Well, as most of you probably know - we have been wanting to move into a larger place to live. We have been looking for a few months.... a few maybes but nothing has panned out.
We looked at another home on Saturday evening. A 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage... nice size living room, dining room, kitchen, inside laundry... private back yard. I got there first and ended up talking to the owner for about an hour before John arrived. Our conversation somehow became about how amazing God is. We both agreed and had many testimonies to share with each other about His continued faithfulness.
John arrived, we liked the house - and it all of a sudden became clear that the owner was offering the house to us - with out us even filling out an application. In fact, she didn't even know our last name! Then, I asked how much the deposit is. I was expecting, to hear 2 times the rent as I had heard on so many others. No, she wanted, 2 times the rent PLUS $1000 deposit. Oh yikes... that's $4800! John never worries about money and said no problem. I on the other hand - worried.
This morning, I worried some more and thought it best that I be honest with her. So, I called her and told her that we just couldn't possibly come up with that much money. I'm so sorry but we will have to decline. She said that she would take the $1900 for the last month, $950 for the first month since we won't be getting the keys til the 15th and only $500 deposit. What? That's $1500 off ?!?!!?!? Oh wow... um... OK?
Well, John and I have been saving up money for this but thought that it might be inevitable that we take out the money I have in an old 401K/IRA account. We knew that there would be huge penalties and taxes but that is the only place we knew we could come up with more cash fast. I really didn't want to lose 1/2 of that to taxes... hmmmm.... We have the $1900 saved, don't have to pay the $950 til the 15th... where to find $500 right now?
Then, I remembered that I had 2 paychecks that I had not cashed that were a little over $100 each... so now where to find the other $250? "Something" told me - check the mail... and as God has done for me so many times in the past - there it was, a check for $260...
Man, is God good or what?
So, the next question is - who's ready to help us move?????
Monday, August 3, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
I fail....
Don't have our taxes done yet... and don't have a memory scripture...
And to be quite honest - not doing a great job at memorizing those from the past..
What a poser....
And to be quite honest - not doing a great job at memorizing those from the past..
What a poser....
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Do your words benefit those that listen?
I get a daily Bible scripture sent to me from The Daily Bible Verse. Today's scripture was Proverbs 12:14 - NIV From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.
What I like most about the emails is that there is always commentary to go along with it. Today's commentary was:
Our mouths and our hands both produce a product. It is their "fruit." Wise words bring rewards just as hard work does.
Our words should be used to honor God and build up others in the truth.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29
Do your words benefit those who listen?
Hmmm... very interesting question I thought. And I would have to answer no, not always.
Especially lately, watching Jake's baseball games. Jake is playing on a Rookie league. It is designed for those that were not quite ready for the "big" league so they can get extra attention and training before they move up. In this league, everyone is supposed to play regardless of ability. Jake is doing well and is right where he needs to be as far as the decision for him to be in the rookie division. My problem is with the favoritism that I see the coach showing to his own son.
The coaches son plays on the team - and he is a pretty good player - I won't take that away from him. But, he jumps ahead in batting order, he walks around with an attitude of superiority (my dad is the coach!), he gets away with things in the dugout that other kids would get in trouble with... But my biggest pet peeve is that he is rewarded for playing this team sport like he is the only kid on the field!!! The coach has created a reward system for the boys ... if they do extra good in the game then they receive a game ball at the end of the game. The 4 with the most game balls at the end of the season get gift certificates to different places.
For one, the coach doesn't wait til the end of the game to decide who should get a ball for the game - so if you do something extra ordinary in the 3rd inning, too bad. But, his son will leave his position and go all the way across the field to get a ball, pushing others out of the way, and then will run the ball to the base (instead of throwing it to the base) - just so he can be rewarded with the out! And instead of the coach telling him to stay in his place or to throw the ball - he rewards him for getting so many outs!!! There have been times when it was clearly Jake's ball but Jake has said, why try - Jonathan got it and he won't throw it....
Baseball is a team sport!!!!!!!!
And it is soooo clear that the other mom's in the stands are smooching up to the team mom and coach - when Jonathan is at bat or does something on the field you would think that it's Mickey Mantle or Babe Ruth out there...
Well, one mom doesn't do it - she walked up to us at the last game and said, "I don't want to sound whatever, but this is 2 innings and I haven't seen my son playing." No, when the coach switched out the kids playing the outfield, everyone had to come in but the coaches son... and this other boy had to sit out.
Sigh.... so back to the scripture... I try so hard to keep my mouth shut while in the stands... but sometimes I just can't stand it anymore... it drives me crazy!!!
Lately, I have been reduced to making some comments that were not helpful or beneficial at all.... for example: The team mom was telling us about the Easter event that they have at the park... that they have an Easter egg hunt and then she mentioned that the kids win stuff (she didn't say how) but she said that it seems strange to her that the President of the Leagues' kid always wins something big every year and her kid never wins anything.... So, of course I said - Gosh, don't you just hate it when people play favorites? I can't stand favoritism!!!
I know that I have made comments in the stands about Jonathan going all the way across the field... or refusing to throw the ball. All I am supposed to be saying is positive things - but man is it hard. Guess God really knew what he was doing when he put Jake here... guess it's time for some character refining...
So, my scripture for the next 2 weeks is:
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29
What I like most about the emails is that there is always commentary to go along with it. Today's commentary was:
Our mouths and our hands both produce a product. It is their "fruit." Wise words bring rewards just as hard work does.
Our words should be used to honor God and build up others in the truth.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29
Do your words benefit those who listen?
Hmmm... very interesting question I thought. And I would have to answer no, not always.
Especially lately, watching Jake's baseball games. Jake is playing on a Rookie league. It is designed for those that were not quite ready for the "big" league so they can get extra attention and training before they move up. In this league, everyone is supposed to play regardless of ability. Jake is doing well and is right where he needs to be as far as the decision for him to be in the rookie division. My problem is with the favoritism that I see the coach showing to his own son.
The coaches son plays on the team - and he is a pretty good player - I won't take that away from him. But, he jumps ahead in batting order, he walks around with an attitude of superiority (my dad is the coach!), he gets away with things in the dugout that other kids would get in trouble with... But my biggest pet peeve is that he is rewarded for playing this team sport like he is the only kid on the field!!! The coach has created a reward system for the boys ... if they do extra good in the game then they receive a game ball at the end of the game. The 4 with the most game balls at the end of the season get gift certificates to different places.
For one, the coach doesn't wait til the end of the game to decide who should get a ball for the game - so if you do something extra ordinary in the 3rd inning, too bad. But, his son will leave his position and go all the way across the field to get a ball, pushing others out of the way, and then will run the ball to the base (instead of throwing it to the base) - just so he can be rewarded with the out! And instead of the coach telling him to stay in his place or to throw the ball - he rewards him for getting so many outs!!! There have been times when it was clearly Jake's ball but Jake has said, why try - Jonathan got it and he won't throw it....
Baseball is a team sport!!!!!!!!
And it is soooo clear that the other mom's in the stands are smooching up to the team mom and coach - when Jonathan is at bat or does something on the field you would think that it's Mickey Mantle or Babe Ruth out there...
Well, one mom doesn't do it - she walked up to us at the last game and said, "I don't want to sound whatever, but this is 2 innings and I haven't seen my son playing." No, when the coach switched out the kids playing the outfield, everyone had to come in but the coaches son... and this other boy had to sit out.
Sigh.... so back to the scripture... I try so hard to keep my mouth shut while in the stands... but sometimes I just can't stand it anymore... it drives me crazy!!!
Lately, I have been reduced to making some comments that were not helpful or beneficial at all.... for example: The team mom was telling us about the Easter event that they have at the park... that they have an Easter egg hunt and then she mentioned that the kids win stuff (she didn't say how) but she said that it seems strange to her that the President of the Leagues' kid always wins something big every year and her kid never wins anything.... So, of course I said - Gosh, don't you just hate it when people play favorites? I can't stand favoritism!!!
I know that I have made comments in the stands about Jonathan going all the way across the field... or refusing to throw the ball. All I am supposed to be saying is positive things - but man is it hard. Guess God really knew what he was doing when he put Jake here... guess it's time for some character refining...
So, my scripture for the next 2 weeks is:
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March 17th.... that means -
Well, for one it means that it's Saint Patrick's Day - don't forget to wear your green!
And for two it means that I am behind again on my memory scripture.... and since my excuse for not doing it is simply weariness - I thought I would look up some scriptures on that.
Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
2 Thessalonians 3:13:
But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 57:10
You grew weary in your search,but you never gave up. Desire gave you renewed strength, and you did not grow weary.
Isaiah 28:12
God has told his people,“Here is a place of rest; let the weary rest here. This is a place of quiet rest.” But they would not listen.
Isaiah 40:28
Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 50:4
[The Lord’s Obedient Servant] The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will.
I think the one that speaks to me the most is the first one... I feel that I have been doing what I should - and thought that I would see some fruit of that labor. In truth, I have even thought many times of giving up.... but - God promises there WILL be a reaping of what we sow.... IF we do not grow weary.
SO -
Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
And for two it means that I am behind again on my memory scripture.... and since my excuse for not doing it is simply weariness - I thought I would look up some scriptures on that.
Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
2 Thessalonians 3:13:
But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 57:10
You grew weary in your search,but you never gave up. Desire gave you renewed strength, and you did not grow weary.
Isaiah 28:12
God has told his people,“Here is a place of rest; let the weary rest here. This is a place of quiet rest.” But they would not listen.
Isaiah 40:28
Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 50:4
[The Lord’s Obedient Servant] The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom, so that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will.
I think the one that speaks to me the most is the first one... I feel that I have been doing what I should - and thought that I would see some fruit of that labor. In truth, I have even thought many times of giving up.... but - God promises there WILL be a reaping of what we sow.... IF we do not grow weary.
SO -
Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
STOLEN!!!
Man I hate thieves.... and it is especially bad when someone you know and trusts robs you....
Christopher met someone a few years ago who had - let's say, I questionable life. We believed that he wanted to get it together and was on the right path so we welcomed him into our home and offered him love and support.
He was living with a foster parent when we met him.... somewhere along the path they had it out and he left the home. He was of age - and there was nothing anyone could do about it. So, he chose a life living on the streets and doing whatever he had to do to get by. When he made this choice, Christopher and he grew apart but we have heard from him now and then and if anyone of us see him walking, we stop and offer him a ride.
The last few weeks he has been seen walking down our street.... and Sunday evening, Christopher received a call from him saying he was on the block and wanted to stop by. Christopher was out for a walk with a neighbor... he told him that he would be home in a few. Well, when Christopher got home, his "friend" was not here - and neither was Christopher's car.
So, we called and reported it stolen... and basically thought it was a done deal. The next morning, his "friend" showed up at our house with an old wallet Christopher had in the car... saying he knew where the car was and FOR $800 WE COULD BUY BACK OUR OWN CAR!!!!
Yep, you read right... he said he was being a good friend to Christopher and stayed up all night looking for the car and talked to someone who knew someone and found the car in a chop shop about to be taken apart - but since he is such a good friend, he had them stop and can take them money and they will release the car.
Well, Christopher thought that maybe he could get more out of this boy if they were alone - so they went for a walk. I called the police. In about 10 minutes time, 7 police cars and a helicopter were at my house. They had both the boys stopped and handcuffed down the street.
About 20 minutes later, they released them... yes - BOTH of them... and the cops left. Left without telling me anything!!! So, right after that John arrived at home....
John confronted the boy (even though he is 19 I can't bring myself to call him a man)... and asked him if he by chance had told the cops that he brought back the wallet and and had shared with us the exact details of what is inside the trunk of the car. "Uh... no... ", was his reply. So, John called the police back.
One car arrived - and we added that info to the story... still they didn't take him in... The only reason we can think of why they didn't was because they are wanting to watch him. Since he said it's at a chop shop, they informed us that it is now a federal offense... and a much bigger deal than just a punk kid stealing a car for a joy ride.
So, now we wait til we can get in contact with a Auto Detective... to make sure they know the whole story... and see what they do from there.
I did find out that the car was fully insured.... so if it is not recovered, we will be offered something... but of course, not enough to buy another car.
You know, at one time in my life that kind of drama would have been ok... but now, I am soooo over it.... sorry kid - you need to go to jail.
Christopher met someone a few years ago who had - let's say, I questionable life. We believed that he wanted to get it together and was on the right path so we welcomed him into our home and offered him love and support.
He was living with a foster parent when we met him.... somewhere along the path they had it out and he left the home. He was of age - and there was nothing anyone could do about it. So, he chose a life living on the streets and doing whatever he had to do to get by. When he made this choice, Christopher and he grew apart but we have heard from him now and then and if anyone of us see him walking, we stop and offer him a ride.
The last few weeks he has been seen walking down our street.... and Sunday evening, Christopher received a call from him saying he was on the block and wanted to stop by. Christopher was out for a walk with a neighbor... he told him that he would be home in a few. Well, when Christopher got home, his "friend" was not here - and neither was Christopher's car.
So, we called and reported it stolen... and basically thought it was a done deal. The next morning, his "friend" showed up at our house with an old wallet Christopher had in the car... saying he knew where the car was and FOR $800 WE COULD BUY BACK OUR OWN CAR!!!!
Yep, you read right... he said he was being a good friend to Christopher and stayed up all night looking for the car and talked to someone who knew someone and found the car in a chop shop about to be taken apart - but since he is such a good friend, he had them stop and can take them money and they will release the car.
Well, Christopher thought that maybe he could get more out of this boy if they were alone - so they went for a walk. I called the police. In about 10 minutes time, 7 police cars and a helicopter were at my house. They had both the boys stopped and handcuffed down the street.
About 20 minutes later, they released them... yes - BOTH of them... and the cops left. Left without telling me anything!!! So, right after that John arrived at home....
John confronted the boy (even though he is 19 I can't bring myself to call him a man)... and asked him if he by chance had told the cops that he brought back the wallet and and had shared with us the exact details of what is inside the trunk of the car. "Uh... no... ", was his reply. So, John called the police back.
One car arrived - and we added that info to the story... still they didn't take him in... The only reason we can think of why they didn't was because they are wanting to watch him. Since he said it's at a chop shop, they informed us that it is now a federal offense... and a much bigger deal than just a punk kid stealing a car for a joy ride.
So, now we wait til we can get in contact with a Auto Detective... to make sure they know the whole story... and see what they do from there.
I did find out that the car was fully insured.... so if it is not recovered, we will be offered something... but of course, not enough to buy another car.
You know, at one time in my life that kind of drama would have been ok... but now, I am soooo over it.... sorry kid - you need to go to jail.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
What Number are we On?
Well, today is the 3rd and I haven't gotten my rent cashiers check and I haven't picked out my new scripture.... but I wanted to put up a new post in case you have.
I will edit here when I finally get mine... I had one but I didn't write it down...
I will edit here when I finally get mine... I had one but I didn't write it down...
Friday, February 27, 2009
Where have I been?
It feels like forever since I have been here... wow so much has been going on.
My sister has been here in town for a while now. She will be leaving this Sunday to go home. I will miss her terribly. I don't think she is quite ready to go home but her best friend back home is very very sick.... At last weekends retreat my sister accepted Jesus as her Savior!!! Praise God - wow that was the greatest birthday present ever (followed closely by a great trip to Disneyland - aaahhhhh!!!!). But now she is going home to see her friend that is not expected to live much longer. I said to my sister that she has great news for her friend and she said that her friend doesn't talk about religion.... hmmm - that doesn't sound good to me. So, please pray for my sister that she has the boldness to speak to her friend about Christ and her eternal home after leaving this temporary one... and that her friend's heart is softened to listen..... OH... and a miracle wouldn't be too bad too! :)
Tomorrow is opening day with Eastview Little League. We are beginning the baseball season.... I'm not looking forward to opening ceremonies (even though it is rumored that the mayor will be there)... but I am looking forward to the upcoming games!! We figured that the games would all be weekend days when John is working and he would miss them. We were told at sign ups that there might be a chance of Sunday games. We prayed there wouldn't be any - but had resolved that Jake would have to miss those games if it coincided with church. Not only do we NOT have any Sunday games on the schedule - but 1/2 the games are Monday mid day games - that John can attend!!!!! God is so good to work out the details when we are ready to honor Him.
Well, morning will come all too quickly.... OH - and tomorrow is the last day of the month - so new scriptures are due soon!!!
My sister has been here in town for a while now. She will be leaving this Sunday to go home. I will miss her terribly. I don't think she is quite ready to go home but her best friend back home is very very sick.... At last weekends retreat my sister accepted Jesus as her Savior!!! Praise God - wow that was the greatest birthday present ever (followed closely by a great trip to Disneyland - aaahhhhh!!!!). But now she is going home to see her friend that is not expected to live much longer. I said to my sister that she has great news for her friend and she said that her friend doesn't talk about religion.... hmmm - that doesn't sound good to me. So, please pray for my sister that she has the boldness to speak to her friend about Christ and her eternal home after leaving this temporary one... and that her friend's heart is softened to listen..... OH... and a miracle wouldn't be too bad too! :)
Tomorrow is opening day with Eastview Little League. We are beginning the baseball season.... I'm not looking forward to opening ceremonies (even though it is rumored that the mayor will be there)... but I am looking forward to the upcoming games!! We figured that the games would all be weekend days when John is working and he would miss them. We were told at sign ups that there might be a chance of Sunday games. We prayed there wouldn't be any - but had resolved that Jake would have to miss those games if it coincided with church. Not only do we NOT have any Sunday games on the schedule - but 1/2 the games are Monday mid day games - that John can attend!!!!! God is so good to work out the details when we are ready to honor Him.
Well, morning will come all too quickly.... OH - and tomorrow is the last day of the month - so new scriptures are due soon!!!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Thanks Jen - you are right, It's time for #4!!
Thanks Jen for keeping me on track and holding me accountable.... what a dear friend.
I'm 3 days late with this one... sorry about that... I'm trying frantically to slow my pace and find time for true devotion time with my dear Savior but darn that life that keeps getting in the way.
I'm sorry to report that my note cards are still not filled out... and my beautiful card holder is still in the bag from the store that I purchased it at. Maybe this morning I can tend to that.....
Maybe the scripture that I need to memorize is the one where Paul is saying that he wants to "be good" but his flesh keeps him from doing so... anyone know what that one is?
Instead I have chosen one that is short and sweet and to the point of what I have been dealing a lot with lately. I have some dear people in my life that seem to be going through an impossible situation... one where the world may see no sight of reconciliation or restoration... but: "Nothing is too difficult for my God."
Genesis 18:14 NIV
I'm 3 days late with this one... sorry about that... I'm trying frantically to slow my pace and find time for true devotion time with my dear Savior but darn that life that keeps getting in the way.
I'm sorry to report that my note cards are still not filled out... and my beautiful card holder is still in the bag from the store that I purchased it at. Maybe this morning I can tend to that.....
Maybe the scripture that I need to memorize is the one where Paul is saying that he wants to "be good" but his flesh keeps him from doing so... anyone know what that one is?
Instead I have chosen one that is short and sweet and to the point of what I have been dealing a lot with lately. I have some dear people in my life that seem to be going through an impossible situation... one where the world may see no sight of reconciliation or restoration... but: "Nothing is too difficult for my God."
Genesis 18:14 NIV
Monday, February 2, 2009
Session 3
This has been a little harder than I thought it would be... I like to think that I am a person that can stick to a task... but ... hmmmm....
I did finally buy a book to keep my index cards in.... but now just to get the index cards, write down the scriptures and put them in it...
I've gone with a little shorter one this time... maybe I started out with too long of scriptures and it has discouraged me... like losing weight, gotta see progress before you have the gumption to stick with it.
So, here's my verse (along with finishing the other 2):
Proverbs 9:10 (New International Version)
10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Let's hear yours!
ADDITION: In my useless knowledge widget I learned this: The human heart rests between beats. In the average lifetime of 70 years, the total resting time is estimated to be about 40 years. Proof that God did in fact design us to rest... hmmmm...
I did finally buy a book to keep my index cards in.... but now just to get the index cards, write down the scriptures and put them in it...
I've gone with a little shorter one this time... maybe I started out with too long of scriptures and it has discouraged me... like losing weight, gotta see progress before you have the gumption to stick with it.
So, here's my verse (along with finishing the other 2):
Proverbs 9:10 (New International Version)
10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Let's hear yours!
ADDITION: In my useless knowledge widget I learned this: The human heart rests between beats. In the average lifetime of 70 years, the total resting time is estimated to be about 40 years. Proof that God did in fact design us to rest... hmmmm...
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Anyone Out There?
Today's the 15th... time for a new scripture... How did you do on the last one? Honestly - I think I got about 90% of it... I know that I got the meat of it and the meaning behind it... I THINK that is what is the most important part... ??
Here's mine:
Romans 5: 3-5
We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out His love to fill our hearts. He gave us His love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.
A few reminders from Beth:
1. Choose a Scripture you yourself really need. If you don’t have one picked out and you feel like you could really use the one I’m memorizing, please feel free to join me and don’t feel lame. That’s what mentors in Christ are for.
2. Limit your comment to your Scripture (entirely written out even if you’re joining me with mine) and your name and city. Remember to add your translation abbreviation because many of your sisters may want to look up your verse and won’t know where to find it otherwise. I know it’s hard not to leave further comments but it’s so much cooler to read one Scripture after another as we go through the post. You did such a great job following this instruction last time. Truly it was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen on the blog.
3. Add your verse to your spiral index cards as your second Scripture then begin the same process of memorization/meditation that you did with the first one. Once you get a bit of a handle on the second one, you will then begin doing them BOTH over and over in succession. Don’t get intimidated by this! You can do it. In fact, you’re going to thrive on it! To me, this is when it really starts getting fun and POWERFUL. I love the process of saying a number of Scriptures in a row. You’ll find that the victory is not only won in the spiritual war around us. It’s also won in that very personal war raging within us. Even if you read your two Scriptures over and over and don’t memorize them word for word, remember the primary goal is still accomplished: You are getting the Truth in your brain and holding your thoughts captive to Christ!
OK - post yours in the comments... let's get to memorizing!!
Here's mine:
Romans 5: 3-5
We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out His love to fill our hearts. He gave us His love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.
A few reminders from Beth:
1. Choose a Scripture you yourself really need. If you don’t have one picked out and you feel like you could really use the one I’m memorizing, please feel free to join me and don’t feel lame. That’s what mentors in Christ are for.
2. Limit your comment to your Scripture (entirely written out even if you’re joining me with mine) and your name and city. Remember to add your translation abbreviation because many of your sisters may want to look up your verse and won’t know where to find it otherwise. I know it’s hard not to leave further comments but it’s so much cooler to read one Scripture after another as we go through the post. You did such a great job following this instruction last time. Truly it was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen on the blog.
3. Add your verse to your spiral index cards as your second Scripture then begin the same process of memorization/meditation that you did with the first one. Once you get a bit of a handle on the second one, you will then begin doing them BOTH over and over in succession. Don’t get intimidated by this! You can do it. In fact, you’re going to thrive on it! To me, this is when it really starts getting fun and POWERFUL. I love the process of saying a number of Scriptures in a row. You’ll find that the victory is not only won in the spiritual war around us. It’s also won in that very personal war raging within us. Even if you read your two Scriptures over and over and don’t memorize them word for word, remember the primary goal is still accomplished: You are getting the Truth in your brain and holding your thoughts captive to Christ!
OK - post yours in the comments... let's get to memorizing!!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Check up & Follow up...
Hey there.... how's it going??? 8 days in - are we all still in this?? I sure hope that no one has listened to the enemy and believed the nonsense that this is not only necessary but vital.
If you haven't been to Beth's blog yet - I strongly suggest you check it out!! Beth has posted a video tutorial to help us in this journey... it's little over 15 minutes and full of great info. She goes over a acrostic to help us remember the verses... R-E-N-E-W... go find out what it stands for...
I wasn't planning on getting index cards ... but I think that I have changed my mind. I want to be able to look back at the end of the year and see the progress in a very tangible way...although I pray that I will also be able to see the progress in a not so tangible way.
On a different note... I *think* that Christopher has figured out that this girl is not the one for him. His uncle spoke to him ... and to her separately and basically told them both that they need to stay away from each other. She needs to stop leading him on and he needs to get on with life. Thanks for the prayers and pep talks/words of wisdom... but please, keep praying - he's not home yet.
I'm currently having a cup of hot tea... Holiday Tea - Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride... my sister bought it and I decided to have a cup because I am missing her. I can't really go into details - but if you remember - could you please pray for her?... basically life is not playing fair... but she sure could use some Jesus.
Well... let me know what's up with you...
If you haven't been to Beth's blog yet - I strongly suggest you check it out!! Beth has posted a video tutorial to help us in this journey... it's little over 15 minutes and full of great info. She goes over a acrostic to help us remember the verses... R-E-N-E-W... go find out what it stands for...
I wasn't planning on getting index cards ... but I think that I have changed my mind. I want to be able to look back at the end of the year and see the progress in a very tangible way...although I pray that I will also be able to see the progress in a not so tangible way.
On a different note... I *think* that Christopher has figured out that this girl is not the one for him. His uncle spoke to him ... and to her separately and basically told them both that they need to stay away from each other. She needs to stop leading him on and he needs to get on with life. Thanks for the prayers and pep talks/words of wisdom... but please, keep praying - he's not home yet.
I'm currently having a cup of hot tea... Holiday Tea - Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride... my sister bought it and I decided to have a cup because I am missing her. I can't really go into details - but if you remember - could you please pray for her?... basically life is not playing fair... but she sure could use some Jesus.
Well... let me know what's up with you...
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Young Love....
Well, I have mostly female readers... so I wonder if you would help me out and answer me a question.
My son is head over heals in love with a girl that does not feel the same way about him. He said that "she acts one way but then tells me that we are just friends." hmmm....
Although I am the oldest one of the bunch - it wasn't that long ago that I was 15 (her age). And I do recall this happening a couple of times... and how it didn't take me long to figure out just how much I liked the attention ... which lead to finding out just how far I could get the boy to do what I wanted (buy me this, get me that, take me here...)and then finding out just how much I liked that power.
Christopher swears - "she is not like that"... she is "amazing". Yeah... maybe, maybe not...
So, is it / was it just me??? Or are there other females out there that have had this same experience??? Any male readers want to add something - go ahead.
My son is head over heals in love with a girl that does not feel the same way about him. He said that "she acts one way but then tells me that we are just friends." hmmm....
Although I am the oldest one of the bunch - it wasn't that long ago that I was 15 (her age). And I do recall this happening a couple of times... and how it didn't take me long to figure out just how much I liked the attention ... which lead to finding out just how far I could get the boy to do what I wanted (buy me this, get me that, take me here...)and then finding out just how much I liked that power.
Christopher swears - "she is not like that"... she is "amazing". Yeah... maybe, maybe not...
So, is it / was it just me??? Or are there other females out there that have had this same experience??? Any male readers want to add something - go ahead.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
A New Land
As I read and reread the scripture that I picked for the first 2 weeks of memorization... I am trying to really look at each line ... not just memorizing words... but taking in the nourishment from My Daily Bread...
It struck me that in this verse there is a comparison in lines 10 and 12... (something else we learned from a previous Beth Moore study - how to look at scripture)
Deuteronomy 11: 10-12
10"For the land, into which you are entering to possess it, is not like the land of Egypt from which you came, where you used to sow your seed and water it with your foot like a vegetable garden.
11"But the land into which you are about to cross to possess it, a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
12a land for which the LORD your God cares; the eyes of the LORD your God are always on it, from the beginning even to the end of the year.
I know that too many times, I have told God, "that's ok - I've got it..." and I have worked the situation. But I long to enter fully into the land that God cares for. I know that His eye is always on this little sparrow... but this verse implies to me that entering into this land requires me to do something. I have thought many times that I had done this... and maybe it's something I have to do over and over again.... but I have to fully submit to Him. Allow His plan to unfold... His way and in His time. I don't think that He expects me to just sit and do nothing but in the same time I must learn to be more watchful of His hand at work.... close my mouth and get out of His way.
Another comparison is in line 11:
a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
The new land won't be void of ups and downs.... but this land (and this line gets me) DRINKS WATER FROM THE RAIN OF HEAVEN... I see myself in an open valley - arms outstretched.... under a downpour of rain.... knowing that it is not a scary thunderstorm but rain sent to nourish and replenish.
Thank you Lord for Your peace, Your grace, Your love and Your Word....
Anyone out there having the same experience with your memorization?
It struck me that in this verse there is a comparison in lines 10 and 12... (something else we learned from a previous Beth Moore study - how to look at scripture)
Deuteronomy 11: 10-12
10"For the land, into which you are entering to possess it, is not like the land of Egypt from which you came, where you used to sow your seed and water it with your foot like a vegetable garden.
11"But the land into which you are about to cross to possess it, a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
12a land for which the LORD your God cares; the eyes of the LORD your God are always on it, from the beginning even to the end of the year.
I know that too many times, I have told God, "that's ok - I've got it..." and I have worked the situation. But I long to enter fully into the land that God cares for. I know that His eye is always on this little sparrow... but this verse implies to me that entering into this land requires me to do something. I have thought many times that I had done this... and maybe it's something I have to do over and over again.... but I have to fully submit to Him. Allow His plan to unfold... His way and in His time. I don't think that He expects me to just sit and do nothing but in the same time I must learn to be more watchful of His hand at work.... close my mouth and get out of His way.
Another comparison is in line 11:
a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
The new land won't be void of ups and downs.... but this land (and this line gets me) DRINKS WATER FROM THE RAIN OF HEAVEN... I see myself in an open valley - arms outstretched.... under a downpour of rain.... knowing that it is not a scary thunderstorm but rain sent to nourish and replenish.
Thank you Lord for Your peace, Your grace, Your love and Your Word....
Anyone out there having the same experience with your memorization?
Thursday, January 1, 2009
And We're Off!!
Hi everyone... a new year has begun... and a challenge lays before us. I pray that we all stick to this. I meant what I said, I want to be held accountable on this! If it's the 2nd or the 16th and I haven't posted a blog for us to post to - contact me!
If you have no idea what I am talking about - read my last blog... "Who's With Me?"
Here's my scripture to start the new year... I read it on Beth's blog (yeah - we are on a first name basis... :-)... it's what she started last year with and I thought it would be appropriate to begin this new year with...
Deuteronomy 11: 10-12
10"For the land, into which you are entering to possess it, is not like the land of Egypt from which you came, where you used to sow your seed and water it with your foot like a vegetable garden.
11"But the land into which you are about to cross to possess it, a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
12a land for which the LORD your God cares; the eyes of the LORD your God are always on it, from the beginning even to the end of the year.
I pray Lord that we are about to enter into a new land... new territory for many of us (including me)... a new year - that is filled with You. A year where we don't just talk about having a relationship with you - but a year where we HAVE a relationship with you. Please dear Lord - help us.... help us to focus on what really matters... help us to let go of the stronghold of the enemy.... remind us that when we have You we are empowered to stand against him... help us to have clear vision of the battles that are going on constantly for our peace and to see who our true enemy is in that battle...
Beth's prayer:
Our Abba and our God, from cities and states all over this nation and from other parts of this globe, we band together as one beautifully diverse sisterhood to offer You the praise You are so worthy to receive. We thank You for how You have taught us, sustained us, comforted us and even disciplined over the course of the last year and now we entrust every bit of it to You. Redeem what still hurts. Mend what remains broken. Heal what is still sick. We give what is behind us over to You but now we cast a deliberate gaze toward our future. We need You. We want You. We ask You for a pure, unadulterated JESUS-YEAR. We want to have one badly enough to make a joint commitment to hide Your Word in our hearts, to let it renew our brains, and become a Sword in our hands.
We commit this day to memorize or voraciously meditate on 24 Scriptures in 2009. Lord, we know from past experience that You alone can give us the unction to keep a single profound commitment for longer than ten minutes. We believe, however, based on Your Word, that You are the Initiator of all things faith (Hebrews 12:2) and that what You call us to do, You also empower us to do (Hebrews 10:23). We receive from You this day the anointing to memorize Your Word. We invite it to abide in us and bear much fruit. We ask You to make it powerful and healing to us. Transforming and beautifying. Bring forth a one-hundred fold harvest from every Scripture You sow into our spirits and cause us to be mightier in our battles than we've ever been in our lives. Start a fire in us that cannot be quenched even by death.
We thank you Lord - and commit ourselves, this task, and this year to you. AMEN
Now post your scripture in the comments...
If you have no idea what I am talking about - read my last blog... "Who's With Me?"
Here's my scripture to start the new year... I read it on Beth's blog (yeah - we are on a first name basis... :-)... it's what she started last year with and I thought it would be appropriate to begin this new year with...
Deuteronomy 11: 10-12
10"For the land, into which you are entering to possess it, is not like the land of Egypt from which you came, where you used to sow your seed and water it with your foot like a vegetable garden.
11"But the land into which you are about to cross to possess it, a land of hills and valleys, drinks water from the rain of heaven,
12a land for which the LORD your God cares; the eyes of the LORD your God are always on it, from the beginning even to the end of the year.
I pray Lord that we are about to enter into a new land... new territory for many of us (including me)... a new year - that is filled with You. A year where we don't just talk about having a relationship with you - but a year where we HAVE a relationship with you. Please dear Lord - help us.... help us to focus on what really matters... help us to let go of the stronghold of the enemy.... remind us that when we have You we are empowered to stand against him... help us to have clear vision of the battles that are going on constantly for our peace and to see who our true enemy is in that battle...
Beth's prayer:
Our Abba and our God, from cities and states all over this nation and from other parts of this globe, we band together as one beautifully diverse sisterhood to offer You the praise You are so worthy to receive. We thank You for how You have taught us, sustained us, comforted us and even disciplined over the course of the last year and now we entrust every bit of it to You. Redeem what still hurts. Mend what remains broken. Heal what is still sick. We give what is behind us over to You but now we cast a deliberate gaze toward our future. We need You. We want You. We ask You for a pure, unadulterated JESUS-YEAR. We want to have one badly enough to make a joint commitment to hide Your Word in our hearts, to let it renew our brains, and become a Sword in our hands.
We commit this day to memorize or voraciously meditate on 24 Scriptures in 2009. Lord, we know from past experience that You alone can give us the unction to keep a single profound commitment for longer than ten minutes. We believe, however, based on Your Word, that You are the Initiator of all things faith (Hebrews 12:2) and that what You call us to do, You also empower us to do (Hebrews 10:23). We receive from You this day the anointing to memorize Your Word. We invite it to abide in us and bear much fruit. We ask You to make it powerful and healing to us. Transforming and beautifying. Bring forth a one-hundred fold harvest from every Scripture You sow into our spirits and cause us to be mightier in our battles than we've ever been in our lives. Start a fire in us that cannot be quenched even by death.
We thank you Lord - and commit ourselves, this task, and this year to you. AMEN
Now post your scripture in the comments...
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