Aren't you glad today is Friday? I am. Keevin is coming home this evening and I have some honey-do things for him to do in this new/old home. I have enjoyed my new dwelling place this week. We don't have TV connection yet so I have spent time with the house, getting to know it. It's funny how TV distracts us. The word distract means to draw the mind away in another direction.. The TV not only distracts us but it sucks us in and keeps us there. I love to watch TV and I allow it to control my mind. I allow it to keep me from doing other things that need to be done. And along with watching TV is allowing myself to be influenced by its unhealthiness. When we do get TV connection I want to commit to turning it on only in the evenings to catch the news and watch NCIS and few other shows. But the rest of the time can be of better use to God. I enjoy writing on my book during the day, so I should be able to get more done on it by this commitment. House work will be kept up to date, also.
I've been wondering if any of you out there have had any break-throughs regarding your confidence? Have you used God's word to boost the real you? I talked about the TV sucking us in but other things can do the same. Lacking self-esteem and being self-confident can pull us into ourselves. It is dark way down deep inside ourselves. Depression, anxiety, fear, anger, jealousy, etc--all of these keep us going inside ourselves trying to figure out what we can do differently or trying to redo the past. The truth is the past is done and over and cannot be redone. It doesn't mean you can't be forgiven of your past or that you can't forgive someone else of a past offense. Forgiving is very liberating.
I mentioned that self-confidence pulls us inside ourselves. That's because we are relying on ourselves to come up with the answers. Look at the definition of confidence: trust; reliance; assurance. Those are the attributes we give and feel toward God. Self-confidence draws us away from God. That's why this blog is called confidence done right--God's right way (Isaiah 32:17). As soon as one gives up on letting self direct the life and allow God to direct, the life of that person blooms. That's how God designed us. Philippians 2:3 (GWT) says: "Don't act out of selfish ambition or be conceited." God didn't design us to guide ourselves. Have you ever wondered why you don't have many friends or any good friends? Philippinas 2:4 (GWT) says: "Don't be concerned only about only about your own interests, but also be concerned about the interests of others." And notice that the last verse speaks to your concerns--it's ok to have your own concerns. Just don't be consumed by them so as to not see others and their needs.
How does one get out of your own self? It feels like a prison, doesn't it? Jesus can help you get out. Hebrews 4:14-16 (MSG): "Now that we know what we have--Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God--let's not let it slip through our fingers. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all--all but the sin. so let's walk right up to Him and get what He is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help." Jesus is more than your high priest. He is your friend, your confidant. He was tempted and suffered every kind of thing you and I have been through--He knows what you are experiencing and has advise for you. So--do what the verse says to do--walk right up to Him. Stand up and say: "Jesus, here I am. I need you to help me do life Your way. I am ready to do whatever You say." And friend, stay in contact with Him. Talk to Him about everything. Read His word and find out what He says about your situation. Most topics can be found in the concordance in the back of your Bible. Biblestudytools.com and Gotquestions.org offer answers.
Friend, I want you so comfortable in your own skin that you don't even have to think about yourself and your flaws. Matthew 5:5 (MSG): "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are--no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought." I love that verse. This would be a good one to add to your 20 core memory verses!
Now on to 21 Day Journal Note # 28. I think it appropriately fits todays conversation.
21 Day Journal Note # 28
FREEDOM
You, O Lord are freedom! I confess to you that I am a slave to the enemy. Mostly through my bad self-talk and not conferring with You constantly with decisions and thoughts. I admit that I throw my thoughts to the wind and the evil one picks them up.
Father, please help me to redirect my wind-tossed thoughts back to You. To direct my daily living habits towards Your desires and plans. I want to honor Your way and live freely.
Galatians 5:16-17 (NLT) says: So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. The old sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just the opposite from what the Holy Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this conflict.
I thank you Jesus that Your Spirit gives me desires. I am now constantly choosing to follow Your ways.
end of journal note.
Hand write this one once a day x 21 days to rewire your brain and discover freedom from yourself. Be good to yourself by allowing Jesus to give you advise--and truly take His advise. He Loves you very much!!
Hope this helps my friend.
Jesus' healing and peace to all, Wynndy
Friday, January 27, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Feel the Love!
Hey there, friends!! I am excited today! Keevin and I toured a house last week and fell in love with it. It was our second choice but it was more than I could imagine. It's funny that from looking at it from the outside (as we did the previous weekend) and looking at it on the inside were two different experiences. In fact, we did not go and tour the first choice. It was obvious that house # 2 was God's choice. Thank You my Lord!!
Keevin and I will go this morning to have the electricity turned on and the propane is already switched over to our name. We will move in this weekend and once again be out of the camper. The house is a simple brick farmhouse with 3 levels. The main level has the usual living room, kitchen, bathroom, dinning room and 2 bedrooms. The upper level is rustic with creaking old floors but also has a bathroom with a cast-iron claw-foot tub. This area will be for our guests and visitors as we will close it off and conserve on heat when by ourselves. The bottom level is a full, dark basement but great for our storage stuff--we are very grateful for this area. In fact, we are very grateful for each and every level and space. I forgot to tell you about my favorite. Attached to the kitchen is a very small sun porch. Small, yes, but me and my plants will love this area.
We came back to the camper after touring the house and deciding that this is the right place. As I was moving around and doing some light housekeeping I noticed a card on the bulletin board that we have hanging up. This card was dated 9-20-11. Not long after we had moved here I wrote down details I wanted for my next home. As I read over the forgotten card my heart became a little overwhelmed. I realized that God had given me what I desired. Look at the details: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, dinning room, dishwasher, no carpet, hardwood floors, in a valley with a beautiful view of the mountains. I forgot to tell you that although the kitchen is small it is beautifully and newly renovated including a dishwasher--yes, in this old farmhouse. This kitchen even has one of those fancy fauscets where the sprayer is also the faucet and has a soap dispenser. And the view is wonderful!! Through the windows one can look at a winding road going up the mountain. There are lots of cabins and a Christmas tree patch to look at. A top the mountain is a big, pretty house. A horse stable is just in front of us. Lot's of eye candy. I know my family and friends will enjoy the visit here and feel like they are on vacation. But I have to tell you this is not the first time God has given me a house that was on my wish list. It happened at our last house. It happened when we were living in the camper before where I started writing a Bible study, I made a similar card but it had different details because all my children were joining us in that house. I asked for 2200 or so square foot, 3 bathrooms, fireplace and some other things. God gave us 2700 square foot with an upper level perfect for my daughter and her 2 children and Cody had his room and we even had an extra room for an office so that I could do more writing. And it had 3 full bathrooms. It's funny that both times I made these cards out God did not allow me to look inside and tour other homes. He specifically gave us these two homes without us picking them out. I would have loved looking in other houses but God wanted me to know that this was His present to me and I love that even more.
Psalm 37: 3-4 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:3-4 is number 3 on my 20 core memory verses. If I didn't know this verse so intimately I might would have not noticed my desires being fulfilled by God. I might would have considered the two houses as coincidental. But I know better. I really know better because I have committed myself to His Word. Friend, this has contributed to a wonderful sense of significance and connection to Holy Dad. As I lay down at night I recite my 20 core verses. The habit of going over them relaxes me, grows the word in me, and have at times inspired me with prayers for other people. I strongly urge you to do this as His word will be your life. Psalm 119:11 (NIV): "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." It is a sin not to memorize and take time to think about these verses. When you start experiencing the amazing effect of this habit you'll find yourself wanting to go beyond the 20 you've assigned yourself to. Thanksgiving is the byproduct of this habit. Thanksgiving leads to peace and contentment and it feels awesome to me!
1 John 4:19 (NIV): "We love because He first loved us." Bask in His love. Allow Him to love You. Give over to His way and you'll feel it---love! 1 John 4:18 (MSG): "God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we're free of worry on Judgment Day--our standing in the world is idenical with Christ's. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life--fear of death, fear of judgment--is one not yet fully formed in love." Friend, the life not yet fully formed in love is a life without the right kind of confidence. To have the confidence you crave--you'll get it by doing it His way.
Friend, I encourage you to have a home that is mature and full of God--that is your inner home. It is possible to change from your loveless self and feel His warmth. Ask Holy Dad to help you in this area. Soak in His word and commit to loving God with your total being and energies. You'll find yourself energized and feeling good about life.
The verse that started this blog says it perfectly: Isaiah 32:17 (NIV): "The fruit of righteousness is peace; the effect of righteousness is quietness and confidence forever."
Do the right things--God's things!! Enjoy the new feeling!!
Jesus' healing and peace to all, Wynndy
Keevin and I will go this morning to have the electricity turned on and the propane is already switched over to our name. We will move in this weekend and once again be out of the camper. The house is a simple brick farmhouse with 3 levels. The main level has the usual living room, kitchen, bathroom, dinning room and 2 bedrooms. The upper level is rustic with creaking old floors but also has a bathroom with a cast-iron claw-foot tub. This area will be for our guests and visitors as we will close it off and conserve on heat when by ourselves. The bottom level is a full, dark basement but great for our storage stuff--we are very grateful for this area. In fact, we are very grateful for each and every level and space. I forgot to tell you about my favorite. Attached to the kitchen is a very small sun porch. Small, yes, but me and my plants will love this area.
We came back to the camper after touring the house and deciding that this is the right place. As I was moving around and doing some light housekeeping I noticed a card on the bulletin board that we have hanging up. This card was dated 9-20-11. Not long after we had moved here I wrote down details I wanted for my next home. As I read over the forgotten card my heart became a little overwhelmed. I realized that God had given me what I desired. Look at the details: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, dinning room, dishwasher, no carpet, hardwood floors, in a valley with a beautiful view of the mountains. I forgot to tell you that although the kitchen is small it is beautifully and newly renovated including a dishwasher--yes, in this old farmhouse. This kitchen even has one of those fancy fauscets where the sprayer is also the faucet and has a soap dispenser. And the view is wonderful!! Through the windows one can look at a winding road going up the mountain. There are lots of cabins and a Christmas tree patch to look at. A top the mountain is a big, pretty house. A horse stable is just in front of us. Lot's of eye candy. I know my family and friends will enjoy the visit here and feel like they are on vacation. But I have to tell you this is not the first time God has given me a house that was on my wish list. It happened at our last house. It happened when we were living in the camper before where I started writing a Bible study, I made a similar card but it had different details because all my children were joining us in that house. I asked for 2200 or so square foot, 3 bathrooms, fireplace and some other things. God gave us 2700 square foot with an upper level perfect for my daughter and her 2 children and Cody had his room and we even had an extra room for an office so that I could do more writing. And it had 3 full bathrooms. It's funny that both times I made these cards out God did not allow me to look inside and tour other homes. He specifically gave us these two homes without us picking them out. I would have loved looking in other houses but God wanted me to know that this was His present to me and I love that even more.
Psalm 37: 3-4 (NIV): "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:3-4 is number 3 on my 20 core memory verses. If I didn't know this verse so intimately I might would have not noticed my desires being fulfilled by God. I might would have considered the two houses as coincidental. But I know better. I really know better because I have committed myself to His Word. Friend, this has contributed to a wonderful sense of significance and connection to Holy Dad. As I lay down at night I recite my 20 core verses. The habit of going over them relaxes me, grows the word in me, and have at times inspired me with prayers for other people. I strongly urge you to do this as His word will be your life. Psalm 119:11 (NIV): "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against You." It is a sin not to memorize and take time to think about these verses. When you start experiencing the amazing effect of this habit you'll find yourself wanting to go beyond the 20 you've assigned yourself to. Thanksgiving is the byproduct of this habit. Thanksgiving leads to peace and contentment and it feels awesome to me!
1 John 4:19 (NIV): "We love because He first loved us." Bask in His love. Allow Him to love You. Give over to His way and you'll feel it---love! 1 John 4:18 (MSG): "God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we're free of worry on Judgment Day--our standing in the world is idenical with Christ's. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life--fear of death, fear of judgment--is one not yet fully formed in love." Friend, the life not yet fully formed in love is a life without the right kind of confidence. To have the confidence you crave--you'll get it by doing it His way.
Friend, I encourage you to have a home that is mature and full of God--that is your inner home. It is possible to change from your loveless self and feel His warmth. Ask Holy Dad to help you in this area. Soak in His word and commit to loving God with your total being and energies. You'll find yourself energized and feeling good about life.
The verse that started this blog says it perfectly: Isaiah 32:17 (NIV): "The fruit of righteousness is peace; the effect of righteousness is quietness and confidence forever."
Do the right things--God's things!! Enjoy the new feeling!!
Jesus' healing and peace to all, Wynndy
Friday, January 13, 2012
Close The Windows But Open The Curtains.
Happy Friday the 13th to all! Aren't Fridays good! A bit of excitement is in the air as folks wind down their work week and look forward to free personal time and fun. What do you have planned? Search your mind for something you are thankful for and celebrate it this weekend.
Just floating along in life accepting whatever comes up can yield unsatisfying results. I strongly urge you to put some effort into your life and mold it into a pleasurable experience. Building up on the relationship you have with Holy Dad ensures a more satisfying feeling. He meets needs. He heals wounded hearts. He gives guidance. And He provides companionship with His presence. You'll be amazed at how He pops up when you make time to talk to Him and listen to His word.
Sitting up straight in your chair boosts your confidence and thoughts. It also makes you look more confident. Holy Dad wants you looking and feeling this way because you can attract folks to Jesus.
Work at keeping your hands off your face. Popping your nuckles is also a nervous feature that detracts from a positive, confident you. Mark these on your day planner to work on and be committed to present a better you for Jesus.
People like being around positiveness. One way to create that persona is to search for things to be thankful for. I especially like being thankful for small, seemingly nonsignificant things because without small things life would not be as pleasant.
And now to tell you what I am thankful for: Keevin and I have appointments tomorrow to tour 2 rental houses. Last weekend we rode around and peeped in the windows of the two houses. I fell in love with one but the other one, a close contender, fits more comfortably in our budget. Either way, God is good to us and we want to serve Him with the new home. I will be especially excited to move out of our lovely camper. The wind blew last night gigling the camper a little.
This past week I spent time writing a chapter for my book "Comfortable in My Own Skin." The chapter I worked on was one dealing with self-responsiblity. I came across a verse that binds my house hunting with management of self. Proverbs 25:28 (MSG): "A person without self-control is like a house with its doors and windows knocked out." Look around your home. Imagine all the doors and windows knocked out. You would be extremely cold because most ot the U.S. has snow and frigid temperatures. Do you feel vunerable with the exposure to the world? And you should for good reasons. Satan loves it when you give him a way into your life to stir up trouble for you. Trouble for you means non-attraction to Jesus. So you find yourself cold and vunerable. Now what do you do? Mark a certain time on your dayplanner to meet with God every day. Commit to talking to Him and listenig to His word. He provide fresh, new doors and windows. He'll warm you up and help you with the trouble you find yourself in.
You may find yourself criticizing the situation and feeling very negative about it. Consider 1 John 3:20 (MSG): "It's also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves." See, God doesn't want you in that criticizing frame of mind. Do you wonder what "the way to shut down" these feelings is? Well let's look at vs 19 (MSG): "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." Practice loving God with your total being and energies, then you'll experience a great life. Don't you love the way Holy Dad speaks tenderly to us--even when we have messed up?
Oh, yeah. What about the mess? He's here to help us with it. Yes, we have to face the consequences of our bad actions but He has forgiven us and wants to provide another way of looking at our mess. Romans 8:28 (MSG): "That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good." My friend, it only works if He knows you love Him. I advise you to work on that area of your life. It'll make it a good life!
Are you sick and tired of your life? 21 Day Journal Note # 27 deals with this feeling.
21 Day Journal Note # 27
Sick and Tired
What am I sick and tired of? What is causing my fatigue and physical symptoms? What would help me? I am drawn to ladies who encourage and cheer me on to become the best me that I can be--but they aren't always available. What am I to do? Don't fear! Jesus is here! Jesus is asking in Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG): "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me. And you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me--watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
As I recognize fatigue and sickness I will ask Jesus to reveal the source. Then I will follow the plan that Jesus lays out for me. Life flowing forward will be wonderful. Light and free living! Thank You Jesus!!
end of journal note. Hand write it once a day x 21 days to rewire your brain. Freedom and Light is yours!!
Close the doors and windows but open the curtains, my friend.
Jesus' healing and peace to all, Wynndy
Just floating along in life accepting whatever comes up can yield unsatisfying results. I strongly urge you to put some effort into your life and mold it into a pleasurable experience. Building up on the relationship you have with Holy Dad ensures a more satisfying feeling. He meets needs. He heals wounded hearts. He gives guidance. And He provides companionship with His presence. You'll be amazed at how He pops up when you make time to talk to Him and listen to His word.
Sitting up straight in your chair boosts your confidence and thoughts. It also makes you look more confident. Holy Dad wants you looking and feeling this way because you can attract folks to Jesus.
Work at keeping your hands off your face. Popping your nuckles is also a nervous feature that detracts from a positive, confident you. Mark these on your day planner to work on and be committed to present a better you for Jesus.
People like being around positiveness. One way to create that persona is to search for things to be thankful for. I especially like being thankful for small, seemingly nonsignificant things because without small things life would not be as pleasant.
And now to tell you what I am thankful for: Keevin and I have appointments tomorrow to tour 2 rental houses. Last weekend we rode around and peeped in the windows of the two houses. I fell in love with one but the other one, a close contender, fits more comfortably in our budget. Either way, God is good to us and we want to serve Him with the new home. I will be especially excited to move out of our lovely camper. The wind blew last night gigling the camper a little.
This past week I spent time writing a chapter for my book "Comfortable in My Own Skin." The chapter I worked on was one dealing with self-responsiblity. I came across a verse that binds my house hunting with management of self. Proverbs 25:28 (MSG): "A person without self-control is like a house with its doors and windows knocked out." Look around your home. Imagine all the doors and windows knocked out. You would be extremely cold because most ot the U.S. has snow and frigid temperatures. Do you feel vunerable with the exposure to the world? And you should for good reasons. Satan loves it when you give him a way into your life to stir up trouble for you. Trouble for you means non-attraction to Jesus. So you find yourself cold and vunerable. Now what do you do? Mark a certain time on your dayplanner to meet with God every day. Commit to talking to Him and listenig to His word. He provide fresh, new doors and windows. He'll warm you up and help you with the trouble you find yourself in.
You may find yourself criticizing the situation and feeling very negative about it. Consider 1 John 3:20 (MSG): "It's also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism, even when there is something to it. For God is greater than our worried hearts and knows more about us than we do ourselves." See, God doesn't want you in that criticizing frame of mind. Do you wonder what "the way to shut down" these feelings is? Well let's look at vs 19 (MSG): "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." Practice loving God with your total being and energies, then you'll experience a great life. Don't you love the way Holy Dad speaks tenderly to us--even when we have messed up?
Oh, yeah. What about the mess? He's here to help us with it. Yes, we have to face the consequences of our bad actions but He has forgiven us and wants to provide another way of looking at our mess. Romans 8:28 (MSG): "That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good." My friend, it only works if He knows you love Him. I advise you to work on that area of your life. It'll make it a good life!
Are you sick and tired of your life? 21 Day Journal Note # 27 deals with this feeling.
21 Day Journal Note # 27
Sick and Tired
What am I sick and tired of? What is causing my fatigue and physical symptoms? What would help me? I am drawn to ladies who encourage and cheer me on to become the best me that I can be--but they aren't always available. What am I to do? Don't fear! Jesus is here! Jesus is asking in Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG): "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me. And you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me--watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
As I recognize fatigue and sickness I will ask Jesus to reveal the source. Then I will follow the plan that Jesus lays out for me. Life flowing forward will be wonderful. Light and free living! Thank You Jesus!!
end of journal note. Hand write it once a day x 21 days to rewire your brain. Freedom and Light is yours!!
Close the doors and windows but open the curtains, my friend.
Jesus' healing and peace to all, Wynndy
Friday, January 6, 2012
Housewarming
Just got back into the camper from taking Rocky (my dog) out for a walk. It's a beautiful sunny and 45 degree morning. It is unlike other mornings this week. Monday morning from 1:00 AM through 4:30 AM I laid awake listening to swirling, violent winds. I was tired the rest of the day. Tuesday morning greeted me with a temperature of 15 degrees and snow. Wednesday morning was more frigid at 5 degrees. But Thursday mellowed out and warmed up and today is proving to be quite lovely. A couple of the days Rocky and I took walks out in the snow but we didn't stay out long because it was really cold. It felt good to get back inside where it was warm.
And friends, I am really excited for this weekend to come. The Great Lord has provided us with funds to find a rental property. We have been casually looking at houses and apartments but now we can seriously look and consider. I say we but that we includes God. You see, God assigned us to Boone, NC to start a new church and Keevin and I are very committed to obeying in this area. We have always been a couple who look for adventure and excitement and God knew we would be a good match for the assignment. It has been a bit of an adventure and hope you are enjoying the journey with us. Obeying God has been a eye opener. God has shown His presence more as we are more obedient. He is more real to us. I tell you that because I know when we are in circumstances and don't search out God He backs off and stays in the background--hense, He feels unreal and unseen. But give Him a shout and a try and you'll be amazed at the outcome.
Now on to the house search. I am soooo excited. I love houses. I love going into peoples homes and see how they live. I love to see their decor. I love furniture. I love artwork. I love lamps. You name any detail--the home is important to me. But I have to consider God's needs and wants on this house search--which is ok with me because I know we have the same desires. I want a property that is entertainment friendly. He wants us to use the space for gathering of church family for meals. I want space for my own family to be able to come and visit. He promotes healthy relationships in His word. Keevin wants space in the yard to park the camper. God wants us to have good parking space for folks to come to our house. And as for the things I love early in this paragraph--these things are all found in the Bible. He gives specific directions for the decor of His temple in the OT. All of the outdoors--trees, flowers, sky & clouds, etc is one big, huge piece of art. And God definitely loves light--He is the light and the lamp for my feet. But what about the house itself. He says pleny about houses and homes.
If you go to the concordance in the back of your Bible you will see lots of referrences about houses and homes. It's quite warming to see how good values a good home. Now I want you to ask yourself a question. "Does my home reflect God and His character?" I haven't talked about the confidence elements in a while but they fit here. They fit nicely in your home. Galatians 5: 22-23(NIV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Wouldn't a home filled with these things be a haven to come home to after a long day at work? And a haven to invite neighbors to? A haven for troubled friends to come and receive comfort and support? I really like The Message's version of these 2 verses: "But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard--things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely." I want to point you to the part "basic holiness permeates things and people." Can you see how God permeates our homes? Our own spirits filled with His Spirit splashes over into the actual structure and how we use it.
Let's take a look at a few "house" verses. Joshua 24:15 (ESV): "...But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Question for you--what does a house look like when it serves the Lord? Did you answer that it's the people and not the house? But do you and your people actually do serving kind of things in your home? If your walls could talk would they tell us that they hear prayers? Praises? Laughter? Arguments? Doorslamming? Yelling? Crying? Does your decor and housekeeping reflect a healthy family? Do you take care of what God has given you? Do you feel good about who you are and what God is doing in your life? These things reflect back into your home. What would a neighbor's eyes see? What does your neighbor hear in the summer months when you have the windows opened?
Have you ever considered that you are a stone? 1 Peter 2:5 (MSG): "And be yourselves also like living stones that are being built up into a spiritual house, to become a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Notice the word "built". Our lives are ongoing building processes. So start where you are today and focus on building your spiritual house so that it overflows to your home--because it will show up there.
1 Timothy 3:15 (NCV): "Then, even if I am delayed, you will know how to live in the family of God. That family is the church of the living God, the support and foundation of the truth." Friend, search the scriptures for the truth. Whatever areas in your life that needs correction, fixing, remodling--find it in the Bible, memorize it. Study up on those areas and crowd out the lies of Satan.
God doesn't call all of us to use our homes for actual churches, however, Keevin and I are going to use our home like Phoebe in Romans 16:5 (NIV): "Greet also the church that meets at their house." Keevin and I are excited about having folks in our home, singing, praying, eating, praising and worshipping our Holy Good God. We are thinking up ways to meet people here in our new town so that we can invite them to our new home and church. Please be praying along with us that we come upon folks who are searching for somethng new, something meaningful and something lasting and satisfying. We know what would fill these voids--our Jesus Christ!!
Our next 21 Day Journal Note deals with clashes with our authorities. See if you have similar reactions because of past relational wounds.
21 Day Journal Note # 26
Clashes with my Authority
Dear Holy Dad, I want to be healed of unworthiness! Rehearsing in my mind the tape of a defensive event between me and my authority I conclude that my way was correct. My authority's actions remind me of events with ___________. I realize that my authority has his/her own significance and security issues. Father, I want to break the cycle of messy feelings. Please heal my old relational wounds and those of my authority.
Thank You Lord for Your truth and promises found in Deuteronomy 26:18-19 (MSG) " And today God has reaffirmed that I am a dearly held treasure just as He promised, a woman entrusted with keeping His commandments, a person set high above others that He's made, high in praise, fame, and honor: I am a woman holy to God, My God. That's what He has promised."
end of journal note. I changed the word people for woman to make it more personal to me. I find this helps to seal in His goodness without taking away His meaning for the verse. Handwrite this one once a day x 21 days to rewire your unhealthy, wounded thinking system. You'll feel tremendous relief and will be able to have a healthier working relationship with your boss, pastor, teacher, etc.
The ending of this blog is more like a beginning: WELCOME HOME!!
Jesus' healing and peace to all of you, Wynndy
And friends, I am really excited for this weekend to come. The Great Lord has provided us with funds to find a rental property. We have been casually looking at houses and apartments but now we can seriously look and consider. I say we but that we includes God. You see, God assigned us to Boone, NC to start a new church and Keevin and I are very committed to obeying in this area. We have always been a couple who look for adventure and excitement and God knew we would be a good match for the assignment. It has been a bit of an adventure and hope you are enjoying the journey with us. Obeying God has been a eye opener. God has shown His presence more as we are more obedient. He is more real to us. I tell you that because I know when we are in circumstances and don't search out God He backs off and stays in the background--hense, He feels unreal and unseen. But give Him a shout and a try and you'll be amazed at the outcome.
Now on to the house search. I am soooo excited. I love houses. I love going into peoples homes and see how they live. I love to see their decor. I love furniture. I love artwork. I love lamps. You name any detail--the home is important to me. But I have to consider God's needs and wants on this house search--which is ok with me because I know we have the same desires. I want a property that is entertainment friendly. He wants us to use the space for gathering of church family for meals. I want space for my own family to be able to come and visit. He promotes healthy relationships in His word. Keevin wants space in the yard to park the camper. God wants us to have good parking space for folks to come to our house. And as for the things I love early in this paragraph--these things are all found in the Bible. He gives specific directions for the decor of His temple in the OT. All of the outdoors--trees, flowers, sky & clouds, etc is one big, huge piece of art. And God definitely loves light--He is the light and the lamp for my feet. But what about the house itself. He says pleny about houses and homes.
If you go to the concordance in the back of your Bible you will see lots of referrences about houses and homes. It's quite warming to see how good values a good home. Now I want you to ask yourself a question. "Does my home reflect God and His character?" I haven't talked about the confidence elements in a while but they fit here. They fit nicely in your home. Galatians 5: 22-23(NIV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Wouldn't a home filled with these things be a haven to come home to after a long day at work? And a haven to invite neighbors to? A haven for troubled friends to come and receive comfort and support? I really like The Message's version of these 2 verses: "But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard--things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely." I want to point you to the part "basic holiness permeates things and people." Can you see how God permeates our homes? Our own spirits filled with His Spirit splashes over into the actual structure and how we use it.
Let's take a look at a few "house" verses. Joshua 24:15 (ESV): "...But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Question for you--what does a house look like when it serves the Lord? Did you answer that it's the people and not the house? But do you and your people actually do serving kind of things in your home? If your walls could talk would they tell us that they hear prayers? Praises? Laughter? Arguments? Doorslamming? Yelling? Crying? Does your decor and housekeeping reflect a healthy family? Do you take care of what God has given you? Do you feel good about who you are and what God is doing in your life? These things reflect back into your home. What would a neighbor's eyes see? What does your neighbor hear in the summer months when you have the windows opened?
Have you ever considered that you are a stone? 1 Peter 2:5 (MSG): "And be yourselves also like living stones that are being built up into a spiritual house, to become a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Notice the word "built". Our lives are ongoing building processes. So start where you are today and focus on building your spiritual house so that it overflows to your home--because it will show up there.
1 Timothy 3:15 (NCV): "Then, even if I am delayed, you will know how to live in the family of God. That family is the church of the living God, the support and foundation of the truth." Friend, search the scriptures for the truth. Whatever areas in your life that needs correction, fixing, remodling--find it in the Bible, memorize it. Study up on those areas and crowd out the lies of Satan.
God doesn't call all of us to use our homes for actual churches, however, Keevin and I are going to use our home like Phoebe in Romans 16:5 (NIV): "Greet also the church that meets at their house." Keevin and I are excited about having folks in our home, singing, praying, eating, praising and worshipping our Holy Good God. We are thinking up ways to meet people here in our new town so that we can invite them to our new home and church. Please be praying along with us that we come upon folks who are searching for somethng new, something meaningful and something lasting and satisfying. We know what would fill these voids--our Jesus Christ!!
Our next 21 Day Journal Note deals with clashes with our authorities. See if you have similar reactions because of past relational wounds.
21 Day Journal Note # 26
Clashes with my Authority
Dear Holy Dad, I want to be healed of unworthiness! Rehearsing in my mind the tape of a defensive event between me and my authority I conclude that my way was correct. My authority's actions remind me of events with ___________. I realize that my authority has his/her own significance and security issues. Father, I want to break the cycle of messy feelings. Please heal my old relational wounds and those of my authority.
Thank You Lord for Your truth and promises found in Deuteronomy 26:18-19 (MSG) " And today God has reaffirmed that I am a dearly held treasure just as He promised, a woman entrusted with keeping His commandments, a person set high above others that He's made, high in praise, fame, and honor: I am a woman holy to God, My God. That's what He has promised."
end of journal note. I changed the word people for woman to make it more personal to me. I find this helps to seal in His goodness without taking away His meaning for the verse. Handwrite this one once a day x 21 days to rewire your unhealthy, wounded thinking system. You'll feel tremendous relief and will be able to have a healthier working relationship with your boss, pastor, teacher, etc.
The ending of this blog is more like a beginning: WELCOME HOME!!
Jesus' healing and peace to all of you, Wynndy
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Newness!!
Hey there friend!! You may notice that I am meeting with you a day early this week. That's because Keevin and I plan to travel tomorrow morning to Hendersonville, NC to my Mom and Dad's second home (that's a blessing from God that I will have to tell you about, later). Our children and grandchildren will travel from Murfreesboro,TN to meet with us and my sister and family. An extra week of Christmas is great!
But the inevitable will happen. We will have to get used to saying 2012 instead of 2011. Yes, my friend, changes whether we like it or not. It signals a change of the time and date. Along with that particular signal comes encouragement from merchants and retailers to propel you into other changes--for the better of course. You know what those changes are--to get in shape, lose weight, organize your office, etc, etc. I'm not going to encourage you in those areas because, Lord knows, you are well informed by commercials and advertisements. But those areas of change will benefit you greatly. Through some recent reading I realized that feelings don't change overnight but a change in behavior leads your feelings in the same direction of the behavior. Just think about it and then act on it. OOPPss. I guess I ended up encouraging you in those areas.
What I want to concentrate on is a whole new life. Take a look. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (GWT): "Whoever is a believer is a new creation. The old way of living has disappeared. A new way of living has come into existence." We all like reading these words and imagining a new way of living but actually changing the mess we are in is difficult. I asked Keevin the other day if he thought the reason people are unable to change is because of their anger with God? I am convinced that lots of folks don't realize they are angry with God because they are afraid to admit to it. Afraid of God. But God won't disown you if you tell Him that you are angry with Him. Follow me down a couple of verses from where we started. Verse 20 (NCV): "So we have been sent to speak for Christ. It is as if God is calling to you through us. We speak for Christ when we beg you to be at peace with God." Some versions read it as being reconciled with God. So friend, He already knows that you are upset with Him. You probably blame Him for some of the bad things that have happened to you, perhaps in your childhood. However, I urge you to go back to the beginning. Genesis starts out with God creating everything from nothing. He placed Adam and Eve in the beautiful, lush Garden of Eden. Life was enjoyable and satisfying. And then in chapter 3 of Genesis the serpent comes along and entices the two of them to eat the fruit that God told them not to eat. The mess we are in is our fault--not God's. Yes, you may have been violated at a vulnerable time in your life but God can heal you of those rotten memories--please give Him a chance.
Now, let's back up to verse 19 of 2 Corinthians 5. (GWT): "In other words, God was using Christ to restore His relationship with humanity. He didn't hold people's faults against them, and He has given us this message of restored relationships to tell others." God know that we messed up and continue to mess up but He doesn't give up on us--we give up on Him and even blame Him. He went to extremes to make things right even though none of our mess was His fault.
Friend, allow His Word to change your life to a new one. 1 Peter 1:23 (MSG): "Your new life is not like your old life. Your old birth came from mortal sperm. Your new birth comes from God's living Word." I highly encourage you to start a relationship with Him--talk to Him and listen to Him by way of His word. Then do what He says to do--He knows how for you to have a good life. And from the deep appreciation you will feel from the new life you will have--you will tell others--those who are hurting and living a dark life--how they, too, can have an amazing new life--through Christ.
The definition of anger (which you may be feeling toward God) is a feeling of displeasure and hostility that a person has because of being injured, mistreated, opposed, etc. Did you notice the word hostility? The definition for angry is feeling or showing anger, wild and stormy. Friend, your angry feelings are misplaced. Satan is the one who caused corruptness in the human race way back in the beginning. Please admit to God that you are angry with Him and that you are deeply sorry for the feelings. Ask Him to heal you and comfort you.
21 Day Journal Note # 25 is about control in difficult situations with others. You could also change the wording around to fit your situation--your anger toward God.
21 Day Journal Note # 25
Who's in Control?
Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG): Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitons and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholelness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.
I get so stressed out when I am dealing with a difficult person. I feel loss of respect. I spiral out of control trying to gain control of my situation. I am to look at myself as the problem and not the other person. There will always be those "other persons" in my life and I will never be able to control them. However, I have control over me with Your help. Lord, I give You these difficutl times and trust You to keep me grounded.
end of journal note. If this one speaks to your life difficutlies then handwrite it once a day x 21 days. God's word is awesome by rewiring your brain and thinking system. Try it my friend, as I suspect your way of doing life has not yielded satisfying results. Try on this new behavior.
Instead of telling you to "get a life" I encourage you to "get a new life!"
Sending Jesus' love to all, Wynndy
But the inevitable will happen. We will have to get used to saying 2012 instead of 2011. Yes, my friend, changes whether we like it or not. It signals a change of the time and date. Along with that particular signal comes encouragement from merchants and retailers to propel you into other changes--for the better of course. You know what those changes are--to get in shape, lose weight, organize your office, etc, etc. I'm not going to encourage you in those areas because, Lord knows, you are well informed by commercials and advertisements. But those areas of change will benefit you greatly. Through some recent reading I realized that feelings don't change overnight but a change in behavior leads your feelings in the same direction of the behavior. Just think about it and then act on it. OOPPss. I guess I ended up encouraging you in those areas.
What I want to concentrate on is a whole new life. Take a look. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (GWT): "Whoever is a believer is a new creation. The old way of living has disappeared. A new way of living has come into existence." We all like reading these words and imagining a new way of living but actually changing the mess we are in is difficult. I asked Keevin the other day if he thought the reason people are unable to change is because of their anger with God? I am convinced that lots of folks don't realize they are angry with God because they are afraid to admit to it. Afraid of God. But God won't disown you if you tell Him that you are angry with Him. Follow me down a couple of verses from where we started. Verse 20 (NCV): "So we have been sent to speak for Christ. It is as if God is calling to you through us. We speak for Christ when we beg you to be at peace with God." Some versions read it as being reconciled with God. So friend, He already knows that you are upset with Him. You probably blame Him for some of the bad things that have happened to you, perhaps in your childhood. However, I urge you to go back to the beginning. Genesis starts out with God creating everything from nothing. He placed Adam and Eve in the beautiful, lush Garden of Eden. Life was enjoyable and satisfying. And then in chapter 3 of Genesis the serpent comes along and entices the two of them to eat the fruit that God told them not to eat. The mess we are in is our fault--not God's. Yes, you may have been violated at a vulnerable time in your life but God can heal you of those rotten memories--please give Him a chance.
Now, let's back up to verse 19 of 2 Corinthians 5. (GWT): "In other words, God was using Christ to restore His relationship with humanity. He didn't hold people's faults against them, and He has given us this message of restored relationships to tell others." God know that we messed up and continue to mess up but He doesn't give up on us--we give up on Him and even blame Him. He went to extremes to make things right even though none of our mess was His fault.
Friend, allow His Word to change your life to a new one. 1 Peter 1:23 (MSG): "Your new life is not like your old life. Your old birth came from mortal sperm. Your new birth comes from God's living Word." I highly encourage you to start a relationship with Him--talk to Him and listen to Him by way of His word. Then do what He says to do--He knows how for you to have a good life. And from the deep appreciation you will feel from the new life you will have--you will tell others--those who are hurting and living a dark life--how they, too, can have an amazing new life--through Christ.
The definition of anger (which you may be feeling toward God) is a feeling of displeasure and hostility that a person has because of being injured, mistreated, opposed, etc. Did you notice the word hostility? The definition for angry is feeling or showing anger, wild and stormy. Friend, your angry feelings are misplaced. Satan is the one who caused corruptness in the human race way back in the beginning. Please admit to God that you are angry with Him and that you are deeply sorry for the feelings. Ask Him to heal you and comfort you.
21 Day Journal Note # 25 is about control in difficult situations with others. You could also change the wording around to fit your situation--your anger toward God.
21 Day Journal Note # 25
Who's in Control?
Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG): Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitons and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholelness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.
I get so stressed out when I am dealing with a difficult person. I feel loss of respect. I spiral out of control trying to gain control of my situation. I am to look at myself as the problem and not the other person. There will always be those "other persons" in my life and I will never be able to control them. However, I have control over me with Your help. Lord, I give You these difficutl times and trust You to keep me grounded.
end of journal note. If this one speaks to your life difficutlies then handwrite it once a day x 21 days. God's word is awesome by rewiring your brain and thinking system. Try it my friend, as I suspect your way of doing life has not yielded satisfying results. Try on this new behavior.
Instead of telling you to "get a life" I encourage you to "get a new life!"
Sending Jesus' love to all, Wynndy
Friday, December 23, 2011
Lights in the Sky
The day before Christmas Eve. It seems that the magical time of the year is upon us. Magical. Why does it feel magical? Because Santa Claus is coming to town!! Santa brings us gifts that we have been wishing for and dreaming of all year long. The anticipation of the gift-receiving time builds up the excitement of the great moment. This time of year is also viewed as romantic. A girl hopes to receive a well-meaning gift that proves a young man loves her. Dreams fulfilled. Happiness happening all around. It just doesn't get any better, does it? Or does it?
Tomorrow night Keevin and I will attend a Christmas Eve service at one of the local Baptist churches. For most of our married life we have attended Christmas Eve services and it has become a tradition regardless of where we are. It feels really good, however, when we attend with fellow church members as a family of God. It is the ultimate feeling of unity with a body of folks who all love our Lord Jesus Christ. I read a devotion this morning about not worshipping Baby Jesus. What I want to point out is that I recognize the fact that Jesus had to leave His wonderful life in Heaven, separate Himself from His Father, become a helpless little baby, and start a life as a real human being who had to manage the emotions we do and experience temptations like we do. Thank You Jesus that Your story doesn't end in the manger!! But I recognize my Lord that you did sacrifice alot for us!!
After Keevin and I leave the Christmas Eve service we will head to Blowing Rock, NC which is just 5 miles down the road from Boone. We will drive through town and enjoy the lights that have been so wonderfully displayed. I love the lights. They are bright, festive and give us a great feeling of aliveness. God intends for us to celebrate all aspects of His great plan. We may look up in the sky searching for Rudolph's red nose but our hearts are fixed on Jesus!! It's funny how some folks can't stand the celebration of our season, no matter how you label it (Santa Claus. Jingle Bells, Elfs, etc) because it directs ones attention back to the original reason for happiness. That reason is Jesus, our Lord and Savior
There have always been someone trying to sabotage Jesus Christ's Lordship. In Heaven Satan's pride swelled really big causing him to misjudge his own power and status. Hmmm, do we do that? Well, it got Satan in a lot of trouble. He was thrown out of heaven. Imagine the scene in the sky when it happened. Luke 10:18 (NCV): "Jesus said, 'I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.'" Wow!! I bet his big pride was bruised. Satan is still hot and heavy with his mission to overthrow God's plan. But don't fear because Jesus completed His mission from Baby to Savior on the cross to being raised from the dead and living again as our Lord and Master.
Consider another light. 1 John 1:7 (NLT): "But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from every sin." The last part of that verse is very important. Satan wouldn't own up to his sin and pride but you and I can. We can unquestioningly believe that Jesus is who He says He is and did what He did do. Next, own up to your sins. God will help you to deal with them one at a time. Being cleansed from our mess-ups gives us freedom from the guilt we have been carrying around. Being cleansed releases us from the control the sin has on us. Can you feel the peace as you give it up to Christ? You start to glow (light?) for God. Enjoying the company of other believers is a great way to show big thanks and honor to Holy Dad.
And our light leads to other things. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (MSG): "It started when God said, 'Light up the darkness!' and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful." We start shining for Jesus to the ones who live in darkness. Satan spreads darkness. He wants everyone void of God and His goodness. Some folks void of God think they are just fine, but remember what happened to Satan up in Heaven--lightning, but not a good kind.
And our precious God didn't leave us without instructions and helps. Psalm 119:105 (GNT): "Your word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path." Friend, the Bible may seem boring or hard to understand but take the time to ask Holy Dad questions about the word you are reading. Ask Him to reveal Himself to you through His word. Ask Him to reveal any areas in your life that you may need to deal with and improve. It may seem scary at first but the freedom from guilt and sin-control is worth the peace that you will have--so just do it!!
Now, I know you have experienced being "lighted on" by anger. I call it a verbal explosion. It is very stress inducing and causes all sorts of wrong thinking to happen inside of you. Check out 21 Day Journal Note # 24.
21 Day Journal Note # 24
Verbal Explosion!!
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT) Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
BOOM!!! I am being attacked verbally by an angry person who is standing in front of me. My usual response is to freeze my thinking system and run away. My past experience has been that the one projecting their anger on me was placing the blame on me, rejecting me and not accepting my explanation. I misinterpreted their behavior as a sign that I was worthless. Lord, You have taught me that You live inside of me. I am infused with Your words, thoughts, wisdom as well as Your forgiveness and compassion. I recognize that the person standing in front of me is full of problems and misery. His/her harsh words stem from a distorted thinking system. I am pausing and seeking You. You are helping me to remain calm and rational and I am speaking words of wisdom to this wounded person. Thank You Lord for indwelling me.
end of journal note. Friend, this will help you when you find yourself in that very situation. You'll be amazed at how this note and God's words will rise up and give you a solid footing to say what you need to say to the individual in front of you. The spew of harshness and the power that is meant to cripple you will be deflated and left powerless. Handwrite this note once a day for 21 days to rewire your brain. You'll be glad you did when the next verbal explosion happens--and it will.
My friend, ask Holy Dad to help you get through a family get-together, especially if you are fearful of a verbal explosion. These tend to happen during chaotic, stressful times. Holy Dad wants to help you. He doesn't want you to remember this time of year as "bad family times."
Make plans, everyone, to enjoy the lights tomorrow night. And don't forget the star that the 3 wise men and the shepards saw when they searched out for Baby Jesus!!
Sisterly love to all, Wynndy
Tomorrow night Keevin and I will attend a Christmas Eve service at one of the local Baptist churches. For most of our married life we have attended Christmas Eve services and it has become a tradition regardless of where we are. It feels really good, however, when we attend with fellow church members as a family of God. It is the ultimate feeling of unity with a body of folks who all love our Lord Jesus Christ. I read a devotion this morning about not worshipping Baby Jesus. What I want to point out is that I recognize the fact that Jesus had to leave His wonderful life in Heaven, separate Himself from His Father, become a helpless little baby, and start a life as a real human being who had to manage the emotions we do and experience temptations like we do. Thank You Jesus that Your story doesn't end in the manger!! But I recognize my Lord that you did sacrifice alot for us!!
After Keevin and I leave the Christmas Eve service we will head to Blowing Rock, NC which is just 5 miles down the road from Boone. We will drive through town and enjoy the lights that have been so wonderfully displayed. I love the lights. They are bright, festive and give us a great feeling of aliveness. God intends for us to celebrate all aspects of His great plan. We may look up in the sky searching for Rudolph's red nose but our hearts are fixed on Jesus!! It's funny how some folks can't stand the celebration of our season, no matter how you label it (Santa Claus. Jingle Bells, Elfs, etc) because it directs ones attention back to the original reason for happiness. That reason is Jesus, our Lord and Savior
There have always been someone trying to sabotage Jesus Christ's Lordship. In Heaven Satan's pride swelled really big causing him to misjudge his own power and status. Hmmm, do we do that? Well, it got Satan in a lot of trouble. He was thrown out of heaven. Imagine the scene in the sky when it happened. Luke 10:18 (NCV): "Jesus said, 'I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.'" Wow!! I bet his big pride was bruised. Satan is still hot and heavy with his mission to overthrow God's plan. But don't fear because Jesus completed His mission from Baby to Savior on the cross to being raised from the dead and living again as our Lord and Master.
Consider another light. 1 John 1:7 (NLT): "But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ is, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from every sin." The last part of that verse is very important. Satan wouldn't own up to his sin and pride but you and I can. We can unquestioningly believe that Jesus is who He says He is and did what He did do. Next, own up to your sins. God will help you to deal with them one at a time. Being cleansed from our mess-ups gives us freedom from the guilt we have been carrying around. Being cleansed releases us from the control the sin has on us. Can you feel the peace as you give it up to Christ? You start to glow (light?) for God. Enjoying the company of other believers is a great way to show big thanks and honor to Holy Dad.
And our light leads to other things. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (MSG): "It started when God said, 'Light up the darkness!' and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful." We start shining for Jesus to the ones who live in darkness. Satan spreads darkness. He wants everyone void of God and His goodness. Some folks void of God think they are just fine, but remember what happened to Satan up in Heaven--lightning, but not a good kind.
And our precious God didn't leave us without instructions and helps. Psalm 119:105 (GNT): "Your word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path." Friend, the Bible may seem boring or hard to understand but take the time to ask Holy Dad questions about the word you are reading. Ask Him to reveal Himself to you through His word. Ask Him to reveal any areas in your life that you may need to deal with and improve. It may seem scary at first but the freedom from guilt and sin-control is worth the peace that you will have--so just do it!!
Now, I know you have experienced being "lighted on" by anger. I call it a verbal explosion. It is very stress inducing and causes all sorts of wrong thinking to happen inside of you. Check out 21 Day Journal Note # 24.
21 Day Journal Note # 24
Verbal Explosion!!
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT) Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
BOOM!!! I am being attacked verbally by an angry person who is standing in front of me. My usual response is to freeze my thinking system and run away. My past experience has been that the one projecting their anger on me was placing the blame on me, rejecting me and not accepting my explanation. I misinterpreted their behavior as a sign that I was worthless. Lord, You have taught me that You live inside of me. I am infused with Your words, thoughts, wisdom as well as Your forgiveness and compassion. I recognize that the person standing in front of me is full of problems and misery. His/her harsh words stem from a distorted thinking system. I am pausing and seeking You. You are helping me to remain calm and rational and I am speaking words of wisdom to this wounded person. Thank You Lord for indwelling me.
end of journal note. Friend, this will help you when you find yourself in that very situation. You'll be amazed at how this note and God's words will rise up and give you a solid footing to say what you need to say to the individual in front of you. The spew of harshness and the power that is meant to cripple you will be deflated and left powerless. Handwrite this note once a day for 21 days to rewire your brain. You'll be glad you did when the next verbal explosion happens--and it will.
My friend, ask Holy Dad to help you get through a family get-together, especially if you are fearful of a verbal explosion. These tend to happen during chaotic, stressful times. Holy Dad wants to help you. He doesn't want you to remember this time of year as "bad family times."
Make plans, everyone, to enjoy the lights tomorrow night. And don't forget the star that the 3 wise men and the shepards saw when they searched out for Baby Jesus!!
Sisterly love to all, Wynndy
Friday, December 16, 2011
Unplanned Events
Some of my facebook friends (ok, they're my cousins) are complaining about the not-so-Christmasy weather they are having in Jacksonville, NC. One of my other cousins poked at the first one by saying he didn't want snow because of his surfing habit--but he thought twice about it and decided it might be cool to surf in the snow. But I told them that it's not cold up here in Boone, NC either. I thought if anyone would have a chance at a white Christmas that it would be me--but nooooo. Of course the Good Lord could surprise me yet. With it being 50 degrees at the moment I don't think the rain that is coming down will turn into snow.
And moving away from the weather talk, Christmas Eve is just one week and a day away. It has come upon us quickly, or so it seems. There has to be alot of cooking and cleaning and wrapping like crazy going on out there. A lot of activity for this coming up week. I am wishing all of you a safe and very happy Christmas. Really try to enjoy it and don't get too stressed with all the decisions to be made.
Speaking of holiday stress, have you ever experienced an awkward moment at those Christmas gatherings? Well Joseph was faced with a difficult and heart-breaking moment. He was engaged to marry Mary but he found out that she was pregnant. No way was the baby his because they were true to their vows of being celibate untill the wedding night. As awkward and heart-breaking the news was, he chose to deal with it in a quiet way. He was going to divorce her (yes, an engagement in that time was a very committed relationship so much so that a divorce was in order) but do it privately and not expose the disgrace of her pregnancy. While he was thinking up a plan an angel appeared to him in a dream (Matthew 1: 20) and explained to him that Mary was pregnant by the Holy Spirit and not to be afraid of marrying her. Can you imagine waking up from that dream! Would you believe a dream like that? Listen on and see what he did next. The angel in the dream told him something that sounded familiar. In last night's dream he heard the angel say: (Matthew 1:23, MSG) "Watch for this--a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son; They will name Him Emmanuel (Hebrew for 'God is with us')." And the angel said this would happen to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. So Joseph knew that this story had been passed down for ages but never in a million years did he expect to be linked to it. Where was it in the scriptures that foretold of this event? Isaiah 7:14 (GWT): "So the Lord Himself will give you this sign: A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and she will name Him Immanuel [God is with us]." Wow!! This is really happening! Why is this Baby so special? Skimming down a couple of chapters Joseph finds the answer. Isaiah 9:6 (NIV): "For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Repeat these titles once again but very slowly. Let them sink into your psyche. Now I want to back up, way back, all the way to the beginning. Let's review why Jesus is being born to a virgin. In Genesis we witness Adam and Eve doing bad. They chose to eat a piece of fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God had placed them in the most idylic place ever with not a care in the world. But He gave them one condition for living there--do not eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Along comes a beautiful snake and this snake talks. There have been other stories in the Bible of animals talking so please don't freak out about this part. The beautiful snake used very convincing words to persuade them to eat the fruit that they were not suppose to eat. That one itty bitty little mistake change their whole world forever. They immediately felt fear which they had never felt before. They felt guilt and shame over their newly discovered nakedness. You see they were sinless and innocent before this event and that is why their nakedness didn't bother them. They felt the need to hide from God and ran among the trees when they heard Him walking around in the garden. Unfortunately, they were about to be thrown out of the lovely, lush garden. God then promised to the woman pain and difficulty with pregnancy and delivery. And to the man, gardening would no longer be as much pleasure as it once was. Now he would have to contend with weeds and thorns and adverse weather conditions. This would make it harder for him to grow the family some food. God cursed the ground and the snake. All of the planet was affected by the itty-bitty mistake. But with God handing out all the bad news He also had good news. Genesis 3:15 (NCV): "I will make you and the woman enemies to each other. Your descendants and her descendants will be enemies. One of her descendants will crush your head, and you will bit His heel." God said this to the snake. Don't forget that the snake is Satan. Satan approaches us in many different forms and ways--keep this in mind as we discuss this some more. Eve's descendant that God was referring to is none other than Jesus. Even when we broke God's heart He gave us a way out from all of our mess.
Fast forward to Joseph. Matthew 1:24 (MSG): "Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God's angel commanded in the dream. He married Mary. But he did not consummate the marriage until she had the baby. He named the baby Jesus."
And fast forward to today. Friend, what kind of mess-ups are putting you in an awkward situation for this Christmas? Could it be from a past traumatic event that keeps living large in you? Is it something new that you have experimented with and discovered that it caused more problems than enjoyment? How about the family member that everyone whispers about and shuns? Unforgivness? Regrets? Then you will want to apply 21 Day Journal Note # 23.
21 Day Journal Note # 23
Haunted by the Ghost of Childhood Past
Proverbs 25:8 (MSG) Don't jump to conclusions--there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.
1 John 4:18 (MSG) There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life--fear of death, fear of judgment--is one not yet fully formed in love.
Childhood uncertainties. Things we can't explain. guilty dispositions placed on small ones by bigger ones just so they can feel release from their pressures. Whether divorce, suicide, rape, abandonment--a child cannot be the one who shoulders the blame. 1 John 4:19 (NIV): "We love because He first loved us." I am loved with a perfect love by the highest being. I no longer have a reason to feel fear. I am bold. I am loving. I am sensible and rational. Thank You Lord for Your deepest love to me!!
end of journal note. Handwrite this note once a day for 21 days to rewire your brain. Get this one buried deep in your psyche to bring about better outcomes for you. With God's help, arrest that old controlling childhood event. Discover how Jesus really means for you to live and enjoy this life of yours!!
As this next week moves toward the big day think about the beginnig and your own itty-bitty mistakes and how they affect lots of folks. Work on those areas and you'll find Christmas to be an even sweeter time than you could ever imagine.
Enjoy the jingles and tinsel everyone!!
Sisterly love to all, Wynndy
And moving away from the weather talk, Christmas Eve is just one week and a day away. It has come upon us quickly, or so it seems. There has to be alot of cooking and cleaning and wrapping like crazy going on out there. A lot of activity for this coming up week. I am wishing all of you a safe and very happy Christmas. Really try to enjoy it and don't get too stressed with all the decisions to be made.
Speaking of holiday stress, have you ever experienced an awkward moment at those Christmas gatherings? Well Joseph was faced with a difficult and heart-breaking moment. He was engaged to marry Mary but he found out that she was pregnant. No way was the baby his because they were true to their vows of being celibate untill the wedding night. As awkward and heart-breaking the news was, he chose to deal with it in a quiet way. He was going to divorce her (yes, an engagement in that time was a very committed relationship so much so that a divorce was in order) but do it privately and not expose the disgrace of her pregnancy. While he was thinking up a plan an angel appeared to him in a dream (Matthew 1: 20) and explained to him that Mary was pregnant by the Holy Spirit and not to be afraid of marrying her. Can you imagine waking up from that dream! Would you believe a dream like that? Listen on and see what he did next. The angel in the dream told him something that sounded familiar. In last night's dream he heard the angel say: (Matthew 1:23, MSG) "Watch for this--a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son; They will name Him Emmanuel (Hebrew for 'God is with us')." And the angel said this would happen to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. So Joseph knew that this story had been passed down for ages but never in a million years did he expect to be linked to it. Where was it in the scriptures that foretold of this event? Isaiah 7:14 (GWT): "So the Lord Himself will give you this sign: A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and she will name Him Immanuel [God is with us]." Wow!! This is really happening! Why is this Baby so special? Skimming down a couple of chapters Joseph finds the answer. Isaiah 9:6 (NIV): "For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Repeat these titles once again but very slowly. Let them sink into your psyche. Now I want to back up, way back, all the way to the beginning. Let's review why Jesus is being born to a virgin. In Genesis we witness Adam and Eve doing bad. They chose to eat a piece of fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God had placed them in the most idylic place ever with not a care in the world. But He gave them one condition for living there--do not eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Along comes a beautiful snake and this snake talks. There have been other stories in the Bible of animals talking so please don't freak out about this part. The beautiful snake used very convincing words to persuade them to eat the fruit that they were not suppose to eat. That one itty bitty little mistake change their whole world forever. They immediately felt fear which they had never felt before. They felt guilt and shame over their newly discovered nakedness. You see they were sinless and innocent before this event and that is why their nakedness didn't bother them. They felt the need to hide from God and ran among the trees when they heard Him walking around in the garden. Unfortunately, they were about to be thrown out of the lovely, lush garden. God then promised to the woman pain and difficulty with pregnancy and delivery. And to the man, gardening would no longer be as much pleasure as it once was. Now he would have to contend with weeds and thorns and adverse weather conditions. This would make it harder for him to grow the family some food. God cursed the ground and the snake. All of the planet was affected by the itty-bitty mistake. But with God handing out all the bad news He also had good news. Genesis 3:15 (NCV): "I will make you and the woman enemies to each other. Your descendants and her descendants will be enemies. One of her descendants will crush your head, and you will bit His heel." God said this to the snake. Don't forget that the snake is Satan. Satan approaches us in many different forms and ways--keep this in mind as we discuss this some more. Eve's descendant that God was referring to is none other than Jesus. Even when we broke God's heart He gave us a way out from all of our mess.
Fast forward to Joseph. Matthew 1:24 (MSG): "Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God's angel commanded in the dream. He married Mary. But he did not consummate the marriage until she had the baby. He named the baby Jesus."
And fast forward to today. Friend, what kind of mess-ups are putting you in an awkward situation for this Christmas? Could it be from a past traumatic event that keeps living large in you? Is it something new that you have experimented with and discovered that it caused more problems than enjoyment? How about the family member that everyone whispers about and shuns? Unforgivness? Regrets? Then you will want to apply 21 Day Journal Note # 23.
21 Day Journal Note # 23
Haunted by the Ghost of Childhood Past
Proverbs 25:8 (MSG) Don't jump to conclusions--there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.
1 John 4:18 (MSG) There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life--fear of death, fear of judgment--is one not yet fully formed in love.
Childhood uncertainties. Things we can't explain. guilty dispositions placed on small ones by bigger ones just so they can feel release from their pressures. Whether divorce, suicide, rape, abandonment--a child cannot be the one who shoulders the blame. 1 John 4:19 (NIV): "We love because He first loved us." I am loved with a perfect love by the highest being. I no longer have a reason to feel fear. I am bold. I am loving. I am sensible and rational. Thank You Lord for Your deepest love to me!!
end of journal note. Handwrite this note once a day for 21 days to rewire your brain. Get this one buried deep in your psyche to bring about better outcomes for you. With God's help, arrest that old controlling childhood event. Discover how Jesus really means for you to live and enjoy this life of yours!!
As this next week moves toward the big day think about the beginnig and your own itty-bitty mistakes and how they affect lots of folks. Work on those areas and you'll find Christmas to be an even sweeter time than you could ever imagine.
Enjoy the jingles and tinsel everyone!!
Sisterly love to all, Wynndy
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