This journey through the Book of John has been a fulfilling, learning experience. It is a discipline that should already be instilled in me. Excuses or not, the bottom line is we should be feeding ourselves daily.
I know with the holidays and with normal motherhood responsibilities, blogging may not be an everyday thing. (Thus, why some of my post fall all on the same night.) However, reading and building myself up on the foundation of God's Word is a MUST, even more because I am a mom and my children are looking to me to be their example in life. My diligence in daily filling myself and prayer has already had GREAT results. My babies, every night read a devotion. It is a must before going to bed. This is an amazing blessing I am so thankful for. Just the other night I was away during bedtime and Dad was out of town. My 6 year old son woke up that morning and said, "Mom, I know you will be away at bedtime, but I already have the devotion ready for tonight and I will read it to my sister before we go to bed." Thank you, Lord, that my children are already learning how to be your disciples.
CHALLENGE: I have challenged kids for years to read one chapter of Proverbs a day every month. We should all GET WISDOM. How do we get the wisdom of the Lord? Read the wisdom He gave us. It just so happens that Proverbs has 31 chapters, wisdom for each day of the month. I am going to begin reading Proverbs each day. Starting in January, as my schedule permits, I will blog about Proverbs in the same fashion I did John with a hint of how God is speaking to my children through Proverbs, as well.
Parents, we have a HUGE responsibility to our children to be feeding them the word of God. I challenge you to not only encourage them to read the Bible, but to share in their Bible experience. You were given a Great Gift when you were given a child. To much is given, MUCH is required.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 21
Verse: John 21:12
"Breakfast is ready."
Thought: God is going to call us to never give up. He may lead us to go above and beyond. We may have to work for some of the things that come into our lives. However, God shall supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. Breakfast is served!
Prayer: Lord, when you ask me to keep trying or to take one more step, help me to follow through. You may have an abundant blessing waiting on the other side, ready to meet all my needs.
"Breakfast is ready."
Thought: God is going to call us to never give up. He may lead us to go above and beyond. We may have to work for some of the things that come into our lives. However, God shall supply all our needs according to His riches in glory. Breakfast is served!
Prayer: Lord, when you ask me to keep trying or to take one more step, help me to follow through. You may have an abundant blessing waiting on the other side, ready to meet all my needs.
21 Day Challenge: John 20
Verse: John 20:29
Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
Thought: The world says SEEING IS BELIEVING! Jesus says, "blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." In our human nature it is hard to believe something will happen until we see it happen. I know we try to have faith, belief without seeing, but reality is that is hard. We always refer to Thomas as Doubting Thomas. I wonder how many of us could be labeled with the same word.
Prayer: God, honestly I could easily be labeled at times as a doubting person. Lord, as I continue to grow to be more like you, help me to believe more. It is easy to believe when the answer is right in front of my face, but I still need the help in believing in all the promises I can not see. Help!
Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
Thought: The world says SEEING IS BELIEVING! Jesus says, "blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." In our human nature it is hard to believe something will happen until we see it happen. I know we try to have faith, belief without seeing, but reality is that is hard. We always refer to Thomas as Doubting Thomas. I wonder how many of us could be labeled with the same word.
Prayer: God, honestly I could easily be labeled at times as a doubting person. Lord, as I continue to grow to be more like you, help me to believe more. It is easy to believe when the answer is right in front of my face, but I still need the help in believing in all the promises I can not see. Help!
21 Day Challenge: John 19
Verse 1: John 19:5b
Pilate announced, "Here He is, THE MAN"
Verse 2: John 19
Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above."
Thought 1: It is nice to know that in the end, no one could deny who Jesus truly was. He was more than the King of the Jews, he was the King of kings..."THE MAN".
Thought 2: God has ultimate power over everything. Nothing happens without God. Up until this time we read things like, they tried to capture him, but it was not His time. When the time was not right it couldn't happen, BUT when the time came, all authority was given to fulfill scripture and the ultimate sacrifice.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that You are in control of all things. Even Pilate had to obey Your perfect will. Thank you that You are a mighty God, alive and with power. Amen.
Pilate announced, "Here He is, THE MAN"
Verse 2: John 19
Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above."
Thought 1: It is nice to know that in the end, no one could deny who Jesus truly was. He was more than the King of the Jews, he was the King of kings..."THE MAN".
Thought 2: God has ultimate power over everything. Nothing happens without God. Up until this time we read things like, they tried to capture him, but it was not His time. When the time was not right it couldn't happen, BUT when the time came, all authority was given to fulfill scripture and the ultimate sacrifice.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that You are in control of all things. Even Pilate had to obey Your perfect will. Thank you that You are a mighty God, alive and with power. Amen.
21 Day Challenge: John 18
Verse: John 18:27
Again, Peter denied it. Just then a rooster crowed.
Thought: "Here's your sign." Amazing! If Peter ever had any doubt in his mind about who Jesus is, I bet in that moment it all became to real. It happened exactly like he said. Denial number three and a rooster crows. "Here's your sign."
Prayer: God, may I never waiver from believing Your truth, trusting in You, and standing up for You whom I believe in. Lord, may I never find myself ashamed of being a Christ follower. Amen.
Again, Peter denied it. Just then a rooster crowed.
Thought: "Here's your sign." Amazing! If Peter ever had any doubt in his mind about who Jesus is, I bet in that moment it all became to real. It happened exactly like he said. Denial number three and a rooster crows. "Here's your sign."
Prayer: God, may I never waiver from believing Your truth, trusting in You, and standing up for You whom I believe in. Lord, may I never find myself ashamed of being a Christ follower. Amen.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
You ARE What You ARE
After a trying time in ministry, my husband and I decided that we would take a step back temporarily and allow some time to heal. In all this I have taken on a new job that really was not going to require much leadership. I recently told a friend that I was taking a step back from the leadership role in most areas of my life. His response was he had never tried taking a step back from leadership but he would imagine for him it would be hard.
I have decided he was RIGHT. No matter how hard I try to stay in the background and simply exist like most people, I am thrust to the forefront to take on some important task or mission. I really have discovered that I can not deny who God made me to be. I can't be something I am not. I have had certain leadership qualities in me since I was a young girl. I guess it would be hard to run from yourself and certainly running from who God made me is a ridiculous thought. So, I will take challenges as God leads me, and I guess what I thought was going to be a vacation from leading, well it's over...and that's okay. Let's go, God. I'm willing and ready!
I have decided he was RIGHT. No matter how hard I try to stay in the background and simply exist like most people, I am thrust to the forefront to take on some important task or mission. I really have discovered that I can not deny who God made me to be. I can't be something I am not. I have had certain leadership qualities in me since I was a young girl. I guess it would be hard to run from yourself and certainly running from who God made me is a ridiculous thought. So, I will take challenges as God leads me, and I guess what I thought was going to be a vacation from leading, well it's over...and that's okay. Let's go, God. I'm willing and ready!
21 Day Challenge: John 17
Verse: John 17:15
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one."
Thought: As Christians, many times, we think, "Lord, I am ready to be with you." What a great thought to walk the streets of gold and worship our Lord and Savior face to face. However, as Jesus was praying for the disciples and I have to think for every believer to follow, his prayer was for protection over us as we remain in the world doing the work of the Lord.
We are not comfortable here on Earth, nor will we ever be because we are in the world not of this world. We are the redeemed called for a heavenly purpose. May we not be so anxious to head home before our work here is complete.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your protection. Jesus, You walked in our footsteps and knew the trials we would one day face. Even in Your hardest trial You were thinking of us and the trials we would face because we love You. Thank You for loving us so much. Give us the strength to stand against the enemy without growing weary to accomplish all You have called us to.
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one."
Thought: As Christians, many times, we think, "Lord, I am ready to be with you." What a great thought to walk the streets of gold and worship our Lord and Savior face to face. However, as Jesus was praying for the disciples and I have to think for every believer to follow, his prayer was for protection over us as we remain in the world doing the work of the Lord.
We are not comfortable here on Earth, nor will we ever be because we are in the world not of this world. We are the redeemed called for a heavenly purpose. May we not be so anxious to head home before our work here is complete.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your protection. Jesus, You walked in our footsteps and knew the trials we would one day face. Even in Your hardest trial You were thinking of us and the trials we would face because we love You. Thank You for loving us so much. Give us the strength to stand against the enemy without growing weary to accomplish all You have called us to.
21 Day Challenge: John 16
Verse: John 16:31
"You believe at last!"
Thought: Just like the disciples, we wake up and say, "I get it!" I wonder how much amusement God gets out of coming up with new and creative ideas to send us a message before we finally GET IT?
Prayer: Lord, may I grow to know You so intimately that I UNDERSTAND IT the first time. In the times we live in now, I would hate to waste time trying to figure everything out You have for me. In the right time may I KNOW IT because I KNOW YOU!
"You believe at last!"
Thought: Just like the disciples, we wake up and say, "I get it!" I wonder how much amusement God gets out of coming up with new and creative ideas to send us a message before we finally GET IT?
Prayer: Lord, may I grow to know You so intimately that I UNDERSTAND IT the first time. In the times we live in now, I would hate to waste time trying to figure everything out You have for me. In the right time may I KNOW IT because I KNOW YOU!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 15
Verse: John 15:2
"He cuts off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
Thought: My Grandma and Mother-in-Law have very slowly taught me how to keep a flowerbed alive. One of the things I have learned is to get rid of the plants or parts of plants that have died. These dead plants will only destroy the life around them. The other very important thing I learned was to quickly prune off any buds that had bloomed and died. This allows the plant to only feed productive parts of the plant.
Now Grandma was my Christian example. She poured a lot of God into my life. We walked to church together and sang in the choir together. Even in gardening she was teaching biblical principles that I will carry through the rest of my life.
To follow Jesus whole heartedly we need to lose the parts of our lives that are dead in sin. We need to uproot those parts of our lives and get rid of it. However, it does not stop there. We must daily prune away the areas in our lives that God is still working on. Those things he reveals to us that are still not of Him, we need to lose it and continue to feed the part of our life that follows after Christ. Most importantly stay connected to the God, the Vine.
Prayer: Lord, whether it is a comfortable feeling or not, continue to prune away the things in my life that are not 100 percent sold out for You. I pray that I have the diligence and desire to feed myself daily with Your word to continue to grow and stay connected to You.
"He cuts off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
Thought: My Grandma and Mother-in-Law have very slowly taught me how to keep a flowerbed alive. One of the things I have learned is to get rid of the plants or parts of plants that have died. These dead plants will only destroy the life around them. The other very important thing I learned was to quickly prune off any buds that had bloomed and died. This allows the plant to only feed productive parts of the plant.
Now Grandma was my Christian example. She poured a lot of God into my life. We walked to church together and sang in the choir together. Even in gardening she was teaching biblical principles that I will carry through the rest of my life.
To follow Jesus whole heartedly we need to lose the parts of our lives that are dead in sin. We need to uproot those parts of our lives and get rid of it. However, it does not stop there. We must daily prune away the areas in our lives that God is still working on. Those things he reveals to us that are still not of Him, we need to lose it and continue to feed the part of our life that follows after Christ. Most importantly stay connected to the God, the Vine.
Prayer: Lord, whether it is a comfortable feeling or not, continue to prune away the things in my life that are not 100 percent sold out for You. I pray that I have the diligence and desire to feed myself daily with Your word to continue to grow and stay connected to You.
Monday, December 3, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 14
Verse: John 14:27
"I do not give to you as the world gives."
Thought: I am so glad God does not give as the world gives. The world gives and expects something in return. Jesus sacrificed it all and asked us for nothing. The world gives and takes it away again. Jesus gives and gives and gives. The world says it will give and then never does. Jesus does what He says He will do, every time. The world feeds our habits. God fills our needs. God gives freely, willingly, sacrificially even unto death because He loves us.
Prayer: Thank you God that You were in this world, but not of this world. Help me not to covet what it looks like the world has because it has nothing. Thank you for the gift of salvation that you freely give to all that ask. Lord, I look to You for the things I need. You have all I will ever need.
"I do not give to you as the world gives."
Thought: I am so glad God does not give as the world gives. The world gives and expects something in return. Jesus sacrificed it all and asked us for nothing. The world gives and takes it away again. Jesus gives and gives and gives. The world says it will give and then never does. Jesus does what He says He will do, every time. The world feeds our habits. God fills our needs. God gives freely, willingly, sacrificially even unto death because He loves us.
Prayer: Thank you God that You were in this world, but not of this world. Help me not to covet what it looks like the world has because it has nothing. Thank you for the gift of salvation that you freely give to all that ask. Lord, I look to You for the things I need. You have all I will ever need.
21 Day Challenge: John 13
Verse: John 13:38b
I tell you the truth, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.
Thoughts: Wow! Peter loves Jesus so much that he says he would die for Jesus. Jesus' response, "no you won't. In fact, you are going to deny me." I can see myself in Peter. At this point he is probably feeling a bit unsure. In his heart he loves Jesus with everything that is in him, just as I have done since a very young age. However, Peter inevitably denies knowing Christ 3 times after that moment. Now we are probably not faced with a point blank question of knowing or denying Christ the way Peter was, but in our daily lives we are faced with opportunities to do it God's way or not. In essence isn't this accepting or deny Christ's existence in our lives. I have a choice to get angry and go on a rampage and show anger in my words, actions, countenance...or I can choose to love the other person. One way accepts Christ as a part of our life and the other way denies His existence in us.
As a teenager growing up I had to make choices. These choices accepted Jesus or denied Him. It would have been easy to go with the crowd, to blend in, to be just like the world, but that choice would have said, "No to Jesus." We have opportunity to deny Jesus in our daily lives just like Peter. We are no different. What choices are we making? Are we saying, "Yes to Jesus?"
Prayer: Lord, I do not think myself any better than Peter. I have to face the choice every single day to do it Your way or not. Help me to choose You above everything else, no matter the cost. God, I choose You.
I tell you the truth, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.
Thoughts: Wow! Peter loves Jesus so much that he says he would die for Jesus. Jesus' response, "no you won't. In fact, you are going to deny me." I can see myself in Peter. At this point he is probably feeling a bit unsure. In his heart he loves Jesus with everything that is in him, just as I have done since a very young age. However, Peter inevitably denies knowing Christ 3 times after that moment. Now we are probably not faced with a point blank question of knowing or denying Christ the way Peter was, but in our daily lives we are faced with opportunities to do it God's way or not. In essence isn't this accepting or deny Christ's existence in our lives. I have a choice to get angry and go on a rampage and show anger in my words, actions, countenance...or I can choose to love the other person. One way accepts Christ as a part of our life and the other way denies His existence in us.
As a teenager growing up I had to make choices. These choices accepted Jesus or denied Him. It would have been easy to go with the crowd, to blend in, to be just like the world, but that choice would have said, "No to Jesus." We have opportunity to deny Jesus in our daily lives just like Peter. We are no different. What choices are we making? Are we saying, "Yes to Jesus?"
Prayer: Lord, I do not think myself any better than Peter. I have to face the choice every single day to do it Your way or not. Help me to choose You above everything else, no matter the cost. God, I choose You.
21 Day Challenge: John 12
Verse: John 12:32
But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.
Thought: There are times in our lives when we go through things that really seem BAD. We don't understand why it has to happen. In fact, the other people inflicting this BAD stuff probably really enjoy what they are doing. However, whatever Satan means for BAD, God can use for His glory. Here these horrible people want to kill Jesus and raise Him up as an example of "What NOT to be". They raise Him up as a mockery. All they did in reality was follow the WILL of the Father in Heaven. Jesus was raised high for all to see so that God would be glorified. The very thing they were trying to avoid, stopping people from drawing to Jesus, was the very thing they accomplished for Heaven. Men were drawn to Jesus even more.
I know the junk we have to go through sometimes in our Christian walk really doesn't seem right or fair. However, in the midst of it all, God has a plan. He will raise us up as a light to the world so that He may be glorified. Walk through those times with your head held high.
Prayer: Lord, my prayer has always been to make me more like you. Jesus did not travel an easy road. May I not give up in the midst of hard times and may I remember that you work ALL things together for good to them who love the Lord. When I walk the hard trials of life, may I see your plan and rise above it so that You may be glorified.
But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.
Thought: There are times in our lives when we go through things that really seem BAD. We don't understand why it has to happen. In fact, the other people inflicting this BAD stuff probably really enjoy what they are doing. However, whatever Satan means for BAD, God can use for His glory. Here these horrible people want to kill Jesus and raise Him up as an example of "What NOT to be". They raise Him up as a mockery. All they did in reality was follow the WILL of the Father in Heaven. Jesus was raised high for all to see so that God would be glorified. The very thing they were trying to avoid, stopping people from drawing to Jesus, was the very thing they accomplished for Heaven. Men were drawn to Jesus even more.
I know the junk we have to go through sometimes in our Christian walk really doesn't seem right or fair. However, in the midst of it all, God has a plan. He will raise us up as a light to the world so that He may be glorified. Walk through those times with your head held high.
Prayer: Lord, my prayer has always been to make me more like you. Jesus did not travel an easy road. May I not give up in the midst of hard times and may I remember that you work ALL things together for good to them who love the Lord. When I walk the hard trials of life, may I see your plan and rise above it so that You may be glorified.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 11
Verse: John 11:21
"Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."
Thought: WHAT FAITH!!! Before anything was said, something tells me that Martha not only believed that Jesus could have healed Lazarus while he was living, but she knew that if Jesus ask for life to return to her brother's body it would be done. This is the faith that moves mountains. I know in my life, for the simplest of things, I believe God could change things but I some how give God an out if it doesn't happen. Is that real FAITH? Probably not.
Prayer: Lord, give me a boldness in my Faith. May I believe in the impossible, never wavering. All things are possible with You, God.
"Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."
Thought: WHAT FAITH!!! Before anything was said, something tells me that Martha not only believed that Jesus could have healed Lazarus while he was living, but she knew that if Jesus ask for life to return to her brother's body it would be done. This is the faith that moves mountains. I know in my life, for the simplest of things, I believe God could change things but I some how give God an out if it doesn't happen. Is that real FAITH? Probably not.
Prayer: Lord, give me a boldness in my Faith. May I believe in the impossible, never wavering. All things are possible with You, God.
21 Day Challenge: John 10
Verse: John 10:25
Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I so in my father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep."
Thought: It is amazing to me how these people who were seeing Jesus LIVE, in action, had unbelief in their heart. I can't deny God and I am strictly going off of FAITH. The thief truly steals, kills and destroys and was able to harden hearts and blind eyes to the miracle standing before them.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you that my heart is open to You. I pray that every person I share Your Word with will have eyes to see and ears to hear the awesomeness of who You are. I pray their hearts are open to accept You and come into Your flock.
Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I so in my father's name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep."
Thought: It is amazing to me how these people who were seeing Jesus LIVE, in action, had unbelief in their heart. I can't deny God and I am strictly going off of FAITH. The thief truly steals, kills and destroys and was able to harden hearts and blind eyes to the miracle standing before them.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you that my heart is open to You. I pray that every person I share Your Word with will have eyes to see and ears to hear the awesomeness of who You are. I pray their hearts are open to accept You and come into Your flock.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 9
Verse: Honestly, I have to break the rules and reflect on a thought as I read the entire chapter.
Thought: Here Jesus heals a man born blind. Of course, it was done on the sabbath and the pharisees had a hay day going after Jesus, questioning EVERYTHING. You know what went through my mind, "Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth". What a thought, right. Jesus came to bring us salvation and instead of accepting it, they ultimately took Him to the cross. I know this was the redemption plan, but I wonder how often blessings come our way, gifts are given to us and we dismiss them because it wasn't given by the right person or done the way we think it should be.
Prayer: Lord, help me look for the blessings everyday no matter what form it may come or the way it was given. Thank you for loving us and giving until it hurt.
Thought: Here Jesus heals a man born blind. Of course, it was done on the sabbath and the pharisees had a hay day going after Jesus, questioning EVERYTHING. You know what went through my mind, "Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth". What a thought, right. Jesus came to bring us salvation and instead of accepting it, they ultimately took Him to the cross. I know this was the redemption plan, but I wonder how often blessings come our way, gifts are given to us and we dismiss them because it wasn't given by the right person or done the way we think it should be.
Prayer: Lord, help me look for the blessings everyday no matter what form it may come or the way it was given. Thank you for loving us and giving until it hurt.
21 Day Challenge: John 8
Verse: John 8:11
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."
Thought: I have many thoughts when I read this story of forgiveness. We are all sinful beings by nature. First thought, who are we to point fingers at other people's sins? With sin and temptation on a daily basis it would seem we shouldn't have time to focus on others if we are taking care of ourselves.
Then again, 2nd thought, we should all help one another. Build one another up. Show each other the way to move past the sin in our lives and make better choices. Show others how to leave their sin behind. For instance, helping those with no home, food, a job. It seems it is easy for someone to buy a meal, hand over a dollar, give them a place to get warm. Often times they need so much more. They need deliverance from an addiction or lifestyle that has ruined their life. They need skills to better themselves. I know this is somewhat off the path of thought, but it is where my mind went when I really thought about this woman. Jesus told her their was forgiveness, and it was up to her to walk away from her sin. As believers we should not just put a temporary band-aid on the sin, but we should take the time to turn them around or remove them from the sin.
Thought 3, oh to be able to forgive like Jesus. Not one other person in this story was able to forgive like Jesus. Forgiving people for the things they do and say, their sin, is not always easy. I wish I could forgive and then forget like Him.
Last thought...Accepting forgiveness, God's forgiveness, can be hard if we do not forgive our selves. This is actually a hard one for me. All I can say is if God thinks we are worth it then accept it and move forward.
Prayer: Lord, in my quest to be more like You, help me to turn others toward You and away from their sin. Continue to work in my heart as I try to forgive myself and others and help me to not carry those hurts with me all the days of my life.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."
Thought: I have many thoughts when I read this story of forgiveness. We are all sinful beings by nature. First thought, who are we to point fingers at other people's sins? With sin and temptation on a daily basis it would seem we shouldn't have time to focus on others if we are taking care of ourselves.
Then again, 2nd thought, we should all help one another. Build one another up. Show each other the way to move past the sin in our lives and make better choices. Show others how to leave their sin behind. For instance, helping those with no home, food, a job. It seems it is easy for someone to buy a meal, hand over a dollar, give them a place to get warm. Often times they need so much more. They need deliverance from an addiction or lifestyle that has ruined their life. They need skills to better themselves. I know this is somewhat off the path of thought, but it is where my mind went when I really thought about this woman. Jesus told her their was forgiveness, and it was up to her to walk away from her sin. As believers we should not just put a temporary band-aid on the sin, but we should take the time to turn them around or remove them from the sin.
Thought 3, oh to be able to forgive like Jesus. Not one other person in this story was able to forgive like Jesus. Forgiving people for the things they do and say, their sin, is not always easy. I wish I could forgive and then forget like Him.
Last thought...Accepting forgiveness, God's forgiveness, can be hard if we do not forgive our selves. This is actually a hard one for me. All I can say is if God thinks we are worth it then accept it and move forward.
Prayer: Lord, in my quest to be more like You, help me to turn others toward You and away from their sin. Continue to work in my heart as I try to forgive myself and others and help me to not carry those hurts with me all the days of my life.
Monday, November 19, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 7
Verse: John 7:8b;44
...because for me the right time has not yet come...Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.
Thought: Ultimately God is in control. It is good to know that whatever comes our way, however it all works out, that it is all part of a bigger plan. God's plan. He set everything into motion. He watches over everything, and in His perfect timing things come to pass...never early, never late, in His right time.
Prayer: God, help me to remember that you are in control of all things. Things come and go in perfect order according to Your plan and in that there is safety...peace.
...because for me the right time has not yet come...Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.
Thought: Ultimately God is in control. It is good to know that whatever comes our way, however it all works out, that it is all part of a bigger plan. God's plan. He set everything into motion. He watches over everything, and in His perfect timing things come to pass...never early, never late, in His right time.
Prayer: God, help me to remember that you are in control of all things. Things come and go in perfect order according to Your plan and in that there is safety...peace.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 6
Verse: John 6:47
I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.
Thought: Here is a repeat of the same message Jesus was trying to share in John 5. Those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life. A couple thoughts came to me as I was reading the last couple of days and seeing the same thing being said again and again.
1) That bottom line, our purpose in life is to share Jesus with all people, and not just the name...The Salvation. We are called to share with the unbeliever that the only way to have true life is through Christ. That is where every church service should lead, every devotion, every conversation...Until the whole world knows the truth or has had the opportunity to know God it should be our mission. It should be our way of life. It was Jesus' life work to fulfill His Father's Will.
2) Is the reaction of the people. These people saw the miracles. They reaped the benefits of God's love first hand. They were living the stories we read about. Yet, they were in it for the benefits. The filled stomachs. The excitement. The wonder. They saw the earthly stuff forgetting the heavenly. Isn't that what happens even now. A person walks into the church of our lives who is struggling, they need help. We know they need God. Often times we welcome them in and provide for their fleshly needs. Food, shelter, clothing...that is what Jesus did...All the while we are sharing Jesus and His love with them. They accept it in the moment because their needs are being met. When the need is met and life returns to "normal" they move on often times just seeking life needs instead of eternal life. When that happens we must continue sharing the message because ultimately it is their decision to make. We are just asked to share the message.
Prayer: Lord, help me to seize every opportunity to share the salvation message with everyone. May the words fall on fertile hearts ready to accept eternal life with you. However, help me to remember that you gave us a free will and that every decision and choice is their's to make. I pray that I do not get discourage and give up, but continue to share until Jesus returns to take us home.
I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.
Thought: Here is a repeat of the same message Jesus was trying to share in John 5. Those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life. A couple thoughts came to me as I was reading the last couple of days and seeing the same thing being said again and again.
1) That bottom line, our purpose in life is to share Jesus with all people, and not just the name...The Salvation. We are called to share with the unbeliever that the only way to have true life is through Christ. That is where every church service should lead, every devotion, every conversation...Until the whole world knows the truth or has had the opportunity to know God it should be our mission. It should be our way of life. It was Jesus' life work to fulfill His Father's Will.
2) Is the reaction of the people. These people saw the miracles. They reaped the benefits of God's love first hand. They were living the stories we read about. Yet, they were in it for the benefits. The filled stomachs. The excitement. The wonder. They saw the earthly stuff forgetting the heavenly. Isn't that what happens even now. A person walks into the church of our lives who is struggling, they need help. We know they need God. Often times we welcome them in and provide for their fleshly needs. Food, shelter, clothing...that is what Jesus did...All the while we are sharing Jesus and His love with them. They accept it in the moment because their needs are being met. When the need is met and life returns to "normal" they move on often times just seeking life needs instead of eternal life. When that happens we must continue sharing the message because ultimately it is their decision to make. We are just asked to share the message.
Prayer: Lord, help me to seize every opportunity to share the salvation message with everyone. May the words fall on fertile hearts ready to accept eternal life with you. However, help me to remember that you gave us a free will and that every decision and choice is their's to make. I pray that I do not get discourage and give up, but continue to share until Jesus returns to take us home.
21 Day Challenge: John 5
Verse: John 5:44
How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God?
Thought: A sad observation for me is the amount of people, even Christians, who seek the approval of man. In essence, putting the approval of God an afterthought to receiving the approval of man. We so often want to please those around us that we miss the mark and achieve so much less than what God has for us because we have sought to please people instead of God. I know that I have been guilty of putting aside a heavenly dream only to satisfy an earthly task. If the rest of us could follow the example of Christ and not seek earthly approval, imagine the impact we could make for Christ, instead of man. Earthly things will fade away, but the will of the Father lasts forever.
Prayer: Lord, help me to seek your approval. May I judge everything I do according to Your Word and not for the acceptance by man.
How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God?
Thought: A sad observation for me is the amount of people, even Christians, who seek the approval of man. In essence, putting the approval of God an afterthought to receiving the approval of man. We so often want to please those around us that we miss the mark and achieve so much less than what God has for us because we have sought to please people instead of God. I know that I have been guilty of putting aside a heavenly dream only to satisfy an earthly task. If the rest of us could follow the example of Christ and not seek earthly approval, imagine the impact we could make for Christ, instead of man. Earthly things will fade away, but the will of the Father lasts forever.
Prayer: Lord, help me to seek your approval. May I judge everything I do according to Your Word and not for the acceptance by man.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 4
Keeping up with the reading, not so much with the blog.
Verse: John 4:6
...Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well.
Thought: Let's be honest...Ministry sometimes is tiring. As tired as we may be, Jesus set the bar for us to go above and beyond. To continue to reach out to people even in an exhausted state. After ministering to the woman at the well, I have to believe that when the disciples returned they still saw a tired Jesus, yet satisfied. No matter how exhausting ministry may be, reach out. Make that house visit that was laid on your heart, give that person a call, walk up and bless someone with the Word of the Lord. I know His word will never return void, and after the extra time and effort, you will feel satisfied.
Prayer: Lord, help me to never be too tired to share your love with others. Keep my eyes open for those who need you and my heart willing to do it.
Verse: John 4:6
...Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well.
Thought: Let's be honest...Ministry sometimes is tiring. As tired as we may be, Jesus set the bar for us to go above and beyond. To continue to reach out to people even in an exhausted state. After ministering to the woman at the well, I have to believe that when the disciples returned they still saw a tired Jesus, yet satisfied. No matter how exhausting ministry may be, reach out. Make that house visit that was laid on your heart, give that person a call, walk up and bless someone with the Word of the Lord. I know His word will never return void, and after the extra time and effort, you will feel satisfied.
Prayer: Lord, help me to never be too tired to share your love with others. Keep my eyes open for those who need you and my heart willing to do it.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John 3
Warning: This post may be very opinionated!!!
Verse: John 3:30
He must become greater; I must become less.
Thought: It's not about me! I have seen ministry that is all about God and getting the message of His Love and Salvation to the multitudes. Unfortunately, I have also seen ministry that is all about the presentation made by a person. The right words. The perfect alliterations. Catchy phrases. The perfect title. The perfect joke. (Remember Jesus is the only perfect man.) I have seen ungratefulness because the hoopla leading up to such a presentation wasn't good enough. In essence the pre-game show was substandard and therefore a distraction for the man, the REAL show. (Aren't you glad that God made us perfect just the way we are, whether we fail or succeed to perform the way a man demands, God still loves us.)
After watching such ministry for some time I have really had to take a step back and ask God what it is all for. Do I believe in order and being prepared, yes. I am a planner. I want to make the delivery of God's word hearable, receivable. However, I want to know that when I am sharing God with others that I stand before the people humbled. Humbled to be a servant of God, a child of God. Humbled that I have been given the boldness to share God with others. Humble that God could use a person like me to share true life with others. GOD MUST BE GREATER THAN THE MAN. When we stand before others do we want them to see us or God?
Prayer: Dear God, may everything I say and everything I do point others to you. May I merely be a vessel used to show how great You are, not me.
Verse: John 3:30
He must become greater; I must become less.
Thought: It's not about me! I have seen ministry that is all about God and getting the message of His Love and Salvation to the multitudes. Unfortunately, I have also seen ministry that is all about the presentation made by a person. The right words. The perfect alliterations. Catchy phrases. The perfect title. The perfect joke. (Remember Jesus is the only perfect man.) I have seen ungratefulness because the hoopla leading up to such a presentation wasn't good enough. In essence the pre-game show was substandard and therefore a distraction for the man, the REAL show. (Aren't you glad that God made us perfect just the way we are, whether we fail or succeed to perform the way a man demands, God still loves us.)
After watching such ministry for some time I have really had to take a step back and ask God what it is all for. Do I believe in order and being prepared, yes. I am a planner. I want to make the delivery of God's word hearable, receivable. However, I want to know that when I am sharing God with others that I stand before the people humbled. Humbled to be a servant of God, a child of God. Humbled that I have been given the boldness to share God with others. Humble that God could use a person like me to share true life with others. GOD MUST BE GREATER THAN THE MAN. When we stand before others do we want them to see us or God?
Prayer: Dear God, may everything I say and everything I do point others to you. May I merely be a vessel used to show how great You are, not me.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Bring It On
I don't know if any of you have noticed, but the world seems to be a bit chaotic abroad and close to home. It seems no matter where you turn there are people in turmoil and outrageous things are happening. Can you believe the price of gas? How about milk? Natural Disasters? Children's toy recalls? War and rumors of wars? (sounds a lot like Revelation) Diseases that medication can not touch?
It seems no matter who I talk to, the waters in their life are churning. I have always felt that believers will never truly have a sense of perfect peace on earth because we are a new creation and are no longer of this world. We have a new home, new hope. However, the reality is we are here in this world for a purpose. Some of us know our purpose, but have never reached our full calling. I was listening to a pastor out of Florida speak last night and I liked an example she gave. She said that all the chaos is allowed in our lives to rid ourselves of the things that are not of God. In the midst of the turmoil and chaos only those things grounded in Christ will stand. Everything else will be stripped away. The chaos is not comfortable and at times does not seem fair, but it is allowed in our lives to rid us of the junk and bring us to a place where we only rely on God. Where the only thing left is God. At that point we have a choice to pull away and lose faith or to worship Him with with hearts of perfect praise. Only then are God's promises and purposes for our lives birthed.
I am learning to praise Him in the storm, thankful that He is a sure foundation and is ridding my life of the extra junk that doesn't need to be there. It may not be comfortable and believe me I don't like it, but if that is what has to happen...Bring It On!
It seems no matter who I talk to, the waters in their life are churning. I have always felt that believers will never truly have a sense of perfect peace on earth because we are a new creation and are no longer of this world. We have a new home, new hope. However, the reality is we are here in this world for a purpose. Some of us know our purpose, but have never reached our full calling. I was listening to a pastor out of Florida speak last night and I liked an example she gave. She said that all the chaos is allowed in our lives to rid ourselves of the things that are not of God. In the midst of the turmoil and chaos only those things grounded in Christ will stand. Everything else will be stripped away. The chaos is not comfortable and at times does not seem fair, but it is allowed in our lives to rid us of the junk and bring us to a place where we only rely on God. Where the only thing left is God. At that point we have a choice to pull away and lose faith or to worship Him with with hearts of perfect praise. Only then are God's promises and purposes for our lives birthed.
I am learning to praise Him in the storm, thankful that He is a sure foundation and is ridding my life of the extra junk that doesn't need to be there. It may not be comfortable and believe me I don't like it, but if that is what has to happen...Bring It On!
21 Day Challenge: John 2
Verse: John 2:4
"...why do you involve me?" Jesus replied. "My time has not yet come."
Thought: We all know that this is the first miracle, turning water to wine. My thought today is on obedience. How close were we to not having the first miracle? This miracle was all about obedience. The obedience of BOTH Jesus and the servants. When Mary told Jesus they had no more wine, Jesus' response was like our response is most of the times God calls on us...Uh, God are you sure about that. I don't think I am ready. Mary heard him and still continued on by telling the servants to obey everything he said. Jesus then did all he knew to do, OBEY. Then it turns to the servants. If they had declared the situation absurd and chose not to listen or OBEY where would we be. Many times all God is asking us to do is to OBEY no matter how crazy His request may sound. Then, as we see in this miracle, God not only provides a way but makes it the very best it could be. (John 2:10 You saved the best for last)
Prayer: Lord, help me to be obedient no matter what. Stop my questions and doubting so obedience can be my first reaction.
"...why do you involve me?" Jesus replied. "My time has not yet come."
Thought: We all know that this is the first miracle, turning water to wine. My thought today is on obedience. How close were we to not having the first miracle? This miracle was all about obedience. The obedience of BOTH Jesus and the servants. When Mary told Jesus they had no more wine, Jesus' response was like our response is most of the times God calls on us...Uh, God are you sure about that. I don't think I am ready. Mary heard him and still continued on by telling the servants to obey everything he said. Jesus then did all he knew to do, OBEY. Then it turns to the servants. If they had declared the situation absurd and chose not to listen or OBEY where would we be. Many times all God is asking us to do is to OBEY no matter how crazy His request may sound. Then, as we see in this miracle, God not only provides a way but makes it the very best it could be. (John 2:10 You saved the best for last)
Prayer: Lord, help me to be obedient no matter what. Stop my questions and doubting so obedience can be my first reaction.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
21 Day Challenge: John
Okay, so I have decided to take the plunge into John, also. I know there are people who have taken up the challenge to read through the book of John in 21 days...one chapter a day and share their thoughts. I decided to read but I wasn't going to blog my thoughts. Then I decided I was not going to stay in my comfort zone anymore. Here goes something...
Verse: (It's hard to pick one) John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
Thoughts: The extraordinary embraced and became the ordinary to reveal God to us. Wow! He was Fully God and yet Fully Human. How awesome it would have been to be alive then and ask Him questions, to see God's love in the flesh, to seek more of God. The amazing thing is that He left His work to us to continue. Jesus in us reveals God to others. When others have questions for God and when they need to see God's love in action, the world will look to those of us who have Jesus to share.
Prayer: Lord, let me be a light to the world as You were the light. May everything I do reveal God in me. May my words and actions show the world God's love, and may I be bold enough to stretch from the ordinary to the extraordinary to reach the lost for God.
Verse: (It's hard to pick one) John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
Thoughts: The extraordinary embraced and became the ordinary to reveal God to us. Wow! He was Fully God and yet Fully Human. How awesome it would have been to be alive then and ask Him questions, to see God's love in the flesh, to seek more of God. The amazing thing is that He left His work to us to continue. Jesus in us reveals God to others. When others have questions for God and when they need to see God's love in action, the world will look to those of us who have Jesus to share.
Prayer: Lord, let me be a light to the world as You were the light. May everything I do reveal God in me. May my words and actions show the world God's love, and may I be bold enough to stretch from the ordinary to the extraordinary to reach the lost for God.
A Double Portion of Blessing
Today I have been blessed by my children. On the way to school this morning my son said he did not want any toys for Christmas. I asked him what he wanted and he said...I want the fruits of the spirit. I asked him to say it again because I wasn't sure i heard him correctly. He said that he had a few fruits of the spirit already...love, joy, kindness, etc...but he was still working on a few (patience, self-control). His only Christmas wish was that by Christmas he had them all. Thank you, Lord, that I have a young man who wants to be more like you everyday.
This afternoon my daughter blessed me, also. We were on the way to dance class and we were listening to Christian Music. Praise You in This Storm was on the radio and I could see my daughters hands were raised in the back seat. She was singing...I'll praise you in this storm, and I will lift my hands, for You are who You are, no matter where I am...with her hands in worship to God. Two gifts from God to remind me just how awesome God is!
This afternoon my daughter blessed me, also. We were on the way to dance class and we were listening to Christian Music. Praise You in This Storm was on the radio and I could see my daughters hands were raised in the back seat. She was singing...I'll praise you in this storm, and I will lift my hands, for You are who You are, no matter where I am...with her hands in worship to God. Two gifts from God to remind me just how awesome God is!
Monday, November 12, 2007
BAM!
This past Sunday I heard a message titled, BAM! Bringing Back the Power of God in Your Life. (Pastor Bil Cornelius - Bay Area Fellowship) This was a very inspiring message. As much as I thought I was focused on God, I realized how far I have drifted away from the power of God.
Three major points that really hit home for me me were...
1) REPENTANCE is the key foundation to a life of power. Humility is a magnet to the power of God. God's already seen the sin. We are not hiding anything from Him. How long are we going to stay enslaved to the Enemy? Admit and ask for forgiveness, quickly. David was not perfect...He messed up in a big way, often. However, he was a very humble man and was quick to say, "I'm Sorry." Justification is the downfall of so many people. We don't need to justify sin, we need to repent.
2) You must have a season of PREPARATION before you will see the "big results" you desire. I have always served God and living each day for Him is not enough. Just like there is a lot of work that goes into farming each season, so we must put in A LOT of work into our lives and walk with God as each season of our life unfolds. What I did the past few years is not enough for the new season in my life. I need to take it up a notch. Give God more. This brought me back to a time when my husband had really wanted me to be in service with him and attending bible studies and so forth, but I was convinced I needed to continue serving in the capacities I had always served. I could do personal study for rejuvenation, right? WRONG!!! I see now how important that time was for us to be in preparation together, and I had to repent for that lost time. I wonder how well I would have made it through these past few months of ministry disappointments had we been better prepared as a couple. What growing did I lose during that time I was serving instead of preparing. If farmers don't prepare the fields and just keep planting the crops will eventually fail. Next time I will listen when I am being led into a time of preparation. After all, God sees the ENTIRE picture.
3) Celebrate the (present) New Day and be open to change. Being open to change...I can handle that. I realized the past couple of weeks how far I have come from doing church traditionally to be a little more contemporary in how I think people will be reached. Change I am good with that. Here is where my toes were stepped on a bit...here's a quote...The happiest people in life don't have the BEST of everything. They make the best of what they have. I am not a greedy, needy person, however, I have found myself saying if we can make it to a certain point or if I had that one thing it would catalyst us into some euphoric place. I realized as much as we think we make the best of what we have, we are really trying to get more out of everyday instead of utilizing everything in our life to its full potential. I want to celebrate each new day and everything in it without expecting more before I am ready. Show yourself faithful in the little things and blessings will come your way. This is the day that the Lord has made, I WILL REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT!
BAM!
Three major points that really hit home for me me were...
1) REPENTANCE is the key foundation to a life of power. Humility is a magnet to the power of God. God's already seen the sin. We are not hiding anything from Him. How long are we going to stay enslaved to the Enemy? Admit and ask for forgiveness, quickly. David was not perfect...He messed up in a big way, often. However, he was a very humble man and was quick to say, "I'm Sorry." Justification is the downfall of so many people. We don't need to justify sin, we need to repent.
2) You must have a season of PREPARATION before you will see the "big results" you desire. I have always served God and living each day for Him is not enough. Just like there is a lot of work that goes into farming each season, so we must put in A LOT of work into our lives and walk with God as each season of our life unfolds. What I did the past few years is not enough for the new season in my life. I need to take it up a notch. Give God more. This brought me back to a time when my husband had really wanted me to be in service with him and attending bible studies and so forth, but I was convinced I needed to continue serving in the capacities I had always served. I could do personal study for rejuvenation, right? WRONG!!! I see now how important that time was for us to be in preparation together, and I had to repent for that lost time. I wonder how well I would have made it through these past few months of ministry disappointments had we been better prepared as a couple. What growing did I lose during that time I was serving instead of preparing. If farmers don't prepare the fields and just keep planting the crops will eventually fail. Next time I will listen when I am being led into a time of preparation. After all, God sees the ENTIRE picture.
3) Celebrate the (present) New Day and be open to change. Being open to change...I can handle that. I realized the past couple of weeks how far I have come from doing church traditionally to be a little more contemporary in how I think people will be reached. Change I am good with that. Here is where my toes were stepped on a bit...here's a quote...The happiest people in life don't have the BEST of everything. They make the best of what they have. I am not a greedy, needy person, however, I have found myself saying if we can make it to a certain point or if I had that one thing it would catalyst us into some euphoric place. I realized as much as we think we make the best of what we have, we are really trying to get more out of everyday instead of utilizing everything in our life to its full potential. I want to celebrate each new day and everything in it without expecting more before I am ready. Show yourself faithful in the little things and blessings will come your way. This is the day that the Lord has made, I WILL REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT!
BAM!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Sure That I Am Sure
Raise your hand if you're sure! Okay, that is a VERY OLD commercial and really has nothing to do with this post.
I was visited tonight by a FAITH team from a local church. It was nice to see people getting out in the neighborhoods and going to the people. So many churches these days seem to try and beg people to come to church through many avenues. The fact is Jesus didn't beg people to come into a building...HE didn't put on a show...He simply went to the people and spoke the truth.
This team asked me a few questions as part of a survey they are doing among Christians. It was very refreshing to know that I have my beliefs and convictions and that I am very sure of myself in Christ. By the end of the questions they would say...well, we know the answer but we'll ask you anyway. I realized my vision for ministry, what is truly important, and how important it is to me to tell the sinner the truth so they can be free in Christ.
I was visited tonight by a FAITH team from a local church. It was nice to see people getting out in the neighborhoods and going to the people. So many churches these days seem to try and beg people to come to church through many avenues. The fact is Jesus didn't beg people to come into a building...HE didn't put on a show...He simply went to the people and spoke the truth.
This team asked me a few questions as part of a survey they are doing among Christians. It was very refreshing to know that I have my beliefs and convictions and that I am very sure of myself in Christ. By the end of the questions they would say...well, we know the answer but we'll ask you anyway. I realized my vision for ministry, what is truly important, and how important it is to me to tell the sinner the truth so they can be free in Christ.
More Like Jesus
It has been a long time since I have blogged. I guess life happens and time gets away from you. So I have been thinking a lot lately about my own kids and other kids that I come in contact with on a daily basis. Sometimes it seems I want more for them than they do. That is hard to deal with sometimes. I get so frustrated and worked up trying to get them to meet a mark. Make the standard. Sometimes I feel like I am fighting for them and they could care less.
I bet this is how God feels about us. He has a plan for us. He equips us to accomplish so much. He fights for us...all the way to the cross, and if we were honest with ourselves, at times we could care less.
I decided tonight to take a step back and think about what it is that makes me push so hard for kids to excel. Am I trying to avoid hurt in their lives that I experienced as a kid? Am I seeking to fulfill some great destiny through the life of a child? Do I sincerely want them to achieve everything they can in life? I may not have all the answers, but I did realize that I need to take a step back. If I have shown them the way and set the example in everything I do, say and live before them, then my battle needs to be taken to prayer. The Bible says to train up a child in the way they should go...Not hover over them every step of the way and blow a gasket and get worked up when they don't achieve everything in my timeline or do things my way. Jesus lived life before the people and gave them space and a free will to do with what they wanted. He continued to always point them in the right direction, gently, by his actions. I need to be sure that I am living every part of my life before those around me in a Christ-like manner. Actions speak louder than words!
I bet this is how God feels about us. He has a plan for us. He equips us to accomplish so much. He fights for us...all the way to the cross, and if we were honest with ourselves, at times we could care less.
I decided tonight to take a step back and think about what it is that makes me push so hard for kids to excel. Am I trying to avoid hurt in their lives that I experienced as a kid? Am I seeking to fulfill some great destiny through the life of a child? Do I sincerely want them to achieve everything they can in life? I may not have all the answers, but I did realize that I need to take a step back. If I have shown them the way and set the example in everything I do, say and live before them, then my battle needs to be taken to prayer. The Bible says to train up a child in the way they should go...Not hover over them every step of the way and blow a gasket and get worked up when they don't achieve everything in my timeline or do things my way. Jesus lived life before the people and gave them space and a free will to do with what they wanted. He continued to always point them in the right direction, gently, by his actions. I need to be sure that I am living every part of my life before those around me in a Christ-like manner. Actions speak louder than words!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Kitten's First Full Moon
I was reading a bedtime story to my daughter tonight titled, Kitten's First Full Moon. The story is about a hungry Kitten who runs into Luck, Bad Luck, and back to Luck, again...
What a Night! A hungry baby kitten is on her front step and looks up into the night sky and sees her first full moon. When she sees it, it looks like a little bowl of milk in the sky and she wants it. She closes her eyes, sticks our her neck, licks and all she gets is a bug on the end of her tongue. Still she sees the bowl of milk, just waiting. She pulls herself together and takes a flying leap, only to fall down the steps...still the milk is waiting. She runs down the sidewalk, through the garden, across a field and to the pond and is no closer than when she started to the little bowl of milk. She climbs the tallest tree only to find she is now scared of her surroundings. She looks down into the pond and sees...and even BIGGER bowl of milk (the reflection of the moon in the water). So...she takes a flying leap into the pond and all she get is WET! She is still hungry, sad, and now tired. After all this luck, or should I say bad luck, she returns home back the way she came. As she climbs back onto her safe porch there is a great big bowl of milk waiting just for her. Lucky Kitten!
This past week at church we talked about plucking out our eye if it causes us to sin. That's a funny thing for God to say to us. It is an even harder message sometimes to teach children because they will either laugh themselves silly because they can't get past the image of someone plucking their eye out, or they think, "OH! What kind of a God are you teaching me about that would want us to pluck our eye out."
This book was a great way for me to teach my children that sometimes there are going to be things on this earth that look really good, and we may think we have to have it. We may do everything in our power to try to reach it only to discover we are afraid of our surroundings. At times we will find that we can't get it because we don't need it, or if we reach it, it may be a disappointment that distracted us from what God really has for us.
The great thing about being a child of God is that even if we get distracted, we get off track, we fall into the temptation of sin...God is waiting with arms open wide to give us that special thing that is waiting JUST FOR US!
What a Night! A hungry baby kitten is on her front step and looks up into the night sky and sees her first full moon. When she sees it, it looks like a little bowl of milk in the sky and she wants it. She closes her eyes, sticks our her neck, licks and all she gets is a bug on the end of her tongue. Still she sees the bowl of milk, just waiting. She pulls herself together and takes a flying leap, only to fall down the steps...still the milk is waiting. She runs down the sidewalk, through the garden, across a field and to the pond and is no closer than when she started to the little bowl of milk. She climbs the tallest tree only to find she is now scared of her surroundings. She looks down into the pond and sees...and even BIGGER bowl of milk (the reflection of the moon in the water). So...she takes a flying leap into the pond and all she get is WET! She is still hungry, sad, and now tired. After all this luck, or should I say bad luck, she returns home back the way she came. As she climbs back onto her safe porch there is a great big bowl of milk waiting just for her. Lucky Kitten!
This past week at church we talked about plucking out our eye if it causes us to sin. That's a funny thing for God to say to us. It is an even harder message sometimes to teach children because they will either laugh themselves silly because they can't get past the image of someone plucking their eye out, or they think, "OH! What kind of a God are you teaching me about that would want us to pluck our eye out."
This book was a great way for me to teach my children that sometimes there are going to be things on this earth that look really good, and we may think we have to have it. We may do everything in our power to try to reach it only to discover we are afraid of our surroundings. At times we will find that we can't get it because we don't need it, or if we reach it, it may be a disappointment that distracted us from what God really has for us.
The great thing about being a child of God is that even if we get distracted, we get off track, we fall into the temptation of sin...God is waiting with arms open wide to give us that special thing that is waiting JUST FOR US!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Straight from the Source
I was in Science class with some third graders today. Each one was given a bracelet with 5 beads. Each bead looked white, plain and boring...nothing special about them. They wore them in class for about an hour, wondering all the while, what they were wearing the bracelets for.
THEN...we took a walk outside. "Keep your eyes on your bracelets," they were told. As they went from the building to the outdoors, the beads began to change colors. When they got to the playground, in the sun, the colors became brighter...more vibrant. "Wow! That's cool!" they all said. Of course, scientifically speaking each bead reacted to the heat from being outside. When the beads came in contact with direct sunlight, they really reacted and changed.
While they were all in amazement of these magnificent beads I was thanking God for being our power source. Each one of us may look like plain, ordinary beads (I mean beings)...nothing special by ourselves. We come in contact with other Christians and a change begins to take place within us. We change colors, so to speak, and begin showing signs of being special. Thank God we have other Christians to encourage us along the journey of life that can begin bringing out the special qualities placed in us all. However, I really want to thank God today for being the direct power source that can completely change us and show our full potential...our brightest colors. When we come into direct contact with God we will change into His likeness.
Thanks God for being there...even in a 3rd grade Science lesson.
THEN...we took a walk outside. "Keep your eyes on your bracelets," they were told. As they went from the building to the outdoors, the beads began to change colors. When they got to the playground, in the sun, the colors became brighter...more vibrant. "Wow! That's cool!" they all said. Of course, scientifically speaking each bead reacted to the heat from being outside. When the beads came in contact with direct sunlight, they really reacted and changed.
While they were all in amazement of these magnificent beads I was thanking God for being our power source. Each one of us may look like plain, ordinary beads (I mean beings)...nothing special by ourselves. We come in contact with other Christians and a change begins to take place within us. We change colors, so to speak, and begin showing signs of being special. Thank God we have other Christians to encourage us along the journey of life that can begin bringing out the special qualities placed in us all. However, I really want to thank God today for being the direct power source that can completely change us and show our full potential...our brightest colors. When we come into direct contact with God we will change into His likeness.
Thanks God for being there...even in a 3rd grade Science lesson.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Out of the Mouths of Babes
Very rarely do I share an account of my kids and I on here, but this can't be ignored...
I was mowing the yard this week one morning before it started to rain, and I bumped the fence and annoyed a hive of yellow jackets. Not surprisingly, I was stung on the back of the neck by one. It hurt terribly, probably the most pain I have been in for a while. When I came inside I was actually unsure what had happened because I never saw the yellow jackets. I was crying and very much in pain. You would think that the children I have spent many nights with when they were sick, or was very supportive of when they were hurt...you know normal mommy stuff...would give sympathy back to their mother in her time of need. WRONG!!! My son ran out of the bathroom laughing so hard he didn't want me to see him and my daughter continued to tell me to "quit my whining" until the crying stopped...Out of the Mouths of Babes!
I was mowing the yard this week one morning before it started to rain, and I bumped the fence and annoyed a hive of yellow jackets. Not surprisingly, I was stung on the back of the neck by one. It hurt terribly, probably the most pain I have been in for a while. When I came inside I was actually unsure what had happened because I never saw the yellow jackets. I was crying and very much in pain. You would think that the children I have spent many nights with when they were sick, or was very supportive of when they were hurt...you know normal mommy stuff...would give sympathy back to their mother in her time of need. WRONG!!! My son ran out of the bathroom laughing so hard he didn't want me to see him and my daughter continued to tell me to "quit my whining" until the crying stopped...Out of the Mouths of Babes!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
The Aftermath
I went to CPI training today. This training is designed to teach people how to safely deal with children or other people in an anxious, defensive or "acting out" state. A lot of times we think of a crisis situation as only the action part, the building up. However, there is a very important level that can not be overlooked when dealing with such situations and that is the tension release time, "The Aftermath". A boiling pot will never cool down until you release the steam from the pot. Likewise, people can never fully release and get over a problem without being able to release that negative energy building up inside of them and reflect on how they got there.
Besides just the initial release of energy, there has to be a reflection time or evaluation of the situation. I think this is the time in even our own lives that we don't spend that much time on. How often do we reflect on a situation to discover what the little things were that set us off? What is it about our environment that leaves us on edge? What factors contribute to our anxiety and frustration? I think that when we take the time to recognize what it is that "sets children off" or even "sets us off" we can be one step ahead of the things Satan would like to use to trip us up.
Just this past Sunday at church, as soon as praise and worship started frustrating thoughts entered into my mind. At that point I recognized these thoughts were about to push my discouragement buttons because I had dealt with and reflected these type of thoughts before. Satan's plans were to shut me off and prevent me from entering the holy of holies. I've been there before...many times, lately. I was prepared with the truth of God and was quickly able to redirect myself back into worship. This concept can help us with so many areas of our lives. We may not always have another person there for immediate intervention, but praise the Lord, God is always available to intervene on our behalf.
Besides just the initial release of energy, there has to be a reflection time or evaluation of the situation. I think this is the time in even our own lives that we don't spend that much time on. How often do we reflect on a situation to discover what the little things were that set us off? What is it about our environment that leaves us on edge? What factors contribute to our anxiety and frustration? I think that when we take the time to recognize what it is that "sets children off" or even "sets us off" we can be one step ahead of the things Satan would like to use to trip us up.
Just this past Sunday at church, as soon as praise and worship started frustrating thoughts entered into my mind. At that point I recognized these thoughts were about to push my discouragement buttons because I had dealt with and reflected these type of thoughts before. Satan's plans were to shut me off and prevent me from entering the holy of holies. I've been there before...many times, lately. I was prepared with the truth of God and was quickly able to redirect myself back into worship. This concept can help us with so many areas of our lives. We may not always have another person there for immediate intervention, but praise the Lord, God is always available to intervene on our behalf.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Amazing
Children are so amazingly individual. Two children growing up in the same home, with the same parents, and in the same environment can be so amazingly different. That is the awesomeness of God and His creativity.
We are so fearfully and wonderfully made. Each one individual and yet God knows the very number of the hairs on each of our heads. I thank God that He is creative, that we are all so very different (yet made in His image), and in the chaos of the world and our day to day lives He has a PERFECT plan for our lives to prosper us, not to harm us, to give us a hope and a future.
Isn't God amazing!!!?
We are so fearfully and wonderfully made. Each one individual and yet God knows the very number of the hairs on each of our heads. I thank God that He is creative, that we are all so very different (yet made in His image), and in the chaos of the world and our day to day lives He has a PERFECT plan for our lives to prosper us, not to harm us, to give us a hope and a future.
Isn't God amazing!!!?
Monday, April 16, 2007
The Incredibles
I have been doing series in Kid's Church for the past several months. It helps build momentum and keeps the kids coming back each week. It helps the kids build and idea or purpose in their lives. The youth pastor and I have been developing our last few series together. 2 or more brains are definitely better than one.
Here is the series synopsis for my April series.
Series Verse: Acts 1:8
Subject: Power of the Holy Spirit
Series Big Idea: Everyday People…Incredible Power
Series Synopsis:
As everyday people we have been given incredible power by Jesus, the “Incredible Hero”. When we identify ourselves with Christ, we receive power through the Holy Spirit to fulfill our mission. Our mission is to connect people to the Incredible Hero for Eternity. Live For Christ…Change The World.
Messages:
Date – April 1, 2007 (Incredibles: Jack Jack)
Message Title – “The Incredible Hero”
Speaker – Dawn Givan
Bottom Line – Be powered up to do it through Christ.
Scripture – Philippians 2:5-8
Application – Think like Christ
Message Synopsis – Jesus is the ultimate example of a hero. Even though He was God, He came as a man, an everyday man, and did incredible things through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 He said, “You”. This was telling us that it is now our time to go and be Incredible Heroes. We can be powered up to do it through Christ as we begin to think like Him as in Philippians 2:5-8 and become the Incredible Heroes He has called us to be.
Date – April 8, 2007 (Superman)
Message Title – “Incredible Power”
Speaker – Dawn Givan
Bottom Line – The Holy Spirit gives us Incredible Power.
Scripture – Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8
Application – Stay Connected
Message Synopsis – As everyday people our only way of doing what Jesus did is to be tapped into a power source. In Acts 1:8 Jesus said, “You will receive power.” God has supplied us with that power source by allowing us to work as Jesus did through the power of the Holy Spirit. We now have the power to make a difference and fulfill the mission God has given us. It is important that we stay connected as we live for Christ and change the world.
Date – April 15, 2007 (Spiderman)
Message Title – “Incredible Identity”
Speaker – Dawn Givan/Mike Antoine
Bottom Line – A New Identity for a Powerful Mission
Scripture – 2 Corinthians 5:17, I Timothy 1:15-17, Phil 1:27-28, Rom. 12:1-2
Application – Rewire Your Identity
Message Synopsis – As newly realized heroes who are filled with an incredible power from on high, we now understand that our identity is no longer the same. In fact we are beginning to comprehend that we have a new identity. Christ has changed us and given us a power to “live for Him and change the world”. Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses.” Cloaked in this new identity given by God, we can now live a life of purpose and change in order to make a true impact.
Date – April 22, 2007 (Kim Possible)
Message Title – “The Incredible Mission”
Speaker – Dawn Givan/Mike Antoine
Bottom Line – Live for Christ…Change the World
Scripture – Philippians 1:21, Mark 16:15, Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:19-20
Application – Live the Mission
Message Synopsis – We are everyday people who have been given incredible power. This power was meant for a purpose. Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses to the ends of the earth.” God has given us power and a mission. It is now up to us to go out and be INCREDIBLE for God. It is up to us to go and make a difference living out our mission to “Live for Christ…Change the World”.
Here is the series synopsis for my April series.
Series Verse: Acts 1:8
Subject: Power of the Holy Spirit
Series Big Idea: Everyday People…Incredible Power
Series Synopsis:
As everyday people we have been given incredible power by Jesus, the “Incredible Hero”. When we identify ourselves with Christ, we receive power through the Holy Spirit to fulfill our mission. Our mission is to connect people to the Incredible Hero for Eternity. Live For Christ…Change The World.
Messages:
Date – April 1, 2007 (Incredibles: Jack Jack)
Message Title – “The Incredible Hero”
Speaker – Dawn Givan
Bottom Line – Be powered up to do it through Christ.
Scripture – Philippians 2:5-8
Application – Think like Christ
Message Synopsis – Jesus is the ultimate example of a hero. Even though He was God, He came as a man, an everyday man, and did incredible things through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 He said, “You”. This was telling us that it is now our time to go and be Incredible Heroes. We can be powered up to do it through Christ as we begin to think like Him as in Philippians 2:5-8 and become the Incredible Heroes He has called us to be.
Date – April 8, 2007 (Superman)
Message Title – “Incredible Power”
Speaker – Dawn Givan
Bottom Line – The Holy Spirit gives us Incredible Power.
Scripture – Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8
Application – Stay Connected
Message Synopsis – As everyday people our only way of doing what Jesus did is to be tapped into a power source. In Acts 1:8 Jesus said, “You will receive power.” God has supplied us with that power source by allowing us to work as Jesus did through the power of the Holy Spirit. We now have the power to make a difference and fulfill the mission God has given us. It is important that we stay connected as we live for Christ and change the world.
Date – April 15, 2007 (Spiderman)
Message Title – “Incredible Identity”
Speaker – Dawn Givan/Mike Antoine
Bottom Line – A New Identity for a Powerful Mission
Scripture – 2 Corinthians 5:17, I Timothy 1:15-17, Phil 1:27-28, Rom. 12:1-2
Application – Rewire Your Identity
Message Synopsis – As newly realized heroes who are filled with an incredible power from on high, we now understand that our identity is no longer the same. In fact we are beginning to comprehend that we have a new identity. Christ has changed us and given us a power to “live for Him and change the world”. Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses.” Cloaked in this new identity given by God, we can now live a life of purpose and change in order to make a true impact.
Date – April 22, 2007 (Kim Possible)
Message Title – “The Incredible Mission”
Speaker – Dawn Givan/Mike Antoine
Bottom Line – Live for Christ…Change the World
Scripture – Philippians 1:21, Mark 16:15, Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:19-20
Application – Live the Mission
Message Synopsis – We are everyday people who have been given incredible power. This power was meant for a purpose. Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses to the ends of the earth.” God has given us power and a mission. It is now up to us to go out and be INCREDIBLE for God. It is up to us to go and make a difference living out our mission to “Live for Christ…Change the World”.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Kids "IN" Ministry
In children's ministry we should TOGETHER Impact, Disciple and Empower kids to change the world for Jesus. It is not just about sharing the word with them, but helping them to follow Jesus' example in LEADING others to God. We should not, as adults, be afraid to put kids in ministry positions. Are they going to perform perfect every time?...NO. Do we? Disciple them. Guide them. Lead them. Wasn't Jesus "about His father's business" as a CHILD.
Children have excitement and passion that we sometimes lose as we get older. They have an unfaltering FAITH and unconditional LOVE that can spread like wild fire in the lives of those around them. They bounce back and try and try again without giving up. Are we that resilient?
Are we impacting children for Jesus? Are we discipling the kids INTO the ministry? Are we empowering them, allowing them, to "be about their Father's business"? Change the TIDE for children...IMPACT...DISCIPLE...EMPOWER!
Children have excitement and passion that we sometimes lose as we get older. They have an unfaltering FAITH and unconditional LOVE that can spread like wild fire in the lives of those around them. They bounce back and try and try again without giving up. Are we that resilient?
Are we impacting children for Jesus? Are we discipling the kids INTO the ministry? Are we empowering them, allowing them, to "be about their Father's business"? Change the TIDE for children...IMPACT...DISCIPLE...EMPOWER!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Just a Thought
There are some people who live in a dream world, and there are some who face reality; and then there are those who turn one into the other.
-By Douglas Everett
-By Douglas Everett
Making a Difference
We are the body of Christ. As believer's, we function as one. We may never know how far our arms are reaching or where our steps are leading. I have worked in Children's Ministry for several years now, but I am only in my 10th month of full-time Children's Ministry. Many times I get caught up in the BUSYness of ministry and I stop and wonder, "Am I really making a difference."
I taught our kids a human video, or motions, to Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns. The song alone has a very powerful message, but seeing kids portray it and understand it will bring you to a new revelation of God's Truth. It has been a while since we have used that song in a service. However, I found out today that one of my kid's took that human video to his Grandfather's church and ministered during an offering time. Afterwards a school teacher told his mom that the human video changed her life. She had decided to start taking her Bible to school with her everyday and she would start speaking the Truth of God over her children and to her children.
How far are our arms reaching? Where are our steps leading? Are we making a difference?...YES. Not only in the young lives we come in contact with, but we make a difference that continues far beyond our boundaries. Changing lives and empowering them to go out and further God's message even further, that's making a difference. Be encouraged today...You make a difference. I sure was!
I taught our kids a human video, or motions, to Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns. The song alone has a very powerful message, but seeing kids portray it and understand it will bring you to a new revelation of God's Truth. It has been a while since we have used that song in a service. However, I found out today that one of my kid's took that human video to his Grandfather's church and ministered during an offering time. Afterwards a school teacher told his mom that the human video changed her life. She had decided to start taking her Bible to school with her everyday and she would start speaking the Truth of God over her children and to her children.
How far are our arms reaching? Where are our steps leading? Are we making a difference?...YES. Not only in the young lives we come in contact with, but we make a difference that continues far beyond our boundaries. Changing lives and empowering them to go out and further God's message even further, that's making a difference. Be encouraged today...You make a difference. I sure was!
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Children: Imitators of Worship
Do you know what moves my heart faster than anything? To see a child worship a mighty God is MOVING. I have been teaching kids to sing for the Lord for a long time, and it never ceases to tug at my heart (and tear ducts) when I see a child finally "get it" and be in total surrender to the Lord. Although some praise songs carry a sense of entertainment and amusement they are teaching truths that children can hang onto when they need God. They provide an avenue for kids to express their joy and appreciation for being the mighty God He is. Psalm 8:2 tells us that praise, even in the mouths of children, silences the enemy. There is supernatural power that is released through a child's worship that goes far beyond our natural reasoning, silencing the enemy that comes against us all each day.
Often times, children imitate what they see adults doing in worship. Through these times of imitation, or learning as I call it, they are experiencing God in a new and exciting way. Jesus said, that in the mouths of babes, He would furnish a place of praise. A child's praise is perfect (Matthew 21:15-16). They are building a shield of protection around their minds and hearts as they enter into God's presence. They WILL imitate our worship. As adults, are we setting an example of worship for those that look up to us? Are we able to lose OURSELVES in total surrender to an AWESOME GOD.
Often times, children imitate what they see adults doing in worship. Through these times of imitation, or learning as I call it, they are experiencing God in a new and exciting way. Jesus said, that in the mouths of babes, He would furnish a place of praise. A child's praise is perfect (Matthew 21:15-16). They are building a shield of protection around their minds and hearts as they enter into God's presence. They WILL imitate our worship. As adults, are we setting an example of worship for those that look up to us? Are we able to lose OURSELVES in total surrender to an AWESOME GOD.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Prayer is an Essential
We all know that prayer should be the foundation of anything. It is the first thing we do when we accept Jesus into our lives. It should be the first thing we do each day. Yet, how many of us have gone through a rough day only to realize we neglected to spend time with God that day. Building this discipline is so important in the life of children. They are now creating habits for life. 85% of their personality is defined by the age of 5. How much more of who they are will be defined by that age.
The five finger prayer is a great way to teach children how to pray. It can be used in our teaching time or in our quiet times.
1. Our thumb is nearest to us...Begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They're the easiest to remember. While praying for our loved ones is easy, the Bible also tells us to pray for our enemies who, in a negative way, are also near us.
Matthew 5:44
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you
2. The next is our pointer finger...Pray for those who teach, instruct, and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers (it's these people who tend to "point" the way). They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers. These men and women have great influence on society, and we should pray that they display and teach Godly principles in all they do.
3. Next is our tallest finger...It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business, industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance. When the king of Nineveh prayed to God he saved his nation from destruction (Jonah 3:6-10). We should pray that our decision makers repent and seek God's will as they lead us.
4. Fourth is our ring finger...Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are ill, weak, in trouble, or in pain. They need your prayers day and night.
5. Last is our little finger...The smallest finger of all. Which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "...for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great." (Luke 9:48) Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other 4 groups, your own needs should be put into proper perspective. We should be asking forgiveness for our sins, thanking God for our many blessings, and last laying out what is on our heart and asking that His will be done in our life.
Prayer is an essential. In some cases a lost art of communication. As we pour into the lives of children, may we be powered up in prayer and leading these young lives by example. After all the old song still reigns true: Read your BIBLE, PRAY everyday, and you'll grow, grow, grow.
The five finger prayer is a great way to teach children how to pray. It can be used in our teaching time or in our quiet times.
1. Our thumb is nearest to us...Begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They're the easiest to remember. While praying for our loved ones is easy, the Bible also tells us to pray for our enemies who, in a negative way, are also near us.
Matthew 5:44
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you
2. The next is our pointer finger...Pray for those who teach, instruct, and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers (it's these people who tend to "point" the way). They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep them in your prayers. These men and women have great influence on society, and we should pray that they display and teach Godly principles in all they do.
3. Next is our tallest finger...It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for the president, leaders in business, industry, and administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance. When the king of Nineveh prayed to God he saved his nation from destruction (Jonah 3:6-10). We should pray that our decision makers repent and seek God's will as they lead us.
4. Fourth is our ring finger...Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger, as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are ill, weak, in trouble, or in pain. They need your prayers day and night.
5. Last is our little finger...The smallest finger of all. Which is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "...for the one who is least among all of you, this is the one who is great." (Luke 9:48) Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other 4 groups, your own needs should be put into proper perspective. We should be asking forgiveness for our sins, thanking God for our many blessings, and last laying out what is on our heart and asking that His will be done in our life.
Prayer is an essential. In some cases a lost art of communication. As we pour into the lives of children, may we be powered up in prayer and leading these young lives by example. After all the old song still reigns true: Read your BIBLE, PRAY everyday, and you'll grow, grow, grow.
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