Gospel Centered Everything
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God - that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: 'Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.' 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 (NIV)
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Grieving, Praying & Remembering
The tragedy of the VT massacre hits home for every American. We are each left with a hollow feeling in our gut and a torrent of confusion in our mind. Add to this the media deluge and the plethora of talking heads all trying to analyze, understand and learn from this tragedy. And then throw it all into the frenetic activism of a society that thinks it can somehow create a perfect world where troubled youths don’t become psychopaths and every kid is safe from evil and you end up with a tempest of national angst.What are we to do amidst all this?Here are a three suggestions:1. Grieve, weep and mourn with those who mourn, without trying to bring trite or Pollyanna answers to people deeply affected by this tragedy. (See John Piper’s apropos comments from 911 here. )2. Pray for the families affected and the VT community. (See Tim Challies listing of prayer requests from pastors on site here, see a list of the victims here and pray for their families and friends.)3. Remembera. Remember that the world we live in is fallen, peopled by fallen human beings who are capable, at times, of great evil and not inherently worthy of a life free from tragedy and death. (See John Piper’s thoughts here.)b. Remember that God came as a man amidst all this evil to rescue us from ourselves and our society and Satan – the three sources of evil. (See Al Mohler’s thoughts here.)c. Remember that God is in control and short of the return of his Son, he does not gaurauntee us safety but ultimate salvation. (Listen to an excellent message from CJ Mahaney on this here.)May God bless you and use you as you grieve, pray and remember truth.Paul
Posted by Paul Buckley
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
How Deep the Father’s Love for Us
How deep the Father’s love for us, how vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure!
How great the pain of searing loss; the Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.
Behold the Man upon the cross, my sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life— I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything, no gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart: His wounds have paid my ransom.
Stuart Townsend © 1995 Kingsway’s Music (ASCAP). Used by Permission. CCLI #89178
That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure!
How great the pain of searing loss; the Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.
Behold the Man upon the cross, my sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life— I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything, no gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer.
But this I know with all my heart: His wounds have paid my ransom.
Stuart Townsend © 1995 Kingsway’s Music (ASCAP). Used by Permission. CCLI #89178
Friday, March 23, 2007
Sin, Righteousness and MERCY
Just had to share this post.
Mercy Me: Psalm 51 and Everyday Life.
It was one of those moments you want to take back. It was one of those times when you go where your desires and emotions are leading you. It was one of those situations when you know you should stop or walk away but feel you can't. And it was one of those moments when afterward you are confronted with the sin that still lives inside of you. Yes, it was one of those moments.It wasn't a big deal in one way. Just a small conversation that had turned a bit ugly. It wasn't a dramatic life-altering moment. It was in the privacy of my home with one of my family members. But maybe that's the point. Perhaps it's very important because that's where I live everyday. You see, you and I don't live in a series of big, dramatic moments. We don't careen from big decision to big decision. We all live in an endless series of little moments. The character of a life isn't set in ten big moments. The character of a life is set in 10,000 little moments of everyday life. It's the themes of struggles that emerge from those little moments that reveal what's really going on in our hearts.So, I knew I couldn't back away from this little moment. I knew I had to own my sin. The minute I thought this, an inner struggle began. "I wasn't the only one at fault. If he hadn't said what he said, I wouldn't have become angry. I was actually pretty patient for much of the conversation." These were some of the arguments I was giving myself.Isn't this interesting. Rather than appealing to the mercy of the Lord in the face of my sin, what I actually do instead is function as my own defense lawyer and present a list of arguments for my own righteousness. The theology behind the defense is that my greatest problem is outside of me, not inside of me. In so arguing, I'm telling myself that I don't really need to be rescued by the Lord's mercy. No, I'm telling myself that what I need to be rescued from is that sinner in the room who caused me to respond as I did.Here's the point. Before you can ever make a clean and unamended confession of your sin, you have to first begin by confessing your righteousness. It's not just your sin that separates you from God, your righteousness does as well. Because, when you are convinced you are righteous, you don't seek the forgiving, rescuing, and restoring mercy that can only be found in Jesus Christ.What's actually true is that when I come to the Lord after I've blown it, I've only one argument to make. It's not the argument of the difficulty of the environment that I am in. It's not the argument of the difficult people that I'm near. It's not the argument of good intentions that were thwarted in some way. No, I only have one argument. It's right there in the first verse of Psalm 51, as David confesses his sin with Bathsheba. I come to the Lord with only one appeal; his mercy. I've no other defense. I've no other standing. I've no other hope. I can't escape the reality of my biggest problem; me! So I appeal to the one thing in my life that's sure and will never fail. I appeal to the one thing that guaranteed not only my acceptance with God, but the hope of new beginnings and fresh starts. I appeal on the basis of the greatest gift I ever have or ever will be given. I leave the courtroom of my own defense, I come out of hiding and I admit who I am. But I'm not afraid, because I've been personally and eternally blessed. Because of what Jesus has done, God looks on me with mercy. It's my only appeal, it's the source of my hope, it's my life. Mercy, mercy me!
posted by Paul Tripp Ministries
Mercy Me: Psalm 51 and Everyday Life.
It was one of those moments you want to take back. It was one of those times when you go where your desires and emotions are leading you. It was one of those situations when you know you should stop or walk away but feel you can't. And it was one of those moments when afterward you are confronted with the sin that still lives inside of you. Yes, it was one of those moments.It wasn't a big deal in one way. Just a small conversation that had turned a bit ugly. It wasn't a dramatic life-altering moment. It was in the privacy of my home with one of my family members. But maybe that's the point. Perhaps it's very important because that's where I live everyday. You see, you and I don't live in a series of big, dramatic moments. We don't careen from big decision to big decision. We all live in an endless series of little moments. The character of a life isn't set in ten big moments. The character of a life is set in 10,000 little moments of everyday life. It's the themes of struggles that emerge from those little moments that reveal what's really going on in our hearts.So, I knew I couldn't back away from this little moment. I knew I had to own my sin. The minute I thought this, an inner struggle began. "I wasn't the only one at fault. If he hadn't said what he said, I wouldn't have become angry. I was actually pretty patient for much of the conversation." These were some of the arguments I was giving myself.Isn't this interesting. Rather than appealing to the mercy of the Lord in the face of my sin, what I actually do instead is function as my own defense lawyer and present a list of arguments for my own righteousness. The theology behind the defense is that my greatest problem is outside of me, not inside of me. In so arguing, I'm telling myself that I don't really need to be rescued by the Lord's mercy. No, I'm telling myself that what I need to be rescued from is that sinner in the room who caused me to respond as I did.Here's the point. Before you can ever make a clean and unamended confession of your sin, you have to first begin by confessing your righteousness. It's not just your sin that separates you from God, your righteousness does as well. Because, when you are convinced you are righteous, you don't seek the forgiving, rescuing, and restoring mercy that can only be found in Jesus Christ.What's actually true is that when I come to the Lord after I've blown it, I've only one argument to make. It's not the argument of the difficulty of the environment that I am in. It's not the argument of the difficult people that I'm near. It's not the argument of good intentions that were thwarted in some way. No, I only have one argument. It's right there in the first verse of Psalm 51, as David confesses his sin with Bathsheba. I come to the Lord with only one appeal; his mercy. I've no other defense. I've no other standing. I've no other hope. I can't escape the reality of my biggest problem; me! So I appeal to the one thing in my life that's sure and will never fail. I appeal to the one thing that guaranteed not only my acceptance with God, but the hope of new beginnings and fresh starts. I appeal on the basis of the greatest gift I ever have or ever will be given. I leave the courtroom of my own defense, I come out of hiding and I admit who I am. But I'm not afraid, because I've been personally and eternally blessed. Because of what Jesus has done, God looks on me with mercy. It's my only appeal, it's the source of my hope, it's my life. Mercy, mercy me!
posted by Paul Tripp Ministries
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Home, Sweet Home
We had a great time at the retreat! The teachings were outstanding and the worship, ministry times, fellowship and food were wonderful!! We learned and experienced the grace of God for the paths He’s placed us on. What a joy to walk together with one another, praying for and caring for each other.
On the way home, one of our dear sisters received terrible news that her aunt had suddenly and tragically died. We all grieved together, prayed together and sought to bring the comfort of God to our dear friend. It was truly a beautiful picture of the body of Christ at work and I know none of us will ever forget this ride home.
One of the wonders of the church is the gift of fellowship and enduring friendship that only God can give. We're truly family!
I’m so thankful that we’re not called to walk the road alone, but God gives such grace through his people. Thank you, Lord!
On the way home, one of our dear sisters received terrible news that her aunt had suddenly and tragically died. We all grieved together, prayed together and sought to bring the comfort of God to our dear friend. It was truly a beautiful picture of the body of Christ at work and I know none of us will ever forget this ride home.
One of the wonders of the church is the gift of fellowship and enduring friendship that only God can give. We're truly family!
I’m so thankful that we’re not called to walk the road alone, but God gives such grace through his people. Thank you, Lord!
Friday, March 09, 2007
Ladies' Retreat!!
I'm so excited to go to the Chesapeake Ladies' Retreat next week with eight other ladies from our church!! It will be a first-time experience of this special retreat for each of them, except Karin and me. We're so blessed to be invited and I know that the ladies are in for a huge treat. Every time I've gone with my dear old home church to this retreat I've met the Lord is life-changing ways and have been prepared for the next chapter in my life. I especially remember the year, let's see, it must've been 1996 or 97 , when I was wrestling with God and the decision whether to home school Daniel for fourth grade. I was really afraid of this decision and the Lord graciously gave me much faith and peace for it.
Another great memory is bringing my neighbor Michelle to the retreat and watching her encounter God in worship for the first time! That was powerful!!
What a tremendous privilege I have to introduce the ladies from King of Grace to sisters at Chesapeake. It's like a family reunion to me!!!
Please pray for us as we travel down in the big rossmobile! The road trip should be a blast!!
Most importantly, that we'd all meet the Lord in life-changing and refreshing ways.
Thanks!
Another great memory is bringing my neighbor Michelle to the retreat and watching her encounter God in worship for the first time! That was powerful!!
What a tremendous privilege I have to introduce the ladies from King of Grace to sisters at Chesapeake. It's like a family reunion to me!!!
Please pray for us as we travel down in the big rossmobile! The road trip should be a blast!!
Most importantly, that we'd all meet the Lord in life-changing and refreshing ways.
Thanks!
Monday, March 05, 2007
Romans 8; Hallelujah!
We've been memorizing Romans 8 as a family and it is so life-giving and sweet to my soul! Here are some of the gems:
1-2 There is therefore now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin an death.
5-9 For those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of Christ dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.
11-15 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Jesus will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.
So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba, Father!"
'Grace, Like Rain' is a beautiful song we sang at church yesterday and it's playing in my soul today. This version sounds a bit like Bruce Springsteen, but the classic message still comes through ~
Grace, Like Rain
1-2 There is therefore now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin an death.
5-9 For those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of Christ dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.
11-15 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Jesus will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.
So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba, Father!"
'Grace, Like Rain' is a beautiful song we sang at church yesterday and it's playing in my soul today. This version sounds a bit like Bruce Springsteen, but the classic message still comes through ~
Grace, Like Rain
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Unworthy Servant
Luke 17:7-10
“Will any of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the fields, ‘Come at once and recline at table’? Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’ ”
I love to recline after serving the Lord and often feel this is my due. How lacking I am of this servant’s mindset that Jesus portrays. In fact, lately I’ve been complaining in my heart about the many nights of meetings we have scheduled.
Father, forgive me for complaining about the work you’ve called us to. Thank you for the privilege of serving You in the work of plowing fields and tending sheep. Please make me a humble servant who recognizes the privilege it is to serve You!
“Will any of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the fields, ‘Come at once and recline at table’? Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’ ”
I love to recline after serving the Lord and often feel this is my due. How lacking I am of this servant’s mindset that Jesus portrays. In fact, lately I’ve been complaining in my heart about the many nights of meetings we have scheduled.
Father, forgive me for complaining about the work you’ve called us to. Thank you for the privilege of serving You in the work of plowing fields and tending sheep. Please make me a humble servant who recognizes the privilege it is to serve You!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Truly Amazing Grace
Paul & I went to see the movie Amazing Grace and were very blessed! We can highly recommend this movie. It's about William Wilberforce, a godly man who abolished the slave trade in England. His life is truly provoking and inspiring. He loved the Lord passionately and served Him wholeheartedly, giving his life to the calling the Lord had for him. He struggled with serious health issues and endured intense political opposition. His wife was a match for him in every way, providing the encouragement and support he needed to heed the call of God on his life. What a great example for us!
John Piper has an audiobiography online that's great, and I hear there's a couple biographies which we will seek to read. Also, Focus on the Family has done a dramatization of his life (their series are always excellent).
Go see the movie!! It's wonderful!!
Paul & I thought the actor for William looked like Bob Kauflin! :)
John Piper has an audiobiography online that's great, and I hear there's a couple biographies which we will seek to read. Also, Focus on the Family has done a dramatization of his life (their series are always excellent).
Go see the movie!! It's wonderful!!
Paul & I thought the actor for William looked like Bob Kauflin! :)
Monday, February 19, 2007
Come and Eat!
My honey made (well heated up my) homemade chicken soup and DID make a delicious spinach garlic tomato saute thingy for dinner. I was sitting here with the laptop and said I had no appetite. He beckoned me to eat anyway. I obeyed submissively and as soon as we gave thanks I inhaled the delicious dinner. My dormant taste buds started to live again!
My coherent meditation on this is that even when we don't feel like eating. we must for our health. Even more importantly, even when we don't feel like reading the Word, we must for our spiritual health! Sometimes it may feel like taking vitamins and sometimes it may be a gourmet experience, but either way we need the Bread of Life!
My coherent meditation on this is that even when we don't feel like eating. we must for our health. Even more importantly, even when we don't feel like reading the Word, we must for our spiritual health! Sometimes it may feel like taking vitamins and sometimes it may be a gourmet experience, but either way we need the Bread of Life!
awfully sick
Well, the miracle didn't happen..meaning I did get the flu most likely from my sweet husband! This is truly the flu and I hope no more! My fever was gone but now is back which makes me suspect an infection of sorts may be brewing somewhere in my body. Pleasant, huh?
Amazing, the truffle chocolate kisses I so enjoyed last week (you've gotta try them-they're regular kisses wrapped with dark chocolate) taste awful to me right now. Interesting that our health affects our appetite and taste buds so much. Made me ponder the spiritual side of this a little bit, but not enough to write anything coherent about it.
I'm rejoicing right now though because I just heard that my friend Briana is on her way home with her new baby Isabella!!!
Praise the Lord!!
We have two pregnant ladies in our church and I think it's the best way to grow a church!!
Amazing, the truffle chocolate kisses I so enjoyed last week (you've gotta try them-they're regular kisses wrapped with dark chocolate) taste awful to me right now. Interesting that our health affects our appetite and taste buds so much. Made me ponder the spiritual side of this a little bit, but not enough to write anything coherent about it.
I'm rejoicing right now though because I just heard that my friend Briana is on her way home with her new baby Isabella!!!
Praise the Lord!!
We have two pregnant ladies in our church and I think it's the best way to grow a church!!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Valentine's Blizzard?
We're readying for a big storm that's predicted to bring about a foot of snow! It's about time. It's good timing for us, since John & Mary are down with a nasty virus and we're not going anywhere anyway! Paul introduced the virus to our family and is now in Gaithersburg for a pastoral counseling course at the Pastors' College.
We did get away to celebrate Valentine's Day early, thankfully. We stayed at a wonderful Hampton Inn in Portsmouth NH and thoroughly enjoyed our time in spite of Paul's nasty cold (thank God for medicine!). I guess it will be a miracle if I don't get this thing!
Happy Valentines to all you love birds out there..enjoy your man! I can't wait to see mine on Friday!
We did get away to celebrate Valentine's Day early, thankfully. We stayed at a wonderful Hampton Inn in Portsmouth NH and thoroughly enjoyed our time in spite of Paul's nasty cold (thank God for medicine!). I guess it will be a miracle if I don't get this thing!
Happy Valentines to all you love birds out there..enjoy your man! I can't wait to see mine on Friday!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Micki
Today is my very dear friend Micki's birthday. (She's the cutie on the right.) I thought it fitting to honor her.
Proverbs 17:17 says "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
This verse reminds me of Micki's friendship and character. I am so blessed by our relationship. Micki's Dad was a pastor and so she has a real sensitivity to the challenges and the blessings that come with this call. God has graced her with the gifts of encouragement and wisdom, and has brought me so much good through her! She asks great questions and follows up to see how I'm doing in areas I'm struggling with.
Micki has been there through all the trials and changes that we've experienced in our church plant. (I must add that Jeff, her hubby, has been a HUGE source of encouragement and help for Paul in the ministry at King of Grace.)
Micki makes my laugh and helps me to enjoy life :)
We often say the reason God put us 30 minutes away from eachother is because we'd spend way too much time hanging out and getting nothing done but fun! I still wish we lived closer though!
Micki has had chronic migraines for 16 years now. Sometimes they're so severe she can't get out of bed for several days. I've never heard Micki complain about her suffering and am amazed at God's grace in her to sustain her and use her to serve again and again (another gift of hers is serving). I pray that God grants her the gift of healing from these headaches this year!
I could go on and on about this amazing friend; my comrade and sister. I thank God for you, Micki!!! Thank you for loving at all times. I want to be more like you. I love you!!
Monday, February 05, 2007
‘Whate’er My God Ordains in Right’
by Samuel Rodigast, is the title of Bach’s favorite hymn. I learned on Sunday from our guest speaker, Jared Mellinger, that Bach had 20 children, of whom 13 died. In the life of one who suffered so much loss, this hymn speaks of great faith in a good and great God.
In our day of comforts and convenience, we do well to prepare for inevitable suffering personally and corporately. Yet ‘we want to live our lives more aware of Christ’s suffering for us than our own suffering.’
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
His holy will abideth;
I will be still whate’er He doth;
And follow where He guideth;
He is my God; though dark my road,
He holds me that I shall not fall:
Wherefore to Him I leave it all.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
He never will deceive me;
He leads me by the proper path:
I know He will not leave me.
I take, content, what He hath sent;
His hand can turn my griefs away,
And patiently I wait His day.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
His loving thought attends me;
No poison can be in the cup
That my Physician sends me.
My God is true; each morn anew
I’ll trust His grace unending,
My life to Him commending.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
He is my Friend and Father;
He suffers naught to do me harm,
Though many storms may gather,
Now I may know both joy and woe,
Some day I shall see clearly
That He hath loved me dearly.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
Though now this cup, in drinking,
May bitter seem to my faint heart,
I take it, all unshrinking.
My God is true; each morn anew
Sweet comfort yet shall fill my heart,
And pain and sorrow shall depart.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
Here shall my stand be taken;
Though sorrow, need, or death be mine,
Yet I am not forsaken.
My Father’s care is round me there;
He holds me that I shall not fall:
And so to Him I leave it all.
In our day of comforts and convenience, we do well to prepare for inevitable suffering personally and corporately. Yet ‘we want to live our lives more aware of Christ’s suffering for us than our own suffering.’
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
His holy will abideth;
I will be still whate’er He doth;
And follow where He guideth;
He is my God; though dark my road,
He holds me that I shall not fall:
Wherefore to Him I leave it all.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
He never will deceive me;
He leads me by the proper path:
I know He will not leave me.
I take, content, what He hath sent;
His hand can turn my griefs away,
And patiently I wait His day.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
His loving thought attends me;
No poison can be in the cup
That my Physician sends me.
My God is true; each morn anew
I’ll trust His grace unending,
My life to Him commending.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
He is my Friend and Father;
He suffers naught to do me harm,
Though many storms may gather,
Now I may know both joy and woe,
Some day I shall see clearly
That He hath loved me dearly.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
Though now this cup, in drinking,
May bitter seem to my faint heart,
I take it, all unshrinking.
My God is true; each morn anew
Sweet comfort yet shall fill my heart,
And pain and sorrow shall depart.
Whate’er my God ordains is right:
Here shall my stand be taken;
Though sorrow, need, or death be mine,
Yet I am not forsaken.
My Father’s care is round me there;
He holds me that I shall not fall:
And so to Him I leave it all.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Have Mercy!
Have mercy from above,
please save the ones we love!
And save our enemies
(not just the ones we please).
Lord, hear our cries today,
pour out your saving grace!
On this, your favor day,
have mercy, Lord we pray.
Use us to reach the lost,
help us to count the cost.
To redeem our every day;
and the truth boldly proclaim.
Fill us, O Spirit of God,
help us forsake our pride.
Not our will, but yours be done,
please let your kingdom come.
What a wonder, what a grace~
to be filled and used each day.
Glorify your Name, we pray
til we see you face to face.
Glory, glory to Your Name;
please increase your holy fame
in all nations, tribes and tongues~
in all those you died to love.
Come, Lord Jesus, come, we say
hasten to redeem this day.
You're our high exalted king
and the ruler of all things.
Glory, glory to the Lamb,
to the One slain for man.
We celebrate your saving grace
and are blessed to run this race.
please save the ones we love!
And save our enemies
(not just the ones we please).
Lord, hear our cries today,
pour out your saving grace!
On this, your favor day,
have mercy, Lord we pray.
Use us to reach the lost,
help us to count the cost.
To redeem our every day;
and the truth boldly proclaim.
Fill us, O Spirit of God,
help us forsake our pride.
Not our will, but yours be done,
please let your kingdom come.
What a wonder, what a grace~
to be filled and used each day.
Glorify your Name, we pray
til we see you face to face.
Glory, glory to Your Name;
please increase your holy fame
in all nations, tribes and tongues~
in all those you died to love.
Come, Lord Jesus, come, we say
hasten to redeem this day.
You're our high exalted king
and the ruler of all things.
Glory, glory to the Lamb,
to the One slain for man.
We celebrate your saving grace
and are blessed to run this race.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Growing Up
Growing up
Happens before our eyes,
One day in the cradle
The next, junior high.
When it happens to your own
It is strange indeed,
How could this boy who
I nursed, cuddled and reared
Grow into a man with a beard?!
Will he remember his appointments without my reminders?
Will he feel happy and loved without my every day hugs?
How hard it is to let go and let God take control
(as if He didn’t have it before?!)
My son’s a young man, yet still my child to me,
Lord, help me to know how to relate and to see
What will serve and what won’t; when to call, when refrain
I don’t want to let go, but I'm comforted to know
YOU will never let him go, not a moment, oh no,
You will hold him and keep him and love him each day
You’ll correct and protect and reveal your love and truth all the way.
How grateful I am to know this is true
That my young man is Your man and Your plan is good and perfect too.
Thank you for letting me mother him for so long,
Teach me to mother in new ways while that he’s gone.
Keep him safe, grant success and bless his college years
With growing wisdom, godly friends and a faith that endures.
Happens before our eyes,
One day in the cradle
The next, junior high.
When it happens to your own
It is strange indeed,
How could this boy who
I nursed, cuddled and reared
Grow into a man with a beard?!
Will he remember his appointments without my reminders?
Will he feel happy and loved without my every day hugs?
How hard it is to let go and let God take control
(as if He didn’t have it before?!)
My son’s a young man, yet still my child to me,
Lord, help me to know how to relate and to see
What will serve and what won’t; when to call, when refrain
I don’t want to let go, but I'm comforted to know
YOU will never let him go, not a moment, oh no,
You will hold him and keep him and love him each day
You’ll correct and protect and reveal your love and truth all the way.
How grateful I am to know this is true
That my young man is Your man and Your plan is good and perfect too.
Thank you for letting me mother him for so long,
Teach me to mother in new ways while that he’s gone.
Keep him safe, grant success and bless his college years
With growing wisdom, godly friends and a faith that endures.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
I got tagged and it's fun!
Lisa tagged me!
Here’s how this tag goes:
1) Grab the book closest to you
2) Open to page 123, go down to the fourth sentence
3) Post the text of the following 3 sentences
4) Name the author and book title
5) Tag three people to do the same
My Bible says on pg. 123, fourth line down:
"You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's."
The author is my Best Friend, Jesus.
I tag Briana, Daniel, and Enza!
Here’s how this tag goes:
1) Grab the book closest to you
2) Open to page 123, go down to the fourth sentence
3) Post the text of the following 3 sentences
4) Name the author and book title
5) Tag three people to do the same
My Bible says on pg. 123, fourth line down:
"You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's."
The author is my Best Friend, Jesus.
I tag Briana, Daniel, and Enza!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Friends
Being in Maryland this past weekend has me pretty nostalgic. It was so nice to see dear, old friends. The beauty of friendship is being able to pick up right where you left off, no matter how much time has passed. The wonder of godly friendship is the grace to overlook the many imperfections one has brought to the table and enjoy the many graces God bestows instead. I’m so thankful for this grace that my friends give me time and time again!!!
It is always hard to have limited time for our visits ‘down’, and sad to miss out on real visits with so many we love. This makes me look forward to heaven where we’ll be together with our extended family in Christ and have all the time in the world, I mean, in heaven to enjoy!!!
This reminds me of an oldie but goodie song:
Words: Deborah D. Smith
Music: Michael W. Smith
Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you
Can’t believe the hopes He’s granted
Means a chapter in your life is through
But we’ll keep you close as always
It wont even seem you’ve gone
cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
Chorus:
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord’s the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
cause the welcome will not end
Though its hard to let you go
In the Father’s hands we know
That a lifetimes not too long to live as friends.
With the faith and love God’s given
Springing from the hope we know
We will pray the joy you’ll live in
Is the strength that now you show
But well keep you close as always
It wont even seem you’ve gone
cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
It is always hard to have limited time for our visits ‘down’, and sad to miss out on real visits with so many we love. This makes me look forward to heaven where we’ll be together with our extended family in Christ and have all the time in the world, I mean, in heaven to enjoy!!!
This reminds me of an oldie but goodie song:
Words: Deborah D. Smith
Music: Michael W. Smith
Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you
Can’t believe the hopes He’s granted
Means a chapter in your life is through
But we’ll keep you close as always
It wont even seem you’ve gone
cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
Chorus:
And friends are friends forever
If the Lord’s the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
cause the welcome will not end
Though its hard to let you go
In the Father’s hands we know
That a lifetimes not too long to live as friends.
With the faith and love God’s given
Springing from the hope we know
We will pray the joy you’ll live in
Is the strength that now you show
But well keep you close as always
It wont even seem you’ve gone
cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong
Sunday, January 07, 2007
sweet contentment
Here's a poem by William Cowper called 'Contentment' that's wonderful! May your year be filled with the sweet and satisfying fruit of contentment in our dear Lord Jesus!
Contentment--Philippians 4 (From The Olney Hymns)
Fierce passions discompose the mind,
As tempests vex the sea:
But calm content and peace we find,
When, Lord, we turn to thee.
In vain by reason and by rule
We try to bend the will;
For none but in the Saviour’s school
Can learn the heavenly skill.
Since at his feet my soul has sat,
His gracious words to hear,
Contented with my present state,
I cast on him my care.
“Art thou a sinner, soul?” he said,
“Then how canst thou complain?
How light thy troubles here, if weigh’d
With everlasting pain!
“If thou of murmuring wouldst be cured,
Compare thy griefs with mine;
Think what my love for thee endured,
And thou wilt not repine.
“‘Tis I appoint thy daily lot,
And I do all things well;
Thou soon shalt leave this wretched spot,
And rise with me to dwell.
“In life my grace shall strength supply,
Proportion’d to thy day;
At death thou still shalt find me nigh,
To wipe thy tears away.
Thus I, who once my wretched days
In vain repinings spent,
Taught in my Saviour’s school of grace,
Have learnt to be content.
Contentment--Philippians 4 (From The Olney Hymns)
Fierce passions discompose the mind,
As tempests vex the sea:
But calm content and peace we find,
When, Lord, we turn to thee.
In vain by reason and by rule
We try to bend the will;
For none but in the Saviour’s school
Can learn the heavenly skill.
Since at his feet my soul has sat,
His gracious words to hear,
Contented with my present state,
I cast on him my care.
“Art thou a sinner, soul?” he said,
“Then how canst thou complain?
How light thy troubles here, if weigh’d
With everlasting pain!
“If thou of murmuring wouldst be cured,
Compare thy griefs with mine;
Think what my love for thee endured,
And thou wilt not repine.
“‘Tis I appoint thy daily lot,
And I do all things well;
Thou soon shalt leave this wretched spot,
And rise with me to dwell.
“In life my grace shall strength supply,
Proportion’d to thy day;
At death thou still shalt find me nigh,
To wipe thy tears away.
Thus I, who once my wretched days
In vain repinings spent,
Taught in my Saviour’s school of grace,
Have learnt to be content.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
New Year's Resolutions
Here's some great goals from Jonathon Edward's pen, written at age 17!:
http://doctrinematters.blogspot.com/
I long to be more effective in my walk and my witness for God's glory this upcoming new year. He has filled me with joy unspeakable and I want to proclaim the GREAT NEWS of the gospel with boldness and grace regularly. Please pray for this fresh zeal to glorify God and obey Him to only grow in me and bear much fruit! Thanks!!
Happy New Year!
http://doctrinematters.blogspot.com/
I long to be more effective in my walk and my witness for God's glory this upcoming new year. He has filled me with joy unspeakable and I want to proclaim the GREAT NEWS of the gospel with boldness and grace regularly. Please pray for this fresh zeal to glorify God and obey Him to only grow in me and bear much fruit! Thanks!!
Happy New Year!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
TREASURES
I’ve been meditating on ‘treasure’ verses lately. How I long to enjoy the finest Treasure more and more. Here are some verses I’ve been looking at:
Mtt.6:19-21 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Mtt.13:44 The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”
Prov. 2:1 “My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”
2Cor.4:6-7 “God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.
1Tim.6:17-19 “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hole of that which is truly life.”
Col.2:2-3 “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
May this Treasure be gloried in and enjoyed immensely by all the children of God this Christmas season and always!! We are rich indeed, in every way!
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