvement. Honor and love people because you have been created in God's image. Because we are brothers and sisters in Christ.
Put others first!
And then the Lord instructs us on how to express Love.
Romans 12: 9-18 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil and cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who prsecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in Harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Hospitality differs from entertainment. Entertainment focuses on the host. The house must be clean, the meal prepared just so and the host must seem relaxed and good-natured. But hospitality focuses on the guest. You are focusing on them and aware of catering to their needs--whether it be for a place to stay, nourishing food or just a listening ear. Refering to our passage yesterday, this makes me think that Martha was entertaining Jesus; Mary was showing Jesus hospitality. Don't hesitate to offer hospitality just because you are too busy, too tired or not wealthy enough to entertain. Hospitality has nothing to do with those things. Focus on your guests' circumstances, not your own!
Show kindness to strangers.
Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
Be an encourager and know that a soft word turns away anger.
Pray fervently. Like your life depends on it, because it does!
Psalm 32:6 Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise they will not reach him.
This concludes this study and what I learned at the retreat. But my learning does not stop there. I read my Bible everyday, go to church all the time so I can learn more from God's Word and fellowship with other Christians. I will always have more to share with you, if you are willing to listen.
Thanks, Pat, for taking me to the retreat! I loved it and the the time we spent together!!!!
Here, through his teachings, Jesus tells us that it is God's commandment to "love one another as I have loved you!"
John 13:34&35 A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so must you love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Jesus says that his Christlike love will show that we are his disciples (followers). Do people see bitterness, jealousy, back-stabbing and gossip-spreading through your actions...or....do they know that you are a follower of Jesus because of your love, compassion, care and helpful nature?
Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Let's explore together a little bit of what this means.
Faith is the foundation and content of God's love.
Hope is the attitude and focus.
Love is the action.
You see,
God's is self-existent. His love has no beginning. He has always loved us. That's why he sent His Son to die on the cross for us, as payment for our sins, so that we may have everlasting life. How much more could you love someone than to give up your child to die in their place?
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.
God is eternal. His love has no end. God has always loved us, is loving us now and will always love us. Forever and a day. Now that's a lot!
God is infinite. His love has no limit. Love spreads like wildfire...it is contagious.
God is holy. His love is spotless and pure. God loved and accepted all people; He just hated their sins.
God is immense. His love is larger than the seas. It reaches every corner of our life. His love reaches out to the whole world. God's love is immeasurable and inexhaustible.
The attributes of love are clearly spoken in God's Word.
I Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails, but endures all things.
Love is the greatest of all human qualities. Love involves unselfish service to others to show that you care.
When faith and hope are in line with one another, only then can you love completely because you understand how God loves.
Most of us have learned how to pretend to love others. We help them out, speak kindly towards them, avoid hurting their feelings and pretend to be interested in their life. We may even be able to pretend that we are moved with compassion when we learn of their trials and difficulties. Maybe we even become indignant when we hear they have been treated unfairly. But this isn't the kind of love that God is commanding of us.
God is teaching us about a love which is real and sincere. It goes beyond pretending and being polite.
Sincere love requires concentration and effort. It means helping others become better people. It may demand some of our money and much of our time. It always demands all of our personal involvement. Honor and love people because you have been created in God's image. Because we are brothers and sisters in Christ.
Put others first!
And then the Lord instructs us on how to express Love.
Romans 12: 9-18 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil and cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who prsecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in Harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Hospitality differs from entertainment. Entertainment focuses on the host. The house must be clean, the meal prepared just so and the host must seem relaxed and good-natured. But hospitality focuses on the guest. You are focusing on them and aware of catering to their needs--whether it be for a place to stay, nourishing food or just a listening ear. Refering to our passage yesterday, this makes me think that Martha was entertaining Jesus; Mary was showing Jesus hospitality. Don't hesitate to offer hospitality just because you are too busy, too tired or not wealthy enough to entertain. Hospitality has nothing to do with those things. Focus on your guests' circumstances, not your own!
Show kindness to strangers.
Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
Be an encourager and know that a soft word turns away anger.
Pray fervently. Like your life depends on it, because it does!
Psalm 32:6 Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found; surely when the mighty waters rise they will not reach him.
This concludes this study and what I learned at the retreat. But my learning does not stop there. I read my Bible everyday, go to church all the time so I can learn more from God's Word and fellowship with other Christians. I will always have more to share with you, if you are willing to listen.
Thanks, Pat, for taking me to the retreat! I loved it and the the time we spent together!!!!
Wednesday, October 3
Women of Freedom
Here is a continuance of the previous post. I want to talk with you and share with you what I learned that the Bible says about laying aside the hindrances and being able to run with freedom. The freedom that God provides for us.
First, let's just clarify what hindrances are. A hindrance is anything that gets in the way of our accomplishing something else. In this circumstance, hindrances are what block our way to having a meaningful relationship with Christ i.e. our sinful nature.
Hebrews 12:1&2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
1) Lay aside your old self. Our old way of life before we knew Christ should be completely in the past. We should put it away, like old clothes we have outgrown or childish toys we do not need anymore. This is a decision that we make, once and for all, when we decide to accept Christ's gift of salvation.
Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
We cannot be driven by desire and impulse. We must put on the new role for our lives and head in a new direction. We need to have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives.
2) Let go of the past. Ask for God's forgiveness, receive it and let it go. We can come to the Lord and, like David, express our true feelings. Have you ever felt like no one cared what happened to you? David had a good reason to feel that way and yet he cried out to the Lord and prayed to Him because He knew He cared about him.
Psalm 142 I cry out to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out out my complaint before Him; before Him I pour my trouble.
When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who knows my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me. Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.
I cry to you, O Lord; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of living."
Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name.
Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.
Through prayer we can pull out of the tailspin in our life and be reminded that God cares for us deeply. Remember, if God can bring you to it; He can bring you through it!
3) Lay aside your pride. Pride centers on one's own self; there is no place for it in a life focused on God.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Proud people do not take into account their weaknesses and they don't anticipate stumbling blocks. They think they are above common problems. With this state of mind, a person is easily tripped. The ironic thing here is that the proud person seldom realizes that pride is their very undoing. They don't see that as their problem. Watch out for this! It is a trap waiting to ensnare you!
4) Lay aside the mindset of pleasing people. Don't fall prey to this way of thinking. Ask yourself am I living my life to please men or living my life to please Christ?
Galatians 1:10 Am I trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Do you spend your life trying to please everybody? Whose approval are you seeking? Pray for the courage to seek God's approval above anyone else's. Don't be an approval junkie! By doing that, you will be captured an enslaved through your own doing.
5) Let go of your bitterness. Bitterness in your life disrupts productivity. It causes worry, depression, anguish, and despair. Give it to God. He is prepare to handle it all, but you aren't...so why try?
1 Peter 5:6&7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He might lift you up in due time. Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Carrying your worries stresses and daily struggles by yourself shows that you have not really trusted God with your life. It takes humility to recognize that God cares. Admit your need and accept help from others in God's family. Giving God all your cares and anxieties calls for action, not passivity. Don't just submit to your circumstances, but instead submit to the Lord who controls all circumstances. Realize God's greatness and care for you and humbly obey Him. Then regardless of the circumstances surrounding you, He will lift you up.
6) Lay aside your busy-ness! Are you so busy that if God tried to call you and talk to you that He'd have to leave a message on your answering machine? Sure...you might set time aside each day to read your Bible or pray, but what about the quality of the rest of your time? Do you only pay atttention to Him at the moment you have set aside for Him, but the rest of your time is for yourself?
Your work? Your money? Your possessions?
Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself. Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."
Mary and Martha both loved Jesus. In these verses of Scripture, we see that they were both serving him. Martha thought that Mary was doing nothing, however, Mary was serving Christ in the way that she felt best. Martha didn't realize that in her desire to serve, she was actually neglecting her guest. Don't let your busy-ness become self-serving.
7) Lay aside your anxiety. Imagine how wonderful the feeling of never being anxious about anything. It seems like it would be impossible to live a life like that, doesn't it?
Phillipians 4:6&7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Doesn't it seem like there are worries everywhere we turn? Worries about our jobs, worries about school, worries in our homes...if you want to worry less...pray more!!!! Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray!
So, we have talked about things in our lives which are obstacles to having a life in Christ. Now, let's explore the freedom that we are allowed to run with when we submit to Him.
1) Run in gladness of having a new self. We have been born again of Christ.
Romans 7:4-6 So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you may belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. For when we were controlled by the sinful nature, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in our bodies, so that we bore fruit for death. But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.
When a person dies to their old life and their life belongs to God, a new life begins. The mindset for the unbeliever is one of only being concerned with their personal gratification. Those who have Christ as the center of their life have a new life. A life with God at the center. We find that their whole way of looking at things changes when we come to Christ.
2) Run with freedom. Freedom to realize that you can do all things through Him. The freedom of knowing that every spiritual blessing in Christ is given to our new self. We have an inheritance in Heaven that is more glorious than anything we could imagine.
Phillipians 4:13 I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
The power we receive through Christ is more than enough to do anything that is in His will. He does not grant us some superhuman strength to accomplish things without regard to His interests. Still in our lives, we will face troubles, trials and pressures, but as they come, if we ask Christ to strengthen us He will give us the ability to face the challenges and rise above them.
3) Run with an eternal perspective. Come out of denial, turn over a new leaf and start a new life. Realize that you are a child of God and an amazing inheritance is awaiting you in Heaven.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.
Christians are brand new people on the inside. The Holy Spirit lives within us. We are not just reformed, re-educated or rehabilitated or recovered...we are re-created. We are brand new creations!!!! We are beginning a new life under a new master. Rejoice and be glad in it!!!!
4) Run with the joy of fellowship. I know I do! I can't thank my friend, Pat Collins, enough for inviting me to spend the day with her at the retreat. Enjoying the day and the time we had together plus getting to spend time with other ladies from the church was so enriching. I just had an incredible, extraordinary day!!!!
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing; but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
When we neglect Christian meetings we are giving up the encouragement and help of other Christians. We should gather together to share our faith and to strengthen one another in the Lord. As we get closer to the "Day" that Christ will return we will face even more spiritual difficulties...struggles and persecution. Anti-Christian forces will grow in strength. We need to support each other and give each other comfort and love during these struggles. When the going gets tough; the tough go to church!!!!!
5) Run with forgiveness in your heart. Forgiveness means that you are agreeing to live with the consequences of another person's sin. Forgiveness is costly because we are paying for the other's sin. It is only made easier in the fact that God forgave us and sent His only Son to die for us in payment for our sin.
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave us.
All people are sinners by nature and by practice. When we accept Christ as our Savior, all sins are forgiven--past, present and future. God doesn't expect us to be perfect and never sin again. We will still sin. BUT if we confess our sins to God and ask for His forgiveness, he will not turn against us no matter what we have done. He loves us and forgives us. We should confess so that we may enjoy the very most joy and fellowship with Him that is possible. Acknowledge your hurts and feelings to the Lord and forgive others...that's the key to having an enriching relationship with Him.
6) Run with rest. Doing God's work or doing something in service to Him (being of character to glorify His name) is very important. BUT even Jesus recognized that to do it effectively we need rest and renewal.
Mark 6:31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them,"Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
God rested on the seventh day, not because He was tired but to illustrate the completion of all that He created. His rest is also a symbol of what it will be like after His return. When the world will be made perfect again; every sin will be removed, none of us will hurt or struggle ever again....all we will do is REST, FELLOWSHIP with God and PRAISE HIM!!!!!
7) Run with peace. Throughout history God has revealed His strength and greatness to us. Through mighty miracles over nature He has displayed to us His glory and awesomeness. He can deal with anything on our behalf, and we are blessed to know that...it gives us peace.
Psalm 29:11 The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.
Remember that God can give you strength enough for anything. The power that controls creation and raises the dead is available to you....just accept His gift!!!!
DO YOU JUST TALK THE TALK OR DO YOU ALSO WALK THE WALK?????????
Continued in the next post...the final session...
First, let's just clarify what hindrances are. A hindrance is anything that gets in the way of our accomplishing something else. In this circumstance, hindrances are what block our way to having a meaningful relationship with Christ i.e. our sinful nature.
Hebrews 12:1&2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
1) Lay aside your old self. Our old way of life before we knew Christ should be completely in the past. We should put it away, like old clothes we have outgrown or childish toys we do not need anymore. This is a decision that we make, once and for all, when we decide to accept Christ's gift of salvation.
Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
We cannot be driven by desire and impulse. We must put on the new role for our lives and head in a new direction. We need to have the new way of thinking that the Holy Spirit gives.
2) Let go of the past. Ask for God's forgiveness, receive it and let it go. We can come to the Lord and, like David, express our true feelings. Have you ever felt like no one cared what happened to you? David had a good reason to feel that way and yet he cried out to the Lord and prayed to Him because He knew He cared about him.
Psalm 142 I cry out to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out out my complaint before Him; before Him I pour my trouble.
When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who knows my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me. Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.
I cry to you, O Lord; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of living."
Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name.
Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.
Through prayer we can pull out of the tailspin in our life and be reminded that God cares for us deeply. Remember, if God can bring you to it; He can bring you through it!
3) Lay aside your pride. Pride centers on one's own self; there is no place for it in a life focused on God.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Proud people do not take into account their weaknesses and they don't anticipate stumbling blocks. They think they are above common problems. With this state of mind, a person is easily tripped. The ironic thing here is that the proud person seldom realizes that pride is their very undoing. They don't see that as their problem. Watch out for this! It is a trap waiting to ensnare you!
4) Lay aside the mindset of pleasing people. Don't fall prey to this way of thinking. Ask yourself am I living my life to please men or living my life to please Christ?
Galatians 1:10 Am I trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Do you spend your life trying to please everybody? Whose approval are you seeking? Pray for the courage to seek God's approval above anyone else's. Don't be an approval junkie! By doing that, you will be captured an enslaved through your own doing.
5) Let go of your bitterness. Bitterness in your life disrupts productivity. It causes worry, depression, anguish, and despair. Give it to God. He is prepare to handle it all, but you aren't...so why try?
1 Peter 5:6&7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He might lift you up in due time. Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Carrying your worries stresses and daily struggles by yourself shows that you have not really trusted God with your life. It takes humility to recognize that God cares. Admit your need and accept help from others in God's family. Giving God all your cares and anxieties calls for action, not passivity. Don't just submit to your circumstances, but instead submit to the Lord who controls all circumstances. Realize God's greatness and care for you and humbly obey Him. Then regardless of the circumstances surrounding you, He will lift you up.
6) Lay aside your busy-ness! Are you so busy that if God tried to call you and talk to you that He'd have to leave a message on your answering machine? Sure...you might set time aside each day to read your Bible or pray, but what about the quality of the rest of your time? Do you only pay atttention to Him at the moment you have set aside for Him, but the rest of your time is for yourself?
Your work? Your money? Your possessions?
Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself. Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."
Mary and Martha both loved Jesus. In these verses of Scripture, we see that they were both serving him. Martha thought that Mary was doing nothing, however, Mary was serving Christ in the way that she felt best. Martha didn't realize that in her desire to serve, she was actually neglecting her guest. Don't let your busy-ness become self-serving.
7) Lay aside your anxiety. Imagine how wonderful the feeling of never being anxious about anything. It seems like it would be impossible to live a life like that, doesn't it?
Phillipians 4:6&7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Doesn't it seem like there are worries everywhere we turn? Worries about our jobs, worries about school, worries in our homes...if you want to worry less...pray more!!!! Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray!
So, we have talked about things in our lives which are obstacles to having a life in Christ. Now, let's explore the freedom that we are allowed to run with when we submit to Him.
1) Run in gladness of having a new self. We have been born again of Christ.
Romans 7:4-6 So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you may belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. For when we were controlled by the sinful nature, the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in our bodies, so that we bore fruit for death. But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.
When a person dies to their old life and their life belongs to God, a new life begins. The mindset for the unbeliever is one of only being concerned with their personal gratification. Those who have Christ as the center of their life have a new life. A life with God at the center. We find that their whole way of looking at things changes when we come to Christ.
2) Run with freedom. Freedom to realize that you can do all things through Him. The freedom of knowing that every spiritual blessing in Christ is given to our new self. We have an inheritance in Heaven that is more glorious than anything we could imagine.
Phillipians 4:13 I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
The power we receive through Christ is more than enough to do anything that is in His will. He does not grant us some superhuman strength to accomplish things without regard to His interests. Still in our lives, we will face troubles, trials and pressures, but as they come, if we ask Christ to strengthen us He will give us the ability to face the challenges and rise above them.
3) Run with an eternal perspective. Come out of denial, turn over a new leaf and start a new life. Realize that you are a child of God and an amazing inheritance is awaiting you in Heaven.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.
Christians are brand new people on the inside. The Holy Spirit lives within us. We are not just reformed, re-educated or rehabilitated or recovered...we are re-created. We are brand new creations!!!! We are beginning a new life under a new master. Rejoice and be glad in it!!!!
4) Run with the joy of fellowship. I know I do! I can't thank my friend, Pat Collins, enough for inviting me to spend the day with her at the retreat. Enjoying the day and the time we had together plus getting to spend time with other ladies from the church was so enriching. I just had an incredible, extraordinary day!!!!
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing; but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
When we neglect Christian meetings we are giving up the encouragement and help of other Christians. We should gather together to share our faith and to strengthen one another in the Lord. As we get closer to the "Day" that Christ will return we will face even more spiritual difficulties...struggles and persecution. Anti-Christian forces will grow in strength. We need to support each other and give each other comfort and love during these struggles. When the going gets tough; the tough go to church!!!!!
5) Run with forgiveness in your heart. Forgiveness means that you are agreeing to live with the consequences of another person's sin. Forgiveness is costly because we are paying for the other's sin. It is only made easier in the fact that God forgave us and sent His only Son to die for us in payment for our sin.
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave us.
All people are sinners by nature and by practice. When we accept Christ as our Savior, all sins are forgiven--past, present and future. God doesn't expect us to be perfect and never sin again. We will still sin. BUT if we confess our sins to God and ask for His forgiveness, he will not turn against us no matter what we have done. He loves us and forgives us. We should confess so that we may enjoy the very most joy and fellowship with Him that is possible. Acknowledge your hurts and feelings to the Lord and forgive others...that's the key to having an enriching relationship with Him.
6) Run with rest. Doing God's work or doing something in service to Him (being of character to glorify His name) is very important. BUT even Jesus recognized that to do it effectively we need rest and renewal.
Mark 6:31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them,"Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
God rested on the seventh day, not because He was tired but to illustrate the completion of all that He created. His rest is also a symbol of what it will be like after His return. When the world will be made perfect again; every sin will be removed, none of us will hurt or struggle ever again....all we will do is REST, FELLOWSHIP with God and PRAISE HIM!!!!!
7) Run with peace. Throughout history God has revealed His strength and greatness to us. Through mighty miracles over nature He has displayed to us His glory and awesomeness. He can deal with anything on our behalf, and we are blessed to know that...it gives us peace.
Psalm 29:11 The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.
Remember that God can give you strength enough for anything. The power that controls creation and raises the dead is available to you....just accept His gift!!!!
DO YOU JUST TALK THE TALK OR DO YOU ALSO WALK THE WALK?????????
Continued in the next post...the final session...
Monday, October 1
Being The Woman God Wants You To Be
I went to a ladies' retreat this past weekend and had an awesome time!!!! I enjoyed a wonderful day surrounded by phenomenal women in an atmosphere of gorgeous sunshine and clear, blue skies on a peaceful Saturday afternoon. I am so very lucky that my friend, Pat Collins, invited me to go with her. The views around Traber Center are breathtaking; I loved just getting to enjoy walking around the grounds or sitting in the gazebo spending time with Pat as I discovered even more of God's creations which were also enjoying the lovely weather. It was a was a superb experience! (Yes, even the bees! LOL)
Hazel called this topic, Women of God, because it was a womens' retreat, but when you read through the post you will see that it is really information for all of God's people and could just as easily been called People of God.
Anyway, back to my topic at hand...the speaker, Hazel Sensenig, shared with us the Biblical scriptures for being a woman of God's heart. I want to share these things with you, my wonderful readers. Since all the information I gleaned from the speaker were covered in 3 sessions, then I will at least have to do that also.
So on this blog, I will cover the first session now, with each of the other two sessions following on subsequent days.
First we must realize God's purpose:
1. He wants you to be a person who will reflect His glory and will be His own.
Revelation 4:11 You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.
Do you understand this? God created you, he chose you and custom made you. He planned everything about you from birth until the day you die.
2. He wants to conform us to Christ.
Romans 8:29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
God brings us to Himself and then He makes us like Himself. Get it?
3. He wants us to love His people as He does.
I John 3:1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are!
How about that? No greater love could be known than this...that He lavishes His love on us...how wonderful and amazing!
4. He wants us to accomplish His plan for good.
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
God works all things for good in our lives. Faith is believing in advance and knowing that though He disciplines us and will not spare us; He loves us so-o-o much!
What is our purpose for God?
1. We should love God and others. The fruit of the Spirit is the spontaneous work of the Holy Spirit in us.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
These are by-products of Christ's control--we can't obtain them through our own works; these are character traits found in the nature of Christ. If we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us then we must join our lives to His. We must know Him, love Him, remember Him and imitate Him.
2. We should wait on God with hope.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
We should wait with hope. The definition for wait is stay in place. We should be expectant with joy, just like so many before us, like David, Abraham, Sarah & Jeremiah, and Zechariah & Elizabeth.
3. We must trust God even through our suffering. You must surrender yourself and your loved ones to God.
Psalm 130 Psalm 121:2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth.
Psalm 119:165 Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
If we love God and obey His laws, we will have "great peace". Trust in God who stands above all the pressures and suffering of the world. God always has a purpose and a plan even during your affliction--these things here on earth will pass and we will move into eternal glory!
4. We must serve God with reverent fear.
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
This does not mean to be afraid of the Lord. Instead it means to live in reverence with respect to the Lord.
God's purpose for us is to live with the assurance that He is purposely involved in our lives. Remember, if it matters to you; it matters to Him.
So, the characteristics of a Godly woman can best be summarized by the passage in
Romans 12:9-21
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
These verses summarize the core of Christian living. When we have experienced God's grace, we will want to pass it on to others. Grace is an undeserved favor, so when someone is different from us or hurts us, we should recognize that and love him in spite of his sins--just like Christ did for us!
Continued in the next post...
Hazel called this topic, Women of God, because it was a womens' retreat, but when you read through the post you will see that it is really information for all of God's people and could just as easily been called People of God.
Anyway, back to my topic at hand...the speaker, Hazel Sensenig, shared with us the Biblical scriptures for being a woman of God's heart. I want to share these things with you, my wonderful readers. Since all the information I gleaned from the speaker were covered in 3 sessions, then I will at least have to do that also.
So on this blog, I will cover the first session now, with each of the other two sessions following on subsequent days.
First we must realize God's purpose:
1. He wants you to be a person who will reflect His glory and will be His own.
Revelation 4:11 You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.
Do you understand this? God created you, he chose you and custom made you. He planned everything about you from birth until the day you die.
2. He wants to conform us to Christ.
Romans 8:29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
God brings us to Himself and then He makes us like Himself. Get it?
3. He wants us to love His people as He does.
I John 3:1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are!
How about that? No greater love could be known than this...that He lavishes His love on us...how wonderful and amazing!
4. He wants us to accomplish His plan for good.
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
God works all things for good in our lives. Faith is believing in advance and knowing that though He disciplines us and will not spare us; He loves us so-o-o much!
What is our purpose for God?
1. We should love God and others. The fruit of the Spirit is the spontaneous work of the Holy Spirit in us.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
These are by-products of Christ's control--we can't obtain them through our own works; these are character traits found in the nature of Christ. If we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us then we must join our lives to His. We must know Him, love Him, remember Him and imitate Him.
2. We should wait on God with hope.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
We should wait with hope. The definition for wait is stay in place. We should be expectant with joy, just like so many before us, like David, Abraham, Sarah & Jeremiah, and Zechariah & Elizabeth.
3. We must trust God even through our suffering. You must surrender yourself and your loved ones to God.
Psalm 130 Psalm 121:2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth.
Psalm 119:165 Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
If we love God and obey His laws, we will have "great peace". Trust in God who stands above all the pressures and suffering of the world. God always has a purpose and a plan even during your affliction--these things here on earth will pass and we will move into eternal glory!
4. We must serve God with reverent fear.
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
This does not mean to be afraid of the Lord. Instead it means to live in reverence with respect to the Lord.
God's purpose for us is to live with the assurance that He is purposely involved in our lives. Remember, if it matters to you; it matters to Him.
So, the characteristics of a Godly woman can best be summarized by the passage in
Romans 12:9-21
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
These verses summarize the core of Christian living. When we have experienced God's grace, we will want to pass it on to others. Grace is an undeserved favor, so when someone is different from us or hurts us, we should recognize that and love him in spite of his sins--just like Christ did for us!
Continued in the next post...
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