So, the year is over. I can hardly believe everything that has happened this year. I was going to try to write some long post on everything that happened... decided against it.
So... my year in songs! With explanations. :)
Hosanna - Hillsong
The year was kicked off by TeenPact staff training. Wow! What an awesome week! Less than a week, technically. I made so many new friends, and learned so much. Something awesome happens when a group of dedicated young people who were chosen for their leadership skills come together for one purpose- to learn how to serve God. It was one of the neatest things I've ever seen. And hearing them sing this song was absolutely incredible. This is what I want for my life and my generation.
Words I Would Say - Sidewalk Prophets
This song was the theme song for Angelina and I during tournament season, which was January through April of this past year. At the various tournaments, we were so encouraged by this song. We knew God already knew the great things He had planned for us. We were challenged to remember why we were doing what we were doing. We were reminded to take our worries before the Lord. And most of all, we knew our strength was from the Lord and there was always hope when He was running the show. Thanks for an amazing season Angelina! I love you!
Let Your Kingdom Come - Bob Kauflin and Sovereign Grace Ministries
Wow, if there was any song that summed up my speech and debate season as a whole, it was this one. Actually, while it mostly reminds me of speech and debate, it reminds me of TeenPact and Mexico too. After all, shouldn't our whole lives be about letting His Kingdom come in us? Such a great song. The words are so perfect for the tournaments.
Amazing Grace - John Newton
Well... yeah. Idaho tournament, specifically, but my whole... well... life. I love love love this song! and it helped me so much this year. Such an amazing song...
Fireflies - Owl City
Heh... yep! There were fireflies at Nationals!!! It was so cool! And we sang this song in Mexico... so it just reminds me of this past year. Honestly, it's the only Owl City song I listen to ever. Really.
Whatever You're Doing - Sanctus Real
This is my summer. If you need more explanation, read this. Beautiful song that emphasizes God's goodness even when we're struggling.
So... that's my year! Of course, there were other songs and other things that impacted me. But that's a pretty solid overview. This year was so amazing. And while, in many ways, I'm sad it's over, I'm really excited about the new things God is doing in this coming year.
Take a moment to look back over your year. What songs, verses, or memories encapsulate your year?
God bless!
~Rachel Lynn
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
stop and think about it
If 1/5 of the churches in Oregon had 1 family adopt or foster 1 kid each, the foster system would be empty.
Just like that.
But you know what? It's not.
Where is the church? Where are we? Where am I?
We all, myself included, dismiss the problem as too big, or not our calling.
1 person each from 1/5 of the churches is not that big.
Not our calling? Since when?
James 1:27
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
Not that we're all called to adopt, but we are all called to do something.
So... here's something. Would you commit to pray with me? Pray that God moves in our country, and other countries, to solve this problem. Pray that He empowers the church to step up to the plate. Pray that we take back our forgotten responsibility to care for the helpless. Pray that He moves in individuals hearts.
And most of all... pray for the children. I think few of us understand how much they are hurt, and how broken they really are after they grow up in the foster system. As any child would be, if they grew up knowing no one wanted them.
Lord, empower Your church to do what we were always meant to do. Let us have open hands and open doors. Help us rise to the occasion. Remind us that You are far bigger than this supposedly impossible problem. Give us Your love for the fatherless. Defend the orphans and raise up people to take back this responsibility we've relinquished.
Amen.
Just like that.
But you know what? It's not.
Where is the church? Where are we? Where am I?
We all, myself included, dismiss the problem as too big, or not our calling.
1 person each from 1/5 of the churches is not that big.
Not our calling? Since when?
James 1:27
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.
Not that we're all called to adopt, but we are all called to do something.
So... here's something. Would you commit to pray with me? Pray that God moves in our country, and other countries, to solve this problem. Pray that He empowers the church to step up to the plate. Pray that we take back our forgotten responsibility to care for the helpless. Pray that He moves in individuals hearts.
And most of all... pray for the children. I think few of us understand how much they are hurt, and how broken they really are after they grow up in the foster system. As any child would be, if they grew up knowing no one wanted them.
Lord, empower Your church to do what we were always meant to do. Let us have open hands and open doors. Help us rise to the occasion. Remind us that You are far bigger than this supposedly impossible problem. Give us Your love for the fatherless. Defend the orphans and raise up people to take back this responsibility we've relinquished.
Amen.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
amazing grace... will lead me home.
I still cry when I hear this song. Here's the full lyrics, with two additional verses.
My favorite verse, aside from the first one, is the third.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
My favorite verse, aside from the first one, is the third.
Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come.
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.
It has come to mean even more to me in the last couple weeks, as I've agonized over decisions about the future. Sometimes I'm so tired that I just want to give up.
Forget college. Forget a job. Forget it. I'm just too tired.
Of course, those sentiments don't remain long, at least not in all seriousness, but the feeling of being weary, defeated, and afraid remains. I like to be in control and I like to have a master plan. But all the plans I've made in the last few months have proved to be very... well... fluid. They keep changing, and moving. One week, it's one college, but a different one the next week. I've taken to giving "scripted" answers to the dreaded question, "You're graduating this year, what do you want to do?"
I give the same answer every time... some vague reference to college, journalism, and God's will. I want to be honest, but if I told the questioner what I was really thinking at that exact moment, everyone would think that I had multiple personality disorder, because the answer would be different every time. "I don't know" is about as honest as it gets.
As I've struggled with this process, this verse from Amazing Grace becomes ever more comforting. Every time I sing it, I remember it is true.
I have come through many dangers, toils, and snares. There have been many times where I didn't know what was going to happen, or my plans fell through. But God has led me safely through them every single time.
Hasn't He been so faithful?
My own experience proves to me that I can trust His faithfulness. He has led me through every other time, and (may I be able to say it honestly) I have confidence that He will lead me the rest of the way.
Oh Lord, help me to own that knowledge.
I have confidence that He will lead me the rest of the way.
That last line of the verse is my war cry against fear of the future. When I look into the future and can't see, this is my comfort. When I am so afraid I will make the wrong decision, or that things won't turn out right, I can rest in this knowledge:
Grace has brought me safe this far, and grace will lead me home.
I will say it again. I have confidence that my Lord will lead me the rest of the way.
Forget college. Forget a job. Forget it. I'm just too tired.
Of course, those sentiments don't remain long, at least not in all seriousness, but the feeling of being weary, defeated, and afraid remains. I like to be in control and I like to have a master plan. But all the plans I've made in the last few months have proved to be very... well... fluid. They keep changing, and moving. One week, it's one college, but a different one the next week. I've taken to giving "scripted" answers to the dreaded question, "You're graduating this year, what do you want to do?"
I give the same answer every time... some vague reference to college, journalism, and God's will. I want to be honest, but if I told the questioner what I was really thinking at that exact moment, everyone would think that I had multiple personality disorder, because the answer would be different every time. "I don't know" is about as honest as it gets.
As I've struggled with this process, this verse from Amazing Grace becomes ever more comforting. Every time I sing it, I remember it is true.
I have come through many dangers, toils, and snares. There have been many times where I didn't know what was going to happen, or my plans fell through. But God has led me safely through them every single time.
Hasn't He been so faithful?
My own experience proves to me that I can trust His faithfulness. He has led me through every other time, and (may I be able to say it honestly) I have confidence that He will lead me the rest of the way.
Oh Lord, help me to own that knowledge.
I have confidence that He will lead me the rest of the way.
That last line of the verse is my war cry against fear of the future. When I look into the future and can't see, this is my comfort. When I am so afraid I will make the wrong decision, or that things won't turn out right, I can rest in this knowledge:
Grace has brought me safe this far, and grace will lead me home.
I will say it again. I have confidence that my Lord will lead me the rest of the way.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Announcement!
Love music? You won't want to miss this. 60 Beans is coming to Crossroads Cafe in Gladstone. Ticket price-- free! Check it out!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Officially Under Construction
Just a "heads up", this blog will be officially under construction from now until January, when I hope to have it ready to go, so to speak. Meaning, each time you come, it could have a different template, background, even name as I try to figure out what I want it to look like. Feel free to leave comments on the newest addition, with a yea or nay. Your input is valued. I may run some names by you every once in a while, and if you have any ideas, let me know!
Okay... now that that's out of the way...
How was your Christmas? What are you most looking forward to in the new year? What are some significant lessons you learned last year?
Keep on, friends!
~Rachel Lynn
Okay... now that that's out of the way...
How was your Christmas? What are you most looking forward to in the new year? What are some significant lessons you learned last year?
Keep on, friends!
~Rachel Lynn
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas everyone!
This year, God has really impressed on me the significance of Jesus' name Emmanuel. It signifies what Jesus means to the world... a way to be with our God. Emmanuel-- God with us. What more could God do to prove that He loves us and wants to save us and have a relationship with us than to become one of us? When Jesus was born, it was the first time since man sinned in the garden that God has visibly walked among us.
Colossians 1:13-15
"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation."
That's the amazing power of Christmas. God incarnate... wrapped in flesh... born as a baby by a woman... and being our Emmanuel-- God with us. And this amazing, heaven-sent promise of Emmanuel is one that remains with us today.
Matthew 28:18
Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
This year, God has really impressed on me the significance of Jesus' name Emmanuel. It signifies what Jesus means to the world... a way to be with our God. Emmanuel-- God with us. What more could God do to prove that He loves us and wants to save us and have a relationship with us than to become one of us? When Jesus was born, it was the first time since man sinned in the garden that God has visibly walked among us.
Colossians 1:13-15
"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation."
That's the amazing power of Christmas. God incarnate... wrapped in flesh... born as a baby by a woman... and being our Emmanuel-- God with us. And this amazing, heaven-sent promise of Emmanuel is one that remains with us today.
Matthew 28:18
Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
We are free. We are saved. Sing out loud.
Our God is always with us.
Our God is always with us.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Drink Water!
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6.
I've been reading Matthew 5-7 again recently, and this verse in particular stuck out to me. It compares wanting God to being hungry and thirsty, and as I was thinking about this, I realized that the analogy goes quite a ways. (Maybe that's because Jesus came up with it...?) In particular, I think this analogy applies to our need for the Word of God-- the Bible.
Recently, I spoke with a friend about reading the Bible. We talked about how learning to read it regularly is like staying hydrated. There came a point where I stopped talking to my friends and started talking to myself. It's so easy to fall away in this area.
When I was younger, Mom used to get on my case constantly about drinking water. I would forget to drink, and I wouldn't feel thirsty. The conversation would go like this:
Mom: "Rachel, you need to drink water."
Me: "I'm not thirsty."
Mom: "When was the last time you had some water?"
Me: ".... Um..... I don't remember......"
Mom: "That's why you're not thirsty"
You see, when I do not drink enough water, soon, I just stop feeling thirsty. And because I don't feel thirsty, I don't think I need water. But even though I do not feel thirsty, my body needs water, more than before. And the funny thing is, I don't know I'm thirsty until I drink some water.
This similar to the Word of God.
When I don't read the Bible for two or three days, I don't feel weird, or bad. I do not feel thirst for Bible. I find it easy to forget. I just don't feel thirsty. But I've noticed that when I do not read it for a while, I start to act differently. I treat people differently and respond to stress and frustration differently. I do not "feel bad", but I need the Word of God more than before!
But when I read the Bible every day, I feel the need for God. I have a thirst for the Word of God. The more regularly I read it, the easier it is to find time to do it, because I feel the necessity of it. When I read regularly, and "stay hydrated" with the Word, I feel the benefits.
When we ask how to hunger and thirst for God, the answer is this: when I read the Bible regularly, soon, I have thirst, necessarily.
Now go drink some water!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
stop for a moment
It is so easy to lose perspective during Christmas. I've been reading a lot of blog posts about focusing on Jesus during Christmas (since He's what it's all about anyway.) You can read those posts by looking at the blogs linked on my sidebar.
Branching off of that, I'd like to remind you to think about HOW we focus on Jesus. If our lives are about Jesus, our actions will be about serving others. This Christmas, I'd like to encourage you to not forget about those who need Jesus. Don't forget about the homeless, the widow, the orphan.
Let Christmas be an opportunity to shine our Savior to those around us.
Stop and think about those who need our Savior so badly. In the midst of the joy of the holidays, stop for a moment, and as painful as it is, let your heart break for the those things that break God's heart.
Branching off of that, I'd like to remind you to think about HOW we focus on Jesus. If our lives are about Jesus, our actions will be about serving others. This Christmas, I'd like to encourage you to not forget about those who need Jesus. Don't forget about the homeless, the widow, the orphan.
Let Christmas be an opportunity to shine our Savior to those around us.
Stop and think about those who need our Savior so badly. In the midst of the joy of the holidays, stop for a moment, and as painful as it is, let your heart break for the those things that break God's heart.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Changes on the horizon...
Hey readers!
We'll be getting back to regular posts shortly, but right now, I have an announcement to make!
Starting in January, this blog will take on a new name, look, and theme. Don't worry, the changes will be temporary (I think). The new look is planned in order to reflect a new season.
What are these exciting new changes? TransformMe will be hitting the road!
I will be doing a lot of traveling from January to... around June I think. In lieu of that, this blog will take on a travel theme and a new name that is yet to be determined. It will be a place for me to record my adventures-- where I'm going, who I'm seeing, what I'm doing, and most importantly, what I'm learning. Many of the posts will still be similar to what I write about now, but there will be considerably more updates.
My traveling will mostly consist of two things: debate tournaments and TeenPact trips.
So, that's what's coming up! If you have any brilliant ideas for a name, leave a comment! You never know, I may use it. :)
Thanks for reading!
Now, back to our regular program....
We'll be getting back to regular posts shortly, but right now, I have an announcement to make!
Starting in January, this blog will take on a new name, look, and theme. Don't worry, the changes will be temporary (I think). The new look is planned in order to reflect a new season.
What are these exciting new changes? TransformMe will be hitting the road!
I will be doing a lot of traveling from January to... around June I think. In lieu of that, this blog will take on a travel theme and a new name that is yet to be determined. It will be a place for me to record my adventures-- where I'm going, who I'm seeing, what I'm doing, and most importantly, what I'm learning. Many of the posts will still be similar to what I write about now, but there will be considerably more updates.
My traveling will mostly consist of two things: debate tournaments and TeenPact trips.
So, that's what's coming up! If you have any brilliant ideas for a name, leave a comment! You never know, I may use it. :)
Thanks for reading!
Now, back to our regular program....
Friday, December 17, 2010
Christmas Traditions
I love Christmas traditions-- those ones you've done every year for no-one-knows-how-long and bring your whole family together.
Some of our Christmas traditions include:
- Roller skating on Christmas Eve
- Going to the Oregon Zoo to see Zoo Lights
- Taking pictures with Santa at Town Center
- Watching "It's a Wonderful Life", "Miracle on 34th Street", and all those wonderful old classics like "Rudolph" and "Frosty"
- Making cookies for people and delivering them
- Listening to Michael W. Smith "Christmastime" as we decorate the tree
- Having little cinnamon rolls arranged to look like a Christmas tree on Christmas morning
What are your family's Christmas traditions?
Some of our Christmas traditions include:
- Roller skating on Christmas Eve
- Going to the Oregon Zoo to see Zoo Lights
- Taking pictures with Santa at Town Center
- Watching "It's a Wonderful Life", "Miracle on 34th Street", and all those wonderful old classics like "Rudolph" and "Frosty"
- Making cookies for people and delivering them
- Listening to Michael W. Smith "Christmastime" as we decorate the tree
- Having little cinnamon rolls arranged to look like a Christmas tree on Christmas morning
What are your family's Christmas traditions?
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Through the Precious Blood
I love this song. It kind of describes my life...
Anyway, enjoy! Through the Precious Blood, by Mark Altrogge.
[I emphasized some of my favorite phrases and lines.]
--
Anyway, enjoy! Through the Precious Blood, by Mark Altrogge.
[I emphasized some of my favorite phrases and lines.]
--
You have ordained every breath we take
In pleasure or pain, there is no mistake
Gladness and grief, both are in Your hand
And sufferings brief carry out Your plan
And our fleeting sorrows
Will yield an endless prize
When some bright tomorrow
We’ll see You with our eyes, and
Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Through the precious blood of Christ
Father of lights, Giver of all grace
Your mercies crown our lives all our days
River of Life, quench our thirsty souls
For no true delight does Your love withhold
And in every season
We are satisfied
For just one reason
Christ was crucified
All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
Through the precious blood
Through the precious blood
In pleasure or pain, there is no mistake
Gladness and grief, both are in Your hand
And sufferings brief carry out Your plan
And our fleeting sorrows
Will yield an endless prize
When some bright tomorrow
We’ll see You with our eyes, and
Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Through the precious blood of Christ
Father of lights, Giver of all grace
Your mercies crown our lives all our days
River of Life, quench our thirsty souls
For no true delight does Your love withhold
And in every season
We are satisfied
For just one reason
Christ was crucified
All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
Through the precious blood
Through the precious blood
Friday, December 10, 2010
three weeks can change you
A small part of my testimony to God's faithfulness, love, mercy, and grace...
[an essay]
There have been many experiences throughout my life that have impacted me—changed the way I viewed the world, how I acted towards others, or my relationship with Christ. There are three weeks, in particular, however, that stand out to me as a time of growth in recent years. During those three weeks I saw God work through me when I thought He couldn’t, I experienced His sustaining grace in grief, and I experienced His strength in a time of weariness. And through all three weeks, I saw His sufficiency rise above my insufficiency. It was an intense time of growth, and I came out of those three weeks a different person. I’ll walk through each week one at a time.
The first week was my first time staffing with TeenPact, a non-profit leadership school. I felt so unprepared and “green” walking into that week. All the other staff had worked on at least one other state, while this was my very first time staffing. We were staying at the State Coordinator's house and for that time, I was expected to carry myself as an adult away from my family, fulfill my responsibilities, and support the rest of the team. As I was, and am, a quieter individual, a newbie, and nothing if not practical, I assumed a few things about what I would accomplish that week. I assumed that I would help Joe, our Program Director, with logistical things and fulfill more menial tasks so as to free up the rest of the team to go change lives and impact the students. I was nervous, a little scared, and not very confident. However, God had other plans in mind.
On the very first day, I spotted a young girl student, who was in my small group, who seemed frightened and shy. Throughout the rest of the week, I tried to connect with her and help her, and at the end of the week, received a letter from her and her mother, telling me that they had seen God work through me. Both of them said that my quietness, what I saw as my weakness, had helped me to connect with this girl as none of the other staff could. I saw first-hand that God does really work in our weaknesses.
The second week was also spent staffing TeenPact. By this time, I had gotten my feet under me and had a better understanding of how the week would flow. I was feeling pretty good about the week. However, on the second day, we received news that the mother of a very good friend had been diagnosed with cancer, and only had a few months to live. I, along with my two other friends who knew them, were not sure what to do. We could not get a hold of our friend and we were scheduled to stay and staff for another week. We were drained of emotion and energy by the time we went to bed that night, and I wasn’t sure how I was going to get up and staff the next morning. On top of that, I was scheduled to do the devotional the next morning. I couldn't think of what I could possibly talk about, or how I was expected to actually share God's grace with others when I was so drained. However, God gave each of us strength to finish out the week strong—to encourage and support each other. My devotional ended up being about trust... and I was talking to myself more than anyone else. That week was so hard, dealing with difficult news while away from my family and doing draining work. But I grew through it, and I saw God's faithfulness as He walked beside me the whole way.
After the two weeks of staffing ended, the very next day, I hopped on a plane and flew down to Mexico for a mission trip. I was exhausted, physically and emotionally drained, sad because I’d had to say goodbye to the staff I had connected with over the past two weeks, and not overly confident in my Spanish skills. It was difficult to wake up each day. It was truly an experience where I felt God’s renewed mercy and strength each morning. We were running little “carnivals” for the kids at an orphanage. Between each wave of kids, I would sit down, positive there was no way I would be able to get up and do anything. I felt like I was about to collapse. And each time the next group of kids came to the door, I stood up, put on a smile, and in God’s strength, did it all over again. I have never before or since felt God’s presence, sustaining grace, or hourly renewed strength as I did that week.
Through those three weeks, I gained a better understanding of just how good, great, and faithful God is. He works through and in spite of our weaknesses. He is our closest friend when times are hard. And He always gives us the grace and strength to do what He has called us to do. I can say those three weeks have changed my life because now, each time I face a challenge that seems impossible, I can look back on those three weeks and say “With man, it is impossible. But with God, nothing is impossible.”
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Oh Holy Night
After a reference to the "literal translation" of "Oh Holy Night" by Nathaniel, I thought I'd google it and see if I could find the literal translation from the original French. I found it.
Oh my goodness! As much as I love this song, I wish we had kept the original lyrics! Spend some time reading these. They are phenomenal. I may do a longer post about it later, but even if I don't, these words can stand up for themselves. Absolutely incredible.
Revel in the words. They are so... awesome. In the original meaning of the word.
Oh my goodness! As much as I love this song, I wish we had kept the original lyrics! Spend some time reading these. They are phenomenal. I may do a longer post about it later, but even if I don't, these words can stand up for themselves. Absolutely incredible.
Revel in the words. They are so... awesome. In the original meaning of the word.
"Oh Holy Night"
a direct translation from the original French
a direct translation from the original French
- Midnight, Christians, it is the solemn hour,
- When God-man descended to us
- To erase the stain of original sin
- And to end the wrath of His Father.
- The entire world thrills with hope
- On this night that gives it a Savior.
-
- People kneel down, wait for your deliverance.
- Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer,
- Christmas, Christmas, here is the Redeemer!
- The ardent light of our Faith,
- Guides us all to the cradle of the infant,
- As in ancient times a brilliant star
- Conducted the Magi there from the orient.
- The King of Kings was born in a humble manger;
- O mighty ones of today, proud of your grandeur,
-
- It is to your pride that God preaches.
- Bow your heads before the Redeemer!
- Bow your heads before the Redeemer!
- The Redeemer has overcome every obstacle:
- The Earth is free, and Heaven is open.
- He sees a brother where there was only a slave,
- Love unites those that iron had chained.
- Who will tell Him of our gratitude,
- For all of us He is born, He suffers and dies.
- People stand up! Sing of your deliverance,
- Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer,
- Christmas, Christmas, sing of the Redeemer!
Monday, December 6, 2010
thoughts on life and things...
So... someone is hurting. Is telling them that Jesus is all they need simplistic? Is it unhelpful? Is it just naive? It seems like truth to me... but sometimes, when someone is going through pain I can't even understand, it seems almost juvenile... why is that?
Loving isn't a feeling. It's a choice. And sometimes it's a hard one...
People are never who you think they are at first glance. Sometimes taking the time to look at them as God does is hard and we don't want to do it. It's easier to just act on what we see at face value. But, is that what God really calls us to? And is that what you want others to do to you?
We're supposed to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. What about those who persecute our friends and family? Sometimes that seems harder.
Can we turn the other cheek, and still stand up for others?
I want to be a joyful person.
I want to be the kind of person who is a good and faithful witness even in the silences.
This is a quote that our host-housing at the tournament had on the wall, and it made me smile.
"Be the kind of person that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, the devil says 'Snap, she's up.'"
Well... there's some random thoughts for you to chew on. I may post more about some of them later... or I may not. I haven't decided yet. But I'd love to hear from you. What do you think?
Loving isn't a feeling. It's a choice. And sometimes it's a hard one...
People are never who you think they are at first glance. Sometimes taking the time to look at them as God does is hard and we don't want to do it. It's easier to just act on what we see at face value. But, is that what God really calls us to? And is that what you want others to do to you?
We're supposed to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. What about those who persecute our friends and family? Sometimes that seems harder.
Can we turn the other cheek, and still stand up for others?
I want to be a joyful person.
I want to be the kind of person who is a good and faithful witness even in the silences.
This is a quote that our host-housing at the tournament had on the wall, and it made me smile.
"Be the kind of person that when your feet hit the floor in the morning, the devil says 'Snap, she's up.'"
Well... there's some random thoughts for you to chew on. I may post more about some of them later... or I may not. I haven't decided yet. But I'd love to hear from you. What do you think?
Thursday, December 2, 2010
First Official Christmas Post
... because I love Christmas!
I love Christmas so much in fact, that from the minute I'm allowed to listen to Christmas music (the morning after Thanksgiving), I listen to it almost non-stop until Christmas. End result, is that I know Christmas songs inside and out. Sometimes, when we know songs that well, we kind of, forget what they really say. I was listening to a well-known Christmas song the other day, and a light bulb came on as I realized... hey! this is a really great song! So here it goes... me unpacking a well known Christmas Carol.
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Now, I'm not going to unpack the whole song... just a verse that I thought was good food for thought. Let's take a quick look at the second verse of this well known song:
Christ by highest heav'n adored
(credit to carols.org.uk)
Wow! I love this verse so much, but let's take it one piece at a time.
The first two lines emphasize how great Christ is.
"Christ by highest heaven adored, Christ the everlasting Lord."
Jesus is adored by the highest heaven... who abides in the highest heaven! Well if we're talking "highest" as in "in most authority", that would be God the Father Himself! And that makes sense, since He's the "everlasting Lord." These verses establish who we are talking about, the everlasting Lord who is adored by God the Father Himself... and that's what makes the rest of the verse so amazing.
"Late in time, behold Him come. Offspring of the virgin's womb. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, hail incarnate Deity."
The everlasting Lord came to earth and was born. That in itself is amazing, but the line that really struck me was "veiled in flesh the Godhead see". Let's rearrange that into modern English, shall we?
"See the Godhead veiled in flesh."
Woah... the eternal Godhead, three on one, mysterious, holy Trinity... veiled in flesh! Like us. That is why the incarnation is so incredible! This God that we can't even wrap our minds around (have you ever tried to understand the Trinity? it's mind blowing...), this God, veiled Himself in the same earthen flesh as us! It's such a beautiful mystery...
Okay, next part...
"Pleased, as man, with men to dwell. Jesus our Emmanuel."
This part reminds me of that verse in Philippians 5:2-8:
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross."
This everlasting Lord, adored by highest heaven, God Himself... was pleased to dwell with us as a man. Rather than hold onto the Lordship He so rightly deserved, He humbled Himself... even to die. Though, as we see later in the same passage, God has now exalted Him, but for His time on earth, He dwelled with us, like us, in our midst. And the passage neatly packs the punch by reminding us that He is our Emmanuel... God with us.
I love that phrase. I love taking it one word at a time.
God - holy, perfect, merciful, gracious, just, seated in highest authority, served by angels, creator of all, in whom all things consist, whom highest heaven cannot contain...
with - among, near, accompanying, alongside, in our midst
us - you, me, and all of mankind, just us normal people
God. with. us.
Emmanuel.
It's so incredible. Next time you sing this song, don't just focus on getting the harmony right. Focus on getting what it's saying. It's a song that's jam-packed with truth, mystery, and awe.
Hark the Herald angels sing, glory to the newborn king:
Listen, the angels are singing... glory, to the newborn king...
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Now, I'm not going to unpack the whole song... just a verse that I thought was good food for thought. Let's take a quick look at the second verse of this well known song:
Christ by highest heav'n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin's womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
(credit to carols.org.uk)Wow! I love this verse so much, but let's take it one piece at a time.
The first two lines emphasize how great Christ is.
"Christ by highest heaven adored, Christ the everlasting Lord."
Jesus is adored by the highest heaven... who abides in the highest heaven! Well if we're talking "highest" as in "in most authority", that would be God the Father Himself! And that makes sense, since He's the "everlasting Lord." These verses establish who we are talking about, the everlasting Lord who is adored by God the Father Himself... and that's what makes the rest of the verse so amazing.
"Late in time, behold Him come. Offspring of the virgin's womb. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, hail incarnate Deity."
The everlasting Lord came to earth and was born. That in itself is amazing, but the line that really struck me was "veiled in flesh the Godhead see". Let's rearrange that into modern English, shall we?
"See the Godhead veiled in flesh."
Woah... the eternal Godhead, three on one, mysterious, holy Trinity... veiled in flesh! Like us. That is why the incarnation is so incredible! This God that we can't even wrap our minds around (have you ever tried to understand the Trinity? it's mind blowing...), this God, veiled Himself in the same earthen flesh as us! It's such a beautiful mystery...
Okay, next part...
"Pleased, as man, with men to dwell. Jesus our Emmanuel."
This part reminds me of that verse in Philippians 5:2-8:
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross."
This everlasting Lord, adored by highest heaven, God Himself... was pleased to dwell with us as a man. Rather than hold onto the Lordship He so rightly deserved, He humbled Himself... even to die. Though, as we see later in the same passage, God has now exalted Him, but for His time on earth, He dwelled with us, like us, in our midst. And the passage neatly packs the punch by reminding us that He is our Emmanuel... God with us.
I love that phrase. I love taking it one word at a time.
God - holy, perfect, merciful, gracious, just, seated in highest authority, served by angels, creator of all, in whom all things consist, whom highest heaven cannot contain...
with - among, near, accompanying, alongside, in our midst
us - you, me, and all of mankind, just us normal people
God. with. us.
Emmanuel.
It's so incredible. Next time you sing this song, don't just focus on getting the harmony right. Focus on getting what it's saying. It's a song that's jam-packed with truth, mystery, and awe.
Hark the Herald angels sing, glory to the newborn king:
Listen, the angels are singing... glory, to the newborn king...
Sunday, November 28, 2010
His faithfulness, my standing place
God has been so faithful to me.
Today, we were singing a song in church that really reminded me about God's faithfulness. The alternate chorus goes like this:
You were there in the struggle, You were there in the fight.
You were there all the time.
We thank You, for grace in our yesterdays.
The thank You, for peace in our hearts today.
We thank You, our joy, as tomorrow comes.
It just struck me... that God is just so incredibly faithful. I mean, I knew that... but sometimes truths like that just have to hit you again.
I have amazing friends, and a lot of them. [no, I am not changing the subject.] Many of them have walked with me through some of my most difficult times, and I've walked beside them in theirs. They are ready to talk. They supported me when I was weak. They were there for me.
But then I thought... no one of them has been with me every time.
Not because they didn't care or anything. Maybe they didn't know me, or they just weren't able to physically be there at the time. But regardless of the circumstances, no one friend has been there every single time I have needed someone. In fact, sometimes none of them are there.
And then I realized... God has been there every time. He is always there for me. Every single time I have cried, or been frightened, or angry, or overwhelmed, or just plain tired, He was there.
When I woke up in the morning and didn't know if I could survive the day, He was there for me.
When I thought the grief would break me, He was there for me.
When I couldn't understand why, He was there for me.
When I was afraid of the future I couldn't see, He was there for me.
When I was lonely, He was there for me.
He was always there for me.
He is the only one who has always been there for me.
The other thing I realized is that He is the only one that I know always will be there in the future. Not only has He always been there, but He always will be there!
Why would God be so faithful to me? Every day I doubt Him. Every day I mess up, turn to the side, fall, and sometimes just ignore Him. I am... well... not always faithful to Him. And even so, He is always faithful to me. Why?
I know it's not really about me.
2 Timothy 2:13
"If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself."
It is in God's character to remain faithful to those He has chosen.
Though... even though all those things are true... I digress...
It just struck me today how comforting God's faithfulness is. I know He will always be there for me. He is so good. And because I know He is faithful, I know I can trust Him. When He tells me to do something that seems nuts, or asks me to move forward even though I'm not sure where I'm headed [happening right now...], I know He will lead me all the way, because of His faithfulness.
It's just so amazing, that God is so faithful to us. We don't deserve it, He just is. He has adopted us, and though we sometimes lose our hold, He will never let us go. That was in another song we sang today. "Oh wondrous love, that will not let me go, I cling to You with all my strength and soul. Yet if my hold, should ever fail, this wondrous love will never let me go."
I guess it's kind of a theme in my life right now. That God's goodness, and grace, and faithfulness is not dependent upon my ability to "be good". God is not limited by the human-ness of those He has called. He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and will complete the work He began. God is so amazingly good to us. And His faithfulness never fails. In His everlasting faithfulness I will find strength to tackle whatever comes my way. He is faithful to bring me through to the end, until His will in me is complete.
--
Today, we were singing a song in church that really reminded me about God's faithfulness. The alternate chorus goes like this:
You were there in the struggle, You were there in the fight.
You were there all the time.
We thank You, for grace in our yesterdays.
The thank You, for peace in our hearts today.
We thank You, our joy, as tomorrow comes.
It just struck me... that God is just so incredibly faithful. I mean, I knew that... but sometimes truths like that just have to hit you again.
I have amazing friends, and a lot of them. [no, I am not changing the subject.] Many of them have walked with me through some of my most difficult times, and I've walked beside them in theirs. They are ready to talk. They supported me when I was weak. They were there for me.
But then I thought... no one of them has been with me every time.
Not because they didn't care or anything. Maybe they didn't know me, or they just weren't able to physically be there at the time. But regardless of the circumstances, no one friend has been there every single time I have needed someone. In fact, sometimes none of them are there.
And then I realized... God has been there every time. He is always there for me. Every single time I have cried, or been frightened, or angry, or overwhelmed, or just plain tired, He was there.
When I woke up in the morning and didn't know if I could survive the day, He was there for me.
When I thought the grief would break me, He was there for me.
When I couldn't understand why, He was there for me.
When I was afraid of the future I couldn't see, He was there for me.
When I was lonely, He was there for me.
He was always there for me.
He is the only one who has always been there for me.
The other thing I realized is that He is the only one that I know always will be there in the future. Not only has He always been there, but He always will be there!
Why would God be so faithful to me? Every day I doubt Him. Every day I mess up, turn to the side, fall, and sometimes just ignore Him. I am... well... not always faithful to Him. And even so, He is always faithful to me. Why?
I know it's not really about me.
2 Timothy 2:13
"If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself."
It is in God's character to remain faithful to those He has chosen.
Though... even though all those things are true... I digress...
It just struck me today how comforting God's faithfulness is. I know He will always be there for me. He is so good. And because I know He is faithful, I know I can trust Him. When He tells me to do something that seems nuts, or asks me to move forward even though I'm not sure where I'm headed [happening right now...], I know He will lead me all the way, because of His faithfulness.
It's just so amazing, that God is so faithful to us. We don't deserve it, He just is. He has adopted us, and though we sometimes lose our hold, He will never let us go. That was in another song we sang today. "Oh wondrous love, that will not let me go, I cling to You with all my strength and soul. Yet if my hold, should ever fail, this wondrous love will never let me go."
I guess it's kind of a theme in my life right now. That God's goodness, and grace, and faithfulness is not dependent upon my ability to "be good". God is not limited by the human-ness of those He has called. He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and will complete the work He began. God is so amazingly good to us. And His faithfulness never fails. In His everlasting faithfulness I will find strength to tackle whatever comes my way. He is faithful to bring me through to the end, until His will in me is complete.
--
I will glory in my Redeemer
My life He bought, my love He owns
I have no longings for another
I’m satisfied in Him alone
I will glory in my Redeemer
His faithfulness my standing place
Though foes are mighty and rush upon me
My feet are firm, held by His grace
My life He bought, my love He owns
I have no longings for another
I’m satisfied in Him alone
I will glory in my Redeemer
His faithfulness my standing place
Though foes are mighty and rush upon me
My feet are firm, held by His grace
Friday, November 26, 2010
Perspective...
Even on the worst days, God has still blessed me far above what I have ever deserved.
--
Thank you, God, for everything You have done for me. For this life You have given me, and the people You have blessed it with. Thank you for knowing everything about me... and holding onto me anyway. Thank you for always being there for me, no matter where I am. Thank you for always giving me grace to try again, no matter what mistakes I've made. Thank you for sending Your Holy Spirit to guide me, even in the darkest night. Thank you for sending Jesus, so that I am no longer Your enemy. Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for helping me know You. Thank you for being my best Friend.
Thank you for loving me... always.
--
Thank you, God, for everything You have done for me. For this life You have given me, and the people You have blessed it with. Thank you for knowing everything about me... and holding onto me anyway. Thank you for always being there for me, no matter where I am. Thank you for always giving me grace to try again, no matter what mistakes I've made. Thank you for sending Your Holy Spirit to guide me, even in the darkest night. Thank you for sending Jesus, so that I am no longer Your enemy. Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for helping me know You. Thank you for being my best Friend.
Thank you for loving me... always.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Happy Thankgiving!
Yes, Thanksgiving is here. Time for turkey, pie, green bean casserole, and lots of gratefulness.
And here it comes, the question you here every year, you knew it was coming....
What are you thankful for?
[but seriously, I know all of you are thankful for your family, your friends, your faith, and all that wonderful vagueness, so let's have some specific lists of things you're thankful for, eh?]
I'll start.
The Bible is never a cop-out.
My very supportive, encouraging, God-seeking parents
My hilarious siblings. :) who, also happen to be my biggest fan club.
My church body, and the friends I have there. You all are so great. :)
My wonderful Rainmakers. You have changed my life. No joke.
TeenPact and all the awesome people involved. Students, staff, interns, and all! Love you!
Ultimate Frisbee
Amazing language, music, and lit teachers. :)
Blogs and comments [hint hint]
Encouraging emails and letters
music
An incredible internship
And so so much more... but I'm running out the door, so I'm out of time.
And, of course, that God not only gave me all these amazing blessings, but offers a relationship that makes all of them unnecessary to my ultimate joy. Jesus, You are all I need.
Happy Thanksgiving!
And here it comes, the question you here every year, you knew it was coming....
What are you thankful for?
[but seriously, I know all of you are thankful for your family, your friends, your faith, and all that wonderful vagueness, so let's have some specific lists of things you're thankful for, eh?]
I'll start.
The Bible is never a cop-out.
My very supportive, encouraging, God-seeking parents
My hilarious siblings. :) who, also happen to be my biggest fan club.
My church body, and the friends I have there. You all are so great. :)
My wonderful Rainmakers. You have changed my life. No joke.
TeenPact and all the awesome people involved. Students, staff, interns, and all! Love you!
Ultimate Frisbee
Amazing language, music, and lit teachers. :)
Blogs and comments [hint hint]
Encouraging emails and letters
music
An incredible internship
And so so much more... but I'm running out the door, so I'm out of time.
And, of course, that God not only gave me all these amazing blessings, but offers a relationship that makes all of them unnecessary to my ultimate joy. Jesus, You are all I need.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Why?
Why do we follow Jesus?
Why do we walk paths that seem crazy?
Why do we press on?
Why do we endure till the end?
Why are we unafraid to look like fools?
Why do we do what He's calling us?
Not because it feels good... I can tell you that much.
When your feelings start telling you it's not worth it...
Or when you simply don't feel anything at all...
Remember... Christianity isn't a feeling. It's truth.
Why do we walk paths that seem crazy?
Why do we press on?
Why do we endure till the end?
Why are we unafraid to look like fools?
Why do we do what He's calling us?
Not because it feels good... I can tell you that much.
When your feelings start telling you it's not worth it...
Or when you simply don't feel anything at all...
Remember... Christianity isn't a feeling. It's truth.
--
[update: the above post is coming from a very "not feeling good" time. time to take my own advice...]
Saturday, November 20, 2010
When Love Takes You In
God, open our eyes to see what You want us to see. Give us ears to hear You speaking. Give us the courage to do what You are calling us to do.
When Love Takes You In
Steven Curtis Chapman
Steven Curtis Chapman
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Proverbs 17:27-28
"He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he his considered perceptive."
I'm working my way through Proverbs right now. Reading that book is good exercise. There's definitely no beating around the bush with Proverbs. Reading Proverbs is a lot like doing push-ups. It doesn't sound fun, it hurts while you're doing it, and it hurts afterwards. You don't really see the benefit until later.
But, it is worth it, so if you need a Bible reading plan, I'd suggest digging into Proverbs for a while. (don't forget to have a pencil on hand.)
This is what it looks like when I read Proverbs:
Read for a while... ooh, ow.... read a little more... hey! wait... read a little more... ouch...
So, I breathe a little sigh, and press on through the book, looking forward to the day when it doesn't hurt so much. Goodness, there is a lot in there... and a lot of it is about words. Rather important and incredibly painful at times for a blogger, writer, speaker, and debater. But hey, no pain, no gain, right?
Pain is weakness leaving your character.
[no, that's not how the original motto goes, but it's true too, so oh well.]
Well, my little spiel is over. Have a great week, and I'll post again later, if I am not buried under my school books.
Desiderio Domini,
~Rachel
I'm working my way through Proverbs right now. Reading that book is good exercise. There's definitely no beating around the bush with Proverbs. Reading Proverbs is a lot like doing push-ups. It doesn't sound fun, it hurts while you're doing it, and it hurts afterwards. You don't really see the benefit until later.
But, it is worth it, so if you need a Bible reading plan, I'd suggest digging into Proverbs for a while. (don't forget to have a pencil on hand.)
This is what it looks like when I read Proverbs:
Read for a while... ooh, ow.... read a little more... hey! wait... read a little more... ouch...
So, I breathe a little sigh, and press on through the book, looking forward to the day when it doesn't hurt so much. Goodness, there is a lot in there... and a lot of it is about words. Rather important and incredibly painful at times for a blogger, writer, speaker, and debater. But hey, no pain, no gain, right?
Pain is weakness leaving your character.
[no, that's not how the original motto goes, but it's true too, so oh well.]
Well, my little spiel is over. Have a great week, and I'll post again later, if I am not buried under my school books.
Desiderio Domini,
~Rachel
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Stop the World~ Matthew West
Yep... this pretty much sums it up.
Please pray for me. Thanks.
--
The TV is talking
The telephone’s ringing
The lights are all on
And the radio’s screaming
A million distractions are stealing my heart from You
I’m tired and empty
This life is relentless
It weakens my knees
And breaks my defenses
It’s wearing me down and I’m desperate to hear from You
Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me
I need to be still before I make a move
I need to be humble with nothing to prove
I need Your Word to show me the truth
And I need time, precious time
Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me
Stop the world I’m ready to listen
Show me sign, give me a vision of heaven
I can hold on to
Stop the world I need some time with You
Before I can find my voice
I need to hear Your voice
Above all the senseless noise
Please pray for me. Thanks.
--
The TV is talking
The telephone’s ringing
The lights are all on
And the radio’s screaming
A million distractions are stealing my heart from You
I’m tired and empty
This life is relentless
It weakens my knees
And breaks my defenses
It’s wearing me down and I’m desperate to hear from You
Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me
I need to be still before I make a move
I need to be humble with nothing to prove
I need Your Word to show me the truth
And I need time, precious time
Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me
Stop the world I’m ready to listen
Show me sign, give me a vision of heaven
I can hold on to
Stop the world I need some time with You
Before I can find my voice
I need to hear Your voice
Above all the senseless noise
Thursday, November 11, 2010
What do you see?
I want to see the world through God's eyes. I want to see people as He sees them.
When I walk down the street, I see the punk, the geek, the valley girl, the crabby.
When God's sees these people, He doesn't see any of that. He sees His lost children made in His image, and He weeps over them.
I thought of that the other day and it kind of shocked me.
These people that we sometimes tease because they're different... God weeps over them, because He made them.
They are not weird. They are lost.
God, let me see people the way you see them. Individuals. Precious. Made in Your image. Empty and lost without you. Captive.
People Christ died for.
--
When I walk down the street, I see the punk, the geek, the valley girl, the crabby.
When God's sees these people, He doesn't see any of that. He sees His lost children made in His image, and He weeps over them.
I thought of that the other day and it kind of shocked me.
These people that we sometimes tease because they're different... God weeps over them, because He made them.
They are not weird. They are lost.
God, let me see people the way you see them. Individuals. Precious. Made in Your image. Empty and lost without you. Captive.
People Christ died for.
--
Our call to war, to love the captive soul,
But to rage against the captor.
And with the sword that makes the wounded whole,
We will fight with faith and valor.
When faced with trials on every side,
We know the outcome is secure.
And Christ will have the prize for which He died;
An inheritance of nations.
~Oh Church Arise; Keith Getty
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
~ 1 Samuel 16:7
But to rage against the captor.
And with the sword that makes the wounded whole,
We will fight with faith and valor.
When faced with trials on every side,
We know the outcome is secure.
And Christ will have the prize for which He died;
An inheritance of nations.
~Oh Church Arise; Keith Getty
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
~ 1 Samuel 16:7
Monday, November 8, 2010
Common Mistakes...
that I've made with prayer.
Mistake #1. Doing all the talking and then asking God why He's not speaking to me.
Mistake #2. Bringing a "shopping list".
Mistake #3. Acting like God's the one out of tune.
Mistake #4. Doing all the talking.
Mistake#5. Treating God like a vending machine.
Mistake #6. Asking Him how much it will cost.
Mistake #7. Doing all the talking.
Mistake #8. Begging, like He's holding back something good
Mistake #9. Promising, instead of asking, to do better.
Mistake#10. Doing all the talking.
Yes, I AM aware that "doing all the talking" appeared four times on that list. That is because this is the mistake I make most often. God can't speak to us if we do all the talking. Sheesh... who's the all-knowing one? God. So who needs to be talking? God. And who needs to be listening? Us.
Not to say that we aren't to bring our requests to Him... we 100% ARE supposed to do that. But if we wouldn't make our human friends endure a one-sided conversation, why would we make God do that? Spill out your worries, thoughts, and joys to your friend, and then listen to Him for a while. Sit still. Don't talk. Ask a few questions, then just listen.
I did it tonight... and it was the best thing I've done in a long time.
When was the last time you just sat still... and listened?
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Things that make me smile #1
When I think of a memory I haven't thought about in a long time, and it still makes me laugh out loud.
Like:
-slurping noodles
-lemonade
-The Game
-"Brother in Christ!"
-laughing till I can't breath with Sarah
-the short-person bill
-the jay walking bill
-"You're ruining my image!"
-"You don't tell me to stop it. I tell me to stop it... if I want to!!!"
-Jack in the Box
-jokes with Alli... practical ones... :)
-high heels v. flats...
-fireflies
-"AHHHH!!!!!"
-blueberry bagels
-"It's perro."
-"Were you bouncing in the car?"
-"Do you think... that's the front door...?"
-peppermint patties
-really cold water (that ones got a couple of good memories...)
-cookies
-signs
-whosirmesir (or who sir, me sir? but no one says it like that)
-stress-o
-did you know that gloves make good balls?
-dirt roads help your vibrato
-..... I'm not supposed to say that one.... :)
-forking
-"Um... that's my seat."
-top ramen... broth
-"Once I read a book..."
-"Apple pie, the answer to our singleness problem!"
-chocolate cake
-stick shifts
-Crossroads with dad
-"Up Bob!" "No, down Larry!"
-"...dominantly not."
-"that puppy."
-black 8 ball. hole. light. floor. in that order. :P
[note: these are not in chronological order or in order by significance. they are not IN order]
hmmm.... that's probably enough for now. oh, that was a good laugh.
What are your favorite vague references to hilarious memories?
Like:
-slurping noodles
-lemonade
-The Game
-"Brother in Christ!"
-laughing till I can't breath with Sarah
-the short-person bill
-the jay walking bill
-"You're ruining my image!"
-"You don't tell me to stop it. I tell me to stop it... if I want to!!!"
-Jack in the Box
-jokes with Alli... practical ones... :)
-high heels v. flats...
-fireflies
-"AHHHH!!!!!"
-blueberry bagels
-"It's perro."
-"Were you bouncing in the car?"
-"Do you think... that's the front door...?"
-peppermint patties
-really cold water (that ones got a couple of good memories...)
-cookies
-signs
-whosirmesir (or who sir, me sir? but no one says it like that)
-stress-o
-did you know that gloves make good balls?
-dirt roads help your vibrato
-..... I'm not supposed to say that one.... :)
-forking
-"Um... that's my seat."
-top ramen... broth
-"Once I read a book..."
-"Apple pie, the answer to our singleness problem!"
-chocolate cake
-stick shifts
-Crossroads with dad
-"Up Bob!" "No, down Larry!"
-"...dominantly not."
-"that puppy."
-black 8 ball. hole. light. floor. in that order. :P
[note: these are not in chronological order or in order by significance. they are not IN order]
hmmm.... that's probably enough for now. oh, that was a good laugh.
What are your favorite vague references to hilarious memories?
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Here we go again...
All my college applications are out the door! Hooray! Now it's scholarship applications and SAT subject tests.
And lots of thinking, pondering, and masterminding...
[end of update]
And now, more from Rachel's random song-writing spree...
And lots of thinking, pondering, and masterminding...
[end of update]
And now, more from Rachel's random song-writing spree...
Overtake My Life
V1
I've got that feeling again,
Deep down inside,
The kind that feels wrong, and says
"You are halfway gone."
Not sure where to go now,
Can't hide from my life,
Don't want to go down, and I cry,
Chorus
Lord, overtake my life,
Fill me up with You,
Leave room for nothing else,
Nothing else but You.
Lord, don't let me be,
Take control of me,
Overtake my life, I want to live for You.
V2
It's a crazy world,
Tries to take control,
I'm on my knees as I say,
"I need more of Your life."
Through confusion and pain,
You lift me again,
I will press on, Lord I'm prayin',
(Chorus)
--
That's all! Have a great week!
And don't forget to vote.
I've got that feeling again,
Deep down inside,
The kind that feels wrong, and says
"You are halfway gone."
Not sure where to go now,
Can't hide from my life,
Don't want to go down, and I cry,
Chorus
Lord, overtake my life,
Fill me up with You,
Leave room for nothing else,
Nothing else but You.
Lord, don't let me be,
Take control of me,
Overtake my life, I want to live for You.
V2
It's a crazy world,
Tries to take control,
I'm on my knees as I say,
"I need more of Your life."
Through confusion and pain,
You lift me again,
I will press on, Lord I'm prayin',
(Chorus)
--
That's all! Have a great week!
And don't forget to vote.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
My College Philosophy:
Knock on a lot of doors, and see which one God opens.
Translation: Lots of college applications.
Hardest part: Balancing college prep with the school I still need to do, and still have a life.
Best part: Knowing God has all this under control keeps the future bright. Working through faith essays and high school summaries brings back sweet memories. Awesome friends and family pursuing God with me make today an adventure.
Prayer: Sanity would be nice... in the school sense. As far as following God goes, keep it crazy I say!
Encouragement to fellow seniors looking at colleges: If you are seeking God's will for your life and going through the process prayerfully, He'll land you in the right place, right where He needs you.
Can I just say, things have started looking up in the past few days. God is just so awesome.
Songs to listen to:
Translation: Lots of college applications.
Hardest part: Balancing college prep with the school I still need to do, and still have a life.
Best part: Knowing God has all this under control keeps the future bright. Working through faith essays and high school summaries brings back sweet memories. Awesome friends and family pursuing God with me make today an adventure.
Prayer: Sanity would be nice... in the school sense. As far as following God goes, keep it crazy I say!
Encouragement to fellow seniors looking at colleges: If you are seeking God's will for your life and going through the process prayerfully, He'll land you in the right place, right where He needs you.
Can I just say, things have started looking up in the past few days. God is just so awesome.
Songs to listen to:
All the Way My Savior Leads Me
Chris Tomlin
Chris Tomlin
The Center
Matthew West
Matthew West
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Question I had after the CFA banquet...
We're teens.
What can we do to help the orphan?
This is not a rhetorical question.
What can we do to help the orphan?
This is not a rhetorical question.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Days like today
This week was really long and difficult. I was working on getting an important college application in, and it was mentally and physically draining. There were times I felt exhausted, weak, defeated, and sometimes, I just wanted to give up.
But God knows what we need, and He always provides.
God gave me today.
Today was amazing for a couple reasons.
First, I got to go campaigning with my sister and some really good friends, which was amazing. And it was sunny!! It totally made my day that in the middle of a rainy cold week, it was sunny and nice while we were canvasing this morning. I mean, it's rainy right now, but it stopped for us!
Second, I got the application in the mail. Getting some huge school project done always gives me a little bounce. My application is in the mail, and that's done and over with. In God's hands.
Third, I got a bit of news I've been waiting for, and it was good. :)
After today, I'll be diving back into a thousand things I need to do. In fact, I'm trying to get caught up on math today. The rest of this week will be difficult as I try to make up for doing nothing but college prep this week. I will be weary. I will feel weak (because I am.) I will feel defeated sometimes. But I will remember that God is good.
Life is tough. But sometimes, God gives you days like today. Days when you remember how much He loves you. Days when you crest the wave and take a huge breath of air before diving down again. Days when you stand on the top of the hill, and get your bearings on the Celestial City again. Days when you remember what it feels like to be so excited, nothing else matters. Days when it feels like your heart can't hold all the joy, because your God is so good.
Yes, I just want to say, thank you to God, for today. Today was... amazing. Like a moment can make your day, a day can make your week.
Days like today.
But God knows what we need, and He always provides.
God gave me today.
Today was amazing for a couple reasons.
First, I got to go campaigning with my sister and some really good friends, which was amazing. And it was sunny!! It totally made my day that in the middle of a rainy cold week, it was sunny and nice while we were canvasing this morning. I mean, it's rainy right now, but it stopped for us!
Second, I got the application in the mail. Getting some huge school project done always gives me a little bounce. My application is in the mail, and that's done and over with. In God's hands.
Third, I got a bit of news I've been waiting for, and it was good. :)
After today, I'll be diving back into a thousand things I need to do. In fact, I'm trying to get caught up on math today. The rest of this week will be difficult as I try to make up for doing nothing but college prep this week. I will be weary. I will feel weak (because I am.) I will feel defeated sometimes. But I will remember that God is good.
Life is tough. But sometimes, God gives you days like today. Days when you remember how much He loves you. Days when you crest the wave and take a huge breath of air before diving down again. Days when you stand on the top of the hill, and get your bearings on the Celestial City again. Days when you remember what it feels like to be so excited, nothing else matters. Days when it feels like your heart can't hold all the joy, because your God is so good.
Yes, I just want to say, thank you to God, for today. Today was... amazing. Like a moment can make your day, a day can make your week.
Days like today.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
The answer to that pressing question...
"So, you're graduating this year. What are you going to do?"
Am I the only one who gets so tired of this question? Not because it isn't a valid question. Just because people ask it all the time, and worse, I don't have a satisfactory answer.
Sheesh, I don't know. I've got ideas. I've got plans. But with the first college application hopefully heading out the door on Monday, I have no idea what will actually happen. I can't see in to the future. Sometimes I want to just look back at the thousandth person who has asked me that this week, even though it's not their fault, and scream,
"What?! Do I look like God or something?!"
But you know, I think Aaron Watson had the right idea when he suggested replying, "I am going to worship God."
I don't know what's going to happen. With everything contingent on a hundred different decisions, only a few of which will be made by me, I don't know where I'll be in a year or two. But what I really wish I could say, what I would say, if I thought they would take me seriously, is this:
"I surely don't know, but it'll be whatever God wants!"
So there's the answer folks. Feel free to ask me for specifics, but I'm warning you, I have precious few answers.
Here's the thing, though... I know that a lot of you reading this blog are in the same place. Some of you may be older, or younger. But I know many of you are at this crazy time in life when childhood is over, you're officially an adult, but you're life hasn't quite taken off in a set course yet. There's a lot of waiting. Waiting for a college to accept you. Waiting to see if you get a scholarship. Waiting to see if you got the job. Waiting for God to finally hand you the blueprints so you know where you're headed.
And in the meantime, everyone somehow expects you to already know. Adults and peers are, with the best intentions, asking you what you are planning on doing with the next few years of your life. I've asked that question myself. And some of you may be pretty sure you know what you're doing. Maybe some of you are like me... you thought you knew, but now you're here, and you aren't so sure. Or maybe you've never known.
It's so hard. I mean, it's one thing to say, "You'll find me worshiping God!", it's quite another to actually have peace with a future you can't see. Waiting on the Lord is not a sit back and relax sort of command. It's hard work, I tell you! As Brett and Alex would put it, we're hustling while we wait, and hoping the waiting end soon, and we can have a plan.
I know. I'm there right now. Exhausted, pushing myself to get the applications and the tests done, weary of the process, feeling helpless because I just don't know.
As Indigo Montoya (Princess Bride) says: "I hate waiting."
But it's a necessary part of the journey, and it's where God has me now. I'm walking this road of waiting.
Let me just assure you of one thing.
God has always known.
Work hard. Make plans. Dream big. And in the end, leave the results of your work, plans, and dreams in God's hands, because they are safer there. And so are you.
Well, that was a long and somewhat fragmented post, but I guess it kind of matches the subject, eh? I mean, if I was to pick to words to describe this season of my life, long and fragmented would be tough competitors. But you know, there's one thing that kind of wraps it all together. And that's knowing that in the end, God knows how it all wraps together. I'm growing from it! And praise God, He's walking it with me.
And I'm learning a lot from the waiting.
~While I'm Waiting~
"Gentle Savior"
Okay, before I get to the reason for the title, a quick update:
Sorry about all the short posts! Right now I'm kind of crammed between college placement exams, early application deadlines for scholarships and colleges, and the rest of my school. All that to say, there's not much breathing room to write things like blog posts. I'll hopefully be back with more substantial posts in a couple of weeks.
[end of update]
Okay... song.
My friend sent me this song recently when I was really struggling with life in general. I'll post the video and lyrics. This guys voice is incredible, and the song lyrics are some of the best I've heard in a while.
"Gentle Savior"
Where are the signs? Which way should I go?
I planned each step but now I don’t know.
Tomorrow is a chasm of uncertainty
But, I will go there, if You’ll go with me.
Chorus
Gentle Savior, lead me on.
Let Your Spirit light the way.
Gentle Savior, lead me on.
Hold me close and keep me safe.
Lead me on, Gentle Savior.
Why can’t I walk away from my regrets
And why is forgiveness so hard to accept.
My past surrounds me like a house I can’t afford.
But You say, "Come with me; don’t live there anymore."
(Chorus)
And when I reach the valley every soul must journey through
I’ll remember then how well You know the way,
I’ll put my hand in Your hand like a trusting child would do
And say…
(Chorus)
Sorry about all the short posts! Right now I'm kind of crammed between college placement exams, early application deadlines for scholarships and colleges, and the rest of my school. All that to say, there's not much breathing room to write things like blog posts. I'll hopefully be back with more substantial posts in a couple of weeks.
[end of update]
Okay... song.
My friend sent me this song recently when I was really struggling with life in general. I'll post the video and lyrics. This guys voice is incredible, and the song lyrics are some of the best I've heard in a while.
"Gentle Savior"
Where are the signs? Which way should I go?
I planned each step but now I don’t know.
Tomorrow is a chasm of uncertainty
But, I will go there, if You’ll go with me.
Chorus
Gentle Savior, lead me on.
Let Your Spirit light the way.
Gentle Savior, lead me on.
Hold me close and keep me safe.
Lead me on, Gentle Savior.
Why can’t I walk away from my regrets
And why is forgiveness so hard to accept.
My past surrounds me like a house I can’t afford.
But You say, "Come with me; don’t live there anymore."
(Chorus)
And when I reach the valley every soul must journey through
I’ll remember then how well You know the way,
I’ll put my hand in Your hand like a trusting child would do
And say…
(Chorus)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Question
You know how generations are sometimes named? Like Baby Boomers, or Generation "X", or the lost generation?
If you could name our generation, as it is now, what would you name it?
If you could name our generation for what it could and should be, what would you name it?
If you could name our generation, as it is now, what would you name it?
If you could name our generation for what it could and should be, what would you name it?
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
God of Justice
We sang this song at debate last night. It really hit me... this is what our lives are really supposed to be about. Feeding the hungry, and standing beside the broken. It's kind of like the verse in Isaiah 58:6-11. The whole verse is in blue on the right sidebar of this blog, near the bottom, if you want to read it. It's so clear... our lives are all about service.
My favorite line is "keep us from just singing, move us into action." We aren't to just bring Him songs... we are to praise Him from the front lines.
Send us out, Lord.
(Verse 1)
God of Justice, Savior to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served
Jesus, You have called us
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
(Chorus)
We must go live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
(Verse 2)
To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us, what You require
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
(Bridge)
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out Lord
My favorite line is "keep us from just singing, move us into action." We aren't to just bring Him songs... we are to praise Him from the front lines.
Send us out, Lord.
(Verse 1)
God of Justice, Savior to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served
Jesus, You have called us
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
(Chorus)
We must go live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go
(Verse 2)
To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in every way
Walking humbly before You God
You have shown us, what You require
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give
(Bridge)
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out Lord
Monday, October 18, 2010
Let me desire Your will...
"I am no longer anxious about anything, as I realize the Lord is able to carry out His will, and His will is mine. It makes no matter where He places me, or how. That is rather for Him to consider than for me; for in the easiest positions He must give me His grace, and in the most difficult, His grace is sufficient."
~Hudson Taylor
"What Thou wilt, when Thou wilt, how Thou wilt."
~John Newton
~Hudson Taylor
"What Thou wilt, when Thou wilt, how Thou wilt."
~John Newton
God, align my will to Yours. Let me lose my plans in Yours. Let Your purpose be mine.
Be Thou my vision.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Out of curiousity,..
Where are y'all from? (No, the y'all does not mean I'm from Texas.)
I've got 21 followers now, and google analytics is trying to convince me that some of you are from other states, and even other countries! I'm not sure I'm convinced.
So, if you're in the US, what state?
And on the very rare chance you're not from the US, what country?
I'll start. OREGON! :) Lovely state it is, too.
How 'bout the rest of you?
I've got 21 followers now, and google analytics is trying to convince me that some of you are from other states, and even other countries! I'm not sure I'm convinced.
So, if you're in the US, what state?
And on the very rare chance you're not from the US, what country?
I'll start. OREGON! :) Lovely state it is, too.
How 'bout the rest of you?
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
My Peter Moments
My testimony is not very dramatic. God didn’t suddenly grab me and pull a 180 in my life. And I think I know why. When God first started working on me, I couldn’t have handled a 180. I probably would have had a heart-attack. I was quiet, shy, easily frightened, hated change, and “small” didn’t just describe my physical attributes.In short, I wasn't an adventurer. I was a mouse. And God knew that the growth He had in mind for me needed to be taken slowly.
It kind of reminds me of a line in one of my all-time favorite movies, Amazing Grace.
John Newton: “God sometimes does His work with gentle drizzle, not storms. Drip. Drip. Drip.”
That’s how He did it with me. He knew a bolt of lightning would probably put me into mental shock, so He did His work slowly. Piece by piece. Step by step. Drip, drip, drip. First it was homeschooling. Then it was a church change. Then another. (Switching staight from Milwaukie First Baptist to Milwaukie HOFCC would probably have put me over the top.) Then a new youth group. Then TeenPact. Through all those things, He led me gently along, step by step. Had I known where I was headed, I probably would have turned and run back. But I didn’t. I only saw the next step, and it usually didn’t look too scary. And when it did, those were usually the times that Mom and Dad made me do it. In fact, it wasn’t until a year and a half ago that I realized that all I wanted was what He wanted now. I wasn’t always scared anymore. I could take a crazy surprise every once in a while. I didn’t suddenly wake up and say, “Wow! My life stinks, I need to change!” Rather, one day I woke up and said, “Wait… I’m different. How did I get here?”
In the past year, God seems to have decided that I can handle a little more. Now I seem to be expected to willingly seek to draw nearer to Him, and actively follow His will. I’m cool with that. It excites me now. And since I’ve started being able to see more clearly what He’s doing, He’s taken me a lot of places I couldn’t go on my own.
Well, that’s where I am now. I’m places that I couldn’t have gotten to on my own. But surviving in that place of complete dependence on God is like walking a tight-rope. And when you “look down”, those are called “Peter Moments”.
Matthew 14:25-32
“Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”
And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.”
So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”
And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.”
I have this image in my head of this passage. Peter is so focused on Christ he doesn’t see anything else. Then he “looks down”. Can you picture the look on his face in that moment? The moment when he looks away from Jesus, sees that he’s walking on choppy water and thinks, “Wait a second… I can’t do this!”
It’s kind of like that for me sometimes.
God has taken me so many places in the past year that I am not able to go. I can’t. If you don't believe me... believe me. Anyone who has known me for a few years can probably tell you that the person I was two or three years ago would never have staffed TeenPact, never done debate, would never have gone to nationals, would never have done any good in Mexico with all those kids, would most definitely NOT have become an intern at a newspaper. All those things are all God.
And they’re great things. When I’m just focused on following Christ, He takes me places I could never have reached on my own.
The problem comes when I get distracted. Sometimes, I look around at where I am and what I’m doing and realize… “Wait a second… I can’t do this! I can't do what I'm doing!”
Rather than focus on Christ, I get distracted by all the waves… all the things that could go wrong or I could mess up. I begin to sink into a wave of stress and fear as I wonder how I’ll get myself out of this without hurting myself.
Sometimes all I can do is cry, “Lord, save me!”
And the moment is so beautiful, and yet so painful when He with a word stills my fears, lifts me up again, and replies, “Oh you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Monday, October 11, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
On Suffering
I've been thinking about suffering. The purpose of it, and why we have to experience. Theologians and philosophers go in circles about why there is pain and suffering in the world, if God is really good. Well... I don't have an answer. But I have been thinking about why there is pain and suffering in our lives a lot (because that's a little different). So, here are my contemplations on suffering.
I think there's essentially two reasons why God allows us to suffer.
1. The "Bigger" reason
2. The "Better" reason
I guess we'll tackle them in that order.
1) The "Bigger" reason
I was talking with a friend the other day, and this friend was explaining something really difficult that had happened recently. I can't really go into the details, but basically, my friend had been trying to do the right thing, but ended up seemingly worse off for it. I was struggling with God about why He had allowed this to happen, when I thought of Joseph.
That guy had problems, but most of them weren't his fault. He told his family a couple of dreams, and they sell him into slavery. He does his very best there, and he gets thrown in prison. He is good there and interprets some dreams, and one guy dies and the other forgets about him. Things just aren't so great for him.
I think we tend to forget that unlike us, Joseph didn't know the end of the story. WE know that everything turns out alright, but poor Joe is just sitting in prison wondering why things go wrong when he tries to do right.
I can just picture him looking at the ceiling and saying, "Well that didn't work. Not sure why though..."
But what was God doing? He was doing something bigger than Joseph, or even his family. He was saving a whole nation. Joseph just couldn't see it yet.
Or what about the blind man in John 9? I visited Worldview class the other day, and David talked about this passage, and I found it really interesting. In the first verses of John 9, the disciples see a blind man on the side of the road and ask Jesus, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
The disciples assumed that God was punishing the man and his family. They assumed pain was a being used to accomplish some (relatively) small purpose, punishment for one man, or at most, one family.
Jesus blew that opinion out of the water with His response.
"Neither this man, nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. I must do the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
Woah! That's a little different. The man was blind from birth so that Jesus could reveal God's works in him while there was still time! It wasn't about the man or his family. It was about God's purposes being accomplished. Notice also, that Jesus uses half a sentence to explain why the man was born blind, then moves on and talks about God's purpose for Him (Jesus) the rest of the time. It was not about the man. The man's pain was about God!
That is definitely bigger than us.
Question: If our pain is about something bigger, are we okay with suffering if it means God's name is being glorified and His purposes are being accomplished? Something to think about.
The song I posted a couple days ago by Josh Wilson addressed this.
"Maybe there are things you can't see, and all those things are happening to bring a better ending..."
Maybe, when you're suffering, it's not really about you.
2) The "Better" reason
Maybe God is doing something in you.
I told the story about the difficult situation I went through, and the song by Sanctus Real that came on. (read that post here.)
The best things that could possibly happen to us on this earth, would be for us to come to a deeper knowledge of God, right? And the way for us to know Him better is to draw near to Him, and seek His will, right? And when do I draw near to Him the most?
In suffering.
Well, there you have it.
When I was dealing with a difficult situation, I asked my friend, Lauren, "Why did God make me go through all that, if it wasn't necessary?"
Her answer silenced me for a moment. "You don't think you learned something from it?"
Suffering is where you learn the most. It is in the furnace that we are refined. Pain hastens the sanctification process.
Here are some great quotes that I found on this.
"I have never heard anyone say, 'The really deep lessons of life have come through times of ease and comfort.' But I have heard strong saints say, 'Every significant advance I have ever made in grasping the depths of God's love and growing deep with Him have come through suffering.'"
~John Piper
"The furnace of affliction is a good place for you, Christian; it benefits you; it helps you to become more like Christ, and it is fitting you for heaven."
~Charles Spurgeon
So when we are suffering, let us persevere in the knowledge that God is a) doing something bigger than us and b) doing something better in us.
Press on friends. Do not become weary of doing good. Draw near to Christ in suffering. Trust His goodness and faithfulness.
"Resolved: after afflictions, to inquire what I am the better for them, and what I might have got by them."
~Jonathan Edwards
Devoted for Life,
~Rachel Lynn
"For I consider that the suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us..."
~Romans 8:18
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)