Let me tell you guys about something that has been on my heart lately. This is sure to offend a few of my readers, but it is disgustingly true and I don't know how to say it any other way than just...say it.
Teenagers/youth are getting more and more pathetic. Just a quick rant: I feel like teenagers have to be poked and prodded through every process, they have to be spoon fed, don't raise the stakes, never manage their time, can't complete simple tasks, make up excuses for their laziness, and in general don't do.
Have I done this? By all means. Do I still fall into this? Most definitely. But, boy, oh boy, do I want more for myself, for you and for my generation? YES!
Some teenagers have it firmly engraved in their minds that youth is about playing around and not being responsible just because we are young and we "have our whole lives ahead of us." Like that is some sort of excuse for being lazy. Guys, the way you live and pattern your life now, will be how you live in your adult years. If you train yourself to blame your lack of accomplishment on things like school work, you will grow up and blame your lack of father-ship on your job...ect.
Guys, do you realize that you are the most formidable and impressionable during your teenage years?
I came across two interesting verses in Ecclesiastes 11:9 says, "Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the
days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of
your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into
judgment."
This verse is basically saying, "Go ahead! Do what you like, but know that you are going to stand before God one day and have to account for all of it."
Yikes.
Guys, my question for you today is: "Are you intentionally using your young years?" Do you know that your life is a gift? God has given you each breath. Every move you make, you make because of the grace of a loving God. We - you and me - are the generation that has the power to change history. We may be the generation to see Christ's return, or we may be the generation that will turn our country around again. We are going to be the generation that is called to stand up against homosexuality, protect our children from the world's perversity and possibly endure the most serious persecution that American Christians have ever had to face. WE ARE THAT GENERATION. Can't you see? If you aren't buckling down and saying, "I'm going to live my youth to my fullest potential, with God's glory and my future in mind" then what exactly are you living for? Today? For your momentary pleasure?
Listen to how James describes our lives. James 4:14 "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life?
You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
He calls our lives a vapor. When I think of vapor I think of (thanks to Carroll Carman) when you see your breath in cold weather. You see it, then it vanishes. That is our life compared to eternity. You have that short of a time to impact people, souls, history and the kingdom. That is your life! How can you possibly be okay wasting time and saying, "I forgot." "I can't." "What do they think of me?" "Why should I?" "I don't care." "This doesn't matter." "I'm too young."
You don't have time to mess around! If you want to be a Christian that DOES SOMETHING you have to do it now! I'm not saying that you can't have fun. I'm not saying that you have to go start a anti-slavery campaign right now. What you DO have to do, is start with what you have. Challenge yourself to be the greatest person - to the glory of God - that you can be with the tasks you have before you right now. If that means writing a paper with excellence, then by God, right it with excellence. If that means cleaning your room, then by God, clean your room with a happy heart. If that means taking responsibility for your mistakes, then humbly take responsibility. You see, your future, the pattern for your life, starts right now. The way you handle life, tasks, others and God will impact you eternally. Forever. Wrap your mind around that!!
Why waste your life? Because you're young? You may not have your adult years. You could be taken before you turn eighteen. If that happens, what will you have accomplished in your life? If you died right now, what would be the impacting thing that you did that everyone will remember you for? Will it be your kindness, your heart for the Kingdom, the way you encouraged, the way you ministered with your gifts, the way you were academically the best you could be unto God? Or...will you be just another average teenager that tragically died early? Are people going to rejoice that your years were fruitful, or will your parents wish that you had a few more years so you could actually do something with your life? Will you be remembered by your witty face-book updates, or your drive for excellence? This is a choice YOU and ONLY YOU can make.
You don't serve an average God, so don't be an average teenager! How can you be? How can you live a life of complacency when you are serving a supreme God? Don't settle for that. And don't live life for yourself, or so that your name will be known. Live it for God. More of Him and less of us.
The Bible says, "Don't despise your youth. But be an example."
We are the generation. We can either keep on lugging this ridiculous, good-for-nothing rep we've made for ourselves, or we can kick it and say, "No more! We live for the King now."
What are you going to do?
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Loving God with Your Money
When you hear, "give everything to God," what do you think about? I think about abandoning all and going to a foreign country to preach. But, of course, we all probably think of different things. I actually want to talk about loving God with our finances. And "giving it all" to Him.
In Sunday School this morning we talked about generosity and it got me thinking. I always get kinda depressed when people talk about giving all to Jesus. I mean, "all" is sorta all-inclusive. That must mean my money too. I want to give everything to Jesus, but I don't want to be car-less, poor, homeless and hungry in a few years.
If you have been in church, you've probably heard the story of the widow who came to the temple and gave Jesus just a teeny bit of money, but it was all she had. Literally, all she had. Jesus praised her for that in front of all the people there. And He sorta rebuked the rich people for making a big deal of their tithing when they had so much to give from.
I've always thought, "Well, thank you Miss Nameless Widow. Now, I've got some pretty high stakes to come against." By giving all she had, that widow really set a precedent. You know what I'm saying? So, since hearing that story, I've felt like I needed to give every drop of everything I have to charities, God, other people or whatever...
But then, I would be moneyless and that would kinda be stupid if I left myself with literally NO resources whatsoever. God helps those who help themselves, right? Some people might give everything everything they have. If they do, I'm sure they live a very exciting life. And God calls some people to this...I'm not saying that it should never happen. It does and there are awesome testimonies about those things. But, not every person is called to live that type of life.
After thinking about it, I realized I've had the wrong attitude about giving all along. Everything I possess is already God's. He owns it. I'm just His forgetful, prideful steward who thinks she owns everything. I believe that giving God all my finances requires a few things - it's a little more complex than just setting it all in the offering plate.
a). A willingness to part.
The first thing you need to love God with your finances is a willingness to part with it. I mean, it's not really yours anyway. Christ gave it to you and if He asks for it back, you need to give it with a cheerful heart.
b). A routine tithe.
The Bible tells us to tithe and I think it's a good practice to not hoard what we make for ourselves, but to give routinely. This demonstrates obedience to God's Word and a flexibility with your possessions.
c). Saving as habit.
I thought this was an interesting verse. Proverbs 21:20 "In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has." We are good stewards with what God has given us if we set some aside for the winter and difficult times. God provides, but we need to be responsible and not just blow all the money we earn. Notice the Bible says, "the FOOLISH man." And we know how God feels about fools.
d). Choosing to spend wisely.
There are ways to spend wisely. I think it's a totally dumb decision to go buy a new car just because you want to. There are other things that God can use your money with. Just because you have money doesn't mean you should blow it.
So, obviously this isn't an extensive list, but I'm just trying to point out how we can love God with our finances. We don't have to drop it all in a plate, but we do have to "give it" to God. Through a commitment to not be enslaved by debt, a commitment to give because you love Christ and the church, and a commitment to manage your budget for the glory of God.
Giving all to God doesn't necessarily mean you have to be poor and eat soaked bread crusts. I know that the Lord is pleased when families can say, "God, we have an emergency fund, our house is paid for, we aren't in debt to anyone, we pay our bills, we are responsible spenders, and we give tithe regularly." And people who have that type of lets-please-God-with-our-money attitude are going to be led by the Spirit to give of what they have.
Loving God with our money means being responsible and giving. Honestly, I feel like you too much of either is bad, but you have to sit right in the middle. :)
In Sunday School this morning we talked about generosity and it got me thinking. I always get kinda depressed when people talk about giving all to Jesus. I mean, "all" is sorta all-inclusive. That must mean my money too. I want to give everything to Jesus, but I don't want to be car-less, poor, homeless and hungry in a few years.
If you have been in church, you've probably heard the story of the widow who came to the temple and gave Jesus just a teeny bit of money, but it was all she had. Literally, all she had. Jesus praised her for that in front of all the people there. And He sorta rebuked the rich people for making a big deal of their tithing when they had so much to give from.
I've always thought, "Well, thank you Miss Nameless Widow. Now, I've got some pretty high stakes to come against." By giving all she had, that widow really set a precedent. You know what I'm saying? So, since hearing that story, I've felt like I needed to give every drop of everything I have to charities, God, other people or whatever...
But then, I would be moneyless and that would kinda be stupid if I left myself with literally NO resources whatsoever. God helps those who help themselves, right? Some people might give everything everything they have. If they do, I'm sure they live a very exciting life. And God calls some people to this...I'm not saying that it should never happen. It does and there are awesome testimonies about those things. But, not every person is called to live that type of life.
After thinking about it, I realized I've had the wrong attitude about giving all along. Everything I possess is already God's. He owns it. I'm just His forgetful, prideful steward who thinks she owns everything. I believe that giving God all my finances requires a few things - it's a little more complex than just setting it all in the offering plate.
a). A willingness to part.
The first thing you need to love God with your finances is a willingness to part with it. I mean, it's not really yours anyway. Christ gave it to you and if He asks for it back, you need to give it with a cheerful heart.
b). A routine tithe.
The Bible tells us to tithe and I think it's a good practice to not hoard what we make for ourselves, but to give routinely. This demonstrates obedience to God's Word and a flexibility with your possessions.
c). Saving as habit.
I thought this was an interesting verse. Proverbs 21:20 "In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has." We are good stewards with what God has given us if we set some aside for the winter and difficult times. God provides, but we need to be responsible and not just blow all the money we earn. Notice the Bible says, "the FOOLISH man." And we know how God feels about fools.
d). Choosing to spend wisely.
There are ways to spend wisely. I think it's a totally dumb decision to go buy a new car just because you want to. There are other things that God can use your money with. Just because you have money doesn't mean you should blow it.
So, obviously this isn't an extensive list, but I'm just trying to point out how we can love God with our finances. We don't have to drop it all in a plate, but we do have to "give it" to God. Through a commitment to not be enslaved by debt, a commitment to give because you love Christ and the church, and a commitment to manage your budget for the glory of God.
Giving all to God doesn't necessarily mean you have to be poor and eat soaked bread crusts. I know that the Lord is pleased when families can say, "God, we have an emergency fund, our house is paid for, we aren't in debt to anyone, we pay our bills, we are responsible spenders, and we give tithe regularly." And people who have that type of lets-please-God-with-our-money attitude are going to be led by the Spirit to give of what they have.
Loving God with our money means being responsible and giving. Honestly, I feel like you too much of either is bad, but you have to sit right in the middle. :)
Friday, January 13, 2012
Church, A Ritual?
Something is really heavy on my heart and it has been since I left Passion.
Church feels like a ritual. Think about it. We have a bulletin. We start at thus-and-so time and end directly at noon. We have announcements, we sing two praise songs, do this, do that, two more hymns, then a perfectly timed sermon.
Is this concerning anyone? Church feels dry and heartless, like a pointless habit that is just "part of life." There isn't any flare or difference, or PASSION. That is what I feel like we are lacking. Church is the same-ol' thing because not many people are passionate about serving and worshiping the Lord.
What happened to spontaneity just because we love Jesus?
At Passion, Louie Giglio actually invited whoever wanted to stand for the whole service to stand. He said, "we stand for the singing-worship part, but it is all worship." You know what happened? About 20,000 people stood for the whole service. I did. My attention was acute and I loved that session the most. You know what we did during that session? We read through the book of Ephesians. All five chapters. Just read it, with tons of people standing and listening. Okay, I have a question. What leaders say,, "Hey, lets invite tons of kids into the Georgia Dome and just read the Bible to them." Not many. But, you know what? They were trying to teach us the true living, active, weaponry of the Bible. And I learned that. The Bible is ACTIVE and ALIVE. But we aren't. This book, this powerful book, is in our hands and we aren't excited about it!!
What has happened to the church? Why does going to church make me feel like I'm following through with a displeasing ritual? Like I'm going just because it's necessary, not because I feel like God is pleased? GOD FORBID that my relationship with Him fall into ritual. The day I get monotonous with God, I get stagnant, I don't grow and I'm unhappy with myself and life. We cannot let the church be like this!!
What happened to spontaneity just because we love Jesus?
And you know what? I have been to some churches that allow their services to be lead by God, and they don't really bother with time or lunch plans. But, a lot of times, those are the churches that are judged and looked down on. You have no idea how many derogative comments I have heard made about thus-and-so church. They are showy. They sing meaningless songs that have the same words over and over. They aren't church-minded. They are too invitational. They have bad leadership. They don't do things like we do. They have VBS (as if that's a bad thing!). They have to many members. They are too big. Their ministry is spread too thin.
And on it goes.
In reality, I pity the church that can come up with all these problems with other churches. You know, they may sing the chorus of a song over and over but they might sing it with more heart than the way you sing your elaborate, wordy songs. They may have a bigger church, but that church might be a lot more passionate than your church.
Why do we pick at other churches? Why can't we be a global church that serves and loves God together? Yes, of course we are going to have different methods, but we shouldn't hate on other churches for having their methods. In fact, our diversity is what should bring us together and make us stronger, not drive us apart.
I guess at Passion I saw, for the first time, tons of Christians from all over the place, different denominations, and different backgrounds, loving and worshiping God together. After John Piper's bold statement about predestination, no one stomped out in a fury or got huffy. We all still sang our hearts out at the late-night concert and praised God's name together.
Honestly, I'm pretty excited that those are the Christians I have in my generation. I know the word "tolerance" has a lot of negative connotations, like putting up with Muslims and homosexuality. My generation is pretty good about tolerating things that shouldn't be tolerated. But, on the flip side, the are good at tolerating things that should be tolerated. Seems like the Christians my age are better at loving the global church - for what they are, not for the perfect church they think it should be.
Many Christians see so narrowly, but I am asking if it's impossible to see the big picture. To understand that people are loving Christ, and furthering the Kingdom, even if it's not in the same way as you.
I'm not saying we should embrace the church's flaws but its differences. It is our job to work out as many bumps as we can and be as true to the Bible as we can, but no one church is going to be able to change the other churches. So, embrace it for what IT IS!
Can we let the glory of God be the passion of the church? Let that be the thing that drives us to serve together.
As far as individual churches go, let's love the Word and never let ritual take over our worship.
Q4U: How has your church become ritual? Or has it? If not, explain why? If so, what can you do about it? Then, what are your thoughts about the global church?
Church feels like a ritual. Think about it. We have a bulletin. We start at thus-and-so time and end directly at noon. We have announcements, we sing two praise songs, do this, do that, two more hymns, then a perfectly timed sermon.
Is this concerning anyone? Church feels dry and heartless, like a pointless habit that is just "part of life." There isn't any flare or difference, or PASSION. That is what I feel like we are lacking. Church is the same-ol' thing because not many people are passionate about serving and worshiping the Lord.
What happened to spontaneity just because we love Jesus?
At Passion, Louie Giglio actually invited whoever wanted to stand for the whole service to stand. He said, "we stand for the singing-worship part, but it is all worship." You know what happened? About 20,000 people stood for the whole service. I did. My attention was acute and I loved that session the most. You know what we did during that session? We read through the book of Ephesians. All five chapters. Just read it, with tons of people standing and listening. Okay, I have a question. What leaders say,, "Hey, lets invite tons of kids into the Georgia Dome and just read the Bible to them." Not many. But, you know what? They were trying to teach us the true living, active, weaponry of the Bible. And I learned that. The Bible is ACTIVE and ALIVE. But we aren't. This book, this powerful book, is in our hands and we aren't excited about it!!
What has happened to the church? Why does going to church make me feel like I'm following through with a displeasing ritual? Like I'm going just because it's necessary, not because I feel like God is pleased? GOD FORBID that my relationship with Him fall into ritual. The day I get monotonous with God, I get stagnant, I don't grow and I'm unhappy with myself and life. We cannot let the church be like this!!
What happened to spontaneity just because we love Jesus?
And you know what? I have been to some churches that allow their services to be lead by God, and they don't really bother with time or lunch plans. But, a lot of times, those are the churches that are judged and looked down on. You have no idea how many derogative comments I have heard made about thus-and-so church. They are showy. They sing meaningless songs that have the same words over and over. They aren't church-minded. They are too invitational. They have bad leadership. They don't do things like we do. They have VBS (as if that's a bad thing!). They have to many members. They are too big. Their ministry is spread too thin.
And on it goes.
In reality, I pity the church that can come up with all these problems with other churches. You know, they may sing the chorus of a song over and over but they might sing it with more heart than the way you sing your elaborate, wordy songs. They may have a bigger church, but that church might be a lot more passionate than your church.
Why do we pick at other churches? Why can't we be a global church that serves and loves God together? Yes, of course we are going to have different methods, but we shouldn't hate on other churches for having their methods. In fact, our diversity is what should bring us together and make us stronger, not drive us apart.
I guess at Passion I saw, for the first time, tons of Christians from all over the place, different denominations, and different backgrounds, loving and worshiping God together. After John Piper's bold statement about predestination, no one stomped out in a fury or got huffy. We all still sang our hearts out at the late-night concert and praised God's name together.
Honestly, I'm pretty excited that those are the Christians I have in my generation. I know the word "tolerance" has a lot of negative connotations, like putting up with Muslims and homosexuality. My generation is pretty good about tolerating things that shouldn't be tolerated. But, on the flip side, the are good at tolerating things that should be tolerated. Seems like the Christians my age are better at loving the global church - for what they are, not for the perfect church they think it should be.
Many Christians see so narrowly, but I am asking if it's impossible to see the big picture. To understand that people are loving Christ, and furthering the Kingdom, even if it's not in the same way as you.
I'm not saying we should embrace the church's flaws but its differences. It is our job to work out as many bumps as we can and be as true to the Bible as we can, but no one church is going to be able to change the other churches. So, embrace it for what IT IS!
Can we let the glory of God be the passion of the church? Let that be the thing that drives us to serve together.
As far as individual churches go, let's love the Word and never let ritual take over our worship.
Q4U: How has your church become ritual? Or has it? If not, explain why? If so, what can you do about it? Then, what are your thoughts about the global church?
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Passion Songs
Two beautiful songs from Passion that everyone should hear. Just take a few minutes to listen.
Passion 2012: Spiritual Funerals
Did you know that during Jesus' time handling dead people was ceremoniously unclean? Rabbis of the day would do everything they could to make sure they didn't get near a dead body or they, the leaders of the religious people, would become unclean.
You know, Jesus didn't bother with these ceremonious issues. I love that.
At Passion, Louie Giglio talked to us about Luke 7. The passage begins in verse 7, where a widow is fixing to bury her son. A funeral is in procession. This woman was a widow, so she lost her husband, and then she lost her son. She had nothing.
Jesus had compassion on this woman. He said to her, "Don't cry" and then touched the stretcher - the one the dead body was on - telling the boy to rise from the dead.
This is a totally awesome picture of what Jesus does for us. A lot of us have funeral processions going on. Satan is using something in our lives to kill and bury us. But Jesus is waiting to intersect the funeral procession.
So, on hearing this message, I had to ask myself, "What is Satan using to bury me? What is carrying me away that Jesus has to heal? What is causing my funeral procession?" It was super convicting. And as I asked myself, I knew exactly what it was: anger. I am angry. I know I'm angry because I'm often irritable and agitated and I harbor a lot of feelings against some people who have done me wrong. For the first time, I realized that this is what was burying me and I needed help.
I'm so glad Jesus listens to me and hears my cries for rescue. How beautiful. Rabbis wouldn't even come near a funeral, but God came to one, had compassion and touched a body in order to heal it. I'm so unclean compared to my Jesus. He didn't have to touch me, but He did. He didn't have to intersect my funeral, but He did. He has a plan for my life.
Guys, I know this wasn't a really deep post, but I want you guys to think of something. What is burying you? What is it that Christ needs to bring you out of? If there is a funeral about to happen in your life, why is it happening? Have you trusted your own works instead of Christ's grace to save you? Are you harboring anger, like I was? Are you trapped in a cycle of lust? Are you afraid or worried about the future? Search yourself and pray that God will stop your spiritual funeral.
The best part of the passage is that it didn't end with the boy coming back from the dead. It ends witht he people at the funeral freaking out! They were spazzing. A dead boy came to life before their eyes! They witnessed a miracle! And they said, "God has come to help His people!"
You know, Jesus didn't bother with these ceremonious issues. I love that.
At Passion, Louie Giglio talked to us about Luke 7. The passage begins in verse 7, where a widow is fixing to bury her son. A funeral is in procession. This woman was a widow, so she lost her husband, and then she lost her son. She had nothing.
Jesus had compassion on this woman. He said to her, "Don't cry" and then touched the stretcher - the one the dead body was on - telling the boy to rise from the dead.
This is a totally awesome picture of what Jesus does for us. A lot of us have funeral processions going on. Satan is using something in our lives to kill and bury us. But Jesus is waiting to intersect the funeral procession.
So, on hearing this message, I had to ask myself, "What is Satan using to bury me? What is carrying me away that Jesus has to heal? What is causing my funeral procession?" It was super convicting. And as I asked myself, I knew exactly what it was: anger. I am angry. I know I'm angry because I'm often irritable and agitated and I harbor a lot of feelings against some people who have done me wrong. For the first time, I realized that this is what was burying me and I needed help.
I'm so glad Jesus listens to me and hears my cries for rescue. How beautiful. Rabbis wouldn't even come near a funeral, but God came to one, had compassion and touched a body in order to heal it. I'm so unclean compared to my Jesus. He didn't have to touch me, but He did. He didn't have to intersect my funeral, but He did. He has a plan for my life.
Guys, I know this wasn't a really deep post, but I want you guys to think of something. What is burying you? What is it that Christ needs to bring you out of? If there is a funeral about to happen in your life, why is it happening? Have you trusted your own works instead of Christ's grace to save you? Are you harboring anger, like I was? Are you trapped in a cycle of lust? Are you afraid or worried about the future? Search yourself and pray that God will stop your spiritual funeral.
The best part of the passage is that it didn't end with the boy coming back from the dead. It ends witht he people at the funeral freaking out! They were spazzing. A dead boy came to life before their eyes! They witnessed a miracle! And they said, "God has come to help His people!"
Friday, January 6, 2012
We Rocked the Dome
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| Google Images |
Speaking of singing, Lecrae, Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, Kristian Stanfill, Hillsong United, Charlie Hall, Christy Nockels, and Matthew Redman led the worship. Talk about great singing.
Speaking wise, Francis Chan, John Piper, Beth Moore, Louie Giglio, and Christine Caine spoke. Amazing sermons! Man, God did some fabulous things in my life - which I can't wait to tell you about.
Wanna know how Passion worked? I'll give you the lowdown. The day started pretty early in the morning. We had to walk about 20 minutes from our hotel to the dome, so we had to leave the hotel at 8:30 each morning. Both nights we didn't get back to the hotel until after one o'clock a.m. and then didn't get to sleep until about 2-ish. Then, we embraced the rising sun and got up early. Over the three nights, I got about 13 hours of sleep. Was it worth it? Completely.
A day went like this, eat breakfast and get out of hotel by 8:30. Walk to community group sessions. Go to first meeting. Eat lunch. Go to second meeting. Have free time and eat dinner - getting food was like an all evening thing since every food place in Atlanta was packed. The final session started at 7:00pm. Another community group meeting at 9:00pm. Late night concert at 11:15. Run back to hotel and then drop into bed in severe exhaustion at around 2:00am. Best schedule ever!
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| Neon Blue! |
The crowds were annoying at times, but it wouldn't have been the same without it! At times, I literally had to squish my way through people. It was cool though. I mean, thinking, "Wow, all of these people are here for God!" is neat. One time, I got stopped at the gate of the Dome and a security guard made me open like every pocket in my backpack and it separated me from the rest of the group for about 6 or 7 minutes. I was only 30 seconds behind them and I wouldn't have known it cause of all the people. Haha.
Seemed like we always ate on the floor. We ate Chick-fil-a on the floor of a food court. Interesting experience it was.
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| Kaitlin matching the hand. |
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| Chick-fil-A |
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| The Hand |
Okay. I LOVE this picture. It says so much. Jordan, Justin and Phil are just doing there own thing and Brian is being Brian. Look at him. He is wearing a backpack backwards and smiling it up. WOW.
All the ladies. I love these gals.
So, there were these prayer cards that everyone got and each one had a differnt time on it. Mine said 11:17 am. When that time came I had to stop what I was doing and pray for slavery to end. And when you were done, you would take the sticker on that prayer card and stick it to a big black letter somewhere in the Georgia Dome. It was pretty cool. There ended up being TONS of stickers on all these huge black letters all around the place. It was pretty epic. Becca took this picture. It's nice.
Phil, Brian and I sticking on our stickers.
I love these people. This is a shout out to Kaylin, Jordan, Becca, Brian, Phillip, Mary Elizabeth, Ansley, Caleb, Justin, Rich, Maria, and Kaitlin. Thank you SO MUCH for making my week SO incredible. I found friends in all of you.
Random pictures that turned out quite well. We took them in the middle of a crowd, which is pretty hard. Lol.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Headed to the Georgia Dome
In just two days I will join 22,000 other students in worship of the Lord.
Passion 2012, here I come.
Please pray for the hand of God to move mightily in each life, mine and everyone else's. Last year Passion raised 1,600,000 dollars for all types of causes; freedom of sex slaves, hunger, Haiti homes. . . Hopefully God will use this group of young people to be just as influential.
GEORGIA! Here we come. Be ready to see God's presence at the GEORGIA DOME!
Passion 2012, here I come.
Please pray for the hand of God to move mightily in each life, mine and everyone else's. Last year Passion raised 1,600,000 dollars for all types of causes; freedom of sex slaves, hunger, Haiti homes. . . Hopefully God will use this group of young people to be just as influential.
GEORGIA! Here we come. Be ready to see God's presence at the GEORGIA DOME!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
How to Stay Single Forever: A Guide to Utter Repulsiveness
If you want to stay single your entire life, then here are some good places to start. These things will make sure that no guy/girl is interested in you; thus, you won't have to worry or fret about the unknown, black waters of holding a relationship. I mean, who wants that stress? Try these things and who knows? Maybe you will never have to deal with that special person you've been dreading.
#1: Belch out loud.
For some reason people find pleasure out of burping the alphabet. If you do this, no wonder you're single. It's not cute. Not attractive. And not mature in the slightest. Guys, if you are trying to scare away girls, this is a lovely place to start. 99.999% of girls find burping totally repulsive. It's an unpleasant, bodily noise and if you're down-wind . . .well . . .need I say more? Women, this tactic works best for you all. Some people can tolerate men doing this, but a female? Heck no! It is unfeminine and just plain gross if you do it. Maybe you could pull it off in grade school, but by dating age? No way.
#2: Talk about yourself.
I've been in conversations with people who literally cannot talk about anyone but themselves. I wanted to run away and never speak to the person again. Bingo! There is your ticket! If you desire to live in solitude, be obsessed with yourself. Talk about your daily schedule, tell a weird story about you pet, describe in detail your mother's artichoke dip, and gab endlessly about anything the person you are trying to scare away won't care about. If you ask one single question about the other person, it might spark just a flare of hope that you aren't a self-obsessed jerk (which is how you want to be viewed, since in fact you desire no one special), so don't do it!
#3: Speak endlessly of finding yourself.
I'm not sure how you ever "find yourself" but if you talk about it all the time people are going to start wondering if you're lost.Not attractive.
#4: Mooch off your parents. Sorry, but it's not impressive if you are twenty years old and still depending off your parents for everything. It shows a lack of responsibility and proves that you are totally inconsiderate. So, if she seems interested in you (and you don't want her to be), slip the fact that you live in your mom's basement in the next conversation, or better yet post it on her Facebook wall. She won't stick around. (Disclaimer: I'm not dissing anyone. Obviously, this post is a joke.)
#5: Show off your gaming trophies and certificates.
I'm not sure there is anything as unattractive and annoying as someone who obsessed with video games. Games are okay in moderation. But, if you are the champion of Black Ops, Halo, Call of Duty, Runescape, and have beat every Xbox game. . .then, that's a little much. No person wants to have to compete for attention with a video game. If he starts talking about relationship stuff - your worst nightmare - then steer him towards your wall of awards. Proudly polish your "Frequent-Player" trophy and whip out the "Winner of the 2011 Gaming Conference" certificate.
#6: Text at inappropriate times.
There is a right time to text and a wrong time to text. All you have to do is pick the wrong times. In the middle of church service, text your buddy. While he is trying to have a conversation with you, whip that phone out and text a cousin you haven't talked to in forever - anything to seem utterly obnoxious. While everyone is working to raise money for a benefit, text. That's a great time to look totally into yourself. In class? At work? In an uncomfortable situation? Corned by the person you are trying to avoid? Just text.
#7: Complain.
Oh yes, a classic jewel. Complain about your sore feet, over-sized nose, the temperature, or anything you can think of to make sure that person knows you hate yourself and life.
#8: Act desperate.
Act lonely, needy and possessive. No one wants to go out of his/her way to find you in the corner and be social. If you are standing in the corner and acting pitiful, you will be left that way. Embrace this tactic. Better yet, get one other close friend to stand in the corner with you. The two of you must converse quietly while looking around the room fearfully. Maybe even nibble on cheese. If the other person tries to leave you, grab his/her hand and make a scene about how you can't be left alone.For those watching, this is just plain cah-REEPY.
#9: Be obsessed with Facebook. Nothing is less attractive than a girl who comments on every status and is a Facebook stalker. Tip: Bring facebook into every conversation. If she is trying to talk to you, ask accusingly, "Did you hear this on facebook?" Then, act uninterested in the answer is no. Stalk people as much as you can. If he comments on a picture, you comment on his comment. If he comments on a status, you comment too. Like what he Likes. Join the groups that he joins. Poke him all the time. Ew.
#10: Master your posture.
~ For men, walking is essential; hold your arms a good four or five inches from your side, hold your chest high, and whatever you do, DON'T swing your arms. Your arms must move to and fro with your body like stiff, muscular, bars of steel. Yes, you read it right. Muscular steel. If you can imagine what muscular steel looks like, be that. If you can't imagine it, watch the fights, then be that. This "Ima-gift-to-women" posture only works if you master your facial features. You must, and I mean MUST, master the straight face. A full smile communicates that you are happy and approachable, which is the last message you want to convey. And half-smile says you're comfortable and dashing. That's bad too. Try to avoid frowns because they draw too much attention. But, if you master the straight face, you'll be in business. To do this, look in a mirror for a while and relax your face muscles. Success is achieved when your lips form a straight line. Learn to do this constantly, even while people are trying to communicate with you and make you laugh. To top it off, acquire the eye-brow. Cock one eyebrow, slightly and stiffly over the other. This combo will make a stiff, awkward, unhappy-looking person. Perfect for your single needs. Keep in mind that this works best if you have zilch muscle and are a sissy boy in every regard.
~ For ladies, the ideal scare-all-men-away posture is simple and natural. First, slouch your shoulders as much as possible. If you do this, your neck will be like a protruding beacon and will look insanely large and unusual. If you really want to be repulsive, let your chin point towards the ceiling and leave your mouth slightly ajar. Next, never do anything with your arms. Let them hang like dead weights at your side and make sure they are like ripples from your body; they move like your body moves, only in exaggerated motions.When you walk, make sure that it's a light shuffle; allow people to hear each foot movement. And like with men, the face is very important. You have to keep your eyes on nothing in particular and have a hazy, dazed-out look.
Yeap, that's all I got for you, munchkins, you.
Peace, recycling, and solitude,
Dr. Love (aka Ashley)
#1: Belch out loud.
For some reason people find pleasure out of burping the alphabet. If you do this, no wonder you're single. It's not cute. Not attractive. And not mature in the slightest. Guys, if you are trying to scare away girls, this is a lovely place to start. 99.999% of girls find burping totally repulsive. It's an unpleasant, bodily noise and if you're down-wind . . .well . . .need I say more? Women, this tactic works best for you all. Some people can tolerate men doing this, but a female? Heck no! It is unfeminine and just plain gross if you do it. Maybe you could pull it off in grade school, but by dating age? No way.
#2: Talk about yourself.
I've been in conversations with people who literally cannot talk about anyone but themselves. I wanted to run away and never speak to the person again. Bingo! There is your ticket! If you desire to live in solitude, be obsessed with yourself. Talk about your daily schedule, tell a weird story about you pet, describe in detail your mother's artichoke dip, and gab endlessly about anything the person you are trying to scare away won't care about. If you ask one single question about the other person, it might spark just a flare of hope that you aren't a self-obsessed jerk (which is how you want to be viewed, since in fact you desire no one special), so don't do it!
#3: Speak endlessly of finding yourself.
I'm not sure how you ever "find yourself" but if you talk about it all the time people are going to start wondering if you're lost.Not attractive.
#4: Mooch off your parents. Sorry, but it's not impressive if you are twenty years old and still depending off your parents for everything. It shows a lack of responsibility and proves that you are totally inconsiderate. So, if she seems interested in you (and you don't want her to be), slip the fact that you live in your mom's basement in the next conversation, or better yet post it on her Facebook wall. She won't stick around. (Disclaimer: I'm not dissing anyone. Obviously, this post is a joke.)
#5: Show off your gaming trophies and certificates.
I'm not sure there is anything as unattractive and annoying as someone who obsessed with video games. Games are okay in moderation. But, if you are the champion of Black Ops, Halo, Call of Duty, Runescape, and have beat every Xbox game. . .then, that's a little much. No person wants to have to compete for attention with a video game. If he starts talking about relationship stuff - your worst nightmare - then steer him towards your wall of awards. Proudly polish your "Frequent-Player" trophy and whip out the "Winner of the 2011 Gaming Conference" certificate.
#6: Text at inappropriate times.
There is a right time to text and a wrong time to text. All you have to do is pick the wrong times. In the middle of church service, text your buddy. While he is trying to have a conversation with you, whip that phone out and text a cousin you haven't talked to in forever - anything to seem utterly obnoxious. While everyone is working to raise money for a benefit, text. That's a great time to look totally into yourself. In class? At work? In an uncomfortable situation? Corned by the person you are trying to avoid? Just text.
#7: Complain.
Oh yes, a classic jewel. Complain about your sore feet, over-sized nose, the temperature, or anything you can think of to make sure that person knows you hate yourself and life.
#8: Act desperate.
Act lonely, needy and possessive. No one wants to go out of his/her way to find you in the corner and be social. If you are standing in the corner and acting pitiful, you will be left that way. Embrace this tactic. Better yet, get one other close friend to stand in the corner with you. The two of you must converse quietly while looking around the room fearfully. Maybe even nibble on cheese. If the other person tries to leave you, grab his/her hand and make a scene about how you can't be left alone.For those watching, this is just plain cah-REEPY.
#9: Be obsessed with Facebook. Nothing is less attractive than a girl who comments on every status and is a Facebook stalker. Tip: Bring facebook into every conversation. If she is trying to talk to you, ask accusingly, "Did you hear this on facebook?" Then, act uninterested in the answer is no. Stalk people as much as you can. If he comments on a picture, you comment on his comment. If he comments on a status, you comment too. Like what he Likes. Join the groups that he joins. Poke him all the time. Ew.
#10: Master your posture.
~ For men, walking is essential; hold your arms a good four or five inches from your side, hold your chest high, and whatever you do, DON'T swing your arms. Your arms must move to and fro with your body like stiff, muscular, bars of steel. Yes, you read it right. Muscular steel. If you can imagine what muscular steel looks like, be that. If you can't imagine it, watch the fights, then be that. This "Ima-gift-to-women" posture only works if you master your facial features. You must, and I mean MUST, master the straight face. A full smile communicates that you are happy and approachable, which is the last message you want to convey. And half-smile says you're comfortable and dashing. That's bad too. Try to avoid frowns because they draw too much attention. But, if you master the straight face, you'll be in business. To do this, look in a mirror for a while and relax your face muscles. Success is achieved when your lips form a straight line. Learn to do this constantly, even while people are trying to communicate with you and make you laugh. To top it off, acquire the eye-brow. Cock one eyebrow, slightly and stiffly over the other. This combo will make a stiff, awkward, unhappy-looking person. Perfect for your single needs. Keep in mind that this works best if you have zilch muscle and are a sissy boy in every regard.
~ For ladies, the ideal scare-all-men-away posture is simple and natural. First, slouch your shoulders as much as possible. If you do this, your neck will be like a protruding beacon and will look insanely large and unusual. If you really want to be repulsive, let your chin point towards the ceiling and leave your mouth slightly ajar. Next, never do anything with your arms. Let them hang like dead weights at your side and make sure they are like ripples from your body; they move like your body moves, only in exaggerated motions.When you walk, make sure that it's a light shuffle; allow people to hear each foot movement. And like with men, the face is very important. You have to keep your eyes on nothing in particular and have a hazy, dazed-out look.
Yeap, that's all I got for you, munchkins, you.
Peace, recycling, and solitude,
Dr. Love (aka Ashley)
© 2011 Dr. Love.
Feel free to share the included wisdom with those in need, but reference the author, Dr. Ashley Love.
Monday, December 26, 2011
My Many Homes
So, I got to celebrate Christmas a few times.
On the twenty-third with my mother and sister. We opened presents from each other and had a really good time laughing, eating, cleaning the house and watching a movie.
Then, we celebrated on the 24th with my Nashville family. Man, I can't even begin to describe how wonderful the time was. I got to be with ALL my brothers - which rarely happens because everyone has different schedules and lives so far away. Well, we chatted it up and played with my nephew, Kyle, and talked to my brother, Kalen, and Peggy about their coming baby. Poor Peggy is due in just a few days - she was craving chocolate too. So funny and adorable. My youngest brother, Micah, was jamming on the guitar, and my oldest brother, Jayson was trying hard to keep Kyle out of trouble. Graham was gabbing his head off about planes and I stood in the midst of it all, totally in love with my brothers.
Then, I celebrated Christmas, on Christmas (finally) with my second Nashville family - the Watsons. Okay, well they are not really my family, but they might as well be. Supposedly, Becca, Jessy, Carlee and I were sisters at birth, but our parents decided to spilt us up between another couple because we were too awesome of children for them to hoard all for themselves. The original parents are undetermined because they deny the truth of the story. Well, that is at least the rumor that's going around. . . Anyhow, we had SO much fun. Wow. I honestly would never have chosen to spend the day any other way. The Watson's had some of their family in. Their Grammie, Papa, Grandma and cousins. So, it was good to see of my extended family.
Today, I celebrated with my St. Louis MO family. All the kids, cousins, Aunts and Uncles. It was a total riot and always is. I suggested compiling a legal document, declaring that none of the parents or teenagers would be liable in case of a child's injury during present-unwrapping time. But, that was sorta a fail. Seriously guys, we have 10 kids in the family all under 11. When it's time to unwrap presents, I tuck myself safely in a corner and I'm picking pieces of wrapping paper out of my hair for a few hours. . .
Guys, I'm not going to lie; God has really dished me a load of challenges in this life. There are a ton of things that I wish were different about my family. But, during times like this - namely Christmas Eve with my Nashville family - I wonder what I don't have. If things weren't the way they were, I very likely may not even have the privilege of knowing my precious brothers and being a part of my two nephews' life. I wouldn't know the joy of family reconciliation, if I had never known a broken family. I would not know the beauty of love-despite-the-circumstances, if I had never witnessed the circumstances.
I find that insanely ironic and beautiful. Given the chance, what would I change? What would be different? Nothing. Honestly, nothing. I love what I have too much. When you are right in the middle of a situation, sometimes it's hard to see God's timely planning and why He's doing what He's doing. But, lemme tell you, don't give up on God; He actually does know what He is doing - no matter how hopeless you feel and how annoyed you are at Him. Just wait.
I realized something this Christmas. If anything was to ever happen to me or my family, we would have a lot of homes. I have a lot of homes outside my home. I'm incredibly loved. I can't believe that, but it's true. I don't understand what is lovable about me, but for some reason, I could count dozens of people that would take me in in half a heartbeat.
Forgive me, Lord, for taking such a thing for granted. Many people in this world don't know what family is. I have family; immediate family, extended family.. . .adopted family. . .and the family of God.
But, pushing aside the earthly, there is one love and one home that trills me more than the rest - by far! I have a home outside of this home and out of this world. Heaven. There is someone who has promised to take me and has taken me; My Jesus. What a love, man. I thought this family was awesome, but - whoo - my heavenly daddy has put this earthly congregation to shame. word.
I was glad to be reminded of this on Christmas. We watched The Nativity on Christmas and it was so incredible how Christ (the Highest King of Kings) came as a baby to be humbly born, humbly rule and gloriously save the people of the world from their sins. For me and for you. To top that craziness, He has promised us a heavenly home.
Yeah. I have earthly insurance; I know that if anything happens to me, my family or my house, I will have people to care for me. But, if something happens to my body and I die, God has promised to house my soul (and eventually my glorified body) forever. What beauty!
Today, I'm thanking God for my many homes; earthly and heavenly. I'm thanking God for allowing my family and my life to be the way it is. For allowing me to witness the joys and pleasures I have. For bringing special companions into my life and - the greatest of all - for holding my hand the whole time.
All the time, God is good. God is good, all the time.
On the twenty-third with my mother and sister. We opened presents from each other and had a really good time laughing, eating, cleaning the house and watching a movie.
Then, we celebrated on the 24th with my Nashville family. Man, I can't even begin to describe how wonderful the time was. I got to be with ALL my brothers - which rarely happens because everyone has different schedules and lives so far away. Well, we chatted it up and played with my nephew, Kyle, and talked to my brother, Kalen, and Peggy about their coming baby. Poor Peggy is due in just a few days - she was craving chocolate too. So funny and adorable. My youngest brother, Micah, was jamming on the guitar, and my oldest brother, Jayson was trying hard to keep Kyle out of trouble. Graham was gabbing his head off about planes and I stood in the midst of it all, totally in love with my brothers.
Then, I celebrated Christmas, on Christmas (finally) with my second Nashville family - the Watsons. Okay, well they are not really my family, but they might as well be. Supposedly, Becca, Jessy, Carlee and I were sisters at birth, but our parents decided to spilt us up between another couple because we were too awesome of children for them to hoard all for themselves. The original parents are undetermined because they deny the truth of the story. Well, that is at least the rumor that's going around. . . Anyhow, we had SO much fun. Wow. I honestly would never have chosen to spend the day any other way. The Watson's had some of their family in. Their Grammie, Papa, Grandma and cousins. So, it was good to see of my extended family.
Today, I celebrated with my St. Louis MO family. All the kids, cousins, Aunts and Uncles. It was a total riot and always is. I suggested compiling a legal document, declaring that none of the parents or teenagers would be liable in case of a child's injury during present-unwrapping time. But, that was sorta a fail. Seriously guys, we have 10 kids in the family all under 11. When it's time to unwrap presents, I tuck myself safely in a corner and I'm picking pieces of wrapping paper out of my hair for a few hours. . .
Guys, I'm not going to lie; God has really dished me a load of challenges in this life. There are a ton of things that I wish were different about my family. But, during times like this - namely Christmas Eve with my Nashville family - I wonder what I don't have. If things weren't the way they were, I very likely may not even have the privilege of knowing my precious brothers and being a part of my two nephews' life. I wouldn't know the joy of family reconciliation, if I had never known a broken family. I would not know the beauty of love-despite-the-circumstances, if I had never witnessed the circumstances.
I find that insanely ironic and beautiful. Given the chance, what would I change? What would be different? Nothing. Honestly, nothing. I love what I have too much. When you are right in the middle of a situation, sometimes it's hard to see God's timely planning and why He's doing what He's doing. But, lemme tell you, don't give up on God; He actually does know what He is doing - no matter how hopeless you feel and how annoyed you are at Him. Just wait.
I realized something this Christmas. If anything was to ever happen to me or my family, we would have a lot of homes. I have a lot of homes outside my home. I'm incredibly loved. I can't believe that, but it's true. I don't understand what is lovable about me, but for some reason, I could count dozens of people that would take me in in half a heartbeat.
Forgive me, Lord, for taking such a thing for granted. Many people in this world don't know what family is. I have family; immediate family, extended family.. . .adopted family. . .and the family of God.
But, pushing aside the earthly, there is one love and one home that trills me more than the rest - by far! I have a home outside of this home and out of this world. Heaven. There is someone who has promised to take me and has taken me; My Jesus. What a love, man. I thought this family was awesome, but - whoo - my heavenly daddy has put this earthly congregation to shame. word.
I was glad to be reminded of this on Christmas. We watched The Nativity on Christmas and it was so incredible how Christ (the Highest King of Kings) came as a baby to be humbly born, humbly rule and gloriously save the people of the world from their sins. For me and for you. To top that craziness, He has promised us a heavenly home.
Yeah. I have earthly insurance; I know that if anything happens to me, my family or my house, I will have people to care for me. But, if something happens to my body and I die, God has promised to house my soul (and eventually my glorified body) forever. What beauty!
Today, I'm thanking God for my many homes; earthly and heavenly. I'm thanking God for allowing my family and my life to be the way it is. For allowing me to witness the joys and pleasures I have. For bringing special companions into my life and - the greatest of all - for holding my hand the whole time.
All the time, God is good. God is good, all the time.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Just A Shout Out
Right now it's midnight. I'm waiting to see if my SAT scores will come out on the stroke of midnight. Ya know, my SAT has really been a source of stress for me. I've been all OCD about getting amazing grades so I can get into my ideal college choices. I've taken the SAT three times and the ACT once. Let's just say that every time I take them, I get pretty uptight. For some reason, I have felt like only a perfect-incredibly-above-average score is acceptable. But, it's not. No, there are lots of other scores completely acceptable. Everything I do, I want to be perfect at. But ya know what? I made a discovery; if I'm good at everything, how can I be great at anything? I'm smart. I study hard. But, I would never venture in calling myself an academically inclined student. Yes, I know how to study and get good grades, but that is a lot different than natural smarts and testing skills. I don't have those things.
This fact used to totally eat me to pieces. I was not satisfied with my SAT grades. My highest grades thus far is a 1680 (SAT) and a 23 (ACT).
So, I took it over and over, determined to be noticed for my academic achievements. Well, I learned something, I'm never going to be recognized because of my academic achievements, cause I haven't done that much.
Before, this fact killed me. But now, I don't really care that much. Don't get me wrong; I believe in doing your best in everything, but I think I've let good grades and recognition become and idol in my life. I don't have to be perfect. No one (especially not God, who really is the only one who matters) is going to judge or hate me because I didn't get a 2400 on my SAT. No one. Just myself.
And it doesn't matter what grade I get and what college I go to - as long as I'm serving the Lord, that is really all that matters. The rest will just burn with the earth one day.
I could let the thought that everything is going to burn depress me, but it doesn't. Somehow, I don't find that thought depressing at all! In fact, it's inspirational! The things I don't do for Christ will be gone with the wind one day, but the things I do do unto His name and His glory will store up treasure in Heaven. Therefore, I can't worry or fret or idolize anything, except my Savior.
It's late and I don't know if you all are picking up what I'm laying down, but I find this thought rather cool. It's freeing to realize that idolizing something is just a waste of time. Idolizing school, music, friends, or whatever is pointless.
So why do it?
I think getting a good grade would be pleasing to God, but now, I don't really care what I got. I did my best and the results are up to Him. I'm not going to worry,stress or fear. If my scores mean that I have to take remedial classes, then He will help me take them whole-heartedly.
Well, they haven't be released so I'm going to bed.
This fact used to totally eat me to pieces. I was not satisfied with my SAT grades. My highest grades thus far is a 1680 (SAT) and a 23 (ACT).
So, I took it over and over, determined to be noticed for my academic achievements. Well, I learned something, I'm never going to be recognized because of my academic achievements, cause I haven't done that much.
Before, this fact killed me. But now, I don't really care that much. Don't get me wrong; I believe in doing your best in everything, but I think I've let good grades and recognition become and idol in my life. I don't have to be perfect. No one (especially not God, who really is the only one who matters) is going to judge or hate me because I didn't get a 2400 on my SAT. No one. Just myself.
And it doesn't matter what grade I get and what college I go to - as long as I'm serving the Lord, that is really all that matters. The rest will just burn with the earth one day.
I could let the thought that everything is going to burn depress me, but it doesn't. Somehow, I don't find that thought depressing at all! In fact, it's inspirational! The things I don't do for Christ will be gone with the wind one day, but the things I do do unto His name and His glory will store up treasure in Heaven. Therefore, I can't worry or fret or idolize anything, except my Savior.
It's late and I don't know if you all are picking up what I'm laying down, but I find this thought rather cool. It's freeing to realize that idolizing something is just a waste of time. Idolizing school, music, friends, or whatever is pointless.
So why do it?
I think getting a good grade would be pleasing to God, but now, I don't really care what I got. I did my best and the results are up to Him. I'm not going to worry,stress or fear. If my scores mean that I have to take remedial classes, then He will help me take them whole-heartedly.
Well, they haven't be released so I'm going to bed.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Rotting Teeth, Overalls and All Associated Thoughts
Sometimes, I think thoughts about other people that appall me the moment I think them. I guess this is a good thing. Good that I recognize them as appalling, I mean.
But, yesterday, at work I had a ridiculously awful thought about a costumer that came in. He and his wife were obviously hillbillies, had rotting teeth, and looked like they just walked off of Old McDonald's farm.
When they came up to my register, I thought, "Ew."
Literally. That is what I said to myself.
But as soon as I did, I realized how utterly sinful that was of me. How could I judge these two people by the way they looked? Yes, they were definitely rough, but for me to draw a conclusion about them was nothing short of wrong. By seeing a human that seemed like a "lower-life being" (for lack of a better word), I automatically got a prideful attitude - feeling like I was not as gross and disgusting as them. Yeah, rotting teeth are not something anyone would wish for, but my overall conclusion of them had a lot less to do with their teeth than it did with my pride. I got a little puffed up because I was "better" than them (and like I have anything to do with that!!).
Thankfully, God convicted me right after I thought that. It was like He said, "Ashley, remember me?" Yes, instantly, I remembered Him.
There is something dirtier and grosser than any person on earth: my sin. I tried to offer it to the Lord, but He said, "No good." Only His Son's sacrifice would do. How could I forget that favor bestowed on me? How could I forget that the Holy Lamb of God, took my filthy rags, my offensive sin, and my unworthy soul and made it white as snow on the cross. How could I forget that the Son left glorious Heaven to sleep in a manger with prickly hay and animals?
How on earth could I forget that Christ left His Father to eat with sinners, to heal their diseases and to love them? He came across a lot of freaky looking people - I assure you. He touched lepers! If you don't know, lepers have a disease called leprosy which makes parts of your body and your facial features fall off. And I'm weirded out by some rotting teeth and overalls? How superficial I am!
Jesus came to walk and talk with adulterers. He spoke with the blind, deaf, and lame. Man, some of His biggest fans were some really "low-life beings." And how did Jesus react? With love and mercy. He touched them and was surrounded by them. He didn't say, "ew" like He could have. He showed them the way to heaven because He wanted to bear their sin and their imperfections. He wanted to spend eternity with them. He wanted them to know life.
Wow. I'm so sinful.
I am super thankful that God convicted me of that right when I thought it. I decided to make an extra special effort to reach out to them - I guess I was trying to make up for what I thought. I ended up really liking those two. They were hearty, country people and they were totally fun. We talked a little about Christmas, and I even found something in common between me and him - he was gluten free!
After they took their food to the table, I vowed to not make deductions like that again. I can never see into the heart . . . but even if I could, I wouldn't be permitted to judge any way. I would still be commanded to love.
Several verses would fit nicely here, but one sticks out in my mind. Micah 6:8, "He has shown thee, oh man, what is good and what the Lord requires of thee. To do justly, lvoe mercy and to walk humbly with thy God."
Three areas where I totally failed. I wasn't fair, wasn't merciful and was definitely NOT humble.
Glad we have a forgiving God.
But, yesterday, at work I had a ridiculously awful thought about a costumer that came in. He and his wife were obviously hillbillies, had rotting teeth, and looked like they just walked off of Old McDonald's farm.
When they came up to my register, I thought, "Ew."
Literally. That is what I said to myself.
But as soon as I did, I realized how utterly sinful that was of me. How could I judge these two people by the way they looked? Yes, they were definitely rough, but for me to draw a conclusion about them was nothing short of wrong. By seeing a human that seemed like a "lower-life being" (for lack of a better word), I automatically got a prideful attitude - feeling like I was not as gross and disgusting as them. Yeah, rotting teeth are not something anyone would wish for, but my overall conclusion of them had a lot less to do with their teeth than it did with my pride. I got a little puffed up because I was "better" than them (and like I have anything to do with that!!).
Thankfully, God convicted me right after I thought that. It was like He said, "Ashley, remember me?" Yes, instantly, I remembered Him.
There is something dirtier and grosser than any person on earth: my sin. I tried to offer it to the Lord, but He said, "No good." Only His Son's sacrifice would do. How could I forget that favor bestowed on me? How could I forget that the Holy Lamb of God, took my filthy rags, my offensive sin, and my unworthy soul and made it white as snow on the cross. How could I forget that the Son left glorious Heaven to sleep in a manger with prickly hay and animals?
How on earth could I forget that Christ left His Father to eat with sinners, to heal their diseases and to love them? He came across a lot of freaky looking people - I assure you. He touched lepers! If you don't know, lepers have a disease called leprosy which makes parts of your body and your facial features fall off. And I'm weirded out by some rotting teeth and overalls? How superficial I am!
Jesus came to walk and talk with adulterers. He spoke with the blind, deaf, and lame. Man, some of His biggest fans were some really "low-life beings." And how did Jesus react? With love and mercy. He touched them and was surrounded by them. He didn't say, "ew" like He could have. He showed them the way to heaven because He wanted to bear their sin and their imperfections. He wanted to spend eternity with them. He wanted them to know life.
Wow. I'm so sinful.
I am super thankful that God convicted me of that right when I thought it. I decided to make an extra special effort to reach out to them - I guess I was trying to make up for what I thought. I ended up really liking those two. They were hearty, country people and they were totally fun. We talked a little about Christmas, and I even found something in common between me and him - he was gluten free!
After they took their food to the table, I vowed to not make deductions like that again. I can never see into the heart . . . but even if I could, I wouldn't be permitted to judge any way. I would still be commanded to love.
Several verses would fit nicely here, but one sticks out in my mind. Micah 6:8, "He has shown thee, oh man, what is good and what the Lord requires of thee. To do justly, lvoe mercy and to walk humbly with thy God."
Three areas where I totally failed. I wasn't fair, wasn't merciful and was definitely NOT humble.
Glad we have a forgiving God.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Oh, So College Really Isn't About Me?
Okay, so I've had a ridiculously selfish attitude about college. For some reason, I've been under the impression that I need to attend a place that is going to be comfortable and perfect for me. I didn't want to go to a non-Christian school and I wasn't too hip on going to VolState, since that is the least exciting and glamorous place I could be.
Well, gradually God has been changing this attitude in me. Thank goodness. I don't know what ever made me feel like that attitude was acceptable or pleasing to God. My life isn't about me . . . much less college.
College decisions have been very heavy for me. See, I worry a lot. I fret and think (too much) about one decision for a long time. I like to plan waaaay ahead. So when I felt like I was being led to declare a different major, I was really thrown for a loop. Suddenly, I got really really stressed out about school. Nothing felt comfortable any more because my set-in-stone (right) plan had been devastated.
Honestly, I think I sinned a lot during that whole process. God tells us to trust Him and not too worry. I didn't trust. Guys, I was SO stressed out. Looking back, I can't even put a finger on exactly why I was. I was doing mega research, trying to make sure I knew exactly what I was doing, like I'd never heard of "changing majors" or "taking a different path" before. I kinda felt like I had to have a concrete plan for the next four years.
Not so. Only God has a concrete plan. No duh.
Eventually, God kinda said, "Hey, Ash, you are kinda being a brat about the college situation." And He was right. I was being a brat. I was whining all the time because I didn't have this and that figured out and this was still up in the air. . .
Then it got worse. My area of interest changed and that left one practical college option: VolState.
My first thought: "Ew."
I didn't want to go to VolState. Anywhere but there. I had heard too many horror stories about the college's shortcomings. But, when I laid out my options, I couldn't deny that it was the wisest choice. And dang it, since I want to be like Christ I guess I have to be wise. . . :D
I was invited into their honors program, so I went to the Honors Night to see how it's done. Weeeellll, whaddaya know? The guy who heads up the program is no one other than Doctor Pemintel, my sister's least favorite teacher. I won't even go into some of the awful things he has done.
Anyhow, needless to say, I was really discouraged. I didn't want to go to Volstate and I DEFINITELY didn't want to be in their honors program.
I was crushed. In order to do what I wanted to do in college, I couldn't go to a glam-glam school, with nice dorms, Christian education, and a tight-knit community. I would have to give up my dreams of being comfortable and having everything my way and resort to staying at home another year and attend low budget community college.
I whined. A lot. And I feel really bad about that. How can I feel like whining to God is okay?
But, God has been working in me and I'm so excited about that. He has been changing my heart and mind about this whole situation. For some reason, I'm not so bummed about going to VolState. I'm excited about it. I'm excited about furthering my education and I'm not even concerned about where that takes place.
I finally realized that college isn't about me. Freeing thought, right? Once I realized that, the decisions and pressures of college seriously reduced. If I'm just going for God, then I can make a wise, practical decision and be sanctified through whatever situation that choice leads me into. You know, God really does have a method to His madness. When He says, "trust Me" it's actually for a reason. Some people (like me) just learn that very slowly. . .
So, the decision has been made. I'm going to VolState. I don't know where one year will take me and I really don't care. I'm going to go, do my best and see what happens.
I've been even more encouraged about this after talking to a friend, JP, on Thursday night. He was sharing with me some of the ministries on his college campus that he has been able to be a part of and the people he has been in contact with. It kinda dawned on me, "Ya know, it doesn't matter where I am, this is what I've been commissioned to do!" Share the Gospel and glorify God!
The first person I met at VolState was a lesbian. This totally freaked me out at first. Then I realized what an incredible sacrifice God has made. He gave up the glories of Heaven and loved and cherished sinners. Surely, I can give up a few of my petty ideals without murmuring. Surely, I can learn to embrace this situation. Surely, I can be strengthened to witness that girl. Surely, I will educated.
Through God, of course. And doesn't everything revolve around Him? Through Him, for Him, with Him . . .
It really isn't about me.
Well, gradually God has been changing this attitude in me. Thank goodness. I don't know what ever made me feel like that attitude was acceptable or pleasing to God. My life isn't about me . . . much less college.
College decisions have been very heavy for me. See, I worry a lot. I fret and think (too much) about one decision for a long time. I like to plan waaaay ahead. So when I felt like I was being led to declare a different major, I was really thrown for a loop. Suddenly, I got really really stressed out about school. Nothing felt comfortable any more because my set-in-stone (right) plan had been devastated.
Honestly, I think I sinned a lot during that whole process. God tells us to trust Him and not too worry. I didn't trust. Guys, I was SO stressed out. Looking back, I can't even put a finger on exactly why I was. I was doing mega research, trying to make sure I knew exactly what I was doing, like I'd never heard of "changing majors" or "taking a different path" before. I kinda felt like I had to have a concrete plan for the next four years.
Not so. Only God has a concrete plan. No duh.
Eventually, God kinda said, "Hey, Ash, you are kinda being a brat about the college situation." And He was right. I was being a brat. I was whining all the time because I didn't have this and that figured out and this was still up in the air. . .
Then it got worse. My area of interest changed and that left one practical college option: VolState.
My first thought: "Ew."
I didn't want to go to VolState. Anywhere but there. I had heard too many horror stories about the college's shortcomings. But, when I laid out my options, I couldn't deny that it was the wisest choice. And dang it, since I want to be like Christ I guess I have to be wise. . . :D
I was invited into their honors program, so I went to the Honors Night to see how it's done. Weeeellll, whaddaya know? The guy who heads up the program is no one other than Doctor Pemintel, my sister's least favorite teacher. I won't even go into some of the awful things he has done.
Anyhow, needless to say, I was really discouraged. I didn't want to go to Volstate and I DEFINITELY didn't want to be in their honors program.
I was crushed. In order to do what I wanted to do in college, I couldn't go to a glam-glam school, with nice dorms, Christian education, and a tight-knit community. I would have to give up my dreams of being comfortable and having everything my way and resort to staying at home another year and attend low budget community college.
I whined. A lot. And I feel really bad about that. How can I feel like whining to God is okay?
But, God has been working in me and I'm so excited about that. He has been changing my heart and mind about this whole situation. For some reason, I'm not so bummed about going to VolState. I'm excited about it. I'm excited about furthering my education and I'm not even concerned about where that takes place.
I finally realized that college isn't about me. Freeing thought, right? Once I realized that, the decisions and pressures of college seriously reduced. If I'm just going for God, then I can make a wise, practical decision and be sanctified through whatever situation that choice leads me into. You know, God really does have a method to His madness. When He says, "trust Me" it's actually for a reason. Some people (like me) just learn that very slowly. . .
So, the decision has been made. I'm going to VolState. I don't know where one year will take me and I really don't care. I'm going to go, do my best and see what happens.
I've been even more encouraged about this after talking to a friend, JP, on Thursday night. He was sharing with me some of the ministries on his college campus that he has been able to be a part of and the people he has been in contact with. It kinda dawned on me, "Ya know, it doesn't matter where I am, this is what I've been commissioned to do!" Share the Gospel and glorify God!
Freeing. Simply freeing.
The first person I met at VolState was a lesbian. This totally freaked me out at first. Then I realized what an incredible sacrifice God has made. He gave up the glories of Heaven and loved and cherished sinners. Surely, I can give up a few of my petty ideals without murmuring. Surely, I can learn to embrace this situation. Surely, I can be strengthened to witness that girl. Surely, I will educated.
Through God, of course. And doesn't everything revolve around Him? Through Him, for Him, with Him . . .
It really isn't about me.
Freeing. Simply freeing.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
But God
Today, I was in I awe of the Gospel. May it never stop awing us.
I was reading John 6 - my favorite book of the Bible, by the way - and I read a section about Jesus witnessing. I was suddenly struck with wonder at the simplicity of the Gospel. It is so straightforward and understandable. No other religion is like that. Most religions (if not all) require some action in order to be worthy, holy or enter heaven.
But not Jesus' Gospel.
There is one thing we have to do - then everything else falls into place.
I was reading John 6 - my favorite book of the Bible, by the way - and I read a section about Jesus witnessing. I was suddenly struck with wonder at the simplicity of the Gospel. It is so straightforward and understandable. No other religion is like that. Most religions (if not all) require some action in order to be worthy, holy or enter heaven.
But not Jesus' Gospel.
There is one thing we have to do - then everything else falls into place.
Believe.
Could this be why so many people have a hard time accepting the wonderful Gospel. Could this be a factor why the Pharisees and Jews could not wrap their brains around it? Who can fathom a love this enormous that requires literally nothing on our parts? Expect believing. . .
I don't mean that all we have to do is believe in Him then forget about Him. Of course not. Once we believe our lives will be changed and we will begin to live and desire to live the Christian life. That requires hard work, but it will be a joy.
That isn't what I'm talking about. I'm speaking of our initial salvation. It comes through grace alone! Undeserved, unexplainable favor.
In John 6, right after Jesus had feed the 5,000 and then crossed the sea, a crowd of people questioned Jesus.
They said, "What shall we do that we may work the works of God?" Basically, they wanted to know what hoops they had to jump through to gain everlasting life. Christ's answer was mind-boggling! I got so excited. He lays it out plain and simple - no fine print!
"This is the work of God, that you believe in Him who He sent."
Wow. You don't have to restrain from eating certain foods, live your life in sworn silence, sell yourself, or kill people in the name of Allah. You have to believe. What love is there on this earth that comes with no strings attached, no hidden motives, and no prerequisites?
The Jews and Pharisees were blinded and prideful. They didn't want to accept that they could do nothing to affect their eternal state, except believe. They didn't want to accept the beautiful charity that comes with the Gospel.
God is loving and gracious. And all He says to us is, "Come as you are and believe."
What a love! What a friend! What a Savior! He doesn't require a thing from us because He knows better than anyone else that all we can bring to Him is filth. Putrid filth. The debts we owe we cannot pay. The debt I owe to God - for my selfish, wandering sin - I will never be able to pay in and of myself. I deserve to burn in hell.
But God.
Yes, but God.
He sent His Son to pay the debt I couldn't. And now, nothing is required of me. What I owed was paid for when Jesus, the precious, perfect Lamb of God, died.
The Gospel is simple. Yes, there are some theological issues that get a lot of people's feathers ruffled - understandably. But, the central most important thing is Christ's death and resurrection. Because He is alive, I can live too. And all I have to do is believe.
God forbid that we should live a day and forget to fall on our faces in awe of such indescirable mercy and grace.
Oh, but God.
Praying at Night
When you feel God calling you, don't delay. Don't hesitate. Forget the circumstances. Forget how tired you are. Just do it.
God rewards those who obey.
I would not normally share details about my prayer life with you all, but since a few of you are praying for me and I feel like this important, I'll share.
While I was in bed last night - after quite a long day - I felt the urge to pray. It came over me so strong. I don't know exactly how to describe that call to prayer. It was a gentle nudge on my soul that I couldn't shake and couldn't forget about. My heart was heavy and God was saying, "Come to me." In a sense, I heard Him loud and clear.
For those of you who don't know, I'm horrible at praying. I'm the most ADD when I bow my head. In a lot of ways I have used my lack of focus and diligence as an excuse not to pray. And in turn, that excuse has lead me very far away from my Daddy.
I said, "I'll pray tomorrow. I'm tired." But, as soon as I started to drift to sleep, I awoke suddenly - with that same urge to pray. Finally, lazy-me consented.
Guys, if you have been reading my blog, you know that I've felt far away from God for some time now. I've been going through a dark stage where I really have no passion, no zeal, no love and no light. Yeah, maybe a little here and there, but nothing really thrusting me into the Word, evangelism and prayer.
I got right with the Lord last night. Last night, God moved me to confess my sins and identify my idols. He lead me into sweet prayer and my heart was conditioned for worship this morning.
I'm excited again. I forgot how wonderful it is to speak to the Lord. I forgot how amazing the Gospel is. I forgot how radically life-changing God's presence can be. I'm so excited about Christmas now! This morning in church I was rejoicing at the thought of Baby Jesus and was excited about death and His coming. For the first time in a while, I'm pumped about getting in the Word and praying.
I'm SO excited.
Of course, communion and intimacy with God isn't guaranteed because of an experience. I have to cultivate this little flame that popped up and pour over it in prayer. I have to dig into the Word before I get spiritually lazy and surround myself with good people and God-glorifying things. I have to re-prioritize and surrender my idols.
But, I'm SO excited.
Thanks for reading and thanks for your prayers.
Tip: Don't ignore Him.
God rewards those who obey.
I would not normally share details about my prayer life with you all, but since a few of you are praying for me and I feel like this important, I'll share.
While I was in bed last night - after quite a long day - I felt the urge to pray. It came over me so strong. I don't know exactly how to describe that call to prayer. It was a gentle nudge on my soul that I couldn't shake and couldn't forget about. My heart was heavy and God was saying, "Come to me." In a sense, I heard Him loud and clear.
For those of you who don't know, I'm horrible at praying. I'm the most ADD when I bow my head. In a lot of ways I have used my lack of focus and diligence as an excuse not to pray. And in turn, that excuse has lead me very far away from my Daddy.
I said, "I'll pray tomorrow. I'm tired." But, as soon as I started to drift to sleep, I awoke suddenly - with that same urge to pray. Finally, lazy-me consented.
Guys, if you have been reading my blog, you know that I've felt far away from God for some time now. I've been going through a dark stage where I really have no passion, no zeal, no love and no light. Yeah, maybe a little here and there, but nothing really thrusting me into the Word, evangelism and prayer.
I got right with the Lord last night. Last night, God moved me to confess my sins and identify my idols. He lead me into sweet prayer and my heart was conditioned for worship this morning.
I'm excited again. I forgot how wonderful it is to speak to the Lord. I forgot how amazing the Gospel is. I forgot how radically life-changing God's presence can be. I'm so excited about Christmas now! This morning in church I was rejoicing at the thought of Baby Jesus and was excited about death and His coming. For the first time in a while, I'm pumped about getting in the Word and praying.
I'm SO excited.
Of course, communion and intimacy with God isn't guaranteed because of an experience. I have to cultivate this little flame that popped up and pour over it in prayer. I have to dig into the Word before I get spiritually lazy and surround myself with good people and God-glorifying things. I have to re-prioritize and surrender my idols.
But, I'm SO excited.
Thanks for reading and thanks for your prayers.
Tip: Don't ignore Him.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Conclusion
Very likely my anger, frustration and bondage are all a result of my own shortcomings.
I'm the one who forgot to pray, didn't follow the Lord, and haven't trusted Him. Yeah, there are things on the outside of me that are rubbing me the wrong way and are overwhelming me, but I'm the one who has allowed myself to drift away from God. I'm the one who left.
These situations and problems I feel like I can't do anything about are probably even mroe overwhelming than usual because I've forgotten to confide and find help in my strong friend and father. Jesus.
I guess its all my fault then. . .
I'm the one who forgot to pray, didn't follow the Lord, and haven't trusted Him. Yeah, there are things on the outside of me that are rubbing me the wrong way and are overwhelming me, but I'm the one who has allowed myself to drift away from God. I'm the one who left.
These situations and problems I feel like I can't do anything about are probably even mroe overwhelming than usual because I've forgotten to confide and find help in my strong friend and father. Jesus.
I guess its all my fault then. . .
A Problem
I have to pray more. I just realized this.
I've begun to starve myself and I'm letting it happen. This is bad.
I've begun to starve myself and I'm letting it happen. This is bad.
Angry
I've never considered anger as one of my character flaws. I mean, normally I do a good time handling my anger. I let things go relatively easy, but tonight. . .
I'm angry.
I have been for a long time. So, maybe anger is a character flaw? *shrug*
Sometimes, this anger wells up in me when I don't expect it. Suddenly, I'm angry and upset at people. I get mad about the same thing. But, I can't find a word for what makes me so upset. Is it injustice? No, prolly not. Selfishness. Dysfunction. Judgment. Abandonment.
All those feel like they fit. I have been let down and I'm angry. Someone put me out majorly when they made some decisions. It's changed everything about my life. Everything. Everything I used to be, has changed. Who I'm with, who I am, how I think, my emotions. They are different and I'm angry about that.
But, maybe I'm the one who is selfish if I'm getting angry about this.
I'm angry because I feel like I have to hold this all in. Everyone expects me to be okay, but I'm not. Not at all. I'm not happy, I'm not okay. I'm functioning, but that's it. I can't hold this in anymore. I feel like I have duct-tape on my mouth. I feel like I'm in bondage....
Yes. I feel like I've been trapped and I am angry about that.
I can't go on like this. Please pray for me.
I'm angry.
I have been for a long time. So, maybe anger is a character flaw? *shrug*
Sometimes, this anger wells up in me when I don't expect it. Suddenly, I'm angry and upset at people. I get mad about the same thing. But, I can't find a word for what makes me so upset. Is it injustice? No, prolly not. Selfishness. Dysfunction. Judgment. Abandonment.
All those feel like they fit. I have been let down and I'm angry. Someone put me out majorly when they made some decisions. It's changed everything about my life. Everything. Everything I used to be, has changed. Who I'm with, who I am, how I think, my emotions. They are different and I'm angry about that.
But, maybe I'm the one who is selfish if I'm getting angry about this.
I'm angry because I feel like I have to hold this all in. Everyone expects me to be okay, but I'm not. Not at all. I'm not happy, I'm not okay. I'm functioning, but that's it. I can't hold this in anymore. I feel like I have duct-tape on my mouth. I feel like I'm in bondage....
Yes. I feel like I've been trapped and I am angry about that.
I can't go on like this. Please pray for me.
Monday, November 28, 2011
My Favorite Thing About You
There are millions of things - big and small - that I love about You, but for the first time, I think I picked my favorite.
I have vivid memories of begging my dad to flex his muscles. I just needed a little-girl visual of how strong my daddy really was. I needed to know that he could protect me. I wanted to see that his muscles, in comparison to mine, were big and strong and would protect me. I had to feel like he was going to be able to save me if I ever I needed.
Father, I love your muscles. Your strength is what I rely on from day to day. I do not know how I would function if I didn't know that Your strength was backing me up.
For the first time I realized what I would be without You infinite power.
Why did I ever look anywhere else?
I have vivid memories of begging my dad to flex his muscles. I just needed a little-girl visual of how strong my daddy really was. I needed to know that he could protect me. I wanted to see that his muscles, in comparison to mine, were big and strong and would protect me. I had to feel like he was going to be able to save me if I ever I needed.
Father, I love your muscles. Your strength is what I rely on from day to day. I do not know how I would function if I didn't know that Your strength was backing me up.
For the first time I realized what I would be without You infinite power.
Nothing. Literally nothing.
Hallelujah! There is someone stronger than me. You have been there to wipe every tear off my face, whether I felt You do it or not. You were the one who strengthened me and You did not even punish me for forgetting to give You credit. You enabled me when I was incapable. You stood me up when I was slumping. You lifted my chin when I couldn't take my eyes off the floor. You showed me light when all I saw was darkness. You found me when I ran away. You held my hand when I was scared. You healed my heart when it was broken. You comforted me when I was lonely. You guided me when I strayed from the path.
You. You. You.
You give me purpose when I have no hope.
Father, people on earth fail me. My earthly father's muscles ended up not being as strong as I thought they were. My muscles aren't as strong as I thought they could be. Not one person has strength. I don't. I'm weak, helpless and hopeless without you. An infant cannot feed or clothe or even move himself without his parent's hand. I am as an infant, helpless in the face of danger.
Without You I cannot do anything.
Forgive me for my wanderings. I have turned to other sources to view their strength and see if they could protect me and take care of me. I have wasted precious time that I could have spent with You, with other people and things. They have grabbed my attention and played with my heart. Their muscles were impressive for a time, but I finally realized that they didn't hold a candle to the protection You offer. They couldn't compare to the sence of security I have in Your arms. In Your arms, I am not afraid. In Your arms, I know that no one can lay a hand on me. In Your arms, I'm complete, happy and free. The peace that I have in Your arms is something many people only dream about.
Why did I ever look anywhere else?
Hold me, Daddy. Show me Your muscles. Engulf me with Your strength today, tomorrow and forever. I never want to leave. Don't let me leave, Daddy. I need You.
"One life, thats all I am. Right now I can barely stand. If You're everything You say You are. Won't You come close and hold my heart?" - Tenth Avenue North
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Today, I'm Thankful...
...for my computer. Really. I'm so glad that I can log onto Blogger and share with you guys. This little baby takes all my information and is a text book and resource.
...for a job. Yes, it is really a blessing to have a job. Its scares me how many people don't have one now-a-days.
...for my sister and mom. They make my world a whole lot special-er. I seriously don't know what I would do without them, even though they irritate me to death at times.
...for Carlee's swollen face and the way it made me laugh today. Also, for her good attitude when I laughed at her.
...for my bed. 'Nuff said.
...for a really good English Professor. She is so epic; I'm eternally spoiled to amazing professors now.
...for turkey even though it caaan be a little bit dry and over-rated. (I prefer ham.)
...for a body that does an EXTREMELY good job fighting off sickness. I seriously have almost gotten sick a few times, then fought it off. Way to go, White Blood Cells!
...for singing voices.
...for Christmas time! I love this holiday season.
...for the opportunity to be educated. I take the fact that I go to classes and learn and get letters from colleges so flippantly. What a serious blessing this is! I forget that...
...for challenges. Though hard, I can't imagine a life without them.
...for my friend, Iain, and his continuous ability to make my day. Don't you love it when certain people make your day by saying or doing the smallest thing? It's like God says, "Hey, she/he needs a pick-me-up!" then sends someone your way.
...for pain. It really lets you know when you are doing something wrong. Like right now, as I'm sitting in a bad position, my neck is screaming. I should probably move.
...for movement. What would it be like if you couldn't move? All you could do was sit and calmly/creepishly stare at a beige patch on the wall? *shiver*
...for music.
...for the Bible. I am really thankful that God has given me good examples to look to in the Bible. For instance, Gideon. I like him. He has no faith and is kinda a scaredy-cat at the beginning...then, he kinda toughens up. Yeah, Gideon gives me hope.
...for food in the pantry. Yes, the fact that I can eat when I'm hungry is a sure sign of blessing. Daily food essentials are lacking in so many people's lives. You know, I think its easy to think, "we are poor!" but if you can walk into your kitchen and eat something or go drive to the store, then you are richer than a lot of people in the world. Praise him.
...for sympathy. I can't imagine a world with no sympathy. What if no one felt sympathy for me? Or I didn't feel it for anyone else? Or worse, if God didn't feel it for us? The fact that we sympathize with each other spurs people to do good deeds and love. This is a good thing.
...for my family. Gosh, we are a huge and dysfunctional family, but I seriously love everyone in it. With all my heart.
..for Bill Cosby who makes me laugh a LOT!
...for generous hearts.
...for scent. Especially that found on people. ( I don't me BO.) Like, you know how you smell something and it reminds you of someone? That. It's comforting. I think it is totally awesome how God has set up our five senses.
...for the random woman in the drive through who yelled while I was on headset. I was saying "Thank you for choosing Chick-fil-A. This is Ashley. How can I -" and she said, "Shut up!" really loud. Come to find out she wasn't talking to me, but oh my word...did I laugh? Yes, very hard.
...for a God who sees, cares, and understands my every need and want; spiritually, emotionally, physically and physiologically.
Now, for something I'm NOT thankful for. High fructose corn syrup. *grumble*
Psalm 30:11-12 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness; That [my] soul may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever.
God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good.
...for a job. Yes, it is really a blessing to have a job. Its scares me how many people don't have one now-a-days.
...for my sister and mom. They make my world a whole lot special-er. I seriously don't know what I would do without them, even though they irritate me to death at times.
...for Carlee's swollen face and the way it made me laugh today. Also, for her good attitude when I laughed at her.
...for my bed. 'Nuff said.
...for a really good English Professor. She is so epic; I'm eternally spoiled to amazing professors now.
...for turkey even though it caaan be a little bit dry and over-rated. (I prefer ham.)
...for a body that does an EXTREMELY good job fighting off sickness. I seriously have almost gotten sick a few times, then fought it off. Way to go, White Blood Cells!
...for singing voices.
...for Christmas time! I love this holiday season.
...for the opportunity to be educated. I take the fact that I go to classes and learn and get letters from colleges so flippantly. What a serious blessing this is! I forget that...
...for challenges. Though hard, I can't imagine a life without them.
...for my friend, Iain, and his continuous ability to make my day. Don't you love it when certain people make your day by saying or doing the smallest thing? It's like God says, "Hey, she/he needs a pick-me-up!" then sends someone your way.
...for pain. It really lets you know when you are doing something wrong. Like right now, as I'm sitting in a bad position, my neck is screaming. I should probably move.
...for movement. What would it be like if you couldn't move? All you could do was sit and calmly/creepishly stare at a beige patch on the wall? *shiver*
...for music.
...for the Bible. I am really thankful that God has given me good examples to look to in the Bible. For instance, Gideon. I like him. He has no faith and is kinda a scaredy-cat at the beginning...then, he kinda toughens up. Yeah, Gideon gives me hope.
...for food in the pantry. Yes, the fact that I can eat when I'm hungry is a sure sign of blessing. Daily food essentials are lacking in so many people's lives. You know, I think its easy to think, "we are poor!" but if you can walk into your kitchen and eat something or go drive to the store, then you are richer than a lot of people in the world. Praise him.
...for sympathy. I can't imagine a world with no sympathy. What if no one felt sympathy for me? Or I didn't feel it for anyone else? Or worse, if God didn't feel it for us? The fact that we sympathize with each other spurs people to do good deeds and love. This is a good thing.
...for my family. Gosh, we are a huge and dysfunctional family, but I seriously love everyone in it. With all my heart.
..for Bill Cosby who makes me laugh a LOT!
...for generous hearts.
...for scent. Especially that found on people. ( I don't me BO.) Like, you know how you smell something and it reminds you of someone? That. It's comforting. I think it is totally awesome how God has set up our five senses.
...for the random woman in the drive through who yelled while I was on headset. I was saying "Thank you for choosing Chick-fil-A. This is Ashley. How can I -" and she said, "Shut up!" really loud. Come to find out she wasn't talking to me, but oh my word...did I laugh? Yes, very hard.
...for a God who sees, cares, and understands my every need and want; spiritually, emotionally, physically and physiologically.
Now, for something I'm NOT thankful for. High fructose corn syrup. *grumble*
Psalm 30:11-12 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness; That [my] soul may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever.
God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Looking Heavenward: To Every Broken Girl, Abused Daughter, and Hurt Mother. . .Forgive Me
A post by my "cuz," Miguel, drew my attention the other day; it was a heart-felt, difficult post. He is a friend, and a fellow blogger whom I respect. I am overjoyed that God is burdening the hearts of young men for Godly manhood and leadership. Hopefully God will raise him and others up to be Biblical men whose passion is Christ and His Kingdom. Check out his blog, Looking Heavenward, or click here for a direct post link.
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