tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50864943848408747072024-03-12T20:12:08.306-07:00Something Comes From NothingBagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-33778613569694213752015-01-09T14:44:00.000-08:002015-01-09T14:44:03.288-08:00Home<div style="text-align: center;">
Finally, it happened! </div>
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After 4 years in our house, I had that magical moment. </div>
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Maybe it was the jazzy music or the smell of turkey </div>
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roasting in the oven. </div>
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(Don't be too impressed...</div>
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my husband would call my music cheesy and </div>
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the turkey...well, we'll see how it turns out!)</div>
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Perhaps it's the nostalgic photos on the walls next to the little artists' masterpieces...</div>
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Or maybe it's the cozy I attempt to create in our home with candles and want-to-be-real berries...those decorations I try so hard to mimic from Pinterest yet somehow, it's never quite right...</div>
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I don't know. </div>
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Maybe my dramatic heart embraced the mess of children </div>
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and things began to stir in my heart...</div>
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Whatever it was...it happened! </div>
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I felt...HOME. </div>
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Life is a funny thing. You see, I celebrated the moment of "home" and suddenly, reality slapped me in the face...we're moving in a few months!</div>
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Wait, what? Seriously?</div>
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I finally felt it, HOME, after 4 years! And we're about to leave? </div>
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That's just not fair if you ask me. </div>
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Yet, when is life ever really fair...at the fairgrounds!! </div>
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(As my dad always says.)</div>
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I love to read of Moses of the Old Testament. He NEVER settled. In his 120 years on this earth, there was never a land in which he stayed or nested or cozied up for his retirement. In his last moments, he stood on Mount Nebo and saw with his eyes his meant to be home...the Promised Land. And that was that.</div>
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Yet what astonishes me is what he says in his prayer in Psalm 90:</div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">"Lord, through all the generations you have been our home."</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 90:1</span></em></strong></div>
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Enough said.</div>
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Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-39519885357990221752014-11-14T23:27:00.000-08:002014-11-14T23:27:57.043-08:00Wonderfully CreatedIt came in the mail, obviously folded and packed with the greatest of care from the other end. The colors blended beautifully and cozy oozed through me at the first touch. There is nothing more exciting than receiving a beautiful bundle of fine fabric. Yet, I'm always amazed at the journey in which it takes. Folded with care, unfolded with purpose, cut, organized, pinned and sewn. The process begins with a bundle of fabric and ends with a master piece beholding purpose and beauty. After all the time spent to creating this art, I know it well. I know every inch, every corner, every stitch. It has become a part of me. And into whoever's hands my creation may land, there is purpose...to cover a cold body, to bring beauty to a table or provide a cozy, snuggle from a warm bag to a sleepy child. <br />
And it reminds me...<br />
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You have searched me, Lord</div>
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and you know me.</div>
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You know when I sit and when I rise;</div>
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you perceive my thoughts from afar.</div>
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You discern my going out and my lying down;</div>
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you are familiar with all my ways.</div>
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Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.</div>
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You hem me in behind and before,</div>
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and you lay your hand upon me.</div>
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Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,</div>
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too lofty for me to attain.</div>
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For you created my inmost being;</div>
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you knit me together in my mother's womb.</div>
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I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;</div>
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your works are wonderful,</div>
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I know that full well.</div>
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Psalm 139:1-6, 13-14</div>
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Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-46537416300139578752014-07-30T20:07:00.000-07:002014-07-30T20:07:41.137-07:00CozyColorToday my children and I opened up an Etsy Shop called CozyColor. We sew homemade gifts such as coffee sleeves, bookmarks and gifts for the kitchen. <br />
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Sewing always bring my mind back to God. He knit us together in our mothers' wombs! What always amazes me is to start with a fresh piece of fabric. After some cutting and needles punching through at a rapid speed, it slowly begins to turn into something beautiful and purposeful. The end product stirs excitement in my heart as I anticipate the usefulness it will offer someone along with the vibrant colors it feeds the eye.<br />
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Please come visit us to learn more about CozyColor. Every time you see a sewing gift, let it always remind you of the work God is doing in your life to create you into what he planned for you to be in his Kingdom. There may be pain in the process but keep your eyes on the end product! <br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CozyColor?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">Visit CozyColor here!</a></div>
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Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-77473914203634437192014-07-27T14:02:00.004-07:002014-07-27T14:02:52.380-07:00I AM...Everything I Am Not
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the seasons of my life, I have found myself under the
authority of different people as you have experienced as well…a boss, an
overseer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter if my position was a
paid worker or merely a volunteer, it was vital that I jump at the opportunity
to serve alongside my authority with a common goal of serving others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And at any given moment, if I was called out
by name and chosen for a task, no matter how I felt inside, rather overwhelmed,
inadequate or simply excited, I found myself obediently carrying out my duty,
no questions asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as my mama
always taught me, talking back must never follow the summons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But how is it, when God Almighty, the Great I AM, calls me
to be a part of his Kingdom work at a particular time and place, working
alongside of God in order to serve others, I find myself throwing a temper
tantrum on the floor, crying out to him, “Why, God?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Or as my heart begs for an answer, I whine, “I want it THIS way!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your way isn’t what I had planned!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why is it when the I AM says, “Go here” or
“Stay put,” “Give up this” or “Go do that,” my two year old side bursts out
into all directions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can I instantly
trust another sinful person in our worldly work; yet, arrogantly argue with I
AM over His eternal Kingdom work?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ouch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That hurts to
admit to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it’s the honest
truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m an arrogant, prideful child
of God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">God is the “I AM”…everything that “I am not.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And from this truth,
God tells me <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your salvation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your protection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I AM your God!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As I leave you a familiar truth from the great I AM, read it
as though you’ve never heard it in your life; as if this is the first time
these sacred words have touched your ears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let us not argue with God when he calls us in his plan but rather trust
in His ways.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Trust in the Lord with all your heart;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lean not on your own understandings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In all your ways, acknowledge him,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And [I AM] will make your paths straight.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Proverbs 3:5-6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-38403656619377483942014-07-20T14:18:00.001-07:002014-07-20T14:18:47.027-07:00Goodbye and HelloNo matter how we try to escape it, we will always meet up with a goodbye in one form or another. We can't escape the tearing of souls and the tears shed from the ache it leaves behind. It's all a part of life, since the beginning of time. I can't imagine experiencing the first goodbye, watching the Garden of Eden shrink in size behind them as Adam and Eve walked further and further away from true paradise. Even Paul talks about the heartache the church endures as he leaves friends as close as family behind, with the knowledge that their embraces, more than likely, won't meet on this earth again.<br />
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But God, in his mercy and grace, always brings something beautiful out of the heartache. If you stop and think about it, there will always be a hello on the other side. Saying goodbye to parents as the 18 year old heads off to college results in a hello to new friends, new experiences and a new chapter in life. Saying goodbye to beloved family and heartfelt friendships always leads to new family and friends, expanding our horizons and perspectives on this earth. And ultimately, a goodbye to this earth is a hello to Christ, for those whose trust is in Jesus Christ their Lord. The best part of it all is that everything ends with a hello for eternity.<br />
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Should you face a goodbye in your life, remember a hello is just around the corner. And goodbyes, in the family of God, are never forever! All praise and glory to our Lord Jesus Christ!<br />
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Goodbye...until next time.Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-70258095842884882432014-03-05T22:01:00.001-08:002014-03-05T22:01:27.408-08:00Come...Reap the Harvest Wtih Me
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The most dreaded day arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>January 13, 4:45 a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My alarm provokes me from deep slumber and I
instantly recollect…today is the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is the day we’ve dreaded for months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Work summons my dear husband away for 8 weeks
and I will "wing it" as mom, dad, teacher, nurse, police and whatever career beckons
my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tight throat makes
breathing laborious and tears fill the rims of my sleepy eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I can do this…I can do all things through Christ who
strengthens me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’ll be home most
weekends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can do this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rehearsed script plays through my mind as
I dig for strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in one moment,
his headlights fade off into the early, thick darkness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“I have no choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have to do this.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Week one
surprisingly ends before I know it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being
around other people puts a smile on my face and strength floods my bones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before I realize it, it’s week 2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Week 2 comes and goes…we’re actually making
it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through some mountain peaks and
valleys, one day at a time, one moment at a time, we survive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yet, here I am, midweek of week 8, the final week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dear husband will be home for good in 2
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Common sense says I should be
thrilled, excited and turning somersaults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But somehow, all the positive attitudes and rehearsed, mental pep rallies and
strength from deep within have seemed to dissipated into nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My cup sits dry, there is nothing to runneth
over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Why…when at the end of this marathon season, do I feel
utterly empty and dry, with nothing left to give.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only 2 days!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Surely I can get a grip for 2 days!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perhaps it has something to do with the endless and singlehandedly dealings of piles
of laundry and stacks of papers to grade and drilling long division over and
over with no success and neighbor’s pit bulls destroying our fence only to make
it's home in our yard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or perhaps it’s
the chocolate overload, repeatedly tripping over remote cars in the middle of
the floor, the mountain of dishes in the sink and the inches of western WA rain
that soaks and drenches and never ends, day after day…never giving me the
chance to even get to curl my hair!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Whatever the cause, I’m dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have nothing left.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That is, until the Lord himself turned my attention to His
beautiful Word:</span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></strong></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>At just the right time we will reap a harvest
of blessing if we don’t give up.” </strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"><strong>(Galatians 6:9 NLT)</strong></span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you, Jesus, for reminding me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for turning my eyes to the truth of
your goodness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And although, for today, this verse inspires me to finish
strong these last 2 days, these words also remind us to not give up every day
for we know our final harvest is a heavenly harvest!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what a return that will be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until then, keep your focus, draw from Christ
and finish strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Join me and let's work this field of life together, regardless of the sweat and muscle that's required. </span>And one day, I hope
to sit next to you and share a harvest meal in the presence of God, reflecting on all His goodness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Blessings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><strong>Please be mindful of one thing</strong>: One way in which we can work side by side in this great life field is to pray for one another. If I could be praying for you in any way, please let me know. It would be an honor to go before the Lord with you in mind. <a href="mailto:bagraybeal@gmail.com">bagraybeal</a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"><a href="mailto:bagraybeal@gmail.com">@gmail.com</a> </a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-90876722629214490422014-03-03T06:21:00.000-08:002014-03-03T08:44:16.412-08:00From Pit to Cliff<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Swallowed by the pit, attempt is my strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaving this bottomless pit is a must.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I attempt, reaching my arms,
stretching…sinking my fingers into the slim of comparison. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Maybe, if I can keep
my house clean like her…or perhaps, their ‘paradise’ homeschool experience will
pale in comparison to my plans and crafts and cuddle reading times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps P90X will make me look like her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe, just maybe, I can lift myself up out of
this hellhole.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But the harder I try, I find no substance for my hands to
grasp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“She has more children, more talent, a slimmer, athletic
body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God must really think a lot of
her.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The attempt to climb out of the muddy walls of comparison
provide no stronghold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find myself
falling, right back where I began, deep within the pit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I turn to the other side of the engulfing pit…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Maybe this side will prove more successful.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My foot searches for a rock climber’s dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet the mudslide of “being good enough”
proves itself to be of no help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still, I
attempt…</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; 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;">Study the Bible</span></div>
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<!--[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;">Obey all rules</span></div>
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<!--[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;">Be polite</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; 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;">Say religious prayers…so everyone will hear
me…and be impressed</span></div>
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<!--[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;">5.</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;">Post really cute but unrealistic pictures of our
homeschool</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I attempt to appear to those around me the perfect wife, the
perfect mother, in a perfect home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I attempt…attempt…I
fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deeper still.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The sinkhole of jealousy takes its toll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot fight anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It sucks me in, absorbing every part of my
being…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Why has God blessed her with more children?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why does it always seem everyone’s name is
called yet I’m still sitting in the waiting room?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why do I have a 1979 galley-kitchen-for-one
while she has a gourmet kitchen yet hates cooking?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How is it possible that I work out day after
day yet still haven’t achieved that beachbody?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I sink, further and further in self-pity and jealousy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My surroundings become dark and messy and
hopeless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I muster out a cry yet my
voice is muttered in the soundproof mud walls.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally, sweet release…<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And then…<strong>HE</strong> lifts me out of the pit, out of the muck and
mire and <strong>HE</strong> sets my feet on the rock and <strong>HE</strong> gives me a firm place to
stand!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>HE</strong> lifts me to a cliff far from
the depths of despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>The heavens open
and mercy drops shower over me, rinsing me clean of the muck and mire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The light of <strong>HIS</strong> truth immerses me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The winds of the <strong>HOLY SPIRIT</strong> encircle me and
I breath…I breath fresh truths into the crevices of my soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the <strong>GOD ALMIGHTY</strong>, the <strong>I AM</strong>, reminds me
that I am his daughter…and it was never his plan for me to inhabit the pit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Suddenly perspectives alter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The earth grows dim in <strong>HIS</strong> presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The darkness scatters in <strong>HIS</strong> light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The muck and mire are no longer in control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For <strong>HE</strong> lifted me out of the pit of self-doom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>HE</strong> put my feet on the Rock of <strong>HIS</strong> Word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>HE</strong> is everything good…all hope…eternal salvation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>HE</strong> is my rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><strong>HE</strong> is my EVERYTHING!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a lifetime of useless work and unsuccessful attempts
and slippery slopes, I finally rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
rest in <strong>HIM</strong>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I rest in <strong>HIS</strong> peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I long to be higher and closer to <strong>GOD
ALMIGHTY</strong>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My voice cannot be contained
and air-filled lungs and a not-so-talented set of vocal chords begin to
sing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deep emotion and heartfelt
thanksgiving ring out into all the earth!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thank you, <strong>JESUS</strong>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thank you, <strong>JESUS</strong>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“…he turned
to me and heard my cry,</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>he lifted me
out of the slimy pit,</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>out of the
mud and mire;</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>he set my
feet on a rock</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>and gave me
a firm place to stand.</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>He put a new
song in my mouth,</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>a hymn of
praise to our God.</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>Many will
see and fear</em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>and put
their trust in the Lord.”</em></strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>Psalm 40:1-2<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-35719814181663270852014-02-02T08:02:00.001-08:002014-02-02T08:02:09.158-08:00Sink and ExperienceImagine for a moment...put yourself in the middle of the ocean and ask, "Would I fight or sink?" Fighting results in fatigue and worry. Yet, letting go, sinking to the bottom, is releasing the fight and being still.<br />
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"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10<br />
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The original language of this Psalm uses a definition of "be still" that is described as "to sink, to let go." On this earth, we hold on to many things. Things that cause us to fight like perfection, comparison, schedules, pride, acceptance...and on and on it goes. But according to God himself, we must learn to let go of it all and sink into Him. No more fighting. Just release. Sink. And rest in him.<br />
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"Be still and know that I am God."<br />
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To know...to experience. Know Him through your own experience. No amount of sermon notes, top selling authors or Christian YouTube videos will bring us to a knowing relationship with him. Seek him through His beautiful promises, gentle guidance and even stern warnings in His Word. Sink into solitude and rest, listen and experience.<br />
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"Be still and know that I am God." <br />
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In my own words, I would interpret, "Sink and experience that I am God."<br />
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"Be still and know that I am God."Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-20946745666947448132013-05-12T06:35:00.001-07:002013-05-12T06:41:39.551-07:00True Motherhood...Not a Facebook Description<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a new day and, of course, time to get updated on all the overnight news and happenings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I grab my phone, tap on the Facebook app and read.<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>“Being a mom is the most wonderful job in the world!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“I love cuddling with my children in their pajamas, watching a movie.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“Motherhood makes my life so joyful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">On and on it goes…and I feel nothing short of just plain guilty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many mornings, I hear my children’s footsteps across the cool morning floors and sigh, thinking to myself, “I’m not ready to begin this day.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or I sit with them at mealtime and feel overwhelmed with my career of food police, “Chew with your mouth closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay in your seat.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The house is in shambles, the laundry makes me think of Mt. Rainier and, if I have to plan out another meal that no one will eat, I might just quite serving food!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All day long it’s don’t do this or stop doing that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blah blah blah!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Today is Mother’s Day and I’m sitting in my over sized, blond chair waiting to hear from the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The opened windows play a beautiful recording of God’s nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those children I so often don’t appreciate like I should, are sleeping soundly and the house is blaring in silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the Lord has reminded me that never once did he leave me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Motherhood is a beautiful calling and I am ever so grateful for what God has given me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s not easy; in fact, it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I conquer forward, knowing God is with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He always has been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was with me through morning sickness and c-sections, miscarriages and uncomfortable pregnancies, late nights and early mornings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has always been with me even on the days I just wanted to run out of the house and not stop til I reached a warm beach somewhere far and secluded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never left my side on those days when it took every part of my being to not scream at the top of my lungs…and even on those days I did scream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was at my side in the moments when I saw the children smile and giggle or when they randomly gave me a hug or a precious note was waiting for me at my pillow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was always with me…and always will be...in good and bad, easy and hard, tearful and laughter, sickness or health...and forever more!</span></div>
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=722zPX1npcA" target="_blank">Never Once</a>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-66337114130950710772012-09-30T21:19:00.003-07:002012-10-01T16:59:28.274-07:00Wrestling<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>“He is always wrestling in payer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.”</strong> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Colossians 4:12b (NIV)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am sitting at my dining room table on a Sunday evening…attempting to wrap my mind around the phrase “wrestling in prayer”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From a small yet very significant mention of Epaphras, we learn of his faithful servanthood to Christ Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also read of his current condition at the time of the description “wrestling in prayer”…in prison.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go with me back to the first century and try to imagine…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How rare it must have been to be able to put into a script your own thoughts and blessings and greetings to a people of distant residence in the first century…especially in prison.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Paul began his letter, “This letter is written by Paul who was chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus…” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I imagine the quickening of Epaphras’ heart as he heard the words, “This letter is written to God’s holy people in the city of Colosse…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Colosse!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh, to feel home again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For a moment, the prison walls tear down and Epaphras is back home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where would he go first?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps the church or maybe his childhood buddy’s home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just the thought of the memories must have grown a smile across his face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or maybe the rush of hot tears instantly stung his eyes and he found himself quickly turning away to hide the emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless, the feeling of home enveloped every part of his being until, instantly, he was back in the world of reality inside the prison walls, hearing his name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Epaphras.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Epaphras!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you want to add anything to the letter?” Paul tenderly asks as he notices Epaphras returning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">He responds almost in a scattered brain state, “Uh…sure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Give them my greetings and make sure they know I am praying for them.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With that warm smile of Paul, whose heart has softened these past few years, he tweaks Epaphras’ request a bit for he knows the deep and sincere truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t just pray for them; he <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">wrestles</i> in prayer for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His prayers go so deep that, at times, he seems distracted and distant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Paul knows him well enough by now to know he is praying earnestly, tirelessly laboring with deep concern for his brothers and sisters back home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Paul knows the depth of each act of interceding for it goes much deeper than the physical requests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His prayers circle around their spiritual well being.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And so Paul continues…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is always wrestling in payer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I vouch for him that he is working hard for you…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What a beautiful example of how we are to pray for our brothers and sisters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must labor in our prayers in all sincerity and deeply prayer for the heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I am bringing this meeting with my computer at the dining room table to an end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But before I close, I must ask, how can I pray for you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-38593069165227925462012-09-18T15:16:00.000-07:002012-09-18T15:16:34.653-07:00A Rock<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give into temptation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the Spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” <o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mark 14:37-38<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In the deepest hours of the night, Jesus surrounded himself with his beloved followers, one of which was Peter, the Rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trouble and distress flooded his soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the midst of great danger and trouble lurking in the moments ahead, prayer was the solitary and essential option.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In his plea to God to allow this appalling hour to pass, Jesus called to his closest friends to sustain him in prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, in the midst of chaos and horror, tribulation and evil, Peter, the Rock, slumbered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you keep watch with me even one hour?”<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ve often pondered why Jesus called him Simon, as opposed to his new name, Peter, the Rock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wonder if, at this moment, Peter was not living up to his name and, therefore, Jesus reverted to his old name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, the next few words haunt me and cause me to speculate about my own life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation.”<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus spoke these words to Peter, the Rock, moments before his infamous denial experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, another thought invades my mind…I wonder if Peter, the Rock, had been alert and in prayer, would he have denied his Savior in the midst of complete chaos and confusion…or would he had stood firm in his commitment to Jesus?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just a thought….definitely something in which to ponder.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And then, another nudge from the Holy Spirit…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How many times have I crawled into my cozy bed at night, with wonderful and great intentions of waking before the dawn to pray, only to sleep away the minutes, all the while hitting snooze over and over again?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With every passing minute and every screaming snooze alert, my time with Jesus dwindles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time designated for prayer, a necessity to face the day of temptation, fades as quickly as the stars with the rising sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, my heart hears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In order to be a rock, I must be awake…and alert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Prayer is indispensable, even when my body feels feeble and weary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Morning…noon…night…I must keep watch for the enemy is ready to shatter the rocks to pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior;<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>He is my shield, the power that saves me,<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>and my place of safety.”<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 18:2<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith.” <o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1 Peter 5:7-9<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-24639679973704827212012-09-08T22:42:00.000-07:002012-09-08T22:42:23.753-07:00Pray For All People<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them."</em></strong></div>
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1 Timothy 2:1</div>
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Through the tears of dread and fear, God spoke: Pray.</div>
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As I attempted to fall asleep that May night of 2010, thankfulness of the family of God invaded my every thought. Oh, how God had blessed me. So many were praying and sending us off to a new land in a quest to follow God's plan. My entire life had been comfy and cozy, surrounded by familiarity and all that seemed right. In a matter of days, all I had ever known would become a memory and my new world would become uncomfortable and unfamiliar, surrounded by strangers and unknown places. </div>
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But God continued to speak: Pray.</div>
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So many had poured into our lives filling our hearts as a sponge. But now, our hearts overflowed and it was time to share those heavenly blessings with others. The time had come to give back. God brought me to the place of conviction through 1 Timothy 2:1<strong><em>..."Pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them."</em></strong></div>
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Through the next two years, God spoke: Pray.</div>
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Opportunities arose. Needs became apparent. Thanksgivings needed to be expressed. The list began to grow...pray for her, pray for him, pray on this date...at this time. And on a Sunday in July, it clicked. As I listened to the word of God spoken, surrounded by the family of God, instruction came from the pulpit: "All those people you're praying for...double it!" Once again, conviction tugged and pulled and yanked at my heart as I heard the familiar words of 1 Timothy: <strong><em>..."Pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them."</em></strong></div>
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God pressed on my heart: Pray.</div>
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A vision. A dream. A desire filled my heart. The time has come to allow my prayers to ripple through my world. However, not just my own world; but hopes that prayers would ripple through the endless waters of people in need or sick or adopting, those grieving or ministering or feeling weak. Perhaps the lonely, poor or those needing to express joy. </div>
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God is urging us all: PRAY.</div>
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Please join me! Listen to that loud whisper of the Holy Spirit and allow your prayers to ripple through your world. Maybe we'll see results. Maybe we won't...this side of heaven. But it is time...for all of us...to double our prayers. </div>
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God desires us to PRAY!!</div>
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If you would like to join the "Ripples" team, please contact me at <a href="mailto:bagraybeal@gmail.com">bagraybeal@gmail.com</a></div>
Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-78777212334173773042012-05-29T16:04:00.000-07:002012-05-29T16:04:05.025-07:00Astounding Boldness<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The moment of truth, sending chills down their spine, haunted the scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the moment in which the words and encouragement drilled into their minds from the ministry of Christ would come through to save them or sink and drown them in the threats of the men who stood before them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There stood elders and priests and scribes eagerly awaiting the response to the life or death question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?” (Acts 4:7)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peter and John stood at a crossroad: Open their mouths and allow the Holy Spirit to speak for them, just as Jesus promised or completely cave in to the astute beings hanging on their every word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There were elders…role models and highly respected men in the single most religious city of Jerusalem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Men whose every thought and motive and belief was grounded in many years of religious experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These strong pillars loomed over the young and “inexperienced” disciples of Christ. Then there were priests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their lineage stretched to the earliest branches of the Israeli heritage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one knew more than the priests of the operations of the Holy temple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one rose above them in their knowledge of sacrifices and the history of the desperation of bloodshed in order to cover the multitude of sins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lastly, standing before them, were the Scribes…the academics of the group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well trained in writing and interpretation of the ancient Law, merely their presence had to have brought out the worst intimidation to these untrained men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Scribes were the lawyers of the day and experts in legal document, recording deeds and copying Scripture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So there you have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best of the best…the cream of the crop…each prestige leader fervently waited for these simple men to respond to the million dollar question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And answer, they did!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Filled with the Holy Spirit…” and with great boldness, Peter informs the high arch’s <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that their previous healing was performed in the name of Jesus Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He continues to enlighten them that it was they who crucified Jesus and it was God who raised him from the dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He even supports his argument with Scripture, astounding the prideful teachers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The elders were not accustomed to the younger men standing up to them with such audaciousness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The priests must have been floored by their revolutionary declarations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They “….were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">No matter your background or training or education or, even lack thereof, when we have been with Jesus, the Holy Spirit can and will fill us up and equip us in mighty ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peter and John were bold but only after they were filled with the Holy Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were equipped for they had spent much time with Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be encouraged by Peter and John.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spend time with Jesus regularly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And prepare yourself for colossal results!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative – that is, the Holy Spirit – he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” John 14:26</span></div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-52342023881090847552012-04-12T16:35:00.000-07:002012-04-12T16:35:23.678-07:00Thinking Strategies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Sr8NsHcoM/T4dlhvYmBTI/AAAAAAAABxk/Cl_B7ZO293s/s1600/sleepy+Benjamin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Sr8NsHcoM/T4dlhvYmBTI/AAAAAAAABxk/Cl_B7ZO293s/s320/sleepy+Benjamin.JPG" width="217" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My sweet four year old deeply loves his naps…still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he prepares for the afternoon slumber, he can hardly contain the giggles motivated by excitement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing soothes like a cuddle quilt and a window with a perfect view of the northwestern evergreens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rain or shine…it’s a cozy place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On this particular day, my mind swirled and tossed and drowned in thoughts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The thoughts brought my heart to a state of depression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On and on…showing no mercy…my thinking took over my soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And before I realized it, my day had become a “Woe is me!” kind of day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tucking in little Benjamin, untouched by his joy and excitement of nap time, my heart broke.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“We’re so far away from his grandparents and cousins and aunts and uncles.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I can’t handle another ‘on call’ day on my husband’s schedule.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The WHOLE family is gathering for Easter…everyone except for us.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Without a word spoken, my eyes must have screamed out the ache in which I felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For out of the blue, completely unprompted, Benjamin raised his tiny finger to the sky, pointing upward, and simply said, “Trust in him.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.” Psalm 8:2</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a most tender and quiet moment, with three words spoken in a whisper from a child, God silenced the enemy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The truth Benjamin spoke penetrated into my soul transforming my heartbreak to strength and peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Holy Spirit reminded me that we “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5) </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Strategically, the enemy creeps into our thoughts without our knowledge much of the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must pray that God will reveal to us the areas in our thinking where we have become POW as a result of the enemy’s schemes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What thoughts are seemingly harmless or insignificant just might be stealth bombers in this spiritual warfare which surrounds us daily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yet, there is hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I leave you with God-inspired words of strength and power.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11) </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” – Jesus Christ</span></div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-26809746079997580482012-02-29T15:31:00.001-08:002012-02-29T16:14:50.120-08:00I've Made My ChoiceTo explain the <em>choices</em> I made today, one must take a look back to the evening prior to this day to view the beginnings. It was a late night for my husband for he came home from work as the hour hand of the clock approached 11:00 pm. Exhausted from his day and my day, straight to bed was the right move. <br />
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A <em>choice</em> was handed to me and I chose: I'm so sick of these late nights.<br />
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Yet, 11:00 was a bit late before a 5:00 am alarm. And, sure enough, against my wishes, the morning came. <br />
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I made my <em>choice</em>: I hate alarms.<br />
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Not much further into the morning, the house began to dance and hop and run and shout all from the beautiful children that inhabit this home. Yet, if you have ever lived in the same vicinity as myself, you will completely understand me when I tell you the choice I made:<br />
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My <em>choice</em>: Be quiet! It's morning! (FYI: God did not gift me as a natural morning person. I arise only out of complete necessity.)<br />
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As mid morning approached, about the time my brain began to arise, I found myself sitting in the waiting room of the orthodontist office. I'm sure, by this point, you can probably guess the type of <em>choice</em> that was mulling around in my head...<br />
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For goodness sake! At the orthodontist with an 8 year old! There are NO other children that young around here!<br />
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I'm sad to say, the rest of the day continued on this same downward spiral of self pity and doom. Woe is me! I feel so sorry for myself...all <em>choices</em> I made completely on my own. At a single moment in the afternoon, the house rested and all was calm, even if only briefly. I fell into my over sized chair to attempt to focus on some Bible study. At least this was a choice headed in the right direction, for once today! After being instructed to find a verse in Philippians, I found myself reading verses that had nothing to do with the question I was to answer. I began to realize I landed in the wrong chapter. However, it became quite clear that God was speaking...specifically to me...about the <em>choices</em> I had wrongly chosen. <br />
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"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again - rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon." Philippians 4:4-5<br />
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Oh, I get it! Joy is a <em><strong>choice</strong></em>! We <em>choose</em> joy...for the Lord is coming soon and nothing else matters compared to this truth!!<br />
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How my heart wishes I could rewind this day and <em>choose</em> once more. But then again, maybe I'll try...<br />
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I'm thankful my 8 year old is getting an early start with his orthodontist care. At least it will help him down the road...and spread out the cost, too! ;)<br />
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Sure those kids are loud but isn't it lovely?! And what a gift to rise on this early and beautiful, rainy day!<br />
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Yes! The alarm! Another day to serve the Lord!<br />
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I'm so thankful my husband works hard, is helping the sick and hurt, and that he arrived home safely!<br />
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We have a <em>choice</em> to make: self pity and doom...or joy. I <em>choose</em> joy!!Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-36731628243627965252012-02-12T22:44:00.000-08:002012-02-12T22:44:07.487-08:00Wisdom From The ArkI did not compose this and neither do I know from where it comes. But I thought it was great and wanted to share it with you. Blessings!<br />
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Wisdom from the Ark – Genesis 6-9<br />
1. Don’t miss the boat.<br />
2. Remember that we are all in the same boat.<br />
3. Plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark.<br />
4. Stay fit. When you’re 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.<br />
5. Don’t listen to critics, just get on with the job that needs to be done.<br />
6. Build your future on high ground.<br />
7. For safety’s sake, travel in pairs.<br />
8. Speed isn’t always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.<br />
9. When you’re stressed, float awhile.<br />
10. Remember the ark was built by amateurs, the Titanic by professionals.<br />
11. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting.Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-54771406142048247312012-01-27T15:42:00.000-08:002012-01-27T15:42:25.571-08:00Ouch.The eventful week ahead begins to bombard my thoughts. <br />
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Do the kids’ school work…keep the house decent…don’t get behind in the laundry…balance the budget…and this and that, here and there. <br />
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Completely distracted by the “to do’s” of the upcoming week, I become oblivious to all those surrounding me and all the happenings taking place beside me. There are even times that I quietly sneak out a scrap of paper, dig for a workable pen and jot down the nagging notions running wild in hopes of finding some relief. <br />
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My mind may not be present but physically I am right alongside of everyone else, doing the right thing. Humbly, I must admit that my heart scarcely can take in a moment for the distractions overwhelmingly take control. I look good. I’m doing my part. Yet my heart is not in it. <br />
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But suddenly something eventually rips me away from my thoughts. Maybe it’s a change in the melodic key or a favorite song or perhaps simply an instruction, “You may be seated” coming from the stage. <br />
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And then I remember I am in church. <br />
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I am in church doing the good deeds, doing my part…yet it’s all an empty sacrifice. <br />
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The Lord stepped on my toes this week as I read His Word: <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">“I hate all your <em><strong>show</strong></em> and <strong><em>pretense</em></strong> – the hypocrisy of your <strong><em>religious</em></strong> <strong><em>festivals</em></strong> and <strong><em>solemn assemblies</em></strong>. I will not accept your <strong><em>burnt</em></strong> <strong><em>offerings</em></strong> and <strong><em>grain offerings</em></strong>. I won’t even notice all your choice <strong><em>peace offerings</em></strong>. Away with your noisy <strong><em>hymns of praise</em></strong>! I will not listen to the music of your <strong><em>harps</em></strong>. Instead, I want to see a mighty <strong><em>flood of justice</em></strong>, an endless river of <strong><em>righteous living</em></strong>.”</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Amos 5:21-24</span> </div>
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Ouch. <br />
Oh Lord, forgive me. <br />
Rid me of showy rituals. <br />
Prepare my heart for true worship through righteous living.Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-8924305272896451542011-12-26T02:56:00.001-08:002011-12-28T15:26:49.415-08:00Eileen...my hero<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pz7WTFD1SeU/Tvsm76PpDdI/AAAAAAAABxU/wsDOSsCb6tk/s1600/Eileen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pz7WTFD1SeU/Tvsm76PpDdI/AAAAAAAABxU/wsDOSsCb6tk/s320/Eileen.jpg" width="219" /></a></div>
Over the river and through the woods...and that truly was the drive to Grandmama Eileen's house. Eileen, the truest depiction of a lady, was my hero in many ways... <br />
<br />
After surviving the curves of the TN mountains, it was always a relief to see the sign read "Sunset Drive" for we knew the aroma of fantastic southern cooking awaited us along with the firm yet loving squeezes and hugs of our sweet Eileen. Nothing beat that single moment. Even today, my mind can take me back at any moment, to that precious home and experience it all over again...and in my mind it will always be, even if only in my thoughts. Eileen took charge in her kitchen as much as an experienced and well-trained chef would. Her arthritic hands could create the most beautiful desserts, divine mashed potatoes and most amazing fried chicken. Her talent and attention to detail ran every recipe and her ability to make a "pretty party" (as my mom says) always made for the most memorable family gatherings. Her oblong table, which seemed to dominate the dining room, never went without a beautiful and starched white table cloth. Fine china and crystal goblets surrounded the table and beautiful silver pieces decorated each setting. And after all her hard work, family gathered around to tell stories of old. Eileen would sit at the head of the table, ever so quietly, smiling and soaking in every single moment of her family all together. <br />
<br />
Eileen, a true lady, soft spoken, shy, quiet...will forever be my hero. <br />
<br />
I don't recall much of her speaking of her faith, however, there was never a deep necessity for her actions spoke all we needed to hear. Church attendance regularly occupied her weekends. She remained loyal and respectful to her husband. Her entire life focused on serving others. She gave and gave, never thinking of herself...gave of her time and talent. Her Bible always sat in plain sight and wore an aged and used appearance.<br />
<br />
Eileen, a true servant of our great God, a follower of Christ...will forever be my hero.<br />
<br />
My lovely hero lived her last day on this earth this week. She now resides with our Savior, Jesus Christ. Yet Eileen will always remain my hero. I will forever treasure her and remember her. And I hope and pray I can pass on the legacy she handed down to me as beautifully and elegantly as she did. <br />
<br />
Eileen, resident with Christ in eternity, living in final peace...will forever be my hero.Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-48536408944619803052011-12-08T07:20:00.000-08:002011-12-08T07:20:55.491-08:00Mighty Triumph<span style="font-size: large;"><em>"Oh, please help us against our enemies, for all human help is useless. With God's help we will do mighty things for he will trample down our foes."</em></span> <br />
Psalm 108:12-13<br />
<br />
Enemies haunted David throughout his life. They wanted nothing more than for David to be rid of and forgotten forever. (Ps. 109:15) <br />
<br />
However, David sought the Lord. In all things, he desired God to be glorified. And although the enemy's goal was to destroy, God had mightier plans. The enemy desired David's name never to be remembered, God trampled over the enemies and his kingship lasted.<br />
<br />
Despite the evil plot against David, he is remembered even today. Countless people learn of David and his life all over the world. He has never been forgotten, thanks to our great God!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LrHn7hm68-Y/TuDSNEwzHfI/AAAAAAAABxI/gInkTutj5FM/s1600/david.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LrHn7hm68-Y/TuDSNEwzHfI/AAAAAAAABxI/gInkTutj5FM/s1600/david.png" /></a></div><div class="magnify"><a class="internal" href="http://www.blogger.com/wiki/File:David_by_Michelangelo_in_The_Gallery_of_the_Accademia_di_Belle_Arti.jpg" title="Enlarge"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">David by Michelangelo in The Gallery of the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence</span></div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I know the same enemy attacks me daily. Pride...fear...selfishness...they all fight for control in my life. But I must believe that God, and only God, will help me overcome in mighty ways. He will trample...and triumph!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>"But I will give repeated thanks to the Lord, praising him to everyone. For he stands beside the needy, ready to save them from those who condemn them." </em></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Psalm 109:30-31</div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-25818412101107975912011-12-01T23:58:00.000-08:002011-12-01T23:58:53.223-08:00I hope...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Christmas...sometimes just the word stirs my heart...makes my heart skip a beat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The whole year long, I plan...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anticipating the gifts and the candy and the food and the parties...and the list goes on and on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yet when the time arrives, the excitement only falls to the ground with anticlimactic feelings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stress.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rushing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crowds.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Money.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Is it all really worth it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I put my <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> in gifts only to find the excitement smothered like the clouds smother the January sun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0yaMSNsn11o/TtiEBnQgynI/AAAAAAAABwo/0emEveWFo9Y/s1600/santa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="322" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0yaMSNsn11o/TtiEBnQgynI/AAAAAAAABwo/0emEveWFo9Y/s400/santa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> to impress my guests so I plan and cook and labor on my feet in the kitchen...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> hour after hour...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> only to crash into bed at night wondering, "Was it really worth it?"</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e6hq0FPejmI/TtiEGnEehdI/AAAAAAAABww/5Kc-4vbL2uE/s1600/turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e6hq0FPejmI/TtiEGnEehdI/AAAAAAAABww/5Kc-4vbL2uE/s400/turkey.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, oh, the decorations! <span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully</span> they will be perfect...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">maybe a lovely hint of Southern Living</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">or as chic and stylish as HGTV.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GWzkxTfDf0o/TtiEIvmzsXI/AAAAAAAABw4/1iw-IFwqpCY/s1600/tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GWzkxTfDf0o/TtiEIvmzsXI/AAAAAAAABw4/1iw-IFwqpCY/s400/tree.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In and of themselves, the things for which I <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> are not so bad.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">However, it is my prayer that those <span style="font-size: large;">hopes</span> fade next to the manger.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I desperately <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> the worldly things diminish next our Lord.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> my<span style="font-size: large;"> hope</span> is heavenly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"We are merely moving shadow, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We heap up wealth, not knowing who will reap it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And so, Lord, where do I put my <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span>?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My <span style="font-size: large;">hope</span> is in you."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Psalm 29:6-7</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PDV0FENQvPs/TtiEKjlhACI/AAAAAAAABxA/hTcKxLgcxVg/s1600/nativity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="241" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PDV0FENQvPs/TtiEKjlhACI/AAAAAAAABxA/hTcKxLgcxVg/s400/nativity.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-20788685770871407552011-10-14T07:19:00.000-07:002011-10-14T07:19:09.718-07:00What Do Your Walls Say?While the enemy smothered, overwhelmed and struck with seemingly unending power, Habakkuk cried out to the Lord in utter helplessness. Nothing seemed to ease the suffering. No help hung over the horizon.<br />
<br />
And then God spoke.<br />
<br />
God knew every detail, every hint of evil in the hearts of the Chaldeans. And in the end, God reigned.<br />
<br />
In His message of woe to the enemy, one single verse struck a chord deep in my heart... <br />
<br />
"The very stones in the walls cry out against you, and the beams in the ceiling echo the complaint."<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Habakkuk 2:11</span><br />
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Even the walls of their homes sensed the evil. I imagine the eariness one might feel walking through the doors of their big houses built through dishonest gain.<br />
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But before I could go on any further, splattering judgement on their homes, God turned it around and, in my heart, asked me the question: What do your walls say?<br />
<br />
As my children grow older and create more memories, what will they remember? Someday, they will leave our home to begin their own families...what will our walls speak to them?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Laughter in the Walls</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Bob Benson</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I pass a lot of houses on my way home,</div><div style="text-align: center;">some pretty, </div><div style="text-align: center;">some expensive,</div><div style="text-align: center;">some inviting -</div><div style="text-align: center;">but my heart always skips a beat</div><div style="text-align: center;">when I turn down the road</div><div style="text-align: center;">and see my house nestled against the hill.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I guess I'm especially proud</div><div style="text-align: center;">of the house and the way it looks because</div><div style="text-align: center;">I drew the plans myself.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It started out large enough for us -</div><div style="text-align: center;">I even had a study -</div><div style="text-align: center;">two teenaged boys now reside in there.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And it had a guest room -</div><div style="text-align: center;">my girl and nine dolls are now permanent guests.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It had a small room Peg</div><div style="text-align: center;">had hoped would be her sewing room-</div><div style="text-align: center;">the two boys swinging on the dutch door</div><div style="text-align: center;">have claimed this room as their own.</div><div style="text-align: center;">So it really doesn't look now</div><div style="text-align: center;">as if I am much of an architect.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But it will get larger again-</div><div style="text-align: center;">one by one they will go away</div><div style="text-align: center;">to work,</div><div style="text-align: center;">to college,</div><div style="text-align: center;">to service,</div><div style="text-align: center;">to their own houses,</div><div style="text-align: center;">and then there will be room-</div><div style="text-align: center;">a guest room,</div><div style="text-align: center;">a study, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and a sewing room</div><div style="text-align: center;">for just the two of us.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But it won't be empty-</div><div style="text-align: center;">every corner,</div><div style="text-align: center;">every room,</div><div style="text-align: center;">every nick</div><div style="text-align: center;">in the coffee table</div><div style="text-align: center;">will be crowded with memories.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Memories of picnics,</div><div style="text-align: center;">parties, Christmases,</div><div style="text-align: center;">bedside vigils, summers,</div><div style="text-align: center;">fires, winters, going barefoot,</div><div style="text-align: center;">leaving for vacation, cats,</div><div style="text-align: center;">graduations, first dates,</div><div style="text-align: center;">ballgames, arguments,</div><div style="text-align: center;">washing dishes, bicycles,</div><div style="text-align: center;">dogs, boat rides,</div><div style="text-align: center;">getting home from vacation,</div><div style="text-align: center;">meals, rabbits and</div><div style="text-align: center;">a thousand other things</div><div style="text-align: center;">that fill the lives</div><div style="text-align: center;">of those who would raise five.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And Peg and I will sit</div><div style="text-align: center;">quietly by the fire</div><div style="text-align: center;">and listen to the</div><div style="text-align: center;">laughter in the walls.</div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-92035969983060113692011-10-07T16:13:00.000-07:002011-10-11T21:56:19.462-07:00Almost A StifleThe most stressful moments of a single day always insist of moving my children from point A to point B...in a parking lot! <br />
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"Hold my hand!" <br />
"Watch out!" <br />
"Car!!!"<br />
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Blood pressure rises. Tone of voice, serious. Not to mention the heavy burden of trying to appear to be the perfect mom by keeping my cool, all the while my insides run wild!<br />
<br />
Many times, I miss a precious moment tucked in between these hair raising experiences. For instance...<br />
<br />
We finally approached the door yet my motherly control still wanted knowledge of every finger and toe's whereabouts. My youngest, age 3, darted away from me with all the confidence of the world. My heart pounded. Frustration elevated. And in that brief moment, I just about missed it.<br />
<br />
He approached the door, spread out his arms as though he were just about to embrace the world with a giant hug, his chest puffed out with confidence as he stood facing the door...waiting for "the force". Sure enough, the doors swung open simply through the power of his presence! <br />
<br />
Right at the moment I about landed into him for running off, a stranger giggled at the humor of this little child. The eyes of my heart opened at the sound of the giggle and I realized I almost missed it. Consumed with things going exactly as I had planned, I almost missed a humorous and memorable moment. My need to control almost stifled a memory.<br />
<br />
And then I remembered...<br />
<br />
"Do not stifle the Holy Spirit." <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(1 Thessalonians 5:19)</span><br />
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The need to control my life interferes often. I wonder how many moments I have missed because of my tight fist hold on life. And I question how many times have I stifled the Holy Spirit, stuffing him down into the depths, ignoring his prompting, all for my control's sake, only to miss an opportunity...<br />
<br />
to grow.<br />
to evangelize.<br />
to encourage.<br />
to endure with peace.<br />
to walk forward with joy.<br />
to be in God's will.<br />
<br />
I leave you with this prayer...<br />
<br />
"I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong."<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ephesians 3:16-17</span>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-79837760430847124652011-09-29T22:09:00.000-07:002011-10-02T21:04:07.284-07:00The Command of Courage<div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">It chokes, steals, robs.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Suffocates, drowns, overwhelms.</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fear.</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">The word itself strikes a nerve deep within my soul.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Fear consumes my thoughts and actions everyday, even beyond consciousness.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">As my little ones innocently play at the local park, fear sits right alongside of me...</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">My thoughts run rampant...</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Please don't fall!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Is he "stranger danger"?</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Un5QutfBag8/ToVNlbD5Y5I/AAAAAAAABtM/PfdIfx15DxU/s1600/playground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Un5QutfBag8/ToVNlbD5Y5I/AAAAAAAABtM/PfdIfx15DxU/s400/playground.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our family calling to homeschool, a blessing yet a potential home for the enemy of fear.</span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">My worries run wild...</span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Am I doing everything right?</span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Will I ruin my children?</span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSfRuy065sQ/ToVNiQH6EsI/AAAAAAAABtI/C18MYxRvQW4/s1600/benjamin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RSfRuy065sQ/ToVNiQH6EsI/AAAAAAAABtI/C18MYxRvQW4/s400/benjamin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B6oidRF-Di0/ToVNhDmWGaI/AAAAAAAABtE/sAYynRq_IYs/s1600/henry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B6oidRF-Di0/ToVNhDmWGaI/AAAAAAAABtE/sAYynRq_IYs/s400/henry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">At the moment of desperation...</span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">in the deepest depths of fear, </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">the Holy Spirit simply whispers to my heart the same words he spoke to Joshua, thousands of years ago...</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."</span></div><div align="center">Joshua 1:9</div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-48175661273737767422011-09-28T14:48:00.000-07:002011-09-28T14:48:53.512-07:00Terror to Joy<div align="center">The time is here.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">A time in which no one wants to come face to face.</div><div align="center">A time people wander in darkness...</div><div align="center">shallowness</div><div align="center">emptiness.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. <br />
<br />
News Headline:<br />
<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/09/28/massachusetts-man-arrested-in-plot-to-destroy-pentagon-us-capitol/">"Massachusetts Man Plotted to Blow Up Pentagon..."</a><br />
<br />
There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. <br />
<br />
News Headline<br />
<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/09/27/at-least-seven-dead-after-massive-typhoon-hits-manila/">"At Least 16 Dead After Massive Typhoon..."</a><br />
<br />
These are the beginning of birth pains.<br />
“You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. <br />
<br />
News Headline:<br />
<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/09/28/iranian-pastor-faces-execution-for-refusing-to-recant-christian-faith/">"Iranian Pastor Faces Execution for Refusing to Recant Christian Faith"</a><br />
<br />
“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death.<br />
<br />
News Headline:<br />
<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/09/28/colorado-boy-pleads-guilty-to-killing-parents/">"Colorado Boy Pleads Guilty to Killing Parents"</a><br />
<br />
Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mark 13:5-13</span></div><div align="center"><br />
What are we going to do about it?<br />
<br />
"I trembled inside when I heard this;<br />
my lips quivered with fear.<br />
My legs gave way beneath me,<br />
and I shook in terror...<br />
yet I will rejoice in the Lord!<br />
I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!<br />
The Sovereign Lord is my strength!<br />
He makes me as surefooted as a deer,<br />
able to tread upon the heights."<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Habakkuk 3:16, 18-19</span></div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086494384840874707.post-83687750113809196202011-09-13T16:38:00.000-07:002011-09-13T21:20:32.946-07:00Faithful Abundant True<div style="text-align: center;">Today marks a beginning...a new Bible study.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My eyes have scanned over many Bible studies and the ink of my pen has marked, circled and written various and numerous answers. But have I truly grasped the depth and richness of </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">God's Word?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I pray the following words from</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://store.precept.org/p-1260-faithful-abundant-true-lifeway.aspx?gclid=CJ2Xj76sm6sCFRM6gwodYXRSnQ"><span style="font-size: large;">Faithful Abundant True</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">will grab your heart and change you as it has me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(All Scripture is from the New American Standard Version)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Timothy 3:16-17</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 Peter 1:20-21</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you receive the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe."</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">1 Thessalonians 2:13</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"If the Bible is what it says it is - and comes straight from the mouth of God - how important is it that you pay close attention to it? Have you? Have you honored it as it should be honored? Or have you preferred the writings - the books of men and women - above God's Word?"</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Kay Arthur)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">May we never replace the holy <span style="font-size: x-large;">Word of God</span> with <u>anything</u>!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">No blog, no book, no magazine, will ever change us like the </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Word of God!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">No calendar, no schedule, no job could ever be as important as the</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Word of God!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">No person, no place, no thing will ever penetrate our hearts as the</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Word of God!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's a simple truth.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We must live and breathe</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">God's Word.</span></div>Bagraybealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00657104064265186643noreply@blogger.com2