If you read the blog yesterday you know that I started off having a "Too Much" kind of day. I felt overwhelmed by everything I had to do. After some time of reflection and prayer I was able to remember that I am not the one in control and when I give it up to God, he is able to do amazing things with my life.
That realization did not make my day any less busy, but it did help to give me perspective and it opened my mind and my heart to looking at things differently. I was talking to a friend in the afternoon and he said that he has been under a great deal of spiritual warfare this past week. For the first few days he was feeling intense frustration because he did not realize what was going on. Then after he had a chance to be still with God for a while he realized that he was under attack. Once he was aware of that it changed his perspective. It has not changed the fact that he continues to be going through a very challenging time, in fact it has increased since, but knowing what is happening is helping him realize what the big picture implications are and his attitude about it is now one of love and humility. He knows that his suffering is for the glory and honor of God.
When I woke up this morning I instantly realized that my attitude was much improved over what it had been yesterday morning. Once I reminded myself that I am here for God and not to serve my own interests, I was freed from the anxiety of being a "know-it-all." I was able to move on with the rest of my day yesterday with joy. I actually began to enjoy the Return of My Routine. Until mid-day yesterday I didn't even realize that I had been missing it, I mean REALLY missing it.
As a mom of three kids I try to make summers fun for them. They are in a few activities but I make every effort to have it be a relaxing and stress free time. We allow our schedules to become more relaxed and we take time to enjoy the small moments. At the beginning of summer that is exactly what we need. But by the end, we are all needing a return to our routines and schedules. It is nice to get a break from them but they also ground us, anchor us, keep us rotating in the same orbit.
There is a discombobulated time, it is between the first few weeks of school and the start of the fall activities, that always sets me silly. We are starting to get back into a routine but we are not fully there yet. We are finding our new groove for the new school year, new activities, new time frames, new responsibilities, new friends. And then sometime in mid-September it all jells. I never really see it coming, and now that I think about it, it usually happens a day or two after I get extremely frustrated with the "adjustment weeks," and then it all settles into place.
I am there now. That settled place of knowing what our fall schedule is, well for the most part anyway, and I know what other people need from me and what I am able to provide. I am comfortable enough with the foundation of our new routine that I will be able to adjust to what might change. I am reminded that my responsibility, in the grand scheme, is to make myself available to serve in the areas God needs me to, and many of those areas will be where God has already positioned me according to the schedule and routine He has laid out for me.
So what does your schedule and routine have you doing? How are you using it to glorify God? What impact are you making on your family, on others, on yourself as you move through your activities and responsibilities? What is your attitude as you are out in the world being "busy?" Are you showing, not just saying, you are a Christ-follower?
My prayer for today is for each of us to find the joy in our routines. I pray that we are able to allow God to direct our schedule and to place us in the areas He needs us to be. I pray that we are able to recognize the work He is asking us to do and that we serve Him with love and humility. I pray that when life feels overwhelming, we are able to get quiet with God and ask Him to help us right-size our priorities. I pray that we are mindful of our time and create schedules and routines that leave time for God, our family, and ourselves.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Friday, September 17, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Too Much!
Today is feeling like a Too Much! kind of day. I have too much to do, too many places to be, too many people to connect with. Thursdays are typically like this for me.
Mondays bring a fresh start to a week, I am able to organize and prioritize what needs to happen. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are very effective days for me, lots of work getting done. Fridays are filled with anticipation for the weekend. Saturdays and Sundays and family fun days. But Thursdays are my nemesis, always have been. I run out of steam, I feel like there is too much to do before the weekend, and not not enough time to do it. I feel tired from everything else I have done earlier in the week. I tend to comfort eat myself through the day (not such a healthy choice).
Why?
I don't know.
Why??
I don't know!
Why???
Ummm... Well maybe it's because by Thursday I have forgotten that I am NOT in control. Maybe I have spent the last three days doing things MY way and now I am tired. Maybe I am thinking forward to all the things I think have to be done and I am not focusing on all GOD wants me to do. Maybe I have been highly effective in a few small areas and Satan is trying to throw me off course. Maybe I need to return to the heart of worship and release all my anxieties and tensions on the One who can bear it all.
Yeah, maybe that's it.
Ok, so how do I do that?
Well, I need to stop thinking about all that stuff that feels like Too Much. I need to refocus my mind on Who God Is, What He Can Do, and How Much He Loves Me. With all that in my mind there is no room for irritability, weariness, or anxiety. Focusing on God helps me relax and remember that I am in the passenger seat, HE is in the drives seat. I do not need to figure out where I am going I just need to be prepared to do His work once we get there. I need to enjoy the ride and listen to His direction, His comforting words, His praises and love for me. I need to be the beloved child of the Most High God and I need Him to fill my cup to overflowing so that I am ready to share His majesty with others, once we reach the destination of HIS choosing.
Well, alright then.
Remember these words, lock them deep in your heart:
"Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me." Psalm 86:17
My prayer for today is that we will each feel comforted by God, that He will show us a sign of His goodness, and we will be renewed by His faithfulness and love for us. I pray that whatever is keeping us from reaching an intimate relationship with our LORD today, will be removed. I pray that we will each find a new energy that will carry us through today and I pray that God will give us the strength to do the work HE needs us to do.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Mondays bring a fresh start to a week, I am able to organize and prioritize what needs to happen. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are very effective days for me, lots of work getting done. Fridays are filled with anticipation for the weekend. Saturdays and Sundays and family fun days. But Thursdays are my nemesis, always have been. I run out of steam, I feel like there is too much to do before the weekend, and not not enough time to do it. I feel tired from everything else I have done earlier in the week. I tend to comfort eat myself through the day (not such a healthy choice).
Why?
I don't know.
Why??
I don't know!
Why???
Ummm... Well maybe it's because by Thursday I have forgotten that I am NOT in control. Maybe I have spent the last three days doing things MY way and now I am tired. Maybe I am thinking forward to all the things I think have to be done and I am not focusing on all GOD wants me to do. Maybe I have been highly effective in a few small areas and Satan is trying to throw me off course. Maybe I need to return to the heart of worship and release all my anxieties and tensions on the One who can bear it all.
Yeah, maybe that's it.
Ok, so how do I do that?
Well, I need to stop thinking about all that stuff that feels like Too Much. I need to refocus my mind on Who God Is, What He Can Do, and How Much He Loves Me. With all that in my mind there is no room for irritability, weariness, or anxiety. Focusing on God helps me relax and remember that I am in the passenger seat, HE is in the drives seat. I do not need to figure out where I am going I just need to be prepared to do His work once we get there. I need to enjoy the ride and listen to His direction, His comforting words, His praises and love for me. I need to be the beloved child of the Most High God and I need Him to fill my cup to overflowing so that I am ready to share His majesty with others, once we reach the destination of HIS choosing.
Well, alright then.
Remember these words, lock them deep in your heart:
"Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me." Psalm 86:17
My prayer for today is that we will each feel comforted by God, that He will show us a sign of His goodness, and we will be renewed by His faithfulness and love for us. I pray that whatever is keeping us from reaching an intimate relationship with our LORD today, will be removed. I pray that we will each find a new energy that will carry us through today and I pray that God will give us the strength to do the work HE needs us to do.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Anticipation
I am really excited for today!
Today marks the return of one of my all time favorite activities: Delta/Engage Wednesday Nights! I truly L-O-V-E the church we attend and one of the best things about it is the Student Ministries. We are blessed to have a great group of students that are passionately seeking out what a relationship with Jesus looks like. We also have a dedicated group of adults that deeply understand the value and responsibility of faithfully walking along side those students on their journey.
I have to be honest, in June I was ready to take a break. Every experience has a life cycle and the Wednesday night experience for student ministries, at least at our church, follows the school calendar. So once school was out, we were done. At that point I was 'spent,' I had cashed in all my chips, left it all on the table for those students, and I needed time to rest and rejuvenate.
We took a few weeks break and then began planning for this school year, we did a few Summer Service Projects, and as a leadership team we struggled with the challenge of how to make our Wednesday night experience less about the "program" and more about the students active and purpose-filled relationship with Jesus. We discussed changing the format of the evening, the teaching style we use, the name of our small groups, we threw it all out there and lifted it all up to God.
And guess what, He showed up!!! Like always, once we release our need to control situations, God can move in and do the work He wants and needs to do. When we step back and are obedient to Him then He can lead us down the path He desires us to take. And What A Path God is leading us down this year! I am so excited about what is ahead that I can hardly stand it.
My anticipation has been growing the last few days. I was excited as we planned over the summer, but that was just talk and ideas. This past Sunday it really hit home, the reason we do what we do week in and week out on Wednesday nights during the school year, why we plan and adjust over the summer, why I spend valuable time away from my family in order to pour into the lives of these students.
This past Sunday was the kick-off of our Delta/Engage fall run and we did it in grand style, we held our annual Scavenger Hunt. We had six teams of students each with two adults (the pilot and co-pilot) that went out around our community to find items, take pictures, record sounds, and generally have a great time bonding and having fun.
Seeing all of those excited students and adults reminded me why I love student ministries so much and it got my heart pumping to get back in the game. The summer had been relaxing and it was a good time of planning but the action, the real life blood of our ministry, is in the hearts and minds of those students. It is in the hearts and minds of the adults that take time to pour into them. It is in the hearts and minds of the parents and families that care for them, raise them, provide for them, and get them to church on Wednesday nights.
So here I sit, anticipating the start of our Wednesday night experience tonight. I am excited to reconnect with students I did not see over the summer. I am excited to assist the Life Group Leaders as they develop relationships with the students, I am excited to be offering teaching and insights to the students in ways that will be relevant to them. I know they have lots of "activities" to choose from and I am excited to help show them how special it is to take time to have a personal relationship with the Living Christ.
What are you sitting in anticipation about? What are you excited about? What new venture is God calling you to? What old venture is He calling you back to? What lives does God need you to touch in order to show His majesty and glory? What activities and relationships bring you closer to seeing and feeling the heart of God? What sacrifices is God asking you to make for the good of His kingdom?
What will your answer be when He taps you on the shoulder and whispers "Follow Me?"
My prayer for today is that we will have the courage and faith to follow Jesus when he calls us. I pray that we each have something that excites us and brings us into a closer relationship with our LORD. I pray that we actively participate, in a meaningful way, in something that brings Glory and Honor to God. And I pray that our lives are transformed because of it.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
P.S. - If you have a middle school or high school student, or know anyone in that category, make sure they are plugged into a student ministry group. The teen years can be hard enough and we as parents can only have so much influence with them. Make it a priority to to get them involved with a healthy and supportive group of friends that will lead them closer to Jesus. Not just the Sunday School Jesus that loves them no matter what (which He really, really does) but the living, active, purpose-filled Jesus that calls them into a personal relationship of growth and service. Oh, and make sure YOU are hanging out with a healthy and supportive group of Christ-followers too!
Today marks the return of one of my all time favorite activities: Delta/Engage Wednesday Nights! I truly L-O-V-E the church we attend and one of the best things about it is the Student Ministries. We are blessed to have a great group of students that are passionately seeking out what a relationship with Jesus looks like. We also have a dedicated group of adults that deeply understand the value and responsibility of faithfully walking along side those students on their journey.
I have to be honest, in June I was ready to take a break. Every experience has a life cycle and the Wednesday night experience for student ministries, at least at our church, follows the school calendar. So once school was out, we were done. At that point I was 'spent,' I had cashed in all my chips, left it all on the table for those students, and I needed time to rest and rejuvenate.
We took a few weeks break and then began planning for this school year, we did a few Summer Service Projects, and as a leadership team we struggled with the challenge of how to make our Wednesday night experience less about the "program" and more about the students active and purpose-filled relationship with Jesus. We discussed changing the format of the evening, the teaching style we use, the name of our small groups, we threw it all out there and lifted it all up to God.
And guess what, He showed up!!! Like always, once we release our need to control situations, God can move in and do the work He wants and needs to do. When we step back and are obedient to Him then He can lead us down the path He desires us to take. And What A Path God is leading us down this year! I am so excited about what is ahead that I can hardly stand it.
My anticipation has been growing the last few days. I was excited as we planned over the summer, but that was just talk and ideas. This past Sunday it really hit home, the reason we do what we do week in and week out on Wednesday nights during the school year, why we plan and adjust over the summer, why I spend valuable time away from my family in order to pour into the lives of these students.
This past Sunday was the kick-off of our Delta/Engage fall run and we did it in grand style, we held our annual Scavenger Hunt. We had six teams of students each with two adults (the pilot and co-pilot) that went out around our community to find items, take pictures, record sounds, and generally have a great time bonding and having fun.
Seeing all of those excited students and adults reminded me why I love student ministries so much and it got my heart pumping to get back in the game. The summer had been relaxing and it was a good time of planning but the action, the real life blood of our ministry, is in the hearts and minds of those students. It is in the hearts and minds of the adults that take time to pour into them. It is in the hearts and minds of the parents and families that care for them, raise them, provide for them, and get them to church on Wednesday nights.
So here I sit, anticipating the start of our Wednesday night experience tonight. I am excited to reconnect with students I did not see over the summer. I am excited to assist the Life Group Leaders as they develop relationships with the students, I am excited to be offering teaching and insights to the students in ways that will be relevant to them. I know they have lots of "activities" to choose from and I am excited to help show them how special it is to take time to have a personal relationship with the Living Christ.
What are you sitting in anticipation about? What are you excited about? What new venture is God calling you to? What old venture is He calling you back to? What lives does God need you to touch in order to show His majesty and glory? What activities and relationships bring you closer to seeing and feeling the heart of God? What sacrifices is God asking you to make for the good of His kingdom?
What will your answer be when He taps you on the shoulder and whispers "Follow Me?"
My prayer for today is that we will have the courage and faith to follow Jesus when he calls us. I pray that we each have something that excites us and brings us into a closer relationship with our LORD. I pray that we actively participate, in a meaningful way, in something that brings Glory and Honor to God. And I pray that our lives are transformed because of it.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
P.S. - If you have a middle school or high school student, or know anyone in that category, make sure they are plugged into a student ministry group. The teen years can be hard enough and we as parents can only have so much influence with them. Make it a priority to to get them involved with a healthy and supportive group of friends that will lead them closer to Jesus. Not just the Sunday School Jesus that loves them no matter what (which He really, really does) but the living, active, purpose-filled Jesus that calls them into a personal relationship of growth and service. Oh, and make sure YOU are hanging out with a healthy and supportive group of Christ-followers too!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
The Power of One
Last night I was able to show and share God's love in one of my favorite ways. The community where I live has joined together to provide a weekly supper for people in need. Some people are in need of a hot meal. Some people are in need of companionship. Some people are in need of doing something different with their life.
On Monday nights we come together to share a meal, fellowship, and Christ centered service. Various community organizations and businesses take turns providing the food and the volunteers each week. My church is part of this event every other month. It is truly the highlight of my week. It is a time when I can put aside everything else and spend a few hours loving on some people that really need it.
At the beginning of each Sunshine Supper the coordinator starts with a brief meeting for the volunteers and shares some statistics and an inspirational quote. They are always motivational and help us remember why we are there and what a difference we can make. Last night's quote was an especially good one. It was "The Power of One" poem.
As I looked around the dinning room I saw one life touching another life over and over again. The beauty of shared experiences and comfort that were able to happen because ONE person decided to take time out of their busy schedule to serve another human being. And the most wonderful thing was that each volunteer was not able to touch just one life but they actually made an impact on several lives over the course of the evening. One life touching another life became one life touching five or ten lives.
Last night was the fifth time our church has helped provide and serve the dinner and because of the poem that was shared I experienced it in a whole new way. I could see the words of that poem come to life before my eyes. I could see the power of God move through the lives of both the volunteers and the dinner guests. I was in awe of the sacrifice each volunteer made and the trust each dinner guest placed in those serving them. I was moved by the unity and harmony that was alive in that room. One small room, One simple meal, One quiet night.
I went online this morning to find the poem so I could share it with you. As I was searching I found that someone actually took the poem and turned it into a video. I am a visual learner and when I can see something it sticks with me even more. The power of last night's experience for me came from hearing the poem and seeing it lived out right before my eyes. Since you were not able to be there I want to give you a glimpse into The Power of One. Take a look:
My prayer for today is that you can feel God's presence in your life and because of that you are able to realize your power to affect the world around you. I pray that your life, and my life, will touch another life, which will touch another life, which will touch another life. I pray that you will be changed by the experience and you will see, know and feel the power of your impact on the world. I pray that as you serve others you will remember the power of God's work in your life and that you will be eternally thankful that He is with you, always.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
On Monday nights we come together to share a meal, fellowship, and Christ centered service. Various community organizations and businesses take turns providing the food and the volunteers each week. My church is part of this event every other month. It is truly the highlight of my week. It is a time when I can put aside everything else and spend a few hours loving on some people that really need it.
At the beginning of each Sunshine Supper the coordinator starts with a brief meeting for the volunteers and shares some statistics and an inspirational quote. They are always motivational and help us remember why we are there and what a difference we can make. Last night's quote was an especially good one. It was "The Power of One" poem.
As I looked around the dinning room I saw one life touching another life over and over again. The beauty of shared experiences and comfort that were able to happen because ONE person decided to take time out of their busy schedule to serve another human being. And the most wonderful thing was that each volunteer was not able to touch just one life but they actually made an impact on several lives over the course of the evening. One life touching another life became one life touching five or ten lives.
Last night was the fifth time our church has helped provide and serve the dinner and because of the poem that was shared I experienced it in a whole new way. I could see the words of that poem come to life before my eyes. I could see the power of God move through the lives of both the volunteers and the dinner guests. I was in awe of the sacrifice each volunteer made and the trust each dinner guest placed in those serving them. I was moved by the unity and harmony that was alive in that room. One small room, One simple meal, One quiet night.
I went online this morning to find the poem so I could share it with you. As I was searching I found that someone actually took the poem and turned it into a video. I am a visual learner and when I can see something it sticks with me even more. The power of last night's experience for me came from hearing the poem and seeing it lived out right before my eyes. Since you were not able to be there I want to give you a glimpse into The Power of One. Take a look:
My prayer for today is that you can feel God's presence in your life and because of that you are able to realize your power to affect the world around you. I pray that your life, and my life, will touch another life, which will touch another life, which will touch another life. I pray that you will be changed by the experience and you will see, know and feel the power of your impact on the world. I pray that as you serve others you will remember the power of God's work in your life and that you will be eternally thankful that He is with you, always.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Monday, September 13, 2010
Monday Morning Coffee
I don't know about you but for some reason my Monday Morning Coffee is the BEST pot of coffee, each and every week. There is just something about the way it greets me with its comforting aroma and holds my hand as I walk into a new week.
I know, I just gave my coffee human characteristics and powers, but sometimes, on a Monday morning, my cup of coffee is the only friendly thing in my house. Getting three kids up and ready for school can be a challenge. Looking at my calendar of activities for the week can make me want to run and hide. And sometimes it feels like it's me and my coffee against the world.
Today I have an additional challenge to overcome, there is no coffee ready and waiting for me. I forgot to get my pot prepared last night. I was at an all-day event and by the time I got home, got the kids in bed and finished a load of laundry (there ALWAYS seems to be a load in) I was drop dead tired and just went to bed.
Now here I am on the dawn of my Monday morning without my fresh pot of coffee to welcome me into a new week. Whatever shall I do?!?!
Well, I decided to start with my blog first this morning, maybe expressing my feelings will help me deal with them ;-) maybe help me get a little perspective.
Yep, it's working...
Perspective is a funny thing. If we were all to sit in a circle with a piping hot cup of coffee in the center, we would all have different things to say about it, different perspectives to offer. Our perspective would be colored by our history, our expectations, our hopes and our fears. Our perspective creates our attitude and determines our response.
Take that simple cup of coffee in the middle of our circle, what might some of you say about it:
Too Hot
Not Hot Enough
Just Right
Too Strong
Too Weak
Just Right
Not Enough Creamer
Too Much Creamer
Just Right
Too Big of a Cup (by the way there is no such thing)
Too Small of a Cup
Just Right
What is it we are looking for that cup of coffee to do for us? What void are we asking it to fill? Do we have realistic expectations for that cup of coffee? And how on earth can we become one of those people that always says "Just Right?"
I want my perspective to be one of "Just Right!" I want to be satisfied with the life I have. I want to know that things will turn out ok. I want to trust others and different situations. But first I have to release my need to control. I have to stop holding everyone else to an unreachable high standard. I have to have FAITH that things will turn out alright. And I have to be willing to accept the end result when maybe things do not go my way.
I also have to prepare my life for a "Just Right" attitude. I need to look for the positive. I have to understand that life is not Burger King and I will not always "have it MY way." I have to find the joy in the sorrow and the peace in the pain. I have to stop looking to others for my fulfillment. I have to become comfortable with the person I am, not the one I wish I was.
So here I sit, rethinking about the power my Monday Morning Coffee has. While I still enjoy starting my day with a warm cup of liquid comfort, I understand that it can only get me so far. I understand that my perspective, my attitude, my gratitude will be the things that move me forward or hold me back. I understand that I have the power to look at a situation and feel either frustration or believe the best. I do not need to do any special thing to become one of those "Just Right" people, I can make that mental switch anytime, it is all within me.
My prayer today is to be the person I want to be, not to work towards it or to plan for it, but to DO IT. I pray that my life can be a beacon of hope to others, to show them they can feel "Just Right" too. I pray that when I stumble, God will be there to pick me up, dust me off and send me back out there. I pray that you too will join me in this prayer and in a renewed perspective.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
I know, I just gave my coffee human characteristics and powers, but sometimes, on a Monday morning, my cup of coffee is the only friendly thing in my house. Getting three kids up and ready for school can be a challenge. Looking at my calendar of activities for the week can make me want to run and hide. And sometimes it feels like it's me and my coffee against the world.
Today I have an additional challenge to overcome, there is no coffee ready and waiting for me. I forgot to get my pot prepared last night. I was at an all-day event and by the time I got home, got the kids in bed and finished a load of laundry (there ALWAYS seems to be a load in) I was drop dead tired and just went to bed.
Now here I am on the dawn of my Monday morning without my fresh pot of coffee to welcome me into a new week. Whatever shall I do?!?!
Well, I decided to start with my blog first this morning, maybe expressing my feelings will help me deal with them ;-) maybe help me get a little perspective.
Yep, it's working...
Perspective is a funny thing. If we were all to sit in a circle with a piping hot cup of coffee in the center, we would all have different things to say about it, different perspectives to offer. Our perspective would be colored by our history, our expectations, our hopes and our fears. Our perspective creates our attitude and determines our response.
Take that simple cup of coffee in the middle of our circle, what might some of you say about it:
Too Hot
Not Hot Enough
Just Right
Too Strong
Too Weak
Just Right
Not Enough Creamer
Too Much Creamer
Just Right
Too Big of a Cup (by the way there is no such thing)
Too Small of a Cup
Just Right
What is it we are looking for that cup of coffee to do for us? What void are we asking it to fill? Do we have realistic expectations for that cup of coffee? And how on earth can we become one of those people that always says "Just Right?"
I want my perspective to be one of "Just Right!" I want to be satisfied with the life I have. I want to know that things will turn out ok. I want to trust others and different situations. But first I have to release my need to control. I have to stop holding everyone else to an unreachable high standard. I have to have FAITH that things will turn out alright. And I have to be willing to accept the end result when maybe things do not go my way.
I also have to prepare my life for a "Just Right" attitude. I need to look for the positive. I have to understand that life is not Burger King and I will not always "have it MY way." I have to find the joy in the sorrow and the peace in the pain. I have to stop looking to others for my fulfillment. I have to become comfortable with the person I am, not the one I wish I was.
So here I sit, rethinking about the power my Monday Morning Coffee has. While I still enjoy starting my day with a warm cup of liquid comfort, I understand that it can only get me so far. I understand that my perspective, my attitude, my gratitude will be the things that move me forward or hold me back. I understand that I have the power to look at a situation and feel either frustration or believe the best. I do not need to do any special thing to become one of those "Just Right" people, I can make that mental switch anytime, it is all within me.
My prayer today is to be the person I want to be, not to work towards it or to plan for it, but to DO IT. I pray that my life can be a beacon of hope to others, to show them they can feel "Just Right" too. I pray that when I stumble, God will be there to pick me up, dust me off and send me back out there. I pray that you too will join me in this prayer and in a renewed perspective.
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Sunday, September 12, 2010
1 Peter, Chapter 5
God and I are spending time together extra early today (it is 3:40 am as I write this). I am thankful. I am thankful for the opportunity that God gives me, everyday, to choose to spend time with Him. I am thankful that God values a relationship with me so much that He is willing to take the time to share His Word with me. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit that gives me knowledge and understanding. I am truly blessed.
And here we are on our last day in the book of 1 Peter. Let's dig right in and see how Peter closes up this short but powerful letter. Go ahead and open your Bible or head on over to BibleGateway.com
1 Peter, chapter 5:
I love how Peter throws a wide net here at the end. He is clearly talking to everyone, not just a select few, by addressing this final part of his letter to the elders AND the young men. He is covering all the bases by saying that each of us has an important part to play in this unfolding story.
To the leaders, the seasoned and steadfast members of the group, he is giving the charge to serve others, be an example and to do so with willing and humble hearts. For those of us that have been in a relationship with our LORD for quite some time now, secure in our faith and ready for more, this is a call to us! WE are the ones that God is asking to step-up and lead.
Some churches have a model of Elder Leadership and some are lead by a Senior Pastor and a Board of Directors. But Peter is not just talking about a governance system here. He is talking to anyone, in a place in their relationship with Jesus, that is ready to share their faith with those who are just beginning their walk.
And to the young men, those that are just stepping out in faith, Peter says "be submissive" or in other words, listen to, follow, be willing to learn from those that are more mature in their faith. Many times when we are new to a venture we will take one of two paths. We will either be quiet and sit back to observe and learn before we act, or we will jump in head first and try to prove that we are worthy to be a part of the experience. Peter is calling for the first of these options.
And to everyone he is saying, Be Humble.
The dictionary defines humble as: not proud or arrogant; modest; having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience; low in rank, importance, status, quality; courteously respectful.
Seems pretty clear to me, how we are to behave toward each other. In verse 6 Peter says "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." I think all to often we expect our 'reward' or our recognition for good deeds to be immediate. We like that pat on the back or that instant gratification for a job well done. But instead we see that if we are humble and follow God's authority that we may be lifted up, praised, in due time. Patience is required here.
And then in verses 7 through 9 we are reminded to cast all our anxiety on to God because he cares for us (good because I am tired of worrying about them), to be self-controlled and alert (this one takes some practice, for me), to avoid temptation and evil ways (again, practice), and to stand firm in our faith with our brothers in Christ who are suffering the same fate (it is comforting to know we are not alone). Now that is a rally cry if ever I heard one!
And our 'reward,' our recognition, given in due time, is that God himself will restore us. He will make us strong, firm and steadfast. Can you imagine?! To be made whole by the Creator of the universe! I, for one, want to live a life that is worthy of such a gift. A gift that can not be earned but a gift that is freely given.
Well I don't know about you but the past five days have been a time of growth and reflection for me. I feel closer to God and have a deeper understanding of what He desires my life to be. I am so honored to have been able to share this experience with you.
My prayer for today is that we are now a changed people. I pray that our lives today will be different in comparison to our lives just one week ago. I pray that we will go forward with faith, humility, purpose, and love to make a difference in the world around us. I pray that others will see a difference in us and that they will wonder what is the cause. I pray that they will have the courage to ask and we will have to courage to answer, and give all the Glory back to God!
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
And here we are on our last day in the book of 1 Peter. Let's dig right in and see how Peter closes up this short but powerful letter. Go ahead and open your Bible or head on over to BibleGateway.com
1 Peter, chapter 5:
I love how Peter throws a wide net here at the end. He is clearly talking to everyone, not just a select few, by addressing this final part of his letter to the elders AND the young men. He is covering all the bases by saying that each of us has an important part to play in this unfolding story.
To the leaders, the seasoned and steadfast members of the group, he is giving the charge to serve others, be an example and to do so with willing and humble hearts. For those of us that have been in a relationship with our LORD for quite some time now, secure in our faith and ready for more, this is a call to us! WE are the ones that God is asking to step-up and lead.
Some churches have a model of Elder Leadership and some are lead by a Senior Pastor and a Board of Directors. But Peter is not just talking about a governance system here. He is talking to anyone, in a place in their relationship with Jesus, that is ready to share their faith with those who are just beginning their walk.
And to the young men, those that are just stepping out in faith, Peter says "be submissive" or in other words, listen to, follow, be willing to learn from those that are more mature in their faith. Many times when we are new to a venture we will take one of two paths. We will either be quiet and sit back to observe and learn before we act, or we will jump in head first and try to prove that we are worthy to be a part of the experience. Peter is calling for the first of these options.
And to everyone he is saying, Be Humble.
The dictionary defines humble as: not proud or arrogant; modest; having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience; low in rank, importance, status, quality; courteously respectful.
Seems pretty clear to me, how we are to behave toward each other. In verse 6 Peter says "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." I think all to often we expect our 'reward' or our recognition for good deeds to be immediate. We like that pat on the back or that instant gratification for a job well done. But instead we see that if we are humble and follow God's authority that we may be lifted up, praised, in due time. Patience is required here.
And then in verses 7 through 9 we are reminded to cast all our anxiety on to God because he cares for us (good because I am tired of worrying about them), to be self-controlled and alert (this one takes some practice, for me), to avoid temptation and evil ways (again, practice), and to stand firm in our faith with our brothers in Christ who are suffering the same fate (it is comforting to know we are not alone). Now that is a rally cry if ever I heard one!
And our 'reward,' our recognition, given in due time, is that God himself will restore us. He will make us strong, firm and steadfast. Can you imagine?! To be made whole by the Creator of the universe! I, for one, want to live a life that is worthy of such a gift. A gift that can not be earned but a gift that is freely given.
Well I don't know about you but the past five days have been a time of growth and reflection for me. I feel closer to God and have a deeper understanding of what He desires my life to be. I am so honored to have been able to share this experience with you.
My prayer for today is that we are now a changed people. I pray that our lives today will be different in comparison to our lives just one week ago. I pray that we will go forward with faith, humility, purpose, and love to make a difference in the world around us. I pray that others will see a difference in us and that they will wonder what is the cause. I pray that they will have the courage to ask and we will have to courage to answer, and give all the Glory back to God!
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Saturday, September 11, 2010
1 Peter, Chapter 4
So many times over the course of a weekend I am tempted to "take a break" from my normal weekly routine. In the past that has included my daily devotional time in the mornings. On Saturdays I like to sleep in and on Sundays I figure I am heading to church anyway so I will 'get what I need' when I get there.
Deciding to do this mini-study on the book of 1 Peter has revealed many different things to me, not the least of which has been a realization that God wants to have time with me EVERY morning. He does not just show up on the weekdays but He is here with me when I get up later on Saturday and when I come from home from church on Sundays. My weekend devotional time may look different than my weekday time but that is God being God, meeting me where I am and loving me for being me.
So here I am on a Saturday morning, digging deep into the book of 1 Peter, today it is in chapter 4. And thanks to the beauty of technology I am able to read my Bible at BibleGateway.com
Again, Again, and Again: small chapter = big stuff! In the NIV translation I am reading the two sub-chapter titles are 'Living for God' and 'Suffering for Being a Christian.' When you think about it, what more could we really hope for than to do these two things. At the beginning of the chapter we are called to arm ourselves with the same attitude Christ Jesus did when he suffered in order to follow the will of God. Christ did not live for earthly pleasures and we are called to live in the same way, to throw off things like lust (but I only look, I don't touch), and drunkenness (but what's a few beers with my buddies), and detestable idolatry (our culture 'idolizes' too many things - money, movie stars, the hottest electronic gadget); and all of this is encouraged and supported and acceptable to the world we live in.
But at some point we will ALL have to give an account to God for the lives we have lived. We will have to answer to Him in regards to the choices we made and the sacrifices (our comfort) we lovingly gave up in order to live in accordance to His will.
Verses 7 through 11 are each packed with direct messages on how we are called to 'Live for God.'
I love how in the second half of this chapter we are reminded that we should not be surprised when we suffer for living a life for God. Rather, we are called to rejoice in our shared experience with Christ Jesus and can look forward to the joy that will come when His Glory is revealed. We are called to wear our badge of "Christian" with honor and to praise God that we are called to His family. In the time we have left, before our day of judgment arrives, we are to obey the Gospel and continue to do good, as we commit our lives to our faithful Creator.
I don't know about you but I am really feeling God's voice loud and clear throughout this entire book. There are some pretty clear messages and directions that I guess God has wanted me to slow down and actually hear this time.
My prayer for today is one of humble obedience. I pray that we are all able to hear God's whispers and loving follow His calling for our lives. I pray that by living our lives for Him that our lives will be radically transformed and He will be Glorified!
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
Deciding to do this mini-study on the book of 1 Peter has revealed many different things to me, not the least of which has been a realization that God wants to have time with me EVERY morning. He does not just show up on the weekdays but He is here with me when I get up later on Saturday and when I come from home from church on Sundays. My weekend devotional time may look different than my weekday time but that is God being God, meeting me where I am and loving me for being me.
So here I am on a Saturday morning, digging deep into the book of 1 Peter, today it is in chapter 4. And thanks to the beauty of technology I am able to read my Bible at BibleGateway.com
Again, Again, and Again: small chapter = big stuff! In the NIV translation I am reading the two sub-chapter titles are 'Living for God' and 'Suffering for Being a Christian.' When you think about it, what more could we really hope for than to do these two things. At the beginning of the chapter we are called to arm ourselves with the same attitude Christ Jesus did when he suffered in order to follow the will of God. Christ did not live for earthly pleasures and we are called to live in the same way, to throw off things like lust (but I only look, I don't touch), and drunkenness (but what's a few beers with my buddies), and detestable idolatry (our culture 'idolizes' too many things - money, movie stars, the hottest electronic gadget); and all of this is encouraged and supported and acceptable to the world we live in.
But at some point we will ALL have to give an account to God for the lives we have lived. We will have to answer to Him in regards to the choices we made and the sacrifices (our comfort) we lovingly gave up in order to live in accordance to His will.
Verses 7 through 11 are each packed with direct messages on how we are called to 'Live for God.'
- Be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.
- Above all, love each other deeply.
- Offer hospitality without grumbling.
- Faithfully use what gifts you have received to serve others.
- Speak as though you are speaking the very words of God.
- Serve with the strength God provides, so that in ALL things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
I love how in the second half of this chapter we are reminded that we should not be surprised when we suffer for living a life for God. Rather, we are called to rejoice in our shared experience with Christ Jesus and can look forward to the joy that will come when His Glory is revealed. We are called to wear our badge of "Christian" with honor and to praise God that we are called to His family. In the time we have left, before our day of judgment arrives, we are to obey the Gospel and continue to do good, as we commit our lives to our faithful Creator.
I don't know about you but I am really feeling God's voice loud and clear throughout this entire book. There are some pretty clear messages and directions that I guess God has wanted me to slow down and actually hear this time.
My prayer for today is one of humble obedience. I pray that we are all able to hear God's whispers and loving follow His calling for our lives. I pray that by living our lives for Him that our lives will be radically transformed and He will be Glorified!
Until We Meet Again,
Drea
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