2013....all year long

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoh26pC2RT8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

No matter how close or distant I am, God is always with me.

God is so good

His timing is always right.    I was reading "The Confident Woman" this morning, and the two days I needed to catch up on talked about fellowshipping with our sin or with Jesus.    I would much rather fellowship with Jesus!  The last time I blogged, I was fellowshipping with my sin!  

The second day talked about approval addiction.   I have struggled with approval  addiction.   It is ok to want approval, but we shouldnt need it.   We should always know that we do our best....and that Jesus loves us....even when we mess up.....but what is it imside of us that we need approval?  

No condemnation

http://bible.com/111/rom8.1-2.niv Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.

Satan doesn't want me to believe this.   Since Saturday,  I have heard;  the lucky ones are the ones that didn't catch me.  (Satan)
I am dysfunctional and communicate like my brother (Craig)
Which also reminded me that I am just like missy (me)
& then have ran through so many past sins in my head.   From high school through parenting. .. and even when Mona sent an incredibly sweet email. ..my thought was on how I screwed that up.   

Thank you Jesus that there is no condemnation in you.  

Respecting my husband

http://bible.com/111/EPH5.33.NIV However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. Bible.com/app

RESPECT

A saintly woman was well-known for her good word about everyone. Although people often tried, they were never able to get her to speak evil of anyone. One day while she was talking with a friend, the town drunk staggered by. The friend thought there was surely nothing redeeming about this old reprobate and took the opportunity to quiz her godly friend: "What have you got to say about him?" The saintly woman simply replied, "Well, he is a good whistler."

It is a rare person who can see the best in everyone. But the Bible tells us that this is the norm for a healthy marriage. For example, the wife is commanded: Let the wife see that she respects her husband (Ephesians 5:33). The husband, of course, should earn this reverence and respect. Some husbands make the commandments of Christ hard to fulfill; however, there is no "if" included in this verse of Scripture. When the wife learns to see the good, however little, in her mate, respect can grow. Men may be motivated by criticism, but they often become bitter and angry toward a nagging wife. On the other hand, men motivated by respect and love become loving husbands.

The wise woman gives her husband respect and, in doing so, learns that this law of love diminishes the cares and toils of daily life.

More dysfunction

We have fleas....but when he says it it is always my fault.  I brought in the parallel that he expects this of me but isn't willing to help me clean.   Hes upset because I am not just addressing the issue at hand.   We are only allowed to talk about what bothers him .  And the reason he doesn't help is all of the things I put on his plate...meaning the property...and I communicate just like my brother......

Dysfunction

What do you do when you're joking around with your husband about not knowing what it's like to live in a dysfunctional family. .. and he is serious about thinking your family (us) is dysfunctional.  When you ask what he. Means. ...he won't talk wIth you about it because it's late and he's going to bed.   Says well talk tomorrow and goes to bed without so much of a kiss our hug.

http://bible.us/r/v.17 Today I am reading day 69 of Active Word Daily Devotional: Faithful Forethought

One of the most precious truths in all the Bible is on display for us here. It's assures us that no matter what our needs in this life might be, our Heavenly Father is fully aware of them before we even bring them to His attention.

But God's awareness of our needs goes even deeper than that. He's also able to anticipate and provide for our needs before we're even aware of them, and the cross is the ultimate example of this. The Bible tells us that Jesus, as the Lamb of God (please see March 5th), was actually slain for us before the foundation of the world:

All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:8 NKJV)

In other words, before the world and everything in it was ever created, God foresaw mankind's fall. He foresaw our need for a sacrificial substitute. He foresaw how His Son would serve as the Lamb to save us from our sin. The provision of the cross was in the mind of God before He even created us. What faithful forethought!

We need to hold onto this, because the temptation is always there for us to doubt and question God's ability and awareness when it comes to our needs. "How am I going to cover this bill? What if my health doesn't hold up? When is that much-needed raise finally going to kick in?"

God foresaw our greatest need even before we did and made perfect provision for it. Can't He do the same for all the other needs in this life that truly pale in comparison?

The provision of the cross was in the mind of God before He even created us.

Think about it...

What does this passage reveal to me about God?  God cana save Deven.   He loves deven more than I do.

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today?

Jeremiah chapter 1

Characters
Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah - lived in the land of Benjamin.

Pray for those you lead

http://bible.com/111/JHN17.9.NIV I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. Bible.com/app

I need to more diligentlynpray for those that jesus has placed at VLCS.... students...families and staff.   I also need to pray more for those in my circle of control.

THE OIL CAN

Many years ago, there was a thoughtful old man who always carried an oil can wherever he went. Whenever he went through a door that squeaked, he poured oil on the hinges. If a gate was hard to open, he oiled the latch. He passed through his life lubricating things. It was said of him, "If we went around with our oil cans of thoughtfulness, like our friend, the corrosion of our hearts and minds would disappear."

A careful study of Christ's life reveals He spent a lot of time going around "doing good." He brought hope and happiness where once there was darkness and despair. Even in the short hours before His own death, Jesus took time for a passionate prayer for others (John 17). In this, perhaps the Bible's most beautiful prayer, Christ sought strength and blessing for all those who follow Him. While the prayer reveals flashes of His humanity, it forever exposes His eternal divinity.

It would be well to carefully study this prayer of our Lord. It is a guiding force, and how much richer and fuller our lives would be if we followed it. May we give ourselves to Him and to humanity. Then our lives will be like the man who carried the can of oil. We can make the rough places of earth smooth, the hard places easier, and be helpers of God and humanity.

Overflowing with Thankfulness....

http://bible.com/111/COL2.6.NIV So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Bible.com/app

I also want to be overflowing with kindness.  

Lord Jesus, thank you for the wisdom you give me on the fly.  Thank you for bringing such a caring staff to your school.   Thank you Father for peace that passes all understanding     you have blessed me in so many ways.    The trials I experience with my husband are ways that I can grow.   I am not sure what is going on at the moment...but ask that you continue to work in both of our lives.....

Every knee will bow....to the name above all names.. Jesus

Amazing timing

http://bible.com/r/3D.1t Today I am reading day 117 of Joyce Meyer: Promises for Your Everyday Life - a Daily Devotional:

yesterday was an exciting and exhausting day

Ended with hurt feelings because Craig didnt even ask how my day was.  but what an incredible reminder.   Thank you Lord, You care and were with me. 

Ways to study the bible

Out of 4 that Rich Warren shared, the chapter by chaoter method resonated ( as does topical)

The Chapter Summary Method: According to Warren, the student should read a chapter of a Bible book at least five times, and then write down a summary of the central thoughts as well as the major points in the chapter. Make a list of the most important people. Why are they included? Choose a verse which summarizes the whole chapter or one which speaks to you personally. List any difficulties you may have with the chapter (such as statements you don't understand), questions, and key words of the chapter. Look for other verses that help clarify what the chapter is talking about. What are the major principles, insights, and lessons? Why does God want this passage in the Bible? Ask yourself a series of questions relating to the content of the chapter, and ending with a general summary of the chapter. Divide the chapter into its natural sections and find headings for them that describe their contents. Write down the leading facts of the chapter in their proper order. Make note of the persons mentioned in the chapter and of any analysis of their character. Think of what might be the central truth of the chapter, along with the key verses

http://bible.com/r/3d.25 Today I am reading day 129 of Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God:

Confirmation

Confirmation to have prayer on Monday morning to cover our school

http://bible.us/r/3d.1w Today I am reading day 120 of Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with God:

THE BRINGING

Several years ago, a group of Philadelphia businessmen began an experimental prayer group. The effects of their prayers have been dramatic, and the group has flourished. Today, it encompasses many people who give themselves daily to the purpose of prayer. They explain, "Matthew says, 'and they brought unto him all sick people with divers diseases and torments...and he healed them.' It is not the healing we try to do, but the bringing."

Hezekiah knew how important it was to present his people before the Lord. When they were not sanctified at Passover time, he took them to the Lord and prayed for them (2 Chronicles 30:13-20). God heard Hezekiah's prayer and "healed the people."

We do not do the healing but the bringing. In obedience we daily bring friends, family, and others to the Master for His touch. And, as we bring them, He heals them of physical ailments, mental anguishes, and "various diseases." Prayer is not just a responsibility, it is a privilege. It is the privilege of presenting those we love to the Lord. He alone can heal them. Today, may we present our loved ones to Christ so they might be exposed to His positive healing process. More things are wrought by prayer than we can possibly imagine.

Spread it out before the Lord

http://bible.us/111/2KI19.14.NIV Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the Lord and spread it out before the Lord . Bible.com/app

Prayer puts us in alignment with gods word.

Hezekiah praised God First. 

Father, I lift my eyes up to you.  You have created the heavens and the earth and all that is in it.  You alone sent your only son to save us.  Father, forgive our sins.  Forgive my sins Lord.  Lord jesus, you have redeemed your people, father, saving Miranda and deven is not impossible for you.  Please lord, open their eyes to your goodness.  I fail somoften its no wonder they dont follow you since im the only real example they see.     Draw our hearts togther father.   Draw them...call them...

Lord I also lift up my marraige.   I feel stuck father.  Thank you Lord for bringing such a kind man to my life,  lord I dont know what to do.  Father, I give you my relationships and ask father....I spread them out before you.  Please strengthen them so the enemy doesnt have a foothold.  

Father ..vlcs is yours  thank you for the way you have brought everything together.  Inpraise you Lord for the work you are doing.   I praise you for the staff you have put tigether and the families you have brought.  Nothing is chance Lord!  Thank you jesus!  I feel like we are being attcked.    Heal bodies and spirits lord.    Angela needs you...david needs you... father draw rhonda closer again....give her your spirit and grace.    Help us to be undaunted Lord.     Give me your wisdom....be with our board.    Lord, please save us and protect us.  

http://bible.us/111/COL3.1.NIV Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Bible.com/app

God Isn't Glorified Through Our Suffering

Many Christians live under the false idea that God wants them to suffer. This creates a nonstop victim mentality.

Suffering is inevitable, but God is not glorified through our suffering. He is glorified when we have a good attitude during our suffering - and He wants us to be victorious!

So why would we choose to remain bitter, angry and wounded or depressed?

There's one surefire way to overcome suffering with the right attitude: Set your mind, and keep it set, on things above, not on things of the earth. You must be armed with right thinking, or you will give up during hard times.

Set your mind and be fully aware that moving from being a victim to being a victor will not be a quick process. It will take time, but your experience will make you stronger and enable you to help others who are facing similar battles.

Get excited about your future and realize that going through something with God means that you will come out on the other side with a victory that cannot be taken away from you.

Prayer Starter: God, I need Your help to overcome a victim mentality. I choose to set my mind on things above so that I can have the right attitude. With Your thoughts and truth inside me, I know I can overcome.

God forgives me.    I am cruel and unkind at times, but He sees me through the blood of Jesus.   Why do I never see people through the blood of the Lord?  Heavenly father, I dont want to be naive, but I dont want to be cynical any longrr.  Lord, I desire to see people the way you see them.   I really need help today...in loving my husband.    I am hurt, but I want to let go of that hurt.    I want to live him as you do.    Father, I dont even know how to communicate with him anymore.    I do desire do lead live and love as you do.    

I know who I am

I dont care if they like me.... I didnt come here to make friends.  I dont even care if they respect me.....I know who I am.....

Jackie robinson.... 42

Start with kindness

I used to pray rhis verse when I was single.....wanting a husband so badly.   God was verynkind and gave me an incredible man.  Thank you Jesus for my husband. 

I have been feeling as though I was not lived and cared for by him.   Ive prayed that god woulf change my heart.  It wasnt working.   

I did hear God speak to me though.   He told me to remain in his word.     As I read "lead like jesus" I read about simply being kind....because jesus was.    Amazing!  This is something Craig had accused me of not being and the same thing I felt at times that I was missing the mark with our employees.    This is my new prayer...that I would be filled with the spirit to be kind.    Thank you jesus  

http://bible.us/111/ECC4.9.NIV Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Bible.com/app

Prayer

http://bible.us/111/1TI2.8.NIV Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. Bible.com/app

Lord, I feel lost again.   Disconnected from my husband.  Help me...show me..feel my heart with peace and joy... I dont want to be an angry wife that is always disputing..... when I lift my hands I want them to be holy.....

To see Gods Glory

http://bible.us/111/EXO33.12.NIV Moses said to the Lord , “You me have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”
Lord, teach me your ways that I may find favor with you.....

The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?” And the Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.” Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord , in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.” Bible.com/app

How???

http://bible.us/111/EPH4.1.NIV
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

How does one do this? 

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions ? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Ephesians 4:1-32 NIV

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.  But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.”  (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions ? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.  Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.  So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.  That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.  Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin” : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and
slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

James 3:17-18 NIV

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

Loving the difficult ones

http://bible.us/114/HEB13.1.NKJV Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also. Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge. Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Bible.com/app

REACHING OUT

When people ask Dr. Thomas P. Malone, a psychiatrist, what psychiatry is all about, he answers, "Almost every emotional problem can be summed up in one particular bit of behavior people walking around screaming 'for God's sake, love me.' He goes through a million different manipulations to get somebody to love him. On the other hand, healthy people are those who walk around looking for someone to love. And if you see changes in the people seeking for love, they give up their screaming for all their lives."

Dr. Malone's view of his role as a psychiatrist is certainly a noble and awesome one. He tries to get people to love one another. While psychiatry certainly has helped some to adjust, only Christ can so revolutionize character as to change a person from seeking to giving. Jesus came to this world to show men how to live. Through Christ, we can learn how to give up our selfish seeking for attention and start giving ourselves to His Kingdom.

Jesus told us that when we give up our lives, we find them. As we give up our selfish seeking, and long to reach out in genuine love, we receive many blessings. No wonder it says in Hebrews, Let brotherly love continue.

Lord, please give me discernment in all matters

http://bible.us/114/1CO2.14.NKJV But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. Bible.com/app

NO NEWS

"If newspapers would give less attention to crime, there would not be so much of it," the average person on the street says. In response to requests from civic groups and individuals who felt that vandals were doing it for the publicity, the news media in Iowa decided not to report any news of vandalism for ninety days. Then the police department released statistics showing 36.5 percent more vandalism than during the same three months of the year before.

Three things emerged from this experiment: (1) turning one's back on a problem does not make it go away; (2) an uninformed public often harbors a false sense of security; and (3) that which "sounds" logical is not always logical.

These three observations are also true in the spiritual realm. Turning our back on coming judgment does not erase that judgment. The Bible says: The soul who sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:20). We also can be lured into a false sense of security through being ill-informed about eternal values. And finally: There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death (Proverbs 14:12). Natural man simply cannot perceive the things of God; only after we are born again do we have the proper perspective.

Tongue

http://bible.us/111/JAS3.9.NIV With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Bible.com/app

James 3:9 NIV

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness

What an amazing verse.  It is so true.  I think I get myself in more trouble with my tongue. Even when I am hurt, it is when someone says something.  Why do we speak poorly of people?  Believers or otherwise?  People I don't like and people I don't know?  Lord, when I develop a thought that is offensive, please put a guard at my mouth so that it doesn't come out. 

Imagine a world where people really only said kind things??  Or at least honest, using words not meant to harm..... I say things to be funny, that end up hurting someone... (Although I do put my Natalie comment in here, I was not being unkind with Alyssa....).

Judgement and mercy

http://bible.us/111/JAS2.12.NIV Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, Bible.com/app

James 2:12-13 NIV

Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

Just last week the sermon was on judgement. And mercy.  Lord, give me a discerning heart, that comes from you.  Please give me your wisdom and your love.  May those I come in contact know I am yours by the love I show. 

Liberated by abounding love....

Lord Jesus, it is your abounding love that i need.  I need to feel it, and i need more, to show it to others in all of my dealings with people.  I become so easily offended that a parent would go to the school board.  Why is that father?  I have assisted this parent in having Wendy not report things to her any longer.....yet when i kindly explain a dress code violation, ....

Father, you know all of the details.  Lord, i lift up to you your school, and those that you have there. Thank you Jesus for your word.  Please lord, give me serenity, love peace and joy.  Thank you for your work on the cross. 

  Thhttp://bible.us/Phil1.9.NIV And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

What I need is Gods wisdom and discernment.  I also need His love, as the great of these faith, hope and love is love. 

Hebrews 12:1-3, 12-13 NIV

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. "Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Today's devotional
LIBERATED

Michelangelo saw the task of the sculptor as that of freeing figures from their marble prisons. In each block of stone, he saw some "person" then chipped away until that form emerged. Sometimes he failed, as with St. Matthew. This famous statue is only half-finished because Michelangelo could not get the stone to release the figure of the brilliant apostle.

Paul saw God as the Sculptor Who frees men from the prison of their carnal nature. He wrote to the Philippians that God was doing a great work in and on their lives and encouraged them to have confidence in His work. He assured the new believers that God is perfectly capable of "finishing" us as He desires, for His (and our) greatest good. This Master Sculptor never gives up, and no prison is too strong for His skilled eye and learned hand.

In yielding ourselves to the direction of the Master, we are being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God (Philippians 1:11). All believers should remember that today's bumps and bruises may merely be the Master chiseling, working away at our lives until we are conformed to the image of His Son. Thus we relax, even though the chisel may bite, for we know His work is sure and the result well worth the moment's inconvenience.

Praying for lost loved ones

http://bible.us/Eph1.15.NIV For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God's people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,

Father, please open the eyes of our heart lord, that we would live you and desire to serve you more.   Jesus, thank you for changing my life with Miranda and Deven. Lord, I have done so many wrong things, even after I learned about you.  Jesus, please forgive my sin.  Lord give me your power and strength to live life in the way you would choose for me to live.  Change lives through me.  Draw others to you.  Lord Jesus, I desire to serve you.  Please use my life to reconcile people to you.  I lift up Miranda and Deven and Zach.  I pray that you go before Ian's funeral today Lord, and draw many of the young adults to you.   

Pray for our leaders....for a revival

I am praying for a revival...in my heart....my home...my church...my workplace...my city..?my state...my country.  Lord may you use me to influence those around me.  Show me how to love my husband. 

IMPROVING THE PREACHER

The Scottish pastor John Carmichael, serving his first church, was young and very frightened. He felt he was doing badly and that his people were looking at him with pity and contempt. One day, to his terror, the stern elders of the flock filed into his vestry. "Next Sabbath," they told him, "before you begin to speak, we ask you to say to yourself, 'They're all loving me.' And it's true; we will all be loving you very much." That meeting changed the young preacher's life, and he became recognized as one of the finest preachers Scotland ever produced.

Paul understood the pressures of the pastorate. He also understood that people could be a tremendous blessing to young Timothy as he tried to lead the church at Ephesus. Therefore, Paul told Timothy to admonish the people first of all to pray for their leaders. Praying people produce good pastors.

This advice is still good. And it goes for all men in positions of leadership. Before we criticize them, judge their actions, or disagree with their decisions, we are first to pray for them, intercede on their behalf, and thank God for them. We must always temper our complaints with prayers. May we pledge today to pray, as God's Word demands, for all those in authority.

http://bible.us/1Tim2.1.NIV 1 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety.

So much good stuff

http://bible.us/John14.23.NIV Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.

How to Experience His Presence in Your Everyday Life

Life is busy and filled with distractions. It's so easy to get caught up in our cares, errands and worries that we lose sight of what matters most.

There's an interesting little story at the end of Luke chapter two about when Mary and Joseph took Jesus to Jerusalem for Passover when He was twelve years old. After the festival was over, they left to go home, supposing He was with them.

I wonder how many times we suppose God's with us when we've wandered off to do our own thing?

Now here's the interesting part. Mary and Joseph had traveled a day's journey before they realized Jesus wasn't with them and then it took three days to find Him. Three days! The message here is that it's easier to lose that special presence of God than it is to get it back once we've lost it.

We need to be careful to remain in the presence of God. When we do, we make God feel at home in our hearts.

This simply starts with being obedient to His Word. A commitment to turn from behavior that offends God is the number one sign of spiritual maturity. It shows you care about what He thinks.

That means you choose to be generous toward others, you learn to forgive, let go of your offenses and live in peace. When we choose to be intentional with our words, giving thanks to God and lifting up others, we'll feel connected to God all throughout the day.

Prayer Starter: Father, thank You for making Your home in my heart. I need Your presence today, Lord. Help me to honor You with my thoughts and my words and to be a blessing to those around me.  Joyce Meyer

Teach me to love like you do

http://bible.us/1Tim1.5.NIV 5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

Being a light

http://bible.us/Matt4.16.NIV the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned."

Lord Jesus, shine through me.  Show me how to be a great light to those around me, that I would point them to you.  I know you love everyone equally, but lord, please show Miranda, Deven, Sarah and Alex how to love you. 

Prophecy

God is still in the business of speaking to people, to get what He wants accomplished.  In1989, the business meeting at vfa, someone spoke about building a 3000 seat sanctuary.  Had they not built the current sanctuary, many of us at visalia first would not attend now.  

God also spoke to me about starting a charter, but gently nudging my heart, and then confirming it with ----the church, the loss of my job..... Thank you Jesus for loving me.  I know this isn't about me, but I am excited about what You are going to do at vlcs.

http://bible.us/r/v.1E.5t Today I am reading day 76 of Active Word Daily Devotional:

Confirmed Confidence

Sometime around 550 B.C., Daniel received perhaps the most important prophecy ever given to man. It's recorded for us in Daniel Chapter nine, and its details include God's prophetic timeline for Israel and the precise timing of the Messiah's arrival. It also gives great insight into the coming of the anti-Christ in the last days.

Amidst all this, there's also an important prophecy that points to the cross. As the ministry of the Messiah (or Christ) is being described, Daniel was told that He "shall be cut off, but not for Himself." The expression for "cut off" in Daniel's day was a clear reference to execution. The fact that this wouldn't happen for Himself but for the sake of others makes it a clear reference to the crucifixion, which would occur over 500 years later.

Here's the point behind this history lesson; the cross fulfilled the prophetic word. Prophecy is one of the most important components of the Bible, because it proves God's inspiration and influence beyond any doubt. No human could ever predict the proclamations found in biblical prophecy...only God could. And each time we see something that fulfills prophecy, it serves to strengthen our faith in the fact that the Bible isn't something put together by man, but by God Himself.

The cross falls into this category because it was on the cross that Messiah was "cut off" for the sake of others, fulfilling the prophetic word God gave to Daniel. Consequently, when we consider the cross, we can be all the more confirmed in our confidence that the Bible is God's Word.

And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts...(2 Peter 1:19 NKJV)

Each time we see something that fulfills prophecy, it serves to strengthen our faith in the fact that the Bible isn't something put together by man, but by God Himself.

Think about it...

What does this passage reveal to me about God?

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this,

what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today?

http://bible.us/1John2.2.NIV He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

One For All

If there's one aspect of the cross that can't be stressed enough, it's this: Jesus did not die for a select group of people. His sacrifice on the cross was (and still is) "for the whole world."

This is an important point for us to hold onto, because there are two unhealthy extremes that our hearts can fall prey to when it comes to our own relationship with the cross. We can slip to the side of thinking, "The cross is great, but it really isn't for me." And we can also slip to the side of "The cross is great, and it's ONLY for me."

Both of these views are unbiblical. Jesus died for everyone. There never has been and there never will be a person on this planet that isn't included in the invitation to receive all that the cross stands for and represents. There isn't any room for "poor me" nor is there any room for "only me." If we ever isolate ourselves from the cross and think ourselves beyond its reach, or take an elitist approach that anyone else is beyond its reach, then we're not seeing the cross of the Bible.

There's equal opportunity for everyone at the foot of the cross. If someone is a sinner (and that covers everyone) then Jesus specifically died for him or her:

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners... (1 Timothy 1:15 NKJV)

Lord, help us to not only know but to practically apply this truth. Help us to receive the cross for ourselves and extend it to all You place in our path.

Jesus died for everyone. There never has been and there never will be a person on this planet that isn't included in the invitation to receive all that the cross stands for and represents.

Think about it...

What does this passage reveal to me about God?
god is by far, kinder,wiser and more generous than I can ever imagine being.

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
My first thought as I read this was Helen.  Jesus dies on the cross for Helen and Alexandra.  I don't want to the issue one that is personal. 

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
Love like Jesus did, but also have rules and follow them.
What is my prayer for today?

Lord, give me wisdom and insight as we plan policy that will affect how we deal with children. 

http://bible.us/r/v.17 Today I am reading day 69 of Active Word Daily Devotional: Faithful Forethought

One of the most precious truths in all the Bible is on display for us here. It's assures us that no matter what our needs in this life might be, our Heavenly Father is fully aware of them before we even bring them to His attention.

But God's awareness of our needs goes even deeper than that. He's also able to anticipate and provide for our needs before we're even aware of them, and the cross is the ultimate example of this. The Bible tells us that Jesus, as the Lamb of God (please see March 5th), was actually slain for us before the foundation of the world:

All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:8 NKJV)

In other words, before the world and everything in it was ever created, God foresaw mankind's fall. He foresaw our need for a sacrificial substitute. He foresaw how His Son would serve as the Lamb to save us from our sin. The provision of the cross was in the mind of God before He even created us. What faithful forethought!

We need to hold onto this, because the temptation is always there for us to doubt and question God's ability and awareness when it comes to our needs. "How am I going to cover this bill? What if my health doesn't hold up? When is that much-needed raise finally going to kick in?"

God foresaw our greatest need even before we did and made perfect provision for it. Can't He do the same for all the other needs in this life that truly pale in comparison?

The provision of the cross was in the mind of God before He even created us.

Think about it...

What does this passage reveal to me about God?  God cana save Deven.   He loves deven more than I do.

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today?

Sunday sermon

Matthew 13:24-27, 29-30 NIV

Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.  But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away.  When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.  "The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'  An enemy has done this he replied.  The servant asked him do you want us to pull up the weeds?  "'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them.  Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.'"

Last week---john 1.  
Isaiah.  Gods thoughts are not your thoughts. 
The word became flesh and walks among us
Jesus at the age of 12. Confounding others. 
Parables because the story is so powerful. 

No 2 stories are alike.   God is new every morning. 

1. You can't stop a person who........sows. Someone who has denied immediate gratification.  I can get out my present situation by sowing.

2.  You've got to know your...SEED...is good.... Seed.  What God has put in me is good.  good lives in me.  He who began a good work will complete it.   Not having a good perception brings in abuse.  Everything can be against you, but you are good because the word makes me good. 

Servants had to work the field.... 
But....but when everyone was sleeping....the enemy came.... People who are asleep at the wheel.... 

3. Some things the enemy is afraid to...CONFRONT....you on while you are awake. ......confront ...easy to fight devils in church.  When your not watching he comes in.  some of us are in non fertile ground.  My surroundings don't matter because the seed in me is good.  The odds are against many of us....but we are still here!  Can't atop a good seed.   Leaders are tenacious!  Most leaders aren't that smart, they just won't quit!

What happened here? 

4.  What do you do when good comes up, and ..BAD....comes with it?
  boss, did you give us bad seed?   Things in life will make me question God.  if you're in my life...why am I.....still lonely...sad...insecure.....  If I'm yours why? 

Count your blessings....one by one..... 

How many can count your blessings, but how many weeds do we count?  Where is my focus?  We have weeds and seeds in our life.  If we aren't careful the enemy tries to get us to focus on the weeds not the good seeds in our life.  Leave things alone...... What others say about you is none of your business.  We are the moon not the dog.   Some things we need to leave alone.   A fool talks to a fool.....

Leave it alone.  stay focused, go to bed and forget about it.  Jesus was sleeping in the boat.

The disciples were upset with him because he was sleeping....  But Jesus was still in control.  
god also works in the night hours. 
Challenging moses as to who the real leader was.....
Manna was provided in the night.  
Chill out, rest and let God fight your battles for you!!!

5.  When the ..TIME ..is right, God will settle the score.  When the harvest comes, God I'll bundle up the weeds.    When we see there haters gaining up, God is getting you ready for the biggest harvest of my life.

I don't need to fight the battles, the Lord will fight my battles.  Don't focus on the weeds.  Satan loves when we focus on the weeds.

You're going to lose one now and then...don't put all of your energy in to that one. 

So much hope

http://bible.us/Mal4.1.NIV "Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire," says the Lord Almighty. "Not a root or a branch will be left to them. But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act," says the Lord Almighty. "Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel. "See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction."

The word keeps us from being offended

From Pastor Mikes sermon 3/2

' The Word of God keeps us from being easily OFFENDED.
---------------
people get offended quite easily.    if you are in Gods word you are not easily offended.     thank you for that word Lord.   so many people are easily offended by me.

Psalm 119:165
===============
Psalm 119:165 (KJV)
---------------
Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.,

So the opposite of this would be that those that are believers, but are not moving the law, or spending time in the word shall be offended. 

This reminds me of a few parents from church, that I have easily offended.  Both times it has been with the truth.  Of course I could have used my words more wisely.  Lord, show me how to live, give me your words and your wisdom.  What should my response be when I so easily offend someone? 

(Continue speaking the truth). John 6:53-71 NIV

Jesus said to them, "Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.  Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.  For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink.  Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.  Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.  This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever."  He said this while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum. On hearing it, many of his disciples said, "This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?" Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, "Does this offend you?  Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before!  The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.  Yet there are some of you who do not believe."  For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them."  From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. "You do not want to leave too, do you?"  Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God." Then Jesus replied, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!"  (He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)

(I am not God, or Jesus, and am not wanting to appear as though I think I am, however, I do know that God DID place me in the position I am in. I know this without a doubt.  It is refreshing to known that it was not always easy for Jesus, he also had people think he was crazy, and a liar.  His life was always in jeopardy, because of who he was.  Jesus continued to speak the truth in love at all times.). Thank you Jesus for your word.  Your word that comforts and brings peace. Please give me the words, and wisdom to do what you have called me to do. 

John 8:39-47 NIV

"Abraham is our father," they answered.
"If you were Abraham's children,"  said Jesus, "then you would do what Abraham did.  As it is, you are looking for a way to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things.  You are doing the works of your own father."
"We are not illegitimate children," they protested. "The only Father we have is God himself." Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me.  Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say.  You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.  Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!  Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don't you believe me?  Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God."

Keep reading.

http://bible.us/r/70.4 Today I am reading day 4 of A Passion to Serve:

Avoid godless chatter

http://bible.us/2Tim2.16.NIV Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.

This scripture talks about spreading false religious ideas, but I am guilty of this as well.  Sharing my frustration with/ about others.   Father forgive me for hurting one of your children.  Catherine is working to change her life and the lives of her children.  Lord Jesus, I was so frustrated with Alyssa, that I spouted off about the girls who in worked with. They had no idea that I loved those girls.  Lord, when will I learn?  Use me to encourage the family.

Father help me through today.  Give me a spirit of kindness and love.  Even towards Cindy.  Let me not speak illy towards anyone. 

Give me wisdom with the Tayler and the Alexandra issue. 

Be with steve as he takes the test.  Lord give him insight.
Lord jesus., I need you, in the little things.

father lead me, because i cant do this alone

http://bible.us/Phil1.3.NIV 3 I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Father, thank you for your word. Thank you lord that I can come to you.  Help me to remember this scripture, that I may pray over my staff.

Lord, even those I have a difficult time with, please lead me to do what is best for their lives. 

Wendy, thank you for her service in the good news club
Cindy, please bless her with the marriage of her son. Tasha and Amy, please bless their bodies and their babies.

Please go before us with Sharon. Father, lead me as I lead your school.  Please show us who should stay and go. Go before our board meeting on Saturday. Give us your peace and grace Lord. Jesus I need your quiet confidence.

Philippians 1:9-11 NIV

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

Lord Jesus, please make my love abound more and more for the children, families and staff of Valley Life.

Philippians 1:9-11, 27-30 NIV

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Leadership

7% through Lead Like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time by Blanchard, Ken on Kindle for Android! http://www.amazon.com/kindleforandroid/

Am I seeking to serve or be served?

To memorize

http://bible.us/111/JOS1.9.NIV Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Bible.com/app

Father, please go before me with the board.   Please protect melissa and I.   Lord I am fearful of the board.    I love where you have placed me.    

Whom shall I fear...

Watch "Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies) by Chris Tomlin (with lyrics)" on YouTube

Pray without ceasing

Hopeful

http://bible.us/Mal4.1.NIV "Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire," says the Lord Almighty. "Not a root or a branch will be left to them. But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act," says the Lord Almighty. "Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel. "See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction."

This gives me hope.   Focus on the family , was talking about how we try to get people to like us to fill our cups, when it is only Jesus we need to fill our cup.

Blessed

http://bible.us/Lev19.17.NIV "'Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt. "'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord .

The joyce Meyer devotion talked of how women were to be endured as a punishment to men.  -plato.  But that isn't how God created us. He created us as a help mate to our husbands.  We are not less than....we are Gods creation.  

As I read this I thought of my friend.   We were so close at one time.....but have travelled very different roads. God has blessed me in so many ways.   Thank you Lord for giving me Craig. He has helped me grow in so many ways. 

What didn't you steal fro your spouse?

Time
Individuality
Money
Trust. Do not let any wholesome talk

Be tenderhearted forgiving on another.  

You don't take pictures of the hassles of life. 

Tough minds tender hearts

Jesus is a friend of sinners

105 for an ultrasound to save a baby. 

http://bible.us/Ps29.2.NIV Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.

WOW!

Many of the Psalms are just an extended and eloquent way of saying "WOW!" Psalm 29 is one such Psalm. It looks at a particular aspect of this great God we serve-His voice-and leaves us in such a state of awe and amazement that the only real response we can exclaim is "Glory!" That's a biblical way of saying "Wow!"

An ear-splitting, heart-stopping thunderclap that rolls and reverberates from horizon to horizon...the unrelenting force of a hurricane that strips the very skin off of the proudest trees...an earthquake that shatters the strongest foundations of the world... they're all mere whispers of the might and majesty of God's voice.

Couple this with the reality that we're steeped in a society where so many people are struggling and striving to have their voices heard. Our eyes and ears are constantly being ambushed by talking heads, spin doctors, and flavor-of-the-month pundits who are fighting for market share when it comes to our attention. No expense is spared in getting us to listen to their opinions and to hopefully adopt them. There's no void of voices in our world today.

But the voice of the Lord drowns them all. The voice of the Lord is powerful and full of majesty. It rises above anything we could ever speak or say. It shakes the ground we walk on and splits the sky we live beneath. God's voice can't be censored or tamed any more than a volatile volcano in full-fury can be silenced. When God wants to be heard, He is, and the only reasonable response is "Glory!"

Incomparable Creator, we rejoice in the power and majesty of Your voice...and all we want to say today is "Wow!"

What does this passage reveal to me about God?

The voice of the Lord is amazing.  GOD is powerful yet gentle. 

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Without God I am nothing. 

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

Pause more and say wow

What is my prayer for today? 

http://bible.us/Ps24.1.NIV

The earth is the Lord 's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters. Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord ? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god. They will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God their Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, God of Jacob. Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory? The Lord Almighty— he is the King of glory.

Lord, please give me a pure heart and clean hands.  My heart has been so full of nonsense lately.   I need to rid my mind of the negative thoughts, of insecurity, so I can continue to be the one you called me to be. 

Father, why do I struggle so with believing my husband loves me?  Why do I struggle so much with seeking approval from others? 

It's All His

Everything belongs to God. Absolutely everything-the earth and all that is in it. That's important to know. Why? Because we're called to trust in His provision, and doing so becomes much easier when we recognize we're trusting in the One who ultimately owns all that there is.

Sometimes we fear that our needs will exceed what the Lord can or will provide for us. But our needs can never be greater than what He actually has at His disposal, which is everything. And if we're lacking and in need, it's a simple matter of the Lord re-distributing His funds and transferring His resources from one account to another.

That's the lesson Peter learned when Jesus called him to cast a line in the sea and pull out the first fish he caught. Jesus promised Peter that he would find a coin inside the fish's mouth that would be sufficient to cover his needs (Matthew 17:27).

Why did Jesus do that? He was showing Peter a practical demonstration of Psalm 24:1. Jesus was showing Peter that He's able to access and allocate whatever is needed, whenever it's needed. He was essentially saying, "Peter all the world's wealth belongs to me, and I will do what I want with it."

That's something we all need to hear for ourselves. When it comes to your needs in this world, don't fret. God knows exactly what you need, and as the ultimate owner of all things, He has what you need reserved and in store for you. It's all His, and He's absolutely able to allocate it accordingly.

Lord of all, may You still all of our anxieties with the knowledge that the earth and everything in it is yours.

What does this passage reveal to me about God?

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today? 

Psalm 22

Lord , keep me close time you.   As I read this I know that I have no comparison to your death on the cross.   But I have had pain and insecurity.   Lord Jesus keep me close to you so that I may endure what you require of me.  

Connected To The Cross

The words of Psalm 22 are significant for a couple of reasons. First, they describe David's heartache at this particular point in his life. Secondly, and more significantly, they prophetically point to Christ's suffering on the cross.

We know this, not only because the Psalm gives a graphic account of the then-unknown practice of crucifixion, but also because Jesus directly quoted from this Psalm as He hung on the cross:

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying..."My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46 NKJV)

Even as He endured the shame and pain of the cross, Jesus, the consummate teacher, was instructing the people who were watching Him die. He was pointing them to Psalm 22 so as to say, "See, what I'm doing right here and right now is the fulfillment of David's Psalm!"

There's an unbreakable connection between Psalm 22 and the Cross. But in all actuality, the same can be said of every page and passage in God's Word. One way or another, every bit of the Bible relates to the Cross. No matter where you happen to be, it anticipates and looks forward to the Cross, or it commemorates and looks back at it. The Cross is the central theme and event in the Bible.

Psalm 22 is a powerful reminder of this as it transports us to Calvary. It connects our hearts to the saving scene that determined our destiny. That's a connection we would do well to keep and maintain.

Strong Savior, no matter where we're at or where this day takes us physically, geographically, mentally, or emotionally, may our hearts remain connected to the Cross and what you accomplished for us there.

What does this passage reveal to me about God?

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today? 

Depend on the Lord , not on my own strength or anything else.

http://bible.us/Ps21.1.NIV The king rejoices in your strength, Lord . How great is his joy in the victories you give! You have granted him his heart's desire and have not withheld the request of his lips. You came to greet him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head. He asked you for life, and you gave it to him— length of days, for ever and ever. Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty. Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence. For the king trusts in the Lord ; through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken. Your hand will lay hold on all your enemies; your right hand will seize your foes. When you appear for battle, you will burn them up as in a blazing furnace. The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath, and his fire will consume them. You will destroy their descendants from the earth, their posterity from mankind. Though they plot evil against you and devise wicked schemes, they cannot succeed. You will make them turn their backs when you aim at them with drawn bow. Be exalted in your strength, Lord ; we will sing and praise your might.

Depend As You Ascend

Psalm Chapter 21 was written by David. Not David the simple shepherd-boy, nor David the fleeing fugitive, nor the young David whose place and way in life had been so uncertain. But rather, this particular Psalm was penned by David later on in his life, after he had been established as ruler over Israel and rightful heir to the throne. He composes this as King, as one who had ascended to the summit of power and success.

Notice, however, that even though David had become King at this point, he still declares his trust in the Lord. His title in life had changed, but his guiding principle hadn't. The very feature that distinguished David through every season of his life and propelled him forward was still strong inside him. He was still determined to be absolutely dependant on God.

That's something we need to ponder, because human nature tells us we need God less and less as we grow and gain in power. It's easy to rely on the Lord when we have nothing else in life to rely on. But it's as we start to ascend, as we become "successful" and acquire resources, that we're faced with a challenging choice. Do we trust in our newfound successes, or do we continue to trust in the Lord who remains unseen? Do we continue to depend as we ascend in life?

There's no question what we ought to do, and there's no better time than right now to pray for His help in doing it.

Lord, protect us from trusting in anything or anyone but You, especially in light of any success we experience. Help us to depend as we ascend.

What does this passage reveal to me about God?  GOD alone is in control. All good things in my life aware from His hand.   Negative things are to grow me.   Father please teach me your wisdom.   Teach me how to respond instead of reacting. 

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?   I easily become self confident.   I don't always rely on God.

Based on this, what changes do I need to make? Trust in God in all things.  Focus more on the word and lesson circumstances around me.

What is my prayer for today?father , I need your peace.  I am feeling dread and I'm not sure why.   Too many conflicts.   Father please give me your confidence , your wisdom and your strength.  

How to abide in God

http://bible.us/Ps15.1.NIV Lord , who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord ; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.

Abiding Isn't Automatic

The modern English language has strayed away from using the word abide. The word is considered old-fashioned, and that's a shame because it's one of the most important and insightful words in all the Scriptures.

The word abide literally means "to settle down and dwell comfortably along with." Harmony, unity, communion, and peace are all assumed under the umbrella of abiding with someone. In Psalm Chapter 15, David asks, "Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle?" Another way of saying that would be: "What kind of person can rest easy and be at home in Your presence?"

We'd all like to be in sync and in step with God's heart. But it's important to understand that it isn't automatic. There are certain conditions that need to be met on our part in order to arrive at this place of abiding. David enumerates them as he continues the Psalm; a person who walks righteously (v.2), speaks truthfully (v.2), doesn't gossip (v.3), is a faithful neighbor and friend (v.3), despises evil (v.4), honors God (v.4), keeps his or her word (v.4), and isn't greedy for personal gain (v.5).

Don't misunderstand. David isn't declaring that we can become right with God by virtue of our good works. But he does describe the kind of heart a person has when he or she is at peace with God-a person who is able to abide with God. This should cause us to hold up a mirror and examine whether or not these conditions are being kept in our own lives.

Abiding isn't automatic, but it is attainable. May the Lord help us to be completely honest with ourselves and fill us with His Spirit so that we can meet the conditions needed in order to abide.

Father God, help me to walk in sync and in step with You. Enable me to meet the conditions outlined in Psalm 15.

What does this passage reveal to me about God?

What does this passage reveal to me about myself?

Based on this, what changes do I need to make?

What is my prayer for today? 

Keep your eyes on Jesus

Psalm 19:1-14 NIV

The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words;
no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun. It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is deprived of its warmth.

The law of the Lord  is perfect,
refreshing the soul. 

Thank you lord for your word and refreshing me.

The statutes of the Lord  are trustworthy,
making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord  are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord  are radiant,
giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord  is pure,
enduring forever.
The decrees of the Lord  are firm,
and all of them are righteous. They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned;
in keeping them there is great reward. But who can discern their own errors?
Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then I will be blameless,
innocent of great transgression. May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
Lord , my Rock and my Redeemer.

Lord, thank you for your word and for answered prayer!  Thank you for drawing Craig to me, and asking to pray with me.   YOU know my heart and you have refreshed it today! 

Getting back on track part 2

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If you have a Prayer Request, please feel free to share below.

Psalm 37:1-7
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Psalm 37:1-7 (NIV)
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Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; 
for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. 
Trust in the lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 
Take delight in the lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. 
Commit your way to the lord; trust in him and he will do this: 
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. 
Be still before the lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Psalm 37:23-24
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Psalm 37:23-24 (NIV)
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The lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; 
though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the lord upholds him with his hand.

Psalm 37:25-26
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Psalm 37:25-26 (NIV)
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I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. 
They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be a blessing.

Psalm 37:23
===============
Psalm 37:23 (NIV)
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The lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;

1. Even The...
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1. Even The RIGHTEOUS Get Out Of Step With God.
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psalm 72.   blessed be the name of the lord.   its hard to be a visionary because you have all of these things in your heart how it should be, but are always faced with the reality of how it is.      david struggled, God told him what would be - but he couldn't always see it.

a.  A blessing...
===============
a.  A blessing GIVEN too soon is not a blessing at all.
---------------
like the difference of giving a 17 year old a car or giving a 5 year old a car. - something is to be said about waiting.

b.  Beware of things...
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b.  Beware of things that come too FAST.
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something's are better waited for..... see the prodigal.

2.  No One Gets To...
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2.  No One Gets To SKIP Steps With God.
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the race isn't given to the swift or strong. the race is given to the one the Lord gives it too.   God is ordering my steps.  not everyone is ready. 

not doing any better under one boss then the next....time to look at yourself in stared of always looking at someone else.  (forgive me father for my attitude towards heather, thank you father for ordering my steps).

things I've gone through cause me to be more thankful to God.

3.  God Rejoices...
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3.  God Rejoices Over EACH Step.

a.  Don’t put too much...
===============
a.  Don’t put too much ENERGY in a place you are about to leave.
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rejoice with what God has given you but don't get stuck on the step.   - buying  3 year old - a  $150 pair of jeans.  outgrowing the steps

b.  Don’t...
===============
b.  Don’t JUDGE life by where you are right now.
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if you don't like where you are.....keep moving.... Adele / Taylor swift

4.  God Doesn’t...
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4.  God Doesn’t OFFER Steps, He Orders Them.
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what do I do in the meantime?  read the word.  stay in the word.  though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death-       job, kept stepping on.   blessed be the name of the lord.   refuse to get stuck on a step.    there is nothing new under the sun.

Online Giving
===============
We have several options to allow you to send your tithe, an offering or donation to the ministry of Visalia First Assembly. All transactions are safe and secure for your protection. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at email or the church number 559.733.9070 or email us. Your gift is tax deductible. Visalia First Assembly is a non-profit organization.
http://v1ag.com/online-giving-mobile

Sad 1/11/13

Feeling sad..
We don't even talk

Never thought I'd be in this place. 

Hopefull

Seasoned with grace.   This is how I want to be known.   The peace of God filling my heart and mind.   That I would not show favoritism to students but would connect with all.  God loves everyone of them. 

Acts 10:34-35 NIV

Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.

Something to consider

http://bible.us/Ps149.6.NIV 6 May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands,

How does God use our praise as a double edge sword?  I'm not sure how this works, but I know I am supposed to think upon good noble things , how much more effective may my witness to if I speak of these things and season everything with praise?  I have to praise God in my mind first in order to get out of the funk I feel I am in. Especially the marital funk.  Maybe Craig and I are supposed to praise God together.   Actually I am sure we should.  Lord lead him. Lead me.  I feel that I have to lead in many ways and I am tired. Thank you God that you know my heart. Please give me a heart of thanksgiving and praise.  

They didn't get it

http://bible.us/Mark6.47.NIV Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.

These people were WITH Jesus yet they didn't get it.  No wonder people today have such a hard time understanding Him!  Vivid reminder to pray for the lost by asking God to send his spirit to open their eyes.

Miranda
Zach
Sarah
Alex
Sonia
Troy
Adam
Logan
Dad
Kathie
Sharon
John...
Staci
Deven
Sam
Tony
Alan
Wendy

Who do I work with that is in need of you still?