Over the past 2 ½ years God has cultivated my soil, precisely planted His seeds, watched me through my growth processes, as He provided everything I needed, and harvested His crops to bring forth His fruit. I love to look back and see the awesome miracles He performed in my life; it all seemed surreal and exciting. Don’t get me wrong there were moments in time during my growing season that I wanted to turn around, stomp my feet, and walk away, but I reminded myself of God’s promises to Joshua,”…I will not fail you or abandon you.” (Joshua 1:5) “I command you—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) Throughout the first chapter of Joshua, God continues to remind Joshua to be strong and courageous and that he must obey His law and all of His commandments; it is only then he will succeed.
God has now begun a new season in my life. I can actually say at 32 years-old I am officially retired! I am a stay at home mommy and wife; the two true desires of my heart. I am truly grateful that God designed my life’s blueprints, for if they were up to me, they would have been quite a mess, and definitely not the way the way God would have wanted them orchestrated. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
I love what King David said to the Lord in Psalm 139, you “know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!” (vs. 1-6) God is omniscient and omnipresent. He knows the plans He has for my future. I am excited to move to the next level of my journey for God already knew before the foundations of the earth what I would be doing in this very moment and the plans He had for my future.
God has already begun to speak to me little by little preparing me for what lies ahead. At moments I feel like maybe what Joshua might have felt like in the moment after Moses’ death when the LORD told him, “…you must lead my people across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them.”(Joshua 1:2) I don’t think that it was a shocking surprise to him, given he was Moses’ assistant for forty years, but the sheer thought that he must finish what his predecessor began, must have been overwhelming for a moment or two, but God’s promises gave him the faith and confidence he needed to lead the people of Israel. As He will give me the confidence and faith to take the steps that He has ordered for me.
He too makes those promises to us as we allow him to till our soil, plant our seeds, and harvest His crops. We are able to choose whether our crop will thrive and be plentiful, sparse and scarce, or lifeless and dying. God continues to remind us, despite what is ahead of us to “be strong and courageous!” I pray that whatever God is preparing you for, step forward and walk in faith as Joshua did! As you walk out your faith, it will inspire others to do the same. Encourage others today to have confidence and allow God to direct their future.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Commissioned
About a week and a half ago we met with my neuro-oncologist to review the results of my MRI scans. I was elated to hear him tell us that they were stable, looked good, and he even saw improvement from the last scans! This truly made my heart overjoyed. I remember thinking how God has always been faithful in His promises and has always walked by our side.
God created us to witness to others by showing and telling them what He has done for us. The Holy Spirit gives us the confidence, courage, boldness and authority to minister to them through His works in us. As Jesus taught His inner circle of disciples, He instilled in them God’s love, His word, and His forgiving nature. Before He completed His mission on earth, Jesus prayed for Himself, His disciples, and future believers.
In His prayer for His disciples, Jesus said, “I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.” (John 17:9-10) I love that Jesus has commissioned us to spread His Good News to those around us. He has given us our families, coworkers, friends, and neighbors to guard and take care of, so that none of them are lost in this world. He wants us to follow Him so that we may become one with Him and the Father. He wants us to be of one accord. (John 17:20) Jesus came to this earth to show us how to live as faithful servants in His kingdom. For those that live by God’s standards in this life will be made great in God’s kingdom.
Matthew speaks of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Jesus began his teaching by describing the characteristics that He was looking for in His followers. These are called the beatitudes; they taught the heartfelt obedience to God. The beatitudes stated how to be blessed by God. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted; blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth; blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled; blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy; blessed are the pure in heart, for the will see God; blessed are the peace makers, for they will be called sons of God, Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3-12) Each of these beatitudes describes traits that are a contradiction to worldly ways of life. We must learn to exemplify those traits if our objective is to become more like Him.
Many think that being “blessed” by God means that we will have financial prosperity and always have laughter and pleasure; however, being “blessed” by God means experiencing His profound joy and hope regardless of our external circumstances. To have His joy we must follow Him no matter what the cost.
As we become the salt and light of this world, we must remember to be “like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden” and “in the same way, let [our] good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:13-16). We must fulfill what we were commissioned to complete. I pray that you keep shining your light, like a beacon in the night. Share with others your testimony so they too may understand and feel the hope and joy of Christ.
God created us to witness to others by showing and telling them what He has done for us. The Holy Spirit gives us the confidence, courage, boldness and authority to minister to them through His works in us. As Jesus taught His inner circle of disciples, He instilled in them God’s love, His word, and His forgiving nature. Before He completed His mission on earth, Jesus prayed for Himself, His disciples, and future believers.
In His prayer for His disciples, Jesus said, “I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.” (John 17:9-10) I love that Jesus has commissioned us to spread His Good News to those around us. He has given us our families, coworkers, friends, and neighbors to guard and take care of, so that none of them are lost in this world. He wants us to follow Him so that we may become one with Him and the Father. He wants us to be of one accord. (John 17:20) Jesus came to this earth to show us how to live as faithful servants in His kingdom. For those that live by God’s standards in this life will be made great in God’s kingdom.
Matthew speaks of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Jesus began his teaching by describing the characteristics that He was looking for in His followers. These are called the beatitudes; they taught the heartfelt obedience to God. The beatitudes stated how to be blessed by God. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted; blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth; blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled; blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy; blessed are the pure in heart, for the will see God; blessed are the peace makers, for they will be called sons of God, Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3-12) Each of these beatitudes describes traits that are a contradiction to worldly ways of life. We must learn to exemplify those traits if our objective is to become more like Him.
Many think that being “blessed” by God means that we will have financial prosperity and always have laughter and pleasure; however, being “blessed” by God means experiencing His profound joy and hope regardless of our external circumstances. To have His joy we must follow Him no matter what the cost.
As we become the salt and light of this world, we must remember to be “like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden” and “in the same way, let [our] good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:13-16). We must fulfill what we were commissioned to complete. I pray that you keep shining your light, like a beacon in the night. Share with others your testimony so they too may understand and feel the hope and joy of Christ.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Restless Desire
Daily I experience a longing that has such an intense and profound grip on my heart. This insatiable desire, like the one of the psalmist (whom some believe was King David) who wrote, “As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him?” (Psalm 42:1-2). It is in this inconsolable longing that I have come to understand my very purpose; the purpose for which my very soul was created.
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it (Matthew 16:24-25). Committing my life to Christ has allowed me to have a taste of what it is to fill my restless desire. By following Jesus I risk: the possibility of losing friendships, being marked by the title “holy roller” (in a bad sense), losing face with co-workers and friends when I choose to have integrity over dishonesty, and never acquiring what this world calls “wealth.” My benefits far outweigh the risks I take, even if it involves losing my physical life. In my life, whether I live or die, I want Jesus to be glorified.
My desire is to be part of the bigger story—taking up my cross daily. I want to exhibit the light Christ’s Kingdom brings to this world. I yearn to bring people to know our Father God in a real way. All the hidden choices I make, set-up God’s story. As I whole-heartedly turn from my selfish ways, I discover what it is to “find” my restless desire.
Give your Father God all that you have and He will give you all you need. Share with others what it meant for you to risk your life for Him and you begin to see your greater purpose. If you are struggling and need help making this choice, seek a strong Christian friend or pastor in your community that can guide you in the right direction.
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it (Matthew 16:24-25). Committing my life to Christ has allowed me to have a taste of what it is to fill my restless desire. By following Jesus I risk: the possibility of losing friendships, being marked by the title “holy roller” (in a bad sense), losing face with co-workers and friends when I choose to have integrity over dishonesty, and never acquiring what this world calls “wealth.” My benefits far outweigh the risks I take, even if it involves losing my physical life. In my life, whether I live or die, I want Jesus to be glorified.
My desire is to be part of the bigger story—taking up my cross daily. I want to exhibit the light Christ’s Kingdom brings to this world. I yearn to bring people to know our Father God in a real way. All the hidden choices I make, set-up God’s story. As I whole-heartedly turn from my selfish ways, I discover what it is to “find” my restless desire.
Give your Father God all that you have and He will give you all you need. Share with others what it meant for you to risk your life for Him and you begin to see your greater purpose. If you are struggling and need help making this choice, seek a strong Christian friend or pastor in your community that can guide you in the right direction.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Eyes of Faith
When we first gathered to talk about starting Thrive, the amount of work seemed insurmountable. How would we know where to begin? Would we have sufficient resources and how could we acquire them? Where would we store equipment? How would Tom and Jackie manage the cost of their living expenses given there was hardly any money for a salary?
I knew in my heart of hearts that this vision and dream was from God. He prepared every intricate detail, but I couldn’t see through my eyes of faith how it would come to pass. In 2 Kings 7, Elisha prophesied that by the next day the people of Samaria, who were in the midst of a famine, would see that “five quarts of fine flour [would] cost only an ounce of silver, and ten quarts of barley grain [would] cost only half an ounce of silver” (vs.1) The king’s officer said, “that couldn’t ever happen even if the Lord opened up the windows of heaven!” (vs.2)
It was difficult for me to envision how this vision would come to pass. Now looking back, I discovered how my eyes of faith were clouded by not allowing our Father God to reveal and present His resources.
I was astounded as God blessed Thrive with $25,000 worth of audio equipment from a local church that believed in our vision. Then there was a couple, who owned their own marketing business, and donated about $10,000 worth of fliers toward our first mailer into the community. I was truly astonished as God took care of every component and detail. Like Noah when he built the ark (Genesis 6), we obeyed as God commanded.
Yes there were moments of uncertainty and momentary panic. We were elated that God opened the window of opportunity for relocating Thrive in a prime area of Katy. We were confident after “securing” the location, that it was God’s will. Out of necessity, we established teams to bring about more structure and organization to various processes that were essential to our future success as a church.
Soon after the announcement of our new location, the prearrangement of our “secured” location fell through. We were perplexed and a bit disheartened. But God! At the midnight hour, He provided a more suitable arrangement (our current location) which afforded us the opportunity for storing our equipment in the facility and more flexibility in event planning and usage of space. His faithful promises opened more windows of opportunity we couldn’t have foreseen.
My eyes of faith no longer seem to be clouded, but are instead now clear. When we keep our eyes on Him, He will “generously provide all [we] need. Then [we] will always have everything [we] need and plenty left over to share with others.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
Keep your eyes on Him and He will open windows of opportunity that will amaze you. Share with others today the lessons that you have learned and continue to learn. They may need to hear your story and it may come at their “midnight hour.”
I knew in my heart of hearts that this vision and dream was from God. He prepared every intricate detail, but I couldn’t see through my eyes of faith how it would come to pass. In 2 Kings 7, Elisha prophesied that by the next day the people of Samaria, who were in the midst of a famine, would see that “five quarts of fine flour [would] cost only an ounce of silver, and ten quarts of barley grain [would] cost only half an ounce of silver” (vs.1) The king’s officer said, “that couldn’t ever happen even if the Lord opened up the windows of heaven!” (vs.2)
It was difficult for me to envision how this vision would come to pass. Now looking back, I discovered how my eyes of faith were clouded by not allowing our Father God to reveal and present His resources.
I was astounded as God blessed Thrive with $25,000 worth of audio equipment from a local church that believed in our vision. Then there was a couple, who owned their own marketing business, and donated about $10,000 worth of fliers toward our first mailer into the community. I was truly astonished as God took care of every component and detail. Like Noah when he built the ark (Genesis 6), we obeyed as God commanded.
Yes there were moments of uncertainty and momentary panic. We were elated that God opened the window of opportunity for relocating Thrive in a prime area of Katy. We were confident after “securing” the location, that it was God’s will. Out of necessity, we established teams to bring about more structure and organization to various processes that were essential to our future success as a church.
Soon after the announcement of our new location, the prearrangement of our “secured” location fell through. We were perplexed and a bit disheartened. But God! At the midnight hour, He provided a more suitable arrangement (our current location) which afforded us the opportunity for storing our equipment in the facility and more flexibility in event planning and usage of space. His faithful promises opened more windows of opportunity we couldn’t have foreseen.
My eyes of faith no longer seem to be clouded, but are instead now clear. When we keep our eyes on Him, He will “generously provide all [we] need. Then [we] will always have everything [we] need and plenty left over to share with others.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
Keep your eyes on Him and He will open windows of opportunity that will amaze you. Share with others today the lessons that you have learned and continue to learn. They may need to hear your story and it may come at their “midnight hour.”
Thursday, October 6, 2011
The Flame of 35...
The vision of our church plant and others across America is to reach the lost and to bring strayed Christians’ focus back toward God. I have seen what Isaiah 10:17 speaks of, “The Lord, the Light of Israel, will be a fire; the Holy One will be a flame. He will devour the thorns and briers with fire, burning up the enemy …” I have seen the great rewards of watching families grow stronger in the Lord. I have seen marriages being rebuilt, non-believers being baptized for the first time and seeing how their changed life brought their family and extended relatives to know Christ and be on-fire for Him. I have seen “the Holy One be a flame” that has run rampant through the lives of a new generation of believers. It has devoured “the thorns and briers with fire” and caused the enemies of darkness to come into light.
Being a part of the foundation of a church plant has been like tending to a flame. It requires much patience, attention to detail, diligence and wisdom to know that the stronger the flame the more perseverance it takes to keep it going in the right direction.
I have seen how attention to detail at our Grand Opening in 2009 created an atmosphere of friendliness, great worship and a passion for Christ and our salvation. Gathering donations of tickets to baseball games, movies, Starbuck’s gift cards, candy, etc. to provide for visiting children and parents, was a great way we gave back to our community.
On the other hand, our first day with the children’s ministry allowed us to see that we weren’t quite equipped or prepared to go from zero to sixty in the few minutes before our first service began. However, we quickly gained an understanding as to the types of changes that needed to be executed. Two and a half years later, our children’s ministry is thriving and a wonderful, fun, and safe place for our children to be.
It has been amazing to see where God has brought us from to where we are now. Our leadership team has changed a few times in the past couple of years; however, the direction in which our “flame” was being blown has always been the same...to establish a hospital for the spiritually sick and to reach lost souls for Christ. Even though there have been disappointments and discouragements along the way, I know we have been successful because we have “obey[ed] the commands of the Lord [our] God and walk[ed] in His ways, [and] the Lord [has] establish[ed][us] as His holy people as He swore he would do.” (Deuteronomy 8:6)
Setting priorities and accomplishing goals has allowed us to grow as a church body, but striving not to lose our character for the sake of a goal has been challenging. I have learned that it is important to have volunteers in a church who are knowledgeable in finances, law, government, business, etc...but more importantly to have people serving who display integrity and character above reproach. A person whose heart is intertwined with God’s and is without knowledge or skill, is better than someone who is very skilled in all of those areas, but lacks in their daily walk with the Lord.
Finally, making sure that all members of ministry teams are being consistently encouraged and supported is essential to ensure that the “fire you are tending to” doesn’t die out. It is important to remember that the coals constantly need stirring up while still seeking out and fanning the new sparks within the church who are ready to ignite and shine brightly for God.
The flame that God has begun in Thrive Church is one that will reap eternal rewards. Watching the fire grow bigger and stronger has humbled me and I feel honored for being asked to be part of this journey. I pray that whatever journey God has placed in your heart that you would allow Him to stir it up to a blazing flame that would burn gloriously.
Being a part of the foundation of a church plant has been like tending to a flame. It requires much patience, attention to detail, diligence and wisdom to know that the stronger the flame the more perseverance it takes to keep it going in the right direction.
I have seen how attention to detail at our Grand Opening in 2009 created an atmosphere of friendliness, great worship and a passion for Christ and our salvation. Gathering donations of tickets to baseball games, movies, Starbuck’s gift cards, candy, etc. to provide for visiting children and parents, was a great way we gave back to our community.
On the other hand, our first day with the children’s ministry allowed us to see that we weren’t quite equipped or prepared to go from zero to sixty in the few minutes before our first service began. However, we quickly gained an understanding as to the types of changes that needed to be executed. Two and a half years later, our children’s ministry is thriving and a wonderful, fun, and safe place for our children to be.
It has been amazing to see where God has brought us from to where we are now. Our leadership team has changed a few times in the past couple of years; however, the direction in which our “flame” was being blown has always been the same...to establish a hospital for the spiritually sick and to reach lost souls for Christ. Even though there have been disappointments and discouragements along the way, I know we have been successful because we have “obey[ed] the commands of the Lord [our] God and walk[ed] in His ways, [and] the Lord [has] establish[ed][us] as His holy people as He swore he would do.” (Deuteronomy 8:6)
Setting priorities and accomplishing goals has allowed us to grow as a church body, but striving not to lose our character for the sake of a goal has been challenging. I have learned that it is important to have volunteers in a church who are knowledgeable in finances, law, government, business, etc...but more importantly to have people serving who display integrity and character above reproach. A person whose heart is intertwined with God’s and is without knowledge or skill, is better than someone who is very skilled in all of those areas, but lacks in their daily walk with the Lord.
Finally, making sure that all members of ministry teams are being consistently encouraged and supported is essential to ensure that the “fire you are tending to” doesn’t die out. It is important to remember that the coals constantly need stirring up while still seeking out and fanning the new sparks within the church who are ready to ignite and shine brightly for God.
The flame that God has begun in Thrive Church is one that will reap eternal rewards. Watching the fire grow bigger and stronger has humbled me and I feel honored for being asked to be part of this journey. I pray that whatever journey God has placed in your heart that you would allow Him to stir it up to a blazing flame that would burn gloriously.
Pressured Washed
Everyday at my job I walked past a band hall that was made of white stone. At the beginning of each school year, I noticed how tidy and clean the stone walls looked after being pressure washed. . It was commonplace for me to pass the band hall several times a day.
I know this sounds silly, but it was somehow refreshing to me. Every year as the semester proceeded, the wall slowly formed a layer of mold and mildew making for a drab and dreary appearance. After awhile it wasn’t refreshing. Maybe once or twice a semester, they were pressure washed again.
I think our lives are a bit like that. We start out white, pure, and innocent, but over time we become jaded by our fallen world. We grow layers of unforgiveness, insensitivity, bitterness and hate. We walk around like a strong stench of mold and mildew. We can live in bondage to these filthy layers for days, months, years, and for some, a lifetime. These bondages become commonplace for us, thus creating an atmosphere of oppression. Isaiah 64:6 says, “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.” This sin makes us unclean so that we are unable to approach God.
Our layers of sin separate us from God, but we can choose to accept Him into our hearts and be reconciled “through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought [us] into his own presence, and [we] are holy and blameless as [we] stand before him without a single fault.” (Colossians 1:21-22).
Isn’t that just refreshing to hear! Even though we live in a fallen world, become jaded and think sinful thoughts and conduct sinful actions, Christ made us blameless and beyond reproach. Through His actions, we are no longer a mold and mildew covered wall. We are “pressure washed” and made clean through Him.
However difficult your life may be at this moment, allowing God to peel off your layers and make you new will set you free from the chains of bondage that are holding you down. If you’ve already experienced the awesomeness of being washed, share your testimony with others; God delights in you sharing His glory.
I know this sounds silly, but it was somehow refreshing to me. Every year as the semester proceeded, the wall slowly formed a layer of mold and mildew making for a drab and dreary appearance. After awhile it wasn’t refreshing. Maybe once or twice a semester, they were pressure washed again.
I think our lives are a bit like that. We start out white, pure, and innocent, but over time we become jaded by our fallen world. We grow layers of unforgiveness, insensitivity, bitterness and hate. We walk around like a strong stench of mold and mildew. We can live in bondage to these filthy layers for days, months, years, and for some, a lifetime. These bondages become commonplace for us, thus creating an atmosphere of oppression. Isaiah 64:6 says, “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment.” This sin makes us unclean so that we are unable to approach God.
Our layers of sin separate us from God, but we can choose to accept Him into our hearts and be reconciled “through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought [us] into his own presence, and [we] are holy and blameless as [we] stand before him without a single fault.” (Colossians 1:21-22).
Isn’t that just refreshing to hear! Even though we live in a fallen world, become jaded and think sinful thoughts and conduct sinful actions, Christ made us blameless and beyond reproach. Through His actions, we are no longer a mold and mildew covered wall. We are “pressure washed” and made clean through Him.
However difficult your life may be at this moment, allowing God to peel off your layers and make you new will set you free from the chains of bondage that are holding you down. If you’ve already experienced the awesomeness of being washed, share your testimony with others; God delights in you sharing His glory.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
From 43,000 to 35...
About two and a half years ago, Aaron and I were asked to go on a six-month journey with our current Pastor, Tom. Tom asked us (along with 33) others to help bring to life, his and Jackie's vision of building refuge of hope. This hope was to be called Thrive Church.
Aaron and I were forced to make a difficult decision; like Orpah and Ruth, we were called to choose between going back to our comfortable and familiar environment (our home church of 43,000) or step out in faith to a new and foreign land (a church of 35). Fortunately for us we listened to the Holy Spirit as did Ruth (Ruth 1:6-17). We accepted the path God led us to, and as Ruth, we said "...I will go wherever you go and live wherever you live..." (Ruth 1:16). Ruth acted selflessly and considered her mother-in-law, Naomi's, need as a widow and she was willing to give up her homeland for a new territory that awaited her. Unlike Orpah who chose to return to her familiar homeland.
This walk of faith has helped me see what a big God we serve. From a humble beginning of 35 people to now 580 in regular attendance at Thrive. I am humbled at how God used us to help further His kingdom. For if it weren't for Tom and Jackie laying their faith, trust, and hope in the Lord, we wouldn't have had the opportunity nor the resources to share the hope and healing of Jesus Christ with so many broken and hurting sinners in the Katy/Richmond area.
Our journey of faith has also taught us to rely on God to provide for our family in everyway. It has given us a hope that when we thought we were leaving the best behind, God was just adding to our cup so that it overflows with blessings. (Psalm 23:5) We want our commitment to God and His people to be woven together so closely that they are almost inseparable.
As for Naomi and Ruth, their relationship is a beautiful example of how God can turn difficult circumstances and decisions to one of blessings. (Ruth 4). As God has used us and Naomi, he can use you too bring others to Him if you are willing to step out in faith and leave the comfortable behind.
Aaron and I were forced to make a difficult decision; like Orpah and Ruth, we were called to choose between going back to our comfortable and familiar environment (our home church of 43,000) or step out in faith to a new and foreign land (a church of 35). Fortunately for us we listened to the Holy Spirit as did Ruth (Ruth 1:6-17). We accepted the path God led us to, and as Ruth, we said "...I will go wherever you go and live wherever you live..." (Ruth 1:16). Ruth acted selflessly and considered her mother-in-law, Naomi's, need as a widow and she was willing to give up her homeland for a new territory that awaited her. Unlike Orpah who chose to return to her familiar homeland.
This walk of faith has helped me see what a big God we serve. From a humble beginning of 35 people to now 580 in regular attendance at Thrive. I am humbled at how God used us to help further His kingdom. For if it weren't for Tom and Jackie laying their faith, trust, and hope in the Lord, we wouldn't have had the opportunity nor the resources to share the hope and healing of Jesus Christ with so many broken and hurting sinners in the Katy/Richmond area.
Our journey of faith has also taught us to rely on God to provide for our family in everyway. It has given us a hope that when we thought we were leaving the best behind, God was just adding to our cup so that it overflows with blessings. (Psalm 23:5) We want our commitment to God and His people to be woven together so closely that they are almost inseparable.
As for Naomi and Ruth, their relationship is a beautiful example of how God can turn difficult circumstances and decisions to one of blessings. (Ruth 4). As God has used us and Naomi, he can use you too bring others to Him if you are willing to step out in faith and leave the comfortable behind.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Beloved Gem
Husband's and wive's love is like a king's signet ring. Both sign important documents with their rings. For spouses, they sign their marriage license as a declaration of their love and exchange rings. A love that should be self-less, sacrifical, unconditional, patient, and persevering--just as God's love is toward us. God promised that, we, like Him, should promise our spouses that "neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us..."(Romans 8:39) from His love, nor the love we have for each other.
I once heard someone say: "don't marry someone you can live with--marry someone you cannot live without!" Well I have to say God perfectly aligned that for Aaron and me. I do have to say that I think I got the better end of the deal. Aaron is a gem, my diamond in the rough. I couldn't have asked for a better husband. He has loved me through our ups and downs, through the calm and the storms, even the days that I have been impatient, unkind, proud, irritable, and rude. He has strived to love me as God has loved me. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) God gave His son out of love, so He wouldn't have to live without you! Read the last sentence again and ponder on what a sacrificial and loving Father we have!
"I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine." (Song of Songs 6:3) I pray today Solomon's words are etched and sealed on your heart. Honor and love your spouse as God would have you love them. I pray that your "love flashes like fire" and shines out "the brightest kind of flame" (Song of Songs 8:6) for your spouse. May you bless others with this message and inscribe it on your own heart. For as Christ's love changed the world, so can yours.
I once heard someone say: "don't marry someone you can live with--marry someone you cannot live without!" Well I have to say God perfectly aligned that for Aaron and me. I do have to say that I think I got the better end of the deal. Aaron is a gem, my diamond in the rough. I couldn't have asked for a better husband. He has loved me through our ups and downs, through the calm and the storms, even the days that I have been impatient, unkind, proud, irritable, and rude. He has strived to love me as God has loved me. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) God gave His son out of love, so He wouldn't have to live without you! Read the last sentence again and ponder on what a sacrificial and loving Father we have!
"I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine." (Song of Songs 6:3) I pray today Solomon's words are etched and sealed on your heart. Honor and love your spouse as God would have you love them. I pray that your "love flashes like fire" and shines out "the brightest kind of flame" (Song of Songs 8:6) for your spouse. May you bless others with this message and inscribe it on your own heart. For as Christ's love changed the world, so can yours.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Parenting God's Way
God's guide to parenting is His word. It is an instruction manual and a road map to guide us through unfamiliar terrain. As parents or parents to be, we need to equip ourselves by consistently studying and applying His principles. When we acquire wisdom from the Lord, we can impart it to our children. "Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching." (Proverbs 1:8)
Children learn by example; therefore, not only should we learn, but we must "teach" and be a model of faith that is alive and real to them. When parents worship and revere God with their words, actions, and teaching they are instilling biblical truth into their children's belief system. The bible says, "train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
None of us are perfect, nor were our parents, but we live and learn. If we learn from God's instruction manual and teach our children to be rooted in Christ's word then we as parents, have instilled the morals and values that will guide our children to live and face this life.
Whether you are a future parent, a parent of a three-year old, a teenager, or an adult child, seek God's guidance on how to instruct them in the "way" they "should go." Maybe you are a grandparent who has gained wisdom throughout the years, you can help guide your grandchildren in the right path. Perhaps you're a youth pastor and are in need of helpful advice or the right words to reach out to a teen; seek scripture and use GOD's words to minister to them.
christslegacy.blogspot.com
Children learn by example; therefore, not only should we learn, but we must "teach" and be a model of faith that is alive and real to them. When parents worship and revere God with their words, actions, and teaching they are instilling biblical truth into their children's belief system. The bible says, "train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
None of us are perfect, nor were our parents, but we live and learn. If we learn from God's instruction manual and teach our children to be rooted in Christ's word then we as parents, have instilled the morals and values that will guide our children to live and face this life.
Whether you are a future parent, a parent of a three-year old, a teenager, or an adult child, seek God's guidance on how to instruct them in the "way" they "should go." Maybe you are a grandparent who has gained wisdom throughout the years, you can help guide your grandchildren in the right path. Perhaps you're a youth pastor and are in need of helpful advice or the right words to reach out to a teen; seek scripture and use GOD's words to minister to them.
christslegacy.blogspot.com
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Sincere Love in Your Sweet Spot
For the past few years I have really struggled with feelings of not knowing where my role in ministry was and why it is that I haven't really found a place that was, as my pastor has said, "my sweet spot."
Before the foundations of the earth, God had a plan, one that involved His son. He sent His son to this earth, to live out a plan of salvation. One that involved Him sacrificing His one and only son to die for the forgiveness of our sins. "It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. (I Peter 1:19)" that was given as a ransom for you. "You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. (I Peter 1:22)" Now that's a "sweet spot!" It wasn't an easy one, but that is the one that God chose for Jesus.
Previously I have given of my time, effort, finances, and resources to help with the needs of others; however, many times it seems I have always walked away with a sense of dissatisfaction, needing something else, as if I continued to have a void that need to be filled. In my own mind, I felt as if I was giving of myself, my time, and my efforts, but it always felt like something was missing. I wasn't fulfilled in the places that I felt I was serving.
As of lately, God has truly been working in my heart to give of my time, effort, finances, and resources, but in a new way. The exact way that He gave of His son. One that is self-sacrificial, with a sincere and "deep" love that Peter speaks about. In essence, I feel like He is saying to me "stop going through the motions" and truly put your heart and soul into anything that I set before you...it is then that you will come upon to know the sincere love that I speak about in my Word.
Although, I am still in process of "finding" my sweet spot, I have a new found freedom that God has shown me; loving deeply and sincerely. The Lord continues to melt away the dross to refine me each day, so as to reflect His image.
I pray that the Lord works in your heart and your life. For I know that He has great and mighty plans for your life and the sacrifice of His son has shown His sincere love for you. Love others today and give of your whole self. Whether it be that you spend more quality time with your family, give a listening ear to your dear friend that is hurting, devoting time to lead a bible study, or giving of your financial resources. If it is you that is in need, give to others and see what God gives back to you in return.
Before the foundations of the earth, God had a plan, one that involved His son. He sent His son to this earth, to live out a plan of salvation. One that involved Him sacrificing His one and only son to die for the forgiveness of our sins. "It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. (I Peter 1:19)" that was given as a ransom for you. "You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. (I Peter 1:22)" Now that's a "sweet spot!" It wasn't an easy one, but that is the one that God chose for Jesus.
Previously I have given of my time, effort, finances, and resources to help with the needs of others; however, many times it seems I have always walked away with a sense of dissatisfaction, needing something else, as if I continued to have a void that need to be filled. In my own mind, I felt as if I was giving of myself, my time, and my efforts, but it always felt like something was missing. I wasn't fulfilled in the places that I felt I was serving.
As of lately, God has truly been working in my heart to give of my time, effort, finances, and resources, but in a new way. The exact way that He gave of His son. One that is self-sacrificial, with a sincere and "deep" love that Peter speaks about. In essence, I feel like He is saying to me "stop going through the motions" and truly put your heart and soul into anything that I set before you...it is then that you will come upon to know the sincere love that I speak about in my Word.
Although, I am still in process of "finding" my sweet spot, I have a new found freedom that God has shown me; loving deeply and sincerely. The Lord continues to melt away the dross to refine me each day, so as to reflect His image.
I pray that the Lord works in your heart and your life. For I know that He has great and mighty plans for your life and the sacrifice of His son has shown His sincere love for you. Love others today and give of your whole self. Whether it be that you spend more quality time with your family, give a listening ear to your dear friend that is hurting, devoting time to lead a bible study, or giving of your financial resources. If it is you that is in need, give to others and see what God gives back to you in return.
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