I have been so focused on my situation, I didn't see the big picture.
I forgot who was in charge. I forgot who goes before me. I forgot the battle has been fought and won with a victory that cost my Savior everything, and He paid it so willingly. Not just obligated, not just called, passionately humbled to serve~ especially by His very death he served us.
"There in the ground, his body lay, light of the world by darkness slain. Then bursting forth, in glorious day, up from the grave He rose again. And as he stands in victory, sin's curse has lost it's grip on me; for I am His and He is mine. Bought with the precious blood of Christ."
My sisters, sing it to your Savior, sing it to your God...lay it on the altar of incense to burn forever as a love offering for his passionate grace and glory!
Head over to Amy's blog for more moments with God...
In Christ Alone
Crossing the Jordan ~ Then and Now
Joshua 3 ~ Crossing the Jordan (NIV)
1 Early in the morning Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan, where they camped before crossing over. 2 After three days the officers went throughout the camp, 3 giving orders to the people: "When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, who are Levites, carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. 4 Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about a thousand yards [a] between you and the ark; do not go near it."
5 Joshua told the people "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you."
6 Joshua said to the priests "Take up the Ark of the Covenant and pass on ahead of the people." So they took it up and went ahead of them.
7 And the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the Ark of the Covenant: 'When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.' "
9 Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD -the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap."
14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea [b] ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
We have to know everything these days, don't we?
The Israelites didn't have a clue where they were going. All they knew was they were to follow the Ark of the Covenant.
That's faith.
That's having a real, living and breathing relationship with God. If we don't have that level of trust, we will never fully follow him the way we should, or to all the places he wants us to go. We must learn to be humble to get to that level of faith. Having to know everything is pride rising up and telling us that we deserve to know where we are going, what to expect along the way, and even convincing us that we could do a better job of being in charge. In essence, we are telling God to follow us.
In verse 5 we see that the people are to prepare themselves for the Lord to use them. This is so important, and I think it is a step that we don't think much about. We want to be used by God, but we don't want to look too closely at ourselves. But, God can't use something that is already full of something else. We should regularly look at our heart, our thought life, our spiritual health, and our physical health. We have to get rid of the things that are not glorifying to God before he can use us. We may have to address things that we would prefer to hide, but if we don't, we will not be in a place to be used by God. Even the smallest thing, when neglected, becomes the source of great struggle. It can even lead to a disconnect from God. Just as faith like a mustard seed can move mountains, so can sin like a speck become our undoing. Check everything about yourself and remove anything that isn't of God.
When we are prepared to be used by God, use us he will! Verse 7 shows us that God is very ready and very able to use us. Once we are in a place of being prepared, he will work a mighty truth through us for others to see. You may be inclined to think that God can't use you for something big, something amazing, but you would be wrong. God can use anyone, anytime, anywhere and in any circumstance to bring glory to his name! Oh, and make no mistake. It will be very apparent that we do what we do not through our own power or design, but through the one that created us all. His power. His glory.
Amazing!
The most important part of this, I think, is in verses 13-16.
The priests had to step out on faith and trust. The raging waters were fearsome and unknown; uncontrollable and dangerous, but the priests had to step in before the waters would stop. There really was no guarantee that the waters would stop. The only thing they had was faith in God. Faith to do something like that can not be weak. It must be strong, and it must be complete.
Just like the priests, God is ready to do mighty miracles in our life as well, but we have to have the faith to step out so that he can work through us.
In verse 17, we are told that the priests stood firm on dry ground. Yes, the water was held back, but you have to imagine, there was probably a wall of water right behind them. It was also probably raging, swirling, ready to surge forward at the slightest command from God. I think that would have been just the tiniest bit nerve-wracking. Don't you? But the priests stood there. Stood firm.
Once we are in the middle, we can't just walk off. We have to stand firm until it's done. Our obedience, resolve, dedication and perseverance can make the difference to those God sent to journey with us. If the priests had faltered in any of those areas, the waters would have surged forward, taking the Israelites that were crossing with it.
God will call us again and again to be faithful to stand for someone else. It is a huge responsibility. One misstep from us could cause pain to someone else. We have to be strong and solid in our faith.
Does that mean that we will never get it wrong? That our faith will never falter? No, I wish it did. But when we build and grow our trust and faith in God, those times are fewer and further between. God is ever faithful to be generous and compassionate with us.
In those times we can again fall back on God's promise in Isaiah 55:9:
"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."as well as 1 Samuel 16:7b:
"The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."God knows we will get it wrong. Make the wrong choice. Forget to have faith. But he also knows what is in our hearts. He will know our intent. He will honor that. Even when we fail, he will know why we wanted to try, and why we will want the opportunity to try again.
I am encouraged again and again as I read through scripture. Not in the way you would think. I am encouraged because no matter how many times the Israelites got it wrong, God was faithful to them. I know he will be faithful to me as well. The God of the Israelites then is the same God who walks with me now.
I think sometimes we forget that.
The same God that could hold back raging waters, deliver an entire nation safely into a land that he held for them, and that repeatedly forgave and blessed a stubborn people, is the same God that I try to put in a box of understanding. He is unknowable, unchanging and unending.
Even though it isn't good to go backward, sometimes it's good to look back on the things that God had done already. If you are wanting to step out in faith, but are not sure where to start, perhaps looking back on all the ways that God has already been good to you will be a great way to begin.
Oh, and if you are like me, you have to take God out of that little box of understanding that you keep trying to fit him in. He is way to big for it. Just let go and step out on faith.
Be like the priests of the Israelites...jump into some raging water with both feet.
he promises he will be there.
This is our God
When God is leaving you in the storm, it isn't because he has forgotten you, it isn't because he is angry at you, it isn't even because you are stubborn and need to "learn your lesson". God is leaving you in the storm, because he loves you in a way that you will never understand, and maybe, just maybe, in the storm, is where he refines you the most. His love will blaze out as a holy fire and burn off all but the things that glorify him most.
If you are in the storm today, praise God! He is with you, refining you, meeting you, walking with you, holding you up to get you through.
Keep holding on.
Exodus 14:14If all you have left is to dig your fingernails in and beg for mercy, DO IT! But don't give up. If you can't hold yourself up anymore, fall to your knees. I promise; I PROMISE his love will meet you there.
"The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still."
Join Amy at Signs, Miracles and Wonders for more great songs.
Your Not Shaken
During times of change, I used to worry and wonder, now I understand something I had never really considered. Nothing, NOTHING is a surprise to God. My faith in Him can be sure, no matter what I can't understand. I can trust God to always be who he says he is, and to do what he says he will do.
Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for him."
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him,
to the one who seeks him;
It is good to wait quietly
for the salvation of the LORD.
It is good for a man to bear the yoke
while he is young.
Let him sit alone in silence,
for the LORD has laid it on him.
Let him bury his face in the dust—
there may yet be hope.
Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him,
and let him be filled with disgrace.
For men are not cast off
by the Lord forever.
Though he brings grief, he will show compassion,
so great is his unfailing love.
Lamentations 3:21-32
Head over to Amy's blog to listen to more great songs.
Brain Dump
Sometimes I need to just have a little clutter clearing in the thought process.
Here goes...
It's sad when the only expectations you have are negative. It's even sadder when those expectations are met. It's easy to be disappointed in people if you have expectations of them. It's better to just not expect anything.
Times of change and uncertainty just don't bother me. I am in a season of uncertainty and I am not bothered. I know that I am exactly where God wants me, doing what he desires for me. God has made himself apparent in many ways, and I have been affirmed that I am on the right path. It isn't necessarily the path I would have chosen, or maybe the scenery is unexpected is a better way of putting it, but I am excited to see where it will lead.
I have discovered some new friendships. It is nice to have people around you that love God and like to just hang out. They don't have agendas or ulterior motives, they just want to serve God and study his word, and do it with his people. I like that.
I have been having really great times of worship. Not in church, but in my heart.
The seasons changing makes me love God all over again. His creativity, artistry and generosity are abounding.
Autumn is my favorite season.
I watched Abby play daycare yesterday. She fed all of her babies before putting them down for naps on their own pallets. She shushed me and her dad. All I could think of was how much my heart hurt from just pure happiness with my life.
Today, she danced around her room and sang along with her CD. Oh to have that abandon and joy for whatever task I am doing.
Kevin needs more physical outlets. I saw this tonight as he was wrestling with my brother, I realized that he has so much energy contained, that it's no wonder he can't concentrate on anything. I am thinking of Te kwon do. Exercise, discipline and respect for authority. Can't go wrong with that combo.
Bob and I are planning our first true vacation. We are looking at taking a cruise. WE are planning to drive down to Florida as part of the trip. I have never been to Florida, I have never seen the ocean, which naturally leads to the fact I have never been on a cruise. I am so excited that I will be getting rid of so many "nevers" in just a few months!
I just ordered a new Bible study on overcoming fear. Oh, did I mention I am terrified of new places and going where I have never been? I guess this will be a never I can get past too!
We have already started Christmas shopping! Never have we gotten this big a start!
We are making great strides on becoming debt free! God has been so good with us and to us! (We love Dave Ramsey!)
My new favorite verse is Luke 1:45:
"Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
How amazing!
I just had the best cup of hot cocoa. Half dark chocolate, half milk chocolate.
Thank you for joining me for my brain dump.
Seasons
It has been cooler and rainy the last few days. The poor farmers are watching the skies with prayer and worry, hoping to get their harvest in before the weather takes it from them.
Our school has been closed for a couple days due to a raging outbreak of flu.
I pulled all my hoodies out of storage and dusted off the cool weather shoes.
It's AUTUMN!!
This is my favorite season. I LOVE it. We are planning to take the kids to a pumpkin patch next weekend, then the following weekend we are taking the youth group kids to a haunted house, and then trunk or treat at our church. Then Thanksgiving. There is so much to be thankful for, no matter what struggles, fears, heartache and uncertainty we face.
This is one of my favorite Nicole Nordeman songs. I think it sums up the season's change pretty well.
"Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy." Acts 14:17 (NIV)
Please join Amy for more great songs of praise and worship.
By Our Love
This is my new favorite song. I just love the melody, but the words as so beautiful. I just had to share.
I know, I know...I post this about every week. It's true every time! I Promise!
"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord" Ephesians 5:19 (NIV)
Holy Spirit, Have Your Way
If you have been around my blog, my life, or just me, you will know I absolutely LOVE Leeland. Their worship is so pure and beautiful.
I can't seem to get it out of my head, and there are worse things to sing over and over to our amazing God. (More of you and less of me, God. More of you and less of me, More of you, overflowing.)
Enjoy!
For more songs, head to Signs, Miracles and Wonder's TSMSS!
SOFF
This is one of my favorite days of the year.
Special Olympics Family Festival!
Every year my hubby's company sponsors and completely organizes this amazing festival for the athletes in central Illinois. It is the most fun you can every imagine! We work on the hayride activity. We are one of the most popular attractions. You will see why below!
I just had to share this day with you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to [b] me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
Psalm 139:13-18
Olympian Pledge... "Let me win. But if I can not win, let me be brave in the attempt." Makes me cry every year!
The parade kicks off!
The balloon release is the finale of the opening ceremonies...time to get to work!
Me and the hubby at our station, ready to get to work!
Guess who we met!
I don't care how old I am, Scooby will always be my #1!
Ahhh...lunch! Thank you for the hands that prepared a couple thousand lunches...eat at super speed and get back to work!
The real reason we have one of the most popular stops at the festival...and man, do they have an attitude! They know they are the main attraction!
As the day goes on, our lines get longer and longer, but everyone waits patiently. We never have heard of a single complaint.
We took some teens from our youth group. I love serving with these guys!
Can I just encourage you...If you EVER have the chance to work with Special Olympics, in any way, shape, or form; DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! You will be blessed beyond what you could ever imagine!Focused on service
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a
woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called
Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha
was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him
and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by
myself? Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:38-42 
Jealousy. Bitterness. Anger. Distraction. Frustration.
How could these things live inside of a woman who wanted nothing more than to provide comfort and rest to all who entered her home, especially Jesus.
These verses are a very short glimpse into the rapid progression of how love for Christ and a desire to serve him can quickly lead to a "sin spiral".
Martha desired to provide comfort to Jesus. She loved him and wanted to serve him in the power of her gifts. She was a natural born hostess. She knew what was needed to provide comfort, nourishment and contentment. It was her pleasure to serve.
So what happened to get her to the point of questioning Jesus and telling him what he needed to do?
Jesus arrives. Martha probably immediately assessed what he would need to recover and rest from his travels. She feverishly worked to provide those things that would comfort and restore. She loved Jesus and wanted to give her worship through service. What an amazing gift!
But...
Martha got busy.
"Jesus needs something to eat." Martha thought. "And water to wash his feet. Did I beat the cushions today? Should I give him wine or water to drink? Thank goodness I baked bread early this morning!"
Martha got distracted.
"I can't do everything myself! Jesus needs tending to. Where is Mary?"
Martha lost focus.
"Why am I doing all the work? Does Mary think that she is so special that she should enjoy rest and company while I do everything? That girl is always dreaming and lazing around when she should be helping me!"
Martha got angry.
"That's IT! I work and work and work, and what does Mary do? NOTHING!"
Martha got an attitude.
*Huff* *grumble* *huff*
"I'm not going to let her get away with this! Jesus needs to do something. Doesn't he know that Mary is being selfish? I'm going to tell him to make her help me".
Martha's eyes were opened.
Jesus could have easily told Mary to help her sister to prepare food for him, and she would have gladly jumped up and run to do his bidding. He could have invited Martha at any time to come and sit, to let the work wait.
But he did neither.
Jesus wanted Martha to find, on her own, that good thing. But she couldn't. Why? Because she was too busy. What started out as a beautiful act of worship through service turned into a spiral of selfish thoughts and loss of focus on what really mattered. Why? Martha forgot who she was serving because she was too busy focusing on her service.
Have you ever been there? What started out as a wonderful way to show your love and gratitude to God ends up looking like nothing lovely? We get too focused on our own power and what we are going to do for God, and then we start getting into the details and making it look good, and all of a sudden...who is center stage? That little stumbling block we all fight against...Me.
Martha wasn't any different.
When she took her focus off of Christ, and glorifying him, it became all about Martha. We want to serve, but we also want to be front and center, receiving God's undivided attention. When we feel like the balance of work and attention aren't balanced, that God is giving more attention to someone we see as not working as hard, we get angry. We get frustrated. We get angry.
Not very glorifying, is it?
Martha started out great, but lost focus, let herself become the center instead of Christ, and all of a sudden, nothing was as it should be. I think we can all appreciate her desire to give Jesus the best that she had, but once she started losing that focus, it became something sin-laden.
Jesus knows our struggles. He knew that Martha only wanted to please him. He had seen her heart and knew her love for him. And he also saw her human struggle against self. He weighed his teaching and rebuking against that love and was gentle and compassionate with her.
Isn't it wonderful to know that even when we stray far away from our original goal and live a life that is less than glorifying, that Jesus can still see in our heart, and know that even though we just can't seem to get it right, we want the opportunity to keep trying?
We are all like Martha. Paul said it like this:
So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there
with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members.What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.
Romans 7:21-25
Is there something that you are struggling to break free from? What once started out as something that was beautiful and meant to glorify now is a struggle? Have you allowed the world to tarnish something that you intended to shine for Christ?
Don't give up! Martha didn't.
Don't give up! Paul didn't.
They were willing to keep going, keep trying and keep starting over.
Jesus blesses that in mighty ways. Maybe not the ways we first intended. Maybe we will glorify God by telling others of how he had to discipline us instead of through our faithfulness and wonderful deeds. How he was faithful to forgive our sins. How he took our mess and made it beautiful.
Just like Martha, we can easily go from great intentions to stuck in a place of sin. It doesn't take a tragedy. It doesn't take much of anything at all. It just takes losing focus and becoming too busy.
