It's been about 17 days since I last wrote. It's been an incredible month so far, and God has been blessing my soul so much. That may sound cheesy, but it's true! His still, small voice; His precious, sweet words whispered straight to my heart have been unlike times previous in my relationship with Him, and I'm in love all over again with my King!
This month, as I wrote in a previous post, Brent and I have been doing a spending fast, which has been awesome. We broke it during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend and spent a bit on - I won't lie - eating out. The first time was fine because we had a wonderful time spent with friends celebrating a belated birthday, and it was so nice to know that after having not spent anything for almost three weeks (a BIG deal for us), we had no guilt in spending money on an occasion like that. It was a great lesson. Then we had a coupon the next night, and then I had a girl day with a friend the next day. Then we realized how lousy we felt for not only breaking our fast that many times, but also realizing that we were spending when we didn't need to. So we said, "OK, no more." It was another great lesson for us, and we've been back on track since then.
I've also been reading the Bible in 90 days, and while I admit to have spread out my daily readings a couple times to more than one day (Exodus...Leviticus...oy vey!), I've stuck to it, and I'm so pleased with myself. To be honest, it's amazing God's consistency in the Old and New Testaments, and it's amazing reading the common stories, being reminded of my heritage in God and seeing Him at work in the lives of ordinary people. The same God of the Old Testament is the same God that lives and operates in me today! How glorious!
Also, I'm two weeks into a three-week social media break, which for me has included Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. (Twitter too, but I never really use that.) The last two weeks have been so liberating! It's funny how much we can let social media subtly control us, rather than us controlling ourselves in how much we use it. For me though, it wasn't just a break from the fact that I spent way too much time using it, but it was also a refocusing time on how I have used social media, and how I want to use it from now on. I haven't entirely figured out the specifics of my future social media usage plans, but I did use this list as a template for my devotional time regarding the break I've been taking from it, and it's been very eye-opening.
I've also been brainstorming a lot of different blogging ideas and plans, and haven't come to a conclusion yet. I'm going to leave that up to the Lord, and seek Him on what He wants me to do concerning that area of my life, so we'll see. For now, this is where I'm at as a blogger, and I'm enjoying it.
Until next time, be blessed!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Bye-Bye Vacation! Hello New Year!
Tomorrow, my husband and I go to school for the first time in three weeks!
OK, really it's only two. But it feels like three because we went home to Idaho for a week, and when we got home were able to attend three days of class before the two-week Christmas break began, so...it at least feels like three weeks.
And I'll be totally honest: I feel like the last two weeks have been not very on-purpose. I still read my Bible every morning and prayed, but I didn't do anything else with any sense of "purpose" that I was aware of. It definitely was a nice, long break (I can't believe Christmas was just last week!), but it was entirely self-centered. I literally sat in my house the entire two weeks.
Literally.
And while everyone needs rest, and everyone needs some extended rest like that from time to time, I'm not so sure I did. One week? Yes please! Ten days? Absolutely! Fourteen? Maybe. Sixteen? Way too long.
I feel way out of the loop...way out of the zone...like my groove's been thrown way off.
I didn't really make any serious New Year's resolutions this year, beyond that of my spending fast (so far, so good by the way!) and endeavoring to read the entire Bible in 90 days (also so far, so good). But I figure tomorrow is a great time to hit the ground running all the same: it's the first Monday of 2014!
It's not so much a "start over" as much as it is a "start back up again" for me. I'm excited for tomorrow to get here, but it's also a bit overwhelming because I feel like the last two weeks have been so overloaded with downtime that I don't know how to get going again.
Nevertheless, I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! This is going to be an AWESOME year, filled with new adventures and new seasons and new...NEWNESS!
2014, I'm ready for you! Are you ready for me?
OK, really it's only two. But it feels like three because we went home to Idaho for a week, and when we got home were able to attend three days of class before the two-week Christmas break began, so...it at least feels like three weeks.
And I'll be totally honest: I feel like the last two weeks have been not very on-purpose. I still read my Bible every morning and prayed, but I didn't do anything else with any sense of "purpose" that I was aware of. It definitely was a nice, long break (I can't believe Christmas was just last week!), but it was entirely self-centered. I literally sat in my house the entire two weeks.
Literally.
And while everyone needs rest, and everyone needs some extended rest like that from time to time, I'm not so sure I did. One week? Yes please! Ten days? Absolutely! Fourteen? Maybe. Sixteen? Way too long.
I feel way out of the loop...way out of the zone...like my groove's been thrown way off.
I didn't really make any serious New Year's resolutions this year, beyond that of my spending fast (so far, so good by the way!) and endeavoring to read the entire Bible in 90 days (also so far, so good). But I figure tomorrow is a great time to hit the ground running all the same: it's the first Monday of 2014!
It's not so much a "start over" as much as it is a "start back up again" for me. I'm excited for tomorrow to get here, but it's also a bit overwhelming because I feel like the last two weeks have been so overloaded with downtime that I don't know how to get going again.
Nevertheless, I know I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! This is going to be an AWESOME year, filled with new adventures and new seasons and new...NEWNESS!
2014, I'm ready for you! Are you ready for me?
The Lord says, “Forget what happened before, and do not think about the past. Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening. Don’t you see it? I will make a road in the desert and rivers in the dry land.
Isaiah 43:18-19 (NCV)
Friday, January 3, 2014
New Year, No Spending
(...well, at least for 60 days.)
It's 2014, and for Brent and I, that means we're starting the year out by doing a no-spend month (or a spending fast, as it's also called).
No, we're not trying to "stick it to the man" or anything like that. It's purely an attempt - a goal, really - to simplify and save. Last year we tried and failed. (I really wanted to buy the 4-pack of the stop-animation Christmas classics at Walmart.) But this year, it's a bit different. Last year, it was in November for one thing (appropriately deemed by us, "No-Spend November"), and it was a spur-of-the-moment decision and poorly planned, as seen in its lack of execution (and, I clearly wasn't very disciplined). This year, it's obviously kicking off our new year, and we've actually (kind of) planned for it this time. Not only that, but the goal is to do not one, but TWO months of non-spending.
As I mentioned, our purpose in doing this is to save money and simplify our life. I've wanted to live more simply for quite some time now, and have gone through various phases of said endeavor. To be honest, our life is already pretty simple, but we're still a product of our time and culture and there are just a few things we'd like to cut back on or cut out entirely.
We weren't big on the making of a bunch of new year resolutions or goals though we, like most, did make some. Really, it was cutting back on spending, saving as a result and...well...that's really about it for the time being. There are other goals we have, but if there's anything we've learned since living in Oklahoma, it's to sloooooow down and not take on too much at once.
Simplifying is a process, I've learned. Since July of last year, I've tried to jump on many-a-simple-living-bandwagon too quickly, and got in over my head. Not to mention, simplified living can look different for different people, something I don't think I realized when I first began my journey towards simplicity.
For some, it's minimalism all across the board (which can creep me out a bit, not going to lie). For others, it's natural or chemical-free living. For some, it might be no or very little technology, not having a car, getting rid of social media or having a 100% DIY'd lifestyle. I tried the chemical-free lifestyle for a couple months in an attempt to live a more simplified life - I made my own cleaning products, got rid of all of my medicine, planned a patio garden and all that other natural-living Pinterest-y stuff. But it just wasn't for me, and because it wasn't for me, it honestly led to far more stress.
Simple living looks different for different people, but I think that the goal of simplicity for those who desire it is ultimately the same: freedom and contentment. Brent and I look at simplicity of lifestyle as a way to feel free to do what and go where God has called us to at His word, to be a greater blessing to others and to not get caught up in today's distorted "American Dream." And for us, the road to simplifying our lifestyle simply begins with finances.
So, here are our personal "No Spending" rules for the months of January and February 2014:
It's 2014, and for Brent and I, that means we're starting the year out by doing a no-spend month (or a spending fast, as it's also called).
No, we're not trying to "stick it to the man" or anything like that. It's purely an attempt - a goal, really - to simplify and save. Last year we tried and failed. (I really wanted to buy the 4-pack of the stop-animation Christmas classics at Walmart.) But this year, it's a bit different. Last year, it was in November for one thing (appropriately deemed by us, "No-Spend November"), and it was a spur-of-the-moment decision and poorly planned, as seen in its lack of execution (and, I clearly wasn't very disciplined). This year, it's obviously kicking off our new year, and we've actually (kind of) planned for it this time. Not only that, but the goal is to do not one, but TWO months of non-spending.
As I mentioned, our purpose in doing this is to save money and simplify our life. I've wanted to live more simply for quite some time now, and have gone through various phases of said endeavor. To be honest, our life is already pretty simple, but we're still a product of our time and culture and there are just a few things we'd like to cut back on or cut out entirely.
We weren't big on the making of a bunch of new year resolutions or goals though we, like most, did make some. Really, it was cutting back on spending, saving as a result and...well...that's really about it for the time being. There are other goals we have, but if there's anything we've learned since living in Oklahoma, it's to sloooooow down and not take on too much at once.
Simplifying is a process, I've learned. Since July of last year, I've tried to jump on many-a-simple-living-bandwagon too quickly, and got in over my head. Not to mention, simplified living can look different for different people, something I don't think I realized when I first began my journey towards simplicity.
For some, it's minimalism all across the board (which can creep me out a bit, not going to lie). For others, it's natural or chemical-free living. For some, it might be no or very little technology, not having a car, getting rid of social media or having a 100% DIY'd lifestyle. I tried the chemical-free lifestyle for a couple months in an attempt to live a more simplified life - I made my own cleaning products, got rid of all of my medicine, planned a patio garden and all that other natural-living Pinterest-y stuff. But it just wasn't for me, and because it wasn't for me, it honestly led to far more stress.
Simple living looks different for different people, but I think that the goal of simplicity for those who desire it is ultimately the same: freedom and contentment. Brent and I look at simplicity of lifestyle as a way to feel free to do what and go where God has called us to at His word, to be a greater blessing to others and to not get caught up in today's distorted "American Dream." And for us, the road to simplifying our lifestyle simply begins with finances.
So, here are our personal "No Spending" rules for the months of January and February 2014:
- ALWAYS TITHE.
- (We can't afford not to!)
- ONLY spend money on NEEDS.
- (Rent, bills, school payment, necessary groceries, gas, hygiene, necessary household items, and so forth. The only things here that are technically wants, but we're listing here are Netflix and makeup. Don't judge!)
- NO spending on any WANTS.
- (Going out to eat, entertainment, Starbucks, clothes, books, decor, junk food, and so forth. No extra stuff, basically.)
That's it, really. Pretty simple. The idea is to save everything that we don't need to spend so that we can pay off debt faster, have more money to give and of course, grow in the area of contentment.
"Now godliness with contentment is great gain."
1 Timothy 6:6
Also, we have an exciting new adventure coming soon, and that will require some extra funds! But more on that later...
If this sounds like it might be up your alley, I encourage you to join us - it's not too late! (And remember: you can start a no-spending month at any time.) Have you ever completed a spending fast? What are some of your life-simplification tips or habits? How are those New Year goals coming along? (Don't give up!)
If this sounds like it might be up your alley, I encourage you to join us - it's not too late! (And remember: you can start a no-spending month at any time.) Have you ever completed a spending fast? What are some of your life-simplification tips or habits? How are those New Year goals coming along? (Don't give up!)
Monday, December 30, 2013
Moving Forward in Social Media
I originally wrote this for another blog I was working on, but have decided to put said blog on hold for the time being. I still liked the post though, and decided to share it here! Enjoy...
I once heard someone say that nobody can escape or outrun their past anymore due to social media, and really, the internet in general, and I suppose that's ultimately true.
The Huffington Post posted this article back in October, and people have been warning us younglings to be careful what we post for as long as I can remember having an account. I even hear tell that no matter what you post - pictures, text, etc. - it will always exist somewhere in the World Wide Web, even if you delete it, and I believe it.
I've been using social media for quite some time. I remember when MySpace was more popular than Facebook. I also remember being among the first generation of Facebook users, starting my account in 2006 when you couldn't use it unless you had a college email. I also got Twitter in 2006 and remember when barely any of my friends had one. Goodness, I've even been texting since 2005 when I got my very first T-9 flip phone!
And don't even get me started on emails and various accounts and blogging and all the rest. I've been starting and stopping blogs since I don't even know when. I've literally littered the blogosphere. The whole internet, really.
And I'll be honest: I'm not the most innocent poster, either. I've done it all, from being a hypocrite to bashing politics, to being argumentative and controversial, to being too serious, to being mean and negative. I've been immature and posted obnoxiously opinionated opinions that I don't even hold anymore, on either side of the fence. I've lied, manipulated, over-shared, flip-flopped around based on whatever phase of life I was in, and heck...I've even sexted before.
But I've also been encouraging. And kind. And funny. And joyful. And honest. And helpful. And worshipful. And challenging, and I've been challenged too.
Simply put, I've grown up a little bit.
I've grown up in my walk with God and in my Christian worldview, in my use of technology, my motivations and my age. And while age isn't necessarily considered an indicator of maturity anymore, I still think growing up holds some weight, and I still believe that people are allowed to change...at least in my book they are.
And in His.
So yes, be careful with what you post because it is there forever. But remember that in the grand scheme of all of creation and existence and eternity, what you posted on Facebook at 19 years old is not an indicator of who you are now or how God sees you.
Remember that in Christ, old things have passed away and all things are made new. If you are yielded to Him, God will make a way for you where there is no way. Repent for past social media failures, and make necessary changes where you need to make them. If you slip up and make another posting blunder, delete it and apologize. Acknowledge your mistakes, but keep moving forward. Keep going. Don't let your past - in any capacity, social media or otherwise - dictate your future for one more moment.
Life is short, and there's a purpose for yours.
I once heard someone say that nobody can escape or outrun their past anymore due to social media, and really, the internet in general, and I suppose that's ultimately true.
The Huffington Post posted this article back in October, and people have been warning us younglings to be careful what we post for as long as I can remember having an account. I even hear tell that no matter what you post - pictures, text, etc. - it will always exist somewhere in the World Wide Web, even if you delete it, and I believe it.
I've been using social media for quite some time. I remember when MySpace was more popular than Facebook. I also remember being among the first generation of Facebook users, starting my account in 2006 when you couldn't use it unless you had a college email. I also got Twitter in 2006 and remember when barely any of my friends had one. Goodness, I've even been texting since 2005 when I got my very first T-9 flip phone!
And don't even get me started on emails and various accounts and blogging and all the rest. I've been starting and stopping blogs since I don't even know when. I've literally littered the blogosphere. The whole internet, really.
And I'll be honest: I'm not the most innocent poster, either. I've done it all, from being a hypocrite to bashing politics, to being argumentative and controversial, to being too serious, to being mean and negative. I've been immature and posted obnoxiously opinionated opinions that I don't even hold anymore, on either side of the fence. I've lied, manipulated, over-shared, flip-flopped around based on whatever phase of life I was in, and heck...I've even sexted before.
But I've also been encouraging. And kind. And funny. And joyful. And honest. And helpful. And worshipful. And challenging, and I've been challenged too.
Simply put, I've grown up a little bit.
I've grown up in my walk with God and in my Christian worldview, in my use of technology, my motivations and my age. And while age isn't necessarily considered an indicator of maturity anymore, I still think growing up holds some weight, and I still believe that people are allowed to change...at least in my book they are.
And in His.
I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
(Philippians 3:12-14, NLT)
So yes, be careful with what you post because it is there forever. But remember that in the grand scheme of all of creation and existence and eternity, what you posted on Facebook at 19 years old is not an indicator of who you are now or how God sees you.
Remember that in Christ, old things have passed away and all things are made new. If you are yielded to Him, God will make a way for you where there is no way. Repent for past social media failures, and make necessary changes where you need to make them. If you slip up and make another posting blunder, delete it and apologize. Acknowledge your mistakes, but keep moving forward. Keep going. Don't let your past - in any capacity, social media or otherwise - dictate your future for one more moment.
Life is short, and there's a purpose for yours.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
My Opinion Doesn't Matter...
...and if you're a Christian, yours doesn't really either.
It may come as a surprise, but it's the truth.
I'm not saying we can't have opinions on certain things. For example, my opinion on neon orange is that it doesn't look good on me. See? An opinion that's pretty nonchalant and doesn't really call much attention to itself. It's just...an opinion.
But so often, people (myself included) get this idea in their head that their opinion on certain things actually matters in the grand scheme of all existence and that their opinion is so awesomely correct that it deserves to be acknowledged simply in the name of free speech (which, in my opinion, doesn't actually exist...but I digress).
I've recently discovered that this isn't true.
Now, I like to talk and I like to be listened to. [My opinion is] I don't actually think that's always a bad thing, but it can lead to negative...stuff. I know for my life, it definitely has. Not world-shattering stuff, but...stuff.
For example, a while back I thought that I actually knew stuff about politics, so I thought (on more than one occasion) that I'd shoot my mouth off about my opinion, only to wind up looking like a bit of a fool. (Funny, I think I read about that somewhere...Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive. - Prov. 17:28)
I've also been guilty of subconsciously feeling as though I "knew it all," and therefore acted like a "Know-It-All." (Hmmm, that sounds familiar too...We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. - 1 Cor. 8:1-2)
A while back, I chose to only be positive on my Facebook. I wanted to keep it simple and focused on Jesus. Yes, I post pictures of what my husband and I are up to and so on and so forth. But I purpose to preach the gospel to every creature, Christians included, and Facebook is a great way to do that. I've recently given into the temptation to be opinionated recently though, and I've been pretty passive-aggressive about it.
Warning: Honesty Ahead
I'll share articles others have written as a way to sneak my opinion on a topic in without having to say it myself because "I've chosen to use Facebook on purpose to encourage others and share the love of Christ." And in showing such evident Christ-like love, I've even posted some of those articles with specific people in mind that I want to read said article. Why? Sure, there was a part of me that wanted them to think about changing their minds, or even just wanted them to be open-minded enough to understand why we Christians believe the way we do, but it really all came down to two things: A) I wanted the people to know that I was right and that they were wrong, and B) I wanted to share my opinion, in whatever way I could, simply because I wasn't sharing it. MY voice wasn't being heard. MY thoughts and ideas and opinions were left alone.
So classy. So full of love. So humble.
You know what all of that was? PRIDE. Gross, disgusting, nauseating, evil, sin-producing PRIDE. And that's what wanting to share our opinions always is, isn't it?
It's just pride.
We want to be heard. We don't want to admit we're wrong. We want to be agreed with. We want people on our side. We want to defend ourselves or what we believe or what we like or what we want. We want to be right. We want it to be all about us.
But it's not about us, Christians.
It's never been about us. It never has been, and it never will.
If you are a Christian, it's about HIM. It always was, is and forever will be. HIS plan. HIS purpose. HIS people.
My opinion should be HIS opinion. HIS "opinion" is His Word. It's the Bible. That's what we should be basing all of our "big" opinions on. And when we're caught in the middle of an opinion war, we need to always bring it back to HIS opinion...HIS word...HIS truth.
And yes, I know that nonbelievers don't always get why we trust the Bible so much, and I know that it can be frustrating, but God's Word doesn't need defending. (Not to mention, the only reason you're frustrated is probably because of pride anyway, and it has nothing to do with wanting to defend God.) But just in case it does, God doesn't need defending. His Word won't return void. His Word stands the test of time. His Word IS absolute Truth (not an opinion), and we can share what the Bible says and still walk in love. I promise, it's possible!
And I'm not saying we can't be outspoken or bold in what the Word says; by all means, do, be and say. But be bold in love, and check yourself. (I'm still learning how to do this, too!) What's your motive? Are you being led by the Spirit, or by your own flesh and pride? Do you want to glorify Him or yourself? Do you want to point people to TRUTH, or do you want people to "know you're right?"
When someone "wins" an argument or a debate, often times, both people lose. I can't speak for all Christians, but I know my motivation in several past theological debates I've had (and, in my opinion, there's a difference between a heated debate and a healthy discussion - I rarely regret healthy discussions, but I digress) was to get the other person to lose face. My thinking was that if they lost face and had nothing to say, even if they were angry, they'd realize their error and come to the truth of Christ. It was also because I wanted them to know they were wrong. (And...in all honesty...wanting them to come to the knowledge of the Truth often took a backseat to wanting them to know I was right.)
But I can also honestly say I've repented before the Lord for this pride, and I'm not living in those past failures, no matter how recent they may have been. I'm reminded everyday that it's not about me or what I think or about what people have done or said to me, or vice versa. It's about Him and what He said. It's about pressing forward. It's about getting HIS message of LOVE out to a lost and dying world.
Ask yourself these questions, Christ-Follower:
What message am I sending to people?
Is it about me? What I know? What I do? How I'm right? What I think about this or that?
Or do I bring people His message? Do I glorify Jesus? Do I point to Jesus? Does my life produce His fruit? Do my actions, words and thoughts look like His?
Am I living for me, or am I living on purpose for Him?
It may come as a surprise, but it's the truth.
I'm not saying we can't have opinions on certain things. For example, my opinion on neon orange is that it doesn't look good on me. See? An opinion that's pretty nonchalant and doesn't really call much attention to itself. It's just...an opinion.
But so often, people (myself included) get this idea in their head that their opinion on certain things actually matters in the grand scheme of all existence and that their opinion is so awesomely correct that it deserves to be acknowledged simply in the name of free speech (which, in my opinion, doesn't actually exist...but I digress).
I've recently discovered that this isn't true.
Now, I like to talk and I like to be listened to. [My opinion is] I don't actually think that's always a bad thing, but it can lead to negative...stuff. I know for my life, it definitely has. Not world-shattering stuff, but...stuff.
For example, a while back I thought that I actually knew stuff about politics, so I thought (on more than one occasion) that I'd shoot my mouth off about my opinion, only to wind up looking like a bit of a fool. (Funny, I think I read about that somewhere...Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive. - Prov. 17:28)
I've also been guilty of subconsciously feeling as though I "knew it all," and therefore acted like a "Know-It-All." (Hmmm, that sounds familiar too...We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. - 1 Cor. 8:1-2)
A while back, I chose to only be positive on my Facebook. I wanted to keep it simple and focused on Jesus. Yes, I post pictures of what my husband and I are up to and so on and so forth. But I purpose to preach the gospel to every creature, Christians included, and Facebook is a great way to do that. I've recently given into the temptation to be opinionated recently though, and I've been pretty passive-aggressive about it.
Warning: Honesty Ahead
I'll share articles others have written as a way to sneak my opinion on a topic in without having to say it myself because "I've chosen to use Facebook on purpose to encourage others and share the love of Christ." And in showing such evident Christ-like love, I've even posted some of those articles with specific people in mind that I want to read said article. Why? Sure, there was a part of me that wanted them to think about changing their minds, or even just wanted them to be open-minded enough to understand why we Christians believe the way we do, but it really all came down to two things: A) I wanted the people to know that I was right and that they were wrong, and B) I wanted to share my opinion, in whatever way I could, simply because I wasn't sharing it. MY voice wasn't being heard. MY thoughts and ideas and opinions were left alone.
So classy. So full of love. So humble.
You know what all of that was? PRIDE. Gross, disgusting, nauseating, evil, sin-producing PRIDE. And that's what wanting to share our opinions always is, isn't it?
It's just pride.
We want to be heard. We don't want to admit we're wrong. We want to be agreed with. We want people on our side. We want to defend ourselves or what we believe or what we like or what we want. We want to be right. We want it to be all about us.
But it's not about us, Christians.
It's never been about us. It never has been, and it never will.
If you are a Christian, it's about HIM. It always was, is and forever will be. HIS plan. HIS purpose. HIS people.
My opinion should be HIS opinion. HIS "opinion" is His Word. It's the Bible. That's what we should be basing all of our "big" opinions on. And when we're caught in the middle of an opinion war, we need to always bring it back to HIS opinion...HIS word...HIS truth.
And yes, I know that nonbelievers don't always get why we trust the Bible so much, and I know that it can be frustrating, but God's Word doesn't need defending. (Not to mention, the only reason you're frustrated is probably because of pride anyway, and it has nothing to do with wanting to defend God.) But just in case it does, God doesn't need defending. His Word won't return void. His Word stands the test of time. His Word IS absolute Truth (not an opinion), and we can share what the Bible says and still walk in love. I promise, it's possible!
And I'm not saying we can't be outspoken or bold in what the Word says; by all means, do, be and say. But be bold in love, and check yourself. (I'm still learning how to do this, too!) What's your motive? Are you being led by the Spirit, or by your own flesh and pride? Do you want to glorify Him or yourself? Do you want to point people to TRUTH, or do you want people to "know you're right?"
When someone "wins" an argument or a debate, often times, both people lose. I can't speak for all Christians, but I know my motivation in several past theological debates I've had (and, in my opinion, there's a difference between a heated debate and a healthy discussion - I rarely regret healthy discussions, but I digress) was to get the other person to lose face. My thinking was that if they lost face and had nothing to say, even if they were angry, they'd realize their error and come to the truth of Christ. It was also because I wanted them to know they were wrong. (And...in all honesty...wanting them to come to the knowledge of the Truth often took a backseat to wanting them to know I was right.)
But I can also honestly say I've repented before the Lord for this pride, and I'm not living in those past failures, no matter how recent they may have been. I'm reminded everyday that it's not about me or what I think or about what people have done or said to me, or vice versa. It's about Him and what He said. It's about pressing forward. It's about getting HIS message of LOVE out to a lost and dying world.
Ask yourself these questions, Christ-Follower:
What message am I sending to people?
Is it about me? What I know? What I do? How I'm right? What I think about this or that?
Or do I bring people His message? Do I glorify Jesus? Do I point to Jesus? Does my life produce His fruit? Do my actions, words and thoughts look like His?
Am I living for me, or am I living on purpose for Him?
And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
(1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
Friday, November 22, 2013
Slow Down This Season
Today has been the coldest day since the beginning of fall, at least to me. But I've loved it. It reminds me of my Ida-home! And it's just nostalgic in general. This - the holiday season - is my favorite time of the year, and it's a shame it seems to go by so fast each time it comes around.
I got out of class early today, and there was about 20 minutes to spare until the next one started. I started making my way towards the other building. Unbeknownst to me at the time, however, was the fact that I was the only one heading to class so early. When I walked outside, I was immediately hit with the cold air and the fresh smell of fall. I looked around at the gorgeous colors against the gray sky as I approached the door to the next building, when I suddenly noticed how quiet it was. I then realized that no one was in sight - not outside, and not in the buildings on either side of me or in the cars parked close by.
It was silent.
All I could hear was the light wind and dry leaves scratching the ground and each other. I thought about heading inside, but then I decided against it. It was too beautiful...it was too peaceful...it was all God.
He is so romantic, like that. He knows just what sounds and smells enamor and woo me. Autumn and winter scapes, the ocean, summer storms...my heart just melts, and He and I both know I am His and no one else's. No one else can speak this love language to me but Him, because it's one only He can speak.
I took a few pictures (which I'm glad I took because the colors are just amazing), but I wish I would have really taken in the nearly five minutes that I was completely by myself; just my Lover and me. I should have walked the path once or twice more, prayed, and sat silent in His presence.
I had just came from a preaching lab class, where we students get some practice in the pulpit. A fellow student had just spoken on how God is not disappointed in us. Before he began preaching, I already knew that God was not disappointed in me. But by the end of the sermon, I knew it and believed it. It was impactful. It was profound. It was beautiful. And it was God speaking to me.
Those few moments were for me, from Him. They were just what I needed, and I didn't even realize it until writing this. I may go back there today, to take in what I acknowledged but brisked right through earlier. I know He'll show up again. He's already there. He's already here.
I encourage you to not rush through this holiday season. Don't try to keep up with anyone, any trend, or any societal expectation. There are no Joneses to keep up with. There is only God. Love Him, know that He loves you, and love people.
Breathe...
Relax...
Be inspired...
He is here, and He loves you.
I got out of class early today, and there was about 20 minutes to spare until the next one started. I started making my way towards the other building. Unbeknownst to me at the time, however, was the fact that I was the only one heading to class so early. When I walked outside, I was immediately hit with the cold air and the fresh smell of fall. I looked around at the gorgeous colors against the gray sky as I approached the door to the next building, when I suddenly noticed how quiet it was. I then realized that no one was in sight - not outside, and not in the buildings on either side of me or in the cars parked close by.
It was silent.
All I could hear was the light wind and dry leaves scratching the ground and each other. I thought about heading inside, but then I decided against it. It was too beautiful...it was too peaceful...it was all God.
He is so romantic, like that. He knows just what sounds and smells enamor and woo me. Autumn and winter scapes, the ocean, summer storms...my heart just melts, and He and I both know I am His and no one else's. No one else can speak this love language to me but Him, because it's one only He can speak.
I took a few pictures (which I'm glad I took because the colors are just amazing), but I wish I would have really taken in the nearly five minutes that I was completely by myself; just my Lover and me. I should have walked the path once or twice more, prayed, and sat silent in His presence.
I had just came from a preaching lab class, where we students get some practice in the pulpit. A fellow student had just spoken on how God is not disappointed in us. Before he began preaching, I already knew that God was not disappointed in me. But by the end of the sermon, I knew it and believed it. It was impactful. It was profound. It was beautiful. And it was God speaking to me.
Those few moments were for me, from Him. They were just what I needed, and I didn't even realize it until writing this. I may go back there today, to take in what I acknowledged but brisked right through earlier. I know He'll show up again. He's already there. He's already here.
I encourage you to not rush through this holiday season. Don't try to keep up with anyone, any trend, or any societal expectation. There are no Joneses to keep up with. There is only God. Love Him, know that He loves you, and love people.
Breathe...
Relax...
Be inspired...
He is here, and He loves you.
 |
| I can't tell where my shoes begin and the leaves end! |
 |
| "Your Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105 |
 |
| I actually took this one the other day, but I wanted to include it here. It's just so beautiful! |
I love those little God-created moments in between the busyness of everyday life, where God just reminds you how much He loves you...What are some of your favorite moments or circumstances, that you know God created just for you?
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Burning!
My heart's on fire, and I can't handle it anymore!
Gone are the days when I played it safe as a Christian.
Gone are the days when I would water down the TRUTH of God's Word and the gospel of Jesus Christ, because I didn't want to offend people, or because I wanted to build rapport with someone, or even because I wanted to preserve a relationship.
Gone are the days when I would compromise my deepest convictions because I thought it would make me a more relational, more relevant, or a more acceptable witness for the Truth.
And gone are the days when I shied away from presenting and proclaiming the TRUTH out of fear of persecution, of rejection, or because I cared what other people - even other Christians - thought of me.
What a lie. What an excuse. What a waste of time, and what a disservice to my King and to His lost, wandering and lonely sheep.
He's entrusted me with this message. He lives in me, and He wants me to live on-purpose...for His purpose! I've been so very, very selfish with this treasure.
But that's over now.
I can't. My spirit...and His Spirit...won't let me. If I try to hold this thing back, I'll only end up violating my own heart and searing my own conscience.
This life is not about me, and I'm tired of living it as though it were, even in the little things.
My life is not my own. I've been bought with a price. Purchased. I don't own me anymore. I don't get to do and say and think however I want to anymore. I belong to Him. My life isn't mine, and it's not for me. And so, I lay it down.
Christians like the first part of Revelation 12:11, that says, "And they overcame him (satan) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony," which is awesome and true. But no one seems to quote the rest of the sentence, which says, "and they did not love their lives to the death."
I count it all loss...I give my life to Him.
I'm dead. Dead to myself, but oh so ALIVE in Christ. It is no longer I who live, BUT CHRIST WHO LIVES IN ME.
If we're born again believers, we all have the same mandate: to go into all the world and preach the gospel; to be the light of the world, and the salt of the earth.
Oh, that I would just be a good and faithful servant to my King....
Gone are the days when I played it safe as a Christian.
Gone are the days when I would water down the TRUTH of God's Word and the gospel of Jesus Christ, because I didn't want to offend people, or because I wanted to build rapport with someone, or even because I wanted to preserve a relationship.
Gone are the days when I would compromise my deepest convictions because I thought it would make me a more relational, more relevant, or a more acceptable witness for the Truth.
And gone are the days when I shied away from presenting and proclaiming the TRUTH out of fear of persecution, of rejection, or because I cared what other people - even other Christians - thought of me.
What a lie. What an excuse. What a waste of time, and what a disservice to my King and to His lost, wandering and lonely sheep.
He's entrusted me with this message. He lives in me, and He wants me to live on-purpose...for His purpose! I've been so very, very selfish with this treasure.
But that's over now.
I can't. My spirit...and His Spirit...won't let me. If I try to hold this thing back, I'll only end up violating my own heart and searing my own conscience.
This life is not about me, and I'm tired of living it as though it were, even in the little things.
My life is not my own. I've been bought with a price. Purchased. I don't own me anymore. I don't get to do and say and think however I want to anymore. I belong to Him. My life isn't mine, and it's not for me. And so, I lay it down.
Christians like the first part of Revelation 12:11, that says, "And they overcame him (satan) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony," which is awesome and true. But no one seems to quote the rest of the sentence, which says, "and they did not love their lives to the death."
I count it all loss...I give my life to Him.
I'm dead. Dead to myself, but oh so ALIVE in Christ. It is no longer I who live, BUT CHRIST WHO LIVES IN ME.
If we're born again believers, we all have the same mandate: to go into all the world and preach the gospel; to be the light of the world, and the salt of the earth.
Oh, that I would just be a good and faithful servant to my King....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)