Another quiet morning sipping my French Roast coffee and reading my Bible as my husband is snoozing beside of me and BJ is snuggled in between us. It would be hard to get any better than this, this side of eternity.
Reading this morning in Exodus. The Passover. Circumcised flesh. Blood on the doorposts. Death passing over the blood. Judgment for those outside of the covenant. But the blood protects and marks you. Marks you as the protected. Brings in the foreigners. Joining the family of the Israelite people.
From the beginning Jesus was chosen to be the Passover Lamb. Believing in Him. Our hearts are circumcised. Believing in Him. We are covered by the Blood He shed on the cross. Sacrificed on our behalf. Making us the protected. Grafting us into His family.
So thankful for another day to live and move and breathe. To be a part of the family of God. Because of Jesus. Our Passover Lamb.
...,a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor. Isaiah 61:3 NIV
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Thursday, December 26, 2013
The Greatest of These is Love
I am up early sipping my French Roast and being still before the busyness and noise of the day. It's back to work after a 5 day weekend and another Christmas that has zipped by - today just a memory after all the anticipation and preparations. It was a great day yesterday as my house was filled with those I love the most, minus my son and his family. There was sadness there that I kept pushed back. I choose to focus on the good, what is here and not what is missing. We ate, and talked, and laughed, and cried (or at least I did! - I'm a sap) and opened gifts and gave gifts. A day of loving and enjoying one another.
After the festivities were winding down and most of the family had left, my sister Robin and her family lingered behind. This is pretty usual for us. We are very close, as I am with my older sister Teresa, but there is a special bond with my niece and nephew, Quinn and Leah. Brandon and I call them our babies! Mind you, they are 17 and 18 years old! Nonetheless, they are still our babies. They had something special they wanted to share with us after everyone else had gone home. After a while, Robin and Leah went out to get some special gifts for us that they had left in their car. There was candy and a Harley Davidson calendar for Brandon, juice glasses (that I had been looking for) and a lovely cross necklace for me. But then - Quinn gave me a beautiful framed picture of he and his sister. Breathtaking in itself. I was touched - beyond words. And then - Leah walks out of the room and comes back in with this large Christmas bag. She walks to me without saying a word and sits it down. As I dig thru the tissue paper I begin to feel that this is a special gift. Really special. I shove it toward Brandon and tell him to open it because I know I'm going to lose it (a sap, remember). But then I proceed to pull out the paper and there it is. Love in that big Christmas bag. My niece has spent the better part of a year crocheting a 7' x 7' throw for me, FOR ME. The woman who has sat many times feeling very unloved by those that should love her most. I pull out the most beautiful throw in all my favorite colors and there are no words - only tears,...
1 Cor. 13:13
For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.
My Christmas - filled with love.
After the festivities were winding down and most of the family had left, my sister Robin and her family lingered behind. This is pretty usual for us. We are very close, as I am with my older sister Teresa, but there is a special bond with my niece and nephew, Quinn and Leah. Brandon and I call them our babies! Mind you, they are 17 and 18 years old! Nonetheless, they are still our babies. They had something special they wanted to share with us after everyone else had gone home. After a while, Robin and Leah went out to get some special gifts for us that they had left in their car. There was candy and a Harley Davidson calendar for Brandon, juice glasses (that I had been looking for) and a lovely cross necklace for me. But then - Quinn gave me a beautiful framed picture of he and his sister. Breathtaking in itself. I was touched - beyond words. And then - Leah walks out of the room and comes back in with this large Christmas bag. She walks to me without saying a word and sits it down. As I dig thru the tissue paper I begin to feel that this is a special gift. Really special. I shove it toward Brandon and tell him to open it because I know I'm going to lose it (a sap, remember). But then I proceed to pull out the paper and there it is. Love in that big Christmas bag. My niece has spent the better part of a year crocheting a 7' x 7' throw for me, FOR ME. The woman who has sat many times feeling very unloved by those that should love her most. I pull out the most beautiful throw in all my favorite colors and there are no words - only tears,...
1 Cor. 13:13
For now there are faith, hope, and love. But of these three, the greatest is love.
My Christmas - filled with love.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
New Foundations
One of Merriam-Webster's definitions for foundation is:
a body or ground upon which something is built up or overlaid.
The Bible talks about building on sand in Matthew 7: 26 & 27. It reads as follows:
And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.
These two pieces of information tell me that if something (a house, a relationship, a business,...) isn't build on a good foundation that in time it will be destroyed and/or destroy itself. The foundation is the most important part of anything. Just because something looks good on the outside does not tell you anything about what it is like at its very foundation. The foundation could be weak and what you see on the outside will eventually fall apart. It is the foundation that supports whatever is above it.
In my life right now I am experiencing the loss of a relationship that is very important to me. This relationship also affects other important relationships. As I have sought the Lord about what I need to do regarding this relationship, the Lord has told me there is nothing to go back to. I could try to continue as we were but it wasn't a relationship. At least not a healthy relationship. A relationship requires at least two people and both people need to be contributing to the relationship for it to be healthy. Or its foundation is weak and it eventually is destroyed.
As I contemplated "nothing to go back to" I felt hopeless. That is not something you want to hear. But through the words of a friend, I began to see hope - light, if you will. Even though there is nothing to go back to, there are new beginnings. Fresh starts. Just like if your house is destroyed by fire - you don't have a house to go back to but you can build a new one. Even better than the one before hopefully.
Paul says in Phi 3:1l3:
Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.
So my prayer now is asking the Lord what I need to do to begin laying a new foundation in this relationship. The past is gone. Each party in the relationship has made mistakes. But we do not have to dwell on that. We need to forget the past - completely. We need to begin building a new relationship based on a better foundation. A foundation based on the Word of God. Placing the other person above ourselves. Realizing that in a relationship both parties must be willing to give. To make time for the other person in their lives. To include them in their lives. Respecting and honoring each other.
Going back to the past is simply returning to the same things that got us to where we are today. But beginning anew will take us to places that God meant for people in relationship to be. Where you can count on each other. Not just when trouble arises but all the time. To rejoice with you when you rejoice. To cry with you when you cry. To just be there for each other.
I am happy to say that I have hope. Hope in the God Who created relationship. As I continue to pray and follow the Lord's leading - I believe in His time a new relationship will emerge. One better than ever. Not based on past mistakes (sinking sand) but based on a firm foundation of respect for each other.
Luke 6:31
Do to others as you wold have them do to you.
If we live by the Word of God, the only firm foundation, our relationships will stand. So, here is to new foundations, new beginnings, healthy relationships.
a body or ground upon which something is built up or overlaid.
The Bible talks about building on sand in Matthew 7: 26 & 27. It reads as follows:
And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.
These two pieces of information tell me that if something (a house, a relationship, a business,...) isn't build on a good foundation that in time it will be destroyed and/or destroy itself. The foundation is the most important part of anything. Just because something looks good on the outside does not tell you anything about what it is like at its very foundation. The foundation could be weak and what you see on the outside will eventually fall apart. It is the foundation that supports whatever is above it.
In my life right now I am experiencing the loss of a relationship that is very important to me. This relationship also affects other important relationships. As I have sought the Lord about what I need to do regarding this relationship, the Lord has told me there is nothing to go back to. I could try to continue as we were but it wasn't a relationship. At least not a healthy relationship. A relationship requires at least two people and both people need to be contributing to the relationship for it to be healthy. Or its foundation is weak and it eventually is destroyed.
As I contemplated "nothing to go back to" I felt hopeless. That is not something you want to hear. But through the words of a friend, I began to see hope - light, if you will. Even though there is nothing to go back to, there are new beginnings. Fresh starts. Just like if your house is destroyed by fire - you don't have a house to go back to but you can build a new one. Even better than the one before hopefully.
Paul says in Phi 3:1l3:
Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.
So my prayer now is asking the Lord what I need to do to begin laying a new foundation in this relationship. The past is gone. Each party in the relationship has made mistakes. But we do not have to dwell on that. We need to forget the past - completely. We need to begin building a new relationship based on a better foundation. A foundation based on the Word of God. Placing the other person above ourselves. Realizing that in a relationship both parties must be willing to give. To make time for the other person in their lives. To include them in their lives. Respecting and honoring each other.
Going back to the past is simply returning to the same things that got us to where we are today. But beginning anew will take us to places that God meant for people in relationship to be. Where you can count on each other. Not just when trouble arises but all the time. To rejoice with you when you rejoice. To cry with you when you cry. To just be there for each other.
I am happy to say that I have hope. Hope in the God Who created relationship. As I continue to pray and follow the Lord's leading - I believe in His time a new relationship will emerge. One better than ever. Not based on past mistakes (sinking sand) but based on a firm foundation of respect for each other.
Luke 6:31
Do to others as you wold have them do to you.
If we live by the Word of God, the only firm foundation, our relationships will stand. So, here is to new foundations, new beginnings, healthy relationships.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Freedom
Ahh, freedom. What a lovely word and concept. Don't we love to be free. But freedom seems like that dream we keep reaching for but is so hard to attain. We think we reach freedom in an area only to find ourselves in bondage in another area. Freedom. Freedom. How do we reach this thing, this place called freedom?
John 8: 31-32 says;
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Well, how many of us think we are doing just that but we are not experiencing freedom? Count me as one with my hand raised saying yes, that's been me!! But what if I tell you that I have found freedom? Would you, do you, want to know what I have found? Before I answer, keep in mind the following scripture:
1 Cor 1: 26-31
For consider your calling, brothers, not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."
The world tells us to be free we must be our own person. Take care of yourself. Do what you want to do. There is no right and wrong. Don't let anyone tell you what to do. Be your own boss. Well, really, how's that been working for ya?
I have found the greatest freedom that I have ever experienced by doing just the opposite.
I decided to follow Jesus a long time ago. But I never really made Him the LORD of my life. You know, I had a relationship with Him and with God thru Jesus, but I still wanted and went my own way. And let me tell you, many mistakes, poor choices, wavering decisions, tormenting thoughts, anxieties, stress, (I could go on and on) followed me as I went my own way. Thank God, He cares to much to leave us where we're at if we are seeking Him and our heart is for Him. He grows us and leads us like any good father does. Allowing us to make our mistakes so we learn. Allowing us the opportunity to use what we learn from our mistakes to hopefully help someone else learn. And maybe save them some hardship.
The freedom that I have found has come through learning about and accepting the sovereignty of God. It has come from placing myself under His authority. Most of my decisions are already made. The important ones anyway. The answers are found in the instruction Book God has given us - His Holy Word. When I put myself under His authority and live by His standards and instructions, my decisions have already been made. I don't have to think, and think, and think some more. I don't have to let things keep me up at night. I just do what He says in His Word. I pray and seek His will then I try to follow it to the best of my ability. The stress is off of me. When I give Him the authority in my life I am covered by Him. How cool is that? My life becomes His responsibility. What happens to me is His responsibility. Just like when I was young, my well-being was my daddy's responsibility. In his human ability, he did the best that he could. Guess what? My heavenly Father isn't fallible like my earthly father. My heavenly Father knows all things and He ALWAYS has my best in mind. I don't have to understand the whys, the wheres, the hows. I just have to trust that He loves me, He wants what's best for me. He knows how to get me to where He wants me to be. He is God and there is none other! And He is my "Abba, Father". My heavenly Daddy. Does that mean everything is always peachy, no bad things or circumstances - certainly not! My daddy had to bring discipline and my Daddy brings discipline when I need it. Not what I deserve, mind you. But He knows what I need. PERIOD. And sometimes there are circumstances that He allows in my life that aren't even about me. It may be something to help someone else. Something to bring Him glory as I receive whatever His hand gives me. As I receive it still knowing and believing His undying, unfailing love for me.
So, freedom. FREEDOM. The world's way - don't let anyone tell you what is right or wrong. Do things your way. God's way - trust Me. Follow Me. I've got your back. I know the beginning and the end. I've got this thing covered!
So choose. The world's way of seeking freedom that leads to death. Or God's way which leads to life.
Romans 8: 5-8
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
John 8: 31-32 says;
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Well, how many of us think we are doing just that but we are not experiencing freedom? Count me as one with my hand raised saying yes, that's been me!! But what if I tell you that I have found freedom? Would you, do you, want to know what I have found? Before I answer, keep in mind the following scripture:
1 Cor 1: 26-31
For consider your calling, brothers, not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."
The world tells us to be free we must be our own person. Take care of yourself. Do what you want to do. There is no right and wrong. Don't let anyone tell you what to do. Be your own boss. Well, really, how's that been working for ya?
I have found the greatest freedom that I have ever experienced by doing just the opposite.
I decided to follow Jesus a long time ago. But I never really made Him the LORD of my life. You know, I had a relationship with Him and with God thru Jesus, but I still wanted and went my own way. And let me tell you, many mistakes, poor choices, wavering decisions, tormenting thoughts, anxieties, stress, (I could go on and on) followed me as I went my own way. Thank God, He cares to much to leave us where we're at if we are seeking Him and our heart is for Him. He grows us and leads us like any good father does. Allowing us to make our mistakes so we learn. Allowing us the opportunity to use what we learn from our mistakes to hopefully help someone else learn. And maybe save them some hardship.
The freedom that I have found has come through learning about and accepting the sovereignty of God. It has come from placing myself under His authority. Most of my decisions are already made. The important ones anyway. The answers are found in the instruction Book God has given us - His Holy Word. When I put myself under His authority and live by His standards and instructions, my decisions have already been made. I don't have to think, and think, and think some more. I don't have to let things keep me up at night. I just do what He says in His Word. I pray and seek His will then I try to follow it to the best of my ability. The stress is off of me. When I give Him the authority in my life I am covered by Him. How cool is that? My life becomes His responsibility. What happens to me is His responsibility. Just like when I was young, my well-being was my daddy's responsibility. In his human ability, he did the best that he could. Guess what? My heavenly Father isn't fallible like my earthly father. My heavenly Father knows all things and He ALWAYS has my best in mind. I don't have to understand the whys, the wheres, the hows. I just have to trust that He loves me, He wants what's best for me. He knows how to get me to where He wants me to be. He is God and there is none other! And He is my "Abba, Father". My heavenly Daddy. Does that mean everything is always peachy, no bad things or circumstances - certainly not! My daddy had to bring discipline and my Daddy brings discipline when I need it. Not what I deserve, mind you. But He knows what I need. PERIOD. And sometimes there are circumstances that He allows in my life that aren't even about me. It may be something to help someone else. Something to bring Him glory as I receive whatever His hand gives me. As I receive it still knowing and believing His undying, unfailing love for me.
So, freedom. FREEDOM. The world's way - don't let anyone tell you what is right or wrong. Do things your way. God's way - trust Me. Follow Me. I've got your back. I know the beginning and the end. I've got this thing covered!
So choose. The world's way of seeking freedom that leads to death. Or God's way which leads to life.
Romans 8: 5-8
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Monday, September 16, 2013
My Purpose
My name is Elaine. I am a woman who loves the Lord with all my heart. I have made so many mistakes in my 49 years of life on this earth. With each passing day, week, month, year - I have found my God to be bigger than all my mistakes. I have trampled on the blood of Jesus but in God's mercy and grace, I am forgiven. I am redeemed. So - "I have decided to take off these heavy chains, wipe away every stain, because I'm not who I used to be. I am redeemed." (words from a Big Daddy Weave song)
My God doesn't waste a thing. That is one of His many awesome characteristics. I offer Him my brokenness to help others become free. By His grace, I have a Heart for the Son - and that heart gives me a heart for others. My desire is to help other women reach freedom, to break free of bondages that have held them bound and captive - from living in their God-given purpose and freedom.
Today is a new day. I launch this new blog with confidence in the redeeming power of the blood of Jesus Christ. "Whom the Son sets free is free indeed". May God bless each and every person that comes across this blog today and in days to come.
My God doesn't waste a thing. That is one of His many awesome characteristics. I offer Him my brokenness to help others become free. By His grace, I have a Heart for the Son - and that heart gives me a heart for others. My desire is to help other women reach freedom, to break free of bondages that have held them bound and captive - from living in their God-given purpose and freedom.
Today is a new day. I launch this new blog with confidence in the redeeming power of the blood of Jesus Christ. "Whom the Son sets free is free indeed". May God bless each and every person that comes across this blog today and in days to come.
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