Worship

Today's "Beyond Words" devotional was on the word, "worship". And during this time of celebration of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, I think it's very appropriate. I wanted to share it here (page 414 if you have the book... day 357).

Worship
Phrases like worship service and service of worship are tautologies. To worship God means to serve God. Basically there are two ways to do it. One way is to do things for God that God needs to have done - run errands for God, carry messages for God, fight on God's side, feed God's lambs, and so on. The other way is to do things for God that you need to do - sing songs for God, create beautiful things for God, give things up for God, tell God what's on your mind and in your heart, in general rejoice in God and make a fool of yourself for God the way lovers have always made fools of themselves for the one they love.

A Quaker meeting, a pontifical High Mass, the family service at Zion Episcopal, a Holy Roller happening - unless there is an element of joy and foolishness in the proceedings, the time would have better spent doing something useful.

All for now,
Lisa

Not the First Time I've Listened to this Song

But maybe the first time I've heard it.

Every Season
by Nichole Nordeman

Every evening sky, an invitation
To trace the patterned stars
And early in July, a celebration
For freedom that is ours
And I notice You
In children’s games
In those who watch them from the shade
Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder
You are summer

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

And everything in time and under heaven
Finally falls asleep
Wrapped in blankets white, all creation
Shivers underneath
And still I notice you
When branches crack
And in my breath on frosted glass
Even now in death, You open doors for life to enter
You are winter

And everything that’s new has bravely surfaced
Teaching us to breathe
What was frozen through is newly purposed
Turning all things green
So it is with You And how You make me new
With every season’s change
And so it will be
As You are re-creating me
Summer, autumn, winter, spring

All for now,
Lisa

First Time I've Heard This Song

While I'm Waiting
By John Waller

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait

I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You While I'm waiting
I will worship While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait

I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord

All for now,
Lisa

Emmanuel, God is with Us
El Shaddai, All Sufficient

Our Hope Endures
by Natalie Grant

You would think only so much can go wrong
Calamity only strikes once
And you assume this one has suffered her share
Life will be kinder from here
Oh, but sometimes the sun stays hidden for years
Sometimes the sky rains night after night
When will it clear?

But our Hope endures the worst of conditions
It's more than our optimism
Let the earth quake
Our Hope is unchanged

How do we comprehend peace within pain?
Or joy at a good man's wake?
Walk a mile with the woman whose body is racked
With illness, oh how can she laugh?
Oh, 'cause sometimes the sun stays hidden for years
Sometimes the sky rains night after night
When will it clear?

But our Hope endures the worst of conditions
It's more than our optimism
Let the earth quake
Our Hope is unchanged

Emmanuel, God is with us
El Shaddai, all sufficient
We never walk alone
And this is our hope

But our Hope endures the worst of conditions
It's more than our optimism
Let the earth quake
Our Hope is unchanged

All for now,
Lisa

Thy Will Be Done

I believe we are all aware of our own sinfulness. I don't believe that comes as a surprise to anyone. If it does, then there's a lot more we need to chat about. But I do believe we need to realize the depravity, pervasiveness, and grievousness of our sins. And that things we don't think of as sin are really sin indeed. We've numbed ourselves to sin to be able to cope with it. And I don't think that's the best way to deal with it.

Stealing, lying, killing are obvious sins. Encouraging my self-will, my independence, my over-wrought passions, my inner selfish, arrogant, or prideful thought-life are a little less obvious. And those are where the stealing, lying, and killing begin. Don't you see it?

I'm realizing over and over again that it always comes down to a heart issue. And that's where it really sits. Jesus told us that over and over again. Somehow we think we can put rules of order around our heart to protect it. But we can't. Sin creeps in. It gets to us, even when we have the best intentions. After all, have you ever rationalized doing the wrong thing for the right reason? The wrong thing is always the wrong thing. Truth is truth. It doesn't EVER change. Right is right. It never moves.

But let's focus in on the more insidious. Our own piety. Scripture says to do things with excellence. But do you realize that that very command, when we do it and yet not surrendered to God, can be sinful in itself?! The minute we think we are good, or have done right, we've failed. We've sinned. Because we have not denied ourself! We have glorified ourselves over glorifying God. And that's idolatry.

Moreover, the minute we pray and ask for something (for ourselves or for someone else) and do not end the prayer with something to the effect of "not my will, but thy will" then we are in sin.

After all, that's what Jesus did, even in Gethsemene - at probably one of the most grievous moments, "... Yet not as I will, but you will".

And that's even what He taught us to pray:

9"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
11Give us today our daily bread.
12Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.[a]'
14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.


Our supplication must always be followed by our submission.

All for now,
Lisa

The Message of Redemption and the Cross of Christ

I've been pondering lately about the message of redemption and the cross of Christ. I think we all know WHAT He did paid for our horrible, messy, ugly sins. But WHY did He do what He did?

Did He do it just for me as I often hear?
Did He do it only for love as I often hear?
Did He do it out of complete and absolute obedience to the one who called Him (which is love, but love for the Father, not for me). (by the way, it does say that "For God so love the world"...)

Again, I know I benefit. I know all believers benefit. But I don't think He did it "mainly" for me, you, or anyone in particular. I think He knew why He was sent. Again, it's not about us. It's about God. So the message of redemption and the cross of Christ is not about us, it is about God. We benefit. Glory to God we benefit.

Just thoughts... but it made me really think: What was Jesus thinking about when He was up on the cross? I looked back to John (chapter 19), Matthew (chapter 27), Mark (chapter 15), and Luke (chapter 23).

In all four accounts, the focus of His attention is on God Himself.

I would think the He had His Father on His mind. Makes sense, because that's why He did it. For His Father.

I also keyed into this passage (bolded areas mine):

1 Corinthians 1:18-31


18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."[c]
20Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. 22Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
26Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."[d]

All for now,
Lisa

A Bucket List Trifecta!

I'm sure you've seen the movie, The Bucket List. Well, my list of things to do before I kick the bucket included hang gliding (or paragliding as the case may be), riding in a helicopter, and sky diving. And really, without much planning, all three of those things happened this year! I am thankful. And I think the key lesson I learned is to just be aware. I really had no intention of paragliding when I went to Jackson Hole on vacation this summer. It just kinda happened. And the riding in a helicopter was part of a work trip that came up last minute (I even rode in the helicopter over the jungle of Indonesia which was pretty cool in and of itself). And lastly, I had been wanting to sky dive for years and deciding to do it for my birthday was pretty much a game-time decision!

What's on your bucket list? Just do it!

All for now,

Lisa

Just Hafta

OK, so I wrote earlier that I would refrain from writing about myself. Well, I just heard this song on the radio and it spoke to me. Had to share!

Mountain Of God
by Third Day

Thought that I was all alone
Broken and afraid
But You were there with me
Yes, You were there with me

And I didn't even know
That I had lost my way
But You were there with me
Yes, You were there with me

'Til You opened up my eyes
I never knew
That I couldn't ever make it
Without You

Even though the journey's long
And I know the road is hard
Well, the One who's gone before me
He will help me carry on
After all that I've been through
Now I realize the truth
That I must go through the valley
To stand upon the mountain of God

As I travel on the road
That You have lead me down
You are here with me
Yes, You are here with me
I have need for nothing more
Oh, now that I have found
That You are here with me
Yes, You are here with me

I confess from time to time
I lose my way
But You are always there
To bring me back again

Sometimes I think of where it is I've come from
And the things I've left behind
But of all I've had, what I possessed
Nothing can quite compare
With what's in front of me
With what's in front of me

All for now,
Lisa

And Now a Moment to Honor the Veterans in My Family

I wanted to take a moment today to honor the veterans in my family. I'll start with my mom's side then go to my dad's.

Mom's Side


I've been able to trace my mother's heritage in the United States back to 1621. So, it's no surprise that I found out some good history.

My great grandfather (x4) on my grandmother's side - Osbourn Holley (b 1764, d 1847) - was listed as having served in the Revolutionary War! His identification is S-7021. Yes, I'm a DAR!!!

My grandfather's grandfather, John Robert Godwin, was born in 1841 and enlisted in the Confederate Army in 1861. He served as a Private in Company H, 20th Regiment, North Carolina Troops. He was wounded in 1862 was captured by the Yankees in 1864. He was later exchanged (probably at the close of the Civil War in 1865).

My grandfather's sister, Octavia Bass, married William R. Miles (b 1909 d 1996). He was from Little Rock, AK. He served in World War II and received a purple heart. Bill retired as a Major.

My grandfather's other sister, Corinna Bass, married Rufus Wellon House (b 1912 d 1977). He was from Rutherfordton, NC. He was a Lt. Col. and served in WWII.
My cousin, Andrea, married Matt Tatman, who has been in the U.S. Army since 1988 and has served numerous times in Iraq. I am very proud of him.
  

Dad's Side

My father's side is quite the opposite. Both of his parents immigrated to the US in the early 1900's. So, it didn't take long to research that side! However, it is with extreme pride that I tell you that ALL of their sons served in the US military! My grandfather had a tremendous sense of American pride and I can tell you it has definitely been handed down through the generations.

I'll go in birth order:

Theophilus (Ted) Karabatsos served in the US Navy during WWII. He was in the South Pacific on New Hebrides island where he contracted malaria (and the young age of 19 in 1942). He made petty officer second class.

Ulyses Karabatsos served in th US Army in Europe in WWII. He won the Bronze Star for heroism against the German Army in France, Holland, Belgium, and Germany during the war in 1944 and 1945. He made sargeant (twice) - so he got busted a few times. ;-)

Kimon Karabatsos joined the US Marine Corp during the Korean Peace Action in 1952. He made sargeant and received a purple heart.

George Karabatsos (my father) joined the US Navy in 1950 as a cadet in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corp. He retired as a Lt Commander after 22 years of service in the Naval Reserves and on active duty.

I want to take a moment to say thank you to each of these heroes. Yes, John Robert Godwin fought for the side of slavery. All I can say is I'm glad the other side won. Regardless, John Robert Godwin was asked to serve and he did. And to the others who fought in WWII. I'm REALLY glad we won!!


But Most of All


While it is important to recognize and remember all those who have given service and even the ultimate sacrifice for their country in the name of freedom, may I never forget to recognize and remember Christ - who gives us ultimate freedom. As Our Daily Bread says, "His death was not just to give us a better life, but to give us eternal life."


All for now,
Lisa

Great Men and Women of Faith Series: George Müller

There has never been a man in our history who led a life of ease whose name is worth remembering.
Theodore Roosevelt

George Müller (1805-1898) was born in Prussia (currently Germany). He established many orphanages in Bristol, England and also founded the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad. If you want numbers: An 1871 article in The Times stated that “since 1836, 23,000 children had been educated in the schools and very many thousands had been educated in other schools at the expense of the orphanage. The article also states that since its origin, 64,000 Bibles, 85,000 Testaments and 29,000,000 religious books had been issued and distributed. Other expenses included the support of 150 missionaries.”

However, he started life off on a very different track. Although Müller’s father encouraged him to be a pastor, although it was encouraged less for the glory of God and more for the comfort of his family. Left on a very long leash, his younger years were filled with drinking, lying, thievery, and gambling. As a matter of fact, at age 15, he was in a drunken state playing cards with his friends while his mother lay dying.

With the financial support of his father, Müller attended the University of Halle, and while there, met Christ! In 1825, Müller was invited to a small house meeting by a classmate. It was there that he came to an understanding. “I understood something of the reason why the Lord Jesus died on the cross and suffered agonies in the Garden of Gethsemane; even that thus, bearing the punishment due to us, we might not have to bear it ourselves. And therefore, apprehending in some measure the love of Jesus for my soul, I was constrained to love Him in return.”

It was a short-time later that Müller decided to become a missionary. His father immediately withdrew support and Müller was left penniless. Obviously, this brought great struggle and heartache. However, he so firmly believed this decision was of God that he decided in everything he did there would be no patronage, appeals or requests for subscription. He was convinced that God would provide all resources and meet every need. (And, in fact, the George Müller Foundation today does no fund-raising.)

He started establishing the orphanages in England a short time after graduating. And after marrying, this work began full throttle. It was after she died and he married again that he began to travel for mission work. In fact, reports have him traveling over 200,000 miles (and this was in the late 1800’s).

Müller is often quoted in Streams in the Desert. Today is no exception:

Remember, the very time for faith to work is when our sight begins to fail. And the great the difficulties, the easier it is for faith to work, for as long as we can see certain natural solutions to our problems, we will not have faith. Faith never works as easily as when our natural prospects fail.

All for now,
Lisa

Great Men and Women of Faith Series: Billy Graham

There has never been a man in our history who led a life of ease whose name
is worth remembering.
Theodore Roosevelt

Today is a PERFECT day to honor Billy as it's his birthday! William Franklin Graham Jr. was born on a dairy farm in North Carolina in 1918. According to the Billy Graham Center, Billy Graham came to a believing faith in Christ at age 16 during a series of revival meetings led by traveling evangelist Mordecai Ham. Yet still not completely surrendered to Christ, he was considered "too worldy" by many and was almost expelled from college. If almost by prophecy, he was told he had a "voice that pulls". "God can use the voice of yours. He can use it mightily".

In his autobiography he writes that he "received his calling on the 18th green of the Temple Terrace Golf and Country Club", which was across a river from where Graham often paddled a canoe to a little island where he would later practice preaching to the birds, alligators, and cypress stumps.

I think Billy can best be described as a crusader, tent revivalist, and pastor/advisor to Presidents. In fact, he's had a sitting audience with every sitting US President since Harry Truman (which I can't help but wonder if that will continue).

In 1943, Graham married Ruth Bell (who died in 2007). They have five children, 19 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Billy's integrity has always been very well respected. I've heard a story about him that he would never even get into an elevator alone with a woman. Integrity is something you have to treat with very careful hands. In fact, early on, being mindful of potential problems with public ministry, Billy, along with his team, created the "The Modesto Manifesto," in 1948. The first item on the list was a matter of money. It also mentioned the dangers of sexual immorality, criticism of local churches, and exaggerated publicity.

Beginning in 1949 and still going today, Mr. Graham has preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history. The numbers are impressive. He and his team has preached to nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories— reached through live audiences, television, video, film, and webcasts.

In 1969, Woody Allen interviewed Billy. The 10 minute full interview video is here. It's worth watching... both are very witty. One of them is very wise. I bet you can figure it out for yourself.

"My one purpose in life is to help people find a personal relationship with God, which, I believe, comes through knowing Christ." --Billy Graham

Billy, I think you have. Happy Birthday!

All for now,
Lisa

Great Men and Women of Faith Series: Hudson Taylor

There has never been a man in our history who led a life of ease whose name is worth remembering.
Theodore Roosevelt

James Hudson Taylor (1832 – 1905) was a missionary to China, and founder of the China Inland Mission (now called OMF International). Born in England, all in all, Taylor spent 51 of his 73 years in China. His “numbers” are impressive. Some accounts have him helping bring over 800 missionaries to China; and those began 125 schools and directly resulted in 18,000 Christian conversions. He also helped establish many stations of work. Other accounts have developing a witnessing Chinese church of 125,000 and to have baptized some 50,000.

His life is even more impressive. Once at age 4, Hudson said to his parents, "When I am a man I mean to be a missionary and go to China." And even though growing up in a Christian home, his early years were marked with a wordly flair. Yet, at 17, he picked up a gospel tract, read it cover to cover, and accepted Christ as his savior. 4 years later he left for China.

Escaping death more than once, one of my favorite Pauline-like stories happened in September 1853. He was the only passenger in the sailing vessel which almost crashed as they neared the vicinity of New Guinea. Cannibals were watching as the current carried them swiftly toward sunken reefs near shore. Taylor and three others began to pray and suddenly a strong breeze sent them on their way. He finally reached Shanghai, China, March 1, 1854.

Losing both wives and many of his children, Hudson Taylor became bankrupt in mind, body, and spirit. As he reread a missionary friend's letter, he realized his struggle with with his self-effort. "I have striven in vain to abide in Him, I'll strive no more. For has not He promised to abide with me...never to leave me, never to fail me?" He then entered into what he called the "Exchanged Life" where his work for the Lord was no longer done in his own strength.

One of his favorite hymns is below:

Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting

Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For by Thy transforming power,
Thou hast made me whole.

Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.

O, how great Thy loving kindness,
Vaster, broader than the sea!
O, how marvelous Thy goodness,
Lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in Thee, Belovèd,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
And have made it mine.

Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
Satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings:
Thine is love indeed!

Ever lift Thy face upon me
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting ’neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
Earth’s dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father’s glory,
Sunshine of my Father’s face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting,
Fill me with Thy grace.

All for now,
Lisa

Great Men and Women of Faith Series

There has never been a man in our history who led a life of ease whose name is worth remembering.
Theodore Roosevelt

I had mentioned a while ago that I was kinda done with blogging about myself would prefer to put the spotlight somewhere else.

And about a week ago, a friend and I were cooking dinner one evening and were discussing why do we know certain names of believers who lived lives many years ago... Francis Schaeffer, Dwight Moody, Corrie Ten Boom? I had told her I was interested in blogging about just why do we know these peoples' names. She encouraged me to follow through with my idea of focusing a blog entry on a great man or woman of faith.

To that end, my intent is to provide a very short synopsis of the individual and their life. It is my attempt to show (myself mostly) that lives lived without conflict or struggle are probably not the kinds of lives that God can best use and show Himself mightily. It is also my attempt to encourage each of us right in our own struggles and that God will use them (and us) just as easily and completely as He used the lives of people's names that are somehow familiar or famous.

Our pastor has mentioned Hudson Taylor frequently over the summer so I want to offer him as the inaugural blog post. And our pastor's Theodore Roosevelt quote on Sunday (see above) was the final straw that made me decide to start this series. Matter of fact, I found another TR quote worth noting:

I have never in my life envied a human being who led an easy life; I have envied a great many people who led difficult lives and led them well.
Theodore Roosevelt

Look for the post first thing tomorrow!

All for now,
Lisa

Why Are You Still Single?

Good question. And I'm not sure I can answer that question. But with a simple comma the question changes to one I can answer quite well.

Why are you still, single?

Because that is what the Lord has asked of me. Yesterday's Streams devotional said it quite well, "the person who knows how to wait has grown to an exceptional degree in God's grace." I can look back at quite literally 20 years (since 1988) of journaling. And the overriding journal entry is praying for a mate. There are many things I've done in the last 20 years to try to make that happen. Many things that empirically there is nothing wrong with (maintaining my health, trying to improve my beauty, going places to make myself available, trying online dating, and even giving speed dating a chance). Like I said, absolutely nothing wrong with those. Unless God is trying to teach you stillness and waiting. Two things I've really yet to be good at. :-) But there is a lot at stake here: and it really wasn't what I had originally thought. You see, my truly seeing God through His grace was the central focus.

My heart has been the issue. Just in the last few months, He's raised the intensity level to RED! I can see the last few years were definitely learning years for me. But the last few months have been the crucible of testing. And there have been days where I failed horribly. Doubt, fear, sorrow, weariness, and worry have all crept in in a very sneaky and subltle way (isn't that so Satan?). But in God's grace, He has met me every time - without exception - and each time I see a greater vision of who He is. I can honestly say I know Him. And I know Him better and better each day. I have resolved, right and and right now, to NOT give up hope. But (continue) to give up trying. Cease striving, wait, hope, surrender, preparedness, sabbath, stillness, readiness can all exist together. BUT ONLY IN CHRIST. Christ IS our hope! Christ in us, the hope of glory. So, which prize are my eyes on? The prize of a husband or the prize of God through Christ Jesus? I would not be honest if I did not say both somehow. But let this be known: I will NOT take a husband without Christ being fully evident! And I will be still until I see Him move. And I can ONLY be still due to God's grace. Otherwise, I'd be scurrying around like a little ant trying to get things done. I know. I've been there and done that. It wasn't that great. Now I will trying something new. A new beginning. With clean hands and a pure heart. I will be still and know that He is God! The last few months have been about cleaning my hands and purifying my heart. For that I am sure. He has touched my heart and I know it. He has shown me my secret sins and I have been ashamed. But in His grace and mercy, He has restored me. Through Christ alone. I am righteous and blameless. I can see it. I have been an adultress - taking a lover in myself, the world, and sin. yet God has been faithful to Himself and His love for me. I spat in His face and He still said, "I love you". I felt forgotten and He said, "Child, I have not forgotten you". I sinned and He said, "I rebuke your sin yet I still love you". I confessed and He said, "Come to me". I said, "I want NOW" and He said, "wait". I said, "You promised". And He said, "the revelation awaits an appointed time.... wait for it".

So, "why are you still, single"? Because the Bible tells me so. It's as simple as a children's song. After all, I am a child of God. Only through God's grace. I know His grace. I know Him.

There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.
Hebrews 4:9-11

Lord, in your grace and mercy, let me continue to be still in Your presence. Calm my restless heart. I know it can only rest in You. Forgive me and show me the wonder of You. For in only You will I be satisfied. You are faithful and true. And, Lord, when I take my eyes off You, and start to strive or worry or fret, please lift up my face. I won't turn away. You are more than enough.

All for now,
Lisa

My Great Awakening: Blessings Abound
Is An End Really Just a New Beginning?

There's a question I've often heard: "How good is your word?" Meaning, will you do what you say you will do? It questions the strength of honor and respect in your word.

In a prayerful time, God gave me a word/promise over 3 years ago. And recently, God has been using a lot of words with me lately. Ninety nine specific words as a matter of fact. The interesting point here is that I can almost mark the point, to the day, that this particular segment in my journey began. It was that day, May 29, 2008 that I felt the need to blog about surrender. It's not that I've never blogged on that topic before (actually, looking back, I've blogged about it more times than I care to admit), but I felt a strange compulsion. You know the feeling... you really don't know what's happening but you just know you have to be obedient. I was.

It has been an unbelievable blessing. It's been difficult, don't get me wrong. It's demanded everything. But big things rarely cost little. In this case, it's cost everything.

OK, so how often have you read that? "God really bless me", God really amazed me", "God really showed Himself ". Now, that's not to say those times haven't been true. But I find it superficial to reduce God to brevity. I've shared my story since the beginning. It's no use stopping now.

I've had quite a few very cool milemarkers along the journey. But I find myself (I think) in the closing chapters. I find it interesting that the first word He gave was hope and the last word was enlargement. Well, I say "last", but that's really not for me to decide, is it? And perhaps I want a breakthrough so badly that I might try to conjur one up for God. Oh, forgive me God! Let me not put anything in front of you. Even my own desire to know You intimately.

The most recent words:

Come to me
No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God. “Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.”
John 6:44-45
Yet there are some of you who do not believe. For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him."
John 6:64-65
On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink".
John 7:37
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

Still
The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.
Exodus 14:14
The Levites calmed all the people, saying, "Be still, for this is a sacred day. Do not grieve."
Nehemiah 8:11
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:7
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
Be still before the LORD, all mankind, because he has roused himself from his holy dwelling.
Zechariah 2:13

Abide
If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.
John 15:7
But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13
But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.
James 1:25
the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.
1 John 2:6

Dwell
One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.
Psalm 27:4

Repentance
yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
2 Corinthians 7:9-11
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so.
Hebrews 6:1-3
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9

Redemption
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
1 Corinthians 1:30

Inheritance
giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
Colossians 1:12
since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Colossians 3:24

Enlargement
ANSWER ME when I call, O God of my righteousness (uprightness, justice, and right standing with You)! You have freed me when I was hemmed in and enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me and hear my prayer.
Psalm 4:1

There are 8 this time. Isn't 8 the number of new beginnings? My great awakening is complete. Or at least I feel like I'm turning a corner in this journey of mine.

I told two former Bible study group friends of mine that I felt a completion coming on. Matter of fact, here's the email (dated 2 June, 2008):

Hey,

Well, I've recently communicated with the both of you one way or the other, but I wanted to give you a further update on me right now. Truth be told, I feel a "completion" coming on to a time of growth for me (can't really give you more insight than that right now). I have no idea what. But it just feels like right now I'm finishing up the details" to some stuff God is working on in me. Will keep you posted.

That's why I've named this section of my journey the great awakening. It has been an awakening of my eyes to my heart. And awakening my heart to love. How specifically?

First in truly seeing that He was pursuing me. I don't think I could have gotten to the next steps if first I didn't really see that He loved me and was pursuing me (and had been with me, each day, all along).

Second, in seeing who He is. I have a page in my journal where I've just written one word descriptions of him (perfect, timely, creator, good, healer, etc). Just gave me new perspective.

Third, I saw that there was junk in my heart that needed cleaning up (arrogance, pride). He created a clean heart and He has made my heart His home.

The good news is that where there was once head knowledge and a willingness to follow Him, there is now a heart-mind connection and a passion to intimately know Him. There is a difference my friend. And the by-product, I would say, is similar to real vs plastic fruit.

It still boils down to a few things: being blameless and righteous, walking with Him, doing all the He commands. And even when we feel like we're forgotten, He always remembers His promises. Blessings ALWAYS abound!

I think His word is good.

All for now,
Lisa

Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." - Revelation 4:8

Be Still

Kinda fitting.

Be Still
by Storyside:b

I remember all the times
The good times and the bad
I'm still holding on to you
Some days I wanna run
And times I come undone
But I still belong to you
That's how I know that

When I feel like caving in
My heart my soul is wearing thin
I just want to give up
Nothing seems at all to add up
Can you hear me Lord?
My face is down upon the floor
It's then you whisper in my ear
Be still and know I'm here
I see a side of you my friend
The same struggles that I have
My heart goes out to you
I know it's hard to feel alone
And this world's so unforgiving
I've been feeling that way too
But I can tell you Is that you?

Is this me
It's sometimes hard to believe that
I am not alone

It's not just you
And not just me
We all need to believe that
We are not alone

All for now,
Lisa

New Dollar

'nuf said

All for now,

Lisa

Day 281

I recently purchased the book, Beyond Words, by Frederick Buechner. According to its byline, it's a "daily reading in the ABC's of faith". Actually, Buechner has chosen 366 words, put them in alphabetical order, and has written a quick thought on each word.

If you've read here you know God has really spoken to me in the last few months via "words" (thus why the book interested me so). These words come to me in a variety of ways and each time I jot one down I try to dig a little deeper into the meaning to gleen what God may be teaching me. It has been powerful.

So, yesterday, I blogged about being still and confessed I have had moments of feeling forgotten. As God would have it, I did not look at the Buechner daily reading yesterday (even though I looked at the book on top of it).

Yesterday's word (day 281): Remember

I kid you not!

God has His ways. And they are ALWAYS so much better than I can imagine.

All for now,
Lisa

When Nothing is the Thing to Do

My tendency is to be active. And I like it. It keeps me young. Daily physical activity (weight training, cycling, running) has helped me to stay strong and flexible. Mental activity (reading, writing, doing art) has helped my mind stay focused and sharp. However, spiritual activity (read maturity here) does not quite equate.

If you've read my blog for a while, you know God has had me on a fast track for the last few months learning some things, being healed from some things. And for that I am very thankful.

But right now, I'm in a bit of a darkness. In my feel-sorry-for-myself moments, I can say that I have felt forgotten. And if my God was anything other than who He is, I might have lost hope.

My knee-jerk reaction is to start doing something! Anything! But this is where I just have to stop.

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10

I know who God is. And acknowledging Him doesn't always take the frustration away, but it does remind me that I've probably made my problems bigger than what they really are. And, in doing that, have limited my view of God.

Ah, perspective. It's a wonderful thing.

Just keep remembering... God is bigger!

All for now,
Lisa

Sweet Surrender

You know, I've blogged a lot about surrender. What it means. How hard it is to do, while still holding on to hope. But I've never really thought of it, until now, as sweet.

surrender... yes, it's sweet.

Sweet Surrender
by John Denver

Lost and alone on some forgotten highway
Travelled by many remembered by few
Lookin for something that I can believe in
Lookin for something that Id like to do with my life

There's nothin behind me and nothin that ties me
To somethin that might have been true yesterday
Tomorrow is open and right now it seems to be more
Than enough to just be there today

And I don't know what the future is holdin in store
I don't know where I'm goin, I'm not sure where I've been
There's a spirit that guides me, a light that shines for me
My life is worth the livin, I don't need to see the end

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

Lost and alone on some forgotten highway
Travelled by many remembered by few
Lookin for something that I can believe in
Lookin for something that Id like to do with my life

There's nothin behind me and nothin that ties me
To somethin that might have been true yesterday
Tomorrow is open and right now it seems to be more
Than enough to just be there today

And I don't know what the future is holdin in store
I don't know where I'm goin, I'm not sure where I've been
There's a spirit that guides me, a light that shines for me
My life is worth the livin, I don't need to see the end

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

Sweet, sweet surrender
Live, live without care
Like a fish in the water
Like a bird in the air

All for now,
Lisa

Post DGNC

I've just returned from beautiful Minneapolis, Minnesota where I attended my first Desiring God National Conference. A friend suggested I attend and I'm so glad I did. The conference was entitled, "The Power of Words and the Wonder of God". And since God has been speaking to me in "words", I thought it was appropriate that I attend.

On a personal note, it was so fun to hang out with folks: Jessica, Dovie, Erin, and Todd all went to the conference. We also met up with Justin and Brian - who were up in Minnesota. Justin's parents were there also, and family and friends. Dovie's cousin, who lives up there with her family, also invited us over for lunch on the last day. All in all, I had quite the family time while up there. Thanks to all!!

My photo link here

About the conference: let me say at the outset that while I would attest that I'm not a confirmed Calvanist (and John Piper and most folks on the panel are), and yes, probably had a bit of a hesitation because of it; I still learned so much about the love of God, the gratitude of my heart because of who He is and what He has done, and the overflow of it into my life. And the conviction of sin in my life and the reducing affect it has on the power of God in my life. Especially the subtle stuff.

I took quite a bit from each speaker, but I would say my favorites are:

Paul Tripp - “War of Words: Getting to the Heart for God’s Sake”

John Piper - “Is There Christian Eloquence? Clear Words and the Wonder of the Cross”

I encourage you to listen.

Oh, isn't it "coincidental" that my church's women's retreat is entitled, "The Power of a Word". And this is the byline: "Words have a tremendous affect on us—they can wound and they can heal. Whether the words are spoken, thought or written, they have the power to change our lives as we hold those words in our hearts. Join us as we explore the impact of words in our lives, and most importantly, the power of God’s word to change us forever."

God is so good!

All for now,
Lisa

Something Heavenly

Yesterday, I heard this song for the first time. It's a beautiful song and it came at a perfect time. Enjoy!

Whatever You're Doing (Something Heavenly)
by Sanctus Real

It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
And all I can do is surrender

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
But I'm giving in to something Heavenly

Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Reevaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow Your will
Or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is You want from me
I give everything I surrender...
To...

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
But I'm giving in to something Heavenly

Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to release all my held back tears

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something Heavenly

Whatever You're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something Heavenly
Something Heavenly

It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything out

All for now,
Lisa

Redemption Means A New Beginning

I heard this song in the car this morning. It spoke to me. I hope it speaks to you as well.

Feels Like Redemption
by Michael English

I know how hopeless feels
When you're staring at the bottom of an empty hole
In my life I know how forgotten feels
Wondering if the world even knows who you are

But I've never known anything, felt anything
Like the love of Jesus
And it's hard to describe what's happening inside
But right now all I know is

It feels like redemption raining down on me
It feels like forgiveness is come to set me free
All my chains have been lifted
'Cause when the hands of love touch a broken life
It feels like redemption

Now I know how thankful feels
'Cause I am overwhelmed by this gift of grace
And I know how healing feels
'Cause all my pain and all my shame
And all my tears have been erased

It feels like redemption raining down on me
It feels like forgiveness is come to set me free
All my chains have been lifted
'Cause when the hands of love touch a broken life
It feels like

Say goodbye, the past is ending
Say hello to a new beginning
No more night
The sun is shining

Feels like redemption raining down on me
It feels like forgiveness is come to set me free
All my chains have been lifted
'Cause when the hands of love touch a broken life
And when the hands of love touch a broken life
It feels like redemption

I cried out to the Lord, He heard my cry
He healed my heart and He touched my life
It feels like redemption

So say goodbye, the past is ending
Say hello to a new beginning
Feels like
Feels like redemption

All for now,
Lisa

September 11, 2008: An Odd Spiritual Application

Strangely, I started this post almost two weeks ago. On September 11, The New York Times, as you would imagine, had quite a few articles on memorials, reflections, and the after-math of that fateful day seven years ago. One of the last sentences I read said something about just being attentive to look around and be in the present. The odd thing is that I had read a devotional a few moments earlier where Buechner said, "pay attention!"

The “coincidence” caught my attention.

And speaking of paying attention, I think in this life with God, I've learned His voice best not in the "big" times, but in the little times. In my car, in my study time, as I drift off to sleep at night. I’ve begun to know when it’s Him and not just my own thoughts. After all, Jesus says, "You'll know me by My voice".

I think if anything, I've learned that life with Christ (and life is ONLY in Christ) doesn't involve effort, it involves surrender. And you can try harder at it; you just have to throw off more... of what is not Him. Travel more lightly.

My friend Andy says, "just show up". Just show up and pay attention. You'll know Him by His voice. I think that says it all.

All for now,
Lisa

First Blog Post-Ike

This is the first chance I've really had to blog post Hurricane Ike. I have to say I feel quite blessed that I was spared from major damage and all my friends and family came out of it safely and relatively unscathed. Some are still awaiting electricity to be restored to their homes. Myself included. But all in all I've learned quite a bit about God, myself, and others during this whole process. I'm glad I'm walking through it.

More soon.

All for now,
Lisa

Verses on the Fruits

I found some great verses on the fruits of the Spirit. Some of them are simple truths, some commands, and some benefits of the fruits. Hope this encourages you!

Love
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Psalm 100:5
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Psalm 107:1
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Ephesians 5:2
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.
1 John 4:7-9
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:18-19

Joy
Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
John 16:24
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
James 1:2-8

Peace
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

Patience
A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11
Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
Proverbs 25:15
The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.
Ecclesiastes 7:8
We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
Hebrews 6:11-12
Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains
James 5:7

Kindness
He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.
Proverbs 14:21
But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
Luke 6:35
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
1 Corinthians 13:4
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience
Colossians 3:12

Goodness
How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you
Psalm 31:19
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.
Ephesians 5:8-10

Faithfulness
And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ""The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness
Exodus 34:6
For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.
Psalm 33:4

Gentleness
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:12-13

Self-control
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.
2 Peter 1:5-9

All for now,
Lisa

Real or Plastic Fruit?

You know, manufacturers have gotten really good at producing plastic fruit. Sometimes it's really hard to distinguish the difference between real and plastic fruit. And I think the analogy holds for spiritual fruit in our lives.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23

I wonder how good I am at producing fruit in my life? Because fruit produced by me is meaningless. It has to be out of Christ's love for me. Meaning, I have to ask myself a good question. Is it from an outpouring of Christ ruling in my life? Or is it just the action alone? I'm reminded of a passage that speaks about having great things, but without love it gains nothing.

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Then, in another passage, Pauls talks about similar fruits and bearing and forgiving one another, as the Lord has forgiven me. Then it says,

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Colossians 3:14

So, love binds them all together. And this is the catchy thing about love. It's not our choice of whom to love. You really can't pick and choose whom to love. In three passages, Christ admonishes to love your enemies, to pray for those who persecute you or mistreat you, to bless those who curse you, to do good to those who hate you. And you know what I've found? In doing that, I received fruit I'd never imagine I'd receive... joy, peace, patience and faithfulness to name a few.

And then I see that love is the first fruit mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians. Well, makes sense. Love produces love. And I think love produces all of them. "out of love, I will surrender to God and He will clothe me in..."

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13

Ever thought about why those three remain? And why love is the greatest? I think because faith and hope won't be needed in heaven. All we'll have is love!

All for now,
Lisa

Why Does He So Often Speak to Me in the Car?

I guess to answer my question, it's because in my car I'm probably a little more quiet and a little more still. I suppose a lesson is in there somewhere, but I can't stop long enough to think about that! ;-)

I heard this song at lunch. It spoke to me. I do feel like I've been in the crucible and a lot has been burned off. Yet I've felt Him more apparent that ever! Throwing off all that hinders me really does leave much more room for God! It doesn't mean it wasn't painful. But it was worth it! And it will continue to be. It's not over yet!! No, not yet.

I especially love the last lines! His love has set free because He is my total heart's desire. Let me shout that from mountaintops!

Hope Now
by Addison Road

If everything comes down to love
Then just what am I afraid of
When I call out Your name
Something inside awakes in my soul
How quickly I forget I'm Yours

I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free
When my life is like a storm
Rising waters all I want is the shore
You say I'll be ok and
Make it through the rain
You are my shelter from the storm

I'm not my own
I've been carried by You
All my life

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free

Everything rides on hope now
Everything rides on faith somehow
When the world has broken me down
Your love sets me free

You've become my hearts desire
I will sing Your praises higher
Cause Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free
Your love sets me free

All for now,
Lisa

An Interesting Addendum

I found the verses on which the song, "Peace" is based. By the way, the full name of the song is: Peace (A Communion Blessing from St. Joseph's Square). There were three verses:

Matthew 26:26-30
John 6:32-58
Colossians 3:12-17

The last one really hit me:

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart. Everything else will be an overflow. And be thankful.

All for now,
Lisa

Grace, then Peace

It's no coincidence that, while studying on Friday about "pouring out", I find grace and mercy sewn neatly in the story of the woman completely pouring out her most precious possession onto Christ. Then, my pastor, in speaking of the church in Thessalonica on Sunday, shows where Paul talks about grace and peace. And how peace always comes after grace.

I have experienced that. I will never be the same. Thanks and glory be to God! I leave you with a GREAT song by one of my favorites, Rich Mullins. Of course, the timing is perfect!

Peace
by Rich Mullins and Beaker

Though we're strangers, still I love you
I love you more than your mask
And you know you have to trust this to be true
And I know that's much to ask
But lay down your fears, come and join this feast
He has called us here, you and me

And may peace rain down from Heaven
Like little pieces of the sky
Little keepers of the promise
Falling on these souls
This drought has dried
In His Blood and in His Body
In the Bread and in this Wine
Peace to you
Peace of Christ to you

And though I love you, still we're strangers
Prisoners in these lonely hearts
And though our blindness separates us
Still His light shines in the dark

And His outstretched arms are still strong enough to reach
Behind these prison bars to set us free

So may peace rain down from Heaven
Like little pieces of the sky
Little keepers of the promise
Falling on these souls the drought has dried
In His Blood and in His Body
In this Bread and in this Wine
Peace to you
Peace of Christ to you

And may peace rain down from Heaven
Like little pieces of the sky
Like those little keepers of the promise
Falling on these souls the draught has dried
In His Blood and in His Body
In the Bread and in this Wine
Peace to you
Peace of Christ to you
Peace to you
Peace of Christ to you

All for now,
Lisa

Dare to Let Him

Once again, prose from Sunday's class:

Full authority
Death was our greatest enemy
"The land of no return"
Remained since Adam and Eve
Yet still under God's authority
"I am the resurrection and life"
At the cross, He chose to lay down His authority
He did it for us
(the only time it is about us)
ALL-SURPASSING POWER
There's purpose
GLORY!
That which makes Him highly impressive
Agapeo
God knows what's best
He's sovereign
Fueling our faith
Faith = putting entire trust
Do you believe?
He is our PRESENT resurrection
Are you fellowshipping with death?
Are you unconsciously limiting Jesus' power to act in your present?
Give it over to Him today
Feed the spirit by walking in truth!
Walk in it, live obediently
Dare to let Him have it!
He is after what will most glorify God
Are you?
"God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in Him (Piper)"

All for now,
Lisa

Camping on "Pouring Out": Another Lesson in Grace and Mercy

Ok - So, I've been doing a little camping on "pouring out". There are accounts of Jesus being annointed with oil by a woman in each of the gospels. However, I'm confused with the different accounts, whether or not they were accounts of different events.... 1) Matthew, 26, Mark 14, John 12 and 2) Luke 7. Even though the John 12 passage has the woman pouring the perfume on Jesus' feet instead of head (like Matthew 26 and Mark 14 do).

Matthew 26
Jesus in Bethany, about two days away from Passover, staying with Simon the Leper. As Jesus was reclining at the table, a woman comes with an alabaster jar of perfume and pours it on Jesus head. The disciples were angry for the waste - money could have been given to the poor.

Mark 14
Jesus in Bethany at Passover time (two days away) staying with Simon the Leper. As Jesus was reclining at the table, a woman comes with an alabaster jar of perfume and pours it on Jesus head. Some were angry for the waste - money could have been given to the poor.

Luke 7
Jesus at the house of a Pharisee (no location referenced). As Jesus was reclining at the table, a "sinful" woman comes with an alabaster jar of perfume and pours it on Jesus feet. The Pharisees were upset because Jesus should have known a sinful woman was touching Him.

John 12
Jesus in Bethany (no house referenced) at Passover time (about six days away). As Jesus was reclining at the table, Mary took a jar of expensive perfurme and poured it on Jesus' feet. Judas was angry for the waste - money could have been given to the poor.

In researching a little and talking with friends, this is what I have so far:

• anointing on one's head was a religious ritual with significance to the Jews and anointing on one's feet had to do with cleaning... perhaps for His impending burial (as mentioned in Matthew, Mark, and John)
• anointing on the head was a sign by God singling out someone whom He had chosen for a specific purpose
• think about who authored the gospels and who they were written to... perhaps that is why the different emphasis - Matthew to the Jews, Mark for the Romans, Luke for other pagan Gentiles (Greeks, etc.), John for Christians

On the flipside, here are some similarities:

• Jesus was reclining at the table (at rest)
• the woman completely poured out an extravagant and expensive gift (of love) - not out of necessity or obedience, but out passion and desire
• she was criticized by someone for it
• she was defended by Jesus

The thing I was left with was how the passage in Luke was so dramatically different than the others. In the others, Jesus just defended her by saying it was intended for his burial. Luke was the only account which had a parable enveloped in the story. Jesus talked about the parable of the moneylender - and him cancelling the debt of both a borrower of a small amount and one of a larger amount (10 times more) - yet both could not pay the moneylender back. It was decided the one with the larger amount owed would love more as a result of the debt being cancelled. He ended the parable with this truth:

Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little." Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." The other guests began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."
Luke 7:47-50

I think she was motivated to her actions ("for she loved much") because she knew the heighth, width, depth, and breadth of Jesus' mercy. And out of that overflow (not just perfume, but tears and kisses), she experienced Jesus' grace ("your sins are forgiven"). Her act demonstrated her faith and Jesus responded in the only way He could - in a good way. Her faith had saved her.

It's ironic. Because she loved much (grace), her sins had been forgiven (mercy). Yet because her sins had been forgiven (mercy), she went in peace (grace).

All for now,
Lisa

And Now a Word on Love

I have had a few tough experiences recently with expressing unconditional love. Oh, I don't mean that it's been hard to have unconditional love. For love - any sort of love - can only come from God. Because God is love (scripture says that and I believe it). I just mean it's been hard to express it. Regardless, it's made me camp on the idea of unconditional love. And it's God's covenant with us that He loves us no matter what.

I was reminded of this in a wonderful article by Paige Benton Brown. I will quote her here because I couldn't really say it any better:

The only time folks talk about human covenants is in premarital counseling. How anemic. If our God is a covenantal God then all of our relationships are covenantal. he gospel is not about how much I love God (I typically love him very little); it is about how much God loves me. My relationships are not about how much friends should love me, they are about how much I get to love them. No single should ever expect relational impoverishment by virtue of being single. We should covenant to love people--to initiate, to serve, to commit.

It is out of this love that I can love. And only out of this love. And it is a "cosmic impossibility" that He can love any other way. It should be for me also.

I want to leave you with Sonnet 116 - by William Shakespeare. Obviously, he speaks of marriage, but I look at it as covenental love:

Let me not to the marriage of true minds
Admit impediments. Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove:
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;
It is the star to every wandering bark,
Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken.
Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle's compass come:
Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,
But bears it out even to the edge of doom.
If this be error and upon me proved,
I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

All for now,
Lisa

Coincidence? I Think NOT!

If you've read my blog for any amount of time, you know it has been uncanny how my regular devotionals (Our Daily Bread, My Utmost for His Highest, and Streams in the Desert) have lined up with my journey. Today is no exception. Check out what MUFHH had to say about "pour out" and "satisfaction". And given my word "cease striving" check out the poem from today's Streams:

Be all at rest, my soul, O blessed secret,
Of the true life that glorifies the Lord;
Not always does the busiest soul best serve Him,
But he that rests upon His faithful Word.
Be all at rest, let not your heart be rippled,
For tiny wavelets mar the image fair,
Which the still pool reflects of heaven's glory -
And thus the image He would have you bear.
Be all at rest, my soul, for rest is service,
To the still heart God does His secrets tell;
Thus will you learn to wait, and watch, and labor,
Strengthened to bear, since Christ in you does dwell.
For what is service but the life of Jesus,
Lived through a vessel of earth's fragile clay,
Loving and giving and poured forth for others,
A living sacrifice from day to day.
Be all at rest, so then you'll be an answer
To those who question, "Who is God and where?"
For God is rest, and where He dwells is stillness,
And they who dwell in Him, His rest will share.
And what will meet the deep unrest around you,
But the calm peace of God that filled His breast?
For still a living Voice calls to the weary,
From Him who said, "Come unto Me and rest"

All for now,
Lisa

The Sixth Set of Seven Words

cease striving
Cease striving and know that I am God;I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10 (NASB)
What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under the sun?
Ecclesiastes 2:22

cast
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
Psalm 55:22
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7

commit
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
Psalm 37:5-6
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Proverbs 16:3
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Peter 4:19

release
My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare.
Psalm 25:15
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed
Luke 4:18

satisfied
And I—in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.
Psalm 17:15
My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. Psalm 63:5
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Luke 6:21

extravagant
I'll make a list of God's gracious dealings, all the things God has done that need praising, all the generous bounties of God, his great goodness to the family of Israel—Compassion lavished, love extravagant.
Isaiah 63:7-8 (the Message)
Change your life, not just your clothes. Come back to God, your God. And here's why: God is kind and merciful. He takes a deep breath, puts up with a lot, This most patient God, extravagant in love, always ready to cancel catastrophe.
Joel 2:13 (The Message)

poured out
So the three mighty men broke through the Philistine lines, drew water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and carried it back to David. But he refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the LORD.
2 Samuel 23:16
Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.
John 7:38

All for now,
Lisa

An Extravagant Act of Devotion

Yesterday's MUFHH talked about a “A Life of Pure and Holy Sacrifice”. I've been pondering it for a little bit.

It mentioned the story of Mary and her breaking her most precious flask of very costly oil and pouring it out on Jesus’ head. It was her extravagant act of devotion.

MUFHH continues with:

Our Lord is filled with overflowing joy whenever He sees any of us doing what Mary did— not being bound by a particular set of rules, but being totally surrendered to Him.

Being totally surrendered to Him means even giving up the searching in the journey. I know that sounds odd, but you can’t work harder at being holy. It just has to come. And be completely willing to go with it as He moves in you.

MUFHH ends with this:

Now is the time for us to break "the flask" of our lives, to stop seeking our own satisfaction, and to pour out our lives before Him. Our Lord is asking who of us will do it for Him?

I wonder what mine is? Perhaps it’s simply to stop searching in my journey for my own satisfaction. I think in all this journey of “healing to be content and still not satisfied” I’ve spent too much time on the not satisfied part and not enough on the content. So, this is where I’m ceasing striving. You just can't rush it.

As this segment of the journey comes to a close, I am thankful that He has shown who He is, how much He loves me, has disciplined and healed me. Now, I think that's enough about me.

Let’s focus on Him. It’s a much better subject!

Lisa

His Hands Are Holding Me

I really "heard" this song for the first time on Friday afternoon in the car. It was such a sweet reminder of who God is. I heard it again this morning, so I thought I'd share it with you.

By Your Side
by 10th Avenue North

Why are you striving these days
Why are you trying to earn grace
Why are you crying
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away

Why are you looking for love
Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough
To where will you go child
Tell me where will you run
To where will you run

And I'll be by your side
Wherever you fall
In the dead of night
Whenever you call
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
Look at these hands and my side
They swallowed the grave on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life
I want to give you life

Cause I, I love you
I want you to know
That I, I love you
I'll never let you go

All for now,
Lisa

Grace and Mercy... Enough For All

I have to confess, sometimes I can get pretty selfish. Especially when I have been hurt or wronged, I want justice! But where is my compassion? If I want grace and mercy enough for me and my horrible sins, why then would I not want others to participate in the same? It is small of me to not want that. It is petty that I should think justice for them and grace and mercy for me!

I think the only thing that combats bitterness is grace and mercy. I leave you with a GREAT quote from "Captured by Grace", by David Jeremiah. Thank you, Tammie!

Think of it this way: Mercy is God withholding the punishment we rightfully deserve. Grace is God not only withholding the punishment but offering the most precious gifts instead.

Mercy withholds the knife from the heart of Isaac.
Grace provides a ram in the thicket.

Mercy runs to forgive the Prodigal Son.
Grace throws a party with every extravagance.

Mercy bandages the wounds of the man beaten by the robbers.
Grace covers the cost of his full recovery.

Mercy hears the cry of the thief on the cross.
Grace promises paradise that very day.

Mercy pays the penalty for our sin at the cross.
Grace substitutes the righteousness of Christ for our wickedness.

Mercy converts Paul on the road to Damascus.
Grace calls him to be an apostle.

Mercy saves John Newton from a life of rebellion and sin.
Grace makes him a pastor and author of a timeless hymn (Amazing Grace).

Mercy closes the door to hell.
Grace opens the door to heaven.

Mercy withholds what we have earned.
Grace provides blessings we have not earned.

All for now,
Lisa

No Man Save Jesus Only

The title is taken from the KJV of Mark 9:8. But it's also the desire of my heart right now. Well, let me be completely honest. It's the cry of my heart.

Sometimes God will throw me for a complete loop just to use it to draw me closer to Him. Shaking my head and throwing my hands up can lead to either bitterness or peace. So, I just confess my disbelief, ask for forgiveness, and confirm in my mind who God is. And stay there for as long as I can. ;-)

I know God only exactly wants the best for me. And His ways (thankfully) are higher than mine. As a friend said to me, I don't need to be the problem solver!

Yet taking all of this back to him doesn't remove the sorrow (perhaps dissatisfaction), it just adds a measure of peace. And a tad more strength. Just enough strength to keep going for the moment. And that's good enough for me. Any more and I'd be likely to run off on my own (again). Been there. Done that. Don't want to do it again.

So I'm learning that complications often leads to simplifications. I think He will complicate things just enough to send me shaking my head and throwing up my hands. So, I throw up my hands, not in giving up, but in letting go. I've blogged about this before, Matter of fact, once again, it's coming back to what I'll call the first day of this recent journey! Funny thing is, I look back at that entry and yet I'm still at the point of surrender, yet I see things so differently now. I see God so much better. No man, save Jesus only!!

Reading Psalm 25 helped me too.

I thought of that Ginny Owens song first this morning. It's pretty fitting as I blog this too… "so if all of these trials bring me closer to you. Then I will go through the fire. If You want me to."

Here are some thoughts in prose form:

Hands
"palm of his hand"
that's where I am
I just hope He doesn't squash me like a little bug
He won't
I'm safe there
but not removed from being refined
and disciplined
and yes, that's painful
but the results is purity
and refinement
and a harvest!
I do have an inheritance
Christ in me
the hope of glory!

All for now,
Lisa

The Fifth Set of Seven Words


crucible
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart.
Proverbs 17:3
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.
Proverbs 27:21

test
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Psalm 139:23
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.
2 Corinthians 13:5-6

know
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.
John 6:69

refine
Therefore this is what the LORD Almighty says: "See, I will refine and test them, for what else can I do because of the sin of my people?
Jeremiah 9:7
This third I will bring into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, 'They are my people,' and they will say, 'The LORD is our God.'
Zechariah 13:9
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness
Malachi 3:3

assured
Be assured that my words are not false; one perfect in knowledge is with you.
Job 36:4
Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
1 Timothy 3:13
let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Hebrews 10:22-23

lose
Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 10:42
For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.
Matthew 16:25

preserve
Your compassion is great, O LORD; preserve my life according to your laws.
Psalm 119:156
See how I love your precepts; preserve my life, O LORD, according to your love.
Psalm 119:159
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.
Psalm 138:7
Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.
Matthew 9:17
Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.
Luke 17:33

All for now,
Lisa

I Know Him

There is a connection between the strange providential circumstances allowed by God and what we know of Him, and we have to learn to interpret the mysteries of life in the light of our knowledge of God. Until we can come face to face with the deepest, darkest fact of life without damaging our view of God’s character, we do not yet know Him.
Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest

I know Him.

And He knows me.

All for now,
Lisa

More Repeated Themes

I have been seeing these recurring themes which for the most part began May 29, 2008:

• Giving it all to God, my surrender, means ALL. I've learned that when I say, "everything is His" I cannot be casual about it. I must concede all my ownership. I'm learning what total surrender means - complete submission.
• Obedience means I have not other course than Him. He is not in a consulting capacity, but an ownership capacity. And His right to rule is ALL emcompasing.
• Submission and obedience would be unacceptable save that God is good, for me, is after my best interest, knows all, loves me, and that I AM the object of His preserving grace.
• Peace will only come from the revelation of His love, tender care, and friendship with me. Focusing on Him and not the issues at hand will put that in proper perspective.
• None of this would be attainable if I could not receive how much God loves me. Otherwise, I would be bitter.
• The only thing I'm called to do it love God and others - and that has to come from the inside out (which is in His strength).
• Even if it's noble it may not be Godly. Don't do it! Keep your hands off!!
• Jesus waits with me and I can choose whether waiting will destroy me or grow me.
• I really didn't know love at all - until I really understood who God is... and how much He loves me. He's done it all out of love.
• Leaning on my own understanding only leads to frustration. I cannot demand to understand.
• Even if it doesn't make sense now doens't means it won't ever make sense.
• And finally, each new day I have been fearful that God may not show me something new. But He always does. Even if it's a repeated theme. I still see something new. That's just the way it is with God.

All for now,
Lisa