I heard a phenomenal message this past Sunday. Because of the importance of the anonymity, I cannot share the preacher's name or the church. However, I had to share his sermon. I'm been thinking about it all week. May it make a positive impact on each of your lives as well.
Today is Good Friday. It is the day most of Christians set aside to celebrate Christ's sacrifice. It is in memory of the day He died. But He died a gruesome death. He was beaten, mocked, and mercilessly killed despite the fact that He was completely innocent. Even a convicted thief defended Him against another. The three were on the cross. The first mocked Him and the second defended our Lord, stating that they deserved their punishment, but this Man had done nothing to deserve crucifixion.
Even a Roman guard admitted, "Surely this Man was the Son of God." But it was too late. By this time, Christ's body lay limp, mangled, and beaten to the point that it was not recognizable. Good Friday? Our Savior suffered a terribly painful death in the face of mockery.
He could have silenced their cruel mockery in an instant and halted the pain. He didn't, and that's why this day is celebrated. He would have been completely justified in stopping his execution and condemning the masses then and there. He had done nothing wrong.
He continued on for your sake and for mine. He who knew no sin became sin for us and took upon Himself the death of the cross. Through His death, we may have life eternal. Through His torment, we have peace. Through His death, we have newness of life.
That is why it is a good Friday. He gave everything so we could have life fully, so that we would never know the condemnation for our sins. So that we would forever be justified in the eyes of a righteous God. Christ died that we may live.
Today, may you and I remember the suffering of our God so that we can live. May we each at least thank Him today for everything He went through.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Not knowing is the worst!
So much of my life is dependent on variables that I have little or no control over. It's overwhelming to think that my life could be forever changed by one little thing. I suppose this is always true, but here, my future hangs in the balance. Unfortunately, there are more than one things that could sway the direction I must go.
Not knowing how these pieces will fall constantly threatens to stress and overwhelm me. I keep re-trusting God with the particulars, but the worries keep popping up. It's like an emotional game of whack a mole. It used to be that they would pop up all the time, very unappreciated. For the most part, I have these worries under control.
However, today, something happened that sprang the game into full-force action. I missed a call from my husband's supervisor. The possibilities of what he was going to say seem to taunt me. Is he losing his job? Is my stuff on its way soon? Is he getting re-assigned? Is he going to jail? The possibilities seem endless, and, of course, when I tried to return the phone call, he wasn't available.
I wish there were a way to unplug the whack a mole game that plays in my mind and plays with my emotions. Unfortunately, I don't know how. I do know that God will provide no matter what, but my next steps depend so much on what is decided.
The best thing for me to do is trust and rest in God's amazing care, but I find myself worrying through each situation. My mind races through the possible endings, trying to ascertain my appropriate and most logical respond to each scenario. It's driving me a little crazy, but I don't know how to turn my mind off.
While not knowing may be the worst, trusting is certainly the most important. I am trying. I will certainly need to give it all to God again. He leads step by step, not year by year. I need to remember that just as He is supplying for my needs now, He will in the future as well. One step at a time.
Not knowing how these pieces will fall constantly threatens to stress and overwhelm me. I keep re-trusting God with the particulars, but the worries keep popping up. It's like an emotional game of whack a mole. It used to be that they would pop up all the time, very unappreciated. For the most part, I have these worries under control.
However, today, something happened that sprang the game into full-force action. I missed a call from my husband's supervisor. The possibilities of what he was going to say seem to taunt me. Is he losing his job? Is my stuff on its way soon? Is he getting re-assigned? Is he going to jail? The possibilities seem endless, and, of course, when I tried to return the phone call, he wasn't available.
I wish there were a way to unplug the whack a mole game that plays in my mind and plays with my emotions. Unfortunately, I don't know how. I do know that God will provide no matter what, but my next steps depend so much on what is decided.
The best thing for me to do is trust and rest in God's amazing care, but I find myself worrying through each situation. My mind races through the possible endings, trying to ascertain my appropriate and most logical respond to each scenario. It's driving me a little crazy, but I don't know how to turn my mind off.
While not knowing may be the worst, trusting is certainly the most important. I am trying. I will certainly need to give it all to God again. He leads step by step, not year by year. I need to remember that just as He is supplying for my needs now, He will in the future as well. One step at a time.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Pick a state, any state
I've been attempting to figure out my future with my daughter. It's been amusing, to say the least. I've come to the realization that I really don't know what I'll be doing or where I'll be. Here are some examples:
I have that the southeast is the region for me. I despise the cold, so that's an easy one. And I really don't care for the dry heat of the west. Southeast it is! Or so you would think. And yet, my mind has placed us frontiering in Montana and living well in Thailand. But both of those were quickly squelched. Montana is cold, despite the website that said it doesn't get too cold in Montana. I was sure it did, though, so I did some digging. It "only" gets to -20 instead of -60. I can't comprehend either of those temperatures, so that's definitely not for me! And Thailand, aside from it being way too far away, a friend told me it's known for cross-dressing and prostitution. Definitely not where I'd like to raise my little girl.
So, back to the southeast... again. I've thought about every single southeast state for varying reasons. I looked up the best cities to raise a family. Waco, Texas and Virginia Beach, Virginia were both listed. Those could both work. I've seriously looked into the foothills of the Appalachians in Tennessee. But it seemed lonely to be a single mom out there all by myself. So, I think I'd like something a little bigger, but smaller than a large city. That hardly narrows it down. I know people in Florida, and it would neat to move and already be with friends, but I'd have to find a suitable place, and I'm not sure that Florida has the southern charm I'm looking for.
Essentially, I really have no clue where I'll end up. It would be so much easier if I had to be somewhere. I just don't want to move just to move again and again. I'd like to put down some roots somewhere. Feel free to share your suggestions. Until then, maybe I should pin a map of the southeast over a dartboard. It kinda feels like that's what I'm doing. The future is a mystery. I guess I've just gotta keep putting one foot in front of the other, but it sure is fun to dream.
I have that the southeast is the region for me. I despise the cold, so that's an easy one. And I really don't care for the dry heat of the west. Southeast it is! Or so you would think. And yet, my mind has placed us frontiering in Montana and living well in Thailand. But both of those were quickly squelched. Montana is cold, despite the website that said it doesn't get too cold in Montana. I was sure it did, though, so I did some digging. It "only" gets to -20 instead of -60. I can't comprehend either of those temperatures, so that's definitely not for me! And Thailand, aside from it being way too far away, a friend told me it's known for cross-dressing and prostitution. Definitely not where I'd like to raise my little girl.
So, back to the southeast... again. I've thought about every single southeast state for varying reasons. I looked up the best cities to raise a family. Waco, Texas and Virginia Beach, Virginia were both listed. Those could both work. I've seriously looked into the foothills of the Appalachians in Tennessee. But it seemed lonely to be a single mom out there all by myself. So, I think I'd like something a little bigger, but smaller than a large city. That hardly narrows it down. I know people in Florida, and it would neat to move and already be with friends, but I'd have to find a suitable place, and I'm not sure that Florida has the southern charm I'm looking for.
Essentially, I really have no clue where I'll end up. It would be so much easier if I had to be somewhere. I just don't want to move just to move again and again. I'd like to put down some roots somewhere. Feel free to share your suggestions. Until then, maybe I should pin a map of the southeast over a dartboard. It kinda feels like that's what I'm doing. The future is a mystery. I guess I've just gotta keep putting one foot in front of the other, but it sure is fun to dream.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Do what's best, not what's easy
I watched a documentary the other day that was talking about food, but I found one part of it that I have applied to much of my life. They said that as part of our human nature, we go for the easier road, even if that means it's the worst option for us. That was one thing that really stuck out to me, though it was a small point in the whole documentary. As I was thinking about it, I came up with this concise phrase: "Do what's best, not what's easy."
I've found that this little sentence has really helped me in many of my daily tasks, especially as I fight depression. It's so easy to do a slip-shod job or let things slide entirely. This reminder has helped me improve much of my life. Things are cleaner, I'm eating better, and I am not procrastinating!
The neat thing is that this has really brightened my mood! I'm happier without an unending list of things I didn't do trailing behind me as I gaze at the growing list of things yet to be done. It's nice to be able to walk unencumbered, knowing that things are done well when they need to be done. It's put a lightness to my step and seems to have brightened my days. I literally notice the sun more!
Did I mention that I'm eating better? Remember my goal to gain weight? It's rough getting all those calories in a safe way, especially because I'm also endeavoring to eat more fruits and vegetables. Today, I haven't even had dinner, and yet I'm less than 300 calories away from my goal. I'm embarrassed to actually admit not just to you, but to myself, that part of my problem with gaining weight was sheer laziness. Isn't that terrible? I shudder at the realization. But there it is, the hard truth. Perhaps now that I'm deciding to do what's best and not what's easy, I'll be able to gain weight very soon.
It's amazing how vicious a cycle depression is. You're depressed, so you let daily tasks slide. Those daily tasks constantly nag you, and you're more depressed, so you do less. It's a terribly sticky mud that you soon discover is sinking sand. Praise God for throwing me a vine. I had to pass it on!
I've found that this little sentence has really helped me in many of my daily tasks, especially as I fight depression. It's so easy to do a slip-shod job or let things slide entirely. This reminder has helped me improve much of my life. Things are cleaner, I'm eating better, and I am not procrastinating!
The neat thing is that this has really brightened my mood! I'm happier without an unending list of things I didn't do trailing behind me as I gaze at the growing list of things yet to be done. It's nice to be able to walk unencumbered, knowing that things are done well when they need to be done. It's put a lightness to my step and seems to have brightened my days. I literally notice the sun more!
Did I mention that I'm eating better? Remember my goal to gain weight? It's rough getting all those calories in a safe way, especially because I'm also endeavoring to eat more fruits and vegetables. Today, I haven't even had dinner, and yet I'm less than 300 calories away from my goal. I'm embarrassed to actually admit not just to you, but to myself, that part of my problem with gaining weight was sheer laziness. Isn't that terrible? I shudder at the realization. But there it is, the hard truth. Perhaps now that I'm deciding to do what's best and not what's easy, I'll be able to gain weight very soon.
It's amazing how vicious a cycle depression is. You're depressed, so you let daily tasks slide. Those daily tasks constantly nag you, and you're more depressed, so you do less. It's a terribly sticky mud that you soon discover is sinking sand. Praise God for throwing me a vine. I had to pass it on!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Trying a new church today
Today, I will be enjoying fellowship with a new group of people. I have researched as much as I can about the church, and now it is time to go visit. The nice thing is that it is only 5 miles away. Not much gas spent at all!
Many churches seem to give more rules than the Bible does. According to them, if you don't do everything they say you should, then you're not a good Christian. I believe it is the Holy Spirit's job to convict and lead people. Granted, there are rules and guidelines in the Bible, but those things that are not specifically outlined by God should not be outlined by an organization of men.
The problem is, most of those churches who do not have such rules and guidelines often do not hold well to what the Bible says either. Holding to the Bible is imperative. If they don't believe that the Bible is God's Word, and live accordingly, then the church isn't for me.
It would also be nice to see the church reach out so that even as a newcomer, I may enjoy the fellowship of the believers. Especially in this stage of my life, I really need to be surrounded by people who will remind me of God's goodness. I hope to find such a group of people at this church.
I did listen to a couple of the messages they have online, and I must say, they were convicting, uplifting, engaging, and made the passages applicable to today. I am excited to go to church today for the next sermon! That is an amazing thing to be able to say!
I pray that each of my readers will be compelled to go to church today for spiritual and social refreshment. God loves you! I'm excited to go to a place where everyone loves Him, too!
Have a wonderful and blessed Lord's day!
Just Me
Many churches seem to give more rules than the Bible does. According to them, if you don't do everything they say you should, then you're not a good Christian. I believe it is the Holy Spirit's job to convict and lead people. Granted, there are rules and guidelines in the Bible, but those things that are not specifically outlined by God should not be outlined by an organization of men.
The problem is, most of those churches who do not have such rules and guidelines often do not hold well to what the Bible says either. Holding to the Bible is imperative. If they don't believe that the Bible is God's Word, and live accordingly, then the church isn't for me.
It would also be nice to see the church reach out so that even as a newcomer, I may enjoy the fellowship of the believers. Especially in this stage of my life, I really need to be surrounded by people who will remind me of God's goodness. I hope to find such a group of people at this church.
I did listen to a couple of the messages they have online, and I must say, they were convicting, uplifting, engaging, and made the passages applicable to today. I am excited to go to church today for the next sermon! That is an amazing thing to be able to say!
I pray that each of my readers will be compelled to go to church today for spiritual and social refreshment. God loves you! I'm excited to go to a place where everyone loves Him, too!
Have a wonderful and blessed Lord's day!
Just Me
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Freedom from pain
There are times when grief would threaten to swallow me whole. And it would succeed if I let it. I am really trying to ward off depression, and thought I would share my ideas with you on how to have freedom from pain. I know I'm not the only one who goes through hard times.
First, I allow myself to hurt, but not to wallow in the pain. Sometimes things are painful, and we need to feel pain for awhile. We're in trouble when we allow the pain to control us.
Second, I write. I sit down and write out every worry, fear, and trouble that I have. This keeps me from constantly churning in inwardly. It gets it out of my system. It's even better when I can write to someone. And God has provided a wonderful friend who not only listens to my rantings, but also tells me what I need to hear. She is a wonderful encouragement to me!
Third, I pray. I tell God the truth. I tell Him it hurts and it doesn't seem fair. I tell Him that I don't know what to do next, so He'd better lead. I ask Him to help me follow, and I thank Him for working all things for good.
Fourth, I sing. I haven't found much that soothes the soul like singing a soft and moving melody. It calms me from the inside out.
Fifth, I make my daughter smile. Her smile gets me going again. It's hard to feel down and out when she's laughing. I actually recorded her laughing, and made that my alarm. It's a blessing to wake up to her laughter.
Sixth, I plan for the future. I can get caught up on the hardships of the past. Rather than doing that, I press on to the future, and imagine the life I will have.
Perhaps you are facing something. I hope this list helps. Let me know what you do to free yourself from pain that would otherwise consume you. We don't have to live consumed by pain and bitterness. I am determined to be free from pain... eventually.
First, I allow myself to hurt, but not to wallow in the pain. Sometimes things are painful, and we need to feel pain for awhile. We're in trouble when we allow the pain to control us.
Second, I write. I sit down and write out every worry, fear, and trouble that I have. This keeps me from constantly churning in inwardly. It gets it out of my system. It's even better when I can write to someone. And God has provided a wonderful friend who not only listens to my rantings, but also tells me what I need to hear. She is a wonderful encouragement to me!
Third, I pray. I tell God the truth. I tell Him it hurts and it doesn't seem fair. I tell Him that I don't know what to do next, so He'd better lead. I ask Him to help me follow, and I thank Him for working all things for good.
Fourth, I sing. I haven't found much that soothes the soul like singing a soft and moving melody. It calms me from the inside out.
Fifth, I make my daughter smile. Her smile gets me going again. It's hard to feel down and out when she's laughing. I actually recorded her laughing, and made that my alarm. It's a blessing to wake up to her laughter.
Sixth, I plan for the future. I can get caught up on the hardships of the past. Rather than doing that, I press on to the future, and imagine the life I will have.
Perhaps you are facing something. I hope this list helps. Let me know what you do to free yourself from pain that would otherwise consume you. We don't have to live consumed by pain and bitterness. I am determined to be free from pain... eventually.
Friday, March 22, 2013
100 day plan... On your mark...
I am still working on organizing my hundred day plan. I'm so close to being ready, though!!
I have three areas I will be working on:
My health
- Gain weight
- Exercise
- Be healthy!
My job
- Advertising for tutoring
- Applying for freelance jobs
- Writing E-books
My faith
- Daily devotionals
- Study the names of God and their meaning
My health is easy. I need to eat at least 2500 calories every day, and I will either do pilates or walk 4 days/week. I will also be working on de-stressing. I have an app that has 101 days to be happy with tasks for each day. I will be following that as I progress.
My job is going to be a bit more tricky. I will need to figure out a plan of attack. Right now, I have nebulous thoughts, but they're not organized into something workable. I need to figure out my goal for 100 days, and then set monthly, weekly, and finally daily goals from that.
My faith needs to be strengthened. I figure the best way to do that is through an in-depth study of God. As I study who He is, I won't be able to help but fall at His feet in worship.
I will be following the blue letter Bible's study as a resource.
By next week, I should have it started, and I will let you know more at that point.
I have three areas I will be working on:
My health
- Gain weight
- Exercise
- Be healthy!
My job
- Advertising for tutoring
- Applying for freelance jobs
- Writing E-books
My faith
- Daily devotionals
- Study the names of God and their meaning
My health is easy. I need to eat at least 2500 calories every day, and I will either do pilates or walk 4 days/week. I will also be working on de-stressing. I have an app that has 101 days to be happy with tasks for each day. I will be following that as I progress.
My job is going to be a bit more tricky. I will need to figure out a plan of attack. Right now, I have nebulous thoughts, but they're not organized into something workable. I need to figure out my goal for 100 days, and then set monthly, weekly, and finally daily goals from that.
My faith needs to be strengthened. I figure the best way to do that is through an in-depth study of God. As I study who He is, I won't be able to help but fall at His feet in worship.
I will be following the blue letter Bible's study as a resource.
By next week, I should have it started, and I will let you know more at that point.
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