I have always known that prayer is a powerful thing. I have been taught that God always answers prayers, even if it's not the answer I was expecting. Through the years I have seen prayers answered-those of my own and others. It's incredible to pray to God for something so fervently and be given a definite answer.
Many people question why God has decided not to answer their prayer. Over the past few months God has really been teaching me that no prayer goes unnoticed or unanswered. There are times God simply answers "No" or "Not yet". These answers are not because he does not love us or does not want to fulfill our desires, but because he has something better in mind and plans to work it out in a way that is so much better than we can comprehend.
Over the past few months, I have been praying and pleading with God to fulfill a desire. I would plead and beg, and cry; always wondering why God didn't seem to hear my cries. Finally God grabbed a hold of my heart and helped me realize that I needed to trust him. I was asking and expecting God to give me what I asked for, rather than ask Him if it is what I needed at the time.
Although I received a "Not yet" to my request, my incredible God provided me with an opportunity to put my focus on. Tim and I have decided to attend a missions trip to Thailand this coming summer. The opportunity presented itself right when I felt that my prayer would never be answered. After considering it and praying about it, I feel it is something that God wants us to participate in. I can't wait to see what God will do through this missions trip. I'm so excited that although I am still waiting for my prayer to be completely answered, God has placed this opportunity to "hold me over". He truly is a God that supplies all our needs, and sometimes our wants.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Following a Perfect Example
In a recent message, a very influential and profound pastor (my dad :)...haha) used a verse in his sermon and it really stuck out to me. In John 5:30 Jesus says:
"I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me."
I love that even Jesus acknowledges his need of His Father. What an ultimate example to follow! God's Son demonstrated the respect and honor we should have ourselves, concerning the will of the Lord. It has become extremely evident in the last few weeks of my own life that I am truly incapable of doing anything of my own accord. It is only through the strength and power of God that I am able to accomplish anything worthwhile in my life. Each day I try to think of this statement made by Jesus and remember that I too need to seek the will of my Father.
He is capable of anything and knows exactly what is best for my life. It is my job to seek that will, rather than relying on my own strength. If Jesus was unable to do it without the Father's help, why do I think I will be successful? God's will is so perfect, and is something I simply just have to seek and surrender to.
"I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me."
I love that even Jesus acknowledges his need of His Father. What an ultimate example to follow! God's Son demonstrated the respect and honor we should have ourselves, concerning the will of the Lord. It has become extremely evident in the last few weeks of my own life that I am truly incapable of doing anything of my own accord. It is only through the strength and power of God that I am able to accomplish anything worthwhile in my life. Each day I try to think of this statement made by Jesus and remember that I too need to seek the will of my Father.
He is capable of anything and knows exactly what is best for my life. It is my job to seek that will, rather than relying on my own strength. If Jesus was unable to do it without the Father's help, why do I think I will be successful? God's will is so perfect, and is something I simply just have to seek and surrender to.
Friday, September 16, 2011
An Overwhelming Thought
"In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God; HE HEARD MY VOICE out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears." Psalm 18:6
I came across this verse today and each time I read it a new flood of tears seems to develop. How amazing to have a God that hears my cries. There are so many unknown things in this life, and so many things that are out of my control. Yet I have a God that hears every call, is impacted by every tear I cry, and wraps his loving arms of comfort around me. It is completely overwhelming to try to understand the love of God. I am so grateful for His love, and always challenged by it. Do I try to love Him as much as I know He loves me??
There are always those times when we get away from God and He feels so far away, but there are also those times when he feels not far, but JUST out of reach. Yet He isn't! He is always there, waiting with open arms. He is always ready to be my comfort, my redeemer, and the mender of my broken heart. Sometimes the hardest thing in life to do (at least for me) is to just let go and surrender it all. His will is always perfect, even when it seems to make no sense to me. Waiting on God's time is always difficult, but through his perfect strength it becomes possible.
I came across this verse today and each time I read it a new flood of tears seems to develop. How amazing to have a God that hears my cries. There are so many unknown things in this life, and so many things that are out of my control. Yet I have a God that hears every call, is impacted by every tear I cry, and wraps his loving arms of comfort around me. It is completely overwhelming to try to understand the love of God. I am so grateful for His love, and always challenged by it. Do I try to love Him as much as I know He loves me??
There are always those times when we get away from God and He feels so far away, but there are also those times when he feels not far, but JUST out of reach. Yet He isn't! He is always there, waiting with open arms. He is always ready to be my comfort, my redeemer, and the mender of my broken heart. Sometimes the hardest thing in life to do (at least for me) is to just let go and surrender it all. His will is always perfect, even when it seems to make no sense to me. Waiting on God's time is always difficult, but through his perfect strength it becomes possible.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Through The Valley
Most of the time I feel extremely fortunate for the life that God has decided to bless me with. I have an amazing family, a loving husband, friends, and enough possessions to satisfy me in this temporary home. Yet days come along that make me feel I have been tossed from the mountain top into the deepest, darkest valley I can imagine. I am hurting for those that I love that are hurting. I am worried about things in my life, that I know I need to give to the Lord. I am discouraged and feeling let down.
I think the main reason the valley is always so depressing is because I know what it's like to be on the mountain. However; even through this storm and uncertain time in life, it is comforting to know that whenever I am here, in the valley, my God is waiting to carry me back up the mountain. There is so much we, as Christians, can learn from going through a hard time. One thing that the Lord has brought to my attention today is that we need to show God's love and kindness to ALL. It sounds so simplistic, and yet it is so difficult. We can't always tell who is hurting and who is not. Many people put up a front, but they need God's love and encouragement.
All I know right now is that no matter what I am facing in this life, I will continue to praise my Savior. He gives and takes away, and His name is Blessed. It's so comforting to have a God that knows each tear I cry and each trial I face. I will continue to worship Him.
"And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm"
I think the main reason the valley is always so depressing is because I know what it's like to be on the mountain. However; even through this storm and uncertain time in life, it is comforting to know that whenever I am here, in the valley, my God is waiting to carry me back up the mountain. There is so much we, as Christians, can learn from going through a hard time. One thing that the Lord has brought to my attention today is that we need to show God's love and kindness to ALL. It sounds so simplistic, and yet it is so difficult. We can't always tell who is hurting and who is not. Many people put up a front, but they need God's love and encouragement.
All I know right now is that no matter what I am facing in this life, I will continue to praise my Savior. He gives and takes away, and His name is Blessed. It's so comforting to have a God that knows each tear I cry and each trial I face. I will continue to worship Him.
"And I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm"
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Dreams Sometimes Finally Come True
Since I was a little girl, singing has been my greatest passion. I was fortunate enough to marry a guy that is just as passionate as I am about music.
I sing in church, help lead our worship team, but I have always wanted to make my own music.
We have started writing, and have decided to purchase everything we will need for recording. Finally, my dream of making CDs and my own music will come true!! It is a huge blessing and answer to prayer. I am so glad that God gave me talent and I'm beyond excited to continue to use it in a different capacity! =)
I sing in church, help lead our worship team, but I have always wanted to make my own music.
We have started writing, and have decided to purchase everything we will need for recording. Finally, my dream of making CDs and my own music will come true!! It is a huge blessing and answer to prayer. I am so glad that God gave me talent and I'm beyond excited to continue to use it in a different capacity! =)
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Music in Church
I have always known that God can work in mysterious ways. As a Christian, and a pastor's daughter, I have been taught and experienced the mighty way that God can work through unlikely circumstances. But isn't it so easy to forget? Every time I find myself in a valley, I seem to forget how God can turn the horrible into incredible. Recently I have been questioning God on certain things in my life. I constantly wonder why He allows me to face certain things. But it's in those moments of utter despair that I am forced to rely on HIS strength and remember that I may not understand it all, but He has a purpose and a will.
I am honestly concerned for some Christians today. Some have completely forgotten God and only focus on the politics of "church". An issue as innocent as music, can cause more upsets in a congregation than sin that is flamboyantly displayed in other members lives. What has happened to some christians? If they see drums in a church they automatically start to criticize. Yet, they will go to movies that never mention God, listen to the radio (which, believe it or not, uses drums in pretty much every song..lol), and let there families do whatever they please (moral or immoral). Maybe some are never happy, and just like to complain. Or perhaps they feel completely justified in what they are doing, despite the fact that they can't back up their opinion with any type of scripture. Whatever the case or reasoning, it is unfortunately handled in the wrong way.
As a part of a praise and worship team, I can see first hand who is worshiping and who is not. Honestly, it usually encourages me and helps me worship even better. But sometimes, I am more discouraged than anything. Some people refuse to sing because they don't like live instruments being used (which is ridiculous..because their focus should be on worshiping God..but whatever). Some people refuse to sing because we won't sing in their language (even though the Bible says make a joyful noise to the Lord...He never stated what language). And some people are just followers of others and will do whatever they are told. I would love to look out during our worship time and see EVERYONE praising God, rather than receiving dirty looks for doing what I feel God has called me to do.
Perhaps this is one of those unfortunate circumstances that God will use for His glory. There are bigger things to worry about than music in church. There are so many people hurting and in need of God's love. Maybe some of us just need to realize that rather than complaining about music, we should be helping those in need.
I am honestly concerned for some Christians today. Some have completely forgotten God and only focus on the politics of "church". An issue as innocent as music, can cause more upsets in a congregation than sin that is flamboyantly displayed in other members lives. What has happened to some christians? If they see drums in a church they automatically start to criticize. Yet, they will go to movies that never mention God, listen to the radio (which, believe it or not, uses drums in pretty much every song..lol), and let there families do whatever they please (moral or immoral). Maybe some are never happy, and just like to complain. Or perhaps they feel completely justified in what they are doing, despite the fact that they can't back up their opinion with any type of scripture. Whatever the case or reasoning, it is unfortunately handled in the wrong way.
As a part of a praise and worship team, I can see first hand who is worshiping and who is not. Honestly, it usually encourages me and helps me worship even better. But sometimes, I am more discouraged than anything. Some people refuse to sing because they don't like live instruments being used (which is ridiculous..because their focus should be on worshiping God..but whatever). Some people refuse to sing because we won't sing in their language (even though the Bible says make a joyful noise to the Lord...He never stated what language). And some people are just followers of others and will do whatever they are told. I would love to look out during our worship time and see EVERYONE praising God, rather than receiving dirty looks for doing what I feel God has called me to do.
Perhaps this is one of those unfortunate circumstances that God will use for His glory. There are bigger things to worry about than music in church. There are so many people hurting and in need of God's love. Maybe some of us just need to realize that rather than complaining about music, we should be helping those in need.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Our New Addition
some pictures of our newest family member! =)
His name is still to be determined...but we are thinking Monte (Like Monte Cristo).
His name is still to be determined...but we are thinking Monte (Like Monte Cristo).
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Some Pictures of Florida
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Tim hanging out with Beckhem and Jayce!
My adorable little niece, Kai!
Reading with Mommy.
Dinner at Planet Hollywood
VEGAN CUPCAKES!!!!
Getting on the ferry for Magic Kingdom
In front of Cinderella's Castle
Best Friends!
Fireworks at Disney
The love of my life!
Fireworks!!!
The whole crew at the Disney Boardwalk
Mickey ears!
At Epcot!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Summer lovin' and a Father I can't live without!
So summer is officially in full swing. I finished school on June 7th and will legitimately miss my second graders this summer. I had the opportunity to teach such a sweet and smart group of children this year, and I wish I could have kept them all back with me for another year. =)
Well I just spent the past week in Florida with some of my best friends. We did four days at the greatest place on earth-DISNEY WORLD!!! Pictures will be posted up soon for sure. We had a great time laughing, making memories, and enjoying some time away from Jersey! =)
Today is Father's day and I'm so glad that I can honestly say I am blessed to have my father in my life. I have always been a "daddy's girl", and I think we have become even closer in the last few years. (Now that I'm out of my annoying, rebellious teenage years, I'm sure he enjoys my company more...haha). I love my Dad, and am so grateful that God gave me such a godly example. He is one of my greatest friends, and I am so grateful for his love, support, and advice. Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!
Well I just spent the past week in Florida with some of my best friends. We did four days at the greatest place on earth-DISNEY WORLD!!! Pictures will be posted up soon for sure. We had a great time laughing, making memories, and enjoying some time away from Jersey! =)
Today is Father's day and I'm so glad that I can honestly say I am blessed to have my father in my life. I have always been a "daddy's girl", and I think we have become even closer in the last few years. (Now that I'm out of my annoying, rebellious teenage years, I'm sure he enjoys my company more...haha). I love my Dad, and am so grateful that God gave me such a godly example. He is one of my greatest friends, and I am so grateful for his love, support, and advice. Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
God's Pride
I have been reading through the book of Job for the last couple of days during my personal time with God. I obviously know the story fairly well and have heard versions of it since childhood, but I'm always amazed how God can take a story from His word that you think you know so well and teach you something new. In chapter 2 of Job we are told that God suggested Job to Satan!
3And the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason. Job 2:3
What an incredible thought! God had enough pride and trust in his servant Job to know that no matter what Satan threw his way, he would remain faithful. Oh that God could say that of me! It challenged me. Do I live in a way that God would not be worried about the snares the devil sets up for me? Would God suggest ME to Satan because He knew I wouldn't succumb? I don't know that I have reached a level of Godliness like that of Job, but this remarkable fact challenged me to continue to grow and develop my relationship with the Lord. The world can always use more "Jobs".
3And the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason. Job 2:3
What an incredible thought! God had enough pride and trust in his servant Job to know that no matter what Satan threw his way, he would remain faithful. Oh that God could say that of me! It challenged me. Do I live in a way that God would not be worried about the snares the devil sets up for me? Would God suggest ME to Satan because He knew I wouldn't succumb? I don't know that I have reached a level of Godliness like that of Job, but this remarkable fact challenged me to continue to grow and develop my relationship with the Lord. The world can always use more "Jobs".
Monday, May 16, 2011
So Busy!
These past few weeks have been so hectic and busy. A couple weeks ago our church had a mother daughter brunch. My mother and I hosted a table and we all had a great time.
This past weekend, Tim and I went on a retreat with the teens of our church. We had such a great time, and it was awesome to see God work in the lives of some of the teenagers. The theme of the retreat was "To Save a Life". We watched this movie and discussed reaching out to the lonely and seeing others as Christ sees them.
I had such a good time getting to know some of the kids, watching them worship, and receiving a blessing from the sermons. Tim and I are both looking forward to working with the teens this coming year and look forward to what God will do.
Kony and I at the Mother/Daughter
Our table...a fantastic brunch with fantastic people!
Best Friends!
I love these girls!
Mom and me at the brunch
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Easter Blessings
5."But the angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6. He is not here for HE HAS RISEN, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.'" Matthew 28:5-6
As a christian, Easter is one of the greatest holidays and one that contains some of the greatest sentimentality. It is beyond incredible to have a holiday to celebrate not only his death for me, but his resurrection. This Easter was a great time spent with family. My brother was able to come up from Liberty and spend the weekend here. Tim and I enjoyed our first Easter together as husband and wife. I hope you all enjoyed your holiday with family and friends and will remember that we should celebrate his resurrection every day of the year...not just Easter Sunday! =)
As a christian, Easter is one of the greatest holidays and one that contains some of the greatest sentimentality. It is beyond incredible to have a holiday to celebrate not only his death for me, but his resurrection. This Easter was a great time spent with family. My brother was able to come up from Liberty and spend the weekend here. Tim and I enjoyed our first Easter together as husband and wife. I hope you all enjoyed your holiday with family and friends and will remember that we should celebrate his resurrection every day of the year...not just Easter Sunday! =)
Tim and I on Easter Sunday!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Faithfulness
Isn't it comforting to know that God is completely impartial? In a world where people are defined by money, position, and rank, it's fascinating to be reminded that we serve a Lord that will not place us on different ranks. He loves us all the same and forgives us all the same. I truly can't fathom a completely impartial love, but i guess that is due to my sin nature.
There is a moment of almost every day when I stop, reflect on my life, and wonder how God could even love me. If he regarded my relationship with Him the way I treat some of my earthly relationships, I would probably be quite insignificant to Him. How awesome it is to have a God that doesn't do unto me all that I've done unto Him.
In 2 Timothy 2:13 we are told "if we are faithless, he remains faithful-for he cannot deny himself." God's love for us remains consistent no matter what we may do or how we may lose faith. I'm forever grateful!
There is a moment of almost every day when I stop, reflect on my life, and wonder how God could even love me. If he regarded my relationship with Him the way I treat some of my earthly relationships, I would probably be quite insignificant to Him. How awesome it is to have a God that doesn't do unto me all that I've done unto Him.
In 2 Timothy 2:13 we are told "if we are faithless, he remains faithful-for he cannot deny himself." God's love for us remains consistent no matter what we may do or how we may lose faith. I'm forever grateful!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
2nd Grade Reading
I believe that God provides different people with various passions in life. I happen to have a very tender heart towards the orphans and hurting children of our world (among many other things). I teach second grade and every day we have a time where we get into small groups and read. Today in our reading book we had a story of a little African boy. He was a blind orphan. The story was all about a missionary that raised money to get him a braille Bible and taught him to read. As the children read the story, I started tearing up. When I looked up, I had 3 sets of questioning eyes looking at me. (They were probably thinking their teacher was losing it! haha) I just couldn't help but sit there and be reminded of all the children in this world that are just like the little boy in the story. Maybe God would like me to be a missionary. Or maybe he wants me to save a child from the loneliness and destitution of being an orphan. Whatever the case, I know God has something planned for me. And I'm sure it's above and beyond anything I ever dreamed or anticipated. His way is perfect, and His faithfulness is never ending. I'm just glad that God used something as simple as a 2nd grade reading book to help me remember the importance of constantly seeking His will.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Being Consistent
"Churches are full of hypocrites!" One of the most common reasons given for people not attending. As a church goer, I would have to agree somewhat. While not EVERY person displays hypocrisy openly and adamantly, there are many who are there for the wrong reasons. I believe some Christians have fooled themselves into thinking that being a hypocrite is JUST being good at church and not outside of church. I truly think it goes a little deeper. Some of the greatest acts of hypocrisy are demonstrated INSIDE of the church itself. We criticize each other, complain about everything, and wage war on anyone who disagrees with our opinions. When did it become about us??
I don't think that every church in the world has reached the bottom, and I'm not saying that my church is beyond hope; yet christians and believers as a whole seem to have become so selfish and have placed the importance on themselves rather than God. When I stop and think about it, many of the problems that churches face are just acts of selfishness and inconsistency. People are offended by guitars and drums in church, yet listen to whatever they want in their homes. Is it just me, or does that not make any sense?? Some Christians state that the KJV is the only version of the Bible that should be used, yet they "amen" when a missionary translates the word into an unknown language. If we are going to be opinionated and judge others, we should make sure we are living above reproach.
It seems that so many people have become wrapped up in the rules and regulations that they have missed the whole point-GOD! Our purpose, as Christians, is not to rally everyone up to agree with our personal views, but to win souls for Christ and to live for HIS glory. I am a firm believer that in order to pray for someone else to act a certain way, I should first pray for MYSELF to demonstrate those changes. For this reason, I have begun praying that God would make ME more consistent. It can start with one. I pray that he would use me, and keep me faithful.
I never want to reach a point where I am more focused on myself and my opinions than serving the Lord.
"Now fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness..." Joshua 24:14a
I don't think that every church in the world has reached the bottom, and I'm not saying that my church is beyond hope; yet christians and believers as a whole seem to have become so selfish and have placed the importance on themselves rather than God. When I stop and think about it, many of the problems that churches face are just acts of selfishness and inconsistency. People are offended by guitars and drums in church, yet listen to whatever they want in their homes. Is it just me, or does that not make any sense?? Some Christians state that the KJV is the only version of the Bible that should be used, yet they "amen" when a missionary translates the word into an unknown language. If we are going to be opinionated and judge others, we should make sure we are living above reproach.
It seems that so many people have become wrapped up in the rules and regulations that they have missed the whole point-GOD! Our purpose, as Christians, is not to rally everyone up to agree with our personal views, but to win souls for Christ and to live for HIS glory. I am a firm believer that in order to pray for someone else to act a certain way, I should first pray for MYSELF to demonstrate those changes. For this reason, I have begun praying that God would make ME more consistent. It can start with one. I pray that he would use me, and keep me faithful.
I never want to reach a point where I am more focused on myself and my opinions than serving the Lord.
"Now fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness..." Joshua 24:14a
Monday, March 28, 2011
So lucky!
Just some pictures of my incredible husband! He is the greatest thing that God has ever given me and I'm so thankful for him.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Presence is Expected
There is no better place to receive a blessing, than in the house of the Lord. For some reason, many Christians are rarely present in church, and then they wonder why God is not speaking to them. How can He work when everything else in life takes precedence over Him? Our presence is required for Him to work. He never leaves or goes anywhere, so it's OUR duty to strive to seek Him and stay in His will.
Tonight our praise team played the song "I Need You to Love Me" by barlow girl. As I sang, the lyrics reminded me again of how desperate we are for the love and mercy of the Lord. Despite all the ways I constantly hurt my God, he still WANTS ME! He never stops extending his love and forgiveness. How grateful I am that He continues to care for me, no matter what I may do to hinder my relationship with Him.
I am so grateful to serve a God that protects, loves, and encourages me. And I hope that He keeps me faithful and present in His will.
Tonight our praise team played the song "I Need You to Love Me" by barlow girl. As I sang, the lyrics reminded me again of how desperate we are for the love and mercy of the Lord. Despite all the ways I constantly hurt my God, he still WANTS ME! He never stops extending his love and forgiveness. How grateful I am that He continues to care for me, no matter what I may do to hinder my relationship with Him.
I am so grateful to serve a God that protects, loves, and encourages me. And I hope that He keeps me faithful and present in His will.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Music=life changing
"O my strength, I will sing praises to you, for you, O God, are my fortress, the God who shows me steadfast love." Psalm 59:17
One of my greatest joys in life is the wonderful gift of music. Singing has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I have always felt that God gave me a talent and I have striven to glorify Him, not myself, through my gift.
My husband and I recently put together a praise and worship team for our church. We are starting to introduce a more contemporary style of worship. There are times when God calls you to do something, and other Christians don't understand your purpose. I believe sometimes people get so caught up in their own opinions regarding things, that they miss the blessing. Although we are doing something we feel called to do, there are still those (and always will be) that don't agree.
I recently heard someone state "music does not change lives!" Are you kidding me? Music has changed countless hearts and lives, including my own. It brings encouragement, prepares a heart for the Lord, and inspires change. Of course, ultimately, God brings that change in a life, but who are we to state that music has no positive impact?
I pray on a daily basis that God would use me, and the talents he has given me, to change lives and bring people to Him. I believe that one way he will accomplish that, is through the tremendous gift of music.
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 34:1
One of my greatest joys in life is the wonderful gift of music. Singing has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I have always felt that God gave me a talent and I have striven to glorify Him, not myself, through my gift.
My husband and I recently put together a praise and worship team for our church. We are starting to introduce a more contemporary style of worship. There are times when God calls you to do something, and other Christians don't understand your purpose. I believe sometimes people get so caught up in their own opinions regarding things, that they miss the blessing. Although we are doing something we feel called to do, there are still those (and always will be) that don't agree.
I recently heard someone state "music does not change lives!" Are you kidding me? Music has changed countless hearts and lives, including my own. It brings encouragement, prepares a heart for the Lord, and inspires change. Of course, ultimately, God brings that change in a life, but who are we to state that music has no positive impact?
I pray on a daily basis that God would use me, and the talents he has given me, to change lives and bring people to Him. I believe that one way he will accomplish that, is through the tremendous gift of music.
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 34:1
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Starting Something New
The first post on a blog is always the most difficult. Where do I begin? I mainly created this site, because I constantly have SO much on my mind, and so many ideas and thoughts, that I hardly have enough time to express them. My husband, Tim, agreed that a blog might be good to help me express all the things going on in my head. haha
I spend a lot of my time constantly seeking God's will for my life. I know He has something planned for me, and I am almost consumed with figuring out what His will entails. I am so concerned that I will miss His calling, or fall out of His will. I desperately want to be used by Him, and wonder--What am I meant to do with this life He has given me?
One of the things I know God expects of me is to be a blessing to others. We truly are ALL his beloved. I believe that no matter who someone is, where they come from, or what their background is like, we MATTER to God. Every person is special, and I feel God wants me to do all I can to help others. One way I feel He wants me to help is through adoption. Growing up, I never pictured myself wanting to adopt. I thought the emotional aspect of it would be too difficult for me to overcome. But then I met my niece. She was adopted by my brother and sister-in-law from Uganda. The moment I saw her precious face and the love in my brother and sister-in-laws eyes, God stirred my heart. The more I researched about adoption, the deeper my burden became. I am newly married, and want to have children of my own, but I look forward to the day when we are able to adopt. Not because it's "nice to do", and not because celebrities do it, but because we are all the children of God. Every child deserves to know love from a family and learn of the love of the Lord.
I am not sure of many things in my life right now. Where will we live? What will I do? Will we become missionaries in a foreign field? or just missionaries to those around us? So many things have not been made clear yet, but I trust God to place all the pieces together in the most perfect way. I just have to keep listening for that still, small voice!
I spend a lot of my time constantly seeking God's will for my life. I know He has something planned for me, and I am almost consumed with figuring out what His will entails. I am so concerned that I will miss His calling, or fall out of His will. I desperately want to be used by Him, and wonder--What am I meant to do with this life He has given me?
One of the things I know God expects of me is to be a blessing to others. We truly are ALL his beloved. I believe that no matter who someone is, where they come from, or what their background is like, we MATTER to God. Every person is special, and I feel God wants me to do all I can to help others. One way I feel He wants me to help is through adoption. Growing up, I never pictured myself wanting to adopt. I thought the emotional aspect of it would be too difficult for me to overcome. But then I met my niece. She was adopted by my brother and sister-in-law from Uganda. The moment I saw her precious face and the love in my brother and sister-in-laws eyes, God stirred my heart. The more I researched about adoption, the deeper my burden became. I am newly married, and want to have children of my own, but I look forward to the day when we are able to adopt. Not because it's "nice to do", and not because celebrities do it, but because we are all the children of God. Every child deserves to know love from a family and learn of the love of the Lord.
I am not sure of many things in my life right now. Where will we live? What will I do? Will we become missionaries in a foreign field? or just missionaries to those around us? So many things have not been made clear yet, but I trust God to place all the pieces together in the most perfect way. I just have to keep listening for that still, small voice!
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