Help me to know how much it cost
For You to die upon that cross,
To take my sins and cast them away
So that I might with You forever stay!
Help me to know the depth of Your love,
Give me the passion to proclaim why You came from above;
That others might know and experience such joy,
Old or young, girl or boy.
Help me to know what Your will is for me
To carry it out so You are honored and pleased;
To rely on You and Your strength alone
Knowing I'm but dust whom only You could atone.
A poem the Lord gave me recently!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Blooming?
"I went down to the garden of nuts to see the verdure of the valley, to see whether the vine had budded And the pomegranates had bloomed."
Song of Songs 6:11
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| Photography for Jesus |
Another thing I've been asking myself is "am I blooming or am I just growing?". Growing is good, don't get me wrong, but if a plant just grows it never accomplishes its true purpose...to bloom. When a plant blooms it proves that it has reached full maturity. It's beauty is admired by all passer-by's or perhaps it is plucked and given away to one deserving of it. Am I blooming right here, right now or am I content with just growing? Am I being used where I'm planted or am I "saving" my service for something worth-while? Is not every place of service worth-while if it is for Jesus? These are thoughts that have been on my head of late. What are some of yours?
"And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Colossians 3:17
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Recipe: Au Gratin Potatoes
It is currently 8:30 pm and I still haven't written up a weekly post! Oh well, I guess you'll have to settle with a quick recipe :). This recipe is great as a side dish with hamburgers, tuna, or chicken. Enjoy!
Au Gratin Potatoes
9 potatoes, sliced thin
1-2 onions, chopped
1 stick butter
Little over 1/2 cup flour
3 1/2 cups milk
3 1/3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Saute onions and butter. Once onions are soft add flour as you stir. Then slowly add milk, salt, and pepper. Turn up to medium heat until mixture begins to bubble. Add as much milk/flour as needed until you reach the right consistency. Add cheese and stir. Pour over thinly sliced potatoes. Cook covered at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 1/2 hours.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My mom, some siblings, and I competed in our first 5K this morning. It was exhilerating! I am not, repeat NOT, a gifted runner but I kept saying this verse to myself throughout the morning:
"But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Although I definitely did not fly (I was hoping I would sprout wings or something ;-) the Lord still taught me that sometimes His strength is not given in exactly the way I want. His ways are not our ways...they are so much higher! What a great God we have!!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Au Gratin Potatoes9 potatoes, sliced thin
1-2 onions, chopped
1 stick butter
Little over 1/2 cup flour
3 1/2 cups milk
3 1/3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Saute onions and butter. Once onions are soft add flour as you stir. Then slowly add milk, salt, and pepper. Turn up to medium heat until mixture begins to bubble. Add as much milk/flour as needed until you reach the right consistency. Add cheese and stir. Pour over thinly sliced potatoes. Cook covered at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 1/2 hours.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My mom, some siblings, and I competed in our first 5K this morning. It was exhilerating! I am not, repeat NOT, a gifted runner but I kept saying this verse to myself throughout the morning:
"But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Although I definitely did not fly (I was hoping I would sprout wings or something ;-) the Lord still taught me that sometimes His strength is not given in exactly the way I want. His ways are not our ways...they are so much higher! What a great God we have!!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, November 14, 2011
Which Seed are You?
I was once again doing my morning devotions, reading a familiar passage, when the Lord revealed something new to me.
*As a side note, whenever I see something new in something "old" it reminds me that my God is alive and does speak to His people. What a blessing!*The passage was Mark 4:3-8, 14-20 about the seeds and the sower. Jesus mentions 4 specific places the seeds fall: the wayside, the stony ground, the thorns, and the good ground. The place I want to focus on is among the thorns. What are the thorns? Jesus said the thorns were, "...the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things..." Mark 4:19a. These seeds sprang up but because of the thorns they were unable to mature and therefore produced no fruit. Although they were still alive they were weak and useless for the Kingdom. The Lord revealed to me that unfortunately in America there are far too many "thorns" and far too many "seeds" that fall among them. Called by some carnal Christians these believers struggle to maintain a living relationship with Jesus because of all the riches, pleasures, and distractions surrounding us. While they still will spend eternity with Jesus they fail in their mission to "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..." Matthew 28:19a. If we are weak how are to reach those who do not believe?
I pray every day that I will be useful and fruitful for my King! I hope and pray that I will be like the seed that fell on the good ground which produced, "some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred." Mark 4:20c. What is this life worth if it's not spent for the King?
So, which seed are you?
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, November 7, 2011
The Way of the Cross
The way of the cross is not easy and smooth,
But Jesus is there to travel with you.
He'll not leave you to fight the battles alone,
But strengthen you from His heavenly throne.
Chritians of old have followed that Way,
They've been beaten and bruised and cast far away.
Although they were rejected by land and by sea,
To You alone did they bend their knee.
Help me, dear Lord to carry my cross,
To follow the Way no matter the cost;
To step out in faith and follow you plan
Even though I may not always understand!
Inspired by: A.W. Tozer's Book "The Radical Cross"
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
But Jesus is there to travel with you.
He'll not leave you to fight the battles alone,
But strengthen you from His heavenly throne.
Chritians of old have followed that Way,
They've been beaten and bruised and cast far away.
Although they were rejected by land and by sea,
To You alone did they bend their knee.
Help me, dear Lord to carry my cross,
To follow the Way no matter the cost;
To step out in faith and follow you plan
Even though I may not always understand!
Inspired by: A.W. Tozer's Book "The Radical Cross"
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, October 31, 2011
Habits
What is a habit?
Habit - "A disposition or condition of the mind or body acquired by custom or a frequent repetition of the same act." Websters 1828 Dictionary.
As I was doing my devotions in Daniel a couple days ago the Lord revealed this verse to me:
"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days."
Daniel 6:10
I had read this verse before and had always admired Daniel's obedience to God, but this time the last part of the verse caught my eye, "since [his] early days." Daniel had a habit of praying to the Lord three times a day. He didn't change his habit just because an ungodly edict had been issued...he continued doing what the Lord had shown him to do.
Wondering if there was any other verses that revealed good habits started while young I searched the Scriptures.
1) In 1 Samuel 3:1a, 10 it says, "Now the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”"
Samuel had a habit of listening to God. Because of this habit, established while young, he was used mightily for God's purposes when older.
2) Another person who established a godly habit while young was David. In Psalm 71:5 he says, "For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth."
David had a habit of trusting God.
3) In the New Testament we're told that Timothy studied the Scriptures while still a child.
"and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15
There are plenty of other examples but I just wanted to focus on a few. From these verses we've gathered several habits that we should start right now!
Prayer- Talking to our Creator...why would we not?! :)
Listening to God- John 10:4 makes it clear that "His sheep know His voice." How would we know His voice if we didn't listen for it?
Trusting God - this is a life-long habit we all have to acquire otherwise we will go crazy trying to do things in our own strength. "Fear not for I am with you..." Is. 41:10 We must always keep our focus vertical not horizontal.
Studying the Scriptures- If we love God we will desire to please Him. To please Him we must know what He delights in. To know what He delights in we must study His Word.
Combine all these and we will be powerhouses able to used mightily for our Savior.
Another thing the Lord showed me is to beware of habits that will take away time from my family, Himself, and the real world. One particular habit for me would be browsing blogs. I don't necessarily spend hours on the computer looking at blogs but I do need to be very careful in how I use the time the Lord has given me. Time is something that God has given man....it can be used for ourselves or to glorify God....which am I doing? With the Lord's help I hope to overcome my not-the-best habit in order to better serve Him, my family, and others. Will you pray for me?
Is there any habit I can pray for you to overcome?
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Habit - "A disposition or condition of the mind or body acquired by custom or a frequent repetition of the same act." Websters 1828 Dictionary.
As I was doing my devotions in Daniel a couple days ago the Lord revealed this verse to me:
"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days."
Daniel 6:10
I had read this verse before and had always admired Daniel's obedience to God, but this time the last part of the verse caught my eye, "since [his] early days." Daniel had a habit of praying to the Lord three times a day. He didn't change his habit just because an ungodly edict had been issued...he continued doing what the Lord had shown him to do.
Wondering if there was any other verses that revealed good habits started while young I searched the Scriptures.
1) In 1 Samuel 3:1a, 10 it says, "Now the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”"
Samuel had a habit of listening to God. Because of this habit, established while young, he was used mightily for God's purposes when older.
2) Another person who established a godly habit while young was David. In Psalm 71:5 he says, "For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth."
David had a habit of trusting God.
3) In the New Testament we're told that Timothy studied the Scriptures while still a child.
"and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15
There are plenty of other examples but I just wanted to focus on a few. From these verses we've gathered several habits that we should start right now!
Prayer- Talking to our Creator...why would we not?! :)
Listening to God- John 10:4 makes it clear that "His sheep know His voice." How would we know His voice if we didn't listen for it?
Trusting God - this is a life-long habit we all have to acquire otherwise we will go crazy trying to do things in our own strength. "Fear not for I am with you..." Is. 41:10 We must always keep our focus vertical not horizontal.
Studying the Scriptures- If we love God we will desire to please Him. To please Him we must know what He delights in. To know what He delights in we must study His Word.
Combine all these and we will be powerhouses able to used mightily for our Savior.
Another thing the Lord showed me is to beware of habits that will take away time from my family, Himself, and the real world. One particular habit for me would be browsing blogs. I don't necessarily spend hours on the computer looking at blogs but I do need to be very careful in how I use the time the Lord has given me. Time is something that God has given man....it can be used for ourselves or to glorify God....which am I doing? With the Lord's help I hope to overcome my not-the-best habit in order to better serve Him, my family, and others. Will you pray for me?
Is there any habit I can pray for you to overcome?
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Movie Review: Underground Reality "Colombia"
Over the last couple of weeks my family and I have been watching this fascinating and exciting documentary. Filmed in Colombia this movie follows around a group of 7 young adults as they serve for a short time along other missionaries. As you continue to watch you will hear the stories of several native Christians who have bravely stood and continue to stand for their faith...and the consequences thereof. You will visit widows who lost their husband because they couldn't keep quiet about their love for Jesus; you will witness the continual struggle for freedom between the Paramilitary and the FARC guerrillas and the effects it has on the people; you will encounter amazing life-changing testimonies that will challenge and encourage you. Colombia is close to my heart as we "adopt" 6 children from different regions of Colombia through Compassion International. Watching this movie opened my eyes to the life our children have there and the difficulties they face every day.
Unashamed and unafraid, the most amazing virtue that these fellow Christians portray is love and passion for Jesus and those who don't know Him. This is what sets us apart from the rest of the world. Our fellow believers in Colombia boldly proclaim the truth no matter the cost every day. They will be praised because of their love and faith in Jesus.
Will we?
To learn more go here!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
P.S.- Because of some graphic images and reenactments I wouldn't recommend this for young children.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Modesty
What is modesty? In today's culture you're considered modest if you don't show off everything to everyone. But what really is modesty according to the Scriptures? Does the Bible say anything about modesty?
"in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works."
1 Timothy 2:9-10
The Lord specifically notes that the women are to be dressed in "modest apparel...which is proper for women professing godliness...". We're to look different from the rest of the world. When people meet you what do they see first? Your outside; your clothing, your make-up, your lipstick, etc. Shouldn't our outside portray the inside? If we're modest, humble servants of Christ wouldn't that show up in the way we dress?
"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel - rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."
1 Peter 3:3-4
Not only do I believe modesty is important to God but also to our brothers in Christ. I think far too often sisters in Christ unintentionally cause their brothers to stumble by their lack of modesty. Our bodies are to be used for the glory of God [Romans 12:1] not for the admiration and lust of men. We need to be so careful, my sisters, in what we wear and how we wear it!
Websters 1828 dictionary defines modesty as: "moderation; decency; Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of their honor."
Modesty not only honors God and our brothers but also ourselves. Men will be blessed by your attempt to assist them in their desire for mental purity. We will be blessed by their honorable treatment of us. And God will be blessed and honored by your desire to follow His way in regards to modesty.
See below for some resources that have helped me in my search for modesty:
The Holy Bible- research modesty/clothing/purity and see what the Lord shows you!
The Modesty Survey - This site has helped my sisters and I really understand what men think and why!
Beautiful Girlhood - This book taught me that true beauty is on the inside not the out!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
"in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works."
1 Timothy 2:9-10
The Lord specifically notes that the women are to be dressed in "modest apparel...which is proper for women professing godliness...". We're to look different from the rest of the world. When people meet you what do they see first? Your outside; your clothing, your make-up, your lipstick, etc. Shouldn't our outside portray the inside? If we're modest, humble servants of Christ wouldn't that show up in the way we dress?
"Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel - rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God."
1 Peter 3:3-4
Not only do I believe modesty is important to God but also to our brothers in Christ. I think far too often sisters in Christ unintentionally cause their brothers to stumble by their lack of modesty. Our bodies are to be used for the glory of God [Romans 12:1] not for the admiration and lust of men. We need to be so careful, my sisters, in what we wear and how we wear it!
Websters 1828 dictionary defines modesty as: "moderation; decency; Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of female excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of their honor."
Modesty not only honors God and our brothers but also ourselves. Men will be blessed by your attempt to assist them in their desire for mental purity. We will be blessed by their honorable treatment of us. And God will be blessed and honored by your desire to follow His way in regards to modesty.
See below for some resources that have helped me in my search for modesty:
The Holy Bible- research modesty/clothing/purity and see what the Lord shows you!
The Modesty Survey - This site has helped my sisters and I really understand what men think and why!
Beautiful Girlhood - This book taught me that true beauty is on the inside not the out!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Recipe: Sugar and Spice Cookies
Fall has finally arrived (sort-of...VA weather always flips back and forth) and with it the changing of the leaves, hot tea/cocoa, and COOKIES!! Sugar and Spice cookies is one of our family's favorite fall/winter-time cookie recipes...enjoy!
Sugar and Spice Cookies
Cream:
1 c. dark sucanat (or brown sugar)
1 c. sucanat with honey (or white sugar)
1 c. of butter (2 sticks)
Then add:
2 eggs (preferably fresh from the farm: non-GMO and pastured raised....see HERE for more info)
1 t. vanilla
In a separate bowl combine:
4-5 c. of freshly milled soft white wheat or 4 c. of white flour (until the dough doesn't stick too bad to your fingers)
1 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
1 t. nutmeg
1/2 t. allspice
Then add these ingredients to the butter/sugar/egg/vanilla mixture. After mixing thoroughly pinch off little balls and roll in a bowl of sugar. Cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes. Delicious hot and great leftover!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Sugar and Spice Cookies
Cream:
1 c. dark sucanat (or brown sugar)
1 c. sucanat with honey (or white sugar)
1 c. of butter (2 sticks)
Then add:
2 eggs (preferably fresh from the farm: non-GMO and pastured raised....see HERE for more info)
1 t. vanilla
In a separate bowl combine:
4-5 c. of freshly milled soft white wheat or 4 c. of white flour (until the dough doesn't stick too bad to your fingers)
1 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1 1/2 t. cinnamon
1 t. nutmeg
1/2 t. allspice
Then add these ingredients to the butter/sugar/egg/vanilla mixture. After mixing thoroughly pinch off little balls and roll in a bowl of sugar. Cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes. Delicious hot and great leftover!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Have Thine Own Way, Lord
"Have Thine own way, Lord
Have Thine own way.
Thou are the potter,
I am the clay...."
I was humming this hymn by Adelaide Pollard while doing my morning chore, when I realized something so simple yet so encouraging. The Lord would have His own way no matter what. When the world's falling down on us, when the political state of our nation is distressing, when our annual beach vacation could be ruined...He will still have His way!!
When problems arise do we, as Christians, remember that the Lord will have His way, and that His way is ALWAYS best??! If we are in tune to the Savior His way will be our way.
"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass....do not fret it only causes harm."
Psalm 37:5,8b
Have Thine own way, Lord in every endeavor I make in this life!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Have Thine own way.
Thou are the potter,
I am the clay...."
I was humming this hymn by Adelaide Pollard while doing my morning chore, when I realized something so simple yet so encouraging. The Lord would have His own way no matter what. When the world's falling down on us, when the political state of our nation is distressing, when our annual beach vacation could be ruined...He will still have His way!!
When problems arise do we, as Christians, remember that the Lord will have His way, and that His way is ALWAYS best??! If we are in tune to the Savior His way will be our way.
"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him and He shall bring it to pass....do not fret it only causes harm."
Psalm 37:5,8b
Have Thine own way, Lord in every endeavor I make in this life!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Thursday, August 18, 2011
So What About Calvin?
I really hesitate to bring this subject up, mainly because I know this is a sore point for many people, but I do believe it's important as young ladies to be able to clearly and concisely declare what the Scripture says and why.
I believe that Calvin's 5 doctrines are misleading and unscriptural. Before I go any farther I'd like to make it clear that I am not an Armenian or a Calvinist...I'm a Christian. Please keep an open mind and heart as I attempt to show from the Scriptures my conviction.
To start out please see below for the 5 points of Calvinism:
Total Depravity (man was born completely in sin and unable to accept salvation on his own )
Unconditional Election (God chooses the elect just because He can)
Limited Atonement (Jesus died only for the elect)
Irresistible Grace (if you are elected you are unable to resist the message of salvation and thereby become a Christian)
Perseverance of the Saints (also known as Once Saved Always Saved)
The underlying issue I have with all of these points is that it throws man's free will out the window. Allow me to define free will: "power of independent action and choice".
Now when God placed Adam and Eve in the garden He told them,
“Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”
Genesis 2:16c-17
He did not put an electric fence all around the tree, leaving man with no choice but to accept God's command, no, He left it out in the open. He didn't want man to obey because he had to, He wanted us to obey because we wanted to. All throughout Scripture we see the same choice.
"I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live."
Deuteronomy 30:19
All the prophets of old repeatedly called for repentance from the people of Israel or warned that destruction would surely fall on the land. They frequently refused to listen and even killed the prophets of God. Instead of choosing God's way they chose their own way and reaped the rewards thereof.
"Therefore say to them, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts: “Return to Me,” says the LORD of hosts, “and I will return to you,” says the LORD of hosts."
Zechariah 1:3
Does this apply to salvation as well? All I've mentioned so far is Old Testament verses. But I believe the Scripture is "given by inspiration of God..." and that He confirms His promises all throughout His Word. Please see the following:
"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me."
Matthew 16:24
"But you were not willing to come to Me that you may have life."
John 5:40
"Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent." "
John 6:29
"He who believes in Me as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."
John 6:38
"...he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."
John 8:12
"...for is you do not believe I am He you will die in your sins."
John 8-24b
"...who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."
1 Timothy 2:6
There are hundreds more but I think you get the point. There are two reoccurring action words in these Scriptures...follow and believe. There is an action side to our salvation.
Now, in regards to the "Perseverance of the Saints", I do believe some are chosen such as the disciples, Paul, and others but I also believe they could have "jumped ship" at any time. A president is chosen for his position by the people but he's free to step down at any time. We were chosen to be in the families that we're in but we can leave at any time and deny our connection. The Lord does the same. He does not keep us in a clenched fist but in a protective palm. See below verses for why:
"Abide in Me, and I in you..."
John 15:4a
Why would we have to abide if we're already securely in God's Hand? He will not force us to stay with Him, He wants us to stay with Him because we love Him!
"For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them."
2 Peter 2:20-21
In these verses Peter warns against those who "fall away"...meaning they were once in. Instead of resisting temptation they allowed the devil or their flesh to overcome their love and commitment to Jesus Christ.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world."
1 Peter 5:8-9
We have to be watchful in our Christian walk as the devil would like nothing more than to destroy us. Why? Because we are the light of the world, the city on the hill, we are his ultimate demise.
So, what about Calvin? What about him. Search the Scriptures. Ask the Lord to teach you and He will because He promises, "if you seek you will find, if you search with all your heart". If I was in prison for my faith with another brother or sister who was a Calvinist it wouldn't matter. What does matter is "Who do you say that I am?" [Matthew 16:15]
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
I believe that Calvin's 5 doctrines are misleading and unscriptural. Before I go any farther I'd like to make it clear that I am not an Armenian or a Calvinist...I'm a Christian. Please keep an open mind and heart as I attempt to show from the Scriptures my conviction.
To start out please see below for the 5 points of Calvinism:
Total Depravity (man was born completely in sin and unable to accept salvation on his own )
Unconditional Election (God chooses the elect just because He can)
Limited Atonement (Jesus died only for the elect)
Irresistible Grace (if you are elected you are unable to resist the message of salvation and thereby become a Christian)
Perseverance of the Saints (also known as Once Saved Always Saved)
The underlying issue I have with all of these points is that it throws man's free will out the window. Allow me to define free will: "power of independent action and choice".
Now when God placed Adam and Eve in the garden He told them,
“Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”
Genesis 2:16c-17
He did not put an electric fence all around the tree, leaving man with no choice but to accept God's command, no, He left it out in the open. He didn't want man to obey because he had to, He wanted us to obey because we wanted to. All throughout Scripture we see the same choice.
"I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live."
Deuteronomy 30:19
All the prophets of old repeatedly called for repentance from the people of Israel or warned that destruction would surely fall on the land. They frequently refused to listen and even killed the prophets of God. Instead of choosing God's way they chose their own way and reaped the rewards thereof.
"Therefore say to them, ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts: “Return to Me,” says the LORD of hosts, “and I will return to you,” says the LORD of hosts."
Zechariah 1:3
Does this apply to salvation as well? All I've mentioned so far is Old Testament verses. But I believe the Scripture is "given by inspiration of God..." and that He confirms His promises all throughout His Word. Please see the following:
"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me."
Matthew 16:24
"But you were not willing to come to Me that you may have life."
John 5:40
"Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent." "
John 6:29
"He who believes in Me as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."
John 6:38
"...he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."
John 8:12
"...for is you do not believe I am He you will die in your sins."
John 8-24b
"...who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time."
1 Timothy 2:6
There are hundreds more but I think you get the point. There are two reoccurring action words in these Scriptures...follow and believe. There is an action side to our salvation.
Now, in regards to the "Perseverance of the Saints", I do believe some are chosen such as the disciples, Paul, and others but I also believe they could have "jumped ship" at any time. A president is chosen for his position by the people but he's free to step down at any time. We were chosen to be in the families that we're in but we can leave at any time and deny our connection. The Lord does the same. He does not keep us in a clenched fist but in a protective palm. See below verses for why:
"Abide in Me, and I in you..."
John 15:4a
Why would we have to abide if we're already securely in God's Hand? He will not force us to stay with Him, He wants us to stay with Him because we love Him!
"For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them."
2 Peter 2:20-21
In these verses Peter warns against those who "fall away"...meaning they were once in. Instead of resisting temptation they allowed the devil or their flesh to overcome their love and commitment to Jesus Christ.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world."
1 Peter 5:8-9
We have to be watchful in our Christian walk as the devil would like nothing more than to destroy us. Why? Because we are the light of the world, the city on the hill, we are his ultimate demise.
So, what about Calvin? What about him. Search the Scriptures. Ask the Lord to teach you and He will because He promises, "if you seek you will find, if you search with all your heart". If I was in prison for my faith with another brother or sister who was a Calvinist it wouldn't matter. What does matter is "Who do you say that I am?" [Matthew 16:15]
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, August 8, 2011
Verses that have encouraged me lately!
"I will love You, O Lord, my strength."
Psalm 18:1 ~ My Savior deserves ALL my love!
"Then I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart."
Jeremiah 24:7 ~ It also says in Jeremiah 14 that the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked. Only the Lord Jesus Christ can change my ugly, sinful heart into something whole and beautiful!
"As for me, here I am, in Your hand; do with me as seems good and proper to You."
Jeremiah 26:14 ~ The Lord's ways are so above ours! If we would simply trust Him and allow Him to do what He wishes in us, we will be more useful, more fulfilled than we ever could anywhere else!
"...that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance."
Ephesians 1:17-18 ~ May the Lord guide each of us as we strive to find His will in our lives and fulfill it!
"For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 2:21 ~ May this not be said of us!
As a side note, today my wonderful parents celebrate 19 years of wedded bliss! I constantly thank the Lord for the two awesome people He has placed in my life as my parents. Their love and commitment to each other and to the Lord is inspiring!
"Many waters cannot quench love, nor can floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7a
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Psalm 18:1 ~ My Savior deserves ALL my love!
"Then I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart."
Jeremiah 24:7 ~ It also says in Jeremiah 14 that the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked. Only the Lord Jesus Christ can change my ugly, sinful heart into something whole and beautiful!
"As for me, here I am, in Your hand; do with me as seems good and proper to You."
Jeremiah 26:14 ~ The Lord's ways are so above ours! If we would simply trust Him and allow Him to do what He wishes in us, we will be more useful, more fulfilled than we ever could anywhere else!
"...that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance."
Ephesians 1:17-18 ~ May the Lord guide each of us as we strive to find His will in our lives and fulfill it!
"For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 2:21 ~ May this not be said of us!
As a side note, today my wonderful parents celebrate 19 years of wedded bliss! I constantly thank the Lord for the two awesome people He has placed in my life as my parents. Their love and commitment to each other and to the Lord is inspiring!
"Many waters cannot quench love, nor can floods drown it..."
Song of Solomon 8:7a
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, July 25, 2011
Encouraging Words!
The Lord showed me today just how important encouraging words are! He has a lot to say in His Word about our speech - we can use it for building up or tearing down.
"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell."
James 3:6
"He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit."
Proverbs 17:27
Oftentimes my mouth gets me into trouble because instead of "taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" I'm quick to say what's on my mind...even if it's not Christ-honoring. I think the biggest and also the hardest thing that defines the quality of a brother/sister relationship is your speech toward them. Last year at the Homeschool Convention I was able to attend a session about brother/sister relationships by Dr. S.M. Davis. He said, and I agree (although it's very hard to practice), that 90% of your speech should be encouraging and 10% should be criticism. I find that I'm usually switched around....I'm 90% criticism and 10% encouraging. I believe the main reason for this is that I think more highly of myself than I ought and instead of comparing myself to Jesus I compare myself to others and think, "why, I'm not doing so bad" or "I'm better than that person, by far". How shocking!!
"In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them."
Proverbs 14:3
How true is the verse in Jeremiah 17:9, “ The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?" The answer to this question is of course the Lord. He knows all the mean, prideful, evil things about me and yet He still loves me!!??!! How amazing is His love!
If you do not have Jesus Christ as your Savior I'm praying for you. There is nothing more wonderful than a real relationship with the God of the universe!! No one else, nothing else, can ever fill that void in your life except Jesus Christ!! He died so you and I might live; He rose so that we might live with Him in His Heavenly Kingdom for eternity. Isn't it amazing that He would want you and I to live with Him in paradise! The least we can do is offer up our lives for Him to do with as He wills.
Anyways, back to encouraging words. As the oldest in my family I sometimes find it difficult to be just the loving, encouraging sister; not the overbearing, bossy "second mother". This morning, instead of encouraging my brother I brought him down with my selfish, condemning words. I later asked him for forgiveness and he encouraged me, even though I had just been unkind to him! I believe he's surpassed me as a Christian! I love all my brothers and sisters so much and wouldn't trade my family for any other. They love me even though they know my faults and sins so well. How thankful I am for that love!
"The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her own hands"
Proverbs 14:1
Only with the Lord's help can we become this woman! If we will allow Him to work in our speech, actions, and thoughts, He will change us into something beyond our wildest imaginations!
What a mighty God we serve!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell."
James 3:6
"He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit."
Proverbs 17:27
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| An old picture of all of us girls. |
Oftentimes my mouth gets me into trouble because instead of "taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" I'm quick to say what's on my mind...even if it's not Christ-honoring. I think the biggest and also the hardest thing that defines the quality of a brother/sister relationship is your speech toward them. Last year at the Homeschool Convention I was able to attend a session about brother/sister relationships by Dr. S.M. Davis. He said, and I agree (although it's very hard to practice), that 90% of your speech should be encouraging and 10% should be criticism. I find that I'm usually switched around....I'm 90% criticism and 10% encouraging. I believe the main reason for this is that I think more highly of myself than I ought and instead of comparing myself to Jesus I compare myself to others and think, "why, I'm not doing so bad" or "I'm better than that person, by far". How shocking!!
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| Some of my loving siblings! |
"In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them."
Proverbs 14:3
How true is the verse in Jeremiah 17:9, “ The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?" The answer to this question is of course the Lord. He knows all the mean, prideful, evil things about me and yet He still loves me!!??!! How amazing is His love!
If you do not have Jesus Christ as your Savior I'm praying for you. There is nothing more wonderful than a real relationship with the God of the universe!! No one else, nothing else, can ever fill that void in your life except Jesus Christ!! He died so you and I might live; He rose so that we might live with Him in His Heavenly Kingdom for eternity. Isn't it amazing that He would want you and I to live with Him in paradise! The least we can do is offer up our lives for Him to do with as He wills.
Anyways, back to encouraging words. As the oldest in my family I sometimes find it difficult to be just the loving, encouraging sister; not the overbearing, bossy "second mother". This morning, instead of encouraging my brother I brought him down with my selfish, condemning words. I later asked him for forgiveness and he encouraged me, even though I had just been unkind to him! I believe he's surpassed me as a Christian! I love all my brothers and sisters so much and wouldn't trade my family for any other. They love me even though they know my faults and sins so well. How thankful I am for that love!
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| A big hug from my youngest sister!! |
"The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her own hands"
Proverbs 14:1
Only with the Lord's help can we become this woman! If we will allow Him to work in our speech, actions, and thoughts, He will change us into something beyond our wildest imaginations!
What a mighty God we serve!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, July 4, 2011
America! America!
"This evil people, who refuse to hear My words, who follow the dictates of their hearts, and walk after other gods to serve them and worship them, shall be just like this sash which is profitable for nothing. Give glory to the Lord your God, before He causes darkness, and before your feet stumble on the dark mountains, and while you are looking for light, He turns it into the shadow of death and makes it dense darkness."
Jeremiah 13:10, 16
In the beginning of a great nation, strong godly men knelt in prayer for hours before making any drastic decision that would effect their country that they loved so well. Humble and prayerful, the Lord blessed their efforts and blessed their country. Rich in natural resources and with many plentiful jobs, thousands of immigrants came to the "land of the free and the home of the brave". Founded on the solid rock of Jesus Christ, this nation flourished and people not only found physical rest but rest for their souls. There was no nation like it on earth!
Several hundred years past and men became "too smart for God". Relying on their own strength and following their own selfish desires they quickly led the country away from the firm foundation that had weathered all storms and withstood all attacks. Unrepentent and unprotected, this nation soon fell into the hands of the Devil. Reveling in his success at taking down the first nation founded on the Bible, Satan soon infiltrated the schools, the government, the medical system, and the Biblical definition of marriage. Living apart from the safety of God's fold and purposly walking contrary to the path set forth in the Scripture, this once mighty country now faces the sure judgement of God.......... Is that the end of America? Shall we become an astonishment and byword [Duet. 28;37] among the ungodly nations?
Will we turn America back to the Lord before it's too late?
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
2 Chr. 7:14
This is our solution as believers. We need to humble ourselves as a nation, realizing we've done wrong. We need to pray for forgiveness then seek the Lord once again. We have a very gracious Lord and Savior who would gladly receive us back into His arms if we would but run to Him.
Will you pray with me for America?
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Jeremiah 13:10, 16
In the beginning of a great nation, strong godly men knelt in prayer for hours before making any drastic decision that would effect their country that they loved so well. Humble and prayerful, the Lord blessed their efforts and blessed their country. Rich in natural resources and with many plentiful jobs, thousands of immigrants came to the "land of the free and the home of the brave". Founded on the solid rock of Jesus Christ, this nation flourished and people not only found physical rest but rest for their souls. There was no nation like it on earth!
Several hundred years past and men became "too smart for God". Relying on their own strength and following their own selfish desires they quickly led the country away from the firm foundation that had weathered all storms and withstood all attacks. Unrepentent and unprotected, this nation soon fell into the hands of the Devil. Reveling in his success at taking down the first nation founded on the Bible, Satan soon infiltrated the schools, the government, the medical system, and the Biblical definition of marriage. Living apart from the safety of God's fold and purposly walking contrary to the path set forth in the Scripture, this once mighty country now faces the sure judgement of God.......... Is that the end of America? Shall we become an astonishment and byword [Duet. 28;37] among the ungodly nations?
Will we turn America back to the Lord before it's too late?
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
2 Chr. 7:14
This is our solution as believers. We need to humble ourselves as a nation, realizing we've done wrong. We need to pray for forgiveness then seek the Lord once again. We have a very gracious Lord and Savior who would gladly receive us back into His arms if we would but run to Him.
Will you pray with me for America?
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, June 27, 2011
A List of "firsts"
"I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem,
Do not stir up nor awaken love
Until it pleases."
Songs of Solomon 8:4
I don't know about you but it helps me to write down certain things I'd like to remember. A couple of days ago I wrote down a list that contained all the "firsts" I'd like to happen between only me and my husband, if the Lord has one for me. Below are some things that I wrote down:
~ *My first kiss.* This is definitely a priority. I want this to be a special gift we give to each other. Ideally he would have saved his first kiss for me as well! (Please read "The Princess and the Kiss" if you haven't already!)
~All physical intimacy. The Lord created certain things for marriage and marriage only! I want to save ALL I can for my future spouse!!
~My first dance with another man outside my family. Dancing is a very intimate action that I would love to save for my wedding night!
~My first bouquet from a man. I desire to save all romantic actions for just me and my future husband!
~My first ring. I made a commitment to not wear any ring unless given to me by my future spouse (wedding ring, engagement ring, etc.). Please understand this is something I felt led to do and I certainly do not expect you to do the same! I know some of you have purity rings, college rings, etc. and I don't think there's anything wrong with them! I just think that receiving my first ring from my husband will make it that much more special to me!!
Those are just a couple of examples! There are plenty more "firsts" I could name off. You may be asking, "Why have "firsts"? What's so special about it?" I think they're very important and so does the Bible! The first born sons, first fruits, and basically the first of anything in the Scriptures has always taken on significance. Both my parents can testify that their pre-marriage relationships with the opposite sex did not improve their quality of marriage but rather caused a certain amount of tension. Instead of appreciating everything they had to offer to each other they began comparing each other to their former relationships. As an example, if mom got flowers from her boyfriend before dad then she almost unconsciously compares dad's flowers he gets for her to the other flowers from her earlier boyfriend. You tend to be unsatisfied with your spouse and ungrateful for all that he/she is. I want everything in my future marriage to be new and beautiful. Each day better than the last. Every gift received and given to be fully appreciated and compared to nothing else, as there is nothing else ;).
This post is obviously with the expectation of marriage in mind. Even if the Lord's will is not for me to marry I still desire to stay as physically and emotionally pure for Him, for He is my first beloved. My first and primary goal in life to, "...love the LORD my God with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my strength, and with all my mind,’ and ‘my neighbor as myself.’”" Luke 10:27 [personal pronouns I changed]
Nothing else, nobody else will ever take His seat as first in my life!
So write down a list of "firsts". Pray and ask the Lord to help you keep all you can for your one and only husband.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, June 20, 2011
A Poem
Lessons by the Death Bed
Sitting by her bedside,
Holding tight her hand,
Thinking of the Spirit inside
Who's fleeing for Christ's land.
Wondering what it feels like,
Hoping she's not in pain,
Praying that through her Savior's might
She'll reap the heavenly gain.
Wanting to go with her,
Knowing it's not my time,
Trying to keep my life so pure
While waiting for what's mine.
Living for Jesus all of my life
Regretting none of my days,
Keeping in tune to my Savior's voice,
Until I'm in heavenly rays.
Inspired by my Great-Grandma who went to be with Jesus last Wednesday.
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Monday, May 9, 2011
Rising above low expectations!
"Let no one despise thy youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity."
1 Timothy 4:12
In today's culture between the ages of 13 to sometimes mid-20's, "teenagers" are considered irresponsible, unintelligent, slobs, rude, disobedient, disrespectful and rebellious. The majority may be this way but we Christians should look and be different! Instead of seeking to be like the world, we should strive with all our hearts, minds, soul, and strength to emulate Jesus Christ. Why is it that in America we think that until you're an adult the Lord can't/won't use you? What a mistake! If you earnestly search the Scriptures you will see that the Lord often called youths' to accomplish His purposes.
1. Samuel was a little boy when the Lord spoke to Him for the first time and told him of the future of Eli and his sons. Listen to what the Scripture says about him: "But Samuel ministered before the LORD, even as a child, wearing a linen ephod." 1 Samuel 2:18 [emphasis mine]
2. David was a youth when he, in the strength of the Lord, slayed the mighty Philistine and was anointed King of Israel. "And when the Philistine looked about and saw David, he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good-looking." 1 Samuel 17:42
3. What about the young servant girl of Naaman's wife? If she hadn't testified before her mistress her master would never have known true physical and spiritual healing. "Then she said to her mistress, “If only my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! For he would heal him of his leprosy.”" 2 Kings 5:3
What about the New Testament? I think of Mary, the mother of our Savior. In that culture then, she was probably between 12-15 years old when she had Jesus. And I think of Timothy to whom the verse at the beginning of this post is written too (1 Timothy 4:12). I've read many stories of young persecuted Christians in our time, who were unashamed to stand up and declare Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and they suffered the consequences because of their faithful witness.
Don't you see? Something dramatic has happened in this Satan-influenced culture! Instead of being all we can for the Lord ALL the days of our life...we've begun to say to the Lord "I give you my life BUT only after I "enjoy" my teenage years." We need to rise above the low expectations so many people set on us as teenagers (I prefer young adults). We need to show what the Lord can do with a youth fully devoted to Him and His will for their lives. We need to be an example to the believers just like Timothy was in 1 Timothy 4:12. And we need to rise up out of the norm and influence, challenge those unbelievers all around us. How can we testify to the lost if we look and act just like them?!
I am praying that each one of us, including myself, will rise above low expectations and be a brilliant light to this dark and dying world!!
Hannah
1 Timothy 4:12
In today's culture between the ages of 13 to sometimes mid-20's, "teenagers" are considered irresponsible, unintelligent, slobs, rude, disobedient, disrespectful and rebellious. The majority may be this way but we Christians should look and be different! Instead of seeking to be like the world, we should strive with all our hearts, minds, soul, and strength to emulate Jesus Christ. Why is it that in America we think that until you're an adult the Lord can't/won't use you? What a mistake! If you earnestly search the Scriptures you will see that the Lord often called youths' to accomplish His purposes.
1. Samuel was a little boy when the Lord spoke to Him for the first time and told him of the future of Eli and his sons. Listen to what the Scripture says about him: "But Samuel ministered before the LORD, even as a child, wearing a linen ephod." 1 Samuel 2:18 [emphasis mine]
2. David was a youth when he, in the strength of the Lord, slayed the mighty Philistine and was anointed King of Israel. "And when the Philistine looked about and saw David, he disdained him; for he was only a youth, ruddy and good-looking." 1 Samuel 17:42
3. What about the young servant girl of Naaman's wife? If she hadn't testified before her mistress her master would never have known true physical and spiritual healing. "Then she said to her mistress, “If only my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! For he would heal him of his leprosy.”" 2 Kings 5:3
What about the New Testament? I think of Mary, the mother of our Savior. In that culture then, she was probably between 12-15 years old when she had Jesus. And I think of Timothy to whom the verse at the beginning of this post is written too (1 Timothy 4:12). I've read many stories of young persecuted Christians in our time, who were unashamed to stand up and declare Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and they suffered the consequences because of their faithful witness.
Don't you see? Something dramatic has happened in this Satan-influenced culture! Instead of being all we can for the Lord ALL the days of our life...we've begun to say to the Lord "I give you my life BUT only after I "enjoy" my teenage years." We need to rise above the low expectations so many people set on us as teenagers (I prefer young adults). We need to show what the Lord can do with a youth fully devoted to Him and His will for their lives. We need to be an example to the believers just like Timothy was in 1 Timothy 4:12. And we need to rise up out of the norm and influence, challenge those unbelievers all around us. How can we testify to the lost if we look and act just like them?!
I am praying that each one of us, including myself, will rise above low expectations and be a brilliant light to this dark and dying world!!
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| Photography for Jesus |
"Those who are wise shall shine
Like the brightness of the firmament,
And those who turn many to righteousness
Like the stars forever and ever."
And those who turn many to righteousness
Like the stars forever and ever."
Daniel 12:3
Learning to delight in Jesus,Hannah
Monday, April 11, 2011
In the "Summer" of Your Life
"He who gathers in summer is a wise son; he who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame."
Proverbs 10:5
Yesterday morning I read this verse during my quiet time. I thought I'd share with you what the Lord briefly showed me.
I am young and I'm relatively free to do as I like (within the limits of the Scripture, of course)! Right now is the summer time of my life, now is the time of harvest. Am I gathering right now in the "summer" or am I wasting it by sleeping, although the Lord's calling? Am I searching diligently for His will or am I using my time unwisely? Am I bringing in treasure to be stored up in heaven, or hording wealth which will rust and pass away? I think these are questions we have to ask ourselves constantly. I desire to be a wise daughter, to bring my parents glory and honor and most importantly to point others to my loving Savior and Friend.
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Waiting; Failing; Getting back up
"Be still, and know that I am God;..." Psalm 46:10a
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| Picture by Photography For Jesus |
Be Still
Given by the Holy Spirit from Ps. 46:10a 8-5-10
Be still, my child, wait and see
For the Lord thy God will deliver thee
And lead thee and guide thee until the end
So watch and wait until I send
Be still, my daughter, and do not fear
For I thy God am always near
I know the plans I have for thee
Plans of life, hope, and victory
Be still, my child, and you will see
The things fulfilled that I promised thee
And then you’ll trust and know I’m He
Who’s always watching over thee.
I wrote this attempt at a poem about 6 months ago and yet how quickly I forget the things the Lord has shown me. Just this past week I got "into the flesh" as Pastor Rick would say. I was confused, worried, and altogether not trusting the Lord and what His plans are for my future. Thankfully He, my ever patient Teacher, showed me where I was wrong and how He is still here watching over me. Do you ever find yourself wandering from your true focus, Jesus Christ? You're not alone! Every Christian has and will at some point in their walk. The important thing is that you catch yourself quickly, pick yourself up out of your rut of self pity, and get your eyes back on Jesus!! It is so hard but Jesus is ever ready to help us up if we'll just accept His hand.
Thank You, Lord for being so patient with me, even when I loose my focus. How great You are to always be there to help me up! What a Savior...I love you, Jesus!! Help me to wait on You just like You wait for me.
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Patience
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"The act or power of calmly or contentedly waiting for something due or hoped for; forbearance." The Websters 1828 Dictionary
I don't know about the rest of you but I struggle with patience. Unfortunately to the flesh, this seems to be what the Lord likes to work on the most in me. Have you ever noticed how often in the Psalms and Proverbs the Lord says "wait"? Waiting is an important part of the Christian life. It's always bad when we humans take things into our own hands or take a step before we get clear direction from the Lord. The way I see our walk of life is a narrow road with deep ditches on either side and Jesus in front. Sometimes it's going to get foggy, dark, and cold but we just have to make sure we're keeping a firm grip on Jesus. He knows the BEST way and we have to have faith in that....even if what's happening doesn't make sense. This is what we're learning in our study of Job on Wednesday nights.
Okay, I've strayed a little bit from my point. In the past 2 years or so the Lord has caused little things to happen which have tested my patience and revealed how greatly I need this attribute. My personality is one of "go get it done FAST no matter what". The Lord has showed me how very important patience is, especially regarding my relationship with Him. One time when I was really struggling with being patient in something, my wise mama pointed out that the Lord may be preparing me for something even bigger that I'll need to be patient in in the future! Talk about a major paradigm shift! Currently my patience is being tested in several ways. I'm waiting for my license, direction of where to go next in my life, where the Lord wants me to serve, etc. Trust me, several times I've lost my patience but my Master's so good to get my focus back on Him and off of myself. So will you join me in waiting and learning at the Master's feet about this important virtue? Who knows, maybe the Lord will use our example of waiting and patience to bring someone to Himself!
Learning to delight in Jesus,
Hannah
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