A. Knight's Tale...

"The Not so Invisible God"

2011-11-30T22:53:00.000-08:00

"Sometimes when I pray I feel stupid. I feel like I'm just talking to the air or my ceiling..."As she sits across from me I listen to her vulnerable honesty about her frustrations and confusion. She goes on to explain how she's grown up knowing ABOUT God. She's ALWAYS been in church. But something was missing. As I look through her glistening eyes I see a longing to experiencing the VERY REAL, VERY PRESENT, God she has read and studied about for most of her life. I listen to her desire to know this sweet Savior more intimately and personally, but her doubt of this miraculous, unseen Father makes it seem impossible, even foolish. How does she put her faith in and give her life to someone she can't even see?
I feel like we've all faced times of doubt where we have asked these very same questions. The struggles this beautiful child asks are not as "silly" or "out there" as she believes. I've met with many girls that have struggled with the same questions along their journey of faith. To which I have to reply isn't that what the journey of faith is all about... asking questions, seeking answers, and discovering just how REAL and PRESENT our LIVING God really is!
Hebrews 11 tells us that "Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen. It gives us assurance about things we cannot see." Faith IS believing in what we cannot see. We could never grasp faith if we never sought after and questioned that which we cannot see. I've discovered that its in my seeking that faith develops more. The more I seek, the more real He becomes to me, and the more confident I become in my own faith.
Over the past few weeks I've been stuck on these verses below. Colossians 1:15 says "He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God" It all starts with Jesus. Jesus makes this seemingly invisible, distant, fantasy God become VERY visible, close, and incredibly real. Infact, Jesus has become the most real thing in the world to me. Jesus resembles all that God is. The gospel of John explains this so clearly. Chapter 1 says "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God" & vs 14 goes on to say "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." By humbling himself and becoming a man- He made himself accessible to us. Because of Jesus we can now encounter our loving Father God. And since Jesus is the image of the invisible, we will discover more about this wonderful King by consuming ourselves with His word! Jesus is the Word so the word is the most tangible picture of who God is. When you seek God by reading His Word the invisible suddenly becomes visible. And the more you get to know Him the more you will want to know Him. And soon you won't feel so "foolish" because He will become the only thing in this world that makes sense.
That's all for now... enjoy discovering more about this "Not so Invisible God!"

"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the WORD of God" Romans 10:17

God is love

2011-07-21T23:29:00.000-07:00

This past week I read 1 John 4:8 and the last part of it just jumped off the page to me- "...for God IS love" Now this is something I have often read, heard, and thought... but this week it was different. God IS love... It's what defines Him - his personality, his actions, his very nature. It amazes me that anything I want to know about this infinite and mighty God can be summed up in one seemingly small 4 letter word that has a meaning far deeper than I could ever begin to describe. LOVE....
Love- Created me.
Love- Set me free.
Love- Gave me purpose.
Love- Saved me.

I read a quote that said "Love isn't something God does- It is who He is"
He IS my creator, my freedom, my purpose, my Savior....
and as 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes:
He IS patient and kind. He is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. He does not demand His own way. He is not irritable, and He keeps no record of being wronged. He does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. He never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

How beautiful is that! He keeps no record of it when I wrong Him. He is patient with me. He never loses faith in me or gives up on me. He will endure through every circumstance. He will always BE kind. Wow...

But here's the thing...And this part really gets me sometimes.... I am suppsed to walk through this life as a reflection of Him. So, MY life should be defined by this love. Love should not be something I "do"- but who I am.
I've been learning through this week that there are so many people in this world that don't need you to "do" anything but just "BE love to them"
Maybe it's by being patient with them when they cut you off in traffic, Giving a kind smile when they need cheering up, or by forgiving even when they have clearly done something against you.

My prayer is that we would BE LOVE- everywhere we go because you never know how far it will grow! When I leave this Earth I want to leave a legacy of love. I want people to remember me as a woman who loved much and loved well.

Love.

2011-07-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

The following is an expanded translation of First Corinthians 13:4-8 by Rick Renner. A friend of mine gave me a framed picture of this translation that I keep on my nightstand. Every time I read it, I'm challenged and inspired...

Love patiently and passionately bears with others for as long as patience is needed;
Love doesn’t demand others to be like itself; rather, it is so focused on the needs of others that it bends over backwards to become what others need it to be;
Love is not ambitious, self-centered, or so consumed with itself that it never thinks of the needs or desires that others possess;
Love doesn’t go around talking about itself all the time, constantly exaggerating and embellishing the facts to make it look more important in the sight of others;
Love does not behave in a prideful, arrogant, haughty, superior, snooty, snobbish, or clannish manner;
Love is not rude and discourteous — it is not careless or thoughtless, nor does it carry on in a fashion that would be considered insensitive to others;
Love does not manipulate situations or scheme and devise methods that will twist situations to its own advantage;
Love does not deliberately engage in actions or speak words that are so sharp, they cause an ugly or violent response;
Love does not deliberately keep records of wrongs or past mistakes;
Love does not feel overjoyed when it sees an injustice done to someone else but is elated, thrilled, ecstatic, and overjoyed with the truth;
Love protects, shields, guards, covers, conceals, and safeguards people from exposure;
Love strains forward with all its might to believe the very best in every situation;
Love always expects and anticipates the best in others and the best for others;
Love never quits, never surrenders, and never gives up;
Love never disappoints, never fails, and never lets anyone down.

kind of late.... but Happy Father's Day!!! :)

2011-06-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

I know this post is past due, but I had been out of town and didn't have a chance to get it uploaded, and CANNOT miss highlighting the most amazing men in my life...

You see, I am a Daddy's Girl through and through.

I have always been. I loved girly things growing up but would gladly set aside the dolls and barbies to go hang with this guy! He is an amazing man- hardworking, strong, loyal, loving, and very, very, VERY patient... at least with me! :) There isn't a day that goes by that I don't call on him for some need and he is there. I will be the first to admit that he has spoiled me, but he also challenges me. He has always helped to the point where help is needed, and then will leave things in my hands so that I can learn and grow. Which by the way... my most recent accomplishments have been to learn how to change a belt in a vacuum cleaner, weed eat my yard and change the string in it, and put together furniture! All thanks goes to him! I love this man and I'm so blessed to have such an awesome Father in my life!

Also...

I can't forget.....

my Big Brother....

is now going to be a Daddy!!!!

I can't believe it!!! I have to give a shout out to him since this is technically his first official Father's Day!!! So excited for Baby Knight coming into the world in December!! I can't wait!!! I know that Casey will be a GREAT dad! He has such a big heart and is such an amazing leader that I know this little one will be well taken care of!

Love for All

2011-06-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

This morning I was killing some time in Starbucks reading my bible and I came across this verse.

"As for the saints who are on the earth, They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.” Psalm 16:3

This verse just JUMPED off the page at me. I love how David addresses God's people as "the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight." David's love for God's people is so evident here.

I read an awesome and challenging commentary on this verse that I thought I'd share...

For many followers of Christ today are so negative about the people of God that they find themselves unable to see any 'excellence' in God's people. They are unable to 'delight in them.' David delighted in the people of God despite their failings, scandals, and embarassment.

How we love other believers can be an easy way of measuring our relationship with the Lord. Do we love other Christians? Do we find it good and rewarding to be with them? Do we seek their company? This is a simple test. Those who love the Lord will love the company of those who love him.

The bible is pretty clear when it comes to loving other believers.. 1 John 2:9-11 says, "Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them"

Wow.

I pray we can all have a heart like David's and can see EVERYONE through eyes of love-delighting in them as children of our Heavenly Father - Not Perfect, Just Forgiven.

Anna and the King

2011-06-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I watched the movie "Anna and the King." If you haven't seen its the story of the romance between the King of Siam and a widowed British schoolteacher named Anna during the 1860's. I love this movie for so many reasons, but mostly how perfect the timing was that I watched it.
Have you ever had those moments when you see God's perfect timing played out in your life. It could be through a phone call from a friend or a message you may hear at church that just seems to come to you at the exact time you needed it. It's those moments I have to stop and smile because it's like a kiss from heaven reminding me that God knows and understands everything we go through. And even if He seems absent at the time He really is right there holding our hands through everything we face. It's just a reminder of how ever present He really is!
But back to the movie...
There is a moment in the movie where the Anna is sharing her story with the King. Her story is one definitely marked by heartache, suffering, and trials. She had lost her husband, and had to move to Siam to take this job as a school teacher with her young son. Can you imagine having to pick up everything you know and move somewhere that you knew no one and start a new life right after losing someone like that? You could tell the King felt compassion for her and the hurt she was experiencing. But instead of just offering His condolences, the King leans down to her and says something that wrecked me. He said, "if you hadn't gone through your suffering..... then this unique opportunity to change the world would have been someone else's."
When he spoke those sweet words to her I completely lost it. I had to stop the movie, it was like the Lord himself had just whispered those words straight to my heart. Many times we don't understand why we go through the things we do. It's hard to understand why we have to walk through some of the trials we face. But in those moments I feel like the Lord is up in heaven cheering us on saying, "Endure! Endure! Endure! You can do it! You have no idea how I can use this difficult circumstance and turn it for good! It's going to change the world! You can do it! Hold your head high! I've got you! Don't loose heart! It's this moment right here that is preparing you for even greater things than you could ever imagine!!!"
If you find yourself going through something that seems overwhelming and hard to endure remember what Hebrews 10:36 says "Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised"
He has a plan so beautiful that it will blow your mind once you see all that He has promised fulfilled through your life. Your story will change the world!
Praying for Patient Endurance....

You Are Worth It! By: Mattie Montgomery

2011-06-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

Loved this!

Never forget

YOU ARE WORTH IT!

Weekend Fun!

2011-06-06T06:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went camping for the first time since I was in high school. For those of you who know me this definitely took much convincing and "twisting of the arm" to get me to agree to this. Don't get me wrong I love the outdoors, but I don't love the bug bites, AL summer heat, or sleeping on the ground.

But to my surprise, I ended up really enjoying myself. The fun I had with this great group of people far outweighed anything negative. Here are a few photos from that night!

Next on the agenda for this weekend was Saturday night. We had planned a luau gift card party to celebrate this lovely engaged couple below. Great food, games, and laughter is what made this night! This couple is one of my favorites! I have never met two people who were so perfectly made for each other. They are both so full of love and joy and you feel it every time you are around them. I'm so thankful I get to be a part of their "Big Day" in August!

Hurt... Heal.... Help!

2011-05-30T00:35:00.000-07:00

I was reading this in my Joyce Meyer "Ending Your Day Right" devotional and felt led to share it.

"God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us" Romans 5:5

Sometimes people say or do things that hurt you, but you have the God-given ability to love these people One good way to start is by following the well-known golden rule. It isn't easy. In fact, it requires discipline. But God will help you if you really want to do it.
Discipline is your friend- it is the ability God gives you to walk in His ways. Although, it is difficult, discipline is temporary discomfort that can lead to permanent or long-term enjoyment.
It you've been hurt and learned to overcome it, you have a valuable tool to help others. God comforts us so we can comfort others. Here's the progression: We are hurt...we allow God to heal us... and we are ready to help others. Hurt...Heal... Help! It's a process that can literally change your life... and the lives of many others around you.

-It's easy to find ourselves stuck in our own hurt. Pain has the ability to paralyze us and actually keep us from fulfilling the call of God on our lives. I think there is comfort in knowing that God himself has provided a way past our pain.
When we learn to lean on the healing power of the Holy Spirit that is already at work in us, we will find ourselves loving others past our own capabilities. It's at that moment, the moment when we love outside ourself, that our hurt is transformed to help for someone else.

You're Kind of a Big Deal...

2011-05-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

Ephesians 1:4-5 says:

"Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. "

Before we were born, before we even took our first breath, the God of the Universe had us on His mind. We were chosen and loved before we even existed on this Earth. Never doubt how how valuable you are!

Weekend

2011-05-15T18:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the priviledge of serving here!

It was a such an honor to sit and learn from speakers like Lysa Terkeurst, Sheri Rose Shepherd, Carol Kent, Chonda Pierce, and Angela Thomas.

The theme of this conference was "Everlasting Hope"

Isaiah 40:28-31 says:

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God. the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

I was reminded this weekend how even when I grow tired, Christ is there fully alert to my need. When I am weary, He is there offering me His rest. When I am weak, Jesus is there to be my strength! My Hope is in the Lord!

It was definitely a weekend to remember! I'm so thankful for the opportunity. I encourage each of you to check out some of these women's websites by clicking on their names above.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Today is Mother's Day and I just wanted to do a little tribute to the most amazing mom that I've ever known...

(Mom sporting off her new Pandora bracelet that her children gave her)

She has always been someone who has loved me with a constant unconditional love everyday of my life. Growing up there was something she always said to me anytime she had the chance whether it be tucking me in to bed, sending me off to camp, signing a birthday card, or just driving down the road together. She would say, "Ami, I love you as much as all the stars in the sky, all the grains of sand on all the seashores, all the blades of grass in every field, as much as all the birds in the air, and the fishes in the sea... I love you" Sometimes we would go back and forth trying to think of more to add and compete with who could "love each other more" She always insisted that as my mother she always won. It's those moments I treasure the most. Even still before I leave from a visit at her house, or somtimes just written in a "thinking of you" card she reminds me just how much she really loves me.

(Out to eat for Mother's Day)

I'm so thankful to have the parents I have. The love they have continually showed my brother and I has made it so much easier to understand the love our Father in heaven has for us. This has truly been a key factor in my growing relationship with Christ.

I know I've been blessed with amazing parents, and I also understand that there are people out there that have not been as lucky. BUT the good news is 1 Johns 3:1 tells us "See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!" So even if your reading this and maybe you didn't have a mother or father that knew how to love you in the best way, KNOW that you do have a REAL Father in Heaven who has declared you his child! And THAT is far greater than any earthly relationship you could ever have!

He is up there saying, "Child, I love you as much as all the stars in the sky, all the grains of sand on all the seashores, all the blades of grass in every field, as much as all the birds in the air, and the fishes in the sea... I love you"

TIMING

2011-05-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

^"But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent." 2 Peter 3:8-9

We serve a BIG God who lives well outside of our concept of time. I mean a day is like a thousand years to him right? Even still, He is a God of perfect timing, His plans are laid out so perfectly for us and we so often fail to realize it. Many times we find ourselves questioning God's plans and purposes for our lives because they just don't seem to be working out the way we would imagine... BUT the good news is His plans for us are far greater than we could ever imagine! Never doubt the fact that God is ALWAYS working behind the scenes for your good!

"And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth" Ephesians 1:10-12 (NLV)

"But when the proper time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born subject to [the regulations of] the Law, To purchase the freedom of (to ransom, to redeem, to [a]atone for) those who were subject to the Law, that we might be adopted and have sonship conferred upon us [and be recognized as God's sons]." Galatians 4:3-7 (AMP)

Our Hope Endures

2011-04-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, this past week Alabama and other states throughout the south have been greatly impacted by horrific tornadoes that swept through our cities and communities destroying everything that they found in their path.

The pictures and videos that have been all over the news will take your breath away. The destruction left is devastating to look at.

Hundreds of lives lost, hundreds still missing, towns and communities wiped completly off the map.

Wednesday night I sat speechless thinking about all the lives that were dramatically changed in a matter of minutes. A wave of overwhelming emotions hit me and I found myself on my knees. I couldn't help but pray for people to hold on to Hope.

In times of trouble the Hope we find in Jesus Christ is all we have sometimes...

Hope that though we weep for the night that joy WILL come in the morning.

Hope that there is a PURPOSE to everything under the heavens.

Hope that our God is WITH us and FOR us at all times.

Hope that He is really working everything out for our GOOD.

Hope that there IS a brighter tomorrow on it's way.

See when we have Hope we have:

*Joy & Peace (Romans 15:13)

*Protection (Psalms 33:18)

*Strength & Courage (Psalm 31:24)

*Endurance (1 Timothy 4:10)

So.... "I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit" Romans 15:13

This song has been such an encouragement this week! Hope it ministers to you as it did me!

My Shepherd

2011-04-20T21:56:00.000-07:00

Over the past week I've been reading a lot in John 10. It's such a good chapter with so much about Jesus being our Shepherd. One of my favorite scriptures that i've been focusing on is from verse 4 "And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice."

I love how it says He brings us out and goes before us and then that we follow him by knowing his voice.

My pastor did a sermon a few weeks ago called Jesus is the Sheperd and in it he talked about how sheep know their shepherds distinct call so well that if two herd were mixed together all the shepherd has to do is send his call out and his sheep would follow him immediatly.
I thought to myself, now that is a beautiful example of what it means to have an intimate friendship. Which is what I desire most to have with my Savior. In this fast pace world we have so many things going on that sometimes it may seem hard to hear God's voice. BUT what if we can be as intimately associated with our sweet Jesus as sheep are to their shepherd. What if we were so close to him that no matter how many voices, opinions, negativity, busyness, etc... are coming our way that we still hear our Lord's voice. Doesn't that sound amazing?!
Well how do we get there? I've also heard it said that many times shepherds will break a new baby lamb's legs and carry them around the back of their neck until the lamb's legs heal and it can walk on its own again. This may sound like a strange practice but I can't help but see how it is in that time of brokenness that they lamb learns
1.)how much he can depend and trust in his shepherd
2.)how he can become familiar with his shepherds call since he is so close to him
3.)how his shepherd is there to carry him the whole way through while he heals.
What if we started recognizing our broken places as times where we can grow in our trust and dependency on Christ, where we could become familiar with his voice, or even where we can rest in his presence as he carries us.
Just some thoughts that have been weighing heavy on my heart to share.... Hope it blesses you!

Crowned!

2011-04-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs to check out www.iamcrowned.com
Remember you are
Beautiful,

Loved,

Confident,

& Most Importantly

You Are Crowned!

Have Faith

2011-04-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

"Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours."

Mark 11:22-24

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

“You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.

Matthew 7:7-11

In the past two days I've seen SO many prayers answered that it has rocked my faith.

His timing is perfect, and His ways are good!

I just want to encourage you to have faith!

God not only hears your prayers but is excited and ready to answer them!

Don't loose hope!

Trust Him!

If you want, leave a comment about one of your answered prayers! :)

Phillipians 1:9-11

2011-04-10T22:17:00.000-07:00

"I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.

For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.

May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God."

Luke 8:22-25

2011-04-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap.
But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger.The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”

When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?” The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”

Luke 8:22-25

Isn't it funny that the moment Jesus asks His disciples to cross to the other side He decides to go to sleep?!!

And so when the storm hits where is Jesus? Still asleep!

Some may first look at this passage and immediatly think;

Why is He sleeping on the job!
If He really is "all knowing" shouldn't He have steered them clear of the storm, or at least warned them!

How could he have slept when the people closest to Him were in danger?!

Is it that Jesus didn't care?

Maybe He was taking a day off, we all need a day off right?!

While these thoughts have at one point passed through my mind as well, I can't help but KNOW Jesus is ALWAYS in control, and there is no storm that could catch Him off guard.

We all go through storms and trials at some point in our life that make us question where Jesus is at the moment. Does He even care or even see what's going on. The answer to those questions are YES HE SEES YOU! And while it may be difficult to see the reason why He hasn't "woken up" to stop the storm from rocking your boat, He is still in control and you can trust that He cares for you!

Look on down in the passage and you'll see that after Jesus calms the storm He turns and looks at His disciples and simply asks "where is your faith?"

Could it be that MAYBE just maybe Jesus believed in His disciples enough that He knew when the storm came that they had the faith to withstand? Could it be that maybe He was even giving them the opportunity to see their own faith in action?

Kind of like when a child is learning to walk. You don't hold their hands all the time, at some point you have to step back and allow them the opportunity to walk on their own two feet, otherwise they will never be able to take the next step.

When I was young I was terrified of taking the training wheels off of my bike. Both my parents would work with me on this but I would beg them with tears streaming down my face to not let go. But they knew better, and believed in my enough to know that they had to eventually let go of the seat if I was ever going to learn to ride on my own.

If you are going through a storm or trial, first of all, know you are NEVER alone. Secondly, think of this as an opportunity to excercise your faith and trust in Jesus that with Him you will never fail!

Remember He cares more about your character than your comfort! He wants to see you reach your FULL potential in Him while you are on this Earth!

Lastly, be encouraged with this scripture from James 1:2-4

"Dear brothers and sisters,when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."

It's all in Your Attitude :)

2011-04-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

"Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate?

THEN....

make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

You MUST have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had."

Phillipians 2:1-5

This passsage of scripture has been on my heart the past few days. There is so much convicting truth in it and I had to share.

I really believe that God's Word is our ultimate tool to transforming our lives. His Word needs to DEFINE our very nature.

I've been challenged in my walk this week and praying for God's grace to take this Word and allow it to transform me and my attitude into being more like Christ! :)

If you want to learn more about having the attitude of Christ you can read this book! It's great!

As my friend Connie always tells me... "Every Leader is a Reader!" :)

A Seeking Heart

2011-04-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

This morning in my 'One Year Bible' reading I came across this passage of scripture that I am oh so very familiar with. It seems like everytime things get a little bit busier than normal this text always seems to find it's way to my life...

Luke 10:38-42
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Now in this passage I can't help but see how similar Martha and Mary's hearts are. Both are eager and excited that Jesus their Lord was there to visit with them. Both have hearts that want to please him. Both seemingly desire to serve him.

The difference is Jesus only asks one thing of them, he wants their heart's attention. He is there for THEM!
He doesn't need everything cleaned up, set up, and fixed up perfectly... He ONLY wants them, his daughters, to sit with Him, spend time with Him, learn from Him, and ENJOY being with Him.

While Martha's service was good, honorable, and definitely all for the Lord, she was missing out on the very thing that He had came to their house for... to visit with THEM! He wasn't there to inspect things, and see if they were being diligent in their chores, and responsibilities... No, He came because His desire was to spend time with them!

God delights in a seeking heart and Mary had showed just that and there was NO WAY he was going to let that be taken from her.

My prayer is that I would not get distracted in my day to day life from the very purpose I was created for... to be with my Lord, my sweet Savior, Jesus :)

There is a song that comes to mind everytime I read this passage of scripture... "The More I Seek You" By Kari Jobe Check it out if you haven't heard it!

It's been awhile...

2010-09-15T20:49:00.000-07:00

So I had given up with trying to keep up with my blogging hobby for awhile, but here recently there has been so much burning inside of me that I've needed to get it out! So, I decided it may just be time again to try this out again. :)

For some people writing can be a fun activity, for others it may be a chore, for me its neither. For me, writing is like an outlet that once I get "plugged in" to it, it becomes the very source of energy that produces a light inside of me that not only illuminates the darkest places of my heart, but also bring enlightenment that I might have never gained. In other words... its my therapy! haha :)

Let see... where to even begin...

Well the most recent happenings occured last Friday. My grandmother, a.k.a. my popsmommy, passed away. It was not sudden by any means. We all knew that her life's story was coming to a close soon. But no matter how much you try to prepare yourself... loosing someone is always hard and it always comes as a bit of a shock.

Friday afternoon after a long day at school I looked at my cell phone, saw the 6 missed calls, listened to the 2 vague yet sorrowful voicemails, and knew what I was about to "find out."
I quickly made up some lesson plans, zipped home to pack a suitcase, and was on my way to my grandmother's home (1 1/2 hrs away) to spend the next 4 days in a house FULL of family members trying to figure out what to do with all the emotions they were experiencing.

That night I was ok. It was Saturday morning when I woke up that it began to hit me. I layed there early that morning in the bed that was full of memories of reading books late into the night, memories of hiding under it in hopes to avoid the nightly bath, and memories of lots of hugs and cuddles as we snuggled finally to fall asleep feeling safe and secure. I examined the quilt I laid under. One that had been hand sewn by beautiful tender hands of a woman who found such joy in simply making things that she knew would bring joy to someone else. My grandmother was an amazing woman whom I loved and missed.

I could go on for hours about all the wonderful things she did and was. I might have to dedicate a post (or maybe 5 posts lol) to just the story of her life. (Because believe me there are plenty of stories to tell!) She was a true Proverbs 31 woman. She came from humble beginnings, but with her faith in Jesus, a vision for a bright future, and determination to see it through she became a woman who was greatly praised. Even at her viewing I was amazed at the amount of people that showed up, all with a story about how my grandmother, my popsmommy, had impacted their life in some way. I honestly believe that as she met Jesus face to face on Friday morning that she heard her sweet loving Master say "Well done thy good and faithful servant"

And I wanna be just like her! :)

Here is a picture of my sweet "popsmommy" with one of the twins taken one month ago. :)

What does love look like?

2010-03-19T19:48:00.000-07:00

If anything I can honestly say this song represents the past year of my life. I've been on an ongoing journey to discover what love really looks like. I've desired to know what 1 Corinthians 13 was really saying... I've wanted to know what REAL love would look like if I was staring it in the face.

What I have found is that REAL LOVE

would give up EVERYTHING,

would risk EVERYTHING,

for just a CHANCE at having that love returned...

This song is beautiful. Hope it grips your heart and opens it, as it has mine.

Thirsty...

2010-03-08T04:46:00.000-08:00

“Thirsty hearts are those whose longings have been wakened by the touch of God within them”

–A.W. Tozer

Do you remember what it was like when you first felt that tug on your heart? You know that feeling where you knew that no matter where you try to run or hide that the Lord was calling you to Himself. Some of us might have tried to bury that call away in things of this world, others of us may have responded immediately overwhelmed and humbled that this King, this Savior, would take notice and desire us to come to Him. Either way we’ve all heard it.

I remember. I remember being only 10 years old, and yet there I stood at the altar, at the end of the service on December 18th. My heart racing and pounding in my chest, sweaty palms gripping the pew, not understanding what this was that was going on inside my heart, but knowing that there was something I was missing. And that something was Him. My sweet Jesus.

This past Sunday I sat in church, barely paying attention to the message. My mind was in so many other places. And yet there it was, time for us to bow our heads, the big moment, the call was going out around the room to hearts that were ready… my attention was back. I looked around the room as hands went up in the front, back, the girl sitting in the row in front of me… and I was reminded.

I was reminded of that call we’ve all heard at one point or another.

The call where we knew HE was real.

His LOVE was real.

I pray we never forget that moment. The moment where our corrupted, sinful lives were washed clean and made new. The moment where the old passed away and the new came. I pray that we remember the thirst that most of us first responded to Him from.

“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink” John 7:37

*Also, during the yesterday's service we focused on Jesus’ statement before He died “I thirst.” Pastor Chris focused on the importance of being transparent before people. How we should take off the masks of “Everything is fine” and be more real with each other. So here I am, mask down, saying the same thing “I THIRST!” There is something in me right now that is not satisfied. I thirst for more of my God. I thirst for the intimacy I experienced when I first met Him. I thirst to hear His voice, feel His presence, and commune with Him as I did when I first met Him. To find my first love.

Today I began reading a book called Sacred Romance By: John Eldridge. As I read the first chapter and wept my heart was awakened again. I was reminded how I thirst… and how deep within me there is a longing for more… Most of this blog is an overflow of what was going on inside my heart throughtout the day. Hope it touches someone! :)

Just a quote that stirred my heart...

2010-03-02T20:47:00.000-08:00

"How sweet all at once it was for me to be rid of those fruitless joys which I had once feared to lose...! You drove them from me, You who are the TRUE, the SOVEREIGN JOY. You drove them from me and took their place, You who are SWEETER THAN ALL PLEASURE, though not to flesh and blood, You who OUTSHINE ALL LIGHT, yet are hidden deeper than any secret in our hearts, You who SURPASS ALL HONOR, though not in the eyes of men who see all honor in themselves... O Lord my God, my Light, my Wealth, and My Salvation" ~St. Augustine

Can I be Real? :)

2010-03-01T20:57:00.000-08:00

"Love is patient...."

Another version I read recently is...

"Love patiently AND passionately bears with others for as LONG as patience is needed..."

WOW... that just takes that scripture to a whole nother level doesn't it?

So I'm just gonna be real and take a moment to get out all that junk that the Lord began dealing with my heart on when I read this not too long ago- bear with me please.... :) remember love IS patient :)

~Sometimes its hard for me to be patient with people (especially those closest to me). I tend to be a results driven person-meaning I like to see change or growth- I like to see people continually moving forward. I tend to forget how some trials or obstacles may be more difficult for some people

-I forget grace- I forget love- I forget that its God's KINDNESS that leads people to repentance- I forget that sometimes the BEST way to help someone be an overcomer is not to give them advice and think my pitiful attempt of words will change them, but sometimes letting them walk things out at their pace, just walking beside them, is the best way you can help them- I need to not forget the process that we all have to go through in life.

I've recently been reminded loving someone patiently may be just allowing them to learn on their own and not putting expectations on them that they havent even put on themselves. Just think how patient Jesus must have been with His disciples. They were a bunch of screw-ups that He saw potential in to change the world- So he called them to follow Him- to walk through life with Him- Not once did He say "You can follow me but you must not have any problems, never complain, and never ever screw up anything, just be perfect"
NO! He was their constant encourager and faithful patient friend who would remind them "in this world you may have trouble but take heart for I have overcome the world" He didn't tell them they had to overcome it ... He just reminded them that He had and will continue to overcome any obstacle in their life as long as they trust Him for help.

Lord, teach me how to walk through life with people who need someone to just love them as they learn, and who need someone to be patient with them to the point they have come to in their walk with You. Help me to not put my ideas on them of how I think they should be or act, but to love them with patience as they grow into who You created them to be. Help me to be a friend, and encourager that always points to the great overcomer of this world, You!

Tomorrow Night!

2010-02-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

The Basement

Tomorrow Night

6:45 p.m.

@ Church of the Highlands!

BE THERE!

Thought this was good!

2010-02-20T22:51:00.000-08:00

A friend emailed me this little devo and I really loved it...
just wanted to share!

An Invitation to Desire

This may come as a surprise to you: Christianity is not an invitation to become a moral person. It is not a program for getting us in line or for reforming society. It has a powerful effect upon our lives, but when transformation comes, it is always the aftereffect of something else, something at the level of our hearts. And so at its core, Christianity begins with an invitation to desire.

Look again at the way Jesus relates to people. There is the Samaritan woman Jesus meets at the well. She has come alone in the heat of the day to draw water, and they both know why. By coming when the sun is high, she is less likely to run into anyone. You see, her sexual lifestyle has earned her a “reputation.” Back in those days, having one partner after another wasn’t looked so highly upon. She’s on her sixth lover, and so she’d rather bear the scorching rays of the sun than face the searing words of the “decent” women of the town who come at evening to draw water. She succeeds in avoiding the women, but runs into God instead. What does he choose to talk to her about—her immorality? No, he speaks to her about her thirst : “If you knew the generosity of God and who I am, you would be asking me for a drink, and I would give you fresh, living water” (John 4:10 The Message). Remarkable. He doesn’t give a little sermon about purity; he doesn’t even mention it, except to say that he knows what her life has been like: “You’ve had five husbands, and the man you’re living with now isn’t even your husband” (John 4:18 The Message). In other words, now that we both know it, let’s talk about your heart’s real thirst, since the life you’ve chosen obviously isn’t working. “The water I give will be an artesian spring within, gushing fountains of endless life” (John 4:14 The Message).

Climb EVERY Mountain

2010-02-19T16:03:00.000-08:00

"He makes my feet like the hinds' [firm and able];

He sets me secure and confident upon the heights."

2 Samuel 22:34 AMP

We all have our mountains we face in our lives, some may seem a lot larger than others, but be reminded and encouraged that God would never bring you to something that He didn't plan on carrying you through. And know that with every step He is making you stronger and more into His likeness in order to bring you to the very place you were destined for- to reign on the heights with Him!

"The Beauty of the Mountain is hidden for all those who try to discover it from the top, supposing that, one way or another, one can reach this place directly. The Beauty of the Mountain reveals only to those who climbed it..." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Refocused

2010-02-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

Hebrews 12:2-3

This verse has been my biggest encouragement lately.

Allowing this present world to fade away and

fixing my eyes on the hope of eternity.

Just wanted to share! :)

Sorry it's been so long!

2010-02-04T21:28:00.000-08:00

So I'm back!! After a good 2 months of being away I'm back!!!! :)

The Lord has done so much in my life it's hard to know where to begin... so I guess I'll just start with what He's been doing in me this week.

My motto this week is:

"I'm a work in progress! Praise God He's not through with me yet! He's the potter I'm the clay!"

With reason being, because I have been going through what some would call a "purging" season. I know I'm not perfect-just forgiven- but with that comes a desire for holiness, righteousness, and a desire to be like the one I love. The more I get to know this amazing man, Jesus, the more I see where my heart stands incomparison to His beautiful perfect love. I want to have More of Him in my life and Less of me! I want to love as He loved, with no conditions, limits, or fear. I want the relationships in my life to be consumed with the love of my Saviour... which brings me to the area He's been working on.... friendships.

I found an old sermon I heard once by Brian Houston Pastor of Hillson Church in Australia. It is called A Leader's Friendship. I want to share what I read with you and I pray that in some way it calls you to a deeper level of friendship in your relationships as it has in mine.

-As leaders we must set an example of our friendship for others to follow.

Proverbs 27:6 says "Wounds from a friend can be trusted" The true spirit of friendship is faithfulness, but many times being faithful causes us to have to confront things. This is never easy because it has the potential to would or hurt, but for the sake it may be necessary.

Real life example: Say your friend has something in their teeth. We can either:

A. be a Faithful friend and tell that person

B. be a Faithless friend and say nothing

C. be an Unfaithful friend saying nothing directly to the person then going and telling someone else about it.

Now that may seem like a mundane example but I'm sure we would all hope to have the faithful friend who would risk "wounding" us in order to prevent further embarassment or hurt. And not only would we want the faithful friend, but I hope we would all have the courage and love to BE the faithful friend.

And that faithful friend is one who loves to the utmost degree. Who gives of themselves, and RISKS for the sake of their friends betterment. A faithful friends puts others needs first and foremost. They are one who sticks closer than a brother. A faithful friend is faithful till the end.

So with that said I know I'm a work in progress and I pray that the Lord would continue to develop His fruits in me so that I can be the kind of friend that He is to me! Thank you Jesus for filling my life with faithful friends who are amazing examples of your love and friendship!

Standing on His Promises

2009-11-20T06:30:00.000-08:00

"Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"

Luke 1:45

(Looking out from Mt. Nebo over the Promise Land)

TAKE Him at His Word;

CLING to His promises;

& KNOW that He is working on your behalf!

Remember:
God is not only ABLE, but He is always WILLING!!!

Back from the Holy Land!

2009-11-19T10:55:00.000-08:00

We arrived back from Israel/Jordan on Saturday evening, but due to my lack of being able to fight off the jet-lag I am just not getting around to my normal routine. Since I've been back the question of the hour has been "How was it?"

I'm not quite sure how to answer this. So many words fill my head; amazing, wonderful, life-changing, incredible, unforgettable, etc... So since I don't have a lot of time to write today (and don't worry there WILL be more posts later) I'm gonna leave you with some lyrics to a Misty Edwards song that seems to have it covered...

He's not a baby in a manger anymore,

(Bethlehem- the manger)

He's not a broken man on a cross,

(Golgotha)

He didn't stay,

(Garden Tomb)

In the grave,

(Inside tomb)

AND HE'S NOT STAYIN' IN HEAVEN FOREVER!

(Beautiful Sunset over the Promise Land)

Cause He's Alive!

Is You Heart Pliable?

2009-10-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

This was a question I felt the Lord was asking me last week...
Is my heart pliable? well, finding that pliable meant; flexible, easily persuaded or controlled... I would have to say my immediate reaction was of course it is!
Then other questions followed.... I felt like his sweet spirit began to press further into my heart as He asked questions like... ~when I bring change to your life is it a time of celebration or do you cringe at the first sight of it? ~when my spirit convicts your heart is it something that is dealt with immediatly by a desire to reflect me, or is it something that is drawn out into a tiresome process that tends to dim my light in you for a season? (and here's the kicker for me) ~when I whisper the precious word "surrender" to you, do you first think of a "tug-of-war" game or a time of sweet embrace?

Then God's Message came to me: "Can't I do just as this potter does, people of Israel?" God's Decree! "Watch this potter. In the same way that this potter works his clay, I work on you, people of Israel"
~Jeremiah 18:5 (msg)

My heart is but clay in my Heavenly Father's hands... He is the potter and His will is to shape me into the very image of His Son Jesus Christ. When the potter must shape the clay there is an amount of pressure that has to come, but when our hearts are pliable, we can trust that the end result will be the beautiful artwork He had in mind.

My desire is to be completely yielded to my Maker...
here are 3 things I feel like are helping me develop a heart that is pliable to His working...
1. Learn to say the simply phrase of "Yes Lord" even in the small things. A pliable heart is a heart that is truly submitted to Him in everything. Obedience is a beautiful thing. A pliable heart responds out of submission to everything, trusting that His ways really are perfect!
2. Practice Self-Denial with the people I am surrounded with. Denying myself and what I may want or think I need has not only helped in the relationships that surround me, but it has helped me truly come to a place where my heart can say no matter what the circumstance, "Not my will, but yours be done"
3. Make time to leave your heart in His hands. Intimacy is key. Knowing Him and experiencing His love for you is the surest way to having a heart that is pliable. Through intimacy with Him are hearts become one with Him, united with His will, not parting in any opinions.

Just wanted to share a little bit from where I have been with the Lord this week... Hope it blesses you! :)

One Year Bible: Verse of the Day!

2009-10-27T06:54:00.000-07:00

"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." Titus 2:3-5

The Son has Set Me Free... I am Free Indeed!

2009-10-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

The other day as I woke up from a short afternoon nap, a song was playin on my ipod by Kathleen Carnalli... as she sang the words "The Son has set me free... and I am free indeed" I layed there pondering what it meant to be free? What did freedom in Christ really offer? If I am really free, what should that look like in my life?

I decided to bust out the old Webster's dictionary and just look up the definition of free and see what it had to say about it. Interesting enough the majority of these real definitions began with the word NOT... in light of this I decided to draw up my own extended picture of what a free life looks like.

To be Free means:

1. NOT imprisoned- a life where nothing of this world whether it be good or bad has you trapped/controlled.

2.NOT under obligation- a life where every action is done from a love/desire that exist rather than done based on a rule or duty.

3.NOT afffected by circumstances or condition- a life where joy, peace, and love remain despite the troubles and trials faced.

4.NOT being occupied or used- a life where availability is regarded with upmost importance.

Through this time of reflection I caught a glimpse of life- the abundant and fulfilled life- as God intended us to live- completely and totally free in Him.

Remember: True freedom is a celebration, and it starts at the point of complete surrender unto a Holy God.

Disturb us Lord....

2009-10-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

Disturb us, Lord, when
We are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true

Because we have dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when
With the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wider seas
Where storms will show your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.
We ask You to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push into the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.
[Sir Francis Drake]

Prayer for today...

2009-10-14T07:15:00.000-07:00

"How lovely is Your dwelling place; Oh Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God!" Psalms 84:1-2

Good Friends and Great Laughs!

2009-10-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

You have all heard the phrase "laughter is the best medicine for the soul" and I believe it's true! No matter how bad of a day or stressful of a time I've had during the week, it never fails that when I get around these girls,

we laugh our heads off!!! I'm not just talking about a little giggle, I mean the kind of laughing that leaves your stomach feeling like you just finished doing about a thousand crunches! I'm so blessed to have an amazing group of solid, joy-filled,

sold-out for Christ ladies to be around!!!

Thanks girls for all the laughter you bring to my life!!!

Great Weekend in the ATL!

2009-10-05T10:06:00.000-07:00

I had such an amazing time this weekend in ATL

with these girls

celebrating this girl's up and coming weddinglearning from this woman

worshiping with this band

I love my life!

More pictures to come!

Bathroom Makeover...

2009-09-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

So I've decided my bathroom is in a desperate need for a makeover...

and SOON!!!

However, the budget IS most definitely limited....

Any ideas on how to recreate this look below on a budget????

PLEASE ALL WISDOM IS NEEDED!!!

I know the colors I want have to have grey, silver, and white...

(maybe a hint of teal for an accent color....)

and I KNOW that I want to use some sort of vinyl decal

on one wall for an accent

(much like the flowered wallpaper below).

So all you frugal designers.... I need some help! :)

Amazing Blog

2009-09-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

WARNING: This may be long but WELL worth the read!

Yesterday I was catching up on some blogs from over the weekend and my thoughts and attention were captured by what I found on Marianne from Haven and Home post from Sunday.
This beautiful young woman pictured below (Katie and her 13 daughters) is making such an impact for eternity through her selfless heart to love people right into the kingdom of God. Katie is a prime example on how one person, no matter the age, really can make a difference in the world! My heart reaches out to this newly discovered sister of mine... I believe in, pray, and support everything she is doing! Check out her blog @ kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com

Here's a small piece of her story found on one of her blogs from August: It has truly blessed my life beyond measure!

Friday, August 14, 2009

"It is my 16th Birthday and I am eating sushi at my favorite restaurant with my parents when I tell them that I would like to explore the possibility of taking a year in between high school and college to do mission work. This is unheard of in my family and they say they are not sure and will think about it. I am nervous, but somehow I know it is right. He changes their hearts.

I have just turned 18 and find an orphanage online. I beg my parents to let me visit over break, just three weeks. A month later I am on a plane. I am so excited. I am so scared of being, but I know He is going with me. I fall in love.I graduate high school having made the commitment to teach Kindergarten for a year at a school in The Middle of Nowhere, Uganda.

In August I get on the plane. I’m apprehensive and I cry most of the way because I miss my Mommy and my boyfriend. I am eager, but so uncertain. I trust Him. I teach 138 children how to speak English and to love Jesus.

It is October and I am just not sure I can do it anymore. I live in the smallest room I have ever seen in the back of a pastor’s house. I am more uncomfortable than I had bargained for. No one understands, not people here, not people at home. I am tired. But I am prideful and I am not going to quit. I don’t like this. But I know He has a plan. I learn, I grow, He is there.

It is December and God has spoken very clearly about opening a ministry that sponsors 40 of the orphaned children in the village where I am working. This involves moving into a different house, ALONE. It is big and I cannot imagine how God will fill it up. I am lonely and I am anxious. But I am still trusting. He fills the house, and we now have 400 children sponsored.

It is January and I am looking at a little girl, crushed under a brick wall with no one to care for her or her younger siblings. I offer to take the three home with me until we find them a better placement. I am not really sure what to do with them, but I know they are God’s children. They stay.

It is three days later and the littlest looks at me and calls me mommy. My heart might break in two. Something clicks. I am even more scared than I was the day I stepped on that plane, but I KNOW. Today I have 13.

I have to deliver a baby, give a boy stitches, pull a tooth, give and injection. I am petrified. But no one will do it if I do not. He is present, He holds my hand, they are all fine.

It is August and I must get on a plane back to America to go to college, as I have promised my father. I do not remember how to be a teenager or what it is to be normal Brentwood, Tennessee. I will have to leave my babies. I will have to make new friends. I am sad and I am terrified. He wraps His arms around me. He puts just the right people in just the right places, and they help me and they make me feel at home.

First semester is over and He speaks clearly to me that I cannot serve two masters. “Go HOME,” He says, “and stay.” I am uncertain, but I want to be obedient. He squeezes tighter. I am thankful.

I have to look at my loving parents who have given me everything and tell them that I will not go to college right now, because I feel God wants me to be in Uganda. I know how disappointed and how angry they will be. I am more scared than I was when I got on the plane and more scared than I was when I took my first children. But I know that this IS the Plan. They love me anyway.

It is February and my daughter’s biological father comes to take her away. My heart breaks in half, and I am not sure I will ever be able to get out of my bed again, let alone foster another child. I am more than devastated, but I want what is best for her, what He wants for her. She comes back and her biological father learns about Jesus.

It is March and a lame little girl is brought to my gate. She is undoubtedly mine, but I am still anxious. What if I can’t do it? I don’t know what to do with a special needs child, especially as my 13th child. I am criticized and ridiculed. I wonder. I trust and praise God for her sweet little life. She starts to walk.

I find myself in a village full of starving people that for some reason seem to want to kill me. God says to serve them anyway. I am not sure how it is going to work, or if it is safe. I can’t figure it out, but I know He can. 1,200 Karamajongs, the poorest of Uganda’s poor, are now served hot meals daily.We keep taking in more children until there are 400 in our program. There is no way we will raise enough funds, but by now I have stopped worrying. He has always provided. Blessings rain from the sky, and all 400 children go to school.

I am 20 years old and have 13 children and 400 more who all depend on me for their care. Who are all learning to love Jesus and be responsible adults and looking up to me. The reality of it all can be a bit overwhelming at times. However, it is always pure joy.

There is a common misconception that I am courageous. I will be the first to tell you that this is not actually true. Most of the time, I am not brave. I just believe in a God who will use me even though I am not. Most mornings, before I even get out of bed I am overwhelmed with His goodness, with His plan for my life; I stand in awe of the fact that He could entrust me with so much. Most days, I don’t have much of a plan. I don’t always know where this is going. I can’t see the end of the road, but here is the great part: Courage is not about knowing the path. It is about taking the first step. It is about Peter, getting out of the boat. I do not know my five year plan; even tomorrow will probably not go as I have planned. I am thrilled and I am terrified, in a good way. So some call it courage, some call it foolish, I call it Faith. I choose to get out of the boat. To take the next step. Sometimes I walk straight into His arms. More often, I get scared and look down and stumble. Sometimes I almost completely drown. And through it all, He never lets go of my hand. "

I see....

2009-09-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Today is a day I choose to see. To see the people that are walking right in front of me. To see their needs. To see their hurt. To see them, who they are, what they are about.

This morning I went to our middle school ministry (Redeemed) service; something I do most every Monday morning... but this morning was different. As I greeted each of the young students I didn't just give high fives and say the normal "Hey! How are ya!?!" without waiting for a reply. This morning God's grace gave me eyes to really see them.... and the results... well... one girl just lost a family member, she deserately needed someone to notice, and to hold her through the grieving pain she felt. My heart was overwhelmed as she clung to me like I was the first person to ever hug her; another young girl looks at me with weary eyes and says "Everyone in my family is fighting. They don't stop. It's all the time..." this one, even though she was opening up and reaching out, can't even seem to look me in the eye... she looks lost and alone... I long for her to know the love, joy, and peace that I have found in Christ; and still another crying comes out from behind me and grabs me around my waist... tears overflowing.... she just wants to be held.... she has stress at home, her mom is remarrying, she's moving away from all her friends... and she just needed someone to tell it's gonna be ok and hug her with the reassurance that God was there to comfort and hold her through the tough times.

May the Lord continue to give us "eyes to see the things that make His heart cry"

"Ears to hear and eyes to see— both are gifts from the Lord" Proverbs 20:12 NLT

CAN'T WAIT!!!

2009-09-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

In 6 weeks I'll be leaving the country to visit here....

I've never been out of the U.S., and what an amazing place to visit for my first trip, ISRAEL!!! I'm so excited and honestly CANNOT wait to get there! I've wanted to visit there ever since I was a little girl, and now through circumstances that ONLY GOD HIMSELF could have worked out, I have the opportunity to go!

I would like to put a disclaimer here; I know this is a random post but for some reason today I woke up and it's all I could think about!!!! YAY!!! :):):)

These are a few of my favorite things....

2009-09-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

This drink....need I say more... A nice grande skinny vanilla latte... yum!

This book... Amazing... All about living the life you were meant to live!

This nail polish...

in this color of course.... I'm obsessed with anything silver or grey :)

This Bronzer.... By NARS... from Sephora... introduced to it a few weeks ago and it has been a life saver! haha

And last but definitely NOT least...

These girls.... The most amazing group of women I've ever known!!! They are a constant encouragement and breath of fresh air everytime I'm around them!

Grace's Amazing Hands They Hold Me...

2009-09-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

OK I know that's a line from a Dave Barne's song... but it's been the underlining theme of my life...

Grace is typically defined as "getting something you don't deserve" Though this is true, left with that definition alone leaves me asking the question "Well, if that's true, what did I get?" :)

I think a lot of times we look to grace as a covering... which it MOST DEFINITELY IS! But I also believe there is another part to grace that we tend to forget. You are not only covered and clothed by the grace of God once you accept Jesus as your personal Savior, but you also are ENABLED and EMPOWERED by the grace of God to live out the life He has destined for you!

Ephesians 2:8-10
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." NIV

So God himself created us as His workmanship to do good works... and How are we to complete those works?

BY HIS GRACE!

It's only by His grace that we can do anything! His grace is what paves a way for the purposes on our life to be fulfilled!

Philippians 2:13 says;
"[Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight." AMP

I love the amplified version of this verse, because the very first thing Paul reassures this church is that it is NOT BY OUR OWN STRENGTH! Praise Jesus! If I were to try and please God and do all that He has called me to do out of my own strength I would surely fail!
I can gladly say this, because I know that I am an imperfect woman living in a fallen world. Which is exactly why His grace is so needed! I am in desperate need to be totally dependent upon His grace daily!

Paul continues expressing our need for God's grace in our lives through 2 Corinthians 12:
"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me......For when I am weak, then I am strong." NLT

Does that just bring a smile on your face to know that not only is it by God's grace that we are saved, but he also continually pours out His grace upon our lives to complete everything He's called us to do.... and EVEN WHEN WE ARE WEAK (dry, down, sick, tired, hurt, etc..) His GRACE is still there to be STRONG! In fact, it's ALL THE MORE STRONGER!

Thank you Jesus for your "Amazing Hands of Grace That Hold Me!"

Follow Friday

2009-09-18T09:06:00.001-07:00

Ok I don't have much time to post today....

So I'm just gonna leave you with....

My 5 Favorite Blogs to Follow:

1.)twoellie

2.)xoxo,trina

3.)Life

4.)His Heart for My Journey

5.)Little Green Notebook

Happy Friday Everyone!!!!

Amy Hawkins is in ENGAGED!!!!

2009-09-17T08:15:00.001-07:00

That's right my beautiful best friend is engaged to this awesome man of God! Their love story is one that will definitely make your heart skip a few!

They met our freshman year of college and the chemistry was there! It was then Paul and Amy began a friendship that would have it's definite ups and downs through the years. :) Throughout our years of college it was back and forth for these two... both desiring to be in the perfect will of God while dealing with the circumstances that this fallen world brings us. After college Paul went on to pursue his dreams of eventually being a pastor, while Amy stayed in Birmingham to continue raising her son, Nate, and become a teacher.

3 years down the road......

After 3 years of much praying and seeking God on Amy's behalf, Paul decides it's time to reunite! And WOW! It was a beautiful pursual! Over the past few months I've had the priviledge of seeing these two grow not only in their relationship with each other, but more importantly their relationship with God. God's perfect timing is a beautiful thing. His plans really are perfect, once we give Him the pen to write!

They now are mentoring young adults through their small group and continually seeking God on the next steps to take in life! I'm so honored to be apart of this amazing couples union in March! I know God has HUGE plans in store for them together! (along with little Nate!)

We celebrated this awesome couple's engagement with a dinner and some

sweet time with close friends!

Vivi Reborn Giveaway!!!

2009-09-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

Trina @ lalalovelythings is hosting a giveaway. To quote her:

"If you love vintage, you'll love Vivi Reborn. Vivi, simply means "to breath new life." Vivi Reborn boasts of vintage pieces that are "reborn" and styled for today. This sweet shop was created by a dear friend of mine, Rebekah Lyons along with Shannon Mescher and for these jewelry designers it is not just about making a product but also contributing to a sustainable lifestyle as well as giving back and helping women around the world launch their own businesses. "

I will have to say I'm IN LOVE with it all!

Go check out some of the beautiful pieces of jewelry on Etsy (http://www.vivireborn.etsy.com/)

My new Favorite thing... :)

2009-09-16T05:51:00.001-07:00

So last night while out to eat I HAD to borrow my friend's camera and snap a picture of my new favorite accessory that I mentioned a few days ago...

My mom found these earrings at a little boutique in our quaint little hometown of Hamilton, AL

I LOVE THEM!!!

AREN'T THEY ADORABLE?!!?!?!

And of course I had to have a picture of me actually wearing them... :):):)

These were taken last night while out to eat for a special celebration involving this lovely group of people... more to come on them tomorrow!!! :):):)

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!!!

Nurture Bible Study!

2009-09-15T05:43:00.000-07:00

Starting This Sunday!!!!

6:00 p.m.

My house

For women and girls of ALL ages!!

We will be using DVD teachings from this amazing woman of God, Lisa Bevere.

For more information just email me at amiknight@hotmail.com

"There is a stirring, a gathering, and an awakening
happening around the world. Women are rising to
take their place, find their voice, and connect for
strength and destiny. It is our season to flourish.
To see this happen, Nurture, the language of the
feminine heart, must be spoken by women of
every age group. This book will position you to
take your place as part of the company of women
arising to change their world!"

Psalm 139

2009-09-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

So I just had to do another post... Last night we had girls only worship and prayer time at my house. It was amazing... God moved, lives were encouraged, and destinies released... This was the scripture that set the tone for the whole night... Read it and just sit back and worship God right where you are... worship Him for how great He is, how marvelous His plan is, and how wonderful it is to know that He can be trusted...
God thank you that we can rest in assurance that you are in control!

Psalm 139 (the message)
A David Psalm 1-6

God, investigate my life; get all the facts firsthand.

I'm an open book to you;

even from a distance, you know what I'm thinking.

You know when I leave and when I get back;

I'm never out of your sight.

You know everything I'm going to saybefore I start the first sentence.

I look behind me and you're there,

then up ahead and you're there, too—

your reassuring presence, coming and going.

This is too much, too wonderful—

I can't take it all in!

7-12 Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?

to be out of your sight?

If I climb to the sky, you're there!

If I go underground, you're there!

If I flew on morning's wings

to the far western horizon,

You'd find me in a minute—

you're already there waiting!

Then I said to myself, "Oh, he even sees me in the dark!

At night I'm immersed in the light!"

It's a fact: darkness isn't dark to you;

night and day, darkness and light, they're all the same to you.

13-16 Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out;

you formed me in my mother's womb.

I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking!

Body and soul, I am marvelously made!

I worship in adoration—what a creation!

You know me inside and out,

you know every bone in my body;

You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit,

how I was sculpted from nothing into something.

Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth;

all the stages of my life were spread out before you,

The days of my life all prepared

before I'd even lived one day.

17-22 Your thoughts—how rare, how beautiful!

God, I'll never comprehend them!

I couldn't even begin to count them—

any more than I could count the sand of the sea.

Oh, let me rise in the morning and live always with you!

And please, God, do away with wickedness for good!

And you murderers—out of here!—

all the men and women who belittle you, God,

infatuated with cheap god-imitations.

See how I hate those who hate you, God,

see how I loathe all this godless arrogance;

I hate it with pure, unadulterated hatred.

Your enemies are my enemies!

23-24 Investigate my life, O God,

find out everything about me;

Cross-examine and test me,

get a clear picture of what I'm about;

See for yourself whether I've done anything wrong—

then guide me on the road to eternal life.

Sunday Shopping Adventure...

2009-09-14T06:44:00.000-07:00

This Sunday for lunch my parents and I decided to choose a place to eat outside where we could enjoy the beautiful day... However, while outside I think I got bit by that infamous shopping bug that lurks around every time I have a little free time on my hands. So with the help of a mother who felt like blessing her only daughter that bug took over my wonderful Sunday afternoon.... :)

Here are some of my weekend findings....

First of all this is not the exact hat that was purchased but I couldn't find the one that I got online.... take away the buckles and mine has three little buttons on the side... it was a pretty good buy for only $7.50!!!

This coming up weekend I have yet another wedding to attend and now that we are moving into fall I felt it was necessary for a fall colored dress to wear to this special occassion :)

(I bought a few accessories to pair with this including a thing brown belt and some dark brown tights... not so sure if they will be kept or not.... )

And thanks to my beautiful, fashion forward, friend Trina I was inspired to try out this cute peacock shirt (i'm actually wearing it today :)) She has an obsession for peacock feathers and it's starting to rub off... :)

I paired this shirt with this necklace and some simple silver and yellow earings.... (p.s. the necklace and earings were definitely on clearance! Gotta love those deals!)

And last but not least.... my new Lucky purse... it's really more of a "winter white" than this plain white... and I love it!

There were a few other miscellaneous items that were purchased, including some adorable earings that I don't have a picture of. They were found at a little boutique in my hometown that recently opened.... whenever I get my hands on a camera I'll have to share because they are my new favorite accessory!!!

Overall it was a fun little shopping trip... OH and before I forget... THANKS MOM!!! :)

9/11

2009-09-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

I was sitting in my Senior Government/Economics class when my father (the high school principal), the librarian, and the Senior English class from down the hall filed in to our classroom. As our teacher turned on the television, this is what we saw....

I'll never forget the stillness of that room, as most of my senior class sat together speechless. History was being written right before our eyes. Unsure and a little frightened about what the future held... it was a moment in time I will never forget.

Houszz

2009-09-10T07:40:00.000-07:00

A Special thanks to twoellie...

I have now found a new website fascination... :)
Houzz is a great website where you can get beautiful home decorating ideas... I have already started my own ideabook with tons of traditional/ecletic ideas of my ideal future home.. :)

Here a few pics I've already stored.....

I'm IN LOVE with these homes... :)

First of all I love love love the mirrors hanging on the wall and

the wooden table is a must to have in my furture abode... :)

(I just want a darker wood though)

This kitchen I think speaks for itself... but might I draw your eyes to the beautiful scrolling on the wooden beams... :) makes my heart smile!

Apparently I have a thing for scrolling on the wall because the whole reason I added this one is because of the artwork behind the bed... yet again... heart is smiling at this pleasant sight... :)

Now this pic I didn't find on the website but I found yesterday and I had to add it. If I was to have a dream bedroom this would be it... the exposed brick... the chandelier... the girlie elegance of it all... ahhh... one day...... {don't you just want to crawl up in that bed with a good book? :)}

I'm sure there are many more photos I'll be adding to my ideabook... :)

That's all for now!

Wednesday's Wisdom... :)

2009-09-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."

Proverbs 10:19 NIV

The Message reads:

"The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words."

Let's use wisdom today and WATCH OUR WORDS!!

The power of LIFE and DEATH are in our tongues!

FALL!

2009-09-04T06:26:00.001-07:00

I LOVE FALL!

Because...

the weather is perfect to be outside in and the tree colors are brilliant....

pumpkin carvin' and decorating is the best... not to mention pumpkin pie (YUM!)

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST......

3 Words only.....

RRROOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLL

TIDE ROLE!!!!

Something NEW!

2009-09-01T09:55:00.001-07:00

So today I had some extra time at work and

just felt like doing something new for the blog!!!! :)

Hope you like!

Do Not Lose Heart!

2009-08-31T07:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever just had one of those days where noting was going right and no matter what you did you just couldn't "pull it together?" I have had MANY days like that. Days where when it rained it most definitely poured! It's usually those days where I just want to throw in the towel and scream "I'm DONE!"

This week I've been reading in 2 Corinthians chapter 4 and as I read it I'm a bit envious of Paul's enthusiasm and determination through the toughest times.
He writes in verses 8-10: "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body"

WOW!!! What Faith!! What Assurance!! What Confidence!!

This was a man who understood what a life truly surrendered really looked like and was driven by a solid passion that screamed "Not my will God, But YOURS be done!"

So I guess what I'm trying to say is:

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all! So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." vs. 14-18

I'M BACK!

2009-08-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

So I'm finally getting a chance to blog again. Over the summer I had limited access to a computer due to my laptop coming down with a cold... actually it was more like phenumonia! :) Anywho now that I'm back at work I hope to be posting more frequently!

To catch you up on things... Here's a few highlights from my life right now: :)

1.) I am still apart of the most amazing ministry ever! (i'm a little bias) THE BASEMENT!!!

Last night was our first service at our new location and it was incredible. God is blowing me away at the work He is doing through this ministry! Souls are being saved, Churches are uniting, and future leaders are being raised up!!! It's quite amazing to me! I'm so blessed to be a part of it. If you want to know more check out http://www.thebasementonline.com/

2.) This summer I celebrated my 25th birthday ( I know I know... half way to 50) haha But it was the BEST!!! My friends threw me a wonderful party that involved; dinner, something sweet, a blindfolded drive through who knows where, and a WHOLE lot of people that could barely fit in my house!!! (not to mention a cop showed up to find out what all the cars were doing... prob. the first time they had come up to a celebration like that with a bunch of radical Jesus lovin' people! no worries we didn't get in trouble! she was just checkin on things.)

3.)Also, for my bday my parents got me a puppy... well let me say a REALLY BIG puppy. Her name is Annie and she is a blue merle Catahoola leopard mix (prob. mixed with australian sheperd) She is so cute and sweet! I know what your thinking... a catawhat? haha I didn't know either I just thought she was adorable.... and she's smart too!!! Already house broken... now we're working on the chewing up stuff part.... BE IN PRAYER for that one!

4.) School is back in session so I'm back with a whole new set of lovely 4th graders! they are great! I'm enjoying every minute of it!!!

5.) Last but not least... Every Sunday night there is a group of amazing young women gathering together for prayer and worship at my house. God is moving in all of us as we seek His heart together. There is so much fruit coming out of these nights to seek the Kingdom. Just last week I had in my own life 5 different people who have come back to the Lord!!! Praise Jesus!!! So many other testimonies are coming out of these nights and all glory goes to our God!!! It's amazing what happens when you truly live by the verse: "Seek first the kingdom of God and THEN all these things will be added unto you!"

That's what's up in my life!!! Hopefully I'll get back in the swing of things of this again soon!

2009-05-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

"When a man's ways please the LORD,

he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him."

Proverbs 16:7

ROMANS 13:8-14

2009-05-13T08:42:00.001-07:00

"8 Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God’s law."

"9 For the commandments say, “You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not covet.” These—and other such commandments—are summed up in this one commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law.""11 This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living."

"13 Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarreling and jealousy. 14 Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires."

Mothers

2009-05-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend is mother's day and so in lieu of this we are making Mother's Day Cards/Poems in my class. I decided to go with a simple acrostic poem, thinking it would be the easiest for them. Together we brainstormed different ways to describe our mothers. Then I gave them each the chance to describe their own mother using the ideas we had come up with. Here are a few examples of what the kids had to say about their mothers. I thought it was precious!

What would your "Mothers" acrostic poem say? :)

(I'll hopefully get a chance to post about the most amazing mother in the world

later this weekend... MY very own momma!!)

Something new to my ears....

2009-04-27T06:23:00.000-07:00

This week I had ordered this CD and have been patiently waiting for it to arrive at my doorstep. I came across a YouTube video of this beautiful young lady leading worship and fell in love with her new songs instantly. I already have some other songs of hers, but this new album blew me away. It finally arrived on Saturday afternoon and has not left my CD player since! I highly encourage you to buy this CD because every song breathes the pure presence of God!

The entire CD is amazing, but my favorite song would have to be the last one

(#12) "You Are For Me"

Here are the lyrics. I hope they encourage you as they have me this weekend. Rest assure that He, the Almighty One, is For YOU!

"You are For Me" By Kari Jobe

So faithful So constant

So loving and so true So powerful in all you do

You fill me You see me

You know my every move You love for me to sing to you

I know that you are for me

I know that you will never forsake me in my weakness

I know that you have come down

Even if to write upon my heart

To remind me who you are

So patient So gracious

So merciful and true So wonderful in all you do

You fill me You see me

You know my every move You love for me to sing to you

I know that you are for me

I know that you will never forsake me in my weakness

I know that you have come down

Even if to write upon my heart

To remind me that

I know that you are for me

I know that you will never forsake me in my weakness

I know that you have come down

Even if to write upon my heart

To remind me who you are

Undivided

2009-04-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

"Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an UNDIVIDED heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me;"

Undivided can be defined as "not parted by conflict of opinion."

Sometimes.... well... a lot of times... even more honestly... MOST of the time there is a conflict in my heart. It's one that rages against what I desire and understand to be and what God desires and is! It's a battle against truth and lies. One against what is and what only appears to be. I so often forget that God's love is perfect, his truth is faultless, and his ways are far above mine. I forget that I don't know it all. I can't see the whole picture, only God can. He sees what's ahead and everything He allows to unfold in my life (no matter how much I don't agree sometimes) is really out of His love, protection, faithfulness, and His desire that all things will work out for my GOOD!

My prayer is that my opinion and idea of what is "good" would go and I would come into agreement with anything and everything His heart desires, trusting in His unfailing love toward me, and not limiting Him and His goodness!!!

"I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord."
1 Corinthians 7:35
~May we all live with UNDIVIDED devotion to our Lord!!!

"I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God." Ezekiel 11:19-20

"Do you really care?"

2009-04-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

"Do you really care?" That question has played over and over again in my mind. It's a question that weighs my heart, motives, and actions.
Do I really care about the people that are around me, let alone the people that are not around...
Do I really care about the souls that are lost and have no knowledge of the unconditional love that my Savior has for them...
Do I really care about children around the world who are being taken and abused, who have lost all sense of their childhood innocence...
Do I really care about the prostitute who has given everything she has away not realizing how valuable she really is...
Do I really care about the drunk homeless man lying on the street whom some look to as a waste but whom God declared was made in HIS image with a purpose....
Do I really care?

"This is how we've come to understand and experience love: Christ sacrificed his life for us. This is why we ought to live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves. If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love? It disappears. And you made it disappear.

My dear children, let's not just talk about love; let's practice real love. This is the only way we'll know we're living truly, living in God's reality"

1 John 3 16-19 (The Message)

Nothing compares to Him!

2009-04-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

I know it has been awhile since I've posted... The Lord has been so good to me and I've so enjoyed walking through this Easter season with Him. I know more of His love for me today than ever before! I will try to post updates this week on the things He's been teaching me.... but for now I will just leave this Psalm, which has been my hearts cry throughout today! Nothing compares to the presence of my King!

Psalm 84 (Amplified Bible)
To the Chief Musician; set to a Philistine lute, or [possibly] a particular Gittite tune. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.
1HOW LOVELY are Your tabernacles, O Lord of hosts!
2My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God.
3Yes, the sparrow has found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young--even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
4Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are those who dwell in Your house and Your presence; they will be singing Your praises all the day long. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
5Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whose strength is in You, in whose heart are the highways to Zion.
6Passing through the Valley of Weeping (Baca), they make it a place of springs; the early rain also fills [the pools] with blessings.
7They go from strength to strength [increasing in victorious power]; each of them appears before God in Zion.
8O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
9Behold our shield [the king as Your agent], O God, and look upon the face of Your anointed!
10For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand [anywhere else]; I would rather be a doorkeeper and stand at the threshold in the house of my God than to dwell [at ease] in the tents of wickedness.
11For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
12O Lord of hosts, blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts in You [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You, and that without fear or misgiving]!

YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!!!!!!

2009-04-06T11:52:00.000-07:00

THE BASEMENT

6:30 p.m. Central

CATHEDRAL OF THE CROSS

BIRMINGHAM, AL 35215

WATCH LIVE @

www.thebasementlive.com

To all the ladies...

2009-03-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

"The Lord gives the word [of power]; the women who bear
and publish [the news] are a great host."
Psalms 68:11

It is an awesome and beautiful thing when women come together in unity to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ! May we all seek to live lives that reflect a Proverbs 31 woman. Together lets encourage one another to be women of faith, excellence, purity, wisdom, strength, and confidence!

To quote Lisa Bevere, "You are an ANSWER, not a problem!"
Be someone's answer of HOPE today!

"Give Freely Love Unconditionally!"

2009-03-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

Since the beginning of this year I have been on a search to discover what unconditional love really is, what it looks like in my life, and deciphering if the love I try to show is the True Love of my Heavenly Father.
I have a deep genuine love for people, but I have struggled with really letting that be seen. The past few months God has just wrecked me with an overwhelming since of compassion and love for people. He has given me such a desire to build relationships and meet people where they are. But what does that mean and how does that look in my everyday life?
The bible gives such a clear description of what our lives should look like when we are truly loving people with a selfless love in one of the most memorized and quoted scriptures of all times. John 3:16 says:"for God SO LOVED the world that HE GAVE..." God loved us so much He simply gave... He gave up everything... He freely gave up His life because He was so moved with compassion and love for you and for me!! How beautiful and sweet is that!!!
I have been asking the Lord to give me practical ways to REALLY love people in my life and all I ever feel like He tells me to do is: "Give freely and love unconditionally" After a few weeks of trying all kinds of tactics to make those words a reality in my life, I realized this simply phrase just had to become the driving force behind all my actions. The Lord was simply trying to show me all I have to do is generously give of myself... everything... my time, belongings, finances... everything! My life really isn't my own and knowing that brings freedom to my heart!
My home has become, once again, an open door to house anyone and everyone; stranger or friend, my possessions are merely items to bless others with and bring smiles to their faces, my time is valuable and is spent for purposes that build the kingdom not simply to satisfy my wants. This journey of life is amazing!!

Yesterday as I was doing some reading before I went to work the Lord gave me a verse that encouraged me as I'm learning all of this: Proverbs 11:25 says "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
I look at that and I'm encouraged to know that as I waste my life giving of myself I really am being refreshed and filled. It's the most rewarding feeling to know you are impacting someone's life for eternity!
I want to encourage you try living your life for others.... giving freely of yourself and watch how it refreshes you. As crazy as it sounds it really is more blessed to give than receive.
Don't think to hard about it... the best place to start is simply loving the person right in front of you.

Iwant to leave you with this passage of scripture from Luke 6 that encouraged me this morning... This is REAL love!
27"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you.
32"If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. 34And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full. 35But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. 36Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. 37"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Goin' to the Chapel... :)

2009-03-10T10:04:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday we went out to support our amazing sister in Christ, Kandace, as she ventured into her next journey of life. She was married to a wonderful man named Michael. It was a BEAUTIFUL ceremony and a reception full of fun! I am so excited for them and can't wait to see how God uses these two amazing servants of Christ!

April, Me and Trina

on our way....

Me and Savannah after the ceremony

Coming down the aisle in her daddy's arm!

Kandace and Michael

What beautiful, pure, and devoted love!

Arise and Stand

2009-03-03T08:08:00.000-08:00

At night, as I doze off to dreamland, I usually spend some time just talking with the Lord. About the days events, what's in store for tomorrow, where my heart is at that moment, and so forth. Last night, I decided to just listen... as I did this my heart was stirred and I felt the Spirit of God so real to me say, "It's time for my daughters to arise and stand. To stand for purity, holiness, dignity, and strength. To not be held captive by their insecurities, unbelief, or fear." I heard it over and over again; "It's time for my daughters to arise and stand!"
I felt an urgency in me that right now there is a lack of daughters who are moving in the fullness of God's power and might that He has for them. Instead of standing, they are being held down by lies and feelings of unworthiness. There is a lack of confidence that we so often see in the women written about in the Word of God. So, where has that confidence been hidden? Where do we find the confidence to stand in the midst of adversity, trial, pain, and heartache?
To stand for something it takes boldness, confidence. To know who you are, and who you were created for. The Word of God says, "BY Him and FOR Him all things were created" Knowing that I was created by God Almighty for His purposes brings strength to my frail body. If He brought me to this place for HIS working then I should have no problem in living confidently in this time, no matter what the season of life brings my way.
Daughters of God, my sisters, DO NOT be silenced by any earthly weakness, but Arise and Stand! Live out loud the plan God has created for you and only you!

Here are some amazing women who have decided to not be held back by anything! They have decided to walk confidently with the Lord in all His plans!

I love you girls!!!

Check out whosoeverwomen.blogspot.com to find out more information on how you can get connected with these awesome girls!

TONIGHT!!!!!

2009-02-24T08:48:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!!! I CAN'T WAIT FOR TONIGHT!!!

The Basement

www.thebasementonline.com

6:30 p.m. @Cathedral of the Cross Birmingham, AL

or watch live on

www.bmissionmedia.com

The Basement has been such a huge part of my life for over three years now and with every passing day I see God move HUGE in the lives of the people that this ministry is reaching! I'm so thankful to be apart of such an amazing team! This is a team who has laid their lives down to see God's kingdom come on this Earth! The sacrifices they make never seem to end! Y'all are amazing! Thank you for raising the bar! Thank you for showing what it means to take up your cross and follow Jesus in everything! You all truly have grasped the verse "by Him and for Him all things were created" May everything we do be unto our Lord!

OUCHIE!!! :(

2009-02-20T10:04:00.000-08:00

Ok... for those of you who don't already know this I coach a 5th grade girls basketball team, which I LOVE! It's awesome to be able to hang out with these beautiful girls AND play basketball all at the same time!
Well.... yesterday.... I decided to scrimmage with them and while doing so the game got a little.... ummm... well I guess you could say It got rough.... lol I'm pretty competitive and so are they!!! So as you can imagine with no referees there was all sorts of injuries and fouls taking place!

With that being said... one of the girls on my team at one point got stuck with the ball and two defenders on her... I quickly go towards her to help her out and say "Throw it!" and boy did she throw it!!! She defnitely threw it as hard as she could not realizing I was maybe 2 feet away from her!! As I put my hand up to stop it sure enough it got me!!! Well at least it got my right pinkie... I immediatly fell to the ground squeezing my hand(thinking this would be a good way to release the pain?) And because I couldn't bear the thought of crying in front of my girls (pride maybe??) I just decided to laugh to myself! (definitely not a whole hearted laugh if you can imagine...) After a few minutes of pacing back and forth, laughing (or trying to...), and not letting ANYONE touch or come near me; I finally got the courage to look at it, and sure enough it was already bruising and swelling! Luckily, I will say, I don't think its broken just jammed really bad, but I will be without a pinkie in use for a few days. It's taped up with my ring finger and I'm surprisingly ignoring the pain enough to function! (Did I mention I have a horribly low pain tolerance!)
Who knew playing around with an 11 year old could inflict so much pain! :)

So I just wanted to share my ouchie with you all so... well so MAYBE I could get some sympathy love! :):):):):) hahaha If not at least it'll be a good thing to laugh about!
Love You All!!!

Crazy Love

2009-02-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

Over the past few days I have been reading a new book; Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God By Francis Chan. This book has completely rocked my world. It has put a new hunger, passion, and longing for the Lord inside of me. If you are hungry for more of God and long for a deeper understanding of Him and His love then you have got to read this book! To find out more click on the title and go check out it's website. It has great videos too!

Anywho... with that said I am just going to take out a small portion of it that has rocked me today!
Looking at the scripture in Matthew 25 where Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
Chan poses the question: "How would my life change if I actually thought of each person I came into contact with as Christ- the person driving painfully slow in front of me, the checker at the grocery store who seems more interested in chatting that ringing up my items, the member of my own family with whom I can't seem to have a conversation and not get annoyed?"
He says, "that if we believe that, as Jesus said, the two greatest commandments are to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and to love your neighbor as yourself.' Then God is forming a connection here; by loving "the least of these" we are loving God Himself.
Jesus is trying to show us that we show tangible love for God in how we care for the poor and those who are suffering. He expects us to treat them as if they are Christ Himself. "

Look around today and look for Christ in your co-workers, your friends, your family members... I bet it won't be near as hard to love them then! :) Let's let everything we do today be unto our loving Father! Let's live out some Crazy Love for Jesus!

He Loves Us! Oh How He Loves Us!

2009-02-13T06:37:00.000-08:00

"You must worship no other gods, for the Lord, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you." Exodus 34:14

"I have loved you with an everlasting love" Jeremiah 31:3

Happy (early) Valentine's Day to you all!!!

Remember the Lord is Jealous for you!

He waits in eager expectation for you to look His way!

To hear you mention His name sends chills up his spine.

Your splendor and beauty brings tears of love to his eyes!

No one will ever love you like He does.

For His love for us is PERFECT!!!

To my Girls.... :)

2009-02-12T10:18:00.001-08:00

A friend loveth at all times....

And they will know we are His disciples by our love....

I am so thankful for these wonderful women of God... they have each been perfectly placed in my life by our loving Father! These are what I like to call Sisters for Life! I love you all!!!

Happy Valentine's Day from My Class!!!

2009-02-12T06:46:00.001-08:00

Every Leader is a Reader

2009-02-09T09:47:00.000-08:00

Someone once told me "Every leader is a reader"

I thrive on reading books by amazing women of God who have gone before me and really pioneered the way for young women of God to succeed in their walks with God. I often look at these women as mentors... even though they don't know me. Through their writings I have been challenged, shaped, encouraged, and trained in my walk with God.

Titus 2:4 says "older women must train the younger women...

This isn't a simply suggestion it's a command...

Your walk with Christ is not always going to be easy, but God has giving us tools to help us along the way... one being mentors/mothers who who love the Lord with all their hearts and live their lives to help seeing us, the younger women, not make the same mistakes they did.

Even if you don't have someone in your life physically that you can go to I challenge you to pick up a good book and learn for women like: Joyce Meyer, Lisa Bevere, Beth Moore... and MANY more!

Here are 2 books I recently purchased on Joyce Meyer's Clearance section! Some great deals to start your own little library of discipleship at an affordable price!

Today!

2009-02-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

Psalms 90:12 & 17
“12 So teach us to number our days, that we may get us a heart of wisdom.”
“17 And let the beauty and delightfulness and favor of the Lord our God be upon us; confirm and establish the work of our hands--yes, the work of our hands, confirm and establish it.”

I was reading a book Driven by Eternity, by John Bevere, and on the very first page a quote he said wrecked me! It said, "Many things lost in life can be restored; however, time misused can never be recovered.”
Are you driven by eternity today?

Be reminded that everyday is a day that God wants to use you!
You are His vessels put on Earth to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ!

What were you put on this Earth to do today?

Remember:

Today is a day of purpose and of destiny.

God fashioned and formed you for just such a time!

Candice and Mattie Tied the Knot!!!

2009-01-29T08:02:00.001-08:00

January 24, 2009

Here are the two love birds!! Aren't they sweet!!!

"Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me."

Ruth 1:16-17

She was so excited to be married!! She makes the most BEAUTIFUL bride!

"Husbands, go all out in your love for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church—a love marked by giving, not getting. Christ's love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything he does and says is designed to bring the best out of her, dressing her in dazzling white silk, radiant with holiness. And that is how husbands ought to love their wives"
Ephesians 5:25-28 (The Message)

We were so excited to see these two unite together as one!
The Lord is going to use these two HUGE to make such an impact for the Kingdom of God!
We LOVE both of you SO much!

Wake Up Sleepyhead!!!

2009-01-29T07:41:00.000-08:00

Psalms 24:7-10

"7.Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter. 8 Who is the King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty; the Lord, invincible in battle. 9 Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter. 10 Who is the King of glory? The Lord of Heaven’s Armies— he is the King of glory."

This was one of the scriptures I was reading in my One Year Bible today and it really just fired me up!!! I can almost hear the excitement and the determination in David's voice as he pronounces the coming King!!!

I was actually so excited when i read it that I looked up what it says in the Message bible... it kind of made me laugh a little since it was 5:00 a.m. haha :)

Psalms 24:7-10 (The Message)

7 Wake up, you sleepyhead city! Wake up, you sleepyhead people! King-Glory is ready to enter. 8 Who is this King-Glory? God, armed and battle-ready. 9 Wake up, you sleepyhead city! Wake up, you sleepyhead people! King-Glory is ready to enter. 10 Who is this King-Glory? God-of-the-Angel-Armies: he is King-Glory.

Make sure your not asleep for the King of Glory is READY!!!!

My prayer for our city is that we would be awake and alert to what our God is constantly doing in our midst. Thank you Jesus for your presence and glory that you lavish on us everyday!

DON'T MISS IT!!!

2009-01-26T13:05:00.000-08:00

The Basement

@ Cathedral of the Cross

6:30 P.M.

BE THERE!!!!

Small Group Tonight!!!

2009-01-22T10:38:00.000-08:00

Tonight Savannah and I start our new small group, which we are SO excited about!

We will be hanging out, getting to know each other, and talking about our value in God's eyes.

To often we measure ourselves by what this world sees as valuable. We find our worth by how much money we make, what job we have,the relationships we are in, and so on. We hope that through this small group we can encourage one another to see ourselves as God see us.

When He looks at you all He sees is a beautiful picture of His Son. He sees someone who is WORTH dying for! How awesome is that!

For those of you who can't join us tonight; here's our scripture verse for this week!

I encourage you to print it off and put it somewhere you will regularly see to remind yourself how precious and loved you are by our Heavenly Father!

You Were Made For This!

2009-01-20T06:35:00.000-08:00

The Basement

TONIGHT @ Cathedral of the Cross

6:30 p.m.

Great is Thy Faithfulness!

2009-01-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" Lamentations 3:21-23

This hymn was first introduced in Great Britain in 1954 by the Billy Graham Crusades. It speaks of God's faithfulness throughout all eternity. Even when we are faithless He is STILL faithful!

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS
Verse 1
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not: As thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
Chorus:
Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, Morning by morning new mercies I see: All I have needed Thy hand hath provided Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
Verse 2
Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon and stars in their courses above, Join with all nature in manifold witness To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
Verse 3
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Daughters of the King of Kings!

2009-01-14T06:45:00.000-08:00

Philippians 4:19 “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”

Are you ready for a breakthrough?

The Lord has been teaching me about our inheritance as His children... I love this verse because it reminds me that I can rest assure that the Lord will supply all my needs whether it be financial, spiritual, or physical!

So let's have confidence as His daughters, heirs to His throne that our King watches over us day and night... never sleeping.. ALWAYS on time to wipe the tears, bandages the scratches, and erase all the mistakes!

Meet me at the Basement! It's Goin' Down!!

2009-01-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

TONIGHT

CATHEDRAL OF THE CROSS

6:30

BE THERE!!!!

"Let ALL that I am PRAISE YOU LORD!"

2009-01-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

I love Psalms... I love the songs of worship that float from David's heart. It's evident that in any and all circumstances He was after God! NOT letting up, NOT giving up, NOT backing away. Just because trouble was lurking...
David realized the GOODNESS of God and through that revelation there was an overwhelming flow of PRAISE for the One TRUE living, breathing, personal, and everlasting God!!

Psalms 103 is a song about this One that David so deeply loves....
The One who "forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies and fills my life with good things." The One who "gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly." The One who "is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love" The One whose "unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth!" The One who "has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west" The One who is "like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him" The One whose "Love remains FOREVER!"

YES!!! HE Is the ONE!! The ONE that my heart loves!!! So I boldy say with David knowing the true goodness of the gospel.. "Let ALL that I am praise the Lord!"

So... what is your PTL today? (PTL- means praise the lord)

It's a New Year!

2009-01-09T08:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

(9 days into it haha)

So, while in the busy chaos of starting back to school and wheening off of the holiday hype I have finally made my resolution for this new year...............
My resolution for 2009 is....... to ACTUALLY keep up with my blogposts! HAHA After being so excited about it the first month... I've just kind of forgotten about it....

SO dear friends YOU are my accountability!! If I am not keeping up with this blogspot on a regular basis you have free reign to let me know! :)

Hope you all have had a wonderful start to this new year and my prayer for us all is that we will "continue to grow in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man!" Luke 2:52

P.S. Go check out the newest addition to our blogging world.... The (not so) secret life of a Jesus lovin' Diva!

UPDATE!

2008-12-04T08:06:00.000-08:00

Ok... I know... it's been a few weeks... or like a month since i've signed in and updated... BUT
the Good news is that God has been doing a lot in me. Teaching me so many things straight from His Word that I feel like a completely different person. The Bible teaches us that His Word is living and active! It's there for guidance, comfort, and encouragement. Which is exactly what I have felt over the past month.

Another thing i'm super excited about is THE HOLIDAYS!!!! I love this time of year! It's such a precious time because I have extra time to spend with the ones I love. My friends who have always been there to encourage me in my faith and lift me up and my family who I love so dearly! I couldn't ask for a better life. I have felt so blessed just by the people that the Lord has surrounded me with!
This weekend I'll be heading to TN/KY to visit with my family. My bro is on leave and just got in two days ago from Afganistan!!! SO excited about this! He is so awesome! I love having an older brother who's always there for me and I'm just so proud of him for what he's doing! Soooo we'll be spending family time watching the SEC CHAMPIONSHIP!!! (ROLL TIDE!!!!! btw!:) )
Anyways... there's my update.. I'll probably have pics from this weekend. Mom just got her a new camera! haha

REFLECTIONS

2008-11-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

"I will give thanks to the LORD according to His righteousness And will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High." Pslam 7:17

So this is my birthday verse... (July 17th :) )

AND I love it because it says that we are to worship the Lord according to HIS RIGHTEOSNESS!

This verse just reminds me it's not by my own righteousness or lack of.. but according to HIS because in Him and through Him (Jesus Christ) we have been made right with our heavenly Father and He no longer see us for the filthy rags we are but as new creations; the very reflection of His Son!!! Because of His beautiful righteosness we now have the oppurtunity to walk in sweet communion with our Lord and enjoy the comfort of His presence in the midst of all of life's storms!

JESUS I LOVE YOU!

Impressions

2008-10-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am a dreamer at heart... and an Idealist really. With that comes BIG dreams and ideas that I have for my life that sometimes seem outlandish to people. I just love the idea of the impossible becoming possible. The coolest thing to me about God is that WITH God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!
So, how do our dreams and ideas become realities ? Well, one of the best lessons I've ever learned was to WAIT UPON THE LORD. What that means is just because you dream it up Monday doesn't mean it's time to act on it Tuesday! My heart is to continually stay in the path my Father above has for me.... to do that we must wait... and in His perfect timing our deepest desires, our dreams that have yet been seen will ALL come to pass!
I would never want to step out of God's timing because the will of God MINUS the timing of God equals the absence of God.

The following is a devotional from the book "Streams in the Desert" This encouraged me in the waiting. I hope it encourages you!!!!

"The ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them" (Num. 10:33).
God does give us impressions, but not that we should act on them as impressions. If the impression be from God, He will Himself give sufficient evidence to establish it beyond the possibility of a doubt.
How beautiful is the story of Jeremiah, of the impression that came to him respecting the purchase of the field of Anathoth. But Jeremiah did not act upon this impression until after the following day, when his uncle's son came to him and brought him external evidence by making a proposal for the purchase. Then Jeremiah said: "I knew this was the word of the Lord."
He waited until God seconded the impression by a providence, and then he acted in full view of the open facts, which could bring conviction unto others as well as to himself. God wants us to act according to His mind. We are not to ignore the Shepherd's personal voice but, like Paul and his companions at Troas, we are to listen to all the voices that speak and "gather" from all the circumstances, as they did, the full mind of the Lord. --Dr. Simpson
"Where God's finger points, there God's hand will make the way."
Do not say in thine heart what thou wilt or wilt not do, but wait upon God until He makes known His way. So long as that way is hidden it is clear that there is no need of action, and that He accounts Himself responsible for all the results of keeping thee where thou art. --Selected
"For God through ways we have not known, Will lead His own."

New Perspective!

2008-10-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Ok I'm not that good at this whole keeping up with my blog thing especially since I don't have internet at home.... But I wanted to do a post real quick about last night....

So, I'm doing this Philippians study right now that I meant to start this summer and never did. Anywho, after last night I felt so FULL from just Chapter 1! It's all about having JOY in the midst of your circumstances. Right now the focus is having a Right perspective on things.
This is what I've been learning:
Knowing and Understanding your purpose will change your perspective on your circumstances. If we know our purpose it will be reflected by our perspective on life.
As Christians our purpose is all the same to GLORIFY GOD in EVERYTHING... TO KNOW HIM AND MAKE HIM KNOWN!
If that's our purpose then our perspective on our problems changes because our purpose is not on ourselves or our own achievement but on Christ and WHO HE IS IN US!
Paul understood his purpose so dispite the hardships he faced: 1Corinthians chapter 11 tells us of just some of his trials:
"I have been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches."
Even as he writes what is known as the sweetest of all the letters to the Phillipian church he was sitting in a prison for preaching the gospel.
So where does he find his JOY? Through understanding his purpose! That's why he says in
1 Corinthians 9:26 "So I run with purpose in every step.."
Because He did this:
1.)He was able to view that jail sail as an opportunity rather than an opposition, (My favorite quote from this devotion was "Who knows if your next obstacle will be your next pulpit!")
2.)He was able to view the "competition" he faced as a "partnership." He realized the importance of fighting on side by side on the same team not against each other.
3.)Relationships to him were of UPMOST IMPORTANCE because he knew His purpose was to love God and love others!
4.) He even had a knew perspective on life and death... he said it's better to him to die than live but to live is CHRIST! He had a purpose set for eternity!

Let's allow God to change our perspective on things and find the Joy that He longs for us to all have!

Walk it Out!

2008-10-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

So over the past few months it just seems like the Lord has just been reminding me that "He directs the steps of the righteous" I mean it's been crazy the things that happened in my life the past two months that the Lord was just like... "I see you, I know exactly where you are, and i made YOU to be here for 'such a time as this.' "

See when the Lord says he has this "good, pleasing, and perfect plan" to work out in you he means it... "he has plans to prosper you... to bring you a hope and a future." He wants you to experience life to it's fullest!! All you have to do is yield to HIS leading...

See I had gotten to a point where I had my hands to much in His plans... everything I was living through was under my own control. I had forgotten to NOT rely on my abilities but HIS CAPABILITIES through me!

When He finally shook that foundation from under me I felt like I was falling out of control! BUT the moment I threw up my hands and said "Ok! your will not mine!" It's like He has showed me this whole new pathway of complete faith... yeah sometimes it seems like you're walking blindly but just TRUST that He won't let you fall and His plans for you ARE really in your BEST interest!

All you have to do is "Walk it Out!"

A Voice for the Voiceless

2008-10-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

I found this on the website for the 30 days of prayer I'm doing. On the previous post I made a comment about being a voice to the voiceless... the question arises...

Who are the voiceless?

All around the world there are people living quietly,

Quietly ignored, quietly but firmly isolated.

All around the world there are people living on the outskirts of life - people living in the margins…

Society has margins, full of margin lives the marginalised.
Margins are places occupied by people who for the most part go unnoticed,

Whose stories remain untold,

Whose existences are hidden

Those who seldom come to the centre stage.
The margins are crowded with people whose brokenness gnaws away at their hearts.

These are the voiceless - they are women,

Children, refugees, little girls, many young people, old people,

People of all sorts of races speaking all sorts of languages.
They are voiceless not because they have no voice

but because they are disempowered and therefore can not make their voice heard,

Their voices are drowned out as they cry out in pain,

They are silenced, alone, They live quietly, weep quietly, die quietly

Today's focus for prayer: Child Prostitution

Definition: It is the sexual exploitation of a child for renumeration in cash or kind, usually but not always organized by an intermediary (parent, family member, procurer, or teacher)

Facts:

~10 million children worldwide are engaged in some facet of the sex industry. Each year at least one million children, mostly girls, become prostitutes.

~In Thailand, 10-12 year old girls service men in the sex industry. They typically have sex with men 10-15 times daily and sometimes as many as 20-30.

~In South Africa, there are 40,000 child prostitutes

~Children are more susceptible to HIV and other STDs

Tough stuff to hear I know but remember "without knowledge people perish"

The Truth of the Word comes back at this and says:

"Because of the oppression of the weak and growning of the needy, GOD WILL NOW ARISE!" Ps. 12:5

Prayer focus: That God will arise and defend the little ones and that God would raise up rulers to end this savage exploitation.

Let me my love see the world outside of me...

2008-10-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

Over this past weekend in St. Louis the Lord really began to open my eyes again to the suffering that's going on in this world. It's like for a season I had been blinded by my own selfishness and was just living in my own little world. On friday night there was a song that was sung and all they had to say was "let my love see the world outside of me" and that did it for me. All of a sudden my ears heard, my eyes saw, and my heart was moved.
You know the bible talks about it this way...

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27

It's time we as christians stand up and realize we CAN and SHOULD do something to help. A lot of times you may feel like "What can I really do? I'm only one person"

Romans 5:19 says "For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous."

ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

It's time that we as the body of believers who were designed and fashioned to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ here on this earth begin to make ourselves aware of the injustice and suffering going on around the world. Nothing moves God's heart more than one of His children suffering.

It's time we use what we have and be a voice for the voiceless!

*be looking for statistics and real life stories that I'll be posting.

Relentless in St. Louis!

2008-10-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend Joyce Meyer's Women's Conference. This year the theme was being "Relentless" and boy was it a word that the girls and I needed. Relentless basically means NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE GIVING UP... Pressing through anything that comes your way and being determined to outlast opposition.

This conference impacted my life greatly... I will most definitely be posting blogs about it later this week. I've just learned so much from this trip that it is gonna take a few days to get it all out. I love y'all!!! Let's be determined to be RELENTLESS in our pursuit of Christ!

Testing

2008-09-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

James 1:2-4 says "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

Last night I was reading in an amazing book called A Heart Ablaze by John Bevere and in one of the chapters it talks about being tested.
He pointed out that when we go through testing it's to allow what's inside us to surface. Good or bad either way it's an opportunity to have a mirror held up to our face to see what we are really made of on the inside. Are we letting the fruits of the spirit define us? Or are we being defined by some sinful nature that we were otherwise ignorant of.
When put into the fire gold is purified because the heat makes every impurity surface so that THEN it can be removed and transformed into it's purest form.
Testing gives us the opportunity to see what we are made of and remove anything that is not like our Jesus.

The Message puts it this way "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way."

So be encouraged if you are going through a testing or trial period because it's an opportunity to make you just like Jesus.

My 1st Bog.... :)

2008-09-29T06:42:00.000-07:00

HELLO!!!!
Ok, So I'm finally giving this whole Blog thing a try... I'm really excited about it, although I have no idea where to begin.
I just want to first thank my girl Trina for all her help in starting this and the inspiration she has been to all of us to create one of these! I love you Trina Bina!!!!