tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81132461202566840942024-03-12T17:06:22.402-07:00Oh Happy DayThis is the DAY the Lord has made. Let us REJOICE and be GLAD in it.Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-43045460581394923532013-09-06T10:18:00.001-07:002013-09-06T10:18:39.193-07:00Babylon: Make Me a Woman of Integrity<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>Does everything have to be about Theology?</strong></em></div>
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In my Applied Theology class this semester we have been trying to answer this very question. My immediate thought was: <em>Yes, of course.</em> And, my thought has not changed. However, many of classmates see things so very differently.<br />
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<em>If everything is about theology, is drinking orange juice theological?</em></div>
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<em>If everything is about theology, is buying a pair of socks theological?</em></div>
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<em>If everything is about theology, do I need to pray about whether I should eat a bowl of cereal or a bagel for breakfast?</em></div>
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I think these questions miss the point. What is our motivation behind asking these simple-minded and exaggerated questions? Where is our heart really at? At least from my perspective, if we genuinely believe that what the Bible says about Christ and all of history is true, why on earth would we not <em>want</em> to see every decision we make as a theological decision?<br />
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<em>I just don't want to.</em></div>
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<em>It's weird.</em></div>
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These are some of the excuses I hear. Please know, my intention is not to bash anyone or condemn anyone. I will be the first to admit I myself am guilty of using these same excuses. But, my heart breaks because of it.<br />
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Jesus says in John 15:11 that He has told us these things in order that we have JOY! It might seems weird, and we may not want to think theologically about every detail of our lives. But ultimately, including Christ will bring us JOY! In a world where at least I know that I am not satisfied or joy-filled a good portion of the time, why would I not include the One who promises to give me joy?<br />
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So, do you need to pray about whether you should eat a bowl of cereal or a bagel for breakfast? Will that bring you joy? Maybe not. But, why not stop for a moment and see that you have a choice. You have such an abundance of food, money, time...that you not only get to eat breakfast this morning, you can choose what you will eat! Why not stop and praise God for that? THAT should bring you joy!<br />
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In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Paul tells us to pray without ceasing. I do not believe this means that every minute of our day needs to be soaked up by the literal bowing of our heads and folding of our hands as we recite hours of prayer. I believe that it means that everything is theological. Everything relates back to God. And, Paul is commanding us to see that. To see that God is behind it all, and to (at the very least) acknowledge Him and praise Him!<br />
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I must confess, I am guilty of not including or acknowledging Christ in every aspect of my life. I am the daughter of Babylon who says, "I am. And, there is none besides me," (Isaiah 47:8-10). But, my prayer is that I would be like Daniel, <em>resolving</em> not to be this way. Resolving not to be defiled by my Babylon. Resolving to pray without ceasing. Resolving to realize that everything is theological, and <em>it's not about me</em>. It's about Christ. Period.<br />
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I want to be a woman of integrity. I pray that the meditation of my heart would no longer be, "I am, and there is none besides." I pray that it instead would be, "You are, O God, and there is none besides."<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N37DATmGS88" target="_blank">Follow this link to hear "Babylon" by Niccole Galvan</a>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-1039784104354653352013-05-06T00:54:00.003-07:002013-05-06T01:28:04.959-07:00בָּטַח<span class="hebrew">Summer is coming. I'm not sure what that means for you, but for me...it means I get to lay in the sun. I've never been a big tanner. I usually just burn. But, I love to lay in the sun anyways. It's relaxing, and I love it.</span><br />
<span class="hebrew"></span><br />
<span class="hebrew">When I lay in bed, my mind is constantly wanding...I have trouble sleeping, and anxiety creeps up on me. But, when I am laying in the sun, there are no worries for me. I just lay. My mind is at peace. There is often absolutely nothing on my mind when I lay there. </span><br />
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There's a word in the Hebrew for this. <span class="hebrew"><span style="font-size: large;">בָּטַח</span></span> It is pronounced "batach" with a German-sounding gutteral. The word means to throw oneself down upon the ground and continue to lay there. To believe that the ground will hold you up. To trust.<br />
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...<br />
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Recently, I've experencied a great deal of heartache. There have just been a lot of changes. One change was that the Lord willed for someone to be out of my life. I couldn't help but let my mind wander to the many times in the past few years when I've had to go through the same thing in one way or another. Being betrayed by someone I loved, being abandoned by another I loved, watching someone I love go through a change so completely that although I still love them...it's love for what seems a different person, watching another one I love wave goodbye as they move on to new places, and finally this...that the Lord ask me to walk away. It reminds me of a passage of Scripture written by the apostle Paul:<br />
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2 Timothy 4:16-18<br />
<span class="text 2Tim-4-16" id="en-NASB-29887">At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29887AN" title="See cross-reference AN">AN</a>)"></sup>may it not be counted against them.</span> <span class="text 2Tim-4-17" id="en-NASB-29888">But the Lord stood with me and <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AO" title="See cross-reference AO">AO</a>)"></sup>strengthened me, so that through me <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AP" title="See cross-reference AP">AP</a>)"></sup>the proclamation might be <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AQ" title="See cross-reference AQ">AQ</a>)"></sup>fully accomplished, and that all <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AR" title="See cross-reference AR">AR</a>)"></sup>the Gentiles might hear; and I was <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AS" title="See cross-reference AS">AS</a>)"></sup>rescued out of <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29888AT" title="See cross-reference AT">AT</a>)"></sup>the lion’s mouth.</span> <span class="text 2Tim-4-18" id="en-NASB-29889">The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29889AV" title="See cross-reference AV">AV</a>)"></sup>heavenly kingdom; <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-29889AW" title="See cross-reference AW">AW</a>)"></sup>to Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.</span><br />
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I read of Paul's heartache and yet see that the Lord stood at his side. He was confident of this. He knew that the Lord never left him, and He knew why. He was assured that the Lord would never leave him and would continue to rescue him from troubles to come. He was certain that God would bring him safely home. He was able to praise the Lord amidst his heartache. I pray that I can do the same.<br />
<br />
....<br />
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In Psalm 28:7, the Psalmist writes:<br />
The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts (batach) in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.<br />
<span class="hebrew"></span><br />
<span class="hebrew">Paul trusted (batach) that the Lord would continue to stand at his side.</span><br />
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<em>My Gracious Heavenly Father,</em><br />
<em>You are my strength and my shield. When I am weak, You are strong. When I am in danger, You are a fortress. Lord, my heart trusts (batach) in You, and I am helped...by You. Lord, help me to throw myself down upon the ground and continue to lay there. Help me to never get up but continue to trust (batach) You and to believe that you will hold up the ground that You have laid before me. My heart aches, but I long for it to rejoice and sing for joy. Thank you, Lord. I shall forever thank You, Father.</em><br />
<em>In Your Precious Son's Name, Amen.</em>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-55010462407195439292013-04-25T10:09:00.000-07:002013-04-25T10:09:14.727-07:00That Darn Cat!My cat Gilbert has a very strong interest in playing outside. Gilbert is not an outside cat. He's a pure-bred Ragdoll with long, white, fluffy furr! Anyways, in the summer I take him outside to play, but I always keep an eye on him. But, when I'm away at school, my mom just lets him out for an hour here and there with no supervision. No problem...she taught him to come back when we call him in return for a piece of bologna.<br />
<br />
Well before we moved, our dog Franklin had found out how to break through the screen door of our patio. So, when my parents would leave for the evening, they would come home to find both the cat and dog outside. One Saturday afternoon, we found the dog and the cat in the front yard yet again, and Gilbert was covered in burrs from the woods.<br />
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I'm not talking a few small burrs. I'm talking..no exaggeration..probably 15-20 burrs spread over is belly, back, and gorgeous tail. I tried brushing them out with no luck. I tried cutting them out, but he wouldn't sit still. So, I went to our church's Harvest Dinner thinking my mom could help me hold him down when we got home.<br />
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Bad idea... When we got home, Gilbert had his tail velcroed to his stomache between his legs! He also had a green sock stuck to his belly! And..he was unable to move because he was sticking to the carpet!<br />
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At first, thinking it was a silly predicament, we started pulling him off the carpet and detaching the sock from his tummy. But, we noticed the usualy frisky and animated Gilbert was sitting pretty limp allowing us to clean him up. His ears were down, not the way they get when cats get mad but in a sad way. Every few minutes he would wiggle away, but he would always come back for us to clip a few more pieces out. By the end of the night, his beautiful, long, white, fluffy coat was a patchy mess. He was clean! But, he was looking a little beat up...<br />
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My mom made a comment about how the whole thing made her think of how we look when we're bogged down in our sin. And, I think she's totally right!<br />
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The way Gil looked stuck to the carpet was probably exactly what God sees when He watches us caught in sin. I'm so thankful I have Him to pick me up and clip the burrs out my hair when I finally go to Him and confess! When He's done, we probably look patchy too. But just like Gil's furr that will eventually grow back, ours will too.<br />
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The whole situation showed me two things. First, it opened my eyes to God's grace and love for us. The entire time my mom and I were snipping the burrs our of Gil's hair, I wanted to cry. He really is a beautiful cat. I kept yelling at my mom for leaving the door open. And, as Gil looked at me with those little pathetic blue eyes, I sternly told him that it was his fault for rolling in the burrs. I told him that he did it to himself.<br />
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I'm SO glad that isn't what God says as He cleans us up!<br />
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<em>1 John 3:1</em><br />
<em>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!</em><br />
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The next day when I saw Gil looking all patchy, I just laughed. I wonder what God thinks when He watches us walk around like that!<br />
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And second, it reminded me of the beauty of the Gospel. As a believer who trusted Christ as my Savior at 4 years old, it can be easy to become "bored" with the Gospel. I've heard it at least thousand times over (I am so thankful!!). But, this morning, remembering Gilbert all covered in burrs reminded me of a few verses from Revelation.<br />
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<em>Revelation 19:6-8, 13</em><br />
<em>Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud pearls of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bring and clean, was given her to wear."</em><br />
<em>...He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is the Word of God.</em><br />
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Remember, sweet child of God, that if you have trusted in Christ as your Savior, you will wear fine linen that is bright and clean on your wedding day! Jesus has taken your burrs from you!Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-58932801875913648932013-04-04T10:24:00.000-07:002013-04-04T10:24:03.590-07:00Break My HeartOne of my favorite songs is "Hosanna" sung by Hillsong. Hosanna...Lord, save us...it's beautiful. A few of the lyrics read: "Break my heart for what break yours." Today, reading for my Church History class, I came across a quote made by Benjamin Franklin which broke my heart for what I believe breaks the heart of my Lord.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A few weeks before he died [Benjamin Franklin] responded to an inquiry by President Ezra Stiles of Yake concerning his religions faith. Said Franklin: "As to Jesus of Nazareth,...I have...some doubts as to his Divinity, tho' it is a question I do not dogmatize upon, having never studied it, and think it needless to busy myself with it now, when I expect soon an opportunity of knowing the truth with less trouble. I see no harm, however, in its being believed, if that belief has the good consequence...of making his doctrines more respected and better observed." [<em>Church History in Plain Language</em>, Bruce L. Shelley, page 331]</blockquote>
The thoughts behind this quote made by Benjamin Franklin are what most of us as Americans are so thankful for: religious freedom...the right of free speech...TOLERANCE. We are so blessed to live in a country where we have the right to doubt religions and seek for ourselves truth. What breaks my heart about Benjamin Franklin's quote though is the fact that because he was nearing the end of his life and would soon cross over from life here on earth to what comes next, he thought it "needless to busy [himself] with [the study of] it now."<br />
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Benjamin Franklin was a brilliant man. He was an author, politician, scientist, musician, inventor, and much more. There is no doubt that he made his mark on history. In the words of my big brother: "Yes, but." Yes, he was brilliant, but what is it worth if you come to the end of your life and you are not the least bit concerned about what comes next? Benjamin Franklin claimed to be a Christian, and I cannot judge his heart. But, one of the foundational beliefs of Christianity is the deity of Christ. It breaks my heart that there are people in the world today who might hold the same views as Benjamin Franklin. They might believe in God but not the deity of His Son, Jesus Christ.<br />
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In John 14:6, Jesus says "I am the way and the truth and the light. No one comes to the Father except through Me" If Christ were not fully God, He could not have made this claim. But, because He is fully God, He makes this claim. No one will ever come to God the Father unless they have first trusted in the God-Man, Jesus Christ, as their personal Savior.<br />
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My prayer and plea is this...if you have not made a personal decision to trust in the Lord Christ Jesus to save you from the penalty of your sins, please do it now! And if you are not ready...if you have doubts, figure out what is holding you back and straighten it out! Ask someone for help or do your own research. I would personally love to talk to you! It is the most important decision you will ever make.<br />
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I'm praying for you.<br />
In His Faithful Grip,<br />
AllieAlliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-48856216155129265842013-03-22T10:59:00.004-07:002013-03-22T11:18:32.132-07:00Food for the Soul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last weekend, I had the privilege of hanging out and baking cookies with two of my very bestest friends :) We baked Samoas in heart shapes! It was so much fun! We called them "Food for the Soul." They were sooo good; I could have eaten the whole tray in one sitting! My mouth is watering now and my tummy is grumbling as I even only remember tasting them freshly baked. It's got me thinking...</div>
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The Bible calls itself the Bread of Life. It says, "taste and see that the Lord is good!" The Bible is filled with the nutrience we need AND it tastes good! It's a win-win. It's like eating your favoite dessert and being able to count it as celery!!</div>
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As I sit here and think about those Samoas cookies and the reaction my body and my mind gives to them, I can't help but feel convicted that my heart and soul don't react the same way to God's so very precious Word.</div>
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I LOVE the excitement of Samoas cookies. And I want to feel that excitement for God's Word. I long to be as the Psalmist in Psalm 119 who says things like...</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I delight in Your decrees (vs16)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Do not hide Your commands from me (vs 18)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My soul is consumed with longing for Your law at all times (vs20)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your statues are my delight (vs24)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I have set my heart on Your laws (vs30)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">How I long for Your precepts (vs40)</span></blockquote>
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This Psalmist didn't have the whole Bible the way we do today either. Do you know what he had? Probably pieces of the Law...Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Have you ever read Leviticus? Definitely not the first book that comes to mind that I would delight in... But, don't get me wrong. The Psalmist wasn't perfect either. He clearly didn't always love to read God's Word. BUT, when he did not desire it, he asked for the longing to return...</div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law (vs18)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Turn my heart toward Your statutes (vs36)</span></blockquote>
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Oh that our hearts would be captivated by the sweet love letter given to us by our Gracious Heavenly Father. This is my prayer.</div>
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Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-13581664587990001202013-02-19T09:17:00.000-08:002013-02-19T11:05:44.436-08:00He is Good<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Now this is eternal life that they may know You the One, True God and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. [John 17:3]</span></em></div>
<br />
I have just recently discovered and fallen in love with the song "Aslan" by Kendall Payne. I love the words that she uses to describe Aslan. He's not safe. He's not fair. He cuts deep. The water is free, yet it costs everything. He won't say the words that we wish that He would. He won't do the deeds that we know that He could. He won't think the thoughts we think that He should. But...He is GOOD. I've never been a big Narnia fan, but I understand the allegory between Aslan and God. God desires for us to know Him. And sometimes the things He says, does, and thinks don't make sense to us. But He is good. And He longs for us to understand that and trust Him.<br />
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God allowed some very painful things to happen in my life about 2 years ago. I didn't understand them then. It felt like God was ganging up on me. The things He asked me to do seemed unbearable. And the things he allowed to happen seemed harsh and out of my control. Looking back now, I am overwhelmed with the incredible works God allowed to happen because of that painful time. God has changed me. And He has grown my trust and knowledge of Him. I've heard it said that God first will be your Lord, then your Love, and ultimately your Life. I think I finally understand what it means for God to be my Life. He is my light when all that surrounds me is dark. He is my love when everyone deserts me. He is good when the world I live in is evil. He is literally the air that I breathe. God is so good. I can't imagine life without Him. From the depths of my heart I pray that whoever reads this already feels the same way I do, but if not, I pray that one day you will be able to feel this way too.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m76wSTnwZAk">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m76wSTnwZAk</a><br />
Aslan by Kendall Payne<br />
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Don't stop your crying on my account<br />A frightening lion, no doubt<br />He's not safe, no he's not safe<br />Are you tempted now to run away?<br />The King above all Kings is coming down<br />
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But He won't say the words you wish that he would<br />Oh, he don't do the deeds you know that He could<br />He won't think the thoughts you think He should<br />But He is good, He is good<br />
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I know you're thirsty, the water is free<br />But I should warn you, it costs everything<br />Well, He's not fair, no He's not fair<br />When He fixes what's beyond repair<br />And graces everyone that don't deserve<br />
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But He won't say the words you wish that he would<br />Oh, he don't do the deeds you know that He could<br />He won't think the thoughts you think He should<br />But He is good, He is good<br />
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No one knows Him whom eyes never seen<br />No, I don't know Him but He knows me<br />He knows me, He knows me<br />
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Lay down your layers, shed off your skin<br />But without His incision, you can't enter in<br />He cuts deep, yeah He cuts deep<br /> When the risk is great and the talk is cheap<br />But never leaves a wounded one behind<br />
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But He won't say the words you wish that he would<br />Oh, he don't do the deeds you know that He could<br />He won't think the thoughts you think He should<br />But He is good, He is goodAlliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-8808923339598439832013-01-10T10:47:00.000-08:002013-01-10T10:52:23.340-08:00A New RealizationThis morning, I had a new realization. Since being back at school, I've had the same message being practically screamed at me from all different directions.<br />
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I had to come back two days early to school in order to go through a training session for being a Growth Group leader. In the session, Mr. Matthews talked about the value of all different personality types. One of the people he highlighted was Dr. James Strong who published the Stong Concordances. Mr. Matthew suggested that Strong was probably an introvert in order to be able to "count numbers" and sit at a desk alone for so long.<br />
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My devotion this morning came from the <em>Live Loved</em> devotional by Max Lucado. On the day entitled "Face Challenges in Stages" Lucado wrote: <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">When asked how he managed to write so many books, Joel Henderson explained that he'd never written a book. All he did was write one page a day... Earning a college degree can seem inpossible, but studying one semester is manageable, and logging in one good week is doable. You las the long race by running the short ones.</span></blockquote>
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The point of the devotional was not the point I am about to make. Maily, Lucado was expounding on Matthew 6:43 where it says not to worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about itselt. He was trying to explain that we should take one day at a time. However, I found ironic the examples he chose to use. Writing books, finishing a college education...both things that I feel God calling me to do and both things that I often feel discouraged about or inadequit for.<br />
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So, often I compare myselft to others and even pray that God will make me like them. There's nothing wrong with wanting to better yourself. God even commands us in the Bible to conform more likely to the image of Christ. The problem arises when we try to become something that we are not, someone that God hasn't made us to be.<br />
<br />
I've finally realized and accepted and am excited about the person God has made me to be. I'm quiet, and I'm not always outgoing. But, I love leading small groups and I am really good at accomplishing tasks. The book work that seems boring to most, fascinates me! God creates us all differently and for different purposes. I'm not being "boring" because I like to do different things than others. I don't need to change the way God made me, because God made me perfect for His plan. I pray that God will continue to open my eyes to His will for my life so that I can bring Him His due glory. I pray that I will become confident in the woman He has created me to be. I could try and be something I'm not just because the world finds it most interesting, but if I'm going to fail at it what's the point? Today I'm choosing to be who God made me because I'd rather make Him proud than the world. I long for the day when I might hear "Well done, good and faithful servant."<br />
<br />
<br />
<em><span style="color: #20124d;">Lord God Almighty,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #20124d;">Thank you for people like Max Lucado who write books. Thank you for devotionals, commentaries, concordances, WORDS!, so that we can understand Your revelation to us better. Lord, I think You made me to be an introvert. And, it's not that I don't like to have fun - it's that my definition of "fun" is different. I often worry that I am not living "uncomfortably" enough, but I am WAY out of my comfort zone most days. I often worry that I don't talk to enough people to share about You, but I have this blog that reaches people that I don't even know about. Lord, without people like Strong - an introvert - we would not have awesome resources like Strong's Concordance. Thank You for showing me that it's ok to be the woman You created me to be. God, let me love Your Word and Your people. Let me fall more in love with You. Become my life, Lord Jesus. Father, help me to keep taking one day at a time. Give me only enought light for the step I'm on. Help me not look forward or backward without Your "ok." Lord, let me be Your light today. Walk with me. Help me to pray unceasingly, choose joy, and live consciously with an eternal perspective.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: #20124d;">I love You, Lord.</span></em>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-3799491361205312182013-01-08T08:05:00.000-08:002013-01-10T08:06:28.897-08:00The Best Grandmommy Ever!So, I hate to brag, but I just want the world to know that I have the BEST Grandmommy ever! :)<br />
<br />
One of my biggest downfalls is that I get discouraged way too easily. I forget to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, and my perseverance fades. Most times when this happens I mope around a bit, call my mom up, whine to her, and then listen to her "pep talks."<br />
<br />
Being home on break this past month has been different. I didn't have to call my mom. I was able to just walk to the next room to talk to her. What was also different was that our family has recently moved, and we are sharing a home with my grandma. My grandma is over on our side of the house every once in awhile, and it happened that she heard a lot of my complaining. My grandma isn't the kind of woman who will cut in on conversation between my mom and I. She is pretty quiet; for the most part, she speaks when spoken to (Gee, I wonder where I get it!) Anyways, here and there she would give her two cents, but mostly she just listened.<br />
<br />
So, I was suprised when I had to head back to school on Monday and she purposefuly grabbed my arm, pulled me aside and spoke some very wise words to me without my request. With tears in her eyes and a choke in her throat she mustered out something like "Now Allie, I was watching Charles Stanley this morning, and he said something that you need to know. He said that if you are confident that you are doing God's will, when you wake up in the morning you need to be happy. It's hard, but you need to keep going and just keep going." We hugged, and before she left she looked me in the eyes and said "Just be happy, ok? Keep going."<br />
<br />
I know this isn't probably new news to anyone that we are supposed to keep our eyes fixed on Christ and just keep going even when the going gets tough, but it was new news to me that I had an audience that could tell when I was moping around and not choosing joy while following after God. It was new news to me that I have a grandma who is willing to step out of her comfort zone, pull me aside, and give me the words she felt God wanted me to hear. <br />
<br />
I've always loved my grandma, and I've always been thankful for her. But, I think this is the beginning of a new friendship, thank you Jesus!Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-45034600132565005252012-12-22T20:36:00.000-08:002012-12-22T20:36:26.590-08:00Like a Cut<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fNMunU_F0cTcEi6ArjlcKazIQXmgbRl7Qlwz2KCTgATV-zNo-FYExT7py6Yb1X-mh_-oiuqQ0vIyeESQja1zDebFaLoC4MfwtWfs2Pf8_UnGQ57CXjj18h3_ALiigDtY89dIrsXsGb8/s1600/IMAG0140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fNMunU_F0cTcEi6ArjlcKazIQXmgbRl7Qlwz2KCTgATV-zNo-FYExT7py6Yb1X-mh_-oiuqQ0vIyeESQja1zDebFaLoC4MfwtWfs2Pf8_UnGQ57CXjj18h3_ALiigDtY89dIrsXsGb8/s400/IMAG0140.jpg" width="284" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">Like a cut</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The pain would not go.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It hurt so bad</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">And healed so slow.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Heartache's disguise...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">A plastic smile.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Even one inch</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Felt like a mile.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stinging</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">A salty tear fell in my wound.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">But a whisper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"It will be over soon."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Give me strength...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Enough to stand.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Through wet eyes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I saw a gentle hand.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Get up"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Said a soft and tender voice.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"I can help you</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Remember, it's your choice."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Though it felt of</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">pain and anguish,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It's what I wanted...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">What I wished.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">And like a cut</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It's finally gone.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yes I can say</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Goodbye, so long.</span>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-62373638484991248432012-12-17T22:26:00.003-08:002012-12-17T22:27:37.224-08:00Life<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes it's a picture</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes it's a song</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes it's a memory</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">But mostly it's just that star</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">At first my heart just tingles</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">But then it stars to break</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">When I remember all the pain</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Of when you let it break</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It doesn't take much</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I remember it like yesterday</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The swinging and laughing</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The walks and the talks</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The raspberry picking and water fights</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The 5am sunrise</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It's funny how the heart doesn't remember the bad times</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So I will trust in my Savior</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">For I have learned your very name is to go down...to descend</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And HIS name brings LIFE</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And I will choose LIFE.</span></div>
</div>
Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-51727861731146242062012-12-09T10:59:00.001-08:002012-12-09T10:59:31.710-08:00When they saw the star, they were overjoyed<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">[Matthew 2:10]</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">To seek you and be overjoyed</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Is this my heart?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Traveling miles to fill the void</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Where do I start?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Humbled, helpless, yet King of kings</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You love me</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You're worth more than all other things</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You are lovely</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">I know the truth still I search</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">What am I thinking?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">For things of only temporal worth</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">I turn from You, hardly blinking</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Of course I'd be left discontent</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">You alone can satisfy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">I pray Father, will you relent?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Forgive me for trying to gratify</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">I'm looking to You</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Not longing to be approved by men</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Let me fall in love too</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Captivate my soul again</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">To see you and be overjoyed</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">This I pray</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Traveling miles to fill the void</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">Starts today</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-24033356453267166732012-11-26T12:59:00.002-08:002012-11-26T13:01:03.520-08:00I Recant<div class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">The purpose of this post is </span>to somewhat "recant" my last post...</span></div>
<div class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><strong></strong></span> </div>
<div class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>I Believe</strong></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">
</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><strong>God...I want to trust You. I want to
believe that You are working out what is best for me. I want to believe that
You want me to be happy.</strong> <br /><br />But I just don't. <br /><br /><strong>I
don't trust You right now.</strong> I believe that You are trustworthy.
I believe that You are sovereign. I believe that You are stong. I believe that
You are holy. I believe that You are true. I believe that You are in control
of all things. I believe that You are love. I believe that You are good. But
I do not trust You right now.<br /><br /><strong>I don't believe that You are
working out what is best for me.</strong> I believe that You could if you
wanted to, but I don't believe that You are. I believe that You are working out
what is best for You. I believe that what is best for you is best for me by
default, but I don't believe that You're thinking about me in the process. I
don't believe You're looking out for my best interest. It's not about me. It's
about You. What I want matters little. What You want matters all. I don't
believe You are working out what is best for me.<br /><br /><strong>I don't believe
that You want me to be happy.</strong> I believe that You want me to have joy,
but not happiness. You want me to have joy in spite of my unhappiness. I
believe that You want me to endure suffering so that I understand what I do to
You each day. I believe that You are purposefully not giving me what I want. I
believe that You are always intentional. I don't believe You want me to be
happy.<br /><br />I know I'm selfish. I know I'm undeserving. I know You are
perfect. I know You are worthy.<br /><br /><strong>Lord, I believe. Help my
unbelief.</strong></span></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></strong> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="color: black;">The very title of my blog is Oh Happy Day; the verse that I've chosen as the motto of the blog is Psalm 90:1 "Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for JOY and
be GLAD all our days!"</span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="color: black;"> </span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="color: black;">I was definitely having a "woe is me" kind of day when I wrote my last blog post. I know that God wants to fulfill the desires of my heart. Romans 8:32 says "He who did not spare his own Son,<sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28149A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"</span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">I’m going to be really real with you. I don’t always feel as though Christ is satisfying every desire of my heart. I want more than anything in the world to be a wife and mommy. I would probably give up just about anything for God to bless me in that way. There are times when I see my friends happily dating, engaged, married, announcing pregnancies, or playing with their babies…and I am truly happy for them, yet I feel so saddened that I don’t get to have that. But, right now, that isn’t God’s best plan for me. Another thing that I desire greatly is for my big brother to be completely healed from the brain aneurysm he had a year and a half ago. It breaks my heart every time I recall a precious memory of a time we shared as kids that he just doesn’t remember. Sometimes he is afraid to go to sleep because he remembers being trapped in a body that didn’t work and fears that it might happen again. I see him sad when he realizes he can’t do the things he used to; it makes me so emotional at times I just want to scream. But, God has a purpose and a plan for my brother. And, right now, God’s best plan is not for him to be completely healed. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">God is good. The times I don’t feel satisfied are times that I am not allowing Him to satisfy me. Right now, as I type these words, I still have those desires I mentioned, but I am completely satisfied in Christ. I know that if I were looking for satisfaction in those temporal blessings and God gave them to me, my heart would not be completely satisfied. I would just want the next things on my list. Only when I delight in who God is…when my hearts is completely captivated by Him, am I ever satisfied. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">To be satisfied is to have the desires of our hearts fulfilled. Psalm 37:4 says that if we delight in the Lord He will give us the desires of our hearts. But, until Christ is the desire of our heart, we will continually fail to be satisfied. God knows that Christ is the only One who could ever satisfy us, so that is what He chooses to give us. It is our choice whether or not we allow Him to be our source of satisfaction. I encourage you to start praying today and every day that God will help you to fall more in love with His precious Son. I promise you, that is one prayer that He will answer with an enormous YES every time! And, when He does, you will be satisfied.</span></div>
Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-14902065902258439192012-11-08T20:35:00.000-08:002012-11-08T20:35:50.102-08:00I Believe<strong>God...I want to trust You. I want to believe that You are working out what is best for me. I want to believe that You want me to be happy.</strong> <br />
<br />
But I just don't. <br />
<br />
<strong>I don't trust You right now.</strong> I believe that You are trustworthy. I believe that You are sovereign. I believe that You are stong. I believe that You are holy. I believe that You are true. I believe that You are in control of all things. I believe that You are love. I believe that You are good. But I do not trust You right now.<br />
<br />
<strong>I don't believe that You are working out what is best for me.</strong> I believe that You could if you wanted to, but I don't believe that You are. I believe that You are working out what is best for You. I believe that what is best for you is best for me by default, but I don't believe that You're thinking about me in the process. I don't believe You're looking out for my best interest. It's not about me. It's about You. What I want matters little. What You want matters all. I don't believe You are working out what is best for me.<br />
<br />
<strong>I don't believe that You want me to be happy.</strong> I believe that You want me to have joy, but not happiness. You want me to have joy in spite of my unhappiness. I believe that You want me to endure suffering so that I understand what I do to You each day. I believe that You are purposefully not giving me what I want. I believe that You are always intentional. I don't believe You want me to be happy.<br />
<br />
I know I'm selfish. I know I'm undeserving. I know You are perfect. I know You are worthy.<br />
<br />
<strong>Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.</strong>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-9317289243064812592012-04-21T21:49:00.007-07:002012-04-21T22:15:58.320-07:00Verse of the Day #1<div><div>For the past couple of weeks, my mom has been talking about starting a tradition to pick a verse every day as an encouragement for Brooks. This morning, she finally decided to start! Mo of course wanted Brooks to pick out the first verse. So, she read a few verses aloud for him to choose from. At the end of each verse he would confidently shake his head "no." So, she decided to go through the books of the Bible. "Should the verse be from Psalms?" He again would shake his head "no." After going through various books, she finally asked "What about Revelation?" "Yes, yes and yes!" was his reply. If you don't already know, "Yes, yes and yes" is the answer we always get when we get something right! As all of you who know Brooks might guess, he makes sure to let us know when we're wrong :) So after settling on Revelation, they continued their search for the perfect verse to start the verse of the day trend. Appropriately, Brooks eventually selected Revelation 19:6 "Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns!" How cool! What a great verse to be our first verse of the day!</div><div> <p></p></div><div>I find it so amazing and humbling that Brooks would choose this verse for his encouragement. At first glance, the verse might not offer me much encouragement. It would seem to me to be a praise in which I got nothing in return. But I think Brooks saw much more than my little eyes could see. </div><div> <p></p></div><div>You see, the verse claims the Lord as <em>our</em> God. It personalizes Him<em>. </em>The Lord is <em>Brooks'</em> God. He is <em>my</em> God. He is <em>your</em> God. Intimately we can know Him! Then the Lord is called the <strong>Almighty</strong>! He is enourmous and great and magnificent! He is strong and powerful and good! The verse ends by explaining that this Lord, <em>our</em> God, <em>the </em><strong>Almighty<em>, </em></strong>HE REIGNS! HE is in control! HE is the ruler! </div><div> <p></p></div><div>It makes sense that the verse would start by proclaiming "Hallelujah!" And it makes sense that Brooks would choose this verse to be his first verse of the day. Brooks is in the hands of <em>his</em> Almighty God and Sovereign Lord! And he knows it! What shall he fear? What an incredible encouragement! A girl can learn a lot from her big brother!!</div></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-4964179771412507152012-04-01T06:41:00.012-07:002012-04-01T11:49:06.129-07:00Hands and Feet<div><div>I've loved Isaiah 6:8 for as long as I can remember. I was chatting with a friend yesterday, and she asked me what my "life verse" was. At first I didn't think I had one. I definitely don't choose to recite a specific verse everyday, I don't remember ever making a commitment to live out a specific verse everyday, and I don't think there's really one specific verse that ever comes to my mind in every situation I'm in. But I told her and will tell you: at some point in my life I do remember my heart being pricked after reading Isaiah 6:8. And ever since, every single time I read it I have the same pinch in my heart. The verse says</div><div><blockquote>Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"</blockquote></div><div>Even right now as I type these thoughts, the desire in my heart is only to be sent by my Lord. I long to go out with a mission for my God. Maybe Isaiah 6:8 is my life verse.</div><div> <p></p></div><div>I don't know why, but recently I've been listening to a lot of blasts from the past when it comes to my music choices. LOTS of Five Iron Frenzy (I heard a rumor they're coming back by the way!), and this morning I had a craving for some Audio Adrenaline. It was funny, I just really felt like I needed to play "Hands and Feet." If you've never heard it, you HAVE to go listen right now! The chorus says</div><div><blockquote>I wanna be Your hands. I wanna be Your feet. I'll go where You send me. I'll go where You send me ... And I'll try, yeah I'll try to touch the world like You touch my life. And, I'll find my way to be Your hands.</blockquote></div><div>I find it fascinating that right after I was thinking about Isaiah 6:8 last night, I decided to listen to these words this morning. I'm telling you, God just never ceases to amaze me! He is just so cool!</div><div> <p></p></div><div>As I listened to the words this morning I realized it was my hearts desire to be Christ's hands and feet. I also realized that I truly thought in my head I would do ANYTHING the Lord asked me to do. Then it hit me...how much I complain about what He has been asking me to do. Right now, He's asking me to be in school...and I complain about it...A LOT. My argument always goes something like this "God, there are so many hurting people who need You. How can I help them when I'm sitting in a desk all day in class or doing homework for that class? Yes I can be involved in ministries, but I want to do more. I want it to me my job right now. I want my own ministry. I'm ready to write, I'm ready to paint, I want to do this or that. Why are you making me waste so much time in school?!"</div><div> <p></p></div><div>I'm so annoying. I'm getting annoyed just rereading what I typed. God must be very patient because I think He hears these words at least 5 times every week (or day =/). I do honestly believe that God wants me to be in school right now. I don't question that at all. So, here God is asking me to go to school in a comfortable place where I have friends, great professors, food, a bed, and everything I need. He has been a faithful provider, and He has never left my side. I'm not too far from my friends and family back home. And here I sit, screaming at the top of my lungs to Him "Just send me out into the unknown! I'll go to Africa or China or the remostest place on the planet! I'll stay in the U.S. and do something big. Anywhere that I can serve You (except for school)." Do you see what I'm seeing? All I can say is WOW. Not only am I annoying, but I'm a liar. I'm telling God that I will do anything for Him, and then I'm stomping my feet at His calling all the while looking for the fastest exit. Sheesh...</div><div> <p></p></div><div>Isaiah 42:5-7 says</div><div><blockquote>This is what God the Lord says- He who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open the eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.</blockquote></div><div>"I've called You, Allie." God whispered to me. "I will use you. I will set the captives free by using you. I will touch lives by using you. I will hold your hand the entire time. I will do all of these things through you and for you. I'm your Daddy, and I love You. But first, I want you to finish school. I want you to be a witness for Me there, I want you to be a witness for Me by staying, I want you to be a witness for Me through the knowledge you will aquire there, I want you to wait until I tell you to move, I want you to trust Me."</div><div> <p></p></div><div>God has a different plan for each one of us. He has each of us at a different place doing a different thing. He is sovereign and He sees you where you are. He has a plan for you, and He wants you to trust Him. He's got you, and you have nothing to fear.</div><div> <p></p></div><div><em>Father Lord,</em></div><div><em>Today I'm making Isaiah 6:8 my life verse. When I come to any situation, the first thing I want to think is "I have been sent by God." I want to do the things You have sent me to do...without complaining. Lord God, help me to trust You. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You. Guide my footsteps and lead me where You want me to go. Show me the way one step at a time. Let me have ears to hear you, and help me to listen and obey. Father, help me to be excited about where You have me right now. Ezekiel 34:14 says "I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel." In response to that verse, Stormie Omartin writes in </em>Just Enough Light for the Step I'm On<em> "If God wants you in the place you are now, then there are NO greener pastures." Father God, I know that You want me here right now. There are NO greener pastures. God, You are so good to me. Thank you for choosing me, loving me, forgiving me, sending me, providing for me, comforting me, holding my hand, blessing me, never leaving me, and all of the things You do for me. God use me where I am. Let people see You in my actions, my words, my character, this blog...all of me. Let no part of me be my own. All of me to Yours; I belong to You, my King. In Your precious Son's name, Amen.</em></div></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-68378981397351165592012-02-28T00:11:00.000-08:002012-02-28T22:15:30.690-08:00That You Might Know Me<div><div>For maybe the past year, I have been growing to love the words Jesus spoke in John 17:3</div><div><blockquote>"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."</blockquote></div><div>This morning as I sat down to do my devotion I was meditating on this very verse. Before praying I sat at my desk and just thought back to they way God has been working in my life. He has brought me through many hard times. I really can't even describe this God of all Comfort to you. He's Someone you can only truly know through experiencing Him. Even now as I sit at my computer, my heart races for I know that God is good! Every hurt I've felt and every gift I've thought God has taken away, I look back now and praise Him because they were all part of His perfect plan. I see now how every event was precisely placed at a specific time in an exact manner so that I would turn my eyes to the only One who could truly understand. </div><div><p></p></div><div>I know God is good. But lately I'd been feeling sort of void of this wonderful feeling I described to you before. I felt like when I talked to Him, He wasn't responding. So this morning I prayed that the Lord would refocus the eyes of my heart. I prayed that I would let me know Him more.</div><div><p></p></div><div>...</div><div><p></p></div><div>I started this blog about 3 weeks ago, and I just didn't know how I wanted to finish it. I hadn't felt God move my heart. The feelings I was having didn't go away at the snap of my fingers. I prayed and prayed and asked other people to pray for me...and I could just tell that something was off. I think I had lost my focus. I had taken my eyes off the One who gives peace that surpasses all understanding.</div><div><p></p></div><div>And instead, I had placed my eyes on earthly things. Things that don't even really matter. I was so prideful...comparing others' lives to my own and complaining to God about it. Who am I to tell God what I deserve? I deserve nothing!</div><div><p></p></div><div>I've been so blessed to have opportunity after opportunity to learn more about God these past 5-6 months I've been at Emmaus. I cannot even begin to tell you all of the incredible things I've learned about Him. Yet, my heart has shown otherwise. And this weekend I heard God whisper in my ear "Don't you know how much I love you and care for you? I am jealous for Your heart. Don't you know Me? If you knew me, you would trust Me." And it hit me...John 17:3. I might know a lot about God...but am I knowing Him? And as He whispered the words "that you might know Me" accross my soul...I felt the walls of my heart come shattering to the ground.</div><div><p><br />I had become so calloused. A beautiful friend of mine had the courage to tell me last fall that I was finding my self worth in a man who didn't really care about me...at least not anymore. Ouch. But she was right. And it had totally warped my mind into thinking that everyone looked at me in his eyes. What was I worth? Not much. But I did have half a brain to know that I couldn't abandon my God. So, I built up some walls and pledged to follow Him wherever He asked. No emotions attached, just a commitment. ...It's wearing!</p></div><div><p></p></div><div>I am SO thankful that my identity is found in my Savior, Jesus Christ. So what that I have no clue what the next chapter of my life entails? The Author of life itself is writing it and He has blessed me with ways to prepare for whatever it is! Who cares that I don't have a tremendous amound of friends? I have the the Holy Spirit living within me and a mom who is my best friend! Who cares that I don't have a boyfriend right now? I am the bride of Christ...my Groom cares for me with a love that words cannot express...I'm the luckiest girl in the world! So what that I'm up at midnight alone in my dorm room? I have eyes that see and ears that hear and hair on my head. I have a wonderful family and a bed to sleep in. I am blessed.</div><div><p></p></div><div>One of my favorite songs of all times is "If You Want Me To" by Ginny Owens.</div><div>The finaly verse is written:</div><div>Cause' when I cross over Jordan,</div><div>I'm going to sing, I'm going to shout.</div><div>I'm going to look into Your eyes and see You never let me down!</div><div><p></p></div><div>God is so good. He has never let me down. I've followed Him down some hard roads, and He's followed me down some even harder roads. He won't let You down either. Sometimes life isn't fun. Sometimes God allows things to happen that don't make sense. Sometimes God asks you to do things that aren't very comfortable. It's worth it...I can't explain it, but it's worth it.</div><div><p><br />Ya know...I'm not really sure why I write any of these blogs. I'm not really sure why I feel so compelled to pour my heart of imperfections out for the world to see. I guess I just want you, YOU, to feel what I feel. This is eternal life that you may know Him, the Only True God and Jesus Christ. A friend of mine's status on facebook a few months ago was "I'm sick of dead-end relationships." It makes my heart ache to know that that is reality. But knowing Christ isn't like that...at all. There's no dead end with Him. He is so fulfilling if You let Him be.</p></div><div><p></p></div><div><em>Dear Gracious Heavenly Father,</em></div><div><em>Thank You for all that You've blessed me with. Thank You for being such a Big God. God if anything that I've written is not of You, make it known. But God, if anything is of You, use me to set the captives free. Lord God, I just want people to know You. To really know You. Don't let us give up on You because of human "dead-end" relationships. Allow us to experiece the never-ending love relationship with You that You desire for us to have. Let Yourself be known, Father. Give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and open hearts. Let us not be afraid. You are a good God!</em></div><div><em>Your daughter, Allie</em></div></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-71591502532324294812012-02-22T21:17:00.000-08:002012-02-22T21:36:40.932-08:00my heart IS spoken for<div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;"><em>Jesus...</em></span></div><div><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;"><em>I am in awe of you tonight. I love you, my Savior. I am Yours. I do not remember the last time my heart has been so full. Thank You, my Love, for...for changing me...for loving me...for healing me...for taking this ugly and used and filthy and empty and undeserving vessel and filling it to overflowing. Thank You for choosing me...for claiming me. Jesus, You have been so good to me. I just didn't see. I stopped seeking You. I lost my heart for You. I forgot how You love me. I forgot, and I'm sorry. Thank You, Jesus, thank You for changing this leper's spots and melting my heart of stone. Thank You for breathing life back into me. Thank You for making my heart beat again. Thank You for piecing me back together with love and tenderness. Thank You, Gracious Jesus, I cannot stop thanking You. I am lost for words yet I know You know, and for that I thank You.</em></span></div><div> <p></p></div><div>"Jesus Paid It All"</div><div>by: Fernando Ortega</div><div> <p></p></div><div>I hear the Savior say, </div><div>Thy strength indeed is small! </div><div>Child of weakness, watch and pray, </div><div>Find in Me thine all in all </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Jesus paid it all </div><div>All to Him I owe </div><div>Sin had left a crimson stain </div><div>He washed it white as snow </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Lord, now indeed I find </div><div>Thy power, and Thine alone, </div><div>Can change the leper's spots </div><div>And melt the heart of stone </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Jesus paid it all </div><div>All to Him I owe </div><div>Sin had left a crimson stain </div><div>He washed it white as snow </div><div> <p></p></div><div>For nothing good have I </div><div>Where-by Thy grace to claim </div><div>I'll wash my garments white </div><div>In the blood of Calvary's Lamb </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Jesus paid it all </div><div>All to Him I owe </div><div>Sin had left a crimson stain </div><div>He washed it white as snow </div><div> <p></p></div><div>And when before the throne </div><div>I stand in Him complete </div><div>Jesus died my soul to save </div><div>My lips shall still repeat </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Jesus paid it all </div><div>All to Him I owe </div><div>Sin had left a crimson stain </div><div>He washed it white as snow </div><div> <p></p></div><div>Jesus paid it all </div><div>All to Him I owe </div><div>Sin had left a crimson stain </div><div>He washed it white as snow </div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-7437874771454199552012-01-19T07:28:00.000-08:002012-01-19T10:41:45.728-08:00Triumphant Prayer<div>This morning I was doing my devotion, and as my eyes ran over the words on the page I found myself convicted. I read Luke 18:1</div><div><p></p></div><div><em>Then Jesus told His disciples...that they should always pray and never give up.</em></div><div><p></p></div><div>On May 8th of 2011, my big brother had a brain anuerysm. There were no signs, no symptoms that could have prevented it. He was just out golfing...and BOOM! I'll never forget that day. I remember what I was wearing, the way I had my hair, the day of the week, what I ate for breakfast... I remember sitting in the waiting room that night while the surgeons tried to stop the bleeding and relieve the pressure in Brooks' brain. I've never felt the panic or terror that I felt that day. I felt as it my heart was literally in my throat. My middle brother said "You know, you're prepared when someone dies of cancer...You can understand a car accident...But you never expect that someone's brain is going to explode."</div><div><p></p></div><div>After waiting for three hours, the doctor came in and I will NEVER forget the words that came out of his mouth. Most things doctors say seem rehearsed...they roll off the tongue...but it wasn't like that. "An unfortunate thing has happened to Brooks," he said in his Turkish accent. "There was a lot of bleeding...more than I'd ever seen before. When Brooks got here he was already 95% brain dead. The science says that IF Brooks makes it through the night, he will be a vegetable for the rest of his life." My heart sank, and I thought that was end. Then he added "But I've seen miracles, so pray."</div><div><p></p></div><div>Ferverently I prayed. <em>How can this be happening? I don't understand. He finally desired to really surrender his life to You. How can You do this? How can this be good? Why would You give him to us at all if You were only going to take him away? Please, God, please don't let this happen. Please, Gracious and Heavenly Father, please don't let the doctor's words be true. Please, Abba, heal my brother. I love him so much. </em>I pleaded.</div><div><p></p></div><div>...</div><div><p></p></div><div>As many of you know, Brooks is on his way to revocery! Hallelujah, the Lord is GOOD! </div><div><p></p></div><div>"Prayer that uses previously unanswered prayers as an excuse for laziness has already ceased to be a prayer of faith. To someone who prays in faith, unanswered prayers are simply the evidence that the answer is much closer. From beginning to end, our Lord's lessons and examples teach us that <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">prayer that is not steadfast and persistent, not revived and refreshed, and does not gather strength from previous prayers is not the prayer that will triumph</span>." -William Arthur</div><div><p></p></div><div>God does not always answer every prayer we pray the exact way that we want Him to. The doctors think that it could be TWO YEARS of more therapy before Brooks will be perfectly back to "normal." He can't always communicate things to us that he needs. It's frustrating for him and heartbreaking for us. It's tiring. </div><div><p><br />At one of Brooks' doctor appointments, the surgeon who has worked with Brooks from day 1 said to my mom "Brooks is literally a man who has come back from the dead." God's sovereign will is always the highest good for the object loved (definition from the very wise, Mr. Glock). We define good different than God does sometimes. His thoughts and His ways are higher than ours. But He still asks us to pray.</p></div><div><p></p></div><div>So many times I have sat down to do my devotion, and after I pray a few simple words I quick get up and run to the next thing of my list to do. I don't open in prayer asking for God to give me wisdom and discernment to understand His precious Word. I don't close in prayer asking Him to help me LIVE what I just read. I don't always pray that God will walk with me through the day. I don't always turn first to Him in a crisis. I don't always sit at His feet and listen.</div><div><p></p></div><div><em>Then Jesus told His disciples...that they should always pray and not give up. </em>Luke 18:1</div><div><p></p></div><div>As William Arther said, "prayer that is not steadfast and persistent, nor revived and refreshed..." prayer that is not ferverently prayed in complete faith that God is listening, "is not the prayer that will triumph."</div><div> <p></p></div><div>Father God, help me to pray like You are listening...because You are. Let me always ferverently and persistently pray...let me pray without ceasing and never give up. You are so good to me, Daddy. I am so in love with You.</div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-33730084982962471232012-01-04T22:04:00.000-08:002012-01-04T22:32:56.304-08:00My Heart's Love Resolution<div>I've never been very fond of change. Actually, I've always hated change. It's uncomfortable. But, as Jillian Michaels says in my yoga dvd, it's time to "get comfortable with being uncomfortable!"</div><div><p></p></div><div>It's that time of the year. Everyone is making New Year's Resolutions. I can't remember a time that I actaully made one. I don't think that I ever will. But, a tradition that I have rather enjoyed the past two years is to make a Love Resolution to the King of my heart.</div><div><p></p></div><div>A couple of years ago, my Bible study host told me that she prayed every day that she would fall more in love with Christ. She went on to share some of the many ways her love for the Lord had grown since and how it had changed her life. So, two years ago I decided that every day for one year I would pray to fall more in love with Jesus.</div><div><p></p></div><div>Over that year I did see my life change in many ways. And, it was very uncomfortable. But, as my Beautiful Lord tugged at my heart strings, I did find myself falling in love in so many new ways. When the next year rolled around, I wanted to experience more growth. So, last year I started praying every day that the newfound love I had found in Christ would help me become more obedient to Him.</div><div><p></p></div><div>It's funny how God answers prayers. You have to be SO careful what you pray for...or at least be ready for it! I mean, God isn't a genie. But, if you ask Him for something like this...something according to His will, He WILL give it! </div><div><p></p></div><div>I look back and giggle now, but I was so shocked when God started asking me to be obedient. "Allie, I want you to leave this...I want you to let go of that. Allie, I want you to walk alone...I want you to trust me." Ouch...as I remember back over the past year my heart still hurts. But, just as it had before, I find my heart changed. And, I'm finally starting to grasp that the uncomfortable change doesn't have to be so uncomfortable. When my world feels like it's spinning out of control, when my lungs feel as if a thousand pounds are crushing against them, when my heart stings...all I have to do is lean back into the safe hands that hold me up. The hands of my very own Creator.</div><div><p></p></div><div><p></p></div><div>Gracious Heavenly Father,</div><div>This year I pray that You would help me to let go of MY plans...because it's not about me. Everything is all about You. Help me to keep my eyes fixed upon You, my Sweet Savior. Help me delight in You and find joy in You always. Let nothing else matter in light of You. Almighty God, I am so in love with You! You are so good!</div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-2708490666468748912011-12-10T16:00:00.000-08:002011-12-11T15:35:34.628-08:00Wait...I didn't sign up for this!<div><div>Have you ever looked in on someone's life and thought...<em>man, I wish I could be them?</em> I find it increasing easier to fall into this state of thinking with facebook prying the doors of our lives open for the world to see. I realize that things aren't always the way the seem to apprear, but for the most part...it's still easy to live in the land of <em>If only....</em>.</div><div><p></p></div><div>A few weeks ago I started reading through the Gospel of Matthew, and I just can't seem to get over chapter 1. Instead of continuing to chapter 2...I skipped ahead to the Gospel of Luke. The beginnings of both books open with an angel of the Lord that comes to Joseph and Mary to announce that Mary will be found with child even though she has been untouched. This baby will be the Son of the Most High.</div><div><p><br />Hmp! What a thought... I kind of wonder what they were thinking. Matthew explains that before the angel had appeared to Joseph, Joseph was planning to divorce Mary quietly. Luke describes Mary questioning how this could possibly happen seeing as she is a virgin. It seems to me that this "Good News" did not <em>feel </em>like good news to either of them at first.</p></div><div><p></p></div><div>You might think that hearing the news that your baby was going to be the <strong>Son of the Most High</strong> would be exhilerating! You know that feeling you get when you hear really good news? You feel like jumping up and down and shouting for joy and you just can't stop smiling no matter how hard you try. This should have been the ultimate good news! Jesus is the definition of Good News!</div><div><p></p></div><div>But, (I think) Mary and Joseph were both a little bit afraid. They weren't quite sure how it was going to work. They had been planning on a "normal" life. Get married first...then have a family. Now all of a sudden they get this Good News!</div><div><p></p></div><div>I wonder if Mary or Joseph ever looked in on their friends' lives and wished upon them or day-dreamed of being them. It would have been easy to have the "normal" life. But, God had other plans. And, both Joseph and Mary were willing to go along with those plans. They didn't sign up for it, but they loved God and trusted in His good and perfect plan. And, the rest is history. </div><div><p></p></div><div>Sometimes I feel really discouraged about where God has me...His timing...my lack of knowledge of His plan... I often think...I didn't sign up for feeling like this all the time. I didn't sign up for waiting waiting and more waiting. I didn't sign up for walking blindly. Then, I remember I kind of did. The second I said "I do" to Christ, I signed up for this rollercoaster. God's plan is so much better than anything I could ever imagine. Do you think Mary and Joseph would have traded their story for ANYTHING else? I don't. I think they are SO happy that they trusted God and obeyed. </div><div><p><br /><p></p></div><div><em>Father Lord, help me to tru</em>st <em>and obey You. Let me lean on Your promises. I am exactly where You want me. And, being uncomfortable for a little while in order to fulfill your plan is better than any comfort I could dream up for myself. Thank You for Your Son, God. And, thank You for the way in which You chose to<strong> </strong>bring Him into this world. It's easy to question Your ways, Lord. Help me to remember that You ways are higher than my ways. God, You are so good. I am so in love with You. Let me fall even more in love with You each day. Satisfy me from the inside out. Love You Always, Alliegirl</em></div></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-55421375571449527442011-11-29T11:46:00.000-08:002011-11-29T21:47:47.600-08:00Disasterous Distractions<div><div><div><div>So a few Friday nights ago I went to bed with the intention that I was going to get up early and get a lot done on Saturday. So, my alarm went off around 8, and I oh so graciously hit the snooz. Then about 10 o'clock I finally peeled myself out of bed. </div><div><p></p></div><div>After finally getting ready for the day I sat down at my desk to get some things accomplished. The first thing on my list was to e-mail one of my professors. So I logged on to my e-mail account and what do you know?! An e-mail from Mom. I opened it and watched the funny youtube video of the cat...which of course brought up related videos. And I of course decided watching one more wouldn't hurt. At the risk of being viewed as a girl with a cat obsession, I'll admit this went on for an hour!</div><div><p></p></div><div>Finally I came to my senses and logged off my e-mail. I looked down at my list of things to do and realized I never e-mailed my professor (which was the whole purpose of getting on my e-mail). </div><div><p></p></div><div>As well as a good chuckle, this story gave me a thought. How easy it is to get distracted! I'm not just talking about getting distracted from lists of things to do. So often I get distracted from doing what God asks of me. Whether He asks me to trust Him, have a particular mindset, complete a certain task...it's easy to get distracted!</div><div><p></p></div><div>I love reading 2 Timothy. As Paul's last piece of literature, I can't help but know his words of are infinite importance. Not only are they God-breathed, but they are Paul's last words to Timothy (my intention here is not to belittle the inspiration of God but to emphasize another often overlooked thought). Last words are usually pretty important. Paul could have wrote anything, but he chose the words that make up the book of 2 Timothy.</div><div><p></p></div><div>One of the first things Paul writes is an encouragement to Timothy to be faithful. He writes in verse 7 of chapter 1 "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." Aha! Self-discipline! My first problem. </div><div><p></p></div><div>Paul goes on to write in verse 14 "Guard the good deposite that was entrusted to you - gaurd it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." That list of things I had to do on Saturday was far more important than watching worthless videos of cats. Even more so, what God has revealed to me, His requests, are MUCH more important than the many things that distract me from following His guidance. Good thing I have the Holy Spirit - a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline! </div><div><p></p></div><div>Paul continues in chapter 2 to encourage Timothy to endure hardship like a soldier, to compete according to the rules as an athlete, and to work hard like a farmer. A distraction would be seriously disasterous to any of these. Think about it. A soldier might miss his target if his eye is caught by something else. A runner might lose his footing if he doesn't keep his eyes forward. A farmer might ruin all his crops if he fails to care for them while being distracted for a period of time on another project.</div><div><p></p></div><div>Similarly, think of the detriment being distracted from God's precious plans could have on a believer. Any distraction not only interferes with God's plan, it also allows room for us to get our priorities out of line. Paul urges Timothy to "flee the evil desires of youth" (2:22) so he won't become a "lover of pleasure rather than a lover of God" (3:4). </div><div><p></p></div><div>I'd like to share a story called "The Devil's Convention." It's a very good illustration of just how disasterous distractions can be.</div><div><blockquote><p>Satan called a worldwide convention.<br />In his opening address to his evil angels, he said,'We can't keep the Christians from going to church.' 'We cannot keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth.' 'We cannot even keep them from forming an intimate, abiding relationship experience in Christ. If they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken. So let them go to their churches; let them have their conservative lifestyles, but steal their time, so they can't gain that relationship with Jesus Christ.'</p><p> 'This is what I want you to do angels ... Distract them from gaining hold of their Saviour and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!' </p><p>'How shall we do this?' shouted his angels.<br /></p><p>'Keep them busy in the nonessentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds,' he answered. 'Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow.' 'Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty lifestyles. Keep them from spending time with their children.' 'As their family fragments, soon, their home will offer no escape from the pressures of work!' 'Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice. Entice them to play the radio or cassette player whenever they drive. Keep the TV, VCR, CDs, and their PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ.' 'Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers. Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day. Invade their driving moments with billboards. Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogues, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes.' 'Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines so the husbands will believe that external beauty is what is important, and they will become dissatisfied with their wives. Ha! That will fragment those families quickly!' 'Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted, disquieted and unprepared for the coming week'. 'Do not let them go out in nature to reflect on God's wonders. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, concerts, and movies instead.' 'Keep them busy, busy, busy! And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences and unsettled emotions.''Go ahead, let thern be involved in soul winning; but crowd their lives with so rnany good causes they have no tirne to seek power frorn Jesus.'</p><p>'Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause.'<br /></p><p>It will work! It will work!<br /></p><p>It was quite a convention. The evil angels went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busier and more rushed, going here and there.</p></blockquote></div><div><p><br />...Do you see how disasterous distractions can be? And it's hard not to fall accustomed to them. Especially when "everyone else is doing it." Fortunately, Paul directs Timothy there too. In chater 4 verses 16-18 Paul discribes a time when NO ONE came to his defense. NO ONE was going against the grain as he was. But he says "the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength." I've come to realize that sometimes God asks us to do things we're not comfortable with. And often times this requires going it alone. Or so it would appear...How easy it is for me to forget that the LORD is standing at my side. </p><p><p></p><p>Paul knew Timothy wasn't perfect. And, thankfully, God knows we're not either. Paul writes in 2 Timothy 2:13 "If we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself." Be encouraged! You're going to get distracted. I'm going to get distracted. But the Lord will stand at our sides forever! He will remain faithful.</p></div></div></div></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-77139191189325437472011-11-18T09:27:00.000-08:002011-11-19T10:19:17.186-08:00Sovereign Sufferings<div>This year I've been going through the devotional <em>Take My Heart Oh God</em> by Sarah Young. Today's was extra special to me. I hope it will bring you just as much encouragement as it has brought me :)</div><div><p></p></div><div><blockquote><p><font face="times new roman">"All my sufferings, by admirable management of omnipotent Goodness, have concurred to promote my spiritual and eternal good." -Susanna Wesley</font></p><p><font face="Times New Roman"></font></p><font face="Times New Roman"><p></p></font><p></p><p><font face="times new roman">Do Susanna Wesley's words resonate with you? She was a mother of nineteen children. Some of her children made her proud - and some didn't. She lost her home twice - to arsonists. And once, her husband went on a preaching tour for almost a year, leaving her to fend for herself with the children. Yet somewhere along the way, she learned to accept God's sovereignty and to believe in his "omnipotent goodness."</font></p><p><font face="Times New Roman"></font></p><font face="Times New Roman"><p></p></font><p></p><p><font face="times new roman">What about you? Is your home or marriage in jeopardy? Are you struggling with children in some way? Has another person's malice touched your life? Then look to the strength of women like Susanna Wesley who know just how you feel. Heed their wisdom and hold fast to the hand of the One who's managing your suffering for your eternal good.</font></p><p><font face="Times New Roman"></font></p><font face="Times New Roman"><p></p></font><p></p><p><font face="times new roman">His all-powerful goodness watches over you.</font></p><p><font face="Times New Roman"></font></p><font face="Times New Roman"><p></p></font><p></p><p><font face="times new roman">Read 1 Peter 4:12-13</font></p></blockquote></div><div><p></p></div><div>Sovereign Lord, thank You that Your omnipotent goodness watches over my life. I oven overlook this. I know You have a plan and purpose for my life, but sometimes I forget my sufferings are part of that plan. Sometimes I forget this waiting period is part of Your plan. You are in control over everything...I have not slipped from Your mind. You have not forgotten about me. Please let Your precious truths be engraved on my heart so that I will not forgot or be discouraged. Thank you, Daddy, for choosing to love me. Help me fall more in love with you today.</div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-70350550961798368782011-11-13T22:52:00.000-08:002011-11-15T13:55:06.311-08:00A Troubled Heart<div>Do you know what troubles and even breaks my heart? A statement shared by two of my best gal-pals (who are two of the most breath-taking, God-fearing young women I know). After being rudely talked to (or rather talked at) and mistreated by various christian young men, they came to me and reported: "If THESE are "godly" men...we want no part. We might as well start dating unbelievers because they value us more. They treat us better." </div><div><p></p></div><div>I'll be honest, my first response was to start secretly attacking verbally these young men. But that wouldn't wouldn't help these young women OR settle my heart. In fact, it would probably make things worse. So, after praying for some discernment...I've come to a few conclusions. </div><div><p></p></div><div>Firstly, ladies nooooo! You have it all wrong. Absolutely under no circumstances should you EVER lower your standards or resort to something that goes agains God's word. These unbelieving men you talk of do not value you more. They are not more loyal to you. They are not more faithful to you. They do not treat you better. They DECEIVE you better. </div><div><p></p></div><div>Just like the deceptive slithering serpent from the Garden of Eden lied to Eve, you have been lied to! That sneaky snake lied to Eve. He looked her in the eye and told her that she shouldn't trust God. He told her that the fruit was harmless. It wouldn't hurt her; it would open her eyes so she could be like God. She should want more than the boring fruit God gave her. No, no, no! Poor Eve...I wonder if she even knew what a lie was? She had never been lied to before. </div><div><p></p></div><div>But ladies, WE have been lied to before. WE know what a lie is! And this, my precious friends, is a BIG, FAT, UGLY, LIE! I promise you, there ARE men of God worthy of your hearts. </div><div><p></p></div><div>Do you remember the story of Ruth? She found her man of God because she trusted in God. She was loyal to Naomi and she decided to put her trust in God. Because of that, God was faithful to her and through a series of perfectly orchestrated events, God brough Ruth and Boaz together. The Bible calls Boaz her kinsman-redeemer. But do you know what? It was easy for Boaz to love Ruth because she was "a woman of noble character" (Ruth 3:11). </div><div><p></p></div><div>Do you see what I see? It's easy to play the blame game. It's easy to say that everything is the man's fault. But if we are going to call ourselves women of faith and daughters of the King, we need to act like it! Not only do we need to be women of nobel character, we need to trust that God knows best. His timing is perfect and His word is trustworthy. </div><div><p></p></div><div>2 Timothy 4:16-17 says "At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone abandoned me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength." God knows that this walk is tough. He knows that many times we are abandoned by everyone- even fellow believers. He knows that wholeheartedly God-seeking believers are few these days. That's why He promises to stand at our side! </div><div><p></p></div><div>In Breaking Free by Beth Moore, she writes "If our liberty in Christ is going to be a reality in life, we are going to have to learn to walk in the freedom of Christ, independent of everyone else we know." When it comes down to it...God says that it is not our business what anyone else is doing. WE are to follow Him in ALL circumstances. That might mean not having a boyfriend right now. That might mean staying in school longer than you wanted. That might mean being honest in a tough situation. That might mean not gossiping with your friends. That might mean standing up tall and saying no to drinking or drugs or sex. Whatever it means for you...GOD is our measure - NOT the world and NOT other believers. Be encouraged, God knows the desires of your heart. He MADE your heart. And He wants to bless you. In fact, He wants to lavishly pour blessings over you. Just trust Him.</div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8113246120256684094.post-959347674821365112011-11-11T20:16:00.000-08:002011-11-11T21:24:06.177-08:00An Unexpected Letter<div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eGfagk0YkOKvff_ysrf-wLIzfiJDGBr0ST4WRjgI_RMR1Vs_muFqh8sNq-B_cfs3d-qerZ9OZzW1hJZLVLqJVzOiPl0xO6RpnwwzV1CwsEansRynbTXS0woBDMiz0b2LSV0HNf8YdbI/s1600/Snapshot_20111111_3+%25283%2529.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 241px; height: 187px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673973870058848738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eGfagk0YkOKvff_ysrf-wLIzfiJDGBr0ST4WRjgI_RMR1Vs_muFqh8sNq-B_cfs3d-qerZ9OZzW1hJZLVLqJVzOiPl0xO6RpnwwzV1CwsEansRynbTXS0woBDMiz0b2LSV0HNf8YdbI/s320/Snapshot_20111111_3+%25283%2529.jpg" /></a><font color="#333333" face="georgia">The past few weeks I have felt very discouraged. I can't even really put my finger on why. It's a busy time of year with school, and I've been spending a lot of time along studying. I generally really enjoy studying, but lately I've just felt lonely. As a warm-blooded human being, the nature embedded in my DNA has been screaming "I need people!!" And, as a woman, my heart has been longing for someone to seek me out.</font><p><font color="#333333" face="georgia">I have been blessed with some amazing friends who have been a real encouragement to me. Lots of kind words and knowing smiles have warmed my heart. But, the sweetest suprise was left in my mailbox today. It was a much needed reminder in the form of a letter. This is what it said:</font></p><p><font face="trebuchet ms"><font face="trebuchet ms"><font face="trebuchet ms"><font face="trebuchet ms">Allie,</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">You were made in my image and</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">You are fearfully and wonderfully made.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">It is my desire to <strong><font color="#990000">lavish</font></strong> my love on you</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">for I am your Provider and I meet all your needs.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">My plan for your future has <strong><font color="#990000">always</font></strong> been filled with hope</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">Because I have loved you with an everlasting love.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">My thoughts towards you are as countless as the sand on the seashore and</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I rejoice over you with singing.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">You are my <strong><font color="#990000">treasured</font></strong> possession and</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I want to show you great and marvelous things.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">If you seek me with all your heart you will find me.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart because</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine and</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I am your greatest encourager.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">When you are broken-hearted I am close to you.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">As a shepherd carries a lamb I have carried you close to my heart.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I will never stop doing good to you and</font><br /><strong><font color="#990000">I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love.</font></strong><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">I have always been your Father and I will always be.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">My love for you is mighty and everlasting.</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">Love,<br />your Dad</font><br /><font face="trebuchet ms">Almighty God</font></font></font></font></p></div>Alliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05211113657099979902noreply@blogger.com1