Fumbling
Searching
Reaching
Afraid
Confused
Scared to stay
Scared to grow
Change threatens
What direction?
I don't know yet
How do I find Your Plan?
I only need to know the next step
But sometimes even that is in the
Shadow
Hidden
Beyond my grasp
(yes, I edited this...)
Trust
Relaxing--calmly waiting
Resting--peacefully
Patient--knowing Your timing is best
Joyous--eagerly watching
Clinging--to Your hand
Hearing--only Your voice
Praying--for Your will
Not frantic
Not hurried
Not anxious
Not worried
Not stressed
At ease
very cool . . .
trusting. that's a tough one - the relax, wait, be still - part? yeah, that's a tough one for me.
More disjointed ramblings...
(Humble apologies in advance to you KJV-only readers) :)
Psalm 100 (NLT)
A psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth!
2 Worship the LORD with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the LORD is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.
In my mind, this Psalm is the job description for a worship leader. Verses 1-4 are filled with action verbs—things we should do, and verse 5 tells us why we should do them.
Verses 1-4—the short list:
Shout
Worship
Come
Sing
Acknowledge
Enter
Go
Give
Praise
The Actions
Verse 1—"Shout with joy to the LORD, all the earth!"
A noisy, joyful response is perfectly acceptable to God. Why should our spontaneous, emotional reactions be saved for parties or events? If a shout of joy is our response to a touch-down, then it should be our response to a healing, or a testimony of His faithfulness.
Verse 2—"Worship the LORD with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy."
Real worship comes from our hearts. If we're mindlessly saying words and going through motions, then it is not real worship. We need to focus on what we can be glad about, not all our trials and difficulties. 'Come before him, singing with joy'—We should let our worship pour from hearts of gladness and joy. We shouldn't come before him with whining, complaining, discontented attitudes—we should come singing about His goodness, and with joy because of who He is and what He has done.
Verse 3—"Acknowledge that the LORD is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture."
We must acknowledge that He is above all, recognize that He is our creator and we belong to Him, remember our own insignificance, but at the same time realize that He considered us worth dying for.
Verse 4—"Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name."
Thanksgiving and praise are two important elements in entering His presence. Who wants to grant a request for someone who only complains and grumbles? Philippians 4:6 says, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done."
The Reason
Why do we do these things? Because He alone is worthy of our adoration and worship. "For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation."
:beret:
At a dead end, and backed into the corner
With multiple opponents attacking.
I can't see in the dark, Jesus--
I can't tell if you're there;
I can't feel you, can't touch you,
Can't sense you anywhere near!
My strength giving out,
No hope for the fight.
But because of the mask
No one knows I need help;
No one know I am dying on the inside.
The blackness surrounds me, consumes me,
I'm frightened to the core.
But then I catch one little glimmer,
One pinprick of light.
I focus my eyes with all the intensity I can muster,
Willing your Light to come
To dispel the darkness
To make the evil flee.
Psalm 9:9
The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
both very cool.
certainly relate to the poem. hhhmm.
sometimes in the darkest days all i could remember was that the darkness and the light were both alike to Him and that even if i couldn't see Him, He could still see me.
God is good.
Quote from: newkris on February 17, 2007, 04:44:42 PM
sometimes in the darkest days all i could remember was that the darkness and the light were both alike to Him and that even if i couldn't see Him, He could still see me.
I've thought of that often myself. It's nice to know He's always there...even when we can't see Him.
:beret:
So this runs in the family?
Is it perhaps a clinically proven disorder, or something else?
Errrr...not sure how to respond to that.
:beret:
i think CR is a little jealous that your ramblings are a little bit . . classic.
that's ok, CR, you can post classic ramblings here, too.
and i must say from an outsider's perspective, there does seem to be an inordinate amount of rambling talent in youse guys for being family. not so much in my family . . . lots of rock n roll . . not so much rambling.
Quote from: SippinTea on November 17, 2006, 04:31:04 AM
You hold me in one hand
He is in the other
When the time is right
You'll bring Your hands together
*clap*
*squish*
oops
sorry, couldn't help it... I'm leaving now!
AB-- :pound: for making fun of me
Kris--*hugs* for thinking rambling is a talent
:beret:
LOL ow! sorry... I did like it btw
whenever my dad sings "He's got the whole world in his hands" with the kids he always claps his hand at the end and then looks down at his hands in horror.... so when I read that line in your ramble.... LOL I'm sorry thats just what came to mind LOL
I'm so twisted
No worries. I knew you were just kidding around. :hi:
:beret:
"God gave me a twisted mind!" -Ken Davis
Giving myself the grace to fail...been batting around that thought lately.
It's so easy to think 'I should be beyond this by now', or 'I should be a more mature Christian now than to be doing/being/acting/feeling ______', or 'I should have seen what the result of that would be', or 'I should be doing ______, but I'm not', or 'I shouldn't be doing ______, but I am', etc.
But after all, I am human--I'm not exactly perfect yet. And maybe I have a harder time accepting my own humanity than people around me do.
In the middle of my muddlings, I ran across a quote from Ron Mehl regarding the story of Peter walking on the water...
"Some people say Peter didn't have to get wet that night. Maybe so. But then again...what's wrong with getting wet as we seek to walk on water? What's wrong with going under for a few seconds when the Lord's right there to pull us up again? What's wrong with crying out to Him for help and reaching out for His hand? Isn't that better than clinging to our security and not reaching for His hand at all?"
Maybe the new and improved motto should be Fail Faster, because unless we risk we can never hope to gain. The more the chances for failure, the more the chances at success, at growth, at victory.
More Muddled Musings and Random Ramblings...
:beret:
i like that, ST. very cool. i also thought when reading that Mehl quote that Peter got wet because he got out of the boat, he dared to do something unusual that God asked Him to do. "if it's really You, bid me come." and Jesus did and Peter did. can you imagine what the other disciples were thinking when Peter started to get out of the boat? did any of them even believe it was the Lord out there? if it was the Lord, why in the world would He ask Peter to do something so non-traditional, so different, so . . dangerous? and yet the Lord did and Peter saw a HUGE miracle happen to him! Peter walked on water for at least a few seconds and then realized what he was doing and glanced around. as quickly as he was sinking, the Lord was there to pick him up. it doesn't say that they were suddenly translated back to the boat, either. maybe they strolled back, maybe they walked around together on the water for a bit. hhhmmm . . . can you imagine the adrenaline rush that came with walking on water?
what if . . God asked you to get out of the boat of things you have always done and to do something completely different?
you know ST, that little note above from you was exactly what i needed to get my mind back in place. thanks so much for listening to the Lord!
LOL Not sure if it was more for me, or more for you...but either way I guess it's a good thing I rambled, eh? ;)
I'm getting the distinct feeling that God is wanting me to make more huge changes in my life. Not sure what all that might include, yet. And whatever He has for me, I want. But that doesn't mean I won't have some fear and start to sink a few times. However, I know He's right there to pick me up even if/when I can't see Him.
Ready or not...
:beret:
Maybe he wants you to travel overseas to visit some long lost friends ;) *hint hint*
:biglaugh: As much fun as that sounds....I'm pretty sure that's not in the plan for right now. But it is tempting! :)
:beret:
Ever notice how many times in Ephesians you see the phrases 'in Him' or 'in Christ'? I started listing some of them, and came up with the following...
In Him I am:
given every spiritual blessing
chosen
blameless
adopted
redeemed
given the purpose of His will
full of hope
included
marked with His seal
given mighty strength
seated in the heavenly realms
given kindness
created
brought near
joined together
a sharer in the Promise
given the revelation of mysteries
able to approach God with freedom and confidence
given forgiveness
taught truth
brought light
given strength
...and THAT's only the tip of the iceberg! :clap:
:beret:
:thumbsup2:
That's only the tip of your thumb, TH.
very cool, sippintea. just what i needed to hear . . . again!
Hmmm...seems like I'm doing an inordinate amount of Random Rambling this week. You don't even want to know how many new pages of Rambles are in my journal. :o Guess I think things through better when I'm Rambling.
My thought for today:
It's too easy to live in the past, or be wishing to live in the future...be I want to live HERE, in the right now, putting all of me into the moment. In light of that...I'm on a quest this week to see how many things I can notice in small moments that I might've missed by not being really 'present'. The second part of my quest is to purposely set out to find a whole host of small and enjoyable things I haven't done for a long time, and then DO them. High on my list of priorities for today is blowing bubbles with the kids, and skipping down the sidewalk instead of walking, and sending a 'just because' card to someone I love. I may also read a chapter in Mrs. Piggle Wiggle, and if it starts raining I may go stomp in a puddle--just because I can.
A mature adult should likely word this differently...something like 'Be engaged in the moment'...meaning pay attention during that incredibly boring meeting at work, and try not to fall asleep in church, and be ready to pounce for that big sale headed your way....but I'm not going to say that. Perhaps it says something about me, and perhaps it doesn't, but....
Here's to a day full of childlike wonder....
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 07, 2007, 03:22:51 PM
A mature adult should likely word this differently...something like 'Be engaged in the moment'...
Nah.
Quote from: SippinTea on March 07, 2007, 03:22:51 PM
Here's to a day full of childlike wonder....
Yeah!
Quote from: SippinTea on March 07, 2007, 03:22:51 PM
My thought for today:
It's too easy to live in the past, or be wishing to live in the future...be I want to live HERE, in the right now, putting all of me into the moment.
"Don't let the what-might-have-beens kill the what-can-bes." -CR
Or in this case,
"Don't let the what-might-bes hinder the what-are-bes..." Ok, that makes no sense at all; an official word from The Rambler.
Quote from: Amelia Bedelia on February 18, 2007, 03:43:42 PM
whenever my dad sings "He's got the whole world in his hands" with the kids he always claps his hand at the end and then looks down at his hands in horror.... so when I read that line in your ramble.... LOL I'm sorry thats just what came to mind LOL
I'm so twisted
:laughhard: THAT, my friend, is HYSTERICALLY funny! :laughhard:
I'm going to have to do that sometime... and tell my brother about it, as well. I can really envision him using that one in his services. :-)
:biglaugh: :thumbsup2: :hypocrite: :biglaugh:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 07, 2007, 03:22:51 PM
Hmmm...seems like I'm doing an inordinate amount of Random Rambling this week. You don't even want to know how many new pages of Rambles are in my journal. :o Guess I think things through better when I'm Rambling.
My thought for today:
It's too easy to live in the past, or be wishing to live in the future...be I want to live HERE, in the right now, putting all of me into the moment. In light of that...I'm on a quest this week to see how many things I can notice in small moments that I might've missed by not being really 'present'. The second part of my quest is to purposely set out to find a whole host of small and enjoyable things I haven't done for a long time, and then DO them. High on my list of priorities for today is blowing bubbles with the kids, and skipping down the sidewalk instead of walking, and sending a 'just because' card to someone I love. I may also read a chapter in Mrs. Piggle Wiggle, and if it starts raining I may go stomp in a puddle--just because I can.
A mature adult should likely word this differently...something like 'Be engaged in the moment'...meaning pay attention during that incredibly boring meeting at work, and try not to fall asleep in church, and be ready to pounce for that big sale headed your way....but I'm not going to say that. Perhaps it says something about me, and perhaps it doesn't, but....
Here's to a day full of childlike wonder....
:beret:
:great:
being an adult isn't all its cracked up to be.
I think I shocked sister Charlotte recently by doing somersaults in the park with Manny and Tina :laughhard:
life's too short to be stuffy.
Awwww...wish I'd been there. I'd have....
well, maybe not. :biglaugh:
:beret:
well, ST, i think it would have depended on what you were wearing and who was around . . .
go ahead! do some flips, if you still can!
i am finding that although time takes it's toll . . . i still enjoy walking the tightrope (well, okay, it's only parking stops, but they're high for me) arms outstretched, carefully balanced . . and i can still do it.
i love walking in a pile of snow and kicking it high into the air to watch it "snow" again. and i love to feel the snow on my face . . cool diamond drops drifting down.
i love splashing in puddles - if i don't have to wear those shoes for the rest of the day - and i think i'll get plenty of that now that the snow is finally melting.
i love to see the sunrise and breathe in the air of a new day.
life is not about "aging". life is about living and enjoying each gift God gives us along the way.
why grow up?
I learned something about myself last night. I love learning. (No, that's not what I learned...I already knew that!) Anyway, rather than fill up a ramblin' thread, I thought I'd just say I learned something. Smile.
Happy Saturday to all!!!! Expecially to those of you that are watching snow melt; like me. :great: Yay for spring.
No snow here...but I just ordered a bunch of resistors from mouser.com :freaky2:
Interesting how life takes such odd twists and turns, isn't it? Things you never expected, things you never wanted but they happened anyway, things you always longed for but thought would never happen, events that 'just happened', people you 'just happened' to meet...and somewhere in the center of it all our choices lie. Choices to accept the things we never wanted and choices to grow through that experience...choices to make that phone call or write that letter...choices to forgive and let it go...choices to live in the moment of the unexpected pleasures, taking them as they come. Choices that can be exciting and frightening--sometimes both at the same time. Knowing that the opportunity to make that choice won't come again, because it's only in that moment--and you won't pass this way again.
Quote
Going somewhere means leaving somewhere. Choosing something mean choosing against other things. Gaining something means losing something else. And between the old and new--the 'was' and the 'not yet'--there exists only one thing: a very frightening journey called faith.
--taken from the book Coming Up For Air
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. "
James 1:5-6
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts"
Col. 3:15
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Phil 4:7
Points of Ponderance...
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 11, 2007, 06:02:56 AM
...and somewhere in the center of it all our choices lie. Choices to accept the things we never wanted and choices to grow through that experience...choices to make that phone call or write that letter...choices to forgive and let it go...choices to live in the moment of the unexpected pleasures, taking them as they come. Choices that can be exciting and frightening--sometimes both at the same time. Knowing that the opportunity to make that choice won't come again, because it's only in that moment--and you won't pass this way again.
yes.
:updown:
what are some things you choose to keep?
what are some things you have chosen to let go of?
i have chosen to be alive.
i have chosen to let go of bitterness, wrath, evil speaking, clamoring, and hurting.
*breathe deep* today . . . is another brand new day.
"Great disappointments will not occur if you have no expectations."
-another great word of wisdom from the ever rambling CR :sadbounce:
There's a song in there somewhere, just let me work on it. :thumbsup2:
Quote from: newkris on March 13, 2007, 10:57:13 PM
what are some things you choose to keep?
what are some things you have chosen to let go of?
Hmmm...rambling off the top of my head....
I choose to value the lessons I've learned in the dark times of life, and choose to let those hard times make me a better person.
I choose to keep a forgiving spirit when I see the inconsistencies and two-facedness of people that should know better.
I choose to let go of my rights when they might cause someone else to stumble.
I choose to keep the good memories, and let go of the bad.
I choose to keep certain boundaries and standards I've made for myself, even when I'm made fun of and misunderstood.
I choose to let go of the pride that says that people who don't look like me, act like me, talk like me...don't love God, too.
Quote from: newkris on March 13, 2007, 10:57:13 PM
*breathe deep* today . . . is another brand new day.
:great: Yes, it is! (Or will be tomorrow morning, anyway.) :) And isn't it amazing to think that His mercies will be new again in the morning?!?
:beret:
Adapted from a statement in Joanna Weaver's book Having a Mary Spirit:
Don't walk through life a pale imitation of what you might have been.
:beret:
ooh . . . i like that! not quite like being a shadow - which would denote having left the scene with only a memory behind - but living in the middle of life without having any life, any purpose, any strength. hhhmm . . that's one to ponder.
but tanning is unhealthy!
and fake tanners look well, fake
I do like that quote though... hits a little too close though LOL
Quote from: Amelia Bedelia on March 16, 2007, 11:11:58 PM
I do like that quote though... hits a little too close though LOL
I know. :-\ That's why it struck me, too. Something I've been mulling over for a few days.
:beret:
Taken (again) from Having a Mary Spirit
Quote
After being bound in darkness for so long, the light was nearly blinding. but as the Man pulled her to her feet, gently smoothing her wild hair, she could feel His love. The demons had not been kind. Many years of torment had left her only a shell.
The demons had taken. This Man only gave. His words, His acceptance, the smile in His eyes welcomed her back to life. For the first time in years, she felt a stirring of hope. As if the person she used to be and the person His eyes told her she could now be were about to meet.
As she stood to her feet and looked Him in the face, she realized the fear was gone. So was the seething self-hatred. Only hope remained. And, to her surprise, a small bubble of joy slipped out in breathless laughter.
He laughed as well. For they both knew something marvelous had happened.
She'd been set free.
While I've never been demon possessed, there were a lot of things in this quote that I can identify with. Won't go into detail here, but two weeks ago God did something amazing for me, and I feel like I've been given a new lease on life. John 8:36--"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
:beret:
that's deep. yep. know that feeling well.
reminds me of a New Year's Morning when i walked in the sunshine and felt the warmth of His touch on my face and the strength of His arms carrying me. that's why i wasn't afraid to cross the bridge. i had seen Him in the park before and knew He was with me crossing the bridge.
hhhmmm . . something about feeling hands of Grace lifting you that makes you want to live again.
....And if any of you are wailing like me, "But I still don't have all the answers!" I guess maybe we should remember that God has filled in enough of the blanks to invite us to trust Him with the rest.
Erg. There's that 'trust' word again. I'm getting the distinct impression _maybe_ God is trying to tell me something. Like maybe I have a problem. :updown: LOL
But then I remember also that He loves me in spite of myself, and even when I'm being a turkey--His love is just as big as it ever was or ever will be. Because He never, never changes, and His love isn't based on my performance. *big sigh* Thank you, Jesus!
:beret:
I haven't been in here in a while, and wanted to tell you that these ramblings of yours are wonderful to read. The one today really hit me, especially the last part is something I definitely needed to hear today, and need to remember especially tomorrow. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. :great:
Thanks, Sis Mom! I honestly don't ramble for anyone but myself...but I'm glad if something I said encourages someone else or causes them to think. And it's nice to hear when it does... :)
:beret:
The perfect quote for a gal like me that doesn't believe in fairy tales...
"True love comes quietly, without banners or flashing lights. If you hear bells, get your ears checked." --Erich Segal
:updown: ...oh, wait that's :beret:
ding dong--
anybody home??
:pound:
:jumping:
:beret:
youse guys are so silly!
We know! ;) Think it's a family resemblance or something? :cool:
:beret:
"For I have a great sense of obligation to people in our culture and to people in other cultures, to the educated and uneducated alike." (Rom. 1:14)
Can I truly claim that? Do I honestly have 'a great sense of obligation' to make sure others hear the Message? What lengths am I willing to go to, to see that they hear? Or perhaps a more accurate barometer would be--what am I currently doing to see that they hear? What energy, what resources, what personal convenience am I giving up for the sake of sharing the Good News? Or do I just say 'yes, I care that they don't know about God's grace' and then blissfully stay in my own little bubble of happiness?
Do I cluck my tongue at the wickedness?
Do I turn my head at the sight of suffering?
Do I walk away in disgust when they tell their sordid stories?
Do I shake my head when I see the hurt and wonder at the cruelty they've been shown?
Or do I offer them a better Way?
Run towards the suffering, and offer help and hope?
Let them know I don't appreciate the sordid stories, but then tell them there is a happier, fulfilling life they could choose?
Embrace the hurting, cry with them, and then offer them an introduction to the Healer of hearts, minds, and bodies?
"For it is not merely knowing the law that brings God's approval. Those who obey the law will be declared right in God's sight." (Rom 2:13)
"For the more we know God's law, the clearer it becomes that we aren't obeying it." (Rom 3:20b)
"No, O people, the Lord has already told you what is good, and this is what he requires: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8 )
"But if you keep looking steadily into God's perfect law--the law that sets you free--and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it." (James 1:25)
More Meandering Meditations...
:beret:
I remember reading a quote somewhere that said 'sin is trying to fill a legitimate need in an illegitimate way' (may not have been those exact words, but something to that effect). Makes sense to me. When there is a lack in our lives and we set out to fill it with anything other than God or His endorsed behaviors, we end up with something fake, a substitue, a cheap imitation.
:beret:
:thumbsup2:
One of my favorites:
"We should repent, not to be forgiven, but because we are forgiven!"
(ahem) And who wrote it?
Well, I just did...but I got it from Brennan Manning, and I can't remember how he worded it; so I wasn't going to blame him for my version. :(
Mumbled (and Muddled) Musing...
Surrender is difficult. Even when you're sure you've made the right decision. May not understand the 'why' of what God says to do, but He never asked us to understand anyway, He just requires obedience. Doesn't mean it's easy.
:beret:
*raises eyebrow*
Quote from: SippinTea on April 19, 2007, 05:52:49 PM
Mumbled (and Muddled) Musing...
Surrender is difficult. Even when you're sure you've made the right decision. May not understand the 'why' of what God says to do, but He never asked us to understand anyway, He just requires obedience. *sigh* Doesn't mean it's easy.
:beret:
You can never go wrong doing right, no matter what the cost. (My pastor said that last night. :grin: )
That is true, Sis Mom. It's just that sometimes what is right and wrong gets a little cloudy when it's not something clearly spelled out in Scripture. My method for deciding is to follow Colossians 3:15--"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts..." But even then, sometimes I'm not completely sure. It's easy to rely too much on feelings, and fool myself into thinking that's God's voice....when really it's just my wants or hopes or even fears.
Here is the latest installment in disjointed ramblings...
Esther 5:1-2
Esther 8:1-4
Never noticed before that Esther went TWICE before the king unbidden. Not sure that there is any great significance to that, except perhaps this: when you have once entered the presence of a King, and found yourself accepted, and listened to, and your requests granted....somehow I don't think the second entrance would be even half as frightening. Somehow I think you'd enter with more confidence.
Hebrews 4:16--Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
I John 5:14--This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.
:beret:
When I can't see the path:
James 1:5,6--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.
James 3:17--But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
When I don't get the answer I thought I would:
Psalm 84:11--For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Matthew 7:11--If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
James 1:17--Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
And when I'm confident of the promise, but the fulfillment doesn't seem to be appearing:
Heb. 11:1--Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Heb. 11:39-40a--These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us...
.....and we're back to that word TRUST. Trust Him to lead when I can't see the path....trust Him that the answers He gives are the right ones...trust Him to fulfill the promise in the right time and in the right way.
Why is it that I arrogantly assume I can arrange my life better than the King of Kings can? Completely ludicrous. And shows how pathetic I really am....
Okay, God...it's me again. I choose to trust You. All my questions, all my fears, all my hopes, all my wishes and dreams, all my insecurities, all my inadequacies, all the gifts you've already given me...I place them back in Your hands. But please, Jesus, use them to grow me more like You. My life is in Your hands...right where it belongs.
:beret:
Okay, I'm know I'm rambling quite a bit today...but I've got the house all to myself and I'm enjoying the chance to spend some alone time with God.
Two songs keep running over and over through my head today. One is Renew Me (Avalon)...
"Why am I such a dusty window
For your light to shine through?
Why am I just a tiny star
In a sky already blue?
Why do I offer everything
With my heart closed like a fist?
I want to love You better than this
Why do I live like I'm in chains
When You have set me free?
And why do I have to break Your heart
Before I fall to my knees?
I know it's time to pray for change
Give all I have to give
I want to love You better than this
So renew me
Remake me
Undo me
Unbreak me
Come into the empty spaces
Of my broken places
And consume me
Complete me
Pursue me
Redeem me
Let Your Holy Spirit living through me
Renew me
I need You as my refuge
My first and last resort
Be the river always running
Through my deepest thoughts
Keep me in Your arms
'Cause even when I drift
I want to love You better than this"
The other is Alabaster Box (Winans)...
"I've come to pour my praise on Him like oil from Mary's alabaster box
Don't be angry if I wash his feet with my tears and I dry them with my hair
You weren't there the night he found me
You did not feel what I felt when he wrapped his love all around me
And you don't know the cost of the oil in my alabaster box"
No comments to add. The songs speak for themselves.
:beret:
I love Alabaster Box, but you havent lived or FELT it till you have SEEN it.
How about living it? :smirk2:
:beret:
I feel ya on that one... :great:
Scripture on my mind tonight:
John 14:27--Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Psalm 27:14--Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Psalm 31:24--Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.
Psalm 34:4-5--I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.
Psalm 48:14--For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.
Psalm 55:22--Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Psalm 56:3--What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
Psalm 62:8--Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us.
I know this isn't a typical ramble....but since I started this thread, I guess it's okay. LOL
:beret:
:thumbsup2:
Psalm 138:8--The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
1 Thessalonians 5:24--Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
This won't come as a surprise to you, but....I'm a work in progress. And I'm hoping that God will take even my mistakes and use them for good. Ever let fear cloud your thinking? Yeah, me too.
If it was somebody else talking this way, I could probably give them some answers. As it is, I'm at a loss for words. So...all I can do is hang on to the above verses, and hope God is still leading my steps. Strange, isn't it....how easy it is to see answers for other people, but not so easy to see them for your life?
Hmmmm...that brings to mind another verse:
Matthew 7:3--And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
*ramble ramble ramble*
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on April 29, 2007, 11:45:34 PM
*ramble ramble ramble*
"Rumble, rumble, rumble.
Mutiny, mutiny, mutiny." - from The United States of America, a Stan Freberg production.
:roll: Yes, John, that too....
:lol:
:beret:
good stuff. lots to think about.
work in progress. on the Potter's wheel. not where I want to be, not where I thought I'd be, not where He's taking me.
growing.
changing.
stretching beyond my ability.
and all along the way . . . learning.
compassion - mostly - blood breeds compassion, you know. ever been really hurt? yeah, next time you see someone hurt in the same way you don't feel casually bad - you feel their hurt.
grace - abundance grows out of adversity when you realize how very much God really does care for you - personally - specifically.
no reason to close into yourself if you realize that all of the complications of life have made you an even better person, more valuable to the world around you.
in the words of a wise friend of mine: YOUR WORTH IS FAR GREATER THAN YOU KNOW. ONLY LISTEN TO PEOPLE WHO AGREE WITH GOD.
So many wonderful ramblings in here. Good stuff all around. But your ramblings are especially hitting me to the core this morning Kris. Thanks, I needed to see that. :great:
Still praying for you.
Quote from: newkris on May 01, 2007, 12:11:39 PM
in the words of a wise friend of mine: YOUR WORTH IS FAR GREATER THAN YOU KNOW. ONLY LISTEN TO PEOPLE WHO AGREE WITH GOD.
Where's that GP quotes thread? That's one for the record.
Quote from: Sister_Mom on May 01, 2007, 01:22:17 PM
But your ramblings are especially hitting me to the core this morning Kris. Thanks, I needed to see that. :great:
Still praying for you.
Yeah, me too. On all three sentences...
:beret:
My moseying mind is meandering on the topic of compliments and how they affect self-esteem...(thanks to a certain thread in singles) LOL
Too many times in this world of ours, compliments have endless strings attached or are just plain a lie. And I think that's twisted the way some of us think--even about sincere compliments. I know for myself, even when someone at church tries to give me a compliment I often find myself thinking "What do they want this time?" (LOL) or "Why would they say that when it's so obviously not true?"
The last of which brings up another point...does the way we perceive ourselves affect the way we accept (or reject) compliments? or is it the other way 'round?
I don't have answers, just lots more questions....
LOL
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on May 04, 2007, 06:54:55 AM
Too many times in this world of ours, compliments have endless strings attached or are just plain a lie. And I think that's twisted the way some of us think--even about sincere compliments. I know for myself, even when someone at church tries to give me a compliment I often find myself thinking "What do they want this time?" (LOL) or "Why would they say that when it's so obviously not true?"
:beret:
That is totally me right there.
:thumbsup2:
Good stuff Ruby, Good stuff.
No ramble this time. Just a quick notice to my friends that the rest of GP doesn't need/want to know about, and I figured y'all would look for me in here anyway. :)
I'm leaving town tomorrow and will be gone for about a week. Taking a much-needed vacation with my family. :) So...no internet access for a while, and I knew a few of you would notice if I disappeared for that long. Oh, and my cell will be off all week, too, because it's my business line, and I'm NOT dealing with that on vacation! LOL But I'll check for msgs occasionally. *smile*
God bless you all!
:beret:
Vacation===the interpretation....
Her family has a guy they want her to meet....if she says no, they leave her in the mountains!!
:laughhard:
Have a safe trip my friend, and God BLess!
I could think of worse fates than being left in the mountains. :) Remember, I'm a mountain kind of gal! :P
And thanks for the well-wishing! :hi:
:beret:
New Interpretation......The teacup will be given to the first guy to offer a water buffalo as a trade! :laughhard: :teeth:
*mumble*
Did I mention I'm running away? LOLQuote from: nwlife on May 12, 2007, 05:27:45 PM
Her family has a guy they want her to meet....
And I certainly hope you're wrong about this one. They
have been pushing kinda hard again lately. *sigh*
Just in case y'all wondered...Singleness is NOT a problem and it DOESN'T need to be fixed!!
(There. I feel better now. LOL)
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on May 12, 2007, 05:36:21 PM
Just in case y'all wondered...Singleness is NOT a problem and it DOESN'T need to be fixed!!
(There. I feel better now. LOL)
:beret:
Well said My Tea Sippin Friend!
I for one would notice if you were gone, and I will miss you...who am I gonna talk to all night? But you deserve a break and a rest, so enjoy it while you have the chance!
*EXTRA BIG HUGS*
Have a blast!! And think of us when you are in the woods alone with Jesus!
Thanks, Mel! You're a peach! And I'm sure I will think of you. LOL It'll seem strange to go to sleep without a 'good night' wish from you. :updown: I'll be wishing you could be with me sitting by the campfire! ;)
:beret:
I wish I could be! That would be awesome!
Quote from: SippinTea on May 12, 2007, 05:36:21 PM
Just in case y'all wondered...Singleness is NOT a problem and it DOESN'T need to be fixed!!
Who said it was? It's a gift, right? Surely you've heard of the gift of singleness...some people just seem too happy to give theirs up. Phoooey.
Oooooo I like that!
Singleness is a GIFT!
Yep...you can choose to keep it, or get rid of it.
What does one usually do with a gift?
:laughhard:
I'll be saving that quote to repeat at an inopportune moment in your future, CR... :freaky2:
To which I will reply, " 'Tis more blessed to give, than to recieve." :grin:
But from what I have heard through the grapevine, your downfall from bachelor has been planned by some of your family.... :hypocrite:
yeah, well, many a poor bachelor has had his family plan his debunking from the EOB.
hey, surf? what's on your av? that's a little . . . odd . . .kind of creepy even! wanna see some more minneapolis pics? i took some the other day at st. kate's where i'm hoping to go to school in the fall.
sorry. i don't know how i get off topic so easily. :pwink:
Quote from: nwlife on May 18, 2007, 12:52:27 AM
But from what I have heard through the grapevine, your downfall from bachelor has been planned by some of your family.... :hypocrite:
Why am I not surprised? :roll:
Yeah, CR...ya been to eharmony yet? :roll:
No?
I didn't think so.
Me neither.
:beret:
"I am determined
to hold out to the end...." :sing:
:thumbsup2:
:beret:
Somewhat Gloomy Glimpses into My Meandering Mind... :smirk2: Hopefully these meanderings end well...
How is it that some people have a knack for giving a direct stab to an already open wound? How is it that they have a talent for drilling in to the very point you're most vulnerable, most hurting, most wanting to hide from everyone's eye? How is it that point-blank hits can turn you from an adult into a sniveling, cowering, eleven year old—even if it's not visible to anyone else?
Okay, granted she's a child, and probably has no idea that words can hurt that badly. But still...why would she say that? "I don't like your face..." And then proceed to elaborate in detail the reason she doesn't. No kidding. That's why I don't like it either.
At which point I'm silently asking "Do you think I like looking this way?" "Do you think I enjoy looking like a freak?" "Do you think I'd have picked this face if I'd been given the option?" ....Which sends me to the bigger question of "God, are you sure you knew what you were doing?"
Reading things like "for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works" only make me think of a hundred sarcastic remarks. Not a good reaction to God's Word, I know. Verses like Zephaniah 3:17 are somewhat comforting: "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." But only when I can manage to keep my only mirror as the reflection in His eyes. And that's a hard perspective to keep since I'm living here, not in heaven.
If nothing else, though, these things serve to remind me of the kind of person I don't want to be, and the kind of person I want to become. I want to hand out compliments freely to everyone around me, to focus on the beauty I see in people (both internal and external), to bring as many smiles to the faces of others as I can, to never cause tears. Especially not the kind of tears that don't show, because those are the kind that result from the worst pain. Even when I can't see or find God's perspective of myself, I want to be able to help others see it for them. I want to see the good in people, and be generous in pointing it out.
Watch your words!!!
James 3:6-8--"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison."
Proverbs 16:24—"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
Proverbs 29:20—"Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him."
Proverbs 12:18—"There is that speaketh like the piercing of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health."
Proverbs 18:21—"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
Proverbs 31:26—"She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness."
Yeah, the Pro. 31:26 thing...yeah, that's the kind of woman I want to be.
:beret:
This is something that has also been on my mind pretty strong for the last couple of weeks. While we can't control the behavior of other people, and we can see things that they don't think we can see, the selfishness, degrading others in order to lift themselves up, cutting remarks to keep someone under their thumb... we do have more control over who we are and how we handle the equally sensitive feelings of others. We have to remember that even those who make those remarks do have feelings they are trying to hide, and are just as easily hurt as we are, they just deal with their feelings differently (hopefully).
Reacting in the manner that comes natural to the flesh, and the way they expect us to, doesn't do us or them any good.
Mat 5:44-48 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
It's not the easy road, but it's the better road.
Good stuff, good stuff...
oh, ST, but you are so beautiful! such kind eyes and easy smile . . . and such GORGEOUS hair!!
funny though how our impressions of ourselves and our assumption of someone else's impressions are so very different. i guess that's why it's so very important to speak good things to one another. if you had heard 100 good things that day, maybe the child's words wouldn't have hurt so much? but . . . where were the 100 speakers to fill your mind with grace?
hhmm . . .
i well understand biting sarcasm - having grown up as Fat Kris (as opposed to my sister, Tiny Tina). and, of course, sarcasm became my manner, too, until i realized how hurtful those words could be. it's kind of fun, sometimes, to try to find good things to say to some people - some are more difficult than others, but now that it's a habit . . it's much easier and i find it harder to find the "bad".
ST, really, i see you as confident, gentle, caring, strong and absolutely beautiful!! (and if i had soap, i'd talk to the that kid who said otherwise!)
So is that why you jumped on me so fast when I used that word the other day Kris?
exactly! i see as hilariously funny! always quick to have an answer for someone . . . fat? no. maybe .. . PHAT!! would be a better word!! always the extra voice to keep the conversation moving - sometimes serious, sometimes not so serious. quick to be encouraging . . . those are words that describe you. i haven't actually seen you and it's hard to judge from pics, but it looks to me that your smile is rather winning and your eyes are very sparkly - a little mischievous even - so that's what i think of when i think of you.
so. now there's your lesson for the day!
a friend of mine recently encouraged me to make a list of all of the good things i could think of about myself. it took a couple of months, but i found a few things. i think you ought to do the same.
HAPPY MONDAY!
Ahhhhh..... Much better way to start off Monday than my boss' idea. Positive, encouraging, actually being interested in people, enough to be observant of their good qualitys, behavior and personality. Hey Kris, how would you like to become a marketing director? :freaky2:
Thank you, Kris. You're one of those encouraging people I want to be like when I grow up. ;)
(And just for the record, I can't imagine what they were thinking to call you Fat Kris! There's nothing fat about you! *hug*)
:beret:
Quote from: newkris on May 21, 2007, 11:57:23 AM
oh, ST, but you are so beautiful! such kind eyes and easy smile . . . and such GORGEOUS hair!!
It's true.
Oh, my word! I'm gonna cry. That's a very high compliment coming from you, Don! *Hug* for my favorite brother-in-law.
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on May 21, 2007, 07:39:41 PM
Oh, my word! I'm gonna cry. That's a very high compliment coming from you, Don!
It is? Sorry to make you cry...
*laugh* Goof.
Good tears, not bad tears. There is a difference, ya know. :updown:
:beret:
Yes, I know.
good: :cry:
bad: :cry2:
Exactly. ;)
Btw, how's Baby and the little Mama doing today? I should call her this evening...
:beret:
They're doing quite well. Though she still regularly feels nauseated, the vomiting phase is almost completely over. She's even been able to eat some foods (milk, cheeseburgers with the works) that she had to avoid for a few months.
Our next appointment - and the one at which we'll find out the baby's gender, unless we change our minds - is next Tuesday!
Yay! :clap: Good reports are always nice. :)
(It's a boy.) :P
:beret:
Quote from: titushome on May 21, 2007, 07:29:35 PM
Quote from: newkris on May 21, 2007, 11:57:23 AM
oh, ST, but you are so beautiful! such kind eyes and easy smile . . . and such GORGEOUS hair!!
It's true.
Your avatar, Don, on the other hand....
Is simply ravishing.
:spitlaugh:
Mel! Sarcasm/dry humor such as that coming from YOU? You musta been hanging out with me too much lately. :P
But speaking of your avatar, Don....what were you doing? It looks like you're preparing to be decapitated.
:beret:
Since when am I not sarcastic and have a dry sense of humor? I do that all the time.
:hypocrite:
I was lying on a picnic table up at the Hawk's lot. The thing I like about the picture is that my face is so overexposed, it looks like it's glowing. The whole picture actually has John (CR) in the foreground and me in the background, so the camera focused on him, resulting in the washed-out look. I cropped it to show just me, though.
I thought he should have turned it so it looks like he's standing up...but no.
Since when does anyone listen to me?
Maybe it looks more like he's a burn victim, with a plastic replacement face. We could start a thread containing the story on how it occured...with details added by all the members of GP. :great:
In other news, today is my mom's birthday. What should I get her? HELP! :hypocrite:
Quote from: Classicrambler on May 23, 2007, 12:11:26 AM
In other news, today is my mom's birthday. What should I get her? HELP! :hypocrite:
:o
:pound:
:laughhard:
*grin* Don't worry. He got her something really nice. I already heard about it. :)
:beret:
Quote from: Classicrambler on May 23, 2007, 12:11:26 AM
I thought he should have turned it so it looks like he's standing up...but no.
How's that?
Now make it so we don't have to scroll around to see it...
or is it just me?
Get a larger monitor. :biglaugh:
Quote from: Classicrambler on May 23, 2007, 07:22:17 PM
Now make it so we don't have to scroll around to see it...
or is it just me?
Must be just you.
Quote from: titushome on May 23, 2007, 02:35:43 PM
Quote from: Classicrambler on May 23, 2007, 12:11:26 AM
I thought he should have turned it so it looks like he's standing up...but no.
How's that?
you look like you are being strafed by a nuclear blast!! :laughhard: that's hilarious!!
Not-so-Random-Ramblings...
How amazing would we really think it, if:
-Daniel had been kept from the lion's den? (Daniel 6)
-The three Hebrew men had not been thrown into the furnace? (Deut. 3)
-The famines had never come? (Gen 41 & Acts 11:28-29)
-Dorcas hadn't died? (Acts 9:36-42)
-Bartimaes had never been blind? (Matthew 20:29-34)
-The woman had never had an issue of blood? (Matthew 9:20-22)
-The man's hand had never been deformed? (Matthew 12:9-13)
-The disciples had caught fish all night? (Luke 5:1-11)
-The man had never been lame? (John 5:1-16)
-Lazarus hadn't died? (John 11:1-45)
We would have missed the miracle, because it wouldn't have even been visible!
But instead, we see God's miraculous power, in that:
-Daniel had a face to face encounter with hungry lions, and yet lived.
-The three Hebrew men walked in the fire, and yet didn't burn.
-God's people were sustained through the famines.
-Dorcas was raised back to life.
-Bartimaes regained his sight.
-The woman who had bled for twelve years was completely healed.
-The man's hand was made whole.
-The disciples witnessed what happens when you obey the Voice of God.
-The lame man could walk.
-Lazarus was raised back to life.
And through these we see that God's power is seen in weakness.
So, then... Why do we splutter when the car breaks down? Why do we worry when the balance in the bank account isn't equal to the bills? Why do we fret over that unexplained medical condition? Why do we choke when we get laid off? Why do we grieve when our child is born with a physical difficulty? Why do we complain when the task seems too great for our abilities? Why do we fear when the stalker shows up again? Why do we get upset when the vote doesn't go the way we thought it should? Why are we perturbed when we're falsely accused?
The greatest miracles consist of being brought triumphantly through a problem or challenge, not saved from the difficulty or trial.
His grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness! (II Corinthians 12:9)
:beret:
that is so fabulous! perfectly precise and concise and ultmately . . . true. good stuff, kiddo!
Quote from: SippinTea on May 25, 2007, 05:34:16 AM
Not-so-Random-Ramblings…
How amazing would we really think it, if:
-Daniel had been kept from the lion’s den? (Daniel 6)
-The three Hebrew men had not been thrown into the furnace? (Deut. 3)
-The famines had never come? (Gen 41 & Acts 11:28-29)
-Dorcas hadn’t died? (Acts 9:36-42)
-Bartimaes had never been blind? (Matthew 20:29-34)
-The woman had never had an issue of blood? (Matthew 9:20-22)
-The man’s hand had never been deformed? (Matthew 12:9-13)
-The disciples had caught fish all night? (Luke 5:1-11)
-The man had never been lame? (John 5:1-16)
-Lazarus hadn’t died? (John 11:1-45)
We would have missed the miracle, because it wouldn’t have even been visible!
But instead, we see God’s miraculous power, in that:
-Daniel had a face to face encounter with hungry lions, and yet lived.
-The three Hebrew men walked in the fire, and yet didn’t burn.
-God’s people were sustained through the famines.
-Dorcas was raised back to life.
-Bartimaes regained his sight.
-The woman who had bled for twelve years was completely healed.
-The man’s hand was made whole.
-The disciples witnessed what happens when you obey the Voice of God.
-The lame man could walk.
-Lazarus was raised back to life.
And through these we see that God’s power is seen in weakness.
So, then… Why do we splutter when the car breaks down? Why do we worry when the balance in the bank account isn’t equal to the bills? Why do we fret over that unexplained medical condition? Why do we choke when we get laid off? Why do we grieve when our child is born with a physical difficulty? Why do we complain when the task seems too great for our abilities? Why do we fear when the stalker shows up again? Why do we get upset when the vote doesn’t go the way we thought it should? Why are we perturbed when we’re falsely accused?
The greatest miracles consist of being brought triumphantly through a problem or challenge, not saved from the difficulty or trial.
His grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness! (II Corinthians 12:9)
:beret:
:great:
Thanks, ladies! :)
And btw...I was preachin' to myself. Ya know that bit about the car issues? Yeah. That, and a few other things from the list... :-?
So in reference to the new day: I'm watching to see how God's power is going to be seen in a few of these situations!
:beret:
:great: Great Ramblings there girl. Sooooo timely for me too. :roll: Thank you for sharing that with us.
You're welcome. :)
But trust me! It was quite a timely thought for my life, too! lol
:beret:
:thumbsup2: That's my lil' cuz!
Quote from: Classicrambler on May 26, 2007, 12:45:24 AM
:thumbsup2: That's my lil' cuz!
Okay, thanks for the compliment, but....*protests* Lil' Cuz? :cry2: I'm a big girl, I am! I'm almost 6 foot tall!
Give or take 7 inches...lol:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on May 26, 2007, 01:01:17 AM
Okay, thanks for the compliment, but....*protests* Lil' Cuz? :cry2: I'm a big girl, I am! I'm almost 6 foot tall! Give or take 7 inches...lol
:beret:
\
*Ahem*
I KNOW I dont have to say anything here do I?
:sadbounce:
:beret:
:headrub:
Its ok...I feel ya...I get it all the time *w*
*laugh* If my guys ever quit pickin' on me about how short I am, I'd think they were mad or something.
As it is...I know I'm loved. :updown:
:beret:
Yeah you are, thats how we know we are loved...you always pick on the ones you love.
I don't pick on you...you just complain about it, so I play along!
;)
And btw, I was a little tired when I wrote that one post. Was thinking for some reason that a foot was 10 inches. :roll: So...it should've read "give or take 9 inches". :grin:
:beret:
The all new "metric foot"...the perfect solution for all your measurement needs!
*laugh* I guess so...
And btw, I'm diggin' the new av! :thumbsup2:
:sing: Those were the days, my friend! We thought they'd never end... :sing:
:beret:
You should come hear me play on Saturday at Proper Eats!
I really wish I could. :sadbounce:
:beret:
A few verses, for a few special friends...just because.
For Sis Mom:
I Cor. 15:58—"So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless."
II Cor 3:5-6a—"It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God. He is the one who has enabled us..."
For Mary:
II Cor. 1:8a-10—"We were crushed and completely overwhelmed, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we learned not to rely on ourselves, but on God who can raise the dead. And he did deliver us from mortal danger. And we are confident that he will continue to deliver us."
For Mel:
II Cor. 3:18b—"We can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more."
I've been praying for all three of you this week! *Tight hugs* to the trio. ;)
:beret:
AWWW *sniff* Thanks! *Tight Hugs* Back!
Maybe I will catch you later online, when I get up. Hopefully.
(I thought of a RQ last night, and could not share... :sadbounce: )
Thank you ST. What a great way to end the week and something to think about for the weekend.
I thank God for friends who hang in there when I'm flying rapidly down the road of going crazy and for friends that are so sensitive and responsive to the Spirit that they can minister to someone they don't even know hundreds of miles away.
*Great big HUGE hugs* to ST and Mel-Mel for support and prayers
and double that to Mary! Still praying for you too girl. :great:
I know it's not the hugs thread, but I thought that here was just as appropriate as any place because the hugs are from the heart inspired here and now.
*heavy sigh* :grin:
:thumbsup2: Anytime. (and you know that ;) )
I've seen this one before, but I still really like it:
"A four-year-old child had an elderly next-door neighbor who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, 'Nothing, I just helped him cry.'"
Tonight I'm thinking of several very special people who have, on occasion, helped me cry. And I'm thanking God for them.
I'm also thinking of just how much that meant to me, and wondering if I've got it in me to help someone else cry. Sometimes words just don't mean much. But I want to be someone who can help a friend cry.
:beret:
Have I made you cry recently? :grin:
:hypocrite:
Today my mind is meandering in various directions, but all the directions seem to keep coming back to the topic of HOPE.
Hope because He came...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN127/1780251.jpg)
Hope because He died...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN103/1775453.jpg)
Hope because my sins are washed away...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN122/1768663.jpg)
Hope because He cares about every hurt I carry...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN122/1776261.jpg)
Hope because I have have His instant attention every time I call His name...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/phd/PHD267/ss26077.jpg)
Hope because He hears my heart, even when I can't say the words...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN102/533562.jpg)
Hope because when I fix my gaze on His eyes, my perspective gets clearer...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN017/1795059.jpg) (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/PHT/PHT296/PAA292000047.jpg)
Hope because of the comfort I find in His word...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN016/1793255.jpg)
Hope because of the promise of heaven...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV042/200421275-001.jpg)
Hope because He sends friends to remind me I don't have to face the battle alone...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/BLD/BLD014/dl_m26_0183.jpg)
Hope because I'm held in the arms of the One who cannot be unfaithful...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN010/1782759.jpg)
Hope because I know life won't always be the way it is right in this moment...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN011/1784494.jpg)
Hope because He takes things that appear dead, and brings forth new life...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV045/72983825.jpg)
And all I can say is...Thank you, Jesus! More than I can say...
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN122/1768699.jpg) (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN103/1770223.jpg) (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN122/1769025.jpg)
:beret:
:great:
that is so beautiful. so very, very timely.
yep, life won't always be like it is today. i'll hold on to that.
thanks, friend, for sharing.
Psalm 31:24--Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that HOPE in the LORD
Psalm 33:18--Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that HOPE in his mercy
Psalm 39:7--And now, Lord, what wait I for? my HOPE is in thee.
Psalm 38:15--For in thee, O LORD, do I HOPE: thou wilt hear, O Lord my God.
Psalm 43:5--Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? HOPE in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
Romans 15:13--Now the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in HOPE, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
:beret:
So what your saying is we need FAITH right?
:hypocrite:
Quote from: SippinTea on June 13, 2007, 07:22:09 AM
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/PHT/PHT296/PAA292000047.jpg)
Quote from: newkris on June 13, 2007, 11:12:41 AM
that is so beautiful.
Y'know, I have to agree with you on that one. :great:
You're in the wrong thread, CR. :roll: Go hang out in Girls & Guitars....*grin*
:beret:
:pound:
Yikes! Careful there, CR! you're gonna break the tea cup!
Yeah, because everyone knows that teacups are terribly fragile. :hypocrite:
:beret:
:spitlaugh:
:ignore:
Hey! Who're YOU laughing at?
:beret:
You.
Yeah. You, the terribly fragile teacup.
:roll:
Quote from: RainbowJingles on June 15, 2007, 05:24:29 PM
You, the terribly fragile teacup.
*sniff* Thank you, RJ. I knew you'd understand.
:beret:
That's me. Fully of understanding.
Like water, it simply overflows...
:spitlaugh:
Weaker vessel and all...or would that be vassals?
allright, who put caffien in CR's coffee? somebody cut 'em off!! no more real stuff for that guy. he's had enough. LAST CALL !!
CR, when you drink, you need to be more responsible about over doing it, okay, buddy? loose lips sink ships. obviously, you are under the influence for your words and actions are a little loose.
vassals? hmph. really . . . . brave, foolish boy . . . talking to women like that . . .
Thank you Jesus, for all the reminders you sent this week. The reminder of how Your love is extravagant, the reminder of just how much good it does me to laugh until I cry, the reminder that you haven't forgotten the promise you gave me years ago, the reminder that some people really do care when things go wrong, the reminder that You are truly my Everything, the reminder that You have people all around this world that love you with all their heart, and that I'm not alone. The things I've longed to see and hear might not have come when I wanted them, but you're always on time with when you send them. Thank you with all my heart!
:beret:
What she said. :D
Exactly!
I'm still mulling over something that happened last weekend during morning worship...
Ever have one of those moments when a certain sentence or two the preacher says so precisely targets something in your life, you _know_ it was meant for you? Yeah. Had one of those. There was absolutely no way the guest speaker could have known about a certain question I've been tumbling around in my head the last number of months, but he even used the exact wording I've used in praying about it, and looked straight at me when he said it. And not one of those glancing around the audience things either...it was one of those looks where you wonder if someone is reading your mind.
And once again I'm completely in awe at how God works. This issue/question has been really bugging me for months; it's always in the back of my mind. But since Sunday I've been so....peaceful about the whole thing. If God cared enough to send me my own little message to reassure me, through someone who doesn't even know me, then I guess He's got the rest of it in control, too. *smile*
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on June 19, 2007, 08:15:19 PM
There was absolutely no way the guest speaker could have known about a certain question I've been tumbling around in my head the last number of months, but he even used the exact wording I've used in praying about it, and looked straight at me when he said it. And not one of those glancing around the audience things either...it was one of those looks where you wonder if someone is reading your mind.
:love: :love2: :marry:
:freaky2:
:addnothing: :hypocrite:
:roll:
:beret:
:grin: :grin: :grin:
Gotcha!
No ya didn't, Pal. :P
I've looked straight at you, but that sure 'nough doesn't mean I go all mushy. :biglaugh:
:beret:
No, but you haven't written any posts about me like the one up above. *ahem* ;)
Did you want me to? *cough*
:beret:
:popcorn:
I didn't say that, I just said you never had. :P
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV045/73092376.jpg) Aaaaannnndddd....double the lightbulb that went on in my head this week. LOL
"Start reading between the lines of the denials, the delays, the fears, and the doubts, and find your yes. Someday you will probably look back over this part of your life and realize that while you were fretting, God was saying yes to your yearnings." (Taken from an article by Simeon Young Jr.--latest issue of the Pentecostal Herald)
:beret:
interesting.... very interesting.... :grin:
:clap:
:grin:
"Until the time came to fulfill his word, the Lord tested Joseph's character. Then Pharaoh sent for him and set him free; the ruler of the nation opened his prison door." Psalm 105:19-20 (NLT)
Hmmm...Ever thought about the fact that even good things must come at the right time? That the testing is part of the process? That being imprisoned may be within the borders of what His ultimate purposes are in your life? And that at the precise moment that God's word should be fulfilled, you'll be released from your prison?
____________________
"Lock your gaze on God's plan for you. Plot your path with care, and don't let yourself be distracted by anything that would slow you down or hinder you from reaching the goal! Walk the path that is known for being free from quicksand, and don't allow yourself to be ensnared by evil."
--The SippinTea Paraphrase of Proverbs 4:25-27 *smile*
:beret:
Who are You? ....Where are You? ....I want to know You.
Those silent whispers in my mind....do You consider them irreverent? I hope not—they're not intended that way. As long as I've known You, I still discover new things about You that are such big things I find myself wondering if I've ever known You at all.
But perhaps that's not so strange after all. There have been moments when someone I've known and loved for all of my life has revealed a new facet of themselves....and I've found myself thinking the same thoughts. Who are you? ....Where are you? ....I want to know you.
And then again, if You were such that my small mind could understand the whole scope of You, You wouldn't be much of a God.
:beret:
And to prove that Sippin' Tea has waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay to much time to spend online, she has just announced the debut of her new blog. Best of luck!
:pound: That wasn't for public knowledge, Goofball! I have a journal, too....does that mean I have too much time to write? :roll: Silly guy.
And to prove that CR has waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay to much time to spend online, he READS my new blog! ;)
:beret:
Does that mean I spend too much time online too?
:hypocrite:
Quote from: SippinTea on June 30, 2007, 01:20:38 AM
And to prove that CR has waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay to much time to spend online, he READS my new blog! ;)
Do not!
*library will be closing in 5 minutes...the lady just said so*
"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)
I've always thought of this verse in reference to doing good to our enemies. Of showing kindness in the face of rudeness, of giving a peaceful answer in the face of anger...those kinds of things. And I still think that is one valid interpretation of this verse. But can it be there is another side, too? Is it possible that this verse is talking about the evil in our own lives? And that by filling our lives with good, the evil is overcome? Just as pouring fresh water into a glass of tainted water will eventually cause the glass to be full of only fresh water, if I pour enough of God's goodness into my life then the evil will be overcome by good. We're constantly being bombarded by evil, we can't help the fact that it does infiltrate our lives just by living in this world, but in the things we have a choice in, we should be consciously choosing to fill our lives with good.
"Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good." (Romans 12:9b)
:beret:
Ummm...
Quote from: SippinTea on June 30, 2007, 01:20:38 AM
:pound:
:beret:
Do these two concepts match, ST?
Quote from: SippinTea on July 08, 2007, 05:16:23 AM
...but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)
:hypocrite:
Perhaps you should :headrub: him and :heart: him and :lips: and :love2: him and :2love: and :love: and :kissed: him instead?
:up2:
*ahem* You DO remember I'm related to him, right? LOL
Your visual description seems a wee bit.....mushy. :lol:
:beret:
Ewwwwww. :-?
Precisely. LOL
I love you to death, CR, but not that way. :biglaugh:
So glad we're all agreed. ;)
:beret:
Yup. I *do* know you're related. Nothing like a good hug, squeeze, and peck on the cheek in public to make an errant cousin fall back in line. lol
Hmmm... Too embarrassed to be seen in public with him?
Maybe you should get someone else to do it *for* you.
:freaky2:
OverCOME that evil, girl!
:roll: Whatever. LOL
Actually, a cousin close in age is an extremely nice thing to have. When people don't know you're related, and there is someone you wish to avoid attention from.... all you have to do is walk into the room holding his arm, and smile up at him and bat your eyes, and everyone leaves you alone. LOL Quite convenient. ;) ;)
:beret:
how... ummm... cute?
:laughhard:
Could be an advantage for him, too.
Girls can't leave a guy alone if they think he's unavailable...
:freaky2:
*laugh* CR's never had any trouble attracting a lot of attention.... any place, any time, any crowd. He's a rather popular fella. :)
But I'll admit your second comment has me a wee bit puzzled. Do you really think that, or are you just bein' funny? 'Cause most of the gals that I know think 'unavailable' means 'unavailable'. I know there are a few leeches out there that will attach themselves to anyone (available or not!) ....but that's not the majority....is it? ???
:beret:
QuoteBut I'll admit your second comment has me a wee bit puzzled. Do you really think that, or are you just bein' funny? 'Cause most of the gals that I know think 'unavailable' means 'unavailable'. I know there are a few leeches out there that will attach themselves to anyone (available or not!) ....but that's not the majority....is it?
:o
That wasn't intended as a blanket statement about girls. Sorry if it sounded that way. 'Unavailable' wasn't quite what I was looking for, there. That was an attempt at humor, but...
I'm not entirely sure how this works, but if a guy is around girl(s) that apparently enjoy his company,
more girls talk to him. It has seemed that way to me, in any case. They say it makes you more approachable/less intimidating. The particular girls would then have to draw their own conclusions on availability, and I have seen some doozies. But I'm aware those are exceptions to the rule. :)
:) Got it.
I figured you were just bein' funny.... but then I wondered if you'd run into more than your fair share of idiots lately. *laugh* Not that it mattered either way... I was just curious. *smile*
Quote from: coolguy on July 12, 2007, 05:13:01 AM
I'm not entirely sure how this works, but if a guy is around girl(s) that apparently enjoy his company, more girls talk to him.
Hmmm....You've got a point there. And boy, could I ever tell stories on 'someone' right now!! :laughhard:
But I'll :ignore: before I get pounded. *grin*
:beret:
:biglaugh:
Quotebut then I wondered if you'd run into more than your fair share of idiots lately.
:smirk2:
I often think so, but the question is... What's the definition of 'fair share'?
Hmm...yes, indeed. A very good question to which I have no answer. :updown:
However, if you're making a collection of meeting idiots.... I've got a couple I'd cheerfully send your way. :P
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on July 12, 2007, 04:25:57 AM
*laugh* CR's never had any trouble attracting a lot of attention.... any place, any time, any crowd. He's a rather popular fella. :)
Really?! You'll have to take me along next time so I can see for myself!
Kiddo, yer so blind it's funny. ;) Keep it that way, it's a nice problem. *smile*
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on July 12, 2007, 04:06:56 PM
However, if you're making a collection of meeting idiots.... I've got a couple I'd cheerfully send your way. :P
:waving:
:roll: I wasn't thinking of you, John. But if you're volunteering...... :P
:beret:
:-?
QuoteQuote from: SippinTea on Yesterday at 11:06:56 AM
However, if you're making a collection of meeting idiots.... I've got a couple I'd cheerfully send your way.
That's OK. There's too many down here as it is...
Maybe we could trade Texas idiots for Oregon idiots. I figure after the initial trade we could establish a ratio.
:biglaugh: Okay, but the deal's off if Texas idiots end up being worse than Oregon idiots. LOL In that case, you can have them back. :updown:
(But judging from the people I've met from Texas....I think you might get the sticky end of the sucker!) *grin*
:o No, wait!! I just remembered sombody else....
Deal's off!!! Totally, totally off!!! :laughhard:
:beret:
:biglaugh:
That good, huh?
*laugh* Yup. Loooong story..... the least of which was when she told her grand-daughter that the way she'd had the church decorated for her wedding made it look like a funeral. :roll:
:beret:
Quote from: coolguy on July 14, 2007, 03:42:59 AM
That's OK. There's too many down here as it is...
Maybe we could trade Texas idiots for Oregon idiots. I figure after the initial trade we could establish a ratio.
Quote from: SippinTea on July 14, 2007, 03:47:45 AM
:biglaugh: Okay, but the deal's off if Texas idiots end up being worse than Oregon idiots.
(http://www.westosha.k12.wi.us/Departments/Social_Studies_Site/images/whitehouse.jpg)
Is this what ya'll talking about? :-?
Has SippinTea really become a flaming liberal?
:spitlaugh:
:biglaugh: Goof
And no, I'm not a flaming liberal. ;)
....except in the moments when I am one. :cool:
:beret:
QuoteIs this what ya'll talking about?
:biglaugh:
See there? I didn't
have to say it.
He's not a Texan, anyway. Born in Connecticut. :hypocrite:
:roll: LOL
:beret:
On my mind, in my heart.... more ramblings:
I've just started reading Linda Dillow's newest book Satisfy My Thirsty Soul, and was struck by something she said in the first chapter.
"As a new believer I often said my purpose was to know Him and make Him known. Too often though, my emphasis was on making Him known rather than on knowing Him.
I longed for intimacy, ecstasy, and a deep relationship with my Bridegroom, but as the years passed and life became hectic and complicated, I settled for serving the One I loved."
Been there. Done that. And I'm wanting to take steps to make sure I don't do that again.
The last few months have been filled with re-thinking my priorities, with saying 'no' to certain things (even good things), and with turning my focus back on Jesus. I've managed to make a few people unhappy with me, but I think I've made Jesus happy with those choices, and whose opinion of me matters in the long run anyway? *smile* Yes, I still have heart to serve. Yes, I still want to make Him known to others. Yes, I still want to be highly involved in ministry. But not at the expense of my own relationship with Him.
Don't misunderstand me....I haven't quit all my ministry involvements, not by a long shot! But....I'm being much more picky about the things I say 'yes' to, and for right now, I'm on a honeymoon with Jesus. *smile*
I'm hoping to regain my focus during the next few months, to hear His voice a little more clearly, to feel His heartbeat, to know Him better. Because I want to make my life count for something that will outlast it. And I can't do that if I don't truly know Him. I can't serve effectively if I don't intimately know the One I'm serving. I can't follow His orders if I'm too busy to hear them. I can't help others come to know Him in a personal way if I don't know His heart. And I can't be truly happy when my life is full of 'clutter'....even so-called 'good clutter'.
So for now.... the answer is most likely 'no' to more serving. Because I'm learning to say 'yes' to knowing. *smile*
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on July 15, 2007, 05:49:08 AM
Been there. Done that. And I'm wanting to take steps to make sure I don't do that again.
The last few months have been filled with re-thinking my priorities, with saying 'no' to certain things (even good things), and with turning my focus back on Jesus. I've managed to make a few people unhappy with me, but I think I've made Jesus happy with those choices, and whose opinion of me matters in the long run anyway? *smile* Yes, I still have heart to serve. Yes, I still want to make Him known to others. Yes, I still want to be highly involved in ministry. But not at the expense of my own relationship with Him.
Don't misunderstand me....I haven't quit all my ministry involvements, not by a long shot! But....I'm being much more picky about the things I say 'yes' to, and for right now, I'm on a honeymoon with Jesus. *smile*
I'm hoping to regain my focus during the next few months, to hear His voice a little more clearly, to feel His heartbeat, to know Him better. Because I want to make my life count for something that will outlast it. And I can't do that if I don't truly know Him. I can't serve effectively if I don't intimately know the One I'm serving. I can't follow His orders if I'm too busy to hear them. I can't help others come to know Him in a personal way if I don't know His heart. And I can't be truly happy when my life is full of 'clutter'....even so-called 'good clutter'.
So for now.... the answer is most likely 'no' to more serving. Because I'm learning to say 'yes' to knowing. *smile*
:beret:
:great: EXACTLY!!
I am LOVING the "Honeymoon with Jesus" part....I heard that about a year ago and I have been thinking about it ever since....funny you should use THAT phrase.
I've been thinking about this lately also. Just yesterday spending time reflecting and praying, I know I've spent the last two years being excited over knowing "who" He is and not enough time knowing Him. I want that to change.
:thumbsup2:
Saw something in myself I really, really didn't like this week. Had a problem come up with my musicians during church, and I started to get upset. But then I got to wondering _why_ I felt upset, and it suddenly hit me that it was a pride issue. No, I didn't appreciate the attitude shown from one of my team members, but that part really was a separate issue to deal with later—not during the worship service. The whole point was: I didn't want to look stupid in front of the whole congregation, I wanted people to know the problem wasn't my fault, I didn't want to get blamed, and I wanted to appear in control of it all. EEEEK! I suddenly got a glimpse into who I am, and I didn't like what I saw one bit.
The good news is: if I can see myself as I really am, then I can change myself with God's help. I have no hope of changing if I don't even see that I have a problem.
"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was." James 1:22-24
"Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace." James 3:13-18
:beret:
Wow...
It's hard to be that honest.
QuoteI suddenly got a glimpse into who I am, and I didn't like what I saw one bit.
I know the feeling. Tough one to deal with, isn't it? lol
Nice seeing you at camp this past week, Sippintea... :waving:
It was nicer seeing you. *grin* :hi:
Quote from: coolguy on July 28, 2007, 03:00:43 AM
I know the feeling. Tough one to deal with, isn't it? lol
Yes. Quite. :-?
:beret:
Here's a random rambling for you:
Considering that our "Mountain Top" experiences are our "high points" and our "valley" experiences are our "low points" and that sometimes God may put us in the valley for a time, and He will see us through the valley God doesn't help us put ourselves in the valley.
Ever think about how much easier it is to walk/ride/run downhill than it is to go uphill?
If you go downhill on a paved road on a bicycle, the only effort required on your part is to hang on and steer. As long as you don't put on the brakes or jump off, you will go downhill.
Now think about how difficult it is to ride a bike or walk uphill. A lot more effort, more muscle, is required.
God does help us climb the mountain.
He may very well take us from the valley and place us on top of the mountain, but when we have to walk up a mountain we probably think twice before heading down that one again. Maybe...... I guess it depends on how stubborn or how obedient we are.
Quote from: Mel-Mel on July 28, 2007, 10:16:14 PM
Quote from: SippinTea on July 28, 2007, 10:15:03 PM
It was nicer seeing you. *grin* :hi:
:beret:
*PUKE*
Yer jes jealous cuz he ain't _yore_ cuzin! :P
Quote from: Sister_Mom on July 29, 2007, 01:31:31 AM
Here's a random rambling for you:
Considering that our "Mountain Top" experiences are our "high points" and our "valley" experiences are our "low points" and that sometimes God may put us in the valley for a time, and He will see us through the valley God doesn't help us put ourselves in the valley.
Ever think about how much easier it is to walk/ride/run downhill than it is to go uphill?
If you go downhill on a paved road on a bicycle, the only effort required on your part is to hang on and steer. As long as you don't put on the brakes or jump off, you will go downhill.
Now think about how difficult it is to ride a bike or walk uphill. A lot more effort, more muscle, is required.
God does help us climb the mountain.
He may very well take us from the valley and place us on top of the mountain, but when we have to walk up a mountain we probably think twice before heading down that one again. Maybe...... I guess it depends on how stubborn or how obedient we are.
Hmmm.... *brain starts turning*
Here's the first thing that popped into my head... If you're headed downhill, it takes a fair amount of effort to put on the brakes. Is it possible to do that in the 'spiritual downhill' too? Hmmm....I guess maybe it partially depends on whether you recognize the destructive behaviors/attitudes/etc that are propelling you downhill.
Maybe.
Stop it! I'm too tired tonight to think very clearly. ;)
:beret:
Hmmmm Thanks Mom, that is perhaps a very poinient point to ponder, it could prove to be precisely provdentiential.
GRR! Ruby beat me to it...all because I buchered these words and spell check doesnt have a clue what I am trying to say! Oh well, you get my drift...
And Good point Ruby. And yeah I might be a little jelous of your guys...you sure have some great ones!
I can't take the credit for this one.... It was taken from our Sunday school lesson this week:
Mercy Grace
Kept Ninevah from being destroyed for its wickedness Made them worthy to receive His blessings
Kept then from receiving the punishment they deserved Made them able to continue as a nation
Mercy alone does not produce revival Caused them to receive benefits of which they were not worthy
Mercy simply prevents judgmet Allows the unworthy to receive the blessings of God
Mercy prevents death Gives a brand-new start
Mercy provides the stay of execution Teaches how to live a crime-free life
Mercy is the gateway into His grace Produces a Godly life-style
:beret:
:great:
"Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary. Pure and holy. Tried and true. With thanksgiving I'll be a LIVING SANCTUARY for you."
I was singing this in my mind on the way to work today and the words stuck out to me . . a Living Sanctuary.
A sanctuary is a place where one finds rest, a hiding place, a quiet place, a place of reflection and quiet in a crazy world. A place where we go to be alone with God - or to be with others and God.
God wants me to be a living sanctuary. He wants me to be a living, breathing, walking-around place where people in chaos can find a place of rest, of calm, quiet, encouragement - a place where they are comfortable talking about God and know that they can find God where I am.
A living sanctuary.
I wonder if His peace in me is why people often remark that my desk is so "serene" - even in the midst of trial prep people commented on how peaceful my desk was.
hhhmmmm. interesting. hey?
Quote from: newkris on August 04, 2007, 04:54:49 AM
A sanctuary is a place where one finds rest, a hiding place, a quiet place, a place of reflection and quiet in a crazy world. A place where we go to be alone with God - or to be with others and God.
God wants me to be a living sanctuary. He wants me to be a living, breathing, walking-around place where people in chaos can find a place of rest, of calm, quiet, encouragement - a place where they are comfortable talking about God and know that they can find God where I am.
Wow. Nice thought, Kris. :great:
I suppose that being a living sacrifice is the preface to being a living sanctuary, eh?
:beret:
That is an awesome thought Kris!
Quote from: MelodyB on July 29, 2007, 01:56:43 AM
GRR! Ruby beat me to it...all because I buchered these words and spell check doesnt have a clue what I am trying to say!
:-?
Yes I know....Mom pointed that one out too..thanks CR. :roll:
Leave it to CR to go public pointing. :biglaugh:
It's not nice to point.
:nono:
It's not nice to wag your finger at old people... I mean, elders either. :hypocrite:
:kermit:
So sticking your tounge out is better? RJ IS older than you, you know...she is 35, and you are only 25!
*Brownie points*
*wonders if the Nun accidently wandered into the junior-high thread*
:grin:
:beret:
*pulls Rubys hair*
OH! You said Jr High....not Elementry School!
*wonders if she should tattle* :P
:beret:
Who are you planning on telling? :kermit:
*takes Melody's elastic ponytail holder and runs, snapping it across the room to RJ*
*WAAAAAAAAA*
"Mommyyyyy!!"
Oh wait....that wont work....
"DADDY!!!!"
That didn't work as well when I was little as it does now. ;) Nevermind why. LOL
:beret:
Cause you are a spolied Daddys girl!
Actually, Little Sis has that esteemed position. *smile* But I'm more that way now that I used to be. Thank God!
:beret:
I am a spolied rotten brat of a Daddy Girl and I am proud of it!
Quote from: Sister_Mom on August 06, 2007, 11:37:18 PM
Who are you planning on telling? :kermit:
*takes Melody's elastic ponytail holder and runs, snapping it across the room to RJ*
*ZINGS* it back
:couch:
I have a bannana sented tooth brush thats 3 years old!! I'm not allowed to use it no more though.. :sadbounce:
:o Where did _that_ abrupt comment come from? ROFL!
Thanks for the laugh, Amanda! ;)
:beret:
Its a Ramble.... this IS the rambling thread!
I know, I know, but it was so unexpected. *grin*
:beret:
Unexpected is what is to be expected from Amanda, so really it's to be expected, and that's what makes her so great. :thumbsup2: Thanks for the laugh Amanda. :laughhard:
I just went on an oreo binge and you are welcome for the laugh.. sometimes I don't even read the other posts I just type... :-?
We enjoyed your ramble Amanda. Some ramblings make us think, some make us smile and now one made us laugh. It's all good. :grin:
Did you save some Oreos for us? Hope you had a glass of milk to go with those. :thumbsup2:
No i'm sorry i ate them all and today they were soggy for some reason so you probably didnt want some anyways
A very short ramble (pun intended, since it's in reference to Mary) ;) .....
I was sitting in church tonight thinking how great it was to finally meet Mary, be able to get a _real_ hug from her, and to see her face when I chat with her. I've looked forward to her coming here for so long, and now she's finally here!! And then I got to thinking how great it will be to see Jesus, and how long I've been looking forward to seeing _Him_ someday, and how great it will be to just be with Him.
I know, I know, I keep coming up with rambles that have to do with heaven, but....
:sing: Lately I've got leavin'.... Leavin' on my mind. :sing:
:beret:
AWESOME!! Yeah thats gonna be great!
Quote from: SippinTea on August 13, 2007, 04:46:56 AM
and to see her face when I chat with her.
She really meant that the way it sounded folks...
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/ABedelia3/Trip/Oregon/DSC00634.jpg)
her mother thought we were amusing... this was not a staged photo :grin:
Quote from: Amelia Bedelia on August 13, 2007, 04:54:04 AM
Quote from: SippinTea on August 13, 2007, 04:46:56 AM
and to see her face when I chat with her.
She really meant that the way it sounded folks...
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a2/ABedelia3/Trip/Oregon/DSC00634.jpg)
her mother thought we were amusing... this was not a staged photo :grin:
I screamed!!!!
I am gonna wake these folks up!
TOOOOOO CUTE!!!
Awwww.....that's so special.....shared GP memories.....now I'm gonna cry :cry2:
:biglaugh:
I love that photo. I might have to use it for my desktop. :)
:beret:
You both a sooooooo pretty :great:
Quote from: InChristGirl on August 13, 2007, 05:02:17 AM
You both a sooooooo pretty :great:
Yes they are! And that is a classic GP photo.
Awww.... I'm gonna cry. :cry2:
Thanks, SJ and Mel! You made my day! :)
:beret:
We should frame it somewhere.......Anyone have a virtual frame?
I cannot wait to see just how short Mary is.
See her travel thread in a couple minutes.... ;) ;)
:beret:
just look at the photo above... even sitting down I am shorter...
and much trimmer, too. :)
:beret:
You gals need to take a STANDING side by side pic.
We will. But.... today she was in her heels, and I still hadn't put my shoes on yet.... and David suddenly says, "Look! You're _still_ taller than Mary!" :)
:beret:
BOL!!
David is so sweet, he didnt know quite what to say today when I told him how much I liked his pictures!
As some of you know, we got evacuated out of our house yesterday because of a fire that was heading our way. It was the strangest feeling. Knowing we only had a few minutes to grab a couple things and get out of there. Odd how your mind races.... "What are the things I would regret not grabbing, and what things are just not important?" Thought were running pell-mell through my mind as I scanned down a mental list. My books? Nah, they can be easily replaced. (Well, most of them.) Clothes? No big deal. They stay. Bible? Duh, that's the first thing going out with me! Financial info? Quick to grab, and hard to reconstruct later. Yeah, it goes too. Camera? Electronic stuff? Forget it. I don't need it anyway. Pictures? I can't possible get them all, but which ones would we/I most miss? Daddy's and Mama's wedding album, and our baby pics. It was the oddest feeling. But the whole experience reminded me of just how temporal our 'stuff' is. And how we really don't need it all anyway.
I'm very thankful my house is still standing, complete with its contents.... but even if it weren't--it's all just 'stuff' anyway.
My family is all okay, and that's what I most want.
:beret:
I know the feeling. We have evacuated for Hurricanes before...although we had more time than you guys did...but I know what you mean.
I am SO glad you guys are safe and your house is alright too. They may be temporary things, but its nice to still have them. :)
*HUG*
*HUG* Thanks, Mel.
:beret:
:)
Glad to hear all was okay with the house and your family.
Thanks. I'm glad too. :)
Strangely enough, there have been 4 or 5 fires in the last week or so that appear to have all been human-caused. Very odd, and makes me wonder....
:beret:
NO!! I am not in OR...and Mom took my Lysol remember?
It wasnt me. :tantrum:
:laughhard:
Funny how every time Melody wants to deny being involved with a fire she says I took her Lysol, yet she seems to keep coming up with more of it somehow. Hmmm....
Thats cause I have a free pass to Wal-Mart... :freaky2:
"You cant take my joy, Devil!!"
Quote from: MelodyB on August 16, 2007, 03:17:10 AM
Thats cause I have a free pass to Wal-Mart... :freaky2:
I think you also have some help. *cough* Ruby *ahem* Tricia Lea *cough*
*hands Mom a cough drop*
You need some water?
Nope. I'm fine now. Had a hairball. :hypocrite:
Oh ok...just checking!
Quote from: SippinTea on August 13, 2007, 04:46:56 AM
A very short ramble (pun intended, since it's in reference to Mary) ;) .....
I was sitting in church tonight thinking how great it was to finally meet Mary, be able to get a _real_ hug from her, and to see her face when I chat with her. And then I got to thinking how great it will be to see Jesus, and how long I've been looking forward to seeing _Him_ someday, and how great it will be to just be with Him.
:biglaugh: Something similar struck me today too...ya know, 'through a glass darkly'...etc, etc, etc
The best kind of cheetos are suprise cheetos, You know the kind that you find in the couch 3 weeks after the bag is gone!!!
:-?
Well, at that point the 'orange-finger-staining property' should be at a minimum, at least.
I've always hated that!
So lick 'em off, Pal! :grin:
:beret:
:o
What???
You know where they've BEEN?
In a bag of chee-to's.
Duh.
:biglaugh:
Exactly. Duh. :roll:
:P
:beret:
:P
We've officially :pwink: 'd this thread! :clap:
Mulling life over. Sounds like a pretty broad topic, but that's not how I'm looking at it. I'm thinking of the little things: the road accident we were the first to 'happen' on, the online friend that suddenly became an accountability partner, the lighthearted chat in a coffee shop that turned abruptly serious, the guy that checked my tires before the trip, bumping into an old friend.
The road accident? Yeah, that was all about a man who, in a split-second, lost his wife on their vacation.
The online friend turned accountability partner? That one was all about a God-ordained understanding of something that other people missed.
The chat that turned serious? That one was about a fellow believer with some big questions about faith and how to live it out.
The guy in the tire shop? He hadn't been the one assigned to my car. Would the other person have done the job correctly?
The old friend? Not sure where that one's going, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't 'chance'.
See, it's like this: the word 'coincidence' isn't in God's vocabulary. He's got a plan.
You know what I mean.... those little moments that become big moments.
That 'chance meeting' in a laundromat--with an atheist who needs Jesus.
The dog that ran in front of your car and made you slow down--just before you entered the school zone and a child darted out.
That random trip to the library--and seeing that lady crying on a cell phone.
Sometimes the reason for those 'chance' things is immediately apparent. Other times, we don't see the reason for a long time.... maybe never. Regardless, He knows what He's doing.
Here's another way I'm viewing it: We're putting a puzzle together, and God is handing us pieces. Sometimes we see immediately where they fit, and other times we hold them in our hand until another day, when we see where they belong.
And sometimes we try and try and try to make a piece go where we want it to go, and He says patiently, "It doesn't go there. Try the next place." And we wail and say "Why doesn't it fit here?"
You'd think we could remember between times....the word 'coincidence' isn't in God's vocabulary. And He's got a plan.
:beret: The Nun who is Mulling the Muddles
:thumbsup2:
Did you write that? (It's good.)
Yes. (Thank you.)
:beret:
I think she typed it, actually. Not bad...you're starting to think like your cousin!
(http://www.godplace.com/forum/Smileys/default/curtsy.gif) Thank you.
That _was_ a compliment, wasn't it?? ;)
:beret:
Cheeto!!!!!!!!! CRUNCH!!!
:pwink:
*gives Amanda an orange hug* lol
Just sitting here reading something I wrote in kindergarden on febuary 2nd of 1995.
It says if I had a hundred dollers I'd buy skates boots a turtle and a caterpillar.. :waving:
Hmmm... so how many of those have you had in your possession since your kindergarten days? lol
I got boots in 3rd grade.. One of my only shopping experiances with my dad.
I had skates too lion king ones. I can't skate anymore I became to clumbsey but I could then
I had a turtle I found it in middle of the road but my mom made me get rid of it as soon as we went up the block to some water..
I had a caterpillar but i didn't know what to feed it so it died..
SO I had all of it!! plus a glow worm!!
And Ruby is rambling yet again...
You might have already read my post in the sharing thread about the East Indian man that was baptized tonight, but I wanted to go a bit farther with the ramblings. We've been praying for, reaching out to, loving, helping, sharing with these people for 16 years now, but because their culture is so bound in darkness and evil spirits, it's been vvvveeeeeerrrrrrrryyyy slow going. And there have been more times than I can count when we've asked ourselves, "Is it really worth all this?" But it was, and it still is. Tonight we're able to celebrate another milestone, and I'm so grateful to God for what He's doing.
The song Resurrection is running over and over through my head tonight. It's so amazing that God can use such faulty creatures to spread His Good News. On one hand, I'm facing my own battles (and I'll be the first in line to admit I have many faults and failings), but at the same time... I know I've played a part in what has lead to the celebration this evening.
I'm seeing (yet again!) that God can take suffering and death and bring about something beautiful and full of life.
And yet.... I need my own resurrection.
"I'm at a loss for words, there's nothing to say
I sit in silence wondering what led me to this place
How did my heart become so lifeless and cold
Where did the passion go?
When all my efforts seem like chasing wind
I've used up all my strength and there's nothing left to give
I've lost the feeling and I'm down to the core
I can't fake it anymore.
chorus:
Here I am at the end I'm in need of resurrection
Only You can take this empty shell and raise it from the dead
What I've lost to the world what seems far beyond redemption
You can take the pieces in Your hand and make me whole again, again
You speak and all creation falls to its knees
You raise Your hand and calm the waves of the raging sea
You have a way of turning winter to spring
Make something beautiful out of all this suffering
chorus 2:
Here I am once again I'm in need of resurrection
Only You can take this empty shell and raise it from the dead
What I've lost to the world what seems far beyond redemption
You can take the pieces in Your hand and make me whole again, again
You have a way of turning winter to spring
Make something beautiful out of all this suffering"
Resurrection--by Nicol Sponberg
Thank You, Jesus, that when I've given up... You don't. Thank You that You can take something dead and breathe life into it once again. Thank You that You do in fact turn winter into spring.... that Your mercies are new every morning.... that You give the strength I need for the battles I face... that at one word from You the storm is calmed... and that I can trust You to know the exact moment my storm needs to be calmed, so as not to overwhelm me entirely. Thank You that You can take broken pieces and put them back together, and that You can bring beauty out of suffering... and not just 'can', but You DO.
:beret:
:great:
In a moment of brutal honesty, I'm admitting that I have felt like giving up during the past year. The battle seemed too big, the enemy seemed too strong, and I have felt like I was drowning. I'd come up long enough to take a breath, only to have a huge wave push me under and hold me down against my will. But faith is not a feeling, and faith says God's got my hand tight in His grip, and I know He's going to bring me safely to shore.
And tonight I had one of those 'God moments' where something came a little clearer to me.
Revelation 12:10,11—"And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."
If we overcome our enemy by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony, then that means we are only responsible for sharing our testimony.. because Jesus already gave His blood for us. And sharing the things God has already done for me? That, I can do.
II Chronicles 20:15—"Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's."
John 16:33—"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
I John 4:4—"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
I John 5:4—"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith."
*grabs her beret with both hands and jams it tight on her head*
:beret:
*wipes tears*
Thanks Ruby...I needed that.
dried out and cracked.
Throw it away
Oh look at that busted broken up clay.
In the potters hands It's becoming something new.
What is this clay?
it is you
Yup. What ST and Amanda said.
God is still good. :-)
Fuzz is Funnn!!!! WOOT FUZZ!! I like fuzy things like teddy bears and fuzzy socks and puppys and kittys and otherrandom fuzzy things like..... microphone covers!!! :clap:
Had several 'DING' moments today. Not exactly any thoughts that are new or grand, but they were new and grand to me... even though I would have told you I believed them, had you asked me yesterday. But today they became 'mine'.
'DING' One—Looking at Hebrews 1:3a "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person..."
That being the case, the traits I see in Jesus are traits I can find in God. My perception of God should be no different than my perception of Jesus, because He is God in flesh. Therefore, when I see compassion in Jesus, I can see compassion in God. And I should not assume I'll find disgust or rejection in God, when I see the way Jesus was patient and forgiving towards people's failings. I should realize that God cares about the little things in my life when I see how Jesus did not disregard small needs or 'unimportant' people. When I see Jesus' gentle touch in evidence, why should I see God as any different?
'DING' Two—Looking at John 10:28-29 "I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand."
This means me. No one can snatch me away from Jesus. I could turn and walk away from Him (God forbid!) but no one else can take me away from Him.
'DING' Three—Looking at Matthew 8:23-27 "And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!"
Even though the storm in my life may be going wild, He's right there with me, and when He decides I've had enough He'll rebuke the wind and waves and make the storm stop. But in the meantime I'm going to be quiet and still, and trust Him. Because the wind and waves cannot capsize my boat; they can only threaten.
:beret: The Re-focusing Apostolic Nun who is (slowly) learning to keep her eyes on Jesus
:o
WOWOWOW
Good stuff
:thumbsup2: :thumbsup2: :thumbsup2:
While I was at the ocean this past week a woman from Indiana was on the rocks nearby, watching the waves and looking for mussels, when a large wave thundered in and completely surrounded the rock she was on. She was safe on the the top point, and as the tide was going out, the water would momentarily recede and give her a clear path back to higher ground. But she didn't know that. She looked at me across the expanse of water with fear in her eyes, and silently pleaded for help.
"You're fine," I assured her. "Just stand still until the water level goes down. That was a big wave, so it might take a couple minutes, but don't worry... you're safe. I know. I'm from here."
Made me think of life and of walking with God. Sometimes you just need someone that's a little further down the road to look back and say, "You're fine. Just stand still. I've been where you are and you're going to make it. You're safe. I know. I've been there."
(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/corbis/DGT068/CB014417.jpg)(http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/ISI/ISI109/GraSc074.JPG)
:beret:
:thumbsup2:
Life is so GOOD!!! I'm blessed!! I got a new friend..
Psalm 139 (NIV) in pictures.
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/UNZ/UNZ278/u16873944.jpg)
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV078/200256039-001.jpg)
you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV072/AA044174.jpg)
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV077/200199919-001.jpg)
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV074/200161765-001.jpg)
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/UNY/UNY002/u16128837.jpg)
If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN016/1792977.jpg)
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb. (http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j111/titushome/BitsyBabysmall.jpg)
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DSN/DSN001/10384.jpg)
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/CSK/CSK001/KS6436.jpg)
before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV073/200158290-001.jpg)
When I awake,
I am still with you.
If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart; (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/GLW/GLW251/gws152013.jpg)
test me and know my anxious thoughts. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/UNX/UNX190/u11819393.jpg)
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting. (http://www.fotosearch.com/thumb/DGV/DGV079/200340217-001.jpg)
:beret:
Thank you for posting that. Awesome. Love the images you chose too.
Quote from: SippinTea on October 31, 2007, 05:39:04 AM
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Not enough words in all the languages in the world can express how amazing and loving and merciful God is.
;)
everyone thinks im a bad kid.. I never ment to be this way and if I really am as bad as everyone says I am why can't I see it.. I don't know how to over come a problem that I don't even know I have..
*Hugs* Amanda
I'm a bad kid, too. *smile* Suppose we hang out together....whaddya say? ;)
:beret:
Can I be in the bad kid club too?
yeah!!! :smirk:
In an attempt to NOT threadjack in other areas (again!).... ;)
Elona, the song you posted for me got me thinking. Several lines really jumped out at me...
"To step out of my comfort zone into the realm of the unknown "--Scary, that
"Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed"--Uhhhh.... yeah. Exactly.
"But the stone was just the right size"--He's provided me with what I need... I just have to make use of it. And sometimes the answer is right under my nose.
"I will soar with the wings of eagles when i stop and listen to the sound of Jesus"--*mutters to self* Focus on the right things, Girl, focus.
"The voice of truth says do not be afraid And the voice of truth says this is for my glory "--That's the whole point, right there. Now if only I can remember that...
:beret:
Tell me about it, girlie. TELL me about it!
What about this part, though:
To step out of my comfort zone into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is... :-)
I like that whole thing strung together. He's in the unknown. Faith lives in the unknown.
Faith is the top rung of the ladder that you can't see in the fog.
Faith is the step just beneath the surface of the murky waters that is there to secure your footing.
Faith is the Father waiting on the ground when the child jumps out of the window at the mere sound of His voice.
Faith is that substance.
(http://xca.xanga.com/06ec2a4215235154946176/w115935967.jpg)
~ Chel
I like it, sunlight.
Thought-provoking.
:sadbounce: I can't see it on my computer.
Btw, Elona... I liked your thoughts. Thanks. :)
:beret:
Thanks, ST.
I'm feeling inspired today.
Probably has something to do with my journaling rampage last night. lol
"Obedient lives flow from obedient days, and victorious lives flow from victorious days."
"No matter how long the detour has been, the return is only a shortcut away."
--both quotes from Beth Moore
:beret:
As I looked at the rain on my last day of school, feeling a little down because I should have made more of an attempt to witness more.. I came up with a saying "every rain drop is a tear from Jesus. Every tear Drop is a lost soul.." My friend from church looked at me with tears in her eyes and shouted AMANDA YOU STINK!! it's such a stupid saying.. my mouth hurts.. I was dragged to the alther yesterday by my old lady friend because I was feeling down and I didn't wanna go to the alther. then after I went to the alther.. I couldant stop smileing.. I still am.. Everything is so awesome and neat.. my wisdom tooth hurts PRAISE GOD!!!
For restoring me
For blessing me
For renewing the dream
Thank You
For the grace You've shown
For the mercy You've given
For Your love unfailing
Thank You
For catching me when I stumble
For picking me up and dusting me off
For giving me hope that my future doesn't have to be like my past
Thank You
For a song on my lips
For the joy in my heart
For the peace in my mind
Thank You
For sending Your Son
For taking my place
For bearing my shame
Thank You
For salvation
For freedom
For everything You are
Thank You
:beret:
:thumbsup2:
**HUGS** Amanda
HI guys!!! hows it goin??? Jesus is cool and neat and he loves us all!!!! I look awesome today! hope I can find me a husband!! i'm getting old!! AHH! I still feel 5.. LOL :)
Jesus, please forgive me for my unbelief. If my human mind cannot understand the depth of Your love, then at least let me grasp the truth of its existence. In moments I can catch a glimpse of Your great mercy, but in the times when I don't 'feel' forgiven, let me latch onto Your promises and give me eyes of faith to believe what I cannot see or feel. In moments I see flashes of the bigger picture, but when I can't, may I trust You to guide my foot safely to the next step. In moments I'm allowed to see You moving, but during seasons when I can't see You or feel You working, let me remember You ARE working and that Your timing is ever so much better than my own.
:beret:
^ Yeah, what she said.
praise Jesus!! Glory to his name forever!!! He's doing a great work in my life!!!! i'm changeing.. I'm becomeing the person he's called me to be. it's still going to take alot of work but i'm getting better.. I'm so happy!!!! Thank you JESUS!!!
i am doing some journal writing for one of my classes. thought you guys might like this one. not exactly "spiritual," but applies to the brevity of life and appreciating those who God has given you.
-------------------------------------------------
Life and Death
I sent a text to my kids today. "I love you. Drive carefully." I'm sure they think I've lost my marbles, again. The next time I talk to them I can explain about the pictures I saw at work today. The totaled car, the staunch standing pole, the senior pictures, the mother's voice.
Many days I dislike my job because the work is just too constantly demanding. There isn't room to have a bad day. I can't make mistakes. All roads lead back to my desk. It's the nature of the beast. But on days like this where I have to type a factual memo about a life taken too soon, I hate my job. I want to sit at my desk and cry in mourning for this girl barely my son's age that will never live a full, rewarding life. But I can't. I have to be professional, type the memo, get the letter ready.
There is a natural sense of guilt for having my children alive and healthy and happy. Part of me wonders when I'll wake from this dream. When will the past overcome the present? Or can it really be that my lifetime has changed the tide of my family history? I try to just enjoy them, to revel in the success of their lives. I have memorized their casual smiles and deep laughter hoping I'll never need to recall it from the vault of that memory, but will continue to make deposits. If I close my eyes, I can feel my grandbabies' curious hands moving over my face and smell their baby powder skin. Close enough to love them not close enough to be smothering.
I am sorry for the mother who won't feel her grandbabies' touch. I can't replay the day for her to make her daughter take another route. Instead, I pray as I type the memo and concentrate so I perform my role to the best of my ability in an effort to smooth the future for her.
Thought-provoking, Kris.
ST
*Hugs* Sunlight.... because.
A random hug in a random place for someone as random as me. :updown:
:beret:
haha! You are awesome ST!
which random thing?
Well... I never said anything about a random thing... but if ya wanna talk about random things, we can. Random things like the random (or not so random) way that God places people in our lives. :) Kinda cool, what?
:beret:
Very cool. :great:
absolutely coolness...
Random thoughts on random things
Thoughts bounce
People come and go
Thoughts roll
Back and forth across the mind
People ebb and flow
Thoughts get caught
In the web of consciousness
Sometimes people stay
Who are you thinking about today?
Quote from: RainbowJingles on January 10, 2008, 06:58:11 PM
Sometimes people stay
Who are you thinking about today?
Someone very, very far away. :(
:beret:
:headrub:
what are you thinking about me for?
BOL! JK, Sorry! couldnt pass it up!
Quote from: SippinTea on January 11, 2008, 01:57:32 AM
Quote from: RainbowJingles on January 10, 2008, 06:58:11 PM
Sometimes people stay
Who are you thinking about today?
Someone very, very far away. :(
:beret:
Well.... I _have_ been thinking about you, and you _are_ far away... but... you weren't the person I was thinking of at the moment I posted that. ;)
:beret:
I SOOOO wanna say something. But I wont.
:roll:
:beret:
didnt you already say something? REG
Nope, not yet. :freaky2:
Mel talks all the time without saying a thing.
:couch:
**HUGS** ST and people who are far far away, especially one certain scruffy brother
:headrub:
Hugged by jazz and a caramel mocha
I know, I know, it sounds strange. But here's my story, and I'm sticking to it....
It's been a very long, stressful month so far, and even if I told you all the odd and frustrating things that have happened, you likely wouldn't believe me. This morning I felt completely overwhelmed by it all, and found myself praying a rather desperate "God, please give me strength to just get through this. You've got to help me, or I can never do this. Please, please help me!"
I arrived at work, not exactly in the best frame of mind, but at least I had a smile on my face. But then a co-worker started talking about some family problems, and ended up in tears while she explained what was going on in her life. And God somehow gave me the strength to get out of my own little pity party long enough to listen, to encourage, to hug her.
The UPS driver arrived, grumbling about how he disliked Thursdays, and how the loader hadn't done her job properly that morning, and how it was messing up his schedule for his route. And somehow God gave me the strength to stop pouting about my swollen and hurting knee, and cajole Robert out of his bad mood so that he'd drive away with a smile on his face.
And then (such delight!) I discovered I had almost an hour between jobs. Hurray for coffee shops!
I settled in with my drink, propped my knee in what I hoped would be a not-too-uncomfortable position, and enjoyed the quiet in my little corner of the shop. The soft jazz swirled around my head, my heart started beating at a normal pace instead of matching my chaotic morning schedule, and I sipped my mocha while God quieted my thoughts.
And I suddenly felt hugged. Hugged by my God, who can apparently use jazz and caramel mochas to hug me. It was as if He wrapped His arms around me and whispered, "It's all gonna be okay. I'm giving you the strength you need for the moment you need it. You're going to make it through this." And my heart felt so much more peaceful than it has in a while.
I know, it seems strange. And I certainly do not intend to sound flippant or disrespectful, but I think God uses jazz and caramel mochas when he gives hugs.
:beret:
Wow...I need some of that.
/me hugs Ruby.
you are too cool.
Quote from: SippinTea on February 22, 2008, 05:55:18 AM
And I suddenly felt hugged. Hugged by my God, who can apparently use jazz and caramel mochas to hug me. It was as if He wrapped His arms around me and whispered, "It's all gonna be okay. I'm giving you the strength you need for the moment you need it. You're going to make it through this." And my heart felt so much more peaceful than it has in a while.
Where do you come up with this stuff?
(That was really good. If I could come up with that kind of material, I'd have a dozen good songs in my back pocket.)
BOL! That was high praise coming from you, Don. Thanks for making my day. :)
Tell ya what.... if you promise to write a dozen good songs for me to listen to... I'll give you the right to use it. ;)
*Hugs* Chel 'cause she's coolER.
:beret:
Hey Don!! :hi: Nice of you to drop in! Hope all is going well!
:pwink:
Oooo! I wanna hear the hugged my jazz and caramel mocha song! THAT will be COOL!!
I can imagine it as a jazzed up version of the tune of
"I'm a one-God Apostolic..."
:clap2:
*slows down the tune to a jazzy crawl*
Wayaal, I'yuv baaen huuuged by-iy some jazzy music playin' whayal aya wuza sippin my care-a-mail mocha.
O' course, the verses would start out sort of bluesish, talking about a rough day and the lack of hugs...
Wow! It could really have some fun possibilities! lol
Write it, Titus! WRITE IT!!!
Quote from: RainbowJingles on March 20, 2008, 07:23:48 PM
*slows down the tune to a jazzy crawl*
Wayaal, I'yuv baaen huuuged by-iy some jazzy music playin' whayal aya wuza sippin my care-a-mail mocha.
Oh gracious. That sounded like a country drawl there, Elona. And Titus can't have the rights to the jazz and caramel mocha line if he's going to be crazy enough to write country music. :tantrum: _Anything_ but country would be okay.... even rap. :biglaugh:
:beret:
and ST said i sound like you elona... hmm...
Chel does NOT sound like Elona.
Quote from: SippinTea on March 21, 2008, 04:59:00 AM
And Titus can't have the rights to the jazz and caramel mocha line if he's going to be crazy enough to write country music. :tantrum: _Anything_ but country would be okay.... even rap. :biglaugh:
YO! Check it out, ya'll!
It's the jazz and care-ah-mawl
mocha rap standin' tawl....I give up already. As well I should.
:laughhard:
Y'all are awesome!!! :D
I think she was going for more of a Stevie Ray Vaughan sound...
Quote from: MelodyB on March 21, 2008, 06:31:48 AM
Chel does NOT sound like Elona.
:roll:
I think one of her giggles sounds similar to one of Elona's giggles.
Quote from: titushome on March 21, 2008, 02:38:40 PM
Quote from: SippinTea on March 21, 2008, 04:59:00 AM
And Titus can't have the rights to the jazz and caramel mocha line if he's going to be crazy enough to write country music. :tantrum: _Anything_ but country would be okay.... even rap. :biglaugh:
YO! Check it out, ya'll!
It's the jazz and care-ah-mawl
mocha rap standin' tawl....
I give up already. As well I should.
:spitlaugh: Don, you're a riot. I like it. You should finish it. *wanders off still laughing*
:beret:
Now you are comparing their giggles?
Oh puhlease.
Chel, call me soon...I just talked to Elona recently so I need to talk to you again so I can compare... LOL
Quote from: MelodyB on March 21, 2008, 09:32:24 PM
Now you are comparing their giggles?
Oh puhlease.
Chel, call me soon...I just talked to Elona recently so I need to talk to you again so I can compare... LOL
Mel: You are OBSESSING!!!! Quit it. lol
And the laugh I just let out when I saw that post wasn't like any either you or Ruby have ever heard before.
:laughhard:
And Ruby: I agree with what coolguy said. I think. I'm not sure who that person is, but I'm sure it was more that style than countryfied. lol I REALLY like the rap, though! PLEASE finish it, Titus! If you don't, *I* will feel compelled to do so, and I'm sure Ruby doesn't want THAT to happen!
Jonah Ran
so do I
Lord why?
/me hugs amanda18... I like that
I have never been obsessive about anything... :hypocrite:
Quote from: MelodyB on March 24, 2008, 06:30:02 AM
I have never been obsessive about anything... :hypocrite:
:yikes:
*chokes and turns blue*
:beret:
Quote from: MelodyB on March 24, 2008, 06:30:02 AM
I have never been obsessive about anything... :hypocrite:
*speechless* :eek!:
:frownshake:
What?
:hypocrite:
I love yall too.
*blue turns to purple*
:beret:
Maybe a handshake will bring her back!
I'm pretty sure it's only a kiss from a handsome prince that brings dying ladies back to life. :biglaugh:
:beret:
Well then you are outta luck.... or maybe.... :ignore:
/me knows just the prince... makes a phone call... REG
YOU got his number? She wouldnt give it to me!
no.. but it sounded like a good comment that would get a reaction... lol
Quote from: SippinTea on March 24, 2008, 03:02:32 PM
I'm pretty sure it's only a kiss from a handsome prince that brings dying ladies back to life. :biglaugh:
:beret:
*Prays for Jesus to send the right Prince and run all the others away* :grin:
Quote from: sunlight on March 24, 2008, 03:10:43 PM
/me knows just the prince... makes a phone call... REG
I know a wonderful prince! :cloud9: But, sorry, he's taken!!! :nono: Well..... as of Saturday he will be. :grin:
Quote from: sunlight on March 24, 2008, 03:10:43 PM
/me knows just the prince... makes a phone call... REG
:nono: No set-ups.
Quote from: MelodyB on March 24, 2008, 03:13:32 PM
YOU got his number? She wouldnt give it to me!
His whose? Wouldn't give it to you? You asked for T's number... and I gave you that. ???
:pound: Bad girl. You're just tryin' to start trouble.
Quote from: Sister_Mom on March 24, 2008, 03:18:47 PM
Quote from: SippinTea on March 24, 2008, 03:02:32 PM
I'm pretty sure it's only a kiss from a handsome prince that brings dying ladies back to life. :biglaugh:
:beret:
*Prays for Jesus to send the right Prince and run all the others away* :grin:
Now _that's_ the kind of prayer I'd love to have more of. :thumbsup2:
Feel free to keep praying that. Every day. A hundred times a day. Even more, if you can fit them in. :biglaugh:
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 24, 2008, 03:42:02 PM
His whose? Wouldn't give it to you? You asked for T's number... and I gave you that. ???
:pound: Bad girl. You're just tryin' to start trouble.
:beret:
Ummmm I never ASKED for T's number. Now YOU are trying to cause trouble.
:popcorn:
*hides behind Aaron, so Mel can't pick on her anymore*
*sneaks a handful of his popcorn while he's not looking*
:beret:
/me looks at Aaron and Ruby sitting so close together... REG... goes and Joins them and steals some popcorn too... and then shares her Choc Chip Cookies...
and nutter butters...!
:pound: Chel and takes her nutter butters
:beret:
lol! wait! i need them for when i get motion sickness! haha!
/me hands over the NutterButters.. and proceeds to barf all over ST
*ducks and runs 'round to the other side of Aaron*
There are advantages to be shorter and faster. :hypocrite:
:beret:
haha! true. but aaron didnt seem all *that* big in the pictures... it's not a long trip! lol!
:P
Big enough, apparently. lol
I can be pretty quick myself. Just barf in my general direction and you'll find out...
Quote* sunlight looks at Aaron and Ruby sitting so close together... REG... goes and Joins them and steals some popcorn too... and then shares her Choc Chip Cookies...
and nutter butters...!
:freaky2:
Chel, did you really want some popcorn or are you just trying to spy?
;)
shh... dont blow my cover!
I was being nice and sharing my cookies! Like gabby suggested in the sharing thread ya know... lol!
*laugh*
I've had too much fun with The Sugarplum Fairy the last few days to miss y'all _too_ badly... but it's nice to see that GP goofiness is alive and well. ;)
:beret:
:eyebrow:
The sugarplum fairy?
Noooo... not the sugarplum fairy... The Sugarplum Fairy. *grin*
Here she be:
(http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb278/SippinTeasPhotos/Baby%20Abigail/IndyTrip2008029.jpg?t=1207014156)
And another pic I won't post since they're so huge... but you can see her again if you wish. :)
http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb278/SippinTeasPhotos/Baby%20Abigail/IndyTrip2008035.jpg?t=1207014477
:beret:
AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
I wanna SQUEEZE her!!! (Gently!)
You will need a new thread soon Rooby Doob. :P
I can't believe this one hasn't been shut down yet.
That's 'cause gems are special. :)
New thread coming soon to a board near you....
:beret:
They'll probably just shut that one down too.
QuoteAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
Yeah, she's a cutie. :)
Quote from: SippinTea on April 01, 2008, 02:30:59 PM
That's 'cause gems are special. :)
New thread coming soon to a boar near you....
:beret:
hehe! really?
Quote from: titushome on April 01, 2008, 02:23:34 PM
I can't believe this one hasn't been shut down yet.
hmmm well... looks like the light is green so let's keep on posting...
My family is dysfunctional.. OPeople come to my house just to laugh at us.. I guess we are entertaining... GO figure..
ANyways GOd is Good he's opening up thease doors in my life... I can't really go into to many details but I'm being a light to my family... :)_
Bump.
This thread is unlocked now since the posts per page has been changed. ;)
/me reread some of this and laughed at the irony of some of it... :grin:
I know right! ;)
True, it's been unlocked, but what's the point of me trying to fill it up since I've already got another ramble-y, musing thread going? ;)
I'm afraid to ask about the irony. :o
:beret:
Ohhhh... THAT. BOL! Yes, the irony is rather amusing. ;)
:beret:
Looks like I need to go back and read this thread... :)
Wow. Since y'all bumped my thread back up, I had to go back and see what all I had written in the last year. It made my head spin. God's been SO good to me. And just reading all this ramble-y stuff I'd written, and remembering circumstances that corresponded with each post... well, it made me realize what an amazing journey God sent me on this year. And just how far He's brought me.
Thank you, Jesus. This year has been one wild ride, but You've done such amazing things, and blessed me in so many, many ways. I'm grateful for what You have done in my life. You truly are my everything.
:beret:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 11, 2007, 06:02:56 AM
Interesting how life takes such odd twists and turns, isn't it? Things you never expected, things you never wanted but they happened anyway, things you always longed for but thought would never happen, events that 'just happened', people you 'just happened' to meet...and somewhere in the center of it all our choices lie. Choices to accept the things we never wanted and choices to grow through that experience...choices to make that phone call or write that letter...choices to forgive and let it go...choices to live in the moment of the unexpected pleasures, taking them as they come. Choices that can be exciting and frightening--sometimes both at the same time. Knowing that the opportunity to make that choice won't come again, because it's only in that moment--and you won't pass this way again.
Quote
Going somewhere means leaving somewhere. Choosing something mean choosing against other things. Gaining something means losing something else. And between the old and new--the 'was' and the 'not yet'--there exists only one thing: a very frightening journey called faith.
--taken from the book Coming Up For Air
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. "
James 1:5-6
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts"
Col. 3:15
"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Phil 4:7
Points of Ponderance...
:beret:
Yeah, what she said. LOL Whoever she is, she sounds like she knows what she's talking about. Anyone know her? I think I'd like to meet someone who has it all together like that.
*cough*
:beret:
Edited to correct a typo.
Sometimes, that Grl really DOES know what she is talking about. She really does. ;)
*HUG*
i know that writer, well. :pwink: she's smarter than she thinks she is.
yup... what she said... ^
I agree though... sometimes i think thinks and I know that I know, and other times I think back and wonder what it was I thought i knew in the first place... and have since forgotten... or not...
Quote from: SippinTea on March 31, 2007, 08:37:12 PM
The perfect quote for a gal like me that doesn't believe in fairy tales...
"True love comes quietly, without banners or flashing lights. If you hear bells, get your ears checked." --Erich Segal
:updown: ...oh, wait that's :beret:
*COUGH*
Ooooooo. This one is especially good!
Quote from: SippinTea on April 21, 2007, 08:49:22 PM
When I can't see the path:
James 1:5,6--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.
James 3:17--But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
When I don't get the answer I thought I would:
Psalm 84:11--For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Matthew 7:11--If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
James 1:17--Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
And when I'm confident of the promise, but the fulfillment doesn't seem to be appearing:
Heb. 11:1--Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Heb. 11:39-40a--These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us...
.....and we're back to that word TRUST. Trust Him to lead when I can't see the path....trust Him that the answers He gives are the right ones...trust Him to fulfill the promise in the right time and in the right way.
Why is it that I arrogantly assume I can arrange my life better than the King of Kings can? Completely ludicrous. And shows how pathetic I really am....
Okay, God...it's me again. I choose to trust You. All my questions, all my fears, all my hopes, all my wishes and dreams, all my insecurities, all my inadequacies, all the gifts you've already given me...I place them back in Your hands. But please, Jesus, use them to grow me more like You. My life is in Your hands...right where it belongs.
:beret:
:grin:
:like:
*ahem* Um, Mel? Are you trying to tell me something?
Pffft. :P
:beret:
Quote from: MelodyB on March 21, 2011, 03:52:23 PM
Quote from: SippinTea on March 31, 2007, 08:37:12 PM
The perfect quote for a gal like me that doesn't believe in fairy tales...
"True love comes quietly, without banners or flashing lights. If you hear bells, get your ears checked." --Erich Segal
:updown: ...oh, wait that's :beret:
*COUGH*
LOL! Wonder if anyone's had their ears checked lately... :biglaugh:
Hey! :pound: PF and Mel
:beret:
:laughhard:
:laughat:
Quote from: SippinTea on March 21, 2011, 09:33:53 PM
Hey! :pound: PF and Mel
:beret:
not so fun to eat your words later huh lol
They were Erich Segal's words, not mine! So I don't have to eat them! :pound:
:P
:beret:
lol
Quote from: SippinTea on August 08, 2008, 02:35:03 AM
Quote
Going somewhere means leaving somewhere. Choosing something mean choosing against other things. Gaining something means losing something else. And between the old and new--the 'was' and the 'not yet'--there exists only one thing: a very frightening journey called faith.
--taken from the book Coming Up For Air
Wow.
Just wow.
*sigh*
That is one of my all-time fav quotes. :) It's been my sig line on my primary email acct for years now.
:beret:
5:30AM Thoughts from Luke 5
The background - Peter & Co. were cleaning their nets. Getting ready to go home and sleep. They'd worked hard; fished all night - but had only dirty nets and worn out bodies to show for their efforts. No fish at all. Not even a minnow.
But then Jesus showed up.
And when He shows up things begin to change. Even when it doesn't look like it at first. That's the funny thing about Jesus. You don't always see when He first shows up. But just give Him a little room in your boat, give Him a little room in your life, obey what He tells you to do, and - BAM!! you'll notice Him soon enough. And not in a small way, either.
Peter was smart about it. He made room in his boat. He made room in his life. And he obeyed.
That was how he found himself scrubbing his nets while Jesus was teaching from his boat. That doesn't sound like church on Sunday morning. It doesn't sound pretty. Or dressed up. It doesn't neat and tidy. Or even focused on God. But it DOES sound like someone who made room for Jesus in their boat.
That was also how Peter found himself headed out toward deep water with his cleaned-up nets. Peter (in his usual blunt way) even reminded Jesus "Master, we've been fishing hard all night and haven't caught even a minnow. But if you say so, I'll let out the nets." That doesn't sound overly hopeful. That doesn't sound full of faith. It doesn't sound like he expected anything to happen, except getting the nets dirty and having to clean them again. But it DOES sound obedient.
Which is how he suddenly found his nets strained past their capacity, and had to call for help from his buddies.
Peter was overwhelmed. I've no doubt you and I would have been, too.
He fell to his knees in front of Jesus and said "Master, leave. I'm a sinner and can't handle this holiness. Leave me to myself."
Now here's where I can't help getting a bit amused at Peter. Not in a mean way. Amused because, well, I think I get it. Because when I'm confronted by God and His holiness I tend to be so overwhelmed that I get fearful and feel like crawling in a hole all by myself.
But unless I'm missing something, it doesn't look like Jesus answered Peter's pathetic and overwhelmed statements just then. Unless, perhaps, it was to tell him to get back on his feet and keep working. Because the very next statement says "when they pulled in that catch of fish, awe overwhelmed... everyone." Now, I'm no fisherman, but pulling in a catch of fish that huge sounds like an awful lot of work. It doesn't sound quick. It doesn't sound clean and tidy. It sounds to me like it would be rather chaotic. And messy. But unless I'm missing something, it wasn't until they got the fish pulled in that Jesus had something more to say to Peter.
"There is nothing to fear. From now on you'll be fishing for men and women."
That's right. He told Peter he had nothing to fear. Nothing to fear from seeing his own sinfulness in the face of holiness. And get this: Jesus didn't leave when Peter wanted him to. Or maybe Peter really didn't want Jesus to leave - he just said so because of being overwhelmed. And maybe, just maybe, Jesus knew that.
But not only did Peter get told to not fear, he also got a glimpse of his future. That's right - a man confronted by his own sinful self gets a picture of who and what he can (and will) become.
That's one of my favorite things about God, I think. He never confronts our sinfulness without also giving us hope that things can be different. I love that about Him.
:beret:
:like: