Acts 14:1-7
Paul and Barnabas in Iconium
Both apostles preached God's word and performed miracles. However, distension was apparent and rumours that people were planning to stone Paul and Barnabas erupted. Thus, the two fled and spread God's word to others.
This is sad, but not surprising. Satan's army will always be here. They will always try to destroy God's work and all who have faith in our Lord. Satan's aim is to drive a wedge between us and God. Unfortunately, Satan does a good job of it...
Hebrews 12:25-29
A Call to Listen to God
"We are receiving a kingdom that cannot be destroyed, let us be thankful and please God by worshipping him with holy fear and awe. For our God is a consuming fire." (29)
How beautiful and true. Our God is one who loves us and one that we should also fear because he has great power and can destroy us in a blink of an eye. We are not worthy of his gift of eternal life.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
God's Gift of Everlasting Life
Acts 13: 45-52
Paul Turns to the Gentiles
When Paul and Barnabas preached the Gospel to the Jews, the Jewish leaders came out and argued against them. As such, Paul told them they were unworthy of God's gift of everlasting life and thus told the Gentiles, this gift was thus now freely given to them. Paul and Barnabas were then chased out of this town
We will always have people speak out against our faith and our belief. These people have "closed" ears and hearts. We are not to judge them but ask God to forgive them for their own ignorance and selfishness and we are to continue with our message to those who are willing and open to hearing God's message.
Hebrews 14:18-24
A Call to Listen to God
"Those who are not holy, will not see the Lord" (14)
"You have come to God himself, who is the judge of all people" (23)
Without Christ, God can seem very mean. But with Christ, we see God's love for us. We are to forgive and not seek out vengence. We are not to let "gossip" and spiteful actions take root in us for it is poision for our souls.
Paul Turns to the Gentiles
When Paul and Barnabas preached the Gospel to the Jews, the Jewish leaders came out and argued against them. As such, Paul told them they were unworthy of God's gift of everlasting life and thus told the Gentiles, this gift was thus now freely given to them. Paul and Barnabas were then chased out of this town
We will always have people speak out against our faith and our belief. These people have "closed" ears and hearts. We are not to judge them but ask God to forgive them for their own ignorance and selfishness and we are to continue with our message to those who are willing and open to hearing God's message.
Hebrews 14:18-24
A Call to Listen to God
"Those who are not holy, will not see the Lord" (14)
"You have come to God himself, who is the judge of all people" (23)
Without Christ, God can seem very mean. But with Christ, we see God's love for us. We are to forgive and not seek out vengence. We are not to let "gossip" and spiteful actions take root in us for it is poision for our souls.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Giving Thanks...
Acts 13:1-12
Barabas and Saul Are Sent Out
Both met a Jewish sorcerer, a false prophet, named Bar-Jesus. Elmyas, the socerer tried to stop Saul from speaking the words of God to the govenor and Saul , with the help of the Holy Spirit called Elmyas the son of the devil and made him blind! Wow! Once the govenor heard this, he believed.
Hebrews 12:1-4
God's Discipline Proves His Love
This passage is about how Jesus endured much shame and pain for our sins. How can we give up on Him? Our pain and shame doesn't even come close to what he sacrificed for our sake. Thank you, Lord.
Barabas and Saul Are Sent Out
Both met a Jewish sorcerer, a false prophet, named Bar-Jesus. Elmyas, the socerer tried to stop Saul from speaking the words of God to the govenor and Saul , with the help of the Holy Spirit called Elmyas the son of the devil and made him blind! Wow! Once the govenor heard this, he believed.
Hebrews 12:1-4
God's Discipline Proves His Love
This passage is about how Jesus endured much shame and pain for our sins. How can we give up on Him? Our pain and shame doesn't even come close to what he sacrificed for our sake. Thank you, Lord.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
I Pray for Your Strength
Acts 11:19-30
The Church of Antioch of Syria
Before this Church, prophets only preached to the Jews. It began at this Church that prophets preached to the Gentiles... God saves us all.
Hebrews 11:24-29
In this passage we are reminded of Moses faith in God and how he left the comforts of the palace as Royalty to be with peasants.
So I ask myself, where is my faith? What will I give up to follow your ways? I can only give as much as you give me strength to do. At this time, I am running on your strength as I have none. I thank you for the energy you provide for me at school. I know it is you people see in me. You are my source of strength. I thank you for the ideas and patience you provide. Father, I ask that you continue to carry me through.
The Church of Antioch of Syria
Before this Church, prophets only preached to the Jews. It began at this Church that prophets preached to the Gentiles... God saves us all.
Hebrews 11:24-29
In this passage we are reminded of Moses faith in God and how he left the comforts of the palace as Royalty to be with peasants.
So I ask myself, where is my faith? What will I give up to follow your ways? I can only give as much as you give me strength to do. At this time, I am running on your strength as I have none. I thank you for the energy you provide for me at school. I know it is you people see in me. You are my source of strength. I thank you for the ideas and patience you provide. Father, I ask that you continue to carry me through.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Where is my faith?
Acts 11:1-18
Peter Explains His Actions
This passage is how Peter explains that God wants to save the Gentiles too, not just the Jews. We cannot be judgemental or prejudiced/biased against others. I am exhausted Lord, I ask for comfort in your arms for I am truly tired.
Hebrews 11:21-23
Great Examples of Faith
We are reminded of Jacob's, Joseph's and Moses' faith in God. Where is mine?
Peter Explains His Actions
This passage is how Peter explains that God wants to save the Gentiles too, not just the Jews. We cannot be judgemental or prejudiced/biased against others. I am exhausted Lord, I ask for comfort in your arms for I am truly tired.
Hebrews 11:21-23
Great Examples of Faith
We are reminded of Jacob's, Joseph's and Moses' faith in God. Where is mine?
Friday, October 21, 2011
Patience and Faith... God's combination...
Acts 9: 36-43
Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas
Tabitha is the English version of Dorcas. Tabitha was kind and helped the poor. She became sick and died. When her friends heard Paul was in town, they sent 2 men to ask Peter to bring Tabitha back to life. Indeed upon praying to God, Tabitha got up!
Hebrews 11:7-12
Great Examples of Faith
This passage reminds me to have faith. God will provide us with what we yearn for. Patience is the key. I am reminded about Noah, Abraham and Sarah... nothing is impossible with God.
I will be going for minor surgery to unblock a partially blocked fallopian tube. This will be crucial since we'll be doing IUI with chlomophine. Looks like this will end in February of 2012. I am so tired Lord. A part of me has accepted that I will not bare children, I am just going through the motions to please my husband, so he can move on...
Father, I do pray for your strength and wisdom and patience for the next few months. I currently feel indifferent. I just want to move on and serve you Father.
Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas
Tabitha is the English version of Dorcas. Tabitha was kind and helped the poor. She became sick and died. When her friends heard Paul was in town, they sent 2 men to ask Peter to bring Tabitha back to life. Indeed upon praying to God, Tabitha got up!
Hebrews 11:7-12
Great Examples of Faith
This passage reminds me to have faith. God will provide us with what we yearn for. Patience is the key. I am reminded about Noah, Abraham and Sarah... nothing is impossible with God.
I will be going for minor surgery to unblock a partially blocked fallopian tube. This will be crucial since we'll be doing IUI with chlomophine. Looks like this will end in February of 2012. I am so tired Lord. A part of me has accepted that I will not bare children, I am just going through the motions to please my husband, so he can move on...
Father, I do pray for your strength and wisdom and patience for the next few months. I currently feel indifferent. I just want to move on and serve you Father.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
We must have faith...
Acts 9:19b-35
Saul in Demascus and Jerusalum
The believers were walking in fear of the Lord but in the comfort of the Holy Spirit (31). What an interesting line. It seems to be dichotomy of thoughts, but then it isn't...
This passage shows how God uses Saul to convert many. Many people recognized Saul as the one who didn't believe and was adament about persecuting all followers of Christ. So how shocked were people to hear that he was a "die hard" follower. Even the apostles thought Saul was faking his belief to get "close" to them... In fact he was so great at convincing others about the truth of the gospel that Jewish leaders plotted to have him murdered. It was through God's hands that Saul escapes being killed twice.
This is affirmation of how great God's plan for each of us if we just let Him use us.
Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas
In this passage Peter cries out for Aeneas, a man who had been bedridden and paralyzes to get up. Surely he does and the people in the village befieve in Christ. This reminds me of how "unfaithful" we are. We must see to believe... we shouldn't we should trust the Holy Spirit inside us...
Hebrews 10:32 - 11:6
Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (35,36)
This is a reminder of God's message to me in Cambodia... patience...
Great Examples of Faith
It is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to Him, must believe there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. (6)
Yes Lord. I have been seeking you most of my life and now I find you coursing through me, which makes me so thankful that you love me.
Saul in Demascus and Jerusalum
The believers were walking in fear of the Lord but in the comfort of the Holy Spirit (31). What an interesting line. It seems to be dichotomy of thoughts, but then it isn't...
This passage shows how God uses Saul to convert many. Many people recognized Saul as the one who didn't believe and was adament about persecuting all followers of Christ. So how shocked were people to hear that he was a "die hard" follower. Even the apostles thought Saul was faking his belief to get "close" to them... In fact he was so great at convincing others about the truth of the gospel that Jewish leaders plotted to have him murdered. It was through God's hands that Saul escapes being killed twice.
This is affirmation of how great God's plan for each of us if we just let Him use us.
Peter Heals Aeneas and Raises Dorcas
In this passage Peter cries out for Aeneas, a man who had been bedridden and paralyzes to get up. Surely he does and the people in the village befieve in Christ. This reminds me of how "unfaithful" we are. We must see to believe... we shouldn't we should trust the Holy Spirit inside us...
Hebrews 10:32 - 11:6
Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (35,36)
This is a reminder of God's message to me in Cambodia... patience...
Great Examples of Faith
It is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to Him, must believe there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. (6)
Yes Lord. I have been seeking you most of my life and now I find you coursing through me, which makes me so thankful that you love me.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Saul's Conversion and the Need for Fellowship
What a great small group I have! =)
Thank you for the joy of laughter and warmth of friends.
Acts 9 -1-19a
Saul's Conversion
Wow! Saul was a man who worked for Satan for he was out to persecute all believers. His dream was to bring all who believed in Christ to Jeruselum in chains! It was on one of his trips that he was blinded by a light and fell to the ground. Jesus was crying out to him asking why he was persecuting his followers. Saul became blind and his companions walked him to the nearest city. It was at this time, Christ asked Ananias to deliver a message to Saul on his behalf. Upon delivering this message, Saul regained his sight and committed his life to Jesus.
Hebrews 10:26-31
A Call to Persevere
The Lord will judge his own people (30)
If we are faithful, judgement will be easy...
Commentary on why we need fellowship with others.
1. to provide us with encouragement and love
2. to have role models to help us develop into mature christians
3. to help us discern from false teachings
4. to prepare us for Christ's return
I think small groups are definitely important, as it is all about fellowship and prayer...
Thank you for the joy of laughter and warmth of friends.
Acts 9 -1-19a
Saul's Conversion
Wow! Saul was a man who worked for Satan for he was out to persecute all believers. His dream was to bring all who believed in Christ to Jeruselum in chains! It was on one of his trips that he was blinded by a light and fell to the ground. Jesus was crying out to him asking why he was persecuting his followers. Saul became blind and his companions walked him to the nearest city. It was at this time, Christ asked Ananias to deliver a message to Saul on his behalf. Upon delivering this message, Saul regained his sight and committed his life to Jesus.
Hebrews 10:26-31
A Call to Persevere
The Lord will judge his own people (30)
If we are faithful, judgement will be easy...
Commentary on why we need fellowship with others.
1. to provide us with encouragement and love
2. to have role models to help us develop into mature christians
3. to help us discern from false teachings
4. to prepare us for Christ's return
I think small groups are definitely important, as it is all about fellowship and prayer...
Monday, October 17, 2011
Fill Me Up, Lord
Acts 8: 26-40
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
This is a story where the Holy Spirit moved Philip to go up to explain a passage of scripture to a complete stranger. In spending time with each other, the eunuch asked Philip to baptize him! Hallelujah! If it were only that easy to get others to believe...
Hebrews 10:23-25
A Call to Persevere
This passage is to remind me that God keeps his promises! He asks us to spontaneously do good and lift others. We are not to neglect our meeting together and proclaim Christ's return...
Thank you Father for this passage for I surely have run out of steam and have not been letting you shine through me. I have shut the blinds... I have to open them again. Father, I ask for your strength and patience, for I am weary. Fill me up with you energy and spirit. Amen.
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
This is a story where the Holy Spirit moved Philip to go up to explain a passage of scripture to a complete stranger. In spending time with each other, the eunuch asked Philip to baptize him! Hallelujah! If it were only that easy to get others to believe...
Hebrews 10:23-25
A Call to Persevere
This passage is to remind me that God keeps his promises! He asks us to spontaneously do good and lift others. We are not to neglect our meeting together and proclaim Christ's return...
Thank you Father for this passage for I surely have run out of steam and have not been letting you shine through me. I have shut the blinds... I have to open them again. Father, I ask for your strength and patience, for I am weary. Fill me up with you energy and spirit. Amen.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Our God is Mighty to Save
Dear Lord, am I ever stressed. Father, I give you my burden... please take it...
I have not been as diligent about my devotions and have felt out of sorts. I pray for your forgiveness.
Acts 7:44-60
This is a passage about a man named Stephen who was stoned to death for telling the people and officials that we are stubborn people because we are heathen at the heart and deaf to the truth because we resist the Holy Spirit. He went on to say how we betrayed our Messiah and persecute God's prophets...
This reminds me of how we are blinded by money and greed. We lack faith and only believe when we are given proof... how sad we are...
Hebrews 10:1-18
Christ's Sacrifice One for All
I love this line, " I will never again remember their sins and lawless deeds." (17)
Christ's sacrifice was the ultimate one. Our God is mighty to save.
I have not been as diligent about my devotions and have felt out of sorts. I pray for your forgiveness.
Acts 7:44-60
This is a passage about a man named Stephen who was stoned to death for telling the people and officials that we are stubborn people because we are heathen at the heart and deaf to the truth because we resist the Holy Spirit. He went on to say how we betrayed our Messiah and persecute God's prophets...
This reminds me of how we are blinded by money and greed. We lack faith and only believe when we are given proof... how sad we are...
Hebrews 10:1-18
Christ's Sacrifice One for All
I love this line, " I will never again remember their sins and lawless deeds." (17)
Christ's sacrifice was the ultimate one. Our God is mighty to save.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Lord of Lords
Acts 6:8-7:16
Stephen is Arrested and Addresses the Council
Stephen was a man who God gave great wisdom. Jealous people spread rumors saying that Stephen spoke out against the Temple and Moses. However, when he was brought before the council, Stephen recounted how God had appeared to them since the time of Abraham.
Hebrews 9:16-23
Christ is the Perfect Sacrifice
This passage tells us in Moses' days, everything had to be purified with blood for the forgiveness of sins. This is no longer the case for Christ's death purfied all of all sins...
How great is He who's the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, He is wonderful...
Stephen is Arrested and Addresses the Council
Stephen was a man who God gave great wisdom. Jealous people spread rumors saying that Stephen spoke out against the Temple and Moses. However, when he was brought before the council, Stephen recounted how God had appeared to them since the time of Abraham.
Hebrews 9:16-23
Christ is the Perfect Sacrifice
This passage tells us in Moses' days, everything had to be purified with blood for the forgiveness of sins. This is no longer the case for Christ's death purfied all of all sins...
How great is He who's the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, He is wonderful...
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Grateful for your gift of life
Acts 6:1-7
Seven Men Chosen to Serve
Division of labour, leadership and deligation of tasks... these are important to ensure we don't mismanage or misuse or underuse our spiritual gifts. It was great the apostles reallized that they didn't need to spend time passing out food. Their time was better spent spreading the gospel and praying for others.
Hebrews 9:11-15
Christ is the Perfect Sacrifice
"Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant." (15)
Prior to Christ's sacrifice, people sacrificed goats and cows to cleanse their sins. How great and precious is Christ's blood compared to that of an animal!
Thank you God for dying on the Cross for me. I pray for continued strength for the next few months. I pray that you will watch over my husband as I know his faith will be tested again and I know he is rather frail. We will be starting another round of reproductive medicine. I leave all this in your hands Father, as I am devoid of all feeling about this at this point in time. I am cherishing my moments with friends and family and my students... so in these things I am blessed. Thank you Lord.
Seven Men Chosen to Serve
Division of labour, leadership and deligation of tasks... these are important to ensure we don't mismanage or misuse or underuse our spiritual gifts. It was great the apostles reallized that they didn't need to spend time passing out food. Their time was better spent spreading the gospel and praying for others.
Hebrews 9:11-15
Christ is the Perfect Sacrifice
"Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant." (15)
Prior to Christ's sacrifice, people sacrificed goats and cows to cleanse their sins. How great and precious is Christ's blood compared to that of an animal!
Thank you God for dying on the Cross for me. I pray for continued strength for the next few months. I pray that you will watch over my husband as I know his faith will be tested again and I know he is rather frail. We will be starting another round of reproductive medicine. I leave all this in your hands Father, as I am devoid of all feeling about this at this point in time. I am cherishing my moments with friends and family and my students... so in these things I am blessed. Thank you Lord.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Christ is our Direct Line to God!
Acts 5:26-42
Apostles Meet Opposition
"The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus!" (42)
The Pharisees wanted to kill the apostles, but it was Gamaliel that told them not to. For he said, if these people are false prophets, eventually those who believe will wither to nothing. But if what they say is true, God is behind them. For the Pharisees to kill them would be to go against God, himself!
And so here we are, over 2000 years later, still proclaiming the Gospel! So it must be true!
Hebrews 9:1-10
Old Rules About Worship
This passage is how people used to worship God in the presence of the Ark of the Covenent. Only the most high priest could present offerings to cleanse the sins of many. This is no longer the case. By professing our faith to Christ, our sins can be cleansed. Christ is our direct path to God.
Father, thank you for sending Christ to take away the sins of the world and allowing us all access to you via Jesus.
Apostles Meet Opposition
"The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus!" (42)
The Pharisees wanted to kill the apostles, but it was Gamaliel that told them not to. For he said, if these people are false prophets, eventually those who believe will wither to nothing. But if what they say is true, God is behind them. For the Pharisees to kill them would be to go against God, himself!
And so here we are, over 2000 years later, still proclaiming the Gospel! So it must be true!
Hebrews 9:1-10
Old Rules About Worship
This passage is how people used to worship God in the presence of the Ark of the Covenent. Only the most high priest could present offerings to cleanse the sins of many. This is no longer the case. By professing our faith to Christ, our sins can be cleansed. Christ is our direct path to God.
Father, thank you for sending Christ to take away the sins of the world and allowing us all access to you via Jesus.
Monday, October 10, 2011
God's Promise
Acts 5: 12-25
The Apostles Heal Many
After the death of Christ, his disciples began to spread the gospel and heal the sick. People would come and lie on the streets just so Peter's shadow could cast upon them and heal them! The Sadducees were enraged and jealous. The had the apostles thrown in jail, but God sent an angel to release them that evening and told them to head to the Temple.
Wow! People came just to be in the presence of Peter's shadow. That is amazing. We should not doubt the powers of our Lord. For he will provide always...
Hebrews 8:7-13
Christ is our High Priest
This passage talks about God making a new covenant with us, where He will forgive all our wrong doings when we come to know Him...
This ties in with our sermon from yesterday where God meets us at the heart of the storms of our lives. We can hide all we want from God, but He will find us, so we can give Him all our fears and we can find comfort and rest in His arms. Praise God!
The Apostles Heal Many
After the death of Christ, his disciples began to spread the gospel and heal the sick. People would come and lie on the streets just so Peter's shadow could cast upon them and heal them! The Sadducees were enraged and jealous. The had the apostles thrown in jail, but God sent an angel to release them that evening and told them to head to the Temple.
Wow! People came just to be in the presence of Peter's shadow. That is amazing. We should not doubt the powers of our Lord. For he will provide always...
Hebrews 8:7-13
Christ is our High Priest
This passage talks about God making a new covenant with us, where He will forgive all our wrong doings when we come to know Him...
This ties in with our sermon from yesterday where God meets us at the heart of the storms of our lives. We can hide all we want from God, but He will find us, so we can give Him all our fears and we can find comfort and rest in His arms. Praise God!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
The Holy Spirit is God in Us
Acts 5:1-11
Ananias and Sapphira
The passages tells us that the Holy Spirit is God, not just a force. We can sin against the Spirit by doing the following things:
1. lying - doing things without committing through the heart
2. grieving - this is done when we carry anger in hearts, put down others and anything that is against the new nature inside of us.
3. quenching - holding back from giving the Spirit complete control, meaning we resist changing from our old ways by ignoring His promptings
4.resisting - the desire of the Spirit is to bring us closer to God;however, pride will often stop us from acknowledging Christ as our Saviour. Christ, himself, called us stubborn people.
5. insulting - dismissing the great price Jesus paid for us on the Cross; refusing to accept the gift of salvation...
6. blaspheming - rejecting Jesus as our Saviour. This is the ultimate sin, this is the point of no return...
This is a great and informative passage about a husband and wife, Ananias and Sappira, who conspired to cheat God. They were to sell land that give that money to apostles. Out of greed they kept part of the money for themselves. When caught and confronted, they died instantly.
Hebrews 8:1-6
Christ is our High Priest
This passage begins by telling us that Christ sits on the right hand of God. Our places of worship are a mere "shadow" of the real one in Heaven.
Father, I thank for today's message about the Holy Spirit. I know for a fact that I have been quenching and grieving the Spirit. I ask for courage to break this cycle so that I can set the Spirit that lives within me free - free to follow your ways.
Ananias and Sapphira
The passages tells us that the Holy Spirit is God, not just a force. We can sin against the Spirit by doing the following things:
1. lying - doing things without committing through the heart
2. grieving - this is done when we carry anger in hearts, put down others and anything that is against the new nature inside of us.
3. quenching - holding back from giving the Spirit complete control, meaning we resist changing from our old ways by ignoring His promptings
4.resisting - the desire of the Spirit is to bring us closer to God;however, pride will often stop us from acknowledging Christ as our Saviour. Christ, himself, called us stubborn people.
5. insulting - dismissing the great price Jesus paid for us on the Cross; refusing to accept the gift of salvation...
6. blaspheming - rejecting Jesus as our Saviour. This is the ultimate sin, this is the point of no return...
This is a great and informative passage about a husband and wife, Ananias and Sappira, who conspired to cheat God. They were to sell land that give that money to apostles. Out of greed they kept part of the money for themselves. When caught and confronted, they died instantly.
Hebrews 8:1-6
Christ is our High Priest
This passage begins by telling us that Christ sits on the right hand of God. Our places of worship are a mere "shadow" of the real one in Heaven.
Father, I thank for today's message about the Holy Spirit. I know for a fact that I have been quenching and grieving the Spirit. I ask for courage to break this cycle so that I can set the Spirit that lives within me free - free to follow your ways.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Christ is always on our side
Acts 4:23-37
The Believers Pray for Courage
This passage asks, "Why did the nations rage? Why did the people waste with time with futile plans?" (25)
So Father, I ask the same question. Why do we try to do things without God? For without God's blessing, nothing will good will come.
Hebrews 7:23-28
Christ is like Melchizedek
Jesus was appointed by God to be a priest forever. Therefore, Jesus can save people forever. Jesus lives forever to plead with God on our behalf.
It is comforting to know that Christ will always be on our side.
The Believers Pray for Courage
This passage asks, "Why did the nations rage? Why did the people waste with time with futile plans?" (25)
So Father, I ask the same question. Why do we try to do things without God? For without God's blessing, nothing will good will come.
Hebrews 7:23-28
Christ is like Melchizedek
Jesus was appointed by God to be a priest forever. Therefore, Jesus can save people forever. Jesus lives forever to plead with God on our behalf.
It is comforting to know that Christ will always be on our side.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Power of Prayer
Today's post will be about my final mission debrief meeting. It was great to see familiar faces and it was awesome to share with others about my husband's desire to serve in Cambodia next summer. I am ecstatic with the power of prayer and am thoroughly humbled by God's grace and blessing.
Earlier this afternoon, I was once again filled with negative thoughts and energy regarding work, but God, you spared me and shone through me. I felt your power and energy fill me up and you helped me work through it and turn it into a positive experience. So Father, thank you.
You made me recollect my pre and post feelings about Cambodia. I came back with renewed patience and learned to ask for your help and give up my burdens to you. So Father, here am I, please take all that I cannot bare, and use me for your glory.
When I sit back and hear others describe me, I sometimes can't believe they're talking about me... actually, I know it's you they're talking about. It's your qualities that are shining through me... it's your love eminating out of me. You have brought me great joy - people hear my laugh and see my smile. It is seemingly contagious. That is a good thing. You give me ways with words and wisdom so that I can impact lives. You are my blessing.
Earlier this afternoon, I was once again filled with negative thoughts and energy regarding work, but God, you spared me and shone through me. I felt your power and energy fill me up and you helped me work through it and turn it into a positive experience. So Father, thank you.
You made me recollect my pre and post feelings about Cambodia. I came back with renewed patience and learned to ask for your help and give up my burdens to you. So Father, here am I, please take all that I cannot bare, and use me for your glory.
When I sit back and hear others describe me, I sometimes can't believe they're talking about me... actually, I know it's you they're talking about. It's your qualities that are shining through me... it's your love eminating out of me. You have brought me great joy - people hear my laugh and see my smile. It is seemingly contagious. That is a good thing. You give me ways with words and wisdom so that I can impact lives. You are my blessing.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
My Lord, My King, Tells Me to be Patient
Acts 2: 14-39
Peter Preaches to a Crowd
I love this quote that King David said about Jesus, 'I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises. My body rests in hope.' (25,26)
How beautiful this is... to know that God is along side me every step of the way, in times of sadness and in times of grief.
I also love this saying from Peter, ' Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of the Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.' (38)
So does this mean, we will only receive the gift of the Holy Spirit when we are baptized, but receive the gift of life in Christ when we choose to follow him?
In the supplementary text, it mentions that the Holy Spirit is not there just to allow us to "feel" a certain way, but rather to accomplish something based on our feeling. The Holy Spirit can be like dynamite, giving us bursts of new energy or it can be "power" to keep us going. We must tap into this "dynamite" so we can have Christ shine through us.
Hebrews 6:7-15
This is a passage about patience. This reminds me of God's message to me... God took an oath in his own name saying: I will certainly bless you richly, and I will multiply your descendants into countless millions... Abraham waited patiently and he recieved what God had promised. (13-15)
I can hear God whispering to me, "Patience, my child, patience..."
So Father, I pray that you will give me more patience and peace, not only in my yearning for a child, but also in my work place, in working with others. I pray that you will continue to work through me and to bless me so that I may bless others. I pray that you will give me energy, the energy of a thousand horses so that I can get all my work done, but also the wisdom to leave my work when necessary... as you tell us the need for a break.
Peter Preaches to a Crowd
I love this quote that King David said about Jesus, 'I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises. My body rests in hope.' (25,26)
How beautiful this is... to know that God is along side me every step of the way, in times of sadness and in times of grief.
I also love this saying from Peter, ' Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of the Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.' (38)
So does this mean, we will only receive the gift of the Holy Spirit when we are baptized, but receive the gift of life in Christ when we choose to follow him?
In the supplementary text, it mentions that the Holy Spirit is not there just to allow us to "feel" a certain way, but rather to accomplish something based on our feeling. The Holy Spirit can be like dynamite, giving us bursts of new energy or it can be "power" to keep us going. We must tap into this "dynamite" so we can have Christ shine through us.
Hebrews 6:7-15
This is a passage about patience. This reminds me of God's message to me... God took an oath in his own name saying: I will certainly bless you richly, and I will multiply your descendants into countless millions... Abraham waited patiently and he recieved what God had promised. (13-15)
I can hear God whispering to me, "Patience, my child, patience..."
So Father, I pray that you will give me more patience and peace, not only in my yearning for a child, but also in my work place, in working with others. I pray that you will continue to work through me and to bless me so that I may bless others. I pray that you will give me energy, the energy of a thousand horses so that I can get all my work done, but also the wisdom to leave my work when necessary... as you tell us the need for a break.
Monday, October 3, 2011
My Sin, My Shame
Acts 2:1-13
The Holy Spirit Comes
On the day of Pentacost, 7 weeks after Christ's resurrection the Holy Spirit descended upon a group of believers. They were speaking in other languages proclaiming God's glory and the work he has done. Those in the crowd were astonished and bewildered, but passerbys believed they were drunk.
Hebrews 6:1-6
Once you call Christ your saviour and choose to follow Him, you cannot be expected to be 'saved' again - for you were/are already saved. If you choosed to then abandon him, by reverting to your old ways, you will not be allowed entrance to the kingdom of God. By rejecting Christ again, you have chosen to re-nail him on the cross holding him up to public shame, knowing that he is innocent.
Father, ask for renewed energy and strength today, as I seemingly have none. I pray that you will hold me up so that I will not appear "drunken", but rather, fully alert, representing your will and your glory.
The Holy Spirit Comes
On the day of Pentacost, 7 weeks after Christ's resurrection the Holy Spirit descended upon a group of believers. They were speaking in other languages proclaiming God's glory and the work he has done. Those in the crowd were astonished and bewildered, but passerbys believed they were drunk.
Hebrews 6:1-6
Once you call Christ your saviour and choose to follow Him, you cannot be expected to be 'saved' again - for you were/are already saved. If you choosed to then abandon him, by reverting to your old ways, you will not be allowed entrance to the kingdom of God. By rejecting Christ again, you have chosen to re-nail him on the cross holding him up to public shame, knowing that he is innocent.
Father, ask for renewed energy and strength today, as I seemingly have none. I pray that you will hold me up so that I will not appear "drunken", but rather, fully alert, representing your will and your glory.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Wedding Bells... a new message...
Acts 1: 1-26
The Promise of the Holy Spirit & the Ascension of Jesus
Christ appeared to many people for 40 days after his crucifixion. He repeated this: John baptized you with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit (5).
Judas had to betray Jesus in order for the prophesy to come true. With the money he recieved for his treachery, he purchased a field and died there. This field was named the Field of Blood. Mattias was chosen to become the apostle to replace Judas.
The Field of Blood, I'd actually like to visit this place one day...
Hebrews 5:7-14
A Call to Spiritual Growth
This passage tells us that as young Christians we are like babies who feed only on milk and not on solid food. We are not getting the full value of being a Christian until was can "eat solid food".
Personal Reflection
I skipped 2 days of devotion... mostly because I ran out of time or was just too tired. This is no excuse, so Father I ask your hand in discipline as I am obviously short on it right now. I ask for strength and energy.
I attended a wedding yesterday. I haven't attended one in a few years. The bride was someone I worked with many years ago. She is the same as my sister and when she graduated from university, she ended up working with my husband. Her wedding reminded me of mine and my vows to my husband. I look at him and I know that he was sent to me by you, Father. Even though we've been married for over 8 years, it doesn't feel like it at all!
There were 2 new things I learned from their Church service. The first was the symbolism behind the Unity Candle. It not only symbolizes our 2 lives as one, but also Christ's light in us. We should take time to light this candle every so often to remember our vows. He asked us to light it whenever we pray together or suffer because of an arguement. This is such a great idea! The other thing I learned was the symbolism behind feeding each other cake. The cake symbolizes "food". We would ensure that neither of us would go hungry and we would feed each other first before feeding ourselves... we can think of this food as the Christ is the bread of our life. The cake is a great metaphor.
The Promise of the Holy Spirit & the Ascension of Jesus
Christ appeared to many people for 40 days after his crucifixion. He repeated this: John baptized you with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit (5).
Judas had to betray Jesus in order for the prophesy to come true. With the money he recieved for his treachery, he purchased a field and died there. This field was named the Field of Blood. Mattias was chosen to become the apostle to replace Judas.
The Field of Blood, I'd actually like to visit this place one day...
Hebrews 5:7-14
A Call to Spiritual Growth
This passage tells us that as young Christians we are like babies who feed only on milk and not on solid food. We are not getting the full value of being a Christian until was can "eat solid food".
Personal Reflection
I skipped 2 days of devotion... mostly because I ran out of time or was just too tired. This is no excuse, so Father I ask your hand in discipline as I am obviously short on it right now. I ask for strength and energy.
I attended a wedding yesterday. I haven't attended one in a few years. The bride was someone I worked with many years ago. She is the same as my sister and when she graduated from university, she ended up working with my husband. Her wedding reminded me of mine and my vows to my husband. I look at him and I know that he was sent to me by you, Father. Even though we've been married for over 8 years, it doesn't feel like it at all!
There were 2 new things I learned from their Church service. The first was the symbolism behind the Unity Candle. It not only symbolizes our 2 lives as one, but also Christ's light in us. We should take time to light this candle every so often to remember our vows. He asked us to light it whenever we pray together or suffer because of an arguement. This is such a great idea! The other thing I learned was the symbolism behind feeding each other cake. The cake symbolizes "food". We would ensure that neither of us would go hungry and we would feed each other first before feeding ourselves... we can think of this food as the Christ is the bread of our life. The cake is a great metaphor.
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