There's no faulting the Word of God. It is an oracle, a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, even for those who are just "trying" it out.
I can't say that once you have "tried" it out you will leave the same - something changes - there will be a lot more questions posed.
So, with all the uproar of dealing with people that grate us up the wrong way, how do we go forward?
This wasn't an easy question I asked myself the other day. "Lord, how do I see beyond all this and focus on the bigger picture?"
It is about self - it is about looking deep within and reacting. Not reacting because you have to but because you need to and you need to in a different way, where you come out the winner!
It's not easy. This whole situation defines spiritual maturity. Even the eldest person slips up, we all do, thank Daddy we are human. And right now I will stop imagining if we weren't human.
In our spiritual core, we rely on the unction of the Holy Spirit to lead and direct. If you call yourself a Christian but don't rely on the Holy Spirit, something is amiss. Re-calculate your faith, your walk and where you headed.
Who leads you? What leads you?
I found myself reacting through flesh in these situations, not the wisest choice, I know. I realized this after a pity-party, which had me as the only guest mind you.
Reacting through flesh was out of my anger or irritation. It didn't leave room for forgiveness or for me to see things differently. It resounded ME ME ME, selfish, yes. I reacted through defense.
Like martial arts, defense is key. You need to be quick and alert. Depending on the art, you either defend with violence, causing harm and pain, basically weakening your enemy so they are unable to react OR you defend clean.
I chose the first option. Defend causing pain, so there is no longer a reaction but just hurt or more anger.
Help Lord!
Boom! Romans 12 vs 9 - 21 Title: Christian Ethics (hence the titles of this blog)
Ready: "Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lack diligence; be fervent in spirit; serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer. Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. Be in agreement with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Try to do what is honorable in everyone's eyes. If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone. Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay, says the Lord. But do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good."
I have been reading this passage daily, taking up the Holy Spirit to embed in me and change in me what needs to be changed in order for me to practice the above with a bigger picture of dealing with friction situations.
This doesn't only filter through my relationships around me but also in my marriage and in my dealings with ministry......it's so easy to become self-absorbed.
Forgive. Forget.
Live in the freedom of the Word, there's power in the Scriptures.
Monday, 3 June 2013
Thursday, 30 May 2013
Christian Ethics 2
Living with people is a whole new level of getting to know them. You share their personal space, get to see them at their lowest and weakest and also get to know their character, not just personality. You become familiar with their different moods, which isn't always easy to accept or keep up with.
The personality part is easy to handle but when it comes to character, that's when the rubber meets the road. It's not as easy as it looks. More disagreements, more squabbles, more division....(it all depends on how you handle the situation off-course).
Then again, we look at the way the Lord works in our lives. He works on our character to be honest, not just our personality. Our Kingdom DNA involves our character, it's the person we let out when we close the front door when we get home.
And when He begins to work on character, it's not always easy. He works on the deepest part of who we are!
It's frustrating, painful, annoying, unbearable and over-whelming but oh the end result is just so sweet. Be the change you want to see in the world - don't try to change the world, the person you live with or people you share personal space with.
It's not easy but it's worth it.
Peace & Love.
The personality part is easy to handle but when it comes to character, that's when the rubber meets the road. It's not as easy as it looks. More disagreements, more squabbles, more division....(it all depends on how you handle the situation off-course).
Then again, we look at the way the Lord works in our lives. He works on our character to be honest, not just our personality. Our Kingdom DNA involves our character, it's the person we let out when we close the front door when we get home.
And when He begins to work on character, it's not always easy. He works on the deepest part of who we are!
It's frustrating, painful, annoying, unbearable and over-whelming but oh the end result is just so sweet. Be the change you want to see in the world - don't try to change the world, the person you live with or people you share personal space with.
It's not easy but it's worth it.
Peace & Love.
Wednesday, 22 May 2013
Christian Ethics
So, have you been in a situation where the flesh speaks more than the spirit does? You find yourself constantly working on your time and not His eternity?
There are situations you find yourself in that just seem crazy to deal with from a spiritual point of view, when it's actually the only way and this you realize a few days down the line.
You ask yourself all the psychological questions that comes with making decisions and attempt to take a step because it's on your time, your grounds, your standards and basis?
Yes, off-course you feel peace. Off-course you have prayed. Off-course you know that this is right where you need to be.......
Then there's this grinding halt. Brakes fail. You screech and literally crash into a tree stump.
It's just you on this road, pitch black, darkness engulfs you and you far from scared, you simply sit back and say out loud, "I should have listened to you."
This whole scenario describes my life these past 3 months. Yeah, I love that I can type this with a smile and still feel more loved by the Lord than ever before :)
When I talk about reacting in the flesh, I am not talking about lusting or being physically attracted to the opposite sex. I am talking about my physical self - my mindset.
Painfully the Lord has taken me on a journey these last few days reminding me what it is like to live in the Spirit, walk in the Spirit and have faith in the Spirit. We are still journeying together.....as daily He is dropping fruits into my Spirit to allow me to sew and reap.
The Word clearly states that we cannot please God through the flesh - impossible and don't even think we can. The flesh and the spirit never mix.
As Christians, we walk according to the Spirit, the Spirit intercedes for us. Abba knows the hearts of man and He also knows the mind-set of the Spirit, which is only to bring us closer to Him, into His eternity.
I have made decisions these last few months that made sense in the physical but spiritually the Lord was telling me to hang 10, just give Him space & time to work and wait upon His instruction and guidance.
Did I get into my prayer closet? No. Did I even obey Him? No.
It worked for a short while but then I crashed. I ran out of steam. Not only that, things just went pear-shaped altogether.
Abba did provide me with strength and wisdom to get out of the situation & that's when He spoke deep into my Spirit, "Sheri, beloved, why aren't you walking by faith and in MY Spirit?"
No answer. Just realization and a new dawning.
I read a powerful sentence on prayer, "Prayer - hearts cry to God in sincerity. Prayer is for those who earnestly seek God."
It's more than just a conversation.....much more.
I am totally convicted of just not spending more time in Him to know His plans for me. It's so much easier mapping things out for myself.
The Spirit is always unhurried and the more I begin to accept His eternity for me and my life, the more I will not doubt and just totally trust. Patience. Ah, this beautiful word that just opens a can of worms.
I lose nothing but gain much!
Focusing on prayer brings such a tremendous source of energy & vitality for my spiritual life. As I am focusing on His eternity, I find my heart starting to slow down and I am not reacting by the flesh but by the Spirit. It's not easy but it's a lot easier to practice and make it perfect where this is an instant reaction in the near future (a Spirit reaction).
I marvel that we can make errors but still, His love is unfailing for His beloved children.
Be soaked in His Spirit as you live your days, not for now but for an eternity, for Kingdom pleasure.
The next time you pray, report for duty and just let go........see what Abba does.
There are situations you find yourself in that just seem crazy to deal with from a spiritual point of view, when it's actually the only way and this you realize a few days down the line.
You ask yourself all the psychological questions that comes with making decisions and attempt to take a step because it's on your time, your grounds, your standards and basis?
Yes, off-course you feel peace. Off-course you have prayed. Off-course you know that this is right where you need to be.......
Then there's this grinding halt. Brakes fail. You screech and literally crash into a tree stump.
It's just you on this road, pitch black, darkness engulfs you and you far from scared, you simply sit back and say out loud, "I should have listened to you."
This whole scenario describes my life these past 3 months. Yeah, I love that I can type this with a smile and still feel more loved by the Lord than ever before :)
When I talk about reacting in the flesh, I am not talking about lusting or being physically attracted to the opposite sex. I am talking about my physical self - my mindset.
Painfully the Lord has taken me on a journey these last few days reminding me what it is like to live in the Spirit, walk in the Spirit and have faith in the Spirit. We are still journeying together.....as daily He is dropping fruits into my Spirit to allow me to sew and reap.
The Word clearly states that we cannot please God through the flesh - impossible and don't even think we can. The flesh and the spirit never mix.
As Christians, we walk according to the Spirit, the Spirit intercedes for us. Abba knows the hearts of man and He also knows the mind-set of the Spirit, which is only to bring us closer to Him, into His eternity.
I have made decisions these last few months that made sense in the physical but spiritually the Lord was telling me to hang 10, just give Him space & time to work and wait upon His instruction and guidance.
Did I get into my prayer closet? No. Did I even obey Him? No.
It worked for a short while but then I crashed. I ran out of steam. Not only that, things just went pear-shaped altogether.
Abba did provide me with strength and wisdom to get out of the situation & that's when He spoke deep into my Spirit, "Sheri, beloved, why aren't you walking by faith and in MY Spirit?"
No answer. Just realization and a new dawning.
I read a powerful sentence on prayer, "Prayer - hearts cry to God in sincerity. Prayer is for those who earnestly seek God."
It's more than just a conversation.....much more.
I am totally convicted of just not spending more time in Him to know His plans for me. It's so much easier mapping things out for myself.
The Spirit is always unhurried and the more I begin to accept His eternity for me and my life, the more I will not doubt and just totally trust. Patience. Ah, this beautiful word that just opens a can of worms.
I lose nothing but gain much!
Focusing on prayer brings such a tremendous source of energy & vitality for my spiritual life. As I am focusing on His eternity, I find my heart starting to slow down and I am not reacting by the flesh but by the Spirit. It's not easy but it's a lot easier to practice and make it perfect where this is an instant reaction in the near future (a Spirit reaction).
I marvel that we can make errors but still, His love is unfailing for His beloved children.
Be soaked in His Spirit as you live your days, not for now but for an eternity, for Kingdom pleasure.
The next time you pray, report for duty and just let go........see what Abba does.
Wednesday, 10 April 2013
His Wiring, My Calling, His Anointing, My Obedience
God wired you for the way He wants to use you.
Forget walking in the shadow of a fellow friend, spouse, colleague or role model. You need to find your identity in Him and live it with abandoned faith.
There hasn't been much time on my part to blog as regularly as I'd like to but my personal journal seems to be getting thicker by the weeks. Hopefully some day I would find myself blogging daily.
Since my last entry SO MUCH has transpired. 2013 has been incredible thus far.
I am not saying it's been a walk in the park but it's been different to the years before. Somehow through my challenges, I am finding that I am confident in myself as a Christian and follower of Yahweh. It's not through self edification but through sanctification of the Word.
I have met new people, started journeys with most, have experienced many GOD encounters through His people, many unbelievers, and my personal quiet times have gone up another level altogether.
Business has been an interesting experience as well - it's a vicious cycle. Not for the faint hearted.
Adversity is a champion's breakfast. I find I continuously need to remind myself of this.
I love that the Lord is just as busy with us as He is with our ministries. He uses every single situation for His glory.....even the bad ones.
The more I chat with people that face struggles, I realize, if your identity in Him is not grounded, solid and confident, you begin to doubt His mercies, His capabilities and His strengths for your life.
I've been there and boy, it's frustrating when you know He is the GREAT I AM yet you question, "And now Lord?"
A few months ago I had a sit-down with Daddy and shared my frustrations with Him. Personally it was not trusting that He knows what's best for me and that I just need to trust.
I resented the fact that I'd face trials and want to throw in the towel when I knew better. I have seen Him at work even in dark situations yet I still doubted, I still got angry with Him.....
I reached a point where I had enough of my own insecurities in not believing fully. I reached a point where I was so hungry to get over this hurdle & fully throw myself in Him, believing the Word now more than ever!
How do I make my Father's heart happy in trials?
A few days ago my quiet time was a reflection of cherishing His Words in my life. Not just reading the Word to understand and share but to truly cherish it and make it my oxygen. Are you at that point or where?
"Holiness is not a feeling - it is the end product of obedience. Purity is not a gift - it is the result of repentance and serious pursuit of God."
Powerful? Yip, I know.
Heaven rejoices when we go through trials with a singing spirit. Our Heavenly Father's heart is cheered when we endure the test and do so without questioning His mercies.
A word of encouragement: I have asked you to give, in order that I may bless you more. I have challenged you to pray, so that I may respond and help you. I have asked you to rejoice, in order to keep you from being swallowed up by anxieties. I have asked you to be humble, to protect you from the calamities that fall upon the proud. I have asked you to forgive, in order to make your heart fit to receive My forgiveness.
Learn my rules and put them into practice consistently!
Forget walking in the shadow of a fellow friend, spouse, colleague or role model. You need to find your identity in Him and live it with abandoned faith.
There hasn't been much time on my part to blog as regularly as I'd like to but my personal journal seems to be getting thicker by the weeks. Hopefully some day I would find myself blogging daily.
Since my last entry SO MUCH has transpired. 2013 has been incredible thus far.
I am not saying it's been a walk in the park but it's been different to the years before. Somehow through my challenges, I am finding that I am confident in myself as a Christian and follower of Yahweh. It's not through self edification but through sanctification of the Word.
I have met new people, started journeys with most, have experienced many GOD encounters through His people, many unbelievers, and my personal quiet times have gone up another level altogether.
Business has been an interesting experience as well - it's a vicious cycle. Not for the faint hearted.
Adversity is a champion's breakfast. I find I continuously need to remind myself of this.
I love that the Lord is just as busy with us as He is with our ministries. He uses every single situation for His glory.....even the bad ones.
The more I chat with people that face struggles, I realize, if your identity in Him is not grounded, solid and confident, you begin to doubt His mercies, His capabilities and His strengths for your life.
I've been there and boy, it's frustrating when you know He is the GREAT I AM yet you question, "And now Lord?"
A few months ago I had a sit-down with Daddy and shared my frustrations with Him. Personally it was not trusting that He knows what's best for me and that I just need to trust.
I resented the fact that I'd face trials and want to throw in the towel when I knew better. I have seen Him at work even in dark situations yet I still doubted, I still got angry with Him.....
I reached a point where I had enough of my own insecurities in not believing fully. I reached a point where I was so hungry to get over this hurdle & fully throw myself in Him, believing the Word now more than ever!
How do I make my Father's heart happy in trials?
A few days ago my quiet time was a reflection of cherishing His Words in my life. Not just reading the Word to understand and share but to truly cherish it and make it my oxygen. Are you at that point or where?
"Holiness is not a feeling - it is the end product of obedience. Purity is not a gift - it is the result of repentance and serious pursuit of God."
Powerful? Yip, I know.
Heaven rejoices when we go through trials with a singing spirit. Our Heavenly Father's heart is cheered when we endure the test and do so without questioning His mercies.
A word of encouragement: I have asked you to give, in order that I may bless you more. I have challenged you to pray, so that I may respond and help you. I have asked you to rejoice, in order to keep you from being swallowed up by anxieties. I have asked you to be humble, to protect you from the calamities that fall upon the proud. I have asked you to forgive, in order to make your heart fit to receive My forgiveness.
Learn my rules and put them into practice consistently!
Friday, 4 January 2013
Here We Go....2013!!!!
I have
spent a few hours this morning reconciling my year of 2012. A few major things
transpired last year in my life, huge decisions made, bold steps taken, once
again, I have lived recklessly abandoned to my faith in Daddy.
Time. It’s such a valuable word when it comes to understanding Him.
Have you ever been on track with something, you were totally flowing, enjoying and loving every moment and abruptly it comes to an end? You ask yourself: Was it an idol in my life? Did it feed a personal need or something bigger? Are these situations really from God?
What about a season in your life that you just quite could not figure out and you made decisions to not plug in and endure but leave and be restless? How does one silence the voice of man and totally tune into His? What does it sound like? What is the difference between a messenger and the Holy Spirit? Respect to great leaders out there, ultimately He is the greatest of them all.
How many times have you had lists of tasks to complete, yet that still small voice of the Holy Spirit kept prompting you to just spend a little more time with Him and forget about whimsical things that grasp our attention? I know that to spend time with Him is like smelling a mug of fresh coffee, it gets me going, there’s a mysterious smile on my face that only my heart can explain yet my daily routine contains toil, trouble and heaviness and I still go about doing it!
You hear people speak of such righteous living, they seem as if they have the best relationship with God and here you sit totally convicted of having salvation been poured out to you yet you remain redundant in your very being. Why am I not on fire like they are? We do believe in the same God right? I am living the way you have asked me to, now what?
I can say yes to all of the above with capitals! In a way, we all can, truthfully.
This year was my very first year spent in church when the clock struck midnight to bring us into a new year. Being surrounded by His people in that dynamic moment was incredible! A triumphant cry of praise went up to Heaven as we all shouted, “3, 2, 1…..HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!”
My support structure was more evident than ever – the church, praise and communion with fellow believers and with Daddy.
There are so many messages for 2013 from the different churches out there…..I needed more than just a corporate message, I needed to hear from Daddy for my life specifically, seeking Him fully.
And here it is:
1 Corinthians 1: 4 – 9
“Every time I think of you – and I think of you often! – I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you – it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.
Just think – you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene of for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside you to keep you steady and on track until thing are well wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.”
The Message Remix
The more I read this message, the more I see Daddy showing me. My spirit has come alive, the fire of God is burning and stirring my heart that beats for Him.
Lately I have been reading one particular scripture over and over and over again, not in my bible but in my days passing through technology, listening to people, reading tweets, daily devotions, articles, testimonies, random books……Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
John 21:15
Oh boy, corporate worship has gone up a whole other level for me, it can happen anywhere!!!!
Time. It’s such a valuable word when it comes to understanding Him.
Have you ever been on track with something, you were totally flowing, enjoying and loving every moment and abruptly it comes to an end? You ask yourself: Was it an idol in my life? Did it feed a personal need or something bigger? Are these situations really from God?
What about a season in your life that you just quite could not figure out and you made decisions to not plug in and endure but leave and be restless? How does one silence the voice of man and totally tune into His? What does it sound like? What is the difference between a messenger and the Holy Spirit? Respect to great leaders out there, ultimately He is the greatest of them all.
How many times have you had lists of tasks to complete, yet that still small voice of the Holy Spirit kept prompting you to just spend a little more time with Him and forget about whimsical things that grasp our attention? I know that to spend time with Him is like smelling a mug of fresh coffee, it gets me going, there’s a mysterious smile on my face that only my heart can explain yet my daily routine contains toil, trouble and heaviness and I still go about doing it!
You hear people speak of such righteous living, they seem as if they have the best relationship with God and here you sit totally convicted of having salvation been poured out to you yet you remain redundant in your very being. Why am I not on fire like they are? We do believe in the same God right? I am living the way you have asked me to, now what?
I can say yes to all of the above with capitals! In a way, we all can, truthfully.
This year was my very first year spent in church when the clock struck midnight to bring us into a new year. Being surrounded by His people in that dynamic moment was incredible! A triumphant cry of praise went up to Heaven as we all shouted, “3, 2, 1…..HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!”
My support structure was more evident than ever – the church, praise and communion with fellow believers and with Daddy.
There are so many messages for 2013 from the different churches out there…..I needed more than just a corporate message, I needed to hear from Daddy for my life specifically, seeking Him fully.
And here it is:
1 Corinthians 1: 4 – 9
“Every time I think of you – and I think of you often! – I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you – it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.
Just think – you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene of for the Finale. And not only that, but God himself is right alongside you to keep you steady and on track until thing are well wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that.”
The Message Remix
The more I read this message, the more I see Daddy showing me. My spirit has come alive, the fire of God is burning and stirring my heart that beats for Him.
Lately I have been reading one particular scripture over and over and over again, not in my bible but in my days passing through technology, listening to people, reading tweets, daily devotions, articles, testimonies, random books……Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
John 21:15
Oh boy, corporate worship has gone up a whole other level for me, it can happen anywhere!!!!
Off-course
I am constantly looking for opportunities to spread His love, but knowing that
He desires a relationship with us, I need to feed that aspect too.
Saints, he has given us wisdom and knowledge, which is our stability in these times we are facing and the most important thing is that we have the strength of salvation. It’s not me being an oracle of great wisdom this morning but it’s in His Word, Isaiah 33:6.
Saints, he has given us wisdom and knowledge, which is our stability in these times we are facing and the most important thing is that we have the strength of salvation. It’s not me being an oracle of great wisdom this morning but it’s in His Word, Isaiah 33:6.
Knowing
the very same Holy Spirit that raised Christ from the dead is available to us
24:7, 365 days a year, births a whole new spiritual insight for me and my
message for 2013 from Him.
Daddy shares with us in our daily living, He will never give up on us (no matter our indifference).
Daddy shares with us in our daily living, He will never give up on us (no matter our indifference).
His ardor
never cools. (Ardor: passion, devotion, love, enthusiasm, zeal, fervor,
eagerness, dedication) Beautiful way to
describe our King J
I am now more aware that there are so many people standing on my behalf praying, just like I stand in the gap for the persecuted church and keep my brothers and sisters in prayer for their suffering. Let’s not stop this.
The evidence of Christ alive in me is the very fact that He chose me and it’s so clear. There’s His voice right there. It’s distinct.
I am grounded! We walk the streets with such great anointing in our spirit – Peter’s shadow healed, the Word says that greater things will be done in our times, I am so eager to see this unfold.
I am now more aware that there are so many people standing on my behalf praying, just like I stand in the gap for the persecuted church and keep my brothers and sisters in prayer for their suffering. Let’s not stop this.
The evidence of Christ alive in me is the very fact that He chose me and it’s so clear. There’s His voice right there. It’s distinct.
I am grounded! We walk the streets with such great anointing in our spirit – Peter’s shadow healed, the Word says that greater things will be done in our times, I am so eager to see this unfold.
I am so
hungry, aggressively pursuing His promises.
There are going to be rocky times ahead of me this year, no doubt but He promised that He’s going to keep me steady and on track until He wraps up everything I need to accomplish.
There are going to be rocky times ahead of me this year, no doubt but He promised that He’s going to keep me steady and on track until He wraps up everything I need to accomplish.
Facedown I fall as His glory shines around.
Last year Daddy ended my year symbolizing 4 important game points I needed to be made aware of and now I get to see it in action for this new year.
2012 ended on a strengthened note only to begin 2013 with a champion’s spirit! Here we go.....cheers to 2013!
Tuesday, 20 November 2012
Crossing the River
The other day 3 powerful quotes started off my quiet time...here they are:
"Availability is better than ability for God." Women in Christ
"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much." Mother Theresa
"From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny." In Christ Alone
Re-cap of my game plan:
- Waiting on the Lord
- Endurance
- Truthful speech
- Effective prayer
Quiet time title: Courage in Crossing the River
Exodus 14: 5 - 18
Hebrews 13: 6
So, my 4 game plan steps have been established, recognized and is currently being implemented. Not as easy as it looks but I onward march!
Oh, the Lord is so active and alive in my life and my spirit - I praise Him for this unbreakable relationship we have. He chose me and I rejoice at the fact that He calls me friend.
It filters through every area of my life and illuminates things beautiful. He is LIGHT and whatever is in darkness shall come to light. I see daily why it's important to have a game plan - it highlights commitment. Every single Christian, no matter your age, title, gender, denomination, you need to stay committed to the Most High.
In this new month I am finding that the word courage is becoming more known to me.
What does it mean to have courageous courage?Off-course I had to ask the Lord and He answered, taking me back to the O.T., to the book of Exodus.
A story that highlights this "courageous courage" for me is when Moses and his people needed to cross the dead sea.
There's just so much to unpack in this story - for starters, can you imagine what they felt? Can you imagine their facial expressions when Moses commanded them with words from the Lord? Fear. Anxiety. Hopelessness. Doubt. Irritation. Anger.
For people like me who like adrenalin sport, well, this is sure to turn up the adrenalin levels in my body. Flight or fight mode?
Pity they didn't have surf boards invented then!
1) God is always at work - He NEVER stops! In vs 8 we see that the Lord already hardened the heart of Pharoah.
2) In vs 17 + 18 God reveals His plan to Moses about hardening Pharoah's heart. Why? Bigger plan. So that they may know HE IS LORD & not just know but BELIEVE IT!
3) In vs 13 + 14 Moses now has FULL FAITH in God as he encourages his people who have no faith at all but he does this boldly and with a great conviction.
Surely the Lord does keep to His Word, right Moses?
4) vs 15 + 16 Why I say conviction is because Moses then approaches the Lord after encouraging the Israelites (I sense that he also begins to doubt because the people are probably upset and have no capacity to trust anymore. Moses being the leader is now on shaky ground, we can all relate, conviction may be rattling a bit, doubt may be creeping in to downsize the faith level but does his commitment still outshine like the brightest star?). We face crossing the river daily - be it at work, in your family, job, life, church....drastic measures are to be taken but am I equipped to take those measures?
Daddy answers Moses with such ease, "Moses, why are you crying out to me?....."
It's as if Moses should KNOW and have that full faith in God, knowing that He keeps to His promise when we remain obedient and available.
I can count on fingers, toes, pegs and paper how many times Daddy's answered me with ease too, "Satya, what are you on about girl!"
Moses totally lacks in ability, we know this but his availability is what Daddy grasps onto, even when Moses finds himself on Doubting Island.
What does it mean to stand firm?
What would it be like to be told that Daddy will fight for you, just be quiet, meanwhile everything around you is falling apart?
What am I doing to stand firm?
What area do I need to work on in my faith knowing that the Lord is in full control, not half or partial but FULL CONTROL?
Hebrew 13:6 I turned to before reading this story and Daddy sums up today's quiet time in such an amazing way. He kinda gives me the end result before He takes me down this road of courage. "Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mad do to me?"
I stand firm with courageous courage, knowing He is the author and creator of my destiny. He's gone ahead.....I remain available.
"Availability is better than ability for God." Women in Christ
"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much." Mother Theresa
"From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny." In Christ Alone
Re-cap of my game plan:
- Waiting on the Lord
- Endurance
- Truthful speech
- Effective prayer
Quiet time title: Courage in Crossing the River
Exodus 14: 5 - 18
Hebrews 13: 6
So, my 4 game plan steps have been established, recognized and is currently being implemented. Not as easy as it looks but I onward march!
Oh, the Lord is so active and alive in my life and my spirit - I praise Him for this unbreakable relationship we have. He chose me and I rejoice at the fact that He calls me friend.
It filters through every area of my life and illuminates things beautiful. He is LIGHT and whatever is in darkness shall come to light. I see daily why it's important to have a game plan - it highlights commitment. Every single Christian, no matter your age, title, gender, denomination, you need to stay committed to the Most High.
In this new month I am finding that the word courage is becoming more known to me.
What does it mean to have courageous courage?Off-course I had to ask the Lord and He answered, taking me back to the O.T., to the book of Exodus.
A story that highlights this "courageous courage" for me is when Moses and his people needed to cross the dead sea.
There's just so much to unpack in this story - for starters, can you imagine what they felt? Can you imagine their facial expressions when Moses commanded them with words from the Lord? Fear. Anxiety. Hopelessness. Doubt. Irritation. Anger.
For people like me who like adrenalin sport, well, this is sure to turn up the adrenalin levels in my body. Flight or fight mode?
Pity they didn't have surf boards invented then!
1) God is always at work - He NEVER stops! In vs 8 we see that the Lord already hardened the heart of Pharoah.
2) In vs 17 + 18 God reveals His plan to Moses about hardening Pharoah's heart. Why? Bigger plan. So that they may know HE IS LORD & not just know but BELIEVE IT!
3) In vs 13 + 14 Moses now has FULL FAITH in God as he encourages his people who have no faith at all but he does this boldly and with a great conviction.
Surely the Lord does keep to His Word, right Moses?
4) vs 15 + 16 Why I say conviction is because Moses then approaches the Lord after encouraging the Israelites (I sense that he also begins to doubt because the people are probably upset and have no capacity to trust anymore. Moses being the leader is now on shaky ground, we can all relate, conviction may be rattling a bit, doubt may be creeping in to downsize the faith level but does his commitment still outshine like the brightest star?). We face crossing the river daily - be it at work, in your family, job, life, church....drastic measures are to be taken but am I equipped to take those measures?
Daddy answers Moses with such ease, "Moses, why are you crying out to me?....."
It's as if Moses should KNOW and have that full faith in God, knowing that He keeps to His promise when we remain obedient and available.
I can count on fingers, toes, pegs and paper how many times Daddy's answered me with ease too, "Satya, what are you on about girl!"
Moses totally lacks in ability, we know this but his availability is what Daddy grasps onto, even when Moses finds himself on Doubting Island.
What does it mean to stand firm?
What would it be like to be told that Daddy will fight for you, just be quiet, meanwhile everything around you is falling apart?
What am I doing to stand firm?
What area do I need to work on in my faith knowing that the Lord is in full control, not half or partial but FULL CONTROL?
Hebrew 13:6 I turned to before reading this story and Daddy sums up today's quiet time in such an amazing way. He kinda gives me the end result before He takes me down this road of courage. "Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mad do to me?"
I stand firm with courageous courage, knowing He is the author and creator of my destiny. He's gone ahead.....I remain available.
Wednesday, 7 November 2012
Captain Courageous
Reading a popular health magazine, I came across SA's Hockey Captain, Marsha Marescia, and her interview with the magazine. She shared some helpful tips on being a captain that I would like to share with you.
First I need you to take a moment to realize that we are all leaders in our own way, some have big roles, other's smaller and for some, in quiet, simple ways. I call them the "unrecognized" leaders. Those are the ones that teach us their biggest dream is their smallest achievement.
You don't just need to be a captain in sport but in your daily walk with Christ and with people. It's about team work. Not self.
We see clearly that Jesus didn't rely on self to accomplish all He had, He formed a team, He taught accountability, He taught them how the game plan works.
Knowing that we could be the only walking, talking bible His children may encounter, how do we use this gift of salvation? Does it brightly shine among our own as well as for the rest of the world?
Marsha shares 5 points, here they are.
Are you ready to cross the river with me?
First I need you to take a moment to realize that we are all leaders in our own way, some have big roles, other's smaller and for some, in quiet, simple ways. I call them the "unrecognized" leaders. Those are the ones that teach us their biggest dream is their smallest achievement.
You don't just need to be a captain in sport but in your daily walk with Christ and with people. It's about team work. Not self.
We see clearly that Jesus didn't rely on self to accomplish all He had, He formed a team, He taught accountability, He taught them how the game plan works.
Knowing that we could be the only walking, talking bible His children may encounter, how do we use this gift of salvation? Does it brightly shine among our own as well as for the rest of the world?
Marsha shares 5 points, here they are.
- Know when to follow. You can't always lead.
- Be selfless and put everyone else first.
- Showing passion for the team and for what you do together helps to motivate them & you
- Be selfless and put everyone else first.
- Showing passion for the team and for what you do together helps to motivate them & you
- Acknowledge your weaknesses. It allows other strong members of the team to take on leadership roles.
- When the going gets tough, remind the team of their goals and commit yourself 100% to what you do. Your passion and your hard work will inspire the team to keep trying.
My encouragement to you would be to adapt these points to your current walk with Daddy.
My encouragement to you would be to adapt these points to your current walk with Daddy.
Evaluate where you are right now. Take time to evaluate.
Evaluation allows you to re-focus, plan, set goals, hear and know.
It's better to give than to receive, count it a true blessing fellow saints.
Determination builds courage.......and so this month, Daddy takes me down the road of COURAGE.
Evaluation allows you to re-focus, plan, set goals, hear and know.
It's better to give than to receive, count it a true blessing fellow saints.
Determination builds courage.......and so this month, Daddy takes me down the road of COURAGE.
Are you ready to cross the river with me?
Watch this space!
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