tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2085874490185340302024-02-20T14:15:09.286-08:00Equipped MinistriesEquippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-33129149101898417412020-10-27T11:11:00.000-07:002020-10-27T11:11:42.143-07:00When Is The Best Time To Start A Weight Loss Plan?<iframe width="480" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ajl__D9Ny-E" frameborder="0"></iframe>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-55904201340605204452014-11-13T04:24:00.001-08:002014-11-13T04:24:29.898-08:00This is the Day
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“This is the day that the Lord
has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it” Psalms 118:24.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A straightforward verse with pretty simple
instructions-God made the day, we should rejoice</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Simple enough until “life” enters the
picture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Life that begins like, “This is the day” my children have complained and
fought all morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is the day” my
husband lost his job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“This is the day”
I received the cancer diagnosis from my doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or “This is the day” I received the call that my child was gone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How do I rejoice then?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bible states
that our rejoicing should be a result of the day we are living in, not the
circumstances that surround it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, we’ve
all experienced times in life that made us feel as though we wouldn’t make it through
the day, much less be able to rejoice in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The loss of a loved one, in particular can leave us feeling numb and
without direction or hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
surrounding questions of “why” and “how” seemingly unanswered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are promised in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, that
in Me you may have peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the world
you will have trouble; but take heart I have overcome the world.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Many times in life, we find ourselves searching for someone who
understands our situations and has been through our struggles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems to help fill the void and provide hope
and direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is just something
about connecting with others who have survived similar struggles and
turmoil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There is no one better to search for when our hearts are troubled over
loss than God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not a coincidence
that He allowed His son to die for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not only did He take our place, but through the pain and loss, God is
able to say to us without a doubt; “I understand what you’re going through and
you will make it to the other side.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I pray today that if you are struggling in your circumstances, remember
what God told the Israelites, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of
the land of Egypt; open wide your mouth and I will fill it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 81:10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God longs to fill the voids in our lives with His love and mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve tried everything else, why not try
Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray “This is the day” you try
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-75578929460521308422014-10-24T05:21:00.000-07:002019-08-26T06:06:25.267-07:00Right Behind God<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">In working with hundreds of men and women over the past eight years who
have a goal of losing weight and living healthy, the biggest challenge for most
to overcome has little to do with knowing what to eat and when to exercise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly, the biggest challenge for most
is realizing that God wants to be involved in their health and wellness journey
and He is capable of having a major impact if He is allowed access. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The story about Jonathan and his armor bearer paint a wonderful analogy
of what it looks like to realize that God wants what’s best for us and is
capable of seeing it through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Samuel
14:6 states, “Perhaps the Lord will work for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For nothing restrains the Lord from saving by
many or by few.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, it
doesn't matter who is coming against you or tempting you; with God on your side
nothing is impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">However, there is a catch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Of
course there is,” you say, but hear me out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In order for God to be fighting for you, it is imperative that you are
close enough to hear His orders. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Samuel
14:13 tells us, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And Jonathan climbed up
on his hands and knees with his armor bearer <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">behind</i></b> him; and they (the
enemy) fell before Jonathan.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
Jonathan going up first, the battle was over even before it started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The same is true for us if we stand where we
are told; right behind God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often,
we get ahead of Him in our haste to fix a situation, or too far behind when
fear and anxiety take hold of us and freeze us in our tracks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God knows as well as you and I do
that struggles in weight loss or any other area of our lives can grip us to the
point that we have no motivation or will to fight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to mention the impact on our self-esteem
and the guilt we experience when we “fail.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Struggling with weight loss (much like any other struggle) more than
anything is about learning to trust and believe that God can and wants to fight
for you in the battle.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The next time your stronghold begins to take hold of your life, remember;
in order to hear God you must remain close to Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, just like when you want to shield and
protect your child from something that might be too great for them to handle,
the safest place to be is “right behind God.”<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-79588156857329338762014-10-17T05:39:00.000-07:002019-08-26T06:09:31.061-07:00<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">That’s How God Operates<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lately, I’ve been experiencing feelings
I couldn’t really explain to others, and assuming it was just a normal way of
life for a mother trying to raise three kids, be a good wife, and serve God in
this crazy day and age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in attending
church and bible study over the last few weeks, two bible teachers I greatly admire,
spoke on a subject and very colorfully put into words exactly what I was
experiencing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>They both questioned the
listening audience asking, “Do you experience a heaviness of heart throughout
your day over situations that have not come to pass?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you burdened about the ‘what if’s’ of
life?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if my children get sick?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if my husband loses his job? What if my
wife leaves? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you feel pressure to
perform, wondering if you measure up, or are doing all that you should be
doing?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">With tears
in my eyes, I wanted to scream, “Yes, Yes!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly, in both
cases these two well respected bible teachers were describing personal experiences;
both labeling this heaviness as oppression and a spirit of affliction that
lurks in this world thanks to sin. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It makes perfect sense. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How else
can you explain waking up on a beautiful morning, in a warm and cozy home with
three healthy children and a loving husband and still be haunted by “what if’s?” </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">We all have
our own set of “what if’s,” and Satan would like nothing more than to keep you
entangled in a myriad of questions and doubts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All the while, God is whispering in your ear, “Didn’t I bring you this
far?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why would I stop now?” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I am grateful to have learned that
the heaviness I have been carrying for so long can be lifted; through
prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Philippians 4:6, 7 reminds us to
pray, give thanks and make our requests known to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet what many glaze over in this section of
the bible is that we are reminded by doing so, “Our hearts and minds will be
guarded in Christ Jesus.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other
words, the burdens of today, tomorrow and yesterday can all be lifted in one
way-just pray.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Through prayer this week, may
you be granted the ability to live as though the places you go, the people you
love and the things you have are gifts from God, not burdens to worry
about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He simply wants you to care for
them, give thanks for them, and talk to Him about them.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That’s how God operates.<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-86299943569159723852014-08-29T05:12:00.000-07:002014-08-29T05:12:03.264-07:00Praying for you from Head to Toe
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As
my children get older, it’s becoming very obvious to me, that there will be
(already have been) choices they make regarding friends, behaviors, music etc. that
are completely out of my control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After
all, I cannot “police” what they are doing online and follow them around 24/7. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I know this because I’ve already tried and it’s
exhausting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And even then, I still
missed a few things.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I am very
grateful and praise God when they make good decisions, my heart has already
been wounded by some not so great decisions as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s just proof positive that we live in a
fallen world and we (and our children) are prone to sin and no amount of church
attendance or bible reading can completely obliterate it from our lives.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Yet
what is a parent supposed to do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worry and anxiety can (and will)
run rampant every time our children leave home if we are constantly focused on
what they’re doing, who they’re with, what they’re listening too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Recently,
I came across a prayer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Praying For Your Children From Head To Toe</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The control I regained praying this prayer is
powerful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am reminded every time I
pray through it, that “I can’t control these outside influences and be
everywhere all the time God, but You Can.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">May
you be blessed and feel more in control when praying this prayer for your
children too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Keep in mind; it’s a
wonderful prayer for adult children who are struggling and out of your reach.)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Dear Lord,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Today I pray earnestly for my
children: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">minds</b></span></i><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> That they would
earnestly seek wisdom and knowledge <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">and stay centered on the truth of
Your Word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">eyes</b></span></i><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Protect their innocence and focus their <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">attention on doing what is right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ears:</b></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
May they be quick to listen to instruction and <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">hear Your still small voice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">mouths</b>:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep them from speaking evil and lies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">hearts:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bless them with happy and cheerful hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">hands: </b></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let their hands not be idle but that You would
establish <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">the work of their hands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">legs: </b></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let them not walk in step with the wicked. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Let them find wise and godly
companions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For
their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">feet: </b></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Direct their steps and protect them from
stumbling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pray for your children from Head to
Toe today, and watch God work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Pray without ceasing.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Thessalonians 5:17<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">(Prayer adapted and taken from <a href="http://www.lovinglifeathome.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.lovinglifeathome.com</span></a> )<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-8781063460059541682014-08-14T04:35:00.000-07:002019-08-26T06:11:02.035-07:00Pure SatisfactionLooking for comfort and peace in the middle of a storm today? Or just the hustle and bustle of life?<br />
<br />
"For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness." Psalms 107:9<br />
"You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing." Psalms 145:16<br />
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19<br />
<br />
Those verses have stirred my soul in recent days. The shear realization that God is ready and waiting to meet and exceed my needs is overwhelming. If your soul is hungry, God is waiting to fill it with goodness. If you have desires, He is waiting with an open hand to satisfy and He will supply ALL your needs.<br />
May the God I have come to serve and love show you today that He and He alone can FILL your hungry soul, readily satisfy your every desire and supply all your needs according to HIS riches in glory. <br />
Now that's what I call pure satisfaction!<br />
In Him,<br />
JulieEquippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-14643618099193437002014-01-03T04:32:00.003-08:002019-08-26T06:11:43.659-07:00What Challenges are Coming Your Way?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“O’ Lord, I
pray, please let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to
the prayer of your servants who desire to fear your name; and let your servant
prosper this day, I pray, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nehemiah 1:11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>There will be many challenges
for us in 2014.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Maybe you’ve already
had your fair share in January.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Challenges regarding our finances, future plans, issues in the
workplace, church, or neighborhood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
list is endless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Challenges can cause us
to do many things; act in haste, run away, become discouraged, remain on edge,
or “clam up” and freeze.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We could learn a lot from a
certain man in the bible about how to face challenges. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A man by the name of Nehemiah we’re told was,
“the king’s cupbearer.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This meant he
acted as bodyguard, advisor and food taster for the king.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I don’t know about you, but that sounds a
lot like the role of a parent to me.)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Yet when Nehemiah was in great
distress over the ruin of Jerusalem, his homeland, the bible tells us he, “sat
down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the
God of heaven.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nehemiah 1:4<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Nehemiah did not act hastily,
run away, become discouraged, remain on edge or “clam up” and freeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He did not become outraged or “check out”
with pills or alcohol.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Make no mistake, he was hurting and
he took his pain and overwhelming circumstances to the only one who could fix
them; God.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>What’s also interesting about
Nehemiah’s response to his situation is what he did first; “sat down and wept.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of us try not to weep when problems
arise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We feel the need to “remain
strong” for our spouses, children, and others who may perceive our tears as
discouragement, weakness, or “breaking down.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In my recent journey to more
fully experience the presence of God I often find myself weeping uncontrollably
in a church service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And even my
precious six-year old is aware of the negative connotations associated with crying,
as she is often the first to ask, “Are you sad mommy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t cry.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Tears can be profoundly
cleansing, a detox of the mind, and incredibly healing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A good cry has the ability to provide great
clarity and direction.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>You may not feel the need to let
out a good wail in public the next time you’re faced with a challenge, but in
the coming year, I challenge you not to hold back when the tears are persisting.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If one of your resolutions for
the new year is to grow closer to Christ, and become a stronger man or woman of
God, remember what John 11:35 says, that even “Jesus wept.”<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-1820342600240429962013-10-08T08:30:00.004-07:002019-08-26T06:13:54.006-07:00<div align="center">
What Do You Want From Me?</div>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Relationships are tricky, to say
the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Navigating moods, rough
patches, and the general ups and downs of life (and that’s just with your
children) can leave you frazzled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
what about the other relationships in your life: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the spousal, co-worker, friends, and family?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attempting to get along in these situations
can leave a person wondering, “What do they want from me?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> T</span>oo often, we make relationships
in our lives more complicated than they need to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We tend to “think for the other person.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Assuming we know what they want from us and
feeling frustrated, because we can’t always muster the resources to give it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We assume the spouse would be
happier if we lost weight, so we join the gym and the weight loss group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We think the children would be happier with
more “things” so we work overtime five days a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As for the co-workers, neighbors and friends, we often assume they need
our “two-cents,” so we freely give it, telling them step by step how to
maneuver their struggles (yet we cannot seem to maneuver our own,) and feeling
exhausted and frustrated when we find they didn’t heed our well thought out
advice. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">And what about God; what does He want from me? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make no mistake, God does want me to be
obedient, to walk in His ways, and to witness to others about Him.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Yet, above all those things, what God wants more than anything, is my
heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And with my heart comes my time
and attention. The bible tells us, that God doesn’t look down from heaven to
see if we are living righteously or not, “The Lord looks down from heaven upon
the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God”
Psalm 14:2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Lord watches and waits for
us to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">seek Him</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Interestingly, when I compare what God wants with all the other
relationships in my life, I find what they all really crave is the same; my
heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And with my heart, comes my time
and attention.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Fifteen minutes playing football with my son goes a lot further than a
new pair of Nike socks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fifteen minutes
playing Barbie’s with my five-year old, means more than a new Barbie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fifteen minutes listening to my 12-year old
talk about horses means more than a new riding helmet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Well, I may be pushing it, on that last
one.)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">However, one thing’s for sure, “You will show me the path of life; in
your presence if fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures
forevermore.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 16:11<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Today, experience the fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore simply by
spending time with God and those you love!<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-35098345468410591192013-09-20T03:09:00.000-07:002019-08-26T06:14:24.691-07:00Tackle Your Faith<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We took the
plunge into tackle football with our ten-year old son this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And for anyone who’s traveled down this path (or
any other competitive sport) you know the commitment is serious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Practice three times a week and two games on
the weekend. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not to mention all the time
invested in fundraising. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Needless to say,
if I wasn’t familiar with football before, I am now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Terminology, plays, equipment; I’ve learned
it all in just eight short weeks.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I now watch
college and professional football games with a whole new appreciation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understand the calls, well most of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I see the fouls, well some of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, I cheer and “boo” with a new perception that
makes the game so much more enjoyable.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And thank goodness,
because I live with two males who can find a game to watch almost every night
of the week.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>This knew
knowledge has caused me to wonder though; what would life look like if I
invested as much time in my relationship with Christ as I have football
recently?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>How would my life
change if I “practiced” my walk three nights a week, reading the “plays”
(promises) found in the bible and put them into action on the “field” of life?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>What would my
coming week look like if on Sundays, I put all that I’ve learned throughout the
week into action and spent the day “playing” (in fellowship) with God and those
I love?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Well if the
answer is anything like football; it would mean that I would have a whole new
appreciation for God and his plans for my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It would mean that I would “tackle” my problems with a new “play”
(approach.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would mean that I would
have a whole new outlook on life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>To understand God’s
ways, promises, and plans for my life I must invest in him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many times we excuse ourselves from
investing in our relationship with Christ because we are too busy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are too busy, with work and the
extracurricular activities in life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, we long to understand God’s plan for us.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Knowing the
dangers of football, I would never send my son onto the field without the
proper equipment, knowledge and coaching.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Knowing the
dangers in life, we should not place ourselves (or our children) on the
battlefield of life without the proper equipment knowledge, and coaching
either.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Your equipment is
found in the word of God, “Put on the whole <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">armor</i></b> of God, that you
may be able to withstand the wiles of the devil.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ephesians 6:11<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Your knowledge is
found in God, “For the Lord is the God of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">knowledge</i></b>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Samuel 2:3<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Your coaching is
found in Christ, “Blessed is the man whom you <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">instruct,</i></b> O Lord, and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">teach</i></b>
out of your law, that you may give him rest from the days of adversity.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalms 94: 12-13<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I pray you find
time to “practice” your walk with Christ this week and be blessed with a BIG
WIN!<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-46277216918427334812013-06-07T03:58:00.000-07:002019-08-26T06:14:58.558-07:00How Do I Know When God is Speaking to Me?<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How Do I Know?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>My family is at a crossroads in
life right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Actually we are at
several crossroads.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the kids
growing up and friends, and the “outside world” beginning to have more of an
impact, my husband and I feel very strongly that the decisions we make over the
next several months could have a long term impact on our family.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Needless to say, we are
desperate to make the right decisions and ensure that they are driven by God
and not some underlying selfish desire on our part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what should we do when we really need to
hear from God?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I know from experience, the
answer is multi-faceted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about
this; you or your kids may have been able to breeze through grade school and
even high school doing the bare minimum and making pretty good grades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, when you embarked on your college years
(especially in your major) it took more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Earning that “A” grade wasn’t as simple as just showing up for
class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It took study time at home,
participating in group projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Getting
to know the professor and asking for help.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The serious issues in our lives
are much the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They require more
than just prayer or church attendance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Getting answers to life’s tough questions require daily study in His
word. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are certain things we do
every day that “get us going” for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe it’s updating your Facebook status, watching the news, reading the
paper, or getting your morning coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
simply don’t feel ready to face the day until we’ve had that first cup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cultivating a lifestyle of reading God’s word
every day for spiritual nourishment and satisfaction will go a long way to
ensuring we hear Him speak when we need it most.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It doesn’t stop with just reading God’s word, He wants to imprint it on
our hearts, allow for it to become part of who we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like an old song might take you back to
your first love, God longs for His word to take you back to your forever love;
HIM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow God’s word to rest in your
soul and be imprinted upon your heart’s wall, so that you may draw from its
riches in times of need.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Finally, if you need to really hear from God; listen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve heard the term “active listening.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ensuring we are hearing God clearly requires
active listening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not just hearing with
your ears, but engaging and focusing your attention on God, his will plan for
your life.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Joshua was a man of God who heard him speak very clearly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s what God had to say to Joshua (and
what He may be saying to you, today.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Study
this Book of Instruction continually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything
written in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only then will you
prosper and succeed in all you do.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Joshua 1:8<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">May you experience success and the blessings that flow from hearing God
speak.<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-82255002948859930142013-04-05T04:25:00.002-07:002019-08-26T06:15:32.527-07:00Worry LESS<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Worry Less<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Worry less?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An oxymoron for sure, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those two words simply do not belong
together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there such a concept?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it possible in this world of
uncertainties, death, disease and destruction to worry less?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Take it from someone, whose bloodline is filled with
worriers; YES.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The key is to understand
your worries and the power they have in your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The topic of worry has been a struggle for humans
for thousands of years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much so, that
Jesus saw it important enough to teach about in his Sermon on the Mount.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can learn vital lessons about our worries
(and save thousands of $$ on prescriptions and doctor visits) by revisiting
what Jesus says about worry:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Worry
cannot add one single minute to your day,</i> so it truly is useless (Mt.
6:27).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ironically, one of our biggest
worries is the lack of time in the day to accomplish everything on our “to-do”
list. If you can’t “worry more time into the day,” there must be a better
solution.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Worry
indicates a lack of faith</i> (Mt. 6:28-30).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Claiming to be a person with a strong faith, falling into the “Oh ye of
little faith,” category is a hard pill to swallow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must remember however, that faith is the
ability to maintain my inner strength (worry less) by trusting completely in the
promises of God amid the problems of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Worry may
indicate that I am on the wrong path</i> (Mt. 6:31-33).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God sometimes uses the uses the worries in my
life to get my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other
words, if I am taking care of the things that are important to God, he promises
to take care of the things that are important to me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your worries may be an indication that God is
too far down on your list of priorities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Worry
indicates a distorted view of tomorrow</i> (Mt. 6:34).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus gives us a direct command to deal with
today’s issues, and not worry about tomorrow’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">We can summarize this lesson on worry by embracing,
meditating and carrying one powerful verse with us wherever we go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a favorite of mine and a very special
Sunday school teacher from my past (he now teaches my two older children.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matthew 6:33 reminds us, “But, seek ye first
the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>(Thanks, Roland for your love of
Jesus and this verse.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">And</i> reading my column!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-91878692558586946862013-03-22T04:04:00.007-07:002019-08-26T06:16:00.622-07:00Jesus Calling<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I’ve often heard stories of men and women literally hearing God speak to
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Countless books offer near-death
experiences and devotions such as Sarah Young’s “Jesus Calling” tell of
personal encounters with a God who longs and yearns to speak <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to those that love Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>It seems, the more we long for a
clearer understanding of God/Jesus/The Holy Spirit, the more we are bombarded
with things like the Easter Bunny and planting spring bulbs before it’s too
late.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Before you are overwhelmed with
what to put in that Easter Basket, let me share with you what God wants you to
know this Easter weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The message is one of hope, not destruction</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It reminds us that with a closer walk <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">with God we can do all things, for we are
strengthened.<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></i>After
the resurrection, Jesus spoke, ate, walked with and encouraged those that He
loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The messages He shared then can
encourage and give us hope even today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Below are the three themes that were shared as Jesus appeared to those
He loved after His resurrection.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“Do not be afraid” (Matthew
28:10).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We, as parents, teens, children
living in such a crazy world need to hear this very message.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much better do you feel when you take a
problem to a trusting friend or family member and they tell you it’s going to
be ok. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus wants you to know that it’s
going to be okay.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“Peace to you” (Luke
28:36).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So much more than the typical
greeting this phrase holds today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
Jesus spoke it, it was an assurance, a promise that things would work out and
He would remain with those He loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Couldn’t we all use the assurance that we’re not going to be left alone?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That when someone promises forever, they mean
forever?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus wants you to know that
you will never be alone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Why are you
troubled?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do doubts arise in your
hearts?” (Luke 24:38).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus reminded
those He loved, and He reminds us today that He had just done what no one else
had ever done before. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He conquered and defeated the
biggest and scariest battle on Earth; death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was now standing before them, not as a spirit or as a ghost but in
the flesh (Luke 24:39).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If He could do
that, there should no longer be room for doubt.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The messages Jesus shared
following His resurrection are just as powerful and relevant today as they were
then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you struggle to hear a God who
loves you and is here for you, know the message above is as personal for you as
it was the disciples and friends of Jesus.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>May
you be blessed this Easter weekend to hear Jesus Calling.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-27040112585290810802013-03-19T06:26:00.003-07:002019-08-26T06:16:32.336-07:00In the Nick of Time<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>My family and I are in the midst
of a very real struggle in our lives right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One, which involves very real financial burdens and an uncertain
future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One that has put a wedge between
my husband and myself and shifted the mood of our home greatly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I won’t
share the details (I’m sure my husband will feel the above is already too much)
but I share the scenario to offer hope and direction to the hundreds of other
families facing similar situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Financial
burdens, emotional struggles and uncertain futures are an all too common
reality for most homes today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And for
many, the end is divorce, bankruptcy, and more uncertainty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can tell you without a doubt that amidst
our struggles, there is still one very real reality in our home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have hope.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>At the
onset of this situation, the first place I ran to (yes, my mom was a close
second) was the bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There I found
several verses that did not solve my problem, but gave me peace in coping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Isn’t that what we’re all looking for?)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So let us come boldly to the throne of our
gracious God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There we will receive His
mercy and we will find grace to help us <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">in
time of need</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hebrews 4:16<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(It’s worth noting that the Hebrew
translation of the phrase “in time of need” bears a closer resemblance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to the phrase, “in the nick of time” or “at
just the right time.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When we are
hit suddenly (as my family was) with pain and suffering, we don’t always have
time to make sense of the situation or know which direction we should go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we can know that God is there, and when
we go to him boldly (tears and all) He is there to help, at just the time we
need it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Another
verse I have been carrying with me, is John 16:33.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“In this world you will have trouble, but
take heart, I have overcome the world.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are reminded here, that God knows about all the struggles and burdens
we will suffer, but he has already taken care of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I often
visit my brother’s grave when I am hurting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I was there a few days ago, sitting in my car, tears streaming down
my face, a song I had never heard came on the radio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lyrics reminded me that we are never too
far, too gone, too late, or too wrong for God to take care of hurts we are
experiencing.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If you are
in the midst of pain right now, may you experience the peace realizing that God
knows all about it, and He has already taken care of it; “in the nick of time.”<o:p></o:p></span>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-44774646668223752902013-01-18T03:35:00.004-08:002013-01-18T03:35:34.532-08:00Reduce Stress and Lose Weight Naturally
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reduce Your Stress and Lose Weight Automatically<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If one of your resolutions this
year was to lose weight, you might want to add reducing stress to calorie counting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Studies are indicating that people who
experience significant amounts of stress on a regular basis weigh significantly
more than those who combat stress in healthy ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Science has now proven for us
that very specific things happen in our brain when we are under stress. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our “hunger hormones” get out of
whack and send crazy signals prompting us to eat more simple sugars and
signaling that we are never full.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>To add insult to injury the
stress hormone, cortisol is released in massive doses in our body when we are
stressed and researchers now think that during this time more fat cells are
created.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And more fat cells are created
to hold more fat!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The good news is that you don’t
need a prescription to block the cortisol or regulate your hormones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because food is nature’s drug and choosing the right foods will do this
automatically.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eat the right foods and
you can keep your hormones, your waistline and your stress in check.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Try adding the following goodies to your grocery list next week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All are proven to help regulate hormones and
balance stress (and therefore help you lose weight :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bananas:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Packed with potassium and vitamin B; heavy hitters in fighting stress<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Leafy greens:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Chock full of calcium and magnesium which are proven to relax muscles and
have calming effects on your brain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fatty fishes:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Loaded with Omega 3’s which boost happy hormones in our brain, like Serotonin,
and regulate the release of Cortisol.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nuts:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Raw
almonds, especially.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Packed with
magnesium, zinc, vitamins B and E, and healthy oils to boot. Just two or three
servings per week are all you need to help manage stress and drastically lower
your blood pressure.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mangos: Virtual vitamins C powerhouse, mangos
naturally reduce blood pressure.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Avocados: Once again, the presence of potassium
and healthy fats, avocados are great for weight loss and stress reduction.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As with all issues in life, we were
never meant to succeed without God’s word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His word is <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">our sustenance
and our most potent stress reliever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
reminds me during times of stress to; “Cast all your burdens on the Lord, for
He cares for you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Peter 5:7 and when
I feel I can’t go on, He says; “Come to me all of you who are weary and carry
heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Matthew 11:28<o:p></o:p></span><br />
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-84534837713338964242013-01-04T04:56:00.000-08:002013-01-04T04:56:01.305-08:00Make Your Resolution Last
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>O.K., here we go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Its resolution time again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That time of year we begin to make those
commitments to better our lives, save our money, and lose those extra
pounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you fear yours won’t last
you’re not alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Statistics tell us that our will
power and determination to keep our resolutions lasts a whopping two
weeks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you believe that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have less will power now than we did twenty
years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back then, we held our ground
until at least mid-February.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So what has happened?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The obvious, of course; technology, fast
fixes and credit cards have left us (and our children) wanting what we want
NOW!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>But that’s not our only hang up,
especially where behavior changes are concerned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have made the mistake of relying on our
own willpower, our own motivation and our own determination to keep us going in
the midst of incredible temptations lurking around every corner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Picture this; your New Year’s
Resolution is to save money, yet the biggest sales occur, not the day after
Thanksgiving but in the months of January and February!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Or, your resolution is to be
more patient with your spouse and children, yet, due to the cold weather and
snow the entire family stays hunkered down in a living room for eight weeks,
filled with Christmas decorations that need to be packed away, and dust piling
up all around from a non-stop furnace!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And of course, there is the ever
popular “I am going to lose fifty pounds this year if it kills me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Well it just might if you’re relying on your
own will power to get it done.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Our problem is not our
resolutions, but the one we look to for help in achieving them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bible tells me that when I am weak, my
God is strong (2 Cor. 12:10.) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It tells
me that my bible is a useful tool for equipping me for all the good works God
has planned for me (2 Timothy 3:16.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
it also tells me that at just the right time, God will raise me up and
strengthen me (1 Peter 5:10.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If you intend to make
resolutions this year, might I suggest a couple of tools to add to your brand
new work-out clothes and budgeting journal?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prayer and a bible</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we say in our equipped meetings, “I can do
ALL things through Christ who gives me strength." (Phil.4:13.) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(And that includes losing weight and living
healthy.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If you are interested in losing
weight and living healthier this year, check out the Equipped Ministries blog
at </span><a href="http://www.equipped4him.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.equipped4him.blogspot.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
or find us on Facebook: facebook.com/equippedministries for meeting times and
locations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-27753397483177565432012-12-21T06:45:00.000-08:002012-12-21T06:45:05.455-08:00Christmas Will Never Be the Same
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I know from
personal experience that once a family loses a loved one, Christmas is never
the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are unable, (nor do we
really want) to find the same joy we found in years past in the many traditions
of Christmas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Presents, shopping, baking
etc., no longer lighten the mood and get us in the spirit the way they used
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one or ones we used to share
these traditions with are no longer with us, so doing them brings little joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The above is truer
this year than ever before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An entire
community has lost their joy for Christmas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We have lost little bakers in the kitchen, little voices in the
Christmas musical, and quite possibly an entire cast for a holiday play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christmas will never be the same in Newtown,
Connecticut.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The unthinkable
has happened yet again and we feel helpless to do anything about it. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon first
reading the headline last Friday morning “another school shooting,” I am
ashamed to say that without reading the details, I turned my head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Not today, Lord,” I thought.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I have plans to celebrate my nephew’s
graduation from college, I can’t think about this today.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Later that day,
well into the evening, my husband asked if I had heard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he proceeded to tell me, my knees nearly
buckled and my heart broke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ashamed,
that as I went about a normal fun-filled day, there were parents suffering, torn
apart by the evil that is very present in this world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unable to even get to their precious little
angels, due to the ongoing investigation. From that point on I watched. Not to
act as the voyeur that I usually am, but to learn more about the forever
changed families, begging God for unexplainable peace in the midst of tragedy,
miracles buried in the pain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Just like always
God has provided.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the course of the
last few days, I have learned more about the little children of Sandy Hook
Elementary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bright, creative, giving,
empathetic, and energetic children, wise beyond their years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children, who were huge Victor Cruz fans,
children who wanted to grow up and become firemen to protect others.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then
there were the precious teachers and staff who ran toward the gunman and sacrificed
their lives, so that others might live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Could there be a better example of Jesus right here on Earth?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Christmas will
never be the same, and our only hope for finding joy at Christmastime is not
the anticipation of Santa Claus and presents, but the greatest gift of all, the
birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is
given.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the government shall be on
His shoulders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And He will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Isaiah 9:2, 6-7. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>No, Christmas
will never be the same, but we can anticipate joy again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Until
then, we thank God for the following angels who now watch over their families
and friends from heaven:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Charlotte Bacon-7, Daniel Barden-7, Jesse Lewis-6, Olivia Rose Engel-6,
Josephine Gay-7,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madeline Hsu-6, Catherine
Hubbard-6, Noah Pozner-6, Benjamin Wheeler-6, Anna Marque-Greene-6, James
Matteoli-6, Grace Audrey McDonnell-7, Emile Parker-6, Jack Pinto-6, Chase
Kowalski-7, <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Caroline Previdi-6, Jessica Rekos-6, Allison Wyatt-6, Dylan Hockley-6,
Avielle Richman-6,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rachel Davino-29, Dawn
Hochspring (principal)-47, Anne Marie Murphy-52, Mary Sherlack-56, <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Victoria Soto-27, Lauren
Rousseau-30<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As God says to us
in His word, I believe these sweet angels say to us from heaven as well; “Don’t
be afraid, for I am with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t be
discouraged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will strengthen you and
help you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will hold you up with my
victorious right hand.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Isaiah 41:10<o:p></o:p></span><br />
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-46861316917790234212012-11-16T02:59:00.000-08:002019-08-26T06:16:58.053-07:00Ask, Search, Knock<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The other day in our bible study
time, the kids and I came across a very familiar verse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One that I have heard hundreds of times
growing up, yet through discussion with my kids, gained a very new perspective.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">In chapter 7 of the book of Matthew, verses
7 & 8, Jesus is well into his famous Sermon on the Mount.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some refer to it as God’s call to
righteousness, but I like to tell my kids that it is God’s list of </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Do’s and don’ts.”<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In this particular section we
are told, “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep on seeking and you will find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened
to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For everyone who seeks,
finds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And everyone who knocks, the door
will be opened.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matthew 7:7, 8.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Now before I go any further, I
must warn you, this verse is very likely to excite children when reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because all they hear is the surface message; “keep asking and you will
get….keep nagging and mom will finally give in…” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So after finally convincing the kids that this
verse had nothing to do with IPods and Nike shoes, we dug in and learned a
beautiful message.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So often in reading this verse,
we conclude that God must be telling us to pray harder, longer and more
steadfast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I am confident that
doing the above could only benefit us, I am also very sure that it means so
much more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When discussing the verse I
asked a simple question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“How do you
ASK, SEARCH, and KNOCK for God?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To
which I received the simplest yet most profound answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“I ask by praying, I search by
reading my bible, and I knock by going to church.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now the statement may not seem profound in
and of itself, but the concept surely is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>How many of us feel as though we
ask God for something and never receive it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How many of us feel as though we have been searching for the answers to
life’s burdens for years and coming up short with solutions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, how many of us feel we have knocked at
God’s door until our knuckles are bleeding and no one answers?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Yet, how many of us do all three
of the above on a regular (and by regular, I mean daily) basis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even at our best, we are going to church once
or twice a week, praying daily, yet our bible gathers dust on the bookshelf.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>If our burdens are to be lifted,
God’s wisdom is to be granted and His direction for our lives provided, you and
I must commit to ASK, SEARCH and KNOCK every day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-27173505994690636832012-11-06T07:56:00.000-08:002012-11-06T07:56:06.192-08:00(This article was taken from freedomyou.com, and written by Ron Lagerquist)<br />
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<em style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">"If you struggle with overeating, you will know that addiction is all about detachment and disconnection from your spiritual self and God."</em></div>
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<span class="imgleft" style="float: left; margin: 0px 15px 7px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In an era of grocery stores and fast food, it's hard to make the connection between your eating and communion with God. But for most of human history, families would sow their seed while praying for rain and protection from pestilence. A household’s welfare was intimately married to seed and soil and wholly dependent on the God of sun and rain. Harvest was a time of celebration. The fruit of their labor would ensure a daily provision from hunger and starvation. To offer a meal to a hungry passerby was a gift of sacrifice. A loaf of bread was an investment of time from the planting of the seed to the harvesting, milling and baking in clay ovens. They understood very well when Jesus said, I am the Bread of Life.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">One of the great byproducts of changing from eating packaged foods to a diet primarily made up of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole foods is the increased connection between diet and Creator. This connection encourages pause and remembrance. It is far easier to detach while praying the blessing over a Big Mac and fries than a bowl of greens, sprinkled with raw nuts and fresh flax dressing. Add to that peeling and cutting, releasing the earthy aroma of raw produce, washing the dirt and insects off green leaves. Preparing a healthy meal serves as a reminder of where your meal came from, and Who it came from.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I think the connection between diet and Creator is vital to overcoming the compulsiveness so many experience when hurrying down a meal between tasks. If you struggle with overeating, you will know that addiction is all about detachment and disconnection from your spiritual self and God.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So what if you where to take the time and invite the Holy Spirit to supper? What if dinner became a form of communion with God? Frantic gorging would be replaced by deliberate remembrance and reflection of His bounty. What if that was God’s original plan, modeled in Eden, repeated over and over through biblical history, finally ending at the great banquet table where all have been invited to eat? Establishing a connection between your eating and your God maybe the most effective weight loss program, because it will change you from the inside out.</span></div>
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<strong style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Related Article: <a href="http://www.freedomyou.com/what_if_the_church_wasnt_fat_freedomyou.aspx" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">What If The Church Wasn't Fat</a></strong></div>
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Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-80167771461115605762012-10-03T17:31:00.000-07:002012-10-03T17:31:51.137-07:00
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Craving God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>On the journey of weight loss,
one cannot address their “issues” with weight without conquering cravings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From insatiable cravings for chocolate to
unending cravings for French fries, if you’ve tried to lose weight, you’ve had
them.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So how do we fight the battle of
cravings to win the war on weight loss? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It all starts with understanding our
temptations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there’s no better place
to learn about temptation than in the bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Take Eve, the first person to
ever be tempted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surrounded by
unimaginable beauty and tranquility, yet she was quickly enticed with the idea
of having more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we read about Eve’s
temptation, we realize that once tempted, her focus was on attaining what she
desired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing else mattered. I need
not spell out the outcome, the rest as they say, is history.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Fast forward a few hundred years
and be enthralled by another incredible story of temptations. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Before Jesus would go and bear
the burden and sin for the rest of the world, he would spend forty days and forty
nights alone in the wilderness alone to contemplate his future and be tempted
by the best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Satan appears and tempts
Jesus in the most of personal ways, pushing his buttons so to speak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Realizing Jesus had not eaten, he tempts him
with food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Realizing what lay ahead he
tempts him with an escape route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lastly,
going for what he reeled Eve in with, he tempts him with power.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The shining difference in these
two examples and the lesson for you and me is not that we have a chance to be
perfect like Jesus, but what we can learn from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus responded not by focusing on the
temptations (or cravings) at hand, but on the word of God to free him.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Three times he was tempted and
three times, he quoted scripture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
was the last time I quoted scripture in a time of turmoil, temptation or
craving?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We can only overcome the battles
of life in worldly ways for so long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Avoiding temptations and not thinking about my pain can only be
successful for so long.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I must realize that in God’s
perfect design, he created me to CRAVE HIM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>God <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never intended for us to want
anything more than we want him, or to turn to anything else for comfort,
satisfaction, acceptance, worth, reward, joy, relief from stress, sadness, or
to find happiness.<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I must learn to conquer temptation
the way Jesus did, through scripture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The next time you are faced with an overwhelming craving, quote the very
scripture Jesus used, “No, the scriptures say, people do not live by bread
alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matthew 4:4<o:p></o:p></span><br />
Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-27211387934793574122012-08-10T04:37:00.004-07:002012-08-10T04:37:56.862-07:00Where is God in all this?<br />
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“Where is God when an innocent, sweet 4 year old boy is diagnosed with cancer?” “Where is God when a mother loses her son to drug or alcohol addiction?” Where is God when the father of two beautiful girls and a loving wife would rather die than live on this earth and takes his own life?” “Where is God when a Friday night out to watch a new movie turns deadly for more than a dozen innocent people and drastically alters the lives of hundreds of others forever?”<br />
The above examples are all true scenarios in the lives of people I either know and love, or have come in contact with over the last few years. All fuel for the burning question of “Where is God in all this?” <br />
I used to struggle with this question wondering, why, a God who is supposed to love and protect would allow such tragedy in the lives of those who love him back. <br />
Recently I was provided the answer. “One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord and the accuser Satan came with them.” Job 1:6. (Notice that Satan is walking alongside.) Another verse in the bible reminds me to, “Stay alert: Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1Peter 5:8.<br />
So often we forget that although God walks this earth, so too, does Satan. He is there and his main goal is to bring doubt and fear into our lives. Still, though when the pain and hurt are so raw, we ask the question “Where is God?”<br />
In the above situations, God is in the prayers of the hundreds (no, make that thousands) of people praying for little Noah everyday and the growing testimony and faith of his family and friends. By the way, you can begin praying for him too. Specifically, that he be healthy enough to make a trip to Disney World very soon. (A trip granted to his family by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.) <br />
God is in the living legacy of those who left this earth tormented by drugs and alcohol. Yet, they will be remembered, not for their addiction, but for their Christ like love for others. Thank you, big brother. <br />
God is in the Foundation started by the two young girls who lost their father, in the hopes that other children will not face a similar scenario. <br />
And God is in the stories of the beautiful young men who gave their lives to save others on that tragic night in Colorado. Reminds me of someone else who gave up his life so that I might live!<br />
In a world tormented and infested with sin, we must learn to look for God, not just wait for Him to show up. The bible tells us, “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” Jeremiah 29:13<br />
Look for God in your pain today and remember what Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”<br />
<br />Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-63619910424085152182012-07-13T05:23:00.002-07:002019-08-26T06:04:27.425-07:00Get Your Priorities Straight<br />
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“It’s time for you to get your priorities straight.” I think I heard my mother say this directly to, or about each and every one of her six (no, make that seven, my parents adopted my niece when she was just 5yrs old) children, including yours truly.<br />
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I recently came across that phrase again, in a book about finding and aligning my purpose in life with God’s plans for me. Thinking I knew most of what the book would say, I read on hoping to find some nuggets of information that might spur me onto truly understanding God’s plan for “who I’m supposed to be when I grow up.”<br />
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Although the strategies themselves were not surprising, changing my perspective about them (something the book proposes) was.<br />
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For instance, we expect for God to be our first priority, but how many of us truly treat him as such. In other words, do we really spend quality time with Him each and every day? If we’re not reading His word, the answer is a resounding NO! The best way to get to know someone is to spend time with them and learn more about them. There’s no better place to learn more about God than His word. If He is our number one priority we must read His word. Need a place to start? Whatever the date your reading this article, start with that corresponding chapter in the book of Proverbs. Read one chapter a day and you will complete the book in one month. <br />
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Secondly, if you’re married your spouse is your second priority. No, not your children; your spouse was here first. Many of us struggle in this area claiming our spouse doesn’t give back the way we give to them. “He/she doesn’t appreciate all the things I do for him/her.” Let me ask you this question? Do your kids appreciate all that you do? Does your boss? Do you still manage to give them 110% hoping and praying that one day they will “see the light?” <br />
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Thirdly, our children want and need us too. The problem is that with so many other demands for our time and energy we can barely keep up with the basics; feed them, bathe them, and put them to bed. Try this little exercise. Every day look for one way to show your children that you love them, actively. No, not buying them something, but doing something with or for them that shows them you are invested in them. My favorites are coloring with my four-year old and surprising my older two with clean rooms, (normally they’re responsible for that one and I make it a point to let them know that I did it because I love them.)<br />
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This week work to spend time with the people who mean the most to you in your life. And, actively do something that shows you love them. Hold hands, give hugs and kisses, and pray with them, realizing that the people in your life are a gift to be appreciated and loved. They are your “priority.”<br />
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“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” Proverbs 24:3-4<br />
<br />Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-8381003997321998602012-05-25T04:05:00.003-07:002019-08-26T06:02:30.724-07:00Pray; Don't Eat the Cake BatterSo I journaled my eating yesterday "live" on facebook and surprisingly the "aha" moment is coming this morning....Checking my messages while waiting for coffee to brew, a friend replied to my afternoon loss of control eating....(spoonfuls of cake batter while making cake for my husband...) "You might be doing some emotional eating...." My initial reaction was, "I'm the teacher, I would know if it was emotional eating, I just wanted cake batter!!" But after a little soul searching, I realized she was right on the money...Although my day was not a disaster by any stretch of the imagination, it was slower and less hectic than most. However, a few issues had crept up over the course of the morning and looking back I think I just let them simmer a little too long and they erupted in cake batter. Nothing major, just three growing and able children leaving groceries in the car because "mom can get them..." "grrrr" Just three creative young minds "bored out of their minds" before summer even gets underway (it's May 25 for goodness sake!) "rumble rumble." Just three beautiful children pitching toddler fits because I ask them to put their clothes away and unload the dishwasher! Kapow! The cake batter has entered the mouth!<br />
Wow! What an epiphany! What didn't I do here? The first thing I tell the members of Equipped; Pray. Pray about everything and pray without ceasing! We all need reminders and I hope my "glitches" yesterday, help you avoid some "cake batter" today! Thanks Cat for the "wake up call" this morning!<br />
In Him and for Him,<br />
Julie<br />
"He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. He will not reject their pleas." Psalm 102:17<br />
Father, I pray that today you remove my temptations for unhealthy food; hear my pleas and distract my impulses to eat without thinking and fill me with your spirit and presence so I that I may live healthy and fit for you. Amen.Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-42131172753293943432012-05-24T04:19:00.000-07:002012-05-24T04:19:07.861-07:00Greenworks Link and Latest DevotionsA cool video was added under the "I'm reviewing Greenworks Products"<br />
Check out the latest devotions under "My Journey to Forty"<br />
Follow me today on facebook as I journal everything I eat! Yikes!<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/equippedministries">www.facebook.com/equippedministries</a><br />Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-62192886874101344812012-05-22T04:30:00.000-07:002012-05-22T04:47:12.088-07:00The "Son" Shines through the Clouds<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />The “Son” Shines through the Clouds<br />
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As I type this, I am sitting in a campground in Champaign, IL. on a mini vacation visiting my little sister and her baby, recently relocated here. Camping is a way of life for my family and I love it so. One of my favorite things about camping is the storytelling. Yes, we’ve heard the stories before, yet it seems each time they’re told they get a little sweeter. Maybe it’s because I’m getting older and realizing the importance of family and time together or that my children are hearing them for the first time and learning about their history and family tree. <br />
So we visit, talk, and tell stories, and I listen as my father retells stories about grandkids nearly falling in fire pits, trips when it rained every day (that can be rough for a camping family), and silly fights among siblings. <br />
I am reminded that the sweetest, funniest and most memorable events in life are sometimes created out of some of the most stressful times. Events that at the moment, we swear we’ll never laugh about. Ones we promise to forget, not retell again and again.<br />
One of my fondest memories to share with my kids over and over is a story about a drive I often took with my parents back and forth between a river camp we owned and our home nearly every week in the summertime when I was young. My parents would stop at a convenience store before heading home and often allow me to get an ice cream sandwich for the nearly one hour drive home. To top it off, I was allowed to ride in the back of the truck all the way home (it was the eighties.) One particular drive left me sunburned and confused. My ten year old brain didn’t understand that a person could still get sun tan (or burn in my case) through the clouds. And boy did I get it. Between the wind and the sun, my face and arms learned the meaning of sunburn that day.<br />
Now, so many years later I retell the story to my children and husband for the significance and symbolism. As painful as that sunburn was, the ride, the ice cream and the wind in a ten year old girl’s hair stands out a far more pleasant memory, than a short term sun burn.<br />
Such is the story of life. The ups, downs, sunburns and fights eventually pale in comparison to memories made in families, and are but small stepping stones and minor disruptions in the journey of creating family and becoming the person(s) God created us to be. <br />
Our stories, rough and frustrating, sometimes even tragic in the moment, mold and shape us for the future. “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while.” 1 Peter 1:6<br />
Take it from a ten year old girl, the sun and “SON” still shines through the clouds. <br />
And if we meet in the grocery store, ask me about the new fights (I mean memories) we created on this trip. They include a 4-foot catfish and run away bikes. Have you seen them? They may still be attached to the bike rack!<br />
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</div>Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208587449018534030.post-79365659990693848002012-05-07T04:58:00.003-07:002012-05-07T04:58:49.251-07:00Who Will You Choose?<br />
Although basketball season is long over, my husband and I still reminisce about the big “What if” for us. As exciting as the tournament was, we were hoping for one more twist. You see, we are a divided family when it comes to college basketball. I, the Kentucky girl and him the Bearcat man.<br />
Now, for the most part, this has never been an issue for us and certainly doesn’t cause fights. I am not as die-hard as other members of my family, (can you say broken television set?) Yes, really.<br />
Since this tournament was proving to be an exciting one, we had decided early on that if the final game came down to U.C. and Kentucky (I know long shot) we were definitely having a party. And the person responsible for the broken T.V.? Yes, he would be invited. We felt safe, as this incident had occurred more than thirty years ago.<br />
Initially, I thought I was so open about the whole thing, that I might even sport a U.C. jersey to support my husband among a sea of U.K. blue.<br />
But then it hit me. Could I do that? Did it really not matter to me who won? Could I really watch a game where U.C. is playing U.K. and not root for my home team? Would I really enjoy the game if I didn’t hoot and holler for “my” wildcats? <br />
No I could not, and therefore I must choose. I cannot root for both teams, and if I am truly honest, I have a favorite at heart. After all, I am a Kentucky girl, and I do bleed blue.<br />
Yet again, another interested analogy for life. Why do we spend so much time trying to live on both sides of the fence, so to speak?<br />
I am a “good girl” on “this day” and around “those people.” But, on the weekends, and behind closed doors it’s my life and I will live it the way I choose. Makes for a very stressful life. Take it from one, who’s “been there, done that.”<br />
The bible reminds me that I cannot “Serve two masters.” Luke 16:13. I cannot serve (or even satisfy) the world and God fully and completely. One will get the short end of the stick. One will receive more of my devotion, more of my time, energy etc.<br />
Just as Joshua called on the Israelites to take a stand. “So fear the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshipped. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15-16<br />
To truly enjoy this “game of life” for all that it was intended for, we must take a stand and make a choice.<br />
Choose God! And, Go Big Blue! (Sorry, honey.)<br />
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<br />Equippedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02769251510088987762noreply@blogger.com0