Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?
And Who told the ocean you can only come this far?
And Who showed the moon where to hide 'til evening?
Whose words alone can catch a falling star?
I know my Redeemer lives
I know my Redeemer lives
Let all creation testify
This life within me cries
I know my Redeemer lives.
The very same God that spins things in orbit
Runs to the weary, the worn and the weak
And the same gentle hands that hold me when I'm broken
They conquered death to bring me victory
Now I know my Redeemer lives
I know my Redeemer lives
Let all creation testify
Let this life within me cry
I know my Redeemer
He lives To take away my shame
And He lives forever I'll proclaim
That the payment for my sin
Was the precious life He gave
But now He's alive and There's an empty grave.
And I know my Redeemer lives
I know my Redeemer lives
Let all creation testify
Let this life within me cry
I know my Redeemer lives.
Because He lives I can face tomorrow.
I was reminded of this song as I finished "Take Two" by Karen Kingsbury this evening. While I have a long list of classics waiting a read through, sometimes a Kingsbury is needed. They are quick and uplifting reads.
Redeemer has always been one of my favorite songs. It is so powerful and encouraging. It brings me great hope.
Thank The Lord for his sacrifice.
Showing posts with label My Walk. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My Walk. Show all posts
Friday, November 09, 2012
Sunday, November 04, 2012
Politics: A Sobering Thought
I was lying in bed, reading in 2 Kings for my devotions when I had a sobering thought. What if all my short comings and my most horrible decisions were written for the entire world to see? What if all I was remembered by were my mistakes and my hard-headed moments? That is how many of the kings of Israel are remembered. Now, sure the biggest mistakes of many of these kings was turning their backs on God, which dictated the rest of their lives and decisions, but what if they were good husbands and fathers? What if they were loyal friends and cared for the poor? Not that those traits would excuse the evils that they did, but all we know of someone of them is a few sentences. Roughly: how old they were when they became king, how long they reigned, and if they did evil in the eyes of The Lord. Again, that is all we need to know, but it made me think of my own short comings.
For instance, today I was disrespectful to my mother. For no reason at all. I didn't even apologize. I was too proud. My mother and I have a stressed relationship at times, much of which is unnecessary and my fault. What if all you knew about me was that I was disrespectful to my mother? That says a lot about me, but I would want you to know about my relationships with my father, husband, and son also. I would be hoping to redeem myself. What if every disrespectful instance in my life were catalogued for you to see and was constantly used against me, even in instances of totally different matters.
Wrapping it all together: as I was brushing my teeth, I compared my thoughts to the current political race. For all candidates, people act so ugly towards them. Downright hateful. Yes, I understand you may disagree with their policies or personal life. Yes, I understand that in [insert year] [insert politician] said/ voted for/ looked at something that was disagreeable to you so that means everything about that individual is a mark of the antichrist. Oh wait...
Specifically speaking of President Obama and Governor Romney as examples: every little thing in their entire lives is brought up as ammunition against them in the race. One man fumbles over a word in a debate and that suddenly makes him incompetent. One time so-and-so got a D on a paper in college, didn't we all? The wives and their accomplishments or non-ishments get brought into their worth as potential presidents. And many many more examples. In the end, the point is that every detail of these mens' lives is out for public display. Yes, some of these things are critical to the election. Honestly though, most of the important short comings of each candidate don't make it into the Facebook statuses I see. Reading through social media about politics is a much better poll when desiring to see what is important to voters. Appearances seem to be too high on the priority list for most voters. Policies are more of an afterthought.
Back to topic: Obama and Romney are men. Why do they deserve an attack any more than I? If I had the power they had would I make all the right choices? I don't have anywhere near that kind of power and I still don't make the right choices sometimes. I could give more explanations but I think you get the jist.
I have voted already. I am pleased with my vote and I hope my man wins. Do I think he will be a perfect president? No. Do I think I will agree with everything he does in office? No. But I most closely align with his values and policies. But either way, I will not attack either candidate. They have both made mistakes in their life. Unfortunately for them the while world can see or read about their mistakes. How very unfortunate indeed. I don't know how they handle it.
So give a little grace for these leaders. Give them the respect they deserve not because of the offices they hold, but because they are human beings. God made them and all their imperfections. God made me and all my imperfections. And I thank God you can't read about those imperfections.
For instance, today I was disrespectful to my mother. For no reason at all. I didn't even apologize. I was too proud. My mother and I have a stressed relationship at times, much of which is unnecessary and my fault. What if all you knew about me was that I was disrespectful to my mother? That says a lot about me, but I would want you to know about my relationships with my father, husband, and son also. I would be hoping to redeem myself. What if every disrespectful instance in my life were catalogued for you to see and was constantly used against me, even in instances of totally different matters.
Wrapping it all together: as I was brushing my teeth, I compared my thoughts to the current political race. For all candidates, people act so ugly towards them. Downright hateful. Yes, I understand you may disagree with their policies or personal life. Yes, I understand that in [insert year] [insert politician] said/ voted for/ looked at something that was disagreeable to you so that means everything about that individual is a mark of the antichrist. Oh wait...
Specifically speaking of President Obama and Governor Romney as examples: every little thing in their entire lives is brought up as ammunition against them in the race. One man fumbles over a word in a debate and that suddenly makes him incompetent. One time so-and-so got a D on a paper in college, didn't we all? The wives and their accomplishments or non-ishments get brought into their worth as potential presidents. And many many more examples. In the end, the point is that every detail of these mens' lives is out for public display. Yes, some of these things are critical to the election. Honestly though, most of the important short comings of each candidate don't make it into the Facebook statuses I see. Reading through social media about politics is a much better poll when desiring to see what is important to voters. Appearances seem to be too high on the priority list for most voters. Policies are more of an afterthought.
Back to topic: Obama and Romney are men. Why do they deserve an attack any more than I? If I had the power they had would I make all the right choices? I don't have anywhere near that kind of power and I still don't make the right choices sometimes. I could give more explanations but I think you get the jist.
I have voted already. I am pleased with my vote and I hope my man wins. Do I think he will be a perfect president? No. Do I think I will agree with everything he does in office? No. But I most closely align with his values and policies. But either way, I will not attack either candidate. They have both made mistakes in their life. Unfortunately for them the while world can see or read about their mistakes. How very unfortunate indeed. I don't know how they handle it.
So give a little grace for these leaders. Give them the respect they deserve not because of the offices they hold, but because they are human beings. God made them and all their imperfections. God made me and all my imperfections. And I thank God you can't read about those imperfections.
Wednesday, October 03, 2012
The Sphere if Humiliation
As a new month just started I wanted to begin a new devotional. I have a few devotionals by Oswald Chambers, but never purchased a copy of My Utmost for His Highest. I figured it was about time. In reading yesterday I thought the entry was too good not to share.
October 2
The Sphere of Humiliation
"If Thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us."
Mark 9:22
After every time of exaltation we are brought down with a sudden rush into things as they are where it is neither beautiful nor poetic nor thrilling. The height of the mountain top is measured by the drab drudgery of the valley; but it is in the valley that we have to live the glory of God. We see His glory on the mount, but we never live for His glory there. It is in the sphere of humiliation that we find our true worth to God, that is where our faithfulness is revealed. Most of us can do things if we are always at the heroic pitch because of the natural selfishness of our hearts, but God wants us at the drab commonplace pitch, where we live in the valley according to our personal relationship to Him. Peter thought it would be a fine thing for then to remain on the mount, but Jesus Christ too the disciples down from the mount into the valley, the place where the meaning of the vision is explained.
"If Thou canst do any thing..." It takes the valley of humiliation to root the skepticism out of us. Look back at your own experience and you will find that until you learned Who Jesus was, you were a cunning skeptic about His power. When you were on the mount, you could believe anything, but what about the time when you were up against facts in the valley? You may be able to give a testimony to sanctification, but what about the thing that is a humiliation to you just now? The last time you were on the mount with God, you saw that all power in heaven and in earth belonged to Jesus- will you be skeptical now in the valley of humiliation?
October 2
The Sphere of Humiliation
"If Thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us."
Mark 9:22
After every time of exaltation we are brought down with a sudden rush into things as they are where it is neither beautiful nor poetic nor thrilling. The height of the mountain top is measured by the drab drudgery of the valley; but it is in the valley that we have to live the glory of God. We see His glory on the mount, but we never live for His glory there. It is in the sphere of humiliation that we find our true worth to God, that is where our faithfulness is revealed. Most of us can do things if we are always at the heroic pitch because of the natural selfishness of our hearts, but God wants us at the drab commonplace pitch, where we live in the valley according to our personal relationship to Him. Peter thought it would be a fine thing for then to remain on the mount, but Jesus Christ too the disciples down from the mount into the valley, the place where the meaning of the vision is explained.
"If Thou canst do any thing..." It takes the valley of humiliation to root the skepticism out of us. Look back at your own experience and you will find that until you learned Who Jesus was, you were a cunning skeptic about His power. When you were on the mount, you could believe anything, but what about the time when you were up against facts in the valley? You may be able to give a testimony to sanctification, but what about the thing that is a humiliation to you just now? The last time you were on the mount with God, you saw that all power in heaven and in earth belonged to Jesus- will you be skeptical now in the valley of humiliation?
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Humility
I was reminded today of the importance of humility. My department at work (which consists of eight people) has a weekly team meeting. We rotate devotions for these meetings. Today my coworker shared the passage Philippians 2. Philippians, one of those books I've read numerous times and always seems to have something for me to learn.
3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4
Humility. This struck a chord with me. I know I have a pride issue. I am not proud in every area of life. But there are certainly some areas that I not only am proud of, but I am prideful. Being proud of one's accomplishments is not a sin. Thinking yourself better than others because of said accomplishments is. I struggle with thinking myself better than others in certain areas of intellect. I won't go into detail, but I have a very low tolerance for ignorance, which sometimes is not fair.
This was a good reminder today. Jesus Christ (continue reading Philippians 2) is omniscient. He came down to earth and humbled Himself to be a physical man. Pause. Take that in. But He was also omniscient, all knowing. He did not make snide comments to those with finite knowledge. He did not disregard those with incorrect information. In love, he shared with them the way, the truth, and the life. Who am I to think myself better than another wo/man?
Humbling.
3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4
Humility. This struck a chord with me. I know I have a pride issue. I am not proud in every area of life. But there are certainly some areas that I not only am proud of, but I am prideful. Being proud of one's accomplishments is not a sin. Thinking yourself better than others because of said accomplishments is. I struggle with thinking myself better than others in certain areas of intellect. I won't go into detail, but I have a very low tolerance for ignorance, which sometimes is not fair.
This was a good reminder today. Jesus Christ (continue reading Philippians 2) is omniscient. He came down to earth and humbled Himself to be a physical man. Pause. Take that in. But He was also omniscient, all knowing. He did not make snide comments to those with finite knowledge. He did not disregard those with incorrect information. In love, he shared with them the way, the truth, and the life. Who am I to think myself better than another wo/man?
Humbling.
Wednesday, August 08, 2012
The Weight of Parenthood
I shared devotions in my team meeting at work today. I was supposed to create a devotions schedule last week to send out to the team, but I forgot. So I prepared a devotion 10 minutes prior to the meeting based on my personal devotions. Thankfully, as I have stated before, the Word of God is living and moving. When he teaches me something I just can't help but share.
I have been reading in 1 Kings. I love the books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles, but I prefer not to read them back to back. A lot of the stories overlap and seem redundant. But there is so much to learn and so much history in those books. I'll get back to my reading in 1 Kings, but first a preface.
During my time at Liberty some speaker or teacher or pastor (after seven years as a student or staff member it all seems to blend together) referenced Exodus 34: 6-7 which says, "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation." Stop and think of that for a second.
Example: King David. A man after God's own heart. How did his actions move the third and fourth generations?
First example, Bathsheba's child. We all know the story. David looked, David longed for, David took, David killed. Nathan the prophet visits David and says, "Because by this deed you have utterly scorned the Lord, the child who is born to you shall die" and "on the seventh day the child died"(2 Samuel 12). David's adultery led to the premature death of his child. The iniquity of the father on the child.
Second example: Absalom. Absalom is one of David's sons. Absalom kills his half-brother Amnon. Absalom attempts to steal the kingdom from his father. In this attempt, Absalom wishes to kill his father. Absalom is killed by Joab, one of David's commanders. David hears of Absalom's death. Even though Absalom sought to take the life of his father, David cried, "O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son! (2 Samuel 18). David's son Absalom did not walk with God. David ceased to train his son in the ways of the Lord. The iniquity of the father on the child.
Third example, from my recent devotions in 1 Kings: Jeroboam. Solomon has taken many wives and concubines. Solomon has built the temple and his own palace. Solomon has turned from the Lord. The Lord is giving the kingdom to Jeroboam. The Lord says, "Behold, I am about to tear the kingdom from the hand of Solomon and will give you ten tribes (but he shall have one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city that I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel)" (1 Kings 11: 31-32). Even though the kingdom was being stripped from Solomon, possibly the wisest man on earth, one tribe would remain in his power on behalf of his father David. David was a man after God's own heart. David was a friend of God. Because of David's steadfastness, Solomon's kingdom was not devoted to complete ruin. The blessing of the father passed on to the child.
Shortly after Jackson was born I began to feel the weight of spiritual parenthood. I am sure this weight will increase as Jackson grows and learns and develops cognitive thought. While it is not my responsibility that Jackson come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice and grace, it is my responsibility to teach Jackson of God and His love. It is my responsibility to be an example to Jackson of what the Christian life should be. It is my responsibility to train him in the ways of the Lord so that he will not depart from them when he is old.
Ummm... what?
How?
It is awfully humbling to know that over the next couple decades baby will be watching me and learning from me. He will notice all my good traits... and all my bad. What actions will he choose to mimic? When will he choose to mirror me? What will he repeat and to whom? Most importantly, how will he view God and appropriate acts of worship?
Deep breath. Take it one day at a time. Live so that my family history is one where God blesses my descendants "for the sake of Rebecca". Live so that my descendants will not turn away from the Lord, but will continue their family heritage of knowing Christ and making him known.
I have been reading in 1 Kings. I love the books of Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles, but I prefer not to read them back to back. A lot of the stories overlap and seem redundant. But there is so much to learn and so much history in those books. I'll get back to my reading in 1 Kings, but first a preface.
During my time at Liberty some speaker or teacher or pastor (after seven years as a student or staff member it all seems to blend together) referenced Exodus 34: 6-7 which says, "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation." Stop and think of that for a second.
Example: King David. A man after God's own heart. How did his actions move the third and fourth generations?
First example, Bathsheba's child. We all know the story. David looked, David longed for, David took, David killed. Nathan the prophet visits David and says, "Because by this deed you have utterly scorned the Lord, the child who is born to you shall die" and "on the seventh day the child died"(2 Samuel 12). David's adultery led to the premature death of his child. The iniquity of the father on the child.
Second example: Absalom. Absalom is one of David's sons. Absalom kills his half-brother Amnon. Absalom attempts to steal the kingdom from his father. In this attempt, Absalom wishes to kill his father. Absalom is killed by Joab, one of David's commanders. David hears of Absalom's death. Even though Absalom sought to take the life of his father, David cried, "O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son! (2 Samuel 18). David's son Absalom did not walk with God. David ceased to train his son in the ways of the Lord. The iniquity of the father on the child.
Third example, from my recent devotions in 1 Kings: Jeroboam. Solomon has taken many wives and concubines. Solomon has built the temple and his own palace. Solomon has turned from the Lord. The Lord is giving the kingdom to Jeroboam. The Lord says, "Behold, I am about to tear the kingdom from the hand of Solomon and will give you ten tribes (but he shall have one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, the city that I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel)" (1 Kings 11: 31-32). Even though the kingdom was being stripped from Solomon, possibly the wisest man on earth, one tribe would remain in his power on behalf of his father David. David was a man after God's own heart. David was a friend of God. Because of David's steadfastness, Solomon's kingdom was not devoted to complete ruin. The blessing of the father passed on to the child.
Shortly after Jackson was born I began to feel the weight of spiritual parenthood. I am sure this weight will increase as Jackson grows and learns and develops cognitive thought. While it is not my responsibility that Jackson come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice and grace, it is my responsibility to teach Jackson of God and His love. It is my responsibility to be an example to Jackson of what the Christian life should be. It is my responsibility to train him in the ways of the Lord so that he will not depart from them when he is old.
Ummm... what?
How?
It is awfully humbling to know that over the next couple decades baby will be watching me and learning from me. He will notice all my good traits... and all my bad. What actions will he choose to mimic? When will he choose to mirror me? What will he repeat and to whom? Most importantly, how will he view God and appropriate acts of worship?
Deep breath. Take it one day at a time. Live so that my family history is one where God blesses my descendants "for the sake of Rebecca". Live so that my descendants will not turn away from the Lord, but will continue their family heritage of knowing Christ and making him known.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Where Your Treasure Is
Yesterday I was convicted. Our World Vision statement came in the mail so I knew we would be sending along a check this week. That is about half of our tithing each month. I had a $20 in my wallet. Before church I sat there, thought about it, opened my wallet and looked at the 20, and closed my wallet again. I honestly was thinking about how nice it would be to have cash on hand during the next couple weeks, ya know, for things like candy bars and vanilla fraps. Yes, that is what I use my loose change for.
Well, right before the offering was taken Dr. Kroll said, "Where your treasure is there your heart will be also"... conviction. I thought to myself, "Dangit, Dr. Kroll!" So I got out my wallet and passed my $20 to Matt to drop in the plate.
Let me tell you, obeying God is uplifting. If I had kept that $20 I can guarantee I would be legitimizing that act for every purchase made with that $20. I would have that sickly feeling in my stomach for the rest of the day and it would return each time I opened my wallet. Instead, I felt refreshed and light. Obeying God gives reassurance like no other. I know that God will provide for my family as long as we obey His direction.
Lesson learned.
On a separate subject (though semi-related): I am so blessed to have parents and in-laws that are willing and able to assist us if need be- in all areas. I was able to call my Dad to ask for some assistance for something and he was more than happy to help me out. I know, not giving a lot of details, but the point is: I am very blessed to have four amazing parents. I love each of them and am so thankful for their part in my life. I am also so thankful for their love, support, and influence on my son, Jackson. It is so reassuring knowing that he has four loving grandparents.
Well, right before the offering was taken Dr. Kroll said, "Where your treasure is there your heart will be also"... conviction. I thought to myself, "Dangit, Dr. Kroll!" So I got out my wallet and passed my $20 to Matt to drop in the plate.
Let me tell you, obeying God is uplifting. If I had kept that $20 I can guarantee I would be legitimizing that act for every purchase made with that $20. I would have that sickly feeling in my stomach for the rest of the day and it would return each time I opened my wallet. Instead, I felt refreshed and light. Obeying God gives reassurance like no other. I know that God will provide for my family as long as we obey His direction.
Lesson learned.
On a separate subject (though semi-related): I am so blessed to have parents and in-laws that are willing and able to assist us if need be- in all areas. I was able to call my Dad to ask for some assistance for something and he was more than happy to help me out. I know, not giving a lot of details, but the point is: I am very blessed to have four amazing parents. I love each of them and am so thankful for their part in my life. I am also so thankful for their love, support, and influence on my son, Jackson. It is so reassuring knowing that he has four loving grandparents.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Lessons from 1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians has been kicking my butt! So many challenges
that I am falling short of. Again, just another proof that the Word of God is
truly alive: I have read the book of 1 Corinthians many, many times. Yet these
truths speak to me in new ways today than they did the last time I read them.
Even passages I have highlighted previously have been forgotten and are
reminders of how far I am fallen. I am forgiven and redeemed, but I am still
fallen. I am still a sinner. I still need forgiveness and redemption each and
every day.
Two passages that particularly stuck out to me this read-
through:
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and
there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of
activities, but it is the same God who empowers them to everyone. To each is
given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given
through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge
according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another
gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to
another prophecy, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the
interpretation of tongues. All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit,
who apportions to each one individually as he wills.
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
I have heard many sermons and sat through many classroom
lectures regarding spiritual gifts. This passage comes from the ESV and the
wording is beautiful. This is at least my 4th time reading this
passage in the ESV (as my current Bible was my wedding present from my husband),
yet I had never noticed the way the gifts are worded. Specifically, I liked the
differentiation of “wisdom” and “knowledge”. One can have much knowledge but
not be a very wise person. I consider myself to be in this category. I have a
lot of common sense (according to my husband), I have a lot of knowledge (as I
enjoy learning and love to read), but that does not mean I am a wise person. I
often get haughty in my knowledge, especially when interacting with those who
are less intelligent. I believe that part of being wise is being humble. This
is a struggle in my life and I aim to develop an attitude of humility. So often
people mistake wisdom and knowledge for the same thing. But these are separate
gifts and very different qualities. One can have knowledge and be wise, but
that is something I need to work on.
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be
strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
This is a verse I had previously highlighted. I have
absolutely no recollection of this passage, however. This spoke to me in two
ways. The first sentence seems fitting for our entrance into the military.
Matthew will need to be watchful and to “act like a man” when going through
training. I will need to stand firm in the faith and be strong as I manage the home
front. It is so easy to get overwhelmed by the thought of Matt deploying or
even going through the rigors of training. But I must keep faith in the Lord and
his path for our family. The second sentence is something I have recently been
focusing on. I am not a very loving person. I can be a loving person… to those
I deem worthy. This may not be such a huge problem if I wasn’t such a proud
person. Pride gets in the way of so many things, including relationships. Too
often if someone is different than me I choose to ignore him or her. Worse, I
choose to go out of my way to avoid that person. I am getting much better at
accepting people (and have gained some wonderful friendships along the way),
but I still have a long way to go. If I act in love towards all people, then I
will have no choice but to love them with the love of Christ.
I plan to add to this post tonight or tomorrow about my personal spiritual gift, but baby is stirring. Check back!
[addition]
It is now 9:30 pm on Sunday, July 15. This just shows how life is with a baby! I wrote the bulk of this post last night while Jack was sleeping. He was stirring and it was time for him to eat so I finished up quickly and planned to come back to finish after he settled down again. Well, he settled down... as long as he was snuggled with Mommy. It was awhile before I could put him in his sleeper next to my bed. Today we went to church and took a long nap. When Jack was awake we were busy playing and finishing up some household chores (laundry and making good use of our new vacuum, which is amazing!). We skyped with Grammy and Papa in Michigan and Jack fell asleep towards the end of that conversation. I placed him in his sleeper, got ready for bed, and finally had a free moment to finish this post. Life as a parent... and to think, I want many more little munchkins! Parenthood is the most rewarding privilege, however. I wouldn't trade it for anything. My schedule is very different now than it was pre-baby, but I like it better! It keeps me more accountable and responsible.
So, my personal spiritual gift. I took a test on spiritual gifts to help determine my strengths. I took this test in college and again just now. If you look at my life pre-college, in college, and now you will notice that while I remain the same person with the same general disposition, I grow in many other areas. I have learned to go out of my comfort zone and in my more zealous attributes I have learned to be more mild. That being said, my spiritual gift is that of "helper". I scored highest in that area, but my scores for "administrator" and "teacher" were not that different.
The test I took states:
Your two highest gifts (gift mix)
HELPER: That special ability to do service-oriented work for God in necessary tasks that may seem routine and mundane. The helper usually enjoys serving without public attention, doing such tasks as preparing a meeting room or working on a church building (I Cor. 12:28; Rom. 12:7, 16:1,2 NKJV: I Pet. 4:10,11).
ADMINISTRATOR: That special ability to manage human, financial, and physical resources in an efficient manner. The administrator functions by planning, organizing, leading and supervising (Rom. 12:8; I Cor. 12:28; Titus 1:5).
After reading those descriptions, I have to agree. I dislike being a leader in any given situation, but enjoy lending a helping hand whenever possible. With administrator, I enjoy creating a plan and following through. I was moved into the position of "recruitment coordinator" at work so I can better utilize those strengths.
It is important to know one's spiritual gifts so you can serve most efficiently. I took Elmer Towns' spiritual gifts test. Elmer Towns is the co-founder of Liberty University. I enjoyed his classes, his books, and I love listening to him speak. He is such a wise man. You can take his test here: www.elmertowns.com/spiritualgiftstest
Use your gift to glorify God and to serve others!
I plan to add to this post tonight or tomorrow about my personal spiritual gift, but baby is stirring. Check back!
[addition]
It is now 9:30 pm on Sunday, July 15. This just shows how life is with a baby! I wrote the bulk of this post last night while Jack was sleeping. He was stirring and it was time for him to eat so I finished up quickly and planned to come back to finish after he settled down again. Well, he settled down... as long as he was snuggled with Mommy. It was awhile before I could put him in his sleeper next to my bed. Today we went to church and took a long nap. When Jack was awake we were busy playing and finishing up some household chores (laundry and making good use of our new vacuum, which is amazing!). We skyped with Grammy and Papa in Michigan and Jack fell asleep towards the end of that conversation. I placed him in his sleeper, got ready for bed, and finally had a free moment to finish this post. Life as a parent... and to think, I want many more little munchkins! Parenthood is the most rewarding privilege, however. I wouldn't trade it for anything. My schedule is very different now than it was pre-baby, but I like it better! It keeps me more accountable and responsible.
So, my personal spiritual gift. I took a test on spiritual gifts to help determine my strengths. I took this test in college and again just now. If you look at my life pre-college, in college, and now you will notice that while I remain the same person with the same general disposition, I grow in many other areas. I have learned to go out of my comfort zone and in my more zealous attributes I have learned to be more mild. That being said, my spiritual gift is that of "helper". I scored highest in that area, but my scores for "administrator" and "teacher" were not that different.
The test I took states:
Your two highest gifts (gift mix)
HELPER: That special ability to do service-oriented work for God in necessary tasks that may seem routine and mundane. The helper usually enjoys serving without public attention, doing such tasks as preparing a meeting room or working on a church building (I Cor. 12:28; Rom. 12:7, 16:1,2 NKJV: I Pet. 4:10,11).
ADMINISTRATOR: That special ability to manage human, financial, and physical resources in an efficient manner. The administrator functions by planning, organizing, leading and supervising (Rom. 12:8; I Cor. 12:28; Titus 1:5).
After reading those descriptions, I have to agree. I dislike being a leader in any given situation, but enjoy lending a helping hand whenever possible. With administrator, I enjoy creating a plan and following through. I was moved into the position of "recruitment coordinator" at work so I can better utilize those strengths.
It is important to know one's spiritual gifts so you can serve most efficiently. I took Elmer Towns' spiritual gifts test. Elmer Towns is the co-founder of Liberty University. I enjoyed his classes, his books, and I love listening to him speak. He is such a wise man. You can take his test here: www.elmertowns.com/spiritualgiftstest
Use your gift to glorify God and to serve others!
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Answers to the Job question
A handful of posts ago I raised some questions about the book of Job. I finished that book last week and may have had some of my questions answered. I say "may" because I didn't get out any of my Bible commentaries. This is just my perception of the text.
[I currently have a sleeping baby on my chest, so I apologize that coordinating verses are not included in this post. It's really better if you look it up anyways. You learn more that way!]
So, my big beef with the book of Job was the fact that when his wealth and children were taken away... he was then given back double. Now, to preface this, there are several stories in the Bible that I imagine the way I learned them in Sunday School. Think flannel graph! I also learned a lot of Bible stories via SuperBook videos. So in my mind I can see the last image where Job is surrounded by lots of land, livestock, and smiling children. This equates itself in my brain to him having 14 sons and 6 daughters to replace the 7 sons and 3 daughters he lost.
In the last chapter of Job, the text {ESV} reads that God "restored" Job's wealth and children. Not that he replaced them or had them anew, these things were restored. It lists that Job had 7 sons and 3 daughters. Could this mean that his original children were no longer deceased? Did God raise them from the dead to honor Job? Possibly. He could have conceived 10 new children with his wife, that is highly possible. A good Bible commentary probably would answer this question more specifically with the original meanings and contexts of the passage in the original language. But I kind of like thinking it through on my own.
Either way, the Lord did not replace Job's children. Having sacrificed his one and only Son, he knows that children cannot be replaced. He restored to Job all that was his.
I no longer have to be upset over the thought that Job's original children were without merit.
More proof that the Word of the Lord is alive and moving. I have read the book of Job more times than many of the other book in the Bible. But somehow I can't wrap my mind around the ending of this story. I keep reverting back to the flannel graph depiction my inner child remembers. God uses this story to keep me thinking and to teach me of his grace and mercy.
[I currently have a sleeping baby on my chest, so I apologize that coordinating verses are not included in this post. It's really better if you look it up anyways. You learn more that way!]
So, my big beef with the book of Job was the fact that when his wealth and children were taken away... he was then given back double. Now, to preface this, there are several stories in the Bible that I imagine the way I learned them in Sunday School. Think flannel graph! I also learned a lot of Bible stories via SuperBook videos. So in my mind I can see the last image where Job is surrounded by lots of land, livestock, and smiling children. This equates itself in my brain to him having 14 sons and 6 daughters to replace the 7 sons and 3 daughters he lost.
In the last chapter of Job, the text {ESV} reads that God "restored" Job's wealth and children. Not that he replaced them or had them anew, these things were restored. It lists that Job had 7 sons and 3 daughters. Could this mean that his original children were no longer deceased? Did God raise them from the dead to honor Job? Possibly. He could have conceived 10 new children with his wife, that is highly possible. A good Bible commentary probably would answer this question more specifically with the original meanings and contexts of the passage in the original language. But I kind of like thinking it through on my own.
Either way, the Lord did not replace Job's children. Having sacrificed his one and only Son, he knows that children cannot be replaced. He restored to Job all that was his.
I no longer have to be upset over the thought that Job's original children were without merit.
More proof that the Word of the Lord is alive and moving. I have read the book of Job more times than many of the other book in the Bible. But somehow I can't wrap my mind around the ending of this story. I keep reverting back to the flannel graph depiction my inner child remembers. God uses this story to keep me thinking and to teach me of his grace and mercy.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Accountability
The clock says that it is "Monday"... but I'm still awake from Sunday, so it is still Sunday to me.
Pastor preached on hell today. Matt and I agreed that we were thankful for this message because 1) hell is an interesting topic/doctrine, 2) it reminds us to be thankful for all that we have and all that our children have the opportunity to have, and 3) it helps us know we chose the right church, one that isn't afraid to preach the entire truth of the Word.
On the car ride home Matt and I discussed the sermon and how we were thankful that hopefully Jack won't have to go through the eternal torture of hell. This discussion led to my realization that if Jack died prematurely (which in my mind means any time before I pass myself) and I knew he had not accepted Christ as his Savior, then I would feel like that was the greatest failure of my life. I am his mother. It is my job to lead and guide him through his life. While it is not my responsibility to "save" him, it is my responsibility to teach him the truth of Christ.
This portion of the discussion led to the ever controversial "age of accountability". Does the age of accountability mean when children understand the repercussions of their actions? Or does it ean that all children under this age go to heaven if the die? At the risk of sounding insensitive, I do not believe that all children under the age of 12 (which is what I have commonly heard as the age of accountability) go to heaven upon death. If we believe that life begins at conception, then we must also believe that upon conception those children have a sin nature. If those children have a sin nature, then according to Romans 6:23, "The wages of sin is death".
Without going too much into predestination (since that is a sticky subject of its own), I believe that the concept of predestination applies to the age of accountability. From the beginning of time God has known who would accept His mercy and who would reject Him. This is true of children under the age of 12 as well. God knows that individual's heart. God knows what that individual would have chosen had they grown up to make adult decisions. (Now, yes, the argument here is that the child never had the opportunity to make those decisions him/herself... we're not going into that argument right now though) Some think that a child going to hell for eternity when they didn't have the necessary knowledge to make a salvation decision isn't "fair". Well, "all fall short of the glory of God," including children. I don't necessarily like it, but it's the truth.
From this point the conversation steered to my views on predestination. It is by far the area of the faith that I struggle with the most. Matt asked how I would feel about predestination if Jack never came to a saving knowledge of Christ. That makes me very sad to think about. Makes me feel upset at the idea that Jack (or any future child of mine) wasn't one of the elect.
From here, what about mentally retarded individuals? Yes, they have a sin nature, but what if they are close to a vegetative state? What if they aren't quite that handicapped, but they are still unable to differentiate right from wrong? How does predestination work in that instance?
All we know is that God knows the heart.
That is a calming thought in all of these discussions.
Pastor preached on hell today. Matt and I agreed that we were thankful for this message because 1) hell is an interesting topic/doctrine, 2) it reminds us to be thankful for all that we have and all that our children have the opportunity to have, and 3) it helps us know we chose the right church, one that isn't afraid to preach the entire truth of the Word.
On the car ride home Matt and I discussed the sermon and how we were thankful that hopefully Jack won't have to go through the eternal torture of hell. This discussion led to my realization that if Jack died prematurely (which in my mind means any time before I pass myself) and I knew he had not accepted Christ as his Savior, then I would feel like that was the greatest failure of my life. I am his mother. It is my job to lead and guide him through his life. While it is not my responsibility to "save" him, it is my responsibility to teach him the truth of Christ.
This portion of the discussion led to the ever controversial "age of accountability". Does the age of accountability mean when children understand the repercussions of their actions? Or does it ean that all children under this age go to heaven if the die? At the risk of sounding insensitive, I do not believe that all children under the age of 12 (which is what I have commonly heard as the age of accountability) go to heaven upon death. If we believe that life begins at conception, then we must also believe that upon conception those children have a sin nature. If those children have a sin nature, then according to Romans 6:23, "The wages of sin is death".
Without going too much into predestination (since that is a sticky subject of its own), I believe that the concept of predestination applies to the age of accountability. From the beginning of time God has known who would accept His mercy and who would reject Him. This is true of children under the age of 12 as well. God knows that individual's heart. God knows what that individual would have chosen had they grown up to make adult decisions. (Now, yes, the argument here is that the child never had the opportunity to make those decisions him/herself... we're not going into that argument right now though) Some think that a child going to hell for eternity when they didn't have the necessary knowledge to make a salvation decision isn't "fair". Well, "all fall short of the glory of God," including children. I don't necessarily like it, but it's the truth.
From this point the conversation steered to my views on predestination. It is by far the area of the faith that I struggle with the most. Matt asked how I would feel about predestination if Jack never came to a saving knowledge of Christ. That makes me very sad to think about. Makes me feel upset at the idea that Jack (or any future child of mine) wasn't one of the elect.
From here, what about mentally retarded individuals? Yes, they have a sin nature, but what if they are close to a vegetative state? What if they aren't quite that handicapped, but they are still unable to differentiate right from wrong? How does predestination work in that instance?
All we know is that God knows the heart.
That is a calming thought in all of these discussions.
Friday, June 08, 2012
... but I don't want to
Yesterday was a full day! It was Matthew and my 4th wedding anniversary. Later tonight I plan to post about Grammie and GrandPops' visit this past weekend and our anniversary.
As I was settling down for the night, baby asleep in his sleeper next to my bed, I glanced at my Bible on my night stand and thought about how tired I was. I literally thought, "Too bad, God. Tomorrow I'll do my devotions, I promise." I amazed myself at that statement. I was shocked. Had I really just thought that? I went back and forth two times about staying up the extra minutes to do my devotions. I knew I that after that statement I had to (plus I should regardless).
It's amazing that reading my Bible feel like a chore some days. Whenever I read my Bible it lifts me up and gives me hope. That is the point of the Gospel after all, right? I figure that on days where I just don't want to spend the 15 or more minutes reading I really need it the most.
I read this section last night that is a favorite of mine:
As I was settling down for the night, baby asleep in his sleeper next to my bed, I glanced at my Bible on my night stand and thought about how tired I was. I literally thought, "Too bad, God. Tomorrow I'll do my devotions, I promise." I amazed myself at that statement. I was shocked. Had I really just thought that? I went back and forth two times about staying up the extra minutes to do my devotions. I knew I that after that statement I had to (plus I should regardless).
It's amazing that reading my Bible feel like a chore some days. Whenever I read my Bible it lifts me up and gives me hope. That is the point of the Gospel after all, right? I figure that on days where I just don't want to spend the 15 or more minutes reading I really need it the most.
I read this section last night that is a favorite of mine:
If you prepare your heart, you will stretch out your hands toward him. If iniquity is in your hand, put it far away, and let not injustice dwell in your tents. Surely then you will lift up your face without blemish; you will be secure and will not fear. You will forget your misery; you will remember it as waters that have passed away. And your life will be brighter than the noonday; its darkness will be like the morning. And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security. You will lie down, and none will make you afraid.
Job 11:13-19a
I had highlighted that passage in early college. So much goodness in those words. Like I said before, it was just what I needed. I need to get off my selfish high horse and act in obedience to my Lord. In college Matt said once (in reference to not wanting to wake up for See You At The Pole), "What if Jesus said He was too tired to wake up the morning He was crucified?" That has always stayed with me when I am feeling like a "lazy Christian". The saying, "He died for you so live for Him" is so entirely true.
This passage also spoke to me about the changes in my future. We are hopeful that Matthew will be selected for the Army OCS. This means that in the next year our lives would change drastically. There is so much unknown in the military life. If this is our future then I think a good family verse would be "And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security." Wherever we may be: home, work, school, deployed... we can always rest in the hope of the Lord. My brother-in-law is currently in Afghanistan. This truth applies to our trepidation during this time with him away. The Lord is watching over him and his family back home. That thought alone is enough to provide peace.
Thursday, June 07, 2012
Replacement
Now that I have incorporated labels into this blog, I may attempt to post more often. It was not uncommon for me to post a couple times a day previously. Now with so many labels, I may post multiple times in one day if the subjects are varied.
I have just recently begun reading the book of Job. Job is known for his great faith and steadfastness. In the first chapter Job hears that he has lost his property and all his children. His response, "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." (v. 21).
We all hope we would have that same response in that situation, but being honest, hardly any would. I don't think it's something anyone can know for sure until they are in that situation (and hopefully they won't have to be). While I was pregnant with Jack I kept thinking, "If I lose this baby, then at least God has given me these months with the baby instead of no months with the baby." Now, if I had lost the baby would I have kept that mindset? Who knows, I would certainly have tried to keep that perspective but it would have been difficult. I try to thank God for the 10 weeks I've had with Jack already. If something happens to him prematurely (as in, anytime before I, myself, die) then I would hope I would continue to praise God for the time I had with him and have the same attitude as Job. But, you just never know for sure until that moment comes. I know I would never curse God and turn away from Him. But I may not have such a positive response initially. It may take a lot of time, prayer, and council to get to that point.
This also is pretty common discussion about the story of Job. But what truly bothers me about the story is the end. Job continues to praise God and Satan's plan is thwarted. God blesses Job with double what he had before. Double the livestock, double the children. Happy endings, correct?
What of those children he lost? Does having double the quantity of children replace the children he lost? Almost seems like that could be a more stressful situation. If I lost Jack and then gained two children later in life, that doesn't seem like such a big deal (as far as the number of children). But Job had seven sons and daughters. He then was given fourteen sons and daughters! That is a lot of children- this from a girl who would love to have a big family. By big family I'm thinking five. Yes, Job was blessed. Yes, having numerous children is a blessing from the Lord as each child is an individual and a miracle. But this still doesn't seem like an entirely happy ending to me.
In Sunday School as a child the ending is always painted as God making up for all the bad that happened to Job. I know this is not truly the meaning of the ending and just the image planted in my memories. But it is still difficult for me not to feel very sorry for Job, his wife, and his deceased children. It would've been a much lovelier ending if those children could have been returned to Job and then seven more added to their number. I cannot imagine that Job's livestock mattered anywhere near as much to him as his children.
I am still in the beginning of the book of Job. I plan to examine the ending more carefully this read-through. But it seems so sad that Job's lost children are "replaced" by new children and that is the happily ever after for Job.
This is just my ramblings. Not looking for any arguments and I know there may be a lot the Bible doesn't tell us. This isn't the point of the story of Job and I shouldn't dwell too much on it. Honestly, I don't dwell on it too much but I just am always reminded of this tidbit when reading this story. It resonates so much stronger now that I am a mother.
I have just recently begun reading the book of Job. Job is known for his great faith and steadfastness. In the first chapter Job hears that he has lost his property and all his children. His response, "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." (v. 21).
We all hope we would have that same response in that situation, but being honest, hardly any would. I don't think it's something anyone can know for sure until they are in that situation (and hopefully they won't have to be). While I was pregnant with Jack I kept thinking, "If I lose this baby, then at least God has given me these months with the baby instead of no months with the baby." Now, if I had lost the baby would I have kept that mindset? Who knows, I would certainly have tried to keep that perspective but it would have been difficult. I try to thank God for the 10 weeks I've had with Jack already. If something happens to him prematurely (as in, anytime before I, myself, die) then I would hope I would continue to praise God for the time I had with him and have the same attitude as Job. But, you just never know for sure until that moment comes. I know I would never curse God and turn away from Him. But I may not have such a positive response initially. It may take a lot of time, prayer, and council to get to that point.
This also is pretty common discussion about the story of Job. But what truly bothers me about the story is the end. Job continues to praise God and Satan's plan is thwarted. God blesses Job with double what he had before. Double the livestock, double the children. Happy endings, correct?
What of those children he lost? Does having double the quantity of children replace the children he lost? Almost seems like that could be a more stressful situation. If I lost Jack and then gained two children later in life, that doesn't seem like such a big deal (as far as the number of children). But Job had seven sons and daughters. He then was given fourteen sons and daughters! That is a lot of children- this from a girl who would love to have a big family. By big family I'm thinking five. Yes, Job was blessed. Yes, having numerous children is a blessing from the Lord as each child is an individual and a miracle. But this still doesn't seem like an entirely happy ending to me.
In Sunday School as a child the ending is always painted as God making up for all the bad that happened to Job. I know this is not truly the meaning of the ending and just the image planted in my memories. But it is still difficult for me not to feel very sorry for Job, his wife, and his deceased children. It would've been a much lovelier ending if those children could have been returned to Job and then seven more added to their number. I cannot imagine that Job's livestock mattered anywhere near as much to him as his children.
I am still in the beginning of the book of Job. I plan to examine the ending more carefully this read-through. But it seems so sad that Job's lost children are "replaced" by new children and that is the happily ever after for Job.
This is just my ramblings. Not looking for any arguments and I know there may be a lot the Bible doesn't tell us. This isn't the point of the story of Job and I shouldn't dwell too much on it. Honestly, I don't dwell on it too much but I just am always reminded of this tidbit when reading this story. It resonates so much stronger now that I am a mother.
Friday, June 01, 2012
Jonathan
A new label for posts: My Walk. I have learned over the years the true meaning of Scripture being alive. This seems a strange statement, how can a book- printed words be alive? I have read the Bible numerous times in my lifetime. I have read it from cover to cover, jumped around, done in depth studies on particular books, and of course, studied as part of my education as I attended Christian schools from Pre-school through my Master's degree. You would think that I would have memorized the basic jist of the entire book by now, I mean, I can practically quote you the entire Chronicles of Narnia or Harry Potter series (those being the books I have read countless times). But this is not so. I will read a passage I must have read hundreds of times previously and see a verse that has never caught my eye before. I have an A-HA moment and understand the application of this verse in my life. How have I never noticed this gem of truth and wisdom before? Because I may not have needed to hear it before. Because God knows my heart and when I need encourage, when I need discipline, when I need hope. God's Word is alive, but not changing. He speaks to us through His Word to continually teach us. How amazing is that?
So as I discover new truths that speak particularly to me, I will add them to the "My Walk" section. There may be posts every day one week and then not for another month after that. Sometimes a passage just screams at you, ya know? Those will make up these posts. Or maybe I just have a new thought to share. Maybe one of those unknowable questions has prompted a theory in my mind (I'll probably share my theory on predestination, which has caused many heated disagreements between my husband and I).
Today: Jonathan.
1 Samuel 18:1-5
As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father's house. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped humself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt. And David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him, so that Saul set him over the men of war. And this was good in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants.
Jonathan knew that David was the Lord's anointed to be king over Israel in place of his father, Saul. Granted, Saul was the first kind of Israel so there may not have been an established succession to the throne, but from experiences with other countries, one would think that Jonathan would assume he would be heir to the throne. Yet, knowing the Lord wished David to be the next king, he befriended him. They became two of the most well known friends in history. Jonathan not only spared David's life when Saul was hunting him, but he also helped David escape from his father. Jonathan blessed David. Jonathan never once is mentioned as being jealous of David. Jonathan never assumes his right to the throne instead of David. Jonathan obeys the will of the Lord.
Jonathan doesn't get much spotlight in the Bible hall of fame. But how humble a man must he have been? How kind and loyal a friend? How obedient to the will of the Lord?
Two of my favorite Biblical characters are Daniel and John. Daniel did not have anything negative written of him and had unwavering faith. John is the apostle whom Jesus loved. I may have to add Jonathan to this list for his humility.
So as I discover new truths that speak particularly to me, I will add them to the "My Walk" section. There may be posts every day one week and then not for another month after that. Sometimes a passage just screams at you, ya know? Those will make up these posts. Or maybe I just have a new thought to share. Maybe one of those unknowable questions has prompted a theory in my mind (I'll probably share my theory on predestination, which has caused many heated disagreements between my husband and I).
Today: Jonathan.
1 Samuel 18:1-5
As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father's house. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan stripped humself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt. And David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him, so that Saul set him over the men of war. And this was good in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants.
Jonathan knew that David was the Lord's anointed to be king over Israel in place of his father, Saul. Granted, Saul was the first kind of Israel so there may not have been an established succession to the throne, but from experiences with other countries, one would think that Jonathan would assume he would be heir to the throne. Yet, knowing the Lord wished David to be the next king, he befriended him. They became two of the most well known friends in history. Jonathan not only spared David's life when Saul was hunting him, but he also helped David escape from his father. Jonathan blessed David. Jonathan never once is mentioned as being jealous of David. Jonathan never assumes his right to the throne instead of David. Jonathan obeys the will of the Lord.
Jonathan doesn't get much spotlight in the Bible hall of fame. But how humble a man must he have been? How kind and loyal a friend? How obedient to the will of the Lord?
Two of my favorite Biblical characters are Daniel and John. Daniel did not have anything negative written of him and had unwavering faith. John is the apostle whom Jesus loved. I may have to add Jonathan to this list for his humility.
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