"Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." Proverbs 22:2
Tomorrow, it's supposed to snow in the Bay Area. Crazy, isn't it? Sure, it gets cold here, but rarely does it snow! First off, you should know -- if you don't already know :) -- that I have a heart for the poor and needy. The homeless, regardless of how they got there, lack wealth -- monetarily and in spirit. What do they live for? Family, if they have any. Certainly not their jobs! If you read the Bible, you will find numerous verses saying to help the poor. Saturday, it's supposed to snow. Where will the homeless be? Definitely not curled up in a blanket with hot cocoa watching television. Some people give their time volunteering at soup kitchens -- but those only get you so far. What, then, is our job as Christians to help? Okay, if you don't have a heart as passionate as mine about this -- which clearly isn't saying much because I'm such a weenie and haven't done anything yet -- just hear me out. Open up your hearts and mind to the idea and let God do the tugging, nudging, kick in the butt or whatever, not me! :)
Everybody is a Somebody
Shocking, I know. In a world where we always have class systems (schools, races, even gender), Jesus spreads a different message. He tells us that, "believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism" (James 2:1). Now listen to His reasoning: "Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin" (James 2:2-8). Folks, discrimination gets you NOWHERE. In fact, in the past, it's led to disasters (Civil War, Hitler, etc.). Christians have it hard because we're different. Homeless have it hard because they're different too. Society says different is bad, but if God created each person that's ever walked the face of the earth uniquely, than shouldn't we look upon "different" favorably as well? Less favoritism; more loving.
Our Job
Obviously, God is in control of everything. But if we're the body, we should be the arms reaching. If we're the bride of Christ, then out of love, we should give our all to Him. If He is our friend -- our BEST friend -- shouldn't we give 110% to Him? I know I fall short in this area -- but so do you. We could all do a lot better. Omitting a cuss word, speaking kindly to someone you'd rather punch in the face, loving the unlovable, etc. We should have trouble not blurting out how much He loves us to complete strangers. But no ... we live life day by day, wishing our lives were more exciting. What could be more exciting than serving Him?! This is all hypocritical of me to say -- one of my biggest pet peeves!!! -- but it's also true. God wants us to serve Him, and maybe, that call to serve Him is for the poor. We have to "Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (Proverbs 31:9). Maybe you're meant to serve politically for Him. But guys, God says we're "called to be free," but not so we can indulge and fatten ourselves with our desires, but rather, that we "serve one another humbly in love" (Galatians 5:13). We're not supposed to look at our own interests, but put the interests of others first (Philippians 2:4). Helping a friend isn't a problem. But suddenly when it's for someone we don't like or someone seemingly undeserving -- say, the homeless -- we shrink back and go, "that's alright, someone else can do it." No, "do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before him and serve him, to minister before him" (2 Chronicles 29:11). Suddenly, it's a little different, isn't it? He's standing in front of us, asking, "Child, I love you, but I wish you would do what I've called you to do." And trust me, He's got an unfathomable plan for your life, because God "works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13).
Failure to Answer your Call
"Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God." ~Proverbs 14:31
"Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered." ~Proverbs 21:13
Those are only a couple verses (about the poor) which deal with punishment. Trust me, He's got a wrath hefty enough to flood the earth. If you want to face that, go ahead. But God wants us to answer His call, not ignore it! How rude is it when you don't answer His call, simply because you're scared? Not only is it rude, but you're being retarded. I've played retarded for too long and I'm ready to stop ignoring calls but instead answer cheerily as soon as I hear the ring. I had a ministry idea, but at this point, it won't happen due to time constraints. Now, I just have to pursue my passion along with the ministry idea, but make sure it actually works out :) I take heart knowing this: "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done" (Proverbs 19:17). Poor in wealth, poor in spirit. Wealth and honor come from the Lord, but He has the strength and power to work through you (1 Chronicles 29: 12). He'll reward you (on earth, heaven, or even both! He's pretty gracious :)
The Golden Rule: Treat Others the Way You Want to be Treated
Jesus stressed so often that we aren't worthy. We're not. But Jesus stressed even more that He is a merciful God, who is willing to love us anyways. Insane? Yes, but so amazing! God is our King, and he beckons us, "Come [...] take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world" (Matthew 25:34). Spiritually, we were homeless until we found God. When we're hungry, He feeds us; when we're thirsty, He provides a drink; when we're strangers, He invites us in (Matthew 25:35). If we do the same for others, we're serving God. For as Matthew 25:40 says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
Carpe Diem [Sieze the Day]
God calls the ones who bring good news, proclaim peace, salvation, and bring good tidings "beautiful" (Isaiah 52:7). Yes, I want you to go out and help the poor (in every meaning of the word "poor"). However, I don't want you to do something Christ hasn't called you personally to tackle. Instead, pray for His will in how He wants you to serve. He'll come near to you if you come near to Him (James 4:8). If You think He's calling you to do something, but you're not certain, test it. For if it's God's wisdom, it is "first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (James 3:17). I hope Jesus praises us like He did for the widow, who "put more into the treasury than all others," even if it was only a few cents (Mark 12:41-42). I hope I give everything to Him with the right heart -- everything I have to live on.
P.S. Yes, I did say most of this tongue in cheek because I have a lot of work to do too! Keep in mind I do for many of my blog posts haha. But honestly, just think about what He's asking you to do. That's all I ask.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Stop Worrying; Start Waiting
Ugh ... if you know me at all, you know I absolutely HATE waiting!!!!! Most of time time I can be patient, other times I'm terrible it. I've been praying for patience, and trust me, He's given me way too much practice at it lately. Christ has been showing me -- slowly but surely -- how to wait righteously.
First, know that everything is in His timing. For, as Isaiah 60:22 says, "
Second, know that waiting means something different to God. To us, waiting is when we're ready for things to happen. For God, waiting is when He's ready for things to happen. As Psalm 27:14 says, "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" He says "wait for the Lord" TWICE so people like you and me will actually get the message ;)
Third, waiting righteously means being content with Him. When we're impatient, like I am all the time, then we're demanding like a little kid without candy on Halloween for our treats. But honestly, doesn't God know when we have too many treats? Doesn't He know the best time to give us chocolate? He will comfort and love us; we are not forsaken or desolate, but His delight (Isaiah 62:4). He doesn't want us to gratify our desires (Romans 13:14). Instead, He wants us to put off the darkness of the old self and put on the armor of light: Jesus (Romans 13:12).
I guess what I'm trying to say can be summed up in one verse in chapter 12 of Romans, which says, "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be consistent in prayer" (vs. 12). At least God's blessed with me friends who tell me to quit worrying, because I always need a reminder. I guess I'll conclude with a favorite verse of mine ... "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34). Love Him! He's truly the best. He can take what He wants from me; it means nothing now. He can take everything from me; it means nothing now!
First, know that everything is in His timing. For, as Isaiah 60:22 says, "
Second, know that waiting means something different to God. To us, waiting is when we're ready for things to happen. For God, waiting is when He's ready for things to happen. As Psalm 27:14 says, "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" He says "wait for the Lord" TWICE so people like you and me will actually get the message ;)
Third, waiting righteously means being content with Him. When we're impatient, like I am all the time, then we're demanding like a little kid without candy on Halloween for our treats. But honestly, doesn't God know when we have too many treats? Doesn't He know the best time to give us chocolate? He will comfort and love us; we are not forsaken or desolate, but His delight (Isaiah 62:4). He doesn't want us to gratify our desires (Romans 13:14). Instead, He wants us to put off the darkness of the old self and put on the armor of light: Jesus (Romans 13:12).
I guess what I'm trying to say can be summed up in one verse in chapter 12 of Romans, which says, "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be consistent in prayer" (vs. 12). At least God's blessed with me friends who tell me to quit worrying, because I always need a reminder. I guess I'll conclude with a favorite verse of mine ... "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34). Love Him! He's truly the best. He can take what He wants from me; it means nothing now. He can take everything from me; it means nothing now!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Valentine's Day Musings
Well, it's here. The day you've either been dreading or practically peeing your pants about. For some it's Valentine's day; for others it's Single Awareness Day. I found myself singing songs by Mayer like, "Perfectly Lonely," thrown in with some of James Morrison songs [hey, don't judge my music tastes lest you be judged ;) lol]. But I know it's wrong for me to complain or mope today because there is really no reason for me to do so. With that said, I don't find it easy to be thankful and content this Feb. 14th, though I should. So how am I still so happy on a holiday most people loathe? By not focusing on Cupid, the naked baby with arrows that has magical powers. Like really? Today is a celebration of love. No, not the silly, fluffy stuff -- but something much, much greater. A love literally to die for.
Are you hungry or satisfied?
In Hebrews 13:5, we should be content with this simple fact: God will never leave or forsake you. Wow. Think about that for a second. The One who created us will never disappoint. He will never abandon or quit on us, because that's the kind of guy He is. Do you know of ANY other love like that? I doubt it. If you do, I am positive you will be left hungry for more love or even a different love. Ask yourself: Am I truly complacent? God wants us to fill ourselves with Him! :) What is His love like? His love is better than life (Psalm 63:3)? His compassion, grace, mercy, and love never cease (Psalm 145:8). In fact, His mercies are new every single morning (Lamentations 3:21-24). His anger is slow; His love abounds (Psalm 103:8). Nothing can seperate Christ's love for us (Romans 8:37-39). God is love (1 John 4:16). And guess what? He never, ever fails (1 Corinthians 13:8). Can you even comprehend all this? His love reaches to the heavens; His faithfulness to the skies (Psalm 36:5; 57:10; 108:4). Wow ... Crazy. Lovely. Insane. Wonderful. Love so amazing ... Jesus even calls us friends (John 15:14-15). Honestly, He should hate our very being for the sins we've committed. But that is false. Instead, He loves us so much that God sent His only son, Jesus, to save us from eternal damnation (John 3:16). He laid down His life for us, which is the greatest love that exists (John 15:13). If we love Him, His joy will find and fill us. If His joy fills us, then we're joyful (John 15:10-11). His joy fills us; His right hands presents pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11). God gives us the strength to carry on by dwelling in our hearts, rooting and grounding us in love, giving us a glimpse into His love, making us full with Jesus (Ephesians 3:16-19). We are never hungry with Him.
What do you hope for?
It's easy to place hope in a lot of things, especially relationships in today's society. It's probably possible that you've given up on hope altogether. But don't. The one thing that never lets you down is Jesus, no matter how times we've let Him down. Why should we place our faith in Him? Let's look at what Romans 5:1-5 says: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Alright, so you've answered those two boldfaced, underlined questions ... now what?
What's our job?
Simple: Imitate God and walk in love (Ephesians 5:1-2). Okay ... it's simple to phrase, difficult to tackle. God perfects His love in us (1 John 4:12), and as Christians, we shouldn't be hiding that light (Luke 11:33). Basically, every day should be Valentine's for Christians because we have a God who loves us unconditionally, all the time. We want it to be "evident to all" by being on guard, standing firm in the faith, being courageous, being strong, and doing "everything in love" (Philippians 4:5; 1 Corinthians 16:14). But one thing above all I think is a wonderful reminder ..............
Waiting
Trust me, I hate waiting with a passion. And, yes, sometimes, I hate waiting for some guy to walk into my life too (yes, if you haven't realized this yet, I'm a huge loser and I'm okay with that haha). But I don't hate waiting most of the time. Why? Because I want God to be the author of my love story. In Song of Solomon 2:7, we're warned, "Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires." Are you pressuring a relationship too far? Is it the right time? Does God approve?
Valentine's day is about love. For me, it's not about some bf/gf. It's about God's love, and sharing it with others. Today, I visited my grandma who is in the hospital. No, it's not easy, but oh how I love her! Valentine's day means loving on others and appreciating others. Did you know this day actually honors martyrs for Christ? That's love. I'm not saying we need to die to prove our love -- unless that's your call or something, but most likely not -- but to die to ourselves. I just mean we have to show His love, like loving not just your friends, family, and bf/gf, but your enemies too! That sort of love is lacking in the hurting world today. The world needs to see REAL love and TRUE love. Not the buttered up, fake love. So don't be like me, where I started the day off with complaints and sappy songs. Nobody likes those people! Let's rejoice in His love like every day is Valentine's day :) If you're having trouble with this, listen to Phil Wickham. He does a fabulous job of portraying His love for us with melody and lyrics :) And, of course, read the ultimate love letter: His word [http://beccawoll.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20from%20God]. May His love and peace be with you today.
Are you hungry or satisfied?
In Hebrews 13:5, we should be content with this simple fact: God will never leave or forsake you. Wow. Think about that for a second. The One who created us will never disappoint. He will never abandon or quit on us, because that's the kind of guy He is. Do you know of ANY other love like that? I doubt it. If you do, I am positive you will be left hungry for more love or even a different love. Ask yourself: Am I truly complacent? God wants us to fill ourselves with Him! :) What is His love like? His love is better than life (Psalm 63:3)? His compassion, grace, mercy, and love never cease (Psalm 145:8). In fact, His mercies are new every single morning (Lamentations 3:21-24). His anger is slow; His love abounds (Psalm 103:8). Nothing can seperate Christ's love for us (Romans 8:37-39). God is love (1 John 4:16). And guess what? He never, ever fails (1 Corinthians 13:8). Can you even comprehend all this? His love reaches to the heavens; His faithfulness to the skies (Psalm 36:5; 57:10; 108:4). Wow ... Crazy. Lovely. Insane. Wonderful. Love so amazing ... Jesus even calls us friends (John 15:14-15). Honestly, He should hate our very being for the sins we've committed. But that is false. Instead, He loves us so much that God sent His only son, Jesus, to save us from eternal damnation (John 3:16). He laid down His life for us, which is the greatest love that exists (John 15:13). If we love Him, His joy will find and fill us. If His joy fills us, then we're joyful (John 15:10-11). His joy fills us; His right hands presents pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11). God gives us the strength to carry on by dwelling in our hearts, rooting and grounding us in love, giving us a glimpse into His love, making us full with Jesus (Ephesians 3:16-19). We are never hungry with Him.
What do you hope for?
It's easy to place hope in a lot of things, especially relationships in today's society. It's probably possible that you've given up on hope altogether. But don't. The one thing that never lets you down is Jesus, no matter how times we've let Him down. Why should we place our faith in Him? Let's look at what Romans 5:1-5 says: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Alright, so you've answered those two boldfaced, underlined questions ... now what?
What's our job?
Simple: Imitate God and walk in love (Ephesians 5:1-2). Okay ... it's simple to phrase, difficult to tackle. God perfects His love in us (1 John 4:12), and as Christians, we shouldn't be hiding that light (Luke 11:33). Basically, every day should be Valentine's for Christians because we have a God who loves us unconditionally, all the time. We want it to be "evident to all" by being on guard, standing firm in the faith, being courageous, being strong, and doing "everything in love" (Philippians 4:5; 1 Corinthians 16:14). But one thing above all I think is a wonderful reminder ..............
Waiting
Trust me, I hate waiting with a passion. And, yes, sometimes, I hate waiting for some guy to walk into my life too (yes, if you haven't realized this yet, I'm a huge loser and I'm okay with that haha). But I don't hate waiting most of the time. Why? Because I want God to be the author of my love story. In Song of Solomon 2:7, we're warned, "Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires." Are you pressuring a relationship too far? Is it the right time? Does God approve?
Valentine's day is about love. For me, it's not about some bf/gf. It's about God's love, and sharing it with others. Today, I visited my grandma who is in the hospital. No, it's not easy, but oh how I love her! Valentine's day means loving on others and appreciating others. Did you know this day actually honors martyrs for Christ? That's love. I'm not saying we need to die to prove our love -- unless that's your call or something, but most likely not -- but to die to ourselves. I just mean we have to show His love, like loving not just your friends, family, and bf/gf, but your enemies too! That sort of love is lacking in the hurting world today. The world needs to see REAL love and TRUE love. Not the buttered up, fake love. So don't be like me, where I started the day off with complaints and sappy songs. Nobody likes those people! Let's rejoice in His love like every day is Valentine's day :) If you're having trouble with this, listen to Phil Wickham. He does a fabulous job of portraying His love for us with melody and lyrics :) And, of course, read the ultimate love letter: His word [http://beccawoll.blogspot.com/search/label/Letters%20from%20God]. May His love and peace be with you today.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Crushed and Seized Opportunities
"When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us."~Alexander Graham Bell
Have you ever gazed upon an opportunity and failed to seize it? Did you regret it later? I know I can say "yes" to both of those questions.
When God gives Jacob an opportunity to see Esau again, he shrinks from it. Jacob literally fears for his life at this opportunity to see his brother again. After all, the last time they saw each other, Esau desired to kill Jacob, right? So it's pretty logical to see why Jacob sends gifts in front of himself to Esau [doesn't he know that giving gifts doesn't satisfy people?! ;)]. But God had a different plan. He wanted Jacob to see Esau again. After Jacob sends his animals and servants ahead of him -- not to mention wrestles with God! -- he finally sees Esau face to face. I wonder how much time Jacob must have imagined this moment. I wonder what their expressions looked like when they saw each other for the first time after many years. I wonder if they wondered why God had offered them this time to see each other again. I wonder ... well, Jacob shows reverence to his brother by bowing "seven" times (obviously he was anxious). What if this was your brother? You couldn't find the words, the love, or even a simple joke to break the ice -- all you could possibly do was bow in shame and fear in the presence of a brother you had wronged greatly in your youth. Esau must have dreamt about this day so many times; seeing his brother and inflicting the pain he had felt. And he does just that, right? No. Instead, he runs to meet his long lost brother, embraces him, and weeps. You know a man's moved when he cries in front of so many people! Haha ;) But Esau didn't care -- and neither did Jacob -- because the only thing that mattered in the crowd of people were each other.
When He gives you an opportunity -- especially one that scares you -- do you take it? Do you try your hardest to reach the open door or are you too busy looking at the last opportunity you missed? Do you know He's called you to do something, but let it sit in the back of your throat until you feel sick to the stomach? God presents each of us with an opportunity! He opens doors all the time and wants us to enter through them. He wants to use you. Do you think you're not worthy of the job? Look at David, for example, who lusted and murdered for a woman. Did God not use him in amazing ways?
Even Isaiah 30:18 says, "Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him." He knew David would mess up. He used it as an opportunity to show His abounding grace to David, and thus exalt Himself by showing mercy to David. God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorow. He bestows the same grace and mercy to us -- every single day. Open the door to your life so He can use you as an opportunity for others to find God's redemption. Find His will and seize it -- carpe diem!
I love this quote by Charles R. Swindoll that, "Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." When He beckons you, how will you react? Will you open the door or slam the door in His face?
Have you ever gazed upon an opportunity and failed to seize it? Did you regret it later? I know I can say "yes" to both of those questions.
When God gives Jacob an opportunity to see Esau again, he shrinks from it. Jacob literally fears for his life at this opportunity to see his brother again. After all, the last time they saw each other, Esau desired to kill Jacob, right? So it's pretty logical to see why Jacob sends gifts in front of himself to Esau [doesn't he know that giving gifts doesn't satisfy people?! ;)]. But God had a different plan. He wanted Jacob to see Esau again. After Jacob sends his animals and servants ahead of him -- not to mention wrestles with God! -- he finally sees Esau face to face. I wonder how much time Jacob must have imagined this moment. I wonder what their expressions looked like when they saw each other for the first time after many years. I wonder if they wondered why God had offered them this time to see each other again. I wonder ... well, Jacob shows reverence to his brother by bowing "seven" times (obviously he was anxious). What if this was your brother? You couldn't find the words, the love, or even a simple joke to break the ice -- all you could possibly do was bow in shame and fear in the presence of a brother you had wronged greatly in your youth. Esau must have dreamt about this day so many times; seeing his brother and inflicting the pain he had felt. And he does just that, right? No. Instead, he runs to meet his long lost brother, embraces him, and weeps. You know a man's moved when he cries in front of so many people! Haha ;) But Esau didn't care -- and neither did Jacob -- because the only thing that mattered in the crowd of people were each other.
When He gives you an opportunity -- especially one that scares you -- do you take it? Do you try your hardest to reach the open door or are you too busy looking at the last opportunity you missed? Do you know He's called you to do something, but let it sit in the back of your throat until you feel sick to the stomach? God presents each of us with an opportunity! He opens doors all the time and wants us to enter through them. He wants to use you. Do you think you're not worthy of the job? Look at David, for example, who lusted and murdered for a woman. Did God not use him in amazing ways?
Even Isaiah 30:18 says, "Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him." He knew David would mess up. He used it as an opportunity to show His abounding grace to David, and thus exalt Himself by showing mercy to David. God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorow. He bestows the same grace and mercy to us -- every single day. Open the door to your life so He can use you as an opportunity for others to find God's redemption. Find His will and seize it -- carpe diem!
I love this quote by Charles R. Swindoll that, "Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." When He beckons you, how will you react? Will you open the door or slam the door in His face?
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Perseverance and Enemies
Here is something I wrote (and posted on Facebook) June 11th, 2010. Sorry I haven't written the past two days -- life has just been busy! But as I sat, in the safety of my house on this lazy (!) Saturday morning, eating my cinnamon roll and egg, along with a cup of coffee in hand, I realized something: One man died so that millions could live. Christ died for my soul, and MILLIONS of others because we are His friend. Jesus tells us so, in John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." No love is greater than Christ's, who died for us. Who are we that He would be mindful of us? It is a privilege to be remembered -- the best we can do, is to remember Him and His law: to love. For with God's love, I can enter His house; "in reverance I bow down toward your holy temple" (Psalm 5:7). With that said, you can read what I wrote last summer below:
Perseverance and enemies are closely linked.
At first, I was like "wowwww those two go together?!" but when I thought about it, it's really just common knowledge. When our enemies test us and push us to our limits, we have to persevere through what they put us through, right?
To be honest, I'm not really a person with too many of what you might call "enemies" but I've learned a lot about perseverance.
Anyways, I had my little epiphamy on June 4th, 2010 about this ... at least I think that was the date ........ but whatever, it doesn't matter :P here are my thoughts from that evening:
I looked at some verses and I believe You want us always to treat our enemies with kindness and respect, no matter how much we may dislike them.
In Galatians 6:7, it says that "whatever one sows, that will he also reap." Thus, your enemies are sowing or creating in themselves what you despise in them. While it's easy to get frustrated, God calls us not to "grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap ... let us do good to everyone" (Galatians 6:9-10). In other words, if we treat others well, then we should "always [be] abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain" (1 Cor. 15:58).
Another piece of advice we can take comes from the book of Philippians. Paul says that we must forget what lies behind and strain forward for what lies ahead because Jesus is our goal. If we just fight the good fight, finish the face and keep up the faith, then surely no enemy can stand in the way (2 Tim. 4-7).
The first thing we can do regarding an "enemy" is to not regard him as an enemy. Instead, we should "warn him as our brother" (2 Thess. 3:13). Second, we should try to help stir our enemy to love and good works. How? As Hebrew 10:25 says, by "not neglecting to meet together ... but encouraging one another." Lastly (and thirdly), don't get tired!!!! Persevere. For you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. So keep in mind these three goals as you face trials, bumps, and enemies in the road of life:
1) They're not my enemy! (Tell yourself that until you say it in your SLEEP.)
2) Make an effort. (Attempt to reconcile things with someone -- no matter what the circumstance or who the person is. Don't run away from the problem -- meet it head on.)
3) Don't get weary. (Remember, true friends are good for those times :) :) :)
Hope this helped you like this helped me =)
At first, I was like "wowwww those two go together?!" but when I thought about it, it's really just common knowledge. When our enemies test us and push us to our limits, we have to persevere through what they put us through, right?
To be honest, I'm not really a person with too many of what you might call "enemies" but I've learned a lot about perseverance.
Anyways, I had my little epiphamy on June 4th, 2010 about this ... at least I think that was the date ........ but whatever, it doesn't matter :P here are my thoughts from that evening:
I looked at some verses and I believe You want us always to treat our enemies with kindness and respect, no matter how much we may dislike them.
In Galatians 6:7, it says that "whatever one sows, that will he also reap." Thus, your enemies are sowing or creating in themselves what you despise in them. While it's easy to get frustrated, God calls us not to "grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap ... let us do good to everyone" (Galatians 6:9-10). In other words, if we treat others well, then we should "always [be] abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain" (1 Cor. 15:58).
Another piece of advice we can take comes from the book of Philippians. Paul says that we must forget what lies behind and strain forward for what lies ahead because Jesus is our goal. If we just fight the good fight, finish the face and keep up the faith, then surely no enemy can stand in the way (2 Tim. 4-7).
The first thing we can do regarding an "enemy" is to not regard him as an enemy. Instead, we should "warn him as our brother" (2 Thess. 3:13). Second, we should try to help stir our enemy to love and good works. How? As Hebrew 10:25 says, by "not neglecting to meet together ... but encouraging one another." Lastly (and thirdly), don't get tired!!!! Persevere. For you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. So keep in mind these three goals as you face trials, bumps, and enemies in the road of life:
1) They're not my enemy! (Tell yourself that until you say it in your SLEEP.)
2) Make an effort. (Attempt to reconcile things with someone -- no matter what the circumstance or who the person is. Don't run away from the problem -- meet it head on.)
3) Don't get weary. (Remember, true friends are good for those times :) :) :)
Hope this helped you like this helped me =)
----------------------------------------
Truth. I wrote that last summer, and it still stands. God is truth. God is love. God is my best friend. He's the best at everything: The most loving, the most faithful, the most lovely, the most pure, the most powerful, the most .... everything good and perfect. So when I come across enemies, I pray that He gives me the love He has for us; the patience to let Him deal with His child like He has patience with me. In other words, my job is to love. His job is to judge. God, Your "love is better than life," may I love like You in everything to bring You glory (Psalm 63:3). For Your love reaches to the heavens and your faithfulness reaches to the skies! [Psalm 57:10] Now that's a caring God.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Preparing for Your Future Spouse
Proverbs 24? Yeah, it's BRILLIANT and I think you should read the whole chapter :) Today, He pointed it out to me, and taught me how to prepare for my "life-long valentine." It's actually fitting, since V-day is around the corner ;) (I thought about saving this post for Valentine's day, but hey, since it's my parents' anniversary [Feb. 4th], I'm posting it anyways.) Here's the main body of the chapter:
"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. A wise man is strong [...] and victory is won through many advisers [...] So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; If you have found it, there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off. Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house. I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- and poverty with come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."
(Proverbs 24:3-5;6; 14; 27; 30-34).
Okay, first, let's state (what should be) the obvious: we're all imperfect. Meaning we all need lots of work to become a better -- not perfect -- person. This Bible passage, to me, can relate extremely well to the dating/marriage/all relationships. I've broken down the gist of the passage below:
1) You're Kind of Stupid
Sorry, it's true. In some sense or another, we're not smart. In every relationship, there are some sort of disagreements and what you have to do is talk it out. Everyone has to do it! Whether that's a sibling, boyfriend/girlfriend, mother/son, mother/daughter, father/son, father/daughter, friend, aunt, uncle, cousin, enemy, your mother-in-law (jk) -- you name it! -- no relationship is perfect; they all take work (granted, some relationships work better, but that's beside the point). The fact is: relationships take work. To make them work, you have to communicate, and the best way to communicate effectively, is to use God's principles. The best way to utilize God's principles is to love, "for the entire law is fulfilled" by keeping that command (Galatians 5:14). Therefore, gain wisdom to love, as the first few verses in Proverbs 24 lay out. They are the ones who will reap "rare and beautiful treasures."
2) Keep an Open Heart
As I established in point one, if you gain knowledge, you learn to be like Him. If you're loving others the way God calls us to, then you're becoming like Him (so good job! :) Now in this Proverbs passage, it says if we find God's wisdom, "there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off." Prospect can mean a candidate (maybe a future hubby or wife?) or a future. These can be used interchangeably and still give you hope either way! God will not cut us off from hope because we know He has a future and a potential special someone for us. But we have to be willing to let him impart His wisdom to us. I know, personally, I always set my mind on potential partners (because I'm a loser hahaha). But what God really wants me to do is just let Him be the matchmaker. So what's my job, if I'm not picking the person?
3) Prepare Yourself
How? Well, let's look back to the lovely Proverbs passage again :) It says we need to prepare the fields! ............ For some reason, I feel like I'm quoting some Lord of the Rings character haha. What does making yourself fit for the field, and afterward building your house mean? It's a simple concept, but a difficult task. Remember when you were proud of yourself for going off the tricycles? It feels like a big moment in your life. It's not easy, but after lots of practice, you succeed. The results are satisfying and exciting! By preparing a field for a house, it means preparing yourself as someone else's support. To lay the groundwork for crops, you have to fertilize your soil (not to be taken prevertedly lol); make sure the crops will have enough oxygen, sun, and rain; watch for pollution, etc. Then assembling a house takes a LOT of work (trust me, my family knows!). In other words, you can't expect to build a house (marry) if you can't even take care of your own crops (control yourself). God wants YOU to be ready before He even gives you an option worth endeavouring about.
4) Don't be Lazy
God doesn't like lazy people (Proverbs 10:4; Matthew 25:26; Hebrews 6:12). That should be enough reason to not be lazy. But it doesn't stop there. We can see that if we neglect the fields because we're lazy, then you'll (1) lack understanding, (2) grow unhealthy habits that are hard to uproot, and (3) eventually come to ruins, ending up with nothing [poverty -- aka, no special someone for you because you're not ready!]. Even when we are ready, we still have to handle the crops -- marriage isn't some special cure for your lonliness, problems, etc. That all starts with Jesus.
With these in mind, I hope that it helps you prepare for the person God wants you to be -- not even for the ones you love the most -- but GOD. If we love and trust Him, He will show us his plan and prospects. It may be nothing like we're expecting, but it's for our best. The Bible says, "An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips" (Proverbs 24:26). So, be honest with yourself: How do your fields look?
"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. A wise man is strong [...] and victory is won through many advisers [...] So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; If you have found it, there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off. Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house. I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest -- and poverty with come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."
(Proverbs 24:3-5;6; 14; 27; 30-34).
Okay, first, let's state (what should be) the obvious: we're all imperfect. Meaning we all need lots of work to become a better -- not perfect -- person. This Bible passage, to me, can relate extremely well to the dating/marriage/all relationships. I've broken down the gist of the passage below:
1) You're Kind of Stupid
Sorry, it's true. In some sense or another, we're not smart. In every relationship, there are some sort of disagreements and what you have to do is talk it out. Everyone has to do it! Whether that's a sibling, boyfriend/girlfriend, mother/son, mother/daughter, father/son, father/daughter, friend, aunt, uncle, cousin, enemy, your mother-in-law (jk) -- you name it! -- no relationship is perfect; they all take work (granted, some relationships work better, but that's beside the point). The fact is: relationships take work. To make them work, you have to communicate, and the best way to communicate effectively, is to use God's principles. The best way to utilize God's principles is to love, "for the entire law is fulfilled" by keeping that command (Galatians 5:14). Therefore, gain wisdom to love, as the first few verses in Proverbs 24 lay out. They are the ones who will reap "rare and beautiful treasures."
2) Keep an Open Heart
As I established in point one, if you gain knowledge, you learn to be like Him. If you're loving others the way God calls us to, then you're becoming like Him (so good job! :) Now in this Proverbs passage, it says if we find God's wisdom, "there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off." Prospect can mean a candidate (maybe a future hubby or wife?) or a future. These can be used interchangeably and still give you hope either way! God will not cut us off from hope because we know He has a future and a potential special someone for us. But we have to be willing to let him impart His wisdom to us. I know, personally, I always set my mind on potential partners (because I'm a loser hahaha). But what God really wants me to do is just let Him be the matchmaker. So what's my job, if I'm not picking the person?
3) Prepare Yourself
How? Well, let's look back to the lovely Proverbs passage again :) It says we need to prepare the fields! ............ For some reason, I feel like I'm quoting some Lord of the Rings character haha. What does making yourself fit for the field, and afterward building your house mean? It's a simple concept, but a difficult task. Remember when you were proud of yourself for going off the tricycles? It feels like a big moment in your life. It's not easy, but after lots of practice, you succeed. The results are satisfying and exciting! By preparing a field for a house, it means preparing yourself as someone else's support. To lay the groundwork for crops, you have to fertilize your soil (not to be taken prevertedly lol); make sure the crops will have enough oxygen, sun, and rain; watch for pollution, etc. Then assembling a house takes a LOT of work (trust me, my family knows!). In other words, you can't expect to build a house (marry) if you can't even take care of your own crops (control yourself). God wants YOU to be ready before He even gives you an option worth endeavouring about.
4) Don't be Lazy
God doesn't like lazy people (Proverbs 10:4; Matthew 25:26; Hebrews 6:12). That should be enough reason to not be lazy. But it doesn't stop there. We can see that if we neglect the fields because we're lazy, then you'll (1) lack understanding, (2) grow unhealthy habits that are hard to uproot, and (3) eventually come to ruins, ending up with nothing [poverty -- aka, no special someone for you because you're not ready!]. Even when we are ready, we still have to handle the crops -- marriage isn't some special cure for your lonliness, problems, etc. That all starts with Jesus.
With these in mind, I hope that it helps you prepare for the person God wants you to be -- not even for the ones you love the most -- but GOD. If we love and trust Him, He will show us his plan and prospects. It may be nothing like we're expecting, but it's for our best. The Bible says, "An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips" (Proverbs 24:26). So, be honest with yourself: How do your fields look?
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
What Path are You on?
What path are you on? The right or the wrong path? I ask myself these questions a lot -- maybe even too often, because sometimes I don't always feel like I have an answer. Sometimes He answers them when He feels like, which is fine, but sometimes frustrating. Again, just shows how impatient I am :/ haha. Today, my "message" -- actually, His message -- is simple, short, and to the point. In Galatians 5:16-24, Paul describes what walking in the Spirit means. Basically, how to follow Him, and not anything else.
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But f you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."
Everyone, including myself, are guilty of what pleases us. My "deeds of the flesh" aren't pretty, and I'm not proud of them either. But then you have "the fruit of the Spirit" which includes everything I strive to have. So, what path are you on? The path of your desires or the One who can set you free of them? We're called to freedom -- not as an opportunity for ourselves -- but that we may serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).
P.S. Jesus answered a prayer today. Although, not in the way I expected! But He's good, all the time :)
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But f you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."
Everyone, including myself, are guilty of what pleases us. My "deeds of the flesh" aren't pretty, and I'm not proud of them either. But then you have "the fruit of the Spirit" which includes everything I strive to have. So, what path are you on? The path of your desires or the One who can set you free of them? We're called to freedom -- not as an opportunity for ourselves -- but that we may serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).
P.S. Jesus answered a prayer today. Although, not in the way I expected! But He's good, all the time :)
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