Well today is Friday!! It always amazes me how I feel on Fridays... Excitement for 2 days off work, list of things "todo" in my head, anticipation for afterschool sports game. Today there is one more thing Raeanna has a "school dance" and last night at 9:30pm could not decide what to wear. This really bothers me because she usually doesn't care just puts on a pair of jeans and off she goes... Last night she wanted a dress (doesn't own one) and was going crazy think of what she could wear and talking about getting up early to do her hair. (the dance is right after school) I know you are thinking of what I am thinking. This teenage girl thing is really too much!! Here we go hang on it could be a bumpy flight!! She found a dress in my closet that was too small for me (thank goodness I never clean out my closet) and put it with a cute tank and little jacket and looks really cute...
Chapter 14:
I have created a link to go directly to a website call biblegateway.com. It is to Romans 14 in The Message translation. Please read it first, I have made some comments about the verse. Don't worry it is a short read and I think you will like it...
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2014&version=MSG
1-5 I think is a great reminder that we all have different ways of thinking of our God. Some think of God and "religon" being the same thing. Many have been "hurt" by religon/churches. Please know that our God is bigger than that. Remember that religon/churches are run by people who are all sinners and can hurt others.
6-12 are good reminders on "judging" others. I think we are quick to judge others instead of worring about our own walk... My advice watch where you are going... you never know who is following you!!
15-18 is some powerful stuff that I could spend hours, days, weeks maybe a lifetime of perfecting!!
19-21 are huge!!
The last sentance is worth repeating!!
"If the way you live isn't consistant with what you believe, then it is wrong!"
Thursday 2/18/10 Romans Chapter 13
Well yesterday morning something hit me like a ton of bricks!! I was fine on Tuesday and then yesterday morning bam!!! I had such a bad sinus headache/migrane I couldn't even drink my coffee. I called my boss and went back to bed. Slept till almost 11:00 got up took a shower, went to Wal Mart and got some Excedrin Migrane, Advil, and Tylenol and took that with my alergy stuff and barely made it threw my afternoon classes and afterschool sports. This morning is much better. I feel as if I was hit by a "Mach Truck" but will survive. What a horrible feeling to feel so much pain. I am not a good "sick" person!!
Chapter 13:
1-7 This is hard for me to understand... Are they talking about all authorities?? Like my boss? Like my husband?
After studing from The Message I found this... How are we feeling now??
from The Message:
6-7That's also why you pay taxes—so that an orderly way of life can be maintained. Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.
8-10 LOVE!! this one can be trying at times. Love your neighbor I don't think it means just those living next to you but all you meet!! This can be hard especially after what we just read in verses 1-7. Those that are in authority are sometimes hard to understand more less even harder to love!!
from The Message, too beautifully put.
8-10Don't run up debts, except for the huge debt of love you owe each other. When you love others, you complete what the law has been after all along. The law code—don't sleep with another person's spouse, don't take someone's life, don't take what isn't yours, don't always be wanting what you don't have, and any other "don't" you can think of—finally adds up to this: Love other people as well as you do yourself. You can't go wrong when you love others. When you add up everything in the law code, the sum total is love.
LOVE YOU ALL!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!!
Chapter 13:
1-7 This is hard for me to understand... Are they talking about all authorities?? Like my boss? Like my husband?
After studing from The Message I found this... How are we feeling now??
from The Message:
6-7That's also why you pay taxes—so that an orderly way of life can be maintained. Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.
8-10 LOVE!! this one can be trying at times. Love your neighbor I don't think it means just those living next to you but all you meet!! This can be hard especially after what we just read in verses 1-7. Those that are in authority are sometimes hard to understand more less even harder to love!!
from The Message, too beautifully put.
8-10Don't run up debts, except for the huge debt of love you owe each other. When you love others, you complete what the law has been after all along. The law code—don't sleep with another person's spouse, don't take someone's life, don't take what isn't yours, don't always be wanting what you don't have, and any other "don't" you can think of—finally adds up to this: Love other people as well as you do yourself. You can't go wrong when you love others. When you add up everything in the law code, the sum total is love.
LOVE YOU ALL!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!!
Tuesday 2/16/10 Romans Chapter 12
Well here is another short week. I am having trouble getting my feet under me. I had a great day yesterday and got alot accomplished although didn't get everything done that needed to be done. Story of life. I always make so many lists and never finish everything. Although it sure feels good when I get some important things done or start. I think half the battle is starting a project.
Chapter 12:
1-2 this is always a hard few verses for me.. "bodies as a living sacrifice" I feel I fail at this. I don't take care of my "body" like I should... something to work on...
6 "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his[b]faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully."
I think sometimes in the church especially we have to we have to be able to "try" new things in serving. I remember when I was starting with the youth. scary, questioning God, unsure, not comfortable etc. sometimes I have found when we get "comfortable" serving in a ministry God shakes it up alittle. I still get nervous when some of them start talking to me about "big stuff". Ministry to me is not comfortable at all because I am constantly growing and learning.
From The Message:
6-8If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face.
12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." I think this might be my new favorite verses!!
14 "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited. " talk about practicing some hard stuff. Try practicing this for just one day... I especially love the part where it says mourn with those who mourn. So many times we are afraid to mourn... It is so healthy and we need to do it. It helps us move on and be able to "live in harmony with one another".
From The Message:
20-21Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. Don't know about you but I am not going to let evil get the best of me!!
Chapter 12:
1-2 this is always a hard few verses for me.. "bodies as a living sacrifice" I feel I fail at this. I don't take care of my "body" like I should... something to work on...
6 "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his[b]faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully."
I think sometimes in the church especially we have to we have to be able to "try" new things in serving. I remember when I was starting with the youth. scary, questioning God, unsure, not comfortable etc. sometimes I have found when we get "comfortable" serving in a ministry God shakes it up alittle. I still get nervous when some of them start talking to me about "big stuff". Ministry to me is not comfortable at all because I am constantly growing and learning.
From The Message:
6-8If you preach, just preach God's Message, nothing else; if you help, just help, don't take over; if you teach, stick to your teaching; if you give encouraging guidance, be careful that you don't get bossy; if you're put in charge, don't manipulate; if you're called to give aid to people in distress, keep your eyes open and be quick to respond; if you work with the disadvantaged, don't let yourself get irritated with them or depressed by them. Keep a smile on your face.
12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality." I think this might be my new favorite verses!!
14 "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[c] Do not be conceited. " talk about practicing some hard stuff. Try practicing this for just one day... I especially love the part where it says mourn with those who mourn. So many times we are afraid to mourn... It is so healthy and we need to do it. It helps us move on and be able to "live in harmony with one another".
From The Message:
20-21Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. Don't know about you but I am not going to let evil get the best of me!!
Monday 2/15/10 Romans Chapter 11
I love 3 day weekends. It is such a bonus!! My Valentines was wonderful, Vince came to church with me, he also got me flowers and cards, family together. And today a bonus day off. I am hopefully going to get all my taxes stuff together. This is always a big chore for me. You know my afterschool sports program... well, it is like owning my own business. I get alot of tax breaks but have to claim all the money... In other words alot of numbers and finding of reciepts today...I am thankful I am getting started in February usually it is March or heaven forbid April.. I will keep you posted...
Roman Chapter 11:
Paul is still trying to convince the Israelite's about Jesus. Paul is using the law and what the prophets said from the old testament. They do not want to get it.
6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.
this next part if straight from The Message. What kind of a branch are you??
16-18Behind and underneath all this there is a holy, God-planted, God-tended root. If the primary root of the tree is holy, there's bound to be some holy fruit. Some of the tree's branches were pruned and you wild olive shoots were grafted in. Yet the fact that you are now fed by that rich and holy root gives you no cause to crow over the pruned branches. Remember, you aren't feeding the root; the root is feeding you.
19-20It's certainly possible to say, "Other branches were pruned so that I could be grafted in!" Well and good. But they were pruned because they were deadwood, no longer connected by belief and commitment to the root. The only reason you're on the tree is because your graft "took" when you believed, and because you're connected to that belief-nurturing root. So don't get cocky and strut your branch. Be humbly mindful of the root that keeps you lithe and green.
21-22If God didn't think twice about taking pruning shears to the natural branches, why would he hesitate over you? He wouldn't give it a second thought. Make sure you stay alert to these qualities of gentle kindness and ruthless severity that exist side by side in God—ruthless with the deadwood, gentle with the grafted shoot. But don't presume on this gentleness. The moment you become deadwood, you're out of there.
23-24And don't get to feeling superior to those pruned branches down on the ground. If they don't persist in remaining deadwood, they could very well get grafted back in. God can do that. He can perform miracle grafts. Why, if he could graft you—branches cut from a tree out in the wild—into an orchard tree, he certainly isn't going to have any trouble grafting branches back into the tree they grew from in the first place. Just be glad you're in the tree, and hope for the best for the others.
This is alittle longer today and let me tell you I lost focus many times. Now I am glad I made it back to it. I love this with the branches it reminds me of several things, families, churches, work places, relationships etc. what comes to your mind when you read these words about "branches"??
Roman Chapter 11:
Paul is still trying to convince the Israelite's about Jesus. Paul is using the law and what the prophets said from the old testament. They do not want to get it.
6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.
this next part if straight from The Message. What kind of a branch are you??
16-18Behind and underneath all this there is a holy, God-planted, God-tended root. If the primary root of the tree is holy, there's bound to be some holy fruit. Some of the tree's branches were pruned and you wild olive shoots were grafted in. Yet the fact that you are now fed by that rich and holy root gives you no cause to crow over the pruned branches. Remember, you aren't feeding the root; the root is feeding you.
19-20It's certainly possible to say, "Other branches were pruned so that I could be grafted in!" Well and good. But they were pruned because they were deadwood, no longer connected by belief and commitment to the root. The only reason you're on the tree is because your graft "took" when you believed, and because you're connected to that belief-nurturing root. So don't get cocky and strut your branch. Be humbly mindful of the root that keeps you lithe and green.
21-22If God didn't think twice about taking pruning shears to the natural branches, why would he hesitate over you? He wouldn't give it a second thought. Make sure you stay alert to these qualities of gentle kindness and ruthless severity that exist side by side in God—ruthless with the deadwood, gentle with the grafted shoot. But don't presume on this gentleness. The moment you become deadwood, you're out of there.
23-24And don't get to feeling superior to those pruned branches down on the ground. If they don't persist in remaining deadwood, they could very well get grafted back in. God can do that. He can perform miracle grafts. Why, if he could graft you—branches cut from a tree out in the wild—into an orchard tree, he certainly isn't going to have any trouble grafting branches back into the tree they grew from in the first place. Just be glad you're in the tree, and hope for the best for the others.
This is alittle longer today and let me tell you I lost focus many times. Now I am glad I made it back to it. I love this with the branches it reminds me of several things, families, churches, work places, relationships etc. what comes to your mind when you read these words about "branches"??
Saturday 2/13/10 Romans Chapter 10
Well here it is the day before Valentines.... I love Valentines working at a school and watching the kids get so excited about those crazy little cards, candy and just something out of the ordinary. I have to admit I also secretly look forward to Valentines Day. I know that Vince and I exchange cards and he always spends time to find the right card. A few years back he gave me some rose bushes and said "there I'm done" since then I have only gotten flowers once (for anniversary). I have to admit I love those rose bushes. They are alot like relationships. You have to work at them all the time. Watering, pruning, fertilizing and sometimes they hurt you. The good part is that you get to enjoy them when they are blooming they are pleasing to the eye and smell soo good. They don't bloom all the time. Can you see the simularities??? I think that in all our relationships we expect them to be "in bloom" all the time. That is just not going to happen you have to take care of every relationship and enjoy the good with the bad... They are alot of work. I have found that this is very true with my relationship with God. It is not always easy in fact this morning I wanted to take the day off. I am so thankful that I have this crazy bible study to keep me where I need to be. Thanks to you all and I hope you have a wonderful Valentines!! If nothing else celebrate it with the One who loves you more than anything... After all He sent His Son to show how much He loves YOU!!
Chapter 10
9"That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." sounds easy enough???
14"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" We all need to be telling others and how beautiful are the feet??? SERIOUSLY??? WHAT IS UP WITH THIS STATEMENT??
19Again I ask: Did Israel not understand? First, Moses says,
"I will make you envious by those who are not a nation;
I will make you angry by a nation that has no understanding."[j] 20And Isaiah boldly says,
"I was found by those who did not seek me;
I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me."[k] 21But concerning Israel he says,
"All day long I have held out my hands
to a disobedient and obstinate people." THESE LAST FEW STATEMENTS GIVE ME HOPE FOR ALL I KNOW THAT DON'T KNOW!!
Chapter 10
9"That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." sounds easy enough???
14"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" We all need to be telling others and how beautiful are the feet??? SERIOUSLY??? WHAT IS UP WITH THIS STATEMENT??
19Again I ask: Did Israel not understand? First, Moses says,
"I will make you envious by those who are not a nation;
I will make you angry by a nation that has no understanding."[j] 20And Isaiah boldly says,
"I was found by those who did not seek me;
I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me."[k] 21But concerning Israel he says,
"All day long I have held out my hands
to a disobedient and obstinate people." THESE LAST FEW STATEMENTS GIVE ME HOPE FOR ALL I KNOW THAT DON'T KNOW!!
Well yesterday I went to work and the school nurse sent me home... I don't have a fever but I sure did feel horrible... Today I still don't feel 100% but moving toward the task at hand. Yesterday was filled with laying on the couch and watching/listening to t.v. Today I am moving alittle slow but on the move. I hope that some rest was all I needed. I have a 3 day weekend so I am really looking forward to that and getting some more rest. Found out yesterday that Prestin made the JV baseball team. Looking forward to start going to some games again... We are on the move again around here...
Chapter 9:
1-5 I know what Paul is talking about when he is talking of the Israelites. I have so many in my life who do understand my relationship with Christ and it makes me so sad in so many ways...
10-13 compares other stories to the same feelings of insecurity... Jacob and Esau
20-33 describes how we are all different and for a reason.
this was a hard chapter for me to wrap my head around today... I need your help... I tried to look it up on biblegateway.com in The Message and got alittle help really nothing was jumping off the page at me... HELP WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS!! OPEN MY EYES...
Chapter 9:
1-5 I know what Paul is talking about when he is talking of the Israelites. I have so many in my life who do understand my relationship with Christ and it makes me so sad in so many ways...
10-13 compares other stories to the same feelings of insecurity... Jacob and Esau
20-33 describes how we are all different and for a reason.
this was a hard chapter for me to wrap my head around today... I need your help... I tried to look it up on biblegateway.com in The Message and got alittle help really nothing was jumping off the page at me... HELP WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS!! OPEN MY EYES...
Thursday 2/11/10 Romans Chapter 8
The last couple of days have been interesting... At work the kids really loved have the Arizona Coyotes there. It was 3 guys from the organization that did hockey clinics and promoted the Coyotes. It was something out of the normal and the kids loved it. I saw every student(700+) in the school in 2 days. I am exhausted. Plus I have been dealing with some stuff in my personal life. The suicide of an acquaintance that used to be a youth leader at our church and went on to be a youth directer at another church, has brought up alot of old feeling of when my cousin committed suicide. And last night at church brought up some heavy stuff for some of the kids. And then there is the normal stuff to deal with at my house with 2 teenagers in the house... Life really throws some stuff at us that can be tough to deal with that is why I am so glad that I am a believer in Jesus Christ and I can cast my cares on Him and know that I don't have to deal with it. I can give it to Him. The hard part is not taking it back and trying to deal with it myself...
Chapter 8:
5........"but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires".
6"The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace" I choose life and peace!!
14 "because those whos are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God" What are you being led by??
18 This is exactly what I needed to hear this morning... "I consider that our present suffering are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." So many times I have not known what to pray for and I am so glad to know that the "Spirit" will help with that... and then at the the of 27 we are reminded that the "Spirit intercedes with fht esaints in accordance with God's will"
28 Now here is good news!! "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, wha have been called according to His purpose."
37-39 compares alot of drastics...you can do your own comparing... good vs bad things that has happened to you or around you... the hope is in the last verse..... READ IT AND BELIEVE IT IS FOR YOU!! "anything or nothing else in all creation, will be able to separete us from the love of God, that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" Know that you are loved! and that nothing is to great to separate you from the love of God...
Chapter 8:
5........"but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires".
6"The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace" I choose life and peace!!
14 "because those whos are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God" What are you being led by??
18 This is exactly what I needed to hear this morning... "I consider that our present suffering are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." So many times I have not known what to pray for and I am so glad to know that the "Spirit" will help with that... and then at the the of 27 we are reminded that the "Spirit intercedes with fht esaints in accordance with God's will"
28 Now here is good news!! "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, wha have been called according to His purpose."
37-39 compares alot of drastics...you can do your own comparing... good vs bad things that has happened to you or around you... the hope is in the last verse..... READ IT AND BELIEVE IT IS FOR YOU!! "anything or nothing else in all creation, will be able to separete us from the love of God, that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" Know that you are loved! and that nothing is to great to separate you from the love of God...
Wednesday 2/10/10 Romans Chapter 7
Well today I started my day like a do almost all the time... Getting up putting on my walking clothes, shoes and jacket. Opened the door and out I went. I was really hoping for rain not all day just long enough for an excuse to not walk...No such luck so off I went. Why is it that I really don't want to do it sometimes?? But once I get out there and do it I feel so much better? Maybe it is the cups of coffee I get from my neighbors house.... They have the Saeco machine that has the beans and water in a resevoir you push the button and then a delicous cup of strong coffee ready in minutes. I must say I suffer from coffee maker envy!! I think some mornings this is the only reason I walk. I made a deal with myself no walk no "Mojo" (that is what we call her coffee). Then I come home and start my life.... Then I am ready to understand what I am ready in my bible. And hopefully encounter Him while being alittle more awake!!
Chapter 7:
I read all of chapter 7 and then re read it at biblegateway.com in The Message verison. What I have come up with is we are struggling with sin. Some admit it some don't. It is not always the outward sin in fact it is more the inward sin. The things we think, or do by ourselves. This is the struggle for most of us. Just like me with my coffee maker envy. That would be know as coveting... I struggle with that more than anything I always want what someone else has. Friendships, relationships, different car, house or even spirtual gifts... I have an awesome life with so many blessing and I want more... or what someone else has. Bottom line that is not what God wants for me or He would have given it to me. I need to practice what I tell my kids... Be thankful for what you have not wishful for what you have not... So a few verses that stood out to me..
6But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.
14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.
This is alot to digest!! there is so much to deal with...
Chapter 7:
I read all of chapter 7 and then re read it at biblegateway.com in The Message verison. What I have come up with is we are struggling with sin. Some admit it some don't. It is not always the outward sin in fact it is more the inward sin. The things we think, or do by ourselves. This is the struggle for most of us. Just like me with my coffee maker envy. That would be know as coveting... I struggle with that more than anything I always want what someone else has. Friendships, relationships, different car, house or even spirtual gifts... I have an awesome life with so many blessing and I want more... or what someone else has. Bottom line that is not what God wants for me or He would have given it to me. I need to practice what I tell my kids... Be thankful for what you have not wishful for what you have not... So a few verses that stood out to me..
6But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.
14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.
This is alot to digest!! there is so much to deal with...
Tuesday 2/9/10 Romans Chapter 6
Well today is going to be interesting!! I have to only do "crowd control" at school. The Phoenix Coyotes (hockey team) are bringing some people to our school to do a hockey clinic they will run everything. So really the next 2 days are going to be pretty easy for me. I know the kids will love it. I am really getting excited to watch them interact with these people. I don't know if it will be players, bench warmers or admin people but a change of pace is always interesting to me.
Chapter 6:
1-13 talks alot about why we should stop sinning... and how we as christian believe that once we have accepted Christ we are dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. this is hard for me to comprehend. if we are to stop sinning why do we keep sinning... justifing that it is not a sin, or making excuses why we still sin... I know I am so guilty of this at what point is it gossip??? Do I start gossip?? Do I go to the source?? Am I 2 faced??
But then in verse 14 it gives me hope..."For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace"
16 what are you "slaves" too??? Sin or obedience??? I choose obedience which leads to righteousness. Although not perfect at it by any means.. In fact still have alot of work to do to try and get there and stay there...
18 from The Message
All your lives you've let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you've started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom!
19I'm using this freedom language because it's easy to picture. You can readily recall, can't you, how at one time the more you did just what you felt like doing—not caring about others, not caring about God—the worse your life became and the less freedom you had? And how much different is it now as you live in God's freedom, your lives healed and expansive in holiness?
20-21As long as you did what you felt like doing, ignoring God, you didn't have to bother with right thinking or right living, or right anything for that matter. But do you call that a free life? What did you get out of it? Nothing you're proud of now. Where did it get you? A dead end.
22-23But now that you've found you don't have to listen to sin tell you what to do, and have discovered the delight of listening to God telling you, what a surprise! A whole, healed, put-together life right now, with more and more of life on the way! Work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death. But God's gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.
So the way I look at it is: it is up to us... How are you going to live??
Chapter 6:
1-13 talks alot about why we should stop sinning... and how we as christian believe that once we have accepted Christ we are dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. this is hard for me to comprehend. if we are to stop sinning why do we keep sinning... justifing that it is not a sin, or making excuses why we still sin... I know I am so guilty of this at what point is it gossip??? Do I start gossip?? Do I go to the source?? Am I 2 faced??
But then in verse 14 it gives me hope..."For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace"
16 what are you "slaves" too??? Sin or obedience??? I choose obedience which leads to righteousness. Although not perfect at it by any means.. In fact still have alot of work to do to try and get there and stay there...
18 from The Message
All your lives you've let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you've started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom!
19I'm using this freedom language because it's easy to picture. You can readily recall, can't you, how at one time the more you did just what you felt like doing—not caring about others, not caring about God—the worse your life became and the less freedom you had? And how much different is it now as you live in God's freedom, your lives healed and expansive in holiness?
20-21As long as you did what you felt like doing, ignoring God, you didn't have to bother with right thinking or right living, or right anything for that matter. But do you call that a free life? What did you get out of it? Nothing you're proud of now. Where did it get you? A dead end.
22-23But now that you've found you don't have to listen to sin tell you what to do, and have discovered the delight of listening to God telling you, what a surprise! A whole, healed, put-together life right now, with more and more of life on the way! Work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death. But God's gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.
So the way I look at it is: it is up to us... How are you going to live??
Monday 2/8/10 Romans Chapter 5
Well today is a good day!! I am blessed to have a job to go to, A home to wake up in, A family and friends to share life with... Monday's are really hard for me to get moving. Thank goodness my neighbor holds me accountable to walking so I was up and at it at 5:00am. Not long a quick 1 mile walk but it really starts my day off right!! (Thanks Melissa and Jerry) I got some very sad news this morning and it reminded me of all the things I had listed above. Sometimes I focus on the wrong things really it is quite simple I am so blessed!! Happy Monday!!
Chapter 5:
3-5 I really love this verse and thought it ended with character and that was good enought for me... today I find that character leads to hope.... "and hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
6-8 brings up the question who would you lay your life on the line for.... God choose to lay His life on the line for us and I don't know about you but I am so unworthy...
12-14 makes sense although doesn't make it easier!! we all went into sin with Adam and saved from sin with Jesus!
from The Message
18-19Here it is in a nutshell: Just as one person did it wrong and got us in all this trouble with sin and death, another person did it right and got us out of it. But more than just getting us out of trouble, he got us into life! One man said no to God and put many people in the wrong; one man said yes to God and put many in the right.
20-21All that passing laws against sin did was produce more lawbreakers. But sin didn't, and doesn't, have a chance in competition with the aggressive forgiveness we call grace. When it's sin versus grace, grace wins hands down. All sin can do is threaten us with death, and that's the end of it. Grace, because God is putting everything together again through the Messiah, invites us into life—a life that goes on and on and on, world without end.
Chapter 5:
3-5 I really love this verse and thought it ended with character and that was good enought for me... today I find that character leads to hope.... "and hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
6-8 brings up the question who would you lay your life on the line for.... God choose to lay His life on the line for us and I don't know about you but I am so unworthy...
12-14 makes sense although doesn't make it easier!! we all went into sin with Adam and saved from sin with Jesus!
from The Message
18-19Here it is in a nutshell: Just as one person did it wrong and got us in all this trouble with sin and death, another person did it right and got us out of it. But more than just getting us out of trouble, he got us into life! One man said no to God and put many people in the wrong; one man said yes to God and put many in the right.
20-21All that passing laws against sin did was produce more lawbreakers. But sin didn't, and doesn't, have a chance in competition with the aggressive forgiveness we call grace. When it's sin versus grace, grace wins hands down. All sin can do is threaten us with death, and that's the end of it. Grace, because God is putting everything together again through the Messiah, invites us into life—a life that goes on and on and on, world without end.
FRIDAY!! 2/5/10 Romans Chapter 4
Another great Friday!! It is pay day for me. I know you don't think it is very exciting but it truly is... I get paid on the 7th and 22nd these are weird days and then when they land on a weekend we get our checks on Friday. Yahoo!! So I say bring on the weekend!!
Chapter 4:
1-6 Is explaining the difference of earning and recieving blessings. Using Abraham as an example.
9-12 is preatty awesome, it talks about how Abraham believe and was blessed although was not circumcised felt the call to be circumcised which makes him the "father" of both. In other words he can relate to both sides. There has been so many things in my life that have kept me close to different people. I am sure now it if for the kingdom..
13-14 Explain the difference between believing because you fall "heir" to it and know the laws. How righteousness comes by faith.
16 (from The Message)
This is why the fulfillment of God's promise depends entirely on trusting God and his way, and then simply embracing him and what he does. God's promise arrives as pure gift. That's the only way everyone can be sure to get in on it, those who keep the religious traditions and those who have never heard of them. For Abraham is father of us all. He is not our racial father—that's reading the story backward. He is our faith father. Sounds like good news to me!!
22This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." 23The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, 24but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Wow what a day.... This is good stuff this Romans has so much to offer!!
Chapter 4:
1-6 Is explaining the difference of earning and recieving blessings. Using Abraham as an example.
9-12 is preatty awesome, it talks about how Abraham believe and was blessed although was not circumcised felt the call to be circumcised which makes him the "father" of both. In other words he can relate to both sides. There has been so many things in my life that have kept me close to different people. I am sure now it if for the kingdom..
13-14 Explain the difference between believing because you fall "heir" to it and know the laws. How righteousness comes by faith.
16 (from The Message)
This is why the fulfillment of God's promise depends entirely on trusting God and his way, and then simply embracing him and what he does. God's promise arrives as pure gift. That's the only way everyone can be sure to get in on it, those who keep the religious traditions and those who have never heard of them. For Abraham is father of us all. He is not our racial father—that's reading the story backward. He is our faith father. Sounds like good news to me!!
22This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." 23The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, 24but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
Wow what a day.... This is good stuff this Romans has so much to offer!!
Thursday 2/4/10 Romans Chapter 3
I really love Thursdays, I think it is for several reasons...
1. It is the day after our "midweek" bible study night at church. Last night out youth had a youth band and did worship... IT WAS AWESOME!! The song choices were perfect and they sounded really great!!
2. Thursday at work is a great day for me. It is a lighter schedule and I don't have afterschool sports.
3. Vinces' payday and we usually go out for dinner!!
I could go on and on about Thursdays but I am sure you get it..
Romans Chapter 3
1-8 is hard for me to wrap my thoughts around!! so gool ole "bible gateway" helps again. When I have trouble understanding something I can look it up there in different translations (usually The Message) here is a link to it. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%203&version=MSG
10-18 my bible has a side note that is great...Talked about modern day announce a cure of a flu that no one knows anything about NOT MUCH EXCITEMENT... Pauls message is about God's amazing grace but people won't seek a cure until they know they are ill. 11 Is a really hard verse although I think I need to be reminded of that...There is no one righteous, not even one there is no one who understands no one who seeks God. I need to get off my "high horse"
this is from gateway from the message 20 ish
This makes it clear, doesn't it, that whatever is written in these Scriptures is not what God says about others but to us to whom these Scriptures were addressed in the first place! And it's clear enough, isn't it, that we're sinners, every one of us, in the same sinking boat with everybody else? Our involvement with God's revelation doesn't put us right with God. What it does is force us to face our complicity(which means our involvement, accomplice) in everyone else's sin. To me this means that we have to be so careful to not make others stumble either by our actions, words or how we live our life. Are you the same everywhere you go??
22 now we are getting to the good stuff!! "This righteousness from God comes throught faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference." I don't know about you but this is good stuff!!
23 " for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" you and I are not alone for all have sinned EVERYONE
24...by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
27-31 is just another great reminder of ANYONE can be a christian if they so choose.. it doesn't matter where you have been, what you have done ANYONE CAN MAKE THE CHOICE TO FOLLOW AND BE FORGIVEN!!
1. It is the day after our "midweek" bible study night at church. Last night out youth had a youth band and did worship... IT WAS AWESOME!! The song choices were perfect and they sounded really great!!
2. Thursday at work is a great day for me. It is a lighter schedule and I don't have afterschool sports.
3. Vinces' payday and we usually go out for dinner!!
I could go on and on about Thursdays but I am sure you get it..
Romans Chapter 3
1-8 is hard for me to wrap my thoughts around!! so gool ole "bible gateway" helps again. When I have trouble understanding something I can look it up there in different translations (usually The Message) here is a link to it. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%203&version=MSG
10-18 my bible has a side note that is great...Talked about modern day announce a cure of a flu that no one knows anything about NOT MUCH EXCITEMENT... Pauls message is about God's amazing grace but people won't seek a cure until they know they are ill. 11 Is a really hard verse although I think I need to be reminded of that...There is no one righteous, not even one there is no one who understands no one who seeks God. I need to get off my "high horse"
this is from gateway from the message 20 ish
This makes it clear, doesn't it, that whatever is written in these Scriptures is not what God says about others but to us to whom these Scriptures were addressed in the first place! And it's clear enough, isn't it, that we're sinners, every one of us, in the same sinking boat with everybody else? Our involvement with God's revelation doesn't put us right with God. What it does is force us to face our complicity(which means our involvement, accomplice) in everyone else's sin. To me this means that we have to be so careful to not make others stumble either by our actions, words or how we live our life. Are you the same everywhere you go??
22 now we are getting to the good stuff!! "This righteousness from God comes throught faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference." I don't know about you but this is good stuff!!
23 " for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" you and I are not alone for all have sinned EVERYONE
24...by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
27-31 is just another great reminder of ANYONE can be a christian if they so choose.. it doesn't matter where you have been, what you have done ANYONE CAN MAKE THE CHOICE TO FOLLOW AND BE FORGIVEN!!
Wednesday 2/3/10 Romans Chapter 2
I can't believe it but we here in the desert are supposed to get MORE rain. I know that some of you are glad which I am also our desert really needs the moisture although I am running out of tricks up my sleve to do PE inside. There are only so many "Heads Up 7 Up" and "4 Corners" games that you can play with a big group inside. Plus my afterschool sports program.... Boy I sure wish I had a gym!! The thoughts are endless of what I could do with a gym!! Dreaming helps me cope...
Romans Chapter 2:
I got out an old bible that Pastor Sherry Lyford gave to me. This was my first "real" bible that I used for bible study. It has some really helpful insight on stuff. So here we go!!
1-4 I guess to me means face the music. We all have faults. (a subnote in my bible states From Adam and Eve people tend to blame others or make excuses for themselves for what goes wrong. Alcholics Anonymous believe that unless you first accept responsibility for wrong behavior and stop blaming others you will never get well. ) I find this very interesting!!
6 God "will give to each person according to what he has done" (okay I am alittle scared, I have done some good and bad)
I need help understanding something.... So far he has mentioned "first the Jew then the Gentile" what where when and why this statement?? HELP!!
13 I think this is an important verse... to me it means you can't just come to church on Sunday or Wednesdays and sit there and listen and know the law. You have to believe and act on the law.
17-29 I think to me these verse are saying you have to be inside out. You have to live your life like no one is watching but know that everyone is watch. Like driving the speed limit when there is no cop (or photo radar) around. Inward and Outward.
Romans Chapter 2:
I got out an old bible that Pastor Sherry Lyford gave to me. This was my first "real" bible that I used for bible study. It has some really helpful insight on stuff. So here we go!!
1-4 I guess to me means face the music. We all have faults. (a subnote in my bible states From Adam and Eve people tend to blame others or make excuses for themselves for what goes wrong. Alcholics Anonymous believe that unless you first accept responsibility for wrong behavior and stop blaming others you will never get well. ) I find this very interesting!!
6 God "will give to each person according to what he has done" (okay I am alittle scared, I have done some good and bad)
I need help understanding something.... So far he has mentioned "first the Jew then the Gentile" what where when and why this statement?? HELP!!
13 I think this is an important verse... to me it means you can't just come to church on Sunday or Wednesdays and sit there and listen and know the law. You have to believe and act on the law.
17-29 I think to me these verse are saying you have to be inside out. You have to live your life like no one is watching but know that everyone is watch. Like driving the speed limit when there is no cop (or photo radar) around. Inward and Outward.
Tuesday 2/2/10 Romans Chapter 1
Well today we begin Romans another book of the bible finished and a new one begining. I love this feeling you see I have never read so much in the bible based on whole chapters and really studied it like this. I am so excited to be doing this and God has taught me so much and I have had quite an insight from everyone who has taken time top post their thoughts on this. It truly has been and continues to be a blessing for me!! I hope you are enjoying it as well...
Romans Chapter 1:
Before we start I have to admit it was hard for me to get into Acts so I think it is funny how it works that we are moving to Romans... I think God is trying to make me get Paul and where he is coming from and I have alot to learn from him. In one of my bibles it states "Romans does not read like a dry book of theology. Augustine, Martin Luther, and John Wesley all trace their spiritual renewels to reading Romans." I find this very interesting and exciting all at the same time. I find it interesting that these people had "troubles" and have had "spiritual renewels" in their lives and I am excited that we could experience the same thing....
1-6 this is a great reminder of Who we are learning about and where He has come from...
12 "that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each others faith." (sounds to me like this is what we do!!)
16-17 are amazing to the greatness of the gospel and sharing it. "The righteous will live by faith"
20 I always have an excuse.... something to work on...
21 I think is key to so many, they think since they know of God that is enough..."their foolish hearts were darkend" something to think about...
22"Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools" makes me remeasure up!
25 "They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator who is forever praised. Amen" What are you worshiping?? (and why Amen at the end???)
26-32 has alot of information that make my head spin. some with looking where I was and thankful I am forgiven. Some with looking at others and worried that they will not be saved or that they will continue to have bad things come there way. alot to process!!!
Romans Chapter 1:
Before we start I have to admit it was hard for me to get into Acts so I think it is funny how it works that we are moving to Romans... I think God is trying to make me get Paul and where he is coming from and I have alot to learn from him. In one of my bibles it states "Romans does not read like a dry book of theology. Augustine, Martin Luther, and John Wesley all trace their spiritual renewels to reading Romans." I find this very interesting and exciting all at the same time. I find it interesting that these people had "troubles" and have had "spiritual renewels" in their lives and I am excited that we could experience the same thing....
1-6 this is a great reminder of Who we are learning about and where He has come from...
12 "that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each others faith." (sounds to me like this is what we do!!)
16-17 are amazing to the greatness of the gospel and sharing it. "The righteous will live by faith"
20 I always have an excuse.... something to work on...
21 I think is key to so many, they think since they know of God that is enough..."their foolish hearts were darkend" something to think about...
22"Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools" makes me remeasure up!
25 "They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator who is forever praised. Amen" What are you worshiping?? (and why Amen at the end???)
26-32 has alot of information that make my head spin. some with looking where I was and thankful I am forgiven. Some with looking at others and worried that they will not be saved or that they will continue to have bad things come there way. alot to process!!!
Monday 2/1/10 James Chapter 5
Well today I walked after taking a week off. I walk with my neighbor and it seems I can't get up and walk without her... She is my accountability knowing the fact that she is up waiting for me I know I have to get up and meet her in the cul-de-sac. This morning it was hard for me to get moving... It was cold, I was tired, and my body was not ready to move!! I knew she would be out so I had to get moving. That is how life is for me... God has put people in our life for different needs. We need people to hold us accountable for the things we may not want to do but need to do. We have people who mentor us to help us grow in different areas of our lives. We have people we are supposed to take along side of us to help them grow (which helps us grow). We have people who give us love and understanding. We have encouragers. We even have people who help us "sharpen" us. These are the people we need in our lives more than anything I think. These are the people who really make us look at ourselves, and love us enough to tell us when we are not acting or responding the way we should be. They love us more than we can "hate" them. Too all of the above mentioned people thanks for being in my life!!
James Chapter 5:
1-6 makes me hope I never get rich or even comfortable. Although we are "rich" by the world standards we are not "rich" by the US standards. I know that this is more than other money riches so think twice!!
10 "Be patient in the face of suffering....(continued in 11) we consider blessed those who have persevered." I don't know about you but would love the blessed part... Not sure of patient in suffering....
12 I love "Let your yes be yes and your no be no or you will be condemned" I think we know when something is right or wrong I also think that we don't act strongly on this... We need to stand firm even when we know it is against the crowd. Just like we learned in James Chapter 1:13 about being "tempted". Don't fall for it my friends..
13-16 Gives great advice as when to pray... this is great advice to live by...
this is from The Message
19-20My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.
James Chapter 5:
1-6 makes me hope I never get rich or even comfortable. Although we are "rich" by the world standards we are not "rich" by the US standards. I know that this is more than other money riches so think twice!!
10 "Be patient in the face of suffering....(continued in 11) we consider blessed those who have persevered." I don't know about you but would love the blessed part... Not sure of patient in suffering....
12 I love "Let your yes be yes and your no be no or you will be condemned" I think we know when something is right or wrong I also think that we don't act strongly on this... We need to stand firm even when we know it is against the crowd. Just like we learned in James Chapter 1:13 about being "tempted". Don't fall for it my friends..
13-16 Gives great advice as when to pray... this is great advice to live by...
this is from The Message
19-20My dear friends, if you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction and prevented an epidemic of wandering away from God.
"Son"day 1/31/10 James Chapter 4
Well here it is the end of a new month in 2010. I always have high hopes for my life with a new year and this year is no different. I am always wanting a "healthier" life. Most of the time what that really means is I am not happy with the way my body looks and I want to change it... (loose weight) This has been a tougher battle for me now that I am alittle older and that I cook alittle better. I am still in preatty good shape and can still do some fun things... Yesterday I did rock climbing, jump rope, kick ball and cup stacking...Although I did alot one thing I couldn't do was hula hoop :( I used to love to hula hoop.. why oh why could it be that I can't hula hoop? Is it that my waist is alittle bigger? Is it that I lost my wiggle in my hips? Is it that they wiggle too much? What was I doing wrong??? So I am going to start practicing... Maybe I can get it back.
James has proven to be an excellant study and yes Beth you were right again.... We needed to take more time with this one... Funny how God has worked that out.. My posts have been alittle hit and miss with Dr. visits and Chili Cook Offs. Which has given me more time to let some things soak in...I think we will move to Romans next....Unless God leads us in another direction. So with the Good Lord willing we will start Romans on Tuesday.
James Chapter 4
1-3 What are you asking for and is it with the right motives??
6 Proud vs. Humble..... I pulled out the dictionary for this one...
Proud feeling pleasure or satisfaction over something regarded as highly honorable or creditable to oneself (often fol. by of, an infinitive, or a clause). having, proceeding from, or showing a high opinion of one's own dignity, importance, or superiority.
Humble not proud or arrogant; modest: to be humble although successful. having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience, etc.: In the presence of so many world-famous writers I felt very humble. low in rank, importance, status, quality, etc.; lowly: of humble origin; a humble home
YOU DECIDE....
8"Come near to God and He will come near to you......" I love it!!
10 "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up"... I think I am getting it....Sounds preatty inviting...
11-12 judging is always a tough one for me... I admit especially in a church setting it is so hard to not judge or compare.... Lord help me to see others threw your eyes. Amen
15"Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that". A dear friend of the family "Grandpa Tony" used to always say "THE GOOD LORD WILLING" when anyone would say see you here or there.. What an awesome response.... I may have to start using this..... What a good legacy to leave behind... Thanks Grandpa Tony!!
17 is harsh although words to know and live by..."Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins"......
James has proven to be an excellant study and yes Beth you were right again.... We needed to take more time with this one... Funny how God has worked that out.. My posts have been alittle hit and miss with Dr. visits and Chili Cook Offs. Which has given me more time to let some things soak in...I think we will move to Romans next....Unless God leads us in another direction. So with the Good Lord willing we will start Romans on Tuesday.
James Chapter 4
1-3 What are you asking for and is it with the right motives??
6 Proud vs. Humble..... I pulled out the dictionary for this one...
Proud feeling pleasure or satisfaction over something regarded as highly honorable or creditable to oneself (often fol. by of, an infinitive, or a clause). having, proceeding from, or showing a high opinion of one's own dignity, importance, or superiority.
Humble not proud or arrogant; modest: to be humble although successful. having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience, etc.: In the presence of so many world-famous writers I felt very humble. low in rank, importance, status, quality, etc.; lowly: of humble origin; a humble home
YOU DECIDE....
8"Come near to God and He will come near to you......" I love it!!
10 "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up"... I think I am getting it....Sounds preatty inviting...
11-12 judging is always a tough one for me... I admit especially in a church setting it is so hard to not judge or compare.... Lord help me to see others threw your eyes. Amen
15"Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that". A dear friend of the family "Grandpa Tony" used to always say "THE GOOD LORD WILLING" when anyone would say see you here or there.. What an awesome response.... I may have to start using this..... What a good legacy to leave behind... Thanks Grandpa Tony!!
17 is harsh although words to know and live by..."Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins"......
Friday 1/29/10 James Chapter 3
Well after the good news yesterday at Rae's Dr. appt I am ready for the week to end. Friday is my "crazy" day at work. Not that my work day is crazy but in my afterschool sports program afterschool I have "game day" on Fridays. Red vs. Blue this has been a big hit for the kids the love the little bit of competion. So I have about 44 students that are really excited and running crazy. What is really neat is several parents come and cheer their students on. The parent team as a snack bar it is an awesome event for the school. For about 1 hour I am so busy and so excited to watch how the kids have learned to understand the game it is really rewarding for me. Some of the kids have never played organized sports and it is really good for them and good for me to be apart of their successes!! Have I told you lately how much I love my job???
James Chapter 3
The title in my bible Tamin the Tongue.... this might be a rough chapter...
verse 1. Let me stop right there.... "we who teach will be judged more strictly" no wonder we can not get volunteers in different ministries at church.....
3-6 talks about the small things that make the big things move like a rudder on a ship. this is compared to our tongues...
9-12 what is flowing from your mouth??
this is from The Message translation...
17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
James Chapter 3
The title in my bible Tamin the Tongue.... this might be a rough chapter...
verse 1. Let me stop right there.... "we who teach will be judged more strictly" no wonder we can not get volunteers in different ministries at church.....
3-6 talks about the small things that make the big things move like a rudder on a ship. this is compared to our tongues...
9-12 what is flowing from your mouth??
this is from The Message translation...
17-18Real wisdom, God's wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
Wednesday 1/27/10 James Chapter 2
Last night there was a weird thing that happened to me and I am wondering if I handled it correctly?? We had a guy knock on our door. When I answered I saw him and a little girl sitting in a stroller. He excused himself and asked if we had any formula? I replied no. Then he asked if we had $5.00 he could borrow until Friday he would pay us back. I told him I was sorry no cash (which was the truth) I did offer some milk for the little girl and he turned it down saying she need formula. After he left I thought to myself if there was something more I could have done. Should I have offered to take him to the store? (I had no money on my card) I looked out and he was at my neighbors house. Then I texted my other neighbor and they said they gave him $20.00 (so I felt alittle better) It just makes me very sad that our society is getting like this. I pray for our country and for those that are out of work.
James Chapter 2:
1-4 How are you doing with favortism?? How do you treat new people that come into your life??
10 interesting insight "For whoever keeps the whole law yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" So even if you are living your life good if you stumble with one thing you are breaking all of it...
14-18 interesting how I am reading this after last night. did I do the correct thing... could I have done more??
24 "You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone."
26"As the body whithout the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."
How are you doing what you do? Is there enough evidence to prove that you are where you want to be in your walk??
James Chapter 2:
1-4 How are you doing with favortism?? How do you treat new people that come into your life??
10 interesting insight "For whoever keeps the whole law yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" So even if you are living your life good if you stumble with one thing you are breaking all of it...
14-18 interesting how I am reading this after last night. did I do the correct thing... could I have done more??
24 "You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone."
26"As the body whithout the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."
How are you doing what you do? Is there enough evidence to prove that you are where you want to be in your walk??
Tuesday 1/26/10 James Chapter 1
As I think of today I wonder what people would say if I wasn't around? At work, church, the ball field, my family etc. My life is a very diverse place, I have many different places and know many different people. Would they know who I really am? What I believe in? What my values are? Is the person the same at work, play and home? Do you really know me?? Or do you want to take the time to really know me... Am I judgemental?? Life is so full of questions for me, do you have any life questions??
James Chapter 1:
2 right from the start James is going to let us have it. Consider it joy when you face trails....
4 What does Perseverance look like to you???
5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (that is something to bank on!)
7-8 I feel alittle bit different about doubting...
13 This verse has always peaked my attention!! what are your takes on this??? "When tempted, no one should say, God is tempting me. For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but the evil one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed..... what do you think??
21 get rid of all moral filth is this possible in this time?? think of commercial, the way people dress on the street, the news... wow!!
26 do you consider yourself religious?? if so keep a tight reign on your toungue.. Is this me?? Is this what I was questioning in the paragraph before?? What kind of feed back will I really get??
hang onto your hats it is going to be an interesting ride!! I can't believe what God is doing already to me with this chapter....
James Chapter 1:
2 right from the start James is going to let us have it. Consider it joy when you face trails....
4 What does Perseverance look like to you???
5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (that is something to bank on!)
7-8 I feel alittle bit different about doubting...
13 This verse has always peaked my attention!! what are your takes on this??? "When tempted, no one should say, God is tempting me. For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but the evil one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed..... what do you think??
21 get rid of all moral filth is this possible in this time?? think of commercial, the way people dress on the street, the news... wow!!
26 do you consider yourself religious?? if so keep a tight reign on your toungue.. Is this me?? Is this what I was questioning in the paragraph before?? What kind of feed back will I really get??
hang onto your hats it is going to be an interesting ride!! I can't believe what God is doing already to me with this chapter....
Monday Monday.....1/25/10 Acts Chapter 28
As I turned to the end of Acts Chapter 28 I can't believe we made it threw another chapter of the bible for me. First John with our church then Matthew and Acts with all of you... This is just an awesome journey... We will be studing James next... Hope you are up for it. Would love some insight on the book of James who what when where and maybe why.....
Chapter 28
1-6 how many times we judge other by what they look like or by circumstances... the same was true on this island
17-31 I need to let this sit with me awhile... This is an interesting ending... To this chapter... Did he meet with Ceasar??
Chapter 28
1-6 how many times we judge other by what they look like or by circumstances... the same was true on this island
17-31 I need to let this sit with me awhile... This is an interesting ending... To this chapter... Did he meet with Ceasar??
"Son"day 1/24/10 Acts 27
Sorry about missing a day yesterday :( Sometimes life takes control and something has to slip from our grips. I must say thou I really did miss the community I feel when I write this. I feel I like I can be true and honest and not be judged although maybe it is to the point that I don't care if I am judged. Must be I am maturing...(finally) It was brought to my attention this morning in reading our new Pastors' blog about being needed. It is really a wonderful feeling to be needed!! We have to remember this so we can bless others by needing them. This is hard and humbling to ask for help or relying on someone else. It makes us feel so good when others need us imagine how good others will feel when we need them.....I think the reason why we are such "needy" beings is so that we will need God. He doesn't force Himself on us He sits back and waits for us to need Him. It is such a 2 way street...
Acts 27:
3 amazed again at God's word and how He relates to me.... "Julius in kindness to Paul allowed him to go to his friends so they might provide for his needs. (I write the paragraph before I read.... this is amazing!)
1-8 sounds like many road trips I have been on. many detours and set backs, many cities.
9-12 don't know how many times my kids or passengers in the car have given me advice on taking a different route or not going at all.(my hubby is good at that) do I listen???? NO!!
13-20 Sometimes this is so much more like my life not a road trip or a trip in a boat but life.... I try and try and try to do it my way or save what I have and think I can not be saved. This could be finaces, relationships, work, car problems etc.
21-26 I hate being told "I TOLD YOU SO"!! That is exactly were Paul is he told them not to go. So when you find yourself in the situation where someone is saying 'I TOLD YOU SO" 25 "So keep up your courage, men for I have faith in God......"
31 Paul gives advise again about a situation and they still don't listen... Don't even get me started...
44 everyone reached the land safely....
Acts 27:
3 amazed again at God's word and how He relates to me.... "Julius in kindness to Paul allowed him to go to his friends so they might provide for his needs. (I write the paragraph before I read.... this is amazing!)
1-8 sounds like many road trips I have been on. many detours and set backs, many cities.
9-12 don't know how many times my kids or passengers in the car have given me advice on taking a different route or not going at all.(my hubby is good at that) do I listen???? NO!!
13-20 Sometimes this is so much more like my life not a road trip or a trip in a boat but life.... I try and try and try to do it my way or save what I have and think I can not be saved. This could be finaces, relationships, work, car problems etc.
21-26 I hate being told "I TOLD YOU SO"!! That is exactly were Paul is he told them not to go. So when you find yourself in the situation where someone is saying 'I TOLD YOU SO" 25 "So keep up your courage, men for I have faith in God......"
31 Paul gives advise again about a situation and they still don't listen... Don't even get me started...
44 everyone reached the land safely....
Friday 1/22/10 Acts 26
For me today is a very exciting day.
1. FRIDAY!!
2. Due to the rain my after school sports game is cancelled.
3. Payday!! (don't know why I get excited it is already gone!)
4. Have an intown "retreat" planned tonight and tomarrow morning.
So look out world I am ready!! I never know who or what God will bring into my day but today I am ready!!
Acts 26:
1-3 Paul goes before King Agrippa. I love what Paul says in verse 3.......Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently. I wish I could do this as well as have someone listen to me in this way!
4-12 As (Saul) Paul is retelling his story I can almost hear that he is really not believing what he is saying. I think sometime this is true in our own lives when we are telling of our past. I know for myself my past is so different than where I am at now. Quite frankly can't believe where I used to be...
14-18 I can only imagine the passion that Paul is telling the words of God to the King...
24 the disbelief of Festus. Sometimes there are those in our lives who try and keep us from believing or convince us to change our ways!
32 interesting how I think that Paul would have been set free if he didn't ask to see Ceasar.... God has a plan.... I love when we can see the plan or know the plan.
1. FRIDAY!!
2. Due to the rain my after school sports game is cancelled.
3. Payday!! (don't know why I get excited it is already gone!)
4. Have an intown "retreat" planned tonight and tomarrow morning.
So look out world I am ready!! I never know who or what God will bring into my day but today I am ready!!
Acts 26:
1-3 Paul goes before King Agrippa. I love what Paul says in verse 3.......Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently. I wish I could do this as well as have someone listen to me in this way!
4-12 As (Saul) Paul is retelling his story I can almost hear that he is really not believing what he is saying. I think sometime this is true in our own lives when we are telling of our past. I know for myself my past is so different than where I am at now. Quite frankly can't believe where I used to be...
14-18 I can only imagine the passion that Paul is telling the words of God to the King...
24 the disbelief of Festus. Sometimes there are those in our lives who try and keep us from believing or convince us to change our ways!
32 interesting how I think that Paul would have been set free if he didn't ask to see Ceasar.... God has a plan.... I love when we can see the plan or know the plan.
Thursday 1/21/10 Acts Chapter 25
Well it is offical... I must be getting older... I am going to talk about the weather!!! We have had a ton of rain and are expecting more today!! We are expecting almost 5 inches of rain today (which is how much we usually get in a whole year!) Now to some of you you don't get it but in the desert the ground is so hard it can not absorb all that moisture at once so it causes all kind of interesting things like washes, lakes on any flat land (like playgrounds) and streets become like rivers. They even have a law here in Az that if you do not follow road closer or flooded signs and you get stuck you have to pay for (they bill you) the rescue. So in other words we don't really understand water unless it is in a swimming pool, coming out of a hose or in a real lake.
There are so many things you can compare this much rain to I think for me it is like teaching (what a surprise!) I think for myself I think just because I know something and I am trying to teach it that others should be able to absorb it... See where I am going with this. I think we have to be patient when we are trying to teach others (old or young) and take it at the rate they learn it. Instead of pouring all the information at once on them. Now for me when I am learning something I have to do the old building blocks method, I have to understand first things first then build off that.
Acts 25:
1-12 How many times have you been falsely accused of doing something, anything?? I know for me I have had this done and I want to deal with it then and there. The waiting is the hardest part!! Then after pleading my case to find out still others have issues or want to put me on trial.... I can only imagine how Paul must have felt. He jumps over heads and goes right to Caesar.
13-22 Amazing how "processing" with someone has been around for so long. For some reason Festus was having trouble with making any decision with Paul... (I wonder if God was already stirring up his heart?)
23-27 I can really picture this scene... As the two royal guest enter the room with all "great pomp" and then they want to hear from Paul.... Looks like tomarrow is going to be interesting~
Be safe and stay dry Arizona!!
There are so many things you can compare this much rain to I think for me it is like teaching (what a surprise!) I think for myself I think just because I know something and I am trying to teach it that others should be able to absorb it... See where I am going with this. I think we have to be patient when we are trying to teach others (old or young) and take it at the rate they learn it. Instead of pouring all the information at once on them. Now for me when I am learning something I have to do the old building blocks method, I have to understand first things first then build off that.
Acts 25:
1-12 How many times have you been falsely accused of doing something, anything?? I know for me I have had this done and I want to deal with it then and there. The waiting is the hardest part!! Then after pleading my case to find out still others have issues or want to put me on trial.... I can only imagine how Paul must have felt. He jumps over heads and goes right to Caesar.
13-22 Amazing how "processing" with someone has been around for so long. For some reason Festus was having trouble with making any decision with Paul... (I wonder if God was already stirring up his heart?)
23-27 I can really picture this scene... As the two royal guest enter the room with all "great pomp" and then they want to hear from Paul.... Looks like tomarrow is going to be interesting~
Be safe and stay dry Arizona!!
Wednesday 1/20/10 Acts Chapter 24
Last night this dry desert got some much needed rain, although this morning you could hardly tell that it rained except for a few puddles on our walk. Amazing how it soaked into the ground so quickly. That is until I got to the school. The playground was flooded looked like lake Acacia. I don't think they will be on that playground for today. Makes me think of my life... Sometime I am able to soak up knowledge or understanding and other times it just sits there. Is it me or is it that sometimes it pours in so fast I can not keep up? I think sometimes it is at my control. I don't want to hear or learn. I want to do it my way... Maybe I need to make it a point to keep my mind, spirit and body open to what needs to be done...
Acts 24:
1-4 Talk about trying to butter up the judge!!
16 what a great statement and thought for life!! "So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.
seems to me like this is a political war.. somethings never change. people are so afraid of offending a certain group that they do nothing or let certain things continue.
Acts 24:
1-4 Talk about trying to butter up the judge!!
16 what a great statement and thought for life!! "So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.
seems to me like this is a political war.. somethings never change. people are so afraid of offending a certain group that they do nothing or let certain things continue.
Tuesday 1/19/10 Acts Chapter 23
The thought of a 4 day work week sounds so exciting although to me it is bittersweet. To me four days working is a real long week. I am out of my routine. I miss Monday!! I know it sounds crazy but sometimes I like the routine of things. I enjoy my time off and this 3 day weekend I spent sick so I am hoping going back to work will help me feel better. I crave routine... I think we all do. It is familar, it is an old friend, it is comfortable to know what and when things will happen. I don't know maybe I am crazy but I really do like my routine. I know what to expect.
Acts Chapter 23:
So the commander was concerned about putting a Roman citizen in chains so to "cover" himself.
1-10 sounds like they can't come to an agreeance on what needs to be done. So they put him in jail.
11 that night God stood near Paul and spoke to him.
12-15 some people were serious about killing Paul taking an oath to not eat until he is dead.
16 family to the rescue!! Pauls nephew came and warned him
17-22 Paul sends the nephew to talk to the commander...
23-35 So Paul and the calvary headed off with a letter from the commander. They arrived in Caesarea and the governor ordered that Paul be kept under guard in Herod's palace.
Acts Chapter 23:
So the commander was concerned about putting a Roman citizen in chains so to "cover" himself.
1-10 sounds like they can't come to an agreeance on what needs to be done. So they put him in jail.
11 that night God stood near Paul and spoke to him.
12-15 some people were serious about killing Paul taking an oath to not eat until he is dead.
16 family to the rescue!! Pauls nephew came and warned him
17-22 Paul sends the nephew to talk to the commander...
23-35 So Paul and the calvary headed off with a letter from the commander. They arrived in Caesarea and the governor ordered that Paul be kept under guard in Herod's palace.
Monday 1/18/10 Acts 22
Well for the first time in along time I didn't go to church because I wasn't feeling well. I had no energy stuffy nose and could not get enough sleep. So I held down the couch all day. Today it is a beautiful rainy day in the desert. I am still feeling weak and not making any promises as to what will get done if anything. I am taking Rae out to breakfast and then to Wal-Mart to buy mascara and a razor. I think I promised yesterday when I was half asleep. She is 13 and has really long hair on her legs so here we go with this teenage girl stuff.
Acts 22:
Paul speaks to the crowd in their own language...
11 I love the fact that after seeing the light of God and hearing from Him, he had to be lead because he was blinded by the light...
22 imagine being in a crowd with them listening to every word until you say one thing and they stop listening..not only not listening but they shout out he is not fit to live...
25-29 okay I am assuming that this is not a good thing to flog a Roman citizen. (Can somebody give me so info on this?)
30 sounds like they are arranging a trial..
Acts 22:
Paul speaks to the crowd in their own language...
11 I love the fact that after seeing the light of God and hearing from Him, he had to be lead because he was blinded by the light...
22 imagine being in a crowd with them listening to every word until you say one thing and they stop listening..not only not listening but they shout out he is not fit to live...
25-29 okay I am assuming that this is not a good thing to flog a Roman citizen. (Can somebody give me so info on this?)
30 sounds like they are arranging a trial..
"Son"day 1/17/10 Acts Chapter 21
Today I am wondering why I can not be happy with what I do get accomplished instead I focus on what still needs to be done. Yesterday I had high hopes for getting alot accomplished as you may remember, I did go pick up fruits and veggies what a great deal and will do that again!! Came home and cleaned pantry and refridgerator to make room for the fresh goodies. Vince and I went to grocery store put away groceries watched football. Actually writting it down seems like alot but would have liked to have gotten more done. And didn't really feel well all day. Anyway I have today and tomarrow thanks to a 3 day weekend.
Acts 21:
1-6 I love how it was hard for them to be "torn" away from leaving where they were. And discribing there journey. How they spent some time with some disciples and when it was time to leave their whole family came with them to the edge of town to say goodbye and they all prayed together.
7-9 They continued on their journey staying with loved ones along the way.
10,11 propheized about Paul going to jail.
13 talk about faith!! "Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus".
17 Pauls arrival into Jerusalem....
24 HELP!! why get their heads shaved??
27-36 They actually tried to kill Paul, The commander of the Roman troops and arrested him.
40 Paul recieves permission to speak to the crowd...
Acts 21:
1-6 I love how it was hard for them to be "torn" away from leaving where they were. And discribing there journey. How they spent some time with some disciples and when it was time to leave their whole family came with them to the edge of town to say goodbye and they all prayed together.
7-9 They continued on their journey staying with loved ones along the way.
10,11 propheized about Paul going to jail.
13 talk about faith!! "Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus".
17 Pauls arrival into Jerusalem....
24 HELP!! why get their heads shaved??
27-36 They actually tried to kill Paul, The commander of the Roman troops and arrested him.
40 Paul recieves permission to speak to the crowd...
Saturday 1/16/10 Acts Chapter 20
Well today is the first day of 3 days off!! I had big plans for these 3 days (not really) last night I was all stuffy and couldn't breath thru my nose. I was cold and achy. I don't have time for this!! I am picking up my first ever "Bountiful Basket" fruits and veggie co-op this morning, football to watch, would really like to finish my scrapbook from our trip to Hawaii (in June), I could always clean out the garage, would like to get some jogging in (I am really liking it now). And all I feel like doing is going back to bed or laying on the couch and watching a movie until football starts. Also I was out of creamer for my coffee this morning so I had to drink it with milk... (not my favorite). So who know what will get done today if anything besides going and getting my fruits a veggies....
Acts Chapter 20
1-6 I love how it mentions that he "encouraged" them before he left. I love this because I really try and encourage others as much as possible. I think because I love to be encouraged.
7-12 These guys are preatty amazing!! While talking all night one that was listening (Eutychus) fell asleep and feel 3 stories down and died. Paul threw himself on him and said don't be alarmed he is alive...
13-38 I love how Paul is preparing them for never seeing him again. How he is so loving and gracious with them. How he holds himself accountable and reminds them of what he did. He also reminded them of some of the powerful words of Christ..." It is more blessed to give than to recieve" These are good words to live be and will help all thru life!!
Acts Chapter 20
1-6 I love how it mentions that he "encouraged" them before he left. I love this because I really try and encourage others as much as possible. I think because I love to be encouraged.
7-12 These guys are preatty amazing!! While talking all night one that was listening (Eutychus) fell asleep and feel 3 stories down and died. Paul threw himself on him and said don't be alarmed he is alive...
13-38 I love how Paul is preparing them for never seeing him again. How he is so loving and gracious with them. How he holds himself accountable and reminds them of what he did. He also reminded them of some of the powerful words of Christ..." It is more blessed to give than to recieve" These are good words to live be and will help all thru life!!
FRIDAY!! 1/15/10 Acts Chapter 19
Okay we made it today is FRIDAY!! So looking forward to having 3 days off. So funny I have been getting several notes from parents excusing their kids from PE. We have been trainning hard in prep for testing at the end of Feburary. I have been in close contact with the Principal and School Nurse regarding these notes. It is so the joke between us. So yesterday I was really sore and tired from trying to motivate those students (running with them and teaching upper body strenght). My legs were so sore and could hardly lift my arms. So I wrote a note:
Principal,
Please excuse Mona from teaching PE today. She worked really hard yesterday motivating her classes. She can hardly walk or raise her arms.
Thanks,
Vince Wilkinson (Mona's Husband)
I gave this to the Principal and Nurse. They died laughing. Today it makes me think in our life how we are trying to make changes for whatever reasons... It is hard and we quit or make excuses to stop. Well to finish my story the Principal said I couldn't be excused so back out to the field I went. I was so glad I had younger kids in the morning that are not being tested but I did have 3 classes in the afternoon that were so excited to have me run with them. So I did it and felt so much better after pushing myself to do what I needed to do. So I challange you to continue whatever it is that you want to do or have started but stopped because it was too hard!!!
Chapter 19:
1-7 Have you got the SPIRIT??
12 I wish I had an apron or handkerchief so I could give them to a few people in my life who are so ill.
17 I love that it took something so huge to make them hold the name of the the Lord Jesus in high honor.
23-27 Now that someones way of life is being attached they are scared. I can only imagine how they must have felt. They didn't believe and now they were being attacked where they made their money.
37 They had accused them of doing something that they were just afraid that they would do. They had not attacked anyone.
38-41 They were told to file charges in the court and and get their cases together. Which calmed everyone down and the assembly was dismissed.
Principal,
Please excuse Mona from teaching PE today. She worked really hard yesterday motivating her classes. She can hardly walk or raise her arms.
Thanks,
Vince Wilkinson (Mona's Husband)
I gave this to the Principal and Nurse. They died laughing. Today it makes me think in our life how we are trying to make changes for whatever reasons... It is hard and we quit or make excuses to stop. Well to finish my story the Principal said I couldn't be excused so back out to the field I went. I was so glad I had younger kids in the morning that are not being tested but I did have 3 classes in the afternoon that were so excited to have me run with them. So I did it and felt so much better after pushing myself to do what I needed to do. So I challange you to continue whatever it is that you want to do or have started but stopped because it was too hard!!!
Chapter 19:
1-7 Have you got the SPIRIT??
12 I wish I had an apron or handkerchief so I could give them to a few people in my life who are so ill.
17 I love that it took something so huge to make them hold the name of the the Lord Jesus in high honor.
23-27 Now that someones way of life is being attached they are scared. I can only imagine how they must have felt. They didn't believe and now they were being attacked where they made their money.
37 They had accused them of doing something that they were just afraid that they would do. They had not attacked anyone.
38-41 They were told to file charges in the court and and get their cases together. Which calmed everyone down and the assembly was dismissed.
Thursday 1/14/10 Acts Chapter 18
Yesterday I spent the day trying to motivate my students during PE. Some are having a trouble when it comes to doing the Endurance Ran for Presidential Physical Fitness. So yesterday I ran/chased the kids to try and teach them how to push themselves. They did really great! After 7 classes yesterday I am really sore and tired today. I still got up and walked. Today only will have to run with 3 of my classes. It is amazing to me how much the kids love to have an adult work out with them. So my challange.... Find a kid to work out with you will both be thankful in the end!! (and if you remember my post from yesterday.... becareful what you pray for, it may come true!)
Chapter 18:
1-8 Okay I have had a plan on what I thought I should do and tried and tried and people wouldn't listen. I can so understand what Paul is feeling.
9 this verse brings all the hope and we should refer to it when we are feeling discouraged. The Lord spoke these words to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city"
26 I love the words of Priscilla and Azuila as they spoke to Apollos, First off then invited him into their home and then taught him the way of God more adequately.
27 to me this is alittle funny, they wrote to the disciples to welcome him. with no email, postal service, telegraph this was not an easy task... I don't even think there was paper and pencil. to write a note was a huge thing. just think of delivery it, no addresses.
28 what a way to be described... vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ!!
Chapter 18:
1-8 Okay I have had a plan on what I thought I should do and tried and tried and people wouldn't listen. I can so understand what Paul is feeling.
9 this verse brings all the hope and we should refer to it when we are feeling discouraged. The Lord spoke these words to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city"
26 I love the words of Priscilla and Azuila as they spoke to Apollos, First off then invited him into their home and then taught him the way of God more adequately.
27 to me this is alittle funny, they wrote to the disciples to welcome him. with no email, postal service, telegraph this was not an easy task... I don't even think there was paper and pencil. to write a note was a huge thing. just think of delivery it, no addresses.
28 what a way to be described... vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ!!
Wednesday 1/13/10 Acts Chapter 17
Still walking... "Hump Day".... church tonight..... this has what it takes to be a good day.... I hope I don't blow it. My mind set lately has been alittle different. I don't know what where when or why but trying to live differently. Walking is only half the battle I have decided I really need to eat better and it is not all about looks but how I feel. I want to feel healthy again.. I want to wake up with energy.. I don't want to be so tired after work.... For these things to happen I need to take control instead of giving it away to bad choices. Along the way if I look alittle better that is just a bonus... Today I get healthier and make better choices!!
Acts Chapter 17:
1-4 Trying to prove Jesus is the Christ... I say prove He is not...
5-10 If we are guilty by who we hang out with or let into our homes. What would you be guilty of??
12 Ok for the 2nd time it is mentioned "porminent women" CAN SOMEBODY HELP ME WITH THIS??
23 what is written on your altar?? In this verse it talkes about "an unkown god". I think we all have gods but we just don't call them that. I think earlier in my talk of choices when I am reading this verse maybe food is my unknown god. I need to make up my mind that bad food is bad and stay away from it. I need to learn to have the love of healthy food or even exercise....
27 is a new favorite I think....God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reacho out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us..... I like it!!
34 Interesting that here only a "few" became followers and out of those few these were listed... Dionysius, Arepagus and a women named Damaris....
Acts Chapter 17:
1-4 Trying to prove Jesus is the Christ... I say prove He is not...
5-10 If we are guilty by who we hang out with or let into our homes. What would you be guilty of??
12 Ok for the 2nd time it is mentioned "porminent women" CAN SOMEBODY HELP ME WITH THIS??
23 what is written on your altar?? In this verse it talkes about "an unkown god". I think we all have gods but we just don't call them that. I think earlier in my talk of choices when I am reading this verse maybe food is my unknown god. I need to make up my mind that bad food is bad and stay away from it. I need to learn to have the love of healthy food or even exercise....
27 is a new favorite I think....God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reacho out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us..... I like it!!
34 Interesting that here only a "few" became followers and out of those few these were listed... Dionysius, Arepagus and a women named Damaris....
Tuesday 1/12/10 Acts Chapter 16
Day 2 of walking! It was hard to get up and get moving but I did it!! Today at work I start up with my afterschool sports program. It is a little bit more than I can handle sometimes. I really like the extra money and the kids love it!! This session is flag football. Tuesday Red team Wednesday Blue team. Hit the ground running!!
Acts Chapter 16:
3 I have heard that it is quite the surgery for a grown man to have a circumcision... It is spoke of so matter of fact like no big deal.
7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them. It doesn't say how but I have had time and places in my life that I have tried to go or things I have tried to do and could not accomplish them... I wonder if that was the Spirit of Jesus?
9 With a dream and a prayer they are off to Macedonia.
13 I love that they went by the river to find a place to pray.
14 Lydia a dealer of purple cloth and a worshipper of God. How would you be described??
16-18 I don't get why they were upset with this girl since she was telling the truth. She must have been annoying or trying to speak over them.
19-21 I bet the owners of the slave girl were mad they took away some of their income...
27-28 I find it very interesting that when there was an earthquake and the prison opened that they didn't escape. No tell of a vision to stay or word from God to stay but they stayed??
34 Then the jailer brought them into his house? and his whole house believed!
37 I find it interesting that they wanted more than to be released but publicly walk them out?? Again I would have run for freedom.
40 They found comfort at Lydia's house...
Acts Chapter 16:
3 I have heard that it is quite the surgery for a grown man to have a circumcision... It is spoke of so matter of fact like no big deal.
7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them. It doesn't say how but I have had time and places in my life that I have tried to go or things I have tried to do and could not accomplish them... I wonder if that was the Spirit of Jesus?
9 With a dream and a prayer they are off to Macedonia.
13 I love that they went by the river to find a place to pray.
14 Lydia a dealer of purple cloth and a worshipper of God. How would you be described??
16-18 I don't get why they were upset with this girl since she was telling the truth. She must have been annoying or trying to speak over them.
19-21 I bet the owners of the slave girl were mad they took away some of their income...
27-28 I find it very interesting that when there was an earthquake and the prison opened that they didn't escape. No tell of a vision to stay or word from God to stay but they stayed??
34 Then the jailer brought them into his house? and his whole house believed!
37 I find it interesting that they wanted more than to be released but publicly walk them out?? Again I would have run for freedom.
40 They found comfort at Lydia's house...
Monday 1/11/10 Acts Chapter 15
Well I did it!! Up at 5am and walked so I could still have time to do my facebook stuff. It felt really good to start walking again. Had to start with a shorter amount but can hopefully work myself back to where I was. I really enjoy walking just wish it didn't have to be so early. Oh well here we go!!
Acts Chapter 15:
1-2 I love the fact that they didn't understand something and went to find the answer. I have done that when I have been asked a question that I don't know... Let me check on that I will get back with you is a good answer.
20 In this verse they came up with a list of things that were worse than what they were worried about. I wonder what the list would be today if they came back??
22-29 I love how they sent a letter along with 2 men to take the news to the people... Just in case they would question anything.
36-41 this is very interesting to me.... to tell of the disagreement and what happened after. so many time we disagree with someone although try and hide it. Especially in the church imagine having it written about or talked about so open...
Acts Chapter 15:
1-2 I love the fact that they didn't understand something and went to find the answer. I have done that when I have been asked a question that I don't know... Let me check on that I will get back with you is a good answer.
20 In this verse they came up with a list of things that were worse than what they were worried about. I wonder what the list would be today if they came back??
22-29 I love how they sent a letter along with 2 men to take the news to the people... Just in case they would question anything.
36-41 this is very interesting to me.... to tell of the disagreement and what happened after. so many time we disagree with someone although try and hide it. Especially in the church imagine having it written about or talked about so open...
"Son"day 1/10/10 Acts Chapter 14
Well sometime in Janurary it hits me. I was waiting and here it is.... I always try in January to think this year I am going to be more organized and find a calendar and try and put everyones birthday and important dates. The problem with that is I loose the calendar or don't look at it every month. Now with facebook I have become better because it shows on my home page most birthdays if the person has responded to me... So my question for today is do I take the time and put in the calendar those days or do I just try and get used to using a calendar? Where do you carry your calendar and how do you keep track of those things? I use my phone for alot of those calendar things or email but they don't carry over??? SOMEONE HELP ME!!
Acts Chapter 14:
1 okay I am overwhelmed from the start. Imagine the thought of speeking effectively and a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed. When I start sharing my faith I get all toungue tied....
3 maybe if God would give me the power to do miracles people would listen?
6-7 they found out that there was a plot to mistreat them and stone them so they left.
9 Paul saw that he had faith to be healed.... Do you have the faith it needs to be healed??
14-18 some people still didn't get it.... maybe we are still the same. what or who are you sacrifing to??
19-20 okay did they just think he was dead?? or when the disciples gathered around him did he get well again. I don't know but if I was stoned the day before I don't think I would go back to the city where I was stoned or have the strenght to??
22 I love this and have never seen or heard it before "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdome of God" Change your thoughts like it changed mine??
Acts Chapter 14:
1 okay I am overwhelmed from the start. Imagine the thought of speeking effectively and a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed. When I start sharing my faith I get all toungue tied....
3 maybe if God would give me the power to do miracles people would listen?
6-7 they found out that there was a plot to mistreat them and stone them so they left.
9 Paul saw that he had faith to be healed.... Do you have the faith it needs to be healed??
14-18 some people still didn't get it.... maybe we are still the same. what or who are you sacrifing to??
19-20 okay did they just think he was dead?? or when the disciples gathered around him did he get well again. I don't know but if I was stoned the day before I don't think I would go back to the city where I was stoned or have the strenght to??
22 I love this and have never seen or heard it before "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdome of God" Change your thoughts like it changed mine??
Saturday 1/9/10 Acts Chapter 13
Do we come off the we we are trying to come off? Do people miss judge us? Do our actions reflect our heart or our time? Do the people in our lives know that we love them? Especially in our ministries... this is hard because we love our ministries so much and spend so much time in prayer, preparation and serving. Our ministries are at the heart of our being. When we experience change in our ministries it can be hurtful. I have been thru those changes and it was not easy but I am so glad to go thru those changes to get what I have now. I think we have several "ministries" in our life and sometimes we don't stop and think about it, family, work, neighbors, people we meet in our everyday life, not to mention those at church. Sometimes I forget about my "other" ministries and focus only on the church one.... I just read our Pastors Blog for today and it struck me and made me reflect on what I was serving and how I was serving it? Change is never easy especially when it effects our "ministries". I pray that I am always able to stay focused on God during changes and to not forget that my ministries that are not at church are oh so important!!
Acts Chapter 13:
6 are you for real?? His name was Bar-Jesus????
15 how interesting... what if we treated our visitors like this?? I know they are not our normal visitors but very interesting to me.
20 all this took about 450 years... and we get upset when God doesn't answer our prayers in our lifetime...
25 interesting testamony of John. Not worthy to untie His sandals..
32-33 What God has promised our fathers he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus, As it was written in Psalms 16:10
41 take care this doesn't happen to you...
44-45 amazing how people want to hear the "good news" except those that are insecure
52 what an awesome feeling to be filled with Joy and with the Holy Spirit!
Acts Chapter 13:
6 are you for real?? His name was Bar-Jesus????
15 how interesting... what if we treated our visitors like this?? I know they are not our normal visitors but very interesting to me.
20 all this took about 450 years... and we get upset when God doesn't answer our prayers in our lifetime...
25 interesting testamony of John. Not worthy to untie His sandals..
32-33 What God has promised our fathers he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus, As it was written in Psalms 16:10
41 take care this doesn't happen to you...
44-45 amazing how people want to hear the "good news" except those that are insecure
52 what an awesome feeling to be filled with Joy and with the Holy Spirit!
Friday (YEH!!) 1/8/10 Acts Chapter 12
Well I made it to Friday!! This has truly been an interesting week. Part of me is glad to be back to the routine... The other part would like no routine and more sleep, rest and things around my house done. It is always amazing to me how I could work and do projects around the house and truly never finish all of them.. Now with that let me remind myself that I am so blessed to have a home that needs cleaning and fixing up, a family that requires time and attention, a job that I love, a church that is like family, bills to pay with almost enough money, etc etc etc.
Acts Chapter 12:
1-2 I really don't think I like King Herod... Although I guess a christian girl shouldn't say that. He has already killed James and John and is presecuting others...
3 before I go getting all high and mighty on this one I have to stop and think how many times I look to others for their approval..... OUCH!!
4 I find it interesting how many soldiers and how he put him in jail. and a public trail after Passover... What he wants to be public after he does his thing...
5 when was the last time that we as part of "the church" prayed EARNESTLY for anything??
7 I can't imagine sleeping bound to anyone...more less soldiers... The angel "struck" Peter on the side.... (was he sleeping too soundly?) Quick get up the angel said. I don't know about you but I don't do anything quickly especially after sleep now add sleeping bound to someone how you would have to move ....
8 put on your clothes and sandals. the sandals i can understand taking off but your clothes.... maybe they made all the prisoners take off their clothes before lock up?
9 I can only imagine what Peter was thinking. I too would think it was just a dream or something..
10 okay now what is Peter going to do... the angel just left... Hello I would be so scared and to have the angel just vanish.... what where when... someone please help me figure out what to do!!
11 Now he gets it....
12-15 okay he gets out figures out why then he goes to where he thinks his friends are knocks on the door they know it is him and they don't open the door. this sounds like the story of my life...
16 amazning how they were praying for it but didn't believe it when they saw him...
17 he tells them to be quiet, tells them to tell James and the brothers then leaves....
18 if there was no small commotion does that mean there was a big one?
19 the guards were ordered to be executed.....where they supposed to be sleeping or was it just their luck that the angel appeared on their watch....
20-21 Getting ready for Herrod to give his address
23 "Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God,and angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died" My question to you is how is your "Praise Meter"?
Acts Chapter 12:
1-2 I really don't think I like King Herod... Although I guess a christian girl shouldn't say that. He has already killed James and John and is presecuting others...
3 before I go getting all high and mighty on this one I have to stop and think how many times I look to others for their approval..... OUCH!!
4 I find it interesting how many soldiers and how he put him in jail. and a public trail after Passover... What he wants to be public after he does his thing...
5 when was the last time that we as part of "the church" prayed EARNESTLY for anything??
7 I can't imagine sleeping bound to anyone...more less soldiers... The angel "struck" Peter on the side.... (was he sleeping too soundly?) Quick get up the angel said. I don't know about you but I don't do anything quickly especially after sleep now add sleeping bound to someone how you would have to move ....
8 put on your clothes and sandals. the sandals i can understand taking off but your clothes.... maybe they made all the prisoners take off their clothes before lock up?
9 I can only imagine what Peter was thinking. I too would think it was just a dream or something..
10 okay now what is Peter going to do... the angel just left... Hello I would be so scared and to have the angel just vanish.... what where when... someone please help me figure out what to do!!
11 Now he gets it....
12-15 okay he gets out figures out why then he goes to where he thinks his friends are knocks on the door they know it is him and they don't open the door. this sounds like the story of my life...
16 amazning how they were praying for it but didn't believe it when they saw him...
17 he tells them to be quiet, tells them to tell James and the brothers then leaves....
18 if there was no small commotion does that mean there was a big one?
19 the guards were ordered to be executed.....where they supposed to be sleeping or was it just their luck that the angel appeared on their watch....
20-21 Getting ready for Herrod to give his address
23 "Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God,and angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died" My question to you is how is your "Praise Meter"?
Well today is Thursday.... Over the hump and on the down side!! This has been a long but good week. I like routine and knowing what to do with a time limit to do it.
Acts Chapter 11:
1-17 Peter went into the house of the circumcised!! The people were shocked and questioned him. Amazing how they forgot so quickly that Jesus didn't only go to certain people. I love how Peter had to give a blow by blow of events in order for them to okay it!
18 Says it all......"So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life"
19-30 To me what stand out are a couple of things...
1. Antioch seems like a place where several different cultures have come together. Barnabas saw the grace of God and was glad and encouraged them all to remain ture to the Lord with their hearts.
2. Barnabas and Saul worked together that is where the name "Christians" came from.
3. Disciple each according to his ability decided to provide help for the brothers living in Jedea. based on a prophet of famine.
4. Sending Gifts began... to help others.
Acts Chapter 11:
1-17 Peter went into the house of the circumcised!! The people were shocked and questioned him. Amazing how they forgot so quickly that Jesus didn't only go to certain people. I love how Peter had to give a blow by blow of events in order for them to okay it!
18 Says it all......"So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life"
19-30 To me what stand out are a couple of things...
1. Antioch seems like a place where several different cultures have come together. Barnabas saw the grace of God and was glad and encouraged them all to remain ture to the Lord with their hearts.
2. Barnabas and Saul worked together that is where the name "Christians" came from.
3. Disciple each according to his ability decided to provide help for the brothers living in Jedea. based on a prophet of famine.
4. Sending Gifts began... to help others.
Wednesday 1/6/10 Acts Chapter 10
Well here it is Wednesday.... I always look forward to Wednesday for several reasons. The week is half over, and Wednesday is the day that we have small groups (bible studies) at our church. It is almost as good as Sundays too me. I enjoy the atmosphere on Wednesday nights, layed back, dinner is served (yummy), fellowship, bible studies, children classes and I help in the youth. We usually start with a big group game and then spend some time in the word. The games are a nice release and fun. The time that we spend in the word is so special to me. I always love to hear what the youth pastor has to say (he is AWESOME!) and he usually opens the floor to the kids on their thoughts on what he is talking about. I love to hear what the kids come up with it is amazing. They truly get it. Our church is really like "Going Home" for me. I truly do life with these wonderful people. I love the fact that I get to see "my family" 2 times during the week!! Thank You North Hills!!
Acts Chapter 10:
1-2 How would you like to be know like that? I think it would be pretty AWESOME to be noted in the bible as God Fearing and prayed to God regularly...
3 again with the vision.... I get it Beth with the word and trying to be content with what I have although would love to see a vision... dream dream dream!!
4-8 amazing how God told him exactly what and where to go and who to get..
14 I would probably be like Peter if I did get a vision and look at it wrong... Can you imagine telling the Lord... "Surely not, Lord" don't think I would tell God no!!
20 I love that the Spirit was so specific. Get up, go downstairs and go with the 3 men. Maybe I would rather this than a vision. You don't know how many times I need God to tell me exactly what where when how!!
22 Following order or faith? you deciede....
26 how humble of Peter...
30 maybe I need to start praying at 3:00..
34-35 "realize how true that God does not show favoritism and accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what it right". I love this statement!! (gives me hope)
44-46 I love that Peter was sharing his heart and the "Holy Spirt came on all who heard the message". This is a good reminder to us that we need to tell our story and let the Holy Spirit work. We are not to force just tell what God has done for us...
48 You gotta love a good baptizism!! Imagine the GLORY!!
Acts Chapter 10:
1-2 How would you like to be know like that? I think it would be pretty AWESOME to be noted in the bible as God Fearing and prayed to God regularly...
3 again with the vision.... I get it Beth with the word and trying to be content with what I have although would love to see a vision... dream dream dream!!
4-8 amazing how God told him exactly what and where to go and who to get..
14 I would probably be like Peter if I did get a vision and look at it wrong... Can you imagine telling the Lord... "Surely not, Lord" don't think I would tell God no!!
20 I love that the Spirit was so specific. Get up, go downstairs and go with the 3 men. Maybe I would rather this than a vision. You don't know how many times I need God to tell me exactly what where when how!!
22 Following order or faith? you deciede....
26 how humble of Peter...
30 maybe I need to start praying at 3:00..
34-35 "realize how true that God does not show favoritism and accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what it right". I love this statement!! (gives me hope)
44-46 I love that Peter was sharing his heart and the "Holy Spirt came on all who heard the message". This is a good reminder to us that we need to tell our story and let the Holy Spirit work. We are not to force just tell what God has done for us...
48 You gotta love a good baptizism!! Imagine the GLORY!!
Tuesday 1/5/10 Acts Chapter 9
I must admit day 2 is harder to get up and get moving than day 1. Although not going to focus on having time off since that is not what it is about. Some didn't get time off and need to find the joy no matter what the circumstance working or not. Rich or poor, sickness and health. Sounds like a wedding! I am convinced that it was not meant just for wedding but for life. As my mom used to say and had a button made with this saying on it. "TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED". I choose this today! Blessed!! Blessed to have a family, job, car, house, friends, computer, church, health... What are you blessed to have??
Chapter 9:
4 I don't know about you but I would change my ways if that happened to me... Mona, Mona why do you persecute me?? even the thought makes me want to change my ways!!
9 I find it interesting that it was 3 days he (Saul) was blind and didn't eat anything...
10 I am so fascinated with these "visions"! I would love to have a "vision" from God but would probably fall to the ground and not understand it!!
16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name..... Interesting, no promise of blessing glory easy life of following Jesus. Why do we think if we are a "christian" everything is going to be all right. I think again it is a mind set! (I write the top part before reading the chapter, interesting!)
19-31 I bet that would have been hard and weird to understand how the man who was trying to harm the disciples was now working with one of them. I love how God works.
32-42 I loved how Peter had such faith and just went with it. Not praying Gods will or consoling those widows but had bold faith and proclaimed Gods healing and then told those healing get up and take care of your mat and to wake the dead. I understand that it is Gods will and also the faith of those being healed and those praying now that is faith of a mustard seed. Do you want to get well??
Chapter 9:
4 I don't know about you but I would change my ways if that happened to me... Mona, Mona why do you persecute me?? even the thought makes me want to change my ways!!
9 I find it interesting that it was 3 days he (Saul) was blind and didn't eat anything...
10 I am so fascinated with these "visions"! I would love to have a "vision" from God but would probably fall to the ground and not understand it!!
16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name..... Interesting, no promise of blessing glory easy life of following Jesus. Why do we think if we are a "christian" everything is going to be all right. I think again it is a mind set! (I write the top part before reading the chapter, interesting!)
19-31 I bet that would have been hard and weird to understand how the man who was trying to harm the disciples was now working with one of them. I love how God works.
32-42 I loved how Peter had such faith and just went with it. Not praying Gods will or consoling those widows but had bold faith and proclaimed Gods healing and then told those healing get up and take care of your mat and to wake the dead. I understand that it is Gods will and also the faith of those being healed and those praying now that is faith of a mustard seed. Do you want to get well??
Monday 1/4/10 Acts Chapter 8
How come 16 days off goes so fast?? Surely not as fast as 16 days of work! I remember counting down to break even thou I started the Monday after Thanksgiving. It took forever. Now looking back I wish I would have gotten so much more done. It must have been those afternoon naps that ate too much time or enjoying time learning how to play rockband with my kids or watching football with my hubby or watching too much TV. I really enjoyed my time off and had a wonderful break. I need to work and love my job so I guess I am ready to go back to work and start doing what I love. Playing with kids and teaching them how to have a healthy life. I am running late (story of my life) so here we go!
Acts Chapter 8:
1-3 Being persecuted is not a thing of today only. The enemy is trying to destroy the church. In this story it is Saul but truly there is always something or someone trying to destroy the church.
4-8 what are you going to do?? give up or preach where God takes you. I love verse 8 So there was great joy in that city. How about North Hills is there great joy???
9-13 Even those that thought they were great believed and followed!!
17 so my question is do we have to have someone lay hands on us and ask the Holy Spirit into us??
20-23 I think some still think they can buy their way into Gods Grace. If not buy then do good deeds.
38 I love how the eunuch did not waste anytime!! Stop and baptize me.
Acts Chapter 8:
1-3 Being persecuted is not a thing of today only. The enemy is trying to destroy the church. In this story it is Saul but truly there is always something or someone trying to destroy the church.
4-8 what are you going to do?? give up or preach where God takes you. I love verse 8 So there was great joy in that city. How about North Hills is there great joy???
9-13 Even those that thought they were great believed and followed!!
17 so my question is do we have to have someone lay hands on us and ask the Holy Spirit into us??
20-23 I think some still think they can buy their way into Gods Grace. If not buy then do good deeds.
38 I love how the eunuch did not waste anytime!! Stop and baptize me.
"Son"day 1/3/10 Acts Chapter 7
It always amazes me how doing this study you all make me go deeper. In reading chapter 6 a few things jumped at me but didn't realize Stephen? I know I read it but have been out of it lately and just going thru the motions.... not like our title More than the Motions. I am thankful for the motions when our heart is not open to more, God is showing me that when it comes to Him I always need to have More More More. I am self focused and need to get away from that and see that the God of the universe has so much more for me than just me!!
Chapter 7
Well this chapter to me seems like Stephen retelling the history has he knew it.
48 I loved how he refers to the Most High and that He does not live in houses built by man. This make me ponder the church. He doesn't live there although He is invited in and how we treat Him while He is visiting. He also has to be invited into our lives and everyday activities. How are you doing with that?
54 - 60 when I first read this it made me sad and proud of Stephen. Willing to stand up for what he believed then alittle shame fell on me. How many times do I run when I need to take a stand for what I believe. So many of us run when things are not going our way. Or keep quiet when we are asked about our faith or don't elaborate when we are asked in public. I think of how many times I have been tight lipped to not offened anyone. I think this is the prayer that Beth spoke of the prayer of boldness, that frightens us!! Stephen did try and stop them, he prayed of God to recieve his spirit and prayed for those who were stoning him. AMAZING FAITH!!
Chapter 7
Well this chapter to me seems like Stephen retelling the history has he knew it.
48 I loved how he refers to the Most High and that He does not live in houses built by man. This make me ponder the church. He doesn't live there although He is invited in and how we treat Him while He is visiting. He also has to be invited into our lives and everyday activities. How are you doing with that?
54 - 60 when I first read this it made me sad and proud of Stephen. Willing to stand up for what he believed then alittle shame fell on me. How many times do I run when I need to take a stand for what I believe. So many of us run when things are not going our way. Or keep quiet when we are asked about our faith or don't elaborate when we are asked in public. I think of how many times I have been tight lipped to not offened anyone. I think this is the prayer that Beth spoke of the prayer of boldness, that frightens us!! Stephen did try and stop them, he prayed of God to recieve his spirit and prayed for those who were stoning him. AMAZING FAITH!!
Saturday 1/2/10 Acts Chapter
Today's chapter is small but powerful!! It reminds me of what my dad used to say dynomite comes in small packages. (we are of a shorter size) I still remember this to this day that it is not about your size big or small but how you react when needed. This can be in good situation or bad.
1-4 interesting how they saw a need pick 7 to be in charge of it then went on with the ministry they were called to do. very simular to church today I think? Youth, Childrens, Homeless, Greeters etc.
6 I love this. They prayed and layed hands on them. This is something our church does when someone is called by God to leave and do ministry else where. It is a wonderful thing!!
11 sounds like gossip to me!!
15 what kind of a face do you have??
1-4 interesting how they saw a need pick 7 to be in charge of it then went on with the ministry they were called to do. very simular to church today I think? Youth, Childrens, Homeless, Greeters etc.
6 I love this. They prayed and layed hands on them. This is something our church does when someone is called by God to leave and do ministry else where. It is a wonderful thing!!
11 sounds like gossip to me!!
15 what kind of a face do you have??
Happy New Year!! Friday 1/1/10 Acts Chapter 5
Sorry for not posting yesterday :( Took my daughter to the Dr. and had cast removed. She is in a walking boot and will have a "bone stimulator". This is all in hope to try and get that cyst to break up and dissolve so that the bone can regrow. We return to the Dr. in 4 weeks if the cyst has not gone away we will be talking MRI and bone graph surgery. Please join together with me in praying that the cyst will go away on its own and the bone will heal back.
Acts Chapter 5:
1-2 I already see trouble a brewing...
4.......... you have not lied to me but ot God" I don't know about you but I would not want to hear this statement from anyone!
5 fell dead.... warning warning warning
10 wife dead.....okay I am starting to get it!! Even if I may not fall dead physically I would hate to have any part of this.
11 Great fear (duh!!) seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
25 arrested and put in jail.. released and they went to the temple courts? I don't know about you but I think I would head for the hills where they couldn't find me...
41 After being flogged, the apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. WOW!! we find every excuse to not go to church or to not do Gods work and they were rejoicing for being flogged..... Maybe we need to check our motives!!
42 They never stopped talking of God good news here there and everywhere!!
Acts Chapter 5:
1-2 I already see trouble a brewing...
4.......... you have not lied to me but ot God" I don't know about you but I would not want to hear this statement from anyone!
5 fell dead.... warning warning warning
10 wife dead.....okay I am starting to get it!! Even if I may not fall dead physically I would hate to have any part of this.
11 Great fear (duh!!) seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.
25 arrested and put in jail.. released and they went to the temple courts? I don't know about you but I think I would head for the hills where they couldn't find me...
41 After being flogged, the apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. WOW!! we find every excuse to not go to church or to not do Gods work and they were rejoicing for being flogged..... Maybe we need to check our motives!!
42 They never stopped talking of God good news here there and everywhere!!
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