Love Greg Laurie. This prompted me to set up monthly donations finally for GBC.
Give Him Your Best
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
-Matthew 6:33
I heard about an old farmer who was very stingy. One day he said to his pastor, "You know, I just had two calves that were born, and I've decided to give one to the Lord."
"Oh?" the pastor said, "Which one?"
"I haven't decided yet."
A week passed, and one of the calves got very sick and died. The next day, the farmer came to the pastor with the dead calf draped over his arms and said, "I have bad news. The Lord's calf just died."
That's what we often do. We give our leftovers to God. If Jesus Christ showed up at your house today for lunch, would you give Him leftovers? I think you would make a feast fit for a king, just like Martha did when Jesus arrived at her home.
We should give our very best to God, but often we give him second best. We know we should pray and read the Bible, but we think, "I'll get to that eventually." We know we should give of our finances to the Lord, but we say, "I don't have any money left."
The Bible says, "Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase" (Proverbs 3:9). Put God first, and He will bless you.
Jesus said, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). What did Jesus mean by "all these things?" He was referring to what you will eat, what you will drink, and what you will wear. Put God first in your marriage, and watch how it changes. Put God first in your finances, and watch how they'll change. Put God first. Give Him the best. He gave His best to you.
I started this blog soon after the death of my beautiful 17-year-old son, Hayden, as a way to deal with my grief. I titled it "Dear Hayden" because at first I wrote as if I was writing to him. My use of the word "dear" ended up being twofold: "used as an affectionate or friendly form of address" and "regarded with deep affection; cherished by someone." Many posts are saved quotes, song lyrics, Bible verses, poems, etc. with credit given to the actual authors as much as possible. Enjoy~
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Feel good
If I choose you, it won't be because you "look" good to me physically.
It will be because you "feel" good to me spiritually.
It will be because you "feel" good to me spiritually.
Give
Give people time. Give people space. Don't beg anyone to stay. Let them roam.
What's meant for you, will always be yours.
What's meant for you, will always be yours.
Run
Pretty sure I've seen this before...
Dating philosophy:
Run as fast as you can towards God,
and if someone keeps up,
introduce yourself.
Dating philosophy:
Run as fast as you can towards God,
and if someone keeps up,
introduce yourself.
Clueless
From Flying Free
by Brenda Linn
CLUELESS?
You've had enough. He has not cared about you, your thoughts or your feelings. He has neglected you and your kids, big time. He has hurt you, belittled you and been so, so selfish. You've had enough.
You start to move toward divorce.
He is startled. Pleads with you not to ruin his life. Says that he just didn't understand! But now he is seeing the light. He had an 'Aha!' moment in the counselor's office. He wants you to give him time, a chance, some understanding.
He was clueless.
Have a heart!
Clueless people deserve our patience, sympathy and cooperation, y'know. And they just can't take responsibility for their actions, because clueless. And ya oughta feel guilty for wanting him to love you all that time, cuz it wasn't on purpose, he was just clueless! And all those times you tried to explain, or tell him how much you were hurting, he just didn't understand! Give the poor guy a break! He was clueless, that's all!
But now, now that you are ready to give up on him, teeny-tiny lights are coming on! He is slowly, gradually getting little bitty clues that maybe, just maybe, he didn't do a few things quite right.
He needs you to walk beside him. To help him while he grows. He needs you to lean on. You gotta take responsibility, cuz he's been terribly, woefully clueless for such a long, long time. He needs your looooovvvvve. He needs you to care. About him, him, HIM.
He's sad, can't you see that? Don't you care? Do you want to take responsibility for wrecking everything, just cuz he is irresponsible, unloving and foolish? All those times he didn't care about you weren't his fault, cuz clueless. And he wants another chance. And another. And another.
In fact, if you would just turn over all your resources, maybe even your lifeblood to him, it would really help. It takes a lot to help clueless people, y'know. Lots and lots and lots. It takes everything.
And you never get anything back.
by Brenda Linn
CLUELESS?
You've had enough. He has not cared about you, your thoughts or your feelings. He has neglected you and your kids, big time. He has hurt you, belittled you and been so, so selfish. You've had enough.
You start to move toward divorce.
He is startled. Pleads with you not to ruin his life. Says that he just didn't understand! But now he is seeing the light. He had an 'Aha!' moment in the counselor's office. He wants you to give him time, a chance, some understanding.
He was clueless.
Have a heart!
Clueless people deserve our patience, sympathy and cooperation, y'know. And they just can't take responsibility for their actions, because clueless. And ya oughta feel guilty for wanting him to love you all that time, cuz it wasn't on purpose, he was just clueless! And all those times you tried to explain, or tell him how much you were hurting, he just didn't understand! Give the poor guy a break! He was clueless, that's all!
But now, now that you are ready to give up on him, teeny-tiny lights are coming on! He is slowly, gradually getting little bitty clues that maybe, just maybe, he didn't do a few things quite right.
He needs you to walk beside him. To help him while he grows. He needs you to lean on. You gotta take responsibility, cuz he's been terribly, woefully clueless for such a long, long time. He needs your looooovvvvve. He needs you to care. About him, him, HIM.
He's sad, can't you see that? Don't you care? Do you want to take responsibility for wrecking everything, just cuz he is irresponsible, unloving and foolish? All those times he didn't care about you weren't his fault, cuz clueless. And he wants another chance. And another. And another.
In fact, if you would just turn over all your resources, maybe even your lifeblood to him, it would really help. It takes a lot to help clueless people, y'know. Lots and lots and lots. It takes everything.
And you never get anything back.
Good and ready
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Psalm 86:5
For You, Lord, are good and ready to forgive,
And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.
Psalm 86:5
For You, Lord, are good and ready to forgive,
And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.
The difference
There is a difference between a boy who kinda likes you a man who needs your soul next to his. Learn the difference.
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
Spirit
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
John 4:24
God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
John 4:24
God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
Lowliness
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Ephesians 4:2
With all loneliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:2
With all loneliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.
The person in the mirror
Work on being in love with the person in the mirror who has been through so much but is still standing.
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Almost never
A woman will do anything and everything to make her relationship work. That's why she almost never regrets when it's time to walk away.
Monday, January 28, 2019
Their mom
A good reminder...
Today in an auditorium full of parents, my child scanned the room looking for me. And when our eyes met, my child's face lit up. Wasn't really looking for a perfect parent. Just looking for Mom.
Don't ever forget the power of simply being their mom.
Humble yourselves
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
James 4:10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
James 4:10
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
Wrestle
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Ephesians 6:12-13
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Ephesians 6:12-13
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Biggest regrets
My biggest regrets in life are being too nice, apologizing when I didn't do anything wrong, and making unworthy people a priority.
Hold the pen
When writing the story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen.
My note: Except God
My note: Except God
Meditate
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Philippians 4:8
Meditate on These Things
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things.
Philippians 4:8
Meditate on These Things
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things.
Harder now
Relationships are harder now
Because conversations became texting, arguments became phone calls, feelings became subliminal messages, sex became easy, the word "love" is used out of context, insecurities became a way of thinking, getting jealous became a habit, trust is hard to come by, being hurt became natural and leaving became the only option. Sad but true, so if you have something that's worth it, don't take it for granted. Fight for it, and don't let it go.
Because conversations became texting, arguments became phone calls, feelings became subliminal messages, sex became easy, the word "love" is used out of context, insecurities became a way of thinking, getting jealous became a habit, trust is hard to come by, being hurt became natural and leaving became the only option. Sad but true, so if you have something that's worth it, don't take it for granted. Fight for it, and don't let it go.
Truly repentant
The one thing that all truly repentant people crave even more than forgiveness: the opportunity to make amends.
God supports it
From Flying Free
What distinguishes spiritual abuse from other types of abuse is that a spiritual authority invokes God, the ultimate authority, to sanction the abuse. This makes the abuse that much more traumatic and devastating to the victim. The victim is led to believe that God supports the abuse.
My note: This was awful, BTW
What distinguishes spiritual abuse from other types of abuse is that a spiritual authority invokes God, the ultimate authority, to sanction the abuse. This makes the abuse that much more traumatic and devastating to the victim. The victim is led to believe that God supports the abuse.
My note: This was awful, BTW
Get your fire back
Get your fire back.
It's not over until God says it's over.
Start believing again.
Start dreaming again.
Start pursuing what God put in your heart.
It's not over until God says it's over.
Start believing again.
Start dreaming again.
Start pursuing what God put in your heart.
A silent tear
A Silent Tear
Just close your eyes and you will see
All the memories that you have of me
Just sit and relax and you will find
I'm really still there inside your mind.
Don't cry for me now I'm gone
For I am in the land of song
There is no pain, there is no fear
So dry away that silent tear.
Don't think of me in the dark and cold
For here I am, no longer old
I'm in that place that's filled with love
Known to you all, as "up above".
Just close your eyes and you will see
All the memories that you have of me
Just sit and relax and you will find
I'm really still there inside your mind.
Don't cry for me now I'm gone
For I am in the land of song
There is no pain, there is no fear
So dry away that silent tear.
Don't think of me in the dark and cold
For here I am, no longer old
I'm in that place that's filled with love
Known to you all, as "up above".
Poisoned by stress
From Toby Mac
When you feel poisoned by stress,
pressure, pain or failure,
the best antidote is to pray.
Nothing more.
Nothing less.
When you feel poisoned by stress,
pressure, pain or failure,
the best antidote is to pray.
Nothing more.
Nothing less.
Don't get to
From Toby Mac but have heard this before
When a person tells you you hurt them,
you don't get to decide you didn't.
When a person tells you you hurt them,
you don't get to decide you didn't.
Friday, January 25, 2019
Love too much
From Thought Catalog by MJ Mariano
I'm Sorry But I Will Love You Too Much
I'm a hard person to love. And I think it's safe to say that when people are asked whether they're an easy or a hard person to love, most would say that they're the latter. That should make me feel better, for not being the only one in the world like this, but I don't. I'm not perfect, although no one is. I have my flaws, my insecurities, my issues, my worries, and I carry them around altogether in a suitcase wherever I go. And so, for all these reasons, I'm writing this letter to you, the person I'll end up with someday, to apologize in advance.
I'm sorry for being moody. I'm sorry for not letting a week pass by without riding my mood swing. I don't like being this way but it seemed like I will always be even for all the wrong reasons. I'm sorry for getting mad at the simplest of things that you do, and I'm even more sorry for being mad at you for no particular reasons, too.
I'm sorry for getting sad and emotional most of the time, and I'm sorry for entertaining this feeling and making it worse by doing so. I'm sorry that you have to go through all these with me but I promise to be extra patient when it's your turn to be the moody one.
I'm sorry for worrying too much. I'm sorry for worrying about a lot of things - things that normal people don't worry about, and things that I should actually be worrying about in the future. I will have anxiety attacks and will fret ten times a day, and I'm also sorry about that. I will think of my career and your career, whether we're doing well or bad, and worry about the obstacles that we have to face.
I will ask you to assure and reassure things for me. I will ask you to tell me that you love me and are in love with me over and over again, until I find it too cheesy that I forget all my worries. Most of all, I will ask you to hold me when I worry because only in your arms will I find comfort.
I'm sorry for the times when I make you feel like I push you away. I want you to know that each time I try to take a step back, it's not because I want to leave you or I want you to leave me; it's because you are too beautiful to be inside my mess. If you love me you will wait and if you truly love me you will understand.
You will understand that I may reject you but that's because it's how much I want you in my life. You will understand that I am a work in progress and part of my growth is to help myself be the person I strive to be. You will understand that I have a war inside my heart and your love is the peace that I need.
Lastly, I'm sorry but I will love you too much. In spite of all my shortcomings, this is my vow to you: I will love you with all my heart. I will love you even when I'm moody; for I may feel happy or sad or mad or extremely emotional but my greatest feeling will always be my love for you. I will love you because if there is one thing that I wouldn't worry about, it's the love that I have for you - and hopefully yours for me.
I will love you most when I try to push you away because doing so reassures our love for each other; I have so much love for you that I wouldn't be able to bear bringing you along in the storm inside me, yet you have so much love for me that you would be willing to.
For all these, more than all my apologies, I would like to thank you. Thank you for being understanding. Thank you for being patient. And thank you for being the home I always need whenever I encounter a storm. But love, know this: when the time comes that it's your turn to give me all these feelings, I will be here. I will be by your side, holding your hand, reminding you that you are loved.
I will do my best to try to save you from all the pain, and when I fail, I will still be here, taking the pain with you. I will be beside you for all the mornings and the nights - and the dusks and dawns in between -looking at your face because I know in my heart that it's the only thing in the world that I could look at without worrying about a thing.
I'm Sorry But I Will Love You Too Much
I'm a hard person to love. And I think it's safe to say that when people are asked whether they're an easy or a hard person to love, most would say that they're the latter. That should make me feel better, for not being the only one in the world like this, but I don't. I'm not perfect, although no one is. I have my flaws, my insecurities, my issues, my worries, and I carry them around altogether in a suitcase wherever I go. And so, for all these reasons, I'm writing this letter to you, the person I'll end up with someday, to apologize in advance.
I'm sorry for being moody. I'm sorry for not letting a week pass by without riding my mood swing. I don't like being this way but it seemed like I will always be even for all the wrong reasons. I'm sorry for getting mad at the simplest of things that you do, and I'm even more sorry for being mad at you for no particular reasons, too.
I'm sorry for getting sad and emotional most of the time, and I'm sorry for entertaining this feeling and making it worse by doing so. I'm sorry that you have to go through all these with me but I promise to be extra patient when it's your turn to be the moody one.
I'm sorry for worrying too much. I'm sorry for worrying about a lot of things - things that normal people don't worry about, and things that I should actually be worrying about in the future. I will have anxiety attacks and will fret ten times a day, and I'm also sorry about that. I will think of my career and your career, whether we're doing well or bad, and worry about the obstacles that we have to face.
I will ask you to assure and reassure things for me. I will ask you to tell me that you love me and are in love with me over and over again, until I find it too cheesy that I forget all my worries. Most of all, I will ask you to hold me when I worry because only in your arms will I find comfort.
I'm sorry for the times when I make you feel like I push you away. I want you to know that each time I try to take a step back, it's not because I want to leave you or I want you to leave me; it's because you are too beautiful to be inside my mess. If you love me you will wait and if you truly love me you will understand.
You will understand that I may reject you but that's because it's how much I want you in my life. You will understand that I am a work in progress and part of my growth is to help myself be the person I strive to be. You will understand that I have a war inside my heart and your love is the peace that I need.
Lastly, I'm sorry but I will love you too much. In spite of all my shortcomings, this is my vow to you: I will love you with all my heart. I will love you even when I'm moody; for I may feel happy or sad or mad or extremely emotional but my greatest feeling will always be my love for you. I will love you because if there is one thing that I wouldn't worry about, it's the love that I have for you - and hopefully yours for me.
I will love you most when I try to push you away because doing so reassures our love for each other; I have so much love for you that I wouldn't be able to bear bringing you along in the storm inside me, yet you have so much love for me that you would be willing to.
For all these, more than all my apologies, I would like to thank you. Thank you for being understanding. Thank you for being patient. And thank you for being the home I always need whenever I encounter a storm. But love, know this: when the time comes that it's your turn to give me all these feelings, I will be here. I will be by your side, holding your hand, reminding you that you are loved.
I will do my best to try to save you from all the pain, and when I fail, I will still be here, taking the pain with you. I will be beside you for all the mornings and the nights - and the dusks and dawns in between -looking at your face because I know in my heart that it's the only thing in the world that I could look at without worrying about a thing.
No one tells you
Lydia K. posted this. I noticed the author's name is Sarah Hayden
No One Tells You What It's Like To Lose A Sibling
Three years ago, my dad died. After that I thought, Okay, that's it. Nothing bad will happen for a while because it wouldn't be fair. The universe would only dole out so much pain at a time, right?
That theory was proven wrong just shy of three years after my father's death. On April 19th I got a call from my mom. My car broke down that morning so I thought she was calling to talk about it. Instead, what she said turned my life upside down.
"Your brother overdosed today. He's gone."
I've replayed those words over and over in my head, every day since they were spoken.
No one tells you what it's like to lose a sibling. No one tells you it feels like suffocating, like there's a weight on your chest that never quite subsides. I feel it every day. Sometimes it's hard to breathe, it's hard to think, it's hard to understand.
No one tells you how unimportant everything else seems in comparison.
No one tells you about the guilt. The what-ifs, the things you could have said, the questions you never asked. No one tells you about the moments you realize you didn't know enough about him and about what he thinks and who he is. Or, who he was.
No one tells you about the avoidance. It's numbing. It's easier to pretend nothing happened, to speak about him as if he's still here.
No one tells you how overwhelmingly impossible it seems to try to imagine a time where this doesn't hurt. To imagine a day where you don't cry. To imagine what it's like to feel whole again.
No one tells you that when people say you're strong, it makes you feel weak. That your strong exterior really comes from failure to face the pain and an assortment of unhealthy coping mechanisms.
No one tells you how scared you become. Death feels like it's around every corner. I'm scared to answer the phone, I'm scared to do anything mildly dangerous, I'm scared for myself and for everyone I love. I'm scared something will happen to me and I'll leave my mom all alone.
No one tells you these things because there's no warning for your sibling's death. There are no cushions for the blow. No one expects their little brother's 23rd birthday without him. Because no one expects to live the rest of their life without him.
No One Tells You What It's Like To Lose A Sibling
Three years ago, my dad died. After that I thought, Okay, that's it. Nothing bad will happen for a while because it wouldn't be fair. The universe would only dole out so much pain at a time, right?
That theory was proven wrong just shy of three years after my father's death. On April 19th I got a call from my mom. My car broke down that morning so I thought she was calling to talk about it. Instead, what she said turned my life upside down.
"Your brother overdosed today. He's gone."
I've replayed those words over and over in my head, every day since they were spoken.
No one tells you what it's like to lose a sibling. No one tells you it feels like suffocating, like there's a weight on your chest that never quite subsides. I feel it every day. Sometimes it's hard to breathe, it's hard to think, it's hard to understand.
No one tells you how unimportant everything else seems in comparison.
No one tells you about the guilt. The what-ifs, the things you could have said, the questions you never asked. No one tells you about the moments you realize you didn't know enough about him and about what he thinks and who he is. Or, who he was.
No one tells you about the avoidance. It's numbing. It's easier to pretend nothing happened, to speak about him as if he's still here.
No one tells you how overwhelmingly impossible it seems to try to imagine a time where this doesn't hurt. To imagine a day where you don't cry. To imagine what it's like to feel whole again.
No one tells you that when people say you're strong, it makes you feel weak. That your strong exterior really comes from failure to face the pain and an assortment of unhealthy coping mechanisms.
No one tells you how scared you become. Death feels like it's around every corner. I'm scared to answer the phone, I'm scared to do anything mildly dangerous, I'm scared for myself and for everyone I love. I'm scared something will happen to me and I'll leave my mom all alone.
No one tells you these things because there's no warning for your sibling's death. There are no cushions for the blow. No one expects their little brother's 23rd birthday without him. Because no one expects to live the rest of their life without him.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
She realized
She realized that she could no longer carry the weight of other people's expectation or the responsibility for their happiness.
She realized she could decide to be at peace herself. And she could care for herself well.
She practiced listening and loving and also setting healthy boundaries.
She stopped wearing things to make herself look slimmer or hipper and began to wear laughter and curiosity instead.
She grew happy.
She realized she could decide to be at peace herself. And she could care for herself well.
She practiced listening and loving and also setting healthy boundaries.
She stopped wearing things to make herself look slimmer or hipper and began to wear laughter and curiosity instead.
She grew happy.
Not nagging
She's not nagging
She's trying to tell you
something. The only reason she's
being persistent is because she
cares. When she stops nagging as
you call it, you should be worried
because at that point she
no longer cares.
Mother and Son
I know I've posted this before, but came across it again
Mother and Son
by E. Warby
(Have changed "Mum" to "Mom")
I would give my life to have you back,
said his Mom
I know you would, said her son.
I cry each night for you, said his Mom
And I catch all of your tears said her son
I pray for the day that I can see you again,
said his Mom
Close your eyes and you can see me,
said her son...
You are the first person who loved me,
and you are the first person I loved.
You were always there when I needed you,
and you always knew when I needed a hug.
I am here for you now, Mom
in your heart and in your soul.
I did not take you heart with me
instead I left mine with you to hold
One day I will take your hand
and lead you into paradise,
but until then my beautiful mother,
when you want to see me
you only need to close your eyes...
Mother and Son
by E. Warby
(Have changed "Mum" to "Mom")
I would give my life to have you back,
said his Mom
I know you would, said her son.
I cry each night for you, said his Mom
And I catch all of your tears said her son
I pray for the day that I can see you again,
said his Mom
Close your eyes and you can see me,
said her son...
You are the first person who loved me,
and you are the first person I loved.
You were always there when I needed you,
and you always knew when I needed a hug.
I am here for you now, Mom
in your heart and in your soul.
I did not take you heart with me
instead I left mine with you to hold
One day I will take your hand
and lead you into paradise,
but until then my beautiful mother,
when you want to see me
you only need to close your eyes...
Standard of giving
By Toby Mac
When God blesses you financially,
don't raise your standard of living.
Raise your standard of giving.
When God blesses you financially,
don't raise your standard of living.
Raise your standard of giving.
Finding a vacation
By Haley
One time I talked to this old man
and he told me to "find a vacation
everyday, even if it's walking
outside and feeling the grass
between your toes" and that is what
2019 will be all about. Finding
a vacation, everyday.
Time to say goodbye
I love this song but it's always sung in another language. Here is some of it in English.
Time to say goodbye
Places that I've never seen or experienced with you
Now I shall, I'll sail with you upon ships across the seas,
seas that exist no more, it's time to say goodbye
Time to say goodbye
Places that I've never seen or experienced with you
Now I shall, I'll sail with you upon ships across the seas,
seas that exist no more, it's time to say goodbye
Be with someone
Be with someone who does these things.
1. Be with someone who respects you, even when you're not around.
2. Be with someone who puts down their phone and wants to know how your day was.
3. Be with someone who loves you, even when you're not the easiest to love.
4. Be with someone who is honest and loyal, it's a rare trait to find.
5. Be with someone who you are comfortable being weird with.
6. Be with someone who adores you for you not just what you look like, but who you are inside.
1. Be with someone who respects you, even when you're not around.
2. Be with someone who puts down their phone and wants to know how your day was.
3. Be with someone who loves you, even when you're not the easiest to love.
4. Be with someone who is honest and loyal, it's a rare trait to find.
5. Be with someone who you are comfortable being weird with.
6. Be with someone who adores you for you not just what you look like, but who you are inside.
Singing through the darkness
These are all so good! By Greg Laurie
Singing through the Darkness
But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. -Acts 16:25
The world watches with great interest when a Christian faces adversity. Every one of us faces hardship. Every one of us loses loved ones. Every one of us faces sickness. Every one of us encounters difficulties and hardships in life. But when it happens to Christians, nonbelievers watch to see if our faith is genuine. That is the time to show them what Christ can do, even in hard times.
Acts 16 tell the story of Paul and Silas, who were thrown into prison for preaching the gospel. Their backs had been ripped open with a whip, and at midnight, in the most unsanitary of conditions, in a filthy environment, with their legs stretched apart in shackles causing excruciating pain, Paul and Silas held a worship service.
The Bible tells us that "at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God" (verse 25). Suddenly an earthquake shook the prison, their shackles fell off, the walls came down, and they were free to go.
The Philippian jailer, assuming they were free, knew he would be tortured and then put to death. He took out his own sword and was ready to kill himself. But Paul said, "Do yourself no harm, for we are all here" (verse 28).
Then the jailer said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (verse 30). Paul and Silas made an impact on him.
In the same way, there are people watching you right now. They're developing an opinion about God on the basis of your life. It has been said that a Christian is an epistle, written by God and read by man. You are the only Bible that some people ever will read. They will be looking at you, and that may determine the course their lives will take.
My note: This is what I think happened when we lost you. I think people are watching still to see how we "do". I hope how we're handling it is honoring God.
Singing through the Darkness
But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. -Acts 16:25
The world watches with great interest when a Christian faces adversity. Every one of us faces hardship. Every one of us loses loved ones. Every one of us faces sickness. Every one of us encounters difficulties and hardships in life. But when it happens to Christians, nonbelievers watch to see if our faith is genuine. That is the time to show them what Christ can do, even in hard times.
Acts 16 tell the story of Paul and Silas, who were thrown into prison for preaching the gospel. Their backs had been ripped open with a whip, and at midnight, in the most unsanitary of conditions, in a filthy environment, with their legs stretched apart in shackles causing excruciating pain, Paul and Silas held a worship service.
The Bible tells us that "at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God" (verse 25). Suddenly an earthquake shook the prison, their shackles fell off, the walls came down, and they were free to go.
The Philippian jailer, assuming they were free, knew he would be tortured and then put to death. He took out his own sword and was ready to kill himself. But Paul said, "Do yourself no harm, for we are all here" (verse 28).
Then the jailer said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (verse 30). Paul and Silas made an impact on him.
In the same way, there are people watching you right now. They're developing an opinion about God on the basis of your life. It has been said that a Christian is an epistle, written by God and read by man. You are the only Bible that some people ever will read. They will be looking at you, and that may determine the course their lives will take.
My note: This is what I think happened when we lost you. I think people are watching still to see how we "do". I hope how we're handling it is honoring God.
Bear and share
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Galatians 6:1
Bear and Share Burdens
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.
Galatians 6:1
Bear and Share Burdens
Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.
Lacks wisdom
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Let me check
I gotta admit...I have the utmost respect for a woman who says "Let me check with my husband first." OR a man who says "Let me run it past the wife and I'll get back with you..." See. what people don't get is...it isn't that you can't make a decision on your own. It's just that when you are in a relationship, you value the other person so much that you DON'T make decisions on your own. A good relationship is not just about being exclusive. It's also about being inclusive.
A good man
A good man is a woman's best friend. He will never stand her up and never let her down. He will reassure her when she feels insecure and comfort her after a bad day. He will inspire her to do things she never thought she could do. He will make sure she always feels as though she's the most beautiful woman in the room and will enable her to be the most confident, sexy, seductive, and invincible person alive.
One great girl
Do not let that girl go...
You only get one great girl in your life. You might have other good girls too but only one great girl that you will never forget for the rest of your life I promise you. Do not let that great girl go and do whatever it takes to keep her cause you'll regret letting her walk away.
You only get one great girl in your life. You might have other good girls too but only one great girl that you will never forget for the rest of your life I promise you. Do not let that great girl go and do whatever it takes to keep her cause you'll regret letting her walk away.
Worrying is a failure
Tried to print this article out, but wouldn't let me. Here are excerpts.
Why Worrying is a Failure to Grasp the Gospel
by Trevin Wax
Worrying is a failure to grasp the gospel of a God worthy of trust.
Worry turns my focus to me.
So worry shows up whenever my view of God is diminished and my view of myself gets too big. I worry because my vision of God is skewed. I rest when my vision is fixed.
God has given undeserved favor to the birds. He blesses them apart from their merits.
Our worth is not measured in what we do for God, but what God has done for us.
This is God the Father who sent his only Son to the cross that we deserved.
This is God the Son who willingly took on flesh, lived among us, and died in our place.
This is God the Spirit who prompts our hearts and brings us back into unending fellowship with our Maker.
It is the costly actions of God that give us our value.
In these difficult times, we the people of God's kingdom, need to be reminded of our true citizenship and true identity. The uneasiness of worry surfaces in our hearts when we lose sight of the gospel of God's grace to the undeserving. Failure to grasp the gospel is what causes us to take our eyes off the kingdom and forget who we are in Christ.
United to Christ, we are part of a royal family. Our older Brother is the King of the world.
Why Worrying is a Failure to Grasp the Gospel
by Trevin Wax
Worrying is a failure to grasp the gospel of a God worthy of trust.
Worry turns my focus to me.
So worry shows up whenever my view of God is diminished and my view of myself gets too big. I worry because my vision of God is skewed. I rest when my vision is fixed.
God has given undeserved favor to the birds. He blesses them apart from their merits.
Our worth is not measured in what we do for God, but what God has done for us.
This is God the Father who sent his only Son to the cross that we deserved.
This is God the Son who willingly took on flesh, lived among us, and died in our place.
This is God the Spirit who prompts our hearts and brings us back into unending fellowship with our Maker.
It is the costly actions of God that give us our value.
In these difficult times, we the people of God's kingdom, need to be reminded of our true citizenship and true identity. The uneasiness of worry surfaces in our hearts when we lose sight of the gospel of God's grace to the undeserving. Failure to grasp the gospel is what causes us to take our eyes off the kingdom and forget who we are in Christ.
United to Christ, we are part of a royal family. Our older Brother is the King of the world.
His protecting presence
Really needed to hear this today. By Greg Laurie
His Protecting Presence
Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you. -Psalm 91:7
There are many things we can be afraid of in life. We can be afraid to get on a plane. We can be afraid to drive in a car. We can be afraid to do this or that. We can be filled with fear over just about everything.
But in Psalm 91, we find this promise for believers: "Though a thousand falls at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you" (Psalm 91:7).
Isn't that great to know? It isn't over until it's over. Until that time, we can go out with boldness, knowing that God is in control of our lives.
I read the story of a courageous Christian who was standing before a king who wanted him to deny Christ. The king threatened, "If you don't do it, I will banish you."
The Christian replied, "You can't banish me from Christ. He says He will never leave me nor forsake me."
The king said, "I will confiscate your property and take it all from you."
The Christian said, "My treasures are laid up on high; you cannot get them."
"I will kill you," the king told him.
"I have been dead forty years," the Christian answered. "I have been dead with Christ; dead to the world. My life is hid with Christ in God, and you cannot touch it."
The king said, "What can you do with such a fanatic?"
May God give us more Christians who know something of God's protection like this believer did. However, there is a difference between trusting the Lord and testing the Lord. Don't take unnecessary chances with your life and expect Him to bail you out. Yes, He will keep us in all of our ways - but our ways should be His ways.
His Protecting Presence
Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you. -Psalm 91:7
There are many things we can be afraid of in life. We can be afraid to get on a plane. We can be afraid to drive in a car. We can be afraid to do this or that. We can be filled with fear over just about everything.
But in Psalm 91, we find this promise for believers: "Though a thousand falls at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you" (Psalm 91:7).
Isn't that great to know? It isn't over until it's over. Until that time, we can go out with boldness, knowing that God is in control of our lives.
I read the story of a courageous Christian who was standing before a king who wanted him to deny Christ. The king threatened, "If you don't do it, I will banish you."
The Christian replied, "You can't banish me from Christ. He says He will never leave me nor forsake me."
The king said, "I will confiscate your property and take it all from you."
The Christian said, "My treasures are laid up on high; you cannot get them."
"I will kill you," the king told him.
"I have been dead forty years," the Christian answered. "I have been dead with Christ; dead to the world. My life is hid with Christ in God, and you cannot touch it."
The king said, "What can you do with such a fanatic?"
May God give us more Christians who know something of God's protection like this believer did. However, there is a difference between trusting the Lord and testing the Lord. Don't take unnecessary chances with your life and expect Him to bail you out. Yes, He will keep us in all of our ways - but our ways should be His ways.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
In the secret place
By Greg Laurie
In the Secret Place
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
-Psalm 91:1
When you were a kid, did you ever have a hiding place, a place you would run to when you were afraid or wanted to be alone? God wants to be your hiding place. The good news is that you can retreat to this hiding place wherever you are.
Psalm 91:1 tells us, "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."
It is worth noting that the blessings promised in this psalm are not just for anyone. They are specifically given to believers - and not just believers in general but believers who specifically meet the requirements in it. Psalm 91 is full of conditional promises. God promises to do certain things for us, hinging on on our doing certain things that are required of us in this psalm.
We have a relationship with God because we have put our faith in Jesus Christ and have turned from our sin. But are we living in constant communion and fellowship with God? That is so important. Many people are not. They are not dwelling constantly with God. But the Lord wants you to dwell in the secret place of the Most High.
He wants you to be like Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet when He came to visit her home in Bethany. There is a time for busyness. There is a time for work. And there is also a time to worship. Unfortunately we sometimes substitute perspiration for inspiration and work for worship.
If you do that, it only will be a matter of time until you spiritually burn out. You can't give out more than you take in. You need to live in communion with Him. You need to dwell in the secret place of the Most High.
In the Secret Place
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
-Psalm 91:1
When you were a kid, did you ever have a hiding place, a place you would run to when you were afraid or wanted to be alone? God wants to be your hiding place. The good news is that you can retreat to this hiding place wherever you are.
Psalm 91:1 tells us, "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."
It is worth noting that the blessings promised in this psalm are not just for anyone. They are specifically given to believers - and not just believers in general but believers who specifically meet the requirements in it. Psalm 91 is full of conditional promises. God promises to do certain things for us, hinging on on our doing certain things that are required of us in this psalm.
We have a relationship with God because we have put our faith in Jesus Christ and have turned from our sin. But are we living in constant communion and fellowship with God? That is so important. Many people are not. They are not dwelling constantly with God. But the Lord wants you to dwell in the secret place of the Most High.
He wants you to be like Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet when He came to visit her home in Bethany. There is a time for busyness. There is a time for work. And there is also a time to worship. Unfortunately we sometimes substitute perspiration for inspiration and work for worship.
If you do that, it only will be a matter of time until you spiritually burn out. You can't give out more than you take in. You need to live in communion with Him. You need to dwell in the secret place of the Most High.
Profiting
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
James 1:2-3
Profiting from Trials
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
James 1:2-3
Profiting from Trials
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
Keep asking, seeking, knocking
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Matthew 7:7-8
Keep Asking, Seeking, Knocking
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who ask receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8
Keep Asking, Seeking, Knocking
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who ask receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Do not be deceived
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Galatians 6:7-8
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
Galatians 6:7-8
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
Just because
Just because the past didn't turn out like you wanted it to, doesn't mean your future can't be better than you ever imagined.
Painful
Growth is painful.
Change is painful.
But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don't belong.
Change is painful.
But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don't belong.
Monday, January 21, 2019
A plan
God has a plan for your life. The enemy has a plan for your life. Just be ready for both, and wise enough to know which one to battle, and which one to embrace.
Trauma
Trauma creates changes you don't choose.
Healing is about creating change that you do choose.
Healing is about creating change that you do choose.
Lose him
If he makes you
lose your family,
lose your friends,
lose your confidence,
lose your self-esteem,
or lose your happiness,
then you need to
lose him.
From Flying Free
lose your family,
lose your friends,
lose your confidence,
lose your self-esteem,
or lose your happiness,
then you need to
lose him.
From Flying Free
How deeply
From Luminous Light Studio
She never knew just how deeply she could love.
Until she stood on one side of the veil
& her child on the other.
Her feet rooted on earth
& her heart forever reaching
towards heaven.
She never knew just how deeply she could love.
Until she stood on one side of the veil
& her child on the other.
Her feet rooted on earth
& her heart forever reaching
towards heaven.
Broken objects
In Japan, broken objects are often repaired with gold. The flaw is seen as a unique piece of the object's history, which adds to its beauty.
Consider this when you feel broken.
Consider this when you feel broken.
Anxiety
Anxiety isn't about being nervous or shy. It's your body existing in a physiological and mental state of emergency in the absence of danger.
Redefine beauty
Let's teach our daughters
it's not about being
beautiful.
Teach them to be bold.
Be silly. Be strong.
Be confident.
Be independent and
intelligent. Be brave and
be fierce. Be real, in a
world full of fake.
Let's redefine beauty.
it's not about being
beautiful.
Teach them to be bold.
Be silly. Be strong.
Be confident.
Be independent and
intelligent. Be brave and
be fierce. Be real, in a
world full of fake.
Let's redefine beauty.
His strength
By Greg Laurie
His Strength in Your Weakness
And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. -2 Corinthians 12:9
I didn't have an easy childhood. I came from a home that was broken many, many times over. But I can look back on my past today and instead of moaning about it, I can say, "I went through that, and now I can comfort others." It has become a tool to help others.
I wouldn't want to go through that again, of course. Nor would I want anyone else to go through the same thing. But I'm thankful that God can take my past and use it for His glory today. I'm thankful that He can take that hardship and use it for His glory. He can do the same for you.
Maybe at this time in your life, you're going through some hard times, and you're wondering why. God will use it. It's hard to believe now. But just remember that it won't last forever.
As 1 Peter 1:6-7 says, "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ." Trials don't last forever.
I'm reminded of a sign posted at the end of an airport runway that reads, "Keep moving. If you stop, you are in danger and a danger to those who are flying."
You can take that same statement and apply it to the Christian life. Keep moving. Don't give up. Don't abandon hope. You are going to get through that valley in your life. There will be an even greater mountaintop beyond it, with great lessons you have learned as God demonstrated His strength in your weakness.
His Strength in Your Weakness
And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. -2 Corinthians 12:9
I didn't have an easy childhood. I came from a home that was broken many, many times over. But I can look back on my past today and instead of moaning about it, I can say, "I went through that, and now I can comfort others." It has become a tool to help others.
I wouldn't want to go through that again, of course. Nor would I want anyone else to go through the same thing. But I'm thankful that God can take my past and use it for His glory today. I'm thankful that He can take that hardship and use it for His glory. He can do the same for you.
Maybe at this time in your life, you're going through some hard times, and you're wondering why. God will use it. It's hard to believe now. But just remember that it won't last forever.
As 1 Peter 1:6-7 says, "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ." Trials don't last forever.
I'm reminded of a sign posted at the end of an airport runway that reads, "Keep moving. If you stop, you are in danger and a danger to those who are flying."
You can take that same statement and apply it to the Christian life. Keep moving. Don't give up. Don't abandon hope. You are going to get through that valley in your life. There will be an even greater mountaintop beyond it, with great lessons you have learned as God demonstrated His strength in your weakness.
Always there
From Greg Laurie
Always There
For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." -Hebrews 13:5
I remember one of the first times as a young believer when I didn't feel God's presence. I woke up one morning and just didn't have the great feeling I had before. And being new in the faith and not knowing the Bible very well, I thought, "I think God left me last night. What happened?"
When I talked to a Christian friend about it, he told me, "You're going through a trial."
"What? I'm on trial?"
"No, you're going through a trial."
"What's a trial?"
My friend explained there are times in our lives when we don't feel the presence of God, but He is still there. And in time I came to realize that God will allow us to go through trials.
For instance, you might walk outside tomorrow, and it's an overcast day. So you say, "The sun was here yesterday. But I don't see the sun today. I don't feel its warmth. I guess the sun must have gone away last night."
No, the sun hasn't gone away. It has merely been obscured by a cloud covering. And if you don't believe that, then try going to the beach without wearing any sunscreen. When you return home resembling a ripe tomato, you will realize the sun was out.
In the same way, some people falsely conclude that when they don't feel God, He is gone. He has disappeared. But He is there, even when you don't feel Him. The Bible tells us in Hebrews, "For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you' " (Hebrews 13:5).
It is during these times we must walk by faith, not by feeling, because God has promised in His Word that He will be with us. That is how we know He is there.
Always There
For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." -Hebrews 13:5
I remember one of the first times as a young believer when I didn't feel God's presence. I woke up one morning and just didn't have the great feeling I had before. And being new in the faith and not knowing the Bible very well, I thought, "I think God left me last night. What happened?"
When I talked to a Christian friend about it, he told me, "You're going through a trial."
"What? I'm on trial?"
"No, you're going through a trial."
"What's a trial?"
My friend explained there are times in our lives when we don't feel the presence of God, but He is still there. And in time I came to realize that God will allow us to go through trials.
For instance, you might walk outside tomorrow, and it's an overcast day. So you say, "The sun was here yesterday. But I don't see the sun today. I don't feel its warmth. I guess the sun must have gone away last night."
No, the sun hasn't gone away. It has merely been obscured by a cloud covering. And if you don't believe that, then try going to the beach without wearing any sunscreen. When you return home resembling a ripe tomato, you will realize the sun was out.
In the same way, some people falsely conclude that when they don't feel God, He is gone. He has disappeared. But He is there, even when you don't feel Him. The Bible tells us in Hebrews, "For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you' " (Hebrews 13:5).
It is during these times we must walk by faith, not by feeling, because God has promised in His Word that He will be with us. That is how we know He is there.
Friday, January 18, 2019
I think
By Lana Rafaela
I think it's brave
that you get up in the morning
even if your soul is weary and your bones ache for a rest.
I think it's brave
that you keep on living
even if you don't know how to anymore.
I think it's brave
that you push away the waves rolling in every day
and you decide to fight once again.
I know there are days when you feel like giving up,
but I think it's brave that you never do.
I think it's brave
that you get up in the morning
even if your soul is weary and your bones ache for a rest.
I think it's brave
that you keep on living
even if you don't know how to anymore.
I think it's brave
that you push away the waves rolling in every day
and you decide to fight once again.
I know there are days when you feel like giving up,
but I think it's brave that you never do.
Too much
By Samantha King
For too much of my life, I've apologized when I wasn't wrong, all to make the situation better.
I'm not going to be that person anymore.
For too much of my life, I've apologized when I wasn't wrong, all to make the situation better.
I'm not going to be that person anymore.
No temptation
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
Through the valley
By Greg Laurie
Through the Valley
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. -Psalm 23:4
(My note: I remember this verse running through my head when we had the first meeting with Gift of Life)
Have you ever gone through a spiritual valley in your life? Perhaps it was a time when unexpected circumstances suddenly came crashing down on you. Perhaps it was a time when it seemed as though even God himself had abandoned you.
In Psalm 23, David speaks of how God is with us, even when we go through the valleys in our lives: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your road and Your staff, they comfort me" (verse 4 NKJV).
David was no stranger to calamity and hardship. This was a man who knew what it was like to suffer. He knew what is like to face difficulties. He had been hunted like a wild animal by the paranoid King Saul, even after being anointed as the next king of Israel by the prophet Samuel.
When David brings us this and other psalms, which he penned under the direction of the Holy Spirit, he candidly speaks of his own shortcomings, weaknesses, and questions he faced in life. Psalm 23 came from the school of hard knocks, from a man who knew what it was like to need God's help.
But we might say, "A valley? I don't like valleys, Lord. I prefer mountaintops, okay? I like the sun to be shining and the birds singing. I like good times. I don't want friction. I don't want hardship."
Yet the Lord is saying, "You see that mountaintop in the distance? The way to that mountaintop is through this valley. You come with Me now through the valley."
We all go through those valleys in life, those hard times. Whatever valley it is, remember this: You are not alone. That is God's great promise to the believer.
Through the Valley
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. -Psalm 23:4
(My note: I remember this verse running through my head when we had the first meeting with Gift of Life)
Have you ever gone through a spiritual valley in your life? Perhaps it was a time when unexpected circumstances suddenly came crashing down on you. Perhaps it was a time when it seemed as though even God himself had abandoned you.
In Psalm 23, David speaks of how God is with us, even when we go through the valleys in our lives: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your road and Your staff, they comfort me" (verse 4 NKJV).
David was no stranger to calamity and hardship. This was a man who knew what it was like to suffer. He knew what is like to face difficulties. He had been hunted like a wild animal by the paranoid King Saul, even after being anointed as the next king of Israel by the prophet Samuel.
When David brings us this and other psalms, which he penned under the direction of the Holy Spirit, he candidly speaks of his own shortcomings, weaknesses, and questions he faced in life. Psalm 23 came from the school of hard knocks, from a man who knew what it was like to need God's help.
But we might say, "A valley? I don't like valleys, Lord. I prefer mountaintops, okay? I like the sun to be shining and the birds singing. I like good times. I don't want friction. I don't want hardship."
Yet the Lord is saying, "You see that mountaintop in the distance? The way to that mountaintop is through this valley. You come with Me now through the valley."
We all go through those valleys in life, those hard times. Whatever valley it is, remember this: You are not alone. That is God's great promise to the believer.
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Remember the time?
Remember the time
you thought you never could
survive? You did, and you
can do it again.
you thought you never could
survive? You did, and you
can do it again.
Now we do
By Rachel Whalen, unexpectedfamilyouting.com
To those who don't know what it's like to
have your baby die, consider it
your privilege.
If you don't know, then please don't
judge us for how we are
living after our loss.
Because once upon a time, we didn't
know what it was like either.
And now, we do.
Joy
Joy as defined by Priscilla Schirer
Joy: Gladness not based on circumstance (1 Peter 1:8-9)
1 Peter 1:8-9:
whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls.
Joy: Gladness not based on circumstance (1 Peter 1:8-9)
1 Peter 1:8-9:
whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls.
The thoughts
By Eckhart Tolle
The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation, but thoughts about it. Be aware of the thoughts that you are thinking.
The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation, but thoughts about it. Be aware of the thoughts that you are thinking.
In God's hands
From Greg Laurie
In God's Hands
"Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell." -Matthew 10:28
I always laugh when I hear people say, "When I get to Heaven, I have a few questions I want to ask God." In all fairness, there are questions in life: Why did God allow this tragedy? Why did He allow it to happen?"
But I believe that one second after we get to Heaven, we won't care about those questions anymore. We will see God for who He is, and everything else will come into its proper focus.
Right now, our understanding is limited; it is very finite. God's wisdom, however, is incredibly infinite and great. The Bible says, "Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows completely" (1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT).
Heaven will be greater than anything we've ever imagined. We can take the most wonderful thing we've ever experienced in life, multiply it a million times, and we'll get just a glimpse of what Heaven will be life. And the good news is that it will last forever and ever.
With this in mind, let's think about what we're really afraid of. Let's take the most frightening scenario imaginable. What is it? The worst scenario isn't dying. The worst scenario is dying without Jesus. That is the worst scenario. That is the sum of all fears.
Jesus said, "Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matthew 10:28 NLT). If you are trusting in Christ, don't be afraid. To live is Christ and to die is gain. Our lives are in God's hands.
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Walking
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Walking in the Spirit
Galatians 5:16
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Walking in the Spirit
Galatians 5:16
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Let them
If they want to leave, let them. If they push you away, go. You weren't put on this earth to convince anyone of your worth. You're here to learn, create, flourish, live, spread love and nourish. The ones deserving of you will always make you feel appreciated.
A joke
A real man never insults his lady in front of anyone. Not even as a joke.
My note: He did this to me ALL THE TIME
My note: He did this to me ALL THE TIME
A better world
From Greg Laurie
A Better World Ahead
For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! -2 Corinthians 4:17
Deep inside us, there is a sense of something more in life that drives us on. No matter what experiences you've had, no matter how wonderful they were, they were just a glimpse of what is still ahead. You are really homesick for a place you have never been before, and that place is Heaven. You were wired this way.
The Bible says that God has put eternity in our hearts (see Ecclesiastes 3:11). This simply means there is a sense inside of us that there is more to life. That is what keeps us moving forward.
It is sort of like the homing instinct we see in the animal kingdom, like the salmon making their way upstream with such determination. We see it in the way the swallows return every year to San Juan Capistrano. It's a homing instinct that drives them.
We have the same thing, but it is a homing instinct for a place we haven't seen yet. It is a homesickness for Heaven. Until that day, there is nothing that will completely satisfy our lives. No matter what happens to us on Earth, it pales in comparison to this great hope.
The apostle Paul wrote, "For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at our troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever" (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT).
This is the hope of the Christian - the hope of a place called Heaven. There is a better world ahead. There is something greater than what we're experiencing now.
A Better World Ahead
For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! -2 Corinthians 4:17
Deep inside us, there is a sense of something more in life that drives us on. No matter what experiences you've had, no matter how wonderful they were, they were just a glimpse of what is still ahead. You are really homesick for a place you have never been before, and that place is Heaven. You were wired this way.
The Bible says that God has put eternity in our hearts (see Ecclesiastes 3:11). This simply means there is a sense inside of us that there is more to life. That is what keeps us moving forward.
It is sort of like the homing instinct we see in the animal kingdom, like the salmon making their way upstream with such determination. We see it in the way the swallows return every year to San Juan Capistrano. It's a homing instinct that drives them.
We have the same thing, but it is a homing instinct for a place we haven't seen yet. It is a homesickness for Heaven. Until that day, there is nothing that will completely satisfy our lives. No matter what happens to us on Earth, it pales in comparison to this great hope.
The apostle Paul wrote, "For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at our troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever" (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT).
This is the hope of the Christian - the hope of a place called Heaven. There is a better world ahead. There is something greater than what we're experiencing now.
Monday, January 14, 2019
Go through them
By Joyce Meyer
Your faith is not to help you avoid problems it's to help you go through them with stability.
Your faith is not to help you avoid problems it's to help you go through them with stability.
Find someone
Find someone who wants to invest in you, learn from you, see you win, support your visions and fall in love with you daily.
Let them
Let them judge you. Let them misunderstand you. Let the gossip about you. Their opinions aren't your problems. You stay kind, committed to love, and free in your authenticity. No matter what they do or say, don't you dare doubt your worth or the beauty of your truth. Just keep shining like you do.
Morning
Morning is God's way of saying one more time, go make a difference, touch a heart, encourage a mind, inspire a soul and enjoy the day.
Ready for it
From Toby Mac
God loves you far too much to hand you something too early or too late.
He knows when you're ready for it.
God loves you far too much to hand you something too early or too late.
He knows when you're ready for it.
Our defense
By Greg Laurie
Our Defense against Worry
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:7
We live in such a stress-filled society today. We could write these words on the tombstones of many Americans: Hurried, worried, buried. We're constantly in motion, going from one thing to another, from one worry to another. We can get so stressed out that we're almost immobilized. Sometimes worry can absolutely paralyze a person's life.
But as my friend Max Lucado has said, "Your anxiety decreases as your understanding of your Father increases." That is really the heart of the matter.
On July 24, 2008, my wife and I heard the news that no parent ever wants to hear. We found out that our son had suddenly left us for Heaven. Anxiety, panic, worry, and fear all crashed in at the same time. And as I bent beneath the weight of it, I honestly wondered of I could survive such a thing. As a pastor, I had spoken with people over the years who had lost children, but when it happened to me, I honestly wondered if I could handle it.
But God was there for me. And one of the reasons I have continued to preach since that day is because of that, because God was there. If the Lord had not come through for me on that day, I would have given up preaching. But He did come through for me.
I'm not saying it has been easy. We still miss our son, of course, and we still feel deep pain. But we have found the truth of Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (NKJV).
Apply this truth, and turn your worries into prayers.
Our Defense against Worry
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:7
We live in such a stress-filled society today. We could write these words on the tombstones of many Americans: Hurried, worried, buried. We're constantly in motion, going from one thing to another, from one worry to another. We can get so stressed out that we're almost immobilized. Sometimes worry can absolutely paralyze a person's life.
But as my friend Max Lucado has said, "Your anxiety decreases as your understanding of your Father increases." That is really the heart of the matter.
On July 24, 2008, my wife and I heard the news that no parent ever wants to hear. We found out that our son had suddenly left us for Heaven. Anxiety, panic, worry, and fear all crashed in at the same time. And as I bent beneath the weight of it, I honestly wondered of I could survive such a thing. As a pastor, I had spoken with people over the years who had lost children, but when it happened to me, I honestly wondered if I could handle it.
But God was there for me. And one of the reasons I have continued to preach since that day is because of that, because God was there. If the Lord had not come through for me on that day, I would have given up preaching. But He did come through for me.
I'm not saying it has been easy. We still miss our son, of course, and we still feel deep pain. But we have found the truth of Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (NKJV).
Apply this truth, and turn your worries into prayers.
A Worry-Free Life
From Greg Laurie
The Secret to a Worry-Free Life
"Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need." -Matthew 6:33
There are many things you can seek to live for in life. You can live for a lot of things. You can live for your physical appearance. You can live for a successful career. You can live for pleasure. But here is what Jesus said: "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need" (Matthew 6:33).
With those words, Jesus gave us the secret to living a worry-free life: Instead of worry, put God and His will first in your life. Among a number of options, put God in the number one position.
Let's take your career for example. Is your career choice, your line of work, really for God's glory? Are you seeking Him first in what you're doing?
You might say, "Greg, you're a pastor. It's easy for you to seek God first. I work in the real world with real people."
I understand. But here is what your goal should be: to honor God in everything you do. Here is what you need to ask yourself: "As I'm doing this thing, what is my goal?" If your goal is just to make money no matter what it takes, you have the wrong goal. Your goal should be to honor God, give honest work, and have personal integrity and a good testimony in the workplace.
When the day is done, you want to have a good name and a good reputation. Proverbs 22:1 says, "Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold" (NLT).
Seek first the kingdom of God. If you want a life free of worry, anxiety, and fear, then put God's kingdom before everything else. Seek Him first, and He will take care of you.
The Secret to a Worry-Free Life
"Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need." -Matthew 6:33
There are many things you can seek to live for in life. You can live for a lot of things. You can live for your physical appearance. You can live for a successful career. You can live for pleasure. But here is what Jesus said: "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need" (Matthew 6:33).
With those words, Jesus gave us the secret to living a worry-free life: Instead of worry, put God and His will first in your life. Among a number of options, put God in the number one position.
Let's take your career for example. Is your career choice, your line of work, really for God's glory? Are you seeking Him first in what you're doing?
You might say, "Greg, you're a pastor. It's easy for you to seek God first. I work in the real world with real people."
I understand. But here is what your goal should be: to honor God in everything you do. Here is what you need to ask yourself: "As I'm doing this thing, what is my goal?" If your goal is just to make money no matter what it takes, you have the wrong goal. Your goal should be to honor God, give honest work, and have personal integrity and a good testimony in the workplace.
When the day is done, you want to have a good name and a good reputation. Proverbs 22:1 says, "Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold" (NLT).
Seek first the kingdom of God. If you want a life free of worry, anxiety, and fear, then put God's kingdom before everything else. Seek Him first, and He will take care of you.
Let God worry
These daily emails fro Greg Laurie are so good
Pray and Let God Worry
"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?" -Matthew 6:27
We have a little bird feeder in our backyard. I keep it filled with birdseed, and the birds know breakfast will be there. They cruise in and eat the seed, or they get the seeds off the ground or the vegetation.
Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount in the region of Galilee, where all around Him were birds chirping away and beautiful wildflowers growing. He drew on that backdrop to make a point: "Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment ot your life?" (Matthew 6:26-27).
In other words, look at what is before your eyes. Have you ever seen a stressed-out bird? Birds wake up every morning and sing away. They're simply happy. No bird has ever been promised eternal life. No bird has ever been given the hope of Heaven. Yet they sing away, every day. Jesus wasn't saying that birds sit by idly and wait for the food to come to them. They take action.
I like what Martin Luther said: "Pray and let God worry." That is really the secret. Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
The next time you are gripped by fear and worry, the next time you start thinking, "What if this happens? What if that happens?' turn it into a prayer. Look to the Lord and let Him give you His peace.
Pray and Let God Worry
"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?" -Matthew 6:27
We have a little bird feeder in our backyard. I keep it filled with birdseed, and the birds know breakfast will be there. They cruise in and eat the seed, or they get the seeds off the ground or the vegetation.
Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount in the region of Galilee, where all around Him were birds chirping away and beautiful wildflowers growing. He drew on that backdrop to make a point: "Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment ot your life?" (Matthew 6:26-27).
In other words, look at what is before your eyes. Have you ever seen a stressed-out bird? Birds wake up every morning and sing away. They're simply happy. No bird has ever been promised eternal life. No bird has ever been given the hope of Heaven. Yet they sing away, every day. Jesus wasn't saying that birds sit by idly and wait for the food to come to them. They take action.
I like what Martin Luther said: "Pray and let God worry." That is really the secret. Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."
The next time you are gripped by fear and worry, the next time you start thinking, "What if this happens? What if that happens?' turn it into a prayer. Look to the Lord and let Him give you His peace.
Friday, January 11, 2019
Forgiver
She was a forgiver. Her heart was so large, she didn't know how to give up on people, because she always believed the good in those she loved. It was until she was walked on so many times, she had no choice but to let go of those who burned holes in her heart.
Holy
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
1 Peter 1:15-16
...but as He called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy..."
1 Peter 1:15-16
...but as He called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy..."
Darlin'
From Flying Free
Any relationship which could be ruined by talking about your feelings, standards or expectations -wasn't a healthy relationship to begin with, darlin'
Any relationship which could be ruined by talking about your feelings, standards or expectations -wasn't a healthy relationship to begin with, darlin'
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Falls apart
Once you're in a relationship you think it's going to last forever. But in reality, it only lasts as long as you're working for it. If one person stops working, it falls apart.
I'm here
I'm here. I love you. I don't care if you need to stay up crying all night long, I will stay with you. There's nothing you can ever do to lose my love. I will protect you until you die, and after your death I will still protect you. I am stronger than depression. I am stronger than loneliness and nothing will ever exhaust me.
-God
-God
The difference
What is the difference between I like you & I love you
beautifully answered by Buddha:
When you like a flower, you just pluck it. But when you love a flower, you water it daily.
One who understands this, understands life...
beautifully answered by Buddha:
When you like a flower, you just pluck it. But when you love a flower, you water it daily.
One who understands this, understands life...
For what it's worth
From F. Scott Fitzgerald
For what it's worth:
It's never too late to be whoever you want to be.
I hope you live a life you're proud of,
and if you find that you're not,
I hope you have the strength to start over.
Differentiate
Learn to differentiate between the sound of your intuition guiding you and your traumas misleading you.
Intimidating men
By Chimamanda Adichie
Of course I am not worried about intimidating men. The type of man who will be intimidated by me is exactly the type of man I have no interest in.
Of course I am not worried about intimidating men. The type of man who will be intimidated by me is exactly the type of man I have no interest in.
There for you
I just subscribed to a daily email from Greg Laurie. It's been amazing so far.
There for You
"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." -John 16:33
Studies have found that 85 percent of the things we worry about never happen. This means that all of the things you're worrying about right now, 85 percent of it won't happen. But what about the other 15 percent? Well, the Lord will be with you in your time of difficulty.
God has not promised that we'll live in a pain-free world. Jesus said, "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." (John 16:33). We need to face the facts. Loved ones are going to die, and hardship will come into our lives.
But here is the good news: we live in the land of the dying, but we are headed to the land of the living. Yes, death will come, but we have this promise from Jesus: "Don't be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look - I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave." (Revelation 1:17-18). I'm so glad that He holds the keys. If I had the keys, they would've been lost for years now.
Someone asked me not long ago what the most spiritual moment of my life was. In other words, when was the time of my life when I felt God's presence more than any other? I had to think about it. And then I realized the most spiritual moment of my life, the moment when I felt the presence of God more than any other, was when I heard the news that my son Christopher had died, and God was there.
We can rejoice in the fact that God is in control. He will be with us, giving us what we need, when we need it.
My note: I can definitely relate to when I felt God's presence the most too-when you died
There for You
"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." -John 16:33
Studies have found that 85 percent of the things we worry about never happen. This means that all of the things you're worrying about right now, 85 percent of it won't happen. But what about the other 15 percent? Well, the Lord will be with you in your time of difficulty.
God has not promised that we'll live in a pain-free world. Jesus said, "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." (John 16:33). We need to face the facts. Loved ones are going to die, and hardship will come into our lives.
But here is the good news: we live in the land of the dying, but we are headed to the land of the living. Yes, death will come, but we have this promise from Jesus: "Don't be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look - I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave." (Revelation 1:17-18). I'm so glad that He holds the keys. If I had the keys, they would've been lost for years now.
Someone asked me not long ago what the most spiritual moment of my life was. In other words, when was the time of my life when I felt God's presence more than any other? I had to think about it. And then I realized the most spiritual moment of my life, the moment when I felt the presence of God more than any other, was when I heard the news that my son Christopher had died, and God was there.
We can rejoice in the fact that God is in control. He will be with us, giving us what we need, when we need it.
My note: I can definitely relate to when I felt God's presence the most too-when you died
Bravery
From Thislifethismoment.com
You wake up every morning to fight the same demons that left you so tired the night before, and that, my love, is bravery.
You wake up every morning to fight the same demons that left you so tired the night before, and that, my love, is bravery.
Treasures in heaven
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Matthew 6:19-21
Lay Up Treasures in Heaven
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21
Lay Up Treasures in Heaven
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
One day
By Lupytha Hermin
One day she finally grasped that unexpected things were always going to happen in life. And with that she realized the only control she had was how she chose to handle them. So she made the decision to survive using courage, humor and grace. She was the queen of her own life and the choice was hers.
One day she finally grasped that unexpected things were always going to happen in life. And with that she realized the only control she had was how she chose to handle them. So she made the decision to survive using courage, humor and grace. She was the queen of her own life and the choice was hers.
Happiness
By Angel Chernoff
Happiness is letting go of what you assume your life is supposed to be like right now and sincerely appreciating it for everything that it is. At the end of this day, before you close your eyes, smile and be at peace with where you've been and grateful for what you have. Life is good.
Happiness is letting go of what you assume your life is supposed to be like right now and sincerely appreciating it for everything that it is. At the end of this day, before you close your eyes, smile and be at peace with where you've been and grateful for what you have. Life is good.
We dream
From Winnie the Pooh
I think we dream so we don't have to be apart for so long. If we're in each other's dreams, we can be together all the time.
I think we dream so we don't have to be apart for so long. If we're in each other's dreams, we can be together all the time.
The enemy
The enemy is not after your money or your stuff. He wants your mind. Your attitude. Your heart. Your faith. Your peace. Understand that you're not being attacked over the tangible things in your life. The enemy is fighting you over the things you can't see.
Not perfect
By Bob Marley
He's not perfect. You aren't either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can. He isn't going to quote poetry, he's not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break. Don't hurt him, don't change him, and don't expect more than he can give. Don't analyze. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he's not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don't exist, but there's always one guy that is perfect for you.
He's not perfect. You aren't either, and the two of you will never be perfect. But if he can make you laugh at least once, causes you to think twice, and if he admits to being human and making mistakes, hold onto him and give him the most you can. He isn't going to quote poetry, he's not thinking about you every moment, but he will give you a part of him that he knows you could break. Don't hurt him, don't change him, and don't expect more than he can give. Don't analyze. Smile when he makes you happy, yell when he makes you mad, and miss him when he's not there. Love hard when there is love to be had. Because perfect guys don't exist, but there's always one guy that is perfect for you.
My heart
If you remember anything of me,
after I leave this world,
remember that I loved even
when it was foolish.
That I cared even when
it was unwanted.
When my body is gone remember my heart.
after I leave this world,
remember that I loved even
when it was foolish.
That I cared even when
it was unwanted.
When my body is gone remember my heart.
The way you do
Don't forget - no one else sees the world the way you do. So no one else can tell the stories that you have to tell.
Clingy
I like clingy. I'd rather have someone who blows up my phone and shows they care than someone who texts back 12 hours later.
My pieces
I know I'm hard to love and I'm all broken inside, but I promise you, I'm loving you with everything I am. I'm loving you with all my pieces.
Trust yourself
Trust yourself. You've survived a lot, and you'll survive whatever is coming.
My note: Trust God
My note: Trust God
Respect yourself
Respect yourself to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or make you happy. If you aren't being treated with love and respect, check your price tag. Maybe you have marked yourself down. It is you who tells people what your worth is. Get off the clearance rack and get behind the glass where they keep the valuables.
6 Things
6 Things Mentally Strong People Do
1. They move on. They don't waste time feeling sorry for themselves.
2. They embrace change. They welcome challenges.
3. They stay happy. They don't waste energy on things they can't control.
4. They are kind, fair, and unafraid to speak up.
5. They are willing to take calculated risks.
6. They celebrate other people's success. They don't resent that success.
1. They move on. They don't waste time feeling sorry for themselves.
2. They embrace change. They welcome challenges.
3. They stay happy. They don't waste energy on things they can't control.
4. They are kind, fair, and unafraid to speak up.
5. They are willing to take calculated risks.
6. They celebrate other people's success. They don't resent that success.
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Good mother
To be a good mother while my heart was breaking was one of the hardest roles I've ever had to play.
Slowly learning
I am slowly learning that some people are not good for me, no matter how much I love them.
I'm trying
I'm trying. I'm trying to get better. I'm trying to be happy. I'm trying to stay focused. I'm trying not to get upset. I'm trying not to overreact. I'm trying not to overthink. All I can do is try. No one is perfect. Don't expect me to be.
A break
A break from someone will either make you realize how much you truly miss/love them or how much peace you have without them.
So be it
Life has been kinda tough lately and every morning I tell myself, "You are stronger than this, and if I have to do everything alone so be it."
Christ Himself
By C.S. Lewis
It is Christ Himself, not the Bible, who is the true word of God. The Bible, read in the right spirit and with the guidance of good teachers, will bring us to Him. We must not use the Bible as a sort of encyclopedia out of which texts can be taken for use as weapons.
It is Christ Himself, not the Bible, who is the true word of God. The Bible, read in the right spirit and with the guidance of good teachers, will bring us to Him. We must not use the Bible as a sort of encyclopedia out of which texts can be taken for use as weapons.
Push away
I push away the people I want most in my life, and I tell myself that it's because I need to learn to live without attachments. But deep inside, all I want, is for someone to resist my efforts at pushing them away and tell me that I am worth holding on to, even when I'm acting like a complete idiot.
Do not allow
Do not allow him to consume you. If he does not call, go to sleep. If he does not message, put your phone away and have a fantastic day anyway. If he acts distant when you are with him and refuses to tell you what is wrong, don't wait for him, go home and do something you love. If he tries to insinuate you do not need your friends now that you have him, spend more time with your friends. If he tries to teach you a lesson through the silent treatment, ignore him completely.
If he plays with your feelings constantly, walk away from him. If he acts like your body is his entitlement when you are not ready, walk away from him. If he says terrible, unforgivable things and threatens to leave you after every argument, walk away from him. If he forbids you from doing anything you love, walk away from him. If he claims ownership of your accomplishments, walk away from him. If he demeans you or disrespects your being a girl and refuses to stop when you tell him it hurts, walk away from him.
I cannot stress this enough, you live for yourself first. He is a secondary character in the story of your life. Do not allow him to turn you into a secondary character in your own book.
My note: I wish I would have come across this A LONG TIME AGO!
If he plays with your feelings constantly, walk away from him. If he acts like your body is his entitlement when you are not ready, walk away from him. If he says terrible, unforgivable things and threatens to leave you after every argument, walk away from him. If he forbids you from doing anything you love, walk away from him. If he claims ownership of your accomplishments, walk away from him. If he demeans you or disrespects your being a girl and refuses to stop when you tell him it hurts, walk away from him.
I cannot stress this enough, you live for yourself first. He is a secondary character in the story of your life. Do not allow him to turn you into a secondary character in your own book.
My note: I wish I would have come across this A LONG TIME AGO!
Hardest walk
The hardest walk you will make...is the one you make alone, but that is the walk that will make you the strongest.
Strong women
Strong women are often perceived as cold and mean simply because they refuse to be disrespected, mistreated, or taken for granted.
We talk about them
From Scribbles & Crumbs, one of my favorite websites I found after your accident
We talk about them, not because we're stuck or because we haven't moved on, but we talk about them because we are theirs, and they are ours, and no passage of time will ever change that.
We talk about them, not because we're stuck or because we haven't moved on, but we talk about them because we are theirs, and they are ours, and no passage of time will ever change that.
No one sees
From Katie Luse
Healing requires a thousand courageous decisions that no one sees or knows to celebrate.
Healing requires a thousand courageous decisions that no one sees or knows to celebrate.
Never forgets
A female never forgets how a man treats her during the time she needs his support the most.
My note: I honestly think this is when the bottom fell out of my marriage, the way Dad treated me after we lost you. Even at the hospital-he was so cruel...
My note: I honestly think this is when the bottom fell out of my marriage, the way Dad treated me after we lost you. Even at the hospital-he was so cruel...
Biggest problems
One of my biggest problems is that I'm constantly torn between cutting people off and being patient with them. Sometimes it's hard to tell who you have to go through a storm with in order to see the sunshine, and who's just toxic and not meant to be in your life.
The Other Serenity Prayer
This is good...
God, grant me the serenity to stop beating myself up for not doing things perfectly, the courage to forgive myself because I'm working on doing better, and the wisdom to know that you already love me just the way that I am.
The OTHER Serenity Prayer
God, grant me the serenity to stop beating myself up for not doing things perfectly, the courage to forgive myself because I'm working on doing better, and the wisdom to know that you already love me just the way that I am.
She said
From Flying Free
She said-
Where I messed up is that I continued looking for happiness with the person who was taking it away from me; Continued to give chances to someone who had proven to be unworthy of them; and continued to expect a different result from someone who had no plans on changing at all.
She said-
Where I messed up is that I continued looking for happiness with the person who was taking it away from me; Continued to give chances to someone who had proven to be unworthy of them; and continued to expect a different result from someone who had no plans on changing at all.
Monday, January 7, 2019
Start over
I'm sure I've recorded this before, but good reminder...
- Start over, my darling.
Be brave enough to find the
life you want and courageous
enough to chase it. Then start
over and love yourself the
way you were always
meant to.
-Madalyn Beck
Can't cheat
You can't cheat on someone you love. If you're in love with them, you just can't do it, you wouldn't even consider doing it. If you can cheat on someone you claim to be in love with, you're not in love, you're just in love with the idea of being in love.
Unwelcome
By Ben Okur
You will feel unwelcome, numerous times, numerous occasions. It is okay. They will feel threatened by your light, the kind of love you ignite. It is okay. You are an earth angel, a game changer, soul communicator. Keep shining beautiful heart. It is your mission. It is why you are here.
You will feel unwelcome, numerous times, numerous occasions. It is okay. They will feel threatened by your light, the kind of love you ignite. It is okay. You are an earth angel, a game changer, soul communicator. Keep shining beautiful heart. It is your mission. It is why you are here.
Say sorry
You can say sorry a million times, say I love you as much as you want, say whatever you want, whenever you want. But if you're not going to prove that the things you say are true, then don't say anything at all. Because if you can't back them up, your words don't mean s...
An unstirred Christ
From Max Lucado's Daily Devotional
Christ-followers contract malaria, bury children, and battle addictions. And, as a result, we face fears. It's not the absence of the storms that sets us apart, it's whom we discover in the storm - an unstirred Christ.
Matthew 8:24 says, "Jesus was sleeping." Now there's a scene. The disciples scream, yet Jesus dreams. "Do you not care that we are perishing?" Fear corrodes our confidence in God's goodness. It unleashes a swarm of anger-stirring doubts. Fear creates a form of spiritual amnesia. It makes us forget what Jesus has done and how good God is. Jesus takes our fears seriously. Don't be afraid.
Christ-followers contract malaria, bury children, and battle addictions. And, as a result, we face fears. It's not the absence of the storms that sets us apart, it's whom we discover in the storm - an unstirred Christ.
Matthew 8:24 says, "Jesus was sleeping." Now there's a scene. The disciples scream, yet Jesus dreams. "Do you not care that we are perishing?" Fear corrodes our confidence in God's goodness. It unleashes a swarm of anger-stirring doubts. Fear creates a form of spiritual amnesia. It makes us forget what Jesus has done and how good God is. Jesus takes our fears seriously. Don't be afraid.
Be happy
You can't change how people feel about you, so don't try. Just live your life and be happy.
Never grow
You gotta understand that some people never really grow. They never learn their lesson. They never recognize their mistakes, they never acknowledge their faults, they never admit they were in the wrong. You will never receive an apology from them, and you will never see their behavior change.
Fight for it
By Ashley Easter
Healing doesn't just
happen. Sometimes you
have to fight for it. I
choose to fight to end
abuse.
She'd rather
She'd rather struggle than ask for help, because she's tired of empty promises and getting it thrown in her face. She deserves effort and loyalty without asking.
You yourself
By Greg Locke
Satan's target is your mind,
and his weapons are lies.
So fill your mind with
the Word of God.
Satan's target is your mind,
and his weapons are lies.
So fill your mind with
the Word of God.
You yourself
From C.S. Lewis
"I know now, Lord, why you utter no answer;
You yourself are the answer."
"I know now, Lord, why you utter no answer;
You yourself are the answer."
My time
When I give you my time
I'm giving you a portion of my
life that I can never get back.
Please don't make me
regret it.
Wrong/right
The wrong one will find you in peace and leave you in pieces but the right one will find you in pieces and guide you to peace.
Living before
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
1 Peter 1:18
Living Before God our Father
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1:18
Living Before God our Father
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Walk in love
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Ephesians 5:1-2
Walk in Love
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us; an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.
Ephesians 5:1-2
Walk in Love
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us; an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.
Thursday, January 3, 2019
Worship safety
From Max Lucado's Daily Devotional
Fear can cause us to worship safety
When fear shapes our lives, safety becomes our god. We worship the risk-free life. The fear-filled cannot love deeply because love is risky. They cannot give to the poor because benevolence has no guarantee of return. The fear-filled cannot dream wildly. What if their dreams fail?
No wonder Jesus wages such a war against fear. In Matthew 8:26, "Jesus got up and gave a command to the wind and the waves, and it became completely calm." The sea becomes as still as a frozen lake, and the disciples are left wondering, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!" What kind of man, indeed. Turning typhoon time into nap time. Silencing waves with one word.
Fear can cause us to worship safety
When fear shapes our lives, safety becomes our god. We worship the risk-free life. The fear-filled cannot love deeply because love is risky. They cannot give to the poor because benevolence has no guarantee of return. The fear-filled cannot dream wildly. What if their dreams fail?
No wonder Jesus wages such a war against fear. In Matthew 8:26, "Jesus got up and gave a command to the wind and the waves, and it became completely calm." The sea becomes as still as a frozen lake, and the disciples are left wondering, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!" What kind of man, indeed. Turning typhoon time into nap time. Silencing waves with one word.
Trained by grace
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Titus 2:11
Trained by Saving Grace
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.
Titus 2:11
Trained by Saving Grace
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Mighty waters
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Isaiah 43:16; 18-19
Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea. And a path through the mighty waters, "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing. Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness. And rivers in the desert.
Isaiah 43:16; 18-19
Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea. And a path through the mighty waters, "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing. Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness. And rivers in the desert.
New creation
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;
Old things have passed away;
behold, all things have become new.
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;
Old things have passed away;
behold, all things have become new.
Number our days
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Psalm 90:12
So teach us to number our days,
That we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12
So teach us to number our days,
That we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Peace
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation;
but be of good cheer,
I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation;
but be of good cheer,
I have overcome the world.
Many mansions
Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
John 14:1-3
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.
In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself;
that where I am, there you may be also.
John 14:1-3
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.
In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself;
that where I am, there you may be also.
The Lord's Mercies
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Psalm 103:1-2
Praise to the Lord's Mercies
A Psalm of David
Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that's within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits;
Psalm 103:1-2
Praise to the Lord's Mercies
A Psalm of David
Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that's within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits;
Rest
From Bible Gateway Verse of the Day
Matthew 11:28
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Recovery
From Shannon Thomas
Recovery from a toxic relationship includes the slow process of truly realizing that not everyone wants to harm you the way your abuser enjoyed doing.
Recovery from a toxic relationship includes the slow process of truly realizing that not everyone wants to harm you the way your abuser enjoyed doing.