A Few Short Ramblings About Life and Stuff :)

This is some stuff I've learned from Jesus over the years. From His word and Holy Spirit in my life. I share them to remind myself and encourage whoever reads this. These statements aren`t all perfect, but they are based on scripture, so if you have any questions or comments feel free to make them. :)

1. Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. His love isn't based merely on reciprocation. God is love and we are called to be like Him. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." In Jesus Christ we are His children, and we are called to exibit such true love, and display His eternal qualities to the world. To show kindness and compassion, and keep your lips from grumblings and complaints. Be patient, and caring, not putting yourself first, even though society ecourages it. Remember the Golden Rule! It's not just for kids, it's for His kids! Because a life lived in this way is not only honoring to God, but also a witness/encouragement to others, and filled with blessing and a heart/conscience at peace. Keep yourself from "idols" or things that would take your heart and life away from Jesus and His way. These aren't things we do apart from Him or by or own goodness or strength, but through the indwelling of His Spirit. "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness. Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."


2. Trust Jesus!! Don't believe the lies of the enemy when he says that God doesn't love you. He does!! More than you could even imagine!! Don't doubt His love just because you are enduring tough times, or stumbled in a bit of sin(while we were sinners Christ died for us), but know that He IS perfecting you. For even Jesus endured the cross and more suffering than you will/could probably ever know. So He is no stranger to a hard life, but He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. He is with us till the end! :)

3. There are some people who will tolerate you, or receive you because you love Jesus and follow Him. But there are many in the world who will either, ignore you, tease you, hate you, and reject you for your faith in Him. They hate Him in you and may even show it! But remember, far greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.

4. Seek to daily remember that you are a new creation. You no longer have to fear or submit to your old nature for it has been crucified with Christ,  and daily He will help you to grow to be more like Him. Many things we are tempted to do, have done, or will do, can cause us to doubt that. But Jesus is our salvation. He is faithful, and will keep His promise to save you, and is more than able to do so. He now lives in those who believe, not, He might live in them, but, He does!

5. No one is born an adult and no child tries to remain a child in all things. So remember, God knows you're His child and that you're wanting to grow spiritually each day, and if you fall He will pick you up, so do not fear but believe! If a "good" parent loves and nurtures their children, how much more will the perfect God of love, mercy, grace and wisdom, strengthen us and build up our faith in the Lord. He gives us new and everlasting life, and has given us all we need to live Godly lives in Christ Jesus.

6.  Be careful of flatters, and the intellectual arguers that bear no real fruit. Stay clear of the pride of being a part of the "intellectual's" conversation or debate. "Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. Romans 16:17-18"  This is such an easy habit for some to slip into, everyone loves attention and the ability to share, but be careful, for it was that kind of situation that had Eve decieved. As we see in Genisis that although, at first, she was the corrector/teacher to the serpent, her position changed quickly to the "learner"/decieved. The devil is crafty (not that we who are in Christ must fear him) but we must be wise and not give into the arrogance of that which is often called knowledge. "Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge,  which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. 1 Timothy 6:20-21" The "student" mentality can be danerous sometimes, if you do not guard your conversations and test them against the the word and truth of God (because even then the devil has used scripture to decieve) Keep your faith in Jesus. Even if you don't remember or know the answer, Jesus is the truth. He will keep you if you place your trust not in your knowledge and understanding but in Him. So in all regards become mature in knowledge, but also remain firm in your faith, and even better grow in His love. "Now concerning things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes arrogant, but love edifies. If anyone supposes that he knows anything, he has not yet known as he ought to know; but if anyone loves God, he is known by Him. 1Cor.8:1-3"  Know that knowledge does not perfect your faith(Jesus does), and don't try to find it apart from God. "As for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him. 1 John 2:27" Bonus Verse: "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD.Jer.17:7"

7. Jesus is the Author and perfector  of our faith, so don't "beat yourself up" trying to have more faith(because you think that faith for a circumstance is anything magical), if a mustard seed is the amount you need to move a mountain, don't you think He's given you that much? He has given you all you need, so have faith in Him. Knowing that He governs all the situations in our lives. If a "mountain" doesn't move then it is for our good, because in faith we know that He works all things for the good of those who love Him, and have been called according to His purpose.  Believe that He has a perfect plan, and that it is unfolding according to His purpose. If you doubt your faith, then trust in His faithfulness. When He said to His disciples "Ye of little faith" it was when they weren't recognizing who He was. It wasn't that they doubted their own faith or that they doubted that the bread could multiply, but that they didn't yet know Him. Jesus is one with God! He is the bread of life. He said if you've seen Him you've seen the Father, yet they struggled with this as we sometimes do. But He said that we, who have yet to see Father or Son and yet believe, will be more blessed. So if your faith is troubled, don't trust in your faith, but believe in Jesus who is your faith! Know that He is the one Who began a good work in you, and He will be faithful to complete that work, leading to the salvation of your very soul. Jesus is the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Him. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction in the unseen. The kind of faith that moves mountains is the kind of faith that believes in and trusts in Jesus Christ our Lord. " For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

8. Many will say they "believe" in Jesus and call themselves Christians, and yet their fruit or life says differently. They will endeavor to affirm their wrongful deeds by asking you to join them. Don't! stand firm in Jesus and follow Him, walking according to His deeds, instead of following people who say they follow Him. After all, He is the way.
That said it is not our place to judge or condemn, perhaps they are still young in the faith or struggling. Ask God to rescue them, and know that you don't have to remove the speck in their eye, because Jesus is the one who cleanses/transforms His children. Instead love them, being careful not to fall in step with their misdeeds. Let Christ shine through you, and they will see Jesus in your actions, because His truth is revealed by His Spirit shining through us. If they are truly His then they will desire to be closer to Him and hear His loving voice calling them to follow after Him. His sheep hear His voice and follow. I say this because many have fallen to peer pressure and follow after worldly wisdom/pleasure. "So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

9. Come close to God and God will come close to you, resist the devil and the devil shall flee from you! The devil is a deceiver, don't be deceived and give in to fear. Stay in the light of Christ and know that satan is a defeated foe trying to lie to people about their Savior, and their place in salvation. Lies like, Are you really a child of God, are you really saved? or Is God really good, just look at the world's troubles, or He doesn't love you, you're not good enough to be loved, or your sin is too great, or God has abandoned you, or  you don't have to know Jesus to get to God etc. These are just some of the wicked lies that are deceiving people. But the TRUTH is, He died in our place, loves us, lives in us and calls us joint heirs with Christ. We're good not of ourselves but because God ,who is good, lives in us. Sin is not greater than God, nor can it be greater than His sacrifice, and God has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Believe in Jesus' words and not the enemy's. Jesus is the only Way, Truth and Life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. So come close to God (through Jesus) and He will come close to you, and know that if you're near Him you have nothing to truly fear. He is the King of kings and Lord  of lords who holds the keys of both life and death. So "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me. John14:1"

10. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (the fruits of the Spirit) are all from His Spirit, and shall be evident in the lives of those who are born again in Christ Jesus. Like fruit is evident on a tree so it is in the lives of His Children. Those who practice these "fruits" and let these qualities grow in their lives will not be disappointed. Just as a child must practice the speech and actions of their parents before becoming proficient, so we also shall become more like our Father in Heaven as we follow His example and let Him live though us. So don't give up. Know that in this new life in Christ, He will give you good desires/qualities, and He will fulfill in us those things according to His perfect Will and Power. They are "fruits" of His Spirit after all, that He displays and produces in us, not by our power but by His. And remember His greatest commandment to love, it too is from His work in our hearts, we love because He first loved us. So we must remember to abide in His Holy Spirit and His Love. And bear "good fruit" like a tree planted on life giving water.

11. Remember to observe communion with Jesus, partaking of His flesh and blood as a sign of oneness with His death and resurrection until He comes. Remember that you were worth His life. He loved you that much and that He is now with the Father to prepare a place for you, and complete His good work in you, even eternal life. It is when we forget this that the enemy tries to deceive us and cause us to forget that He died for us, or that we must still suffer and be punished. No! we are one with Jesus and He paid it all! So rejoice and praise Jesus, for He is the bread of life and His blood is what sanctifies and cleanses us and our conscience. So partake in Communion with Him for the sake of remembering those truths, and His new covenant in Christ Jesus with us.

P.S. 12. This one is a big one for me (because I come from a large-ish family) and because I have found it helpful over the years. (I first read it in a "daily bread" reader some years ago, but it is based on scripture.) If someone criticizes you and the criticism is true mend your ways, if false then forget about it. In other words, with Jesus' help, judge if you are at fault in what you did, and if you are, then repent(change your ways), but if you're not at fault and they only criticize you because they don't know the situation or because of their own fault, then don't retaliate or worry what they or others may think. Simply forget about it.

Also trust Jesus, if He has put something on your heart to do, then do it, regardless of whether it will embarrass you or you think you'll get criticised for doing it. It is far better to please God than man, and besides, He has the best intent for your life. He has plans that give you both a hope and a future, so don't mess that future up by your disbelief and lack of action.

There is so much more He's teaching/taught me, but alas, I tend to forget these things sometiimes. So, don't just trust in your knowledge, but trust in His love. Believe in Jesus, and when stuff in your life confuses you, take your eyes off of stuff, and put them back on Jesus. When people hurt you, know that Jesus loves you, and that in time all hurt WILL be replaced by His joy. Don't let one bad moment create a million more. I know that because of certain hurts in my life I have doubted the love of certain people and that only resulted in further hurt, both on their part and on mine. Trust then in His love, and be free with showing/doing it. DON'T let others restrain your belief in Him. But in all areas of your life let Him reign in and shine through you!

 God bless! :)

Leap Year Day!

How could I not make a quick post for Feb.29 it's not every year you get such a chance. :)

Incredible Hope

Another quick point of interest found in Joshua

The people of Israel crossed the Jordan into their Land of promise by a miracle. God was with them, even though many of them were uncircumcised while growing up in the wilderness, He was still keeping them according to His promise. How much more will He do for those who are being given an unshakeable promised land in Jesus Christ? They had the ark of the covenant, but we (by His grace) have His Holy Spirit dwelling in us, guiding and leading us. They had the commander of the Lord's army fighting the battles for them, but we have the King of kings, and Lord of lords who has won the victory on our behalf. (Rejoice the Lord is King! ) We can even put on the full armor of God and find strength in His mighty power, so that we can stand firm against not mere flesh and blood enemies like the Israelites, but even against all the schemes and forces of the evil one. Reading how God took care of Israel and fulfilled His promises is amazing. And knowing that the same God Almighty is for us, loves us, and promises us an inheritance in Jesus is also so fantastic that I often can't fathom just how fantastic it is. I read the book of Revelations again today, and even though some of the imagery  is way beyond me, I can't help but be awed. God is so good, amazing, awesome and wonderful!! (far beyond my understanding and imagination) How incredible our hope is in Christ Jesus!

We are a New Creation in Christ :)

Points on Joshua ch.1-5

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance of the Promised Land on the east side of the Jordan River. However, those tribes were not allowed to enter and reside in their "rest" (i.e. land) until they had helped the rest of Israel acquire their own land on the west side of the Jordan River. Did the remaining tribes of Israel really need their help? No, (aside from maybe some moral support) because, as we see in the scripture, God was the one winning all the battles, and often in some pretty amazing ways. But God wanted His people to be unified, to share the same hopes and faith, overcome the same trials/fears and together triumph in the provision of their Lord. So they could see God provide for all of His people, and could together give Him praise. This made me think of us today, and how we can sometimes view our salvation and hope in Jesus as merely individualistic/personal. It’s true Jesus died for me, and that God loves me more than I could probably ever know. This is all true, and so very wonderful. However, we can't forget that we are also collectively saved. That is to say that Jesus died for all mankind, so that all believers are born again into the Kingdom of Heaven. There is no more penalty for sin separating us from God(Jesus paid it all), and no more worldly division(rich/poor, race, class, nation etc.) separating us from each other. We are now, as fellow believers, a part of one body in Christ. His body. A body which consists of many parts but forms one whole, with each part affecting (for good or bad) the rest of the body. So now if we are one body, though individual members of it, then we must, by faith, use the gifts we’ve been given for the building up and sustaining of that body (the Church). We must pray for each other continually, and if we are able then we must lift up the fallen, supply the needy, encourage the persevering, and care for and love all those who call on His name. Just like Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh couldn't abandon their kin, we too must look to the needs of the whole, and together give Him praise. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus Philippians 2:3-5"  God made this evident even in our physical bodies. The heart pumps the blood, the lungs provide the oxygen, and our body’s parts work together unselfishly for the sake of the whole. What happens if there are some rogue cells acting on their own; caring only for themselves, and living in the body propagating cells that are likewise renegade? We call them cancer and the whole body suffers for their sake, until it’s cured or the cancer removed.

We mustn’t ignore or forget about other believers who are struggling, like the rich man ignored the plight of Lazarus (Luke 16:19) regardless if they are on our door steps or half way around the world. We have each been given "a talent" ,a supply and a role from God, and if we freely give we shall freely receive. Sure we can say true things like, “God will help them. He doesn't need me, He is all powerful God and He is the One Who promised to save. After all He loves them too, and realistically speaking I couldn’t do much of anything anyhow.” But those statements are framing deceptions straight from the enemies camp. They are true but they aren't the whole truth, and they deny the truth that God's power is living in and through us, in fact He is living and abiding in and with us. The body of Christ Jesus is a collective, meant to fellowship under Jesus who is our "head" and be one just like Jesus and the Father are one. The tribes of Israel in this passage of Joshua reinforce this for us, we too must remain/join together as Christ’s church/body, together claiming His promises until we ALL are made complete at Christ's return. So let’s not be selfish, lazy, and wicked servants by ignoring both His word and our brothers and sisters in Christ. The parable of the Talent in Matthew 25:14-30 shows the folly of such a lazy, selfish "faith" in Christ Jesus. And as we can see even in the next section of that Ch. that those in Christ are not to live such selfish lives in regard to their faith and brethren in Christ, because Jesus in us demands the fulfillment of loving each other. 

Matthew 25:31-46 31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His throne in heavenly glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will put the sheep on His right and the goats on His left. 34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me.' 37"Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and invite You in, or needing clothes and clothe You? 39When did we see You sick or in prison and go to visit You?' 40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.' 41"Then He will say to those on His left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite Me in, I needed clothes and You did not clothe Me, I was sick and in prison and You did not look after Me.' 44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help You?' 45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me.' 46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

So then we see that in Christ we will bear good fruit. Don't be afraid of your old self and fleshly lusts, and don't live a life that provides for evil instead of good, but instead remember that in Christ we are a new creation. So put that old nature to death (so to speak) and let us not be deceived by the enemy and become selfish layabouts who are too caught up in our society, in its worries, pleasures, and riches that we bear no good fruit. The Fruits of His Spirit are Love, joy, Peace, Patience, kindness ,goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These are gifts from Him that we bear not produce. They are not merely feelings but actions. Let us do the good, which we can now by His grace do, and together rejoice and participate in the love of God! :)

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.  Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15"

Facts. 13 questions answered.

Didn't want to watch TV, so I filled out one of those online quizes. One question is answered falsely can you guess which one? enjoy :p

1: Right handed, left handed?  I still have both ;) .... but tend to favor the right.

2: Ever met your doppleganger? Not yet, but have seen others (which is so weird)

3: Car, truck, bike, boat? Currently car, chevy impala.

4: Married, Relationship, or Single? Single

5: Can you play an instrument? Yes, but I wish it was piano.

6: Evolution or Creation? Creation without any doubt in my mind.

7: Top five favorite cuisines? in no real order; Indian, Japanese, chinese, italian, mexican, greek, american...I guess that's 7, but I could go on, I like most everything...but not really shell fish...more of that for the rest of you. See I'm not shelfish ;)

8: Can you cook? Yup!! :)

9: How tall are you? 6 ft. 3 in.

10: Do you have a job? Sure do :)

11: Do you have a bucket list? A sillyish one yes, just for fun things I'd like to do, not really one with serious must complete goals. But there are 100 things on it (some of which are done). :)

12: Do you like photography? Not at all....

13: What do you think is the most important thing in life? Love! God's love! Can't live without it. :)

Hope you enjoyed learning a bit about me.

Bonus Prize: I'll answer 5 more asked in comments about anything you like. First come first serve....yeah a little bored. :)

Some encouraging verses for today

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13"

"That evening many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and He healed all the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, “He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases.” Matthew 8:16-17"

" Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.“Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-4"
"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:10-18"

^{(I love that it's God's armor we put on, and that He is the one keeping us. Not some selfmade righteousness, not our own understanding of truth and reality, not our own weak faith, not our salvation, for Jesus name means God is salvation, and He alone has the power to save and He has promised to do so. We don't have to rely on any of our own weak abilities. He is the one fighting the battles and protecting us in spite of the worldly circumstances/troubles surrounding us. They are temporary, but a new kingdom was declared by Jesus, an everlasting kingdom full of the joys of the Lord. And I love that these amazing qualities/abilites, that are all really impossible if we tried to do them on our own,  are now something we can do and are instructed to do. Not by our own power, but by in His. In verse 10 we are told to be strong in His mighty power, not our own. That's so awesome!! We are told to put on truth, a truth that comes from Him, Jesus is the truth. The enemy is the father of lies, but lies are weak and their deceit is easily seen when placed against the truth. We must believe in His promises because He is the truth.  Righteousness, peace, and salvation, and faith are also from Jesus in us, He is in all ways protecting us from the enemy. Even our weapon in this battle is the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Jesus is called the word of God and He will/has fought for us. Praise God for we are not alone, He has everything under control!! )}

So encouraging! :)

I find these verses so encouraging!!

"All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in His love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.1 John 4:15-16"

There is a Day! :)

In hope I wait for You my Lord, your saving grace I don’t deserve,

My heart is quieted by the thought, that You will surely soon return,

With trumpet sound the dead will rise to join You in the sky,

And then Your bride shall be with You, forever to abide,

Please may my heart reside in truth, primed ready for that sound,

When shadow is cast into the dark and our bright bodies found,

To  lovers of dark a thief you’ll be, but we are of the light,

For us you are our conquering king, to lead us by Your might,

So ready be our deep desires, to rest on Christ the Rock secure,

Casting off all other thoughts, that cause us to remain impure,

Rejoice my heart for truth prevails, though fleshly hopes may die,

His joy shall ever fill my heart, then free from current sigh.

Praise Jesus for His love is better, than current heart’s desire,

In life beyond all thought and measure, we’re one with the Supplier.

Happy Christmas!!!

Merry Christmas!!!
Yup, it's that awesome time of year again. Time to enjoy family, friends, gifts, merryment etc. But better yet, time to rejoice that God gave us the best present we could ever hope for, even though we were naughty(probably an understatement), Jesus the Christ. When you really think about all Christmas involves, the amazing story of Jesus' birth, what He means for the world, and that God is now with us, it is such an amazing day of remembrance and good news!

I realize I haven't blogged much this last year, sorry if you follow. But I do hope that any who read this have a splendid holiday full of blessing, hope, and joy (inspite of circumstance) and filled with His love. God bless and, Happy Christmas! :)

HIS Words

Verses on my laptop's desktop right now (hope they encourage all who read them)

"I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. 1 Cor. 10:23-24"

"If my people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chron. 7:14"

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe. Proverbs 29:25"

"It is the LORD your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him. Deut.13:4"

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives" 2 Peter 3:10-11"

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:4-5

Jesus Is The Way!

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33" 
 :)

I'm Back

I'm back.  :)
Had a awesome trip through the U.S. of A.  I did so much this past month, too much to say now in a quick post anyway, so I'll just say this important bit of news: TODAY is my Birthday!!! :D


All around I'd have to say I'm very blessed, Praise God!! :)

Summer time

Leaving for my big summer trip tomorrow. 3300km of driving across two countries on the way there and then another 3300km back. Add in the middle some great times visiting with friends and family along the way (my one year old niece will be so spoiled! :) ), some books on tape for the road, a few good stops, plus beautiful scenery etc. and lots of pics. And another little adventure begins. :) If anyone reads this, then....Have a great summer bloggers! God Bless! :)

But the Greatest of these is LOVE

God loves you so much! Don't doubt it, and don't let the enemy deceive you, with lying words. Words which condemn your faith, or lies that would steal your hope for salvation. Don't believe such lies! If you need to repent of something keeping you down, then repent. Place your trust in the Lord's Mercy, Forgiveness,Grace and Love. You cannot save yourself, so don't trust in your own ability to be saved by Christ, just trust in Him. The name Jesus means 'God is salvation.' He is the only one able to both save and perfect you. He is also the one who says that (in Him) you are free from your slavery to sin. Believe Him!! For "Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God" Trust in Him. He created you to be loved and died to redeem you from sin's hold on you. Jesus said "Do not let your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me." He gave us authority there. The power to not let our hearts be troubled by believing in who He is: The only begotten Son of God, the Messiah, Saviour, Creator, The Way,Truth and Life, Prince of peace, King of kings and Lord of lords. He wouldn't have said it if we couldn't do it. He is The Truth after all, and He is also our strength to overcome. If He told us to not let our hearts be troubled, then you can be sure that it is now in our ability to obey. For Christ Jesus in us has set us free, and He has given us everything we need to live Godly lives in Him. So stop doubting His love, and provision for you, and trust in Him! Now if God so loves us we ought to love others. So in all situations remember to love. Because then you will mature in your new life. Not a passive love, a "when I feel in the mood," love, but a true love ( like in 1 Corinthians 13), one that makes us servants of everyone and is active and effective in all circumstances. Jesus commanded us to love, we are His body and in Him we are able to love, even our enemies. Hahaha it sounds a bit like loving is a chore and a command that burdens us, but it's really quite the opposite. God tells us to love like that because its a blessing and a great joy. It lets us be like Christ and teaches us more about God's perfect love. He is telling us how to be like Him and to enjoy and grow in the life He has breathed into us. To love others is better than to be loved by others, just like to give is better than to receive. Praise God that He has given us such a perfect amazing command/mission, one that blesses us and rewards us with more of Himself.  (Lord Jesus forgive me, and help me to love more, to be bold in sharing the gospel, and to keep my eyes fixed on You. Thank You Lord)    :)
This says it better than I could. Please read

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
"This I command you, that you love one another."
"For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome."
"Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever."
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has seen God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us."
"God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love."
"Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaint."
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good."
"keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life."
"Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth."
"But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."

Trust in Him and don't worry He is the one who fulfills His will in our lives and even the ability to love is a gift from God. We love because He first loved us. Love is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and something we get the privilege of bearing.

Redeemed, Reborn, Refreshed

When I was alone, afraid, destroyed, and utterly condemned,
His voice of love called out to me and named me as His friend,
I stood in hope, but still confused, my skin began to shed,
My sin a crown of thorns removed and placed on Him instead,
All of my flesh and self consumed, refined in Holy flame,
Renewed through grace I got new life, was given His own name,

I fell today in shame and dread, I thought I was alone,
But gracious and faithful as He is, He rescued His seed sown,
A sprout of life now grew within and steadily matured,
Even when life seems full of trials He keeps this child secured,
I walk the way alive in hope, to know Him is true life,
No more alone, but full of praise for Jesus sacrifice,

His perfect love casts out all fear, defeating evil's horde
Jesus my way, my truth, my life, my ever loving Lord

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philipians 4:4"

Psalm 100:4-5

Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise;
give thanks to Him and praise His name.
For the LORD is good and His love endures forever;
His faithfulness continues through all generations.

Praise the Lord Jesus!! Amen!

Questions and Encouragement

Questions for Today.

1.What are you seeking most right now?

(“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33” “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for THEY WILL BE filled. Matthew 5:6” Glory in His holy name; Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad.Seek the LORD and His strength;Seek His face continually. Remember His wonders which He has done,His marvels and the judgments uttered by His mouth. Psalm 105:3-5" "For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.Gal:1-10")



2.Why are you seeking it?

(“You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you(from James 4)”



3.Do you believe that what you’re seeking is His will for your life?

(“I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:13-15” "For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God. 1 Thess. 4:3:5" "The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.1 John 2:17)



5.Do you believe Jesus the Christ(Emmanuel, God with us) is in fact with you now?

(‘Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. For I am the Lord your God' Isaiah 43:1-3)



6.Do you believe He is coming again? Are you doing anything to prepare for the Way, for the King of Kings return, or His kingdom? (I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. Revelation 3:11)

(Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Matthew 28:18-20 Also read the letters to the Churches in the book of Revelation regarding overcoming the world in Christ)



8.Do you know how much He loves you or are you seeking only a temporary earthly love?

(‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16’ ‘For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39’ ‘And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17b-19’ "The LORD appeared to him from afar, saying,"I have loved you with an everlasting love;Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.")



9.Do you believe that He has a perfect plan for you?

(“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11”)



10.Do you know Him well enough to trust Him with your life instead of just trusting in yourself?

(Psalm 65)("Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD. and whose trust is the LORD" jer.17:7)(He who trusts in his own heart is a fool,But he who walks wisely will be delivered.Proverbs 28:26)



11.Do you go to God with all your worries, fears, cares, problems? Why not?

(Cast all your anxiety(worries, desires, fears, cares) on Him because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 ‘Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20) "Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me? Jeremiah 32:27"



12.When in doubt or troubled in heart, do you try to refocus your desires and hopes on Him?

("For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP THIER TONGUE FROM EVIL AND THIER LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. THEY MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; THEY MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL." 1 Peter 3:10-12)

(‘For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:16-17’ ‘Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31’ "Delightyourself in the LORD;And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:4-5")



“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33



Lord Jesus help me to remember these truths and to Keep Jesus First in my heart! :)

A Great Song: 'Be still, my soul'

"Psalm 94:19
When my anxious thoughts multiply within me,Your consolations delight my soul."

I didn't write this song (for those who thought I may have. It's an older hymn) but the other night I had a dream and this song was in my mind in the dream, when I woke up I remembered how much I liked it and so I thought I'd share it. God is so Good!! I'm sorry Lord Jesus for when I let my anxious thoughts multiply.



"Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change, He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake
To guide the future, as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.

Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past
All safe and blessèd we shall meet at last.

Be still, my soul: begin the song of praise
On earth, believing, to Thy Lord on high;
Acknowledge Him in all thy words and ways,
So shall He view thee with a well pleased eye.
Be still, my soul: the Sun of life divine
Through passing clouds shall but more brightly shine."

"Philippians 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

On Worshiping the Lord

"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." John 4:23-24

How do we worship Him in Spirit and in truth?
Through Christ Jesus living in us who is the truth and gives freely of His Spirit.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

"Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1

"from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way." James 3:10

"For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh--for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Romans 8:5-13

"In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:26-29

We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Praise God for another year!
Heavenly Father may Your name be holy and Your will be done and Your kingdom come on earth as it is in Heaven. Thank you Father for your love and for Jesus and for Your patience with me this last year. I pray that this year I'll trust in You and abide in You, and please forgive me my sins. Please use me to change this world for the better in any way that I can and strengthen my faith to fulfill Your plan for my life. Please help me to be a positive person and full of encouragement for those around me. I know how weak I am, but I also know that You use the weak things of the world, so I have high hopes. Please be with those I love and help Your church (and me as I'm part of it) to put You first and to love each other as you've commanded us. May our hearts be full of Your praises and our lives abiding with Your Spirit. Please keep us from temptation and the lies of the enemy. May Your praises, Your light, and power fill this Year with hope and blessings for those You love and those who love You. In Jesus name I pray. Thank You Lord! Amen!