purity

What is purity? Recently I wrote about having a pure heart, but God continues to lay this topic of purity heavily on my heart. In 2 Timothy 2:20-21, Paul writes to Timothy telling him to be a pure vessel. Not just be any vessel, be a vessel that that can be used by God. So many vessels are not taken care of, not constructed properly to withstand harsh environments, but God asks us to be a vessel that has a noble purpose and is holy. We should be set apart from the earthly things. When I think about that study, I often think about adolescence years and staying pure for your soon to be spouse; but now that I'm past that stage in life, purity means so much more to me.


As a child of God, it is my responsibility to be prepared to do any good work... to be useful to the Master. The bible says in 2 Timothy 2: 15 to "study to shew thyself approved unto God." I'm instructed to know the right from the wrong and be able to "rightly divide the word of truth." Ephesians 4: 21-24, If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Having a truly pure heart grants me permission to have the characteristics of God ~ to be like Him. I am to be mindful of things that are good and pure. I'm not to dwell in the negatives of life, but be full of life for it is in the negative that I become less pure. In 2 Timothy 2:16 I am instructed to shun away from profane and vain babbling... "...for they will increase unto more ungodliness." Philippians 4:8, "Whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, good report, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things." This is a small list of virtues describing Christ. Christ is so much more than just this list, but oh, He is all these things and more.


As a mother, it is my responsibility to create an environment to help my daughter grow up in purity. I'm instructed to do that... In order for me to help her, I myself must continue to evaluate myself and my actions and lifestyle. At this stage in her life, I am her hero, her provider, her comforter, her all. (Thanks, God, for allowing me to be that to her). But understanding that responsibility only truly comes from God.

God gave Natalie to me. She is a blessing as are all children a blessing from God. Psalm 127:3 "Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward." I am the example in which she will grow up with whether that is good or bad. Everything I do, reflects on her little life for the good or bad. Every move I make, in the back of my mind I'm asking myself, how does this affect Natalie? Now, I am in no way perfect. I fail. I fail a lot ~ as a mother, a sister, a daughter, a coworker, a child of God... I fail. It is through God's grace and forgiveness that I can continue on, and ask for forgiveness when I do fail. And hopefully my faults are evident enough to learn from my shortcomings. In Titus 1:15-16 not to turn from the truth... 15 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

It is my responsibility to live a pure life ~obedient to God, professing God in all I say and do, keeping my actions and thoughts pure in His sight.

Lord, today I ask you to guide my thoughts and my hands. Use me as your vessel and continue to mold me to be a workman of good for You. Help me to have a mindset on pure things and be conscience and build a resistance of things that distract me from you. Help me to be pure for You, but also for Natalie's sake so that she can grow strong and confident in Your strength, hope and love. Help me to continue to be sensitive and humble in your spirit. I praise you for being you and rejoice in all you do for me with a thanksgiving heart. In your sons gracious name.

parasites

In the "Love Dare" book used in the movie, Fireproof, the author warns us to "be aware of parasites"... I like what is written there: Watch out for parasites! A parasite is anything that latches on to you and sucks the life out of you, usually in the form of addictions. Parasites promise pleasure but grow like a disease and consume more and more of your thoughts, time and money. They steal away your loyalty and your heart from those you love. Your relationship with God rarely survives if parasites are present. If you love God, you must destroy any addiction that has your heart. If you don't, it will destroy you.

The movie uses this example in a marital relationship, so I altered it to fit my life. Now, I know I asked God a few weeks ago to tenderize my heart and help me to love those who don't deserve to be loved ~ I don't think I really realized what I was asking Him to do. I am learning that when I ask Him to help me, He tends to put me in the middle of situations to really... well, learn. I've never been the type of person to take the simple hints from God. I need the big kick in the head or the sign with the flashing lights pointing in a general direction. God has a humorous side and seems to put me literally where I've asked Him for help. I laugh tonight thinking about how He has done this to me several times, but twice this week, I've been in tears.

I have been dealing with a coworker. She is making my life difficult. This week I have really struggled to love this person. I have been set up to look like a fool in front of several people numerous times by this same person. I know this is God working in me to make me understand that unconditional, selfless love that He has. She has been one tough cookie to deal with and as hard headed as I can be... I think she has me beat.

Parasites... I believe the movie was warning me more on the lines of gambling, pornography, and things or acts that look like they could bring me pleasure. I think parasites can be anything that takes me away from my relationship with God. I'm not saying this woman is a parasite, but I think the actions and thoughts I have when I've been done wrong can set bitterness in my spirit to pull me away from God. In Matthew 5: 38-40, I'm instructed to turn the other cheek, but also know that I'm not a fool. Proverbs 29:11 says, "A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards." I am to pray over what I say to her about the situation. I'm praying not to change her... she is who she is, but that God will change me to understand her ways and help me to show her tenderness and mercy and not be bitter.
   
Tonight in my devotional ~ get this... it's titled "What comment or conversation has had a great impact on you?" The first two sentences of the first paragraph reads: Words can be used to encourage people or destroy them. Conversations can be filled with important instructions or rude admonishments that can change one's life forever. God, could you be any more prevalent? WOW! Talk about His way of being intentional and paving the way. I needed to hear these words tonight. I also needed to be reminded just as words are impacting my life... how are my words impacting others? For the good or the bad. Just as I may have been offended repeatedly this week, have I offended anyone with my words? Am I placing parasites in myself by being bitter toward others for doing me wrong?

Psalms 19:14 reads, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."

Lord, this is my prayer tonight as I face my giants tomorrow for You are my Rock and my Redeemer. May the words in my mouth and the tenderness of my heart be pleasing in your site. I ask the Holy Spirit to guide my tongue, that through my words, You will fill others with hope and encouragement. Allow me to become aware of how my comments positively or negatively affect others. Help me to only build others up with my words. If I need to speak a hard truth, let me do so from a loving heart, filled and overflowing with your grace. Let the Holy Spirit guide my mouth when I speak and give me open ears to clearly listen to You and others. Lord, help me to recognize the parasites in my life and to direct my thoughts on you and my actions as your ways. Thank you for being a part of my life. Thank you for the difficult trials for it is through the rougher times I draw closer to you and my faith in you becomes even more stronger. Thank you for your grace and the love you have for me... even when I don't deserve it from you.

dance in the rain

Tuesday, this week, we had the most beautiful day we've had all year. The weather was gorgeous. I turned off the furnace this week and am joyfully welcoming Spring! Although it was beautiful outside, I was frantically inside the house all day taking care of a minor-emergency with Natalie. My initial plans were the typical work day... Natalie in school. But that came to a halt that morning. On Saturday I had planned to do some lawn work. The first mowing of the season. I woke up to rain and the whole day turned out to be a bit too wet. Although my plans didn't pan out, I quickly realized there was plenty to do indoors on a rainy day. Too often am I changing plans at the last minute.

Ultimately, God works on his timing. Ephesians is a complete book about predestination. Wednesday night at church we talked about God's will and man's will colliding or meshing. In the past, I've given quite a bit of thought over the years about being predetermined by my heavenly Father. And having those thoughts, I've often used the excuse that I'm walking in God's will ~ sorta speak. I don't think that way today. At that time, not really understanding my responsibility of the predestination, I still knew I could easily fall from grace. I believe God gives us the ability to choose right from wrong. I believe He allows us to see and understand more things as we draw closer to Him. I think He longs for us to want to know more and be used by Him. One way to honor God is by keeping His commandments. In Acts 13:47, "For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth." Salvation... where does that fit in to being predestined?

So, I ask myself... Where is my salvation? At what point am I saved? Ephesians 1:4-5 tells me that Salvation begins or originates in the mind of God. I have been chosen and salvation is no accident, nor after-thought. It is very intentional. Romans 8:29 says that "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren." Our Wednesday night teacher said in class, "God's plan is built on His foreknowledge because He knows all things, therefore He plans all things according to His purpose."

I also know that salvation is only mine because of the grace of God. In 2 Timothy 1: 9-10 "who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel." It takes faith to be thankful for His merciful gift of grace ~ I am saved. If it were not for grace, none of us would be here today. In Ephesians 2:8 it tells me, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—" Titus 2:11-15 "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good."

From the beginning of time, God has been anticipating me to draw closer to Him. Here I am, Lord. When I think I have planned out my day, and ultimately make a u-turn I know He is in charge. Although I belly-ached and rejoiced all in the same breath when I heard the rain this morning, I knew there was something bigger and better on the plate for today. I'm reminded of this quote by Vivian Greene, "Life's not about waiting for the storms to pass... It's about learning to dance in the rain."

I hope I never lose my smile knowing that God is waiting for me. Not only is He waiting for me in my heavenly home, but right here, where I sit... He waits for me. So I get up, turn on the music so together He and I can continue to dance in the rain.. no matter how terrible the storm.

pure heart

This was inspired by the movie, Fireproof... I love the internal struggle I found in myself when I have tried to justify my actions or feelings. God lays such a conviction on my heart and from that I have the following:

God has become the most significant part of my life. When I realized who I was and who He is, I realized my need for Him and his forgiveness and salvation. Why? Titus 2:11-14 says, "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. 12 Teaching us that; denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in the present world. Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 who gave himself for us, that he may redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people zealous of good works."

I have violated His standards. According to me, I’m a good person. But... God doesn't judge by my standards. He uses His own standards which are... Truth, Love, Faithfulness. And in all honesty, have I really loved God; the one who gave me life? "His standards are so high that He considers hatred to be murder; and lust to be adultery."

But, I'm a good person... doesn't that count for something? I have broken His commandments; and one day I’ll answer for that.

Christ was continually rejected, mocked, and even spat upon... but never once did He stop loving me. Before I realized that, "I couldn’t love because I couldn’t give what I didn’t have." I can't truly love until I completely understand what love is. It’s not because I get some reward from it, but that I have now made a decision to love whether that person deserves it or not. 1 Peter 1:21-23, "Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. 22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from a pure heart. 23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring the word of God."

God loves me, even though I know I don’t deserve His love. There's been times when I've rejected Him, …and I've even spat in His face. God sent Jesus to die on the cross and take the punishment for my sin because He loves me! I didn't understand the cross until I came to it, but when I decided to accept it, Jesus Christ changed my life.

That’s when I truly began to love; this is between me and the Lord.

I can see that I need Him. I can see that I need his forgiveness. I will trust Him with my life. 2 Timothy 2:21-22, "If a man cleanses himself ... he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful for the Mater and prepared to do any good work. 22 Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the name of the Lord with a pure heart." I’m not proud of a lot of things; at times I was only concerned about my life and my needs. Now, after I have given my life to God. I understand my scars and beg God for the truth.

I don’t just follow with my heart; my heart can be deceiving. I’m learning to lead with my heart... a pure heart.

evaluation

Sunday in church, as the communion plate was passed, the song leader did something a little different. He had the congregation repeat after him ~ somewhat of a confessional. It was touching and I could tell in his cracking voice, it was genuine. The words were so powerful...

I'm not sure if he wrote this or if he found it somewhere, but I have to give credit to him (Ryan Sheilds). 

Here is it: (my comments are in blue)

ALL:  “We have had other gods before You”

We have worshipped and served the creature rather than the creator. (big-buddha experience...)
We have sought satisfaction in this world’s pleasures rather than in You.  (tv, food, etc.)
We have loved to praise our own glory more than yours. (I've often looked for the "pat on the back")

ALL:  “We have taken Your name in vain”
We have prayed religious prayers to impress others. (I have at times...)
We have uttered your name countless times without reverence or love. (am I sincere? is it genuine?)
We have listened to others use your name in vain without grieving. (there are times I haven't been sensitive to His spirit)

ALL:  “We have murdered in our hearts”
We have often destroyed our neighbor with our tongues. (I've done this many times...)
We have been quick to uncharitably judge others.  (even unknowingly ~ after the fact)
We have considered revenge when we were sinned against. (yes, I have, at times)

ALL:  “We have committed adultery with our eyes”
We have loved temptation rather than fighting it. (sure...)
We have lusted after unlawful and immoral pleasures. (many times)
We have justified our lusts by using the world as our standard. (too many times)

ALL:  “We have stolen and coveted”
Our lives overflow with discontent, ungratefulness, and envy. (often say... it's not enough)
We have complained in the midst of Your abundant provision.  (He always supplies ~ why can't I always see that?)
We have sought to exalt ourselves through owning more. (better car? nicer house?)

ALL:  “We have lied to You and to others”
We have told distorted truths, half-truths, and untruths. (augh... I've done this)
We have despised the truth to make ourselves look better. (I have... unfortunately)
Even in our confession, we look for ways to hide our guilt. (In order for God to see the true me, I must be true to myself)

ALL:  “All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned, 

every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6

I just felt like this was for me and my journey right now.  I thank God today for allowing me to have a sensitive heart and helping keep my ears open to hear Him.

intentions

I'm so excited about what God is doing in my life. Everywhere I look, I see where God has already been paving the way. By that I have an example... Several months ago I was shopping with Natalie in her favorite dollar store "where everything there is a dollar" and saw a nice hard bound devotional for women published by zondervan. I picked one up, carried it around with me, bought it ~ besides, it was only a buck, took it to work ~ where it sat in my cubical since the day after I purchased it. This last Friday I decided to bring it home knowing that I may have some free time this weekend since Natalie would be at her dads. Anyway... At the time I purchased this book, I didn't give it much thought. I think I glanced through it, but I know I couldn't have recited the title two days after I purchased it. In fact, I pretty much forgot about it until I returned to work after my Asia trip. I began reading last night. This book is a sixty day journey to find the purpose God has for your life. It starts out in the forward about... if you are desiring to know God's purpose, this book is for you. ...hello!?!??! yes... don't we all?? but conincidentally, I physically wrote out my questions just last week on "What is my purpose, why did God give me these characteristics.....?" Now... I purchased this book a couple of months ago with really not much intention of picking it up soon. I look at this book and see how intentional God is about everything.

When I experience His connection, I feel like God is working in me and through me. Don't get me wrong, I take no glory or praise for this... God nudges us all. This is Him and His doing. It is up to me to decide if I'm going to live with ears that hear and eyes that see and an open heart to accept these connections are Him. At church, in the sermon, on the radio, in a song... everywhere I turn, I see or hear Him. I caught myself laughing out loud today (with my headphones on) while raking the twenty plus bags of leaves. No reason... just found myself enjoying some worship music and felt His amazing joy. I'm so refreshed to know that Christ has in so many ways paved the road ahead of us.

Thank you, God, for being so intentional.He has always been, always will be... John 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness... Oh, and am I ever greatful!

enough

What is enough? I've often wonder why I was made... Why would God take the time to develop me? What is my purpose for being here? Why am I given these personality characteristics?

I recently heard a study that every day, my life impacts or influences six people ~ whether that's in a good way or bad way. And on the other hand... I am influenced or impacted by six people. That's six people! Everyday! (6 people x 30 days... x 12 months... x 85 years... wow! in a lifetime that's 183,600 people)

Where am I spending my time to allow six people impact me? ooooh, a new perspective of who and what influences me So... am I making an impact? Am I influencing anyone? oooh, in what way? Is this good or bad? So, if I am impacting or influencing others... Is this Christ-like? Are the ways I view myself the same ways others are viewing me?

I don't think I'm the only one who has ever asked these questions... I'm not sure many people have actually answered them... I'm not sure I can answer them myself (and I know I couldn't for anyone else), but acknowledging these questions and having the anticipation to see what God will reveal from my inquisitive nature... might just unfold some unexpected and amazing information. Am I suppose to question God? hhmm... good question and thought... Personally, I know I shouldn't question Gods' intent, but I don't think it's a bad thing to raise question if you are in search of truth. I think God wants me to ask questions ~ it's how I grow in Him. I realize my questions are going to be answered on God' timing (or not at all) and in His own way. God, being the all knowing, Omnipotent one He is... chooses when and what He will reveal and what we are ready to see.

I really like the Christian song artist, Chris Tomlin (I think I've mentioned him before). So many of his lyrics are great with songs of lifting praise. Lately, I keep humming his songs, "Your Grace is Enough" and "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)." Yesterday, someone in a meeting was praying and the words stood out to me and noticed I was nodding and smiling in agreement... He prayed, "Lord, You are enough!" I thought... that's it! You, Lord, You are enough... but... I haven't had enough of You! I can't seem to get enough ~ the more He gives me peace, comfort, joy, love, grace... the more I want!!

Maybe that's why I am asking so many questions. Just today I read an incredible story about Beth Moore. The story was called "Hairbrush" back in 2005. To make a long story short... she is sitting in an airport waiting on her flight as a hunched over, skin and bones, elderly man was wheeled to the gate where she was waiting. Beth begins to describe the (some times humiliating) way God speaks or nudges her into doing something out of her natural ways or feelings. She said she began to resist the task God was placing on her heart. "Don't make me witness to this man, not here" she said to herself as she tried not to stare at this man. She pleaded with God, but it was on her hear that God specifically told her He didn't want her to witness to this man, but wanted her to brush the man's hair... she begged Him not to make her witness to this man. Again, very clearly she realized that she was not there to witness, but to brush this mans' hair. She wrestled in her spirit and finally asked the man. Being elderly, her voice was raised to a shout "May I have the pleasure of brushing your hair?"

The way she describes her experience of actually combing this mans' hair brought tears to my eyes. His hair was perfectly clean, but tangled and matted as she began to brush and brush. She said, "I know this sounds strange, but I've never felt that kind of love for another soul in my entire life." She said for that few minutes actually felt a portion of the very love of God and He had taken residence in her heart for that little while. The emotions were so strong and pure and she knew they were God's. The mans' hair was finally soft and smooth. Beth asked the man if he knew Jesus and sure enough, he did. He has been away from home and his bride due to heart surgery and his wife was too ill to stay with him, but God was alive and so much a part of their life. He went on saying that it's been months since I've seen her and I was just sitting here thinking what a mess I must be coming home to my bride. Later, the attendant in tears, asked Beth why she had done what she had done... Beth replied, "Do you know Jesus? He can be the bossiest thing!" Beth had not only blessed this man on his journey home, but showed God's sweet, sweet spirit and touched so many hearts in that airport who witnessed her humble spirit.

Sometimes I think I'm just too busy to stop to "brush someone's hair" or I think, I'll catch up with "so-in-so" tomorrow. I desire to have a tender heart that God allows us to share. I want to be humble and sensitive to the spirit in so much that God trusts me to represent Him. I want more... God is enough; and to me, He is also "then some"...

Lord, You are enough. I desire to feel your presence and be a part of your work. I want to impact others in such a positive, uplifting way so make my heart tender and sensitive to your voice and to others needs. I want to be an encourager for You by allowing your genuine, incredible love and grace to pour out of me onto others. I want to be used as your vessel to carry out your will with a light so bright it burns beautiful and clear in such a very dark world. I give You my all and ask You to help me never lose sight of wanting more of You. I sing your praises. I give You glory in the most humbling, yet exalting way. Thank you, sweet God, for being enough. Thank you, for your tender mercy and incredible saving grace. In Christs' glorious name.

surpassing them all

Some things in life are necessities: food, shelter, clothes, iced tea, flip flops... you know, the basic essentials... and of course, my mom.

The true commandment reads: "Honor your father and mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee," Exodus 20:11. To me, honoring has always been an easy task for both mom and dad have given me Christ-like examples. 

My mother has been chosen for me by God. As an angel, she protected me under her wings. As a teacher, she skilled me to choose right from wrong. As a caretaker, she comforted my pain. As an encourager, picked me up, dusted me off and said "let's try this again." With her wisdom, she allowed me to fail only to learn from my mistakes. Yet, at the end of each day, she is still my number one fan. I am so honored to be called her daughter and more blessed to be her baby.

I can't think of another woman on earth that fits the role of a Proverbs 31 lady. My mom is more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts her and she brings him no harm. She works willingly with her hands. She prepares food for the hungry and ill. She works vigorously and maintains strength; her candle never grows dim. She mends clothing and broken hearts; her hands are never idol. She opens her arms to the poor and reaches her heart to those in need. Her husband is respected at home and in the community. She speaks wisdom with kindness. She looks after her household responsibly without fear. She has joy knowing of the days ahead. And more than anything, verse 28 "Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." She is not boastful nor is she proud, but righteous. Her beauty is immeasurable both physically and spiritually. She is a woman who fears the Lord and deserves to be praised. Mother, just as stated in verse 29, "Many women do noble things, but (Mother,) you surpass them all." Asolutely! I am so blessed to call you mom!

As I write this note, with joyful tears in my eyes, I can only say "thank you, Mom, for surpassing them all!" Happy Birthday!

endures

I love Psalm 118. It starts out and ends on the same note:
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."

His love endures foever... not just today, but endures forever. I am blessed just to sing His praises. Today I praise God for what He is doing and has already done in me. He is closing and opening doors and He amazes me with what He is capable of doing; even though I know He is always the same, yesterday, today and forever.

My praise tonight:
You, Oh Lord, are always with me; I am no longer afraid. You are so good. In all my anguish, I cried out to You; You answer me and set me free. You are my Rock and my Helper and I praise You triumphantly. I have no trust in man, therefore I take refuge in knowing You are on my side. I was falling and You picked me up and gave me love. You, Lord, are my strength and the song in my heart. You are my hope and my salvation. You have done amazingly mighty things. You have given me peace. This is the day You made, I rejoice and am glad and blessed in it. You are my God and I praise You with a humble heart.

"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His love endures forever!"

give

I like to think that I am a giver. Don't we all? But I know I don't give all I can. If money is not something I have a lot of, what should I give?

Natalie has taught me so much about giving. Even last year, out of selfless love, at five years old, she cut 10.5" of her hair off to donate to Locks-of-Love. Grant it, she is so tender-headed and I had been begging her to cut her hair to eliminate shedding tears every morning, but she had nothing to do with the idea until I told her about Locks-of-Love. At the time she heard about donating, her hair wasn't quite long enough to donate. So she waited a few months and when it was just long enough, she bravely, without hesitation stepped up and cut it off. Now, that may be significant giving, but none-the-less at five years old, she never hesitated. (Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. http://www.locksoflove.org/)

God tells me to give ~ unhesitating, joyous giving ~ that's of my money, my time, and if anyone asks for something and I have it to give ~ I should give. Luke 6:30 says, "Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back." To me those are such strong words. This is something I have to work on because by nature, I am very territorial and want whats fair to me and mine. I think it was my preacher that said this and it has stuck with me, "If someone takes something from me, I try to think that they need it more than I do ~ think of it as a gift to them from me." I think those words are kind, but I believe giving should be intentional and generous.

2 Corinthians 9 tells me about reaping what I sow. "Whoever sows sparingly, will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously," verse 6. God does not want me to give in His name expecting something in return, but I believe if we are faithful at giving, He is faithful to bless in His time. In verse 12, I'm told my giving is for several reasons. one being helping others and one is just merely showing God's love and being obedient. 12 "This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God." By giving, verse 13 says that I will have proven myself and men will praise God for this obedience and generosity. 13" Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else..."

Today I'm going to give and give joyously just to show God's wonderful love.

Psalm 25

Okay, my new routine is to be awake is between 3-6am. Why? I do not know! I do know however, that once you reach a certain point at night, Nickelodean plays the same sitcom all night long!

I thought reading might help tonight... And at 4:30 thought it might be too late to take more sleeping pills if I want to be awake in a few hours. I opened to the book of Psalms. When I read through what David said in chapter 25, I smiled...

To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul; 2 in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. 3 No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. 4 Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. 6 Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD. 8 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. 9 He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. 10 All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant. 11 For the sake of your name, O LORD, forgive my iniquity, though it is great. 12 Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him. 13 He will spend his days in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land. 14 The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. 15 My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare. 16 Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. 17 The troubles of my heart have multiplied; free me from my anguish. 18 Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins. 19 See how my enemies have increased and how fiercely they hate me! 20 Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. 21 May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you. 22 Redeem Israel, O God, from all their troubles!
This is my prayer today.