tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27176935950326931512024-03-05T20:24:32.965-08:00Life is a song, love is the music and God is Love!...I'm a tool of love in God's handToyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-14899039942596717632013-04-13T07:23:00.001-07:002013-04-13T07:24:25.782-07:00Happy Americanniversary! ~ My Story Part 1Today marks ELEVEN years that I officially migrated to the United States, leaving every inch of familiarity behind in Nigeria. At 17, almost 18 years old I was plunged to a world I had only seen in the movies, and which I was to find out was not much like it was in those movies. At the time of departure, school systems in Nigeria were unstable, and I didn't perform up to par on our version of SAT called JAMB. Needless to say, I was yet to begin college like many of my peers and it was rubbed in very thoroughly at home and away from home. As a background, I am the only girl and my parents were extremely protective of me- going out of the state I grew up in wasn't an option, thus abroad was never even a thought. At least not until those 2 years of passing time while the world moved on. Aunts and uncles in the States began to convince my parents how great of an idea it was to send me here for a better opportunity at succeeding.<br />
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I remember that day like it was yesterday- my parents called me in their bedroom privately. They informed me of their plan to send me to the United States for a more stable educational system and a better chance for me. I was told my flight departed in a few days and I wasn't to tell any friends or family, because this wasn't a real move- just a summer over there to do SAT, etc and to see if I would get in a school. I also remember getting mixed messages about whether to pack all or some of my things on this mysterious journey. The last thing I recall from that conversation was when I was told "Don't forget the child of whose you are, all eyes are on you".<br />
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Can you say PRESSURE!<br />
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I entered U.S through Chicago, but settled down with my aunt and her family in Maryland. The first few months were extremely difficult, not because of my new home dynamics but because of what I deemed an improper separation from home. I was able to say goodbye to only a handful of my friends, at the time also the youth choir leader just left and placed me and another person as new heads; and off I was far away from the one thing at that time that kept my heart super happy. For the first few months all I did was study for all kinds of exams and placement tests. And I aced every single one of them. The fear of failure and the desire to please my parents were my drive. I didn't recognize it as that until I read chapter 3 of Rick Warren's "Purpose driven life".<br />
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LIFE CHANGING!<br />
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That realization began my deep soul searching. I began journaling again & pouring out my soul onto paper. It was therapeutic and that was my entry point into genuinely seeking God. Not just going to church & having a blast with friends in the youth choir like I did growing up. The weight that I felt began to lift the more I drew closer to that all-consuming love of God that I had known of but not truly experienced. The church in Maryland was a breath of fresh air at the time, and my love relationship with worship and music began to soar as I joined the choir there.<br />
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To be continued....<br />
<br />Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-60642957502870524902013-01-31T00:13:00.002-08:002013-01-31T00:13:34.007-08:00True display of love..Over the past year, I would say more than ever before, my passion to serve the less privileged, and see the lost come to the Kingdom of light has increased. And I certainly wouldn't say its a thing unique to me; for all over Scripture it is evident that God loves all things justice, service and love. He is the one who put within us the capacity to love like He does. Thus our only means of being LIKE Him is knowing Him first. <div>
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Matthew 25: 35-43 further breaks this down: In this excerpt, Jesus narrated what would occur in judgement when the righteous would be rewarded for having fed, visited and clothed Jesus when He was in need; and the unrighteous would be likewise punished for doing otherwise. In both cases, neither group knew WHILE doing those things, to whom it was being done. But here was His response to that query- "<i><b>To the extent that you did it to these brothers of mine, even the least of them, you did it to me</b>". </i>Proverbs 19:17 also reminds us, "<i><b>He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done</b>." </i></div>
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In essence, we are reminded, that our declaration of faith means nought when we do not have outward workings of it. A true disciple seeks to be as the one he follows. Our Lord's heart was for the lost, the broken, the sick, the demon-possessed, the love-deprived, the cast-outs. So should ours. And friends, this kind of heart isn't fully developed over night. It's something that grows as our relationship with God and our sensitivity to His Spirit within increases. It becomes our true display of love and obedience to Him. So the true challenge is this-<b> draw close to God, He will draw only closer. And then will flow out of our renewed hearts sincere kindness, fair justice & LOVE</b>. </div>
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The poem below expresses this message more eloquently than I ever could: </div>
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<b> <u>Take Care of Him</u></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"Thou whom I love, for whom I died,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Lovest thou Me, My bride?"-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Low on my knees I love Thee, Lord, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Believed in and adored. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"That I love thee the proof is plain: </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> How dost thou love again?"-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">In prayer, in toil, in earthly loss, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> In a long-carried cross. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"Yea, thou dost love: yet one adept </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Brings more for Me to accept."-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I mould my will to match with Thine, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> My wishes I resign. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"Thou givest much: then give the whole </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> For solace of My soul."-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">More would I give, if I could get: </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> But, Lord, what lack I yet? </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"In Me thou lovest Me: I call </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Thee to love Me in all."-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Brim full my heart, dear Lord, that so </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> My love may overflow. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"Love Me in sinners and in saints, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> In each who needs or faints."-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Lord, I will love Thee as I can </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> In every brother man. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"All sore, all crippled, all who ache, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Tend all for My dear sake."-- </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">All for Thy sake, Lord: I will see </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> In every sufferer, Thee. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"So I at last, upon My Throne </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Of glory, Judge alone, </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">So I at last will say to thee: </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> Thou diddest it to Me."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span><div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<i>- Christina G. Rossetti</i></div>
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Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-67551135743880714952012-06-08T16:26:00.000-07:002012-06-08T16:26:57.386-07:00Perfect Christian?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">In recent years, upon entry into the 'real world', I have come to understand that there exists a lot of misconceptions about Christians. These misconceptions have hindered many unbelievers from seeking our God. </span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Unfortunately, we are partly responsible for making outsiders believe that we are self-sufficiently righteous! That they dare not approach Christ without first ceasing their ways, When Christ on earth wanted them close so HE could do the cleansing work. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">I am committed to saying this any chance I get- </span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Even the most sincerely authentic Jesus follower needs His grace to stay on the narrow path</span></i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">We are not at all perfect. We NEED Jesus to Be like Him! And in order to make any lasting impact, a true Jesus follower must be desperately dependent on His Spirit within! </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I could try and further elaborate this point; but Maya Angelou did a fantastic job of it. Please read the poem below slowly, re-read if you must. And remember, God loves you, and He desires that ALL of us come to a relationship with Him through Jesus. Kick all those barriers out of your way, and Go to Him, just the way you are.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">I'M A CHRISTIAN</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;"> By Maya </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange;">Angelou</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin."</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm whispering "I was lost,"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now I'm found and forgiven.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say..."I am a Christian"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I don't speak of this with pride.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm confessing that I stumble</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">and need CHRIST to be my guide.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not trying to be strong.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm professing that I'm weak</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">and need HIS strength to carry on.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not bragging of success.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm admitting I have failed</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">and need God to clean my mess.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not claiming to be perfect,</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">My flaws are far too visible</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">but, God believes I am worth it.</span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I still feel the sting of pain,</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I have my share of heartaches</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So I call upon His name.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When I say... "I am a Christian"</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm not holier than thou,</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm just a simple sinner</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">who received God's good grace, somehow.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Tahoma, Calibri, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-80001946771599012492012-02-23T15:38:00.007-08:002012-03-06T07:38:40.340-08:00The makings of a true disciple<p face="serif" size="medium"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A few weeks ago, I ordered a book titled "Found Faithful" by Elizabeth Skoglund. It's not my typical read but for a while I had sought to read a volume on the timeless stories of spiritual leaders that impacted the world in their generation and beyond. Being half-way done now, the theme is recurrent through and through. And it is this: </span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The life of a true disciple of Jesus is along a path of great resistance and difficulty, but the one who stays close to Him will maintain an inner stability that comes only from intimacy.</span></b></i></p><p face="serif" size="medium"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This central theme is often overlooked today. Many christians- old and new in the faith carry close to our hearts a sense of entitlement. That prideful thought that the creator-God owes us good health, a gorgeous spouse, overflowing riches and an all-sweet pass through life. Don't get me wrong- these are good things that He delights in giving to His children! James 1:17 reiterates it- "</span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.</span></b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">."</span></p><p face="serif" size="medium"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But the point is this- more important than all those things; He desires to build sound character in us, through the inner work of His Holy Spirit within us. Many times the process of building us into who Jesus is will strip us of riches, perfect health and/or friendships. Christ while on earth mentioned this, "..</span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">in this world you WILL have trouble, but take heart for I have overcome the world</span></b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">"- John 6:33. </span></p><p face="serif" size="medium"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The entitlement that we often consistently feel to the good things of life is rooted in a lack of understanding of His love. Indeed, that love is vast beyond full comprehension no doubt! But a thorough digesting of His Word, coupled with an intimate relationship with Him will certainly displace that entitlement. Basking in that unearned, unchanging and perfect love that we so freely enjoy from God, births and nourishes a desire to love Him back! </span></p><p face="serif" size="medium"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">And so to tie it all together, follow this thought pattern: When we develop the habit of basking in and reinforcing God's love(by studying the Bible + spending time alone with Him), there is a spontaneity in responding! And in loving Him(by obeying the commands we receive from the Word and Quiet time), Romans 8:28 becomes so comforting!-</span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, and who are called according to His purpose"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Please read this paragraph one more time, slowly.</span></span></span></b></i></p><p style="font-family: serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So like the old mothers and fathers of faith that went before us, we can also live a life that is full indeed. One of major impact in every circle of influence we find ourselves, and that transcends our time here on earth. Such a life continually fights to deny self; and certainly we will not arrive there in a day- but it is worth the journey there! Let's travel together friends, toward that life that is overflowing with intimacy with God and consistency in integrity and faithfulness amidst all of life's unpredictable seasons. </span></p><p style="font-family: serif; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></b></i></p><p style="font-weight: bold; font-family: serif; font-size: medium; "><br /></p>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-88315629205435123462011-10-15T07:03:00.000-07:002011-10-15T07:13:05.509-07:00Let it shine!<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica">I've been for the last week studying the book of Mark and on chapter 4, I pause, convicted. In Mark 4:21(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">emphasis mine</span>), Jesus asks His disciples..."<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><b><i>A lamp isn't brought to be put under a basket, is it? or under a bed? Is it not brought to be put ON a lampstand? </i></b></span>"</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica">When I measure myself to God's Word in the verse above, I come to the conclusion that I unconciously and sometimes intentionlly keep the light that I am under the bed. Why? Fear keeps me from positioning myself on a lampstand. Fear of the unknown. Fear of the not-so-well-known. Will I be perceived as proud? Flaunting my gifts? Will my motives be completely misunderstood? Even when God graciously sends someone to talk me out from under the bed, I plead to be left there. </p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px">In searching for the reason behind the hesitancy, I realize what does matter is that Jesus whom I love and serve calls for me to come out from under the bed. The enemy doesn't because that will mean living out God's purpose...and he doesn't benefit from that. The flesh doesn't really want it either because it will take incredible focus and some discomfort when all flesh wants is fun and sleep. Being atop that lamp stand is a matter of obedience and trust, and nothing else. </p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica">Many of you reading this could probably come up with a bunch of your own very personal questions. The real ones that keep your bright light out of sight, under the bed of a dark room that needs it so. Feel free to share those questions, there's a freedom that comes from dispelling a false belief in one's heart. More importantly confess them to God, and let His Word(written & spoken) dispel those fears.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica">There is no freedom without learning the truth. God's Word is what continues to keep me centered in life. I continually stay sensitive to, convicted and motivated by the Truth that Jesus is. It is imperative that we take the time to let the truths of the Bible simmer in, and cause an inward then outward transforming liberation! </p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica">Jesus, the one who we say Lords over us reminds us today...A lamp isn't brought to be put under a basket or a bed but instead on a lamp stand. Lets turn those often doubtful rhetorical questions of ours around! In those times of fearful query the Holy Spirit poses to me the right questions, I share them with you so you can ponder them too.. How about those you have encouraged with your gifts, your time, your life? Why limit your continuing impact in partnership with the King? Where is your faith? And the one response that always stills my anxious heart....I AM WITH YOU.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="font: 14.0px Helvetica">In that last phrase lies the very essence of boldness and courage. And so in closing, be strengthened by God's Word to you in Isaiah 41:10<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">‘</span></span></span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.’ And so let us together, use all our gifts and abilities with all our hearts, and in service to others...and surely we shall shine for HIS glory.</span></span></p><div><br /></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-35199502718151935952011-07-22T08:12:00.000-07:002011-07-22T08:16:39.411-07:00God doesn't care...Or does He?A few weeks ago, my fiancé and I had a brief interaction with a homeless guy-Carl on Chestnut Street in Philadelphia. He was sharing with my fiancé how people often totally ignore him and he overhears all their insensitive comments about him but to one another. After I met him and exchanged pleasantries, we had to leave because I had to work- and as he walked away my fiancé told him, “I’ll be praying for God to come through for you, and when He does know it's because He loves you!” and in response Carl said as he walked away; “<strong>urrggh, God don’t give a **** about me.”<br /></strong><br />That comment has haunted me since. It made me wonder how many dejected people are walking around fully persuaded of that conclusion. More importantly, I wonder how unhappy God must feel, that the humanity He came to gave His all for- feel lost, dejected and unloved.<br /><br />God, the maker of all things- LOVES YOU! Not in a superficial, temporary or inconsistent manner, but in a dependable way. First and foremost, it is important to state the foundational truth found in 1st John 4:16, which is that “<em>God is love</em>.” This phrase is more than just a cliché term thrown around by Christians; it clearly and accurately states a comforting truth that God himself wants us to keep at the forefront of our minds.<br /><br />In His holy Word we are reminded by Apostle Paul in 1st Corinthians 13:8 that <em>His love never fails</em>! Friends, what a comfort that is- to know that regardless of our shortcomings and imperfection, His love never ceases to reach out to us. He continues to chase after us without ever retreating. Which brings us to the big question WHY so much love?? “<em>For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son so that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life</em>” John 3:16(emphasis mine). In essence, He loves us so much because He made us and we are His. He desires for us to have an impactful, purposeful life on earth telling others about Him and fulfilling His purposes here. And even better still, as promised…those who believe in Jesus, will enjoy an eternity in heaven!<br /><br />And so to my fellow believers; I issue a challenge: Love people! Rooted in these 2 Scriptures are the commands that Jesus Himself gives us to live by- Matthew 5:44 “<em>Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you</em>” and Mark 12:29-31“<em>The most important commandment is this: love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength and love your neighbor as yourself</em>.' No other commandment is greater than these.” No doubt it isn't easy to live these out, but with God living inside of us, it is possible! With His strength we can look beyond our needs, and meet the needs of those we encounter. If we all can share the good news of the Gospel alongside exhibiting the life-changing love of God to people, I am certain that we can completely transform our world!<br /><br />So friends, let’s go and live out this commandment…in high hopes that people in our spheres of influence, like Carl the homeless guy, and maybe some close friends who may be amidst hopeless circumstances, may know without a doubt through us, that God loves them relentlessly!Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-73117260677003984512011-04-22T07:35:00.000-07:002011-04-23T21:02:52.809-07:00Jesus models forgiveness; Can we follow?<div>For most of my 20 something years on earth celebrating Easter was a must- we dressed especially nice on Easter sunday, and had family gatherings with lots of food and laughter after service. Also, that was one of the Sundays that people you hadn't seen in months came to church; so it was a reunion of sorts. All in all, the entire Easter weekend was always eventful and festive, but in recent years, a question has lingered: Is Jesus who is the essence of Easter carried beyond the religious activities?</div><div><br /></div><div>This lingering question in my heart has in recent years birthed a deeper longing within. That longing is to abstain from the 'religiousness' of this crucial season and to instead draw closer to the One who gave up so much for the gifts we freely enjoy. More than ever, I am thoroughly convinced, that instead of trying to live our lives the most holy on holy week, God desires for us to walk with him DAILY, all year round. </div><div><br /></div><div>Easter isn't just a time to acknowledge and celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus, it is a time to also re-learn the character of our King. This year what has moved me the most, is the power of forgiveness that Christ exhibited amidst his trials. And so, how many of us today will choose to endure one percent of what Jesus endured on this weekend many eons ago? Better yet, endure it gracefully and without sin? It is hard to fathom that Jesus, as a hundred percent flesh like you and I, in the midst of unjust suffering and intense pain never once blamed those falsely accusing Him. As painful, heart-breaking, and depressing as His circumstances were, He looked beyond both the ignorance and evil of his accusers and prayed to the Father to forgive them. </div><div><br /></div><div>Right there on the cross, after he had been scourged, spat on and treated worse than a criminal, Jesus never once wished evil on His adversaries. Indeed, after the immense pain of long sharp nails going through both hands and both feet, He still had the right outlook on his temporarily despondent condition. And with that mindset alone, could he have according to Luke 23:34 prayed "<i>Father forgive them, for they know not what they do</i>" Those words ought to completely revolutionize our thinking and hearts! </div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus on the cross not only brings to life the many quotable teachings in his lifetime on forgiveness, but He also models it! How many times have we felt justified to hold a grudge? lash out, or get revenge? Well, if we are indeed striving to be Christlike, there's our model! The dying Jesus- who had more reason than any of us ever could have to curse and be upset, prayed for his offenders in all sincerity. Friends, that moves me to my very core. It is imperative that we release all bitterness and unforgiveness towards anyone from our hearts. It is my heartfelt prayer; that God will lavish us all with the limitless grace needed to love and forgive like him.</div><div><br /></div><div>In closing, ponder the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:14; "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;">I</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i>f you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."</i></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;color:#FF0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>Happy Easter all! Please post your comments, additional insight & questions for the benefit of all!</b></span></i></span></div><div><br /></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-22327714188717599582011-03-23T17:46:00.000-07:002011-03-23T17:48:51.665-07:00Authenticity in walking out the faith<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I once heard this quote, that "T</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">here's not so powerful a sermon in the world, as a consistent Christian life."</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> This thought, along with Apostle Paul's exhortation to the Corinthian Church continue to move me forward in my walk. In </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2 Corinthians 3:2(the message version)</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, he reminds the Corinthians that their</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> "<i>very lives are a letter that anyone can read by just looking.."</i></span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Friends, take a minute to think about that...</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">YOUR life, is a letter, that people read...just by looking. This is a challenging thought, but let us break it down.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "></span><b>First of all what do you consist of</b>? What are the things that go in? Cos we all know the term 'garbage in, garbage out' and vice-versa. Consequently, the more of God's Word that we allow in our hearts, the more outward transformation will occur. There's no two ways about it. We cannot spend most of our time watching television, reading novels, going to the movies and expect to live a godly life with positive thoughts and attitudes.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>Secondly, do your words count</b>? Absolutely..go read <i><b>James 3</b></i>. It elaborates on the magnitude of work that our tongues can do. Blessing vs cursing, uplifting vs discouraging. What words do your mouth utter? Do you speak life or death into people's lives and circumstances? And do people come to you for comfort, counsel & prayer? Or are you the most negative one that helps spread gossip?</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>Thirdly, what do people see in you</b>? What message are you putting forth with the way you respond to life? When you don't share God's love in word, do you SHOW it in your actions? Are you known for compassion or condemnation? Ladies, are we glorifying God in our way of dressing, or are we no different from the world? Jesus himself reminds us in Matthew 5:14 that we are "..<i><b>the light of the world, a city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.</b></i>" And just as He says of us, we must shine! But only for His glory!</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "></span><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This message is to challenge us not to just "look the part" of the christian life out of hypocrisy. Instead what I hope it gets across is the need for authenticity. Authenticity is essential and hard to come by these days. And it can only genuinely occur from the inside out. Such that the actions seen, and the words heard by all those around us, are an outward manifestation of God's work of grace, mercy and love going on inside of us.</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "></span><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This word is to me, and i hope to you, a higher call in God. A shove to know God better so I can display him better. We can only give what we possess. Regardless of how great(or not) your walk with God is right now, He still desires that you come closer. Remember the meaning of the world Christian?....Christ-like. The hallmark of Christ is love. My prayer is that we all will open the doors of our hearts completely to Jesus, so we can fully experience Him, and then others can safely follow suit.</span></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "></span><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I close with this beautiful quote by Ignatius, one of the early church fathers.</span></span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Give unbelievers the chance of believing through you. Consider yourselves employed by God; your lives the form of language in which He addresses them. Be mild when they are angry, humble when they are haughty; to their blasphemy oppose prayer without ceasing; to their inconsistency, a steadfast adherence to your faith.”</span></i></b></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 13px; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; "><b><i></i></b></span><br /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 11px/normal Helvetica; "><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; ">Your comments and questions are very welcome!</span></p>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-49964392650312558842011-03-02T15:24:00.000-08:002011-03-02T15:34:35.673-08:00Leah..Unloved of man, Chosen of God<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; ">Recently, I was invited by a fellow blogger and follower of this site, to be one of the contributors to her blog (http://faithdames.blogspot.com) on women of faith and character in the Bible. What you're about to read is my first post on that beautifully diverse blog.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; ">The story about to be shared is about a young lady, Leah. I hope that this story,will bring you comfort through your hardships, courage to forge on, and the knowledge of God’s love and sovereign grace.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Leah was first introduced in Genesis 29. In this chapter Jacob was fleeing the wrath of his brother Esau. Jacob was guilty for having deceitfully received the blessing that his father intended to give his brother. So in the quest for preserving his life, and seeking a new beginning, he arrives at Haran where his mother’s brother lives. His uncle Laban received him with open arms and Jacob was quick to begin serving Laban diligently. As such, after a month of staying with his uncle, we read in Genesis 29:15-19 that;</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">“<i>Laban said to him, ‘You shouldn’t work for me without pay just because we are relatives. Tell me how much your wages should be.’ Now Laban had two daughters. The older daughter was named Leah, and the younger one was Rachel. There was no sparkle in Leah’s eyes, but Rachel had a beautiful figure and a lovely face. Since Jacob was in love with Rachel, he told her father, ‘I’ll work for you for seven years if you’ll give me Rachel, your younger daughter, as my wife.’ “Agreed!” Laban replied. “I’d rather give her to you than to anyone else. Stay and work with me.” </i></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 10.0px Helvetica; min-height: 12.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><i></i></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Seven years passed, but to Jacob, </span><span style="font: 10.0px Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><i>“</i></span><span style="font: 11.0px Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><i>his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days.” </i></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">His uncle threw a big party to celebrate the union, and at night time, his bride was given him. At this point Jacob it is safe to say that this young man was elated! The woman of his dreams after much working and waiting was now his. So he consummated the marriage to the one he thought was Rachel. In the morning following the union however, Jacob found out that his uncle Laban had deceitfully given him the wrong sister! Many negotiations later, his desired wife is given to him within a week and he is forced to serve for another seven years.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">That deceit brings a lot of thoughts my way. Firstly, how would the young lady Leah feel? Her own father, gave her away to a man that cared nothing to marry her. Also, that must have created tension between her and her sister. For seven years, her younger sister had ‘dated’ this man, knowing that he was soon to be hers. Then that very time comes and her older sister is the focus. Leah who had no hand in this deceit received the worst treatment- angry, discontent husband, a sister who probably cannot even look her in the eye and friends who cannot believe she would stoop so low! </span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Through all this she begins to bare children; and the names of her first 4 sons show the state of of her mind and heart. <b>Reuben</b>- “God has looked on my affliction, now my husband will love me”.<b> Simeon</b>- “God heard that I’m unloved and he has given me this son. <b>Levi</b>- My husband will become attached to me because I’ve borne him 3 sons </span><b>Judah</b>- Let God be praised. One thing is for sure, Leah is a praying woman. In her miserable state, she continues to petition her Lord for children and relief of her suffering. Also it is evident, she is earnestly desiring love, attention and affection from this man who only seems to be a bed-mate. The lowest point in the entire story of Leah is found in Genesis 30:13-16; when she gave of the mandrakes her son had brought for her to her sister, in exchange for a night with their husband. That act showed not only a desperation, but a lack of shame and self-worth. Indeed this story, with primary focus on Leah, showcases God working through the unhappy, lonely and most negative times in her life to still bring to effect his purpose.</p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><i></i></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">What purpose could that be? you ask... Well, this woman is in the lineage of Jesus! She is the mother of Judah(Jacob’s 4th son). Jacob’s 12 sons became the tribes of Israel and Judah is the tribe that King David came from, and also it’s the tribe that the Messiah- the Lion of that tribe himself descended from! So this unloved, neglected, plain-looking woman was loved, pampered and beautiful in God’s sight! Not only that, regardless of how she’s perceived in her world, in His eyes she is priceless.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">This is not to say that Leah was perfect! Not at all, she could have being more steadfast in prayer and faith, perhaps been more positive, less jealous, and the list goes on. But through it all, she persevered; something a lot of us lack today. And in the end, we see in Genesis 49:31; she was buried alongside the greats- Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and her shared earth husband Israel. Yes, the imperfect and unloved Leah was chosen of God to mother the tribe of the Messiah. Just like that, we irrelevant, perhaps overlooked and unappreciated daughters of the king will be empowered by His Spirit to accomplish our purpose on earth. Amen.</span></p><div><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><br /></span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As always, your comments and questions are very welcome.</span></i></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-67279390170893400262011-01-31T17:27:00.001-08:002011-01-31T19:38:59.304-08:00Speak Life Into February!Declaring God's truth earlier in my day has had several positive effects on my days. Firstly, the Holy Spirit brings back to my mind, specific verses that pertain to my struggle during the day, and I am instantly empowered to get through it. Secondly, say I was offended by a friend earlier, and thought I got over it, a few hours later the Holy Spirit will remind me of the verse about forgiving others as I am forgiven of God. Such reminders have happened consistently, and it keeps me very accountable to God, and aligning with His Word on a continuous bases. After all, we are called to be not only hearers of His Word but DOERS! So join in- declare His truth consistently, walk in obedience to the and watch the transformation that will follow!<div><br /></div><div>Below are the declarations for February 2011- Feel free to re-phrase these prayers, print, use & share with others!</div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 67px; height: 94px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKEaiGTGD403fjjuo9sGEqi8Q63lDNxia0GpgrNrHUqW9QcMNCPw5xDGpNKR4CA99NxDmGHziHGdy7KxMkUEctT_IEVykkft58VQUCKM8RlaBsszQ0odr0BMRFULJcE28VrZywpk5aMg/s320/Speak+Life.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568560464650671474" />Father, In accordance with your Word in <i>Isaiah 26:3</i>, today I will keep my eyes, heart and thoughts focused on you in ultimate trust; because only then can I experience your perfect peace.</span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, I commit all the work I will do today to you, believing that you will order my steps according to your Word<i>(Proverbs 16:3, Psalm 37:23a).</i></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, remind me of your truth in<i> Proverbs 18:21</i>, that life and death are in the power of the tongue; and so help me to caution my speech, so it can be for the building up of others<i>(Ephesians 4:29b).</i></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, remind me through the day- regardless of the circumstances I encounter, that anger and worry are not of you<i>(Psalm 37:8).</i></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, like you told Joshua multiple times, please remind me at any lonely point of the day, to stay strong and be of good courage because you are with me and will never leave or forsake m</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">e(<i>Deuteronomy 31:6, Joshua 1:9).</i></span></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father remind me today to be diligent at work; because the Psalmist reminds us in <i>Proverbs 10:4</i>, that slack & lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.</span></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, help me to make the best use of my time and the opportunities you bring my way today<i>(Ephesians 5:16).</i></span></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, help me today according to your Word to be kind & compassionate to everyone that comes my way and to be forgiving of all that offend me- just as Christ forgave me<i>(Ephesians 4:31).</i></span></span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">Father, please show me, the many ways I can love you with all my heart, mind and strength. Also open my eyes to see how I can love others, as myself according to your command in <i>Luke 10:27.</i></span></span></span></span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Share your thoughts/comments/additional prayers!</span></b></i></span></span></div></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-67106885667841124462011-01-28T18:46:00.000-08:002011-01-28T19:56:22.697-08:00Heart Poem<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">In reflecting this evening, I was awed yet again by the absolute perfection of the One I aspire to be like. Let me know your thoughts after this poem from my heart to God's. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Jesus, the perfect One...</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Into our tarnished universe you came,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Taking upon yourself every blame,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Abandoning your will for the Father's.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">You the heavenly beloved one,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Once revered and loved by all,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Quickly became the earth's false prophet,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">That we couldn't wait to see gone.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Till date many minds still cannot fathom,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">That you were every inch human...like us,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">That you were tempted with food, wealth & fame,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Like we consistently are,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Yet, never once did you fall.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Your self control never wavered,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">And with the hypocritical pharisees you unveiled the truth.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The same hands that washed the feet of your disciples,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Also healed the sick in mind and heart.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Indeed Lord, you epitomize perfection.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The model of your servant-leadership</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Accurately showcases to earthlings...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The possibility of a purely refined heart,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">An authentic walk and an exemplary life.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Your laid-down map, that complete Word will we follow,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">And that much trusted voice within </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Can only lead us aright...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Closer to the essence of You.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">And as for me;</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I will strive until I am in </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">every way</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> a splitting image of You.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Do share your comments & what lines particularly struck a chord...</span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-71580118276012242202011-01-21T13:54:00.000-08:002011-01-22T09:07:29.008-08:00The Great Disparity<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">What I'm sharing today is an excerpt from a book I'm reading written by A. W. Tozer. Tozer is widely regarded to as one of the most perceptive Christian writers of the 20th century. This excerpt is from his work "The Root of the Righteous." I have been greatly challenged by the content of this excerpt, and had to share it with you.</span></span> <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px; TEXT-DECORATION: underline"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Great Disparity</span></span></b></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There is an evil which I have seen under the sun and which in its effect upon the Christian religion may be more destructive than communism, Romanism & liberalism combined. It is the glaring disparity between theology & practice among professing Christians.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So wide is the gulf that separates theory from practice in the Church than an inquiring stranger who chances upon both would scarcely dream that there was any correlation between them. An intelligent observer of our human scene who heard the sunday morning sermon and later watched the sunday afternoon conduct of those who had heard it would conclude that he had examined two distinct & contrary religions.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Christians habitually weep and pray over beautiful truth, only to draw back from that same truth when it comes to the difficult job of putting it into practice. The average church simply does not dare to check its practices against biblical precepts. It tolerates things that are diametrically opposed to the will of God, and if pointed out they will defend its unscriptural practices with a smooth casuistry equal to the verbal dodging of the Roman moralists.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It appears that too many christians want to enjoy the trill of feeling right but aren’t willing to endure the inconvenience of being right. So the divorce between theory and practice becomes permanent in fact, though in word, the union is declared to be eternal. Truth sits forsaken and grieves till her professed followers come home from a brief visit, but she sees them depart again when the bills become due. They profess great and dying love for her but they will not let their love cost them anything.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Could this be the condition our Lord had in mind when He said “Thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead” Revelation 3:1? What can the effect be upon spectators who live day after day among professed christians who habitually ignore God’s commands and live after their private notions of Christianity?Certainly these non-christians are not too much to be blamed for turning disgustedly away from the invitation to the gospel after he has been exposed for a while to the inconsistencies of professed followers.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In that great and terrible day when the deeds of men are searched into by the penetrating eyes of the Judge of all the earth, what will we answer when we are charged with inconsistency and moral fraud? And at whose door will lie the blame for the millions of lost men who while they lived on earth were sickened and revolted by the religious travesty they knew as Christianity?</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Adapted from: </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:small;">Root of the Righteous, A. W. Tozer (</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:small;">p. 55-57)</span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><strong><span style="color:#ff6600;">Do comment & share your thoughts!</span></strong></p></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-51715498333719050272011-01-02T18:12:00.000-08:002011-01-02T19:47:50.224-08:002011 Let's GO!!!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Hey all! I've been away from connecting with you all for about 2 months now, but I'm back for good! I had some quality time on vacation, away from work and the grind. For me, that always brings a renewed vigor for life and a re-aligned focus. In the midst of that time off I sat in on a youth service where the speaker shared on the power that lies in the declaration of God's Word on a regular basis. And so what I'm sharing with you today, is a list of daily declarations I formulated for myself. I personally prefer to do them in the morning, to place my whole day in proper perspective and under the control of God's Word. Each month will have mostly unique declarations, always rooted in God's Word. They are not copyrighted...so please print, and use! Or if you enjoy searching the scriptures like I do, dig out yours and share with us all.</span></span><div><br /></div><div><b>11 Daily <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Declarations for Jan 2011:</span></span></b></div><div><ol style="list-style-type: decimal"> <li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in Isaiah 26:3, Regardless of what comes my way, my eyes will stay locked on you and I will be in perfect peace.</b></span></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span>Today, I will obey your Word in Ephesians 5:20, and give thanks for ALL things!</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 2:14, I receive the grace from you to do all things without complaining or disputing.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in Philippians 3:3b & in Proverbs 3:26, I will put no confidence in myself; for You Lord are my confidence and will prevent my foot from being caught.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in Psalm 121:57 & in Psalm 3:25, I choose not to be afraid of any sudden terror..for You Lord are my keeper. </b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in Malachi 3:10-11, Because I am a cheerful giver to the cause of your Kingdom, as promised you will rebuke the devourer for my sake, and my fruit shall spring forth unhindered. And Father, your heavens will stay open over my life, pouring out overflowing blessings.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today according to your Word in Matthew 6:14-15, Keep me reminded that just as you forgave me, I am required to forgive the friends, family members, co-workers & strangers who offend me today, justly or unjustly. </b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, in accordance to your Word in Proverbs 15:1, I receive the grace and patience to provide a soft answer to all, instead of harsh words that may even be deserved in its stead.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in James 1:19, I receive the grace to be quick to listen, slow to speak & slow to get angry.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in John 13:35, Keep me reminded, that showing love to people I come across is how I am known to be your disciple.</b></span></span></span></li><li style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>Today, according to your Word in Ephesians 4:29, Enable me so that no corrupt talk will come out of my mouth, only what is good to build up people around me. </b></span></span></span></li></ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Helvetica;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:12px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;"><b>Feel Free to comment- add other favorite verses of yours, and share testimonies on how this changes your perspective on your day. February declarations will be posted by Jan. 31st 2011 so check back in!</b></span></i></span></span></div></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-73394945147742818702010-10-30T20:11:00.000-07:002010-11-05T15:32:00.969-07:00Living for an audience of ONE<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 15px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lately, I have been faced with scenarios that involves choosing between being mediocre and being competitive. But in spending time with God, I discovered, and still continue to discover, that both competition and envy involve comparing myself with others versus seeking God about His plan for me, and being secure in that alone.</span></span></span></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There is a very thin line between measuring my progress based on God's direction versus exemplary role models.</span></span><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And please don't get me wrong, I believe it is necessary to be inspired by those whom are seemingly ahead of us. I also believe it is encouraging and helpful if possible, to learn from them how they overcame the obstacles they encountered.</span></span></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But the line begins to be crossed when their evident “success” as defined by media and wealth becomes our sole drive to soar beyond mediocrity. Such unhealthy competition is not of God. We are endowed by God with specific </span></span><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1288494653_0" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">personality traits</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, abilities, talents that are unique to us and all that we accomplish with them are to be fueled by our passion for God and His purpose for our lives. </span></span><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1288494653_1" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 2px; border-bottom-color: rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Apostle Paul</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> said this to us in </span></span><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1288494653_2" style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 2px; border-bottom-color: rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Galatians</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> 6:4-5; “</span></span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct.”</span></span></b></i></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Several times we find ourselves measuring our progress by another’s yardstick, and we often fall short. In those times we must remember that we are called of God not of man, and thus relieve ourselves of the unnecessary fruitless pressure to 'measure up'. There is a place for accountability with one another, but God’s opinion on our progress is what counts above all else.</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- color:initial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In a nutshell what I am saying is this- God has provided us with godly examples in His word, for us to learn from; and there are others on earth that inspire us with their faith and/or works. But ultimately, neither party is intended for our duplication. God deals with us as individual sons and daughters and desires to be our drive towards our destiny fulfillment. In Him alone can we find true reward and contentment. In Him ALONE.</span></span></span></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- font-size:100%;color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- font-family:Calibri;color:initial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;">Please share additional insights/questions...and if it blessed u, share w/ others!</span></b></span></span></p><p class="yiv1894587688MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-left: 0in; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- display: block; color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- font-size:100%;color:initial;"><span style="line-height: 1.2em; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline- font-family:Calibri;color:initial;"><br /></span></span></p></span>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-79321148467664915752010-09-11T10:28:00.000-07:002010-09-11T11:36:01.326-07:00Gideon Part 2<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(79, 4, 5); line-height: 21px; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; "><b>If you haven't read the post immediately prior to this one, please pause now to do so. It is a pre-requisite that will allow us to be on the same page as we close out on the story of Gideon.</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In the last post, I provided the background on the story of Gideon. The prolonged rebellion of God's people Israel, their return to him after immense suffering and loss and an angel's visit to the chosen one for Israel's deliverance, Gideon. The latter point being where we pick up from:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">Judges 6:14-16 </span>“Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">“But Lord,</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.”</span></span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; "><br /></span></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">After Gideon in previous verses expressing his disappointment at God, he is informed that he is the one chosen to bring the deliverance! What a shocker! Immediately, he states all the valid, truthful reasons why he isn't QUALIFIED for the task ahead. Let's pause right there... How many times have you felt you didn't have enough within and/or without to carry out a task that you know God is telling you to? Or gotten a job that you know wasn't based on your qualifications? Or aced exams that you feared you might fail? Bottom-line is this- God doesn't call us based upon our background or qualifications. Apostle Peter stated it clearly in Acts 10:34- "<i>God is not a respecter of persons</i>" which simply means He doesn't send you on His works because He thinks you're perfect for the job. It is His power going with us when we obey that makes the difference!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">After God's reassuring words to Gideon, he proceeds to ask for several signs to ensure that indeed it was the God of their fathers that was giving him this hard task. God, in His love and patience confirms to him each and every time- to put his mind at ease. I argued with my own mind if Gideon was doubting God by asking for signs time and time again. If this was the case- why would God entertain such? James 1:6-7 says: "<i>He who doubts is like waves of the sea that is being driven and tossed by the wind...such a one should not expect to receive anything from the Lord" </i>So clearly, God must not have considered it doubt-for we know He is faithful to His Word. More-so He was so patient with Gideon's process, as we all should strive to be with one another. Also, we are taught in God's word to verify and confirm whatever we consider to be God speaking to us 1 John 4:1 tells us to ensure we "<i>test the spirits, whether they are of God". </i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b>The same God that was so reassuring and lovingly patient- but yet firm and focused, is the same today. Gideon cast aside his fears, and dove in to the call with God right there with him every step of the way. Success was attained. Like Gideon, God has called us to tasks that are unique to how we were fashioned by Him. We need not worry that we're not qualified or confident enough, He who called us will GO with us! Therein lies our greatest source of confidence and effectiveness. </b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;">Please feel free to comment</span></span></span></div></span>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-57599609717049514152010-09-11T08:55:00.000-07:002010-09-11T10:15:40.312-07:00Gideon Part 1<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Judges 6 tells the story of a special young man, Gideon from whom I have learned several lessons that I'd love to share with you.</b></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Verses 1-10 sets the stage for the entrance of Gideon. For 7 long years, God's chosen people Israel had disobeyed their Lord's co</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">mmand to</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> "</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you live</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">" vs 10. As a direct result of their disobedience, they had suffered tremendous loss and suffering in the hands of their enemies. Vs 6 tells us that </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">"</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Midian so impoverished the Israelites that they cried out to the Lord for help." </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">So clearly, after being thoroughly dealt with by their oppressors, they remembered they had a God who could deliver them, and DID deliver them. Therein lies the first lesson from this story- God is always open to receive us back to Himself; even when our runaway was self-induced due to our disobedience. An even more important lesson is simply put- to obey.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Continuing on: Judges 6:11-16</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">"</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">T</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">he angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, 'The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.' '</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But sir,' Gideon replied, 'if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian.' </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?” </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">“But Lord,</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” </span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.” </span></span></i></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The first thing to point out is the difference between what the angel said and what Gideon heard. The angel said "</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">the Lord is with YOU</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">". Gideon said "</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">if the Lord is with US, why has all this happened</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">" Many times, we get carried away with the physical occurrences and miss out on what God is really trying to say to us as individuals. Also, this passage made me ponder how oblivious we all can be. He went ahead to question the miracles their ancestors had narrated to them that God wrought, also he said God had abandoned them. Was Gideon even aware that his people were walking in disobedience? Was he conscious that their ways were not pleasing to God? Or had he become so consumed in his own righteousness that he didn't even notice the back-slidden state of his countrymen. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Those questions haunt me! Because I know I've definitely been guilty. Not interceding often. Not introspective enough for God to show me my faults but instead sharing blame like my ancestral mother Eve. </b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Perhaps you're innocent..perhaps not...either way I say search your soul... Is your walk with God only for you? Are others benefitting from it? Christ wasn't called to perfect the trinity by His triumph..He fulfilled His selfless call to SAVE you and I. </b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">More insight on the story of Gideon in NEXT post..</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Pls share your additional insights, questions, comments!</span></span></span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-18437833800719587662010-08-15T00:48:00.000-07:002010-08-15T00:53:33.025-07:00Musings on progressing amidst adversity..<span style="color:#ff0000;">Forging ahead filled with hope,<br />Pushing toward things promised.<br />Remembering lessons learned,<br />But not at all bound by their pain-<br />Instead heartily counting it all as gain.<br /><br />For to be cleansed by Jesus<br />From the stink of the past<br />Is to soon arrive<br />At the near future <strong>unspotted.<br /></strong><br />What a Hope!</span>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-35825338268166303212010-08-11T16:28:00.000-07:002010-08-12T14:45:09.082-07:00Staying Locked INEvery so frequently I find myself back to this beautifully simple verse in Isaiah 26:3<div><br /></div><div><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"You will keep in perfect peace; whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Today when I read it I was stuck on the "stayed on you" part. Probably because many times we do trust in God, and we do have some peace....but is it PERFECT PEACE? The only way to have that kind of peace is by keeping our mind stayed on God. Not occasionally thinking of him, or only when we're going through tough times. But keeping our mind and thoughts <b>stayed</b> on Him without shifting. No doubt it will take tons of discipline...but His Spirit is willing to help if we'll only let Him.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When we truly are locked in on God's perspectives and Word, worrisome speculations and fear cannot stay. I know this first hand; the times I re-focus are the times my heart has felt the lightest! The hurts from people and failed expectations shrink in comparison to my humongous able God! When we keep our minds stayed on Him, the opinions of men don't sway us. When God is what catches our attention above all else, our priorities are re-set to match His perfect will.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So friends I beseech you... join me in my pursuit of perfect peace, by staying unshiftably locked in on the Prince of peace.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;">p.s. follow this link for a song that never fails to soothe me: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eDvl4Xbh8">Perfect Peace by Laura Story</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">feel free to share your comments/testimonies/questions</span></span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-6126798487156865312010-07-20T19:17:00.000-07:002010-08-15T00:55:40.862-07:00Prayer Poem<p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><br /></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#cc6600;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-STYLE: normal">T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="FONT-STYLE: normal">he serenity that comes</span></span></span></i></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">From laying one's burdens</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">On the most caring shoulders</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">Is beyond words</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#cc6600;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">It is essential,</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">To pray to the God who loves,</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">And who takes away all anxiety...</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">Replacing it with felicity</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">Interwoven with a new hope.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#cc6600;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">As uncertainties are safely placed in His bosom,</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">All fears fade into oblivion </span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">Peace reigns supreme</span></span></span></p><p style="MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;color:#cc6600;">As the trusting heart again returns to prayer.</span></span></span></p><p style="MIN-HEIGHT: 14px; MARGIN: 0px; FONT: 12px Helvetica"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="LETTER-SPACING: 0px"></span><br /></span></p>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-44577765219320491782010-07-17T06:02:00.000-07:002010-07-17T20:37:09.492-07:00Birthday Thoughts<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I woke up this morning to the words of Moses in Psalm 90:12(NLT); "</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Teach us to realize the brevity of life, that we may grow in wisdom</span></span></i><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">.</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">" This verse touches me in a deep way, and I want to share it with you all.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I am one of those people who often think & journal. At several points in my life I sit and evaluate my journey..where I have been, where I am now, who is in my life and what purposes they're there for. I do this because it keeps me sane, free of burdens and makes me continue life with a fresh vigor that only comes from a realization of purpose. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But on this birthday morning the verse hit me differently...more than purpose, it imparts an URGENCY. Yes urgency. The word brevity means </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">shortness </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">and</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> conciseness. </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Verses 5,6 of Psalm 90 said "</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330000;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">You sweep people away like dreams that disappear. They are like grass that springs up in the morning...it blooms and flourishes, but by evening it is dry and withered." </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In this new year starting today, I want every day to count positively in the direction that God desires. I am unable to change the length of my days, but it is certainly in my control to maximize every talent and resource that I am given. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;color:#330000;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">In singing, I must ensure that I sing with all of my heart every time, and touch everyone listening with the message in the song and the passion in the delivery. In missions, I desire to reach the underserved of the society, with health care, the Good News of Jesus and with my wealth. Every day MUST count positively in those directions!</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Friends, this urgency is what I pray to have all year long and henceforth. I echo wholeheartedly the words of Matthew Henry, "</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We must so number our days as to compare our work with them, and mind it accordingly with a double diligence, as those that have no time to trifle." I don't want to look back 25 years from now and wail at all the time I wasted; instead I want to see all God's talents and gifts in my life FULLY at work, and evident and ongoing positive change in my family, community and all the spheres of influence God places me in. </span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Helvetica, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-44098609192717021992010-07-16T07:34:00.000-07:002010-07-16T07:45:22.893-07:00Mean what you sing...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Charles "Chuck" Swindoll one of the most authentic Bible Scholars of our time is a great all-time favorite of mine. In this post I wanted to share one of his devotions that speaks to me repeatedly..very simple, but ALWAYS a timely reminder. Here:</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><b>Mean What You Sing, Chuck Swindoll</b></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Nothing touches the human heart deeper than music. This is never more true than when a group of Christians sings heartily unto their Lord. Many a cold heart on skid row has melted as the strains of some old hymn lingered in steamy streets and sleazy alleys surrounding a gospel mission. When congregations sing the praises of the King, even the demonic hosts stand at attention. "The powers of darkness fear when this sweet chant they hear, May Jesus Christ be praised!"</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Such moving melodies hold out a warm welcome to strangers, comfort to the broken, refreshment to the lonely, and affirmation to the discouraged. Great music from God's people instructs and reproves, blesses and relieves.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Charles Wesley, perhaps the most prolific hymnist of all time, realized the value of corporate singing as he wrote, "O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer's praise." There is nothing to compare to that sound. Nothing.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">But have you noticed the fly in our melodic ointment? It is not a lack of beauty or harmony, nor is it insufficient volume or intensity. It is, plain and simple, the presence of words with an absence of meaning. We sing well, but we fail to heed the message hidden behind the bars.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stop and think. There's a line in "Take My Life and Let It Be" that always makes me pause as the words stick in my throat: "Take my silver and my gold, not a mite would I withhold." Imagine! Not even "a mite"! We all sing that with such ease, yet I have known few who wouldn't withhold something. Including me.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Last Sunday after the service our congregation sang "I Give All My Witness to You" . . . and then we left. We all got into our cars, drove away, and most of us have not seen one another since. What's been happening? Has He had our witness? Have the days that passed been that much different than two weeks earlier? A month? Those thoughts haunt me.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Think of each song or hymn as a promise to God, a binding statement of your commitment. Picture the results of this commitment as you sing it with gusto. Then, after the song has ended, apply it with the same gusto.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">God not only loves a cheerful giver, He honors a sincere singer.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 54.0px; font: 12.0px Baskerville"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">This Sunday put yourself into the lyrics of each hymn, considering them your own personal credo. See what a difference it makes.</span></span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Baskerville, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:12px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Baskerville, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC9933;">Share your thoughts/comments!</span></i></span></span></div></div><div><br /></div></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-27203091280806599882010-07-06T19:12:00.000-07:002010-07-06T19:41:51.456-07:00Words and Wisdom<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I came across this poem i wrote in 2005...i find it still true 5years later and even more importantly I've begun to live it within that time. Here it is; Do share your thoughts...</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I have been given,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The words and the wisdom</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">To effect a change in my generation.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">An assignment must I complete,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">That all might come to the knowledge of He,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Who for all our sins was put to death.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I possess the words to bring freedom,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">To the enslaved minds,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And to bring victory to the once defeated.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My purpose is to live for his glory,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">To radiate forth his light</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On the inside of me.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Till I take my last breath,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">These words shall forever flow.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">None will silence the outflow of his wisdom.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Yes, even unto death,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">None will put off,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This blazing fire of anointing,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">That awaits the appropriate season.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A season to test with fire, hearts</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And to bring to normalcy,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The imperfections of our fallen world.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And it is no lie that the world waits in earnest expectation</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For the manifestation of you and I,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The time is near, its now,</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Let us arise and proclaim</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">His words and his wisdom.</span></span></span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:12px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-58654293377053447002010-06-01T14:27:00.000-07:002010-06-04T19:52:09.773-07:00Lessons from an unnamed woman of faith<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><b><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A familiar story from God's Word struck me on a different chord today. The most detailed version of this story is found in Mark 5:25-34.</span></span><span style="font: 12.0px Georgia"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Take your time and read the account slowly.</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">26 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">27 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">28 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">29 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">30 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, </span></span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">“Who touched my clothes?”</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">31</span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">“You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ” </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">32 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">33 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. </span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">34 </span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">He said to her, </span></span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">“Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”</span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 6.8px; font: 9.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 10.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 6.8px; font: 12.0px Times"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A major take-home point from this story for readers is that Jesus delivers! When we believe in His power to deliver us from hardships, He will come through without fail. The unnamed woman from the story above made history oh so quietly because of her faith. She wanted no fame; if anything shame was probably her most familiar friend. Females reading this can imagine the shameful and painful horror of bleeding 24/7 for 12 years. I am sure though that for many of us it's probably not a bleeding disorder that has plagued us for a while. Perhaps insecurities, secret fears, major financial set-backs, depression, suicidal thoughts or failing health. It may not even be you who's going through these hardships, maybe a loved one. But regardless of the specific circumstance as Jesus said in Matthew 17:20, "</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you have faith as a mustard seed... nothing will be impossible for you!</span></span><span style="color:#6f6f6f;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"</span></span></span><span style="font: 9.0px Times; color:#6f6f6f;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 6.8px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 6.8px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color:#f20000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">So friends, remember this: Out of the crowd that fateful day over 2000 years ago, this unnamed woman found her way to healing through her faith and determination. Others were waiting to speak to Jesus about their problems, perhaps waiting for Him to lay hands on them; But this woman of faith! She had become desperate in her quest…and so she pressed through, believing that once she touched even the hem of his garment, without his word or notice or public statement she would be healed. And was she?! Well in vs 34 Jesus tells her " Daughter, your faith has healed you!" This story more than ever encourages me to not draw back in my faith. Regardless of the odds, I am set on chasing after God's heart more than ever. Are YOU?</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 6.8px; font: 9.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 10.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px"><br /></p></b></span><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 9.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;color:#5C5C5C;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 9.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;color:#5C5C5C;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><b><i>COMMENT~ASK QUESTIONS~SHARE WITH A FRIEND!</i></b></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-indent: 9.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;color:#5C5C5C;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></p></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-19292854098518113652010-04-29T17:27:00.000-07:002010-06-30T08:43:07.007-07:00Navigating through the unknown...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#C0C0C0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">A</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">t </span>pivotal times in my life I've arrived at a place i call the "deep-sigh point". That is the point where, my over working mind and the much calmer spirit are at odds. Where there's an undefinable pull to head in one direction but a more sensible pull in the other. Several people I know have experienced this confusing state at one time or the other, perhaps even you have.</span></span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">At those very crucial often life-changing points, these truths have kept me standing, and I hope they will help you along on your unique journey.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">1) Isaiah 30:21 "</span></span></span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, ...</span></span></span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">This particular excerpt when I discovered it recently was so comforting! It reinforced the well worn verse 5b of Joshua 1 that says, "</span></span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I will never leave you or forsake you</span></span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">". Those times when the next turn/move doesn't seem clear enough, nothing soothes the soul more than the all-knowing God Himself promising you navigation through the darkness.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">2) Psalm 32:8 </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"</span></span></span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye</span></span></span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Herein lies another promise of guidance and instruction through life's processes. We don't have to wonder if God's involved; He's watching over us jealously to assure we stay on our destiny's track. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">3) Isaiah 49:16</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"</span></span></span></b><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Behold I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me</span></span></span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">.</span></span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">" </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Now friends, this verse showcases how important we are to our creator. We all know our palms are always in our face; God is saying HIS palms contain our 'walls' which refers to hinderances, barriers that stand in our way. They are before Him, to work out in DUE SEASON.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Guidance from God will come directly from His word, through other believers or directly to you while you pray, meditate or journal. There isn't a single most effective method, save to really tune in. So I stand with you today; as you trust God through life's different and unpredictable dynamics...He will keep you in perfect peace!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">feel free to leave comments/questions.</span></span></span></div>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2717693595032693151.post-56955510428352411662010-04-12T00:16:00.000-07:002010-05-11T18:35:14.822-07:00Musings on my love...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I'm fixated on you<br />Stuck on your simple complexity<br />Emotionally drawn to you consistently<br />But not yet powered enough to bring you to the world as i so want to.<br /><br />At times you come so strong,<br />I could hear the whole song in my head;<br />Or so i thought...<br />But as I sit to soak you in and spell you out<br />nothing...STUCK!<br />..Back to waiting and re-writing.<br /><br />But still, I'm captivated by you<br />And this hide and seek games we play.<br />I'm hopeful, that our once in a while memorable sessions<br />Will soon be steady flows of creativity.<br /><br />And to you reading,<br />Be patient with me as I work on this crucial relationship,<br />It won't take a day, or a song<br />To attain perfection<br />But guaranteed; it'll always be<br />From a heart passionately inlove with music.</span></span>Toyinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10986632922247803395noreply@blogger.com0