My Posts Have Moved

My (David) posts have moved to a new site called Rule of Christ Jesus.  Those of you who subscribe to Simply Ecclesia are welcomed to subscribe to the new site.  You will still be able to view all of the former contributor’s past posts.  Thank you for following along and I hope to see you at Rule of Christ Jesus.  God bless.

Happy trails to you, until we meet again…  Just get on over to the new site.

PS: This is the very last post at this site.

Dancing With Jesus

1 Peter 2:21 “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.” NASB

One of my favorite childhood memories was of my dad “teaching” me to dance. This consisted of me holding his hands with my feet on top of his shoes. He would move his feet around and because I was standing on his feet I was able to follow in his steps perfectly. It was fun. As Christian disciples we are called to follow in Jesus’ steps as He teaches us how to dance, that we become more like Him. That same idea is to focus on what He is doing, plant our steps firmly in His and do what He leads us to do. If we do that, our walk…our dance with Him in His service can also be fun and rewarding.

May God bles your heart as you seek His.

Please Visit B. Shelley at Seeking God’s Heart

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A Brisk Walk

John 1:4 “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.” NASB

There is a new commercial on TV promoting exercise. The people are walking briskly and the announcer says one hour of vigorous walking can give you up to two additional hours of life. Sounds like a pretty good deal. I have been thinking about it, but still have not walked my brisk hour as yet. I wonder how many people we come in contact with every day that need a good walk? We can certainly look at them and see the ones who need it physically. How about the ones who need to be taking a spiritual walk? They may or may not be so obvious. How about a walk with Jesus in His word every day for that same hour? The payback is life eternal! Now there’s my kind of walk. In Him and in Him alone is life. Walk with Him today, brisk or slow, you choose.

To View More From B. Shelley Go To Seeking God’s Heart

God, Revive Our Hearts!

…though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7

If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Right now there seems to be a lot of insecurity and uncertainty in our country. I know it is true in my life. My husband could lose his job, our investments are down, our church is struggling, and the U.S. as a whole is in a recession. I have realized that this uncertainty affects every sphere of my life, my personal relationship with God, my family, my church, and my country as a whole…. continue reading at Passionate Pursuit of God

The Most Desirable Lover

My Lover is radiant and ruddy, outstanding among ten thousand… SS 5:10

Although I continue to struggle and at times feel depressed, underneath it all there is this deep sense of well-being, contentment, and peace. I am okay. My struggles will be okay because God loves me. He loves me!

The most awesome, desirable, powerful Being in the Universe desires me! He wants me! He loves me. And He never leaves. He is always with me, comforting me, holding me, touching my face tenderly, whispering words of love in my ear…. continue reading at Passionate Pursuit of God

Forgiven!

Acts 22:16 “Now why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away all your sins, calling on His name.” NASB

We have been washed clean in baptism of our sins committed before our baptism AND those that come after, that is as long as we get back up and keep trying to live by God’s standard. Too many Christians are walking around wondering if they are really saved. How can you possibly be excited about telling others the Good News if you are not even convinced you are forgiven? The proper response for us who are His is thank you for forgiving me, not forgive me. We ARE forgiven. Begin today to experience the joy of your salvation and tell someone else what a blessing He is in your life. You will both be blessed!

To View More From B. Shelley Go To Seeking God’s Heart

God Is Going To Do Amazing Things

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. -Phillipians 4:19

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,

according to His power that is at work within us -Ephesians 3:20

My husband may lose his job soon, and we have no idea what else he would do. I am naturally a worrier and very fearful in situations like this. But God is teaching me and my husband to trust in the middle this trial that He WILL provide, even when we cannot see how it will happen now. I have been amazed at how He enables us to have peace and delights us with the comfort of His Presence in the midst of this trial.

God has been teaching me lately to not just ask that God provide a job, but to thank Him that He is going to provide a job and the money we need to pay our bills. Then yesterday afternoon as I was praying, I felt led by the Holy Spirit to thank Him for the amazing way He is GOING to provide for us. I thanked Him for the faithfulness He is going to show, the awesome things He is going to do in us, and the clever, creative way He has already worked it all out… finish at Passionate Pursuit of God

Trusting God LOUDLY!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

I was struggling with many things this past weekend, feeling tired and worn out by all the trials I am going through lately.  But then God sent my sweet friend from Maine to email me at just the right time.  She said that Satan was attacking me, trying to make me doubt God’s goodness and to mistrust Him.  She said that I should say out loud that I trust God and speak Bible verses loud enough for all evil to hear.

So throughout the morning even though I didn’t feel like it, I began to say, “I trust You, God,” every time a doubt would creep up into my mind.  Then the verse above from Proverbs came to my mind, so I prayed it back to God over and over:  ”I trust in You God with all my heart.  I won’t lean on my own understanding, but in all my ways I will acknowledge You, and You will make my paths straight.”

Then I got into the car to go grocery shopping and my praise CD by Hillsong & Delirious?, (Up) Unified: Praise, began playing.  As I was driving, I began to sing with it half-heartedly at first.  But then, urged on by the Holy Spirit, I found myself singing louder and louder until finally I was belting it out at the top of my lungs, singing with all my heart!  I began to feel joy in God’s presence again!  I was now truly praising God whole-heartedly and believing that He is good and trustworthy, and feeling joy as a result.

I think all heaven and earth could hear me! Maybe even the car next to me!  By God’s power, I was declaring that I am God’s, and I will trust and praise Him no matter what I am going through!  We praise You and trust You, God!

Seek Him First

Isaiah 31:1 “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and rely on horses, And trust in chariots because there are many And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the Lord!” NASB

When you are in a jam, where’s the first place you look for help? …Maybe you gave the “Bible Class” answer first, but candidly think about the last time you needed help. To whom or what did you turn first? Often we don’t turn to God until we have exhausted all other options, save divine intervention. Not that God does not divinely and providentially intervene in our lives today! God hears our prayers and answers our prayers. He gives only good answers to His children.(Matt 7:11) He does, however reserve the right in His will to determine what “good” is. Maybe we try to work it out our way sometimes first because we don’t truly believe that God has our short term best interest on His radar. Or, maybe we rationalize that we do not want to bother God with such things. God says for us to seek Him first. Want to get a faith boost? Look to Him first, not last.

Balm To My Wounded Soul

Thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I Am. Isa. 58:9 KJV

I will be going along fine with God, running alongside Him, keeping pace, working strongly in the power of His Spirit, and trusting Him.  But then every so often, something will catch my foot, and I will trip and fall flat on my face!  And there I am, lying face down in the mud.  I lose my confidence and courage in God.  All of a sudden I can’t remember what it was like to work in the power of the Spirit, and at that moment I don’t feel like I can do anything to serve God.  I look up from my muddy landing place and wonder, “What happened?”

I feel like Elijah when he had just completed amazing acts of bravery for God. But then Jezebel threatened to kill him, and he lost all courage and ran away.  “‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said.  ‘Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.’” (1 Kings 19:4)  But despite that, God was gentle and understanding with him.  He restored him physically by allowing him to rest and then He sent an angel to cook lunch for him!  Then He revived him spiritually by meeting him on the mountain of God and giving him a new mission.

Like Elijah, I lost my courage and confidence and even trust in God.  But He so gently and kindly took care of me too.  As I was praying, feeling hopeless and distraught, I fell asleep in His arms.  When I awoke, my husband was having a snack.  So I did too! Between these two things, I felt a little better.  Then God spoke reassuring words to me through my husband, and comforted me through an email from a friend at just the right time.  And although I had felt like I had nothing more to write for God, He showed me what He wanted me to write about.  God was restoring me physically and spiritually, just like Elijah!

These may seem like little and unimportant things, but God knew what each one would mean to me.  By them He was saying to me, “I hear you.  I care about you, and I love you.”  It was balm to my wounded soul.  God is so gentle and loving with each of us, even when we lose all courage and faith.  He knows just how to gently restore us physically and spiritually.  What a Great Provider He is!

The Only Thing Needed

Whisper My Name

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.” Luke 10:42

There have been many things on my mind lately that have been upsetting me.  I have a medical test coming up that I’m not sure is necessary and am still waiting to hear what God wants me to do about it.  I had recently heard about the death of a dear friend’s sister that weighs on my heart.  And our job situation is unstable, as many are these days.  When I woke up this morning, these things started creeping into my mind, making me anxious and robbing me of my ability to enjoy my precious time with God.

Then I read my Jesus Calling devotional by Sarah Young.  It speaks from Jesus’ point of view:  “I want you to be filled with My very Being, permeated through and through with Peace…Whisper My Name in loving tenderness.  My Peace…will gradually work its way through your entire being.” (382)

Prepare The Way Of The Lord

The Conflict In Israel, One American Christian’s Opinion

In light of the most recent acts of violence in the Middle East, and writing as both a Christian and an American citizen, I would like to share some of my opinions regarding our broader framework and context for viewing Israel:

It is very common among American Christians (especially evangelicals and so-called “Christian conservatives”) to feel that as a nation, America should side with, support, and strategically ally itself with Israel and to actively work to promote Israel’s interests against the interests of its many enemies in the Middle East.  Below are summaries of- with respective commentary on- the most common reasons offered by American Christians who hold this view.

1. Israel is the freest country and greatest exemplar of Democracy in the Middle East and therefore must be protected by the United States.

The Everlasting Arms

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deut. 33:27

It is a wet, rainy, dark day this Christmas Eve, but I am comfy inside, warm and cozy. Our white Christmas lights glow on our Christmas tree in the dark living room. I sit on our couch listening to the calming sound of the rain outside. I am snuggled in God’s arms, enjoying His Presence and the beauty of the tree with Him. He is here, and He loves me! Praise You Jesus.

God Is Bigger

God Speaks Through Cartoons

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6

Praise the Lord, O my soul…who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases…who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalms 103:1-5

I have had this lingering infection that has finally cleared up, but now the doctor wants to do more tests, one of them somewhat invasive. I am wondering why this is necessary since the infection has cleared up, but at the same time worried about disregarding my doctor’s orders. This thing has upset me to the point where it has become this huge, unsolvable problem in my mind.

God has showed me that I am allowing the problem to become bigger than Him. The song from Veggie Tales, “God is Bigger than the Boogie Man” keeps coming to mind! I guess God even speaks through children’s cartoons!

Looking For Strength

Be strong In The Lord

Ephesians 6:10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” NASB

The world looks for strength in many places; armies, numbers, things, money and even other people. We can know the strength that will never forsake us even in shifting economic and political realities. God created all things. He is in control and able to exert His will, but there is a part we play. Yes, we can be strong in the Lord. That requires a state of being that has us IN the Lord. First, that we have obeyed the gospel call ourselves and are in a right, saved and forgiven, relationship with Him and secondly, that we are remaining in Him by seeking and doing His will.

Testing God

God Is Always Good

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

Do not put the Lord your God to the test. Luke 4:12

When things don’t work out the way I want them too, I find myself getting upset at God. I know this is wrong, but I find myself secretly thinking about God, “Don’t You really love me? Are You really good?” And even, “Do You really even exist?” I realize that I am testing God. I mistakenly use circumstances to determine who He is.

But this is all wrong! God does exist. He does love me, and He is good. I know this not because He spoils me with my every whim and desire, but because the Bible says He is good and loving.

Undeserved Grace

Little House In The Big Woods

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was
filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms
around him and kissed him. Luke 15:20

I have been reading Little House in the Big Woods with my
nine-year old daughter. During that time period, the 1870’s, the custom
was to be very calm and quiet on Sundays. The children, Laura and Mary,
could not run around and play and shout. (I’m glad Sundays aren’t like
that anymore!) Laura could not take it any longer and found herself
running and shouting:

The Joy Of His Presence

Psalm 95:1O come let us sing for joy to the Lord, Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. NASB

It is
Thanksgiving Day as I write this and things can get a bit harried with
family and friends and all the preparation that goes into the day’s
festivities. As we prepare to sit down and partake of this meal and
fellowship, the relative peace we enjoy even in the midst of kids
running about and so on is comforting. In a way, it is like almost
every day. We get up, get busy and live our lives. Wash still has to be
done, jobs have to be fulfilled and kids need an endless number of
diapers and hugs and food. The cat wants in if it is out and out if it
is in. News of disasters around the world beam in via the cable news
and there is seemingly no time just to sit, be still and pray. My day
started with time in God’s presence and that always makes such a
difference in my demeanor and ability to withstand what may come as the
day progresses. In the midst of the storm of activity, frivolity,
sports and food, there is a rock on which I stand. Not a physical
place, but more importantly, a spiritual rock. It is an unmoving place
of peace and truth and love and unconditional acceptance. It makes me
just want to take a moment and whisper a song of joy raised up to my
heavenly Father for this place that is truly what I like to think of as
His lap. All the warmth of the assurance of His steadfastness and
salvation rush in like a wave of His endless and wonderful love. With
the world whirling all about us, we can always pause for just that
moment to sit with Him and enjoy the joy of His presence. I do so with
sincere thanksgiving.

As always, may God bless your heart as you seek His.

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Perfectly Cared For

This is NOT God

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thes. 5:16-18

On my way home from my reunion, I arrived at LaGuardia Airport very
early in the morning, and I was half-asleep. I had a heavy backpack on,
and as I stepped into a stall of a restroom, the backpack slid off my
shoulder and threw me off-balance. I turned my ankle, causing great
pain, and fell backwards into the wall, hitting something that was
sticking out into my back. As the pain subsided, my ankle seemed fine.
But an hour or so later I realized it had begun to swell and hurt a
little. I was concerned about how I was going to travel all day through
two airports.

But it turned out I could still hobble on my ankle well enough to
get through the airport, and it was my left ankle so later I could
drive my automatic car the three hours home from the airport. I also
realized that I turned my ankle at the end of my trip, which was a good
thing because there was no way I could have walked in my really high
heels at the reunion in that condition!

So I realized that despite my fall at the airport, I was thankful.
It could have been much worse, but as it was, I could still accomplish
everything I needed to do. I wouldn’t be surprised if there was an
angel there that day preventing me from being hurt more seriously. I
felt so carefully, expertly taken care of and protected on my trip. God
was in control of everything that happened to me, and it was all
according to His perfect plan. He only allowed what I could handle as
HE cared for me. I felt so cherished, every moment of my life expertly
and carefully planned and provided for me. All I have to do is follow
Him and rest in His perfect care.

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Christian Depression (2)

Job 36:15 But those who suffer He delivers in their suffering; He speaks to them in their affliction.

Have
you ever felt so tired that it is an effort to get up and get dressed?
What if a simple task like combing your hair or, retrieving a pair of
shoes from another room seems like a major endeavor?  Depression is not just a feeling disease, it is a physical illness with clear symptoms and medical cures.

In
the depths of my depression I called out God and prayed that He would
heal me. His answer? I went to my doctor and she increased the daily
amount of my medication. Within weeks, I was feeling as if my vitality
was coming back. You see, my anti-depressants don’t make me happy,
instead, I have the stamina needed to complete important tasks at hand
like making a bed and getting showered and dressed. My problems still
exist: the stressful workplace, the extreme demands on my time, the
financial worries still remain, but, now I have the willingness to cope
with these issues instead of being consumed by them.

Continue reading @ Spiritual Battleground: Christian Depression 2

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Slave to Routine

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear
a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Isa. 30:21

To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me. Col. 1:29

I really enjoyed my reunion trip. It was so neat to be so dependent
on God. It was the first time I’ve traveled alone since I got married
17 years ago, so I really needed Him. And He was there! Traveling makes
me anxious, and also socializing is hard for me. It wears me out. But
He empowered me to do it. I was able to talk to lots of people at the
reunion, and even on the whole trip by His power. I did not feel worn
out by it. It is so not naturally me!

I told God at the end that I will always remember the trip, how He
planned it all, and how He took care of me the whole time. I really
needed Him, and He was there with me, providing for all my needs,
physical, emotional, and spiritual. I can’t explain how close I felt to
Him when I needed Him so much, and He was there.

Before I left for my trip, I was struggling with whether I should
write for God anymore. I was feeling burnt out by it. But as I was
following Him minute by minute on my trip,

Fear who?

John 12:42-43 Nevertheless many of the rulers believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they were not confessing Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God. NASB

Jesus had performed so many signs and miracles before the people that many followed Him and believed. Some, though they believed could not bring themselves to confess Him because they feared the reprisals of those who ruled over the synagogue. They were afraid they would be thrown out if they openly expressed their belief and therefore did not. Do people today raise tradition and the fear of rejection above Christ and God’s word? Absolutely. You can show people in the Bible where God’s word speaks clearly and they cling to what they have been told rather than read and believe God’s word for themselves. It is a lot like the story of the Emperor’s New Clothes we read as children. Although the wicked tailor convinced the Emperor that the new “outfit” he had made was gorgeous and stunning, everyone could see that he actually had on no clothes at all. Yet they all praised the splendor of such a fine new garment for fear of becoming the victim of the emperor’s wrath if they spoke the truth. It is called “go along to get along”. Religious peer pressure kept the people who wanted to believe the truth from accepting it, even though it was from Jesus Himself. How much are we willing to “overlook” just to stay in our religious comfort zones surrounded by people we fear would reject us if we dared to speak truth from God’s word? Earlier in my life, I was part of a denominational church and some things they did didn’t line up with what I was reading in the Bible. I asked the minister, who I considered a friend, how come they did not take communion together every Sunday as was the practice of the early church?  He simply said that he understood what it said, but they just did not do it that way in this church. I asked him why they did not have elders, which from the beginning seemed to be the Biblical design for Christ’s church, and again he said that although the teaching was clear, they chose not to do it that way. I accepted his answer for the moment for fear of rocking the boat. Ultimately, after continuing to read scripture concerning baptism and even about how God wished to be worshiped, I decided to leave very good friends and the comfort of their acceptance to find some Christians who were trying to live and worship like what I found in scripture. It was very difficult since to reject men’s traditions is to create separation and even experience personal rejection by men. We can remain in denial and stay comfortable as part of the group, or we can decide we would rather have the approval of God. Read God’s word. Desire His truth to be manifest in your heart and mind over man-made religion and traditions. Pray hard. It makes a difference.

May God bless your heart as you seek His.

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Traveling with my Husband

Your Maker is your Husband – the Lord Almighty is His Name. Isa. 54:5

But I trust in You, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hands. Psa. 31:14,15

I’m leaving for my 20 year high school reunion in Connecticut today. Its going to be a lot of fun. This is the first time I will be traveling without my husband and girls. I am going to get to visit several of my friends, who are awesome Christian women. I get to visit my sweet sister. Then I get to visit my best friend from high school. Neither of us were saved at that time, but God saved us both since then, and now we have so much more in common! I also get to meet a friend who also has a Christian blog. We have been e-mailing back and forth for the past six months, and I am thrilled that God has provided a way for me to meet her! And I can’t wait to see several other people whom I haven’t seen in a long time and whose meetings God has arranged.

I know God has planned this entire trip. He was worked out finances when I didn’t think there was any way I could afford to go. He has planned all the events, even arranged the meetings with all the people I’m visiting. It has been really amazing to stand back and watch as He plans this whole trip. It boggles my mind!

I am very excited, but also a bit scared! I have pretty much always traveled with my husband for the past 17 years of our marriage. So this is an opportunity for me to be more dependent on God. In fact, He will be my Husband on this trip, filling the gap left by my earthly husband. He will keep me company, take care of me, protect me, and love me. I am so thankful that I have Him always, no matter where I go! Praise You, my precious God, my Husband.

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Freed for Freedom

Galatians 5:1 “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” NASB

Freed for freedom! Do you feel free today? We are supposed to be living a joyful existence even in this life because Christ has lifted the burden of sin from our backs. People should see us and the kind of life we are living, regardless of our circumstances, and want to know what it is that we have that they do not. Do worldly people around you ever ask how it is that you can seem satisfied with what you have and joyful even in difficult circumstances? Hopefully the answer is yes. The kind of hope we have because of Christ is incredible and eternal. Praise the Lord for your freedom!

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Baptism and Salvation

Romans 10:9-10 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. NASB

This devotional will be different from my normal style. It will consist of just scripture for you to consider. Hopefully, all who read this can agree that we need to live by and obey all of God’s truth, not just pick and choose portions. I often get questions concerning the topic of the relationship between baptism and salvation. Like, “Is baptism for public profession of something that happened when I prayed to ask Jesus into my heart or is it necessary for salvation?” Or, “At what point is one saved?” Let’s seek God’s word on the subject. I pray He will bless you with understanding as we approach His truth with open minds and hearts.

Peter said to them, “Repent, and each one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38

Now why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name. Acts 22:16

Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you–not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience–through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 1 Peter 3:21

God Desires Our Heart

Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Deut. 6:5

God has led me to speak to several people about Him recently, and I always feel so insufficient for the job.  Of course I am insufficient, and I can only do it through God.  But sometimes I still don’t get it right.  It seems my spiritual hearing is defective half the time.  And I feel bad about this, about possibly giving someone the wrong information.

But God has been telling me that it is His Spirit and His power working through me that affect people, not my words.  He can even work through me when my words aren’t perfect.  He can still use me despite my weaknesses to accomplish His good purposes.

The lesson I led in our bible study (Satisfy My Thirsty Soul by Linda Dillow) today was about bowing to God in our work.  The verse we were supposed to memorize was “Whatever you do, work at it will all your heart, as working for the Lord, not men.” (Col. 3:23)  One of the bible study questions asked, “How does this verse define success for you?”  I didn’t get how the question could be answered with this verse, and it occurred to me that if I’m leading, I’d better figure it out! 

Baby Steps with God

“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”  Jer. 29:11

Jesus said…”I am gentle and humble in heart…My yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matt. 11:25-30

God is so kind and gentle with me.  He stretches me and grows me, but many times it is in little, baby steps, just small enough for me to handle in His power.

I know He wanted me to be a leader of a small group in our women’s bible study this Fall.  I was worried that He would want me to be the main leader of a small group, but it turned out they only needed an assistant leader.  Phew!  I breathed a sigh of relief! Even being an assistant is out of my comfort zone.  Even speaking in a small group as a participant is stretching me.  It wasn’t too long ago that I wasn’t even comfortable with meeting new people!  God has changed me so much to even be able to do any of these things at all.

But this past weekend, the leader of my small group called and told me that she would be out of town the next two weeks.

We are the fragrance of Christ to God

2 Corinthians 2:15 For we are the fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; NASB

Our church is studying the Old Testament sacrificial system on Wednesday nights right now. It is fascinating how many references in the New Testament require at least a rudimentary understanding of this subject, yet many have not had the opportunity to study it. The idea of a sweet savor or fragrance being lifted up to God is central to the worship sacrifices. God loves the aroma of His children dedicating their lives and material possessions to Him and His service. The use of this idea here in 2 Corinthians is not unique, but the idea of being the fragrance of Christ is such beautiful imagery. Because we are covenant people, in Christ, we have the smell of Christ to those around us. As we become more Christ-like in our walk, this is even increasingly so. Our living in this world as Christians, those who follow and obey Christ, is pleasing to God because He is glorified through it. We are that fragrance, Christ’s essence present, among all with whom we come in contact. We are to be like Jesus to fellow believers. We are also to be like Jesus to those who are not Christians. They all should be able to smell the Christ on us, in us and through our actions. This has a threefold purpose according to this wonderful verse. First, we are to be the fragrance of Christ to fellow Christians as encouragers and blessings to them. Second we are to be so full of Christ that those who are perishing would want what we have and be led to salvation. Lastly, but most importantly, as this “fragrance of Christ”, we are pleasing to our heavenly Father. What will the fragrance of your life be today? I pray that lives lived this day and always in Christ will be as a sweet savor to all as we give fully of ourselves and all that we have in His service lifted up to glorify Him.

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Messamore’s Take On “The Evolution of God”

I just wanted to thank David for pointing out this blog, I encourage you all once again to give it a look, and let you know that I have posted a review of it here.

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Post by W. E. Messamore

Turning my mind to the task at the appointed hour

Let us always desire the happy life from the Lord God and always pray for it. But for this very reason we turn our mind to the task of prayer at appointed hours, since that desire grows lukewarm, so to speak, from our involvement in other concerns and occupations. We remind ourselves through the words of prayer to focus our attention on the object of our desire; otherwise, the desire that began to grow lukewarm may grow chill altogether and may be toally extinguished until it is repeatedly stirred into flame.

– St. Augustine in a letter to Proba

This morning’s second reading in the Liturgy of Hours, especially from the very first paragraph, struck me on two fronts: in terms of my running and also my devotions. I have not been very good about getting up early to run AND to pray Morning Prayer. I have been doing well on one front: praying Morning Prayer, but not on the running.

Do You Hear the Waves?

After the fire came a gentle whisper.  1 Kings 19:12

We are in Ft. Lauderdale, visiting my husband’s parents.  The weather has been beautiful here, warm but not hot.  I have been struggling lately with feeling close to God.  Of course I know He is here, but I have just been struggling with connecting to Him.

Saturday we went down to the beach, and as my husband and the girls played in the ocean, I lay on a towel on the beach, praying, attempting to feel close to God.  I was trying so hard.  Finally I sensed God saying, “Do you hear the ocean waves?  Do you feel the wind on your face?”  And I stopped trying so hard to be close to Him, and just listened and felt.  He was there, in the wind and the waves.  He was making His presence known by the majestic, crashing waves and His caressing wind.  When He made my ears to hear and my skin to feel, then I was somehow aware of Him also.  This I could sense His presence and His peace.  I had been trying so hard.  I just needed to relax and let Him work.  Paise You, Jesus.

Check out God Girl’s site at Captured By God

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Christian Depression Part One

Romans 8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

I feel as if I have emerged into the light of day after being in a deep, dark tunnel. Except, I didn’t even know I was residing in this bleak passageway. I stopped blogging. I also ceased doing other things that make me feel whole. But, now I am feeling better. I know this because the other day, I suddenly noticed all the dust in my house and my living room rug that badly needs vacuuming. Where have I been? Why did I let my house deteriorate into this untidiness?

I am diagnosed with severe, clinical depression. My first bout with this illness took place about twelve years years ago. At that time, I ended up being hospitalized and out of work for about six weeks until medication stabilized my brain chemistry. There were two subsequent hospitalizations, each requiring that I lose time from work for another six to eight weeks, while my medication was again being altered. One would think I would have known “it” was happening again except, I don’t and I didn’t.

Clinical depression is insidious. It’s like sitting in a room where someone is dimming the lights by slowly turning a rheostat switch. If this darkening is done imperceptibly enough, I end up sitting in total blackness without any memory of how “it” happened. And, the only way I know for sure I’m out of the dark is because I feel whole and alive again, later – when my medication is once again altered. When my brain cannot keep up with the demand for the chemicals it needs for the necessary tasks in my daily life I can only see backward, not forward. During this depressed state, I don’t know I’m there; everything feels hopeless and exhausting, and this appears to be just a natural part of my existence. In fact, I only know I have been depressed through hindsight, when the medication once again balances the chemicals in my brain – otherwise, I am not afforded any forethought or prior warning of this impending emotional deterioration.

I will be vacuuming my rugs and cleaning my house this weekend. I also made an appointment to see a dentist and I am going to get my badly needed eyeglasses. I even purchased a can of paint to do over my bedroom. Tasks, that had a fleeting presence in my mind, but were immediately dismissed because I was too fatigued and didn’t care. Now I do. Thank God for bringing me back to life again.

Continue Reading @ Spiritual Battleground: Christian Depression Part One

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Don’t be a “Pew Potato”

Luke 8:21 “But He answered and said to them, ‘My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it’.” NASB

A minister friend of mine recently gave me a stack of books for my library. It has taken quite a while to get around to going through them to see what new treasures he bestowed on me. One in particular stood out because of its humorous cover and title. It is called “Waking Up the Pew Potatoes”. You can use your imagination for the cover picture. Funny. But then the more I pondered this idea the sadder it became to me. Indeed it is an accurate depiction of far too many in the church today. They come, they go through the requisite motions and they go. Their “Christianity” consists of surviving on a weekly diet of crackers and grape juice. This is not the church that Christ came and died for. It is not enough to stay vertical in church and hear the word of God. Jesus says that His brothers and sisters are those who not only hear God’s word, but do it. Vow to do it today. Don’t be a “Pew Potato”.

To visit bshelley’s site click here: Seeking God’s Heart

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Better than Life

Your love is better than life. Ps. 63:3

Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. Ps. 84:10

I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately by what God is asking me to do.  Do I have the time?  Can I allow God to work in me and not allow my own will to get in the way?  Can I hear God well enough to know what He wants me to say?  Last night I was talking to Him in my bath, just me and Him.  It was quiet, and I realized how much I missed just being quiet and talking to Him, being in His presence.

This past weekend my sister’s family was here, which is always a blessing, but I didn’t get enough time with God.  I didn’t realize how it was affecting my ability to serve Him until last night.  I didn’t realize how much I’ve come to depend on His presence.

When I’m spending time alone with Him, its like He is feeding me

Romanced by God

Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her. Hos. 2:14

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights. James 1:17

As I was standing out on our back patio with my husband last night, I was feeling unsettled and discontent about some as-yet-unnamed problem.  I wrapped my arms around my husband and looked up at the stars.  It was a crisp, cool, clear night.  The stars were glowing brilliantly.  It felt good just to rest in my husband’s arms.  That is when I began to forget what was nagging at me and to see the awesome gifts God has provided me, like my husband’s hug and the beautiful stars, to reveal His great love for me, to romance me.

I had read Brent Curtis and John Eldredge’s book, The Sacred Romance, several months ago.  If I remember right, their premise is that God romances us

Temple To Science A Contradiction?

I think so.

Apparently an artist has taken some aesthetic steps towards what a “religious science” might look like by erecting “a temple for scientific worship” called the Atheon. But can anything like worship or even awe and contemplation be justified from a scientific worldview that sees the material universe as entirely explainable in terms of itself, a self-contained, closed-system of physical cause and effect? The answer can be only, “No.”

In the article I linked to above, the artist, Jonathon Keats comes to closest to defining his view of science when he says, “I think that the pursuit of questions in an organized and rigorous way is the great legacy of science.” If that’s all he means by science, then he’s wrong. That’s not science’s great legacy. Before modern science, philosophers the world over were pursuing questions in an organized and rigorous way. Surely he means something more by science, which is made clear enough by the name of his “temple,” the Atheon.

Keats means that he wants a way for people who do not believe in God to experience their world religiously. They may be able to do so, but they cannot justify it in scientific terms. There is no and can be no awe or contemplation in a world that is nothing more than particles hitting particles. These are metaphysical concepts, and in order to justify his belief in awe, contemplation, and worship and their value to us as human beings (or to justify the concept of “value” in itself) Keats must do some philosophical borrowing from other conceptions of reality.

I wonder how he misses the clear absurdity of a house of worship called the Atheon. He is apparently serious as the interview in the article shows:

Wired.com: Do you actually take the worship of the science seriously, or is it a parody?

Keats: I hope not. If it’s interpreted as one, I will have failed. It’s not a parody any more than a thought experiment is a parody.

I wonder what’s going on in his mind. I’d love to have some tea with him to talk about it.

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W. E. Messamore is completing his final year of undergraduate studies and blogs at http://www.slaying-dragons.com

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Awake, awake with a new natural heart, a new spirit

I will give them a new heart and put a new spirit within them; I will remove the stony heart from their bodies, and replace it with a natural heart, so that they will live according to my statutes, and observe and carry out my ordinances; thus they shall be my people and I will be their God.

Ezekiel 11: 19, 20

I will give you a new heart and place a new spirit within you, taking from your bodies your stony hearts and giving you natural hearts. I will put my spirit within you and make you live by my statutes, careful to observe my decrees.

Ezekiel 36:25-27

Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: See! I will bring spirit into you, that you may come to life. I will put sinews upon you, make flesh grow over you, cover you with skin, and put spirit in you so that you may come to life and know that I am the LORD.

Ezekiel 37: 5, 6

My spiritual director tells me that sometimes the Lord has to tell her three times before she hears a word that has given her. I think this might be the case to me, in regards to the following three Scriptures. Over the past few weeks, I have heard all three over and over again. Of course, I’m not the only one who has been hearing them, as they are in the Liturgy of the Hours also. Still I think God may be trying to tell me something and also, of course, all the Church.

So what is God trying to tell me? I’m not completely sure, although I have some inkling. As I read the last Scripture this morning, I thought of my running and how I need to be revitalized there. For the last few weeks, I have been lax to the point of nonexistence with my running. I had been waking up at 5:30 to pray the Liturgy and then go for a run, usually by 6:30 after breakfast. The last few weeks, though, I have fallen off schedule — perhaps because I had decided to not run/hike/walk in a 24.9 mile trail hike next weekend, Oct. 4 because I was out of shape.

Of course, since I have decided to run in a marathon on June 6, 2009, three days before my 40th birthday, I have not been getting up any earlier and in fact, have been staying up later, writing blog posts later and later into the night. I think this last Scripture anyway might be God trying to tell me He will put his spirit within me so that I may come to life and know that He is the Lord– literally, awaken to run.

Yet not just to run, but to “come to life” or awaken and “bring spirit into me” with His living Word, then out to “face the world.”

All day long a song that we sing in chorus (I’m a member of a men’s chorus in our town) has been going through my head called The Awakening by Joseph M. Martin:

Awake, awake, my soul and sing!
The time for praise has come.
The silent of the night has passed:
a new day has begun.

In turn, what is God to trying to tell all of us? Maybe that He is the one who will put a new heart within us, a heart of flesh and not of stone, a new spirit. It is not by our power but His, if we harden not our hearts and allow him to do so. Only He can bring us to life– and does– every day, every morning. So why not arise with His praise on our lips? It is right to give Him thanks and praise.

Lord, let me (us) let You bring Your spirit into me (us), that I (we) may come to life each morning, each day and know that You are the Lord. Amen.

This post and other reflections on Scripture and writings of the saints can be found at Journeying with the Saints.

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Pleasure in Sacrifice

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. Rom. 12:1

This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.  The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.  1 Cor. 2:13,14

It is such a pleasure to give myself to God each morning, knowing that He is trustworthy to care for me.  It is amazing how God enables us to experience pleasure in giving ourselves up to Him, as a living sacrifice, as we look to Him with complete trust that His plans and intentions for us are good.  It is like the image of the bond servant in the Bible, a slave who is given his freedom and then

The Workplace Prayer

I found this inspiring prayer about a year ago. The author is

‘anonymous’ (no relation to me).

Lord Jesus, as I enter this workplace, I bring your presence with me. I speak your peace, Your grace, and Your perfect order into the atmosphere of my workplace.

I acknowledge Your Lordship over all that will be spoken, thought, decided and accomplished this day.

Lord Jesus, I thank You for the gifts and skills You have deposited in me. I do not take them lightly, but commit to using them responsibly and well.

Continue reading @ Spiritual Battleground: The Workplace Prayer

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Being Transformed

It is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. Phil 2:13

I am flying up to Connecticut in November for my 20 year high school reunion.  I am going to stay with one of my best friends from high school.  It turns out both she and I were saved after high school, and we now have much more in common.  Now, not only are we friends, but also sisters in Christ.

Last week, she had suggested that we pick one day of the week to fast and pray for our classmates.  She believes God will lead her to give her testimony to at least one person.  I’m thinking at that time, “Boy is she brave! I’m not doing anything like that! I’ll just stay in her shadow.”  Well we have prayed for one week so far,

Called and Sent

John 20:21 “So Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you, as the Father has sent Me, I also send you’”. NASB

People often think of a select few that are actually “called” to ministry. That is simply not scriptural. As disciples, bond servants, to Christ we are all called to be “sent”. For most, that is sent in our workplace, sent to our neighbors and sent to our community. Too often we see Christians that want to fulfill this responsibility by proxy through a “professional”, whether that be a minister or a missionary. Jesus called all Christians to be “missional”, that is sending AND sent. Who has God sent you to share His love with today?

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Disciplined with Kindness

God’s kindness leads you toward repentance. Rom. 2:4

Yesterday afternoon I didn’t feel like spending time with God at my usual time.  I had bible study earlier that morning, my blog to write, and e-mails to answer.  Then I needed to make dinner.  I was resisting doing my quiet time because I had so many other things to do.

But I finally did it anyway.  I was distracted, thinking about other things, impatient to finish so I could continue with my plans.  But as I lie on my bed, asking God to help me, He

I know whom I have believed

2 Timothy 2:12 “For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.” NASB

Sometimes in the struggles of every day we may begin to see ourselves as being in it all alone. We begin to run out of optimistic thoughts and start to see only the negative in what is going on around us. My dad used to tell my mom, “Sometimes I think everyone is crazy except you and me…and sometimes I wonder about you”. We are not in it alone and everyone else is not crazy. They just have different priorities. Jesus is keenly aware of what we are doing and how we are feeling. He is in the boat with us willing to help if we are attempting to accomplish things in accordance with God’s will. We do not have cause to be ashamed or disheartened. Him in who we have entrusted our fate is able. Focus on that and be blessed.

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A Historical Apologetic for the Incarnation, Death, and Resurrection of God in the Person of Christ

I remember hearing a story once many years ago about a man in London who was preparing for a dangerous winter storm. There were many pigeons that gathered in the yard outside his house and he wanted to get them into his shed where they would be safe from the weather when the blizzard came. He tried to “shoo” them into the shed, but he just scared them and scattered them. Then he tried to use some feed to lure them into the shed, but the vast majority of the already confused and flustered birds did not make it to safety. Frustrated at these stupid, confused birds that couldn’t see what he was trying to do to save them from freezing to death, the man loudly exclaimed, “If only I could become one of them!” And after he said this, the wind carried to him the distant sound of ringing church bells.

I understand that no analogy is perfect, but they can be a helpful tool for understanding things. The unique claim of Christianity is the doctrine of the Incarnation, that God became man and lived among us. This has been a hotly debated issue for centuries now, and the answer to this claim remains relevant to us because it has created somewhat of a puzzle for us, a puzzle for which every explanation is extraordinary, possibly confusing, certainly difficult to swallow. The consistent theme of the Gospel of Mark is the great query that has resounded through the ages and haunted the convictions of generations of people for centuries: Who is Jesus of Nazareth? There are only a very few possible explanations, and even these are enigmatic. Let’s explore them:

Guest Post (1) Christians are not stupid

Christians are not stupid

Christians and other theists are not stupid. How do I know this? I’ve known some incredibly brilliant people, called many of them friends, who are Christians or some other sort of theist, plus I used to be one. Too many atheists I’ve read, at least on the internet, write Christians off and attack them as morons. Don’t get me wrong, there are many who claim to follow Christ who are complete idiots, but there are plenty who wave the banner of atheist that are dumb as a box of rocks as well.

Yes, I’m an atheist ex-Christian, but that does not mean I have lost respect for Christians. There are some who claim Christ, who are such hateful idiots that not even most Christians claim them. The vast majority of Christians I know are people who live normal lives and do their best to show the love of Christ to everyone they meet.

Got a problem with a belief system? That’s fine, but don’t belittle yourself and hurt your argument by using ad hominem attacks against those you argue against. You’re smarter than that, aren’t you?

Thank you Mike for letting me use your thoughts as our first Guest Post.

Mike aka MonolithTMA’s site can be found at Atheists And Christians Community Blog

photo by sfopanda

Humidity, Peanuts and Hebrews 13:8

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

When I landed at Charleston’s airport the temperature was listed as 85 degrees.  However, in South Carolina, the air is saturated with moisture… so the heat feels heavy and hot, and this water-logged “stuff” presses against your body and, movement slows, like walking through a mass of invisible quicksand.

Miracle Watermelon

You were thrown out into the open field, for on the day you were born you were despised. I passed by you and saw you kicking about in your blood, and…I said to you, ‘Live!’ I made you grow like a plant in the field…I gave you my solemn oath and entered into a covenant with you, declares the Sovereign Lord, and you became Mine. Eze. 16:6-8

God is growing a watermelon in my back flowerbed. I have tried for years to grow a watermelon. I would plant the seeds, fertilize, and water them. I made sure they had plenty of sun. The plants would sometimes grow and flower, but would never produce an actual watermelon. And even though I’d spray for insects, vine borers would eventually get into the vines and kill the plant before it could have a chance to be fruitful.

Last summer, I think, my daughter tossed away some watermelon seeds in a flowerbed at the back of our house. This summer, I saw a baby watermelon plant sprout. I pretty much ignored it

Paul’s Writings Inspired???

Galatians 1:11-12 For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. NASB

The fundamental question we must ask ourselves is, “Is the Bible the inspired word of God?” Most people I know would readily answer a hearty “yes” to that question. However, when faced with some of the more difficult teachings, more specifically of the apostle Paul, they waffle. If we cannot trust that all of what Paul says is inspired of God, then what? Maybe some is and some is not? Who gets to make that list and on who’s authority?

Fall Down

Today’s Verse: Ephesians 3:14 “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father.” NASB

Do you ever under react to things? We are so bombarded with news of catastrophes and things on the news that we can become emotionally calloused to the world around us and above us. What is our reaction to God’s love? Is it stronger or weaker than when we first began our relationship with Him? When we think of all He has done for us, are we awe struck like Paul? As we pause to think of Jesus’ sacrifice for us today, let’s fall down on our knees either physically or mentally and be awed by the magnitude of that act for just a few moments.

God’s Signature

God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.  Romans 1:20

For by [Jesus] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth…and in Him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17

Not only is creation itself awesome enough to prove the existence of a Creator, but the Creator has even put His signature, the symbol of the cross in some unexpected places, to make clear who the Creator is.The Colossians verse above says not only did God create the big things in the universe, but He even created the tiniest molecules and holds all things together. I was reading Tamela’s website, and she found this awesome picture of the nucleus of the Whirlpool Galaxy. Guess what is in the center of this nucleus? God’s cross. He has placed His signature even on the stars.

Read the rest of the article @ Captured by God: God’s Signature

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Posts by God’s Girl | Site Search Tags: God’s Signature | Simply Ecclesia on Twitter | Translate Simply Ecclesia | Simply Ecclesia Copyright.

An Apologia for Apologetics: Defending the Logical Defense of the Christian Faith

The word apologetics comes from a Greek word meaning “to give a defense.” So Christian apologetics means literally, to give a defense of Christianity. Through the ages, many Christian apologists have labored to explain that the Christian worldview is in fact the most reasonable worldview and that its truth claims are valid. God really did create the universe, Christ really did die and rise from the grave, salvation really is available to all of mankind, and furthermore, these are claims that can be supported with evidence and reason and which we can believe in much the same way we believe George Washington did in fact cross the Delaware into Trenton, New Jersey to attack the Hessian army. That is not something that we take for granted as true without any evidence. We believe that it really happened and can be reasonably sure that it did.

There are many Christians who feel uncomfortable about the evidential/rational approach to defending Christianity and its claims, because they feel that this does injury to faith, and I’d like to address those concerns here. Central to the topic at hand is what we mean by the word faith and what role faith ought to play in the life and worldview of a Christian and more broadly, what role faith ought to play in the life of a rational, thinking individual who is earnest about knowing and living according to the truth. It is my contention that the common conception of faith -as an act of believing in a proposition without any reasons or evidence to support it- is false, unbiblical, potentially dangerous to the person who determines their beliefs in such manner, and damaging to the spread and acceptance of the Christian worldview.

Take this gorilla, please

Matthew 11:30 “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Sometimes the burdens of life can feel like a 500 pound gorilla on your back. It is hard to get up and even harder to just make it through some days. I have always heard, “let go and let God”. That sounds good, but in a practical sense it has been a life long struggle to let go. The world says “if you want it done right, do it yourself”. Jesus says give me your cares, your worries and most importantly your sins. No more burden of guilt and shame for sins. Jesus just wants us to agree that we sinned and then, using God’s standard as our guide, get back up and try again. So, here you go Lord…here’s my gorilla. Thank you.

Colossians 3:12 and Obedience

I often struggle with moods. I can feel peaceful and spiritual for weeks at a time, and suddenly, in the midst of this blissful state of being, wake up feeling miserable and distant from God. No causal thoughts precede this internal state of despair.

Get Your Wind Back

Today’s Verse: Luke 18:1 “Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart,” NASB

Have you ever had the wind knocked out of you? Once, while playing high school football, it happened to me. It is the most helpless and scary feeling. Sometimes life can knock the breath out of us spiritually can’t it? Jesus is telling us to be not only persistent, but continuous in our prayers. When we get focused on something other than Him, we too can feel scared and helpless. Jesus says pray and don’t lose heart. Share your concern with a Christian friend and let them have the privilege as a brother or sister in Christ to help lift up prayers for you. Don’t lose heart, pray.

The Embrace of Unconditional Love

"The Prodigal Son" by Leonard Baskin

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. Luke 15:20

This morning I felt God wrap me up in an embrace which reminded me of this sculpture we saw on a trip to Chattanooga, TN a week ago.  It is called the “Prodigal Son”. In this Bible story, the son had taken his inheritance, left his father, and then wasted all his money.  Then when he had nothing left, he returned to his father, prepared to beg forgiveness and work for him as a servant.  But the father welcomes him back with great joy and restores his position as his son.

This sculpture was so captivating, seeing the father wrap up his son in an embrace of unconditional love,

What is an oblate?

Last week at Journeying with the Saints I mentioned that I had visited Mount Saviour Monastery in Pine City, N.Y. to be received as an oblate candidate. In the comments to that post, David of Simply Ecclesia, this blog to which I contribute from time to time, asked me what an oblate is. So I thought I should write about what exactly an oblate is for those both inside and outside the Catholic community who might not know what the term means.

In its simplest terms, according to The Order of St. Benedict website,

An Oblate is a lay or clerical, single or married, person formally associated to a particular monastery. The Oblate seeks to live a life in harmony with the spirit of Saint Benedict as revealed in the Rule of Saint Benedict and its contemporary expression.

Rock Solid

Today’s Verse: 1 Peter 1:25 “But the word of the Lord endures forever.

And this is the word which was preached to you.” NASB

It just seems like everything is changing so fast today. Even what is valued and not valued in the environment of political correctness and diversity where all beliefs are taught as being of equal value. These are difficult times to stick to God’s scriptural truth. However, just blowing to and fro with the winds of change in order to entertain or not to disturb folks that need to be confronted with the unchanging truth of God’s word, is not what we are called to do. God’s truth is rock solid and unchanging. When we put our faith in His word and His promises, we can know…nothing doubting, that He will keep His covenant promises and bless us. Let’s take time today to thank our heavenly Father for His word and His steadfastness.

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The Miracle Book and Micah 5:4

Micah 5:4 And he shall stand, and shall feed his flock in the strength of Jehovah, in the majesty of the name of Jehovah his God: and they shall abide; for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.

Ten years ago I decided to start to write down all the answers to my prayers in a special book. This was no ordinary tome. It had a silver, cover that looked like it contained infinite layers of sparkling, colored stars. Even though it was flat and two dimensional, it was mysterious, just like its contents.

To Pray Without Ceasing

1 Thess 5:17 pray without ceasing…

Many of my prayers are not answered in the way I would like but, it’s certain, prayer changes me. There was time in my spiritual journey when my motive for praying was for the feeling of peace and safety that resulted after communing with my Savior. Strangely enough, this “serene state” became more elusive when it evolved into the sole purpose for my devotions.

Are you famous?

Today’s Verse: Romans 1:8 “First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the world.” NASB

As Christians, we belong to a big fellowship around the world. The Roman church that the apostle Paul wrote to was famous for their faith in Jesus. So much so, that churches from all over had heard of it and no doubt been encouraged by it. Today we really don’t hear so much about churches and leaders famous for their faith as much as we hear about them as infamous for their straying from it. We need to constantly be praying for the church and for our leaders. Is the body of Christ where you worship famous for their faith? Are you? It really begins with each of us and our faith which grows into a strong faith community. Faith is strengthened by testing and we are best tested when we get involved in the work of the kingdom.

Piercing the Darkness of Depression

About a year and a half ago, I was depressed, anxious, and felt distant from God much of the time.  Even though I had been saved for many years, I didn’t really understand the depth of God’s love for me or that I could trust Him with everything I am.

At this time, I stumbled upon Rev. 3:20: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.  If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me.”  As I read this verse, I had a revelation.  God wants to spend time with me!  He loves me!

Different rules of engagement

To all,

I have arrived at the conclusion that atheists in general are superlicious, arrogant, and condescending. Just check the previous responses on this blog alone for proof. I believe that many atheists enjoy arguing.-not in the sense of logic, et.al but in the sense of quarreling. They are willing to quarrel as long as we play by their atheist rules. I have come to the conclusion via the atheists on this site that atheists despise the idea of God; that atheists are close-minded; that atheists want only to quarrel.  If an atheists did not believe in 2X4’s and then I took a 2X4 and hit him in the head he would argue that it must have been something else besides a 2X4.

All This For Our King Psalm 101:1

Psalm 101:1 (ASV) A Psalm of David. I will sing of loving kindness and justice: Unto thee, O Jehovah, will I sing praises.

David Crowder’s song, “All this For Our King,” never fails to catapult me into God’s presence. This video on God Tube has been viewed a total of 3,804 times, and I’m certain, at least a hundred of those views, are from my IP address.

Please make sure your volume is turned up.

Answers to Antichristian’s questions

For Antichristian,

I will give answers to your questions. I do not expect you to accept them. I believe that you absolutely despise the idea of God.  I expect you to strongly deny what I have written.

Look at the four gospels and compare how Judas died. Do they match?

This question shows a lack of research on your part. What did you do—cut and paste this question from somewhere else? Tell me, by chance, do you even know the ONLY gospel that Judas’ death is recorded in? I have more concerning this, but, please, point out to me where in the gospels the death of Judas is recorded and in which gospels?

Thanks,

Jabe

Questions from Antichristian 2

This is by Jabe:

Antichristian wrote: “As for the claim that the gospels are accurate, anyone who says that simply has not undertaken a critical reading of them. (come on! This is a preposterous statement! You mean to tell me that you actually believe that throughout ALL of recorded history no one has ever undertaken a critical reading of the gospels? I find that extremely hard to believe, but then again, in your eyes I am a Christian and Christians are never right!).
Look at the first page of the Gospel According to Matthew and count how many generations from David to Joseph. Then look at the Gospel According to Luke and do the same. There are 28 generations in Matthew and 43 in Luke. Other than the names David and Joseph, only three names match.  How can there be such a gross inaccuracy in the word of God?” and “Scholar or not,

Let it be, let it be, let it be

The plan this morning was to get up at 5:30 and after reading The Liturgy of the Hours for today, to go for a run by 6:30. Instead, because I was up a little later than I wanted to be, I was up at 6:30 and out the door by 7 a.m. after reading The Liturgy of the Hours. Since I haven’t run this week, I opted to just run on the trails behind our house.

I want to get into a routine, where I read The Office of the Readings (a reading from the Bible and a commentary from a Church Father) and Morning Prayer (which also includes a Bible reading) each morning. As such, I’d like to be able to meditate somewhat on what I’ve read that morning. This morning, I was attempting to do that, thinking about a trip I’m taking to Mt. Savior Monastery in Pine City, N.Y. later today as I consider becoming an oblate there.

That was when it happened: I tripped on a rock and fell, face first, but I caught myself with my left arm as I fell, mud going up my arm and left leg. I had to laugh. Here, I am trying to be all “holy” and God puts me in my place. Later, I thought maybe God was trying to tell me something else, not to try so hard, whether it be meditating or reading Scripture or whatever it is that I’m doing throughout the day. For some reason, the song that came to me was “Let It Be” by the Beatles. Too often, I’m trying too hard when maybe I just need to let it be.

originally posted on Aug. 6, 2008 at journeying with the Saints

photo by joel8x

Books for David

Hi David (and anyone else interested),

Maybe you have already read these books, but, if not, I highly recommend them.

“A New Kind Of Christian” by Brian D. McLaren

“The Challenge of Jesus: Rediscovering Who Jesus Was and Is” by N. T. Wright

Happy reading!

Jabe

Exuberance for God (seen in soccer)

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matt. 19:14

Last fall, we went to my daughter’s soccer game.  One of her teammates came running off the field to a big man who was standing up.  She ran full speed ahead into his arms, and he lifted her up in a big hug.  He put her down and smiled at her as they spoke.  You could tell he loved her

I Will Not Fear…

Rom 7:15 (GNB) I do not understand what I do; for I don’t do what I would like to do, but instead, I do what I hate.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary on the Bible translates the word “do” from Greek in this passage: κατεργαξομαι which “means a work which the agent continues to perform till it is finished.” Further, Clarke states:

It “…denotes the continued employment of God’s saints in His service to the end of their lives.”

I am comforted by the thought that I am not supposed to be a “Finished Product.” My God sees my struggle and knows that I want to be like him. I am reminded of a prayer by, Thomas Merton:

MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. Therefore will I trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.

Thank You, Lord, for this day and all the challenges that draw me closer to You. Amen.

photo by mnadi

Afternoon with God

The Lord…makes me rest in green meadows…He renews my strength. Ps. 23:1-3 NLT

A couple of months ago, our church was praying and fasting so that we can grow closer to God and seek His will as a body.  My husband and I chose to fast on a Wednesday, from noon to midnight.  So I decided to take a drive at noon, but the park I was headed to was too crowded, so I wandered back towards home on back roads, not sure what I was looking for.

Then I felt the impulse, “Turn here.”  So I did, and it turned out to be a short dead end street in a rural area where I could park and take a walk.  I found a spot in some nearby woods and sat down on my picnic blanket.  The temperature is a perfect 75 or 80 degrees. There are blooming flowers

for Boom

“For Jabe,

Is creation fact?”

My initial response was a double-post and was directed at Lucy, but you are correct. Anyone can respond. I think we all need to ensure that we all are on the same page when responding though.

Jabe responds to that question, with: “Have you ever actually studied evolution? or do you merely believe what you have seen on television? Evolution has a lot of problems with it.”

Yes, I’ve studied it.

Hello, Jabe? The question is/was….is. CREATION. “fact”? Please notice that I’m not asking you to point out what you think are “holes” in Evolutionary theory. One of the more problematic – not-to-mention, fallacious arguments from Creationists – is that they think that shooting holes in Evolution will make “Creation” true by default. This is simply not true, and it amounts to non-sequitur. — “is creation fact?”-Yes, something was definitely created. Creation is initiation: the act of starting something for the first time;The universe had a definite starting “time” and  was created from super heated gasses and light and dark matter from nothing. Yes, creation is fact.

A run with Brother Lawrence

I know that for the right practice of it [the presence of God], the heart must be empty of all other things; because God will possess the heart alone; and as He cannot possess it alone, without emptying it of all besides, so neither can He act there, and do in it what He pleases, unless it be left vacant to Him.

– Brother Lawrence of the Resurrection
in Practice of the Presence of God: The Best Rule of Holy Life,
Christian Classics Ethereal Library edition

As I ran this morning, I reflected on this passage from one of the letters Brother Lawrence wrote to a nun. I consciously made an effort to keep in mind this thought, “Lord, empty me so I can be filled with You.” I also considered that the emptying of myself each morning can be not only a spiritual practice, but also a mental practice– in divesting myself of the worries of the upcoming day– and a physical practice– in expending energy, or emptying myself of energy, as I run. In this act of running each morning, all the elements of myself: body, mind and soul: can be incorporated– and emptied, and thus can I leave them vacant for God to fill.

Lord, empty me each morning spiritually, mentally and physically so I can be filled with only You, and truly practice Your presence throughout the day. Amen.

This post was also published at Journeying with the Saints.

Round 2 or 3

First, Antichristian can I call you “John”? It’s a lot shorter than antichristian and easier to type. Second, thank you for an enjoyable debate. Third, as you can see I have taken the time to read your post and most of your links. Hopefully you will do the same. Here are my responses to your postings. This is a LONG post.

No academic scholar or real historian takes the Jesus-Myth theory seriously, and no historian can ‘prove’ that anyone existed. All history is basically a matter of probability based upon best guess from documentary sources. The existence of Jesus has been accepted by history for centuries. IT is the skeptic’s burden [yours] to overturn that presumption and prove that Jesus didn’t exist!

F. F. Bruce, Rylands professor of biblical criticism and exegesis at the University of Manchester, said: “Some writers may toy with the fancy of a ‘Christ-myth,’ but

Progressive Sanctification

Phil 1:6 (ASV) being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.

I have a tendency to focus on how far I have yet to go in my spiritual journey. It’s almost as if I’m striving to get on God’s spiritual Dean’s List. I even have a mental roster of necessary tasks to perform to ensure my graduation into God’s kingdom:

Time Alone with God

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere. Ps. 84:10 I was reading my Jesus Calling devotional by Sarah Young.  I really love this book, about enjoying peace in Jesus’ Presence:

“Spending time alone with Me is essential for your well-being.  It is not a luxury or an option…do not feel guilty about taking time to be with Me…[Satan] delights in heaping guilt feelings upon you, especially when you are enjoying

Secular References and logical conclusions

You say there are very few secular references to Jesus as a historical figure:

Let me begin with this:

If I describe an animal that swims on water, has feathers, can fly, usually has a long and flat bill (on its mouth area), usually has webbed feet, and makes a sound that is similar to “quack, quack.” What sort of animal would you assume I am describing? Most people, I assume, would say that I am describing a duck even though I never mentioned the word “duck” until just a few words ago. It would be overwhelmingly obvious that I was describing a duck though I never mentioned the word “duck” in the description. So it is with some of the historical writings about Jesus. He may not be mentioned by name, but it is obvious what the writer is describing.

Response to Antichristian

I am assuming that Antichristian is an atheist. Is this a correct statement? One of the basic factors leading to the rise of atheism is a perception that belief in the divine does not lead to a morality that is clearly superior to that offered by secular culture. There is a definitive difference between atheism and Christianity: atheism is about fact, and Christianity is about faith.

Antichristian indicates there is no God. But he cannot know that for certain, because he would have to know all things in order to know if there is or is not a God. If he knew all things then he would be god. I tend to heed the advice of Anselm who said, “If there is not God, then in the end I lose nothing. But if there is a God like I say, in the end you lose everything if you do not believe.”

I have no idea of who Joe Vespucci is, but historical evidence about Jesus is plentiful. How do you sidestep the fact that many prophecies of Jesus as written in the Old Testament have been fulfilled. Jesus was a “real” historical figure.

Antichristian, what is your definition of “true Christians”?-What is the difference between Christians and “true Christians”?

It seems that Antichristian is being stereotypical. He speaks of one Chinese man and assumes that all Chinese people are the same way.

“All the proofs of God’s existence may fail, but it still may be the case that God exists.”

UnChristian

I have recently completed reading the book “UnChristian” by David Kinnaman. It is an interesting and compelling book about how Busters (ages 23 to 43) and Mosaics (ages 22-4) view Christianity and the church today. Overall, the view is negative. One quote from the book is, “Our task is to be effective agents of spiritual transformation in people’s lives, whatever that may cost in time, comfort, or image.” (p.19). The three most common perceptions by these age groups of Christianity today are: antihomosexual (91 percent), judgmental (87 percent), and hypocritical (85 percent). What are your opinions on this? What can we do to reverse this negative view?

photo by philafelo

THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL AND PSALM 91

Being an avid solo hiker, I was aware of the many dangers that could befall a woman hiking alone.

God’s Presence

To me, God’s Presence is like:

Being enveloped by a warm bath;

Sitting by a cozy fire with snow outside, curled up with Jesus;

Standing at the end of a mesa, 1000 feet tall with sheer walls descending in every direction, kept safe only by the hand of God;

Falling asleep in a cozy bed with a soft blanket, and God’s arms wrapped snuggly around me;

A warm evening with a gentle breeze playing with my hair and the stars glowing above;

Being alone in a closet with the lights off, unable to see a thing physically, but filled with God spiritually;

Being in a tent that is tossed by the wind; thunder and lightning overhead, crashing around me, in awe of God’s power and majesty.

Adventure With God

Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.”  Genesis 22:8

A year ago, we went to Capitol Reef N.P. in Utah.  The canyons and rock formations in this area are breathtaking.  We hiked down a very narrow, tall canyon.  We hiked most of the trail through the canyons, but my husband, Paul, and the girls were too hot and had enough.  So they stayed in the shadow of a gimungo rock wall, and I continued to the end of that trail.  At first, I was mad at the traitors!  But then I realized this was an opportunity to be alone with God in His magnificent creation.

So I walked along with Him, awed by his masterpieces, then took a side trail up the cliff to see “pots” or basins in the rock that sometimes hold water.  This trail paralleled the main trail below back up the canyon.  When I got to the basins, I realized there was a small side canyon that led down to the main canyon below where the main trail was.  The side canyon was a series of four or five rock ledges that led down, probably each 8-15’ apart in height.

Read More @ Captured by God: Adventure with God

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Being poor in spirit

(This was from a post in January during the time I was undergoing The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.)

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 5:3

Today’s Scripture reading was on the Beatitudes in Matthew. I read them and was silent with them, especially the first one as listed above, but I don’t know if I really got anything from them until this afternoon while I was out with two friends.

I visited today with a couple, who are friends of mine who don’t have a car. After we went out for lunch, the wife needed to pick up her paycheck at her place of work, a supermarket. So I took her and her husband, who is in a wheelchair because of complications with Lyme’s Disease, to get the check. As we were leaving, she mentioned that she talked with a customer who had just gotten groceries there and now had to walk back to the trailer park where she lived, about a mile and half away. The wife said she wished we would have been able to give her a ride, because she understood what it was like to walk with groceries in the cold to the trailer park, where she and her husband also lived. However, she said with her husband’s wheelchair in the backseat of my car, and since we were going somewhere else, there was no room for the customer who needed the ride. I agreed, saying something to the effect that it was too bad and then driving on.

A few minutes later, when we were only about two miles up the road, the wife had an idea. We could take the wheelchair back to their trailer and leave it there so we would have room for the woman, if she was still waiting for a bus that wouldn’t arrive for another two hours. The wife said she felt called to talk to the customer for some reason and couldn’t get her out of her mind, as if she had been led to talk to the customer. Now I couldn’t either.

We turned around, dropped off the chair and then went to see if the woman was still at the store. She was, and we were able to give her a ride, for which she was grateful. She asked if she owed us anything, and, of course, we said, “No,” and that it was no problem, which it wasn’t any problem.

I think I may have mentioned it before in this blog, that sometimes we see God or Jesus in the most unexpected of places. I wasn’t expecting to see God today, to meet His Son, when I started out yesterday to visit these two friends, but I did: in the actions of the wife, of her seeing an opportunity to help someone else when all I saw was a stumbling block.

A footnote to Matthew 5:3 of my Bible, “The Catholic Bible: The Personal Study Edition (Oxford University Press, 1995),” reads thus: “Matthew added in spirit in order either to indicate that only the devout poor were meant or to extend the beatitude to all, of whatever social rank, who recognized their complete dependence on God.” Or grace might be another way of putting it. God’s grace is all around us, if only we would recognize it.

Lord, allow me to see You in the everyday experiences of my life, not just in a devotional time, but throughout the day and recognize your grace moment by moment. Amen.

Provided by unfinishedperson

THE AMOEBA AND COL 3:22 – 23 (BBE)

Col 3:22 -23 (BBE)

22 Servants, in all things do the orders of your natural masters; not only when their eyes are on you, as pleasers of men, but with all your heart, fearing the Lord: 23 Whatever you do, do it readily, as to the Lord, and not to men.

I’m beginning to realize that the workplace is an ideal venue for spiritual refinement to take place. In fact, the more challenging the environment, the more opportunity to change and grow into His image.

Think of it, where else could we possibly encounter clashing egos, manipulations, worldly pride, high stress and relentless contradictions to our Christian faith, but, in the battleground of our daily work.

I once read a story about the single-cell amoeba, and how scientists performed an experiment in hopes of increasing its survival rate. They placed the amoeba in a tank of water and provided them with the exact right temperature, optimal light conditions and an endless supply of food. A shocking event took place, instead of rapidly increasing their numbers, the amoeba started dying at an incredible rate. Apparently, the scientists concluded, in order for the amoeba to grow strong it actually needed the daily resistance and struggle in order to survive.

Christ’s admonitions to Christians about their work is diametrically opposed to what the world would have us do: So, you have a bad boss? Christ tells us to honor them and serve them anyway. Are you persecuted and treated unfairly? Look to Christ as being your ultimate supervisor. What a challenge! Can we do it? I am convinced, not without His help.

Thank You Lord for showing me that I work for You. Instead of searching for other jobs, continue to reveal to me all the reasons why You placed me where I am. Today, with Your help, I will see every upset and resistance as an opportunity to refine my spiritual growth.

by anonymous, author of spiritualbattleground.wordpress.com