I'm finding myself in a place of frustration lately. It's likely for a couple of reasons 1) I've been thinking more about "respectable sins" since Brianne raised the topic and 2) I've been spending additional time with people from my past that leave me confused and frustrated as I watch certain behaviors among "Christian" people (again, respectable sins).
To briefly explain my frustration, the gist of it is that I have been seeing Christian people acting in ways that are contrary to what I believe Scripture says. And some issues are pretty black and white to me. I know that it is not for me to judge them; I just find the discrepancies so frustrating that I never know how to respond when I'm in the situation. I honestly do not want to judge, and I know that can sometimes be my tendency. My greater feeling is sadness because I think, "Wow, if as 'Christians' we're not getting it, how in the world is anyone else going to get it?" None of us are truly "getting it," but I would hope we're at least seeking Jesus in it. And it also saddens me because I feel like living in those ways shows that they are missing out on the true power of Jesus available to all of us. Anyway, I feel like I sound totally judgmental here, and that is not my goal or my true feelings. I just hate this feeling of not knowing how to respond and coming home questioning myself, wondering what I should have done, etc.
These feelings are especially fresh on the heels of my 10-year class reunion, which was yesterday. (All went well, by the way.) I had a fine time and it was good to see some old friends, but I was also ready for it to be over. I know that going to a Christian school certainly does not automatically make you a Christian, but I also know that many of the people who were there are Christians, so it confuses/frustrates me to hear the things they think are so hilarious (jokes about how drunk people were, sex, etc.) and how much they think is acceptable to drink. One of my friends made a joke that it probably wouldn't be good to be hung over at her daughter's baptism, which is today. When I hear things like that, I just can't figure out how people's minds work in relationship to their faith. Seems like a pretty obvious discrepancy to me. On the way home I was feeling like a prude somehow and asked Brent if I was crazy to believe that it was wrong to get drunk because it seems pretty clear to me from Scripture. He confirmed that he does not think I'm crazy (always a relief!), so I followed up with, "How do people then justify doing that with their faith?" Of course, they justify it just like we justify so many things in our lives...I know there are a billion in my own life. Just seems odd when it's such a blatant outward behavior.
It just leaves me all in a mess because I feel guilty for judging people, but then I think, well, if I know that their behavior is wrong, I shouldn't accept it, should I? (I know I should still accept the person, but I shouldn't feel okay about their behavior, should I?) I don't want to continue rambling, but here are some of the questions I have in all this mess of feelings I'm expressing:
1) Do any of you have suggestions for how to handle situations like these? My example was drinking, but I don't mean just in that. What about when friends express things about their life or behaviors and you know they are wrong? How do you respond without making judgment?
2) When is it okay to make judgments? (i.e. when does judgment = accountability & discernment vs. being condemning)
3) How do I stand firm and not doubt myself when other Christians have these "respectable sins" and I begin to wonder if I'm just too legalistic, too this, too that, etc.
4) How do I welcome this type of accountability in my own life and recognize my own "respectable sins"? (Maybe by reading the book!) :)
I just feel like this whole post sounds like I'm a judgmental prude, so I guess I just have to trust that you guys know me better than that (I hope!). As we all know, I have plenty of idols and sins in my own life, but I guess I just want to know how to follow Jesus with abandon, not ever accept sin in my life and help others to do the same in a Christ-like, loving way.
Sorry to barf all over you, but you are obviously my place to process this morning. Thanks for "listening."
**Added later: As I just read through the post, I realized I talked a lot about behavior and not about the heart. But the heart is really where all our behaviors come from, so that's the issue I am truly dealing with in myself and others. I still don't know how to handle these situations, but I do know that just "changing behavior" is not the point. Other thoughts?
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Cool Idea
So I am listening to Focus on the Family, and they are airing Lee Strobel...well he is a pastor in Chicago (I think)...and anyway at their church they set out to pray for one person every day at one o'clock for one minute....so 1-1-1. And there are awesome stories of people who seemed uninterested in Christ coming to Christ...I think we should do this!
I am going to do this for my boss, Vant.
Watch out Vant, here comes Jesus! :)
I am going to do this for my boss, Vant.
Watch out Vant, here comes Jesus! :)
Calendar is reading my mind...
So now the daily calendar, "Flip", is starting to freak me out. Totally reading my mind and my heart and my struggles. So here it is...hopefully someone else will be touched by it as well.
What exactly is temptation? It is an enticement to get a legitimate need met apart from God's will or outside God's boundaries. Some people feel guilty for having needs. That is false guilt. Needs are needs....Needs are legitimate, and all of our needs are worthy of bringing to Christ so that He might meet them. Don't feel guilty for having needs. Guilt arises--and should arise--when we attempt to meet our needs by our manipulation or efforts rather than by trust in God.
'Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.'-James 1:14
What exactly is temptation? It is an enticement to get a legitimate need met apart from God's will or outside God's boundaries. Some people feel guilty for having needs. That is false guilt. Needs are needs....Needs are legitimate, and all of our needs are worthy of bringing to Christ so that He might meet them. Don't feel guilty for having needs. Guilt arises--and should arise--when we attempt to meet our needs by our manipulation or efforts rather than by trust in God.
'Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.'-James 1:14
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Calendar to the heart
So I often joke/slightly serious about being quite protective of my family (ie: Rochelle)...and my preference to wear black leather or kick butt or argue just to win. And while I would do all of these things what often sends a pang of sadness through me is that I use to be so tender and gentle and compassionate. And it isn't that I don't have that anymore...it just seems lesser due to the 'role' I find myself in whether with family or work...or maybe I am placing myself in that role and I shouldnt' be...anyway that requires more soul searching...
My point is that I often find myself driven by anger, pain, a feeling of injustice, or the need to protect...and I know it is wrong. Often these angry feelings I leave inside...I do still have enough of my old self to know that I don't want to hurt other people or cut them down because I wouldn't like that done to me either...but that doesn't make it better because in my mind and heart I have already done so--so it is just as much damage to me.
Well I was thinking on this after our study last night and just feeling sad that I am in this position. So when I came in this morning I read my flip calendar for the day and I thought...thanks God...so appropriate...please Lord let me take this to heart. So hear it is, mainly for myself but also for anyone else that is a closet rocker/biker/kick butt chick... :)
Be angry and do not sin.--Ephesians 4:26
There is a way to express anger "without sinning". We can channel our anger into constructive change--putting the focus on what we can and should do rather than on what we want the other person to do. We can address concerns and problems before they fester to the boiling point....We can voice that we are upset, concerned, disappointed, or in pain without raising our voice, digging up the past, or ripping apart another person's identity. And we can always choose to give voice to our emotions without stirking out a person's personal characteristics.
My point is that I often find myself driven by anger, pain, a feeling of injustice, or the need to protect...and I know it is wrong. Often these angry feelings I leave inside...I do still have enough of my old self to know that I don't want to hurt other people or cut them down because I wouldn't like that done to me either...but that doesn't make it better because in my mind and heart I have already done so--so it is just as much damage to me.
Well I was thinking on this after our study last night and just feeling sad that I am in this position. So when I came in this morning I read my flip calendar for the day and I thought...thanks God...so appropriate...please Lord let me take this to heart. So hear it is, mainly for myself but also for anyone else that is a closet rocker/biker/kick butt chick... :)
Be angry and do not sin.--Ephesians 4:26
There is a way to express anger "without sinning". We can channel our anger into constructive change--putting the focus on what we can and should do rather than on what we want the other person to do. We can address concerns and problems before they fester to the boiling point....We can voice that we are upset, concerned, disappointed, or in pain without raising our voice, digging up the past, or ripping apart another person's identity. And we can always choose to give voice to our emotions without stirking out a person's personal characteristics.
Here's to a nogarific group!
I also enjoyed our finale tonight, though finales in general tend to be bittersweet, don't they? I really am amazed and thankful for the way God orchestrated us to be the noggies this summer. It's actually an example of how God can take "just another Bible study" and do more than we can ask or hope.
As it is past midnight and I am still sitting at the church waiting for my class reunion books to finish printing (okay, so I may be hoping for a bit of sympathy), I thought I'd do a little research on possible future plans for our group. As a few of us chatted after our meeting tonight, we wondered about the possibility of reading a book together and discussing via this blog and then maybe meeting together just once a month. Feedback on this idea would be welcome!
I mentioned one book that seemed similar to the issue that Brianne suggested in her email, having conversations with fellow Christians about ways we accept certain sinful behaviors in our lives. One of the ABC Groups is doing a book called Respectable Sins, which discusses a similar topic. In reading a little about it, it sounds like its focus is on the sins we accept as Christians and the Church more than how to talk to others about it, but I do think it sounds pretty good. If you want to read more about it, this blog had some good feedback (or you can also find it on Amazon.com and read an excerpt): http://spurgeon.wordpress.com/2007/09/24/respectable-sins-by-jerry-bridges-9781600061400-1600061400/.
So, this is just a possibility. Thoughts are welcome. My thoughts are no longer useful to anyone, so I must go check the printer and then hopefully go home!
Good morning!
As it is past midnight and I am still sitting at the church waiting for my class reunion books to finish printing (okay, so I may be hoping for a bit of sympathy), I thought I'd do a little research on possible future plans for our group. As a few of us chatted after our meeting tonight, we wondered about the possibility of reading a book together and discussing via this blog and then maybe meeting together just once a month. Feedback on this idea would be welcome!
I mentioned one book that seemed similar to the issue that Brianne suggested in her email, having conversations with fellow Christians about ways we accept certain sinful behaviors in our lives. One of the ABC Groups is doing a book called Respectable Sins, which discusses a similar topic. In reading a little about it, it sounds like its focus is on the sins we accept as Christians and the Church more than how to talk to others about it, but I do think it sounds pretty good. If you want to read more about it, this blog had some good feedback (or you can also find it on Amazon.com and read an excerpt): http://spurgeon.wordpress.com/2007/09/24/respectable-sins-by-jerry-bridges-9781600061400-1600061400/.
So, this is just a possibility. Thoughts are welcome. My thoughts are no longer useful to anyone, so I must go check the printer and then hopefully go home!
Good morning!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Garlic Bubble loaf
While I'm thinking of it....
1 lb frozen bread dough
1 TBLS parsley flakes
1/4 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup butter
Melt butter in microwave, add seasonings and stir. Thaw dough and cut into bite sized pieces. Dip each piece into butter mixture and put into loaf pan. Let rise until it is close to the top of the pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Remove from pan right away.
A couple of side notes. I've accidentally let the dough almost completely rise before getting it cut and dipped. That worked fine too. Today it was about 1/2 way risen when I cut it apart. Then I let it rise after being dipped. So I don't think there is a real rule on this. It just ends up a little more or less dense depending on your method. I usually have to get the loaves out of the freezer late morning or by lunch time to just do the normal counter thaw. You could speed up that process a bit by putting it in a warm place (i.e. next to the crock pot or oven, etc.)
Who knew I could ramble about bubble loaf? I'll keep you "posted" (pun intended) on the pottery outing. As always, I really enjoyed the fellowship, learning and laughing tonight. Sure going to miss it! :-( And someone better bring Amy up to speed!
Sweet dreams Tiff (HA! She could be the only one reading this at this hour of the night!)
Nancy
1 lb frozen bread dough
1 TBLS parsley flakes
1/4 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup butter
Melt butter in microwave, add seasonings and stir. Thaw dough and cut into bite sized pieces. Dip each piece into butter mixture and put into loaf pan. Let rise until it is close to the top of the pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Remove from pan right away.
A couple of side notes. I've accidentally let the dough almost completely rise before getting it cut and dipped. That worked fine too. Today it was about 1/2 way risen when I cut it apart. Then I let it rise after being dipped. So I don't think there is a real rule on this. It just ends up a little more or less dense depending on your method. I usually have to get the loaves out of the freezer late morning or by lunch time to just do the normal counter thaw. You could speed up that process a bit by putting it in a warm place (i.e. next to the crock pot or oven, etc.)
Who knew I could ramble about bubble loaf? I'll keep you "posted" (pun intended) on the pottery outing. As always, I really enjoyed the fellowship, learning and laughing tonight. Sure going to miss it! :-( And someone better bring Amy up to speed!
Sweet dreams Tiff (HA! She could be the only one reading this at this hour of the night!)
Nancy
Monday, August 25, 2008
Fliphamena says ...
Since I haven't been sitting at my desk for weeks, I haven't been able to get any wisdom from my friend, Fliphamena, my desk calendar.
Here's what she's had to say over the past few weeks. I share it because it is a good reminder to me to just take some time to be quiet and stop living on the surface. I am so easily distracted!
Meditation is not a confusing activity. In a sense, meditation is just positive worry. If you know how to worry, you know how to meditate.
Phew, that takes some load off ... :) I know how to worry!
To practice meditation, take the statement from Psalm 16:8: "I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Say these words out loud several times, and let them roll around in your mind ... Take some time to imagine how this might be experienced in your life.
Sounds simple enough. If I could just take on simple steps ... baby steps, as we have discussed ... knowing that each step takes me closer and closer to God.
As I meditate, these thoughts move from my head to my heart. I begin to think, "I want a life where I live in peace." Then these thoughts move to my will: "God, I choose for my life to be so. I will do whatever is needed to have it so." And then comes the thought "I am with you." Something that simple. And He is with me. I'm tuned in to the right channel.
The whole heart and will struggle that we talked about last week. (Isn't Fliphamena good?) Again, thinking about the process in steps helps me. I think when I think about how far I have to go to become more like Christ, I get overwhelmed. And if I can't do it right the first time, then I don't do it all. So, if I can just think in terms of steps, letting God win each step, I feel less discouraged.
Love you Noggies!
See you tomorrow night! Our last (sob) hurrah!
Here's what she's had to say over the past few weeks. I share it because it is a good reminder to me to just take some time to be quiet and stop living on the surface. I am so easily distracted!
Meditation is not a confusing activity. In a sense, meditation is just positive worry. If you know how to worry, you know how to meditate.
Phew, that takes some load off ... :) I know how to worry!
To practice meditation, take the statement from Psalm 16:8: "I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Say these words out loud several times, and let them roll around in your mind ... Take some time to imagine how this might be experienced in your life.
Sounds simple enough. If I could just take on simple steps ... baby steps, as we have discussed ... knowing that each step takes me closer and closer to God.
As I meditate, these thoughts move from my head to my heart. I begin to think, "I want a life where I live in peace." Then these thoughts move to my will: "God, I choose for my life to be so. I will do whatever is needed to have it so." And then comes the thought "I am with you." Something that simple. And He is with me. I'm tuned in to the right channel.
The whole heart and will struggle that we talked about last week. (Isn't Fliphamena good?) Again, thinking about the process in steps helps me. I think when I think about how far I have to go to become more like Christ, I get overwhelmed. And if I can't do it right the first time, then I don't do it all. So, if I can just think in terms of steps, letting God win each step, I feel less discouraged.
Love you Noggies!
See you tomorrow night! Our last (sob) hurrah!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Keep the Fire Burning
I've found myself growing increasingly complacent these last couple of weeks. I was so on fire the first couple weeks of the study, and then life got a little too hard and tiring, I guess. Kind of sucked the oxygen out of me so the flame began to flicker. To stay on that theme... I've been burning the candle at both ends with all that we have going on in our family, so I'm having a hard time keeping the fire burning, spiritually speaking. I don't know about you, but I want to grow lukewarm when I start to feel a little disillusioned or have my heart grow cold when things get difficult. I want to be on fire, even when I feel like I'm in the fire!
I'm processing through some hard things right now, and as I grow more aware of what idols I run to for comfort, I more quickly recognize that I'm not always processing things very well. I think that I am most often "letting go" of things, usually just because I'm too worn out to deal with them on my own any more, only to have them rise up again later. What I really want and need to do is turn them over to God--to both surrender my own will and agenda as well as trust that whatever He's at work doing truly is the better thing. Honestly, what I've been hoping would change in my life just isn't changing, at least not nearly fast enough to suit me, and I'm struggling to figure out how whatever He's doing is even better than what I'm hoping for. That may sound a little vague, I know, but I'm guessing you get my point.
So anyway, today I found myself going back to the questions I posted earlier on in the study, as well as formulating some new application questions from the more recent lessons we've done. With one week to go before our study is finished, I feel like I'm at the point where I need to focus on some real life application. I don't want to have gone through this study only to have "eaten the seed" rather than really "sowing" it into my life to produce a harvest of good fruit. So in attempt to finish this study well--to keep the fire burning--I'm going to keep trying to press into the answers to these questions (it's a long list, but I thought reading through them might also spark some renewed conviction in different areas for the rest of you, too):
I'm processing through some hard things right now, and as I grow more aware of what idols I run to for comfort, I more quickly recognize that I'm not always processing things very well. I think that I am most often "letting go" of things, usually just because I'm too worn out to deal with them on my own any more, only to have them rise up again later. What I really want and need to do is turn them over to God--to both surrender my own will and agenda as well as trust that whatever He's at work doing truly is the better thing. Honestly, what I've been hoping would change in my life just isn't changing, at least not nearly fast enough to suit me, and I'm struggling to figure out how whatever He's doing is even better than what I'm hoping for. That may sound a little vague, I know, but I'm guessing you get my point.
So anyway, today I found myself going back to the questions I posted earlier on in the study, as well as formulating some new application questions from the more recent lessons we've done. With one week to go before our study is finished, I feel like I'm at the point where I need to focus on some real life application. I don't want to have gone through this study only to have "eaten the seed" rather than really "sowing" it into my life to produce a harvest of good fruit. So in attempt to finish this study well--to keep the fire burning--I'm going to keep trying to press into the answers to these questions (it's a long list, but I thought reading through them might also spark some renewed conviction in different areas for the rest of you, too):
- What "envelopes" do I fail to let go of and await the reply? Am I praying with faith and expectancy?
- Who (or what role, activity, etc.) am I allowing to be my god by asking them/it to tell me who I am--to define me?
- Where in my life am I double-minded and unstable--claiming God is my God while serving false gods?
- What (or whom) am I convinced would make me happy if I could obtain it?
- Where am I settling, out of desperation and lack of faith, for "crumbs" when the Lord has fullness to offer?
- What am I filling my internal vacuum with other than God--the Ultimate Thing?
- Where am I willing to sacrifice true freedom to return to idols that offer temporary comfort?
- Do I really believe that where God is taking me is better than where I am now?
- Do I believe that God's call to remove idols from my life is done completely out of His deep love for me?
- What giants in my life are preventing me from seeing the truth about my Promised Land? Am I willing to persevere when God's promises aren't fulfilled without first facing a struggle?
- What areas of my life am I letting go of but not truly making an offering to God?
- Do I believe God when He says that He and He alone can truly satisfy me? Do I believe that He is provision enough to fill the empty spaces left when I let go of my idols? Especially if He leaves those spaces empty for a season?
- Where have I fled prematurely instead of "staying" when the victory looked unsure?
- Am I willing not only to surrender my will to God but also trust Him with my heart, no matter what He will do in it?
- Am I trying to change my heart and my behavior on my own, or am I making room to allow God to change me?
- Where is God me calling me to obey that I don't really feel like obeying? ("Obedience without warm tingly feelings will always be some part of our faith journey.")
- What prevents me from spending more time in prayer with God? What do I need to remove in my life so I can choose prayer? (Blogging perhaps?!)
I will have to trust the Lord that He can speak to my heart even in the midst of all of this. Praying He also meets you in the midst of whatever your reality feels like today!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
A Letter from Kelly and Prayer Requests
Did you girlies check out Beth Moore's blog today? Kelly wrote us a letter! I think I may write her a note back. Just think, if every woman who did this study over the summer writes her, she'll be fielding well into the thousands of e-mails. Wouldn't that be awesome? In a totally overwhelming sort of way, but still awesome to know that God has been at work in so many lives through her study.
Now on to prayer requests:
Teresa: Wants to live in greater surrender to God, especially regarding His plans regarding her work
Nancy: Seeks wisdom in finding balance and prioritizing fall activities and schedules; smooth planning for parents' 50th anniversary event and pictures (I added that one Nancy.... hope that's okay)
Rochelle: Wants to discern how she needs to slow down and listen to God so she can get beyond the feeling that she's "skimming the surface" of life
Amy: Longs to get past this pregnancy insomnia phase and receive some rest, as well as peace from the anxiety of worries over Baby's movement and health
Stacey: Desires permanent and continuing transformation in what she's learning about herself
Beth: Seeks peace, perspective and proper priorities in the midst of overwhelming busyness
Sheila: Needs wisdom regarding lakefront house/lot; feels overwhelmed by the heavy and increasing workload at her job with the other nurse practitioner going on leave
Tiff: Wants to keep eternal perspective and reach contentment in current life stage, and to grow in greater unity with Steve, especially regarding family priorities. Also....I just thought of this....please pray for my now jr. high boy. He is e-mailing one girl in particular a LOT, and I'm not feeling at all prepared for that type of stuff. Yikes! We need wisdom in our parenting in increasing degree every day!
A few things that I'm personally going to be praying for our group this week:
Now on to prayer requests:
Teresa: Wants to live in greater surrender to God, especially regarding His plans regarding her work
Nancy: Seeks wisdom in finding balance and prioritizing fall activities and schedules; smooth planning for parents' 50th anniversary event and pictures (I added that one Nancy.... hope that's okay)
Rochelle: Wants to discern how she needs to slow down and listen to God so she can get beyond the feeling that she's "skimming the surface" of life
Amy: Longs to get past this pregnancy insomnia phase and receive some rest, as well as peace from the anxiety of worries over Baby's movement and health
Stacey: Desires permanent and continuing transformation in what she's learning about herself
Beth: Seeks peace, perspective and proper priorities in the midst of overwhelming busyness
Sheila: Needs wisdom regarding lakefront house/lot; feels overwhelmed by the heavy and increasing workload at her job with the other nurse practitioner going on leave
Tiff: Wants to keep eternal perspective and reach contentment in current life stage, and to grow in greater unity with Steve, especially regarding family priorities. Also....I just thought of this....please pray for my now jr. high boy. He is e-mailing one girl in particular a LOT, and I'm not feeling at all prepared for that type of stuff. Yikes! We need wisdom in our parenting in increasing degree every day!
A few things that I'm personally going to be praying for our group this week:
- That we will surrender whatever areas we are still withholding from the Lord, and to grow more trusting in God's heart for us. I can't believe how profound that concept of surrender/trust being different feels to me! I think I might listen to that Natalie Grant/Wynonna song every day this week.... He's gonna bring it all together for good
- That the idols that we haven't realized or that simply continue to appeal to us in our difficult times will continue to be stripped away to make room for what He has to offer.
- That the Lord will bring clarity and agreement about the future of our group.
- That we will finish the final week of NOG strong--praying for each other and gleaning all the Lord has for us from the lessons.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Amy-isms
Just because I LOVE Amy's wisdom and wit, I felt compelled to share some key quotes from the evening:
"Got a rectal - didn't see that coming!"
"Uh, this is an exit only ..."
"Sweet spot" - referring to the place Stacy doesn't want to leave
And I know there were others that I keep forgetting. Just wanted to thank Amy for the way she makes us all smile.
And thanks again for another refreshing night, ladies. Just what the Doctor ordered, if you know Who I'm talkin' 'bout ... :)
Sweet Dreams!
"Got a rectal - didn't see that coming!"
"Uh, this is an exit only ..."
"Sweet spot" - referring to the place Stacy doesn't want to leave
And I know there were others that I keep forgetting. Just wanted to thank Amy for the way she makes us all smile.
And thanks again for another refreshing night, ladies. Just what the Doctor ordered, if you know Who I'm talkin' 'bout ... :)
Sweet Dreams!
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Anybody out there?
Just checking in to see how everyone is doing this week. I miss connecting with you girls! Other than Nancy's link to Ashlee's blog, Beth and I are the only people who have posted or commented. I want to hear from the rest of you, too! (No offense to Beth, because she knows how much I value her friendship. But I talk to her all the time already!)
How are the lessons coming? What key things is God bringing to the surface for you? How has your week been since we last met? What big (or small) things are going on in your world--either externally in your relationships, work, and home, or internally in your heart and mind? The 2 hours we have on Tuesday night just aren't long enough for everyone to share deeply, so now's your chance....
I'll be waiting!
How are the lessons coming? What key things is God bringing to the surface for you? How has your week been since we last met? What big (or small) things are going on in your world--either externally in your relationships, work, and home, or internally in your heart and mind? The 2 hours we have on Tuesday night just aren't long enough for everyone to share deeply, so now's your chance....
I'll be waiting!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Loving it!
I got started on this week's study today, and I just wanted to say that I'm loving it! I felt as though I wanted to underline everything she said. I especially loved her intro about "staying" when it gets hard. It's so refreshing to me to hear her say more than just how awesome life with Jesus is and to get honest about the fact that it's also HARD. I love the promises of life with Jesus; in fact, the full life, redemption and transformation he offers are some of my favorite things to think about. But my reality much more often is that I'm just trying to keep believing those promises while my idols call out to me and tempt me to the "easier" solutions they offer. Sometimes I just need to be encouraged to stay, and I need someone else to tell me that God is working out my faith in greater ways than I can imagine. That's what Kelly is doing for me today.
With that lesson on staying, I also resonated with Day 1's idea that walking away from our idols is a lifelong process. I'm totally with Kelly that "I am more accustomed to a gradual process" (p. 146) even though I'm always hoping for the miraculous healing. I need to keep remembering that and asking God to help me be okay in the process, especially since the process is lifelong. I think it's the perfectionist/all or nothing ideology in me that feels the need to get it all right before I'm acceptable to God, myself or anyone else. When I write it down, it's sounds utterly ridiculous because I obviously can't even come close to getting it all right, but day to day it seems so true. Anyone relate?
I can't take the time to write more now, but I am excited about this week and just thought I'd get some thoughts out here again for us Noggies to consider.
By the way, we do have a wedding talk written, so I'm thankful about that. Of course, being me I must second guess it (and third guess it and fourth guess it...), but I know the ideas in it are God's truth and am just praying His Spirit will make it come out like it's supposed to!
Mental hugs to all,
Beth
With that lesson on staying, I also resonated with Day 1's idea that walking away from our idols is a lifelong process. I'm totally with Kelly that "I am more accustomed to a gradual process" (p. 146) even though I'm always hoping for the miraculous healing. I need to keep remembering that and asking God to help me be okay in the process, especially since the process is lifelong. I think it's the perfectionist/all or nothing ideology in me that feels the need to get it all right before I'm acceptable to God, myself or anyone else. When I write it down, it's sounds utterly ridiculous because I obviously can't even come close to getting it all right, but day to day it seems so true. Anyone relate?
I can't take the time to write more now, but I am excited about this week and just thought I'd get some thoughts out here again for us Noggies to consider.
By the way, we do have a wedding talk written, so I'm thankful about that. Of course, being me I must second guess it (and third guess it and fourth guess it...), but I know the ideas in it are God's truth and am just praying His Spirit will make it come out like it's supposed to!
Mental hugs to all,
Beth
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Prayer Requests
I don't want to think about the fact that we have only 2 weeks of this study left! I haven't given any of you any mental hugs lately... So consider this a mental group hug for you all! :) And here are this week's prayer requests, too:
Sheila: minimal stress regarding piano playing at Saturday's wedding; wisdom regarding buying the "huge mess" across the road
Beth: clarity on what to say for Saturday's wedding talk; peace and focus in the midst of overwhelming busyness
Teresa: smooth adjustments to the new routines with back to work/back to school
Tiff: joy while trusting God when life feels hard; continued prayers for parenting (see last week's requests)
Nancy: enjoyable final week of summer with kids, especially with the added business of Clayton's birthday
Brianne: wisdom; taking time to listen for God's plan in many areas
Rochelle: focus and being intentional about resting and listening to God
Let's finish strong, ladies! Pray for each other, and dig into the study as much as you can!
Sheila: minimal stress regarding piano playing at Saturday's wedding; wisdom regarding buying the "huge mess" across the road
Beth: clarity on what to say for Saturday's wedding talk; peace and focus in the midst of overwhelming busyness
Teresa: smooth adjustments to the new routines with back to work/back to school
Tiff: joy while trusting God when life feels hard; continued prayers for parenting (see last week's requests)
Nancy: enjoyable final week of summer with kids, especially with the added business of Clayton's birthday
Brianne: wisdom; taking time to listen for God's plan in many areas
Rochelle: focus and being intentional about resting and listening to God
Let's finish strong, ladies! Pray for each other, and dig into the study as much as you can!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Ashlee's Blog
Sure enjoyed the evening again ladies. Lots to think about always.
Thought I would drop this blog link to you if you are interested in seeing any of Ashlee's artwork. I'd like to know a little bit more about some of them.
Her wall murals aren't coming through. She had them in photo buckets and worked fine the other day, but they won't pull up now. Not sure what the problem is there.
http://www.ashleesthings.blogspot.com/
And get some sleep! Why are you up reading this :-)
Thought I would drop this blog link to you if you are interested in seeing any of Ashlee's artwork. I'd like to know a little bit more about some of them.
Her wall murals aren't coming through. She had them in photo buckets and worked fine the other day, but they won't pull up now. Not sure what the problem is there.
http://www.ashleesthings.blogspot.com/
And get some sleep! Why are you up reading this :-)
Sunday, August 10, 2008
I think I can, I think I can...
Hello, friends! I'm just noticing that the blog action this week has been much less, which is totally fine, but I'm wondering if it might be because many of us are feeling overwhelmed or distracted by various things in our lives. I know I am! It seems that maybe we've hit the point in the study where we have to really push ourselves to finish well. I ran into Amy on a walk today, and we are both feeling like we've been struggling more to get our study done the last couple weeks. In fact, she asked me what this week's study was focused on, and I couldn't remember even one thing to tell her from the meager two days I've completed! So, assuming that others may be feeling this way, too, this blog post is just to say, "We can do it!" Let's believe that God still has great things for us in these final weeks and be willing to engage with Him in whatever conviction or healing He wants to offer. Let's also pray for each other as we continue on.
I am still loving this journey with you...I just need a little push to get up the hill right now!
Looking forward to seeing everyone on Tuesday!
I am still loving this journey with you...I just need a little push to get up the hill right now!
Looking forward to seeing everyone on Tuesday!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Prayer Requests
Thought I'd create an official place for us to leave our personal prayer requests again. I really don't want us to allow ourselves to get sidetracked completely by our own thoughts and reflections--as inspiring and entertaining as they can be--and forget to make room for praying for each other! I know that no advice I personally can give you will do you as much good as if I spend a few minutes each day praying for you! I think maybe we should go back to saving the last 10 minutes of our group time to share our requests. Anyway...
Let's all leave our requests in the comments so they're in one neat and tidy spot when we want to look for them later, okay?
(Rochelle, I know you included yours in your post, so maybe you can just cut and paste it into a comment?)
Let's all leave our requests in the comments so they're in one neat and tidy spot when we want to look for them later, okay?
(Rochelle, I know you included yours in your post, so maybe you can just cut and paste it into a comment?)
God's Purposes
I know we've been doing lots of posting lately and not so much commenting, so I hope that doesn't mean everyone is feeling overwhelmed by the volume of stuff to read on this blog. But hey, I guess we all have a choice how much time we spend here, so I will stop feeling guilty about adding to it and just get on with it...
I haven't started this week's lessons yet, either, but this daily devotional from My Utmost for His Highest had a few lines that really struck me in relation to what Brianne shared on Tuesday night as well as what I posted last week. Since it seems our group is often of one mind and generally relates to the same concepts, I thought I'd share it with all of you. In case you can't/don't want to take time to read the whole devotional here are a few lines in particular that have me thinking:
What God calls us to cannot be definitely stated, because His call is simply to be His friend to accomplish His own purposes. Our real test is in truly believing that God knows what He desires.
So nothing terribly new and exciting here, but I always feel even more convinced about things when I put them down in black and white. Once again it seems we all ultimately are seeking the same thing: that the Holy Spirit will help us fill our minds with Him, with His truth, His love, His glory.
Thanks so much for sharing life with me, girls. I'll be praying for each of you!
I haven't started this week's lessons yet, either, but this daily devotional from My Utmost for His Highest had a few lines that really struck me in relation to what Brianne shared on Tuesday night as well as what I posted last week. Since it seems our group is often of one mind and generally relates to the same concepts, I thought I'd share it with all of you. In case you can't/don't want to take time to read the whole devotional here are a few lines in particular that have me thinking:
What God calls us to cannot be definitely stated, because His call is simply to be His friend to accomplish His own purposes. Our real test is in truly believing that God knows what He desires.
If we are in fellowship and oneness with God and recognize that He is taking us into His purposes, then we will no longer strive to find out what His purposes are.
If we have a purpose of our own, it destroys the simplicity and the calm, relaxed pace which should be characteristic of the children of God.
Maybe it's just me, but it seems like one key to ridding my life of idols truly is making room and allowing those things to become a greater reality in my life... believing God's intentions, increasing fellowship and oneness with God, and releasing my own agenda and purposes.So nothing terribly new and exciting here, but I always feel even more convinced about things when I put them down in black and white. Once again it seems we all ultimately are seeking the same thing: that the Holy Spirit will help us fill our minds with Him, with His truth, His love, His glory.
Thanks so much for sharing life with me, girls. I'll be praying for each of you!
Thoughts
Hello, hope you all are having a good week!
I admit, I haven't started this week's study yet (a super-crabby (and rightfully so!) 15 month old with 3 molars descending has had something to do with that ... and I'm really into napping on the couch lately!)
HOWEVER, that doesn't mean that I'm not learning something. Here is some wisdom from Flip's sister (Flip is Bri's monthly calendar), Flipahmena. This encouraged me as I find myself wondering how in the world I am going to put to action/thought all the glorious things God has revealed lately through this study and you lovely Noggies. (Underlines mine.)
God is never more than a thought away. Frank Laubach wrote, "We can keep two things in mind at once. Indeed, we cannot keep one thing in mind more than a half a second. Mind is a flowing something. It oscillates. Concentration is merely the continuous return to the same problem from a million angles. So my problem is this: can I bring God back in my mind-flow every few seconds so that God shall always be in my mind as an after-image, shall always be one of the elements in every concept and precept? I choose to make the rest of my life an experiment in answering this question." (AT LEAST WE HAVE THE REST OF OUR LIVES FOR THIS EXPERIMENT! I'M GOING TO NEED IT!)
To make my mind a home for Jesus, I deliberately fill my mind with the kinds of things God says are important.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent and praiseworthy - think about such things.
We often want to be able to hear guidance from God about important decisions such as whom to marry or what job to take. But we also want to reserve the right to feed our minds on whatever junk comes along. Whatever repeatedly enters the mind occupies the mind, eventually shapes the mind, and will ultimately express itself in what you do and who you become. The events we attend, the material we read (or don't), the music we listen to, the images we watch ... the daydreams we entertain - these are shaping our minds. And ultimately they make our minds receptive or deaf toward the still small voice of God.
Paul says, "We take every thought captive!" (2 Corinthians 10:5) That sounds exhausting. (YES IT DOES) Do we have to filter 185 billion mental images through the course of our lives? But of course, we don't do this on our own. God will help us fill our minds with the right kind of thoughts. God is never more than a thought away.
So, I guess this is my prayer request for the week: that the Holy Spirit will help me fill my mind with Him, with His truth, His love, His glory. That I will be aware of it. That I will grant myself grace as God does, and won't get wrapped up in doing it the right way, but that I would just try. And be happy with and encouraged by those baby steps, as Beth said.
Have a super day!
I admit, I haven't started this week's study yet (a super-crabby (and rightfully so!) 15 month old with 3 molars descending has had something to do with that ... and I'm really into napping on the couch lately!)
HOWEVER, that doesn't mean that I'm not learning something. Here is some wisdom from Flip's sister (Flip is Bri's monthly calendar), Flipahmena. This encouraged me as I find myself wondering how in the world I am going to put to action/thought all the glorious things God has revealed lately through this study and you lovely Noggies. (Underlines mine.)
God is never more than a thought away. Frank Laubach wrote, "We can keep two things in mind at once. Indeed, we cannot keep one thing in mind more than a half a second. Mind is a flowing something. It oscillates. Concentration is merely the continuous return to the same problem from a million angles. So my problem is this: can I bring God back in my mind-flow every few seconds so that God shall always be in my mind as an after-image, shall always be one of the elements in every concept and precept? I choose to make the rest of my life an experiment in answering this question." (AT LEAST WE HAVE THE REST OF OUR LIVES FOR THIS EXPERIMENT! I'M GOING TO NEED IT!)
To make my mind a home for Jesus, I deliberately fill my mind with the kinds of things God says are important.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent and praiseworthy - think about such things.
We often want to be able to hear guidance from God about important decisions such as whom to marry or what job to take. But we also want to reserve the right to feed our minds on whatever junk comes along. Whatever repeatedly enters the mind occupies the mind, eventually shapes the mind, and will ultimately express itself in what you do and who you become. The events we attend, the material we read (or don't), the music we listen to, the images we watch ... the daydreams we entertain - these are shaping our minds. And ultimately they make our minds receptive or deaf toward the still small voice of God.
Paul says, "We take every thought captive!" (2 Corinthians 10:5) That sounds exhausting. (YES IT DOES) Do we have to filter 185 billion mental images through the course of our lives? But of course, we don't do this on our own. God will help us fill our minds with the right kind of thoughts. God is never more than a thought away.
So, I guess this is my prayer request for the week: that the Holy Spirit will help me fill my mind with Him, with His truth, His love, His glory. That I will be aware of it. That I will grant myself grace as God does, and won't get wrapped up in doing it the right way, but that I would just try. And be happy with and encouraged by those baby steps, as Beth said.
Have a super day!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Strength in the next Generation...what is the answer?
So here is an additional musing after our conversations tonight. How did the next generation please God to be able to go into the Promised Land? Why didn't they get their own 40 years of waiting? And here is my thinking on it--relating to my conversation concerning the difficulty of perservering and having faith when your mentor, your "human guide" starts to faulter and doubt and become bitter. These kids that made it to the promised land were just that, kids at the time their parents, mentors, grandparents, etc doubted God...said they would rather have Egypt than His way and basically snubbed their nose at where God was leading them and at what His promises were...I would say they were full of bitterness and doubt.
So does anyone know...how did these kids end up differently? How did they overcome the previous generation's laments and bitterness....how did they take a different approach and follow God or please Him so that they were able enter the Promised Land? I mean it isn't like they were in a bubble for 40 years and the months prior and didn't hear the lamenting of their elders and their elders doubt, and sit around the campfire and be inundated with that line of thought. So my question is...what was different...I think the answer to this would help at least me. ( I myself will be reading further in Numbers tonight to try to find the answer...)
I want to be the person that through the battle can see the joy and not just the doubt and the emptyness...that can sing when the lions are approaching...and can worship when my flesh is burning. That is my prayer...that is my goal...to be so clairvoyant on Christ and His purpose and His goal that all else falls away and I become one with my Savior and my God--and therefore find peace ONLY in Him and everything else (material possessions, etc) is just a bonus.
As a wise gal said tonight (paraphrasing) it sucks to be human... :) and yet I must add that it is good because we get grace along the way.
So does anyone know...how did these kids end up differently? How did they overcome the previous generation's laments and bitterness....how did they take a different approach and follow God or please Him so that they were able enter the Promised Land? I mean it isn't like they were in a bubble for 40 years and the months prior and didn't hear the lamenting of their elders and their elders doubt, and sit around the campfire and be inundated with that line of thought. So my question is...what was different...I think the answer to this would help at least me. ( I myself will be reading further in Numbers tonight to try to find the answer...)
I want to be the person that through the battle can see the joy and not just the doubt and the emptyness...that can sing when the lions are approaching...and can worship when my flesh is burning. That is my prayer...that is my goal...to be so clairvoyant on Christ and His purpose and His goal that all else falls away and I become one with my Savior and my God--and therefore find peace ONLY in Him and everything else (material possessions, etc) is just a bonus.
As a wise gal said tonight (paraphrasing) it sucks to be human... :) and yet I must add that it is good because we get grace along the way.
Highlighting
I have a confession to make...I love to highlight...yes, I'm a highlighting fool. SO when I came across this quote I just had to post it because it seems to echo what a lot of us have been saying during this bible study...
"I'm learning that there is a vast difference between a highlighted verse in my bible and a highlighted verse in my life." -Mark Hall (lead singer of Casting Crowns).
So here is another prayer request--that I can go from LOVING to highlight my Bible to ACTUALLY highlighting the verses in my life...
"I'm learning that there is a vast difference between a highlighted verse in my bible and a highlighted verse in my life." -Mark Hall (lead singer of Casting Crowns).
So here is another prayer request--that I can go from LOVING to highlight my Bible to ACTUALLY highlighting the verses in my life...
Monday, August 4, 2008
demons and angels
Lately I appear to be stumbling across some "solid" tunes that relate to what we are studying.
After spending way too much time trying to figure out how in the world I could post this song, I have to leave you with a weak link:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=mMIUpWKGs44
Check it out when you have time. This song is sung by Storyside: B, a Christian band I have been hearing on Sirius and other local radio stations. I recently purchased their cd because I like their song, "Be Still" so well, but as I've listened to the rest of the cd, I was struck by this song, "Demons and Angels."
As I tried to search for it on the World Wide Web, I was disappointed that there were no good recordings of the song. I clicked on the link I am sharing and was mildly irritated b/c who likes Final Fantasy games? Not me. But as I watched the battle between cartoon figures (excuse me, game enthusiasts, animae) I tried to look past the silliness, over-the-top drama, and tried not to think about the gamers out there, palms sweating as they take on a different persona and try to fight imaginary demons.
I thought about how we typically do not see what is going on in the spiritual world, and could this be a rudimentary picture of what is happening right now!? Our souls are being fought over, we are caught between demons and angels. All this idol talk isn't idle (ha ha ha) ... Jesus didn't die for our sins unless He knew how serious the battle is, how important it was to save us, how dearly and deeply He loves us and longs for us to have an abundant life. And so often I make choices that move me away from Him and how that must grieve Him. I just pray my heart and mind GETS IT and truly starts to apply all that He is revealing to me.
So, nothing really NEW here, just a reaffirmation of the battle, and maybe just another way to internalize what is going on and how we must CHOOSE to make room for Him. (I'm telling myself this, trust me!)
After spending way too much time trying to figure out how in the world I could post this song, I have to leave you with a weak link:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=mMIUpWKGs44
Check it out when you have time. This song is sung by Storyside: B, a Christian band I have been hearing on Sirius and other local radio stations. I recently purchased their cd because I like their song, "Be Still" so well, but as I've listened to the rest of the cd, I was struck by this song, "Demons and Angels."
As I tried to search for it on the World Wide Web, I was disappointed that there were no good recordings of the song. I clicked on the link I am sharing and was mildly irritated b/c who likes Final Fantasy games? Not me. But as I watched the battle between cartoon figures (excuse me, game enthusiasts, animae) I tried to look past the silliness, over-the-top drama, and tried not to think about the gamers out there, palms sweating as they take on a different persona and try to fight imaginary demons.
I thought about how we typically do not see what is going on in the spiritual world, and could this be a rudimentary picture of what is happening right now!? Our souls are being fought over, we are caught between demons and angels. All this idol talk isn't idle (ha ha ha) ... Jesus didn't die for our sins unless He knew how serious the battle is, how important it was to save us, how dearly and deeply He loves us and longs for us to have an abundant life. And so often I make choices that move me away from Him and how that must grieve Him. I just pray my heart and mind GETS IT and truly starts to apply all that He is revealing to me.
So, nothing really NEW here, just a reaffirmation of the battle, and maybe just another way to internalize what is going on and how we must CHOOSE to make room for Him. (I'm telling myself this, trust me!)
Meat, Manna, Milk and Honey OR Life After Death
So I worked on my lessons this weekend about the Israelites and their deliverance and the Promised Land. Right now I'm thinking about two lines from Day 3 in particular: "God's promises aren't necessarily realized without struggle," and "We have to believe that where God wants to take us will be better than what we're clinging to, even if we can't imagine it." I don't know about the rest of you, but man, those are hitting home with me right now!
Those of you who knew me before my NOG days know that Tori's arrival into our family was a surprise, and not a completely welcomed surprise at first. But as I began to process some of the emotions my pregnancy stirred up, I felt like God told me that I was entering a season of pruning for bearing greater fruit. A time in which parts would be cut away--but only to reveal a deeper beauty underneath. And that sounded pretty good to me at the time... greater fruit, deeper beauty. Good stuff, right? Those promises sounded encouraging and purpose-giving.
But now, now that I'm really entering into that season (and if I'm honest about it, most days I'm not even entering it so much by choice as much as by the fact that it simply can't be avoided), I'm not feeling so encouraged or full of purpose or beauty. More like isolated and resentful and ugly. Wondering why on earth I ever thought the promise of being "pruned" was encouraging at all, and realizing that some parts of my life that I am/was pretty attached to are being cut away. And honestly, it kind of hurts.
Then I read this bit about the Israelites wanting to go back to Egypt because they were tired of eating manna every day. How they would have paid the price of their freedom to have what they somehow remembered as being a pretty good set up back in Egypt. Silly Israelites. Then later, when they could even see with their own eyes the greatness of the land God promised them, they lost heart because it just seemed too daunting. They wanted to give up. Give up on remembering God's goodness in the past. Give up on seeing through their circumstances to the greater purpose and promise. Just plain give up on believing God.
And suddenly, I'm just a big fat ungrateful Israelite.... Wishing for the "comfort" of Egypt's shackles around my wrists. Tossing piles of manna to the side because I've just had enough of it. Licking the drops of honey off my fingers as I turn and walk the other way because I don't have it in me to fight for more, all the while forgetting that the battle isn't mine, anyway. I'm tempted to give up. Give up on remembering God's goodness in the past. Give up on seeing through the circumstances to the greater purpose and promise. Just plain give up on believing God.
So, as usual, it seems to come down to a choice.
Am I willing to be pruned--to suffer a thousand tiny "deaths" to allow for the new life God offers? Because with pruning, the new life can't grow 'til after the death occurs. When an artist carves a sculpture, the beauty can't be revealed until a lot of the surface is cut away.
Will I keep my focus on the free-flowing milk and honey and look past the "giants" of my circumstances? I can't visibly see my Promised Land right now like the Israelites could, and that makes it seem even more difficult. But the question is still the same: Will I choose to believe God's promises to me, or not? Do I really believe where He promises to take me is better than where I am now? Will I make room in my life for what He has promised to give?
I'm not sure exactly what saying yes to those questions looks like. And like many of us have admitted, I'm not always sure I really feel that "yes" way down deep inside, even when I say it externally. But as our courageous blog initiatior asked... Is there anything else worth chasing? Nope.
I believe, Lord. Help me in my unbelief!
Those of you who knew me before my NOG days know that Tori's arrival into our family was a surprise, and not a completely welcomed surprise at first. But as I began to process some of the emotions my pregnancy stirred up, I felt like God told me that I was entering a season of pruning for bearing greater fruit. A time in which parts would be cut away--but only to reveal a deeper beauty underneath. And that sounded pretty good to me at the time... greater fruit, deeper beauty. Good stuff, right? Those promises sounded encouraging and purpose-giving.
But now, now that I'm really entering into that season (and if I'm honest about it, most days I'm not even entering it so much by choice as much as by the fact that it simply can't be avoided), I'm not feeling so encouraged or full of purpose or beauty. More like isolated and resentful and ugly. Wondering why on earth I ever thought the promise of being "pruned" was encouraging at all, and realizing that some parts of my life that I am/was pretty attached to are being cut away. And honestly, it kind of hurts.
Then I read this bit about the Israelites wanting to go back to Egypt because they were tired of eating manna every day. How they would have paid the price of their freedom to have what they somehow remembered as being a pretty good set up back in Egypt. Silly Israelites. Then later, when they could even see with their own eyes the greatness of the land God promised them, they lost heart because it just seemed too daunting. They wanted to give up. Give up on remembering God's goodness in the past. Give up on seeing through their circumstances to the greater purpose and promise. Just plain give up on believing God.
And suddenly, I'm just a big fat ungrateful Israelite.... Wishing for the "comfort" of Egypt's shackles around my wrists. Tossing piles of manna to the side because I've just had enough of it. Licking the drops of honey off my fingers as I turn and walk the other way because I don't have it in me to fight for more, all the while forgetting that the battle isn't mine, anyway. I'm tempted to give up. Give up on remembering God's goodness in the past. Give up on seeing through the circumstances to the greater purpose and promise. Just plain give up on believing God.
So, as usual, it seems to come down to a choice.
Am I willing to be pruned--to suffer a thousand tiny "deaths" to allow for the new life God offers? Because with pruning, the new life can't grow 'til after the death occurs. When an artist carves a sculpture, the beauty can't be revealed until a lot of the surface is cut away.
Will I keep my focus on the free-flowing milk and honey and look past the "giants" of my circumstances? I can't visibly see my Promised Land right now like the Israelites could, and that makes it seem even more difficult. But the question is still the same: Will I choose to believe God's promises to me, or not? Do I really believe where He promises to take me is better than where I am now? Will I make room in my life for what He has promised to give?
I'm not sure exactly what saying yes to those questions looks like. And like many of us have admitted, I'm not always sure I really feel that "yes" way down deep inside, even when I say it externally. But as our courageous blog initiatior asked... Is there anything else worth chasing? Nope.
I believe, Lord. Help me in my unbelief!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Brave
Hey Girls!
So this is my first time actually posting and not just commenting on someone else's post....how exciting! See, I'm also behind the times Tiff...actually worse...I'm not even on Facebook!! I was meaning to post yesterday but spent all of my time reading the posts...you guys are awesome bloggers!! I LOVE reading all of them so keep them coming!!
I know most of you have already said this...but hugs out to all of you! I can't even begin to describe how REFRESHING it is to have a group that is brutally honest about our shortcomings, fears, and idols...and the psycho thing is that I completely relate with them all! I am part of another group and we met the other night and people were giving very trite answers to some very difficult questions. I THANK you that this is not the case with our group. This stuff is really HARD and I'm glad that sometimes that IS the answer...it's just plain hard.
I also resonate with Beth in wondering if I really want to change. I'm pretty comfortable with all my idols and quite FEARFUL of saying goodbye. One of my favorite songs (which I'm sure many of you know) is Brave by Nichole Nordeman...here are the lyrics...italics mine...(sorry, no video here:)
The gate is wide
The road is paved in moderation
The crowd is kind and quick to pull you in
Welcome to the middle ground
You're safe and sound and
Until now it's where I've been
'Cause it's been fear that ties me down to everything
But it's been love, Your love, that cuts the strings
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I am small
And I speak when I'm spoken to
But I am willing to risk it all
I say Your name
Just Your name and I'm ready to jump
Even ready to fall...
Why did I take this vow of compromise?
Why did I try to keep it all inside?
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I've never known a fire that didn't begin with a flame
Every storm will start with just a drop of rain
But if you believe in me
That changes everything
So long, I'm gone
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
I wanna be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
Fellow noggers...my prayer request is that I'm brave and can say goodbye to my idols...I know it will be slow and painful...I'm praying for all of you also in this so that we can be a flame that starts a fire of nogging!!
Sheila
So this is my first time actually posting and not just commenting on someone else's post....how exciting! See, I'm also behind the times Tiff...actually worse...I'm not even on Facebook!! I was meaning to post yesterday but spent all of my time reading the posts...you guys are awesome bloggers!! I LOVE reading all of them so keep them coming!!
I know most of you have already said this...but hugs out to all of you! I can't even begin to describe how REFRESHING it is to have a group that is brutally honest about our shortcomings, fears, and idols...and the psycho thing is that I completely relate with them all! I am part of another group and we met the other night and people were giving very trite answers to some very difficult questions. I THANK you that this is not the case with our group. This stuff is really HARD and I'm glad that sometimes that IS the answer...it's just plain hard.
I also resonate with Beth in wondering if I really want to change. I'm pretty comfortable with all my idols and quite FEARFUL of saying goodbye. One of my favorite songs (which I'm sure many of you know) is Brave by Nichole Nordeman...here are the lyrics...italics mine...(sorry, no video here:)
The gate is wide
The road is paved in moderation
The crowd is kind and quick to pull you in
Welcome to the middle ground
You're safe and sound and
Until now it's where I've been
'Cause it's been fear that ties me down to everything
But it's been love, Your love, that cuts the strings
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I am small
And I speak when I'm spoken to
But I am willing to risk it all
I say Your name
Just Your name and I'm ready to jump
Even ready to fall...
Why did I take this vow of compromise?
Why did I try to keep it all inside?
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
I've never known a fire that didn't begin with a flame
Every storm will start with just a drop of rain
But if you believe in me
That changes everything
So long, I'm gone
So long status quo
I think I just let go
You make me want to be brave
I wanna be brave
The way it always was
Is no longer good enough
You make me want to be brave
Brave, brave
Fellow noggers...my prayer request is that I'm brave and can say goodbye to my idols...I know it will be slow and painful...I'm praying for all of you also in this so that we can be a flame that starts a fire of nogging!!
Sheila
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