tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35421964442656714292024-02-19T01:55:51.027-07:00Chelle's BlogA Reformed Rebel
Learning to Walk With The LORDReformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.comBlogger535125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-2520147364849881742013-06-14T21:42:00.001-06:002013-06-14T21:46:36.287-06:00A New JourneyWell....it's a sad and exciting time tonight. Because of issues, that I couldn't seem to get fixed, this is the last post I will write on Chelle's Blog. But because of that I have started a new blog, a new journey. And I have to tell you I am excited about it. The LORD gave me a new URL (address), some new scriptures to go with it, and a new blog name. I hope you all will join me over at my new place....check it out....and maybe even give me a follow. I will be looking forward to hearing from each of you there.<br />
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Here is the link....hopefully you can just click on it. But who knows....like I said there is some issues going on! If not just type it in.<br />
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<a href="http://redeemedrenewedtransformed.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://<wbr></wbr>redeemedrenewedtransformed.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/</a></div>
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Thank you all for all of your support and comments while I blooged here.<br />
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Blessings....Chelle<br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-43733096079696695712013-06-09T23:13:00.001-06:002013-06-09T23:13:28.438-06:00The Lord Merely SpokePsalm 33:6-9<br />
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<span class="text Ps-33-6" id="en-NLT-14349"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> merely spoke,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-33-6">and the heavens were created.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-33-6">He breathed the word,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-33-6">and all the stars were born.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-33-7" id="en-NLT-14350"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>He assigned the sea its boundaries</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-33-7">and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-33-8" id="en-NLT-14351"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>Let the whole world fear the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-33-8">and let everyone stand in awe of him.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-33-9" id="en-NLT-14352"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>For when he spoke, the world began!</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-33-9">It appeared at his command.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-33-9">For a couple of weeks now I haven't been able to wrap my head around any scripture. Reading the Bible has seemed kind of pointless to me. It seems that I go through theses stages a lot recently. I don't like it but it's a fact. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-33-9">Bad days....bad times....read the Word....get closer to God. Get closer to God....still have bad days and times....everything is better because you know God is in control. This is what I should do. So tonight I opened my Bible and read this passage of scripture. Somehow it helps. If God can merely speak the whole world into existence....then He can take care of all that troubles us. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-33-9">Just a good night thought before going to bed....</span></span></div>
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<i><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-33-9">until we see Jesus....face to face</span></span></i></div>
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-16079535831181293642013-05-26T22:24:00.001-06:002013-05-26T22:24:18.988-06:00The Life You GotI'm honored to be guest posting today over at Encourage 24/7. For days now I've been trying to come up with something encouraging to write but it just hasn't happened. So tonight I'm sitting at my desk and praying that the Lord will give me something to say. I've started a few times and deleted them all. I've flipped through scriptures....and nothing has hit me. Until....<br />
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<b>Psalm 107:2</b><br />
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<b><span class="text Ps-107-2" id="en-NLT-15678">Has the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> redeemed you? Then speak out!</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-107-2">Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.</span></span></b><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2">This verse is for all of us. As Christians we have all been redeemed and we all have a story to tell. We need to tell our stories to all that will listen. All of us are walking....talking....miracles! You don't have to be a speaker....a writer....a singer....or anything else, other than just you, to tell your story. </span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2">Before I gave my heart to the Lord I did <i>many many</i> things I'm not proud of. For a long time I regretted that life. Yes....I knew God had forgiven me but it was so very hard to forgive myself for those things. Then one day I started realizing that until I forgave myself I wasn't going to really have the life that the Lord wanted me to have. So....I went back (physically) to a few of the places where life went all wrong....talked to the Lord about them and forgave myself. For the places I couldn't go back to....I just talked to the Lord about them and forgave myself. You see....you can never truly be free until you accept your past life and move on into your new life with the Lord. I heard a line on a movie tonight that fits this well....</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2">The miracle ain't the life you missed....it's the life you got!</span></span></i><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2">Sometimes we look back and think about all that we missed because we didn't always do the right things. But, what I have found is how much more the life I have now really means to me. Since I gave my life to Jesus it's so much fuller and brighter than anything I ever knew before. The life I have now is the life the Lord had planned for me all along! The people that mean so much to me now....I may have never known had my life been different. This life I've got now is my miracle! I have had a crazy, full life and I wouldn't trade it for anything else because now I can fully appreciate all that the Lord has done for and given me. </span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2">When Jesus died on Calvary He set me free from all of my sin and made a way for me to be free! Jesus did that for all of us. So if you have been redeemed....Speak out! Tell the people around you....or the world if your a blogger....your story. People need Jesus and you just might be the one with the right life story that will show them the way.</span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-107-2"><i>until we see Jesus....face to face</i></span></span><br />
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-17535329297298426072013-05-19T21:41:00.001-06:002013-05-19T21:41:39.612-06:00He Brought Me OutThis weekend while reading some scripture I came across Psalm 40. I read verse 1-3 and thought how familiar they sounded to me. Not just that I had read them many times before....no....there was something more.... <br />
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<b>Psalm 40:1-3</b><br />
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<b><span class="chapter-2"><span class="text Ps-40-1">I waited patiently for the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>;</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-1">And He inclined to me,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-1">And heard my cry.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-2" id="en-NKJV-14528"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-2">Out of the miry clay,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-2">And set my feet upon a rock,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-2"><i>And</i> established my steps.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-3" id="en-NKJV-14529"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>He has put a new song in my mouth—</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-3">Praise to our God;</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-3">Many will see <i>it</i> and fear,</span><br /><span class="text Ps-40-3">And will trust in the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span></b><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">It is the words of the chorus to an old hymn called....<i>He Brought Me Out</i> written by Henry L. Gilmour, 1898. Here is the chorus....</span><br />
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<i><span class="text Ps-40-3">He brought me out of the miry clay,</span></i><br />
<i><span class="text Ps-40-3">He set my feet on the rock to stay; </span></i><br />
<i><span class="text Ps-40-3">He puts a song in my soul today,</span></i><br />
<i><span class="text Ps-40-3">A song of praise, hallelujah!</span></i><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">This was a song from my childhod that was stored somewhere in the recesses of my mind....or was it really stored in my soul? Anyway, I find it so amazing how the Lord brings things back to our remembrance as we need them....even when we don't know we need them....</span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">First I read the verses, then the song was playing in my mind, and I immediately thought about my life and how the Lord has brought me out. </span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">The definition of the word mire; used as a noun it means a marsh or a bog. As a verb it means to involve or entangle. That is what satan does to us. He gets us so heavily and deeply involved in our sin that before we know what's happening we are entangled as if we are a fly caught in a spiders web. Then we find ourselves sinking....sinking....sinking....until we are so much in a bog that we think we could never get out. That is just a mind game that the devil uses on us to keep us in our sin. The cool thing is....</span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">When the Lord gets a hold of us He pulls us up out of that miry clay and does just what the scripture and the song says. He sets our feet upon the rock (solid ground) and helps us to stand. He has done that for me. He steadies me....calms me....holds me....firmly places me in His care! Then He started replacing all of the old songs I had carried in my soul for so long....with His songs....and fills my heart with praise! </span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">There are many times when I start letting the evil one take me down a dark path that I try hard to stay away from. </span><span class="text Ps-40-3"><span class="text Ps-40-3">That's when I need to reach up and grab His hand before the bog starts sucking me in.</span> It's at those times I need to be reminded of where the Lord has brought me from....and where I am today. The Lord did that for me yesterday when He led me to these verses. </span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">As the title of the song says;</span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3">He Brought Me Out....and He will bring you out too. </span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3"><i>Until we see Jesus....face to face </i></span><br />
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<span class="text Ps-40-3"> </span>Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-39479878078577511112013-05-15T23:31:00.002-06:002013-05-15T23:36:15.604-06:00Steadfast As An Olive TreeRight now....though I should be in bed....I find myself drawn to my computer. For a few days now I have had many thoughts of things I wanted to share but when I tried my mind would just go blank....then I would sleep. So tonight I really don't know where I'm going with this.<br />
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Lately when I open my Bible I always go to the Psalms. Somehow they just seem to give me comfort....rest....peace.<br />
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<b>Psalm 52:8-9</b><br />
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<b><span class="text Ps-52-8" id="en-NLT-14695"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-52-8">I will always trust in God’s unfailing love.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-52-9" id="en-NLT-14696"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>I will praise you forever, O God,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-52-9">for what you have done.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-52-9">I will trust in your good name</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-52-9">in the presence of your faithful people.</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-52-9">I found these two verses yesterday and for some reason can't seem to get away from them. I looked up a little about olive trees and found that....An olive tree is known for its tenacity and that it can grow and thrive in just about any soil. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-52-9">I looked up the word to be sure of it's meaning and found that another word for tenacity is steadfastness. So, if you remain steadfast as an olive tree....or unshakeable in your faith...and trust that God loves you and cares for you....you are going to thrive in your walk with Him. We just have to do as David did and commit our life to the Lord no matter what circumstance we find ourselves in. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-52-9">As I have said before my quest is to have unshakeable faith. So I think the reason I found this passage was to show me that I needed to be like an olive tree....tenacious and thriving where ever I am. With unshakeable tenacious faith growth should come....as long as I'm relying on...and trusting in...the Lord.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-52-9"><i>until we see Jesus....face to face </i></span></span><br />
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Linking up with Tracy</div>
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-40912105217959752322013-05-07T08:52:00.001-06:002013-05-08T09:51:27.505-06:00Sleepless NightsDo you ever have sleepless uncomfortable nights? During one of my recent long nights I opened my Bible and read Psalm 63. The verses that stuck out to me were 6-8.<br />
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<span class="text Ps-63-6" id="en-NLT-14822"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>I lie awake thinking of you,</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-6">meditating on you through the night.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-63-7" id="en-NLT-14823"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>Because you are my helper,</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-7">I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-63-8" id="en-NLT-14824"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>I cling to you;</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-8">your strong right hand holds me securely.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-8">First, I have to tell you that I was not lying awake thinking of God as the scripture says. I was praying but probably not in the way this passage is saying....probably more a prayer of desperation. But, as the night turned to morning my thoughts did go the way of easy more meditative thoughts. I started realizing that if I kept the Lord in the forefront of my thoughts that rest came easier. I may not have slept but I did eventually rest. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-8">When we are going through something that just seems to have no end what is it we should do? My study Bible says to make it a point to count examples of God's faithfulness.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-8">You know His mercy is so great and really it knows no end. Our Lord is always holding out His hand to us and if we take it we will find many wonderful things that He has for us. Some of them are faithfulness....mercy....hope....rest....and His mighty strength to hold us up and get us to the other side of our problem.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-8">Then I read verse 1 again.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-63-1"><sup class="versenum">1 </sup>O God, you are my God;</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-1">I earnestly search for you.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-63-1">My soul thirsts for you;</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-1">my whole body longs for you</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-63-1">in this parched and weary land</span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-63-1">where there is no water.</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1">Life can spiral out of control for many reasons. When it does I find that I start feeling empty. I long for something to change how I'm feeling. In the past I have used many different things to fix this feeling. None of them worked. When our whole body....our entire being....is suffering or lacking something....only the Lord can help us. He can give us rest and comfort when nothing or no one else can. </span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1">Another passage that comes to mind is this....</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1">Psalm 42:1</span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1"><span class="text Ps-42-1">As the deer longs for streams of water,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-42-1">so I long for you, O God.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-42-1">Everything that has life needs water. The water that we need most is the Living Water....JESUS. In the midst of your trial reach out for that living water. If you reach up for His hand you will find it....even in the night!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-63-1"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-42-1">Linking up with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday.</span></span></span></span><br />
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-51948278377748915642013-05-04T06:55:00.001-06:002013-05-04T06:56:11.177-06:00He Gives Amazing GraceLong days...longer nights...so much alone time. How do you fill it up?<br />
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Sitting here this morning I realize that the only way to truly fill it up is with God. We choose how we fill our lives and He chooses how to fill us up. He will fill us up with all good things when we make the correct first choice. That choice can only be one thing...the Lord. When we choose Him, He fills us with things that we could only hope to find before...<br />
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Many times we have to walk through things of this life to truly find the exceptional good things that He has for us... <br />
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We go about our everyday lives taking much for granted. Everything is good...great even...we are reasonably healthy...life is comfortable. Then life happens...different for all. Within a family circle...be it blood family or friend family...we experience many different things. Things that bind us tightly if we let them. Good things...great things....extravagant things. Then on the flip side...things of sickness...tragedies...and sometimes loss...<br />
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Through whatever our individual life holds...if we choose...He is there. With us every step of the way. Giving us exactly what we need...exactly when we need it. All of our walks are different. We don't all go through exactly the same things at exactly the same time...but we all go through something. I have found through watching others and from my own experience...the only way to get through is God...<br />
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Truthfully...you can make it through without Him...but it's so much harder. You really have to learn to give to the Lord whatever it is you are going through. Compared to what many peoples lives are like...my trials are small but still a learning experience for me...<br />
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This past week the Lord has allowed me to spend some quality alone time with Him. There have been moments when I wasn't happy with it at all...and other moments that were good...God good. As long as He gives me those <i>Amazing Grace</i> filled times with Him...I can go through the rough times with Him...<br />
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In the midst of whatever your battle is today...share it with the Lord. He can give you whatever you need to get you through your battle...take you to the other side of it...and help you to stand when you get there. When you are weak He will give you strength...<br />
<br />
<b>2 Corinthians 12:9-10</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="verse">
<b><span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-AMP-29030"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>But
He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is
enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear
the trouble manfully]; for <i>My</i> strength <i>and</i> power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) <i>and</i> <i>show themselves most effective</i> in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses <i>and</i> infirmities, that the strength <i>and</i> power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!</span></b></div>
<b> </b><br />
<div class="verse">
<b><span class="text 2Cor-12-10" id="en-AMP-29031"><sup class="versenum">10 </sup>So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased <i>and</i> take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities <i>and</i> distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength).</span></b></div>
<div class="verse">
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<div class="verse">
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<div class="verse">
<i><span class="text 2Cor-12-10" id="en-AMP-29031">till we see Jesus...face to face</span></i><b><span class="text 2Cor-12-10" id="en-AMP-29031"> </span></b></div>
<div class="verse">
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<div class="verse">
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<div class="verse">
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<div class="verse">
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-46919097564924067292013-05-02T22:35:00.001-06:002013-05-02T22:35:31.570-06:00It Only Takes A Millisecond<i><b>Faith only takes a millisecond to be expressed.</b></i><br />
<br />
Isn't that a good statement? God has been working on my <i>faith level</i> recently so when I saw that it kind of jumped out at me. <br />
<br />
Today I had a few moments...<i>couple of hours really!</i>...of feeling sorry for myself. After a bit of an <i>"oh poor me" </i>attitude, I realized that I hadn't been doing the same things today as I had been doing in the previous days this week. I had not listened to one bit of music or read even one scripture. So I turned on the music. Whisper Jesus came on...beautiful song! Here's the first verse and chorus:<br />
<br />
There's a name I love to whisper<br />
anytime of day or night<br />
And though the peace<br />
that accompanies is mentioned<br />
No tongue can tell<br />
no pen can write<br />
<br />
<br />
Whisper Jesus<br />
I love you Jesus<br />
Heavens peace will flood your soul<br />
Whisper Jesus<br />
I love you Jesus<br />
Heavens peace will flood your soul<br />
<br />
I started thinking about my day...my attitude...and what just a little bit of worship did for me. I don't know how it is for you but for me it all ties in to faith. Finally, I was understanding that if I would just reach out in faith, and believe, then all I had to do was just whisper His name...Jesus...it was all going to be okay. They were saying that many times you can't express in prayer what you need or how you feel. But...you can just whisper His name...Jesus...Jesus...Jesus...and that's all it takes. How true that was. I found that Jesus was there with me...holding me...comforting me. Isn't that really all we need at times? Just to know He's with us? Just to know we're not alone? To feel His peace and comfort drop over us like a heavenly blanket...that's all I really needed. One of the best things about all of this was...<br />
<br />
<i>It really did only take a millisecond to get there</i>. The very second you start to whisper Jesus...He steps in. It doesn't matter that nothing has changed in your situation. The unsettled, anxious feelings start to leave with just the whisper of His name...Jesus.<br />
<br />
<b>James 1:2-4</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="first-line-none">
<b><span class="text Jas-1-2"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>Dear brothers and sisters,<sup> </sup>when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-3" id="en-NLT-30230"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-4" id="en-NLT-30231"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.</span></b></div>
Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-37654075085318173812013-05-01T10:28:00.001-06:002013-05-01T10:28:12.272-06:00Thank You Right now my blog isn't updating on any blogrolls. I don't know why and have not been able to check into it as of yet. So I am hoping that all of you that have been praying for me get this.<br />
<br />
I just want to say thank you all so much for all of the prayers. I know that because of you praying my surgery went well. I am recovering now and would still appreciate your prayers. Some days are good and others are pretty painful.<br />
<br />
Many bloggers I know, and many I do not know, have been praying. Those of you that know me well, thank you. Those of you that Jan sent a call out to in the FOCB community and don't know me, thank you. Jan from FOCB sent me responses from many of you and I plan to eventually visit all of your blogs.<br />
<br />
God Bless you all<br />
ChelleReformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-33953954272159337922013-05-01T07:57:00.001-06:002013-05-01T07:57:29.578-06:00For Our Good and HIS GloryHebrews 11:1<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">The questions I pose for myself today are these...</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Do I really believe in God's promises? Do I really believe that even though things seem to be worse the last couple of days that God is in control and He will work it all out? That In the end...everything will be okay? </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">What I read is this...</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">I...we...have to have enduring faith. If I don't then what is the point in anything I believe? Faith and hope go hand in hand. We have a great hope that all things in our life are going to work out...<i>for our good and His glory. That's a phrase Marge says to me all the time and I am still learning.</i> Our hope reveals our faith in Him. Having courage and hope shows that we have faith that the Lord is working out everything for us. Yes, my courage and hope wane at times. In fact at some points this week they have lacked a lot! But...because of my faith I was able to get up with renewed hope this morning! Just knowing that today is a new day and God had it all planned out for me before I ever awoke...well that's exciting! </span><br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1"><br /></span>
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Before I knew the Lord I believed that everything just happened. I lived my life as much on the edge as I could because I thought that it really didn't matter anyway. Kind of like what that old song says...<i>what will be will be, the futures not ours to see, que sera, sera.</i> Just so you know...I still don't believe that I'm in control of my future but doing things like driving at high rates of speed while under the influence of "whatever" is a risk you don't need to take! I do believe that God has a much better ending in store for me than those actions would bring on. I now have hope...and assurance...that I am part of God's family and no matter what...it will all turn out for my best! </span><br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1"><br /></span>
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Something else I know is this...</span><br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1"><br /></span>
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Without faith we would be like a boat on a stormy sea. Tossed and turned about...never knowing what direction we were going in. Think about the mess you would be in if you didn't have faith. Faith is what holds me...us...together. When we are on that stormy sea faith is what keeps us going. Faith is like a lifeline to the Lord. Without faith prayer is meaningless. Why pray if you don't have faith that God is listening? But when you do have faith that He is...even when you don't see immediate results...<i>you know that you know</i> that He is listening and is working it all out for you...</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">For your good and His glory! </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span class="text Heb-11-1">till we see Jesus...face to face </span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="text Heb-11-1">Linking up with Tracy today</span><br />
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<span class="text Heb-11-1"><br /></span>
<span class="text Heb-11-1"><br /></span>
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-18379916262932551552013-04-30T07:28:00.002-06:002013-04-30T07:28:13.912-06:00Strengthening FaithFor a while now I have known that to become "Deeply Rooted and Unshakeable" you have to go through things. How else can your faith be strengthened? So...when life happens I can let those things effect me in one of two ways. Feel sorry for myself and become unsettled and tossed about or...dig deeper into the Lord so my faith can grow. <br />
<br />
When I found out I was going to have back surgery I was a <i>little less</i> than thrilled but I knew it was what needed to be done. There were many thoughts that passed through my mind about the whole process but the one that quickly took the forefront was...this is an opportunity to spend more time with the Lord. My intention was to spend time reading His Word and maybe a book or two that I have. So far that's not how it's been going. I have read a few verses but mostly it's been lots of praise and worship music and just talking with Him...and that has been good! Being able to focus on reading hasn't really happened for me but on Saturday I really felt I needed to read some scripture. So I simply said...Jesus please give me a scripture to read that will help me right now...1 Peter came to mind immediately. So I got my bible and begin to read. When I read verses 6 - 7 I knew that's what He wanted me to see...<br />
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<b>1 Peter 1:6-7</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span class="text 1Pet-1-6" id="en-NLT-30341"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>So be truly glad.<sup> </sup>There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while.</span> <span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>These
trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire
tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than
mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it
will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus
Christ is revealed to the whole world.</span></b><br />
<br />
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342">Saturday just seemed to be a day that the Lord was using to let me know that my quest for "Deeply Rooted and Unshakeable" faith was the road I need to be on. I just happened to receive a <i>surprise</i> in the mail that same day...one of my favorite poems. A wall hanging with the poem by Bonnie Mohr...</span><br />
<br />
<i><span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342">Our faith must be Deeply Rooted and Unshakeable.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342">I will rely on Your unfailing Love. Your Roots hold me to Your steadfast Foundation, strengthening and overflowing me with thankfulness. I will stand firm in Your Word and truth for it reaches to the Heavens. </span></i><br />
<br />
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342">The Lord never ceases to amaze me how He uses different ways to speak to us. Through His Word...special friends...music...and the life situations that we find ourselves in. Each day since this journey started He has spoken to me in many ways. As He leads...I will share.</span><br />
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><i>till we see JESUS...face to face</i></span><br />
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<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
<span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NLT-30342"><br /></span>
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-6156842102178520692013-04-29T22:44:00.002-06:002013-04-29T22:44:45.286-06:00Victorydark flows in<br />
light flows out<br />
where do you go<br />
just flail about<br />
seemingly vague<br />
clouds settle in<br />
raindrops are falling<br />
on your world again<br />
filled with despair<br />
hopeless abounds<br />
pain in the path<br />
fear wins out<br />
thinking is muddled<br />
sickness abounds<br />
turmoil within <br />
fogginess without<br />
what do you do<br />
when all settles in<br />
at every turn<br />
you just can't win<br />
run to the cross<br />
fall on your knees<br />
face to the ground<br />
tears flowing free<br />
shouts you send up<br />
Gods breath you feel<br />
warmth spreading through<br />
soul hole is filled<br />
stand to your feet<br />
shout it out loud<br />
go tell the world<br />
Christ you will see<br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-18199290837100771092013-04-23T23:20:00.002-06:002013-04-23T23:20:39.589-06:00Let Jesus Be What You NeedJesus....Jesus....Jesus....there's just something about that name! Wherever you are tonight....whatever you are doing...if things just don't seem right for you....just call on that name....Jesus! He won't let you down. He will hold you up and take care of you. He will calm your fears and help you to keep your sense of humor regardless of what's going on. He will place within you peace and hope when you least expect it. He will be your rock...let Him be!<br />
<br />
Psalm 94:19<br />
<span class="text Ps-94-19" id="en-NLT-15427">When doubts filled my mind,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-94-19">your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.</span></span> <br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-34967172954947551472013-04-22T22:15:00.001-06:002013-04-22T22:15:48.389-06:00He's Got You Covered2 Chronicles 20:15b<br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579">This is what the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579">What are you afraid of today? What battle are you fighting tonight that's got you all wrapped up? </span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579">Whatever it is you know that God already has it all under control. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579">He. Has. Got. You. Covered!</span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579">2 Chronicles 20:12</span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-15" id="en-NLT-11579"></span><span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576">O our God, won’t you
stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to
attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for
help.”</span><br />
<br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576">Are you feeling powerless against what you are going through? Well so did the King and his armies. they didn't know what to do in their own power so they called on the One who could help them. And they worshipped!</span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576"><br /></span>
<span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576">2 Chronicles 20:18-22</span><br />
<br />
<div class="passage version-NLT result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-18" id="en-NLT-11582"><sup class="versenum">18 </sup>Then
King Jehoshaphat bowed low with his face to the ground. And all the
people of Judah and Jerusalem did the same, worshiping the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span> <span class="text 2Chr-20-19" id="en-NLT-11583"><sup class="versenum">19 </sup>Then the Levites from the clans of Kohath and Korah stood to praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, the God of Israel, with a very loud shout.</span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-20" id="en-NLT-11584"><sup class="versenum">20 </sup>Early
the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of
Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, “Listen to me, all you
people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed.”</span><br />
<span class="text 2Chr-20-21" id="en-NLT-11585"><sup class="versenum">21 </sup>After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: </span><br />
<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-21">“Give thanks to the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text 2Chr-20-21">his faithful love endures forever!”</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><sup class="versenum">22 </sup>At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves.</span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<br /></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586">Notice what verse 22 says...At the very moment they begin to sing and give praise...WOW! At that moment the LORD came through! He caused things to happen! They won their battle!!</span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><br /></span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586">I'm thinking that if we would do that we just might be surprised at what the LORD will do for us! We all fight battles and we all want to defeat our enemy...whom ever or what ever it is. So lets begin to praise and worship the Lord and see what happens. </span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><br /></span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586">If we do this we just may see how good He really is!</span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><br /></span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586">Oh taste and see that the LORD is good. </span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><br /></span></div>
<div class="top-1">
<span class="text 2Chr-20-22" id="en-NLT-11586"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576"><br /></span>
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<span class="text 2Chr-20-12" id="en-NLT-11576"> </span>Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-54934332702438998832013-04-21T17:10:00.003-06:002013-04-21T21:01:25.113-06:00Faith Versus Fear<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_57" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I just wanted to share these two days off of my calendar with you. It's called; <b>Gods Heart For You...by Holley Gerth.</b> I
had not looked at my calendar for about ten days but the day I went to
the surgeon I decided to see what it had to say. I went on the 18th but I
read the 17th and 18th. </span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_84" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_89" /></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_86" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">17th</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_90" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_95" /></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_92" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hey, you.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_97" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Yep, you.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_100" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">The one feeling a little weary.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_103" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Carrying that load.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_106" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Fighting this battle.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_109" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">You're beautiful, you know that?</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_112" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's true.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_115" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">And you can do this with Him.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_118" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">With His power.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_126" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_131" /></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_128" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">18th</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_133" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_138" /></span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_135" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">You feel like your strength is small.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_140" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">But it's not.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_143" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's BIG.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_146" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">World-changing big.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_150" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Life-altering big.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_153" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Make-it-over-that-mountain big.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_160" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">BIG enough for you to do what you need to do.</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_163" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_169" style="font-style: italic;">Because your strength is as big as the GOD in you.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_18_1366490970338_188">Aren't they good!!! </span>I
like all of what it says but especially this part...Because your
strength is as big as the GOD in you. That is so true. I was just
thinking about unshakeable faith the last couple of days. How I so want
to just get there!! In my head...my heart I guess. Just to have faith no
matter what. A faith so big that no matter what...I'm okay with it.
That I know that God is in control of every situation and I can just
roll with whatever happens...at any given time...and not doubt and be
fearful or whatever other emotion I have. I don't like how I'm good one
minute with how things are going to be and then the next I'm feeling the
wave of...<span style="font-weight: bold;">I don't want to do this fear. </span><br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">So...back to that last line of the 18th...<br /><br />I
ask myself...How big is the GOD in me? Well, I think the answer is...as
Big as I will let Him be. If I believe He is in control and I have
nothing to fear...then I'll be okay. It's when I start listening to the
voice in my ear...instead of in my heart...that I get all messed up.
Satan is the one filling my head with the fear thoughts. I know this but
I still listen. God wants to be the One I listen to. The voice that is
bigger than any other voice! I have always thought that the voice of God
is probably a Big, Deep Voice...rather booming! That is if you were to
hear it audibly. But that's just my thought. <br /><br />To wrap this all up I will just say this...<br /><br />At
times we all fight battles and feel weary...worn out and down in fact!
And sometimes...our strength is pretty much gone. But I know...I
Know!!!...that God is still there. Fighting with us...giving us the
strength we need, just when we need it. HE is...everything and all we
need! And in a few days when I need to really have that faith to
believe...beyond any doubt...He will help me to have it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span>
<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-17127754795996529972013-04-13T23:04:00.000-06:002013-04-13T23:04:05.961-06:00RedirectingAs you can tell by reading my last couple of posts...God has been trying to get my attention. I've noticed...I just haven't been responding. Mainly because I haven't known the answers to the questions that keep forming in my mind. At times I don't even know the questions...but I do know who brings on the confusion... <br />
<br />
More and more it seems that I have been slipping away. Away from what?...everything that holds me together. Why?...I keep asking myself. The answer...I don't have one. Then the next question...how long has this been going on? Days...weeks...months even?! All I can say is...for a while now. It hasn't been a complete all the time thing...but it has been happening more and more. I know it...heart and soul.<br />
<br />
When I first started noticing the difference I went back and read some of the things written in the past. Everything I picked to read was written with feeling...my feeling. They were truth...honesty...transparent and <i><b>yes!</b></i>...some even were gut wrenching to me. Where did I go? Where did <i><b>it</b></i> go? That feeling...that heart that I once had for everything that was right and good...<i><b>for Him.</b></i> How have I let it get lost...myself get lost...amongst everything else that goes on in life? Really, the only answer that I can come up with is<i><b> just life</b>.</i> That I have let life...all the ups and downs...twists and turns...disappointments...my own failure...sidetrack me.<br />
<br />
So now the next question. Where do I go from here? Yes...there is the obvious answer. Back to doing what I did in the beginning...reading...studying...learning. And yet...not just those things. I need to open my heart...my mind...my spiritual ears...and do and hear what He wants me to do...completely. Give Him freely, the part of me that I hold back...what ever that may be. At this point I don't really know what that is...but I want too. I need to not let the disappointments sideline me.<br />
<br />
Why am I sharing this with all of you? That's a good question. One that I have asked myself time and time again since starting this blog. The answer? For one reason and one reason only. Because God...God wants me to be transparent. Maybe because I have always hidden myself...my life...from everyone. At least I did before becoming a Christian. I always lived in the shadows...the darker the better...shadows and walls...and I came to like it that way. <i><b>At times it's really hard to not still be like that!</b></i> But one thing I know now is this...to hide in the shadows and behind walls is darkness and promotes fear. To live in the open is light and promotes life. Gods way...in the light...is the right way...the best way. <br />
<br />
And now...how do I end this? <br />
<br />
I read a prayer tonight from Called Magazine that said this...<br />
<br />
<i>Father, if we're (I'm) on the wrong path, please redirect our (my) steps. ~ Don't allow us (me) to live our lives (my life) missing Your plan. </i><br />
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<i>In Jesus' name, Amen</i><br />
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To personalize it I added the words in parenthesis.<br />
<br />
I believe I saw this prayer so that I would know that GOD is redirecting my steps today. Not to get me back to where I once was, but to help me to become more. More of who He wants me to be. <br />
<br />
I'm going to end this with the 23d Psalm because <i><b>He is</b></i> my Shepherd and the only One that I <i><b>want</b></i> to follow!<br />
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<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
Psalm 23</h3>
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<span class="text Ps-23-1" id="en-NCV-14135">The Lord the Shepherd</span></h3>
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<span class="text Ps-23-1">A psalm of David.</span></h4>
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<div class="line">
<span class="chapter-2"><span class="text Ps-23-1"><span class="chapternum">23 </span>The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is my shepherd;</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-1">I have everything I need.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-2" id="en-NCV-14136"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>He lets me rest in green pastures.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-2">He leads me to calm water.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-3" id="en-NCV-14137"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>He gives me new strength.</span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-3">He leads me on paths that are right</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-3">for the good of his name.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-4" id="en-NCV-14138"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>Even if I walk through a very dark valley,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-4">I will not be afraid,</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-4">because you are with me.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-4">Your rod and your shepherd’s staff comfort me.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-23-5" id="en-NCV-14139"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>You prepare a meal for me</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-5">in front of my enemies.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-5">You pour oil of blessing on my head;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-5">you fill my cup to overflowing.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-6" id="en-NCV-14140"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>Surely your goodness and love will be with me</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-23-6">all my life,</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-23-6">and I will live in the house of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> forever.</span></div>
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-61012507771419120152013-04-13T07:30:00.001-06:002013-04-13T07:30:36.494-06:00LORD I Need YOU MoreI need You more than ever before<br />
more than anything else in my life<br />
more than the sunshine or the rain<br />
more than the dew upon the flower<br />
more than the birds in early spring<br />
<br />
I want You more than my biggest dream<br />
more than my mind can conceive<br />
more than my deepest longing<br />
more than my highest hopes<br />
more than my heart can fathom <br />
<br />
I long to let Your love<br />
consume my mind<br />
comsume my heart<br />
consume my soul<br />
consume my whole life <br />
<br />
To the core of my being<br />
to the places I have never let You go<br />
to be more to me than I think possible<br />
to run wild within my heart<br />
to depths I have never known<br />
<br />
You are everything I need <br />
the One who has given me grace<br />
the One who has healed my mind<br />
the One who has allowed me to feel<br />
the One who has given me hope<br />
<br />
You Lord have imparted Your peace to me<br />
You Lord have given me life free and abundant<br />
<div id="yui_3_7_2_18_1365707223770_61">
You Lord have opened my eyes so I could see</div>
You Lord have opened my heart to receive love<br />
You Lord have freely given me more than I could have imagined<br />
<br />
Yet today Lord I need You more<br />
more than ever before<br />
more than my thoughts can conjure<br />
more than my mouth can speak<br />
more than my heart can feel<br />
<br />
You are the same yesterday today and forever<br />
yet I Lord am forever changing<br />
yet I Lord am forever needing<br />
yet I Lord am forever reaching <br />
yet I Lord am forever growing<br />
<br />
So today Lord I ask You<br />
to hold me up once again<br />
to give me strength once again<br />
to let me feel Your love once again<br />
to heal my body soul and mind once again<br />
<br />
Because Lord<br />
<br />
I will always need You more<br />
more than my mind can conceive<br />
more than my deepest longing<br />
more than my highest hopes<br />
more than my heart can fathomReformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-77415127768655005832013-04-11T16:49:00.001-06:002013-04-11T16:49:19.545-06:00Contemplative...Reflective ThoughtsSome weeks...days...hours...moments...I think I'm just done...<br />
<br />
Done with life...people...myself...sometimes even God...<br />
<br />
But I know I'm not really...<br />
<br />
At least not with God...and <i><b>most</b></i> people...not even with life...<br />
<br />
At times...like this moment in time...I just think it...<br />
<br />
This may come as quite a shock to those of you who read this blog all the time but I'll say it anyway...<br />
<br />
I. Am. Not. Perfect. <br />
<br />
Those really are my thoughts sometimes... <br />
<br />
There are times when I just don't handle life very well...<br />
<br />
Things go wrong and each day you go to bed thinking that the next day will be better. You will get up tomorrow and all will be good...or on the way to good. But...you wake up and it's not better. In fact...just the opposite...each day is worse...harder. Life...it keeps going on in just the way God has planned...<i><b>His perfect plan.</b></i> Which...by the way...<i><b>isn't</b></i> always <i><b>our</b></i> perfect plan! <br />
<br />
So while I've been home trying to get a handle on things...I got on Facebook. What I probably should have been doing was talking to God...but since I wasn't...God decided to talk to me. <i><b>Through Facebook! </b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Philippians 4:19</b></i><br />
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<i><b>And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. </b></i><br />
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That's what someone had posted. Right there where I had no choice but to see it...read it even!!<br />
You think God had something to do with that? My thought is yes...everything to do with it I'm sure!<br />
<br />
So I can tell you this...<br />
<br />
While taking time out of my contemplative...reflective thoughts...to write this...<br />
<br />
Nothing has changed...<br />
<br />
I'm still not perfect and sometimes I will still be done with it all...<br />
<br />
Everything that was wrong when I started this post...<br />
<br />
Is still wrong now...<br />
<br />
Well...<br />
<br />
One thing has changed... <br />
<br />
I'm not done with God and never will be...<br />
<br />
His perfect plan is what's right for me...<br />
<br />
Even if I don't see it right now...<br />
<br />
And...<br />
<br />
His perfect plan for your life...<br />
<br />
Really is right for you too...<br />
<br />
Even when it's hard...<br />
<br />
Remember this when you aren't sure...<br />
<br />
It's what I will be reciting to myself... <br />
<br />
<i><b>He really will meet all of your needs...</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Just like He says He will...</b></i><br />
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<i><b> </b></i> <br />
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<br /><br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-47105431456314414932013-04-02T21:53:00.002-06:002013-04-02T21:53:53.174-06:00Have Faith...BelieveDo you ever find that sometimes you just have to throw up your hands and say...<br />
<br />
"Okay God...I give up. What is it that you want me to do in this situation?" <br />
<br />
Now, your situation is probably different than mine but the thing is...we all need answers. Maybe not even answers...but just help in making the right decision. It could be that you have been doing what you thought was the right thing but it hasn't helped. So...you continue to pray in faith knowing that God has it handled already, even though you haven't seen a change for the better. In fact, it continues to get worse. So what next? You take the next step and while doing that...continue to pray that God will just take care of it.<br />
<br />
I received a gift a couple of days ago and this is what it says...<br />
<br />
<b>Faith is daring the soul to go beyond what the eyes can see.</b><br />
<br />
That saying is great. It really makes me think about my faith...how much of it I really have. So many times I feel that my faith is so lacking! I know what to say...but do I really believe and not just say what I'm supposed to? <b> </b>What people want to hear. Sometimes I question myself.<br />
<br />
What I do know for sure is...God is a big God and He loves us. Regardless of what we are struggling with He is there with us. In the thick of it. It might seem like you're on your own in the battle at times. It might seem like nothing is changing. Things may even be getting worse. But just remember this...<br />
<br />
God is bigger than any situation you find yourself in and He will see you through it. Just have faith and believe!<br />
<br />
<i><b>Hebrews 11:1 AMP</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-AMP-30172">Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].</span></b></i><br />
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<i><span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-AMP-30172">Until we see Jesus face to face</span><span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-AMP-30172">.</span></i><br />
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<i><span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-AMP-30172"> </span><b><span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-AMP-30172"> </span></b></i><br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-73132818293307645052013-04-01T22:58:00.000-06:002013-04-01T22:58:20.432-06:00Only Believe<i>Only believe </i><br />
<i>Only believe </i><br />
<i>All things are possible, only believe</i><br />
<i>Only believe</i><br />
<i>Only believe</i><br />
<i>All things are possible, only believe</i><br />
<br />
<i>Lord I believe </i><br />
<i>Lord I believe</i><br />
<i>All things are possible, Lord I believe</i><br />
<i>Lord I believe</i><br />
<i>Lord I believe</i><br />
<i>All things are possible, Lord I believe</i><br />
<br />
As I've told you before, the Lord uses music to get through to me many times and tonight was no different. He used this old chorus from my childhood that I hadn't heard in a long time. Amazingly...to me...hearing this chorus started bringing me out of the place I was letting myself go.<br />
<br />
Now for me...and maybe for you too...this is what He wants us to do...<br />
<br />
<b>Only believe! For whatever we need...believe. That's all we need to do! Jesus will take care of the rest! </b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Matthew 19:26 NLT</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span class="text Matt-19-26" id="en-NLT-23763"><sup class="versenum">26 </sup>Jesus looked at them intently and said, <span class="woj">“Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.”</span></span></b></i></span></div>
<b> </b><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Until we see JESUS face to face<span style="font-size: small;">...</span></span><b><br /></b></i></span><br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-57011627626589417522013-03-26T05:45:00.004-06:002013-03-26T05:45:47.972-06:00Psalm 5<h3>
Psalm 5</h3>
<br />
<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<b><span class="text Ps-5-1"><sup class="versenum">1 </sup>O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, hear me as I pray;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-1">pay attention to my groaning.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-2" id="en-NLT-13952"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-2">for I pray to no one but you.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-3" id="en-NLT-13953"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>Listen to my voice in the morning, <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-3">Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.</span></span></b></div>
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<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<b><span class="text Ps-5-4" id="en-NLT-13954"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-4">you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-5" id="en-NLT-13955"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-5">for you hate all who do evil.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-6" id="en-NLT-13956"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>You will destroy those who tell lies.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-6">The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> detests murderers and deceivers.</span></span></b></div>
</div>
<b> </b><div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<b><span class="text Ps-5-7" id="en-NLT-13957"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-7">I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-8" id="en-NLT-13958"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>Lead me in the right path, O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-8">or my enemies will conquer me.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-8">Make your way plain for me to follow.</span></b></div>
</div>
<b> </b><div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<b><span class="text Ps-5-9" id="en-NLT-13959"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>My enemies cannot speak a truthful word.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their deepest desire is to destroy others.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their tongues are filled with flattery.<sup class="footnote" value="[<a href="#fen-NLT-13959a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalms%205&version=NLT#fen-NLT-13959a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</sup></span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-10" id="en-NLT-13960"><sup class="versenum">10 </sup>O God, declare them guilty.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-10">Let them be caught in their own traps.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-10">Drive them away because of their many sins,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-10">for they have rebelled against you.</span></span></b></div>
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<b> </b><div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<b><span class="text Ps-5-11" id="en-NLT-13961"><sup class="versenum">11 </sup>But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-11">let them sing joyful praises forever.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-11">Spread your protection over them,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-11">that all who love your name may be filled with joy.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-12" id="en-NLT-13962"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>For you bless the godly, O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-12">you surround them with your shield of love.</span></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="line">
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<div class="line">
<br /></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3">Our morning prayers need to be expressive. Look at what David prayed. He had confidence that the LORD would protect him against his enemies. We also need to have confidence that the LORD will protect and take care of us through anything! What ever our day holds for us! Look at verse 7...how awesome is that? Because of HIS unfailing love for us we can go to HIM and worship in awe! Then we can be filled with joy for our day!</span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3">Praise the LORD! Go through your day with praise and thanksgiving to HIM and see how much better your day goes!</span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3"> </span></span></div>
<div class="line">
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-3"><i>Until we see JESUS face to face...</i></span></span></div>
</div>
Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-69250187713166515712013-03-22T16:00:00.001-06:002013-03-22T16:00:12.872-06:00Don't Let Your Past Become Your PresentDo you ever have things from your past unexpectantly jump up and slap you in the face? You know...give you the wake up call that you know you need but you aren't really ready for. Well, that happened to me just yesterday. It was coming from a voice that I know all too well and he was putting thoughts in my head that I thought were gone for good. Those thoughts made me realize one thing...<br />
<br />
don't ever get too comfortable and be slack in doing what you know is right! Even though I have been slippin' and slidin'...stumblin' and failin' a bit...God won't leave me alone. He still keeps talking and that's a good thing! He leads me to scriptures...like the ones I shared in the last post. Then there's the book I bought today...<i>Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson</i>. The sub title is...<i>Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God</i>. That so fits with what has been going on inside of me lately. Before I started the slippin' and stumblin' stuff I had been praying something like this...<br />
<br />
help me to have a deeper relationship with You. Give me back that burning desire I once had to write with passion...from the depths of my soul. Fill up that hole inside of me that just seems to be getting bigger and bigger.<br />
<br />
So, I'm writing this now because of one of the things He said to me...<br />
<br />
<b><i>Be more transparent in your writing like you use to be. If you feel it...write it! If your struggling...write it.</i></b><br />
<br />
Everyone struggles at times. Everyone fails at times. It's not always easy to share those thimes...but it is a good thing to do. You see, if you share, it may help people that are reading because they are struggling also. And, it helps you because people pray for you. Not only that...it begins a healing process. A form of therapy if you will. So...<br />
<br />
again I am excited to see what the Lord has planned. I know I don't like stumblin' around. I don't like my past coming back because that part of my life is just that...past! I want to pursue God on a deeper level. I don't want to celebrate in my failure, I want to celebrate in my success with Him.<br />
<br />
Don't let your past become your present. Reclaim the adventure.<br />
<br />
Learning and growing until we see Jesus Face to face.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Psalm 139:23</b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Search me O God, and know my heart;</b></i><br />
<i><b>test me and know my anxious thoughts. </b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Psalm 51:10</b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Create in me a clean heart, O God,</b></i><br />
<i><b>And renew a stedfast spirit within me. </b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Psalm 37:4</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>Take delight in the Lord,</b></i><br />
<i><b>and He will give you your heart's desires.</b></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-30557899124481988992013-03-21T23:44:00.000-06:002013-03-21T23:44:30.683-06:00Turn Upward To GodTonight, while I was sitting and thinking about many things, I looked down at the page my bible was opened to and saw this verse...<br />
<br />
<i><b>Psalm 57:7 NLT</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><span class="text Ps-57-7" id="en-NLT-14752">My heart is confident in you, O God;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-57-7">my heart is confident.</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-57-7">No wonder I can sing your praises!</span></span></b></i><br />
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7">That's an easy verse to understand and yet for some reason...Obviously GOD...my eyes were drawn down to the study notes. The last sentence is what really spoke to me...</span></span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7">In times of suffering, don't turn inward to self-pity or outward to revenge, but turn upward to GOD. </span></span></b><br />
<br />
This statement really hit home with me. I am one that tends to sit and reflect...<i>turn all my thoughts inward</i>...about things in life. It doesn't take long before satan is using this to his advantage! I know that God showed this to me tonight because He wants me to <i>"get a grip"</i> on life! Figure out what is going on with me...get up...and keep going. Get rid of all the <i>"mental activity"</i> that is dragging me down and turn my thoughts back to Him. <b>Turn upward to God. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Right across the page in Psalm 55 is another good verse...<br />
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<i><b>Psalm 55:22 NLT</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b><span class="text Ps-55-22" id="en-NLT-14731">Give your burdens to the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-55-22">and he will take care of you.</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-55-22">He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.</span></span></b></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22">The study notes for that are...</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22"><b>God wants us to give our burdens to Him, but often we continue to bear them ourselves even when we say we are trusting in Him. Trust the same strength that sustains you to carry your </b></span></span><br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22"><b>cares also. </b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22">Just before going to sleep last night I picked up the bible by my bed and opened it right to this verse. Is God trying to tell me something...Yes. Have I been listening...No. But tonight...this all hit me...</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22">Our Lord is amazing the way He just keeps after us. After me. Lately I have just been one big fail after another. That's how I see myself...but He doesn't. He keeps on talking to me...reaching out to me...trying to pull me back in. Yet my mind wanders...my heart wanders. I seem to be caught in a struggle...a wrestling match of some sort. But God...He doesn't give up. He doesn't abandon. He is there for all time...right beside...giving slack but not too much. He doesn't ever let go...and I am thankful! </span></span><br />
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<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-55-22"><br /></span></span>
<br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7"><br /></span></span>
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-57-7"> </span></span><br />
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-38505296363743694312013-03-20T21:54:00.000-06:002013-03-20T21:54:03.891-06:00Come To MeHe is there<br />
Even when every thought<br />
even when all you feel<br />
is just a jumbled up mess<br />
He is still there<br />
Waiting for you<br />
for you to come<br />
Waiting for you <br />
to just get over it<br />
What is messy inside<br />
and it is because you<br />
allow it<br />
He is here<br />
In your world<br />
beside you<br />
reaching<br />
Reaching out to you<br />
with holes in His hands<br />
reaching<br />
He is with you<br />
Through it all<br />
He is still here<br />
still waiting<br />
still reaching<br />
His arms open wide <br />
beckoning<br />
Come<br />
I<br />
will hold you<br />
I<br />
your Lord<br />
I will hold you<br />
Help you to figure it out<br />
The mess inside<br />
the jumbled up mess<br />
All the thoughts<br />
the feelings<br />
I your Lord<br />
am with you<br />
and I will be<br />
until the end<br />
Come to Me<br />
for you are weak<br />
Come to Me<br />
so I can carry you<br />
Come to Me<br />
and rest<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3542196444265671429.post-75100399770359390642013-03-19T22:49:00.001-06:002013-03-19T22:49:17.250-06:00Find Your Spiritual Sea Legs<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
Philippians 4:19</h3>
<div class="txt-sm">
</div>
</div>
<div class="verse">
<b><span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><sup class="versenum">19 </sup>And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.</span></b></div>
<div class="verse">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">Do you ever feel like your just going through the motions and things aren't really how they should be between you and the Lord? I don't mean that you've turned your back on God...or your deliberately sinning...but maybe your kind of hanging on the edges...the perimeter...of where you once were in your relationship. I'll step out, be a little transparent, and tell you I have for a while now. I've been on a downward trend and don't even know why. What I do know is I don't like it. I am not happy in this place. So tonight I was reading my bible and then decided to read a devotional. The word vessel was used and as soon as I read that word I knew this...</span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><br /></span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">God was trying to speak to me and I needed to listen!</span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><br /></span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">A vessel is a container. When it's empty it's like a cavity...just a hole needing to be filled. As in; an empty vessel needs to be filled. </span></div>
<div class="verse">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">What do you use to fill your vessel when it's empty? You know...the spot inside of you that at times feels like an empty hole...a cavity. Right in the middle where nothing seems to be. Where all you feel is a gnawing hunger that you just can't seem to satisfy! At times it's hard to know what to do. Sometimes trying to fill that space is like trying to find your sea legs when you're on a ship in rough water...</span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><br /></span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">At first you try to stand up but you find your wobbly...stumbling...maybe even fall down. But eventually you get a grip...right yourself, stand up straight and start walking again. You've found your sea legs! </span></div>
<div class="verse">
<br /></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">The same goes for that gnawing hunger inside of you...that ache. You need to find your spiritual sea legs again. You need to reach out to the Lord...take His hand and let Him lead and guide you. Let Him take you where you need to go...in Him...until your standing strong again. Commune with Him on a level that lets you get your spiritual sea legs back. You might wobble and stumble a bit at first but soon...with the Lords help...you will stand strong again. He will fill that empty vessel...cavity...inside of you to overflowing once again. You will soon feel His presence with you again...His joy...His peace. One more time you will know it was His grace that gave you the strength you needed to stand again. </span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><br /></span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460">So that's my goal for the days ahead. To get my spiritual legs back.To be able to stand...unshakeable...and get off the perimeter. I know that I can't live this life without holding on to the hand of Jesus. He is my strength...my rock...my refuge. </span></div>
<div class="verse">
<span class="text Phil-4-19" id="en-AMP-29460"><br /></span></div>
<div class="verse">
</div>
<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<h3>
Psalm 16:8</h3>
<div class="txt-sm">
</div>
</div>
<div class="passage version-NLT result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<div class="poetry top-1">
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<b><span class="text Ps-16-8" id="en-NLT-14077"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>I know the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is always with me.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-16-8">I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.</span></span></b></div>
</div>
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<div class="verse">
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Reformed rebelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00223763504256286702noreply@blogger.com7