True Identity Ministries Blog

Marketplace Missionaries

2011-08-18T20:00:00.003-05:00

Do you ever feel like you just aren't doing anything real big for God? Just the monotonous activities that fill your schedule...one day spilling over into the next?

Sometimes it's easy to look at what others are doing to impact God's kingdom in big ways and walk away wondering, "what am I really doing?" We can look at the nationally known speakers, the oversea missionaries and the individual who had a vision for building an orphanage in another country and is now serving there. The list goes on and on. And while all of these things are part of God's great big plan, we must be careful to not lose sight of our possibilities that we have right here where our two feet are planted.

Steven Furtick, author of Sun Stand Still, says, "Miracles happen when ordinary people do ordinary things with extraordinary passion for the glory of God. No act of service is insignificant when done for the most significant purpose in the universe: proclaiming the gospel of Jesus."

We are called to be marketplace missionaries right where we are. When we live our lives in our workplace, our homes, at the ballpark or anywhere we go, we are the image of God within our sphere of influence.

Whether we are serving at a local soup kitchen, listening to a hurting friend, helping coach a little league team, taking a meal to a neighbor who just lost their elderly parent....no ordinary thing is just ordinary when we do it with passion and purpose. Our passion and purpose is to be a light for Him, sharing His love in this dark and needy world.

My 6 year old daughter is thrilled to start volunteering at a nursing home. She's going to help me polish elderly women's nails and read books to them. It's not ordinary...when it's done with passion. A passion to show love...time...and compassion.

Wherever God has you right now...purpose in your heart to share the love of Jesus and His truth as a marketplace missionary.

Stephanie

Supplement!

2011-07-22T08:02:00.005-05:00

Years ago, I went through a season where I was more fatigued and run down than usual. I struggled with feeling tired and more unmotivated than usual. I was experiencing headaches and a list of other symptoms. I simply remember feeling unproductive during that time.

My husband and I prayed for wisdom for what to do and we felt God was leading me to see a nutritionist/pharmacist/doctor’s assistant. She was very good at being able to discover what was the root cause, or problem, instead of just simply masking it with another medication. So, I met with her and after some blood testing, I simply found out that I had reason to be fatigued! After having four children so close together with close pregnancies and child-rearing to little ones, I was drained of some serious nutrition! I was deficient in Vit B, C and D and was very low in iron. No wonder I was so tired and felt unproductive!

After she started me on some vitamin supplements, I couldn’t believe how much better I felt! My body now had what it needed in order to be productive once again. I won’t tell you that I always had all the energy I wanted…but it sure helped when I was faithful in taking the supplements like I was supposed to! :)

When I was studying 2 Peter 1 this week, it brought back memories of that time in my life. Paul is talking about how God has given us everything we need for living a Godly life. But he instructs us on how important it is to supplement that faith with some very healthy and key things. This is just how it is in our physical bodies. We may get what we need through eating healthy foods, but it can be very helpful to supplement with some good vitamins to increase our health. Here’s what Peter tells us:

2 Peter 1:3-11 (NLT), “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
5 In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.
8 The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins.
10 So, dear brothers and sisters,- work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things and you will never fall away. 11 Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

If we want to be more productive and useful in our spiritual lives, (and I know I sure want to be!) Peter tells us very clearly what we need in order to supplement our lives and grow.

1. Moral excellence-living our lives with excellent morals!

2. Knowledge-how do we gain this? Getting into God’s word and/or Christian books that will help us grow!

3. Self-control-learning when to say ‘no!’-to things that are dragging us down and slowing our productiveness. (food choices, over spending, unhealthy relationships, gossip, lack of priorities)

4. Patient endurance-when we are going through our daily drudges, endure-push through-don’t give up!

5. Godliness-how do we do this? Fill ourselves with more of God and His truths!

6. Brotherly affection-showing others a caring heart through our actions. (serving!)

7. Love (love, love and love!)

These actions do not come automatically, they require hard work. They are not optional either; we must make them a part of our Christian life. But, we don’t have to attain this on our own-God empowers us and enables us! But just like it was my responsibility to take my vitamin supplements, we also have a responsibility to learn and to grow.

I know that I want to be productive and useful for God and His kingdom…so I am off to supplement!

Love ya!
Stephanie

Making It Count

2011-07-22T05:00:00.003-05:00

"A life frittered away disgusts God; he loves those who run straight for the finish line." Proverbs 15.9 (MSG)

The other day as I was reading through the fifteenth proverb, I came across a verse in The Message that stuck out to me. One that places the words "disgust" and "God" in the same sentence. If that doesn't make you perk up and listen, I don't know what does?!

Before I read the above verse, it was actually a thought that was already stirring in my heart. This idea that God could take me at any moment, and how to make my moments count. Not in a morbid way, but in an eternal perspective kind of way. I'm sure you can relate to me when I say that when I stand before God, I want to hear the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

What does this mean for us? I want to encourage you to take a few moments to truly examine your life and wonder how you're making the most out of the days God is giving you. To perhaps let is settle in that we were made to live everyday with an eternal perspective.

It's always intriguing to look at the life of Jesus. And if we did, we would see a man with an agenda. Everything he did had purpose. Every moment he had he made count. Jesus was a man who lived with an eternal perspective.

I'm inspired by my Savior to do the same. I don't want to walk through the fire at the end of my life and see that most things I did were consumed in the fire because they had no eternal value. Don't you want the same?

It's a simple message today. One I hope would inspire you to live with the end in mind. In fact, right now I want you to ask yourself, "How will I make this day count." Go ahead, think about how you can impact your world today for the Kingdom of God. We ALL have a purpose that God wants to work out through us. Be available and purposeful for that to happen. Have an agenda.

Many times in Scripture we are challenged to run the race...to strain ahead...with perseverance...and throwing off everything that so easily entangles us. Do that today. And everyday ahead. Run this race to the finish line with all you got sister!

THERMOSTAT OR THERMOMETER?

2011-07-12T09:47:00.003-05:00

Good morning girls! Sorry it's been a while since I've stopped in to say "hello" and write. I've been missing it but life has been so full of sport camps, vacation, baseball, 4 H and all of the other great summer treats!

I recently read this devotional from a women's magazine I receive and just knew I had to share with all. It was such a great reminder for me....and knew you'd all enjoy and be challenged yourselves!

"Here in Colorado the meteorologists really earn their pay. Ours may be the only state where you use the heater and the air conditioner in the same day--or even in the same hour. Colorado's weather can change faster than a menopausal woman's emotions. Which gets me to my thought for today . . .

As women, we have more impact on the emotional temperature of our homes than anyone else. After all, "If Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."

Our challenge is to take on the role of thermostat, not thermometer. A thermometer merely reflects the temperature in the room. It may be emotionally chilly because two family members are disagreeing. It may show temperatures rising when one explodes in anger against another. A thermometer is a passive instrument of measurement. It doesn't change the environment--it reveals it.

A thermostat, on the other hand, is an active tool. If it's too warm in the room, lower the thermostat. If it's too chilly, raise the thermostat. The thermostat changes the environment of the home.

As wives and mothers, we have the ability, if we choose to accept it, to regulate the emotional temperature in our homes, with God's help. Let's step up to that proactive role today, asking Him for the grace to be thermostats, not thermometers." (Marcia Washburn)

So, after reading that, where do you see yourself lately? Are you being a thermostat or a thermometer?

The amazing truth about this devotional is that we see that we can choose our way of regulating it! We don't just have to let our emotions and feelings rule us.

Galations 6:16 says, "So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves." Our sinful nature is going to tend to become impatient, unkind and unlovely during those real challenging times! We can't change on our own. We need the Holy Spirit to guide us each and every minute of our days. When we feel our thermometer rising...pause, take a deep breath and ask God to send his stregnth, patience and wisdom. We have the choice to choose the temperature-what are you going to choose today?

Love,
Stephanie

Prayer works

2011-06-23T21:37:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago, my son and I were out working in the garden and he had put his pet turtle out in the grass to walk around while we were working. This was something he had always done, but on that particular day, the turtle decided to take off when we weren’t looking. My son was flustered, looking all over for little Willie. No turtle anywhere!

After looking a bit, I said, “Well, let’s pray that we find him.” My son and I said a quick prayer together and I had hopes that this was going to be an opportunity for my son to have faith that God was going to help him. About 15 minutes after looking for little Willie, my son found him under a bush! He was thrilled. I said, “We prayed, didn’t we?” My 5 year-old daughter who was playing nearby over heard us and said, “Well,Mom….prayer works!!”

The faith of a child. The simple belief that God was going to answer our prayers. Why even be surprised? I loved her response and the child like faith that spoke from her lips without even any hesitation.

It challenged my heart a bit. Do I have a child like faith?

In Mark 10:13-16 (CEV), we see that Jesus wants us to have this kind faith. Here’s what it tells us,

"Some people brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless them by placing his hands on them. But his disciples told the people to stop bothering him.
When Jesus saw this, he became angry and said, "Let the children come to me! Don't try to stop them. People who are like these little children belong to the kingdom of God I promise you that you cannot get into God's kingdom, unless you accept it the way a child does." Then Jesus took the children in his arms and blessed them by placing his hands on them.

Jesus simply wants us to trust in Him with this kind of childlike faith.

Is there anything you are facing today, big or small that gives you an opportunity to choose child-like faith?

Because as my five-year-old put it, “prayer works!”

Racing to Rescue!!

2011-06-07T15:14:00.000-05:00

Today I thought I would do a little fitness encouragement since it's summer time and we should have NO excuses for not being more active! Unless you are 8 months pregnant with low iron, have a two year old, and it's 100 degrees outside...then you're off the hook (aka...me). I can't think of a more motivating way to get more physically active than to have a goal in mind...better yet, to do it for a cause. That's why I have such a heart for a cause called Racing 2 Rescue. As you know TIM is a close partner with Rescue Her organization working at raising awareness and resources to help rescue women and girls out of human trafficking. One way this is happening is by communities holding race fundraisers such as a 5Ks called Racing 2 Rescue. It's an amazing way to raise awareness and support for women and girls being abused and missused in sex and slave trafficking across the world. Just because the problem may be miles from where you or I live doesn't mean that God is willing to allow us to just look the other way. We can save lives!

Not only does Racing 2 Rescue give you a goal to physically train for, but you can stay motivated because you know that the cause you are running for is literally going to be life changing for someone. What a great challenge for each of us to take!

Today consider running a race 2 rescue...or if there isn't one in your area, consider hosting one. I promise as you are faithful to step out into what may seem the unknown and uncomfortable, God will show up to help you. He is so faithful and loves it when we take risks to bring him glory and impact others. What about you, what risk can you take that may save a life?

Visit the below links for more information or feel free to contact TIM for more ideas on how you can get involved in the "rescue".

Racing2Rescue info >

Live in South Dakota area? Race with us in September! Email Karen today for more info at:

RACE2RESCUEBROOKINGS@GMAIL.COM

Visit TIM for more info and resources: http://www.trueidentityministries.com/

So let's get moving...moving for a cause!

xoxo
Justeina

Saying I'm Sorry

2011-06-06T16:01:00.000-05:00

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24

I can tell you with all confidence that saying I’m sorry isn’t something that comes to me naturally. Have you ever had one of those moments that you know you have done something that offended or hurt a friend or family member? After we realize our offense there are usually two routes we seem to take. One is that we just try to pretend like nothing happened and expect and hope that they will get over it and soon forget without us ever apologizing. The other is that we try to apologize in a roundabout way, never really getting to the point. That apology usually includes a laundry list of reasons of why we did what we did that ended up hurting them. We work very hard at justifying our own actions while also trying to mend our offense.

Been there lately? I know I have. So often when my husband and I find ourselves in an argument because one of us has offended the other, it seems to take hours for anyone to finally say they are sorry; and if they do say it, it is always coupled with a lot of justifying. Recently I have come to a stark realization…God’s just not okay with that. There is a better way to say I’m sorry. It’s sincere and it’s genuine. It’s the type of I’m sorry that is believable and isn’t candy coated with all of our excuses. When was the last time you said an I’m sorry like that? When was the last time you just said with an overflowing heart, “I’m so sorry”? You didn’t justify it but you said it as soon as you knew you had hurt or offended and… you meant it.

I have realized that the biggest enemy to our sincere apology is pride. So often our need to be right can hinder our ability to apologize. Even when we deep down know that someone has been hurt as a result of our intentional or unintentional actions we will hold out on apologizing because of our own pride and desire to be right. On the other hand the greatest friend of our sincere apology is humility. Humility in an apology is when we decide that we value the other person and that relationship more than we value being right. If we can get ourselves to that humble place, a genuine I’m sorry will come naturally and instantly. I can tell you from personal experience that there has been so much freedom that has come to me when I am quick to apologize for my offenses. Jesus knew how important our ‘I’m sorry’ would be. That’s why in Matthew 5:23-24 he tells us that if we know someone is offended at us we need to immediately stop what we are doing and go and make amends reconciling the relationship.

So what does a true apology really look like? There are a few different things that will always take place during a sincere apology; the kind of apology that God will honor. The first thing that we need to do in our apology is get specific. We can’t just say I’m sorry you are hurt. We need to specifically apologize for the action that caused the offense. Let the other person know that you realize the behavior that caused the offense. The next thing to remember in an apology is to never make excuses. Don’t give every reason you behaved the way you did. Don’t explain to them that they just took it wrong. Be humble and just apologize for the behavior knowing that even if it was unintentional, that person’s pain is still valid.

The third thing to remember in an apology is to be ready to accept the consequences. Even if you get specific about the offending behavior and you don’t make excuses…there still may be consequences. If you have gossiped about a friend and they find out. Even after an apology they may be slow to trust you again. That is the consequence of your offense. The next step in a sincere apology is to change the offending behavior. And finally, and most importantly a sincere apology will always include the words, “Will you forgive me.” Don’t just assume that I’m sorry is enough. You need to take that apology to the next level with all humility and ask that person for forgiveness. It’s a biblical principal and one that will bring great restoration into conflicted relationships. I don’t know about you, but I want to be quick to say I’m sorry to those I’ve hurt not just to honor them and our relationship, but to always honor my God. Nothing pleases our God like a sincere and heartfelt humble apology. So who do you need to say I’m sorry to? Hmmm...I think I better call my husband now....

xoxo
Justeina

What a thankful heart does...

2011-06-02T21:19:00.005-05:00

I felt led to share with all of you an entry I wrote in my personal journal almost four years ago:

"The other day I was really battling a 'What about me?!' kind of attitude. I felt like I was running in circles; changing diapers, tending to a crying baby, picking up after 4 kids, cleaning the house non-stop, trying to get homeschooling done and on and on...all with a not so great attitude. First of all, I got lousy sleep the night before and my quiet times consisted of about 2 minutes of uninterrupted time with the Lord. Wow, I didn’t like the feeling of thinking of myself.

There was nothing specifically wrong, I just felt down. So, I did what every desperate woman does-calls up the hubby for some affirmation! :) I called up Bill and was looking forward to a pick-me-up of some sorts, but the Lord did not allow him to be available. As I sat down to nurse the baby, the Lord spoke to me and told me to "count my blessings…be thankful".

Oh, it's so easy to loose track of our thoughts, emotions and perspective when we are focused on ourselves and all that is going on around us.

Later that afternoon, during my quiet times I ran across the verse from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17, “Be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances for this is Christ’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This was no coincidence, huh? Wow, did I ever start counting my many blessings!

Instead of focusing my mind to the mounds of dirty (and some clean) laundry-I instead said, "Thank you God for these four children you've blessed me with."

Instead of focusing on the carpet that needed a desperate vaccuum job and kitchen crumbs on the floor that needed swept, I said, "Thank you God for a home that keeps us warm and safe. We are so thankful for the food we can eat together."

Instead of feeling sorry for myself for the small amount of time I had to myself, I whispered a "Thank you God for speaking to me through all of the day, even when my quiet times are short (and interuppted!).

It's amazing what a thankful heart does-changes perspective, lifts our spirit and get's our eyes off of ourselves and onto Him and others."

I felt led to share that with for some reason...so,what do you have to be thankful for today?

Join me today as I am choosing to be thankful in all circumstances (even the crazy, busy ones!)

Love,
Stephanie

The Helper

2011-05-20T05:00:00.001-05:00

I absolutely have a passion for and love talking about the Holy Spirit. It seems to me He may be one of the most neglected persons in the Church, which boggles my mind. We talk about God the Father and God the Son on a regular basis, and that's fantastic, but few people know much about God the Holy Spirit. I think people know more about Moses or Abraham or Paul than they do about this Person of the Godhead.

Why is this? John 16.7 says, "Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you." Sounds like He's kind of a big deal to me! Jesus says that it is to our advantage that he go so that the Helper (Holy Spirit) may come.

I honestly believe that if the Church and believers got this understanding of the moving and power of the Holy Spirit, and allowed Him to move in and through it/them the way He desires, there would be a shift on the earth.

I don't dare go into all the theology and what we know of the Holy Spirit; it would take too long. But I have this burning desire to help people understand Him and His moving a little better...because the Holy Spirit is moving today!

I am tempted to go in depth about the movings and workings of the Holy Spirit. But to summarize, there are two movings: dwelling and baptism. The dwelling of the Holy Spirit happens at the moment of salvation, when the believer is born in the Spirit. Through this, He makes us more like Christ and enables us to do our Fathers will.

Why did Jesus say that it would be better for him to leave and for the Helper to come? Wouldn't it be better to have Jesus there, in person? For a moment, you would think so...to have the Son of God, in the flesh, walking on the earth. But think about it this way. The Holy Spirit lives in us, and what's better than having God in us? To talk to Jesus on earth, you would have to fly to where he was, wait in line to talk to him, and then maybe get a question in. It's not that Jesus wouldn't want to spend all day talking to you, but there are six billion other people who would be vying for his attention. With the Holy Spirit, we have unlimited access to God, no matter where we are. How awesome is that!

The second moving is the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which happens to a believer at some point. What I would like to emphasize is that this filling is for ALL believers. That's right; Gods desire is for you to be baptized in the Holy Spirit. Acts 2.34 says, "For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." Do you see that? It's for all who are far off...to everyone whom the Lord calls to himself? Sounds like every believer to me.

So why, if this gift is for all believers, are so many missing it? It is so important that believers be baptized. Not only does it speed up the process that makes us more like Christ, but with it comes the power to witness and the gifts of the Spirit. I cannot express enough the importance of being baptized in the Holy Spirit. My prayer is that churches, leaders and believers all across the earth would eagerly seek the moving and power of the Holy Spirit. My prayer is that there would be a freedom for His moving. If there was, just think of what God would do through His Church for His glory!

A relationship with the Holy Sprit is a unique one, and one that I enjoy cultivating with each day. That relationship must be protected, nurtured, developed and guarded. You won't regret for a second the effort you put into the relationship.

God wants to maximize His power through our lives, but we must be willing.
Pray for the baptism if you have yet to experience it.
Seek it.
Have an open heart and an open mind.
Have faith; it is essential.
Be obedient.

It is Gods desire for His children to be baptized, and we should all eagerly desire it. If you have not, seek it. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't happen the first or fifth or tenth time you have prayed...keep praying and it will happen. If you have been, cultivate your relationship with the Holy Spirit. It's a two sided relationship; a communication that goes both ways.

The Holy Spirit longs to work in and through your life!

What's inside?

2011-05-19T21:14:00.003-05:00

A few years ago I bought my son some of those water capsules that you are supposed to soak in warm water and wait for a short time before an animal or car or a ‘surprise’ shape comes out of it. Well, he was so excited! Even though it was supposed to change into something within a few hours, the waiting time was so challenging because my son couldn’t wait to see what was inside of it! He couldn’t stop staying, “Mom…I just can’t wait to see what’s inside!”

A few weeks after this, I was thinking that this is often how it is when we impatiently wait for ourselves to make changes.

Do you ever feel like you just know you are spiritually making some changes?

Sometimes it can be challenging because we want changes NOW and it just takes time. It takes time for the Holy Spirit to do his work and bring about the beautiful surprise that’s inside of each of us. We all have gifts, talents, and strengths within us, but sometimes they are covered by a hard ‘capsule’ or what the Word of God calls sin. Sin of pride, anger, impatience, lust, or any other acts of the sinful nature.

In John 4, Jesus talks about living waters. Just like soaking that toy capsule in water, we must continually soak ourselves in the Living Waters!

That living water is Jesus! Time with Him each and every day...allowing Him to make changes within us moment by moment...step by step in this journey of life.

What does this look like?

Maybe it's the next time I am tempted to get impatient when a child does something real irritating, instead of getting so aggravated, I instead respond in patience and mercy.

Someone offends me...instead of letting it affect my mood or emotions, I give it over to God and extend forgiveness and grace.

I'm asking Him daily to soak away (chip away) any hard coating; i.e-sin that is preventing the inward fruit from coming out.

Ask Him to change you!

When He keeps showing us what's inside...it's beyond what we could ever dream~!

Love ya!
Stephanie

(Psalms 36:9 says, “For with you is the fountain of life, in your light we see light."-which is the power of the Almighty God, we are made new!!)

Here I Am - God

2011-05-13T12:47:00.004-05:00

"Then when you pray, God will answer. You'll call out for help and I'll say, 'Here I am.'"
Isaiah 58.9

Isaiah 58 is a beautiful passage, and I would highly recommend that you read it. I am quite fond of The Message translation because the Scripture seems to burst forth right in front of you! It is certainly a chapter worth reading in full.

Over the last four weeks, we have been able to take a glimpse into the lives of four men in the Bible who showed faith, courage, and obedience. Abraham, Jacob, Moses and Ananias all responded with "Here I am," when the Lord called their name. They were in place, both in their walk with God and in their purpose, in order that they may be ready when the Lord called upon them. Don't worry if you feel you can't relate. Truth is, they didn't have it all together, either. God calls on anyone who is willing, and it is HIM who equips us for the task.

What we have been able to learn is that when God calls our name for an assignment, we must first be in a place where we are willing to hear from Him. Then, with immediate obedience, we step out in faith and courage to accomplish the task He has set before us, in His mighty power!

Today we turn the tables and look to our Father for this response. In Isaiah 58, we find a promise. Oh, I just love Gods promises, don't you?! Even though we don't deserve any good thing, he longs to be gracious to us. Beyond that, He promises us so much! We find one right here, tucked away in verse 9...that when we call out to Him, He will say "Here I am."

The phrase "Here I am" actually notes a person ready at hand to help. When we call Gods name, when we seek Him out, He is ready to respond! If Abraham responded so quickly when God called him to sacrifice his son, how much more quickly will God respond to help His children?

We don't have to fear if our prayers will fall flat. Or if we have too much baggage for God to hear us. And we certainly don't have to worry if God cares. Because He does...about everything! Even what may seem small in contrast to everything else, God cares if it matters to us.

I want to be careful not to take this verse out of context. It must be read in a way that it is linked to the rest of the passage, which would be necessary. There is much in the chapter that addresses an action on our part. To care for the poor, stand up for injustice, to not gossip and to be generous. "THEN when you pray, God will answer."

I want to encourage you to today, and every day henceforth, to call out the name of the Lord. There is power in His name, and in prayer. And when you do, watch God respond!

Here I Am - Ananias

2011-05-05T20:22:00.007-05:00

Ananias...the one who started it all for me. It was reading in Acts 9 that I came across the account of the Lord calling out to Ananias in a vision, and Ananias responding with, "Here I am."

In the past few weeks, we have been able to take a glimpse into the lives of three men who said the same thing: Abraham, Jacob, and Moses. I don't know about you, but I have been encouraged and challenged by their example of obedience and courage...and above all, faith. As I have been in study for this series, I've heard the Lord speak things to my heart that I had never heard in quite the same way before. His Word is coming alive in me!

Ananias, the one that started it all for me, and the only example we will look at from the New Testament. Who is this man?

Ananias was a disciple of Jesus, and Paul later says, well spoken of by the Jews. I do want to address that this is not the same Ananias we find in Acts 5 who, with his wife Sapphira, sold his property, yet kept a portion of the proceeds for himself. His deeds were made known to the apostles, and at that point his life was lost. Nor is this Ananias, the high priest in Acts 23-24 who brought a case against Paul. No, indeed this is not the same Ananias we find in these two accounts. He was a man, perhaps not as well known as others we often think of, but without a doubt one of faith.

In Acts 9, Saul, who would come to be known as Paul, was on his way to Damascus. Verse 1-2 introduces Saul with, "But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem." Saul was not one to be trifled with, and you can be sure Christians knew his name.

On his was to Damascus, Saul encounters the Lord, is stricken blind, and is told to go to Damascus and find a man named Ananias. About the same time, the Lord comes to Ananias in a vision, calling his name. Then we hear it..."Hear I am, Lord." The Lord proceeds to tell Ananias to go to a man named Saul, and to lay his hands on him.

Ananias knew who Saul was, and even asks God about it. No doubt there is a hint of fear in his voice. But as we have looked at before, there is often fear when God calls us to do something. However, Ananias didn't run away or avoid Saul, as many may have well done knowing Saul's reputation. No, he went right away to find Saul.

I can't help but chuckle a bit. If only Ananias knew what was about to happen. If only he knew what God was about to unleash through Saul/Paul. I don't think he could have imagined it!

Ananias finds Saul, lays his hands on him, and Saul regains his sight. Immediately, Ananias prophesizes over him and baptizes him. He gets to witness the transformation of a persecutor into a mighty man of God. Knowing Saul's reputation, I can imagine that Ananias must have felt some sense of how big this time was.

I can't help but think how exciting it must have been for Ananias. He made himself available to God, and when called upon to do something fearful, he proceeded with obedience and courage. The result of his faith was the conversion of Saul into Paul. The impact Paul made for the gospel cannot be counted or imagined. I'm amazed at what that meant for Ananias, and what that means for us.

Before we conclude, it would be appropriate to make known that Ananias is mentioned once more, in Acts 22.12-16. Paul is recounting his conversion, and mentions Ananias, and even recounts the conversion with a bit more detail. We can learn from this example given to us through Ananias, and be encouraged to step out in faith and expect that God will use our faith to do great things for His kingdom.

As we look back over the last few weeks:

Abraham has convicted me to be willing to lay my dreams on the altar. Never has this been more necessary or been called upon me more than in the last few weeks as I have been asked to lay down my greatest dream, and it has been the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But I would rather lay my dream down than be disobedient to my loving Father.

Jacob's testimony has encouraged me to go forward when I am called, even in the presence of fear. To take a step into the unknown when I am called.

Moses has challenged me to proceed when called upon, even though I might not feel qualified. We can be sure that when God calls us to do something, no matter the task, He will equip us to do it. We must just step out and believe He will give us what we need, when we rely on Him, to go forth.

And in Ananias, also teaching us to step out when we are afraid, we see the possibility of what one act of obedience can do to advance the gospel, impact the Kingdom, and change many lives.

My prayer for you would be that God would stir something in your heart through this study. That you would be challenged by each of these accounts to step out in obedience and courage when you are called upon.

However, we are not done. Next we will conclude our study by turning the tables a little, and taking a look at an Old Testament account of God replying to His child, "Here I am." You wont want to miss it!

The Wandering Mind

2011-05-05T06:54:00.002-05:00

Do you ever find your mind wondering off in several directions? A certain worry or concern sets your mind in panic mode? I don’t know if it’s just a ‘Mommy’ thing, but when it comes to my kids, my mind can easily wander off before I know it. Just for example, a few days ago when I was brushing my daughter’s hair, I noticed a tick stuck to her head. I tried all of the tick removal ‘tricks’ that I discovered on Google, and after several attempts, I removed the tick. Well, the following day my daughter started complaining of a headache and not feeling well. That quickly my mind began to go in a million directions, “I wonder if her headache is related to that tick bite?” “What if that tick had Lyme’s disease?” “Should I call the pediatrician and ask them if I should be watching my daughter for any symptoms?” Seriously, my mind started going a million miles a minute!

Ever been there?

Maybe it’s some worries with your children. Your marriage. Or any of the other hundreds of things that can flood our minds and rob our joy?

An unusual doctor’s report on our child?

Your child looks like his heart is far from God?

A marriage that looks completely hopeless?

Aging parents with health issues-and a future that is looking bleak?

Financial difficulties?

Fortunately, I recognized this worry sooner than later and gave my motherly panic over to God. I reminded myself that it’s at these times in our lives where we have to continually meditate on the scriptures, Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he’s done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

Did you notice that?

As we pray instead of worry and be thankful for all He’s done… then God is going to give us a supernatural peace that will guard our wandering minds! It's a supernatural peace-one that's given by our loving Father not a peace we can muster up on our own. This is the kind of peace I need at times my wandering mind has the best of me!

We need to fix our wandering minds on God-the maker of this world and the creator of the planets and stars. Let’s agree together today that the next time our minds begin to wonder and worry, we’re going to give it ALL to Him! I know we can trust Him! :)

Love,
Stephanie

More to meditate on: Philippians 4:8-9

Love Like That

2011-05-02T15:11:00.000-05:00

Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. Eph 5:1-3 MSG

Have you ever felt like your relationships were falling apart? Or simply barely hanging on at best? Wondered why your marriage and friendships seemed to always stay at surface level? Trust me I have felt like that before too. I have watched other women as they can’t stop talking about their “wonderful” husband they are so in love with and how fun marriage is and sometimes thought to myself, “why don’t I always feel like that too?” Other times I have sat in envy watching other women’s friendships and how committed they were to one another, again thinking to myself, “do I have a friend that close?”

Likely you have found yourself there before as well. So often we begin to feel sorry for ourselves. We think if we could have married the right man or if we could just find that one faithful friend, our world would be so different, so satisfying. The truth is that while we continue to blame the other parties for our surface level superficial relationship experiences, we might ought to take a look in the mirror. I have had to do that recently as well. As I stared intently into the reflection of my own relationships, I realized that I myself had built up a wall around my life allowing no one to get too close. I’m not sure if it was a fear of rejection or a fear of disappointment, but either way it caused me to continue to keep all the people God wanted to connect me with at arm’s length. Then I read Ephesians 5:1-3. I realized I was being…cautious.

Let’s face it, most of us have experienced some kind of relational hurt in our past, present and too be sure it will be in our future. So often we allow those experiences to cause us to become cautious in relationships. To be cautious according to the dictionary is to: be careful, watchful, alert, vigilant, guarded, and wary. According to Ephesians 5 that was something Jesus was not when it came to his relationships. Instead it teaches us that he was extravagant, he went above and beyond what was reasonable when it came to loving others. I wonder today…which one are you. Cautious or extravagant when it comes to your own relationships. Do you constantly become offended and guarded? Do you feel sorry for yourself that everyone else seems to have deeper connections than you? Do you walk around with your guard up never willing to be transparent with others in your life? If so I want to challenge you…take a step of faith and ask God to teach you how to be extravagant. Initiate deeper levels in your marriage, family ties, and friendships. That means you will have to take chances on getting hurt because let’s face it people are sure to fail us. But when you and I connect with others like God has planned for us to do, it will be one of the greatest joys of your life.

Want to know how I think it’s going to happen for you? One important way: Don’t love someone to get something from them, but instead to offer something to them. If you change that one principal in your life you are sure to see satisfying fruit begin to form in each of your relationships. Jesus was a perfect example of love…Love Like That.

Xoxo

Justeina

Here I Am - Moses

2011-04-29T09:30:00.000-05:00

Over the last two weeks, we have been able take a peek into the lives of two men of the faith, Abraham and Jacob. We have been able to witness their immediate response and obedience in saying "Here I am, Lord." And in the face of the unknown, exercise courage. I don't know about you, but I have been greatly challenged and encouraged by this study.

The response, "here I am" has been echoing in my mind, like a dream I can't shake.
Abraham has convicted me to be willing to lay my dreams on the altar. Indeed, even in the last few weeks I have been asked to lay down my greatest dream, and it has been the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But I would rather lay my dream down than be disobedient to my loving Father.
Jacob's testimony has encouraged me to go forward when I am called, even in the presence of fear.

This week we examine the instance in which Moses responds to God with, "Here I am." We find his story in Exodus 3. I would encourage you now take the time to read the chapter.
When we come to chapter three, what do we know about Moses? We know that he was a Hebrew child hidden by his mother to escape death. We know he was placed into the river and eventually found by the Pharaohs daughter. We know he is raised in Pharaohs court and has gained much in his time there. We know, when one day he sees an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, he kills the man, and out of fear, runs to the land of Midian. We know he marries the priests daughter, and for forty years, shepards the man flocks in the wilderness.

Forty years. The same routine every day. Certainly plenty of time to pray. One day, however, Moses would encounter God in a way he never had before. A day unlike any other.

As Moses was out with the flock, he notices a burning bush. Not extraordinary in itself. But as time goes by, Moses notices that the bush isn't being consumed. Interesting, don't you think? Moses did to. He goes to get a closer look and out of nowhere he hears his name called.

What I find crazy is that Moses responds, "Here I am." Seriously? Really? I'm fairly certain that if I saw a burning bush and heard a loud voice call out my name out in the middle of nowhere, I would be pretty darned scared. Wouldn't you? Not Moses though; he is cool, calm, and collected.

To get to the point, God calls Moses' name, Moses responds, and God tells Moses He wants for him to return to Egypt. Like Jacob, God was calling Moses to return to a place he had once fled out of fear of death. To return to Egypt would mean to face his past…something we all are afraid to do at times.

Can you imagine being told that God wants you to return to a dangerous place, and out of there, lead the deliverance of thousands of people through the desert? Pretty big task if you ask me! But Moses did it, and he was used as Gods instrument to deliver the Israelites out of bondage.

I want to challenge you today to face the fear ahead. Perhaps you don’t feel qualified like Moses? Do it anyway. Please know this…God wouldn’t call you to do anything He knew you couldn’t handle. He will equip you for what He has called you to do!

You have know idea what God has planned for you. Nor can you comprehend the magnitude of your purpose. We all have a purpose. Yes, you have a God ordained purpose to make an impact on this earth that ONLY YOU can make. My prayer would be that you would never regret being disobedient to the call of God because you were afraid or felt ill-qualified, but rather you would be able to see a life marked with obedience and courage!

Here I Am - Jacob

2011-04-22T05:00:00.002-05:00

Last week we began a look at five men in the Bible who responded with, "Here I am" when God called their name. In these men we can learn great lessons; lessons on what obedience and courage look like.

In our first study, we looked at the life of Abraham and how God had spoken to him that he must sacrifice his son, Isaac. With immediate obedience and great courage, he made a three day journey in order to offer up his son. However, God stopped him in the nick of time, and blessed Abraham as the father of many.

Today we look at Jacob, the grandson of Abraham. A man we would come to know as Israel; the father of the twelve tribes. We see, not in just one chapter, but twice the obedience of Jacob. But it was not always like this for Jacob. In fact, Jacob was quite the troublemaker.

A deceit most noted is that of Jacob in deceiving his father, in Genesis 27. Here, Jacob tells his father many lies in order to steal a blessing that belonged to his older brother Esau. Many were the consequences that came as a result of Jacobs deception, but over the course of his life, he learned to hear and respond to the voice of God.

I believe this can be a great encouragement to us all. We can look at the life of Israel and see God's mercy and favor, as he sought God. We can know that our past mistakes are not barriers to Gods blessings. Yes, there will be consequences to our sins, but God is merciful and covers us with favor as a shield.

Over time, Jacob learned to recognize the voice of God. And not only did he recognize the voice of God, but he learned obedience.

In Genesis 31, Jacob has made a family and acquired property for himself, while living with his uncle Laban. After years of service to Laban, he finds his favor with his uncle dwindling. In a dream, God calls Jacobs name, and he responds with, "Here I am." God then proceeds to tell him to take his family and property, and to return to his native land.

That took courage on Jacobs part. Why? Because returning home meant facing his older brother Esau. Remember, Jacob had fled home in the first place because he was told Esau had plans to kill him. To return home could mean death for him.

The second time we see God call to Jacob in a dream is in Genesis 46, and Jacob of course responds, "Here I am." This time, God calls Jacob to leave home, and to travel to Egypt in order that he may be reunited with his son Joseph. We can find confidence in knowing that sometimes when God calls us, it may be a bit unnerving, going to a place we are unfamiliar with, but it's road leads to answered prayer and restoration.

We can look at the life of Jacob and be encouraged. To see a man botch it up quite a bit, but to see this man grow into someone God uses to birth His chosen nation, Israel. We can be encouraged in knowing that even though we make mistakes, God chooses to restore our fortunes out of His own loving desire, to restore us and bless us.

Perhaps God is calling your name right now. You hesitate to respond out of fear. Out of doubt that you are capable. Be assured that God will equip you for every journey He calls us to. Sometimes its hard. Sometimes it's very hard. Usually it leads to a blessing we cannot imagine. Jacob returned to his native land, with Esau meeting him with open arms. And in his later years, he travelled the unknown to be reunited with his precious son Joseph, whom he thought was dead.

When God calls your name, will you be able to recognize His voice? If so, will you respond immediately and with courage?

2011-04-20T13:54:00.002-05:00

Deuteronomy 10 ~ MSG

12-13 So now Israel, what do you think GOD expects from you? Just this: Live in his presence in holy reverence, follow the road he sets out for you, love him, serve GOD, your God, with everything you have in you, obey the commandments and regulations of GOD that I'm commanding you today—live a good life.
14-18 Look around you: Everything you see is GOD's—the heavens above and beyond, the Earth, and everything on it. But it was your ancestors who GOD fell in love with; he picked their children—that's you!—out of all the other peoples. That's where we are right now. So cut away the thick calluses from your heart and stop being so willfully hardheaded. GOD, your God, is the God of all gods, he's the Master of all masters, a God immense and powerful and awesome. He doesn't play favorites, takes no bribes, makes sure orphans and widows are treated fairly, takes loving care of foreigners by seeing that they get food and clothing.

19-21 You must treat foreigners with the same loving care—
remember, you were once foreigners in Egypt.
Reverently respect GOD, your God, serve him, hold tight to him,
back up your promises with the authority of his name.
He's your praise! He's your God!
He did all these tremendous, these staggering things
that you saw with your own eyes.
22 When your ancestors entered Egypt, they numbered a mere seventy souls. And now look at you—you look more like the stars in the night skies in number. And your GOD did it.

I'm so in love with Our God! He wants the very best for us and tells us all throughout His Word. Live in MY presence! Follow the road I set out before you! Love Me, serve Me with everything you have in you and throughout everything you do! Live a good life! Seriously, what do we have to complain about or want??? We go without nothing and have so much more than we deserve!

I love Earth Day! I marvel in God's awesome creation and all He has blessed us with. From the birth of a precious new baby to the birds chirping in the morning, and fresh beautiful plants and flowers rising up from the ground, it's all for us from Him and He chose us to enjoy every bit of it! Wow! Lets work together to respect, appreciate and bring all of Gods creation one step closer to being one body. I can hardly contain the joy I feel when I read the last verse. We may have started small in number BUT one day we will look more like the stars in the night skies! Lets burn to see lives saved and forever changed through the power of Our Father!

Rescue Her Project...take a listen

2011-04-19T15:13:00.000-05:00

Take a listen to today's radio broadcast from Justeina. It's a recorded message from a recent conference that shares about TIM's new partnership in fighting slavery! It's NOT ok! After you listen visit http://www.rescueher.org/ or http://www.trueidentityministries.com/ for more information on how you can help.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/trueidentityministries/2011/04/19/rescue-her

Here I Am - Abraham

2011-04-15T05:00:00.006-05:00

The other day I was reading in Acts 9, for no reason other than I opened up to it. As I was reading the chapter, I came across the character of Ananias. We find him in scripture twice; once in Acts 9 when he meets Saul and once in Acts 22 as the now Paul mentions him.

In a vision, the Lord calls Ananias' name, and immediately he responds with, "Here I am, Lord." This is a response I had remembered hearing before, so I quickly began to research other instances in the Bible when someone had responded with ,"Here I am" when God called their name.

There are five instances that I could find, using this exact phrasing; four times in the Old Testament and once in the New Testament. Needless to say, my curiosity was peaked.

I took some time to study each instance, and each time I saw obedience and courage in the response of the person. As I began to write this devotional, I realized I couldn't fit it all into one segment. In fact, Abraham's experience was enough for one devotional. With that said, I will be turning this study into a five part study on the obedience and courage of those in the Bible who said, "Here I am."

Genesis 22 - Abraham

Abraham waited years, and I mean years, to have a son with his wife, Sarah. After decades of praying, waiting on God, and an attempt to get the process started early, God opens up Sarah's barren womb, and she bears Isaac. Beautiful and heaven sent Isaac...the answer to their prayers.

One day many years later, God calls out to Abraham, "and he said, 'Here am I.'" God tells Abraham that he would like for him to take Isaac to a designated mountain and...are you ready for a shocker? He tells Abraham to sacrifice beautiful Isaac. Really you might ask?! Oh yes.

What floors me and encourages me all at the same time is Abraham's immediate response! Scripture says he woke up early the next morning and set off on a a three day journey to the mountain.

Let's be honest, how many of us would have taken the time to get around obeying? Maybe taking a few days to prepare for the trip? Or taking a week to soak up your final moments with your loving son? It's not too hard to imagine stalling as long as possible. However, don't we fall into this trap more than we would like to admit? God asks us to do something difficult, and though we agree to obey, how often do we beat around the bush? Delayed obedience is still disobedience, no matter what way you try to paint the picture. Abraham didn't just respond immediately with "Here I am" when God called his name, but he responded in action as well. What a great directive for us all.

Furthermore, Abraham didn't even ask for God to reconsider His command! It would have been easy to rationalize with God. To perhaps ask God to spare him of such a thing. To remind God that Isaac was a promise to Abraham. But no. God tells Abraham to sacrifice his only son, and in the next sentence we see Abraham's immediate obedience.

Can you imagine it? For years you pray for a child. One son with your bride. And finally, after years of trying and crying out to God, your son arrives. You spend many more years training him in the ways of the Lord. Years in fellowship with your pride and joy. Morning after morning of God'spromise looking back at you. Then one day, your Heavenly Father tells you to sacrifice your most treasured son. Instead of fighting back, your crying heart musters up enough faith to move forward in obedience.

Immediately you set off with your precious son. Three days you journey with him, all the while knowing that the son who is following you so willingly, who has trusted you all the days of his life, is about to be bound on an alter by your very hands.

The anguish Abraham must have carried in his soul...it's devastating to think about it. Yet what obedience, and courage it took to follow God. Surely, an example to us all. If Abraham can be ready to say "Here I am," and offer up his only son, can we not be ready to answer God and have the courage to sacrifice our own dreams.

C.H. Spurgeon, in his study of Genesis 22, made this point about our dreams and loves. "Let Isaac be dear, but let Isaac die sooner than God should be distrusted!"

Wow...

With much relief, we can read that God did not allow Abraham to go with through with the sacrifice. What we can learn from Abraham is followed up in two words: obedience, and courage.

We can also read further in Scripture and see that through Abraham's obedience, God used him to birth a nation. What an incredible testimony.

I pray your heart is strengthened with this message. I pray it will encourage you to be ready to say "Here I am," when God calls your name. I pray that if the last thing you hope God would ask you to do is asked, you would have the courage to respond with immediate obedience. I know this passage challenges me to do so.

For When You Don't Feel Like It...

2011-04-01T05:00:00.003-05:00

"And the LORD afflicted the child that Uriah’s wife bore to David, and he became sick. David therefore sought God on behalf of the child. And David fasted and went in and lay all night on the ground. And the elders of his house stood beside him, to raise him from the ground, but he would not, nor did he eat food with them. On the seventh day the child died. And the servants of David were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they said, "Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spoke to him, and he did not listen to us. How then can we say to him the child is dead? He may do himself some harm. But when David saw that his servants were whispering together, David understood that the child was dead. And David said to his servants, "Is the child dead?" They said, "He is dead." Then David arose from the earth and washed and anointed himself and changed his clothes. And he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped. He then went to his own house. And when he asked, they set food before him, and he ate." 2 Samuel 12. 15-20

Have you ever found yourself in an incredibly difficult season of life, and the last thing you felt like doing in your pain was worshipping God? Nobody can hear your answer, so you can be honest with yourself. I will be honest with you and say that I have been there a few times. In fact, I was just there, and even yet find myself there at my low points.

A few weeks ago I wrote to you that I was going through the most difficult season of my life, as I shared with you the importance of staying connected to the true vine, Jesus, as John 15 illustrates. These past four weeks have been without a doubt, by far, the hardest of my 26 years. I have felt a pain I never thought existed.

When I first experienced the loss that brought me into this season, the last thing I felt like doing was worshipping God. I couldn't even say anything because the tears were overwhelming. I just collapsed onto the ground and felt a piece of myself die on the inside. Worship was not my first inclination...doubt was.

I wish I would have been stronger, but I wasn't. However, I soon discovered the story of David in 2 Samuel 12, when he experienced the loss of his son. I was amazed as I read this heart wrenching story.

I can't even imagine the loss of a child, yet David finds himself in this situation. For me, though as heart wrenching as the story is, it has offered me much encouragement. Why? Because it directed me to worship my loving Father rather than to sit in my suffering.

I don't know if you could find a much better example to worship God, no matter how hard the season, than this example that David has shown us. After he hears of the death of his son, he gets up, gets clean, and goes into the House of the Lord to worship.

All I can say is...wow.

It's easy to worship God, and to praise Him when life is good for us. But what if life isn't so good for a season? Whats if it's hard? Maybe it's hard for you right now, like me. Oh, we must worship God all the more! When the season is dark, difficult, and we don't feel much like doing anything but crying, cry out to God! That is when our faith is most tested and we need God the most.

Remember, regardless of the season, God is always good! Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, He is good! Remember the eternal gift He has given you through His only Son, Jesus Christ. That's enough to make me want to worship! Because I know that no matter how heart wrenching my own season is right now, one day I will be able to sit at the supper table with God himself for the banquet of all banquets, and it will be there in His heavenly presence that I will find no more suffering. Ever. And that alone, aside from all the other blessings He has bestowed upon me, lifts my heart to worship.

I don't share this story of mine for pity or attention...in fact, being transparent is very hard for me. I share this with you so that I may encourage you to not make the same mistake I did by containing my suffering, instead of releasing my worship. My prayer for you would be that you would learn how to release worship in your life. That when the wind blows and beats down on you, your first inclination would be to worship God! And there watch Him intervene with His neverending love.

RESCUE HER PROJECT!

2011-03-29T09:16:00.000-05:00

Recently I heard a story told from a man that ministers in red light districts of India. He had went to an auction to buy a few things while he was in the country. He had his pocket full of money and a van and driver ready to load up his treasures. The thing was that he wasn't shopping for your typical auction items...what was being auctioned off were young girls and women. This man of God was at this auction not to purchase them for slaves like the rest of the crowd of men, but to rescue them.

He did what he did so often and waited for God to move on his heart as to which girls to bid on and rescue with his limited amount of money. By the end of the auction he had bid on and won 9 girls of all ages. Then suddenly the entire auction went silent and as he turned he saw one of the last girls coming down to the auctioning block. She had been beaten and raped and she could hardly walk to the front on her own. He wanted to help her with everything in him but he was instructed to not touch her because if he helped her, no one would bid and she would be killed. So he watched her struggle to the auctioning block.

The auctioneer started the bidding at a mere $1 compared to the $100 start of the rest of the girls. This man felt God overwhelm his heart and he shouted at the top of his lungs, "I will give $500 for her!" When asked why he would pay so much when he could have her for $1, he said that he wanted that girl to know that she was just as valuable as every other girl there.

It was this story that stirred my heart and TIM ministry to step up and be a voice for these same girls. God has led us to partner with an organization of like mind and heart called Rescue Her.

We want to take a stand against injustice, be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, and help rescue those that are held captive. We want to raise awareness about human trafficking, and be a place that allows those that want to do something about it to take action. We are ordinary people banding together to see something extraordinary happen.

Our purpose can be summarized in Proverbs 31:8 “speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.” and you can HELP! go to http://www.trueidentityministries.com/RescueHer.html to find out how! If you will be attending a HTID conference coming up, you can purchase a copy of TIM's newest book and proceeds will go towards this project. We can save lives together!

xoxo

Justeina

I AM THE VINE

2011-03-18T05:00:00.003-05:00

I am about to be very candid and very vulnerable with you ladies. I figure it's okay because we're a bunch of chicks, and we do this, right? So as nervous as I am to open up, it's okay because I know y'all will be able to relate with me.

These past two weeks have been my worst. My darkest. My most broken. And it relates to something I believe ya'll probably will know a thing or two about: break-ups. This is why, in fact, I did not share with you lovely ladies last Friday. Honestly, I was in a place where I didn't feel much like studying the Word of God (and yes, shame on me).

My boyfriend of seven months and I recently broke up. Now before you commence with your, "Aww, poor young thing, she and her boyfriend broke up...you ain't seen nothing yet, sweet pea." I know that's what you're thinking. Let me just interject that I was indeed in love, with every bit of my twenty-six year old self. And the thing is, it's not like we broke up because anything was bad or wasn't working; we just felt it was of the Lord for this time.

Not to have y'all pitying me, I just would like to set the stage for today's devotion. It was at the beginning of my relationship with Mr. Foundling (a sentimental name I will use to refer this man as) that we decided on John 15.1-17 as our verse. Ironically, it has been this passage that has been the most vital Truth to me during this difficult season. However today we will look at only the first eight verses.

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."

At this point is Scripture, Jesus is speaking to the eleven disciples (as Judas had already left to betray him) in the upper room, the night before his death. He speaks to them using an analogy of himself being a vine, and the Father being the vine dresser. Now just to bypass any confusion along the way, the branch that does not bear fruit does not represent a Christian not-bearing fruit. This is impossible. I could go through the theology of this, but I won't. All to say, there is no such thing as a Christian that does not bear fruit. The branch that does not bear fruit would represent a person who appears to be walking with the Lord, but is not connected to him, and inevitably turns from him.

What I would like to focus on is the branch that does bear fruit; the Christian. The first reference to this branch is that the Father gives much attention to the branch with pruning, as He does in pruning His children.

By pruning, I can also mean cleansing. God wants to remove whatever might be hindering a believer from full-potential, so He brings us through trials and tribulations that will open us up to His cleansing by the Word.

Why is this so important? On branches, there can be suckers; this would cause harm to the branch in that it sucks away energy. Therefore, God prunes, or purges us of our suckers in order to bring forth more fruit. A sucker to the Christian would be sin, as you can imagine. It is the sin in our life that saps away our energy and misdirects our energy to be fully devoted to God.

Think about it. It is the sin in our life that distracts us. Oooh, this relationship is nice. Or wow, I can get use to these nice things. Or boy, does she have a lot to learn. It's the sin that can ever so subtly turn our focus from God.

Jesus is calling every believer to abide in him. Abide simply means to stay close to Jesus. It is in remaining with him that produces fruit, and shows evidence of our salvation.

Does that mean if you make a mistake or have a season of drought that you'll stop bearing fruit and will be cut off. Absolutely not. A true believer will not lose their salvation because a true believer remains connected to the vine. Life comes from the vine and is directed into the branch, bearing fruit no matter the season of life.

Branches are totally dependent upon the vine, as a believer must be totally dependent upon Jesus. And accordingly, the Father will work to prune us, and to purge us of our suckers. Hence the trials in your life. But it is not the trial themselves that improve you...no. Trials merely open you up so that the Word can cleanse you.

I know this passage has been a great encouragement to me. In this most difficult season of life, this trial has opened me up to a very vulnerable place with God, allowing for Him to prune me. And it is in the study of His Word, and this passage in particular, that I am being cleansed. Yes, it hurts, but pruning usually does. These suckers don't like to be cut off so easily.

There is so much to be said concerning this passage, and I feel I am learning so much. But my encouragement to you would be this: remain as close to Jesus as possible. He is your source of energy and life. Apart from him, you can bear no fruit (as hard as we try...and I know you try, because we're all girls and we can't help it). It's impossible. You bear fruit by abiding in the vine, not by trying on your own to produce it. Abiding isn't really all that hard: love God and be in the Word. Truly, stay connected and spend as much time as you can allowing yourself to be cleansed by the Word of God. This will produce much fruit in your life, ultimately giving glory to God.

Lucky Day or God planned day???

2011-03-17T11:39:00.005-05:00

Today is the day that my family has been praying for and hoping for some time now. My sister-in-law is getting her kidney transplant. She was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease that caused her kidneys to fail last year. Since then, she has been undergoing dialysis three days a week, while being a mom to three young girls. It’s been a very tough, trying and testing year. My other sister-in-law went through extensive testing and is able to donate her kidney. So, as I write, they are undergoing the surgery. Praise God! When the date was set for the surgery, we all laughed that it was St. Patrick’s day or ‘lucky day’ as some call it. But, as we talked about it, we said, “Isn’t it great that we don’t have to ‘hope we get lucky?” Isn’t it great to know that we don’t have to hope we find some three leaf clover or superstitiously go about today thinking, “This is our lucky day.” No, this is the day that the Lord has planned long ago!

As Christians, we don’t have to hope for luck, we can put our trust in an Almighty God. He directs our days. He is in control of our lives. Maybe you are facing something today that you could be thinking, “I could use some major luck today!” :) And instead, what you really desire is for God’s blessings of peace, strength and hope. A verse from the Bible that has spoken to my heart so many times is this:
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

While living on this earth, we must learn to live by sight and the certainty that comes through faith in God. We must learn to see with the eyes of faith as we follow Jesus, while keeping our mindset on eternity.

Would you say your eyes are set on the temporal or eternal things?

When people approached Jesus to tell him about their circumstances, he’d often say something like, “You’re looking for a drink of water, but look past your circumstances because I’m the living water. I can quench your thirst for eternity, not just in this moment. Can you see it?” Or, “You want to see bread right now, but I want you to see that I am the living bread. I can feed you for this one meal, but-look!-I can feed you for all eternity. Can you see it?”

In some of the difficult seasons of our lives, when our faith is challenged and tested to grow, Jesus says we should see the unseen. How do we practically do that? The way to do that is to stay intimate with him and let the Holy Spirit direct our sight, both our physical eyes and our spiritual eyes. Jesus knows all of the answers to the questions that we ask ourselves. He knows which answers are “yes” and which ones are “no”. He knows when and where to reveal to us our next step. Our part is simply to take the next step of obedience and keep our eyes on him every step of the way. Many times in our lives, it appears God is answering “no” but they are really stepping stones to His amazing “yes”. When we learn to step out in obedience and trust, blessing is down the path. And when times in our journey hold pain, it’s then that we learn to choose trust and obedience over worry, fear and doubt.

Would you say that your mindset is on eternity or are you plagued with fear of what your circumstances look like presently?

“Trusting God completely means having faith that God knows what is best for your life. You expect him to keep his promises, help you with problems, and do the impossible when necessary.”
Rick Warren

As you go about today, trust and know that God is in control of all things. Rest in His plans for you, knowing that you don’t have to ‘get lucky’, God’s in control!

Romans 8 tell us that “nothing shall separate us from the love of God”-revel in that today!

In His love,
Stephanie

Masquerading Behind Hurt 3/15/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-03-15T20:17:00.000-05:00

Masquerading Behind Hurt 3/15/2011 - True ID Ministries Internet Radio Blog Talk Radio

Masquerading Behind Wealth 3/8/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-03-09T15:29:00.000-06:00

Masquerading Behind Wealth 3/8/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

Forgive or be Forgiven

2011-03-09T11:38:00.004-06:00

Matthew 5:23-24
"Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift."

Tough topic huh? I know this is something I come up against a lot! Is there anyone who you have ill feelings toward, is there anyone you need to ask for forgiveness? I challenge myself and you to follow what Jesus says and constantly reconcile. When we open our hearts and follow His lead He blesses us abundantly. Just imagine if you are being a spiritual hindrance to another person because of your lack of obedience to forgive or be forgiven. We are to be in unity for His kingdom. Lets examine our hearts and get all we can from our Father. Trust Him, whether you feel it is impossible to forgive or ask for forgiveness, He is for us. He will never ask us to do something to harm ourselves or others. Trust and Forgive or be Forgiven!

Masquerading your Sin 3/1/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-03-01T10:14:00.000-06:00

Masquerading your Sin 3/1/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

A Merchant Ship

2011-02-25T08:37:00.003-06:00

Ladies, I have a thought for you to ponder. Proverbs 31 mentions ..."she is like the merchant ships..." So what does that mean? Many times I have read that tidbit of wisdom and haven't really given it much thought. But it happens to be one of the most important statements about how a godly woman is to be.

A merchant ship is a STRONG ship. It is not fragile.
A merchant ship is built for PURPOSE. It is not idle.
A merchant ship can CARRY. It is not weak.

Think about what a merchant ship is. And on top of that, it says we are to be like shipS...notice the plural? That means a fleet, many, a force. That is what God is calling us women to be. He doesn't want any more pretty little boats. All cute and fragile. NO, He wants merchant ships. There are plenty of pretty little ships sitting in the seats on a Sunday morning. But where in the house are the merchant ships? God has called His daughters to to be strong, to work hard, to carry the plans He has for us.

We are to be many things, and it is not going to be easy. Even the people that surround us are to lack nothing of value because of their confidence in us. WOW! But others can't be confident in us if we are not first confident in ourselves. We must be confident, not in our gifts or position or people. But confident in knowing that God's hand is on our life and that we are working for Him!

Make a decision daily to bring good, and not harm, to the lives around you. Work hard. Be task driven, not people driven.She doesn't invest into that which is not profitable. She is kind to others. She is not fearful of the times to come, but is prepared. She is a strong leader, clothing herself in strength and dignity. She watches, she speaks, she gives instruction...and she is blessed. AND SHE LOOKS GOOD (clothed in fine linen and purple)!

God is calling for the women in His house to stand up and be different. To be merchant ships. Can you rise to the calling? It won't be easy, but we aren't called to a life that will be easy. How much more can you do, through the power of God, for His kingdom if you are a woman of noble character?

Ladies, are there any merchant ships in His house?

The Attitude of Gratitude

2011-02-24T19:16:00.003-06:00

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." Philippians 2:5 (NIV)

This morning my devotional time with my kids was about having an attitude of gratitude. It wasn’t even because they weren’t being grateful or anything; quite honestly it was just the next topic in the character building book we are going through. :) Isn’t it easy to sometimes lose that attitude?

I mean, it’s not that we don’t want to be grateful...I think it’s that we many times lose the right perspective. What I mean is…do you see the glass half full or half empty? Is it partly sunny or partly cloudy? Perspective can and certainly makes all the difference.

Even for strong Christians who are grounded in their faith, discouragement can easily sneak its way into hearts and minds as life deals us chaos. As we struggle with the challenges and difficulties of everyday life, or things that happened to us that were unfair or unwarranted, it is easy to get pulled into a habitual mindset of negativity. Just like that old song from the ‘80s says, we may find ourselves asking God, "What have you done for me lately?"

Our answer to that question will depend entirely upon our perspective. God does more for us each and every day than we deserve, but it 's so easy to lose sight of the good, because we can be caught up in the reality of the bad. How do we combat this perfectly human attitude and direct it over to an attitude of gratitude?

Prayer.

Resolve to have an attitude like Christ.

Take inventory of our every blessing.

Life. Your every breath. Your every heart beat. A spouse or loved one. Children. Clothes that need to be washed because God gave you clothes to wear, and a way to wash those clothes. Good health to help those whose health is failing. Trusted and educated doctors to treat you when you are facing health challenges. A house that needs cleaning. A car to drive. The ability to purchase gas for the car. A job to go to. The ability to be a stay at home mom or wife. Healthy kids who can play music or sports. Friends. Family. Freedom. Jesus. Eternal life.

What is on your inventory list today? If you were honest with yourself, would you say you have been looking for the positive aspects of the situations in your life? Are you considering how God could be using those things to draw you closer to Him? Or have you been primarily focused on the negative?

During times of negativity, we actually become our own enemy. We wage a battle in our mind because we look at our situation from our own perspective, instead of what God may be doing through our situation. So in order to change our minds, we have to choose to change the way we think – our perspective. Attitude is a choice.

I have heard it takes 21 days of doing something for it to become a new habit. The more you practice challenging your thought patterns, the more automatic it will become. Changes may not take place immediately, but over time, the challenge gets easier, and optimism becomes the norm instead of the exception.

Are you willing to take the challenge to become an optimist today? The rewards of looking for God's goodness in every situation will be a healthier and happier heart.

Dear Lord, forgive us for a lack of gratitude we all have at times. Thank You for your patience with us as we strive to grow to be more like you. Guide our hearts to recognize You at work, instead of seeing things from an earthly perspective. Lead me into a closer relationship with You by helping me remember to count my blessings every day. I n Jesus' Name, Amen.

The Groom

2011-02-23T21:17:00.002-06:00

"How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful!"

Song of Songs 4:1

Beth Moore writes in her updated edition of Breaking Free:

"What a wonderful relationship awaits you! The King is enthralled by your beauty. Single woman, you will not always be single. If you are in Christ, you have the ultimate relationship ahead of you. If God calls you to a life of singleness, feel special! Save yourself entirely for Him! The Kings is enthralled by your beauty.

Married woman with common frustrations: Give your spouse room to be human. Forgive him for not being God. Forgive him for not always saying what you need to hear. The Kings is enthralled by your beauty.

Until the ultimate relationship arrives, let your mirror image be the face of Christ. To Him, the most beautiful woman on earth is the bride who steadily makes herself ready for her Groom. Your bridal portrait is being painted one day at a time. When it is complete, it will be a breathtaking masterpiece."

Father,

I pray, we as women of God, start proclaiming our beauty through you! I ask that your words cut so deep that we will never experience a day that we feel any less than beautiful! I pray our faith continues to be strengthened by you and that we stand firm in whatever situation you have us in today. If we are singe or married I pray we stand boldly in your name because You Father are more than enough. We are steadily making ourselves ready for you each and every day. We impatiently wait for you to come and sweep us off our feet! We pray in awe of You, Amen!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

2011-02-21T12:42:00.000-06:00

Hello to some of our favorite girlfriends (and guyfriends)!

We just wanted to use today's blog opportunity to tell you about some amazing upcoming conferences. You will want to make sure you join us if we are coming to your area. We could also use your help in spreading the word around!

BROOKINGS, SD
APRIL 1-2, 2011
SWIFTEL CENTER
http://www.trueidentityministries.com/BrookingsSD.html

DEFIANCE, OHIO
APRIL 15-16, 2011
THE SUMMIT
http://www.trueidentityministries.com/defianceohio2011.html

WEST CHICAGO, IL
MAY 13-14, 2011
CROSSROADS RESTORATION CENTER
http://www.trueidentityministries.com/chicago2011.html

The early bird registration discount for each of these events will end befoe you know it, so be sure to register soon! Visit the link to learn about discounted rates and conference details. If you are interested in helping us by volunteering at one of these events you can fill out a volunteer app online! We can't wait to see each of you very soon!

xoxo
Justeina

Zephaniah 3.17

2011-02-18T08:45:00.003-06:00

"The LORD your God is with you,

he is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you,

he will quiet you with his love,

he will rejoice over you with singing!"

(enough said)

Masquerading with God 2/14/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-02-15T07:51:00.000-06:00

Masquerading with God 2/14/2011 - True ID Ministries Internet Radio Blog Talk Radio

WARNING!! TOXIC!

2011-02-14T09:27:00.001-06:00

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23

There may be nothing more intentional that scripture asks us to do than to guard our hearts. That word guard according to the dictionary means: to protect somebody or something against danger or loss by being vigilant and taking defensive measures, or to watch over and control passage through an entrance or across a boundary. Even though I had seen this scripture many times before in Proverbs 4 and the call to guard our hearts was very clear, for me the question still remained; from what? Finally it came to me. Guard our hearts from anything toxic.

That word toxic just means anything that contains poisonous material that can cause sickness or death. I can’t help but notice in today’s age how hard people are trying to keep their homes and bodies toxic free. You can now buy non toxic cleaning materials, hair care products, nail polishes, paints for your home, and the list goes on. So much effort and work put into living a toxic free life physically speaking, but no one thinks about all the toxic things surrounding our spiritual lives. If you and I are going to be able to be diligent in guarding our hearts we are going to have to be more aware of the toxic things we are allowing in. Allow me to point out just a few for you.

1. Toxic Thoughts
Part of guarding our hearts is to replace our toxic thoughts with God’s truth. Thoughts that are negative, fearful, critical and discontent need to be guarded against. In fact throughout scripture many times the word heart is used interchangeably with the word thoughts. The same is true for Proverbs 4:23. According to 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 we are to take our thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ. Sounds like guarding to me. So begin to think about what you are thinking about. Be vigilant to watch over and control the thoughts you allow to linger about in your heart and mind. Whatever you do remove the toxic ones and replace them with whatever is noble, true, right, pure, excellent, and praiseworthy.

2. Toxic Influences
From the movies we watch, to the music we listen to, even to the sites we surf on the web you may not find anything more toxic to our hearts than these influences. We have gotten a little lazy at monitoring the influences we are allowing to shape and mold our lives. If you are a mom you know how hard you may work to control the media and cultural influences your children are partaking in, but what about you? What are you doing to safeguard against the toxic influences surrounding your own life? A few things to ask yourself would be: Is What I am watching/reading displeasing to God? Am I being entertained somehow by sin? Is this luring me away from Christ? If you answer yes to any of those questions you need to flee from that type of entertainment. Don’t be lazy when it comes to guarding against toxic influences. They really will determine the course of your life.

3. Toxic Relationships

The bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 15:33 to not be misled, that bad company really does corrupt good character. Toxic company can be anyone that is chronically negative and critical, anyone that is a controller, and especially anyone that is a tempter. If you have any one of these types of company in your world you need to beware and guard your heart. That toxic company can work against your good character. As women we can be so timid to cut off toxic relationships even though we know how much they are poisoning our own walk with God. Be brave to take measures against the toxic company in your life. Set up healthy boundaries and be bold to cut ties where God leads you.

4. Toxic Words
Scripture tells us that the tongue holds the power of life and death and that is so true. Words have the unmatched ability to shape and mold a person’s belief system and self image. Whether its words spoken to you or words spoken by you, you need to guard against toxic words. Any words that don’t line up with God’s words are toxic. Begin to evaluate the words you are allowing to be spoken over your life by others and be quick to discredit them if they don’t line up with what God says about you. Be even quicker to evaluate the words you are allowing to come out of your own mouth. If they aren’t words that edify and build up those around you, don’t even speak them. Remember toxic and poisonous words have the power to bring sickness, but if you guard your heart and speak life you will bring healing all around you.

Of course this isn’t an exhaustive list of toxic things for us to be guarding our hearts from, but it is a great start. I have learned in my own life that what I allow into my heart and mind really will determine the course of my life just as Proverbs 4 teaches. As for me and my family I want the course of my life to be one that pleases and glorifies my God. That’s why I am determined to always guard my heart.

xoxo
Justeina

A Real Kind of Love

2011-02-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Dirty. Filthy. Covered with the dust from the streets, the feet of the disciples were left black and sore with cuts as they entered the room for the last supper. It was a servant’s job to wash the feet of those entering the house, but no servant was to be found. Reclining next to each other as they ate at the dinner table, Jesus laid aside his outer garments, took up a towel, and carried the basin of water over to Simon Peter. One by one Jesus, the Son of God, humbled himself to wash the grime and dirt off of the feet of each man.

Can you imagine sitting there at the dinner table as God washed the mud off of your feet? The task, however disagreeable, had to be done and only Jesus took the initiative to see it accomplished. It was out of love that he performed the service of a slave.

Later on in the evening, Jesus continued his ministry and proclaimed, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love another,” (John. 13.34).

How did Jesus love? He had just given an example of his love at dinner by washing the disciple’s feet. If you have any doubt that it was an example of love, go back to verse 15, “For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.”

Jesus is calling all people to have this same kind of love...
A love that initiates when others sit back.
A love that humbles you to face what may seem unlovely and serve position underneath you.
A love that acts in the knowledge of another’s impure motives or betrayal.
A love that cleanses.
Among a group of men who quarreled over greatness, Jesus set the example of service instead of strife.

Loving a person isn’t always easy. If any person has a reason to withhold love, it is Jesus. He see’s the unlovely in a person and nothing is hidden from his sight, yet he loves unconditionally. This love served others by putting a person before himself. Men and women, that is the love that God is calling us to show. It won’t always be easy, but it is always worth it. And when you do, God is glorified. Verse 35 says, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

In a self-serve world, service stands out. Love for other people is a witness to the ungodly. In this season of “love,” set the example to others. With those around you, whether friends or strangers, show love by taking the initiative to humble yourself and cleanse people. Put others before yourself and let God shine!

Growing in the Journey...one step at a time! Part 3

2011-02-10T07:19:00.000-06:00

We’ve been talking about spiritual growth for the past few Thursdays and today I would like to take a closer look of what spiritual growth truly looks like in our lives.

Spiritual growth does not look like: slavery. In Romans chapters 6-8, the Bible speaks on slavery to sin, freedom from sin’s grasp, and life in the Spirit.

Romans 6:1, “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?”

So, if forgiveness is guaranteed, do we have to the freedom to sin as much as we want to? Paul’s answer is a solid, “Of course not!” The slavery to sin leads to-

Shame…

Romans 6:20, “When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do.”

Shame? I know that I certainly do not want to live this life on Earth with this hanging over my head! So, if we are in some type of slavery to sin..how can we GROW past it?!

We can take some necessary steps:
1.Identify our personal weaknesses
2.Recognize the things that tempt us
3.Stay AWAY from the sources of temptations
4.Practice self-control
5.Invest our time and energies into things that pleasing to God
6.Lean on God’s power and strength.

Lastly, we must realize that sin’s power is broken. We do not have to live in slavery. We have power available to us.

Romans 8:2, “And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”

Many times we are not tapping into the true power source and we are trying to achieve this on our own. I know I have done this many times and still mess up! It’s like thinking I am going to use my blow dryer to dry my hair without plugging it in to the power outlet. It’s impossible!

Well, it’s the same way with our spiritual growth. If we want to live in freedom and be the women of God that He intended us to be…we MUST never underestimate the power of sin and attempt to fight it in our own strength. Satan is a crafty tempter, and we have an amazing ability to make excuses. Instead of trying to overcome sin with our own human willpower, we must take hold of God’s provision for victory over sin: the Holy Spirit, who lives within us and gives us power.

This week’s challenge:
1.Read Romans chapters 6-8 and ask God to speak to your heart through these chapters.
2.Read and pray over the 6 steps.
3.Ask the Holy Spirit for His power to be the director of your days.

Masquerading 2/8/2011 - True ID Ministries | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-02-08T13:57:00.000-06:00

Masquerading 2/8/2011 - True ID Ministries Internet Radio Blog Talk Radio

God's Secret to a Total Makeover

2011-02-07T15:27:00.001-06:00

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)

My family is getting ready to leave for Florida for a ten day vacation. One of my favorite things to do right before we leave is go get my yearly pedicure. Ok, I call it yearly because it’s my excuse to go give my feet some much needed attention before I’m wearing cute sandals all week! Ha! My mom and mother-in-law are also going to Florida, so they went along and we had so much fun getting our mini-makeovers before our trip.

We were laughing at ourselves and our excitement over this mini make-over, but also realizing how much ‘cuter’ we all felt afterwards. And while a simple pedicure can be a small makeover, how much more vital and important are our spiritual makeovers?? So, today, when I went to have my quiet times, the devotional below sure caught my attention! I hope you are equally blessed and encouraged just as I was!

(This devotional is by Buddy Owens, teaching pastor at Saddleback Church and author of ‘The Way of a Worshiper’.)

Change is great on the outside, but real change comes from the inside out. It’s more than cosmetic; it’s more than a skinnier version of the same old you. God wants you to be made new from the inside out – spirit, soul, and body.

God puts them in that order in his Word: “May the God who gives us peace make you holy in every way and keep your whole being – spirit, soul, and body – free from every fault at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 TEV).

God knows that real change comes from the inside. It’s great’s to clean out the fridge and get rid of the junk food in the pantry. But what about the junk food in your head? The old lies, the empty values, the false perceptions? Ephesians 4:23 says, “Be made new in the attitude of your minds” (NIV).
There are two words in today’s verse from Romans 12 that I want to focus on --

1.Conform. According to the dictionary, conform means to “make or become the same” or “to behave in a conventional way by accepting without question the customs, traditions and prevailing opinions of others.” How often do we do this? We think, “Oh everybody else is doing it so it must be okay.” But God says, “Don’t conform to the ways of this world. Stop and think about what you’re doing.”

2.Transform. Transform means “to change the condition, function, nature, character or personality” of something. It means changing from the inside out. In Romans 12, Paul says to transform yourself not by trying to be like the rest of the world, but by renewing your mind, by changing the way you think.

God wants a new you who not only looks different, but who lives and thinks and speaks and acts differently. He wants a new you who has taken a 180-degree turn and is headed in a new direction, no longer pursuing an old way of life, no longer trying to conform and fit in and be like everybody else. He wants a new you who is being transformed by the renewing of your mind – a new you who is being transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Question of Love

2011-02-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

With Valentine's Day fast approaching , I have been thinking about love. What does it look like? How and who do we show it to? What does God say about love?

I'm excited about a devotional I will post next Friday about love...so check back in. But today I wanted to pose a question for you. To get the wheels in your mind turning.

When you walk into a room, the question you shouldn't be asking yourself is, "Do these people love me?" The question you should be asking yourself is,

"Do these people know that I love them?"

Remember that as you go into your church, your workplace, your home, the doctors office, the grocery store, etc. It's not always easy, to love. But love is a decision.

Whether it's a room full of strangers or a place filled with old friends, love is the greatest thing you can give them. Can show them.

Decide to love, no matter how you are feeling: it may be you're down, it may be you're up. Our feelings can't control our disposition like that. The presence we bring shouldn't be affected by our day. Because Scripture says love never fails.

Decide to show God's love, to show genuine love each day. Like I said, it will not always be easy. At times the flesh will want to be irritable and rude, but the flesh must bow down to the Spirit. And the Spirit loves. Now go love the people in your world and offer the greatest of these.

2011-02-02T08:11:00.001-06:00

2 Corinthians 12:9

But he said to me, “my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

It is a fact that no matter how many times you read the bible or certain verses you’ve already memorized, God will bring new meaning and shed new light for your situation or circumstance you stand in today. I love this scripture!

We must believe God for everything He is and says He will be in our lives. In our trials, confusion, heart ache and persecution, HE remains strong. When we can hardly stand, when we’ve wept our eyes out, when we have given up on relying on our own strength, HE is strong. Our visibility then becomes more clear and set on Him rather than our own strength and determination. When we allow Him into our lives He begins to rebuild our foundation. He always offered this indestructible foundation, He always offered this overflowing fountain of living water, He has always been and ever will be more than enough. Maybe today is the day, that we can all see more clearly. Maybe today is the day we will totally rely on Him. Maybe today we will humble ourselves before our mighty God and follow His lead. Although we may not know the whys or the hows. I guarantee you, He does and His will is beautiful!

Believe with me today! Trust with me today! No matter the call on your life, no matter the price, follow His voice, be obedient and let go of all else.

Merciful Father, as much as I have been through and will face today, I choose to believe in YOU and your strength. Teach me to let go of my strength and learn how to live through you and for you. No matter what obedience looks like in my life, help me to trust in you fully and follow your lead. I choose to make you a priority and devote myself to prayer and study. I want to be totally engulfed in you , your voice, your love, your life and direction for me. Make me a pillar of strength in you to stand up when trials and ill words enter into my day. Use my voice to make a difference for you and the lives around me Father. I choose YOU, I choose life, I choose your love, I choose your strength to carry me through, all the rest of my days. In your powerful Name, Amen!

Residence

2011-01-28T05:00:00.002-06:00

Ezra, as the introduction puts it in my Bible, "beneath his quiet, private, bookish exterior lay a passionate, determined soul committed to helping the people live what the Scriptures taught. God's whole story mattered to him..." I immediately paid attention because I saw maybe a bit of myself in that description; quiet, private and loving the Word of God!

Ezra was a priest sent by the Persian king to lead Israelites back to Jerusalem. I have studied Esther, which led to some study of Nehemiah, another man who helped in the rebuilding of Jerusalem. But I have failed to really learn much of Ezra...so here was my chance.

I haven't finished reading the book yet, but I have particularly found chapter 7 interesting. Verse 15 required special attention from me.

"You are also authorized to take the silver and gold that the king and his advisers are giving for the God of Israel, whose residence is in Jerusalem..."

I chewed on those words for a moment and thought about the implications of this statement. In the Old Testament, God's residence was (at this time) in the temple. Not only was His presence to be found there, but few people were able to enter the room.

But then a man came, who was fully God and fully man, to tear the veil in the temple. When Christ gave up his life as a ransom, the barrier between God and man was torn; a bridge was built for relationship. I am so thankful that today I don't have to fly all the way to Jerusalem and hope I can get into the room that God's presence is held.

The king of Persia, in Ezra 7, makes a statement that was very relevant to that time and one we are blessed not to have actualized at present. God is everywhere, at all times, with all people. We don't have to wait in long lines or bring a bull for offering or follow a list of rules. What we have today is all access to an Almighty God.

I "happened" to have read this on a Sunday morning before church. As I sat in the back of the sanctuary that morning and glanced out to see thousands of people worshipping a beautiful God, I couldn't help but think about Ezra 7.15...and to be thankful that we can have a relationship with the One who created us.

God no longer takes residence on earth in one building, but rather graciously chooses to take residence in the hearts of men. For that we cannot help but be humbled and incredibly thankful.

Growing in the Journey...one step at a time! Part 2

2011-01-27T07:32:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday, I talked about spiritual growth. Let’s take a look today at an answer to some of the questions: Why is spiritual growth so important? Spiritual growth is vital! If we are not growing, we’re going to become stagnant, lazy Christians that will eventually start going backwards. If we are not pushing forward with a clear vision and purpose in mind-we will fall into the dangerous state of complacency. When should we be growing? We should be constantly growing and moving forward-one step at a time! (not baby steps either-steps that are purposeful- "I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step". (1 Corinthians 9:26)

Today, I would like to look at two things that growth does not look like. Growth does not look like-

Guilt and Condemnation- Let’s be real clear and transparent here. We ALL have weaknesses! We all have areas that we struggle, areas that we just wish were better than they are. We see where we are and where we want to be and we end up feeling guilty that we aren’t there yet! When I see that one of my goals is to grow in patience as a mom, the next time I struggle with impatience and raise my voice, I suddenly feel overwhelmed in guilt. The enemy will tempt us to do the things we are so trying to avoid (overeating, overspending, overindulgence, gossip, laziness,) but then he immediately hits us over the head with this guilt and condemnation! It is so heavy; no one should be walking around with it. And clearly, it is NOT from God.

Romans 8:1 says, “So, there is NO condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus”

We are going to make some mistakes. We are human. Paul cried out to God about his weaknesses in 2 Corinthians12: 8, and here is Jesus’ response, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” Then Paul goes on to say in vs. 10, “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and other troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” See, Paul understood that his weakness drove him to Christ’s power and help.

So, what does this spiritual growth look like?-

Obedience and Joy- We have been forgiven and set free from our loving Savior, so we obey out of love—and our obedience brings great joy!
Jesus said, "I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey me, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father and remain in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:9–11)

The greatest tragedy this year would be for you and me to stand at the edge of your destiny, but to be afraid to enter into all that God has planned for us. Our obedience in moving forward (one step at a time) -- to take risks and step out in faith – will release God’s power in our lives. When Paul chose obedience, God’s power helped him to grow and be full of joy.

Challenge Questions:
1. Is guilt or condemnation holding you captive in any way? If so, let God’s truths and forgiveness set you free, and move on in his freedom.
2. Has God been prompting you to step out in obedience in an area of your life? As you do, be expecting God’s power to be at work in your life!

In His love,
Stephanie

Making Prayer and the Word a Priority

2011-01-26T15:21:00.003-06:00

Acts 4:31
After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God boldly.

How are you connected to God? How can you and do you experience His peace? How do you make an impact for the Lord? How do you learn to speak the Word boldly? How do we bear His fruit? How do we gain understanding and knowledge of God's will in our lives? The answer is His Word and Prayer! When we dive into His Word and connect ourselves with Him through communication, change inevitably happens. Experiencing God's Word that was given to us and prayer which is just for us, is overwhelming. I challege us all to make His Word and Prayer with Him as intimate as possible this year. It will truly change not only your day, but your life!

The Best Wine

2011-01-21T05:00:00.000-06:00

The first in book in the Old Testament section of The Prophets is Isaiah, a prophet who lived around 700 BC in Jerusalem. Through the reign of four kings, Isaiah was God's voice to a nation (Judah) spiraling further into sin and disobedience.

"Your silver has become dross, your best wine mixed with water." (Isaiah 1.22 ESV)

The second half of the verse really stands out to me. You might be wondeirng what watered down wine has to do with you, right? I know, I can read your thoughts before you think it ;) Or perhaps I have wondered that too. We're all girls...we get each other, right!

Judah and the people of Israel were favored by God and had every advantage. They were a best wine. As time progressed however, their hearts began to turn toward the things of this world. In a sense, they were allowing water of the world to seep into the wine.

As a Christian, we can be full on for God. Things are going great. But if we are not careful to guard our relationship with God, water can began to seep in...clutter will build...junk will fill our hearts. If we do not protect that relationship, water will begin to mix with the wine...clutter will overwhelm...junk will leave no room for necessities.

The wine may continue to have the color and appearance of wine, but that would just be an appearance. When we allow clutter to build up, on the outside we may still have an appearance of being full on (for a while), but the truth is that we are not best wine any longer. And I believe God would desire for His children to be the best wine.

How often do we allow a little to mix in our hearts? We may think it's just the season, or a little won't hurt...the excuses could go on. But the truth is that mixing is actually a person slacking in their relationship with God and living selfishly, truth be told. I know, I've been there.

I would like to challenge you today to look within your heart. Have you allowed any water to seep in? Water seeps in through what we watch, the music we listen to, the people we hang around. If we aren't guarding what is entering, then there is an opportunity for what is not righteous to mix with what is righteous.

But there are also the other things that can seep in that may not be so noticeable: loneliness, depression, lust, greed...the list could go on. There was a time period in my life where I became discouraged. I allowed the water of discouragement to seep in and mix with what was in my heart. After a while this diluted wine began to hinder my relationship with the Lord.

Not one person can afford to allow the unrighteousness of this world to mix with the best wine God has favored. Be careful to guard the best wine.

"I...purge the junk from your life, clean you up. I'll set honest judges and wise counselors among you just like it was back in the beginning. The you'll be renamed City-That-Treats-People-Right, a True-Blue City." (Isaiah 1.25-26 MSG)

The people of Israel had turned their back to God (and it wasn't the first time). Yet God in His wonderful Grace and Love tells them that He will remove the junk and clean them up if they would turn back to Him. The mixed wine returned to purity.

What an encouragement to all of us. The Creator of the Universe says that if we will just look to Him, He will clean us up.

Growing in the Journey...one step at a time!

2011-01-20T10:40:00.003-06:00

"I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step."
1 Corinthians 9:26 (NLT)

New Years has come and gone and we are mid-January, believe it or not? If you are among the thousands of people around the world who make New Year’s goals; you are probably plugging away at them and trying to keep the momentum to follow them through. And if you are anything like me, we are going along with excitement and energy and slowly our energy and excitement starts to wane and drop off. But, we decide in our hearts to press on with purpose in our steps! :) Maybe it’s a goal to grow in your relationship with God by spending more time in His Word; maybe it’s a goal of investing more time into your marriage, losing some weight, showing more patience with your kids. Whatever the goal, one thing is for sure-goals are intended to push us towards growth. We shouldn’t stay where we are forever. And many times, these New Years goals keep us focused on growing and pressing on.

Speaking of growing, how many of you have children that struggle with growing pains? Growing pains or sometimes known as Charlie horses or leg spasms. They are most common in the middle of the night. Well, I had these as a child and I am sure my Mom can testify to the countless nights that she was up praying for me, massaging my legs and attempting any other possibilities to get rid of the aches to get us both back to bed. Three of my children have struggled with these growing pains from time to time. They are called growing pains for a reason. They are painful! I will be up praying for my crying child, rubbing down their legs with some lotion, and truly sympathizing for them. I am compassionate on my kids when they have them because I love them of course, but also because I can remember what they felt like! When my firstborn hit the age of two, he had them so bad, that I was concerned and asked the doctor about them. Of course, the Dr. just reassured me that they are completely ‘normal’ and a part of the growing process...my son was just simply going through a growth spurt! It can be the same way with our spiritual growth too- rather painful at times.

Now, of course, growing pains are certainly not all painful, but more times than not, spiritual growth comes through the many trials and hardships we encounter in our lives. For the next few Thursdays, we are going to look at God’s word and what it has to say about spiritual growth.

So, what does spiritual growth practically look like in our lives? Why is it so important? When should we be growing? And how do we grow and get where we want to? These are some questions that we are going to answer over the next few weeks. Each Thursday, I am going to cover one thing about what growth does not look like in our lives, and one thing that growth does look like.

But, for today, I just want to leave you with some questions and scripture to stir some thought-provoking ideas on spiritual growth in your life. After you spend some time looking over them, leave some comments to encourage one another as we are all on this journey together.

1. On a scale of 1-10, (1 being very little and 10 being tremendous growth), where would you say you are in your growth?

2. What would you say have been some factors that has helped or hindered your growth?

3. Where do you see yourself wanting to be spiritually, mentally and physically in 2011?

4. Are you taking any intentional steps on getting there? If not, what can you do today to give yourself a push in the right direction?

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success." Joshua 1:8

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.”-1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Love ya,
Stephanie

We have AUTHORITY through Jesus Christ!

2011-01-19T07:03:00.000-06:00

I was listening to the radio the other day and was filled with joy when I was reminded of the verse from 1 John 4:4 “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” We have to remember this at all times. He who is in us, is greater than he who is in the world! Satan will always attack and be on the prey, this is true. When Jesus speaks to us He does not try to sugar coat reality and tell us what we want to hear. He is truthful! He does not say if the storms come, He says WHEN they come be prepared. One of the most awesome, encouraging and strengthening truths to what God has given us is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit in us, has authority over him and his ways. The Holy Spirit is ever present. I believe it can fade if we don’t acknowledge and feed it in our daily lives. Ask God to help us be confident in what He has given to us. We need to make God more of a priority than we did today. He wants us to live an abundant life and give glory to His name. He wants us to draw people near and be bold when speaking of His love. Let’s hold each other accountable to equip ourselves with the Word, His love, His protection, His wisdom, His guidance and His AUTHORITY! Let it just overflow!

“Father, I pray we can rise up and take courage in Your Name. When we feel the attack of satan in our lives and those around us, infuse us with the authority you have granted us. I pray we realize that with this authority we have the right to maintain strong and persistent through you. No person, situation or circumstance can come close to the truth you have planted in our lives. Help us not get distracted or give more attention than needed to what satan is inflicting in our lives. I pray we can stay focused and set on your heart and will for our lives. I ask that you consume us and be on our minds every second of the day. Thank you Lord for loving us, thank you for being persistent in our lives and being so truthful and faithful! We hope in you Lord! AMEN

Your Purpose

2011-01-14T05:00:00.002-06:00

"This is my life work: helping people understand and respond to the Message."
Ephesians 3.7 (MSG)

Ever wonder what your purpose is? What God has planned for you? I wonder that at times, truth be told. But Paul lays it out for us in Ephesians 3...that our life work is to help people understand, and respond to, the gospel of grace.

Perhaps you wonder what that Message is exactly, that he mentions here? If so, read the New Testament. Read the Gospels. The Message is the gospel of grace, extended to us through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Perhaps you don't feel very well equipped for such a task? That perhaps it should be left to the pastors, missionaries, and uber-spiritual Christians of the world?

Not so.

Paul continues in Ephesians 3.8, "When it came to presenting the Message to people who had no background in God's way, I was the least qualified of any of the available Christians. God saw to it that I was equipped, but you can be sure that it had nothing to do with my natural abilities."

Even Paul, of all people, didn't feel quite qualified to help people understand the Message. But he knew without a shadow of a doubt that God had equipped him to do so.

God desires to use the weak for His purpose. It is in weakness that His power really shines. It leaves no question that God did it; not the ability of a person, but the power of God working through someone.

Remember, your purpose today and everyday ahead is to share the Message with the people in your world. If you and I are not doing this, than what are we here for? What are we doing to advance the Kingdom of God?

And know that God has equipped you to do so :)

2011-01-12T11:50:00.002-06:00

What does God think?

Proverbs 25:8 MSG

Don't jump to conclusions—there may be

a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.

Proverbs 23:7 KJV

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he

I have a challenge for us all as the body of believers of Jesus Christ. For the next month, I want you as well as myself to stop and quote these scriptures at the beginning of each day. When you come up against a situation where you may start to feel yourself become judgmental, stop and quote these scriptures. When you see something or hear something you don’t agree with, stop and quote these scriptures. When you start to get frustrated, angry or impatient with anyone or anything in your life for the next month, stop and quote these scriptures.

The fact is we do not know it all! There is only ONE who does. We may think we are a good judge of character or motives, but that is not our job. How much freedom could we begin to find if we let God do His job and we do what He has asked of us. He completely and over abundantly blesses us if we are willing to obey his commands. Something may happen in someone’s life and to us it may look completely different than what God’s plans to do in the end is. We are to love as He has loved us and never look down upon someone. We as humans are so quick to pass judgment. We must have the mercy and grace that God has shown to us available at all times to show to others. Most times we have no idea where or what a person has come from or is going through. The explanation of their behavior or attitude may not be what we would say, but it may be exactly what they are feeling and what they need to say at that moment. Love them! Accept them! Guide them to the peace of our Father!

Lets always remember that what we think in our heart is exactly who we are or who we will become. So what is in your mind/ heart? I know some of the things I’ve thought about myself and others are nothing close to what God thinks. We want to focus and become everything He created us to be. We are created in His image, by His image and for His image. We must always hold firm to the truth of who we are, who others are and who we were created to be. Say what God says about you! You are beautiful! You are my child! Your sins are gone! I couldn’t love you anymore! You’ve been redeemed! You are chosen! You are free! Continue to make changes in your life toward a more intimate relationship with Christ. Transformation through Him is essential. Over indulge in the Word, that has been given to us. Pray for discernment and don’t take your focus off of the Heart of our Father. Lets get our minds and hearts right in and for Christ!

I cant get enough of Philippians 4:8 in my life. “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Dear Heavenly Father,

Help us become more like you each day Lord. I pray we can die to ourselves and take on your mindset. We ask that you help us focus on your heart, what is true, what is noble, what is right, what is pure, what is lovely and what is admirable. We want to make a difference in the lives around us. There are too many people hurting around us to be anything other than what you have called us to be. Give us the confidence to step out of our comfort zones and follow your voice. Help us tune in and speak to those you have chosen for us. Help us to slow down in life and in our minds to feel the needs of others. We are so grateful for where we are in You today God, thank you for the life you have given! In your awesome Name we pray, Amen! I will be praying for you as we take on this challenge to focus on what God thinks!

Not Your Average Love Story

2011-01-07T08:31:00.002-06:00

Romans 8.31-39 (ESV),

"If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. What shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,

"For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered."

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Love is God's greatest gift, but one we often find difficult to receive. Why do you think that is? We crave to be loved, and we are unconditionally by our God, yet the very thing we crave, we hide from. Perhaps is goes back to Adam and Eve, after they had sinned. Knowing they had failed, they hid from their Creator.

One thing I absolutely am drawn to in this particular passage is one of the first verses, "If God is for us." That sentence literally translates to, "Since God is for us." Without a doubt, hands down, it's as if God is leaving no room for question of how he feels towards us. It's decided. God has chosen, and will always chose, to be with His children. Those believers who live in relationship with Him.

The passage continues with "graciously give." This phrase actually translates, "to bestow out of grace." Paul often uses it denote forgiveness. Continuing with "all things," this entire sentence suggests that God forgives every sin we commit.

John MacArthur commented on verse 32, "God's unlimited forgiveness makes it impossible for a believer to sin himself out of God's grace."

If God gave His Son for us, He will give us everything we need.

There is a lot we could explore in these nine verses, but to do so would take much time and blog space. But what I hope you would see is that God loves you unconditionally, forgives unconditionally, and always provides.

Verse 39 says that nothing can separate us from the love of God. That means that there is nothing that we could do, or anybody else could do to us, that would stop God from loving us.

Take with you today this passage from Romans 8. There is no need that God doesn't want to provide for. There is no sin a Christian could commit that God doesn't want to forgive. And the thing you crave the most, He cho0ses to eternally pour out on you without reserve.

2011-01-05T06:58:00.000-06:00

HE HAS CHOSEN

1 Corinthians 7 - The Message

17 “Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches. 18 Was a man already circumcised when he was called? He should not become uncircumcised. Was a man uncircumcised when he was called? He should not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commands is what counts. 20 Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them.”

Each time I dive into the Word, I am amazed at the power and clarity God sends into my life. I feel I have heard this and wrote this over and over and over. Once again I am moved by the love of God to pour this simple message out all over again. I truly believe if we can grasp the simplicity of this amazing blessing our lives will be drastically changed.

God called and chose YOU! How beautiful is that? From where ever you were or whatever you had been, He chose YOU! I have a friend from childhood contact me recently and share with me that she had finally let God into her life. I wept with joy knowing the love she was experiencing and all the joys that were to come. I literally feel like a child on Christmas morning when I hear people accepting Jesus into their life. There is nothing like the love and forgiveness of our God.

God has called each of us to live as believers. I’m still learning how to live as a believer. I think this takes time to live as a true believer. It goes much deeper than just saying I believe in God. I’m definitely one who wants to experience all the Lord has for me. I want my life to continually be searched and formed by the hands of God on a daily basis. I don’t want to live this life that has been resurrected from the grave half hearted. I don’t just want to tell the good news, I MUST evangelize and share what the Lord has for each and every person. So when God tells us to live as believers I don’t think we should go about our day without knowing, believing and seeking what the Lord’s will is in our lives.

The part I love most about this scripture is that He not only chose us to be believers but it is in whatever situation the Lord had assigned to you, just as God had called you. It is not just a coincidence that you are living with the person you are living with, or the family you’ve been put with, or the fact you’ve just been laid off of work, or the debt that has piled up, or the addict in your life(we need to understand we too have strongholds in our lives and this situation maybe one) you’ve been chosen by your Heavenly Father to see someone through this life to the next. How is your faith walk right now in your circumstances? You’ve been blessed to shine a light for ALL to see. You may be where I once was and be slapped with insults, retaliation, threats and much suffering. Though they are throwing this negativity your way, they see your good deeds and we will all wait patiently on the Lord as they walk closer to His heart. 1 Peter 2 11-25.

Seek this truth and love out every second of the day you can. I’ve know Him to show off a little bit in our lives. I’ve heard people very close to my heart use the word “never.” Well if it is something the Lord has in store for you and your freedom in Christ, there is no such word. He may just break you at the most unpredictable time, place and circumstance. You will be forever grateful for his unimaginable love all throughout your life. Be a warrior for God and keep His commands, you and many others will be blessed immeasurably.

A Fast for The New Year!

2011-01-03T09:10:00.001-06:00

Fasting, a word that most people don’t like to hear, let alone actually do. I still remember when my pastor announced right before the New Year that our church would be participating in a corporate fast. He asked the entire church to spend time in fasting and prayer the first week of January dedicating the whole next year to God. My pastor was going to do a three day fast of only water and some juice and he had encouraged those who physically could, to do the same. I remember thinking there was no way I could actually go three days without eating. The thought scared me to death frankly! I really wanted my food, but I realized I really wanted to seek God more. So I decided to go for it. This three day fast would be a turning point in my life and in my walk with God. Seven years later I’m still fasting at the beginning of every year and throughout. When I am on a fast I find myself in some of the most intimate and treasured times with God that I have ever experienced. Fasting helps move other distractions out of the way so that you can really focus on seeking God and his will for you and your family’s life. Not to mention it does wonders for your physical health.

Don’t get me wrong…fasting is certainly not easy. You do get hungry, feel sick, have headaches; all the
physical symptoms you would expect of going without food. It’s certainly not a walk in the park, but in this physical state you realize how much you really do need God. Scripture tells us in Isaiah 58 what a true and acceptable fast will bring into our lives. God really does respond to our sacrificing food for the purpose of seeking him. Please understand that just going without food for a period of time doesn’t constitute a real biblical fast. Fasting involves us spending the extra time in prayer and study. Also understand that fasting in not just for leaders and “super Christians”. Scripture encourages everyone to fast as a spiritual discipline. Many miracles happened in scripture while God’s people were fasting. God has been so faithful to meet me every time I fast. It was on a fast that I was called into ministry, found my husband, had physical healing in my body, broke off bad habits and addictions, True Identity Ministries was born, and most of all fell head over heels forever in true love with Jesus. I have learned to never make a big decision in my life without first spending time in fasting and prayer.

Although the physical part of fasting can be a challenge I desperately look forward to the precious times with God each time I fast. There is such a clear feeling of his presence and his voice. I would encourage you this year to do a fast of your own. Whether you are looking for a deeper intimacy with God, needing an answered prayer, looking for direction, or you just want to dedicate the coming year to God; take the time at the beginning of this year to fast and pray. Just do whatever God leads you to do. It could be fasting a meal, a day, three days, or more. You could also fast certain foods or activities. But make sure it’s what God has laid on your heart. He may call you to do something that you would think is impossible, but he will help you. The results will astound you and you will never be the same again. Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with blessing. May He greatly bless you as you fast!

Scriptures on fasting:
Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Luke 18:9-14, Isaiah 58

xoxo
Justeina

It's About Hope & What You Can't See

2010-12-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

Hebrews 11.1

Lately I have wondered: what is faith, how do I get it, what power does it have? Knowing the power of faith and releasing it into your life is huge and I feel as if perhaps I have been missing it lately. I wonder who else out there could be too?

I don't mean to imply that faith is non-existent, because I have some faith. But I didn't understand how to unlock the power it had. Now I search the scriptures to find more about what exactly is faith and how do I hold it. I want to be know as a woman of faith. I want people to look at my life and see a person who has faith in God above.

There is so much that I have been learning about faith. I really believe that this is something that God wants us to get a hold of. I really do. Faith gives reality to things that cannot be seen.

I wanted to to study the famous Hebrews 11 chapter that lists those from the Old Testament that were commended for their faith. I thought surely I could learn something from them.

Abel- he offered a more acceptable sacrifice to God
he was commended as righteous

Enoch- faith through obedience to God; he was not because God took him
commended as having pleased God

Noah- constructed an ark for events unseen
reverent fear

Abraham- went out to a place of which he knew not of in a foreign land
looked forward to an eternal city

Sarah- conceived a child past the age
considered him faithful who had promised

Abraham- offered up Isaac, his only son
considered God able EVEN to raise his son from the dead

Isaac- invoked future blessings on his sons

Jacob- blessed as he was dying, bowing in worship

Joseph- mentioned the exodus that was to come, and gave directions concerning his bones

Moses (Parents)- was hidden for three months
they were not afraid of the king's edict

Moses- left the wealth and comfort of the Pharaoh's house to live in hardship with the people of God
considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt

Moses- left Egypt, not being afraid of the king

Israel- crossed the Red Sea on dry land and by faith the walls of Jericho fell

Rahab- gave friendly welcome to the spies
she did not perish

Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel...

through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.

There they are; there is the faith hall of fame. The words italicized represent a quality of sorts that they had. That I want.

Faith is knowing in your heart, believing that God will be faithful to His promises. And there are so many promises!

As you go into your prayer time everyday, or whenever you lift up a prayer, have that assurance. Ask with boldness. Be specific. I neglected to do either for a long time because in the back of my heart, I somehow doubted. I believed with my mind, no problem. But, and this is just a personal struggle that I have, but in my heart, I guess I always expected that not everything is going to happen for me. I wasn't asking with an assurance, because in the back of my heart I was expecting to be let down. But God isn't human and He won't let you down. And you CAN pray for specific things and ask with boldness, because that's the power that sees action.

If you want more faith, ask for it. The apostles asked for it in Luke 17.

"The apostles said to the Lord, 'Increase our faith!' And the Lord said, 'If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, "Be uprooted and planted in the sea," and it would obey you'." (17.5-6)

Hello, there is faith that can tell a tree to go into the ocean! I definitely want that power, don't you? And I can! You can! Ask and believe. If you do, it is yours!

The Joy of De-cluttering!

2010-12-30T17:01:00.006-06:00

Isaiah 43:18-19 "But forget all that- it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in dry wasteland."

Oh, the joy of Christmas vacation! We have spent a nice amount of time having some family bonding, such as-reading together, cuddling by the fireplace and having devotional time with my nine-year-old, playing Barbies with my daughter, air hockey tournaments,and on and on. While this has all been wonderful, I have also spent some time doing something that brings me joy and satisfaction! De-cluttering! :)

It is amazing how much stuff you can accumulate in a family of six. Shoes, clothes, books, toys, stuff, stuff and more stuff! (and I’m not even a pack-rat!) My husband spent time re-cleaning (notice I say re-cleaning because it seems like this is a project that is constantly needing repeated!) and organizing the garage, and I have spent much time going through the kids’ rooms.

With some new clothes they received for Christmas, toys and movies, it was another great opportunity (and excuse) to clean out dresser drawers, closets and toy boxes. We were able to get rid of bags of clothing that were no longer fitting them, throw out broken toys, pass down toys they had grown out of and just simply…de-clutter! It felt so great at the end to look at the finished product and see how much better it looked. :)

This brought me to think of a spiritual parallel that is very timely and fitting. It’s almost the first of the year and we are at that time to set our New Year’s goals and resolutions. As I was getting ready to sit down and do this, I was reading over a Rick Warren devotional titled, Your Heart is Designed for God to Fill. The purpose of the devotion was to remind us that our hearts were designed to contain God. He says this is similar to a garage being designed for a car, yet many times people cannot even park in their garages because they are so full of other things! Ha! How many of us have ever been here before?

It’s the same way with our hearts-they were designed for God, but many times there is no room for Him.As I was de-cluttering my home, I was thinking about this. Is my heart and life so full with other things that there’s no room for God? Like the broken toys; are there areas of brokenness that need to be healed by God? Like the piles of clothing that my children no longer needed; are there piles of unforgiveness, bitterness or offenses that I need God to help me work through and get rid of? Like getting rid of the kids’old movies and adding on some new ones; are there some old thought patterns I need to replace with some new ones?

Philippians 4: 8 (NLT) “And now, dear sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

As we enter the New Year, now is the time to de-clutter your life. What things have taken greater priority than God in your life? One easy way to tell is asking yourself this question-What do you think about the most? Are there some things in your life and heart that are pushing Him out? Ask God to guide you through the de-cluttering process. He is waiting to do something new in your New Year! And...oh, what a sweet feeling we will feel afterwards!

Love,
Stephanie

Happy Friday!

2010-12-17T08:55:00.002-06:00

Hello ladies! I want to apologize right off the bat for a delayed and not-so-involved post today. I am a college student (because I decided to wait five years after high school to finally join the college train). This week happens to be the most exciting week of every semester...finals!!

I will be honest...I've been living with my head in the books during my free time and was unable to devote study and time to this weeks devotional. But I don't want you to leave empty-handed :)

This is the verse that I look upon at this very moment. I have it hanging next to my computer for a constant reminder of what my purpose is.

"This is my life work: helping people understand and respond to this Message."
Ephesians 3.7 (MSG)

Here you go. Here is what today is meant for. So take this verse. Meditate on it. And then go out there with the Message!

The True Christmas Priority

2010-12-16T16:56:00.002-06:00

Can you believe we only have 9 more days until Christmas? I feel like I say this every year, but “where has the time gone?!” If you are anything like me, you are still working on finishing your Christmas shopping, wrapping gifts, last minute planning for upcoming parties, and the list goes on. In the hustle and bustle of it all, it can be way too easy to lose focus of the true Christmas priority. And that is having our hearts turned toward and focused on our loving Savior, Jesus. What does this mean and how do we practically do this?

The answer may seem pretty simple...but, whew, it’s hard to do sometimes. It’s simply spending time with Jesus every day, despite our overwhelming to-do lists. We must be intentional about this, because it will not just happen. We know we need to have the gifts purchased and wrapped, but we somehow think we can make it without time with Him.

Listen to what David cried out during his personal time with God. In Psalms 5:1-3 he says, “O, Lord, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. Listen to my cry for I pray to no one but you. Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my request to you and wait expectantly.” David made a point to meet with the Savior before his to-do lists got the best of him.

During those quiet times with God, that’s when He is able to speak to our hearts in such personal ways. It may be something as simple as, “when you go to the Christmas party, I want you to go out of your way to encourage so and so…”, it may be, “I know it is difficult for you to attend the family gathering, but I want to work in your heart and walk you through forgiveness so you can be around that certain person.” Only as we make the priority to spend some time with him and cry out to Him each morning, will He be able to use us in powerful ways.

Maybe He will challenge you to have a heart of serving. 1 Peter 5:5 says, “Serve one another in humility, for God opposes the proud, but favors the humble.” When we are attending all of the family gatherings, the work parties and so on...how can we take on the challenge of serving one another? Can we spread the love of Jesus and share the light of His goodness by our serving?

A few weeks ago, my 7 year-old son says to me, “Mom, you and Dad are sure a lot more special than Santa.” I smiled and said, “Why do you say that?” He says, “Because Santa only brings toys and you and Dad give love! Toys fall apart and get old, but love is what really matters!” Wow!! He got it! It’s the love of God that surpasses all of the ‘stuff’! It can be easy to get caught up in ourselves around this season-what outfit we will wear to the party, what dish we are going to take to the potlucks, how much money is left in our checking to purchase one more thing.

See, the enemy would love to distract us from the real priority of Christmas and miss out on what really matters. In 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT), it says, “Stay ALERT! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Let’s not allow the enemy to rob what opportunities we have to share the light of Jesus during this Christmas season! Meet with God today and ask Him what He wants to speak to you! How does He want to use you this season for His glory?

Love,
Stephanie

2010-12-15T06:43:00.000-06:00

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

The Lord is my shepherd,

I shall not want;

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters;

He restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness

for His name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley

of the shadow of death,

I fear no evil;

for You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life;

and I shall dwell in the house of the

Lord forever.

Psalm 23

The Lord has poured this scripture over my life in the last couple of weeks as the children in my class discuss His upcoming birthday. Take the time today and study what it means for God to be our Shepherd. What does this mean for your life? What is God making available to you? What can we do today to make a change towards the life He wants for us?

I have to share a simple paragraph and question from John Eldredge:

When the sheep follow the shepherd, they find pasture. They find life. Life doesn’t just magically come to us. We have to make ourselves available to it. There is a lifestyle that allows us to receive the life of God. I know that if I will live more intimately with Jesus and follow his voice, I will have a much better chance of finding the life I long for. I know it. If I will listen to his voice and let him set the pace, if I will cooperate in my transformation, I will be a much happier man. And so a new prayer has begun to rise within me, I am asking God, What is the life you want me to live? If we can get an answer to that question, it will change everything!

He states later that you can start small, day by day. What do you want for me today Lord? Move all distractions, disappointments, agendas, and busyness (we all know about that at this time of year) and make a lifestyle change for the better. Let him speak and lead us all to the life where HE fulfills our every need.

“Dear Heavenly Father, help us truly grasp the meaning of Psalm 23. Help us let go of this life that we so desperately hold onto and drench us in your blood of salvation. I pray we wake up to your sweet reminders of how and why you came to earth to save us. Teach us how to let go and let You lead our every thought, our every mood, and our every step Lord. Transform us Father! Thank you for loving us with an unfathomable joy. I pray we get a step closer to your heart every day. It is in Your Name we pray, Amen!”

Have a blessed day with Him!

Fear Not

2010-12-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

In Isaiah 43, the passage begins with "Fear not."

Now why would the Lord start with such a strong warning? I cannot by any means declare His intention, but I might assume that there is indeed some things that the flesh will find fearful. So "Fear not."

"Fear not, for I have redeemed..." Why should I, you, we not fear; it's a natural response, right? The Lord has redeemed you and to magnify the word redeem, it means "to free from captivity by payment of ransom; to free from the consequences of sin."

The Lord has set you free and then goes even further as to call you by your name. And if that was not enough, He goes on to say "you are mine." Wow! The Lord is making a declaration to you and to everyone out there that you are His. It is as if He is placing a banner over you for all to see that you are His.

In laymen terms: don't be afraid because God has saved you, He knows you, and you are His. What a beautiful thing to say, right? I mean I know that I am a sinner who botched it up and I still do at times. But I am also a sinner that admitted that I had botched it up and so I can appreciate this verse. God knows all things concerning each and everyone of us and for those who admit to the botching, He calls you "mine."

So why as His "mine" should we be afraid in the first place? In the storms, the deserts, the fires, our flesh grows fearful. It's natural. But God still commands us to not fear.

In addition, the verse does not say, "Fear not, SHOULD you pass through the waters." He says. "WHEN you pass through the waters...and through the rivers...WHEN you walk through the fire..."(v.2). When is mentioned twice in the same verse and reiterates that we, all, everyone will have tough times. Being a Christian does not mean that everything is going to be sunrises and kisses, but that without a doubt we will face fearful times.

When the children of Israel passed through the Red Sea with Moses and the Jordan River with Joshua, I am pretty sure that some of them were afraid that the water would overcome them. But God was with them. Or when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace, I guarantee that it was not all cush at first. But then we see in Daniel 3 that a being resembling a "son of God (or deity)", possibly a preincarnate appearance of Christ, appears to protect the men. This is a promise.

Now I know that some of you reading this might at times wonder what are the promises that we have. I have asked myself the same question before as well. Now you know that this is a promise. God says in Isaiah 43 that through the trials, He will be with you. And if God promises to be with you in the tough times, which at times may be difficult to believe, He will be there. All the time.

One part that I love in the chapter is when God announces in verse 3 that He is "your Savior." I love it! It is so poetic and yet when your read it, it resonates within you to be so true. It just fits.

Wait, it gets better. He continues in verse 4 with, "Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you." Okay, so surely I am not the only one left with tears in my eyes at this reflection. God honors you and loves you. Isn't that what we all seek? To be honored and loved.

It reminds me of what two people in love say to each other at a weddng ceremony. God is giving to you a vow. I know that at some point, or even now, some of you have looked in the wrong places for a vow. We expect people or things or dreams or titles to make us feel somehow important or precious. And although it is by no means wrong to share a vow as such with another person, it is wrong to give that vow to or accept that vow from another person as above all. God was, is, and always will be He who our heart must desire first. Nobody can fulfill you and nobody can love you like Him. When God says' "I love you," as a promise, as a vow, do not take it for granted. These words from the Savior are treasured words for your life.

"Fear not." I know, I already commented on this. The only reason I bring up this command again is because God commands it again. In verse 5 we find "Fear not" for a second time. In case you did not know, when a word or phrase appears more than once in a passage, it tends to mean pay attention. So for those of you who somehow didn't get it the first time, here it is again.

God knows that there will be times when we will want to be afraid. He understands that we as humans are not perfect and that we will be faced with uncertain times, resulting in a desire to be afraid. But along with the command to not fear He follows with a promise to be with you.

I could go on with this passage tucked away in Isaiah for it has indeed stirred something inside of me. But to go on would take much time and to leave off in verse 5 seems to be a good stopping point. I challenge each of you to study the chapter further; to find the value in the words here. I do not presume to know everything about this passage; all I want to do is stir some thought in you with my passion and observations for the Word and hopefully ignite in you a desire to search the scriptures.

One more thing which I hope encourages you is that yes, you will pass through difficult times. But remember that you will come out and that it will not last forever in spite of how you may feel in the midst. When the children of Israel passed through the Red Sea, they entered into freedom. When they crossed the Jordan River, they possessed the promised land. And when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire, two things happened. The rope that we saw them bound in seems to no longer hold them and others praised God.

Sometimes we must pass through the fire so that bondages may be broken and so that glory may be given to God.

Sounds worth it to me!

“Enough?”

2010-12-09T06:45:00.004-06:00

"The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs...and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." Isaiah 58:11

Last year as I was sitting in front of the Christmas tree, I was admiring the beautiful lights and enjoying the quiet, serene, peaceful time. As I sat there, I began to think, “Wow, for the amount of money we spent, it sure doesn’t look like a lot of gifts. It just doesn’t look like enough.” The Lord spoke to my spirit, “Do you think my mother, Mary, thought the same when she looked at that dirty, old, and stinky stable? Wow, this is it? Is this enough?” Let’s picture what it must have been like for this pregnant woman in her ninth month; Mary was probably experiencing intense labor pains and extreme fatigue from the long and uncomfortable donkey ride. She wasn’t fortunate enough to have experienced a short and cozy minivan drive across town and arrive at a clean hospital setting. Oh, no… she was going to give birth in a stable!?

As the story unfolds in the book of Luke, it was more than enough. True, the stable did not supply the modern day hospital luxuries: a warm and comfy bed, remote control television on the side rails or nurses offering the new mom a fresh water bottle. But, it did supply more than any other human being could offer. That night brought us the Messiah, the King of the world, the Prince of Peace, our Savior and the One who loves us so much that He would later give up his life on a cross to save us from our sins.

Is He ‘enough’ for you? Do you ever struggle with feelings that Jesus may not be enough? How could He ever mend this broken marriage? Can He really help my rebellious teenager? Could He heal these deep wounds from my past or supply our needs during this impossible financial difficulty? The Bible answers these questions in Matthew 19:26- "Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." It doesn’t mean our challenging situations miraculously disappear, but it does mean that He becomes more than enough for us.

The Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 16:9- “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” I have personally faced many challenges and continued to meditate on this Truth from God’s word. It is amazing and life-changing how the Holy Spirit strengthens us, guides us, and gives us the wisdom we need in each situation. The words in the song “Healer” speak of this: “you hold my every moment, you calm my raging seas, you walk with me through fire and heal all my disease. I believe you’re my healer, I believe you are all I need, I believe you’re my portion, I believe you’re more than enough for me. Nothing is impossible for You.”

As my kids opened their presents that Christmas morning, they were so overwhelmed! It was more than enough! Many times that it is how it feels when we are in His presence; as he gives us His priceless gifts of unexplainable peace, joy, and contentment. What do you need to turn over to God today to acknowledge that “He is Enough”?

Truth to meditate on:
Isaiah 26:3-4: “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.”

Matthew 7:7-8: “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Guarding our finances through the holidays Part 4

2010-12-07T08:43:00.002-06:00

Today we will discuss one final attitude we need to take on to guard our finances before we begin discussing practical tips. If you and I are going to be able to have an attitude of steward and make sure that our treasure is not in worldly wealth, we are going to have to become content right where we are. We want to have an attitude of contentment. You might be gasping right now, thinking you could never be content with the financial state that you are in right at this very moment. My answer to you is if you have debt then you shouldn’t be content. You should be ready to do whatever you need to do to get that debt paid off in a hurry. That is the biblical way. What we are talking about is being content with what we have and with where we are on the way to where we are going. Could you say that you are content with your circumstances? Let’s examine our hearts today and allow God to shine a light upon our world, revealing to us what it means to be content.

Luke 3:14 says, “…John replied, ‘Don’t extort money or make false accusations. And be content with your pay.” Let me be clear that this verse isn’t saying we shouldn’t be excited and accepting when God gives us promotion or an increase in pay. I’m only making the point that you shouldn’t allow discontentment to consume you. Don’t become so discontent with your income that it steals your joy and peace. If you and I are always wishing we could have more and more, it can lead our hearts right back to treasures on earth and not heaven. Which as we learned last week, can cause us to fall into temptation and destruction.

All throughout scripture we see it tell us to be content in all things, and that if we have food and clothing we should be content with that. It also warns us to stay free from the love of money and to be content with what we have because God will never leave us nor forsake us. Many of us can probably think back to a time that we have had a critical and judgmental attitude towards someone else simply because we weren’t content with what we had ourselves. This isn’t God’s will for our lives. The reason he tells us over and over in his word to be content is because he knows the danger and destruction of us being discontent. Proverbs 15:16 shows us that it is better to have little as it relates to wealth and possessions but still have the fear of the Lord, than it is to have much and find ourselves in turmoil and without God. 1 Timothy 6:6 shows us that godliness with contentment is great gain. God and God alone is where you and I need to find our satisfaction. When we find our satisfaction in him, we find nothing but gain for our lives.

I want to tell you about a circumstance that I watched someone walk through recently that reminds me of this topic of finding security in our money. A very wealthy man and his wife had one daughter. This daughter was having problems with severe depression and had gotten to the point that she was repeatedly trying to commit suicide. In the past they had always been able to use their money to fix their circumstances. They had used it to buy for this young girl the very best of everything all through her life, yet she still found herself lacking any hope or joy. Now they were using their money to try and buy all of the best medicines, doctors, and treatments to help their daughter. They made a very profound comment in the midst of this traumatic time. They said “We have the nicest homes, many cars, and an abundance of money. None of it is helping us to find joy, hope, or healing for our daughter.” They had looked to their money and cried out to it “save us!” Then when it did not, they finally came to the point that they were able to say “Is not this thing in my right hand a lie?” I don’t know how their story ended, but I pray that it was with finding Jesus. This is what God’s word is trying to show us. Our culture tries to convince us that the more we have the safer we are from ever losing hope. God’s word tells us quite the opposite. It tells us that true contentment, hope, and satisfaction can only be found in Jesus.

In Philippians 4:10-13 Paul tells us that he learned to be content. He knew what it was to have plenty and he knew what it was to be in need, but either way he could be content. He gives us a clue to the secret of being content in verse 13. He says “I can do everything through him that gives me strength.” Christ is the secret. When you and I stay connected to Christ we are going to have the strength to be content in any circumstance. Apart from Christ we have nothing and will find our hearts searching after the things of this world. It doesn’t matter what your circumstances are, you too can learn to be content through him that gives you strength. As you do it is sure to help you guard your finances through the holidays.
Xoxo

Justeina

Lovely in them All

2010-12-03T06:11:00.003-06:00

"But you, O God, are both tender and kind, not easily angered, immense in love, and you never, never quit." Psalm 86.15

I at times will randomly, or thoughtfully, send this verse to friends. It has the power to be encouraging all the time, and often, exactly what somebody needs to hear. It doesn't hurt to hear about the love of God every once and a while, and this one is a great example of the many different kinds of love God shows us.

I don't plan of adding as much commentary to a passage as I am accustomed to doing here on Fridays. I believe these words are powerful enough all by themselves to shake you and move you. To show you different facets of His love without my help

Tender and kind. Our God is compassionate. His love is good to us.
Not easily angered. His love is forgiving and gracious.
Immense. His love is vast and eternal.
Never quits. Our God never gives up on us. Nothing can separate us from His love.

C.H. Spurgeon commented on Psalm 86,
"God's love assumes many forms, and is lovely in them all."

When I am weak, He is strong

2010-12-01T06:32:00.002-06:00

2 Corinthians 12:9

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." so i will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

For when I am weak, then HE makes me strong- WOW! Thank God for that! How often are we weak, how many times do we fail just in one day? This is the journey we are all on and praise God for standing right there beside us, encouraging us and lifting our heads like the Father He is. In weakness and brokenness is where we can see that it is God that we need. It is He who has the answers, the advice, the love, the correction, the direction, and the future in His hands. How nice is it to know He is there to guide us when we ask. You dont have to have all of the answers, you dont have to call all of the shots, you dont have to keep struggling and fighting this unbearable battle for life. He is our Father who will handle our struggles and lifestyles. He will put our thoughts and decisions into perspective if we allow Him into our hearts. He wants us to allow Him to give us life and a life we've never imagined or fathomed. If we can put ourselves to the side and allow Him to become our priority and focus (everyday) this peace the bible talks about can reside in our hearts and once you experience this peace and love you'll want no other!

Dear Father

"Help us to lay ourselves aside today so we can see You more clearly. Help us to hear the voice of Love and Truth as we struggle with the daily pressures in our lives. I ask that you prepare our hearts to understand and gain the wisdom of peace that only comes from you Father. We need so much more of you in our daily lives. Thank you for loving us for who we are and being patient with us. We love you and seek your strength today!"

Five Life-Changing Benefits of Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T08:16:00.002-06:00

1 Thessalonians 5:17-19 "pray without ceasing,in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Do not quench the Spirit."

Thanksgiving is here and we have so much to thankful for! A heart of Thanksgiving isn't just for today, but so important to have all year long. Maybe some of you are going through a very difficult time and you feel like you are grasping for something to be thankful for. I want to encourage you today that God loves each of you so much and there are so many physical and spiritual benefits for daily giving thanks. Let me share an incert from another article I read-I knew I had to share it, as it is so encouraging for us all during this Thanksgiving celebration.

Some years ago there was a series of television pubic service messages about education. One of tag lines was, “Reading is Fundamental.” This is a very concise and accurate statement. If a person cannot read, he cannot function effectively in life or experience the best this world has to offer.

As believers, we live by many foundational truths from the Word of God. One of the most important is: “Giving thanks to God daily is fundamental.”

Giving thanks to God is one of best things we do because it is inclusive of worship, prayer, faith, holiness, giving and sacrifice.

Five Life-Changing Benefits of Giving Thanks:

#1 “Giving thanks to God daily is fundamental”- It’s one of the things that we do that makes other things possible.

Psalm 100:4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.

Heb. 13:15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

#2 Giving thanks helps keep our lives clear of anxiety, sin, darkness, deception.

Romans 1:21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools,

Philippians 4:6, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;

#3 Giving Thanks is a container that allows us to hold blessings, benefits and responsibilities

Eph. 5:18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.

#4 Giving Thanks puts us in a position to allow God to transform every weakness into a strength through Christ.

2 Cor. 12:9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

#5 Thanksgiving draws us closer to God and to others for help and healing

James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

Psalm 35:18, I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people.

I pray that God speaks to your heart this Thanksgiving day, as you praise Him and give Thanks to Him.

Love,
Stephanie

Hope

2010-11-24T12:05:00.001-06:00

The last three years of my life with God have been absolutely amazing! Along with the three years of pure pursuit of the Lord and His love for me came a major spiritual battle within my marriage. Many years ago I started realizing I desperately needed what the Lord had planned for my life and not what I had chosen. After following the Lord’s advice I repented and faced my consequences. I wont lie, it was unbelievably hard at times. There were days, I wondered if I would survive and pull through the way the Lord longed for me to. Each time I hit a low, He would swoop me up and speak directly into my heart. I had some of the most intimate moments with Him, and I would think they could never be beat! Well He did it again! After a long and hard fought battle between my husband and the Lord, the Lord took VICTORY! My husband rededicated his life to the Lord on November 7, 2010!!!!!

I know many of you can relate to this situation I‘m writing about today. I want to encourage you to fight the good fight and endure what God has blessed you with. It may not be your husband but maybe it’s a family member, a child, a co-worker or your friend. Some days you feel they are as far away from His touch as possible and other times you feel if they just reached out they would feel His warm embrace. God has given me an awesome message of hope to share with you today!

On this particular Sunday I could not have been more blown away by what took place. My husband was in absolute shock as well. He says he had no plans on surrendering on this day. He was truly blessed with the power and conviction of the Holy Spirit. As much as I had prayed for this day I couldn’t believe it was here. God was not disappointed in anyway with the fact I was shocked but spoke to me and encouraged me to truly hold onto the Hope he provided me with each day. He wants us to understand that at these times He is there to teach us about His love and not look down upon us in judgment. We are all on a journey to live life to the fullest for Jesus. If you have seen something in the wrong light or failed to endure the hardships, let Him pick you up and minister to your heart. He wants us to learn and share His wisdom with others. When we learn these lessons first hand from God, what better way for people to relate. We can live a fulfilled life if we choose to seek Him daily. We must stay focused because you know who is on our tail and ready to pounce the minute we get discouraged. I visualize crushing satan beneath my feet as much as possible. JI get major satisfaction from this!

On this Sunday morning He gave me fresh eyes to see the meaning He had and has given my life. He touched my heart with patience and peace. We must wait patiently on the ones He has placed in our lives. We must protect our hearts and follow His lead. I know how easily we can get distracted, frustrated and hurt. Whether we feel or think someone is where they need to be with God, we need to remember it is not our decision where and when that takes place. We will not always see what is taking place for the Lord. So therefore we must remain hopeful. If the Lord has chosen you to be a voice for an unbeliever, we must always believe and speak truth into their lives. If we continue our close walk with the Lord and follow Him with obedience, His promises will prevail.

We must diligently seek after His heart and tune our ears to hear His whispers. He has all the answers! Lets get excited about being His students and drawing others near. He will never allow you to stay in a situation He has not chosen for you. Those words of truth carried me through many days. I believed and knew if I was not suppose to be in this situation He would remove it from my life. He will always protect and guide if we choose to seek His path.

To understand the biblical definition for the word Hope changed my entire perspective. We think of hope in the world as a wish or a maybe. Lets remember what the Lord wants for us to feel when we speak of His hope. This word “Hope” is an absolute, a guarantee without a doubt. It is the Greek word “elpis” meaning “to expect or anticipate with pleasure.” Romans 5:2“By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” We rejoice in the glory of God, not with uncertainty but with joyful anticipation — guaranteed.

I am so thankful the Lord has redirected my heart. Will you join me in the direction the Lord has steered me? Whether it be a situation, a circumstance, a person or even the future, God has given us Hope! An absolute, a guarantee! We can choose to expect and anticipate the day of surrender, the day of answers, the day of truth, repentance, healing, humbleness and pure God in our lives and the lives of the ones He loves. We don’t have to get discouraged, frustrated, or judgmental nor should we. He asks us to rejoice in Him. There’s almost nothing I love more than to rejoice in Him with singing, dancing, laughing or even crying. His love is so good and I know He has the answers, He has our hearts, He has our purpose and He promises it is a future full of hope.

If you are in a familiar situation my heart goes out to you. I know how difficult, sad and hopeless it can feel. I am praying for you today and everyday that you will take this word “hope” to heart and hang onto it. Resist the lies of satan and keep walking towards the Lord’s truth. Allow God to fill your heart, soul and mind. His promises are true and we will see them. Anticipate the day of answered prayers! The question is will we rise up and declare His hope in our lives? Will we wait expectantly? Will yowe rejoice each and every day just knowing today could be the day!

Pray with me, “Heavenly Father we thank you for this day of hope. We thank you for choosing us to be your mouthpiece on earth and in the lives of all who surround us. As we follow your lead we expect the trials and tribulations. Equip us Lord with your powerful and loving armor as we choose to fight until the end. We ask that the Holy Spirit is ever present in our souls. When we get the urge to give up or think negatively, fill our hearts and allow us to speak only words of encouragement. We know we cannot do this without you and so we rely on you 100%. I pray for each of us fighting this battle. When one ends we know another begins. I pray when we open our eyes in the morning that we meet you in this place of surrender. Give us a new vision each morning Lord. Thank you for your forgiveness, your mercy and grace, your protection, and your love and guidance! For this is where we place our HOPE!”

Radio Broadcast: Dealing with Difficult People Series

2010-11-23T08:56:00.000-06:00

Listen to internet radio with True ID Ministries on Blog Talk Radio

Guarding our finances through the holidays Part 3

2010-11-22T07:53:00.001-06:00

As we work our way through our holiday blog series called Guarding Our Finances we have been talking about the attitudes we hold toward our money and possessions. Last week we looked at having the attitude of steward and not owner. Today let’s see where your treasure is.
Matthew 6:24 tells us, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This is a caution to us to not allow the things we can see and touch become a treasure to us, because when they do, they will steal all of our thoughts, time, and devotion. Let it not be what you and I work to store up. These things are only temporary. They are capable of being robbed, damaged, or lost in an instant. We cannot put our hope and trust in these things, they will fail us. We cannot find our satisfaction in these things, they will leave us empty. We cannot build our lives on top of them, they are just sinking sand.

The culture we live in does not help us out with this one AT ALL! The culture says that you just haven’t arrived unless you have a prestigious job, a large income, the top cars and the largest homes (one is not enough), wearing the top brands and the flashiest jewelry, and of course the up most education. I am not saying that it is right or wrong to have these things, but I am saying they are only temporary and they shouldn’t be where your heart is found. They shouldn’t be your treasure.

Allowing worldly possessions to become our treasure can have so many devastating consequences. One of them is mentioned in Matthew 6:24. It says that we can’t serve two masters. We will love the one and hate the other. We will be devoted to one and despise the other; we cannot serve both God and money. The word for money here is mammon, and it means gain. It is talking about anything in the world we use for gain. Placing too much value in money, possessions, prestige, and people’s opinions can steal away our devotion to God. If we are constantly looking to gain in the world, it can take our focus off of kingdom things. Matthew 6:33 says to seek first the kingdom.

That is to be our first priority, not an abundance of things from the world. Colossians 3:2 reminds us to set our minds on things above and not on earthly things. Girls we have to do a heart check. We have to be honest with where our treasure is. I need to tell you that how much money you have currently has nothing to do with where your treasure is. You could have an abundance of wealth and not have allowed it to become your treasure. You could just as easily not have a penny to your name, but have allowed the desire to gain wealth become your treasure. This is a very dangerous place to be.

I don’t know about you, but I find myself people watching all the time. Sometimes I have to be very careful to guard my heart as I do. Our motives aren’t always pure in checking out those around us. Could it be that we want to know if they have something we don’t? Could it be that we end up being consumed with wishing that we had what they have? That we looked like them…Wore their size…Could sing like them…Had their job…Had their car…Had their home…Had their title? Are we really busy trying to keep up with the Jones’s?

We can walk around with our green tented glasses on, envying all those around us and it is keeping us in bondage. In Luke 12 it reminds us that, “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” You are not defined by how much you have. You’re identity is not found in the value of your dress size, job, home, car, or bank accounts. You’re identity is found in Christ and Christ alone. He is your treasure and your very great reward. So be on guard this Christmas when you begin your holiday shopping. Evaluate where your real treasure is, and begin to teach your children that the real treasure of Christmas is not all the gifts, but Jesus himself.

xoxo
Justeina

Adding Doesn't Always Equal More

2010-11-19T06:00:00.002-06:00

Matthew 6.33 has been my favorite verse for years now.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you."

It amazes me that after quoting this verse to myself for years, that I can randomly read it in my Bible one day and it knocks me over with the Truth in it. For anybody who says the Bible is an old book of old stories for an old generation long gone, I say you don't know what you're talking about! Because I see a living , breathing work of God present in my life today!

In Matthew 6, Jesus is sitting on a mountain near Capernum, and he is delivering his most famous sermon. Can you even imagine what that must have been like?! Sitting leisurely, listening to the beautiful voice of Jesus speak Truth into your life. Gives me goosebumps just to think about it!

Matthew 6.33 has sort of become my life verse. It represents my motivation for each day. The clear voice in times of difficulty. My hope in submitting my life to His.

Seek First...the KINGDOM OF GOD.

This one statement, this one sentence contradicts everything our society believes. But the Bible often does do that. We are taught early on to work hard to make the money to buy the things we need. That pretty much portrays the mindset of most humans.

In the few verses leading up to this one, Jesus speaks to the person wondering what they will eat, and what they will wear. We worry, worry, worry about how we'll get by. And get by with more than enough.

But Jesus, the man who for three years didn't have a home to lay his head. Who lived off of the generosity of others. This man, also know as the Son of God, encourages us. No wait, commands us not to worry.

When we wake up in the morning girls, we are to set our minds on our Fathers business. To seek Him first is to welcome the rest. C.H. Spurgeon wrote in his commentary of Matthew 6, "You mind His business, and He will mind ours."

Is that not brilliant?! When we set ourselves to His work and perfect will, He will take care of our needs and concerns.

My favorite thought about this verse resembles a math equation of sorts. (Don't worry, it's not complicated). Jesus calls us to seek Him first, and that which we desire will be added to us. This leaves me to conclude, naturally, that God must be our WHOLE. The rest that we desire, are ADDITIONS.

Ladies, we must not be seeking the additions, because they are additions. Not the whole. Nothing more. When we seek the additions, looking to make them the whole, they will not fulfill us or sustain us. It's like chasing the wind. But when we seek God first, He will add everything we need! Isn't that an incredible promise?!

I've begun to see the little additions that I've been seeking, and I'm convicted. Even good things I have devoted myself to begin to look like wholes to me. My work at the church. My commitment to people. I read this verse and I catch subtle glimpses of the additions I am beginning to make the whole in my life.

I hope today I can encourage you to reevaluate your life and see where your crutches are. What are you seeking after? Is it God? Is it money? Recognition at work? Your family? A boyfriend? There should be nothing that we seek outside of the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Out of that devotion to make him whole, He will add to us those things we need, and those lovely additions that make our life beautiful. The job we like. The family we love. The relationship we enjoy. Those are additions. And it makes the additions all the more beautiful when they come from God.

Separation Anxiety

2010-11-18T07:25:00.002-06:00

My three year old has just recently entered into a new season of his life-separation anxiety. :) Any time that Mommy is getting ready to leave, he starts to tense up a bit. I may only be dropping him off at Grandma and Grandpa’s house (which he loves to go to) or to the kid’s church class for an hour, but in his little mind, he is feeling like it’s going to be forever. He starts off by telling me good-bye about ten times, blows me twenty kisses, tilts his head and winks his eye at me about ten times….and then this process repeats itself. Lately, I’ve had to try a little Mommy tactic, to help him focus his mind on something else besides me leaving him. So, being the ‘expert’ Mommy that I am, :)…I tell him, “Josiah, if you are a real big boy and don’t cry, I have a pack of M&M’s in my purse for you when I pick you up.” Work’s every time!

Last week after I dropped him off at Grandpa’s house, and after we had gone through the whole process, I had to chuckle as I drove down the road. It’s pretty cute seeing my son’s little chubby cheeks and big brown eyes as he tilts his head and winks at me, another way of him saying, “I love you so much.” I know this separation anxiety season will only be temporary. My three older children had gone through it too. Now, they’ve quickly outgrown it and I laugh when I drop them off somewhere because I may not even get a “good-bye”; as they so excitedly run off for some fun time!

I was thinking about this whole separation anxiety thing and thought, “I want my relationship with Jesus to be like this.” Not anxiety of course, but where I just can’t seem to get enough time with Him. If I am apart from Him too long, it really bothers me. If I feel separated from Him, it’s not a ‘comfortable’ feeling, but one where I just can’t wait to be back with Him. It’s easy as adults to sometimes resemble my older children. We can go about our days, running off for our to-do lists and the things that are appealing in our eyes. Maybe we’re not forgetting to say, “good-bye”, but we are not even starting off with a “good morning”. I want it to feel so uncomfortable if I attempt to live out one day without His presence!

Six times in the Old testament we are told that David “inquired of the Lord” (1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1; 5:19, 23) He knew he was nothing apart from God-that He could not even make it one day without the Lord. In fact, the first thing he did every morning-before turning to the business of the day-was to turn his heart toward the Lord in prayer:

Psalm 5:3 (Amplified Bible)
“In the morning You hear my voice, O Lord; in the morning I prepare [a prayer, a sacrifice] for You and watch and wait [for You to speak to my heart].”
Psalm 119:147 (NLT)
“I rise early, before the sun is up;I cry out for help and put my hope in your words.”

Apart from the presence, wisdom, and grace of God, we cannot do anything of true worth. If we humbly realize this and take the steps to keep ourselves connected with our loving God, we will be walking our days in His grace-His divine enabling to carry us through each day.

Are you feeling separated from Him today? How can you reconnect? Practically, do you need to start off your day in prayer? What about an encouraging devotional that will inspire you to get into the Word? What about Bible memorization? (I know this is one I am personally working on.) All of these things will keep us continually feeling close to our Heavenly Father. My challenge for you and me today is this…take intentional steps today to keep yourself from feeling separated from God. And once in a while, give Him a wink! ;)

Stephanie

Listen to Radio Broadcast! Overly Needy People

2010-11-16T07:00:00.003-06:00

Join Justeina and listen in to this 6 minute radio broadcast teaching you how to deal with those overly needy people in your life.

Listen to internet radio with True ID Ministries on Blog Talk Radio

Guarding our finances through the holidays Part 2

2010-11-15T07:56:00.001-06:00

The first step for you and me in this process of guarding our finances this holiday season is realizing that we are just stewards, not owners. If you and I are going to manage our resources according to the bible we have to get it straight within our hearts who the true owner of those resources is. We are only stewards. Only the manager over the things entrusted to us. If you and I try to take over and claim ownership of our money, time, and resources it will lead us astray every time and many times bring destruction and defeat. Psalm 24:1 tells us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world and all who live in it.”

A steward is just a manager of someone else’s property. They manage the property according to the owner’s wishes. An owner holds all rights to that thing. They are the legal titleholder and proprietor. What about you? Do you seem to fall into the mindset that you are the one that holds all rights to your money, time, and resources? Do you claim yourself as owner? Owner of your home, car, children, and business? Owner of your gifts and talents? We have to be very careful and very clear that we are only stewards, only managers. God is the true owner of everything you and I have. He is the one that should get the final say on how it should be managed. And trust me he has lots of advice for us on how to manage money in his word.

Think about the overwhelming mindset of the culture in which we live. “I worked hard for it and it’s mine!” The mindset that says it was my talent and hard work that earned this wealth and I should be able to do with it what I want to. Mine, Mine, Mine. This is the resounding word we see everywhere we look. You and I can also fall into this same seductive “mine” mentality. Scripture tells us to remember the Lord our God, for it is he that gives us the ability to produce wealth. Romans 14:12 says, “So then we will all give an account of ourselves to God.” We will certainly have to give an account to our “my money is my money” attitude if we have one. As we take on this attitude we begin to live beyond our means, confuse desires with needs, and rely on credit cards to sustain our “my money” lifestyle. Being a steward is adopting an attitude that says I have been made manager over these resources and I need to manage them wisely.

I really want to challenge you to think how different you would manage your money and resources if you truly did believe that God is owner and giver? As we close today’s study allow God to do an assessment over your life. Allow him to show you the areas that you are still trying to hold onto as owner instead of steward. It could be over your money, your home, your job, your children, or your gifts and talents. As long as you and I continue hold our grip on our resources as owner we will never be able to manage them as the steward that God expects us to be. When we take the appropriate role of steward, it is sure to bring God glory, and will certainly help you better guard your finances throughout the holidays.

xoxo
Justeina

Romans 4, Part 5

2010-11-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

For our final look at Romans 4, we will be breaking down verses 17-21.

"We call Abraham 'father' not because he got God's attention by living like a saint, but because God made something out of Abraham when he was a nobody. Isn't that what we've always read in Scripture, God saying to Abraham, 'I set you up as father of many peoples?' Abraham was first named 'father' and then became a father because he dared to trust God to do what only God could do: raise the dead to life, with a word make something out of nothing. When everything was hopeless, Abraham believed anyway, deciding to live not on the basis of what he saw he couldn't do but on what God said he would do. And so he was made father of a multitude of peoples. God himself said to him, 'You're going to have a big family, Abraham!'

Abraham didn't focus on his own impotence and say, 'It's hopeless. This hundred-year-old body could never father a child.' Nor did he survey Sarah's decades of infertility and give up. He didn't tiptoe around God's promise asking cautiously skeptical questions. He plunged into the promise and came up strong, ready for God, sure that God would make good on what he had said. That's why it is said, 'Abraham was declared fit before God by trusting God to set him right.' But it's not just Abraham; it's also us! The same thing gets said about us when we embrace and believe the One who brought Jesus to life when the conditions were equally hopeless. The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God."

Abraham had every reason from human point of view to give up.

Take this to thought for a moment. Abraham and his household lived in an area with much traffic and met many travelers each day. We can assume that as the travelers passed through and Abraham met them on their way, they would exchange greetings. Abraham would instinctively tell these travelers his name (which means "father of many"), and since a name meant something during this time period, people would no doubt respond with, "Oh great! How many children do you have?!"

Of course, Abraham would have to respond, "None." We can assume that Abraham would hear the confusion from the travelers exchanges. Or walking by the tents at night, he would hear his servants whispers about how a man named "father of many" had no children.

Yes, Abraham had every reason from human point of view to give up.

Yet, Abraham believed God when he said that Abraham would have descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. Why?

His faith sprang from the promises of God. It was not irrational or baseless, but an assurance from evidence into the security of God's Word and promises. He concluded that the certainty of the divine promise outweighed every natural improbability.

Where in your life are you focusing on the natural improbability?
Are you believing in God's promise(s) for your life?

Abraham was first named father and then became a father. He dared to trust God to do only what God could do.

Yes, Abraham was 100 years old and certainly beyond the ability to have children. And yes, Sarah had been infertile for decades. But he didn't focus on that. V. 22 says that he "plunged into the promise."

Plunged. To immerse, to enter with sudden decision upon an unfamiliar course of action (dictionary.com).

I get this picture of running full on and doing a cannonball into the water. Just going for it, without looking back. Immersed.

As much as Abraham plunged in, neither did he shut his eyes to the unfavorable circumstances. I believe this is a trap for many, including myself. You try to convince yourself that if you ignore the problem or pretend it doesn't exist, it will go away. That's not biblical and certainly not what Abraham did. He carefully considered his age and Sarah's infertility...and realized that God's ability outweighed their inabilities.

Are you closing your eyes to an unfavorable circumstances instead of looking to God, the One for who nothing is impossible?

Abraham's faith did not become weak or doubt.
did not become discouraged by natural weakness.
was fully assured that God would do what He promised.

We must be people of faith! In Hebrews 11, it says that faith is a conviction of things not seen. Does that not represent Abraham completely?!

The word "faith" is used 5 times in this passage. This word has an emphasis that is was faith that secured what God has promised. FAITH.

What promise(s) have you received from the Lord?

Guarding our finances through the holidays

2010-11-08T08:25:00.000-06:00

Christmas is coming! You can see it and smell it everywhere you turn. The stores are all full of Santa Clauses, pine trees, colorful lights, pumpkin pies and spiced cider. With the Holidays approaching quickly, we need to make sure we have a healthy mindset of the joy of giving while also being honest about our financial ability to give. So often families find themselves with a whopping credit card bill after Christmas that follows them around for months to come. All the stress and strain added to a marriage and family all for just one day of giving glee. Don’t get me wrong, it’s an amazing feeling to be able to give generously to the ones you love. But when you really think about it, today’s culture leads us to believe that we not only have to give generously to the ones we love, but even the ones we hardly like! (what? you didn't think i'd say that?)

We start to feel obligated and before we know it we are giving to our neighbors, teachers, coworkers, our third cousin we hardly know, all our children’s classmates, and we even keep a few extra gifts handy…just in case someone we don’t expect gives us one. We fall into this vicious cycle all the while causing our financial status to plummet further and further into chaos.

I want to spend the next few weeks talking about the balance between giving generously and being content to refuse to give under compulsion. What would change for you this year if you really did throw off that feeling of obligation to buy things beyond your means for the ones in your world? Would the end result of your holiday shopping sprees be different this year if you chose to use wisdom from God’s word rather than following the cultures standard? I imagine your answer is that it would be. What a freeing thing it would be to not spend all next year paying off what you couldn’t afford, but had to have this year. Just like you I could use a few reminders myself about the true meaning of Christmas. With a little direction from God and a lot of heart checks by us, we can have a holiday of giving without finding ourselves in bondage to the bills that follow. So be sure to check the blog every Monday over the next few weeks for our series called: Guarding Our Finances Through the Holidays. Until then just be praying and asking God to direct your steps and open your eyes to HIS plan for this year’s Christmas holiday!

xoxo

Justeina

Romans 4, Part 4

2010-11-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

In Part 4, we will be taking a look at V. 14-15.

"If those who get what God gives them only get it by doing everything they are told to do and filling out all the right forms properly signed, that eliminates personal trust completely and turns the promise into an ironclad contract! That's not a holy promise; that's a business deal. A contract drawn up by a hard-nosed lawyer and with plenty of fine print only makes sure that you will never be able to collect. But if there is no contract in the first place, simply a promise—and God's promise at that—you can't break it."

We've all seen a contract...and the fine print that goes with it. With the fine print there are loop holes. What Paul is trying to paint in this picture of a contract is that with fine print, we will never be able to fulfill the contract. We won't be able to hold up our end of the deal.

Our relationship with God is not a contract or a to-do list.

Went to church on Sunday...CHECK.
Put money in the offering...CHECK.
Did my good deed for the day...CHECK.

That is a list of works, not a relationship. A contract eliminates personal trust and relationship. You could never attend enough services, or give enough money, or do enough good deeds to set you right with God, because that isn't relationship.

When I was spending some time over these verses, I got this idea in my mind. Not that I would know personally, but I know there was a time in our history where people could trust each other by their word and a handshake. Today you would never see such personal trust but rather would see people pushing a contract to seal the deal. God doesn't want a signed contract from you, but to take His hand and trust Him at His word.

God wants a personal relationship with you!! Think about the following question for a moment...

Do you remember that first moment when you believed in Him. When you had that personal moment with God?

That was God choosing you, and you accepting His grace. That is a promise.

The person who trust in works nullifies the work of Christ on his behalf. I don't know about you, but I would rather have Christ working on my behalf than trying to get all the work done myself in vain. And yes it would be in vain. With a contract there are penalties for neglecting to fulfill what is there. Since you would never be able to hold up your end of the deal, you would inevitably face penalties.

Think about that for a moment. If it wasn't for God's grace, we would face penalties. How sweet is His grace.

For a moment, let's look at what Jesus has to say about this. In Luke 18. 9-14, Jesus tells a parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector.
"He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

Here is a Pharisee, a man thought by all righteous. And there to the side, a tax collector and one known for his sins. Yet in this picture Jesus highlights the humility of the tax collector. When I try to imagine the scene, I can't help but be shaken. The tax collector couldn't even lift his eyes to heaven while at that same moment a Pharisee is thanking God that he is not like that tax collector. We look at that picture and instantly side ourselves with the tax collector, but I know at times I've seen the Pharisee in me.

I don't want to be known for works but lack grace. I want to be known as someone who coupled the grace given freely to me with works of love.

Who do you see in you? Answer honestly. Is it the humbled sinner saved by grace? Or the self-exalted deemd right by works?

This coming week, examine the motives behind what you do. I know as a result of these verses, I want to carefully examine why I do what I do. And I want to live my life according to His promises and not by a to-do list.

Lies Women Believe Online Bible Study Lesson #4

2010-11-01T19:18:00.006-05:00

Reflection Questions:

1. Looking at how circumstances affect you, would you say you have been a victim or victor?

2. After reading Romans 8:38-39, how does this make you feel about God's love for us, even amidst suffering?

3. When you have gone through areas of suffering in your own life, have you personally seen God use them into a greater intimacy with Him?

Romans 4, Part 3

2010-10-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today we continue our look at Romans 4, breaking down V. 8-13.

V. 8-11
"Do you think for a minute that this blessing is only pronounced over those of us who keep our religious ways and are circumcised? Or do you think it possible that the blessing could be given to those who never even heard of our ways, who were never brought up in the disciplines of God? We all agree, don't we, that it was by embracing what God did for him that Abraham was declared fit before God?
Now think: Was that declaration made before or after he was marked by the covenant rite of circumcision? That's right, before he was marked. That means that he underwent circumcision as evidence and confirmation of what God had done long before to bring him into this acceptable standing with himself, an act of God he had embraced with his whole life."

Here we enter that part about works, or in Abraham's case, circumcision. Was Abraham deemed righteous because of his obedient act of circumcision?

V. 9 says that Abraham was declared fit before God because he embraced what God had done for him. Now was this declaration made before or after he was circumcised?

BEFORE. Abraham wasn't circumcised till at least 14 years after the promise God had given to him, and 24 years after his relationship with God began.

Abraham's circumcision was evidence of his faith and came after believing.

V. 12-13
"And it means further that Abraham is father of all people who embrace what God does for them while they are still on the "outs" with God, as yet unidentified as God's, in an "uncircumcised" condition. It is precisely these people in this condition who are called "set right by God and with God"! Abraham is also, of course, father of those who have undergone the religious rite of circumcision not just because of the ritual but because they were willing to live in the risky faith-embrace of God's action for them, the way Abraham lived long before he was marked by circumcision.That famous promise God gave Abraham—that he and his children would possess the earth—was not given because of something Abraham did or would do. It was based on God's decision to put everything together for him, which Abraham then entered when he believed."

In v. 13, Paul says that the promise given to Abraham was not given because of something Abraham did or would do. It was given based off of God's grace...His decision to put it all together.

The promises God has given us: that He will supply all our needs, unconditional love, life abundantly (just to name a few) aren't promises we can earn. They are promises God makes to us out of His grace. We simply enter into it.

The word "promise" that is used in this verse comes from the Greek word "epangelia." It represents that God's promise was not based on merit, but grace alone. (I think it's incredible how one word can sum up an entire passage).

Are your works evidence of your faith?

Works are my no means null. In fact, James 2.14-16 says, "What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?"

Works should be an overflow of our faith in God. Does an act or deed come out of a task, to mark it off, or as a natural part of your relationship with God?

Do you believe in God's promises for you?

I know for me, it's easy to believe that God's promises are true and eternal, but at times I have struggled to except them personally. I think it can be easy to believe God's promises for others, but fail at believing them for ourselves.

To fail to believe God's promise for YOU is to fail in trusting God completely. We must embrace God's promises. Embrace, not earn. We could never earn God's promises...there is nothing we have done or ever will do that will secure God's promises for us. Wow. Praise God it's out of grace He has chosen to put it all together for us!

I pray that you will begin to examine the heart behind what you do. I'm really excited about the verses we will be looking at next time, so check back in a few days!

What is God thinking?

2010-10-27T11:33:00.000-05:00

1 Corinthians 2 (MSG)

10-13 The Spirit, not content to flit around on the surface, dives into the depths of God, and brings out what God planned all along. Who ever knows what you're thinking and planning except you yourself? The same with God—except that he not only knows what he's thinking, but he lets us in on it. God offers a full report on the gifts of life and salvation that he is giving us. We don't have to rely on the world's guesses and opinions. We didn't learn this by reading books or going to school; we learned it from God, who taught us person-to-person through Jesus, and we're passing it on to you in the same firsthand, personal way.

The Holy Spirit is within us. He is not content to flit around on the surface. Allow Him to go in the depths of Gods heart and teach us. Learn to be teachable so the Lord can provide all He has planned all along. Wow, I cant imagine anything more special than the gift of God allowing us to know what He is thinking! We only have to rely on Him, not the world and their opinions. He has it all, all knowledge, all knowing, all wisdom, all love, all compassion, all grace, all mercy and the list never ends. Oh, how thankful I am!

14-16 The unspiritual self, just as it is by nature, can't receive the gifts of God's Spirit. There's no capacity for them. They seem like so much silliness. Spirit can be known only by spirit—God's Spirit and our spirits in open communion. Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God's Spirit is doing, and can't be judged by unspiritual critics. Isaiah's question, "Is there anyone around who knows God's Spirit, anyone who knows what he is doing?" has been answered: Christ knows, and we have Christ's Spirit.

Again, I pray for compassion in myself and all others to not get to where we all know we can too easily. Frustrated, irritated, angry, judgmental, bitter and hopeless. I don’t believe God created us to lose hope. He asks us to hope in Him and be committed to doing His work while here on earth. We don’t’ know the time frame only He does and He’s asked us to fight the “good” fight. Just because we understand the Lord and how good He is doesn’t mean all others will. It may take them more time than we would like, but that never means they wont get it. The one thing to remember may be that the test is “will you show Godly character until the end or will you give up?” Keep in mind that if you give up, then what have you really shown that person? Do you need the encouragement of knowing you will one day see His promises…You WILL! Do you need the encouragement of knowing He created you in His image and you can fight through Him…You CAN! Do you need the encouragement of knowing He has a plan specifically for you…He DOES and if you seek, you WILL find!

Spirit can be known only by spirit—God's Spirit and our spirits in open communion. Spiritually alive, we have access to everything God's Spirit is doing, and can't be judged by unspiritual critics. I read verses like these and I feel overwhelmed with His love. God’s Spirit + our spirit = Spiritually ALIVE! You and I have the opportunity to not only feel this at a church camp, a women’s retreat, prayer or during praise and worship….But we have the opportunity to be Spiritually ALIVE every minute of our lives if we choose to live so.

Lastly, where I believe so much freedom can be found is in the fact, we cant be judged by unspiritual critics. If we have read this in the bible, feel this, know this and live this- then no unspiritual critic will be allowed to determine our moods from now on! Freedom!

Lets us pray together “Father, I pray these verses be sketched in and on our hearts today Lord. I pray we begin to step out in faith and to speak the simple words you choose to provide for us. I pray as we begin to reach the lost that they will receive that fire that only comes from you. Make it penetrate deep down in their souls. I pray for compassion as it takes others longer to give you a chance. As we live each day under your wings I pray we will search for more of you. I pray we will choose to seek, serve and study to build our minds and bodies in indestructible ways. When the unspiritual critics look our way I pray they are blinded by the light of your embrace and that they choose to turn towards you instead of us. Help us stay focused and fight the good fight! In Your Name, we pray. Amen!

Lies Women Believe Online Bible Study Lesson #3

2010-10-26T06:12:00.001-05:00

Challenge Questions:
1. We have seen that without our priorities in place, we will NOT complete the tasks that God gives us. In what areas do your priorities need realigned today?

2. Are you caught in the captivity of activity? What are some things you need to scrape off your plate, so you are truly available to obey God's leading for you?

3. What are some practical ways you can start having a consistent time in your Word and prayer?

Homework: Read Chapter nine, Lies Women Believe...About Circumstances

What Enthusiasm Will Do For You

2010-10-25T06:30:00.001-05:00

WHY IS ENTHUSIASM SO IMPORTANT?

Enthusiasm is able to energize you. One of the greatest obstacles keeping us from finding out what God has designed us for and keeping us from going forward with that plan is just a lack of energy. Let’s face it, by the end of the day we have no energy, no motivation, and nothing pushing us forward. When we become enthusiastic we will be strengthened, invigorated, and empowered to keep going forward. In my own life I can remember when God began to open up doors for me to teach a bible study at my church. I had a huge desire to write and teach tugging at my heart. Even so, I wondered how in the world I would have the energy to teach a bible study after working all day long. The answer was my enthusiasm for teaching the word of God. I was so excited about teaching and devoted to it that even when I began to feel weary, that enthusiasm would begin to recharge me and drive me forward. It is what kept me coming back each week to teach. That doesn’t mean I didn’t feel tired, it only means that my enthusiasm for the women I was teaching made me diligent to keep coming back to meet with them. So many people will burn out when it comes to living out God’s purpose for their lives whether it is ministry, raising a family, a career, a big dream, simply because they have lost their enthusiasm and zeal for that cause and they become weary and burdened by the task. Regain your enthusiasm and you will regain your energy!

Enthusiasm and zeal will also inspire and stir you to live beyond yourself. When we begin to get enthusiastic about living life for God it will cause you to be inspired to step out in ways that seem beyond you. It will force you to take action. That word zeal comes from a Greek word that means “to boil”. When we become filled with enthusiasm over something it is eventually going to boil over into us taking action. That desire to teach was boiling up in me until I finally took the first step of going to my church and asking to start a bible study. I could have waited until someone came to me and asked me to help lead, but that may have never happened. No one else knew this enthusiasm for teaching was in me until it grew so great that it inspired and stirred me to start a class. Had I not had that zeal boiling on the inside of me, I would have never been inspired to step out beyond my comfort zone into the unknown. And as a result, so many lives besides my own may have gone untouched. The unique thing about the class I stepped out to teach is that God used my enthusiasm for His word and combined it with my enthusiasm for fitness and health and it created a weight loss bible study that was able to transform lives! And eventually turned into a book.

Along the journey of finding out what God has designed you for, you are sure to hit roadblocks. Problems are going to rise and things won’t always be smooth. There are going to be times that could cause you to doubt you are headed in the right direction. Of course in those times you do need to seek God to be sure you are heading in the right direction, but if the answer is yes, your enthusiasm for what God has called you to can help you to overcome problems. That excitement and devotion will push you toward seeking God for solutions to the problems rather than just throwing in the towel and giving up.

You will also find that your enthusiasm is contagious. Your enthusiasm will entice others to become involved too. If you have ever been around someone that was full of enthusiasm you will know exactly what I mean. I have a dear friend that sells kitchen supplies similar to pampered chef products. She is so enthusiastic about what she does that it almost convinced me to not only buy the products, but to start selling them for myself. Then I was reminded that I can’t cook, nor do I enjoy cooking so I probably wouldn’t have the same enthusiasm as she and would never be able to convince others to buy the product from me! But her enthusiasm was contagious. You will find that your can be too. God will use your enthusiasm to encourage others to want to get involved. I pray that you allow your enthusiasm to push you forward into all that God has planned for your sweet life. Dare to Dream sweet sisters!!!

xoxo
Justeina

Romans 4, Part 2

2010-10-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

For this part of the study, we will be looking at V. 4-7,

"If you're a hard worker and do a good job, you deserve your pay; we don't call your wages a gift. But if you see that the job is too big for you, that it's something only God can do, and you trust him to do it—you could never do it for yourself no matter how hard and long you worked—well, that trusting-him-to-do-it is what gets you set right with God, by God. Sheer gift.

David confirms this way of looking at it, saying that the one who trusts God to do the putting-everything-right without insisting on having a say in it is one fortunate man:

Fortunate those whose crimes are carted off,
whose sins are wiped clean from the slate.
Fortunate the person against
whom the Lord does not keep score."

Growing up my dad taught us to work hard. I had my first job at twelve years old! I believe in the value of hard work, and I would assume many of you do as well. V. 4 is by no means saying that hard work is a bad thing. But the idea behind this verse is that of trust.

Do you trust in works to set you right?

The problem enters when we do just that. We must realize that no matter how hard or how long we work, there is a point when work is not enough.

Paul says there are three things that set us right with God:

Seeing that the job is too big for us.
Understanding that only God can do it.
Trusting God to work.
This is what sets you right with God. By God. Sheer Gift!

A gift we cannot earn, but a gift we receive out of grace.

Do you find yourself getting caught up in the ability of your own hands rather than trusting God to do what He says He will do?

Beginning in V. 6, Paul points to another well-known man of the Old Testament. He looks to David to support this claim of faith.

David was indeed a man after God's heart, but he also is one known for his mistakes. Yet even so, in Psalm 32 (where v. 7 is originally found), David is found not guilty before heaven. Paul looks to a man who botched it up (as we all have) and points out his acceptance into heaven. He is pointing to this place of faith which leads to righteousness.

David was found righteous apart from his works because he acknowledged his guilt and cast himself in faith upon the mercy of God.

In a few days we will look more at works as we continue in v. 8. I would encourage you to take time for a careful examination of your life.

Do you find yourself getting caught up in the ability of your own hands rather than trusting God to do what He says He will do?

V. 4 says even if you do a good job...

Even IF, it's not enough. It's not a wage, but a gift.

Contagious Enthusiasm

2010-10-21T08:26:00.000-05:00

One of the first steps to living out your purpose and getting out what God has placed in you is to find out what excites you. The word enthusiasm according to the American Heritage Dictionary means: Great excitement for or interest in a subject or cause. Compare that to a similar word zeal which means: Enthusiastic devotion to a cause, ideal, or goal and tireless diligence in its furtherance; synonym: passion. So what are you enthusiastic about? What do you feel passionate about? What are you willing to work in tireless diligence for? Scripture makes it clear that we are to be enthusiastic and full of zeal in life. Romans 12:11 says, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Ephesians 6:7 says, “Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” So as you and I talk about enthusiasm and zeal we are talking about an excitement, devotion, and diligence towards something. We really do need to strive to have enthusiasm and zeal in our lives. John Maxwell quoted:

“One of the greatest things you can do is to get excited about your life and start to live enthusiastically day after day after day; your whole world will improve. If you wait to get excited until some lucky outer event happens - guess what? If you wait, what does life do? It waits. And if you hold back until a more appropriate time to get excited what does life do? It holds back. If you’re going to hold back on enthusiasm, develop lots of patience, because you’re going to wait a long time for an exciting life.”

This quote described my life to a tee. I was waiting for something to change in my life before I chose to be excited or enthusiastic. I thought, “ If something could just change I am sure I would be filled with enthusiasm and zeal!” But for awhile nothing did change and so neither did my enthusiasm. In the meantime, I waited and so did my life! Before we are really able to seek out God’s purpose for our lives we have to begin to live out life with enthusiasm. Something very important to remember about enthusiasm is that it isn’t a by-product, it’s cultivated! So I want to ask you today...what are you excited about? Next week I will share with you what will happen in your life once you do apply zeal. This week I challenge you to begin to ask yourself what it is that you are passionate about, what excites you and what you are willing to give all diligence to in your life.

xoxo,
Justeina

Lies Women believe Video Lesson #2

2010-10-18T15:40:00.006-05:00

Study Questions:
1.After reading Romans 6, what are some practical steps you can take today to experience freedom from sin’s hold?
2.By humbling ourselves before a loving and forgiving Father, what will He then do for us? (James 4:6, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble”)

Daily Challenge:
Quiet yourself in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and show you any sin problems you need to confess. Then enjoy the spiritual vitality that you'll experience afterwards!

Homework:
Read chapter 5, Lies women believe… about Priorities

Take Heart!

2010-10-18T09:18:00.000-05:00

33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Jesus was constantly telling people throughout the New Testament to TAKE HEART! What you and I can be sure of is that if Jesus is telling us to Take heart that must mean there is a chance that we have lost heart somewhere along the way. I just wonder how many of you have ever lost heart. You may be reading this devotion now and you are dealing with some things in life that are making you tired, weary, discouraged, dealing with grief, and ready to give up. That’s exactly what it means to lose heart.

When Jesus tells us to take heart it means to: be encouraged, to have hope, to be bold and confident, to not give up, to be of good cheer, to have courage, and to CHEER UP! Whether we take heart or lose heart is simply a choice we make. The way Jesus uses the phrase take heart here in John 16:33 is as an imperative verb. That means that he is saying taking heart is an action, it’s something we do, and that it is a possibility in our lives based off the choice we make…but it doesn’t become a reality until we actually make the choice.

There is a very good reason that Jesus tells us we will have to take heart. In John 16:33 Jesus makes very clear to us that in this world we WILL have trouble and tribulation. If you like memorizing promises from God you can memorize this one. I wonder how many times we find this promise in our promise books? The fact is that you and I will experience hardship in life. We will deal with pain and grief and loss. It’s part of living in a falling world. We shouldn’t be too surprised when some trial or tribulation makes its way into our lives, it’s part of what God has already warned us would happen. But we do get to choose how we respond to those trials. We can choose to take heart.

There are a few things to watch out for that can cause you to lose heart throughout a trial.

1. We can listen to the wrong people
2. We can let the problem make itself bigger than God (Are you telling God how big your
problems are or are you telling your problems how big your God is?)
3. We can believe rumors

So how do we take heart? The first step is to pray persistently. Just because God tells us trials will come doesn’t mean we just give in to them. Jesus uses a story in Luke 18 about a widow that continued to go to the judge and ask for justice to teach us how to pray. She went back time and time again and pleaded with the judge and finally the judge gave in and granted her request. Jesus wasn’t comparing the woman and judge to us and God but in fact contrasting it. He was saying if this woman who was a poor widow could get a judge to hear her and bring her justice how much more will a loving God respond to his children. God does respond to our persistence in prayer, so keep asking him.

The second step to taking heart is choosing to trust your God. John 14:1 tells us “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” I have a question for you: Are you trusting God or….Are you trusting God to do what you tell him to do.

You and I have got to get to the point where we can say God I Trust you and not just God I trust you to fix my problem just like I tell you to. We have to be careful to understand that even though we are told to pray persistently we may not always get the answers just exactly like we wanted them. So many times we tune into a message or devotion ready to hear promises to you that God will do this and God will do that. Now God is clear in his word and does promise us many things but the most important promise he gives you is that he will be faithful no matter what you are facing. So take heart dear one….

John 16:33 Message
I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply
at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take
heart! I’ve conquered the world.”

Romans 4, Part 1

2010-10-15T09:02:00.003-05:00

The book of Romans was written by a man named Paul. Born and raised in Hebrew tradition, he was a persecutor of Christians. After a run in with God on the road to Damascus, Paul turned his life over to God. The first missionary, he traveled much of Greece and the east ministering to the Gentiles. This is a letter he wrote to Christians in Rome. In Romans 4, Paul brings up the story of a man named Abraham. Abraham was the founding patriarch of the Israelites and a man well known in the Old Testament.

Of all the righteous men and women in the OT, it would be hard to surpass that of Abraham. In fact, in Isaiah 41.8, God calls Abraham "my friend."

The question being posed in Romans 4 is one in regards to faith vs. works. Was Abraham called righteous because of his faith or because of his works?

V. 1-3
"So how do we fit what we know of Abraham, our first father in the faith, into this new way of looking at things? If Abraham, by what he did for God, got God to approve him, he could certainly have taken credit for it. But the story we're given is a God-story, not an Abraham-story. What we read in Scripture is, "Abraham entered into what God was doing for him, and that was the turning point. He trusted God to set him right instead of trying to be right on his own."

V. 2 makes an excellent beginning statement in favor of faith. Paul says that Abraham could certainly have taken credit for God's approval of him, IF he had been justified by works. But Abraham did not take credit for anything at all. The account of Abraham's life is not an Abraham-story, but a God-story. Therefore a story only God could take credit for.

Who is taking credit for your story? When all is said and done, will your life be a God-story or a self-story?

Moving on to v. 3, this is a reference from Genesis 15. In the chapter God makes a covenant with Abraham; His famous promise. It's a beautiful picture. God takes Abraham outside and points to the heavens. He proceeds to tell Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. This to a man who was well in age and without any children. Can you imagine looking at the billions of stars in the sky and hearing God tell you there would be descendants from you that number as many? Abraham believed God at this and it was counted to him as righteousness.

You see, before there was time, before God created man, He had a plan for Abraham. A plan that was already in motion at the time of Genesis 15. What became a turning point for Abraham was the moment he entered into what God was already doing.

Just as God had a plan for Abraham mapped out, He has a plan mapped out for each and every one of us as well. God is not a respecter of persons, but delights in the plans He has for all of us. That plan for us is already in motion.

At the beginning of each day, are you committing yourself to God?

For a turning point, we must enter into what God is already doing. Some of you may know the plan right now and some of you may be asking how you can enter into a plan at work if you don't know where the plan is. I know there are times in life where you hit a wall. You come to a standstill and you are wondering where to go.

What can you do?

1. Read the Word of God.

Recently I have heard some sound direction on more than one occasion from my Pastor. "Do all of the revealed will of God for your life and God will lead you in discovering the unrevealed will of God for your life." (John Lindell)

What would be the revealed will of God? That you be:
Saved
Filled with the Spirit
Sanctified (Holy)
Submissive to Authority
Giving Thanks
You do what you know to be His will, then He will reveal to you more.

2. Pray

In any relationship you have, you must communicate with the other person in order to know what's going on. It's the same with our relationship with God. We must be in communication with him DAILY in order to know what He is doing.

3. Fast

Some things only come by fasting and praying. Sometimes it requires from us to set aside a need in order that we may seek God for direction.

When you commit to seek God, there is no way you can miss what He is doing.

Are you adding God into what you are doing, or entering into what He is doing?

Yes, invite God to be a part of your life, but the wrong approach is if we go about our day, tagging God onto certain parts. That is a life of convenience, not a life of righteousness.

Abraham simply took God at His word and acted accordingly. He understood that he must rely completely on God.

Above I have posed some questions throughout the study in order that you might think about the passage a bit more. Again, I hope you would read the passage for yourself and allow God to minister to you. Here are the questions again...please take a few moments to think about your answer.

Who is taking credit for your story? When all is said and done, will your life be a God-story or a self-story? In what way(s) can you give glory to God?
At the beginning of each day, are you committing yourself to God? How?
Are you adding God into what you are doing, or entering into what He is doing? In what area(s) are you struggling to surrender to God? Perhaps take a moment to say or write out a prayer repenting from your lack of submission and asking the Holy Spirit to change your heart from the inside out.

I would encourage you to check back in the next few days for part 2...it only gets better!

Popular or Unpopular?

2010-10-13T05:57:00.000-05:00

Lies Women Believe Video Lesson #1

2010-10-11T16:12:00.001-05:00

Study Questions:

1.What lies have you believed about God?
2.How has believing those lies manifested itself in the way you live (e.g., attitudes, actions)?
3.What lies have you believed about yourself?
4.Take time to affirm the truth: Psalm 139:13-18
5.What specific steps of action do you need to take to align your life with the Truth you have seen about yourself?

Challenge: Renew your mind (your thinking) by the Word of God. Read the following passages aloud. What do these verses about the character of God and His heart toward His children? Psalm 100:5, Psalm 23, Psalm 121, Romans 8:28-39

Homework: Read chpt. 4, Lies Women Believe…about Sin.

Assembly Required

2010-10-11T08:00:00.002-05:00

[Exerpt from Justeina's book Fitness By Faith]

Are you familiar with the “do it yourself” stores such as the IKEA store? These stores sell home furnishings at very reasonable prices. The reason they are able to sell their merchandise at a cheaper rate is because all of their items require assembly once you get them home. They give you a box with the instructions and all the materials and you have to take the furniture home and assemble it yourself. I’m sure most of you have gone to a store looking for furnishings and you look at the display and it looks so great and you can already picture right where you want it to go in your home, so you grab the slip of paper with the merchandise number on it, you take the slip to the sales associate, pay for the item and in return they give you a flat box full of small parts and pieces and just expect you to figure it out on your own. As much as you try begging them to just sell you the display, they aren’t going to give in. If you want the piece of furniture you are going to have to do the work of assembling it all on your own.

My husband and I experienced this recently because we had a new baby on the way. We needed furniture for the new nursery; so we made a trip to the store and picked out different pieces of furniture for our baby’s room. The displays looked great and I knew right where I wanted to put each piece. Of course what we made it home with was not the beautiful put together displays. It was four different flat boxes full of little (and I do mean little) parts and pieces that we would have to assemble. By “we” I of course mean my husband, and it ended up taking Kyle over five hours to put just one dresser together. I am sure he would want you to know that it wasn’t because he didn’t know what he was doing. It was simply because assembling the pieces of furniture took lots of time and lots of work!

You know, God does the same thing to you and me. He prepares for us different packages requiring assembly throughout life and then asks us to put them together. There is a good example of this in the lives of David and Solomon. In 2 Samuel 7 David decides he is going to build a temple for the Lord to dwell in. God tells David that he doesn’t want him to build it, but that he has plans for David’s son Solomon to build the temple. In fact, God was telling David I’ve never asked you to build the temple for me. I didn’t give you a temple package. I am giving it to your son Solomon.

In 1 Chronicles 28 at the end of David’s reign he charges his son Solomon with what God has called him to do. Solomon finds himself as King in place of his father David. As he steps into his new position, David hands him a package that should have read, “assembly required”. David handed over all of the parts and pieces that were needed to build the new temple for God to dwell. He gave him all the instructions for every detail of the plan. As David hands him the package he tells Solomon to “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God is with you…” I am sure that Solomon would have much rather just received the display. He would have rather stepped into his position of King with the temple already built. But that wasn‘t God‘s plan for his life. God wanted him to go through the process of building it.

The same is true for you and me today. It was and is very necessary that God takes us through the process of building a healthy lifestyle. He will drop off a full package for you. It will soon have every part, piece, instruction, and tool needed to build it. Now hear God‘s voice declaring over your life today, “Be strong and do the work.” In 1 Chronicles 28:20 it says that God would not fail or forsake Solomon until all of the work for the temple was finished. It didn’t mean that God was going to leave as soon as the work was done; it just meant that God would see the work through until completion.

More info on Fitness By Faith

Dare to Dream

2010-10-08T08:17:00.003-05:00

This past weekend was the women's conference at my church. I had been anticipating the conference for a whole year; a conference with the theme of dream.

We all have dreams. We all have things God has placed in our heart for eternal purpose. Some we work hard for. Some we hold to ourselves. Some we are excited for. Some we are afraid of. But all stir something inside of us for more.

The thing about a dream is that generally, they wait a while before making an appearance. You get what I'm saying, right girls? We all have been pregnant with a dream, and for many, they have yet to birth the dream. It's a long and hard journey to seeing your dreams actualized.

If God has placed a dream, or many dreams, in your heart, than know that no matter how long or hard the wait, they will come to be. If your dream be a God dream, than it His His plan and purpose for your life.

I absolutely love what Paul says in Ephesians 3.20-21 (MSG),

"God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us."

So many women fail to see their dreams come to pass because they give up too soon. Too tired. Too impatient. Discouraged. Disconnected. Disheartened. There are many things on this earth that aren't being done because people are failing to see their dreams through.

Hebrews 10.35-36 in the NLT says,

"So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised."

Girls, one of the keys to seeing your dreams come true is to be patient. My prayer for each and every one of you is that your dreams would no longer collect dust. That your dreams would no longer make you afraid. My prayer for each and every one of you is that you would commit to endure, no matter the cost.

I dream to see women all across the earth rise up and live out the dreams God has placed on their heart. I truly believe that if women would endure to see their dream through, there would be a significant shift on the earth. I believe the Kingdom would advance in a way that it never has.

God can do anything you know! So go for it. Go for that dream you have pushed to the back of your heart. Go for that dream you believe could never happen. It won't be easy; but anything of worth is difficult. Imagine the possibilities for other people if YOU would step out and say "yes, Lord." God uses individual people for great causes. You are one of those people.

Dare to to make a difference. Yes, YOU. Dare to Dream!

Our Friend the Holy Spirit

2010-10-06T07:15:00.001-05:00

Continuing with 1 Corinthians 2:3-5 (The Message)

3-5 I was unsure of how to go about this, and felt totally inadequate—I was scared to death, if you want the truth of it—and so nothing I said could have impressed you or anyone else. But the Message came through anyway. God's Spirit and God's power did it, which made it clear that your life of faith is a response to God's power, not to some fancy mental or emotional footwork by me or anyone else.

Paul continues to try and teach the Corinthian Church about God’s Spirit. He explains how powerful and tangible our God is. The beauty and truth is we are all inadequate, no matter the time or effort we put into this life. That’s the gift! We need not to worry about adequacy or how we are impressing or not. When we let our guard down and resist what this world says, thinks and feels, and let God take over, our vision becomes more aware of His heart and more passionate about reaching a lost world. If we step out, He will provide!

When you recognize and allow the Holy Spirit to truly dwell inside of you and throughout your life, your worries about how and when to speak the Word of God will cease. I love what Jesus speaks in John 16: 12-15, in the Message Bible: “I still have many things to tell you, but you can't handle them now. But when the Friend comes, the Spirit of the Truth, he will take you by the hand and guide you into all the truth there is. He won't draw attention to himself, but will make sense out of what is about to happen and, indeed, out of all that I have done and said. He will honor me; he will take from me and deliver it to you. Everything the Father has is also mine. That is why I've said, 'He takes from me and delivers to you.'“

Isn’t it amazing that God knows what you need and when you need it. Our amazing God not only knows but offers what we need, when we need it. It is our choice to then receive it or not. When we start to follow Him, He knows what we need in the beginning of our journey will be much different than in the end. As we grow into a more spiritual Christian, He then offers a bigger spiritual gift, the Holy Spirit. I love to read, listen and receive what God speaks about the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not just a thing, it is actually a person. Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as our friend that He will leave with us if we will honestly commit ourselves to the Lord and do His work. I know the comfort, support and encouragement I feel when my friends are around. Now imagine what it truly means to have “our friend” the Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us!

Dear Father,

I ask that you fill us with the confidence you desire us to have in you Lord. I pray as we seek what it truly means to live for you and with you that you will cause a wellspring of your love and wisdom in our hearts. I pray it is recognized by all and that people are drawn to the source of our fulfillment. I ask that you keep us on our spiritual toes so our well will never run low or dry. I pray we will always accept your offer into the next step of our journey with you Lord. I pray the goodness we are filling ourselves up with will not be able to be contained but overflow over all the earth. We want everyone we see to be drenched with the Holy Spirit. Thank you for such an awesome friend that we choose to acknowledge in our daily lives. We praise you for the blessing you continually rain down upon us! In your awesome Name, we pray, Amen!

With so much Love, Maranda Huntley

Is Facebook Ruining Your Life?

2010-10-05T08:03:00.000-05:00

It’s almost a laughable question isn’t it: Is Facebook ruining my life? Unless you have experienced the dangers of facebook as millions of people already have. In the culture of social networking you would be hard pressed to find someone without a social account such as facebook. Many studies have ranked Facebook as the most used social network by worldwide monthly active users, followed by MySpace. Listen to some of the statistics that can be found on facebook’s own website. They have More than 500 million active users and 50% of the active users log on to Facebook in any given day. The average user has 130 friends and all combined, people spend over 700 billion minutes per month on Facebook. There are over 900 million objects that people interact with (pages, groups, events and community pages) on facebook and the average user is connected to at least 80 community pages, groups and events. The average user creates 90 pieces of content each month and there are more than 30 billion pieces of combined content (web links, news stories, blog posts, notes, photo albums, etc.) shared each month. With those types of statistics you and I would have to agree that there is definitely room for disaster and danger within our facebook frenzy.

I can’t tell you how many stories I have heard from people that have seen betrayal, discouragement, and very painful life changing experiences come into their life through the world of facebook. Now most of us are aware of some of the common sense dangers that we can find on facebook and any other social network. Things like identity theft, information that leads to burglaries, and open doors to sexual predators. But what about those hidden dangers? The ones you may have never paid much attention to? The ones that in the end have the potential to ruin your life. My hope is that as we expose those things today, you will be able to approach the facebook world with greater wisdom and prevent a facebook façade.

As I researched for this article I reached out to my facebook friends for help (I didn’t say facebook doesn’t also have its advantages!) and asked them to share with me some of the potential dangers facebook would hold for a Christian. Over and over they mentioned facebook and gossip. Let’s face it; facebook is another form of a social circle, and in any social circle there is the danger and likeliness of gossip. I honestly believe even more so for online networking. We tend to be a bit braver when we are sitting alone at home typing away at the keys than we would be with a face to face conversation. Don’t misunderstand what all fits into the category for gossip. Gossip is any information that is made spacious or wide whether it’s true or not. So anytime you and I take information about someone else and make it spread wide we are involved in gossip. God’s word says about gossip in Proverbs 11:13 in the Message bible that, “A gadabout gossip can’t be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won’t violate a confidence.” We need to be very careful about the information we spread around on facebook. Gossip will be sure to destroy relationships of all types.

Another danger I have seen on facebook comes with our status updates. Have you ever noticed how many people enjoy venting through their status update? It’s quite hysterical, but very dangerous. Especially when you consider that many times people are venting about their job, their marriage, or other relationships. It’s just not professional or honoring. Be very cautious about what you are putting in your status update. Wisdom will likely lead you towards keeping those updates very light hearted. Never use that feature to vent out your frustrations with your employers, employees, or your family members. Even if you leave them unnamed, trust me someone out there will know exactly what you are referring to. It will not only put your own career in jeopardy, but can also cause a relational blow up! Learn to trust God with those frustrations, he can handle them.

We also need to be very careful to not use those status updates as a form of incoming affirmation. Think about how many times you have posted something and then you wait to hear comments from all your friends. As my close friend put it, “we post things and expect for people to comment back because we think what we had to say was so very important that everyone should leave comments.” It is so true. Not only do we wait to hear everyone’s comments back to us, but we also start to base our “facebook” value off of those comments back. If no one comments we feel a little less valuable. It becomes a source of affirmation to us.

One of the most dangerous places of all that we can find ourselves in on facebook is in an emotional relationship outside of our marriage. Too many times I watch as married friends link up with men and women from past relationships and become facebook friends. In the beginning it seems so innocent. But a natural curiosity takes over and they begin to visit that person’s wall and look through their pictures or maybe even begin to make comments back and forth. Before they know it they are sending daily messages to one another. And so the emotional bond begins, and it won’t likely stay only emotional. It doesn’t have to be an ex or past relationship. It can be anyone of the opposite sex. We need to use wisdom with the friends we choose on facebook. Remember, it’s not a contest to see who can get the most friends. It is meant to be a way to keep in touch with the people you care about the most. Don’t wait until you are already in the middle of an ongoing “facebook” relationship to see the danger it poses to your marriage. Prevent it now by choosing your friends very carefully and steering clear from any hint of emotional bond to someone of the opposite sex.

Finally I have to mention the danger facebook poses as a time thief. How many of us can admit how much of our time facebook can consume. You log on for a quick check in the morning and before you know it you are still checking an hour later. So often we can become consumed with facebook world. We give it priority often over our marriages, our job, sometimes our children and most frequently it robs us of our own quite time with God. Do a self evaluation and see just how much of your time you are giving to the facebook frenzy. Is it the first thing you do each morning? The last thing you do before bed? Do you have facebook on your mobile so that you can stay connected at all times? There is another word for that…and it’s called an idol. God warns us about idols in scripture. Anytime we put something else in priority over Him we have ourselves an idol. Don’t allow facebook to continue to be a time thief in your world.

Although there are many undercover dangers with facebook, it can also be an amazing networking and connecting tool. If we apply a little wisdom to our social networking it really can be a blessing. But if we don’t heed the warning signs we could be left telling our own story of how facebook ruined our life.

xoxo
Justeina

Sitting at the Feet of Jesus

2010-09-30T08:36:00.002-05:00

Acts 20:24
“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me.”

I love these words from the Apostle Paul. When I read this Bible verse a few years ago, I had to post it all over my house. Paul’s primary ambition was to faithfully finish the task that God had given him to do. I want to do the same. I want to be accomplishing the daily things that He has for me. Paul felt no responsibility to complete the task Christ had given to Peter, or Barnabas, or Timothy. He believed and taught that God has specific plans for each believer. He expressed this in Ephesians 2:10, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

God has a task for each one of us-one he planned a long time ago. There is just this little problem that often gets in the way of us accomplishing the tasks. The problem is lack of priorities. You see, without priorities in place, we will NOT complete the task that the Lord has for each of us. While we are all too familiar with the word priorities and may even know that they are very important to have in order, it is easy to have them fall out of the right order. One common reason our priorities get all jumbled up, is distractions.

Nothing is more discouraging than getting pulled away from our priorities because of distractions. Isn’t it amazing how distracted we can become?

1 Peter 5:8 says,“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

This verse shows us how active satan is in our world. His very name means, “One who separates.” His chief purpose is to separate us from God however he can. He wants us to chase after other things-even good things-so we miss God’s best. He wants to keep us busy. Have you heard the quote, “If satan can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy!” Busyness is a major distraction. Isn’t this so true? How many of you have hustled and bustled around all day, and at the end of the day, your thinking to yourself, “what did I do all day?”

Let’s take a quick look at the story of Mary and Martha.

Luke 10:38-42, “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."

Now ladies, let’s put ourselves in this story. I’ve been there before, preparing to have guest over; making a meal, cleaning like a mad-woman, and by the time my guests arrive, I’m ready to go sit in a warm bath with a cup of tea. I miss out on the special time that God had opened up for us, just the same way Martha missed out with Jesus. Oh, it’s easy to read her story and think, “yea, right, if that was me, I wouldn’t have missed out sitting with Jesus.” But, sadly we all can probably relate to her more than we would like to admit. We say that God is our first priority, yet many times all of the distractions/preparations pull us away from having some quiet time with him.

As we sit at the feet of Jesus and ask Him to help us realign our priorities, he whispers the things he wants us to focus on that day. Maybe it’s sending an encouraging card to someone, visiting the elderly in the nursing home, investing into your marriage, having some fun with our kids, taking care of yourself by getting some exercise. Whatever it is, He will help us. When our priorities are where they need to be and we are accomplishing the task God gives us, we will have full access to the abundant life that He intended us to have. Our lives will be a sweet aroma to others.

Blessings to you today, as we sit at the feet of Jesus.

2010-09-29T05:55:00.003-05:00

1 Corinthians 2

1-2 You'll remember, friends, that when I first came to you to let you in on God's master stroke, I didn't try to impress you with polished speeches and the latest philosophy. I deliberately kept it plain and simple: first Jesus and who he is; then Jesus and what he did—Jesus crucified.

What Paul preaches to the Corinthian Church is exactly what God wants each and every one of us to understand. As Christians we can many times get caught up in fear on how exactly to live and then lead others to the Lord. Over the last year, God has began to show me the simplicity of His love and putting it into action.

The first step I believe is following His lead through obedience. Living in obedience is the first step to becoming a true disciple. Before we can be an effective disciple we have to understand the call of obedience the Lord has on our lives. God does not want us to think of Him as the hard to please judge over our lives. He is our loving Father who wants the best for us. During our journey with the Lord we may think the call of obedience is not always the easiest path, but there will always be blessing attached to our obedience.

As you begin to feel the blessings of walking in obedience for the Lord you will most definitely begin to thirst for more. This is where the study of God’s Word takes you to new levels of intimacy with Our Father. As you begin to search for more of Him through the bible, get ready to be amazed at what clarity He brings to your eyes, heart and mind. We can attend conferences and sermons, and although very good, there is nothing like personal alone time with Jesus.

As God lays insight on your heart through His Word, find a group of believers to listen, support and strengthen you. A support group is so important and effective in the lives of His children. Again, the Lord wants us to gather together to listen, support, guide, hold accountable, lift up, strengthen and grow in His love. Pray over this group and allow God to lead you to where He desires you to be.

As God begins to stuff your mind, mouth and heart full of wisdom the change in you and your life will undoubtedly be recognized by all. So I ask you not to worry about how and when to share the gospel. Just allow God to simply pour out of you at all times.

Whether by words or by actions His love is undeniable. Have you ever felt the power of the Holy Spirit living in someone? If you are like me it almost feels like a magnetic force. I love them instantly as if they were my very own biological family member. Ministering and being a light to the world does not have to be hard work. God living in you, is natural! He created us this way! Let’s choose to make a daily commitment to follow, search, listen and glow in His love!

Dear Heavenly Father,

We accept the challenge to step to the plate today with a new found confidence. We choose to be confident in You Lord, knowing You accept simplicity. We thank you for taking us by the hand and teaching us how to be obedient. Thank you for showing us a life of true obedience, that breaks the doubts, excuses and chains of bondage on our hearts. Whether tough times or easy Lord, we will stand together and seek Your ways. Surround us with strong Christians as we continue to build our lives upon The Rock. We pray our light shines, blinds and reaches out to any and all in need. We pray all of these things in your Precious Name. Amen!

Online Bible Study Starting Soon!

2010-09-27T09:30:00.000-05:00

It's time for our second online bible study! It will be our last one for the year. Beginning Tuesday October 12th - November 2nd - Join True Identity Ministries every week via TIM blog for an online bible study. We will be studying together Nancy Leigh Demoss' book Lies Women Believe. You will have 4 weeks worth of bible study homework and Videos will upload each week every Tuesday brought to you by our own Stephanie Lammers. Although video lessons will post every tuesday, you can view and post at anytime throughout the week. You can view videos at: www.trueidministries.blogspot.com or click links below.

You can also view videos and post on our True Identity Ministries Facebook page (link below). We want you to gather a group of girls and meet together each week to discuss your study. We also have resources below to help you start a group. Of course you can do it alone too! Lies Women Believe will challenge each of us to expose the lies that we as women most commonly believe and help us replace them with the truth of God's word!

The What’s and How’s of TIM Online bible study.

WHO?

You and a group of friends. (Yes, you can do it on your own, but we hope you'll bring some friends along for the ride!)

WHAT?

An informal, web-based video blog bible study. The study is free! If you or your group feels led donations are accepted and appreciated. Donate below under resources or on the home page.

WHERE?

Wherever you like, but preferably somewhere with Internet access (and a good cup of coffee…and maybe a comfy chair….hmmm maybe an ocean view…well just anywhere will do).

WHEN?

Starting Tuesday October 12th and running through November 2nd. Again, you can meet with your group, view, and post comments anytime day or night. New videos will post each Tuesday.

WHY?

To learn more about God’s sweet Word alongside others around the country and world. You'll be challenged to take a look at life through God’s word with application questions that will change how you think and act. What we can promise you is that no matter what season of life you are in, what your age is, or your background (bible study experience or none at all) or what circumstances you may be facing…God will speak to you through this study!

HOW?

Here is how it will (hopefully will) work below. Let’s be honest here, there's always chance of technical difficulties. We’re relying on God to show us the way and praying you’ll join us in making this a new and exciting way to study scripture together even from miles apart.

Before We Begin

1. Purchase your copy of Lies Women Believe from any online bookstore or local bookstore (find helpful links below).

2. Form a study group with friends or neighbors. You can join on your own as we’ll have online community, but nothing replaces face-to-face time with people for relationship and accountability, we highly encourage you starting a group. In fact download the flyers below as a resource to help you!

3. Pick a time and location to meet—your house, the local coffee shop, whatever works for your group.

4. Sign ups are now open! Register in just a few steps below so that we can send you updates and reminders, there also may be free gifts given away throughout our study together, but you have to be registered to win! (You’ll be asked for your first name, where you’re from, and your email. If you’re studying with a group, we’d like to know how many of you there are!)

5. Spread the word. We’re going to need your help in getting the word out!

6. Finally be sure to complete reading of the first two chapters of your book before October 12th when the first video lesson will be released by Stephanie.

After We Start

1. Get together if you are in a group once a week to discuss your lesson.

2. Watch the video. Every Tuesday from October 12th through November 2nd, The TIM team will facilitate the summer study via short videos of about 10 to 20-minutes each. They will share from their heart, give you discussion questions or activities that will enrich your group time together, and wrap up the week’s lesson. If possible, watch these videos at the beginning of your group time, if not catch them during the week before you meet. Remember, you can meet, watch the videos, and post anytime day or night. It doesn't have to be Tuesdays! see blog at www.trueidministries.blogspot.com for videos.

3. Post your progress! Finally, and most importantly, TIM will need to hear from YOU and you’ll need to hear from each other! Your way of checking in with Justeina and the team is after your group time. Every week leave a comment to tell them how God is working in your group though the study of His Word! We love it if you’d post your comments as a group before you wrap up your time together. You can post on the blog or on facebook page! It keeps us encouraged as well if we know you are out there and that God is ministering to your heart!

Links You Will Need

(just to let us know you are joining us and to receive update emails throughout study!)

Order Book Lies Women Believe

More Information

Refined in the Fire

2010-09-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

“But he knows the way that I take;
when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.
My foot has held fast to his steps;
I have kept his way and have not turned aside.
I have not departed from the commandment of his lips;
I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my portion of food.
But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back?
What he desires, that he does.
For he will complete what he appoints for me,
and many such things are in his mind.”
Job 23.10-14 (ESV)

Using a fire to refine gold is the oldest and most reliable way to purify this very valuable element. Within the furnace, the radiating fire burns away anything not of pure gold. Using the analogy of being refined in the fire is also one of the oldest analogies we can find of God testing the believer.

“When he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.” God has this incredible heart for and vision of His sons and daughters that we cannot fully see. But we know that we are His treasure. You are His treasure; something of much worth to Him. God wants the very best for us, and for us to represent pure gold.

Right now I am going through a very difficult season, and when I read these verses the other day, I was so encouraged. I know that through this fire God has me in, I want to be refined and purified, as much as possible. Don't you want the same for every fire and storm you go through? If we do not allow God to fully refine us, than the trial was worth what? Just a hard time? Or is it worth something far more!

When gold is refined in the fire, it loses nothing of it’s worth, nor is it affected by outside elements. The only thing that is taken out from the gold is that which is impure.

As Job was going through this truly difficult time in his life, his character lost nothing of value, or it’s lustre. The same should be for our own life. When we go through the fire, nothing of our value or lustre will be lost in the fire. If it be genuine, it will lose nothing of it’s quality, only that which is impure.

Although in this chapter Job is wondering where the Lord is in his situation, one thing Job was sure of was his obedience to God. He knew that he had walked faithfully with the Lord, and that ultimately, the Lord would honor him.

Right now I want to be assured of one thing, and indeed I am: that the Lord God Almighty will be faithful to those who serve Him faithfully. In fact, I’m depending on that.

Ultimately, God will do whatever He pleases. Verse 13 says, “But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does.” But we can know that as His daughters, He has our best interests at heart.

What I find so incredible is that at the end of this book, Job is blessed with double portions. In chapter 1, verse 3, the account is given of Job: “He possessed 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and very many servants, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the east.” In Job 42.12 it says of Job, “And he had 14,000 sheep, 6,000 camels, 1,000 yoke of oxen, and 1,000 female donkeys.”

God didn’t leave Job an outcast, but through the fire refined Job, and rewarded his character through the fire by doubling what he had before! What an incredible testimony we can look forward to in our own life!

God really cares for us, and if anything, a fire should prove that to be true. A fire is God’s way of buckling down in us character and purity. Why? Because He has so much planned for us! Verse 14 says, “For he will complete what he appoints for me, and many such things are in his mind.”

That verse is so exciting to me! Why? Because God has so much planned! God is looking for strong, pure, honorable women in His Kingdom. Those daughters who will rise up for the many plans that He has. Lets not shy away or sit in pity during our fires. But rather lets feel the burn and allow God to purify us the the fullest extent!

True Disciples vs. the Bench Warmers

2010-09-23T05:12:00.002-05:00

(This is an excert from the book, What Happens When women say Yes to God, by Lysa TerKeurst) I wanted to share the following few pages from this book that challenged and encouraged me in the area of radical obedience. I know you will be blessed!

He (Jesus) saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” (Luke 5:2-4)

Did you notice that there were two boats on the shore that day, and Jesus specifically chose Simon Peter’s boat? Why? Because Jesus knew that Simon Peter had a radically obedient heart and would be willing to do what He asked him-even when it made no sense. I like Peter’s response to Jesus request: “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets”(vs. 5) Do you hear what Peter is saying? “Though I ‘m tired from working all night, though I don’t think You know much about fishing, Jesus, though it makes no sense at all in human terms…because you say so, I will do it.”

How many times have I found myself in Peter’s position and not responded in obedience the way he did? It saddens my heart to remember the occasions I’ve ignored Jesus’ call for radical obedience because I was tired, or because I didn’t really believe Jesus would work miraculously in a particular situation, or mostly because the Lord’s request made no sense in human terms.

I often wonder now at the blessings I’ve missed because of my lack of obedience. Look at what happened to Peter because of his obedience:

When they had (let the nets down), they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. (Luke 5:6-10)

But Simon Peter’s blessing that day didn’t end with a huge catch of fish. His radical obedience to Jesus’ simple request ultimately resulted in him discovering the calling on his life.

Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:10-11)

We have to remember that Simon Peter didn’t know that something as mundane as lowering his net into the water would change his life-but it did! And that’s how it can be for us. Our calling is revealed as we walk in daily obedience to Christ in the little things.

That’s what’s remarkable about radical obedience. You don’t know where it will lead. You don’t know how God will use it. That’s what I love about Peter’s story. It shows us so much about the radically obedient life.

First, as Peter discovered, our call to obedience may challenge our pride. God hates a prideful attitude (James 4:6). Many times the little steps leading to the bigger steps in our calling will be tests that help whittle the pride out of our heart. Peter, for instance, could have easily questioned Jesus’ fishing knowledge…after all, Peter was a professional fisherman and Jesus was a carpenter. But Peter chose to swallow his pride and take the small step of obedience.

Second, God uses our experiences to equip us for our calling. God doesn’t waste our experiences in life. I know in my own life God has been able to weave everything together to form a tapestry of good experiences, bad experiences, hurtful things, joyous things, professional jobs, ministry jobs, and everything else to prepare me for the work He is in the process of revealing to me. The same was true for Simon Peter. Yesterday he was fishing for fish; today he would be fishing for men.

Third, our obedience may inspire others to respond. What a radical blessing! As we respond in obedience, others will catch the vision and respond to God’s calling on their own loves. Think of it. It wasn’t just Peter’s life that changed that day. The lives of his fishing partners, James and John, were never the same either. And it started with Peter saying yes to Jesus.
One caution at this point. We need to be careful not to fall into the trap of thinking that our blessings for radical obediences will profit our accounts and fill our pockets. Yes, Peter got a boatload of fish as a result of his obedience, but notice what he did: “So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him” (Luke 5:11). They didn’t celebrate their banner fishing day. They didn’t consider the fish a just reward for all their hard work. They didn’t sell the fish and use the money to buy more boats and hang out a new shingle announcing their expanded fishing fleet. No, they were only thinking of the person who allowed it to happen-and they left it all behind and followed Him.

Where We Focus Our Vision
Now contrast Peter’s story with another incident we find recorded in Luke:
Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots (Luke 23:34).

It’s hard to imagine anyone playing games in the shadow of the cross while the savior of the world looked on in excruciating pain. He was dying for their sins, and they were dying fro one good roll of the dice. They didn’t even hear His cry for God to forgive them. They missed His offer of eternal significance because they were too distracted by earthly rags. They had no vision beyond the moment. Max Lucado writes of this scene:

“It makes me think of us…I’m thinking that we are not so unlike those soldiers. We, too, play games at the foot of the cross. We compete for members. We scramble for members. We scramble for status. We deal out judgements and condemnations. Competition. Selfishness. Personal gain. It’s all there…so close to the timber yet so far from the blood.”

Are we like Peter? Or are we like these soldiers at the foot of the cross? Our life will follow where we choose to focus our vision. If we are serious about radical obedience, about having a vision that’s God inspired, then we mush keep our focus on Christ. When Christ speaks, we must listen. When He directs us to act, we must act. When He compels us to give, we must do so freely. When He reminds us to get past trivial matters, we must let our pride fall away. When He invites us to leave the world behind, we must follow Him.

I AM Dancing!

2010-09-22T06:25:00.002-05:00

“How do you picture me right now?” “What do you think I’m doing as you sing your heart out to me?” This is what I heard Sunday morning as I sang praise and worship songs at the top of my lungs. I knew exactly what I pictured. I told the Lord that I pictured Him looking over us very peacefully and very quite. I have always pictured Him observing us while we praise and worship Him with a very pleasing but serious demeanor.

Before now, It’s not something I’ve ever put a lot of thought into. I love it when God provokes me to step out of this box I create and think a little deeper. I have just always closed my eyes to shut the world out and sang directly to Him. As I close my eyes I feel the connection directly to the Lords heart. Now every other time I have raised my voice to the Lord He has just sat back and soaked it up. But this Sunday was quite an exception!

On this day, He spoke so passionately to my heart that I wish I could speak directly to you! J He said “I am not an idle God. I want you to understand and visualize the truth. The truth is that I am dancing wildly as you pour your heart out. I am not only dancing but I am pouring my blessing out upon you. Will you receive it? Will you take my call in your life seriously? I am not still. I am on my toes and ready to take off in your life.”

I literally saw Him running in place like something was holding Him back. I didn’t quite understand. Then God spoke all through the message for the day. He told us how He had given each of us a gift. A very special gift designed only for you, from Him. His question was, “What will we do with it?” Will we be selfish and keep it all to ourselves? Will we pursue it and ask God directly what He wants yus to do with it and how? Will we try and ask someone else to open it and hope they will take it off of our hands? Will we damage it? Will we ignore it? Is it possible that we could even lose our gift?

Or will you walk with me today and start to unravel the precious gift He has given you? Will you put all distractions, questions, and timidity behind you and allow God to lead you to the gift, that He has kept safe for you all of these years? If we could only grasp more of His perspective in our daily lives, imagine what freedom we would have. I am in awe of His love. I don’t think it is possible to grasp the measure of His heart. Not only did He die on the cross to save us, He is still looking for us with an unopened gift, that has your name on it.

At the end of the message, I realized what was holding Him back. We are. He is running in place because we are too scared to truly live the meaning He has for our lives. He is just waiting to see an honest heart that is truly ready for Him to jump in and fill with direction. Believe me, there is so much more freedom than could ever be expressed through surrender. We cant afford to be timid and reserved when truly living for God.

In the 1 Corinithians 12:31 it says, “But eagerly desire the greater gifts.

And now I will show you the most excellent way.” The most excellent way! Wow, I can’t imagine all He has planned for us! The more we eagerly desire of Him, the more we seek His direction and wisdom in our lives, the more you fall in love and thirst for more.

Can you join me in a daily prayer, seeking His direction and guidance to take full advantage of every piece of the gift?

“Father, I pray we come together with arms wide open as you embrace us and allow us to take our gift. Thank you for your unbelievable love and patience with us. I pray as we begin to eagerly desire and seek your advice in everything we do, that you would answer our prayers boldly. I pray we begin to build our faith like the centurion and believe what we sing and speak. Break the chains we have on our hearts that cause us to be weak. I thank you for welcoming us in this lifelong adventure. I pray we will never cause you to stop dancing and that you may begin the lifelong sprint in our lives. In your amazing Name we pray, Amen!

I am thinking and praying for you and your special gift, Love Maranda Huntley

Justeina's Radio Interview: Weight Loss

2010-09-21T15:06:00.002-05:00

Listen in to this radio interview Justeina did with Live Powerfully Now Ministries today! Topic is weight loss, fitness, and healthy living! You won't want to miss it!

Visit this link: LPN Radio

Enjoy!

Can't find time to live healthy?

2010-09-20T10:21:00.000-05:00

One of the most important ways that you and I will find ourselves being able to operate our lives full of balance, moderation, discipline, and self-control is by adopting a very simple principal and that is “putting first things first”. Proverbs 24:27 in the Amplified Bible tells us, “[Put first things first.] Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home.” What’s it talking about? Priorities. It is teaching us the principal of prioritizing our lives. What we have to understand, especially as women, is that we cannot have one thousand different priorities each day and expect to do them all and do them all well.

One of the greatest obstacles for those who want to live a healthier lifestyle will always be having enough time. Most people just don’t feel like they have enough time to do what it takes to be healthy. They don’t have the time to plan meals and shop for healthy foods. They don’t have the time to cook and prepare healthy meals at home. They don’t have the time to go to the gym and exercise. The can’t seem to get to bed at a decent hour. They simply don’t feel like they have the time. The problem with that is that each one of us has exactly the same number of hours, minutes, and seconds in each day. So how is it that others find time to live healthy and you can’t?

Please understand that I am very sensitive and aware to the fact that some of us have more challenges than others. You may be a single parent or have a special need in the family. There are exceptions that can cause finding the time to be a real challenge. But it doesn’t change the principal that applies to each of us and that is that we need to take a good hard look at our priorities. What are your priorities? Is living a healthy lifestyle a priority to you? Is honoring God with your body a priority to you? What about losing weight, is that a priority to you?

I am not at all suggesting that eating healthy and exercising should be your number one priority in life. That wouldn’t be what scripture suggests either. But it more than likely should fall higher on your priority list than it currently may. It is so easy for us to put the needs of our spouse, children, career, and community before our own. And we do have responsibility in these areas. But you have to remember that if you aren’t making your own health and rest a priority, you won’t be in any shape physically to be there for your other responsibilities and it will make them that much more demanding on you.

I often think about the moms I know. They are in a constant struggle with feeling exhausted, stressed out, overwhelmed and frankly burned out with the demands of their children, home, and job. A large part of that is due to the fact that they are eating poorly, not getting any exercise, not sleeping enough, not spending time alone with God and his word, and not prioritizing their day’s activities. Of course they are going to feel physically exhausted and worn out….who wouldn’t?

God has given each of us 24 hours every single day. He expects us to approach those hours with mindfulness, eagerness, and diligence to use every one of them for his glory. If you aren’t sure what God would have you prioritize in your day, Proverbs 16:3 (AMP) tells you that you should “roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed“. What’s it saying? It is saying you should ask God! Roll your day on him and ask him for wisdom. The proverb says that as you do that, God will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will and your plans shall not just be established, but they shall SUCCEED! Make living a healthier lifestyle a priority...you are so worth it!

Taken From Justeina's book Fitness By Faith More Info Here

The One and Only

2010-09-17T07:58:00.001-05:00

Psalm 62.5-12 (Message)

What an awe-inspiring and humbling psalm this is from David. As soon as my eyes locked on the words in verse 1, my mind immediately began to dissect what David is saying. I wanted to understand the psalm because it was so powerful and indeed one giving great glory to God.

"God, the one and only..." You will not find one person on this earth, now or ever, who even comes close to comparing with Him. So why do we put people on pedestals or rely so much on others? When really think about it, we do so often fall into this trap. I find it interesting that David, having a great mentor in Samuel, a close friend in Jonathan, and many other wonderful people in his life I'm sure, highlights to the reader that God is the one and only. With people like that in your life, it could be easy to form an attachment to the relationship; but not David. We know these words were very important to him because he inserted them into the psalm twice!

"I'll wait as long as he says. Everything I hope for comes from him, so why not?" These words were huge for me. I would say in the last year the two big lessons for me have been trust and timing. What is so vital for us to get a hold of is God's perfect timing...for everything. And I do mean everything. When we do, we wont be disappointed or discouraged when that opportunity doesn't open up, or the money doesn't come in on time, or so may other scenarios that will pop up in life. We wont be dismayed because we know that at the perfect time, it will happen. Besides, I would rather wait for His time than botch up an opportunity on my time. Waiting on God means that we have constant dependence on Him.

"He's solid rock under my feet [salvation], breathing room for my soul [freedom], an impregnable castle [security]: I'm set for life." [denotes my thoughts]. When we serve God, everything we could hope for or need is ours. Hope (verse 6) and need (salvation, freedom, security) covers everything. You will lack nothing!

"So trust him completely, people; lay your lives on the line for him." Trust. I think that David is trying to warn us in this verse and the next few that we must be careful to trust men. Yes, trust God completely. In fact, lay your life on the line for Him. But be careful not to put your hope and trust in men. They will fail you. With or without intention, people will always fail you because they are human. This doesn't mean not hoping for the best in people, but rather not looking to them for what you need. Only God will always come through. "God is a safe place."

You want to give your life to something, give it to God. You want to bet your life on another, bet it on God. You want freedom and security, trust in God. Only in Him will you find the life worth living and the wholeness you desire.

"Strength comes straight from God. Love to you, Lord God."

Held by the Father

2010-09-16T07:39:00.000-05:00

One early morning, I was having my quiet time with the Lord, and was singing a worship song when my two youngest children woke up and came to the family room to join me. They wanted to be part of the worship time, so they asked me to hold and twirl them around as we sang out to God. As I was holding them, twirling slowly and ‘dancing’ before the Lord, I watched their eyes fill with joy, comfort, and security as they felt so safe being held in my arms.

I envisioned the Lord holding me the same way and I was smiling, singing and being comforted in His loving, safe arms. My arms tired after some time of holding the kids and I put them down. They both reached their arms up and wanted to be held again, but my arms were so tired. The Lord whispered to me in that soft, gentle voice, “My arms never get tired.”

No matter what you and I are going through today, He can handle the load. We may be carrying the load of past sin, stress with our jobs, the difficulties of raising children, depression, or just the normal day to day life struggles, but we need to know that Jesus promises rest for our souls.

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

In the application section of my Bible, it says after this verse, “Jesus frees people from burdens. The rest that Jesus promises is love, healing, and peace with God, not the end of all labor. A relationship with God changes meaningless, wearisome toil into spiritual productivity and purpose.”

As we come to the Lord, let’s allow Him to hold us and our heaviness in His strong and loving arms, as we will find rest for our souls.

Several months after this time with my kids, we were driving in the van and the song below came on the radio. I literally almost jumped with joy, as I listened to the words and let them soak into my soul. Be blessed as you listen!

Enjoy being Held by your Father!
Stephanie

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciW8r-5kCDY

John 10:28-29, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.”

One Body

2010-09-15T09:33:00.000-05:00

Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as
brothers, be compassionate and humble.
-- 1 Peter 3:8

No matter where we live, work or play, we are to live in harmony. No matter our upbringing, ex family, current family, childhood friends and current friends, we are to be sympathetic. No matter what denomination or religious belief we have or do not have, we are to love as brothers and sisters. This takes compassion and what I’ve been taught the most -humility!
In the ESV in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 it says:

“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.

The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.”

I know God is wholeheartedly trying to get His “body” to understand the importance of their role on earth. We are not here to be judgmental. We are not here to place blame. We are all chosen and placed here on earth to serve one purpose, Him! We are to serve our Heavenly Father with the talent He has given us. No matter the denomination, no matter the past, no matter the future. We are to support His children at all times. If any person is hurting and in need, we should hurt like He hurts. If one has gone astray, we are to help guide them back to His Kingdom. Let’s make a commitment to serve, as He served.
“Father God, we pray you will feed our hearts, minds and mouths with your compassion. Break our hearts for what breaks yours. Give us direction and a peace of mind as we venture out into your Kingdom each day. Lord, draw us near to those in need. Allow us the privilege to pour your love out to those who are confused, led astray, bewildered and in pain. I pray we will be strong students and learn to be the body of believers that serve the world the way you taught us to do so. Thank you for such an awesome example you gave to us in Jesus Christ! In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen!"

Love,
Maranda Huntley

EW Week: 4 She Fears The Lord

2010-09-14T05:30:00.002-05:00

Part One

Part Two

Discussion Questions

1. What do you find yourself fearing most often?

2. What do people fear most about rejection and embarrassment?

3. What do people fear most about failure?

4. How often do you dread the future? Do you fear loosing control? What fears you most about loosing control?

5. What do you think it means to "fear the Lord"? And how will it help minimize other fears in life?

I really am honored that you joined me for this 4 week study. It blessed my life and I pray it did yours as well. God has challenged many areas of our life in just four short weeks. I want to challenge you to not stop working on those areas, but continue to apply God's word to your life. You really can be an exceptional woman....I believe in you. I love you so! Until we meet again for our next online study, keep pressing on!

xoxo
Justeina