PUTTING IT OUT THERE
(1) Have you ever met someone that you could tell was a Christian by first impression? (2) Do you think you are easily recognizable as a Christian? (3) Why or Why Not? (4) Modern Christianity tends to value "Blending in" more than "standing out"-- agree or disagree (5) Why or Why Not?
This is a really hard question.. esp. without making certain judgements or basing my observations on things that could be judgemental...
Since I have been around Christians almost all my life... or people who have expressed that they are... I was not sure how I would answer this question... It really has made me think... ponder and reflect... I think that most of the people that I meet or have met in my life are at least attempting to be decent and good people.. Are they all Christians??? Most of them are but a few either are not, or they have not really allowed GOD to change their life.. How do I know they are not??? I don't for sure.. but they have not really allowed GOD to be involved in their daily life.. they either have told me this, or by slight differences in their lifestyles, I have come to know that they at least are not daily Christians.. (Once or twice a year at most).. I am not, nor have I ever been perfect.... and I do sin often and most likely more than once daily...
(2) SO WHAT MAKES ME DIFFERENT???? I think that nothing but the BLOOD of Jesus makes me different... I know in whom I am believed.. and nothing, no one, nor anything will ever separate me from HIS perfect love... (except myself).. I accepted HIS gift and HIS Love.. and I try to spread love and forgiveness.. I try to daily seek HIS will and guidance.. YES, I mess up.. AND YES, I try to be different... But I don't try to be so different that I make people run the other way screaming... at least I hope not.. I try to "walk the walk" and "talk the talk".. My speech is not so awful that people drop their mouth and say OH MY.. Do I never say a bad word?? Well, I do try not to.. but yes, I confess that I do on occasion say something I know I should not say.. and yes, I get angry.. but I used to make huge scenes when I got MAD.. Now, I try to calm down and think about how Jesus would handle the same situation.. and most times I change what ever I was going to do or say.. I do lose my patience in some cases more easily than I should.. I will say that I have recently been told by several people... whom I had never known by anything other than coming or going from our little apartment in Marion... that they knew I was a Christian.. And I think it was mostly because my language was not bad.. I treat all people like I want to be treated... and I respect other people in general.. but I don't always believe that just because someone does not ever say curse words, that it is a qualification of Christianity..
but I do think that when you treat others like you want to be treated.. it is at least one of Christ's teachings...
(4) Modern Christianity is a lot more (In my opinion) about letting people live their own lives.. and instead of really trying to find out if a person is a Christian... In fact... we have had neighbors that we have known for more than a year.. and I can say honestly that I did not know for sure if they ever went to a worship service.. we had invited them several times to different things.. but as far as we knew, they did not attend worship services anywhere.. they have always been great neighbors.. and have done many things to help others out.. But we have not ever just said, "Hey, are you guys Christians..?" I kind of would like to know... but I am not sure that I would ever walk up to anyone and ask that??? It would be kind of nice to have a certain "Patch" given to you from GOD when you become a Christian.. or something very noticeable..
These I plan to ponder on a lot more.. may actually answer them.. but maybe not so publicly..
ASKING GOD
(1) What does this passage say about your character? (2) What action would you like me to take as an outward expression that I am set apart? (3) Is there something that you have already asked me to give up/do/put aside that I have been resistant in obeying?
ASKING MYSELF
(1) Do I truly believe GOD is HOLY? (2) Is there anything that distinguishes me as a Christian? (3) What is holding me back from being set apart? (4) Whose opinion takes precedent in my life?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Ramblings
Well, it is the 5th of February.. and we do not have a new baby yet.. Wonder what she will look like.. wonder whether she will look like Aurora or different.???? Soon Now I hope we will have the answers to these questions.. I can hardly wait to hold her.. Hopefully she won't wait much longer...
On February 7th.. Shelby's Dr. said she had a room reserved at Baptist.. at 7 pm.. Was surely hoping that was what she was going to say.. @ 5:30 am, on the 8th of February, Pitocin was administered by IV.. and contractions began.. @ 7 am, water broke.. and Karleigh Elaina Crowson was born 5 1/2 hours later.. at 12:35 pm.. 21 inches... and 9 lbs. 2 oz.. with a full head of Black hair.. The newest grand in my life.. and soon to be the third love of my life...
On February 7th.. Shelby's Dr. said she had a room reserved at Baptist.. at 7 pm.. Was surely hoping that was what she was going to say.. @ 5:30 am, on the 8th of February, Pitocin was administered by IV.. and contractions began.. @ 7 am, water broke.. and Karleigh Elaina Crowson was born 5 1/2 hours later.. at 12:35 pm.. 21 inches... and 9 lbs. 2 oz.. with a full head of Black hair.. The newest grand in my life.. and soon to be the third love of my life...
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
GOD NEVER CHANGES
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
PUTTING IT OUT THERE:
(1) How do you keep your memories of the Goodness of God alive?
I try to blog.. I used to try writing in my journal, but I have trouble writing and then reading it later (carpal tunnel) so I started blogging... I also do like to talk.. LOL If you don't know me, that would be the first thing you would notice, if we ever met.. I do share my stories now through Facebook and through Bible Study groups and through my blog.. I know that GOD IS SO GOOD.. It just can't be kept inside when you truly see and believe that... Does that mean that nothing bad ever happens? NO.. Satan is always waiting to try to trip us up.. and bad things are going to happen.. even to Good People.. Sometimes it is for God's Glory to be seen... sometimes it is just because! and sometimes it is because Satan is testing our faith. (And all through out the Bible, he tells his people to keep telling others so they will believe... ) and know God..
(2) Do you feel comfortable sharing the things God has done in/through/for/to you with your children? This one is easy.. they can see it almost as it happens.. and I try to keep telling them of the times that they were very small.. it may get to be harder with one, but I think they both are aware of our faith and we have had several opportunities esp. in the past several years to share the blessings out loud..
(3) Your friends? I am a talker and a writer, so yes, I think I do this fairly easily. I probably don't do it enough, but I do share... and I definitely post on FB so others I know can be encouraged.
(4) Your family? The only person I don't really share my faith with verbally is my brother.. I don't think he would listen.. due to his lack of faith and the hardships he has faced in his life.. but if he were to ever act like he would listen I would share with him.. but he has closed himself off from all of his immediate family..
(5) Your co-workers? Don't work at this time out of the home...
(6) Why? or Why Not? I truly believe that God is working in and through us on someone else no matter how hard we think we have it.. I saw this so much in that 13 month period when Steve was out of work.. AND we also saw just how good God's People can be.. AND even some other people who we did not know well enough to know how they believed.. we were blessed over and over during that period.. It is amazing to sit back now and think about that period of time... and how Blessed we were.. We never did without food, electricity, water, or gas.. and we did not lose anything.. and even if we had... we had already talked about the fact that No Matter What We Would Not Lose Faith in GOD.. nor would we give up on HIS Timing.. Yes, I know we had our moments of doubt as to how much longer we would have to wait.. but I know this to be true.. I knew that we just had to keep on believing that HIS WILL would be done, and We WOULD never give up on HIM.. I would gladly give up all my worldly possessions if it was what GOD wanted, because I don't want to lose my soul.. (I may be sort of tone deaf and a little old to rock, but I love hearing the song by Toby Mac -- Lose My Soul) AND YES I can rock with it all day...
ASKING GOD:
(1) What does this passage reveal about Your character? (2) What would you like me to remember? (3) What would you like me to forget? (4) Is there anything you want me to do?--Is there a story you want me to tell someone so they will know more about You?
(1) This passage tells me YOU Keep Your promises.... Your Character is flawless.. YOU NEVER CHANGE YOUR MIND... (2) This passage tells me that you want me to remember what YOU do forever.. You do not want me to forget YOU are the giver of my blessings.. I know YOU are in charge of my life... YOU Also keep EVERY promise you ever have made.. You promised that the Israelites would cross the Jordan into the promised land... and YOU made sure that they did.. even did this in a very big way if you ask me.. I can imagine the scene---- hundreds of people trying to figure out how they were going to get across... most of these people had not crossed the RED SEA because those people had all died.. so these were the grand sons and grand daughters of those.. and they may have heard the stories and said "Yeah, I'll believe it when I see it.." Yes, I would have been one of those people... YOU want me to do what??? Cross that river.. Man, I can barely swim... not sure I can do it.. where is my boat? You know like I already said... I believe but I know my nature and I do my own share of grumbling.. whining... so I am one of the ones that the stories would have been for.. But it is far easier to believe when you actually see GOD'S HAND in the mix.. or in action...
(4) I am not sure which story God would want me to tell.. but I know that I have opportunities to share some of GOD'S Love, Blessings, Forgiveness, Promises, and Faithfulness in some way at least weekly.. if not daily... and I do try as often as I can.. Sometimes it is easier to tell one of my experiences than to just quote scripture.. and other times a scripture is better.. I just have to determine which is needed.. Hopefully I don't overkill all the time..
ASKING MYSELF:
(1) Do I truly believe God is Unchanging? (2) Do I remember what he has done for me in hard times? (3) Why? or Why Not?
(1) Oh Yes, I truly believe GOD is unchanging.. I know HE keeps HIS promises.. and is always there with me.. HE has never left me... AND even when I strayed away from HIM, HE was patient and waiting when I returned.. HE definitely loves me in spite of me.. and no matter what.. I know I fail Him.. but HE never Fails me.. and HE keeps wanting me back.. (2) I sometimes forget to thank HIM... daily for the Good things.. I don't think I really ever Forget HIM or what HE has done for me... I may take it for granted.. and need to relive it more often, but I don't think I could ever really forget what all He has done for me.. (3) It is hard to forget the most important things HE has done for me.. I know without a doubt that HE sent HIS Son to die for me... Not just the World.. but me (individually).. John 3:16.. That is awesome in and of itself.. and then to make sure that I met and fell in love with Steve... IS another HUGE thing.. I know I was not looking for a guy who would walk side by side while loving God when I was dating.. and HE just made sure that those guys were no longer a part of my life.. and Steve came into my life when I had given up on love.. and shortly after I decided to start over with GOD.. And God has never left me.. I have failed Him many times.. but He has always been there.. and ALWAYS will.. I truly believe Hebrews 13:8.... Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever..
PUTTING IT OUT THERE:
(1) How do you keep your memories of the Goodness of God alive?
I try to blog.. I used to try writing in my journal, but I have trouble writing and then reading it later (carpal tunnel) so I started blogging... I also do like to talk.. LOL If you don't know me, that would be the first thing you would notice, if we ever met.. I do share my stories now through Facebook and through Bible Study groups and through my blog.. I know that GOD IS SO GOOD.. It just can't be kept inside when you truly see and believe that... Does that mean that nothing bad ever happens? NO.. Satan is always waiting to try to trip us up.. and bad things are going to happen.. even to Good People.. Sometimes it is for God's Glory to be seen... sometimes it is just because! and sometimes it is because Satan is testing our faith. (And all through out the Bible, he tells his people to keep telling others so they will believe... ) and know God..
(2) Do you feel comfortable sharing the things God has done in/through/for/to you with your children? This one is easy.. they can see it almost as it happens.. and I try to keep telling them of the times that they were very small.. it may get to be harder with one, but I think they both are aware of our faith and we have had several opportunities esp. in the past several years to share the blessings out loud..
(3) Your friends? I am a talker and a writer, so yes, I think I do this fairly easily. I probably don't do it enough, but I do share... and I definitely post on FB so others I know can be encouraged.
(4) Your family? The only person I don't really share my faith with verbally is my brother.. I don't think he would listen.. due to his lack of faith and the hardships he has faced in his life.. but if he were to ever act like he would listen I would share with him.. but he has closed himself off from all of his immediate family..
(5) Your co-workers? Don't work at this time out of the home...
(6) Why? or Why Not? I truly believe that God is working in and through us on someone else no matter how hard we think we have it.. I saw this so much in that 13 month period when Steve was out of work.. AND we also saw just how good God's People can be.. AND even some other people who we did not know well enough to know how they believed.. we were blessed over and over during that period.. It is amazing to sit back now and think about that period of time... and how Blessed we were.. We never did without food, electricity, water, or gas.. and we did not lose anything.. and even if we had... we had already talked about the fact that No Matter What We Would Not Lose Faith in GOD.. nor would we give up on HIS Timing.. Yes, I know we had our moments of doubt as to how much longer we would have to wait.. but I know this to be true.. I knew that we just had to keep on believing that HIS WILL would be done, and We WOULD never give up on HIM.. I would gladly give up all my worldly possessions if it was what GOD wanted, because I don't want to lose my soul.. (I may be sort of tone deaf and a little old to rock, but I love hearing the song by Toby Mac -- Lose My Soul) AND YES I can rock with it all day...
ASKING GOD:
(1) What does this passage reveal about Your character? (2) What would you like me to remember? (3) What would you like me to forget? (4) Is there anything you want me to do?--Is there a story you want me to tell someone so they will know more about You?
(1) This passage tells me YOU Keep Your promises.... Your Character is flawless.. YOU NEVER CHANGE YOUR MIND... (2) This passage tells me that you want me to remember what YOU do forever.. You do not want me to forget YOU are the giver of my blessings.. I know YOU are in charge of my life... YOU Also keep EVERY promise you ever have made.. You promised that the Israelites would cross the Jordan into the promised land... and YOU made sure that they did.. even did this in a very big way if you ask me.. I can imagine the scene---- hundreds of people trying to figure out how they were going to get across... most of these people had not crossed the RED SEA because those people had all died.. so these were the grand sons and grand daughters of those.. and they may have heard the stories and said "Yeah, I'll believe it when I see it.." Yes, I would have been one of those people... YOU want me to do what??? Cross that river.. Man, I can barely swim... not sure I can do it.. where is my boat? You know like I already said... I believe but I know my nature and I do my own share of grumbling.. whining... so I am one of the ones that the stories would have been for.. But it is far easier to believe when you actually see GOD'S HAND in the mix.. or in action...
(4) I am not sure which story God would want me to tell.. but I know that I have opportunities to share some of GOD'S Love, Blessings, Forgiveness, Promises, and Faithfulness in some way at least weekly.. if not daily... and I do try as often as I can.. Sometimes it is easier to tell one of my experiences than to just quote scripture.. and other times a scripture is better.. I just have to determine which is needed.. Hopefully I don't overkill all the time..
ASKING MYSELF:
(1) Do I truly believe God is Unchanging? (2) Do I remember what he has done for me in hard times? (3) Why? or Why Not?
(1) Oh Yes, I truly believe GOD is unchanging.. I know HE keeps HIS promises.. and is always there with me.. HE has never left me... AND even when I strayed away from HIM, HE was patient and waiting when I returned.. HE definitely loves me in spite of me.. and no matter what.. I know I fail Him.. but HE never Fails me.. and HE keeps wanting me back.. (2) I sometimes forget to thank HIM... daily for the Good things.. I don't think I really ever Forget HIM or what HE has done for me... I may take it for granted.. and need to relive it more often, but I don't think I could ever really forget what all He has done for me.. (3) It is hard to forget the most important things HE has done for me.. I know without a doubt that HE sent HIS Son to die for me... Not just the World.. but me (individually).. John 3:16.. That is awesome in and of itself.. and then to make sure that I met and fell in love with Steve... IS another HUGE thing.. I know I was not looking for a guy who would walk side by side while loving God when I was dating.. and HE just made sure that those guys were no longer a part of my life.. and Steve came into my life when I had given up on love.. and shortly after I decided to start over with GOD.. And God has never left me.. I have failed Him many times.. but He has always been there.. and ALWAYS will.. I truly believe Hebrews 13:8.... Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever..
Thursday, January 27, 2011
I WILL FOLLOW WHERE GOD LEADS
AM I REALLY ALLOWING GOD TO BE MY LEADER...???
Well, I am ready to lace up my boots.. for week three of this Backpacking experience.. This week I had a little difficulty in answering these questions.. I know God has led me to this Bible Study for reasons which are very clear: 1) Be in the word. 2) Lead others possibly.. 3) Learn from others definitely.. and maybe a few more..
PUTTING IT OUT THERE
(1) Are there some areas in your life in which you allow God to lead more than others? (2) Tell of a time you followed God's lead into an unfamiliar territory? (3) If you don't have particular experience, talk about why that might be..
(1) This part was fairly easy to answer... Yes, I think I trust God with some details really easily, but I am fairly certain I don't always allow Him to show me in the day to day issues.. or WHAT ABOUT THE HUGE ISSUES? What do I mean by that? Well, I am pretty good in asking for HIS direction and leadership when it comes to asking Him to help find a job (for Steve), in asking HIM to show us which job HE wants (Steve) to have.. Have even asked HIM for my own jobs.. and of course when I or someone I know is in need, I go to HIM quickly.. but do I really trust HIM enough to allow HIM to lead me further than that? Would I follow HIS lead (if for instance I thought HE wanted me to move to Singapore? Or to an Orphanage to be a House Parent?) Am I willing to give up things I want in order to really allow HIM to lead? AND am I really willing to give to others? If so, then why am I not motivated enough to get off my "tush" and go through the closets and do so?
(2) I am almost certain that (Yes) I (we) have allowed GOD to lead us into unfamiliar territory? At least twice.. In 1985, the Bank that Steve was working for as a Computer Programmer decided to out-source all their data processing.. this lead to layoffs and/or a transfer.. since they felt they had to offer anyone a chance to transfer, they said that he could go to Dallas and interview... and he also had a few leads for Little Rock area.. We for sure knew of plenty of people in Dallas already.. and no one really in Little Rock area.. But both gave us an offer.. the best offer at the time was in Little Rock.. so we moved to Bryant.. I am sure GOD led us here for many reasons.. and has blessed us tremendously here.. In doing so we also have expanded our friendships in the Dallas area to include many more people.. even though we are here..
I also feel that GOD has led us to the Memphis area, although, it is not as clear a picture as Little Rock was yet.. but for now, we are waiting to see what/where He leads us next. (I also think HE is leading us to try a different place to worship)! and in many ways, I feel I have been avoiding this prompting, and putting it off, AND although I think it is HIS leading... I really have not been sure.. BUT if it is HIS prompting, I really don't want to be disobedient)...
ASKING GOD
(1) What does this passage tell me about Your character? (2) Am I following You? (3) Do I acknowledge You are my leader? (4) What might be standing between me and living in the 'Promised Land' - (the Spirit-filled life Christian Life)? (5) Is there any particular part of my life in which I need purification?
(1) I think this passage is telling me that GOD has some definite directions for us.. Ours may not be as clear to us as what HE said to Joshua, but HE is clear in that HE desires us to Follow HIM.. HE desires to Lead us Home to HIM.. HE does not want any to perish, but all to have everlasting life.... BUT we have to Accept the gift.. and then follow HIM.. It may be a simple thing or it might be a major thing... BUT he wants our obedience.. our obedient heart.. (will we fail) I know I do probably daily.. I can just see HIM shaking HIS head... and sometimes laughing.. BUT HE STILL LOVES ME.. (2) I do think that I am trying to Follow YOU (GOD). I am not often totally disobedient.. I am though (I am sure) like a little kid.. I push the envelope.. if I had a fax, letter or clear message each day, I might be better but I am guessing that I would probably grumble a little or whine a lot.. I am sure it would be too hot, or too cold.. or well you know my heart.. (3) Yes, I think I do acknowledge that YOU GOD are my leader.. I just don't think I follow too well some days for sure.. (4) & (5) I am sure I need to Pray and Study more so that my directions are clearer.. and so that I can truly experience a Spirit-filled Christian Life.. and I will continue to do so..
ASKING MYSELF
(1) Do I truly believe God is my Leader? (2) In what situations do I ask God to lead the way? (3) Are there any situations in which I do not trust God to lead?
I think I have answered these in the above passage.. and I plan to Pray, Study and keep striving to please GOD and ALLOW HIM to Lead me.. I will wander back to my tent now to do some more of this as I try to sleep.. I truly want to ALLOW GOD to lead me in everything.. but I know I am so weak somedays..
Night for now.. Thank you GOD for this amazing lesson you have allowed us to study..
Cyndi Anne
Well, I am ready to lace up my boots.. for week three of this Backpacking experience.. This week I had a little difficulty in answering these questions.. I know God has led me to this Bible Study for reasons which are very clear: 1) Be in the word. 2) Lead others possibly.. 3) Learn from others definitely.. and maybe a few more..
PUTTING IT OUT THERE
(1) Are there some areas in your life in which you allow God to lead more than others? (2) Tell of a time you followed God's lead into an unfamiliar territory? (3) If you don't have particular experience, talk about why that might be..
(1) This part was fairly easy to answer... Yes, I think I trust God with some details really easily, but I am fairly certain I don't always allow Him to show me in the day to day issues.. or WHAT ABOUT THE HUGE ISSUES? What do I mean by that? Well, I am pretty good in asking for HIS direction and leadership when it comes to asking Him to help find a job (for Steve), in asking HIM to show us which job HE wants (Steve) to have.. Have even asked HIM for my own jobs.. and of course when I or someone I know is in need, I go to HIM quickly.. but do I really trust HIM enough to allow HIM to lead me further than that? Would I follow HIS lead (if for instance I thought HE wanted me to move to Singapore? Or to an Orphanage to be a House Parent?) Am I willing to give up things I want in order to really allow HIM to lead? AND am I really willing to give to others? If so, then why am I not motivated enough to get off my "tush" and go through the closets and do so?
(2) I am almost certain that (Yes) I (we) have allowed GOD to lead us into unfamiliar territory? At least twice.. In 1985, the Bank that Steve was working for as a Computer Programmer decided to out-source all their data processing.. this lead to layoffs and/or a transfer.. since they felt they had to offer anyone a chance to transfer, they said that he could go to Dallas and interview... and he also had a few leads for Little Rock area.. We for sure knew of plenty of people in Dallas already.. and no one really in Little Rock area.. But both gave us an offer.. the best offer at the time was in Little Rock.. so we moved to Bryant.. I am sure GOD led us here for many reasons.. and has blessed us tremendously here.. In doing so we also have expanded our friendships in the Dallas area to include many more people.. even though we are here..
I also feel that GOD has led us to the Memphis area, although, it is not as clear a picture as Little Rock was yet.. but for now, we are waiting to see what/where He leads us next. (I also think HE is leading us to try a different place to worship)! and in many ways, I feel I have been avoiding this prompting, and putting it off, AND although I think it is HIS leading... I really have not been sure.. BUT if it is HIS prompting, I really don't want to be disobedient)...
ASKING GOD
(1) What does this passage tell me about Your character? (2) Am I following You? (3) Do I acknowledge You are my leader? (4) What might be standing between me and living in the 'Promised Land' - (the Spirit-filled life Christian Life)? (5) Is there any particular part of my life in which I need purification?
(1) I think this passage is telling me that GOD has some definite directions for us.. Ours may not be as clear to us as what HE said to Joshua, but HE is clear in that HE desires us to Follow HIM.. HE desires to Lead us Home to HIM.. HE does not want any to perish, but all to have everlasting life.... BUT we have to Accept the gift.. and then follow HIM.. It may be a simple thing or it might be a major thing... BUT he wants our obedience.. our obedient heart.. (will we fail) I know I do probably daily.. I can just see HIM shaking HIS head... and sometimes laughing.. BUT HE STILL LOVES ME.. (2) I do think that I am trying to Follow YOU (GOD). I am not often totally disobedient.. I am though (I am sure) like a little kid.. I push the envelope.. if I had a fax, letter or clear message each day, I might be better but I am guessing that I would probably grumble a little or whine a lot.. I am sure it would be too hot, or too cold.. or well you know my heart.. (3) Yes, I think I do acknowledge that YOU GOD are my leader.. I just don't think I follow too well some days for sure.. (4) & (5) I am sure I need to Pray and Study more so that my directions are clearer.. and so that I can truly experience a Spirit-filled Christian Life.. and I will continue to do so..
ASKING MYSELF
(1) Do I truly believe God is my Leader? (2) In what situations do I ask God to lead the way? (3) Are there any situations in which I do not trust God to lead?
I think I have answered these in the above passage.. and I plan to Pray, Study and keep striving to please GOD and ALLOW HIM to Lead me.. I will wander back to my tent now to do some more of this as I try to sleep.. I truly want to ALLOW GOD to lead me in everything.. but I know I am so weak somedays..
Night for now.. Thank you GOD for this amazing lesson you have allowed us to study..
Cyndi Anne
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
GOD IS WORTHY
Ok so it is Week Two of "Backpacking Through Joshua" and since I can't sleep.. I figure I might as well get up and "lace up my boots".. and take a stroll (I won't go far... I promise)..
So Chapter 2 of Joshua is about Rahab.. Rahab believes in God just because she sees and hears other people and their reaction to "The Israelites".. The whole country is scared of this people.. why? Because they have heard the stories that have been being told about how the Israelites crossed the Red Sea.. It just opened up.. and no one has been able to fight them and wipe them out... Because GOD is with them.. He alone is Worthy of worship, respect, fear, and adoration..
Putting it out there
(1) Have you ever been influenced in either a positive or a negative way concerning your relationship with Jesus? How does this influence your behavior now? (2) How much responsibility do you think Christians have to live a particular way?
(1) Yes, most likely in both ways.. I am sure that I was influenced early in my life by how Christians take care of one another.. which was probably the biggest influence of a positive sort.. And that has probably been the best influence because I really do try to care for other people in some of the same ways today.. I am very sure that I try to make sure to help as often as I possibly can.. whenever I see a need.. and it is not only with my Christian believers that I do this.. (like take food to someone when they are sick)..
I am also sure that I saw at least once in my life that Christians are NOT perfect.. and for a time that really threw me for a loop.. esp. when the Christians in question were in positions of leadership.. I thought that we should always strive to be perfect.. and I guess naively at the time "Above" the temptations that kept non-Christians from being a Christian.. I think that we should still strive to actively fight the worldly temptations but I am not so naive as to think we are all perfect.. (I for sure know that I fail often in my own temptations and while they may not always be as visible to the world as some other temptations are, they are non-the less temptations and failures when I talk to God... )
(2) I do think Christians are going to be held responsible for their lives... and that we are told in several places in the Bible that people believed because of the example set before them by someone else.. Acts 4 is one place.. people believed because of the examples of the Apostles.. Eunuch in chapter 8.. so Yes, I do think our example is the most important way we have of reaching others for Christ.. it is much easier to lead by example than by just telling someone.. often people want to see if you are for real.. if you really believe.. I could tell my kids all day long not to do something.. but if I was doing that thing which I was telling them was wrong.. then were they really going to believe that I thought it was a bad behavior.. no, they were more likely to do it anyway.. such as smoking.. If I had smoked and yet said to my kids.. I better never catch you smoking.. some time in their life, they would more than likely have tried it... since I did not smoke, they were more likely not to try it.. I can not live in sin and still win souls for God.. People will see right through someone who only talks the talk.. and never walks the walk..
Asking GOD
(1) What does this passage tell me about your character? (2) Are there any aspects of my character that reflect poorly on Your Character? (3) Is there anything I need to make right to untarnish Your name?
ASKING MYSELF
(1) Do I truly believe GOD is worthy? (2) Do I believe my behavior is important to other people's salvation? (3) Does my behavior reflect this? (4) Why or why not?
So Chapter 2 of Joshua is about Rahab.. Rahab believes in God just because she sees and hears other people and their reaction to "The Israelites".. The whole country is scared of this people.. why? Because they have heard the stories that have been being told about how the Israelites crossed the Red Sea.. It just opened up.. and no one has been able to fight them and wipe them out... Because GOD is with them.. He alone is Worthy of worship, respect, fear, and adoration..
Putting it out there
(1) Have you ever been influenced in either a positive or a negative way concerning your relationship with Jesus? How does this influence your behavior now? (2) How much responsibility do you think Christians have to live a particular way?
(1) Yes, most likely in both ways.. I am sure that I was influenced early in my life by how Christians take care of one another.. which was probably the biggest influence of a positive sort.. And that has probably been the best influence because I really do try to care for other people in some of the same ways today.. I am very sure that I try to make sure to help as often as I possibly can.. whenever I see a need.. and it is not only with my Christian believers that I do this.. (like take food to someone when they are sick)..
I am also sure that I saw at least once in my life that Christians are NOT perfect.. and for a time that really threw me for a loop.. esp. when the Christians in question were in positions of leadership.. I thought that we should always strive to be perfect.. and I guess naively at the time "Above" the temptations that kept non-Christians from being a Christian.. I think that we should still strive to actively fight the worldly temptations but I am not so naive as to think we are all perfect.. (I for sure know that I fail often in my own temptations and while they may not always be as visible to the world as some other temptations are, they are non-the less temptations and failures when I talk to God... )
(2) I do think Christians are going to be held responsible for their lives... and that we are told in several places in the Bible that people believed because of the example set before them by someone else.. Acts 4 is one place.. people believed because of the examples of the Apostles.. Eunuch in chapter 8.. so Yes, I do think our example is the most important way we have of reaching others for Christ.. it is much easier to lead by example than by just telling someone.. often people want to see if you are for real.. if you really believe.. I could tell my kids all day long not to do something.. but if I was doing that thing which I was telling them was wrong.. then were they really going to believe that I thought it was a bad behavior.. no, they were more likely to do it anyway.. such as smoking.. If I had smoked and yet said to my kids.. I better never catch you smoking.. some time in their life, they would more than likely have tried it... since I did not smoke, they were more likely not to try it.. I can not live in sin and still win souls for God.. People will see right through someone who only talks the talk.. and never walks the walk..
Asking GOD
(1) What does this passage tell me about your character? (2) Are there any aspects of my character that reflect poorly on Your Character? (3) Is there anything I need to make right to untarnish Your name?
(1) You alone and above all must be worthy and praised. You keep your promises, you are mighty... you are omnipotent.. (2) I am sure that I am not near as worthy as I should be to be called a Christian.. I know that I am not perfect. I can only hope that HIS (YOUR) Grace is sufficient. (3) I will strive each day to do better.. to keep my promises to God.. to study, to pray, to live a Christian life and let Him shine HIS light through in everything I do..
ASKING MYSELF
(1) Do I truly believe GOD is worthy? (2) Do I believe my behavior is important to other people's salvation? (3) Does my behavior reflect this? (4) Why or why not?
(1) Do I think GOD is worthy? Absolutely and without a doubt.. I do believe GOD is worthy. (2) I do believe my behavior might be important to other people and their salvation.. (3) I do strive to make sure that my behavior is reflecting this. AM I perfect.. No.. NO.. NO, I am far from perfect.. as far as I know there has only been one perfect person and that was Jesus.. I know I make mistakes, huge ones sometimes.. I know I have plenty of room for improvement.. but, Yes I do think that in most cases that my behavior is tempered by God's grace and that others can truly see HIM in my life.. (4) My temper is one of my biggest struggles.. and I can see huge improvements over the last 10 or so years.. but I still fall short.. I still don't always keep my promises to God. I try but I do fail.. I still need to be in the word more.. and pray more often.. and follow through.. But I think that comes with practice too.. So this study should be great practice... Hugs to you all.. Cyndi Anne
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Well, I am off and running with "Backpacking Through Joshua".. and by running I only mean in my mind.. My usual method of Bible Study is to read and read ahead.. But this time I am trying to just meditate, think about and really savor each chapter..
So for the past three days, I have been thinking over this Chapter, the questions, and the words..
Courageous, Faithful, and Strong...
Ok, so first.. I have really been thinking about and trying to determine what the words Courageous, Strong and faithful mean.. but not just what they mean but what they mean to me.. I don't often think of myself as being courageous or strong.. but I do consider myself to be faithful in most respects.. I am not God however, I still fail in this regard.. I looked up all three words and even with the definitions firmly in my mind... I would say that each of us has a chance each day to be strong, faithful and courageous.. Maybe not physically strong, but strong in character for God.. A shining example. (Will we fail, maybe some days, but if we keep practicing often enough, we will get it right more often than not). Maybe not courageous enough to leave our comfort and security and go to another country, but courageous enough to right a wrong, talk to someone about God's love, or even just make a small difference in someone's life. And faithful to God in that we continue to strive to seek him daily, to listen and learn from Him.. to keep on trying to be His servant..
ASKING GOD:
What does this tell me about your character? Is there anything that is keeping me from being able to do what you are calling me to do? In what area/s can I improve? Observing the law? Meditating on the word? Getting moving?
This whole chapter was about God telling Joshua that now it was time to go into the "promised land". He was keeping his "word" and making good on the "promises" that Moses had been given. He has said over and over that HE is with us.. HE is faithful.. whith God on my side, whom or what shall I fear? I should "fear" nothing or no one.. AND He always keeps His promises..
It is not like He is calling me to do anything that He can't help me do.. So I should be willing to do anything He asks. I think by doing this online Bible Study I am improving at least one area of this.. Study and meditating on HIS Word has been a severe trial ... but not because I don't Love God.. or have the Word handy.. It is really easy to get HIS Word.. I have plenty of resources for Study, (hearing or reading) But in the past have failed at following through with reading even a little everyday.. SO that is my Real reason for doing this online Study.. Is to be held accountable and to actually do an intense study...
MYSELF: Do I truly believe God is faithful? Do I believe he will not fail or forsake me? Does my behavior reflect this? Why or Why not?
Yes, I truly believe GOD is faithful. I have seen proof of this many times over the past several years.. HE is always with me and has never left me.. He makes sure He shows me in some way often that He is near... can I always explain how I know.. NO. but I do.. His Answer may not always Be Yes but he answers our prayers.. He HEARS our cry.. He knows us all the way to the part where we don't let anyone else see.. I do think that my behavior reflects this, but I can and often have to be reminded of it again.. but I know that I have grown in many ways over the past several years as a result of having to deal with not knowing how much longer Steve would have a job.. This had been a first for us. He had never been without a job for long.. 13 months of not knowing, not having a job, not even getting an interview shook him to the core and unsettled me, but we kept praying.. kept believing and managed to get through that spell.. Trusting is easier when you already have whatever it is you need.. IT is way harder when you really don't know "How, or when".. But we never did without the basic needs.. And many companies that are known for their unwillingness to bend, bent over double to help us or allow us benefits that we would normally not had.. Meds were provided at same cost as when we had insurance.. when we had none, haircuts were provided for free or at very reduced prices.. food was given in abundance..
I just know that GOD IS ABLE.. there is nothing MY GOD can not do.. And with that being said.. I think I might be able to go now and rest until my sweet granddaughter wakes up.. Hopefully she will wait four or so hours..
So for the past three days, I have been thinking over this Chapter, the questions, and the words..
Courageous, Faithful, and Strong...
Ok, so first.. I have really been thinking about and trying to determine what the words Courageous, Strong and faithful mean.. but not just what they mean but what they mean to me.. I don't often think of myself as being courageous or strong.. but I do consider myself to be faithful in most respects.. I am not God however, I still fail in this regard.. I looked up all three words and even with the definitions firmly in my mind... I would say that each of us has a chance each day to be strong, faithful and courageous.. Maybe not physically strong, but strong in character for God.. A shining example. (Will we fail, maybe some days, but if we keep practicing often enough, we will get it right more often than not). Maybe not courageous enough to leave our comfort and security and go to another country, but courageous enough to right a wrong, talk to someone about God's love, or even just make a small difference in someone's life. And faithful to God in that we continue to strive to seek him daily, to listen and learn from Him.. to keep on trying to be His servant..
ASKING GOD:
What does this tell me about your character? Is there anything that is keeping me from being able to do what you are calling me to do? In what area/s can I improve? Observing the law? Meditating on the word? Getting moving?
This whole chapter was about God telling Joshua that now it was time to go into the "promised land". He was keeping his "word" and making good on the "promises" that Moses had been given. He has said over and over that HE is with us.. HE is faithful.. whith God on my side, whom or what shall I fear? I should "fear" nothing or no one.. AND He always keeps His promises..
It is not like He is calling me to do anything that He can't help me do.. So I should be willing to do anything He asks. I think by doing this online Bible Study I am improving at least one area of this.. Study and meditating on HIS Word has been a severe trial ... but not because I don't Love God.. or have the Word handy.. It is really easy to get HIS Word.. I have plenty of resources for Study, (hearing or reading) But in the past have failed at following through with reading even a little everyday.. SO that is my Real reason for doing this online Study.. Is to be held accountable and to actually do an intense study...
MYSELF: Do I truly believe God is faithful? Do I believe he will not fail or forsake me? Does my behavior reflect this? Why or Why not?
Yes, I truly believe GOD is faithful. I have seen proof of this many times over the past several years.. HE is always with me and has never left me.. He makes sure He shows me in some way often that He is near... can I always explain how I know.. NO. but I do.. His Answer may not always Be Yes but he answers our prayers.. He HEARS our cry.. He knows us all the way to the part where we don't let anyone else see.. I do think that my behavior reflects this, but I can and often have to be reminded of it again.. but I know that I have grown in many ways over the past several years as a result of having to deal with not knowing how much longer Steve would have a job.. This had been a first for us. He had never been without a job for long.. 13 months of not knowing, not having a job, not even getting an interview shook him to the core and unsettled me, but we kept praying.. kept believing and managed to get through that spell.. Trusting is easier when you already have whatever it is you need.. IT is way harder when you really don't know "How, or when".. But we never did without the basic needs.. And many companies that are known for their unwillingness to bend, bent over double to help us or allow us benefits that we would normally not had.. Meds were provided at same cost as when we had insurance.. when we had none, haircuts were provided for free or at very reduced prices.. food was given in abundance..
I just know that GOD IS ABLE.. there is nothing MY GOD can not do.. And with that being said.. I think I might be able to go now and rest until my sweet granddaughter wakes up.. Hopefully she will wait four or so hours..
Monday, January 3, 2011
Well today is the third day of a New Year.. 2011.. Who would have thought we would have made it this far.. As a kid, we all thought that by now we would be driving around in things that fly.. and having automatic food dispensers.. and well you now Sci-Fi stuff.. but in reality, we are still doing much the same things we did as a kid..
I have a new Grandbaby almost ready to come into the world.. She and Aurora will be good friends I hope.. With Riley as well..
I really hope that John keeps his new job at Thomas Pest control for a long time... and maybe even gets certified to do everything so he can go somewhere else after a year or so...
I have a new Grandbaby almost ready to come into the world.. She and Aurora will be good friends I hope.. With Riley as well..
I really hope that John keeps his new job at Thomas Pest control for a long time... and maybe even gets certified to do everything so he can go somewhere else after a year or so...
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
November Christmas Card Challenge Cards
I have finished my November CCC's. I only did the one piece cards this time... I may use these for those last minute cards or as only the one layer cards for those people who might not apprecate the work and love that goes into each card... Have recently noticed that a lot of brides & people are using the one piece card for invitations and such instead of the layered card or the fancier cards...
Friday, November 6, 2009
Job Possible for Steve
Possible Job for Steve... Flying to Detroit on Sunday, Nov. 8th to return on Tuesday...
Please keep praying for this job to be the opportunity he needs.... a safe trip, and staying well... and the courage and knowledge that he needs to impress these people so that he might have a long term position with this company...
It is in his field, his expertise and an exact fit as far as what he has already done in the past...
Please also pray that our finances will not suffer long term because of the past several months of unemployment... past due accounts and only unemployment....
Please keep praying for this job to be the opportunity he needs.... a safe trip, and staying well... and the courage and knowledge that he needs to impress these people so that he might have a long term position with this company...
It is in his field, his expertise and an exact fit as far as what he has already done in the past...
Please also pray that our finances will not suffer long term because of the past several months of unemployment... past due accounts and only unemployment....
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Well, most recent news is that we went, we conquered and we returned triuphant. Balinda (my sister) was given a challenge... go to Wichita, KS and find a house for her daughter... she had a list of houses from her daughter...who had searched the web... First we ate breakfast and then we went to the first house (which we had already located because of GPS)... it was nice... very old... but had several major issues with it from very first moment. We only looked at it because it was the one in her daughter's mind. It had very steep and tiny stairs....
So while at breakfast, we purchased a paper and checked the ads. That is how we found the house. It was within the price range, in a decent looking neighborhood, corner lot, fenced back yard, neat and clean in and around it, and empty. (I know they say that most people want to see it with furniture)... not me... I would rather see it empty and be able to see everything... Phoned to see if we could actually get in side to see it... and we were able to actually see and check it out.
Loved it as much as her daughter loved the first one... but we knew we needed to see more houses before we could really decide on any one house. So we went on to find and see about six more. Some we ruled out before we even could look around inside.
We left Wichita at about 5 pm on Sat. At this time we were convinced that we had located enough choices that my niece would not have any problems getting moved to Wichita and in a decent house with room for guests and not cost too much in the end.
We got home Sunday afternoon....
So while at breakfast, we purchased a paper and checked the ads. That is how we found the house. It was within the price range, in a decent looking neighborhood, corner lot, fenced back yard, neat and clean in and around it, and empty. (I know they say that most people want to see it with furniture)... not me... I would rather see it empty and be able to see everything... Phoned to see if we could actually get in side to see it... and we were able to actually see and check it out.
Loved it as much as her daughter loved the first one... but we knew we needed to see more houses before we could really decide on any one house. So we went on to find and see about six more. Some we ruled out before we even could look around inside.
We left Wichita at about 5 pm on Sat. At this time we were convinced that we had located enough choices that my niece would not have any problems getting moved to Wichita and in a decent house with room for guests and not cost too much in the end.
We got home Sunday afternoon....
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Here is my April LO Challenge. Title is Aurora... There are three flowers (One is hard to see) and only two pictures... I had pictures left over from the previous Challenge and used them this time. This way I may be able to start Aurora's Album already. (Those who really know me will understand this comment).
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