Knowing Christ

What should be the goal of our lives? What should be the nucleus of all our resolutions, commitments, goals, and strivings? If our lives could have one mission - one focus - what should it be?

This morning as I spent time with God, I read in Philippians 3, which is one of my favorite passages. These verses were just what my heart needed to hear and believe, especially as I prepare to close off 2007, and renew my mind and heart for 2008.

Listen to God's amazing a restoring Word:

"But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted lost for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and I count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ ... that I may know Him." Phil. 3:7-8, 10

Knowing Christ - that is where our heart should be. All the things I accomplished this past year, all my fleshly improvements, achievements, goals reached, and plans accomplished - I count them but loss in view of the surpassing and incredible value and worth of knowing Jesus Christ more everyday of my life. This is the meaning a purpose of our lives: knowing Jesus.

Another verse just came to mind:

"Thus says the Lord, "Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things," declares the Lord." Jer. 9:23-24

Our boasting - our worth - comes simply from knowing God. That's what He cares about, is us knowing more about Him. In a world that boasts in wealth and riches, success and fame, the Christian is commanded by God to find his wealth in the knowledge of Christ. We are to be "attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." (Col. 2:2-3)

Knowing Christ not only fulfills our purpose and meaning in life, but it brings hope and love, freedom and discovery in everyday. To live is Christ - we live to know, love, and live for Jesus. It's all about Him.

All I once held dear, built my life upon, All this worlds reveres, and wars to own, All I once thought gain I have counted loss, Spent and worthless now, compared to this

Knowing You, Jesus, Knowing You, There is no greater thing, Your're my all, You're the best, You're my joy, my righteousness, And I love You, Lord

Now my heart's desire is to know You more, To be found in You and known as Yours, To posses by faith what I could not earn, All-surpassing gift of righteousness

Oh, to know the power of Your risen life, And to know You in Your sufferings, To become like You in Your death, my Lord, So with You to live and never die

Graham Kendrick  www.grahamkendrick.co.uk

I love this song... such a beautiful prayer and heart's cry to Jesus. "Now my heart's desire is to know You more..." as the song says, is the echo of my heart for this New Year and all my life. And I pray right now for you, that this coming year would be overflowing with the knowledge of Christ in your life; that you would seek Him first, know Him first, and love Him first and foremost in your life. 

Remember, a bride always seeks to know her groom more; it cultivates their love for one another. It is the same with us and Jesus, our Heavenly Groom; we must know Him to love Him. If you desire to love Christ passionately with all your soul, get to know Him through His Word. Daily spend time with Him praying, reading, and abiding in Him. He will captivate your heart and kindle a faithful love for Him in your soul. Loving Jesus = Knowing Jesus

Cultivate Faithfulness

In our world and culture today, many are focusing on making their resolutions for the upcoming year; losing weight, joining gyms, spending more time with family and friends, cooking healthy, improving character traits that are lacking, even purposing to spend more time with God. And yet, to me, I think we as children of God, brides of Christ, and aliens in this world should have a different approach to the New Year and the desire to make resolutions.

 Introducing: Faithfulness

Our lives should consist of more than "resolutions" that are enthusiastically made but then lose their appeal after just a few weeks. Rather our lives should maintain a faithfulness to God in every moment of our lives - January 1st or October 17th (just a random date). We look into the world and see a delight in short-lived experiments rather than life-long commitments. But sadly, Christians seldom differ from non-Christians in their faithfulness; to God, spouse, children, other relationships, jobs, education, etc. We suffer greatly from the lack of faithfulness.

Shouldn't we as Christians be setting the example of a faithful and loving bride waiting for her Husband to return? Aren't our marriages supposed to reflect the relationship of Christ and the church, especially in faithfulness? And to those of us who are single, aren't our lives of devotion and faithfulness to Jesus supposed to encourage curiosity as they wonder where we find our satisfaction, everlasting joy and unfailing love? We are losing our impact on the world because we struggle to remain faithful to God and to each other. We run from one thing to another looking for happiness in the wrong places - just like the lost. How can we recover? How can we reach the lost if we ourselves are too entangled in our unstableness and unfaithfulness to reach out in the power of a life lived faithfully for Jesus?

 Cultivating Faithfulness

 "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness." (Psalms 37:3)

How do we begin to cultivate faithfulness? 

First I would say that a deep and steady relationship to the Lord is required. Daily spending time with Him, meditating on His Word, being devoted to prayer, and memorizing Scripture is a healthy recipe for faithfulness. There is no "list" on becoming faithful, only a present mind and correct attitude will help increase it. Just like in a marriage there is really no "10 steps to a great marriage", but rather an awareness of specific ingredients needed for a healthy relationship with your spouse. It is the same towards God. You must spend time with Him to know Him. You must talk (pray) and listen to communicate. Thinking about (meditating on) Him during your day will encourage deeper communion with Him. Naturally you will begin to memorize things about Him; you begin to know Him more. You become faithful.

  As your faithfulness increases, your life changes forever. Instead of seeking temporary happiness in other things or people, you run to the only God, the Faithful One, who embraces you in His arms of love and protection. When life gets tough and things happen you just weren't expecting, your faithfulness to God and His faithfulness to you will carry you through the fire. 

Faithfulness isn't easy. In fact, sometimes it is the hardest thing to do. But Jesus didn't say this ways going to be easy - it is hard. But His faithfulness is what makes this life so sweet. If we can remain steadfast and faithful to Him, He promises that we will be saved. (Mark 13:13) He will rescue us, like the Knight in shining armor that He is. How great is His faithfulness! 

 Remember the Faithful One

When I struggle in my faithfulness to Jesus, the one thing that grips me and holds my life, my very heartbeat, is HIS faithfulness. God is a covenant God - He won't let go, ever. He was the One who, dying on a cross, endured - was faithful - in the midst of the pain, blood and tears, suffering at the wish of His Father so I might be saved from the eternal death that awaited me. When He prayed until He sweated blood that the cup might be taken away from Him, but wasn't, He surrendered His will to God and was faithful, obedient unto death - for you and me. (Phil. 2:8)

How this knowledge gives us the encouragement and dedication to be faithful to Jesus. I hope, even in the midst of your resolutions, that you determine to be faithful to Christ no matter what happens this year, or in this life.

Let us be called the faithful.

"These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is the Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful." (Rev. 17:14) 

Commiting To God

"Commit your way to the Lord; trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noonday." Ps. 37:5-6

Commit: to give in trust; to put in the hands or power of another; to entrust; to engage, to pledge. ~Webster 1828 

Continuing our study on these precious verses in Psalms 37, we come to this command of committing to the Lord. I think it is greatly appropriate that we read this command with the New Year right around the corner, for so many are making resolutions. What a great resolution to truly commit to our Lord in this upcoming year.

Committing is parallel with the command to trust, which we read about earlier. In fact, in this same verse, they are used side by side. Commit to the Lord; trust also in Him. To be committed is a long term agreement; serious dedication. You are placing something into the hands of Someone else to have power over, to take charge.

In the Christians life this is fundamental to our faith. Not only do we commit to Jesus at the moment of salvation, but it should be the characteristic of our daily relationship with Christ. When something happens we weren't expecting, we commit it into the hands on the Lord. Every morning when we awake, we commit this day to Jesus. When a loved one suffers and their comfort is out of our hands, we commit them to God in prayer.

How worthy is our Lord to be committed to!
"You are my rock and my fortress; for Your names sake You will lead me and guide me ... for You are my strength. Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have ransomed me, O Lord, God of truth." Psalms 31:5

These are beautiful verses, for not only do they tell of David's commitment to God, but also God's worthiness to be trusted. God is a Rock. God is a Fortress. He leads and He guides. He ransomed us, and He is the truth we need in this hazy world. Therefore we can commit to Him - we can trust Him.

We read the promise in the verse (Ps 37:5). And ... He will do it.
God rewards our commitment to Him. He loves those who entrust their lives to Him. And we can know He is near...because the peace we receive after letting go of false control and committing everything to our Lord is just a glimpse of His pleasure in our trust in Him. Truly He handles our affairs and lives much better than our feeble little hands ever could. As His children we must commit to our Father and hold His strong and tender hand with a trusting heart.

Commit to God, dear child of His.

The Sunrise Came

"Because of the tender mercies of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." Luke 1:78-79

Merry Christmas to all! I pray that your hearts are filled with the Sunrise of Jesus Christ, and that He guides your feet into ways of peace this season.

I just wanted to take a moment and thank everyone of you, my faithful viewers, for your support, your precious comments, links, and friendship. I feel so blessed and honored that you even make time in your day to read my thoughts on Jesus and what He is showing me. This has been a treasure in my life... and I thank you. You'll never know the impact you have had on this young woman's heart that you have never even seen face to face. God bless you all, my dear friends.

Merry Christmas!!!

Jesus...Come Again

Christmas is here...a precious time of remembrance and celebration. We remember that over 2,000 years ago, a Savior was born for us in a humble stable, although He was a King. We celebrate because Jesus, this King, is changing our hearts and our world forever.

This is the season for Advent. Advent literally means "coming". Yes, Jesus did come - and I am so thankful that He did. And there is more to Advent than focusing on Christ's "coming" through His birth... yes, so much more. The promise of Advent for us is that Jesus is coming again...

The King will come again

Especially in these times we should be daily meditating on the fact that Jesus is going to come again, and soon. And the Christmas season should be a great comfort and encouragement to our hearts because we can be sure that Jesus came once - He will come again. This is comfort! Even during the heavy trials we may endure, the painful relationships we encounter, the persistent physical pain that just won't leave - we can have comfort. Jesus is coming again, to take us home to be with Him forever. He'll wipe away ever tear, He'll calm every fear.

How this knowledge should effect our daily walk. If we can be faithful and diligent in fixing our eyes on sweet Jesus, and setting our hearts on "the things above", how our lives would transformed from a pit of despair and failure, to abundant and purposeful life. We must cling to Christ. We must remember His coming.

The Greatest Gift

In the midst of all the presents we receive and the gifts we give, let us remember the greatest gift we've ever been given: eternal life! Yes, we've been given Jesus the Lover of our souls, but remember the blessed gift He has given us - eternal life. It's our free gift with salvation, our comfort in life, and our joy in death. Our lives are eternal if we believe in Jesus. We will one day live forever with Him. (oh, the precious thought!)

This gift we've been given is available for everyone. Do we think of sharing this gift with loved ones this season? With friends and neighbors, co-workers and parents? How I stand convicted. The gospel is the perfect gift for everyone: man, woman, boy or girl. We must only be faithful in following the Holy Spirit's leading to share it.

Come, Lord Jesus

As you read the Christmas story from Matthew and Luke this season, I recommend also reading Revelation chapters 21 and 22. These chapters wrap up the written Word of God and wrap my heart in Christ's love and the excitement of His coming. They add a "bigger" realm to His birth, more passion to this life, and a greater knowledge to why He came and the results of His return.

"Behold, I am coming quickly..." (Rev. 22:12) "The Spirit and the bride (that's us!) say, "Come"... "Come, Lord Jesus." (Rev. 22:17, 20) May your heart rejoice in His coming; first, in His birth, second, in His great return to take us home!

Come again, sweet Jesus.

A Bride of Christ

There are few greater fulfillment's in life than in becoming a bride. It is every woman's dream to be loved passionately by a devoted man, who lives and breathes loving you, and has chosen you to be his forever bride. We dream of the moments to be spent together; holding hands, feeling his protection and love, starting a new life as a couple. But for myself, and many other young women, this "fulfillment" found in a man's love is what it has always been...still a dream.But do we have to wait to live a fulfilled life here and now without having a husband? Is there a satisfaction to be had before marriage? Or do only the married women find ultimate happiness and joy?

Searching For Fulfillment

Not many years ago, I was asking these questions and searching for answers. My greatest desire in life was to get married and raise a godly family. These are not wrong desires...in fact they are good and biblical desires. But God was showing me something more, something I wasn't prepared to hear - that HE is what I should desire - even more, much more, than I desire a future husband and children. The empty, lonely place inside of me that I thought a husband would fill could only be filled with Christ Himself.What might surprise you is that I was already a Christian at this time of searching, and had been since I was very young. But I still had desires in my heart that weren't satisfied. I was thirsty for a "someone". God was showing me that HE was that Someone. He wanted me to embrace Him as my Lover and future heavenly Husband, and find the fulfillment and satisfaction my heart craved. I needed to delight in being a Bride of Christ.

Being a Bride of Christ

A bride is consumed with her groom; everything about him she adores. There is a beautiful radiance in her face, a brighter smile than she had before, and a contentment of heart and contagious joy that permeates her entire being. We can be this way towards Christ. He is a passionate Lover and pursuer of our hearts. We need to surrender to His love. I didn't love Jesus as I should. His love was (and is) always available for my longing heart and fervent desires. I was just searching in the wrong places. But that was about to change - I was about to taste and see for myself if Jesus "tasted" good and satisfied my hungry soul.When I was around fourteen or so, I noticed something unusual about my mother. Her walk with God was different that anyone I had ever seen. God and spending time with Him wasn't a burden to her, it was pure pleasure. Her eyes lit up when she talked about Him. She was always reading and sharing with us from God's Word and things that God was teaching her...and it was amazing! Her relationship with God was so full of passion, and I began to wonder what was with her. So one day I asked, and she told me. She was in love with Jesus.What?! How can you be "in love" with Someone you can't even see or talk to or look at? I didn't get it. But I wanted what she had. I told her my struggles and she prayed for me. Then she told me something I should do: first, begin praying to fall in love with Jesus. And second, start pursuing Him.

Finding True Love 

So I did what she said. I began fervently praying that I would fall in love with Jesus, and that He would give me eyes to see His amazing love for me and His infinite worth. I started setting aside time just to pursue Him; daily reading His Word and praying, taking walks just to talk with Him, and singing my heart out in complete adoration of Him. And slowly...and miraculously...I fell madly (or rather happily) in love with Jesus! He began to fill my lonely heart with unfailing love and a constant presence of peace. No longer was my walk with God a burden, but it was a pleasure my heart couldn't live without. I found satisfaction in Jesus - even if God chooses for me to remain single my entire life, I am at peace and will delight in Him. Falling in love with Christ was (and is) the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. And the results are with me to this day.I am here to tell you that Jesus can not only be your Salvation and ticket to heaven, but He can be you Lover too. In fact, in Scripture we are described as Christ's bride waiting earnestly for His return. And the life we live now is a preparation for our Life to come. He will return to take us to His kingdom He has prepared for us. He asks us to be faithful and devoted to Him in this time we have on earth. To love Him above all else. To tell others of His love and return.

"Belonging to Jesus, sold out to Him. Saying "yes" to His plans and His voice...realizing that being His bride is the ultimate of all callings...can you be content, for now, as the bride of Christ? Can you set aside a period of time...and all your longings and desires...to serve Him exclusively? Can you trust Him with your future? With a mate? With His timing and plan for your life?" - Ann Kiemel Anderson

He's coming back for us...won't you be His faithfully watching and adoring bride?

Delighting in God

"Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalms 37:4  Delight: a high degree of pleasure, or satisfaction of mind, joy - delight is a more permanent pleasure than joy, and not dependant on sudden excitement.~Webster 1828 Out of all the verses quoted and misunderstood I believe this verse is right near the top. From first glance, one might interpret this verse as "God will give me whatever I want", but with closer examination, we see that this is not the case. The "catch" is the first part you read...delight yourself in the Lord - then He will give you the desires of your heart.

But what does "delighting in God" really mean? For a long time I thought delight was merely being happy, but reading the definition above added so much clarity to my understanding of this verse as well as my entire relationship with God.

 

Delight is satisfaction. It is more permanent than joy, and it isn't a "rush" of temporary excitement. It's a deep, steady pleasure that lasts and satisfies our entire being.

 

As I look back on what I first thought "delight" meant, I see that I was missing the point. It is one thing to be happy, and another thing to be satisfied.

 

How this changes the meaning of this verse! It means if you are completely satisfied in God, He will give you the desires of your heart.

 

But what does a God-satisfied heart want? It wants exactly what God wants. Filtered out are our fleshly desires, and they are replaced with the desires of God's pleasure and will...the eternal desires that God created in us.

 

Some might say that a satisfied heart desires nothing. Well, again, I think we miss the point. When we are satisfied in God, no longer do we crave the meaningless, profitless things of this world, but our hearts are burning with desires, the desires of our Master. We desire to make Him (not us) famous. We desire to share His good news and love with the world. We desire to know Him even more. We desire to walk worthy of His name and give others the correct perception of Him.

 

Our hearts are overflowing with desires! But they all point back to Jesus. No longer do we seek a temporary appetizer, we are feasting on the cream of the crop, and that is Christ.

 

Being satisfied with God is how we find our purpose and our pleasure. This is what we were made for! This is life!

 

"You were made to feast on Christ, to be satisfied with Him, to treasure His infinite value, to enjoy making much of Him all your days. Here is your fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore: not in being made much of, but in making much of Him." ~ John Piper

 

My encouragement to you is to be satisfied with Jesus. Pray for a hunger for more of Him. Pray that you would delight in Him all your days, and to forevermore be satisfied in Him alone. He will answer your prayer...for this is what you were made for.

 

Delight in Jesus...He'll give you the desires of your heart.

Trusting in God

"Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness." Psalms 37:3

Trust: 1) confidence; a reliance or resting of the mind on the integrity, veracity, justice, friendship or other sound principle of another person 2) to believe 3) to venture confidently
- Webster 1828

Trust is a vital necessity in a believer's life, heart and mind. It is commanded in Scripture, and demanded in this life we live. Without it we are left alone - helpless, hopeless, and insecure. Trust is fundamental to every relationship...especially between us and God.
Sadly, trust in God is commonly assumed to be possessed by many an anxious and fretting heart, weighed down by the reliance on an earthly being or substance.

I speak from experience, for I am the one to say, and even convince myself, that I trust in God...but my actions, motives, and worrying thoughts give me away, revealing the truth in my heart of a dependence on myself.

I know this is why God gave me Psalms 37:3, for He knew how much I needed to trust Him more and bear the fruit of a trusting heart.

Trust bears fruit, good fruit, as this verse declares. Trust in the Lord and do good. If you trust in God your actions reveal an evidence of that trust; the fruit is the evidence.
If I say I trust in God that He will one day bring me a husband in His time and in His way, but I go about worrying up a storm that "I'm gonna end up an old maid..." or "I have got to find someone..." am I really trusting God?
As the definition of trust said, trust is a reliance and resting of the mind on the attribute or principle of Someone. Go back to the end of the verse: cultivate faithfulness. In another version (which I kinda like better) it says "feed on His faithfulness". This is one of the principles we can trust - God is FAITHFUL. He's not going to leave us. He's not going to forsake us. Therefore we can trust Him.

For me, part of trusting God was letting go of other things that held my trust.
One of them was trusting in myself; leaning on my own understanding, relying on my strength. (Prov. 3:5)
God showed me (and continually shows me) that I am nothing without Him. (John 15:5) In all my best efforts and can't do a single good thing without Jesus. Seeing myself for what I truly am made me need and trust God so much more. I need Jesus. And I trust Him to continue His perfecting and sanctifying work in my heart by His Spirit.

But there are so many more things that can capture our trust. Like I said above, you can capture your trust...you don't trust God, you trust yourself. This is serious and deadly to our faith. If we trust ourselves, why do we even need a God? Remember, we will crash and burn without God...He is worthy of our trust.
Money can capture your trust.
In the words of our Lord, "You cannot serve (or trust) both God and money." Money is here today and gone tomorrow. God is here yesterday, today, and forever. (Heb. 13:8)
A spouse or parent can capture your trust.
I am not saying we should not trust our spouses or parents, but when we trust in them above and more than we trust in God this is dangerous. Love "bears all things, believes all things (trust)" (1 Cor. 13:7) and in our relationships we must have trust - in fact it is vital - but not above our trust in God.

He must be supreme and trusted above anything and anyone.

May we grow in our trust in God. Remember, He is so faithful.

Lessons From Psalms 37

"Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him and He will do it. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light and your justice as the noonday.
Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of Him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing." (Psalms 37:3-8)

These verses have a very special place in my heart, for God has taught me many beautiful things through them. I'm sure you understand...I think every believer has those few "special" verses that God has used (uses) mightily in their lives.

These verses contain such abundant wisdom and amazing promises for every day and every life.

I remember many years ago when God gave me these verses - I had actually read them many times before, but this time God really spoke to my heart through them - it was as if I literally heard His voice speaking these words at a time in my life when I was searching for direction and hope, and God was so faithful to answer through His Word. These are great life verses!

In the near future I will write (by God's grace) four posts dissecting the four commands found in these verses: trusting, delighting, committing, and resting in God.

I pray you are powerfully encouraged through God's Word.

25 Days Until Christmas!

"For a Child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Just a reminder that God sent His Son Jesus for you and for me...and that is what Christmas is all about.

Alabaster Heart: Ella

I am very pleased to introduce you to a new friend of mine! Her name is Ella and she is 17 years old. She lives with her family in the beautiful state of Idaho. She is currently finishing up her senior year of homeschool high school and plans to remain a stay-at-home daughter until she gets married and has a family of her own.

1) How and when did you first come to know Jesus as your Lord?

When I was four years old, I asked Jesus into my heart in the quiet of my room. However, I had more of a stagnant walk; I felt like I had done enough so I wouldn't go to hell. Yet, around age 14, I had an awakening of sorts. I got serious in my relationship with Him...and there has been no turning back since!

 

2) What has been the biggest change in your life as a result of salvation?

 

The Lord has led me, as a result, to walk the path less traveled. That means I have chosen not to go to college, not to date, dress modestly, etc. Christ has made me want to obey His ways in all things, even if it means pain and loneliness.

 

3) What is your favorite thing about Jesus?

 

His grace, His mercy, and His faithfulness. Why He doesn't give up on me I will never know. I just thank Him for giving me a new chance every single day. And when I fail, He picks me up and gets me started again.

 

4) What do you feel God's purpose for your life is?

 

It is to magnify and praise His name. Yet, I believe He has led me to do this as a wife and mother...and to author a book on modesty.

 

5) What is the hardest thing for you to live out as a set apart woman?

 

The fact that I am to be set apart. It is so hard to reject the lies of the world! I mean, I know I am to reject the fads of now, the dress code, everything. However, my God is good! He reminds me that He will carry me through the storms I face.

 

6) What woman has impacted your walk with God more than anyone else?

 

My mother. She has taught me so much on Biblical, feminine womanhood. I couldn't be the way I am if not for her loving guidance.

 

7) In your daily walk with God, what are a few things that you do to remain renewed and focused on God?

 

I always try to pray. No, they aren't these long, "glamorous" prayers, but when I am struggling, I step aside and turn the situation over to the Father. I also listen to music. For me, music helps me in my spiritual walk; it feeds me, encourages me, and yes, convicts me.

 

8) If you could say one thing to other Christian girls what would you say?

 

"It isn't a bad thing to be different than the world. I won’t say it is without pain, but the pain only lasts so long. If we are faithful, God promises to be faithful to His promises. I wouldn't have things any other way."

 

9) What do you do to entertain yourself?

 

I love to read, play the piano, bake yummy goodies, watch old movies, and work on my blog.

 

10) What are some of your favorite books?

 

I absolutely love the works of Louisa May Alcott and Jane Austen! In a modern Christian realm, I enjoy Karen Kingsbury. However, I am enjoying biographies on the lives of William Wilberforce and Peter Marshall. Also, I love Christian living (So Much More, I Kissed Dating Good-bye, etc...).

 

11) What is one of your favorite things to do in the course of a day?

 

Oh....that is hard! Everything I said in #9 would be accurate =)

 

12) What is your favorite bible verse?

 

I will give references to a couple of them. Lamentations 3:22-23, Jeremiah 29:11, Galatians 6:9, Matthew 5:10

 

13) As far as music goes, who is your favorite artist and why? (Also name a couple of your favorite songs)

 

Steven Curtis Chapman without a doubt! I love the lyrics to his songs. His latest CD is in my player. However I also love Mercy Me's "Bring the Rain" (it has encourages me through some tough times lately) Casting Crown's "East to West", Brian Littrel's "In Christ Alone", Jeremy Camp's "More Than Enough" and Rebecca St. James' "Wait For Me" can constantly be found in my player too.

 

14) Can you describe yourself in one word?

 

Different. =) Not many people can understand why I am the way I am.

 

15) What is your favorite quote? (From someone other than Christ)

 

As I stated, I have grown to enjoy the works of Rev. Peter Marshall. He was a chaplain in the US Senate. Anyway, I cannot write all that I love; I would take up far too much space! His stands on womanhood mean a lot. I would encourage you all to learn about him. I can also find inspiring, encouraging, convicting quotes in books I read all the time!

 

16) What is your favorite thing about this blog?

 

Reading Kaysie's opinions =) She is a kindred spirit in many ways.

Verses of Encouragment

I was reading in 2 Corinthians this morning and found these verses to be such an encouragment! I thought I would share them with you all.

 

"For we do not preach ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your bondservants for Jesus' sake.

 

For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness,"

is the One who has shown in our hearts

to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God

in the face of Christ.

 

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that

the surpassing greatness of the power

will be of God and not from ourselves;

 

we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed;

 

perplexed, but not despairing;

 

persecuted, but not forsaken;

 

struck down, but not destroyed;

 

always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body."

 

I pray you were blessed by the beautiful Word of God.

Our Distorted Perception

Our perception of beauty is distorted.

We have accepted the world's standard of beauty that is portrayed and valued by the media, and rejected what God has called real beauty. "...that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God's sight." (1Peter 3:4 NIV) It is disheartening that the media (world) has set the bar for what we view as "attractive", "pretty", and "beautiful", and we have cast aside what GOD is telling us real beauty is and where it is found.

80% of women say that the images of women on television and in movies, fashion magazines, and advertising makes them feel insecure with their bodies. We have accepted what the world prizes - the outer rather than the inner. Instead of clinging to our Creator and believing and trusting His Words, we turned our shoulder from His protective presence and reached out in friendship to the world and it's lies like an adulteress wife lusting for something more, leaving behind all we ever needed.

Unless we reject this world's standard of distorted beauty, we will continue to live with our insecurities and the constant turmoil of trying to be something and someone we aren't. If we surrender to our Maker and run to His accepting and transforming presence, we will find the beauty we desire and the lasting true love we crave.

God is the Maker of our bodies: height, hair color, eye color, nose, face, ears, feet, body build, skin color - everything! And He can create in us a beauty that will never fade, never grow old, and never go gray. It can last forever. He knows where true beauty comes from - not from skilled make-up artists and expensive editing software's - but from a heart that is fully and unconditionally devoted and surrendered to Him. He can remove the scales off our eyes to see true beauty the way He does: it is the spirit of a woman that is quiet and gentle, living a life of purity and reverence. (1 Peter 3:2)

May we fall at our Master's feet and ask for beauty that He views as precious and unfading.

Alabaster Heart: Sylvia

I am so excited and pleased to introduce you to a new friend of mine! Her name is Sylvia and she lives in Kampala, Uganda. She is 26 years old and lives and works in Kampala. Her church is there as well, but her family lives in Budaka (eastern Uganda). She is God’s warrior and her life has been a life of war. She wants to live and stand for the truth, and she knows the future is bright. She wants to glorify God in everything she does.

 

1) How and when did you first come to know Jesus as your Lord?

 

I knew about Jesus and that He died and rose again, but I guess I was living a double life. It was in Feb. 2003 at my University at an abstinence rally that I committed my life to Jesus completely and said “Jesus take the wheel!” From then to now my life has never been the same, and I am forever grateful!

 

2) What has been the biggest change in your life as a result of salvation?

 

There are so many changes in my life, but the biggest change of all is that I now live life with purpose. Before, I was just living like everyone else. Right now, I know there is someone who loves me (JESUS), and that there is eternal life after this life where I will go to meet the King of kings. Basically everything about me has changed.

 

3) What is your favorite thing about Jesus?

 

My favorite thing about Jesus is His humility and boldness. He was God and had all the power to do everything, yet He lived such a simple life and chose to die for me - me who is soo rebellious and ungrateful! I want to be like Jesus!

 

4) What do you feel God’s purpose for your life is?

 

To do His will, to live a life that pleases Him. And to pray for the Nations that they will come to acknowledge that He is King.

 

5) What is the hardest thing for you to live out as a set apart woman?

 

It is hard to live a set apart life, especially in a world where there is so much sin around me. But, I have come to learn that I am not to please the world, but that, as a set apart woman, I am to please God. It may be hard, but at the end of it all I glorify God.

 

6) What woman has impacted your walk with God more than anyone else?

 

One of the leaders in our church, she’s called Hadassah. She has so much zeal for the Lord! And when she talks about the Lord it is very real. Also her life testimony is so amazing. She shares her struggles and how she has overcome them, and this helps me deal with mine.

 

7) In your daily walk with God, what are a few things that you do to remain renewed and focused on God?

 

God’s Word helps me a lot, and I am so open with God. I talk to Him about whatever am going through. Also short prayers help, like for example “I know You are with me”.

 

 If you could say one thing to other Christian girls what would you say?

 

They are princesses and Jesus loves them the way they are. And that they should work on their inner beauty more than the outside. Dress modestly, and honor the temple of the Holy Spirit.

 

9) What do you do to entertain yourself?

I watch Christian movies, and read and listen to music.

 

10) What are some of your favorite books?

 

“Brokenness”, “The Purity Principle”, the “Left Behind Series” and of course the Bible - my life guide!

 

11) What is one of your favorite things to do in the course of a day?

 

Talking to my friends after work.

 

12) What is your favorite bible verse?

 

Jeremiah 29:11. When I feel like all is not making sense, it speaks to me. But every time I read it, I get new revelations about many verses.

 

13) As far as music goes, who is your favorite artist and why? (Also name a couple of your favorite songs)

Huh…….this is hard, I have many! Mark Schultz, I love His passion for God. I like the song “He will carry me” and many more.

 

14) Can you describe yourself in one word?

 

What?………..I can’t! I need to think about this one.

 

15) What is your favorite quote? (From someone other than Christ)

 

“When I say am not proud, I am already proud.” - Joy

 

16) What is your favorite thing about this blog?

 

I like the name Alabaster Box………..speaks a lot to us as women and our love for Jesus. And what Kaysie is doing for the young women is really great.

Listening to His Word

“Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word.
But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.”
But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42

As I begin to write this on my handy clipboard, my family and I are driving home after spending Thanksgiving with our extended family in Mississippi. After leaving the warm fellowship with very full tummies, we began our journey home, adjusting to the quietness of the car.
I pulled out my Bible and opened to Luke and read the verses above. These are some of my favorite verses because we find the examples of two women who were very close to Jesus in His ministry.
I slowly read the story and then stared out the window in thought.
“What was the “good part” that Christ was talking about when He praised Mary?” I wondered.
I looked back at the verses for a contrast in Mary and Martha.
These two words stuck out to me: listening and distracted.

I think these two words add greater clarity to this story, and greater and deeper application to our lives.
Mary was sitting at the feet of Christ, listening to His Word.
Martha was distracted from His Word with all her preparations.
One thing was necessary, and Mary had chose the right thing - to listen to His Word.

Thinking back over these past few days, have I become distracted from God’s Word with my many preparations - or did I make time to listen to Jesus by spending time in His Word?
And as another special holiday approaches, will I be pulled away by the long list of preparations and shopping - or will I be diligent to listen to God and remain focused by spending time in His Word?

These are hard questions to answer, but our Master gives us such encouragement to not become distracted: “Only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.”

How I long to be the one who listens to His Word, not becoming distracted, but staying focused and fixed on Christ!

“…Let us lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…” Heb. 12:1-2

I encourage you to listen to His Word daily, diligently, and faithfully - and let us not become entangled or distracted. Let us keep our eyes on Jesus, looking up into His beautiful face as we sit at His feet with a listening heart.

Only then will we posses the “good part” which will never be taken away from us.

A Thankful Prayer

Our Father who dwells in heaven,

Thank You for the awesome privilege to come to You as our Father, knowing and experiencing daily Your abundant love and fellowship, being held in Your strong arms of protection and gentleness.

Thank You for adopting us as Your very own beloved children, and letting us be called by Your name, and giving us and inheritance and a heritage that we can hardly comprehend.

Thank You for sending to us Your only Son to die for our sins, reconciling us to Yourself through His perfect life and painful death.

Thank You that You raised Him from the dead to demonstrate Your power in His life and in ours today, and for giving us eternal and abundant life with You.

Thank You for bringing us near to You through the blood of Jesus, which You allowed to satisfy Your just wrath against us.

Thank You for giving us the example of holiness and humility through Your Own Son Jesus, and teaching us to learn from Him.

Thank You for Your indwelling Spirit in our hearts, the Spirit of truth, who instructs our hearts in righteousness and discerns our motives.

Thank You that He helps us obey Your commandments and empowers us to reveal to the world who You are.

Thank You that the Helper teaches us all things and brings to our remembrance all the Words You have spoken to us.

O Father, our hearts are overflowing with sincere thankfulness that You are God and there is no other.

You are real and we believe in You.

Father, we ask for more of You in our lives. Continue to pour Yourself into our hearts and minds. Make us truly grateful for every gift that comes from You.

Help us to abide in You, O God, for without You we are nothing.

Thank You Father.

In Christ’s name, our Savior and spotless Lamb. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Alabaster Heart: Camille

I am very pleased to introduce you to a dear friend of mine. Her name is Camille and she currently lives with her family in TN. She is twelve years old and hopes to eventually raise a family, be a missionary, or/and an author - just whatever the Lord wants for her.

1) How and when did you first come to know Jesus as your Lord?

I was around 7 years old when I accepted Jesus Christ into my life. I had “prayed the prayer” many times before, but it was when I was alone kneeling in my room when He truly came into my life.

2) What has been the biggest change in your life as a result of salvation?

I don’t know! I mean, everything in my life has changed! Well… the biggest thing (and not so much the best thing) is that since I am a Christian, I need to live my life according to God’s Word. Even when that may be difficult, I still have to make hard decisions - really hard ones! I have to live my life for Christ no matter what.

3) What is your favorite thing about Jesus? 

This is hard!  Probably the fact that He is always awake…He’s always present. He knows what you are going to say before you say it, and He knows what my desires are before I do. So I guess my favorite thing about Jesus (or God) is that He is always there for me.

4) What do you feel God’s purpose for your life is?

Hmm… I think God’s purpose in my life is for me to have a family and to help other people come to know the Lord.

5) What is the hardest thing for you to live out as a set apart woman?

Like question number two, it’s the fact that I am set apart. No matter what other people may be doing, no matter how hard it is, I have say and do things that normally I wouldn’t want to do, like letting someone know about my faith even when it might seem “embarrassing”.

6) What woman has impacted your walk with God more than anyone else?

That would have to be my Mom and you, Kaysie.

7) In your daily walk with God, what are a few things that you do to remain renewed and focused on God? 

Pray. That usually opens a door to my heart for God to speak into. When I am upset, happy, or just wanting talk to God - praying to Him always lifts my spirit.

 If you could say one thing to other Christian girls what would you say? 

That life is about Jesus. And that life isn’t just a party for us to have fun in… it’s serious. We have to live our lives for Him and do what He wants us to do. If you stay focused on Christ, everything will work out according to His plan.

9) What do you do to entertain yourself? 

Hang around my friends, and my brother Corey! They’re always doing something funny!

10) What are some of your favorite books? 

Hmm… this is sure a hard one! NOT!  My favorite book is (drum roll) THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA! Go C.S. Lewis, yeah! (sorry!)

11) What is one of your favorite things to do in the course of a day?

Read and maybe listen to music.

12) What is your favorite bible verse?

Romans 10:9.

13) As far as music goes, who is your favorite artist and why? (Also name a couple of your favorite songs) 

Andrew Peterson! I love what he sings about. It glorifies God and it always builds me up. My favorite song is “Far Country”, and I like “Shadowlands” by Rebecca St. James.

14) Can you describe yourself in one word?

Crazy.

15) What is your favorite quote? (From someone other than Christ)

I don’t really have a favorite quote. There are so many lines from movies and books, and verses from songs that I love. So, I will just name a sentence in a book that just stood out to me. It was said by ‘Allfather’, (who portrays “God” in the story) he was talking about the main evil guy (who, guess what, portrays satan) who was about to try to take over the world.
Allfather said, “Be strong! For though he may triumph for a day, he does not know that all tomorrows are mine.”
I just thought it was a cool quote. It can definitely give us strength when we are afraid. All tomorrows are God’s. Cool.

16) What is your favorite thing about this blog?

It gives me a chance to hear all of Kaysie’s great thoughts, and we can leave comments to share something about what she said too.

Thanksgiving in the Life of a Believer

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thess. 5:16-18

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I have been asking God to prepare my heart for this season. Yesterday, I opened God’s Word and began looking up all the places He uses the words “thanksgiving”, “give thanks”, “thankful”, etc., and He began to teach me that “thanksgiving” is not merely something we should do on this holiday. Based on Scripture, like the one above, believers are to have thanksgiving everyday!

Here are a few verses I found just in the book of Colossians:

In our hearts we are to be thankful. (Col. 3:15)
In our songs we are to be thankful. (Col. 3:16)
In our words and in our deeds we are to be thankful. (Col. 3:17)
In our prayers we are to be thankful. (Col. 4:2)

We are to be very thankful people!

As God’s Word began to slowly sink deeper in my mind, I was convicted of having an attitude of ungratefulness. I am ashamed to say that many, many times instead of giving thanks, I complain and grumble. I have looked at the negative, instead of dwelling of the faithfulness of God through it all. I have focused on the things that went wrong, rather than staying focused on all the amazing things God has done.

This saddens me, not only because I am disobeying God’s word and saddening His heart, but because when I complain and dwell on the negative I do not appear to the world as a child of God.

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life…” Phil. 2:14-16

We live in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, but we have a responsibility: we are to shine as lights in the world (Matt. 5:16) and we can do that by being thankful in everything and not complaining. When we chose to give thanks in everything, whether easy or hard, we prove to the world that we are God’s children - that there is something very different about us.

And truly, we who are God’s children have so much to be thankful for. We are the ones who know Jesus, we have abundant life and eternal life, we have a loving Father who watches over us and blesses our lives. We should never cease in giving thanks! We hold fast and hold forth the word of life, for others to see and take hold of for themselves.

Can you believe so much can be done by just being thankful?!

I encourage you to let God use this Thanksgiving season to refocus your heart and mind on the blessings, abundant life, and calling He has given you, and that He would supply the power for us to be thankful in everything and everyday - not just on Thanksgiving.

Let your light shine. Be thankful.

A Modest Heart

“Your adornment must not be merely external - braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a quiet and gentle spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.” 1 Peter 3:3-4

The world has distorted the meaning of “modesty” in our minds. Modesty is considered as “old fashioned” and “out of style”. I think many people would be rather astonished to find what the true meaning of modesty really is. Noah Webster defines “modesty” in his 1828 Dictionary as:
a) a lowly temper which accompanies a moderate estimate of one’s own worth and importance
b) moderation; decency
c) synonymous with chastity or purity of manners - modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of her honor.

I find here more of an emphasis on a woman’s character of heart, rather than her outward adornment. Our minds have corrupted by the world from realizing the true and pure beauty of modesty, and has distracted us from it’s priceless worth. Women have, for centuries, been deceived on what true beauty is - it is not measured by how much skin you are able to show, but what lies under that skin: a modest heart that lives in humility, realizing what it was and what it is becoming.

The real problem with immodesty is not the clothes (or lack thereof) on our bodies, it is the condition of our hearts. Immodesty is a direct result of a prideful heart, and a “look at me” attitude.
When we view ourselves more highly than we ought (pride), we take our eyes off Christ and find enjoyment in distracting other people to take their eyes off Christ as well. We think our bodies are for us to do with as we please.

But this should not be!

We who are God’s children were bought with a price! And because we were bought, we belong. Not to ourselves, but to Jesus. We now live for Him, to bring Him glory, and to direct the eyes of others to rest on Him and not us. For when a woman focuses on glorifying God with her body, she considers carefully what she puts on that body, and her modest heart dictates her wardrobe and appearance.

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” 1 Cor. 6:19-20 [emphasis added]

God finds the women with modest hearts precious and beautiful in His sight.
Won’t you be one of them?

Alabaster Heart: Me!

Hi! My name is Kaysie(surprise!), I am 20 years old, and I live with my family in the mountains of TN. I am a stay-at-home daughter, striving to serve Christ and my family. My heart’s desire for the future is to marry a godly man and raise up our children for the glory of God.

1) How and when did you first come to know Jesus as your Lord?

I was around seven or eight years old when I confessed Jesus as Lord, but was about thirteen when I really began to cling to Christ and grow in my faith. In a nutshell, at thirteen I was involved in a serious horse and carriage accident and nearly died. In the hospital, however, I realized that God was the only One who could save me and I surrendered all of me to Him. Many, many people cried out to God for me, and God powerfully answered! God healed my body and restored me to complete health. I was forever changed as a result.

2) What has been the biggest change in your life as a result of salvation?

I live with a purpose. I know my life counts for something far greater than to just live life, have fun, and die. I live for Someone. I have hope in life and hope in death. So I guess my entire life has been changed as a result of salvation!

3) What is your favorite thing about Jesus?

That’s a hard one! I would have to say that…He is the great Lover of my soul. I think that is what is so powerful about the gospel - the amazing love He had, first for His Father, and second for us. Even when He suffered extreme pain and death, His passion and love never ceased. He endured, His love endured, and now as a result of His sacrifice, we can endure for Him. He staggers my mind completely! On a more personal level, in this state in my life, He has been my only true Love and has protected and cherished me, even better than any man could. He is my constant companion and dearest Friend. He is the perfect Man! 

4) What do you feel God’s purpose for your life is?

My purpose in life is to live for Jesus, loving Him above all else. I was created for God’sglory, (Is.43:7) which means I am “to give a correct opinion or estimate of” Him. I am to live in such a way as to give everyone in creation the correct opinion or estimate of God. What a purpose!

5) What is the hardest thing for you to live out as a set apart woman?

To be just that - set apart; trying to live a life unstained by the world’s dirty hands. Living a life for God’s glory is no simple task! To live representing Christ in all I do is impossible in my own strength. Abiding in Christ is the only way I can do what I was created for. The hard part is choosing who I want to abide in today: me or Jesus?!

6) What woman has impacted your walk with God more than anyone else?

My Mother. Her life has been my inspiration and the reflection of Christ every day of my life. She is the picture of living for God’s glory! Her devotion to God and her family is a breathtaking beauty that will never fade. She was the first one to ever tell me about my Lover, and live a life right before my eyes that confirm His existence.

7) In your daily walk with God, what are a few things that you do to remain renewed and focused on God?

First and foremost, I try to read God’s Word everyday - especially in the morning. His words keep me renewed and focused. Second, I make an effort to think about Him; to keep my mind set on the things above (it is a constant struggle for me). I also like to do other things to cultivate His and my relationship, such as taking a walk outside just to talk to Him, or singing in the car to Him, etc. This has really helped me.

8 ) If you could say one thing to other Christian girls what would you say?

Stay very close to Jesus. He is really all you need. To stay close to Jesus you have to get to know Him. Try looking under the front cover of your Bible.

9) What do you do to entertain yourself?

Hang around my two sisters, Courtney and Carley. They are my greatest source of entertainment! (I love you girls!)

10) What are some of your favorite books?

Ultimately the Bible, then I like “Having a Mary Spirit”, “Desiring God”, “Practicing the Presence of God”, “Stepping Heavenward”; really anything by Andrew Murray, John Piper, Kay Arthur, and the list is always growing! I LOVE Christian classics.

11) What is one of your favorite things to do in the course of a day?

I love having a cup of hot tea in the morning while I read my Bible. (It probably my favorite time of the day!)

12) What is your favorite bible verse?

Oh…I don’t know if I can answer this one! (five minutes later) This is so hard! Ok, I’ll settle on this one: 2 Cor. 4:1-18, 5:9-10,14-21 (but it will change tomorrow!)

13) As far as music goes, who is your favorite artist and why? (Also name a couple of your favorite songs)

Chris Tomlin! Most all of his songs focus on Christ, and can be sung directly to Him. Plus, despite all the fame he has received, he has remained humble and glorified God for it all. Out of his songs my favorites include: “How Can I Keep From Singing”, “Holy is the Lord”, “Mighty is the Power of the Cross”, “Glory in the Highest”, and many more. Apart from Chris Tomlin, though, I LOVE old hymns! They are powerful and beautiful; and speak truth to us even centuries later.

14) Can you describe yourself in one word?

Um… …no.

15) What is your favorite quote? (From someone other than Christ)

“A woman’s heart should be so hidden in Christ that a man should have to seek Him first to find her.” (Maya Angelou) And one more! “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found lacking; it has been found difficult and left untried.” (G.K. Chesterton)

16) What is your favorite thing about this blog?

It has given me an outlet for my heart!

Alabaster Hearts: Coming Soon!

“For we are the fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” 2 Cor. 2:15

I am so excited about this new addition to the blog! In this section I will be interviewing set apart women about their walks with our Master, and post their answers to encourage and uplift everyone.

 

Just like the beautiful fragrance from the broken alabaster vial filled the room when the woman broke her treasure before the feet of Christ, so the fragrance from the hearts of these ladies will fill our hearts and bless our Master.

 

For the first “Alabaster Heart” my sisters will be interviewing me (we’ll see how that works!) just to familiarize you with the questions and layout. If any of you would like to be interviewed, please e-mail me (click on “View my profile” then “Email”) and I will send you the list of questions. Any and everyone is welcome to participate. 

 

I hope you will be blessed!

What Will You Give Me?

This morning as I was reading in Matthew 26 about our founding woman in Bethany, I was again captivated by her pure and glowing loyalty to Jesus. Almost everytime I read her story I want to fall on my face before my God in surrendar. Jesus’ kindness and tenderness is beautiful in her story. The way He protects and approves her should be a comfort to us!

Many times I think we as God’s beloved children do not stop and think on God’s beauty and character enough. When I am obedient to the Spirit’s calling and simply sit at His feet and soak in His character shown through His responses towards others, His loyal heart to His Father, and His profound words, my heart is transformed and swells with joy and passionate love for Jesus. In His presence I am changed!

And as I read this morning of Jesus’ gracious and precious blessing to this woman, I felt the embrace of His great love and grace.

“Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will be spoken of in memory of her.” Matthew 26:13

I continued reading down to the next verse and my heart was suddenly chilled as darkness crept into the story.

“Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?” And they weighed out thirty pieces of silver to him. From then on he began looking for a good opportunity to betray Jesus.” Matthew 26:14-16

After such a powerful portrayal of love, sacrifice, and loyalty seen in the woman with the alabaster vial, what a great contrast Judas’ hatred, selfishness, and betrayal is towards Jesus.

Judas’ words sting my heart, “What are you willing to give me?”

Many times I have seen this in my own heart and in the lives of countless others with this selfish attitude towards God. “Ok, I’ll follow You, Jesus, but what will You give me?”

The first thing I see here is a condition. Contrast this with the woman with the alabaster vial; her love was completely unconditional. She gave Jesus her all without expecting anything. Judas wanted what he could get out of Jesus.

Which one was more satisfied in the end?

Remember the blessing Jesus gave to the woman? Wherever the gospel was preached her story whould be told!

What did Jesus say about Judas?

“…It would have been good for this man if he had not been born.” Matthew 26:24

Examine your heart in the light of these two people.

Which one are you?

One Minute For God

“There is no one who calls on Your name, who arouses himself to take hold of You; for You have hidden Your face from us and delivered us into the power of our iniquities.” Isaiah 64:7

A few days ago, my sister and I were strolling through our Christian bookstore (trying very hard not to spend too much money), when my eyes fell on a book about one minute prayers for women. As my mind wrapped around this book’s concept, my heart slowly felt a deep conviction. Is one minute really all the time we have for God?

Unfortunately, my conviction didn’t end there. I began to stumble upon more and more books on scheduling God in a few minutes of our day.

I want to clarify myself a little. I am not saying that we shouldn’t buy or read these books on ‘one minute prayers’ or ‘five minutes with God’ devotionals. I am only asking you and myself a serious question: is that really all the time we can give God out of our day?

I wonder what we would think if God suddenly said He could only spare ten minutes (and that’s being generous!) to fit you in, so we better make it quick. That would be terrible! We have confidence in Him that He will always at any moment be there for us and with us. Could our ever-present God say the same about us, His servants and very own children?

Think about what we are doing! We are holding up our tiny little wrist watches to God - the God who gave you this day, who allows your heart to beat, who saved us from eternal hell, who formed you in the womb, who created us for His glory and pleasure, who holds time in His hands - and saying we are just too busy and have too many important things planned in our day to spend precious time on earth with Him; pursuing Him with our time and energy, seeking to know Him more, and passionately living every hour for Him and not ourselves. (2 Cor. 5:14-15)

How His heart must break...

If we could just let go of our schedules and plans and desperately grab hold of our great God, the only One that will satisfy our deepest longings and desires, and slow us down enough to really learn and enjoy what life is all about.

Oh that we would live for Christ! And arouse ourselves and call on His blessed name, sitting at His feet in complete humility and adoration. What if we scheduled our days around HIM. How our lives would change…how the world would change.

Well, my friend, He has given us this day, this hour, this breath.

Let’s make time for Him.

You Are Our Potter

“Woe to the one who quarrels with his Maker - an earthenware vessel among the vessels of the earth! Will the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you doing’, or the thing you are making say, ‘He has no hands’?” Isaiah 45:9

Oh how I have been guilty of quarreling with my Maker! Countless times I have looked in the mirror and sighed of discontent, wishing I looked like someone else. My nose is bigger than so and so, and I don’t wear the same pants size as her. If I could only look just like her, then I would be perfect and happy. Why do I look this way? Who made my body that I have so many problems with?!

Oh…God did.

When I was reading the verse above, God allowed the scales to fall off my eyes and see my discontent for what it really was (and is). A quarrel with God Almighty.

Before, I thought I was just having a quarrel with myself, thinking it’s just my problem that I don’t like my knees, weight, ears, etc., but God showed me that when I detest the body He made, I am detesting Him as my Creator.

And my Creator began to teach me more.

1) I am made in the image of God. “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Gen. 1:27 If I read this and look at myself and say that there’s no way God created this, I am believing a lie, and that will effect every part of my life. The first thing God tells us about Himself is that He is the Creator of all things, including you and me. If I don’t believe that, I can’t believe anything else He says.

2) I am God’s workmanship. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Eph.2:10 Remembering that I am a work of art by God makes me careful about what I say about myself and others. Also, I should focus on what my hands are doing for God, not what they look like.

3) I am the clay, and God is the Potter. “But now, O Lord, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You are our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hands.” Isaiah 64:8 Clay can’t mold itself, it needs a potter. And God is our Potter. When He started with me I was just a clump of mud, but in His hands, He has formed me into a vessel, a vessel for Him to use. Will I let Him use me or just complain about the outside of the jar?

One thing God has reminded me: I am a temple of the Holy Spirit and am not my own. (1Cor.6:19-20) I was bought with a price and my purpose is to glorify God in my body.

And what really matters? What the temple looks like or what is on the inside? So many times I am guilty of focusing on the outside of my body rather than the inside - the heart which God sees. Jesus’s words echo in my mind, “They are like white washed tombs, which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness” (Matt. 23:25-28)

Psalms 100:3 “Know that the Lord Himself is God; it is He who made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.”

Unstained

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God is this: to visit the orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” James 1:27

We see it all the time: people who claim to believe in Christ but are numb and bored with Jesus, fading into the world with nothing that sets them apart.
Go and sit in a public place that collects young people and watch. Can you tell which ones are believers? Did you know that about 82% of high school teens claim to be Christians? Why don’t they stand out from among the rest? To be truthful, I can’t tell a difference between the lost and the saved. What’s wrong with us? We all look so…stained by the world.

Polluted and captivated by the world we are.

We have ruined our Christ given clothes of purity, righteousness, and truth, staining them with lust, wickedness, and a lie. Each compromise leaves us a little more dirty, and before we even realize it…we look just like the world. Yes, we fade right in.

But what has God called us to be?

To be separate and clean.

“Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate, says the Lord, and do not touch what is unclean; and I will welcome you. And I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters to Me, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Cor. 6:17-18

We need to come out of the worlds midst and repent of our dirty minds and hearts and be washed clean by God’s forgiveness and faithfulness. (1 John 1:9)

We need to look in the mirror and see if our hearts are stained by the world, and be transformed into the image of a holy and pure God. (2 Cor. 3:18)

We must check and examine our hearts, because the world stains us from the inside out, like a teabag placed in hot water; so slow is the infusion.

Make sure bitterness has not taken root in your heart, or gossip poured forth from it. Guard it at all times or Satan will take it captive.

Let us run to our Father and fall on our face and ask for an unstained life. Let us be separate, let us be clean.

“Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Ps. 51:7
O God give us a clean heart.
Let us be found unstained.

Here Is Love

“By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:9-10

Out of all the loves this world has to offer, no love is like the great love of God.

When earthly love fails, God’s love is unfailing. When earthly love fades, God’s love is everlasting. When earthly love leaves pain, God’s love heals. When earthly love forsakes, God’s love never lets go.

God’s love is not empty words, but demonstrated with action and sacrifice…yes, very great sacrifice. Love had it’s perfect expression among men in the Lord Jesus Christ. Actually, the first use of the word “love” in the Bible is in reference to a father and a son: Abraham and Issac in Genesis 22. In this chapter God is testing Abraham’s love and obedience to Him by asking Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son Issac. Abraham was obedient, and God in His great love and knowledge did not require Issac’s life, and greatly blessed Abraham for his love and obedience to God.

And what did God do to show His love for us?

He sacrificed His only Son and payed the price for our sins. Isn’t this a glorious picture? The thing God asked of Abraham to prove his love for God was to sacrifice his son, Issac. God proved His love for us by doing the exact same thing, except God did allow His Son to die - no ram was found caught in the thicket for a substitute, but the blood of the spotless Lamb was shed…for you and me. As Abraham and Issac climbed up Mount Moriah, and little Issac looked up to his father and asked,”Where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”, Abraham answered, “God will provide for Himself the lamb of sacrifice, my son.”

And God did provide the Lamb. His name is Jesus.

Feast on God’s great love for you today.

(Romans 5:8, John 3:16, 15:13, Eph. 2:4-5, 5:2, 1 John 3:16)

Our Huge God Cares About You

“Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, and the one who formed you from the womb, “I, the Lord, am the maker of all things, stretching out the heavens by Myself and spreading the earth out all alone.” Isaiah 44:24

What a picture of God’s absolute greatness. He was the One who stretched out the heavens and spread out the earth all by Himself. (Sounds like Someone playing with play-dough!) He made all things. He needed no one’s help, because He is God. He created our massive earth and the never ending skies right by Himself. Wow.

In this verse, God describes Himself as the Lord, our Redeemer, and the One who created you from the womb. That is amazing. To think that this God, our God, created a world and heavens, breathed stars (Ps.33:6), divided a sea and made it stand up in a heap (Ex. 14:21), makes summer and winter (Ps.74:17), created light and darkness (Is.45:7) …. formed you in the womb!

When you were no bigger than your pinkie finger-nail, God was weaving you together and He even knew your name. Doesn’t that make you feel so…special? Loved? Safe?

God is HUGE, but is still intimately involved in the tiniest details of our lives.

A few days ago, my family and I were up at our land enjoying a peaceful afternoon. And as you can see from the picture below, it is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon!



My heart is stirred every time I take in the amazing views around me. My eyes rest in God’s creation far and wide, from the rolling hills that stretch for miles, to the distant mountains, to the valleys so deep no man could replicate. I love to walk through the tall grass and find a place to sit, and just look up. Huge space. Huge God.

And as the sun started to slip away in the tree line, my thoughts were occupied with God and His “biggness”. (like my new word?)

As we prepared to leave Dad realized he had lost his cell phone.

We all began scavenging the 160 acres of pasture and woods (think it’s hopeless, don’t you?) in search for Dad’s much needed cell phone. We spread out to comb through the pastures and as I walked quietly through fields I began thinking again on God. How amazing was it that He, in His greatness, who created the whole world with His words, knew exactly were Dad’s tiny little cell phone was?! And He could guide us to the very place Dad had lost it, if He wanted to.

And He did.

About the time the search party was becoming weary, God allowed Mom to walk right up on it. God knew that it was important to us to find the phone. God knows us, and He knows what is important to us…and He cares. He is amazing! Not just because He showed us where the cell phone was, but because in all things He is teaching us about Himself…if we only listen. He is teaching me to trust in who He is as God, to fully know how powerful and awesome He is…and yet to even trust Him with the smallest details of my life, the silent whispers of my heart. The more I get to know God, the more I trust Him and I pour out my soul before Him.

In my life God has taught me many things, and this is a lesson I won’t forget. God is so big, so great, and yet He cares about every detail of my life. He is intimately acquainted with all my ways. (Ps.139:3) This goes for you too! Don’t ever believe that God is not concerned about the little things in your life. He loves and cares for you so much.

Wow. What a God!