I was cooking dinner today. I went to frig and got out my big red onion I had just bought. I was so excited because I had just used up the old one- God made it last.
I cut into the onion and the inner shell was brown. I was SO offended. Before I KNEW I was offended- I was offended. I looked at the onion with this thought in mind, "I just bought you" Then I began to think about our own hearts. How the Bible says that "above all else the heart is deceitfully wicked and no one knows our hearts but the Lord" [paraphrase].
So, I'm like I'm still gonna use this onion! There is nothing like a red onion, ya'll! I had planned on using it for many a meals! (and its going to make this mal great!). So I did what any Iron Chef from the hood would do, I cut that mug out! I cut the heart out! I had to. If I left it in there it would have infected the entire onion. There is a striking similarity to what we have to do- WE have to allow God "cut" at our hearts.
I just begin weeping (yes, I said weeping, cause that is what I was doing before the LORD). As I prepared our meal- I just replayed these moments over and over and allowed the Holy Spirit to minister to me about my own heart. I am so glad my God doesn't say to me, I just bought you, and now look at ya- I am so glad He doesn't look at me and say, 'You're no good' and toss me out. Instead He takes time to "cut" the yuckiness of my heart and replaces it with holiness and righteousness. Because all the long - He was planning on using me just like He intended.
He's still planning on using you too!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Fighting
My husband and I were talking about "fighting". No, not each other; but the one where we have had to stand together and fight. We both have posed this question to the Lord, "Do we have to fight for everything?" We both understand that there is blessings and testimonies to Christ in our trials. But come on! So we developed this list of almost everything we have had to fight for:
1. Getting married
2. Becoming parents
3. Amber
4. Family (Pregnancies)
5. Managing our household finacially
6. Fair treatment in workforce
7. Employment
8. Army
9. Friendships
10. Anything we have believed God for and set our hearts after (within God's will)
Now, we know " we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere" (Eph 6:12 Amplified). So we try our best to keep our eyes on our Savior because alot of times, including now, we cannot see our own way out of the messes.
Please don't get me wrong. I am in no way EXcusing our own sins and mistakes we have made along the way. I do understand there are consequences that follow. But, I also know that we have a loving God who has us in His Will, His Plan and His Purpose. He has this extensive grace that when we think cannot be stretched any further, it continues to go on and on and on! I am reminded of what Paul said in Romans 5: 21 "So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Joseph and I have become even closer as husband and wife, partners with Christ in this world.
When will we have a break? I mean boxers take a 15 second break, right? When will we be able to breathe without choking? I sometimes look at some of our friends (knowing that they too are not perfect or having things going their way all the time) and think: "How did they get it so good?" Or sometimes just comparing struggles (sad, I know) But, again, I am reminded "... The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned..." (Ecclesiates 9:11)
What keeps us in the ring fighting, continuously being battered and bruised? Well, for one, we have come to learn that, ultimately, it is NOT ABOUT US. God has a plan and a purpose outside of us! Even, though it can be terribly difficult we do have this assurance from Him that He will never leave nor forsake us, and that the LORD has plans for us and they are good plans, plans not for disaster, but to give us a hope and future. (jer 29:11) furthermore, as we are learning to lose ourselves for the Cause of this Christ we serve we are learning to consider our lives worth nothing to us so that we may finish this race and the tasks that the Lord Jesus has given to us- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. (Acts 20:24)
We will continue to fight this Good Fight! The fight our lives, right Kirk? Just kidding baby! But for real, we will finish this fight STRONG and it will not be in vain! We will continue to keep the faith as Paul encouraged Timothy. We look forward to seeing the WHOLE PICTURE when that GREAT Day comes! It will all be worth it!!!
Be encouraged with this! " until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom." Daniel 7:22
1. Getting married
2. Becoming parents
3. Amber
4. Family (Pregnancies)
5. Managing our household finacially
6. Fair treatment in workforce
7. Employment
8. Army
9. Friendships
10. Anything we have believed God for and set our hearts after (within God's will)
Now, we know " we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere" (Eph 6:12 Amplified). So we try our best to keep our eyes on our Savior because alot of times, including now, we cannot see our own way out of the messes.
Please don't get me wrong. I am in no way EXcusing our own sins and mistakes we have made along the way. I do understand there are consequences that follow. But, I also know that we have a loving God who has us in His Will, His Plan and His Purpose. He has this extensive grace that when we think cannot be stretched any further, it continues to go on and on and on! I am reminded of what Paul said in Romans 5: 21 "So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Joseph and I have become even closer as husband and wife, partners with Christ in this world.
When will we have a break? I mean boxers take a 15 second break, right? When will we be able to breathe without choking? I sometimes look at some of our friends (knowing that they too are not perfect or having things going their way all the time) and think: "How did they get it so good?" Or sometimes just comparing struggles (sad, I know) But, again, I am reminded "... The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned..." (Ecclesiates 9:11)
What keeps us in the ring fighting, continuously being battered and bruised? Well, for one, we have come to learn that, ultimately, it is NOT ABOUT US. God has a plan and a purpose outside of us! Even, though it can be terribly difficult we do have this assurance from Him that He will never leave nor forsake us, and that the LORD has plans for us and they are good plans, plans not for disaster, but to give us a hope and future. (jer 29:11) furthermore, as we are learning to lose ourselves for the Cause of this Christ we serve we are learning to consider our lives worth nothing to us so that we may finish this race and the tasks that the Lord Jesus has given to us- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. (Acts 20:24)
We will continue to fight this Good Fight! The fight our lives, right Kirk? Just kidding baby! But for real, we will finish this fight STRONG and it will not be in vain! We will continue to keep the faith as Paul encouraged Timothy. We look forward to seeing the WHOLE PICTURE when that GREAT Day comes! It will all be worth it!!!
Be encouraged with this! " until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom." Daniel 7:22
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Just Like You
For the Two people in my life that I want to be like: Jesus and by Wonderful Hubby Joseph!!
Just Like YOU
I wanna be….
Prayerful always, always trusting You, God, forever depending on my LORD from whom all blessing flow, never doubting, always leaning on You, just like You Jesus, doing Your will, praising You, fighting for Your cause, dying to myself, eating Your food, carrying my cross, ever seeking Your face, knowing You, learning Your Way, in Your presence, turning to prayer quickly…like Hezekiah, worshipping and seeking You like David, preaching Your Word with a clear conscious like Paul, protecting my friendships like Jonathan, hearing Your voice like Samuel did, trusting You like Mary . . . Jesus’ mother, obeying You like Jesus did, loving others like You first loved me,
I wanna be
Just Like You.
Tamika May
2009 Dec 28
Just Like YOU
I wanna be….
Prayerful always, always trusting You, God, forever depending on my LORD from whom all blessing flow, never doubting, always leaning on You, just like You Jesus, doing Your will, praising You, fighting for Your cause, dying to myself, eating Your food, carrying my cross, ever seeking Your face, knowing You, learning Your Way, in Your presence, turning to prayer quickly…like Hezekiah, worshipping and seeking You like David, preaching Your Word with a clear conscious like Paul, protecting my friendships like Jonathan, hearing Your voice like Samuel did, trusting You like Mary . . . Jesus’ mother, obeying You like Jesus did, loving others like You first loved me,
I wanna be
Just Like You.
Tamika May
2009 Dec 28
Sibling Rilvary
Man! Sibling conflict --the correct descriptive word: WAR
Did you know that the people who founded most of the surrounding countries(most of whom are Muslim) in Africa and Middle East (Asia) are brothers and sisters? {they are the sons of Noah}Most of the countries are a WAR with themselves and with one another.
The people who are fighting over land! Israel says the land was promised to them, Palestinians say the land is ours!. Well, they share the same father: Abraham. They both are the decedents of Ishmael and Isaac~~~~ Jacob and Esau.
Today we will focus on what happens when the siblings rivalry is UNCHECKED. Which is thread through the entire Bible. So we will begin in the New Testament and trace the WAR back all the way to the Old Testament, the siblings who it all began with.
Revelation 6:9-10 When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters[f]—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.
Jude 11-16What sorrow awaits them! For they follow in the footsteps of Cain, who killed his brother. Like Balaam, they deceive people for money. And like Korah, they perish in their rebellion.When these people eat with you in your fellowship meals commemorating the Lord’s love, they are like dangerous reefs that can shipwreck you.[e] They are like shameless shepherds who care only for themselves. They are like clouds blowing over the land without giving any rain. They are like trees in autumn that are doubly dead, for they bear no fruit and have been pulled up by the roots. 13 They are like wild waves of the sea, churning up the foam of their shameful deeds. They are like wandering stars, doomed forever to blackest darkness.Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, “Listen! The Lord is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones 15 to execute judgment on the people of the world. He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”[f]These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.
Hebrew 11:4
It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.
Hebrews 12:24 You have come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenant between God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks of forgiveness instead of crying out for vengeance like the blood of Abel.
Matther 23:34-36Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. 35And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. 36I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation.
1 John 3:11-13
This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous. 13Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you.
WANDERS
Gen. 4:16 So Cain went out from the LORD's presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden.
Genesis 27:40 (New International Version)
40 You will live by the sword
and you will serve your brother.
But when you grow restless,
you will throw his yoke
from off your neck
Gen. 21:14
Early the next morning Abraham took some food and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar. He set them on her shoulders and then sent her off with the boy. She went on her way and wandered in the desert of Beersheba.
Gen. 4:12 When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth."
Korah
Numbers 16:1-3 Korah son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and certain Reubenites—Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth—became insolent [a] 2 and rose up against Moses. With them were 250 Israelite men, well-known community leaders who had been appointed members of the council. 3 They came as a group to oppose Moses and Aaron and said to them, "You have gone too far! The whole community is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is with them. Why then do you set yourselves above the LORD's assembly?"
31-35 As soon as he finished saying all this, the ground under them split apart 32 and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them, with their households and all Korah's men and all their possessions. 33 They went down alive into the grave, with everything they owned; the earth closed over them, and they perished and were gone from the community. 34 At their cries, all the Israelites around them fled, shouting, "The earth is going to swallow us too!"
35 And fire came out from the LORD and consumed the 250 men who were offering the incense.
Esau (v.16) Father of Edomites (the famished)
Jude 1:16
These men are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
Gen. 28:8-9 Esau then realized how displeasing the Canaanite women were to his father Isaac; 9 so he went to Ishmael and married Mahalath, the sister of Nebaioth and daughter of Ishmael son of Abraham, in addition to the wives he already had.
Esau ended up taking a caanite woman after all.
Esau Father of
Esau married one of Ishmael’s daughters
Amalek- Hagag the Agagite- Haman
Korah means translate Quran
King Herod edomite
All of the Above of ENEMIES of the Jews and their GOD
Did you know that the people who founded most of the surrounding countries(most of whom are Muslim) in Africa and Middle East (Asia) are brothers and sisters? {they are the sons of Noah}Most of the countries are a WAR with themselves and with one another.
The people who are fighting over land! Israel says the land was promised to them, Palestinians say the land is ours!. Well, they share the same father: Abraham. They both are the decedents of Ishmael and Isaac~~~~ Jacob and Esau.
Today we will focus on what happens when the siblings rivalry is UNCHECKED. Which is thread through the entire Bible. So we will begin in the New Testament and trace the WAR back all the way to the Old Testament, the siblings who it all began with.
Revelation 6:9-10 When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters[f]—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.
Jude 11-16What sorrow awaits them! For they follow in the footsteps of Cain, who killed his brother. Like Balaam, they deceive people for money. And like Korah, they perish in their rebellion.When these people eat with you in your fellowship meals commemorating the Lord’s love, they are like dangerous reefs that can shipwreck you.[e] They are like shameless shepherds who care only for themselves. They are like clouds blowing over the land without giving any rain. They are like trees in autumn that are doubly dead, for they bear no fruit and have been pulled up by the roots. 13 They are like wild waves of the sea, churning up the foam of their shameful deeds. They are like wandering stars, doomed forever to blackest darkness.Enoch, who lived in the seventh generation after Adam, prophesied about these people. He said, “Listen! The Lord is coming with countless thousands of his holy ones 15 to execute judgment on the people of the world. He will convict every person of all the ungodly things they have done and for all the insults that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”[f]These people are grumblers and complainers, living only to satisfy their desires. They brag loudly about themselves, and they flatter others to get what they want.
Hebrew 11:4
It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.
Hebrews 12:24 You have come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenant between God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks of forgiveness instead of crying out for vengeance like the blood of Abel.
Matther 23:34-36Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. 35And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. 36I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation.
1 John 3:11-13
This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. 12Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous. 13Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you.
WANDERS
Gen. 4:16 So Cain went out from the LORD's presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden.
Genesis 27:40 (New International Version)
40 You will live by the sword
and you will serve your brother.
But when you grow restless,
you will throw his yoke
from off your neck
Gen. 21:14
Early the next morning Abraham took some food and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar. He set them on her shoulders and then sent her off with the boy. She went on her way and wandered in the desert of Beersheba.
Gen. 4:12 When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth."
Korah
Numbers 16:1-3 Korah son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and certain Reubenites—Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth—became insolent [a] 2 and rose up against Moses. With them were 250 Israelite men, well-known community leaders who had been appointed members of the council. 3 They came as a group to oppose Moses and Aaron and said to them, "You have gone too far! The whole community is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is with them. Why then do you set yourselves above the LORD's assembly?"
31-35 As soon as he finished saying all this, the ground under them split apart 32 and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them, with their households and all Korah's men and all their possessions. 33 They went down alive into the grave, with everything they owned; the earth closed over them, and they perished and were gone from the community. 34 At their cries, all the Israelites around them fled, shouting, "The earth is going to swallow us too!"
35 And fire came out from the LORD and consumed the 250 men who were offering the incense.
Esau (v.16) Father of Edomites (the famished)
Jude 1:16
These men are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
Gen. 28:8-9 Esau then realized how displeasing the Canaanite women were to his father Isaac; 9 so he went to Ishmael and married Mahalath, the sister of Nebaioth and daughter of Ishmael son of Abraham, in addition to the wives he already had.
Esau ended up taking a caanite woman after all.
Esau Father of
Esau married one of Ishmael’s daughters
Amalek- Hagag the Agagite- Haman
Korah means translate Quran
King Herod edomite
All of the Above of ENEMIES of the Jews and their GOD
God’s Topsy-Turvy Truths
Luke 6:38 Give and it shall be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you
Matthew 5:44 Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
Matthew 20:16 The last will be first and the first will be last
Leviticu 27:30 A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord
Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?
James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective
Matthew 5:44 Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
Matthew 20:16 The last will be first and the first will be last
Leviticu 27:30 A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord
Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?
James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective
Grace in failure
The Samaritan Woman: A great example of grace and failure. And the results of this grace shown to her.
John 4
Let’s Outline her failures
1. Woman
2. Samaritan
3. Married/Divorced 5 times
4. Sleeping with a man who was not her husband now
Now when I say or use being a woman and a Samaritan as a failure- use it in the sense that it was already counted against her that she was both a woman and a Samaritan.
In the Eyes of Grace
Let’s REREAD v.9-26
Isn’t that awesome! God knew her life and pulled out (exposed) her sin and in grace (with the purpose of forgiving her) showed her a new way.
What happens when we experience Grace in Failure?
Well lets continue read what happened with the Samaritan Woman
Versus 39-42
So because of this grace and forgiveness shown to her in the mist of her sin. The Samaritan woman was able to go out and share with the town about her encounter with Jesus. You have to know- that everyone in town knew who this woman was, especially the men! Based on the life she had lived and the man she was with. So for her to run back and tell the people was a big deal- she was unashamed.
I think when we experience grace/forgiveness in our failures; we learn that we don’t have to carry around the shame (and guilt) of failing. And neither do our children.
So, she goes and shares her testimony. And the other Samaritans were intrigued Enough to go find Jesus for themselves.
Isn’t that the purpose of our testimony- is to lead others to Christ by creating an interest in who He is and a hope that maybe he can do the same for me.
Revelation 12:11 They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.
So these Samaritans went and sat with Jesus for two days. Listening to Him and His teachings. AHHHHH! Sort of like Lisa described when her friend challenged her. She began to sit with Jesus in her bathroom.
V. 41 Says because of His Words, many more believed. AWWEESSOOMMMEE. So our failures covered by grace and can lead people to the feet of Jesus.
And the most AWESOME part of all this is that the Samaritans come back with their OWN Testimony! Praise God.
Let’s read verse 42 Now that we have heard for OURSELVES, and we KNOW that this man really is the SAVIOR of the world. I like this verse- one of my favorites: UHH we don’t need your testimony we got one of our own!
SO our failures covered in grace can lead people to sit at the feet of Jesus and call Him Savior! Praise God for failures!
This is what we want to be an example of for our children!
John 4
Let’s Outline her failures
1. Woman
2. Samaritan
3. Married/Divorced 5 times
4. Sleeping with a man who was not her husband now
Now when I say or use being a woman and a Samaritan as a failure- use it in the sense that it was already counted against her that she was both a woman and a Samaritan.
In the Eyes of Grace
Let’s REREAD v.9-26
Isn’t that awesome! God knew her life and pulled out (exposed) her sin and in grace (with the purpose of forgiving her) showed her a new way.
What happens when we experience Grace in Failure?
Well lets continue read what happened with the Samaritan Woman
Versus 39-42
So because of this grace and forgiveness shown to her in the mist of her sin. The Samaritan woman was able to go out and share with the town about her encounter with Jesus. You have to know- that everyone in town knew who this woman was, especially the men! Based on the life she had lived and the man she was with. So for her to run back and tell the people was a big deal- she was unashamed.
I think when we experience grace/forgiveness in our failures; we learn that we don’t have to carry around the shame (and guilt) of failing. And neither do our children.
So, she goes and shares her testimony. And the other Samaritans were intrigued Enough to go find Jesus for themselves.
Isn’t that the purpose of our testimony- is to lead others to Christ by creating an interest in who He is and a hope that maybe he can do the same for me.
Revelation 12:11 They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.
So these Samaritans went and sat with Jesus for two days. Listening to Him and His teachings. AHHHHH! Sort of like Lisa described when her friend challenged her. She began to sit with Jesus in her bathroom.
V. 41 Says because of His Words, many more believed. AWWEESSOOMMMEE. So our failures covered by grace and can lead people to the feet of Jesus.
And the most AWESOME part of all this is that the Samaritans come back with their OWN Testimony! Praise God.
Let’s read verse 42 Now that we have heard for OURSELVES, and we KNOW that this man really is the SAVIOR of the world. I like this verse- one of my favorites: UHH we don’t need your testimony we got one of our own!
SO our failures covered in grace can lead people to sit at the feet of Jesus and call Him Savior! Praise God for failures!
This is what we want to be an example of for our children!
To Spank or Not to Spank
Proverbs 23:13-14
The Message
Don't be afraid to correct your young ones;
a spanking won't kill them.
A good spanking, in fact, might save them
from something worse than death.
Proverbs 22:15
Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.
Sin is foolishness, it is in the heart, there is an inward tendency to sin: children bring it into the world with them; and it cleaves close to the soul. (Colossians 2:13-14 says, “You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. 14 He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.) We all need to be corrected by our heavenly Father. As do our children by us.
Proverbs 29:15
The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother.
We as parents must consider the benefit of due correction, and the mischief of undue indulgence. In other words, learning from inappropriate behavior (or attitude) and not committing act again versus a troublesome child(person) who overtaken by poor behavior or attitude just because he/she can.
This not only applies to our children, but to us and our relationship with God. Our need for correction, is dyer to us receiving this privilege of Eternity with Christ.
The Message
Don't be afraid to correct your young ones;
a spanking won't kill them.
A good spanking, in fact, might save them
from something worse than death.
Proverbs 22:15
Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.
Sin is foolishness, it is in the heart, there is an inward tendency to sin: children bring it into the world with them; and it cleaves close to the soul. (Colossians 2:13-14 says, “You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. 14 He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.) We all need to be corrected by our heavenly Father. As do our children by us.
Proverbs 29:15
The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother.
We as parents must consider the benefit of due correction, and the mischief of undue indulgence. In other words, learning from inappropriate behavior (or attitude) and not committing act again versus a troublesome child(person) who overtaken by poor behavior or attitude just because he/she can.
This not only applies to our children, but to us and our relationship with God. Our need for correction, is dyer to us receiving this privilege of Eternity with Christ.
Whisper His Name: Jesus
2 Corinthians 12 (The Message)
2 Corinthians 12
Strength from Weakness
1-5You've forced me to talk this way, and I do it against my better judgment. But now that we're at it, I may as well bring up the matter of visions and revelations that God gave me. For instance, I know a man who, fourteen years ago, was seized by Christ and swept in ecstasy to the heights of heaven. I really don't know if this took place in the body or out of it; only God knows. I also know that this man was hijacked into paradise—again, whether in or out of the body, I don't know; God knows. There he heard the unspeakable spoken, but was forbidden to tell what he heard. This is the man I want to talk about. But about myself, I'm not saying another word apart from the humiliations.
6If I had a mind to brag a little, I could probably do it without looking ridiculous, and I'd still be speaking plain truth all the way. But I'll spare you. I don't want anyone imagining me as anything other than the fool you'd encounter if you saw me on the street or heard me talk.
7-10Because of the extravagance of those revelations, and so I wouldn't get a big head, I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,
My grace is enough; it's all you need.
My strength comes into its own in your weakness.
Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.
God is so AWESOME isn’t He!!!!
I want to focus on Our Weakness, God’s grace, His Strength. Let’s talk about our weaknesses.
o We all have weaknesses. Weakness is defined as: - lack of strength or determination: lack of strength, power, or determination
And as human beings we find ourselves weak. But as moms especially, we can find ourselves with a lack of power- thinking that we really have no control here (esp. in the moment of disobedience). Or being tired and not having the strength to handle our children or our day. I find myself here quite often now that I have began to homeschool. Thinking, “Oh God is this really your plan for us.” Or “You know me, are you sure about this?” But thank God for His Word, huh?
Paul encourages us with his own testimony to delight in our weaknesses because it there where we are made Strong through Jesus Christ. Paul tells us of his “thorn” in his flesh which he thought was a form or sign of weakness so he asked the Lord to take it away. But He says that the Lord responded to Him, “My grace is enough. My grace is all you need. My power is made perfect in your weakness”
Definition for perfect
o - without faults: without errors, flaws, or faults
o - complete and whole: complete and lacking nothing essential
So when we are weak in our flesh, in our bodies, in our minds, God says to us, My favor is enough for you today, in this moment. Though you are weak now I am making you complete and whole, in lack of nothing. How good is our GOD!!!
I like one of the definitions of perfect: it means excellent or ideal: excellent or ideal in every way.
So when we are struggling when we down, God’s favor is enough. He is strength is excellent! It’s the ideal thing!!!! In every way! Praise God, huh?
So Paul continues on after God’s words to Him (so should we)- Paul says I welcome hardships! I just take it in stride!!!! I don’t even focus on my issues or let them overwhelm me- I just let Christ take over!!!! Hallelujah!
As we parent our children, we learn that there is NO ONE WAY to parent or correct them. And we also learn that as our children grow that we have this Grace that is ever ready for us and this Excellent- Ideal Strength that awaits us in our weak moments all we have to do is ask Him.
Prayer
Lord we celebrate Your Awesomeness! Lord we praise You for Your Word that has proven itself over and over and over. We thank You that Your Grace was not only enough for Paul, but it still is Enough for us Moms here today. We thank You for the Encouragement which says its ok to be weak, to have flaws be cause Your Perfect Power is Ideal for our every situation in every way. Lord, please help us to remember this. In Your Son’s Name, Amen.
2 Corinthians 12
Strength from Weakness
1-5You've forced me to talk this way, and I do it against my better judgment. But now that we're at it, I may as well bring up the matter of visions and revelations that God gave me. For instance, I know a man who, fourteen years ago, was seized by Christ and swept in ecstasy to the heights of heaven. I really don't know if this took place in the body or out of it; only God knows. I also know that this man was hijacked into paradise—again, whether in or out of the body, I don't know; God knows. There he heard the unspeakable spoken, but was forbidden to tell what he heard. This is the man I want to talk about. But about myself, I'm not saying another word apart from the humiliations.
6If I had a mind to brag a little, I could probably do it without looking ridiculous, and I'd still be speaking plain truth all the way. But I'll spare you. I don't want anyone imagining me as anything other than the fool you'd encounter if you saw me on the street or heard me talk.
7-10Because of the extravagance of those revelations, and so I wouldn't get a big head, I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan's angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,
My grace is enough; it's all you need.
My strength comes into its own in your weakness.
Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ's strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.
God is so AWESOME isn’t He!!!!
I want to focus on Our Weakness, God’s grace, His Strength. Let’s talk about our weaknesses.
o We all have weaknesses. Weakness is defined as: - lack of strength or determination: lack of strength, power, or determination
And as human beings we find ourselves weak. But as moms especially, we can find ourselves with a lack of power- thinking that we really have no control here (esp. in the moment of disobedience). Or being tired and not having the strength to handle our children or our day. I find myself here quite often now that I have began to homeschool. Thinking, “Oh God is this really your plan for us.” Or “You know me, are you sure about this?” But thank God for His Word, huh?
Paul encourages us with his own testimony to delight in our weaknesses because it there where we are made Strong through Jesus Christ. Paul tells us of his “thorn” in his flesh which he thought was a form or sign of weakness so he asked the Lord to take it away. But He says that the Lord responded to Him, “My grace is enough. My grace is all you need. My power is made perfect in your weakness”
Definition for perfect
o - without faults: without errors, flaws, or faults
o - complete and whole: complete and lacking nothing essential
So when we are weak in our flesh, in our bodies, in our minds, God says to us, My favor is enough for you today, in this moment. Though you are weak now I am making you complete and whole, in lack of nothing. How good is our GOD!!!
I like one of the definitions of perfect: it means excellent or ideal: excellent or ideal in every way.
So when we are struggling when we down, God’s favor is enough. He is strength is excellent! It’s the ideal thing!!!! In every way! Praise God, huh?
So Paul continues on after God’s words to Him (so should we)- Paul says I welcome hardships! I just take it in stride!!!! I don’t even focus on my issues or let them overwhelm me- I just let Christ take over!!!! Hallelujah!
As we parent our children, we learn that there is NO ONE WAY to parent or correct them. And we also learn that as our children grow that we have this Grace that is ever ready for us and this Excellent- Ideal Strength that awaits us in our weak moments all we have to do is ask Him.
Prayer
Lord we celebrate Your Awesomeness! Lord we praise You for Your Word that has proven itself over and over and over. We thank You that Your Grace was not only enough for Paul, but it still is Enough for us Moms here today. We thank You for the Encouragement which says its ok to be weak, to have flaws be cause Your Perfect Power is Ideal for our every situation in every way. Lord, please help us to remember this. In Your Son’s Name, Amen.
HOW do we begin to discipline or train our children
Hebrews 12:5-11
Quite a bit of verses but is important for us as children of God to understand why we ourselves are disciplined by our Heavenly Father or why there is such a term as “discipline”
So first, we are going to talk about the reasoning behind discipline and in understanding and accepting His discipline- discuss ways in which we can be more like Him or sort of take on His way of parenting. Ok?
Just let you know. We will discuss a few of Q’s from study guide but we will be hopping around a lot.
Why does God Discipline us?
Well, His first reason is outlined in v.6 He Loves us and He accepts us as His children. This is WHY God disciplines us.
Man!! It feels so good to be loved and accepted doesn’t? I mean who would have thought that my ‘enduring hardship’ who make me feel loved and accepted. I know at times we feel it is ALWAYS the adversary. But in the case of Job it clearly gives us an example of a hardship. But before Job entered that hardship- God allowed it. He gave the enemy permission. (I do believe the enemy attacks us with intent to harm us- I do know also that the Lord is fully aware at all times). Sometimes it can be due to our very own disobedience (sin). Verse 10. I love verse 10b! But God disciplines us for our good so that we may share in His holiness. (Cuz remember sin separates). So He is disciplining us by correcting us and training us so that we won’t fall prey to that sin that so easily entangles us. So that we can be partakers of His holiness which is entering into His presence while being here on earth- and experiencing His all surpassing peace and joy. But ULTIMATELY we are being disciplined so we can make it to Heaven to be with Him. Amen.
Would 1 or 2 people like to share of a time when God discipline you? (SG Q 5c)
Verse 11. As we ALL know- Being disciplined does not seem pleasant at first. Shoot! If you ask me it down right HURTS! It’s EMBARRASSING and it’s HUMILIATING! BUT v.11 says it PRODUCES meaning it is making-it is developing- it is creating a Harvest (a WHOLE LOT) of RIGHTEOUSNESS and PEACE.! Whew!! Thank You Jesus! But- you know what v. 11 does? It has a catch after all that good producing bit. It says “but for only those who are being (continually) being trained by it (discipline). So it’s an ongoing thing for us to be disciplined by our Father as will it be for our children. Because we want them to reap a harvest of righteousness and peace and share in His Holiness. Mrs. Annie May told me two years ago, “our children on the only thing (possessions) we can take to heaven with us” The only thing.
So HOW do we begin to discipline or train our children?
1. The Bible As God’s Final Word
2. WE must MODEL Christ before our children
First with our spouses.
3. Man! Our Children have to trust us don’t they?
If you notice though- most people who reject Jesus- reject Him because THEY DON’T TRUST(BELIEVE)THAT THIS BIBLE IS TRUE.!
How can we as parents teach our children to trust us so that they will obey us? DISCIPLINE is the answer!
When we discipline our children consistently and lovingly it ENCOURAGES willing obedience. Praise the LORD!
John 14:15 says. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey my commands.”
Obedience is based on TRUST and at the HEART of TRUST is LOVE!
Quite a bit of verses but is important for us as children of God to understand why we ourselves are disciplined by our Heavenly Father or why there is such a term as “discipline”
So first, we are going to talk about the reasoning behind discipline and in understanding and accepting His discipline- discuss ways in which we can be more like Him or sort of take on His way of parenting. Ok?
Just let you know. We will discuss a few of Q’s from study guide but we will be hopping around a lot.
Why does God Discipline us?
Well, His first reason is outlined in v.6 He Loves us and He accepts us as His children. This is WHY God disciplines us.
Man!! It feels so good to be loved and accepted doesn’t? I mean who would have thought that my ‘enduring hardship’ who make me feel loved and accepted. I know at times we feel it is ALWAYS the adversary. But in the case of Job it clearly gives us an example of a hardship. But before Job entered that hardship- God allowed it. He gave the enemy permission. (I do believe the enemy attacks us with intent to harm us- I do know also that the Lord is fully aware at all times). Sometimes it can be due to our very own disobedience (sin). Verse 10. I love verse 10b! But God disciplines us for our good so that we may share in His holiness. (Cuz remember sin separates). So He is disciplining us by correcting us and training us so that we won’t fall prey to that sin that so easily entangles us. So that we can be partakers of His holiness which is entering into His presence while being here on earth- and experiencing His all surpassing peace and joy. But ULTIMATELY we are being disciplined so we can make it to Heaven to be with Him. Amen.
Would 1 or 2 people like to share of a time when God discipline you? (SG Q 5c)
Verse 11. As we ALL know- Being disciplined does not seem pleasant at first. Shoot! If you ask me it down right HURTS! It’s EMBARRASSING and it’s HUMILIATING! BUT v.11 says it PRODUCES meaning it is making-it is developing- it is creating a Harvest (a WHOLE LOT) of RIGHTEOUSNESS and PEACE.! Whew!! Thank You Jesus! But- you know what v. 11 does? It has a catch after all that good producing bit. It says “but for only those who are being (continually) being trained by it (discipline). So it’s an ongoing thing for us to be disciplined by our Father as will it be for our children. Because we want them to reap a harvest of righteousness and peace and share in His Holiness. Mrs. Annie May told me two years ago, “our children on the only thing (possessions) we can take to heaven with us” The only thing.
So HOW do we begin to discipline or train our children?
1. The Bible As God’s Final Word
2. WE must MODEL Christ before our children
First with our spouses.
3. Man! Our Children have to trust us don’t they?
If you notice though- most people who reject Jesus- reject Him because THEY DON’T TRUST(BELIEVE)THAT THIS BIBLE IS TRUE.!
How can we as parents teach our children to trust us so that they will obey us? DISCIPLINE is the answer!
When we discipline our children consistently and lovingly it ENCOURAGES willing obedience. Praise the LORD!
John 14:15 says. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey my commands.”
Obedience is based on TRUST and at the HEART of TRUST is LOVE!
Something to think about:
Have you ever missed someone you loved so dearly? I have and do (my hubby). I am assuming most would say "yes". Now think about those deep emotions and yearnings you had; just to see their face or hear their voice. Now imagine if God left you for a moment. . . man, we would unable to yearn- we would die. I now understand why Jesus yelled on that old rugged cross, "Eloi, Eloi lama Sabachthani?" "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" That was the only time on the Cross that He appeared to be in much agony. But it had to be done for that moment. If God turned away from us but for one moment our hearts would literally break. Thank the Lord for His EVERLASTING words " I will never leave you nor forsake you." Now praise Him.
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