2 Timothy 4:5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Did you catch the "endure hardship" part? Remember, this means that fulfilling our call from God does not always come easy!
God always gives us the strength to do what He has commanded. This strength may not come until we actually begin doing what He calls in faith!!
Make today the day you step out in faith!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Good morning and happy Monday! I heard a really encouraging statistic on the radio yesterday morning. Check this out! When married couples who are contemplating divorce, make the choice to stay together and work at their marriage, over 70% of the couples give a 4 to 5 rating (out of 5) of their marriage 5 years later.
How cool is that??!!
Believe me, I know marriage is hard and sometimes it feels like there is no other option besides leaving, but because God created marriage to last a lifetime, He also is fully capable to give strength and change hearts.
When I heard the statistic on the radio, I smiled at my husband as he grinned back at me. We know this is true. It wasn't too many years ago that we were in the midst of making the choice of divorce or sticking it out. Only by the grace of God, we stayed together, made the choice to put God in the center of our marriage commitment, worked really hard at keeping our mouths closed when they needed to be, forgave and prayed, prayed, prayed.
Now, we praise God as we think about what He has pulled us from and how we could rate our marriage at a 5.
Nothing and I mean nothing is impossible with God!!! You may not see another option but God does. You may feel overwhelmed, depressed and hopeless but you must remember that God is in control. The God that created you and your spouse - the God that created marriage is in control.
You cannot change what your spouse says or does but you can control what you say and do. You can control your responses to situations. When you make good choices, your spouse will eventually see and it will make a difference in your marriage. Even if it is just you working on it! (for now)
"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate." Matthew 19:6
Some books that really helped my husband and I to understand each other better was "Love and Respect" and "The 5 Love Languages".
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
How cool is that??!!
Believe me, I know marriage is hard and sometimes it feels like there is no other option besides leaving, but because God created marriage to last a lifetime, He also is fully capable to give strength and change hearts.
When I heard the statistic on the radio, I smiled at my husband as he grinned back at me. We know this is true. It wasn't too many years ago that we were in the midst of making the choice of divorce or sticking it out. Only by the grace of God, we stayed together, made the choice to put God in the center of our marriage commitment, worked really hard at keeping our mouths closed when they needed to be, forgave and prayed, prayed, prayed.
Now, we praise God as we think about what He has pulled us from and how we could rate our marriage at a 5.
Nothing and I mean nothing is impossible with God!!! You may not see another option but God does. You may feel overwhelmed, depressed and hopeless but you must remember that God is in control. The God that created you and your spouse - the God that created marriage is in control.
You cannot change what your spouse says or does but you can control what you say and do. You can control your responses to situations. When you make good choices, your spouse will eventually see and it will make a difference in your marriage. Even if it is just you working on it! (for now)
"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate." Matthew 19:6
Some books that really helped my husband and I to understand each other better was "Love and Respect" and "The 5 Love Languages".
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Friday, June 26, 2009
Good morning and happy Friday my bloggy friends! I have been soaking up the sweet words of God in Isaiah lately. The attributes of God come shining through and it gives me great encouragement.
Read and be encouraged in our God:
49:15-16 "Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands."...
49:20 Go forth from Babylon! Flee from the Chaldeans! Declare with the sound of joyful shouting, proclaim this, send it out to the end of the earth; say, "The Lord has redeemed His servant Jacob."
51:6 ...But My salvation will be forever, and My righteousness will not wane.
Shout for joy and give God the praise He is due. Every good thing comes from Him, are you thankful or stuck in the rut of negativity?
Choose to be thankful today and look for God in every part of your day.
Have a great day and a great weekend!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Read and be encouraged in our God:
49:15-16 "Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands."...
49:20 Go forth from Babylon! Flee from the Chaldeans! Declare with the sound of joyful shouting, proclaim this, send it out to the end of the earth; say, "The Lord has redeemed His servant Jacob."
My Bible's commentary says this:
What is holding you captive? Be free! The Lord has redeemed His servants from the slavery of sin. When you let Him free you from your captivity, you will feel like shouting with joy.
51:6 ...But My salvation will be forever, and My righteousness will not wane.
Shout for joy and give God the praise He is due. Every good thing comes from Him, are you thankful or stuck in the rut of negativity?
Choose to be thankful today and look for God in every part of your day.
Have a great day and a great weekend!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Power to Overcome
22 Jun 2009 by Rachel Olsen
"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence." 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT)
Do you find yourself doing what you know you should not? Do you find it hard to stop? Yeah, I know.I've had several discussions lately with people stuck in patterns of behavior they want to quit. They're stuck in sin. What's more, they feel completely awful about it. Guilty. Shameful. Some to the point of hating themselves. And yet they feel powerless to stop – powerless to resist.
The Bible says when we return to our vices again and again, we are like dogs returning to our vomit (Prov. 26:11).Ick!So why do we do this? According to the Bible, Christ has conquered sin on our behalf and we have the capacity to be free from its power. Yet that is far from the reality of many Christians' lives. Why?Why does sin have any power over us? Why does it have any dominion in our lives? The answer is the same reason a dog returns to her vomit. She likes the taste.Sin has power because we enjoy it. It promises something we want … pleasure, escape, esteem, wealth, etc. Sure it always has consequences we don't want, but in many cases those don't over power its feel-good moments or perceived benefits. In short, sin has power because we love it.
Earlier this year I quit drinking my favorite drink, a particular diet cola. Now, I'm not saying diet colas are evil or sinful, just go with me here! The first time I tasted this diet drink I didn't think it was all that yummy. BUT it promised to save me calories so I decided it was wo rth the slightly strange chemical taste. In short time, as it grew familiar, I began to like the taste.Wasn't long before I was flat out addicted – wanting, even needing to have my beloved drink daily or I grew headachy and irritable. Sad thing is, it didn't help me lose weight at all. But that didn't matter because now I loved the diet drink. Furthermore, I was convinced if I gave it up, I'd not only get headaches but I'd gain more weight. I was enslaved in a way.It was my drink of choice: I smiled when I had it and frowned when I ran out, or if a restaurant didn't serve it. And I'd get worried anytime a health report questioned the safety of aspartame, a main ingredient in my diet cola. But loving it so, I returned to it day after day. Even though I'd begun to feel guilty about that.What helped me give up the diet cola? I found a different, healthier beverage I really liked and developed my taste for it. I was willing to give up that because I now had this. It's the same way with sin.What can help us overcome the sins we love, but hate loving? A surpassing love. A greater love that carries with it no hate, no guilt, and no shame. A love that actually delivers the many, many benefits it promises. A love that is full of wisdom and compassion, not vomit. A love more attractive and powerful than the allure of sin. It is the love of God displayed in Christ.When we catch hold of that love - when we read of it regularly, drink it in, and see it at work in our lives and in its glory - we cannot help but love Him back with all our heart, soul and mind. And in that state of all encompassing love, sin pales in comparison. Its power grows feeble. It no longer tastes as good.When we immerse ourselves in the everlasting love of God that has made us its object, we're more than willing to walk away from the vomit. We can give up that because we have this.
Dear Lord, forgive me for the sins I return to. Cleanse me with Your majestic love and grace. Reveal to me the depth of Your love, the extent of Your sacrifice, and the beauty of the mercy You grant me daily. Open my eyes to see Your love afresh and may I be empowered to walk away from sin towards Your heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Have a great day!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
22 Jun 2009 by Rachel Olsen
"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence." 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT)
Do you find yourself doing what you know you should not? Do you find it hard to stop? Yeah, I know.I've had several discussions lately with people stuck in patterns of behavior they want to quit. They're stuck in sin. What's more, they feel completely awful about it. Guilty. Shameful. Some to the point of hating themselves. And yet they feel powerless to stop – powerless to resist.
The Bible says when we return to our vices again and again, we are like dogs returning to our vomit (Prov. 26:11).Ick!So why do we do this? According to the Bible, Christ has conquered sin on our behalf and we have the capacity to be free from its power. Yet that is far from the reality of many Christians' lives. Why?Why does sin have any power over us? Why does it have any dominion in our lives? The answer is the same reason a dog returns to her vomit. She likes the taste.Sin has power because we enjoy it. It promises something we want … pleasure, escape, esteem, wealth, etc. Sure it always has consequences we don't want, but in many cases those don't over power its feel-good moments or perceived benefits. In short, sin has power because we love it.
Earlier this year I quit drinking my favorite drink, a particular diet cola. Now, I'm not saying diet colas are evil or sinful, just go with me here! The first time I tasted this diet drink I didn't think it was all that yummy. BUT it promised to save me calories so I decided it was wo rth the slightly strange chemical taste. In short time, as it grew familiar, I began to like the taste.Wasn't long before I was flat out addicted – wanting, even needing to have my beloved drink daily or I grew headachy and irritable. Sad thing is, it didn't help me lose weight at all. But that didn't matter because now I loved the diet drink. Furthermore, I was convinced if I gave it up, I'd not only get headaches but I'd gain more weight. I was enslaved in a way.It was my drink of choice: I smiled when I had it and frowned when I ran out, or if a restaurant didn't serve it. And I'd get worried anytime a health report questioned the safety of aspartame, a main ingredient in my diet cola. But loving it so, I returned to it day after day. Even though I'd begun to feel guilty about that.What helped me give up the diet cola? I found a different, healthier beverage I really liked and developed my taste for it. I was willing to give up that because I now had this. It's the same way with sin.What can help us overcome the sins we love, but hate loving? A surpassing love. A greater love that carries with it no hate, no guilt, and no shame. A love that actually delivers the many, many benefits it promises. A love that is full of wisdom and compassion, not vomit. A love more attractive and powerful than the allure of sin. It is the love of God displayed in Christ.When we catch hold of that love - when we read of it regularly, drink it in, and see it at work in our lives and in its glory - we cannot help but love Him back with all our heart, soul and mind. And in that state of all encompassing love, sin pales in comparison. Its power grows feeble. It no longer tastes as good.When we immerse ourselves in the everlasting love of God that has made us its object, we're more than willing to walk away from the vomit. We can give up that because we have this.
Dear Lord, forgive me for the sins I return to. Cleanse me with Your majestic love and grace. Reveal to me the depth of Your love, the extent of Your sacrifice, and the beauty of the mercy You grant me daily. Open my eyes to see Your love afresh and may I be empowered to walk away from sin towards Your heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Have a great day!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Hello friends! I love the way that God continues to teach me lessons each day. I think I've shared with you that I had my last speech class last night and our final was to do a 35 minute group presentation. When the project was assigned, I volunteered to put everyone's material together in an outline and also complete a PowerPoint presentation of the material. I explained that I only had one condition - that others in my group would get me everything in a timely manner because I was not one to throw it all together at the last minute.
About every other day, I sent out an email to my group, explaining and reminding them of exactly what I needed and gave a deadline as to when it needed to be turned into me by. (What do you mean? Of course, I'm not a control freak!)
Class is on Tuesday, so I explained that everything needed to be to me on or before Monday so I could finalize everything. Although, on Tuesday morning I received some material and very nicely, incorporated it into the project. I was missing one person's information, but at 1:00pm on Tuesday, I finalized everything and printed the necessary copies for our class that evening.
At 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, I received a phone call from the last person and asked if I could enter his information if he sent it to me right away. I explained that everything was complete and if he wanted to add anything, he needed to print off his info and staple it to the already completed documents. Although, he explained how crazy his week was, I was not going to budge.
I got off the phone and the conviction began. I quickly pushed it aside and continued on my day. I convinced myself that if he couldn't have his work to me on time, that was his problem and not mine. I was in the right and he was in the wrong.
As I drove to school, the conviction became greater and God continued to put Proverbs 3:27 in my mind "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do so."
Did I have the power to add his information to the group project? Yes. Was I withholding the good that I could have done for a man with a hectic week? Yes. Could my stubbornness have cost him a better grade? Yes.
Once again, another lesson learned. Showing compassion is a struggle for me and God continues to give me opportunities to be more compassionate. This is one I failed.
Lord, please forgive me for not showing your grace, mercy, love and compassion to others. Help me to see others as You see them. Give me Your eyes so that I can see. In Jesus' Name, Amen
Have a great day!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
About every other day, I sent out an email to my group, explaining and reminding them of exactly what I needed and gave a deadline as to when it needed to be turned into me by. (What do you mean? Of course, I'm not a control freak!)
Class is on Tuesday, so I explained that everything needed to be to me on or before Monday so I could finalize everything. Although, on Tuesday morning I received some material and very nicely, incorporated it into the project. I was missing one person's information, but at 1:00pm on Tuesday, I finalized everything and printed the necessary copies for our class that evening.
At 2:30 Tuesday afternoon, I received a phone call from the last person and asked if I could enter his information if he sent it to me right away. I explained that everything was complete and if he wanted to add anything, he needed to print off his info and staple it to the already completed documents. Although, he explained how crazy his week was, I was not going to budge.
I got off the phone and the conviction began. I quickly pushed it aside and continued on my day. I convinced myself that if he couldn't have his work to me on time, that was his problem and not mine. I was in the right and he was in the wrong.
As I drove to school, the conviction became greater and God continued to put Proverbs 3:27 in my mind "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do so."
Did I have the power to add his information to the group project? Yes. Was I withholding the good that I could have done for a man with a hectic week? Yes. Could my stubbornness have cost him a better grade? Yes.
Once again, another lesson learned. Showing compassion is a struggle for me and God continues to give me opportunities to be more compassionate. This is one I failed.
Lord, please forgive me for not showing your grace, mercy, love and compassion to others. Help me to see others as You see them. Give me Your eyes so that I can see. In Jesus' Name, Amen
Have a great day!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Do you ever make things bigger than they need to be? I definitely do. I tend to make comments bigger than they really are or situations more dramatic than they need to be. I also sometimes make God's will for me bigger than He wants it to be.
There have been times when God has asked me to do one simple thing but instead of doing that one simple thing, I make it into much more. I add what I think would be really cool or really helpful. Being enthusiastic is good at times, but when I add to what God wants me to do, I'm really just being disobedient.
I also have swayed the other way. When God has asked me to do something really big - much bigger than me, I may slim it down to what I think I can handle. Again, disobedience.
Matthew 13:31-32 He presented another parable to them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."
Say yes and let God take care of the rest!!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
There have been times when God has asked me to do one simple thing but instead of doing that one simple thing, I make it into much more. I add what I think would be really cool or really helpful. Being enthusiastic is good at times, but when I add to what God wants me to do, I'm really just being disobedient.
I also have swayed the other way. When God has asked me to do something really big - much bigger than me, I may slim it down to what I think I can handle. Again, disobedience.
Matthew 13:31-32 He presented another parable to them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."
Say yes and let God take care of the rest!!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Monday, June 22, 2009
Good morning and happy Monday! I couldn't get my pictures to load in the right order so I'll give you a backwards recap of a wonderful weekend:
Yesterday, my kids and I enjoyed spending an entire day with their daddy. We went to church, had lunch with friends, took a nap, grilled out for supper and then walked to Dairy Queen for a treat. In my biased opinion, my hubby is the best daddy ever! :)
On Saturday, we celebrated Father's Day with my dad. It was so cool to have all the cousins together to play. Afterwards, we headed to my brother's house to try out his new 4 wheeler track. As you can tell from the picture, the kids had a great time!!
Nate got a little muddy
Cousins
My dad
Then to start the wonderful weekend, I spent part of Thursday and Friday with some great friends. I could really get used to laying by the pool with great conversation but it ended so quickly! These are my friends Christi, Carol and Dee.
Yesterday, my kids and I enjoyed spending an entire day with their daddy. We went to church, had lunch with friends, took a nap, grilled out for supper and then walked to Dairy Queen for a treat. In my biased opinion, my hubby is the best daddy ever! :)
On Saturday, we celebrated Father's Day with my dad. It was so cool to have all the cousins together to play. Afterwards, we headed to my brother's house to try out his new 4 wheeler track. As you can tell from the picture, the kids had a great time!!Nate got a little muddy
CousinsMy dadThen to start the wonderful weekend, I spent part of Thursday and Friday with some great friends. I could really get used to laying by the pool with great conversation but it ended so quickly! These are my friends Christi, Carol and Dee. Well, I'm back to real life today with laundry, kids and groceries to get but I wouldn't trade it for anything! :)
Hope you had a great weekend too!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Good morning my bloggy friends! As I opened my Bible this morning, a little plastic tab from a keychain I got when I completed the 40 Days of Purpose, fell out. On the front of the tab it says "Ministry - You were shaped for serving God" and on the back "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others. 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV)".
It reminded me of my responsibility as a Christian. In our Bible study group, we are studying the book of Luke and just discussed last night about how we shouldn't give our lives to Christ, be saved and leave it at that. Once we are saved, we need to use what God has given us in order to serve Him and serve others.
I remember a time when someone asked me what gifts I had and I honestly believed that I didn't have any. Are you there too? I now, understand what gifts God has blessed me with but that came through time. Time, of trying new ways of serving to really find where I fit. I have also found it helpful to take some spiritual gifts tests. There are many different gifts tests out there - some more vague and some very detailed. I have taken paper tests given by our church and also online tests that reveal truths that you may not even realize.
I want to encourage you to find an online test today and take it. If you are not sure where you fit in serving God and serving others, take a risk and try serving in some new and different ways - God has a way of placing you exactly where He wants you! Happy serving!
I am headed out of town this afternoon and won't be back until tomorrow night, so have a great weekend and I'll talk with you on Monday!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
It reminded me of my responsibility as a Christian. In our Bible study group, we are studying the book of Luke and just discussed last night about how we shouldn't give our lives to Christ, be saved and leave it at that. Once we are saved, we need to use what God has given us in order to serve Him and serve others.
I remember a time when someone asked me what gifts I had and I honestly believed that I didn't have any. Are you there too? I now, understand what gifts God has blessed me with but that came through time. Time, of trying new ways of serving to really find where I fit. I have also found it helpful to take some spiritual gifts tests. There are many different gifts tests out there - some more vague and some very detailed. I have taken paper tests given by our church and also online tests that reveal truths that you may not even realize.
I want to encourage you to find an online test today and take it. If you are not sure where you fit in serving God and serving others, take a risk and try serving in some new and different ways - God has a way of placing you exactly where He wants you! Happy serving!
I am headed out of town this afternoon and won't be back until tomorrow night, so have a great weekend and I'll talk with you on Monday!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
I'm here! My computer has been acting up and my brain is not functioning properly today so I'm running a bit behind! Wednesday mornings are hard because this girl needs her sleep and not getting home from class until 11pm and then trying to wind down before going to bed makes me tired the next day.
Speaking of class, I received my grades from my last two speeches last night. I was disappointed to get a 92% on both of them. Although my husband tried to convince me that getting a B on a speech is doing a great job, I continue to struggle with the stronghold of expecting perfection from myself.
When God prompted my heart to attend a Christian college to learn more about Him, He didn't tell me that I had to get A's, He wanted and wants me to be faithful and obey.
I try to convince myself that I tried my hardest and that is what matters but in the back of my mind I also remind myself that if God has called me to be a speaker, shouldn't I be getting A's in my speech class?
Next week concludes my class and our final is to do a group presentation. We are pretending to be the Christian Resource Group in which a Chicago church has hired to research the background and customs of Chinese immigrants in Chicago in order to reach them for Christ. Since my fellow group members are from all over in Illinois and 1 from Missouri, we will not be getting together to practice but doing all our pre-work over the internet. There is a lot riding on this final grade and I ask for your prayers as we work together.
As many of you know, I'm a bit of a control freak and so putting my grade in the hands of others, is difficult for me. I am trying very hard to keep my bossy self from coming out and attempting to be open-minded and considerate of others. I also need lots of prayer!! :)
I would appreciate any suggestions you may have on overcoming this stronghold.
I must add after all my complaining - I am thankful for what God is teaching me through this process - I must remember "It's not about me!!!"
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Speaking of class, I received my grades from my last two speeches last night. I was disappointed to get a 92% on both of them. Although my husband tried to convince me that getting a B on a speech is doing a great job, I continue to struggle with the stronghold of expecting perfection from myself.
When God prompted my heart to attend a Christian college to learn more about Him, He didn't tell me that I had to get A's, He wanted and wants me to be faithful and obey.
I try to convince myself that I tried my hardest and that is what matters but in the back of my mind I also remind myself that if God has called me to be a speaker, shouldn't I be getting A's in my speech class?
Next week concludes my class and our final is to do a group presentation. We are pretending to be the Christian Resource Group in which a Chicago church has hired to research the background and customs of Chinese immigrants in Chicago in order to reach them for Christ. Since my fellow group members are from all over in Illinois and 1 from Missouri, we will not be getting together to practice but doing all our pre-work over the internet. There is a lot riding on this final grade and I ask for your prayers as we work together.
As many of you know, I'm a bit of a control freak and so putting my grade in the hands of others, is difficult for me. I am trying very hard to keep my bossy self from coming out and attempting to be open-minded and considerate of others. I also need lots of prayer!! :)
I would appreciate any suggestions you may have on overcoming this stronghold.
I must add after all my complaining - I am thankful for what God is teaching me through this process - I must remember "It's not about me!!!"
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Titus 2:3-5 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the Word of God will not be dishonored.
You may or may not consider yourself an "older woman" but it is our responsibility to teach and encourage those who are younger in years or younger in faith.
Shortly after my family and I began attending Pontiac Bible Church (www.pontiacbible.org), I was looking for ways to meet other women. There was an upcoming Bible study called "Apples of Gold" and I signed up in hopes to make some friends. It ended up being more than just a Bible study, but a group of older women willing to mentor younger women in their faith. Oh, how I received so much more than fellowship! The heart-felt teaching and love that was shown to me, changed my heart and my life.
Because of this change, now God prompts me to teach and encourage those who are younger than me. I don't really consider myself an "older woman" but I am older than some and I am willing to allow God to use me to encourage younger people in their faith.
What are you doing to lead or set an example for those younger than you? This may be a great time to ask God how you can be a part of teaching what is good!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
You may or may not consider yourself an "older woman" but it is our responsibility to teach and encourage those who are younger in years or younger in faith.
Shortly after my family and I began attending Pontiac Bible Church (www.pontiacbible.org), I was looking for ways to meet other women. There was an upcoming Bible study called "Apples of Gold" and I signed up in hopes to make some friends. It ended up being more than just a Bible study, but a group of older women willing to mentor younger women in their faith. Oh, how I received so much more than fellowship! The heart-felt teaching and love that was shown to me, changed my heart and my life.
Because of this change, now God prompts me to teach and encourage those who are younger than me. I don't really consider myself an "older woman" but I am older than some and I am willing to allow God to use me to encourage younger people in their faith.
What are you doing to lead or set an example for those younger than you? This may be a great time to ask God how you can be a part of teaching what is good!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Monday, June 15, 2009
Good morning and happy Monday! :)
After talking about overcoming sin and addictions on Friday, God has brought me to this topic again today.
Romans 7:15 For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.
Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not.
I think we can all relate!
Isaiah 48:17-18 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea."
Again, we try to find happiness in our fleshy desires and in this world but it is through following Christ and His commandments that we can be truly fulfilled.
You may be thinking that following Christ is too hard but I wonder, how easy is your life right now? What consequences are you facing for your sins? How are you hurting yourself and those around you by following your own desires?
Just like a child does not always like to obey their parents, but one day realize that they are thankful for what their parents taught them. God knows what is best for us, even when we don't think He does - even when we want to choose for ourselves.
Even when circumstances are not what we want them to be, we must trust that God is in control and we can gain all strength through Him.
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
After talking about overcoming sin and addictions on Friday, God has brought me to this topic again today.
Romans 7:15 For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.
Romans 7:18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not.
I think we can all relate!
Isaiah 48:17-18 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea."
Again, we try to find happiness in our fleshy desires and in this world but it is through following Christ and His commandments that we can be truly fulfilled.
You may be thinking that following Christ is too hard but I wonder, how easy is your life right now? What consequences are you facing for your sins? How are you hurting yourself and those around you by following your own desires?
Just like a child does not always like to obey their parents, but one day realize that they are thankful for what their parents taught them. God knows what is best for us, even when we don't think He does - even when we want to choose for ourselves.
Even when circumstances are not what we want them to be, we must trust that God is in control and we can gain all strength through Him.
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Friday, June 12, 2009
Whooo Hooo - it's Friday! :)
Have you ever felt like following God was too hard and that there was just too much sacrifice involved? I have felt that way and I have some friends who are currently struggling with giving up something that they really don't want to give up in order to follow Christ.
We get our minds focused on what will make us happy and we think that things of this world can do just that. What we forget is that void we are trying to fill is put in our heart for a reason by God. That void was made by God and it can only be filled with God.
The sins that we love, don't bring us happiness and fullness, they just pacify our need for a very short time.
I have been able to give up some sins that I love through the grace of God (still have many more to go) and what I have found is that I am so much more content, happy and at peace because of it and also have fewer bouts of depression. Those desires of the flesh were not making me happy - they were bogging my spiritual life down and keeping me from true fullness in Christ.
During those very difficult times of giving up things that I loved so dearly, there were 3 things that helped me tremendously.
1. Praying, praying, and praying for God's help to overcome temptation
2. Having an accountability partner who is also praying (make sure it's someone who is willing you kick you in the pants when you need it)
3. Each time I was tempted, I offered my desire as an offering to God. Because it was something I wanted to do or have so badly, I made the decision that it would be my sacrifice in honor of God
Hope this helps - believe me, I know the struggle and heartache you are facing!
When you are through this difficult time, you will be able to look back and celebrate the new freedom you have! Praise God for His faithfulness!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Have you ever felt like following God was too hard and that there was just too much sacrifice involved? I have felt that way and I have some friends who are currently struggling with giving up something that they really don't want to give up in order to follow Christ.
We get our minds focused on what will make us happy and we think that things of this world can do just that. What we forget is that void we are trying to fill is put in our heart for a reason by God. That void was made by God and it can only be filled with God.
The sins that we love, don't bring us happiness and fullness, they just pacify our need for a very short time.
I have been able to give up some sins that I love through the grace of God (still have many more to go) and what I have found is that I am so much more content, happy and at peace because of it and also have fewer bouts of depression. Those desires of the flesh were not making me happy - they were bogging my spiritual life down and keeping me from true fullness in Christ.
During those very difficult times of giving up things that I loved so dearly, there were 3 things that helped me tremendously.
1. Praying, praying, and praying for God's help to overcome temptation
2. Having an accountability partner who is also praying (make sure it's someone who is willing you kick you in the pants when you need it)
3. Each time I was tempted, I offered my desire as an offering to God. Because it was something I wanted to do or have so badly, I made the decision that it would be my sacrifice in honor of God
Hope this helps - believe me, I know the struggle and heartache you are facing!
When you are through this difficult time, you will be able to look back and celebrate the new freedom you have! Praise God for His faithfulness!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Thursday, June 11, 2009
For my current speech class, one of my assignments is to do speaker critiques. I have done some in-person and also been watching some on youtube. The other day, I listened to a sermon by Pastor Mark Driscoll from Mars Hill Church.
One sentence that Pastor Driscoll spoke really stuck out to me:
"We don't need self-esteem, we need identity in Christ."
Wow! I stopped dead in my tracks as I realized how true that is. With the God of the universe as our Father - with the Creator of all things as our Savior and with the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us - why do we need people to build us up? Why do we use a low self-esteem as an excuse as to why we can't serve or be who God wants us to be? Why are we reading self-help books on how to raise our self-esteem? The answer to all our self-esteem issues can be found in truly realizing who we are in Christ! As Christians, we are His chosen people. God chose YOU to be His child. Let me say it again - God chose YOU! What more of a confidence booster do you need?!
It is time to realize who we are as daughters and sons of the King and use that realization to serve Him with all we do, say and think.
Have a great day knowing who and Whose you are.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
One sentence that Pastor Driscoll spoke really stuck out to me:
"We don't need self-esteem, we need identity in Christ."
Wow! I stopped dead in my tracks as I realized how true that is. With the God of the universe as our Father - with the Creator of all things as our Savior and with the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us - why do we need people to build us up? Why do we use a low self-esteem as an excuse as to why we can't serve or be who God wants us to be? Why are we reading self-help books on how to raise our self-esteem? The answer to all our self-esteem issues can be found in truly realizing who we are in Christ! As Christians, we are His chosen people. God chose YOU to be His child. Let me say it again - God chose YOU! What more of a confidence booster do you need?!
It is time to realize who we are as daughters and sons of the King and use that realization to serve Him with all we do, say and think.
Have a great day knowing who and Whose you are.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Good morning and happy Wednesday! I hope this day finds you feeling great and connected with our Savior.
Do you easily forget that other Christians are our brothers and sisters? I do.
Just like our biological brothers and sisters, we will not always agree with our spiritual brothers and sisters but God still expects us to love them and treat them in a way that honors Him.
In Matthew 12:46-50, while speaking to a crowd, Jesus is notified that His mother and brothers are wanting to talk with Him. He explains that all those around Him are His mother and brothers. He was not trying to ignore His mother and brothers but to show that as Christians, we are all related. We are all family - the family of God.
So, the next time you/I are thinking less than honorable thoughts and saying less than honorable words to another Christian, remember, they also are a child of God and your brother or sister in Christ.
The love of Christ needs to be shown between Christians so that non-believers may see!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Do you easily forget that other Christians are our brothers and sisters? I do.
Just like our biological brothers and sisters, we will not always agree with our spiritual brothers and sisters but God still expects us to love them and treat them in a way that honors Him.
In Matthew 12:46-50, while speaking to a crowd, Jesus is notified that His mother and brothers are wanting to talk with Him. He explains that all those around Him are His mother and brothers. He was not trying to ignore His mother and brothers but to show that as Christians, we are all related. We are all family - the family of God.
So, the next time you/I are thinking less than honorable thoughts and saying less than honorable words to another Christian, remember, they also are a child of God and your brother or sister in Christ.
The love of Christ needs to be shown between Christians so that non-believers may see!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Matthew 12:43-45 "Now when the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came'; and when it comes, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. That is the way it will also be with this evil generation." (NASB)
My Bible commentary:
Just cleaning up one's life without filling it with God leaves plenty of room for satan to enter. The book of Ezra records how the people rid themselves of idolatry, but failed to replace it with love for God and obedience to Him. Ridding our lives of sin is the first step. We must also take the second step: filling our lives with God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Unfilled and complacent people are easy targets for satan.
As I read this Scripture and commentary, I was compelled to share it. What truth and richness! God's will for us is not just trying to do the "right" things and be done, but to share in an intimate love relationship with Him. I used to see God as my dictator and disciplinarian but now I realize Who He truly is, as my Father who loves me unconditionally - a Father Who knows what is best for me and plans my life accordingly.
Do not leave your heart open to the schemes of satan, but fill it with love for God and for others by dousing it daily in the Word of God and applying His truths to your life. Life is not a set of rules and regulations but a love relationship.
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
My Bible commentary:
Just cleaning up one's life without filling it with God leaves plenty of room for satan to enter. The book of Ezra records how the people rid themselves of idolatry, but failed to replace it with love for God and obedience to Him. Ridding our lives of sin is the first step. We must also take the second step: filling our lives with God's Word and the Holy Spirit. Unfilled and complacent people are easy targets for satan.
As I read this Scripture and commentary, I was compelled to share it. What truth and richness! God's will for us is not just trying to do the "right" things and be done, but to share in an intimate love relationship with Him. I used to see God as my dictator and disciplinarian but now I realize Who He truly is, as my Father who loves me unconditionally - a Father Who knows what is best for me and plans my life accordingly.
Do not leave your heart open to the schemes of satan, but fill it with love for God and for others by dousing it daily in the Word of God and applying His truths to your life. Life is not a set of rules and regulations but a love relationship.
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Monday, June 8, 2009
Good morning and happy Monday my bloggy friends! I am officially back to the real world today as I work on mounds of laundry, wash dishes, pick up the house and cater to and be a taxi driver for children. I am actually very thankful to have all this to come home to. While Mike and I were away and enjoying absolutely nothing to do (yes, you heard me right), we continued to thank God that we had our children, our home, our jobs and our family to come home to.
Here, we were awake and upright but it was one of the few times.
Even Cooper relaxed!
Now, this is how I spent most of my vacation. Relaxed, with my feet up - aaahhhh!
I have to admit that 3 days of eating, sleeping and boating on a beautiful lake could get very easy to get used to but I know that God's will is for me to live in the "real world"! :)
Here, we were awake and upright but it was one of the few times.Even Cooper relaxed!Now, this is how I spent most of my vacation. Relaxed, with my feet up - aaahhhh!I have to admit that 3 days of eating, sleeping and boating on a beautiful lake could get very easy to get used to but I know that God's will is for me to live in the "real world"! :)
Have a great day in the real world!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Good morning all my bloggy friends! It is such a beautiful morning and I'm so excited to be heading out for a long weekend trip with my hubby! Today is our 15 year wedding anniversary. We made it! At times it has been wonderful and others, it has been a very difficult road but it always has been God's grace that has held us together.
As Mike and I focused on our marriage this morning, we began lifting up the marriages of others in prayer. The sanctity of marriage needs prayer. Marriage is hard sometimes and satan can convince you that leaving is the best thing to do but I can attest to the fact that sticking it out and working it out brings a deeper love than you ever imagined.
Are you being intentional about making your marriage the best that it can be? Are you allowing past hurts to keep you from an amazing future with your spouse? Are you allowing the negativity of others keep you from thinking and talking positively about your spouse? If so, ask God to help you make some changes in your life and be the instigator of a closely connected marriage.
Have a great day and a great weekend!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
As Mike and I focused on our marriage this morning, we began lifting up the marriages of others in prayer. The sanctity of marriage needs prayer. Marriage is hard sometimes and satan can convince you that leaving is the best thing to do but I can attest to the fact that sticking it out and working it out brings a deeper love than you ever imagined.
Are you being intentional about making your marriage the best that it can be? Are you allowing past hurts to keep you from an amazing future with your spouse? Are you allowing the negativity of others keep you from thinking and talking positively about your spouse? If so, ask God to help you make some changes in your life and be the instigator of a closely connected marriage.
Have a great day and a great weekend!
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Once again, I feel ashamed and dumb for ever doubting the power of our Lord. What was I thinking? A God that has created and sustains the entire universe can easily handle any problems I may have!
My speech went great last night and the words flowed just like so many other times when I have given my mouth to the Lord. This is just another time that God is probably shaking His head and saying, oh you of little faith!
Yesterday, one of my pastor's reminded me - God's not interested in our perfection...just our direction. Oh, how these words are so true. God expects me to give my all in all I do but He already knows that even my all is not even close to perfection. Most times my perfection desire is to please me and not God. Just because I expect A's on all my assignments doesn't mean that I have failed if I don't accomplish it. God is pleased because I am obeying Him by going to school.
I hope this helps you in determining what is your will and what is God's will. Way too often, my will gets in the way!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
My speech went great last night and the words flowed just like so many other times when I have given my mouth to the Lord. This is just another time that God is probably shaking His head and saying, oh you of little faith!
Yesterday, one of my pastor's reminded me - God's not interested in our perfection...just our direction. Oh, how these words are so true. God expects me to give my all in all I do but He already knows that even my all is not even close to perfection. Most times my perfection desire is to please me and not God. Just because I expect A's on all my assignments doesn't mean that I have failed if I don't accomplish it. God is pleased because I am obeying Him by going to school.
I hope this helps you in determining what is your will and what is God's will. Way too often, my will gets in the way!
Have a great day
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Colossians 23-24 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
I have a confession to make.
I have really been struggling with a speech that I have to give tonight in my speech class. Each week of the class, my professor is pulling me farther from my comfort zone by reducing the amount of notes I am able to have and yes, even taking away the security of a podium. I am used to speaking from a full manuscript, my Bible and a podium. He wants me to give an informative speech full of quotes and statistics with 4 index cards and no podium.
Yesterday, I decided that I could print my whole manuscript in small enough font that I could attach it to the index cards and my professor would never know the difference. I felt a little guilty as I cut the paper to fit the cards and began taping them together. As I was taping the last section to an index card, my friend Jodi stopped by and asked what I was doing. I explained the situation to her and she immediately gave me the look of disapproval. I tried to not look her way and just stay focused on what I was doing but then she asked me how I was going to learn if I didn't do what my professor asked me to, how being pulled from my comfort zone was a good thing and how I really was cheating by cutting corners and taking short cuts. Still feeling convicted, I assured her that I wasn't doing anything wrong and not to worry about it.
After our visit, I realized that getting an A really wasn't that important compared to obeying God. I text my friend and told her that I would be changing my index cards and only be hand writing the outline that was supposed to be there.
I will trust God to help me do my best. Even if I don't do as well as I would like or even if I don't get the A I so desperately want, I will know that I obeyed the Lord's prompting and that will be reward enough.
I thank God for His convictions in my heart and for the support of accountability partners! :)
Have a great day and I'd appreciate your prayers for my speech tonight.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
I have a confession to make.
I have really been struggling with a speech that I have to give tonight in my speech class. Each week of the class, my professor is pulling me farther from my comfort zone by reducing the amount of notes I am able to have and yes, even taking away the security of a podium. I am used to speaking from a full manuscript, my Bible and a podium. He wants me to give an informative speech full of quotes and statistics with 4 index cards and no podium.
Yesterday, I decided that I could print my whole manuscript in small enough font that I could attach it to the index cards and my professor would never know the difference. I felt a little guilty as I cut the paper to fit the cards and began taping them together. As I was taping the last section to an index card, my friend Jodi stopped by and asked what I was doing. I explained the situation to her and she immediately gave me the look of disapproval. I tried to not look her way and just stay focused on what I was doing but then she asked me how I was going to learn if I didn't do what my professor asked me to, how being pulled from my comfort zone was a good thing and how I really was cheating by cutting corners and taking short cuts. Still feeling convicted, I assured her that I wasn't doing anything wrong and not to worry about it.
After our visit, I realized that getting an A really wasn't that important compared to obeying God. I text my friend and told her that I would be changing my index cards and only be hand writing the outline that was supposed to be there.
I will trust God to help me do my best. Even if I don't do as well as I would like or even if I don't get the A I so desperately want, I will know that I obeyed the Lord's prompting and that will be reward enough.
I thank God for His convictions in my heart and for the support of accountability partners! :)
Have a great day and I'd appreciate your prayers for my speech tonight.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
Monday, June 1, 2009
Happy Monday! What a wonderful weekend of celebration we experienced. My husband's dad turns 60 on Thursday so we celebrated his birthday with family and friends on Saturday. On Sunday, we headed to Lafayette, IN for our friend's daughter who was celebrating her birthday and 8th grade graduation.
On Thursday we will also be celebrating our 15 year anniversary. I've learned a lot over the last 15 years. When I got married at the age of 19, I had no idea what God would teach me about love. Yes, I loved Mike but I could not have understood the depth of love at that point. I have learned how to close my mouth when everything inside me wants to spill out, I have learned to put my own desires aside for the sake of my husband, I have learned how to love my husband even when he is acting unlovable and I have learned that my way is not always the "right" way. Now, do I always act on what God has taught me - absolutely not but none the less, He has taught me how to love in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Just like we learn each intimate detail of our spouse, God knows each of us. He knows our flaws, He knows our gifts, He knows our hurts, and He knows our hearts. He knows us better than we know ourselves, which is why He knows what is best for us. The best part is - He knows all this and yet He loves us anyway! Amazing, huh?!
God, I thank you for marriage and what it has taught me. I thank you for knowing me and loving me, anyway. I thank you for setting the example of unconditional love for us to follow. I praise You for your faithfulness in every aspect of life. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
On Thursday we will also be celebrating our 15 year anniversary. I've learned a lot over the last 15 years. When I got married at the age of 19, I had no idea what God would teach me about love. Yes, I loved Mike but I could not have understood the depth of love at that point. I have learned how to close my mouth when everything inside me wants to spill out, I have learned to put my own desires aside for the sake of my husband, I have learned how to love my husband even when he is acting unlovable and I have learned that my way is not always the "right" way. Now, do I always act on what God has taught me - absolutely not but none the less, He has taught me how to love in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Just like we learn each intimate detail of our spouse, God knows each of us. He knows our flaws, He knows our gifts, He knows our hurts, and He knows our hearts. He knows us better than we know ourselves, which is why He knows what is best for us. The best part is - He knows all this and yet He loves us anyway! Amazing, huh?!
God, I thank you for marriage and what it has taught me. I thank you for knowing me and loving me, anyway. I thank you for setting the example of unconditional love for us to follow. I praise You for your faithfulness in every aspect of life. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie
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