If you are like me, once your W2 form came in, you got right on to turbo tax to file your taxes. I put in all of my information, and anxiously waited for my calculations for my tax return. My worst nightmare would be to owe the IRS money...thankfully, Uncle Sam owes me this year. However, my money still has not come in, and Uncle Sam is taking his sweet time, however, I have some bills that are desperately waiting to be paid, and won't be until Uncle Sam has made his delivery to my chekcing account!
Matter of fact, I need to pay the rest of my Spring tuition by April 1 with that money. I felt like breaking out into hives earlier today because that is in a couple of days! But then I remembered something...I am not waiting on Uncle Sam,
I am waiting on the Lord...
You see, everything is spiritual. We should strive to look at all things from a spiritual perspective rather than an earthly one. I believe this is an opportunity for the Lord to teach me many spiritual lessons regarding His character...and maybe even a couple of things about my own character too! (Like how I can be impatient.)
Throughout all of Scripture, especially in the Old Testament, God's lessons to the Israelites were centered around one thing: trust. God repeatedly proved His trustworthiness to them, providing for their every need, even when they did not trust Him. We serve the same God today who is begging for us to do one thing: trust.
So, I'm not waiting on Uncle Sam to deliver my tax refund...
I'm not waiting on some man to declare his undying
love for me and want me to be his wife...
I'm not waiting on someone to hire me and give me the career of my dreams...
I am waiting on the Lord, while He is waiting on me to trust Him.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
It's my Birthday!
March 7, 1980 at 3p.m. my mom gave birth to me in Albequerque, New Mexico. So, today that makes me 26 years old! I can hardly believe it, I am now officially in my late 20s. Time sure does fly by, and it seems just like yesterday I was celebrating my sweet 16. Much has happened, and much has changed in my life, but through it all, I look back on this day and see how God's right hand has kept me...for such a time as this. I am truly excited to see what God has in store for me, and I humbly am ready for the work He has set before me this 26th year of my life.
The other day driving home I saw a bumper sticker on the car in front of me that read,
"Don't need to be born again...my first birth was good enough."
I couldn't believe how cynical and mean-spirited that message was. In reality though, we live in a society that is very hardened against the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many today do not recognize the depravity of their souls and desperate need for a Savior.
So while I am thankful for this day, March 7th, I am even more thankful for January 18, 1994. That was the day God wooed me into His presence and welcomed me into His family by giving me eternal life. I praise God for being born again because now He not only calls me His own, but He has a purpose and a plan for my life that will be used all for His glory!
Amen.
The other day driving home I saw a bumper sticker on the car in front of me that read,
"Don't need to be born again...my first birth was good enough."
I couldn't believe how cynical and mean-spirited that message was. In reality though, we live in a society that is very hardened against the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many today do not recognize the depravity of their souls and desperate need for a Savior.
So while I am thankful for this day, March 7th, I am even more thankful for January 18, 1994. That was the day God wooed me into His presence and welcomed me into His family by giving me eternal life. I praise God for being born again because now He not only calls me His own, but He has a purpose and a plan for my life that will be used all for His glory!
Amen.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
A Psalm of Lament
On Monday I was having a horrible day! I was just down, sad, and not understanding some things in my life. That night I was doing an assignment for school. Of all things, our professor asked us to write an original psalm of lament. Initially I thought to myself, "Ok, I'm not David...how can I write a psalm?" Well, I after studying a few of the lament psalms before writing my own, a common theme I found in the lament psalms were: honesty, transperancy with God, and ultimately a cofession of trust in the Lord. I have such a greater appreciation for the lament psalms now, and I am so grateful that our Lord invites us to be honest with Him just like David! I hope you will enjoy my original Psalm of Lament and that God would minister to you through it!
A Psalm of Lament
O God, how long must I wait?
Lord, how long until I see a change?
Be gracious Father, my heart aches;
Come near me for I am lonely;
But You, O Lord, You are silent.
Hear me, O Lord, hear my silent cries.
Comfort me in my longing, for Your name’s sake.
Restore me, I need Your mercy.
My hope fades even in the day light;
I am blinded by my circumstances;
I cry out for You to move;
But You, O Lord, You are silent.
Be lifted up, O God!
For You have already crushed the enemy.
The Lord is Sovereign in all His ways.
My tears have not escaped You;
Your loyal love is a banner over me.
__________________________________________
“There are times when our hope despairs;
those are times when our despair must learn to hope.”
Martin Luther
A Psalm of Lament
O God, how long must I wait?
Lord, how long until I see a change?
Be gracious Father, my heart aches;
Come near me for I am lonely;
But You, O Lord, You are silent.
Hear me, O Lord, hear my silent cries.
Comfort me in my longing, for Your name’s sake.
Restore me, I need Your mercy.
My hope fades even in the day light;
I am blinded by my circumstances;
I cry out for You to move;
But You, O Lord, You are silent.
Be lifted up, O God!
For You have already crushed the enemy.
The Lord is Sovereign in all His ways.
My tears have not escaped You;
Your loyal love is a banner over me.
__________________________________________
“There are times when our hope despairs;
those are times when our despair must learn to hope.”
Martin Luther
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Women in Ministry
For centuries many women have faced challenges, discrimination, and even death all in pursuit to minister in the name of Jesus Christ. Through the testimonies of trailblazers who have gone before us, I am encouraged and reminded that it is Jesus Christ Himself who has personally called all women to ministry, “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Nevertheless, women today will not be immune from some of the same challenges women faced in the past. Perhaps one of the most pressing challenges women in ministry face today is linked to the role of women in ministry. Unfortunately, many Christian men and women are still unclear on what women can or cannot do in ministry. This one issue has enormous implications for the Body of Christ as it relates to bringing the lost into the kingdom of God, not allowing women to use their spiritual gifts, and thwarting the call and commandment given equally to women by Jesus Christ.
To gain an understanding of the role of women in ministry, one must first look into the Word of God. As I began studying women of the Bible, I was encouraged and excited to learn how God has used many women in different ministry roles throughout scripture. From examples of women of the Old to the New Testament, we today in ministry have a responsibility not to allow their legacies to become lost. For it is by their examples, that we first have been able to understand our calling by the same Lord who called them.
I love the story in John 4 of the Samaritan woman at the well. It was to this woman Christ first revealed that He was the Messiah. In doing this, Jesus not only transcended racial and ethnic lines, but gender lines as well. Upon hearing the news, verse 28 says she went into the city and “testified to the men” about the Messiah, and in verse 39, “From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified.” Christ revealed Himself to this woman at the well first, and He has continued to reveal Himself to women to this present age. Surely we have a role in ministry, which includes women ministering to men. Like the woman at the well, women today must testify and tell others about the Christ revealed to them.
Despite Christ’s affirmation for the role of women in ministry, there are still skeptics, and the question still remains, “How can we overcome this challenge?” May I suggest another question we all should be asking, which is, “How then shall we as women minister?” I believe we should be asking this question because the unfortunate truth is that there will always be challenges in ministry, regardless of gender. Women do not need anyone else to affirm them for ministry; God has already given us His high mark of approval! Therefore, we need to be asking the Lord, “How would you have me to minister? How can I be used as your vessel? How may I serve in your kingdom agenda?” I sincerely believe it will be through humility that Christ will raise up women to be used by Him in ministry. In Matthew 20:26-28 we learn from Christ that whoever wants to be become great must be a servant…and “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Christ is the standard, and Christ is the answer to overcome this challenge and the many other challenges women in ministry will face in the future. The goal in overcoming the challenge of the role of women in ministry should be to avoid divisiveness within the Body by taking on humility.
In Acts 1:8, Christ says that it will be by power of the Holy Spirit that we will be His witnesses…to the “remotest part of the earth.” We shall overcome…but not by any works of ourselves, but by the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit. It is my prayer that together, women and men in ministry would press forward under the one banner of Christ’s love and enablement of the Holy Spirit.
To gain an understanding of the role of women in ministry, one must first look into the Word of God. As I began studying women of the Bible, I was encouraged and excited to learn how God has used many women in different ministry roles throughout scripture. From examples of women of the Old to the New Testament, we today in ministry have a responsibility not to allow their legacies to become lost. For it is by their examples, that we first have been able to understand our calling by the same Lord who called them.
I love the story in John 4 of the Samaritan woman at the well. It was to this woman Christ first revealed that He was the Messiah. In doing this, Jesus not only transcended racial and ethnic lines, but gender lines as well. Upon hearing the news, verse 28 says she went into the city and “testified to the men” about the Messiah, and in verse 39, “From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified.” Christ revealed Himself to this woman at the well first, and He has continued to reveal Himself to women to this present age. Surely we have a role in ministry, which includes women ministering to men. Like the woman at the well, women today must testify and tell others about the Christ revealed to them.
Despite Christ’s affirmation for the role of women in ministry, there are still skeptics, and the question still remains, “How can we overcome this challenge?” May I suggest another question we all should be asking, which is, “How then shall we as women minister?” I believe we should be asking this question because the unfortunate truth is that there will always be challenges in ministry, regardless of gender. Women do not need anyone else to affirm them for ministry; God has already given us His high mark of approval! Therefore, we need to be asking the Lord, “How would you have me to minister? How can I be used as your vessel? How may I serve in your kingdom agenda?” I sincerely believe it will be through humility that Christ will raise up women to be used by Him in ministry. In Matthew 20:26-28 we learn from Christ that whoever wants to be become great must be a servant…and “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Christ is the standard, and Christ is the answer to overcome this challenge and the many other challenges women in ministry will face in the future. The goal in overcoming the challenge of the role of women in ministry should be to avoid divisiveness within the Body by taking on humility.
In Acts 1:8, Christ says that it will be by power of the Holy Spirit that we will be His witnesses…to the “remotest part of the earth.” We shall overcome…but not by any works of ourselves, but by the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit. It is my prayer that together, women and men in ministry would press forward under the one banner of Christ’s love and enablement of the Holy Spirit.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
The Heart of Solemn Assembly
Here's a devotional that I wrote for the e-devotional for the singles' ministry at my church. You will read about "solemn assembly" in the article, which is a week-long, church-wide fast we participate in yearly. I hope you will enjoy it and be blessed!
The Heart of Solemn Assembly
Technology today has allowed doctors to see the internal condition of the body in a 3-D image through a procedure called an MRI. The images given to the doctor can precisely pin point any issues inside of the body. When having an MRI image taken, one has to lie down flat, being completely still, and completely quiet. Then the patient enters into the machine, where light is shined on their body in order to accurately see what is inside of them.
This week during Solemn Assembly 2006, have you allowed God to take an MRI image of you? Have you been quiet, not moving a muscle in order to hear His voice? Have you allowed light to be shined upon your heart in order to see what’s on the inside?
God commands of us in Joel 2:13, “Rend your heart and not your garments.”
We serve a God who is in constant pursuit after our hearts and will not relent until it is His. Rendering a few missed television programs and delicious meals is not the “heart” of the fast He has called us to. The fast the Lord has called us to this week is one not only to perform an MRI, but to give us the results of the MRI! The Lord is concerned about the condition of your heart, and that you release the grip you have on your heart, entrusting it to Him.
So as we draw closer to Friday and to the end of Solomon Assembly 2006, do not let today pass by without spending some quiet time with the Lord and asking Him to give you an MRI. However, remember you must be still, be quiet and let His light be shined upon your heart.
Pray as David did in Psalm 139:23-24:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting.”
May you have a blessed day in the Lord as you get to the heart of Solemn Assembly…
The Heart of Solemn Assembly
Technology today has allowed doctors to see the internal condition of the body in a 3-D image through a procedure called an MRI. The images given to the doctor can precisely pin point any issues inside of the body. When having an MRI image taken, one has to lie down flat, being completely still, and completely quiet. Then the patient enters into the machine, where light is shined on their body in order to accurately see what is inside of them.
This week during Solemn Assembly 2006, have you allowed God to take an MRI image of you? Have you been quiet, not moving a muscle in order to hear His voice? Have you allowed light to be shined upon your heart in order to see what’s on the inside?
God commands of us in Joel 2:13, “Rend your heart and not your garments.”
We serve a God who is in constant pursuit after our hearts and will not relent until it is His. Rendering a few missed television programs and delicious meals is not the “heart” of the fast He has called us to. The fast the Lord has called us to this week is one not only to perform an MRI, but to give us the results of the MRI! The Lord is concerned about the condition of your heart, and that you release the grip you have on your heart, entrusting it to Him.
So as we draw closer to Friday and to the end of Solomon Assembly 2006, do not let today pass by without spending some quiet time with the Lord and asking Him to give you an MRI. However, remember you must be still, be quiet and let His light be shined upon your heart.
Pray as David did in Psalm 139:23-24:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting.”
May you have a blessed day in the Lord as you get to the heart of Solemn Assembly…
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Celebrate Today
I have made a choice that this year will be a year of celebration! Psalm 149:1 says,
"Sing to the Lord a new song..."
After reading that, I thought to myself, "What new song of praise am I singing to the Lord?"
So, in an effort to be more grateful to the Lord for the new things He is doing in my life, I have made a choice to find one new thing everyday to praise God for whether it be small or big. Satan steals our joy from day to day by getting us to focus on what we don't have...today. But if we were to look closer, I believe we could find treasures to celebrate today!
Some verses in the Bible we have all read or heard recited so many times that we allow them to lose their effect upon our hearts. I realized this today as I was reading Psalm 118:24:
"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
I decided not to roll by that verse that I memorized years ago in my youth group, but to stop and meditate on what that verse means for me today. First, God has blessed me with this day...so I must thank Him for it. I am exactly where I am, doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing because this is the day He has made for me. He is Sovereign. The sooner you and I realize that, the better off we'll be!
We are commanded to rejoice! Rejoicing is a verb--it's something you do. Therefore, you and I have to make the choice not to complain, which is the opposite of rejoicing! Then we are commanded to be glad in it. What is the "it" we are to be glad about? The "it" refers to this day--but not just any day, but the day that the Lord has made. We can rejoice and be glad in today knowing that God is in control!
Now, in saying this, I know there are things about today that we are all unhappy about. God did not tell us to rejoice in that...He said to rejoice in the day He has made. Notice the rejoicing has nothing to do with us...but with Him. He is our joy! With the rising of each new day, we can be glad because it reassures us that He is still in control, He is still on the throne!
So, what about you? What are you rejoicing for today? What are you glad about today? How will you celebrate today?
"Sing to the Lord a new song..."
After reading that, I thought to myself, "What new song of praise am I singing to the Lord?"
So, in an effort to be more grateful to the Lord for the new things He is doing in my life, I have made a choice to find one new thing everyday to praise God for whether it be small or big. Satan steals our joy from day to day by getting us to focus on what we don't have...today. But if we were to look closer, I believe we could find treasures to celebrate today!
Some verses in the Bible we have all read or heard recited so many times that we allow them to lose their effect upon our hearts. I realized this today as I was reading Psalm 118:24:
"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
I decided not to roll by that verse that I memorized years ago in my youth group, but to stop and meditate on what that verse means for me today. First, God has blessed me with this day...so I must thank Him for it. I am exactly where I am, doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing because this is the day He has made for me. He is Sovereign. The sooner you and I realize that, the better off we'll be!
We are commanded to rejoice! Rejoicing is a verb--it's something you do. Therefore, you and I have to make the choice not to complain, which is the opposite of rejoicing! Then we are commanded to be glad in it. What is the "it" we are to be glad about? The "it" refers to this day--but not just any day, but the day that the Lord has made. We can rejoice and be glad in today knowing that God is in control!
Now, in saying this, I know there are things about today that we are all unhappy about. God did not tell us to rejoice in that...He said to rejoice in the day He has made. Notice the rejoicing has nothing to do with us...but with Him. He is our joy! With the rising of each new day, we can be glad because it reassures us that He is still in control, He is still on the throne!
So, what about you? What are you rejoicing for today? What are you glad about today? How will you celebrate today?
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
There is Something about that Name
What do you think about when you hear the name cancer? Unfortunately, it is a name many of us have been aquainted with. Me personally, my grandfather died when I was in the eight grade of lung cancer, and I will be honest with you, cancer scares me. Just the name itself...CANCER, sends chills up my body and a pain in my heart for those who battle cancer daily. To think that cancer can form in one tiny cell in your body and have the power to overtake your body is unbelievable...
I know two people currently who are battling some form of cancer, and my heart goes out to them and their family. Cancer is a name that none of us want to hear when it comes to ourselves or our family members and loved ones. As we have already begun a new year, I wonder how many lives and families will get an unwelcomed visitor of cancer knocking on their doors in 2006?
As I was praying for the two people I know with cancer today, the Lord whispered a sweet truth to me:
"My Name is above every name..."
Wow...JESUS' name is above every name, even cancer! A friend reminded me earlier this week of something I had forgotten:
"There is power in the NAME!"
How often we forget about that when we hear of a friend diagonsed with cancer, or when we face many of life's obstacles. We immediately look horizontally to our circumstances on earth instead of looking up to heaven and saying the name, "Jesus!"
Remember the hymn:
"Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,
there is something about that Name...
Blessed, Savior, Jesus, let all heaven and earth proclaim
that kings and kingdoms will all pass away,
but there's something about that Name."
What a beautiful truth in that old hymn...that all things, even cancer, will one day pass away, but the name of Jesus is the Name above every name that will never cease! Praise God!
I know two people currently who are battling some form of cancer, and my heart goes out to them and their family. Cancer is a name that none of us want to hear when it comes to ourselves or our family members and loved ones. As we have already begun a new year, I wonder how many lives and families will get an unwelcomed visitor of cancer knocking on their doors in 2006?
As I was praying for the two people I know with cancer today, the Lord whispered a sweet truth to me:
"My Name is above every name..."
Wow...JESUS' name is above every name, even cancer! A friend reminded me earlier this week of something I had forgotten:
"There is power in the NAME!"
How often we forget about that when we hear of a friend diagonsed with cancer, or when we face many of life's obstacles. We immediately look horizontally to our circumstances on earth instead of looking up to heaven and saying the name, "Jesus!"
Remember the hymn:
"Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,
there is something about that Name...
Blessed, Savior, Jesus, let all heaven and earth proclaim
that kings and kingdoms will all pass away,
but there's something about that Name."
What a beautiful truth in that old hymn...that all things, even cancer, will one day pass away, but the name of Jesus is the Name above every name that will never cease! Praise God!
Monday, January 02, 2006
Dreams I Dream for You
Someday, I hope to completely let go of the reigns of my so-called destiny and allow God the opportunity to blow my mind.
~Jeremiah 29:11
You taste the tears
You're lost in sorrow
You see your yesterdays
I see tomorrow
You see the darkness
I see the spark
You know your failures
But I know your heart
You see your shame
But I see your glory
You read one page
I know the story
I hold a vision
That you'll become
As you grow into the truth
As you learn to walk in love
The dreams I dream for you
Are deper than the ones you're clinging to
More precious than the treasures you pursue
Let the old dreams die
Like stars that fade from view
Then take the cup I offer
And drink deeply of
The dreams I dream for you...
Song by Avalon
~Jeremiah 29:11
You taste the tears
You're lost in sorrow
You see your yesterdays
I see tomorrow
You see the darkness
I see the spark
You know your failures
But I know your heart
You see your shame
But I see your glory
You read one page
I know the story
I hold a vision
That you'll become
As you grow into the truth
As you learn to walk in love
The dreams I dream for you
Are deper than the ones you're clinging to
More precious than the treasures you pursue
Let the old dreams die
Like stars that fade from view
Then take the cup I offer
And drink deeply of
The dreams I dream for you...
Song by Avalon
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Count the Ways...
Can you believe we are at the conclusion of yet another year? Where does the time go? I can remember December 31, 2004 so vividly, and now another year has come full circle. Tonight I will be celebrating New Year's at my church at our annual watch night service. It is so fun! We spend the time in praise, prayer, fellowship, and thanksgiving. All day I have sensed the Lord wooing me into His presence, and once I stopped what I was doing, I was so blessed by His words to me.
As I was thanking God for a wonderful year, God challenged me to go month by month and thank Him for one thing He did in my life. Immeditaely as I wrote January, February, March, April...God's blessings and provisions came back to mind so vividly, I even remembered things I had forgotten about. It was such a wonderful reminder of God's invisible hand interwoven in my life this year from January through December.
I want to encourage you to spend some time over the next couple of days meditating on the ways God has blessed you in 2005. As you count the ways from January through December, remember to count it all joy!
Happy New Year!!!!
As I was thanking God for a wonderful year, God challenged me to go month by month and thank Him for one thing He did in my life. Immeditaely as I wrote January, February, March, April...God's blessings and provisions came back to mind so vividly, I even remembered things I had forgotten about. It was such a wonderful reminder of God's invisible hand interwoven in my life this year from January through December.
I want to encourage you to spend some time over the next couple of days meditating on the ways God has blessed you in 2005. As you count the ways from January through December, remember to count it all joy!
Happy New Year!!!!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Daily Devotional Ideas
Many of us have the desire to spend quality devotional time with the Lord, but don't know how to do it or where to begin. Don't be discouraged, and whatever you do, don't neglect your personal time spent with the Lord, for it is a litmus test of relationships you have with others.
Here are some suggestions of how to spend your daily devotional time:
1. Keep a prayer journal-This is a good way to log all of your prayer requests and it serves as a way to think about God's goodness. It's also neat to look back over your journal and see how God answered your prayers or met your needs.
2. Study the book of Proverbs in a month- This book has 31 chapters. Read a chapter a day corresponding with the calendar date. For example, read chapter 14 since today is December 14th. Jot down personal notes over each chapter and ask God for His wisdom in your life.
3. Worship- Get out your favorite worship CD and spend your time focused on the goodnes of God. Remember worship of God begins with Him, not us!
4. Select one verse and study it for a week- This is really fun. This week I have been studying Phil. 4:6-8. I began by just observing the passages, then I journaled some thoughts regarding the passage, and I prayed for God to help clarify the meaning of the passage. Be patient with the Word of God. One single passage is full of so many things.
5. Write a note of encouragement for someone else-You may know of someone who is going through a rough time, or maybe you want to thank someone for being a special friend. Hand write them a note and afterwards pray for that individual in every area of their life. It's a great way to take the focus off yourself and to lift up another brother or sister in Christ.
These are just some of my ideas of what I do during my devotional time. What about you? How do you spend your devotional time with the Lord?
Or maybe you don't spend time with the Lord...it's ok, you can start today!
Here are some suggestions of how to spend your daily devotional time:
1. Keep a prayer journal-This is a good way to log all of your prayer requests and it serves as a way to think about God's goodness. It's also neat to look back over your journal and see how God answered your prayers or met your needs.
2. Study the book of Proverbs in a month- This book has 31 chapters. Read a chapter a day corresponding with the calendar date. For example, read chapter 14 since today is December 14th. Jot down personal notes over each chapter and ask God for His wisdom in your life.
3. Worship- Get out your favorite worship CD and spend your time focused on the goodnes of God. Remember worship of God begins with Him, not us!
4. Select one verse and study it for a week- This is really fun. This week I have been studying Phil. 4:6-8. I began by just observing the passages, then I journaled some thoughts regarding the passage, and I prayed for God to help clarify the meaning of the passage. Be patient with the Word of God. One single passage is full of so many things.
5. Write a note of encouragement for someone else-You may know of someone who is going through a rough time, or maybe you want to thank someone for being a special friend. Hand write them a note and afterwards pray for that individual in every area of their life. It's a great way to take the focus off yourself and to lift up another brother or sister in Christ.
These are just some of my ideas of what I do during my devotional time. What about you? How do you spend your devotional time with the Lord?
Or maybe you don't spend time with the Lord...it's ok, you can start today!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
It is finished!
I've been slaving over my term paper in my role of women in ministry class, and I am proud to announce that (drum roll please...)
It is finished!!!
It has taken me days, and hours to flesh through this and I have finally completed it. It was so freeing to write and study about all of the great women throughout the Bible and to read words of affrimation from Jesus in regard to serving Him. I literally wept upon completion. I was so humbled while writing that God would use me, a sinner saved by grace, as a vessel to do His work! I'll be posting my paper after I turn it in next week and if I get a good grade, I'll even share that with you too!
It is finished!!!
It has taken me days, and hours to flesh through this and I have finally completed it. It was so freeing to write and study about all of the great women throughout the Bible and to read words of affrimation from Jesus in regard to serving Him. I literally wept upon completion. I was so humbled while writing that God would use me, a sinner saved by grace, as a vessel to do His work! I'll be posting my paper after I turn it in next week and if I get a good grade, I'll even share that with you too!
Monday, December 05, 2005
Lord of the Ring
Well, my friends, it has now been over two weeks, and the ringing in my ear unfortunately is still occuring. I'm not sure what the problem is. The medication did not stop the ringing. My ear does not hurt, and I have not lost any hearing in my ear. Through more research I learned that taking ginkgo biloba helps with tinnitus. Maybe that will help, if indeed tinnitus is what I am suffering from. The other night when I was studying in the silence it seemed like it was a freight train running through my head. Out of my frustration I prayed, "Lord, take this away!!!!" As I sat there reading, God whispered to me,
"I am Lord of the ring!"
I couldn't help but to smile and chuckle to myself. Then I thought about how much truth there is in that statement. When God told Moses to go to Pharoah, He told them, "Tell them I am that I am sent you."
God is the Great I AM. He is whatever you need Him to be.
You need healing? He is the Great Physician.
You need a friend? He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.
You need financial breakthrough? He is Jehovah Jireh, My Provider.
You need guidance? He is the Good Shephard.
You need salvation? He is the Way, the Truth, and the Light.
You need sustenance? He is the Bread of Life.
You and I are trusting Him for so many things. Aren't you glad that we serve a God who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ever imagined?
Trust the Great I Am, my friend.
"I am Lord of the ring!"
I couldn't help but to smile and chuckle to myself. Then I thought about how much truth there is in that statement. When God told Moses to go to Pharoah, He told them, "Tell them I am that I am sent you."
God is the Great I AM. He is whatever you need Him to be.
You need healing? He is the Great Physician.
You need a friend? He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.
You need financial breakthrough? He is Jehovah Jireh, My Provider.
You need guidance? He is the Good Shephard.
You need salvation? He is the Way, the Truth, and the Light.
You need sustenance? He is the Bread of Life.
You and I are trusting Him for so many things. Aren't you glad that we serve a God who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ever imagined?
Trust the Great I Am, my friend.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Way to go Kirk!
Today's Oprah Winfrey show discussed a very serious topic: porn addiction. Kirk Franklin was the highlighted guest discussing his former addiction. I must say that I was very proud of his transperancy and humility as he told Oprah and the whole world a deep, dark secret of his past.
As a fellow church member with The Franklins, some in our church body were privy to the fact that he was going to be on the show, and the body of Christ began praying that God would receive all glory. After viewing the show, I pray many were drawn to Christ by the testimony of Kirk. He claims that his addiction primarily stemmed from a misguided view of himself, and that it was not until he began looking at himself the way God sees him, that the addiction began to subside.
Of course, in an attempt to be politically correct, Oprah would try to cut him off as he began to speak words of truth in reference to God. There was even a point when a psychologist said that people who suffer with porn addiction will struggle with it their whole life! Kirk chimed in, "That has not been my experience...I don't have a taste in my mouth for it at all!" AMEN, Kirk! That is what the power of the Holy Spirit living inside of you will do...Christ died on the cross for redemption! Kirk Franklin is a testimony that God can restore what the Enemy attempts to take away from our lives!
On the show Oprah stated that 47% of Christian couples say it is a problem within their marriage. Think about those who were not recorded in that survey. What about single Christian men? I'm afraid the number is probably a lot higher than 47%.
Did you see the show? What did you think about it?
What do you think we as Christian women can do to help our brothers in Christ wage war against the Enemy in regard to pornography?
As a fellow church member with The Franklins, some in our church body were privy to the fact that he was going to be on the show, and the body of Christ began praying that God would receive all glory. After viewing the show, I pray many were drawn to Christ by the testimony of Kirk. He claims that his addiction primarily stemmed from a misguided view of himself, and that it was not until he began looking at himself the way God sees him, that the addiction began to subside.
Of course, in an attempt to be politically correct, Oprah would try to cut him off as he began to speak words of truth in reference to God. There was even a point when a psychologist said that people who suffer with porn addiction will struggle with it their whole life! Kirk chimed in, "That has not been my experience...I don't have a taste in my mouth for it at all!" AMEN, Kirk! That is what the power of the Holy Spirit living inside of you will do...Christ died on the cross for redemption! Kirk Franklin is a testimony that God can restore what the Enemy attempts to take away from our lives!
On the show Oprah stated that 47% of Christian couples say it is a problem within their marriage. Think about those who were not recorded in that survey. What about single Christian men? I'm afraid the number is probably a lot higher than 47%.
Did you see the show? What did you think about it?
What do you think we as Christian women can do to help our brothers in Christ wage war against the Enemy in regard to pornography?
Monday, November 28, 2005
The fruit of the Spirit is...self-control
By now our Thanksgiving left-overs are depleted. No more dressing, sweet potato pie, and all of the other yummy food. This year I was responsible for the sweet potato pies, which by the way were not very sweet. I'm not sure what I did wrong! I used a cup of sugar just like the recipe called for, but it just wasn't quite sweet enough. I also made a corn casserole that my mom usually makes, but mine just wasn't good! Despite my ok cooking, believe me, I did enough eating.
In fact, I ate so much from Thursday through Sunday that today I feel convicted. Now those who know me, know I love to eat, and eating too much is never usually on my list of conviction. I work part time at a small church and with one phone call today my whole perspective of eating too much...(even on a holiday) has changed.
Ring, ring...
I answered the phone..."Hello."
"Hi, my name is Jeff and I'm looking for some groceries, " he said.
After a short conversation I was able to give him the number of some food pantries in town. As I type this, Jeff is looking for some "groceries."
Have mercy, Lord.
My heart is very burdened for him at this very moment. I can't help but to think: Does he have small children, a wife, an elderly relative he's caring for? My heart is also burdened over how much I ate...and complained about the food I cooked, when someone I spoke with 30 minutes ago is looking for food! I don't think the words, "I'm looking for groceries," has ever come out of my mouth. For that I am grateful, because one never knows what the next day will bring. Will I make a phone call one day saying, "Hi, I'm looking for some groceries"?
Sin is sin. Lying, cheating, stealing, and yes, overeating...even on Thanksgiving. Galatians 5 says the fruit of the Spirit is self-control. God has given us the gift of delicious food, but we all must learn how to walk by the Spirit and exercise self-control. Even in the area of eating on the holidays. I do not believe the Lord wants us to eat and then feel guilty for what we just ate. If there is guilt, that is probably the Holy Spirit saying, "Slow down.."
So as you enjoy your next meal, thank God for His provision and blessing of food, but I also want to encourage you, me, everyone to have self-control.
Allowing the Holy Spirit control over every area of your life is a testimony of one being a true servant of Christ.
I pray Jeff finds a warm meal, and I pray that those of us who are blessed with food will not abuse it.
In fact, I ate so much from Thursday through Sunday that today I feel convicted. Now those who know me, know I love to eat, and eating too much is never usually on my list of conviction. I work part time at a small church and with one phone call today my whole perspective of eating too much...(even on a holiday) has changed.
Ring, ring...
I answered the phone..."Hello."
"Hi, my name is Jeff and I'm looking for some groceries, " he said.
After a short conversation I was able to give him the number of some food pantries in town. As I type this, Jeff is looking for some "groceries."
Have mercy, Lord.
My heart is very burdened for him at this very moment. I can't help but to think: Does he have small children, a wife, an elderly relative he's caring for? My heart is also burdened over how much I ate...and complained about the food I cooked, when someone I spoke with 30 minutes ago is looking for food! I don't think the words, "I'm looking for groceries," has ever come out of my mouth. For that I am grateful, because one never knows what the next day will bring. Will I make a phone call one day saying, "Hi, I'm looking for some groceries"?
Sin is sin. Lying, cheating, stealing, and yes, overeating...even on Thanksgiving. Galatians 5 says the fruit of the Spirit is self-control. God has given us the gift of delicious food, but we all must learn how to walk by the Spirit and exercise self-control. Even in the area of eating on the holidays. I do not believe the Lord wants us to eat and then feel guilty for what we just ate. If there is guilt, that is probably the Holy Spirit saying, "Slow down.."
So as you enjoy your next meal, thank God for His provision and blessing of food, but I also want to encourage you, me, everyone to have self-control.
Allowing the Holy Spirit control over every area of your life is a testimony of one being a true servant of Christ.
I pray Jeff finds a warm meal, and I pray that those of us who are blessed with food will not abuse it.
Friday, November 25, 2005
At His Mercy
If it were not for His mercy, would I still be alive?
If it were not for His mercy, surely I would have died.
If it were not for His mercy, would hope still float?
If it were not for His mercy, I wouldn't know where to go.
If it were not for His mercy, would I have compassion for my friends?
If it were not for His mercy, I would drown in my sins.
If it were not for His mercy, would I know Him as Lord?
If it were not for His mercy, my existence would be a bore.
If it were not for His mercy, would I see answers to my prayers?
If it were not for His mercy, I would not know that He cares.
If it were not for His mercy, would I look at things the same?
If it were not for His mercy, life would simply be a game.
If it were not for His mercy, would He have shed His blood?
If it were not for His mercy, we would not be loved.
If it were not for His mercy...
If it were not for His mercy, surely I would have died.
If it were not for His mercy, would hope still float?
If it were not for His mercy, I wouldn't know where to go.
If it were not for His mercy, would I have compassion for my friends?
If it were not for His mercy, I would drown in my sins.
If it were not for His mercy, would I know Him as Lord?
If it were not for His mercy, my existence would be a bore.
If it were not for His mercy, would I see answers to my prayers?
If it were not for His mercy, I would not know that He cares.
If it were not for His mercy, would I look at things the same?
If it were not for His mercy, life would simply be a game.
If it were not for His mercy, would He have shed His blood?
If it were not for His mercy, we would not be loved.
If it were not for His mercy...
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Taboo and Tinnitus?
"It's square, on a house, when you are sad, you look out the..."
"WINODW!" screams my Taboo team. "Yes!!!" I cheered.
We started singing, "We are the champions..." but it was a little too soon. My team lost by one point. We are all such strong competitors, that I must admit we were sore losers.
This weekend there were about fifty of us who got together for a Pre-Thanksgiving dinner. We had a great time of food, fellowship, and a friendly (or not so friendly) game of Taboo. Everyone was screaming out answers, cheering on their team, and taunting the other team. It was great fun, until I got into the car when I left and noticed something in the silence.
Ring......Ring......Ring.............
I tried not to pay much attention to what seemed to be a high pitched ringing in my right ear and when I got home I just got in the bed and assumed it would be gone when I woke up the next morning. However, when I woke up the next morning, the ringing was still there. I began to get worried as the ringing persisted throughout the day. It was especially annoying when all I could hear between studying Theology was: RING........
So being the worrier I am, I decided to look up on the internet what was going on with my ear. After a quick search on "Ask Jeeves," I discovered that I had a symptom called tinnitus. As I read and read I began to get more worried: may cause loss of hearing, may result in need for surgery, may need draining of the inner ear...
"Lord, God please help me. All I did was play taboo with a bunch of loud friends!" I whispered to myself.
After my reasearch I decided if I woke up on Monday morning and was still able to hear the ringing, that I would make an appointment. I was really worried. I discussed it with my mom and she looked at me like I had lost my mind! I got in my bed and began to pray, "Lord, you healed the lame, made the blind see, and the deaf to hear...surely you can stop this ringing in my ear!"
A little dramatic, I know, but doesn't God want us to cast all our cares upon Him?
Monday morning came. I still heard the ringing, so I got on the phone to make an appointment with an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. I was not expecting to get an appointment before the holiday, but God in His grace orchestrated it in a way that allowed me to get in at 3 p.m. I did not want to go by myself, so my sweet friend Virginia offered to leave her job early to go with me just in case they started sticking needles in my ear, I could squeeze her hand!
I drove out to Medical City Dallas, and had a seat on the examining stool. The doctor came in and asked me some questions:
"Did you go to a rock concert this weekend?" No
"Were you exposed to a loud, persisting noise?" No
"Did someone scream in your ear?" Well, not directly
"Were you exposed to loud voices in an enclosed area?" Actually, yes
There it was. My doctor's theory of the ringing in my ear was due to the loud voices in the house. Can you believe that?
"It was only Taboo," I thought to myself.
He guided me down the hall into a huge booth for a hearing test. I had to repeat a bunch of words, listen to a bunch of beeps and raise my hand, and the test came back...PERFECT! What a relief. My hearing in my right ear is actually better than my left ear. Go figure!
So, my doctor prescribed me some medicine to take away the rining in my right ear, told me to lay off the cafeeine (is he serious?), and to remove myself from loud voices. I have started the meds, and I think the ringing has either gone away to a faint ring, or my mind is playing tricks on me..that's a whole other issue...
I guess next time I'll just stick to playing Spades!
"WINODW!" screams my Taboo team. "Yes!!!" I cheered.
We started singing, "We are the champions..." but it was a little too soon. My team lost by one point. We are all such strong competitors, that I must admit we were sore losers.
This weekend there were about fifty of us who got together for a Pre-Thanksgiving dinner. We had a great time of food, fellowship, and a friendly (or not so friendly) game of Taboo. Everyone was screaming out answers, cheering on their team, and taunting the other team. It was great fun, until I got into the car when I left and noticed something in the silence.
Ring......Ring......Ring.............
I tried not to pay much attention to what seemed to be a high pitched ringing in my right ear and when I got home I just got in the bed and assumed it would be gone when I woke up the next morning. However, when I woke up the next morning, the ringing was still there. I began to get worried as the ringing persisted throughout the day. It was especially annoying when all I could hear between studying Theology was: RING........
So being the worrier I am, I decided to look up on the internet what was going on with my ear. After a quick search on "Ask Jeeves," I discovered that I had a symptom called tinnitus. As I read and read I began to get more worried: may cause loss of hearing, may result in need for surgery, may need draining of the inner ear...
"Lord, God please help me. All I did was play taboo with a bunch of loud friends!" I whispered to myself.
After my reasearch I decided if I woke up on Monday morning and was still able to hear the ringing, that I would make an appointment. I was really worried. I discussed it with my mom and she looked at me like I had lost my mind! I got in my bed and began to pray, "Lord, you healed the lame, made the blind see, and the deaf to hear...surely you can stop this ringing in my ear!"
A little dramatic, I know, but doesn't God want us to cast all our cares upon Him?
Monday morning came. I still heard the ringing, so I got on the phone to make an appointment with an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. I was not expecting to get an appointment before the holiday, but God in His grace orchestrated it in a way that allowed me to get in at 3 p.m. I did not want to go by myself, so my sweet friend Virginia offered to leave her job early to go with me just in case they started sticking needles in my ear, I could squeeze her hand!
I drove out to Medical City Dallas, and had a seat on the examining stool. The doctor came in and asked me some questions:
"Did you go to a rock concert this weekend?" No
"Were you exposed to a loud, persisting noise?" No
"Did someone scream in your ear?" Well, not directly
"Were you exposed to loud voices in an enclosed area?" Actually, yes
There it was. My doctor's theory of the ringing in my ear was due to the loud voices in the house. Can you believe that?
"It was only Taboo," I thought to myself.
He guided me down the hall into a huge booth for a hearing test. I had to repeat a bunch of words, listen to a bunch of beeps and raise my hand, and the test came back...PERFECT! What a relief. My hearing in my right ear is actually better than my left ear. Go figure!
So, my doctor prescribed me some medicine to take away the rining in my right ear, told me to lay off the cafeeine (is he serious?), and to remove myself from loud voices. I have started the meds, and I think the ringing has either gone away to a faint ring, or my mind is playing tricks on me..that's a whole other issue...
I guess next time I'll just stick to playing Spades!
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Writer's Block
I have had the whole week off from school for reading week. I spent like two hours making this elaborate schedule on Microsoft Outlook of what I was going to accomplish hourly...Well, needless to say, I am about three days off schedule!
One of my favorite classes this semester is The Role of Women in Ministry. I have a paper coming up that is due. My prof wants a minimum of 15 pages on what I believe women's role in ministry should be. I have read over 1,000 pages on this topic...and I cannot write one single sentence!
I have a bad case of writer's block...
I think the reason why I cannot get started is because I don't know what I believe. I don't think the Church even knows what it believes. I am grateful though that my prof says she doesn't care what we believe as long as we are consistent with our thoughts. That should be a relief, but it isn't helping any words appear on my computer screen.
Maybe you can help! Here are some of my questions I have been battling with all semester. Let me know what your thoughts are!
1. Romans 16:1 says that Phoebe was a "servant," however, the Greek uses the word deacon (masculine, not feminine). Yet, I Timothy 3:11 qualifies that deacons must be the "Husband of one wife." So can women be deacons?
2. Whose headship is a single woman under? Her father, the church, male church leaders, or Christ alone?
3. Was Paul's advice to the church in Ephesus regarding women not teaching men (I Timothy 2) prescriptive or descriptive?
Can you help a sista out??!!!
One of my favorite classes this semester is The Role of Women in Ministry. I have a paper coming up that is due. My prof wants a minimum of 15 pages on what I believe women's role in ministry should be. I have read over 1,000 pages on this topic...and I cannot write one single sentence!
I have a bad case of writer's block...
I think the reason why I cannot get started is because I don't know what I believe. I don't think the Church even knows what it believes. I am grateful though that my prof says she doesn't care what we believe as long as we are consistent with our thoughts. That should be a relief, but it isn't helping any words appear on my computer screen.
Maybe you can help! Here are some of my questions I have been battling with all semester. Let me know what your thoughts are!
1. Romans 16:1 says that Phoebe was a "servant," however, the Greek uses the word deacon (masculine, not feminine). Yet, I Timothy 3:11 qualifies that deacons must be the "Husband of one wife." So can women be deacons?
2. Whose headship is a single woman under? Her father, the church, male church leaders, or Christ alone?
3. Was Paul's advice to the church in Ephesus regarding women not teaching men (I Timothy 2) prescriptive or descriptive?
Can you help a sista out??!!!
Monday, November 14, 2005
Circle of Sisters
It has been said that in a lifetime, one’s number of friends can be counted on one hand. I don’t remember when I first remembered hearing this, but for some strange reason I considered this to be truth. The repercussion of believing this lie led me once to be leery of women and limit myself to friendships.
God has since proved that old adage to be false in my life. I am so blessed to say that when I once could only count the summation of my friends on one hand, God has brought sweet, caring, and loyal friends into my life that exceed both hands!
It was about a year ago that one by one the Lord began developing close relationships with different women in my life. I have been amazed at how it feels as if I have known these women my whole life. Slowly, but surely our hearts have been knitted together through triumphs, trials, laughter, and tears.
I truly believe that it was through transparency that God has allowed this bond to take place. As we remove the masks and get to the real junk in our lives, it becomes evident how much we are all alike. I am so honored that many of my sweet friends have entrusted me with their innermost pains, and with that information, Christ makes my heart bleed for them and want to serve, encourage, and pray for them.
These ladies have been Christ in the flesh for me. Examples such as helping me clean my apartment when I moved out, to another hosting a fabulous birthday party for me, sending me an encouraging card, donating money to help me go on a mission’s trip to South Africa, calling me and asking how I did on my Theology test, giving me a ride to church when gas is expensive and funds are low, to another being burdened over sin in my life.
My cup runneth over…
These women are more than friends to me, they are sisters. One of the definitions for sister in Webster’s dictionary states: a female friend or protector regarded as a sister. If there are women you know who do not have a sister in Christ to walk through life with them, let us all be burdened to fill in the gap for these women; for I can testify what a difference a circle of sisters makes in the life of one.
God has since proved that old adage to be false in my life. I am so blessed to say that when I once could only count the summation of my friends on one hand, God has brought sweet, caring, and loyal friends into my life that exceed both hands!
It was about a year ago that one by one the Lord began developing close relationships with different women in my life. I have been amazed at how it feels as if I have known these women my whole life. Slowly, but surely our hearts have been knitted together through triumphs, trials, laughter, and tears.
I truly believe that it was through transparency that God has allowed this bond to take place. As we remove the masks and get to the real junk in our lives, it becomes evident how much we are all alike. I am so honored that many of my sweet friends have entrusted me with their innermost pains, and with that information, Christ makes my heart bleed for them and want to serve, encourage, and pray for them.
These ladies have been Christ in the flesh for me. Examples such as helping me clean my apartment when I moved out, to another hosting a fabulous birthday party for me, sending me an encouraging card, donating money to help me go on a mission’s trip to South Africa, calling me and asking how I did on my Theology test, giving me a ride to church when gas is expensive and funds are low, to another being burdened over sin in my life.
My cup runneth over…
These women are more than friends to me, they are sisters. One of the definitions for sister in Webster’s dictionary states: a female friend or protector regarded as a sister. If there are women you know who do not have a sister in Christ to walk through life with them, let us all be burdened to fill in the gap for these women; for I can testify what a difference a circle of sisters makes in the life of one.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
How's Your Love Life?
This weekend I went to a women's conference. It was a great time of fellowship in the Lord and with my sisters in Christ. There were about 10 of us sitting at a table after lunch just chatting and catching up. At one point, there was a brief moment of silence in the conversation, and one woman turned to me and said, "So, how's your love life?" I was so embarrassed as everyone stared at me waiting for my answer. In my mind I'm thinking, "love life...yeah right, what love life?"
I must admit I was a little annoyed at the question. Not at the person, but the question. I have a cousin who always asks me that same question...I'm sure my single sisters know what I am talking about. Have you ever noticed though that no one ever says to a married person, "So, how's your love life?" Isn't that ironic? A word of advice to married people...don't ask singles that question. To say "how's your love life?" to me sounds a little superficial. It reminds me of something out of a soap-opera, almost fantasy-like. If someone wants to share with you about a special person in their life, they will bring it up. Trust me.
After the nano-second of annoyance, I remembered that I do have a love life. For example, I am currently in love with gummy worms, Diet Coke with Lime, Fresca, my new ceramic flat iron for my hair, and a new pair of jeans I got on sale for $19.99...gotta love a sale!! :)
All jokes aside...I do have a love life with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! My friends and I always say that Jesus is our main man!! He's better than any man though, He is Lord! He is accesible 24/7, holds all power in His hand, understands me better than I understand myself, He is perfect, and loves me unconditionally. Sounds good to me!
So, Jesus is not just a part of my love life...He's the Love OF my life!
What about you, how's your love life?
I must admit I was a little annoyed at the question. Not at the person, but the question. I have a cousin who always asks me that same question...I'm sure my single sisters know what I am talking about. Have you ever noticed though that no one ever says to a married person, "So, how's your love life?" Isn't that ironic? A word of advice to married people...don't ask singles that question. To say "how's your love life?" to me sounds a little superficial. It reminds me of something out of a soap-opera, almost fantasy-like. If someone wants to share with you about a special person in their life, they will bring it up. Trust me.
After the nano-second of annoyance, I remembered that I do have a love life. For example, I am currently in love with gummy worms, Diet Coke with Lime, Fresca, my new ceramic flat iron for my hair, and a new pair of jeans I got on sale for $19.99...gotta love a sale!! :)
All jokes aside...I do have a love life with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! My friends and I always say that Jesus is our main man!! He's better than any man though, He is Lord! He is accesible 24/7, holds all power in His hand, understands me better than I understand myself, He is perfect, and loves me unconditionally. Sounds good to me!
So, Jesus is not just a part of my love life...He's the Love OF my life!
What about you, how's your love life?
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Apply the Word
I am very blessed to be a member of a great, Bible teaching church. My pastor is gifted at delivering his messages beautifully. I have heard sermon after sermon, cried, clapped, shouted, "Amen!" yet have I changed?
Today my prof said something very illuminating, "There is nothing the human heart resists more than change, yet Christ calls me to conform (change) to His image." Why are we not changing? I believe many like myself are under good teaching of the Word, but not in the Word for themselves.
In my Bible Study Methods & Hermeneutics class, I have learned that there are three steps in effective Bible study: 1)Observation 2)Interpretation and 3)Application. Many of us spend most of our time interpreting the scriptures without much attention to the third and most important step, application of the scriptures. My prof, Howard Hendricks says it best, "Observation + Interpretation - application = abortion." There is no life when this occurs.
This was so convicting for me. The Lord convicted me that it is not enough to be able to know the scriptures, recite the scriptures, but to LIVE the scriptures out in my daily life. I encourage all of us to ask ourselves, "Am I being transformed into the image of Christ by my personal study time in the Word?"
I learned today that there are many values I hold that are more ideal in my life versus real in my life. We are all a work in progress, but I want to wear what I believe to be truth, not just talk or ponder about it. One of the last comments prof made today in class was, "Conviction by truth is not the same as being changed by truth." Wow...
Every time I walk through campus I go by a statue in the center that says, "Preach the Word." Today after class I thought to myself how much more we need to "Apply the Word."
Today my prof said something very illuminating, "There is nothing the human heart resists more than change, yet Christ calls me to conform (change) to His image." Why are we not changing? I believe many like myself are under good teaching of the Word, but not in the Word for themselves.
In my Bible Study Methods & Hermeneutics class, I have learned that there are three steps in effective Bible study: 1)Observation 2)Interpretation and 3)Application. Many of us spend most of our time interpreting the scriptures without much attention to the third and most important step, application of the scriptures. My prof, Howard Hendricks says it best, "Observation + Interpretation - application = abortion." There is no life when this occurs.
This was so convicting for me. The Lord convicted me that it is not enough to be able to know the scriptures, recite the scriptures, but to LIVE the scriptures out in my daily life. I encourage all of us to ask ourselves, "Am I being transformed into the image of Christ by my personal study time in the Word?"
I learned today that there are many values I hold that are more ideal in my life versus real in my life. We are all a work in progress, but I want to wear what I believe to be truth, not just talk or ponder about it. One of the last comments prof made today in class was, "Conviction by truth is not the same as being changed by truth." Wow...
Every time I walk through campus I go by a statue in the center that says, "Preach the Word." Today after class I thought to myself how much more we need to "Apply the Word."
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