How can I stop my materialistic desires....

I'm still trying to figure out my "groove" and rhythm.  I am slowly gaining more energy to last through the work weak.  Lately, it has been difficult to stay focussed and energized.  I have to pray and ask you, Father for more strength and wisdom and remember that you are at the heart of my teachings.  I pray Father, that you will allow me to follow in Christ's foot steps and teach with the same passion, heart and soul.  We started to looking at some open houses this weekend just so we had an idea of what we could "afford" if we wanted to move.  I'm a little torn... what we have now is great and more than what we need, but there is always this desire of mine to "upgrade"... yes... my materialist nature...

Matthew 19:16-30
The Young Rich Man
This is the perfect passage for me... Thanks God.  In this passage a rich man asks Jesus how he can enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  Jesus tells him to follow and obey all 10 commandments.  The rich man told Jesus he has followed and obeyed all commandments, how else could he please God.  To this Jesus told him to sell all his materialistic possessions, give the money to the poor and follow him, become one of Jesus' disciples.  To this, the rich man bowed his head in shame, for this was something he was unable to give up... I can see myself reacting the same way as this rich man. I could see myself selling off some of my possessions, but to sell all and take up the cross, leaving everything behind... that's scary... but that would be living entirely on God's will...

Romans 16:17-27
Paul's Final Instructions
Paul asks us to steer clear of those who cause divisions and upset people's faiths.  From our sermon today, our Pastor tells us that is our duty, to bring our lost brothers and sisters home, home to God through the love of Jesus Christ.

Moving on...

Just got off the phone with the nurse.  My original thought was to have my husband's sperm concentrated if were to reconsider trying IUI again.  However, the techs and doctors are not encouraging this procedure.  With that being said, it's God telling us that this door is closed.  I will be reconnecting with an international adoption agency within the next month to continue where I left off with the paper work last year.  I know this is the direction God is moving me towards.

Matthew 17: 1- 13
The Transfiguration
In this passage, it is revealed that Elijah came but was not recognized and badly treated. He came as John the Baptist... interesting...

Romans 14:10-16
The Danger of Criticism (con't)
"Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not put an obstacle in another Christian's path." 13
Is this only for Christians or for all others?

Living for God...

Matthew 16:13-28
Peter's Declaration About Jesus & Jesus Predicts His Death
"Upon this rock, I will build my church and all the powers of hell will not conquer it" (19)
This is Christ's promise to us... He is here behind us and even Satan cannot unroot him.

"If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross and follow me.  If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life." (24-26)
Here I am reminded again of my selfish desires... my materialist wants.  It's so hard when it's all around me...
And God says, " And how do you benefit, if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?" (27)
God is right, nothing is more important than my soul.  For all I am is yours...

Romans 14:5-9
The Danger of Criticism (cont'd)
"While we live, we live to please the Lord. And when we die, we go to be the Lord." (8)
What a beautiful passage of scripture.  I want my life to show that I live to please God, not to disappoint him.

Father, I ask that your light can continue to shine upon the path you wish me to take.  I pray for your sense of wisdom and guidance toward you.  Help me to rid myself of selfish ways and help me be more like you - full of patience and grace. Open my mind and heart to hear your voice...

Turning a new leaf...

Internet was down for a few days, so I couldn't post...I must admit though that this has been quite the exhausting week.  I have tons of marking to do and we are hosting a BBQ... I only found this out as I walked in the door at 5pm tonight.

This weekend will also seal our fate for IUI.  My husband commented that he would call our son Emmanuel and our daughter Isabella. I didn't say anything, but instead re-affirmed that we would go through with adoption after this IUI cycle. I am looking forward to turning over a new leaf.  This is my year to move forward and not look back. 

Matthew 16:1-12
Leaders Demand a Miraculous Sign
"Beware of the yeast of the Sadducees and Pharisees".  Jesus is telling us not to listen to false prophets and their teachings.  Lean on Jesus.

Romans 14:1-4
The Danger of Criticism
We are not to judge others.  That is God's job.  We are to support and respect each other.