Surely, unless your walk is just a surface walk that you are just fine with living, you are educated about the "Mystery" our apostle, Paul, speaks of throughout his letters in the NT. In short, It was never previously revealed that the Gentiles would be co-heirs with the Jews. Jesus came and filled the gap, lavishing Grace upon us Gentiles...Romans described Gentiles prior to Grace as "fools", having "senseless minds", and ultimately handed over to the cravings of their hearts because they "exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images..." (Romans 1:18-25) check it.
Now, "Apart from the law, God's righteousness has been revealed--attested by the Law and the Prophets--that is, God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, to all who believe, since there is no distinction. For ALL has sinned and fall short of the glory of God. They are justified FREELY by his Grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a propititiation through faith in His blood, to demonstrate righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed.." Romans 3:21-25
Those are just a few scriptures to open your mind to who you were....and who you are now, though you fight the old life off daily by taking on the image of Christ and dying to self, only and solely and for no other reason but for unmerited Grace that God gave us through His son, Jesus, after he took on all of our deserved wrath. Still deserve it....but Grace abounds :)
The title of this blog is about a zillion "me"s. I'd like to address the issue of "me".
What sparked this annoyance was honestly encountering many folks over the past month who would say..."I'm trying to be patient, I really am, but I don't understand why it isn't happening, but obviously if it were God's will for my life, it'd happen..." Something along the lines of that. Don't get me wrong, I've been that person before, got put in check, now I am sharing. Or, "I am trying to find God's will for my life." Or, "Why are they getting blessed and I am not? I tithe every month!"
OHHHHHH the agony of the "my's" and "me's" and "I's".
What's our calling as a Body first and foremost? Glorify and magnify our creator, savior, mediator, protector, healer, etc. That is our job. Wanna know your calling? Ding ding ding! Be a reflection of your creator! It's an impossible task to be perfect at, thank God for Grace.You should want to worship God for the Grace He gave us! Read Romans. We are scum. Worthless. We deliberately serve our flesh because it feels good while our Creator has called us to do otherwise. The good news is that, in Christ, we are washed clean, we find worth, and we can conquer flesh and pursue Christ.
Let's clear some things up. Does God have a specific calling for you? Well, duh. And boy does He want to reveal that to you!
But, we have thoroughly corrupted it all. We have put "me" in the center of the calling. So, instead of saying, "God, I abandon all self. I want your dreams and your plans and your timing. It isn't about my comfort or my stability or my understanding, but it's about you and if You called me to it, there is no way that you won't provide the means to complete it," it is now all about what you think looks attractive, what brings in the most numbers, what allows you to look good, what allows you to be in charge and make "rules" that you decide to tag God's name on, only accepting what you understand....
Honey, it is not at all about you. God gave you a hope and a future because of Grace. You are not a favorite. You do not deserve what you have. And frankly I am tired of folks thinking they earned what they have. Go back to the top and re-read what we were and still are in the flesh. Get humbled. There are too many "feel-good" Messages and I think this speaks to the heart of a lot of issues in today's Church. Soak it in and if you are offended, you should probably pray.
I am not speaking to those who are just now coming to faith in Jesus Christ. I am talking to those whom have been raised in church and still have no idea as to what our purpose is.
Christ did die for you, but not only for you, and not to glorify you.
Since this is my blog, I shall vent about what I see when "Me" has replaced "God."
1. You can't function when a desire is not met.
2. You can't worship in a church because the music isn't your style of you don't like the song.
3. You ask God, "Why them and not me?" Hush. God promotes.
4. You cannot freely encourage someone or congratulate them. The root of that is jealousy.
5. You become a big complainer while not being a "doer".
Those are just a few.
So, to wrap this up, I ask one thing of you: Stop acting like Christ died for you and you alone. We deserve God's wrath. You are in the position you are in to be of influence and to glorify God and He can remove you as quickly as you got placed there. You are not the center of Christ's universe but He should be at the center of yours. Read your Bible....Pray more....discover what God really did for you....
If you really and truly grasped that, You'd never use "Me" again.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
I'm Confused: Are We Really on the Same Team?
One team. Same goal. Different positions. Unity. Already won.
Holy smokes, we have missed the mark. Obviously. But for real, around me couldn't look any more like a team fighting teammates if Satan were it's Athletic Director.
Pastors comparing and criticizing the style of others to themselves. I'm not speaking of doctrine or theology in general, that's a heart matter that CHRIST will adress through the Holy Spirit and considering you are not that, you should watch what position you are really trying to take...I'm speaking of comparing numbers to other's congregations and every other silly, superficial issue. Hello, you're there only because of Grace. Are you not shepherding for a common goal or is it really about the status of your church? Jesus had Twelve. Don't soon forget that the head pastor of that church is Christ anyway. Humble yourself. "So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall." 1 Corinthians 10:12
Some of you are already getting bitter towards me for addressing some God-revealed issues...I hear offense comes from conviction sometimes. Who knows...Don't let Satan manipulate something good into an offense..That's another blog for another day...anyway, moving right along..
I haven't been alive for a long time, but I truly can say I remember a day when friends would be the biggest fan's of those gifting in speaking or singing or got promotions or whatever! We were all seriously like-minded and realized that God skilled us in different areas and we NEEDED the other ones...Now, If someone writes a cool blog that got a kazillion 'likes' (no I am not talking about myself, chill out) then we are just UP-SET because they only wrote it to get attention and I will just die before I 'like' it....God forbid they actually received a gift from God and THEY ARE MOVING IN IT! Oh no! Ok, that may seem dramatic but it is true! How do I know? My silly self has been there at times! I am only able to speak of this so boldy because Christ revealed this dark closet in my heart to me months and months ago and shone some light on it and now the seed it planted in me and I need to share it! Is that okay..? Or does this offend you because you've been thinking it and didn't write it?
Listen, and please open up your heart for what I am about to say: YOU ARE NOT LIKE ME.
Ha, but seriously. You are not. And ya know what, I am not like you. You are probably way more attractive and can write better blogs and spell a whole lot better. Seriously, lol. But to get serious, If we truly knew that Psalms 139 applied to us all individually, knowing that Christ knit us together with specific gifts and talents, but to have the same goal in mind, then I think our "team" wouldn't keep feeling so dang defeated...Let's get it together, sheesh.
Allow people to flow in their gifts and be happy for them because ya know what? That person flowing in the gift, hopefully, realizes that it is not to promote oneself, but to magnify God...show His mercy on us considering that "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23)."
Remember, I said I have been here, but there are some really deep heart-issues when someone flowing in a God-given gift offends, intimidates, or pushes you away.
This is a serious problem. I see it. Everywhere. We do not need approval from man, but we do need unity in our 'Team'. Don't you know that Satan's plan involves division? ESPECIALLY amongst the "church"???? DO NOT BE NAIVE TO THAT! Christ did not skill you in areas of other because we are a Dang Body and I am sorry, folks, but if you are gnawing at your pointer finger all day because it preforms better than the pinky, than you are about to put the whole body in a lot of pain...and hinder it's preformance! Get where I am coming from?
WE. ARE. ON. THE. SAME. TEAM. You are where you are for a reason. You are gifted in what you are for a reason. You have a specific realm of influence for a reason. Now, the next step in unity would be to uplift and encourage those whom do what you can't, by the Grace of God, for a specific purpose, because they will show Christ to those whom you can't....
Or, Is revealing Christ to "dead" folks less important than your selfish agenda?
Holy smokes, we have missed the mark. Obviously. But for real, around me couldn't look any more like a team fighting teammates if Satan were it's Athletic Director.
Pastors comparing and criticizing the style of others to themselves. I'm not speaking of doctrine or theology in general, that's a heart matter that CHRIST will adress through the Holy Spirit and considering you are not that, you should watch what position you are really trying to take...I'm speaking of comparing numbers to other's congregations and every other silly, superficial issue. Hello, you're there only because of Grace. Are you not shepherding for a common goal or is it really about the status of your church? Jesus had Twelve. Don't soon forget that the head pastor of that church is Christ anyway. Humble yourself. "So, whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall." 1 Corinthians 10:12
Some of you are already getting bitter towards me for addressing some God-revealed issues...I hear offense comes from conviction sometimes. Who knows...Don't let Satan manipulate something good into an offense..That's another blog for another day...anyway, moving right along..
I haven't been alive for a long time, but I truly can say I remember a day when friends would be the biggest fan's of those gifting in speaking or singing or got promotions or whatever! We were all seriously like-minded and realized that God skilled us in different areas and we NEEDED the other ones...Now, If someone writes a cool blog that got a kazillion 'likes' (no I am not talking about myself, chill out) then we are just UP-SET because they only wrote it to get attention and I will just die before I 'like' it....God forbid they actually received a gift from God and THEY ARE MOVING IN IT! Oh no! Ok, that may seem dramatic but it is true! How do I know? My silly self has been there at times! I am only able to speak of this so boldy because Christ revealed this dark closet in my heart to me months and months ago and shone some light on it and now the seed it planted in me and I need to share it! Is that okay..? Or does this offend you because you've been thinking it and didn't write it?
Listen, and please open up your heart for what I am about to say: YOU ARE NOT LIKE ME.
Ha, but seriously. You are not. And ya know what, I am not like you. You are probably way more attractive and can write better blogs and spell a whole lot better. Seriously, lol. But to get serious, If we truly knew that Psalms 139 applied to us all individually, knowing that Christ knit us together with specific gifts and talents, but to have the same goal in mind, then I think our "team" wouldn't keep feeling so dang defeated...Let's get it together, sheesh.
Allow people to flow in their gifts and be happy for them because ya know what? That person flowing in the gift, hopefully, realizes that it is not to promote oneself, but to magnify God...show His mercy on us considering that "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23)."
Remember, I said I have been here, but there are some really deep heart-issues when someone flowing in a God-given gift offends, intimidates, or pushes you away.
This is a serious problem. I see it. Everywhere. We do not need approval from man, but we do need unity in our 'Team'. Don't you know that Satan's plan involves division? ESPECIALLY amongst the "church"???? DO NOT BE NAIVE TO THAT! Christ did not skill you in areas of other because we are a Dang Body and I am sorry, folks, but if you are gnawing at your pointer finger all day because it preforms better than the pinky, than you are about to put the whole body in a lot of pain...and hinder it's preformance! Get where I am coming from?
WE. ARE. ON. THE. SAME. TEAM. You are where you are for a reason. You are gifted in what you are for a reason. You have a specific realm of influence for a reason. Now, the next step in unity would be to uplift and encourage those whom do what you can't, by the Grace of God, for a specific purpose, because they will show Christ to those whom you can't....
Or, Is revealing Christ to "dead" folks less important than your selfish agenda?
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Security in an Insecure Relationship with Christ
First, when issues you struggle with are brought into light, it allows Christ to deal with it and Satan's hand to get off it. Where there is light, there can be no darkness. Go to a mentor and allow your struggle to be brought to light and deal with it...grow...get accountability...and don't turn back. With that said, I'd like to bring to light an issue I cannot seem to nip in the bud (Wow, I have acted in way too many plays considering I just said what I did). Maybe you can relate and hopefully change your "security in an insecure relationship with Christ" into "INsecurity in an insecure relationship with Christ" and ultimately become "Secure in Christ". Period. Sounds crazy but I promise, we need to first become insecure in our not so great securities in order to throw insecurity into the pit of Hell...make sense? :)
What do I mean when I say "I tend to stay secure in an insecure relationship with Christ?" Glad you asked. When I say I have security, I mean that I am so comfortable with where I am and what I am doing that I am not willing to become insecure to change what needs to be changed because, heck, I don't want to be uncomfortable! This is what I am used to! This is working for the most part! I mean, I stay stressed all day long and continually worry, but this is security to me.
Fact: I am okay with constantly questioning what my Father tells me or promises me or just genuinely speaks to me because I have got to make it make sense to my tiny pea-sized brain. I am okay with not fully trusting in God because if I fully trusted Him, that means I won't always understand how things will work out or when they will work out and let us face it, when my hand and understanding are removed from a dear situation, I am dang insecure! Can you relate? Ya see, I am secure in an insecure relationship with Christ....and that is NOT okay!
Okay, let's put our stones away and take off our "religious glasses" and allow me to continue to be transparent with you guys. I love God with all my heart and want His will for my life, but sometimes I struggle hardcore with Trust. If you were honest, I know you do as well. Alright, let's keep bringing this to light. Let's deal with this and become secure in Christ.
I have issues. Ha, but seriously, I really do have some tough issues at hand. I want to get married. Hold the phone: I know marriage will not make my life complete, I know men are annoying, I know I am only almost 20, I know marriage takes work (Hello: I am a product from a marriage that did not work out)...let me be real with y'all and do not start spewing out what I am not naive to, k? :) Anywho, I want to get married. I cannot remember a day, since I was a wee child, that I did not dream of being a wife! I know all of you guys know that because I guarantee I have talked about it to ya! I just know it! I want to be the ultimate wife...like, "Wife on Steroids." Putting aside my age, I just cannot fathom a man longing for a woman with a child and a destroyed body. I really just cannot wrap my mind around it. With that said, I cry and cry and cry to God asking Him to take away the desire of marriage because I just KNOW it isn't in the cards for me anymore. I'm doomed for loneliness. Everyone always says, "God will bring 'him' in His timing...you are not ready yet." Oh, if there isn't a statement that just makes me start boilin' more than that one! I FEEL LIKE I AM SO READY! I diligently seek God daily and am faithful! I am reaaadddyyyyy! Psh, I act like God does not know me better than I know myself. When I finally decide to get God's opinion and ultimate decision on this HUGE matter in my life, I get the answer....'Trust me.." What the heck? Trust you? Okay. Got it.
But as soon as I see a happily married, Godly, YOUNG couple, I start getting insecure in God's direct statement to me: "Trust me..." But I don't understand why these couples are thriving in their marriages and got married after 6 months of dating, yet I am spending hours and months of prayer for this "man" that I am not even sure will respond to God's call to become one with me! I hope my rambling is making sense; bear with me.
Ya see, I am secure in being insecure in Christ. Why? Why do I feel secure when I question God? Maybe because as long as I question I can make things make sense to me...or Maybe I'll create an argument that will surely put God in His place because I know what is best for my life!!...Uh-oh...Man, I fall short everyday more so then what I had thought...
This can not be okay with us. When you decide to follow Christ, you have to remind yourself that you are serving a Father whom knows you better than yourself, works all things together for your good (Romans 8:28), does NOT disappoint you, has never been inconsistent, lived in the world and overcame it!, conquered Death!, and the list goes onnnnn. That kind of a being means what He says and why is it so hard to trust Him? Yet, we continually give our hearts out to INconsistent humans, whom did not conquer the grave, and more so lives like the world rather than coming close to overcoming it...Hm...we need more Jesus and need to repent.
When Christ told me, "Trust me," when it came to me crying about never having a Godly man that I was interested in pursue me, I needed/need to trust him. I know how good Christ is. I know His ways are perfect, but I also know His ways don't always make sense to me...and His ways do not always come when my selfish flesh thinks they are due.
Are you secure in an insecure relationship with Christ? Do you continually question God's motives after He has made it clear to you what you need to do? Or maybe Christ has been silent to you on an issue for a season...are you questioning Him or are you remaining diligent in "asking, seeking, and knocking", because I promise the door will be opened for you in time, His time.
My challenge to you is to become INsecure in this security. It is no bueno. Let us put into practice what we preach. When you decide to trust Christ with your life, become secure in Him. Do not take matters in your own hands after you placed it in His in order to try and understand what is going on. My issue of wanting to get married is in Christ hands. I am working on not taking it out of His on a daily basis...
I am secure in the fact that Christ's ways are way better than my own.
From Secure in an insecure relationship with Christ to INsecure in an insecure relationship with Christ to becoming Secure in Christ. Let's put it to practice.
There is not a better feeling then knowing your Daddy will orchestrate your life beautifully and timely if you just Trust him; become secure in Him.
What do I mean when I say "I tend to stay secure in an insecure relationship with Christ?" Glad you asked. When I say I have security, I mean that I am so comfortable with where I am and what I am doing that I am not willing to become insecure to change what needs to be changed because, heck, I don't want to be uncomfortable! This is what I am used to! This is working for the most part! I mean, I stay stressed all day long and continually worry, but this is security to me.
Fact: I am okay with constantly questioning what my Father tells me or promises me or just genuinely speaks to me because I have got to make it make sense to my tiny pea-sized brain. I am okay with not fully trusting in God because if I fully trusted Him, that means I won't always understand how things will work out or when they will work out and let us face it, when my hand and understanding are removed from a dear situation, I am dang insecure! Can you relate? Ya see, I am secure in an insecure relationship with Christ....and that is NOT okay!
Okay, let's put our stones away and take off our "religious glasses" and allow me to continue to be transparent with you guys. I love God with all my heart and want His will for my life, but sometimes I struggle hardcore with Trust. If you were honest, I know you do as well. Alright, let's keep bringing this to light. Let's deal with this and become secure in Christ.
I have issues. Ha, but seriously, I really do have some tough issues at hand. I want to get married. Hold the phone: I know marriage will not make my life complete, I know men are annoying, I know I am only almost 20, I know marriage takes work (Hello: I am a product from a marriage that did not work out)...let me be real with y'all and do not start spewing out what I am not naive to, k? :) Anywho, I want to get married. I cannot remember a day, since I was a wee child, that I did not dream of being a wife! I know all of you guys know that because I guarantee I have talked about it to ya! I just know it! I want to be the ultimate wife...like, "Wife on Steroids." Putting aside my age, I just cannot fathom a man longing for a woman with a child and a destroyed body. I really just cannot wrap my mind around it. With that said, I cry and cry and cry to God asking Him to take away the desire of marriage because I just KNOW it isn't in the cards for me anymore. I'm doomed for loneliness. Everyone always says, "God will bring 'him' in His timing...you are not ready yet." Oh, if there isn't a statement that just makes me start boilin' more than that one! I FEEL LIKE I AM SO READY! I diligently seek God daily and am faithful! I am reaaadddyyyyy! Psh, I act like God does not know me better than I know myself. When I finally decide to get God's opinion and ultimate decision on this HUGE matter in my life, I get the answer....'Trust me.." What the heck? Trust you? Okay. Got it.
But as soon as I see a happily married, Godly, YOUNG couple, I start getting insecure in God's direct statement to me: "Trust me..." But I don't understand why these couples are thriving in their marriages and got married after 6 months of dating, yet I am spending hours and months of prayer for this "man" that I am not even sure will respond to God's call to become one with me! I hope my rambling is making sense; bear with me.
Ya see, I am secure in being insecure in Christ. Why? Why do I feel secure when I question God? Maybe because as long as I question I can make things make sense to me...or Maybe I'll create an argument that will surely put God in His place because I know what is best for my life!!...Uh-oh...Man, I fall short everyday more so then what I had thought...
This can not be okay with us. When you decide to follow Christ, you have to remind yourself that you are serving a Father whom knows you better than yourself, works all things together for your good (Romans 8:28), does NOT disappoint you, has never been inconsistent, lived in the world and overcame it!, conquered Death!, and the list goes onnnnn. That kind of a being means what He says and why is it so hard to trust Him? Yet, we continually give our hearts out to INconsistent humans, whom did not conquer the grave, and more so lives like the world rather than coming close to overcoming it...Hm...we need more Jesus and need to repent.
When Christ told me, "Trust me," when it came to me crying about never having a Godly man that I was interested in pursue me, I needed/need to trust him. I know how good Christ is. I know His ways are perfect, but I also know His ways don't always make sense to me...and His ways do not always come when my selfish flesh thinks they are due.
Are you secure in an insecure relationship with Christ? Do you continually question God's motives after He has made it clear to you what you need to do? Or maybe Christ has been silent to you on an issue for a season...are you questioning Him or are you remaining diligent in "asking, seeking, and knocking", because I promise the door will be opened for you in time, His time.
My challenge to you is to become INsecure in this security. It is no bueno. Let us put into practice what we preach. When you decide to trust Christ with your life, become secure in Him. Do not take matters in your own hands after you placed it in His in order to try and understand what is going on. My issue of wanting to get married is in Christ hands. I am working on not taking it out of His on a daily basis...
I am secure in the fact that Christ's ways are way better than my own.
From Secure in an insecure relationship with Christ to INsecure in an insecure relationship with Christ to becoming Secure in Christ. Let's put it to practice.
There is not a better feeling then knowing your Daddy will orchestrate your life beautifully and timely if you just Trust him; become secure in Him.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Ask, Obey, Protect.
"Some time later, the Lord spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, "Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great." But Abram replied, "Oh sovereign Lord, what good are all your blessings when I do not even have a son? Since you ave given me no children, Eliezer of Damascus, a servant in my household, will inherit all my wealth. You have given me no descendants of my own, so one of my servants will be my heir." Then the Lord said to him, "No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir." Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, "Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That's how many descendants you will have!" And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. Then the Lord told him, "I am the Lord who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land as your possession." But Abram replied, "O Sovereign Lord, how can i be sure that I will actually posses it?" The Lord told him, "Bring me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove and a young pigeon." So Abram presented all these to Him and killed them. Then he cut each animal down the middle and laid the halves side by side; he did not, however, cut the birds in half. Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away." Genesis 15:1-11
I would like to point out a few things to take away from this:
Abraham (Abram at the time) asked "O Sovereign God, how can I be sure that I will actually posses [the land]?
Ask God. Whatever you are concerned about, whatever you are confused about, whatever burdens you, whatever you desire, whatever you question, etc. Ask the Father. 1 John 5:14 says, "Now this is the confidence we have before Him: Whenever we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Luke 11:9 states, "So I say to you, keep asking and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened." God wants nothing less than to bless you with the desires of your heart, according to His will. I think we need to loose the mindset of "I am selfish if I ask for things." That is as far from the truth as you can get. Do not misunderstand me when I say this, guys. There is a difference in always reading off your "wants, needs, selfish desires" list every time you pray and asking for provision in your life. Let's remember we serve a very compassionate father; a God who gave His son's life for you. Just ask...
After asking God how he would know he would possess the land, God have him very specific instructions and very specific animals. Then, "Abram presented all these to Him and killed them.."
Obedience. After asking, God faithfully answered him and told him exactly what to do. Let this apply to your life. I know you have all asked God for some clarity on a specific situation and possibly the answer you got was, "Trust me." Are you being obedient in that instruction or are you allowing fear, worry, or doubt to steal your obedience? Romans 16:26 shows us that obedience is faith. Flow completely through that. Allow your obedience in what you asked for in the first place show your alliance with God and your complete faith in Him. Let obedience establish faith in your life that you are more than confident in not only God's instruction on how to approach or handle situations in your life, that he works together for our good may I add (Romans 8:28), but also in his completion in your situation. If you have no intentions on being obedient in the instruction you asked for in the first place, don't expect to ever be secure in where you are going. Bluntly, that also should show and reveal just how self-centered we are rather than God-centered. Think about it.
"Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away" Verse 11.
Protect. Dang vultures. Clearly, God was going to secure this promise of the land his descendants would have and make the covenant to Abram through his obedience in the sacrifices that God told him to bring...after Abram asked ;). The covenant was made...after he asked...and then became obedient with the answer he received...Hmm...I love how scripture says Abram chased them away. Hear me out: You have got to do whatever you have got to do to chase off the "vultures" and protect that sacrifice to ensure that your obedience in what God instructed you to do is not hindered or destroyed so you can reach the promises of God. That means this: You got to get rid of friends, thoughts, habits, mindsets, work environments, words, etc that hinder your obedience! Protect your heart! protect your mind! protect your virginity! protect your purity in every way! protect your dreams! protect your sacrifices to God to ensure that what you asked for in the beginning is fulfilled and not delayed because of a lack of protection or guarding the very things you are laying down to gain the promises for your life!
I hope you understand all of that. I hope you really grasp it.
If you ask God for something, expect to receive an answer in His time. When given an answer, follow through with it and completely protect yourself so you reach the perfect promises for your life. Got it?
I would like to point out a few things to take away from this:
Abraham (Abram at the time) asked "O Sovereign God, how can I be sure that I will actually posses [the land]?
Ask God. Whatever you are concerned about, whatever you are confused about, whatever burdens you, whatever you desire, whatever you question, etc. Ask the Father. 1 John 5:14 says, "Now this is the confidence we have before Him: Whenever we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Luke 11:9 states, "So I say to you, keep asking and it will be given to you. Keep searching and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened." God wants nothing less than to bless you with the desires of your heart, according to His will. I think we need to loose the mindset of "I am selfish if I ask for things." That is as far from the truth as you can get. Do not misunderstand me when I say this, guys. There is a difference in always reading off your "wants, needs, selfish desires" list every time you pray and asking for provision in your life. Let's remember we serve a very compassionate father; a God who gave His son's life for you. Just ask...
After asking God how he would know he would possess the land, God have him very specific instructions and very specific animals. Then, "Abram presented all these to Him and killed them.."
Obedience. After asking, God faithfully answered him and told him exactly what to do. Let this apply to your life. I know you have all asked God for some clarity on a specific situation and possibly the answer you got was, "Trust me." Are you being obedient in that instruction or are you allowing fear, worry, or doubt to steal your obedience? Romans 16:26 shows us that obedience is faith. Flow completely through that. Allow your obedience in what you asked for in the first place show your alliance with God and your complete faith in Him. Let obedience establish faith in your life that you are more than confident in not only God's instruction on how to approach or handle situations in your life, that he works together for our good may I add (Romans 8:28), but also in his completion in your situation. If you have no intentions on being obedient in the instruction you asked for in the first place, don't expect to ever be secure in where you are going. Bluntly, that also should show and reveal just how self-centered we are rather than God-centered. Think about it.
"Some vultures swooped down to eat the carcasses, but Abram chased them away" Verse 11.
Protect. Dang vultures. Clearly, God was going to secure this promise of the land his descendants would have and make the covenant to Abram through his obedience in the sacrifices that God told him to bring...after Abram asked ;). The covenant was made...after he asked...and then became obedient with the answer he received...Hmm...I love how scripture says Abram chased them away. Hear me out: You have got to do whatever you have got to do to chase off the "vultures" and protect that sacrifice to ensure that your obedience in what God instructed you to do is not hindered or destroyed so you can reach the promises of God. That means this: You got to get rid of friends, thoughts, habits, mindsets, work environments, words, etc that hinder your obedience! Protect your heart! protect your mind! protect your virginity! protect your purity in every way! protect your dreams! protect your sacrifices to God to ensure that what you asked for in the beginning is fulfilled and not delayed because of a lack of protection or guarding the very things you are laying down to gain the promises for your life!
I hope you understand all of that. I hope you really grasp it.
If you ask God for something, expect to receive an answer in His time. When given an answer, follow through with it and completely protect yourself so you reach the perfect promises for your life. Got it?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Have You Had "The Shakes" Lately?
"Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such a resting place? My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the LORD, have spoken! "I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word." Isaiah 66:1-2.
Tremble.
Are you ready to tremble? God blesses those who "tremble at [His] Word."
Hold on, hold on. I think we need to rewind and tremble at that very verse above. God WILL BLESS those...who tremble at [His] Word. Not He may. Not only if He feels like it. Not because you deserve it. Not because you tithe faithfully. Not because you are super nice. No. He just will. Why? Because...The voice of the creator of the universe spoke it and it is what it is. Now tremble at that beautiful fact.
I have decided to try and pass on my excitement and newfound passion for sincerely trembling at the ACTUAL Word(s) of God. I mean, honestly, the spoken words of the Creator of the whole dang universe are chilling on silky pages in my lap. Ok...am I crazy for wanting to dance around at this revelation? THE WORDS THAT CAME OUT OF THE CREATOR OF EVERYTHING ARE IN MY LAP....FOR ME TO READ! WHAT. THE. HECK! YES!
This rant is very simple. Very obvious. Very short. But I truly believe (and know from what I am experiencing in my life) that if you can really grab onto this...if you could truly understand what trembling meant...if you could just meditate for a moment on the fact that the words in the book that probably is rarely opened, or maybe opened a whole lot, are the words of your Father. The perfect, life-giving, never-changing, chain-breaking, beautiful, wise, peace-bringing words muttered from the very mouth that knows the number of hairs on your head and who makes ALL things work together for your good. Hmm...tremble at that? Man, I hope you can really get this, I really do.
I want to list a few scriptures that made me really begin to tremble; These scriptures changed my approach to the Bible and Words of the Never Changing God. My prayer is that no matter what scripture you read, you find yourself in a state of "awe" simply because it is the Word of God.
Hebrews 13:20-21 says, "Now may the God of Peace--who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood--may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him." HOLY SMOKES! < That is not the word of God, that is me trembling ;)
Romans 5:2 says, "Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory."
Mathew 26:39- "...My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet, I want Your will to be done, not mine."
Genesis 1:3 "And then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light."
Psalms 18:1-3 "I love You, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my Rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my mountain where I seek refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies."
Revelation 3:21- "The victor: I will give him the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I also won the victory and sat down with My Father on His throne."
Ecclesiastes 12:14-" For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil."
And the list goes on. I mean, it shouldn't be just "feel good scriptures" that bring you to tremble at His Word, but EVERY WORD should. Not to scare you into obeying because you fear Hell so by golly you will obey and tremble!!..but because these are words that will give you life and life more abundantly...words that bring clarity and understanding...I dare you to have such reverence for God's words that no matter what scripture you read, it completely changes your life and constantly brings you to your knees.
Tremble at His Word.
Tremble.
Are you ready to tremble? God blesses those who "tremble at [His] Word."
Hold on, hold on. I think we need to rewind and tremble at that very verse above. God WILL BLESS those...who tremble at [His] Word. Not He may. Not only if He feels like it. Not because you deserve it. Not because you tithe faithfully. Not because you are super nice. No. He just will. Why? Because...The voice of the creator of the universe spoke it and it is what it is. Now tremble at that beautiful fact.
I have decided to try and pass on my excitement and newfound passion for sincerely trembling at the ACTUAL Word(s) of God. I mean, honestly, the spoken words of the Creator of the whole dang universe are chilling on silky pages in my lap. Ok...am I crazy for wanting to dance around at this revelation? THE WORDS THAT CAME OUT OF THE CREATOR OF EVERYTHING ARE IN MY LAP....FOR ME TO READ! WHAT. THE. HECK! YES!
This rant is very simple. Very obvious. Very short. But I truly believe (and know from what I am experiencing in my life) that if you can really grab onto this...if you could truly understand what trembling meant...if you could just meditate for a moment on the fact that the words in the book that probably is rarely opened, or maybe opened a whole lot, are the words of your Father. The perfect, life-giving, never-changing, chain-breaking, beautiful, wise, peace-bringing words muttered from the very mouth that knows the number of hairs on your head and who makes ALL things work together for your good. Hmm...tremble at that? Man, I hope you can really get this, I really do.
I want to list a few scriptures that made me really begin to tremble; These scriptures changed my approach to the Bible and Words of the Never Changing God. My prayer is that no matter what scripture you read, you find yourself in a state of "awe" simply because it is the Word of God.
Hebrews 13:20-21 says, "Now may the God of Peace--who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood--may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him." HOLY SMOKES! < That is not the word of God, that is me trembling ;)
Romans 5:2 says, "Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory."
Mathew 26:39- "...My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet, I want Your will to be done, not mine."
Genesis 1:3 "And then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light."
Psalms 18:1-3 "I love You, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my Rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my mountain where I seek refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies."
Revelation 3:21- "The victor: I will give him the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I also won the victory and sat down with My Father on His throne."
Ecclesiastes 12:14-" For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil."
And the list goes on. I mean, it shouldn't be just "feel good scriptures" that bring you to tremble at His Word, but EVERY WORD should. Not to scare you into obeying because you fear Hell so by golly you will obey and tremble!!..but because these are words that will give you life and life more abundantly...words that bring clarity and understanding...I dare you to have such reverence for God's words that no matter what scripture you read, it completely changes your life and constantly brings you to your knees.
Tremble at His Word.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Don't Be Ugly, Ladies.
Competition.
I like some good, friendly competition every now and then. Who doesn't?
But
What I have really taken notice of lately is very evident and unhealthy competition with a side of jealousy amongst Christian folks. Especialy in the female gender. To be transparent: It is ridiculous.
Let's be honest for a second. We all think someone is prettier than us, skinnier than us, more talented than us, has a greater personality than us, has better clothes than us, doesn't deserve their blessings, but we do because we would definitely take better care of them (ya right), oh and we can't forget how mad we get when someone gets recognition for something they shared that made them seem amazing when in fact you told that person that very revaltion to begin with. Where is my recognition? Where is my compliment? Been there? I have many, many, many, many, mannnyyyyyyyy times and it is so silly! I talked about entitlment in a previous blog and all this goes hand in hand. Are we trying to make God known through us or us known through God? Think about that for a minute...
First, we all know God perfectly molded every human exactly the way He wanted them for whatever reason. You have the talents that God wanted you to have. You have the nose God wanted you to have. You are the height God wanted you to be. Baby, those thighs scream "Thunderrr!" because God wanted them too. He SAYS you are good. Let's get over ourselves and start getting confident (not arrogant) in exactly what God gave us. Doing this will ultimately make us work more freely and effectively in what God designed us to do. Stop weighing your every feature and talent against the one you compete with. Let us not forget that your "opponent" was given their beautiful features and talents by God Almighty. You are questioning His craftmanship by looking to another individual as if they were the perfect reflection? Your mirror should be God and not another very imperfect human.
Second, You are missing your purpose in the Body. When you should be uplifting someone or edifying them or giving some awesome affirmation towards their GOD-given talent or beauty, you withdrawal yourself because for whatever reason, as women, we say "why would we ever want to be friends with someone prettier than us or more talented? That doesn't get me noticed.." Come on, ladies. I am being real with you guys because I know this is a huge issue women in particular battle with. Let's adress it and change it. What ARE you really living to glorify? We can say "God" all day long, but when the talent that God gave you in order to glorify Him is hindered because of a competitive spirit...you are really glorifying yourself; living to perfect the gift rather than aknowledging the Giver.
I read a quote by C.S. Lewis and I absolutely loved it: "If we saw how glorious we all really are as creations of God, we would be tempted to bow down and worship the very people we slander."
I encourage you to read Phillipians 2:1-18. It will not take long and the Word is true, perfect, and will change you. Read it! :)
Please, ladies. Let us rise up as the women God created us to be. Use God as your mirror and stop looking to others as a perfect reflection. Use your gifts and talents and stop wishing for someone else's. You could not do it as well as them just as they could not fulfill your call better than you. Do not be afraid to encourage another woman...even if you feel jealous towards her. Pray, pray, pray that God take away that jealousy and give you a desire to fulfill YOUR calling. It's all about glorifying the Father, guys...
If you are unhappy with your weight, change it. If you want to dye your hair, do it. If you want better clothes, save up for them. If you want a better personality, stop being so rude. If you have a problem with another woman, adress it because when the issue is brought to light, Satan has no control over it and can not use it against you. If the insecurities that you battle with can be fixed, then do it. The things you can not change need to be accepted and worked with. Jesus says love! The greatest of these is LOVE! Love yourself and love everyone for exactly who God created them to be! You have GOT to get rid of the jealousy and competitive spirit. Let God freely move through a bold, confident, beautiful, and loving woman!
You truly are beautiful. Make sure your heart is just as beautiful because that is what counts and what your Father cares about.
Read Phillipians! ;) I love you, girls! Let us encourage one another!
I like some good, friendly competition every now and then. Who doesn't?
But
What I have really taken notice of lately is very evident and unhealthy competition with a side of jealousy amongst Christian folks. Especialy in the female gender. To be transparent: It is ridiculous.
Let's be honest for a second. We all think someone is prettier than us, skinnier than us, more talented than us, has a greater personality than us, has better clothes than us, doesn't deserve their blessings, but we do because we would definitely take better care of them (ya right), oh and we can't forget how mad we get when someone gets recognition for something they shared that made them seem amazing when in fact you told that person that very revaltion to begin with. Where is my recognition? Where is my compliment? Been there? I have many, many, many, many, mannnyyyyyyyy times and it is so silly! I talked about entitlment in a previous blog and all this goes hand in hand. Are we trying to make God known through us or us known through God? Think about that for a minute...
First, we all know God perfectly molded every human exactly the way He wanted them for whatever reason. You have the talents that God wanted you to have. You have the nose God wanted you to have. You are the height God wanted you to be. Baby, those thighs scream "Thunderrr!" because God wanted them too. He SAYS you are good. Let's get over ourselves and start getting confident (not arrogant) in exactly what God gave us. Doing this will ultimately make us work more freely and effectively in what God designed us to do. Stop weighing your every feature and talent against the one you compete with. Let us not forget that your "opponent" was given their beautiful features and talents by God Almighty. You are questioning His craftmanship by looking to another individual as if they were the perfect reflection? Your mirror should be God and not another very imperfect human.
Second, You are missing your purpose in the Body. When you should be uplifting someone or edifying them or giving some awesome affirmation towards their GOD-given talent or beauty, you withdrawal yourself because for whatever reason, as women, we say "why would we ever want to be friends with someone prettier than us or more talented? That doesn't get me noticed.." Come on, ladies. I am being real with you guys because I know this is a huge issue women in particular battle with. Let's adress it and change it. What ARE you really living to glorify? We can say "God" all day long, but when the talent that God gave you in order to glorify Him is hindered because of a competitive spirit...you are really glorifying yourself; living to perfect the gift rather than aknowledging the Giver.
I read a quote by C.S. Lewis and I absolutely loved it: "If we saw how glorious we all really are as creations of God, we would be tempted to bow down and worship the very people we slander."
I encourage you to read Phillipians 2:1-18. It will not take long and the Word is true, perfect, and will change you. Read it! :)
Please, ladies. Let us rise up as the women God created us to be. Use God as your mirror and stop looking to others as a perfect reflection. Use your gifts and talents and stop wishing for someone else's. You could not do it as well as them just as they could not fulfill your call better than you. Do not be afraid to encourage another woman...even if you feel jealous towards her. Pray, pray, pray that God take away that jealousy and give you a desire to fulfill YOUR calling. It's all about glorifying the Father, guys...
If you are unhappy with your weight, change it. If you want to dye your hair, do it. If you want better clothes, save up for them. If you want a better personality, stop being so rude. If you have a problem with another woman, adress it because when the issue is brought to light, Satan has no control over it and can not use it against you. If the insecurities that you battle with can be fixed, then do it. The things you can not change need to be accepted and worked with. Jesus says love! The greatest of these is LOVE! Love yourself and love everyone for exactly who God created them to be! You have GOT to get rid of the jealousy and competitive spirit. Let God freely move through a bold, confident, beautiful, and loving woman!
You truly are beautiful. Make sure your heart is just as beautiful because that is what counts and what your Father cares about.
Read Phillipians! ;) I love you, girls! Let us encourage one another!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Disaster Relief Agencies
To my surprise, when checking out all the organizations that were listed on the Disaster Relief Agencies website, "God" was not anywhere to be found.
Been in situation lately that you would label "A disaster?" You better believe that I have! After I get done crying like a baby, complaining to at least one of my friends, maybe posting a scripture on Facebook like "You reap what ya sow.." in hopes that the "thorn in my flesh" will read it, dwelling a little bit on the situation because the anger just makes me feel so dang good!!...I immediately turn to the Father and do what I do because I know (from experience) that He is my comfort and constant stability through the "disasters." Also when things are going great.
Now I know I am not the only one who does that! Transparency, people!
What I am constantly seeing (and I am in no way an exception to this statement, I have been this and done this plenty of times) is when life seems to be still and things are going our way, God chills on the back burner of our stove...His name stays listed as an "organization" amongst many on a Disaster Relief Organizations pamphlet that sits in your bedside drawer, or maybe He is lucky enough to hang on your refrigerator door. "Well what is the issue here, Jordan?" "I am constantly getting in my beside drawer and I glance at "God" when rummaging to grab my remote!" "I eat constantly, girl, what is your deal? God and I come in contact with one another constantly!"..
Dear friends, it saddens me to say that God has become a disaster relief organization; only called on or acknowledged when our ground has been shaken. Any other day of the week, lukewarm lives are lived; filled with compromise, selfishness, lust, sex before marriage (see ur Bible if that offends you and yes I am aware that I have a child...before marraige. The one you only run to when things are hard forgives my sins), acting on your drug addictions because "you can not live without it", or gossip, envy, and the list goes on. Get real, people.
God is the ultimate comforter and DOES want you to run to Him when things get tough, do not misunderstand me, but when disaster is the only time God gets any type of acknowledgment, there is a huge problem and a misunderstanding of this precious Father and exactly who He is and what he offers on a daily basis through a relationship with Him.
"I called to the LORD in my distress, and I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears." Psalms 18:6
Fact: God answers your cries in times of distress, He wants you to run into His arms for comfort, this I promise and know!..But, my question still remains: Why are so many lives lived contradictory in every way to the Word, obviously portraying a life of one who does not serve Jesus Christ, but when disaster comes, God is their "organization" of choice? Why are scriptures posted on your Facebook followed by a horoscope and pictures from your crazy party last night where you can't even remember how you got home...? Help me out here, guys. Make me understand exactly how you come to the conclusion that that life described lines up with Child of God. Not being naive, I realize many put on a good Christian show and bear no fruit, but God knows the hearts of all men. hmm..
"They want the cure but not the side effects."
" But if it doesn't please you to worship the LORD, choose for yourselves today the one you will worship: the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my family, we will worship the LORD." Joshua 24:15
"The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God's creation says: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, 'I'm rich; I have become wealthy, and need nothing,' and you don't know that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire so that you may be rich, and white clothes so that you may be dressed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed, and ointment to spread on your eyes so that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be committed and repent. 20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and have dinner with him, and he with Me." Revelation 3:14-20
The man who died for your every sin is the one we tend to only acknowledge and remain faithful to when disaster strikes. He deserves more than that. We deserve nothing. Like the scripture above says, choose today who you will serve. If God is only called on when you can't figure anything out anymore (news flash: You wouldn't know your head from your toe if God removed His hand from your life), then it's time to get your life right or pick another organization, folks. Time is running out and so much has already been wasted. Evaluate yourself and change.
Been in situation lately that you would label "A disaster?" You better believe that I have! After I get done crying like a baby, complaining to at least one of my friends, maybe posting a scripture on Facebook like "You reap what ya sow.." in hopes that the "thorn in my flesh" will read it, dwelling a little bit on the situation because the anger just makes me feel so dang good!!...I immediately turn to the Father and do what I do because I know (from experience) that He is my comfort and constant stability through the "disasters." Also when things are going great.
Now I know I am not the only one who does that! Transparency, people!
What I am constantly seeing (and I am in no way an exception to this statement, I have been this and done this plenty of times) is when life seems to be still and things are going our way, God chills on the back burner of our stove...His name stays listed as an "organization" amongst many on a Disaster Relief Organizations pamphlet that sits in your bedside drawer, or maybe He is lucky enough to hang on your refrigerator door. "Well what is the issue here, Jordan?" "I am constantly getting in my beside drawer and I glance at "God" when rummaging to grab my remote!" "I eat constantly, girl, what is your deal? God and I come in contact with one another constantly!"..
Dear friends, it saddens me to say that God has become a disaster relief organization; only called on or acknowledged when our ground has been shaken. Any other day of the week, lukewarm lives are lived; filled with compromise, selfishness, lust, sex before marriage (see ur Bible if that offends you and yes I am aware that I have a child...before marraige. The one you only run to when things are hard forgives my sins), acting on your drug addictions because "you can not live without it", or gossip, envy, and the list goes on. Get real, people.
God is the ultimate comforter and DOES want you to run to Him when things get tough, do not misunderstand me, but when disaster is the only time God gets any type of acknowledgment, there is a huge problem and a misunderstanding of this precious Father and exactly who He is and what he offers on a daily basis through a relationship with Him.
"I called to the LORD in my distress, and I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears." Psalms 18:6
Fact: God answers your cries in times of distress, He wants you to run into His arms for comfort, this I promise and know!..But, my question still remains: Why are so many lives lived contradictory in every way to the Word, obviously portraying a life of one who does not serve Jesus Christ, but when disaster comes, God is their "organization" of choice? Why are scriptures posted on your Facebook followed by a horoscope and pictures from your crazy party last night where you can't even remember how you got home...? Help me out here, guys. Make me understand exactly how you come to the conclusion that that life described lines up with Child of God. Not being naive, I realize many put on a good Christian show and bear no fruit, but God knows the hearts of all men. hmm..
"They want the cure but not the side effects."
" But if it doesn't please you to worship the LORD, choose for yourselves today the one you will worship: the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my family, we will worship the LORD." Joshua 24:15
"The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God's creation says: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, 'I'm rich; I have become wealthy, and need nothing,' and you don't know that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire so that you may be rich, and white clothes so that you may be dressed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed, and ointment to spread on your eyes so that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be committed and repent. 20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and have dinner with him, and he with Me." Revelation 3:14-20
The man who died for your every sin is the one we tend to only acknowledge and remain faithful to when disaster strikes. He deserves more than that. We deserve nothing. Like the scripture above says, choose today who you will serve. If God is only called on when you can't figure anything out anymore (news flash: You wouldn't know your head from your toe if God removed His hand from your life), then it's time to get your life right or pick another organization, folks. Time is running out and so much has already been wasted. Evaluate yourself and change.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Here's My Proposition, God:
"Let this pregnancy test be a negative, and I promise, God, with this transparent and sincere heart, that I will never let you down again. I promise to live a life worthy of the calling you designed for me. Please, God. Have favor on me. I have always been faithful, God! It was just that one slip-up!.."
That was pretty close to my cry on a Wednesday night in a Wal-Mart bathroom in November, 2008. Such a scary, probably the scariest truth-be-told, night in my life. Up to that point in my life I had never really engaged in anything that "the church would frown upon," unless i was condemned by the "religious folks" for wearing tight jeans and having a nose ring. For some reason, when faced with a life-altering answer, I pleaded with God, asking Him to let this situation just scare me into a "closer relationship" with Him; Scare the tar out of me so I wouldn't make a mistake again. Dumb. First, God is a gentleman (and I knew this) and does not force a relationship with Him on anyone, nor would He force more of an intimate one on me. He is that perfect. Second, Actions have consequences, good or bad and you cannot choose your consequences, sad enough. Fact: God remains the same God always! No matter the situation, season, person He is dealing with, or what He allows to happen (notice I did not say makes happen). With that said, keep a sound mind and do not manipulate God into a "situational God." God is God and His ways are higher than ours.
Back to story, I straight up tried to bargain with God. Trade a consequence that I was certain to be bad for a better relationship with my Father; I made a proposition to God. If we were to all be honest with ourselves, you have at one time or another done the same exact thing. "If you just fix this God, I promise I'll never do [Insert your short-comings here] again..."
I looked at the stick and a big " : ) " showed in a circle. I was pregnant. 17 years old, junior in high school, "well known Christian" was pregnant. "How could you do this to me God? It was one time God and I know of people who constantly sin sexually and never get pregnant! What have I done to deserve this?" I was furious! How could a God that I have served for years bestow a consequence on me and let the ones who detest Him and do worse than me get tons and tons of free passes? "My proposition was perfect God! How can you say you love me and show favor to those who live for you?"
...Actions always come with a consequence, good or bad....
When I look back at my attitude and the way I spoke to my Father it breaks my heart. Guys, I don't understand why I got pregnant when I lost my virginity. I don't understand why the ones who should be pregnant are not, I do not understand why I have so much on my plate even to this day, I don't get it why my "one bad choice" caused multiple hardships in my life that won't cease any time soon...but something I do know is that my Father tells me in Jeremiah 29:11 that "[He] knows the plans [He] has for me, they are plans for good and not disaster, to give [me] a hope and a future." God and his Word are not circumstantial! This scripture was not disregarded when I made a poor decision. This scripture is not checked off as "does not apply" to you when you make a poor decision! The plan may alter a bit (not by God's doing, you have to remember that) and things may get harder for you and you may go through seasons where you just flat our do not understand one dad gum thing...but get this: He still has a plan for you...He still has a plan for me...a plan that now involves a little boy named, Trace, who I would not give up for anything.
God is not in the deal-making business. He is not someone you offer propositions to when you got [yourself] into a sticky situation that may provoke an altered life. God isn't the author of disaster, confusion, grief, or a mean man. He is everything you are not. The creator of you! Sent his baby, his perfect son, to shed blood, so much blood, and nailed to a tree for you! God watched His son hurt and have his flesh torn from his body...God watched his precious son become a man and take on every single sin of man and cover them with his precious blood. That is the Father we try and bargain with as if He owes us something. No, no we owe everything to Him. We deserve Hell, the end.
With all that said, your every sin is covered by The Blood as well as mistakes made. God is not looking for a proposition (He won't take it, anyway) but is looking for a humbled and repenting heart seeking redemption. Suck it up and deal with your consequences. God offers you the strength to deal with them, trust me, I am given that exact strength daily...sometimes hourly. "For since He himself was tested and has suffered, He is able to help those who are tested." Hebrews 2:18.
Don't throw propositions at God. Live a life worthy of your calling and know that you are an imperfect human that WILL "fall short of the glory of God." His grace is abundant and we will never truly wrap our minds around how amazing our God is. You are covered. Your sin is covered. Your future sins, because they are inevitable, are covered. Now, pick yourself up, dust off the dirt, and start seeking His will for your life again.
"If I keep my eyes on God, I won't trip over my own feet." Psalms 25:15
That was pretty close to my cry on a Wednesday night in a Wal-Mart bathroom in November, 2008. Such a scary, probably the scariest truth-be-told, night in my life. Up to that point in my life I had never really engaged in anything that "the church would frown upon," unless i was condemned by the "religious folks" for wearing tight jeans and having a nose ring. For some reason, when faced with a life-altering answer, I pleaded with God, asking Him to let this situation just scare me into a "closer relationship" with Him; Scare the tar out of me so I wouldn't make a mistake again. Dumb. First, God is a gentleman (and I knew this) and does not force a relationship with Him on anyone, nor would He force more of an intimate one on me. He is that perfect. Second, Actions have consequences, good or bad and you cannot choose your consequences, sad enough. Fact: God remains the same God always! No matter the situation, season, person He is dealing with, or what He allows to happen (notice I did not say makes happen). With that said, keep a sound mind and do not manipulate God into a "situational God." God is God and His ways are higher than ours.
Back to story, I straight up tried to bargain with God. Trade a consequence that I was certain to be bad for a better relationship with my Father; I made a proposition to God. If we were to all be honest with ourselves, you have at one time or another done the same exact thing. "If you just fix this God, I promise I'll never do [Insert your short-comings here] again..."
I looked at the stick and a big " : ) " showed in a circle. I was pregnant. 17 years old, junior in high school, "well known Christian" was pregnant. "How could you do this to me God? It was one time God and I know of people who constantly sin sexually and never get pregnant! What have I done to deserve this?" I was furious! How could a God that I have served for years bestow a consequence on me and let the ones who detest Him and do worse than me get tons and tons of free passes? "My proposition was perfect God! How can you say you love me and show favor to those who live for you?"
...Actions always come with a consequence, good or bad....
When I look back at my attitude and the way I spoke to my Father it breaks my heart. Guys, I don't understand why I got pregnant when I lost my virginity. I don't understand why the ones who should be pregnant are not, I do not understand why I have so much on my plate even to this day, I don't get it why my "one bad choice" caused multiple hardships in my life that won't cease any time soon...but something I do know is that my Father tells me in Jeremiah 29:11 that "[He] knows the plans [He] has for me, they are plans for good and not disaster, to give [me] a hope and a future." God and his Word are not circumstantial! This scripture was not disregarded when I made a poor decision. This scripture is not checked off as "does not apply" to you when you make a poor decision! The plan may alter a bit (not by God's doing, you have to remember that) and things may get harder for you and you may go through seasons where you just flat our do not understand one dad gum thing...but get this: He still has a plan for you...He still has a plan for me...a plan that now involves a little boy named, Trace, who I would not give up for anything.
God is not in the deal-making business. He is not someone you offer propositions to when you got [yourself] into a sticky situation that may provoke an altered life. God isn't the author of disaster, confusion, grief, or a mean man. He is everything you are not. The creator of you! Sent his baby, his perfect son, to shed blood, so much blood, and nailed to a tree for you! God watched His son hurt and have his flesh torn from his body...God watched his precious son become a man and take on every single sin of man and cover them with his precious blood. That is the Father we try and bargain with as if He owes us something. No, no we owe everything to Him. We deserve Hell, the end.
With all that said, your every sin is covered by The Blood as well as mistakes made. God is not looking for a proposition (He won't take it, anyway) but is looking for a humbled and repenting heart seeking redemption. Suck it up and deal with your consequences. God offers you the strength to deal with them, trust me, I am given that exact strength daily...sometimes hourly. "For since He himself was tested and has suffered, He is able to help those who are tested." Hebrews 2:18.
Don't throw propositions at God. Live a life worthy of your calling and know that you are an imperfect human that WILL "fall short of the glory of God." His grace is abundant and we will never truly wrap our minds around how amazing our God is. You are covered. Your sin is covered. Your future sins, because they are inevitable, are covered. Now, pick yourself up, dust off the dirt, and start seeking His will for your life again.
"If I keep my eyes on God, I won't trip over my own feet." Psalms 25:15