The Wones have a YouTube where we are posting all Pure Talent Film's Videos. Most of those videos are crazy and must be watched with caution. Please visit and leave a comment!
www.youtube.com/user/wonesgirls
Then of course, my channel.
www.youtube.com/user/strivingforacrown
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Emotional Dating
Little kids can be such an object lesson at times. They teach us patience, more about Christ's perfect love and much more. Recently, they've taught me something about dating and "love". "How is this possible?" you ask. Well, allow me to explain.
Some children are heartbreaking. You can tell by the way they behave themselves that they are literally starving for affection and attention. They are dying to get someone to notice them, even if it's for the wrong reasons. I've watched a child run away from people just for the pleasure of knowing that they will follow him. That was his way of getting the attention he wanted. I've watched a child ask the same question over and over and over even when the answer hasn't changed. Surly, in his mind, that was his way of keeping another person engaged with him. I believe that within a child, or every person even, is a fear of being alone. A fear that one day no one will care or love them. In my experiences with people, I find this just as evident in children as I do with adults.
We shake our heads at misbehaved kids who will pitch fits for no apparent reason, just to get attention. But, many times, this behavior - or heart issue - never goes away. This fear doesn't ever resolve in our brain, it just takes on a different form and becomes a little more subtle. But still, the intent and desires haven't changed a bit.
Let's take a look at the dating scene: A loves B. B loves A. A is afraid of B leaving so A will do anything for B. B hits A. A still "loves" B and stays around anyways. Eventually, A and B have a very dysfunctional relationship because their original attractions were really based on the fact that A and B had a desire to feel needed. The moment that desire was feed, they latched on to each other.
She wants to be wanted. She she dresses sensually to turn some heads. That gives her power, makes her feel needed and temporary fills an emotional hole. She gives her body over to sexuality to feel like someone wants her and needs what she can give.
He wants to be accepted. So, he drives the best looking car and makes the most promises. He flirts and leads girls on. He likes to see the ways girls fawn over him and how they are wrapped around his finger. He likes to know that he has control.
We don't really change that much, do we? People grow out of kicking and screaming, but the heart problem has never been dealt with - which means it will come out later, only then it will be slier and harder to tame.
This gives me red flags about relationships and dating. My heart is so deceitful and I don't understand it. I have to be careful of rushing a relationship for the wrong reason. I would be fool to say that I'm not emotionally fed when I know a guy thinks I'm "hot" or that my mind isn't unhealthily benefited into selfishness. It's a challenge to examine my motives for everything. Ask myself, "Ashley, why do you want to look beautiful today? Are you trying to accentuate God's creation in a positive way? Or is it because you want the power and emotional swell of knowing some guy is distracted by you?"
Ouch. I'm guilty.
The underlying issue is not being satisfied with Christ. I don't let Him fulfill my emotional needs, so I go to the wrong places to find that fulfillment. I don't trust that His love is enough to support me and carry me on from day to day. I don't believe that I'll be happy just knowing that He loves me. I think that He is holding back good things from me by saying, "Let ME be your delight." I don't trust that His love is extravagant.
What an incredible promise!
Some children are heartbreaking. You can tell by the way they behave themselves that they are literally starving for affection and attention. They are dying to get someone to notice them, even if it's for the wrong reasons. I've watched a child run away from people just for the pleasure of knowing that they will follow him. That was his way of getting the attention he wanted. I've watched a child ask the same question over and over and over even when the answer hasn't changed. Surly, in his mind, that was his way of keeping another person engaged with him. I believe that within a child, or every person even, is a fear of being alone. A fear that one day no one will care or love them. In my experiences with people, I find this just as evident in children as I do with adults.We shake our heads at misbehaved kids who will pitch fits for no apparent reason, just to get attention. But, many times, this behavior - or heart issue - never goes away. This fear doesn't ever resolve in our brain, it just takes on a different form and becomes a little more subtle. But still, the intent and desires haven't changed a bit.
Let's take a look at the dating scene: A loves B. B loves A. A is afraid of B leaving so A will do anything for B. B hits A. A still "loves" B and stays around anyways. Eventually, A and B have a very dysfunctional relationship because their original attractions were really based on the fact that A and B had a desire to feel needed. The moment that desire was feed, they latched on to each other.
She wants to be wanted. She she dresses sensually to turn some heads. That gives her power, makes her feel needed and temporary fills an emotional hole. She gives her body over to sexuality to feel like someone wants her and needs what she can give.
He wants to be accepted. So, he drives the best looking car and makes the most promises. He flirts and leads girls on. He likes to see the ways girls fawn over him and how they are wrapped around his finger. He likes to know that he has control.
We don't really change that much, do we? People grow out of kicking and screaming, but the heart problem has never been dealt with - which means it will come out later, only then it will be slier and harder to tame.
This gives me red flags about relationships and dating. My heart is so deceitful and I don't understand it. I have to be careful of rushing a relationship for the wrong reason. I would be fool to say that I'm not emotionally fed when I know a guy thinks I'm "hot" or that my mind isn't unhealthily benefited into selfishness. It's a challenge to examine my motives for everything. Ask myself, "Ashley, why do you want to look beautiful today? Are you trying to accentuate God's creation in a positive way? Or is it because you want the power and emotional swell of knowing some guy is distracted by you?"
Ouch. I'm guilty.
The underlying issue is not being satisfied with Christ. I don't let Him fulfill my emotional needs, so I go to the wrong places to find that fulfillment. I don't trust that His love is enough to support me and carry me on from day to day. I don't believe that I'll be happy just knowing that He loves me. I think that He is holding back good things from me by saying, "Let ME be your delight." I don't trust that His love is extravagant.
Ephesians 3:17-19 "And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."Next time we feel like we aren't getting the attention we want and need, lets pray to God. He does loves us and you can feel His affection when you read the Word, listen to praise music, pray, or just sit still in His presence. I can feel His love when I sit in the sunshine or listen to the birds. I feel His affection when I'm able to swallow my anger. Christ shows His love every day. Don't go to the wrong places and do the wrong things for attention. Seek the love of the Lord, and you. will. find. it.
Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with all your heart."
What an incredible promise!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Glory of God In A Smile
I could watch that boy smile all day long. We will call him Sam, for safety's sake. He had the most gorgeous smile and beautiful eyes I ever saw. All it took was someone calling his name, and he would light up in a genuine smile.
He is a camper at Camp Barnabas. Can't walk, talk, and he can barely move. He has a pretty severe case of cerebral palsy.
But he could smile.
It's when his face lights up that I remember that God is glorified. And that He doesn't make mistakes. Sam might seem like a mistake to some people. But, when you look at his gorgeous smile, its impossible not to realize that God is being lifted up every time Sam smiles. His creation is being shown off.
Sometimes, I think we have to look for beautiful things in life. We get so caught up in what is bad about the situation or thing that we forget to look at the beauty. If we dwelled on the fact that Sam is confined to a wheelchair, we would forget to appreciate his smile. Isn't that how everything is in life? If we focus and fret about the heat, we forget that the plants around us wouldn't be there without the sun's rays. If we focused on the thorns of a rose, we would forget about the beauty RIGHT THERE in front of us.
I admit I'm so guilty of doing this. I focus on the bad too much when I need to be more positive. When we rejoice in the little, happy things we are bringing glory to God's name. Whereas, fretting about the bad, would be injuring the reputation of the Lord - saying that God isn't doing it right and His work isn't good enough for us.
Sam taught me this. His smile reminded me that everything that proceeds from God, is perfect. Something to be delighted in.
He is a camper at Camp Barnabas. Can't walk, talk, and he can barely move. He has a pretty severe case of cerebral palsy.
It's when his face lights up that I remember that God is glorified. And that He doesn't make mistakes. Sam might seem like a mistake to some people. But, when you look at his gorgeous smile, its impossible not to realize that God is being lifted up every time Sam smiles. His creation is being shown off.
Sometimes, I think we have to look for beautiful things in life. We get so caught up in what is bad about the situation or thing that we forget to look at the beauty. If we dwelled on the fact that Sam is confined to a wheelchair, we would forget to appreciate his smile. Isn't that how everything is in life? If we focus and fret about the heat, we forget that the plants around us wouldn't be there without the sun's rays. If we focused on the thorns of a rose, we would forget about the beauty RIGHT THERE in front of us.
I admit I'm so guilty of doing this. I focus on the bad too much when I need to be more positive. When we rejoice in the little, happy things we are bringing glory to God's name. Whereas, fretting about the bad, would be injuring the reputation of the Lord - saying that God isn't doing it right and His work isn't good enough for us.
Sam taught me this. His smile reminded me that everything that proceeds from God, is perfect. Something to be delighted in.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
This Is the Love
Camp Barnabas is an incredible place. I cannot even figure how to to compile a good explanation of it into a blog post. Its a place where people...are people. Simply put. No matter what the outside looks like, or what is the heart, or what the attitude may be. The people at camp are treated like children of God - made in His spitting image to be loved by all. Seems like such a basic, minute and foolishly simple ideal, but its something that most of our world completely misses most of the time. The world talks of love as if we have mastered the art of it, as if we know the depths of the often misunderstood emotion, as if sex and feelings are the extent and manifestation of it, as if we are the perfect lovers.
Sometimes, I think people make love far too complicated. And I'm talking about love in general now, not romantic love. There are always stipulations attached to love. There are always conditions. As humans, our love is so very shallow most of the time. We don't know how to love people for who they are with no obligations or demands for something in return. These cases exist, but I honestly think they are rare. Perhaps this is why so many marriages fail. A couple doesn't get what they wanted from each other. Perhaps this is why mothers neglect their daughters and fathers abandon families and boyfriends and girlfriends break up and special friendships end.
I think that love can be whittled down to a single component - stripping it of its complications and issues. Its this: Loving because you're loved. There is an all-surpassing love found at the cross of Jesus Christ. It covers all, is for all, and holds no stipulations. For me, I know I can love people because of that love bestowed on me. It doesn't seem as hard to love people who hate me in return because that perfect love, flowing from the cross, empowers me.
My sins are deliberate blows to a great God, yet He loves me. He says, "I forgive you" and pulls me to Himself. Now, because of that, when people are being hard to love, I can focus on the love I've been shown and the forgiveness I've been granted and impart it on the people around me. Because of that love, its easier to take my eyes off of their wrongs against me and home in on my problems that a great God has looked over and covered.
When such a love has been shared with me - the perfect, greatest love of all - how can I not love others with no standard?
Camp Barnabas teaches me something every year. I go away a new person each time. Sometimes it takes a few weeks for me to realize what the lesson was, though. This year, it was love. Love with no boundaries. Some of the campers at camp are hard to love. Some of them are in wheelchairs and can't lift their arms to hug you, can't smile, can't thank you, can't say they love you....all the things we want in return for loving someone. But there is the challenge - loving anyways. Loving despite their silence or ungratefulness.
When I look at the campers that cannot do for themselves, I see myself in a very strong way. It makes me want to cry, run away, shout for joy, hide, praise the Lord and dance all at the same time. I am so like them - more than I am different. I cannot do for myself, I'm ungrateful, hard to love and I hurt those who care the most. Christ is my helper, He is my lover and often I turn a cold shoulder and don't even offer Him a welcoming smile. Yet, He loves. He has to bath me - my body, my mind and my soul - daily, and I complain the whole time. He makes me eat healthy food and I put up a fight. He makes me to lie down in green pastures and I whine because I don't understand. He asks me to spend a few precious moments with Him every morning and I excuse my way out of it.
Yet, He loves.
I should too.
Love with no conditions. Love with no reserve. Love with no fear.
This is the Love.
Sometimes, I think people make love far too complicated. And I'm talking about love in general now, not romantic love. There are always stipulations attached to love. There are always conditions. As humans, our love is so very shallow most of the time. We don't know how to love people for who they are with no obligations or demands for something in return. These cases exist, but I honestly think they are rare. Perhaps this is why so many marriages fail. A couple doesn't get what they wanted from each other. Perhaps this is why mothers neglect their daughters and fathers abandon families and boyfriends and girlfriends break up and special friendships end.
I think that love can be whittled down to a single component - stripping it of its complications and issues. Its this: Loving because you're loved. There is an all-surpassing love found at the cross of Jesus Christ. It covers all, is for all, and holds no stipulations. For me, I know I can love people because of that love bestowed on me. It doesn't seem as hard to love people who hate me in return because that perfect love, flowing from the cross, empowers me.
When such a love has been shared with me - the perfect, greatest love of all - how can I not love others with no standard?
Camp Barnabas teaches me something every year. I go away a new person each time. Sometimes it takes a few weeks for me to realize what the lesson was, though. This year, it was love. Love with no boundaries. Some of the campers at camp are hard to love. Some of them are in wheelchairs and can't lift their arms to hug you, can't smile, can't thank you, can't say they love you....all the things we want in return for loving someone. But there is the challenge - loving anyways. Loving despite their silence or ungratefulness.
When I look at the campers that cannot do for themselves, I see myself in a very strong way. It makes me want to cry, run away, shout for joy, hide, praise the Lord and dance all at the same time. I am so like them - more than I am different. I cannot do for myself, I'm ungrateful, hard to love and I hurt those who care the most. Christ is my helper, He is my lover and often I turn a cold shoulder and don't even offer Him a welcoming smile. Yet, He loves. He has to bath me - my body, my mind and my soul - daily, and I complain the whole time. He makes me eat healthy food and I put up a fight. He makes me to lie down in green pastures and I whine because I don't understand. He asks me to spend a few precious moments with Him every morning and I excuse my way out of it.
Yet, He loves.
I should too.
Love with no conditions. Love with no reserve. Love with no fear.
This is the Love.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
An Inspirational Verse
Why do we not quote this verse more often? We hear the classic verses about God's love, but I have never heard this one! SERIOUSLY?!? This needs to be a classic.
Psalms 94:18 "When I said, 'My foot is slipping,' Your unfailing love, Lord, supported me."
Wow. God knew how much I needed to hear that. For real. Sometimes it seems like I just go round and round, and there are so many things that I'm confused on and that things just fall apart.
What better reminder?
When the world is crashing in, though I stumble, falter, cry, run, or hide, and even if everyone forsakes me, Your unfailing love, o Lord, supports me.
That goes hand in hand with my favorite verse of all time. My favorite passage is Psalms 121, but specifically I love the verse that says, "He who keeps you shall neither slumber nor sleep." I tend to forget that God is not human. He doesn't sleep. He knows my pain. He's been there, done that. He isn't going to let me fall. He always hold my hand.
His unfailing love supports me.
Psalms 94:18 "When I said, 'My foot is slipping,' Your unfailing love, Lord, supported me."
Wow. God knew how much I needed to hear that. For real. Sometimes it seems like I just go round and round, and there are so many things that I'm confused on and that things just fall apart.
What better reminder?
When the world is crashing in, though I stumble, falter, cry, run, or hide, and even if everyone forsakes me, Your unfailing love, o Lord, supports me.
That goes hand in hand with my favorite verse of all time. My favorite passage is Psalms 121, but specifically I love the verse that says, "He who keeps you shall neither slumber nor sleep." I tend to forget that God is not human. He doesn't sleep. He knows my pain. He's been there, done that. He isn't going to let me fall. He always hold my hand.
His unfailing love supports me.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
You Tube Account
Hello,
I'm moving up in the world. Muah! I have a YouTube account that I'm going to be using primarily for music stuffs. I sing a lot of songs and need to actually start doing something with them, so naturally, I want to post them online where people can see them and critique....hopefully nicely.
Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/user/strivingforacrown?feature=mhee
I'm moving up in the world. Muah! I have a YouTube account that I'm going to be using primarily for music stuffs. I sing a lot of songs and need to actually start doing something with them, so naturally, I want to post them online where people can see them and critique....hopefully nicely.
Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/user/strivingforacrown?feature=mhee
Saturday, July 9, 2011
I Want Results...NOW!
I found myself singing "All in All" subconsciously this morning. I got the part in the lyrics that says, "Seeking you as a precious jewel, Lord, to give up I'd be a fool."
Harsh reality hit me: I've been a fool. In so many ways I've given up in seeking the Lord. When I don't feel like I'm getting the emotional response I need after devos or prayer, I feel like God didn't follow up on His end of the deal. If I spend time in the Word, I'm supposed to get the emotional charge I need for the day, right?
Now, I am not so convinced. Who said you would be invincible after devotions anyways?
I believed that. I thought that my devotion to the Lord would make me more powerful and able to face the day. Devotion to God DOES help those things, but after one day of reading the Proverbs I can't expect to be emotionally strengthened.
Have you ever tried to learn guitar? I have. I played for about two weeks straight. Got calluses and everything, and even started getting pretty good. But, I stopped playing because I wasn't getting the amazing picking results as fast as I wanted. So, I stopped, my calluses went away and I'm still a guitarless noob. Can we be like this spiritually? I believe so! I start reading the Word, praying, but after a few weeks I don't feel like I'm strengthened...so I stop.
And what do you know? A week later? I'm still emotionally dead. God hasn't come any closer and I haven't gotten any holier.
Seeking Jesus as a precious jewel, to give up, I'd be a fool.
I read Psalms 77 this morning, and I found a great example. Asaph, the author of this particular Psalm was clearly in distress. This dude was having issues, and He felt like God was far away. Listen to what He says and the solution He brings to the table. I am not going to post the whole Psalm here, but I encourage you to read it, the whole thing. I pasted the link to it here: Psalms 77.
When he is in distress, He meditates on the goodness and power of God.
We should try this more often. Maybe more of our problems would be solved if we stopped focusing on our problems, and started focusing on how good God is.
I can't stop seeking God. I can't stop seeking Him because I don't get the results I want, I have to keep on keeping on. Even if the only thing that keeps me going is thinking about His power and love.
One thought dominates my mind: God will reward the faithful.
Harsh reality hit me: I've been a fool. In so many ways I've given up in seeking the Lord. When I don't feel like I'm getting the emotional response I need after devos or prayer, I feel like God didn't follow up on His end of the deal. If I spend time in the Word, I'm supposed to get the emotional charge I need for the day, right?
Now, I am not so convinced. Who said you would be invincible after devotions anyways?
I believed that. I thought that my devotion to the Lord would make me more powerful and able to face the day. Devotion to God DOES help those things, but after one day of reading the Proverbs I can't expect to be emotionally strengthened.
Have you ever tried to learn guitar? I have. I played for about two weeks straight. Got calluses and everything, and even started getting pretty good. But, I stopped playing because I wasn't getting the amazing picking results as fast as I wanted. So, I stopped, my calluses went away and I'm still a guitarless noob. Can we be like this spiritually? I believe so! I start reading the Word, praying, but after a few weeks I don't feel like I'm strengthened...so I stop.
And what do you know? A week later? I'm still emotionally dead. God hasn't come any closer and I haven't gotten any holier.
Seeking Jesus as a precious jewel, to give up, I'd be a fool.
I read Psalms 77 this morning, and I found a great example. Asaph, the author of this particular Psalm was clearly in distress. This dude was having issues, and He felt like God was far away. Listen to what He says and the solution He brings to the table. I am not going to post the whole Psalm here, but I encourage you to read it, the whole thing. I pasted the link to it here: Psalms 77.
When he is in distress, He meditates on the goodness and power of God.
We should try this more often. Maybe more of our problems would be solved if we stopped focusing on our problems, and started focusing on how good God is.
I can't stop seeking God. I can't stop seeking Him because I don't get the results I want, I have to keep on keeping on. Even if the only thing that keeps me going is thinking about His power and love.
One thought dominates my mind: God will reward the faithful.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
P31W: Laughing at the Future
Worry. I've been plagued with it. One time, I was angry. The deepest part of my heart was restless. I was unhappy and tired a lot. People even told me I was acting different. I was. I was far from God, far from my family and far from happy.
I realized I was worrying about my future. At this time, big questions like, "What do I do after high-school?" were tormenting me and I chose to dwell on those big questions instead of give them to God. I wasn't taking life one step at a time, with faith. I was trying to plan it all out in a hurry, without prayer or much thought.
It was tearing me apart.
No wonder so many people in life are suicidal, harm themselves or just have problems in general. What do they put their faith in? Who do they trust? I get dry if I don't trust Christ and He is mine! What do the people without Him do? I can't imagine.
The Proverbs 31 Woman knows who to trust in, and the "what ifs" and future don't scare her.
I don't have the answer or solution to this helpless feeling. I don't know how to alleviate that, but I know the one who can do it. Christ! When I bring my helpless self to Him, and lay my problems and worries at His feet, its...its like a burden is falling away. When I come to the place and accept that my life isn't in my control and that God is holding everything in His hands and that there is in fact a reason for everything, I begin to relax. When a believer comes to God, begging for relief from worries and fears, asking Him to heal their faithlessness...He doesn't turn them away.
The P31W is strong! Uncertain futures don't scare her! She loves them! She will see life's mystery as an unforgettable, wonderful journey with a protective Father! She will embrace the unknowns and count them as joys, not burdens. The P31W has strength and dignity! She is respected for her bravery, for the way she faces the future, laughing, daring it to challenge her and her Lord. She is worthy of respect because of her courage. Her courage puts the bravest soldiers to shame. Her quiet peace will turn the heads of any stranger - making the passer-by want to know where she's placed her trust. Her serenity before making decisions is inspiring to everyone around her. She has learned that whatever decision she makes, whatever path she takes, whatever situation she finds herself in...her Jesus is there.
And she laughs.
I realized I was worrying about my future. At this time, big questions like, "What do I do after high-school?" were tormenting me and I chose to dwell on those big questions instead of give them to God. I wasn't taking life one step at a time, with faith. I was trying to plan it all out in a hurry, without prayer or much thought.
It was tearing me apart.
No wonder so many people in life are suicidal, harm themselves or just have problems in general. What do they put their faith in? Who do they trust? I get dry if I don't trust Christ and He is mine! What do the people without Him do? I can't imagine.
The Proverbs 31 Woman knows who to trust in, and the "what ifs" and future don't scare her.
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." Proverbs 31:25I can honestly say that I can't always laugh at the days to come. Sometimes I let the unknowns bog me down so far. I let the mysteries of life turn my mind 'round and 'round till I can't even think anymore. Can anyone relate?
I don't have the answer or solution to this helpless feeling. I don't know how to alleviate that, but I know the one who can do it. Christ! When I bring my helpless self to Him, and lay my problems and worries at His feet, its...its like a burden is falling away. When I come to the place and accept that my life isn't in my control and that God is holding everything in His hands and that there is in fact a reason for everything, I begin to relax. When a believer comes to God, begging for relief from worries and fears, asking Him to heal their faithlessness...He doesn't turn them away.
And she laughs.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Be My Everything
God in my living
There in my breathing
God in my waking
God in my sleeping
God in my resting
There in my breathing
God in my waking
God in my sleeping
God in my resting
There in my working
God in my thinking
God in my speaking
God in my thinking
God in my speaking
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
Be my everything
God in my hoping
There in my dreaming
God in my wathcing
God in my waiting
God in my laughing
There in my weeping
God in my hurting
God in my healing
There in my dreaming
God in my wathcing
God in my waiting
God in my laughing
There in my weeping
God in my hurting
God in my healing
Christ in me
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
You are everything
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
You are everything
Christ in me
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
Be my everything
Christ in me
Christ in me the hope of glory
Be my everything
You are everything
Jesus, Everything
Tonight and forever, may this be the cry of our hearts. God must be there in our waking, sleeping, hoping, hurting, loving, laughing, dreaming, praying, serving...in everything.
Oh God, be our everything.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Dynamic Monotony
New blog.
Check it out and follow please. :) It's my thoughts blog.
www.dynamicmonotony.blogspot.com
Check it out and follow please. :) It's my thoughts blog.
www.dynamicmonotony.blogspot.com
Counterfeit Bills
The very first night God hit me with a whammie that set my heart mood for the rest of the week.
The message by Barrett Mashall was about motivations.
Just thinking about some of the motivations my heart has had are enough to make me hide under my bed forever. I can't even recognize some of the sinful motivations of my heart. I contort them so badly in my mind that my evil motivations don't even feel evil anymore. Does that scare you? It does me! Here is a freaky verse.
Proverbs 16:2 "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD."I don't know about you, but after hearing that verse, all those good things I did at thus-and-so time, don't seem so good anymore. My good deeds have been tainted by my wrong motives.
Mr Marshall talked about counterfeit Christians. If you want to find counterfeit money, the best way is to look at a bill and compare it's differences to the real bill. Not look at the similarities. The same goes for Christians. If you want to find a counterfeit, Christian poser, the best way is to compare his or her life to the life laid out in the Bible. How does the Bible say Christians should act and how is this person NOT like that?
One way you can tell a difference between real and fake Christians is that the counterfeit Christian has the wrong motives for seeking Christ. They follow Him for their own gain. They see Christ as the ticket to heaven, and the salvation from hell, but not the ticket to righteousness and redemption from sin. He or she uses God for what He can give them, eternal security. They use Christ to fit in with the church crowd and to make themselves look better to other people. They use Christ as a security blanket that they hide under and never deal with the reality of the sinful human beings that they are.
Can you relate?!
But Jesus said that only those who do the will of His Father will enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
What is your motivation for seeking God? Are you someone who is just "following Him" for what He can give you? If that is your main purpose, then you need to examine your salvation. The true disciple's motive is the worthiness of Jesus Christ and the glory of God! You can come to Jesus for your own good, because it is good and will bring contentment, but if that is your supreme motive for following Him, you must ask, "Do I really know Him?" A disciple follows God to glorify Him.
In John 6, it talks about the people who were seeking Jesus. In verse 26, He says to them,
"Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill."We scoff and talk smack about the girls who use their boyfriends for their money, or low class citizens who vote for the Presidential candidate who offers the most benefits, but never pay taxes or do anything to help the situation of our country...but isn't that what counterfeit Christians do on an even larger scale? They come to God because He can still their fears for a time, but make no commitment, never change and don't plan to...
Why are you seeking the Lord? Can you say that He is your all in all? Is He a commitment in your life? Someone that is transforming you from the inside out? Or is He just the handbag you carry to complete your social outfit? the name-brand that helps you get along in the right crowds? Are you seeking Him because you are scared of eternity, or has really become and inevitable, joyous part of your life?
Are you a counterfeit Christian that hopes no one will spot the differences?
People may not, but God, most certainly will.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
I'm Leaving
Totally His Youth Conference is coming tomorrow! I'm going to South Carolina! I cannot wait. I'm dying to see old friends, make new ones and listen to the FABULOUS sermons.
That being said, "I shall be gone until Saturday. Not like anyone will miss me anyways. I haven't been posting at all lately (this time it was because I seriously didn't have the time, its been crazy over here. :P).
Because of the great spiritual atmosphere at Totally His, I'm going to have GREAT stuff to post about when I get back. Not to mention that its about time to wrap up my Proverbs 31 Women posts.
Looking forward to coming back. Check here Saturday night or Sunday, and hopefully I'll have something up.
Rejoice! Today is the day the Lord has made!
That being said, "I shall be gone until Saturday. Not like anyone will miss me anyways. I haven't been posting at all lately (this time it was because I seriously didn't have the time, its been crazy over here. :P).
Because of the great spiritual atmosphere at Totally His, I'm going to have GREAT stuff to post about when I get back. Not to mention that its about time to wrap up my Proverbs 31 Women posts.
Looking forward to coming back. Check here Saturday night or Sunday, and hopefully I'll have something up.
Rejoice! Today is the day the Lord has made!
I Found a Pearl!
This morning while I listened to the sermon in our church by the guest speaker and missionary, David Barcelo, I couldn't help but ask myself one thing, "Am I giving up all for the sake of the Gospel?"
The sermon reminded me of one of my favorite book characters, Reepicheep. Those of you who have read the Chronicles of Narnia know him and probably love him as much as I do. He is a talking and fighting rat. He bravely serves Aslan and will do anything his King tells him to do. He considers it an honor to die for Aslan and looks forward to journeying to Aslan's country.
The writer, C.S Lewis, very obviously intended for Aslan to be a picture of Christ, His country to be a picture of heaven and Reepicheep to represent a faithful servant.
Reep shows his passion for Aslan's Country when he says, "My own plans are made. While I may, I sail East in Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I row East in my coracle. When that sinks, shall I paddle East with my four paws. Then, when I can swim no longer, if I have not yet reached Aslan's Country, there shall I sink with my nose to the sunrise..."
This morning David Barcelo preached on Matthew 13 and the infinite worth of the Gospel. In the parable (verses 44-45) there was a man who found a pearl of great value and sold everything he had to buy it. Everything! He knew the price and the value of that one pearl so he gave up all to possess it.
His friends probably didn't understand why he did it. They probably made fun and teased him. There is no way they could understand, though. Unless they knew the value of the pearl, they would never understand.
God knew that the one thing Abraham loved was Isaac. So God said, "Abraham, give me Isaac." Abraham did.
My question for myself: "What do I love that I'm not giving up for His sake?" What do I have that I won't let go? Anything that I can't give up for Christ is an idol. Whoo. Scary word. God doesn't take idols lightly. Uh, if you don't believe me, read the old testament.
Salvation is the pearl. Jesus is my pearl. Jesus is my treasure above treasures. Can I say that with conviction? Can you? My life will be prioritized by, run in accordance to, and follow the path of my treasures. What am I treasuring the most? What means the most to me? If you don't know, examine your life! You'll find out what it is quick.
Think about what you love the most. If God were to say, "My Child, give me ______." Could you do it? Are you seeking the Gospel and the Kingdom of God with fervency? Or is your journey to heaven and your Christian life, more like a time-to-laze-around-waiting-for-heaven time?
NO! That is why Reepicheep is so inspiring! I want to go to heaven and finish my journey exhausted. I want to be sold out for Christ. If He takes away my ship, then my boat and even my own strength, I still want to cross the finish line sinking! I want to be the type of Christian that says, "TAKE EVERYTHING LORD!" I want to live like I believe that giving everything up for Christ is a joy. I want to always be willing to lay aside my true-loves, my addictions, my habits, my comforts, and my ease for His name.
If I do that, people are going to think I'm crazy, they will think I've gone off my rocker, but how could they think anything else unless they have seen the treasure of Jesus Christ and Heaven? Jesus has given me that gift. He has allowed me into His family. I see the joy. I see the beauty. I've felt the love. Now, I have to fight for it. The gift is mine, and better yet, the Giver is mine. I want to give Him my all, because He gave me His all.
Paul said with conviction in Philippians 3:7-8, "But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things."
Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
Are you and am I giving up the things that we cannot take out of this world so we can gain the eternal rewards in heaven and ultimately Christ? The treasure of all treasures Himself?
The writer, C.S Lewis, very obviously intended for Aslan to be a picture of Christ, His country to be a picture of heaven and Reepicheep to represent a faithful servant.
Reep shows his passion for Aslan's Country when he says, "My own plans are made. While I may, I sail East in Dawn Treader. When she fails me, I row East in my coracle. When that sinks, shall I paddle East with my four paws. Then, when I can swim no longer, if I have not yet reached Aslan's Country, there shall I sink with my nose to the sunrise..."
This morning David Barcelo preached on Matthew 13 and the infinite worth of the Gospel. In the parable (verses 44-45) there was a man who found a pearl of great value and sold everything he had to buy it. Everything! He knew the price and the value of that one pearl so he gave up all to possess it.
His friends probably didn't understand why he did it. They probably made fun and teased him. There is no way they could understand, though. Unless they knew the value of the pearl, they would never understand.
God knew that the one thing Abraham loved was Isaac. So God said, "Abraham, give me Isaac." Abraham did.
My question for myself: "What do I love that I'm not giving up for His sake?" What do I have that I won't let go? Anything that I can't give up for Christ is an idol. Whoo. Scary word. God doesn't take idols lightly. Uh, if you don't believe me, read the old testament.
Salvation is the pearl. Jesus is my pearl. Jesus is my treasure above treasures. Can I say that with conviction? Can you? My life will be prioritized by, run in accordance to, and follow the path of my treasures. What am I treasuring the most? What means the most to me? If you don't know, examine your life! You'll find out what it is quick.
Think about what you love the most. If God were to say, "My Child, give me ______." Could you do it? Are you seeking the Gospel and the Kingdom of God with fervency? Or is your journey to heaven and your Christian life, more like a time-to-laze-around-waiting-for-heaven time?
NO! That is why Reepicheep is so inspiring! I want to go to heaven and finish my journey exhausted. I want to be sold out for Christ. If He takes away my ship, then my boat and even my own strength, I still want to cross the finish line sinking! I want to be the type of Christian that says, "TAKE EVERYTHING LORD!" I want to live like I believe that giving everything up for Christ is a joy. I want to always be willing to lay aside my true-loves, my addictions, my habits, my comforts, and my ease for His name.
Paul said with conviction in Philippians 3:7-8, "But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things."
Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
Are you and am I giving up the things that we cannot take out of this world so we can gain the eternal rewards in heaven and ultimately Christ? The treasure of all treasures Himself?
Monday, June 13, 2011
OH LOOK! CHOIRS!!!
This is real music. The power it can have on people is...unmeasurable. I know most of you know that I have an obsession with choirs. So, I was surfing youtube, looking at choirs and lets just say...I was wowed. This is the type of stuff i want to sing one day. The first one gives me chills. The second one is way corny, but SO COOL!! And the thrid is unbelievable.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Glory to God? Forever?
I'm going to quickly type out a post before rushing to bed. So, I apologize beforehand for any typos or weirdness.
I went to afterglow. I LOVE AFTERGLOW! It's where our youth group gets together and just talks about the sermons in church and kinda applies them, or just discusses them. We also sing a lot which I love. In general, singing is my favorite thing ever. But singing with believers to God is the BEST!
We sang a song tonight that provoked some thought in me. It's called, "Glory to God".
Creator God you gave me breath so I could praise
Your great and matchless name
All my days, all my days
So let my whole life be
A blazing offering
A life that shouts and sings
The greatness of the King
CHORUS:
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever
Glory to God? Forever? I tried to wrap my mind around that. One day, we are going to be praising God and glorifying His name with the angels and saints. I can't imagine the day when we can sit around His throne and adore Him.
And even now. I want to give glory to God in my life right now. This moment! I confess that many times i can sing, "Take my life and let it be, all for You and for Your glory" but I don't really live that out. I found myself half-heartedly singing those words tonight. But, those words are a prayer and shouldn't be taken nonchalantly. Lives that are "all for You and for Your glory" are totally different, crazy-in-the-worlds-eyes lives! I sing like I want to be that, but I'm not taking the steps and making the radical choices to be one.
I mean, what would someone who is living that type of life look like? What if I found someone who was living out "Glory to God, Forever" in everything they do? How can I do that?
I was convicted tonight about the fact that I can sing prayerful, reverent words like that and treat them like no big deal. Here's one, "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus". EVERYONE in church knows that chorus, but how many people who sing it really mean it? Those are tough words. "Though none go with me, I still will follow...The world behind me, the cross before me..." Who wants to go to the cross? The cross stands for and is the most amount of suffering that anyone could go through? Who actually wants that?
I don't really want to sing those songs unless I mean them. Or here, maybe when I sing that...if I feel like I'm not meaning them at the moment...I can pray that God will enable me to desire the cross and enable me to live out "Glory to God, Forever".
Today, tomorrow and forever I want to give glory to God. Whether it is through the way I treat my family, how I handle customers, what I do behind closed doors, or my priorities...I want God to be glorified - forever.
Back to the old verse that everyone knows and quotes, but the truth is so huge...
When is that going to stop just "being a verse" and start being my life?!?
I went to afterglow. I LOVE AFTERGLOW! It's where our youth group gets together and just talks about the sermons in church and kinda applies them, or just discusses them. We also sing a lot which I love. In general, singing is my favorite thing ever. But singing with believers to God is the BEST!
We sang a song tonight that provoked some thought in me. It's called, "Glory to God".
Creator God you gave me breath so I could praise
Your great and matchless name
All my days, all my days
So let my whole life be
A blazing offering
A life that shouts and sings
The greatness of the King
CHORUS:
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever
Glory to God, Glory to God
Glory to God, Forever
Glory to God? Forever? I tried to wrap my mind around that. One day, we are going to be praising God and glorifying His name with the angels and saints. I can't imagine the day when we can sit around His throne and adore Him.
And even now. I want to give glory to God in my life right now. This moment! I confess that many times i can sing, "Take my life and let it be, all for You and for Your glory" but I don't really live that out. I found myself half-heartedly singing those words tonight. But, those words are a prayer and shouldn't be taken nonchalantly. Lives that are "all for You and for Your glory" are totally different, crazy-in-the-worlds-eyes lives! I sing like I want to be that, but I'm not taking the steps and making the radical choices to be one.
I mean, what would someone who is living that type of life look like? What if I found someone who was living out "Glory to God, Forever" in everything they do? How can I do that?
I was convicted tonight about the fact that I can sing prayerful, reverent words like that and treat them like no big deal. Here's one, "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus". EVERYONE in church knows that chorus, but how many people who sing it really mean it? Those are tough words. "Though none go with me, I still will follow...The world behind me, the cross before me..." Who wants to go to the cross? The cross stands for and is the most amount of suffering that anyone could go through? Who actually wants that?
I don't really want to sing those songs unless I mean them. Or here, maybe when I sing that...if I feel like I'm not meaning them at the moment...I can pray that God will enable me to desire the cross and enable me to live out "Glory to God, Forever".
Today, tomorrow and forever I want to give glory to God. Whether it is through the way I treat my family, how I handle customers, what I do behind closed doors, or my priorities...I want God to be glorified - forever.
Back to the old verse that everyone knows and quotes, but the truth is so huge...
1 Corinthians 10:31 "Whether you eat, drink or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
When is that going to stop just "being a verse" and start being my life?!?
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
The God of Eternity Doesn't Handle Your Sin Lightly
More and more I've noticed in the world around me and in...sadly, myself this attitude of "sin isn't really that big a deal". If I shoot up a little prayer of repentance, promise to do better and all...then, I'm clear, right?
Wrong!
God does not take our sin lightly. The God of the Universe, the initiator of everything, the one who can discontinue your breath without a though doesn't take your sin lightly. He doesn't go, "Oh, she is doing a half-way job fixing her sin, and she is failing - she doesn't even seem like she really cares, but I don't really mind...after all, she isn't murdering anyone, is she?"
The one who has the power to throw you in hell doesn't take your sin lightly. Why should you? What grounds do you have to relax about it?
We cannot take it lightly anymore. God eventually punished the Isrealites for not serving Him, when will He do the same to us?
I'm learning this lesson more and more. My ease about the whole thing concerns me. I want to be sensitive and aware of my sin, constantly on my face repenting to God, and always in the process of changing.
Is there unhandled sin in your life? Today, not tomorrow, is the time...
Wrong!
God does not take our sin lightly. The God of the Universe, the initiator of everything, the one who can discontinue your breath without a though doesn't take your sin lightly. He doesn't go, "Oh, she is doing a half-way job fixing her sin, and she is failing - she doesn't even seem like she really cares, but I don't really mind...after all, she isn't murdering anyone, is she?"
The one who has the power to throw you in hell doesn't take your sin lightly. Why should you? What grounds do you have to relax about it?
If your right eyes causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown in hell. And if your right arm causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go to hell. (Matthew 5:29-30)
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? (Romans 6:1-2)Relax isn't an instruction. God is the same wrathful God of the OT. He hasn't changed. He hates sin and He hates when His people turn from Him to pursue other things. He shows mercy upon mercy and helps those who ask for it, thank goodness! And He will never forsake. But don't let those promises give you slack to sin more and not worry. Be about the work of righteousness. If you are in sin, repent! and change!
We cannot take it lightly anymore. God eventually punished the Isrealites for not serving Him, when will He do the same to us?
I'm learning this lesson more and more. My ease about the whole thing concerns me. I want to be sensitive and aware of my sin, constantly on my face repenting to God, and always in the process of changing.
Is there unhandled sin in your life? Today, not tomorrow, is the time...
Monday, June 6, 2011
P31W: Building Up People
I love this quote. Sadly, I don't know who to credit it to. If anyone knows, please tell me.
Yes.
Proverbs 31 gives a description of the P31W's husband in verse 23:
Now, lets take this idea out of the context of marriage, since 90% (or more) of us aren't married. How can we, as Proverbs 31 Teens, be a supportive "back-bone" to other people? How can we encourage and inspire people to be all they can for the glory of God? How can we be a side-kick for others who need help? Is there any way our actions can be the type that some people will later claim they wouldn't have made it without?
Interesting to think about, huh?
In the case of a sibling: the P31W would probably be the type of sister who would go out of her way to help her sibling with homework, chores, or even talk when he or she needs a listening ear.
In the case of a sister or brother in Christ: She would be one who lifts up, encourages, prays for, and helps those in the family of God. She would minister to people and disciple younger, newer Christians. She would be one that people always new they could come to for help, anytime.
In the case of the church: She is on who would be okay working "backstage" and is always there at the drop of a hat for any kind of service...cooking meals for families, nursery, music ministery...or whatever....
See the pattern? We don't have to be married to be reliable women who build others up. We can be support to whoever, all the time. And the rewards for being that type of friend, or sister, are great. Sometimes on earth, but always in heaven.
Challenge: Pick someone you can support today. Who around you needs a helping hand or just a word of encouragement?
"Behind every great man is an even better woman."Okay, I don't believe that is true in all cases, but I it is something I like to think about. Can women be the people who build others up in such a way that the subject of their encouragement's accomplishments can almost be credited back to them? Can we, as females, have that much influence?
Yes.
Proverbs 31 gives a description of the P31W's husband in verse 23:
"Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land."Now, keep in mind that the chapter is talking about the Proverbs 31 Woman. She is the one the chapter is zeroing in on. So, this random verse about her husband, seeming "tossed" in there, is probably more about her, than the husband. The woman, in a marriage relationship, is the help-meet. She helps, loves, cares for, supports and respects her husband. If a woman does that successfully, it isn't far fetched to believe that that man will do well in the world, will be respected by others, and be successful.
Now, lets take this idea out of the context of marriage, since 90% (or more) of us aren't married. How can we, as Proverbs 31 Teens, be a supportive "back-bone" to other people? How can we encourage and inspire people to be all they can for the glory of God? How can we be a side-kick for others who need help? Is there any way our actions can be the type that some people will later claim they wouldn't have made it without?
Interesting to think about, huh?
In the case of a sibling: the P31W would probably be the type of sister who would go out of her way to help her sibling with homework, chores, or even talk when he or she needs a listening ear.
In the case of a sister or brother in Christ: She would be one who lifts up, encourages, prays for, and helps those in the family of God. She would minister to people and disciple younger, newer Christians. She would be one that people always new they could come to for help, anytime.
In the case of the church: She is on who would be okay working "backstage" and is always there at the drop of a hat for any kind of service...cooking meals for families, nursery, music ministery...or whatever....
See the pattern? We don't have to be married to be reliable women who build others up. We can be support to whoever, all the time. And the rewards for being that type of friend, or sister, are great. Sometimes on earth, but always in heaven.
Challenge: Pick someone you can support today. Who around you needs a helping hand or just a word of encouragement?
Sunday, June 5, 2011
P31W: A Woman of Beauty
Everyone loves beauty right? Everyone appreciates it, whether its natural beauty, beautiful people, or beautiful symbolic meanings. We can even apply this to the Proverbs 31 Woman.
Read verse 22 of Proverbs 31.
I have two applications for this verse myself. Let's take the first part of it. "She makes coverings for her bed." Where do you feel at home? If you were to go to someone's house and it was dirty and not very well taken care of, would you feel as comfortable there as you would in someone's clean house who tried to make it look beautiful and inviting? I would venture to guess that you probably would not.
God created the world beautiful. He created beautiful girls and even calls them as much in the Bible. The temple was beautiful, even. Some people believe it is vain to have curtains or a beautiful home. People have gone as extreme to make sure they only have the bear necessities in their home so as not to be vain. Now, don't get me wrong. Some people have extreme convictions about this. Take Muller for example. Thousands of orphans were in his care and he had nothing. That's understandable. But, I think there is a point where you can start to be legalistic about it. Is it JUST about not being vain, or is there a part of the person that makes them feel more loved by God if they refrain from "fluff"? ...That's not an accusation, just a question.
I, on the other hand, feel like it is our job to make beauty. God speaks to us of beauty through the Bible is creation, His Son, love relationships, in women, and even (I thought this was cool) in Exodus, God tells them to make garments for the priests for glory and beauty. See, beauty is not an un-known thing to God. He understands and loves beauty. Our job as P31Ws is to take our homes and lives and decorate them. When an unbeliever comes into my home, I want her/him to think, "Wow. This woman takes care of what she has. This place is peaceful and beautiful and makes me feel relaxed." I don't want that person to think. "This is the Christian life? Whoo, she got jipped." I want people to see the blessing of the Lord in my life, and if that is through a beautiful house, then praise the Lord!
I KNOW that there are some Christians who just don't have much. Glory to God. I hope they make beautiful and pleasing whatever God has given them.
Second application is beauty in the person of the P31W. I guess, sometimes I thought of her as someone who was probably grimy from working and never dressed in anything but a plain, straight dress. I don't think that is the case though. The second half of the verse says, "she is clothed in fine linen and purple." I don't think she was hygienically run down.
Yeah, you bet. Spending long periods of time in front of a mirror is a bad habit. Sinful and wrong. But, I think God is pleased when we try to be beautiful. Not in a seductive or self-glorifying way, but in a way that points people to the creator. We are the work, the beautiful work of the creator. We should show it. Not to flaunt. Not to draw attention. But in order to point people to the amazing creator. Wearing make-up, dressing up or doing our hair isn't going to make us less cherished in the sight of God. Did you know that God planted the desire to be beautiful in women? It's natural for us to want beauty. In 1 Peter 3:3-4 it says,
Read verse 22 of Proverbs 31.
"She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple."I talked to my Pastor's wife about this and she gave some pretty good insight about what this verse meant. She thinks that this verse means that the P31W appreciates and strives for beauty in the home. She is a homemaker and does what she can to have a gorgeous home.
I have two applications for this verse myself. Let's take the first part of it. "She makes coverings for her bed." Where do you feel at home? If you were to go to someone's house and it was dirty and not very well taken care of, would you feel as comfortable there as you would in someone's clean house who tried to make it look beautiful and inviting? I would venture to guess that you probably would not.
God created the world beautiful. He created beautiful girls and even calls them as much in the Bible. The temple was beautiful, even. Some people believe it is vain to have curtains or a beautiful home. People have gone as extreme to make sure they only have the bear necessities in their home so as not to be vain. Now, don't get me wrong. Some people have extreme convictions about this. Take Muller for example. Thousands of orphans were in his care and he had nothing. That's understandable. But, I think there is a point where you can start to be legalistic about it. Is it JUST about not being vain, or is there a part of the person that makes them feel more loved by God if they refrain from "fluff"? ...That's not an accusation, just a question.
I, on the other hand, feel like it is our job to make beauty. God speaks to us of beauty through the Bible is creation, His Son, love relationships, in women, and even (I thought this was cool) in Exodus, God tells them to make garments for the priests for glory and beauty. See, beauty is not an un-known thing to God. He understands and loves beauty. Our job as P31Ws is to take our homes and lives and decorate them. When an unbeliever comes into my home, I want her/him to think, "Wow. This woman takes care of what she has. This place is peaceful and beautiful and makes me feel relaxed." I don't want that person to think. "This is the Christian life? Whoo, she got jipped." I want people to see the blessing of the Lord in my life, and if that is through a beautiful house, then praise the Lord!
I KNOW that there are some Christians who just don't have much. Glory to God. I hope they make beautiful and pleasing whatever God has given them.
Second application is beauty in the person of the P31W. I guess, sometimes I thought of her as someone who was probably grimy from working and never dressed in anything but a plain, straight dress. I don't think that is the case though. The second half of the verse says, "she is clothed in fine linen and purple." I don't think she was hygienically run down.
Yeah, you bet. Spending long periods of time in front of a mirror is a bad habit. Sinful and wrong. But, I think God is pleased when we try to be beautiful. Not in a seductive or self-glorifying way, but in a way that points people to the creator. We are the work, the beautiful work of the creator. We should show it. Not to flaunt. Not to draw attention. But in order to point people to the amazing creator. Wearing make-up, dressing up or doing our hair isn't going to make us less cherished in the sight of God. Did you know that God planted the desire to be beautiful in women? It's natural for us to want beauty. In 1 Peter 3:3-4 it says,
"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."God doesn't deny that we are beautiful creatures who have a desire to be attractive. It cannot be our primary focus and control us, but we shouldn't let it slide either. Lets be beautiful and attractive! Through our outward appearance, deeds, words, our home, and our character. God created us, right? And He doesn't mess up! So lets rejoice in the creator and be the piece of art-work He created us to be!!
Confession Session
Okay, so I can officially award myself as the "worst blogger in the world." I feel bad that I've let things slip for so long. I have wanted too, but at the same time I haven't. I think it may also be a reflection of what is going on with my heart. For some weird reason I've just kinda lost some of my steam when it comes to my relationship with the Lord. I think it may be as simple as letting the stuff in my life get in the way. But, I'm seeking healing and trying to dive back into the Word like old times. Maybe I'll start getting some more inspiration to write. I am blessed when I remember that I'm the one who moved away. Yeah, it makes me sorta mad at myself, but at the same time I feel tremendous blessing when I think of it. God is going to be there when I come. I just have to...come.
That...that...kinda makes me feel stupid. Why have I been away so long? *kicks a rock*
Prayer would be great. I need it. Some people have given me the impression that they think I've got my ducks in a row and life is good. Well, if you've ever thought that or my blog (God forbid) has ever given you that impression...it isn't true. I have so many questions, problems, pride issues and stuff...it's ridiculous. I feel like a basket case sometimes when I come to God. Almost like this, "Uh, God. Well, there is so much going on with me, I don't know where You want to start."
So, again, prayer would be great.
On a brighter note, I realized that June 3rd, was Striving for a Crown's 1'st birthday! *balloons* Happy Birthday dear ol' blog of mine! Just want to say thank you to all my faithful followers who have put up with my inconsistency and random thoughts for so long. You guys have given me the motivation to write. And thanks to those of you who spread the word. The facebook links and blog references have helped me gain followers like crazy. I know because I can track it. ;) I've been holding over 1,000 views monthly. I never would've imagined that, starting out, but you guys have seriously been so supportive. Anyways...I'm rambling bad.
I'm going to try and post a Proverbs 31 Woman post. Please know that the post isn't from someone who has the answers, but from someone who is searching as well. Okay?
Over and out!
That...that...kinda makes me feel stupid. Why have I been away so long? *kicks a rock*
Prayer would be great. I need it. Some people have given me the impression that they think I've got my ducks in a row and life is good. Well, if you've ever thought that or my blog (God forbid) has ever given you that impression...it isn't true. I have so many questions, problems, pride issues and stuff...it's ridiculous. I feel like a basket case sometimes when I come to God. Almost like this, "Uh, God. Well, there is so much going on with me, I don't know where You want to start."
So, again, prayer would be great.
On a brighter note, I realized that June 3rd, was Striving for a Crown's 1'st birthday! *balloons* Happy Birthday dear ol' blog of mine! Just want to say thank you to all my faithful followers who have put up with my inconsistency and random thoughts for so long. You guys have given me the motivation to write. And thanks to those of you who spread the word. The facebook links and blog references have helped me gain followers like crazy. I know because I can track it. ;) I've been holding over 1,000 views monthly. I never would've imagined that, starting out, but you guys have seriously been so supportive. Anyways...I'm rambling bad.
I'm going to try and post a Proverbs 31 Woman post. Please know that the post isn't from someone who has the answers, but from someone who is searching as well. Okay?
Over and out!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
*Deep Breath*
Just thought I would add that I enjoyed posting that and felt my vigor return. Maybe blogging is kinda like exercising. When you do it, it releases a chemical in your body, which makes you feel good and happy and healthy...and it makes you want to workout more...I don't know if that's really true. I just heard that from somewhere. *shrug*
Anyways, good to be back. Missed it.
Anyways, good to be back. Missed it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)