Something miraculous happened to me while traveling to church on a cold Sunday night... My family became stranded on the side of the road. At least that's what I thought at the time. This "mishap" was actually the beginning of a series of tests, and events that would happen in my life to bring me closer to my father in heaven. See, we were never really "stranded" because the Lord was at our side. We were never alone, or without help. He was always there... He IS always there, guiding us, helping us along each and every day to fulfill His purpose for our lives.
Today my husband and I took another step forward onto the golden pathway that God has carefully constructed for us. Today Mark and I walked together in Christ. Today we made a commitment, dare I say, stronger than that of marriage. We did something more symbolic than the exchanging of wedding bands... We were baptized together... Mark and I were both baptized as young adults. In fact we both dedicated our lives to Christ around the same age. We were both baptized around the age of fifteen. However, when we were baptized we were not immersed in water. Mark and I both were only sprinkled. The church that we are attending, and that we are becoming members of is a Baptist church... And, the Baptists do not recognize being sprinkled as being baptized. Therefore, Mark and I had to get baptized again in order to join the church.
Although, I didn't understand why I had to get baptized again, I did it anyway. I thought to myself "Hey, I wonder how many people can say that they were baptized twice?" I didn't really think that anything special would happen upon this baptism because I was already saved. And, the Holy Spirit already lives within me.. Boy was I wrong!
At the end of today's church service the Pastor called us to the alter (invitation)...As I walked up the aisle leading to the alter I felt as if I were going to cry. But, fought back the tears, and put a smile on my face. My mind was blank as I did a series of things that eventually led me to a small stair case across from my husband with a pool of water separating us. The first thing I did was I undressed and put on some sort of blue, water proof, zip up suite. While putting on the vinyl suite a very nice woman guided me through the actual baptism process... The Pastor will put your hand over your mouth, bend your knees, etc... But, her words didn't quite prepare me for what happened. The Pastor asked for Mark and I to come into the water at the same time. He raised his hand and said something that I agreed to. Then within a few seconds my head and whole body was submersed in a pool of water. It all happened so quickly that I didn't have time to think. The only thing I really remember is having my eyes closed for a while after being risen from the water. Next, it was Mark's turn and the Pastor dunked Mark under the water...
On our way home I was a little disappointed that my mind had been blank during the baptism and that the Holy Spirit hadn't overwhelm me as it had the first time I was baptized... This nagged at me all night until I finally called Mark into the kitchen to talk with me while I did the dishes. He made me feel better by saying that the reason I didn't feel the same as I did the first time is because I was already saved, and that I had already been Baptized. This made sense, I mean after all, that is what I expected to happen in the first place. Although Mark made me feel better, I still felt like I had missed a step. As the night progressed I read many bible verses about baptism. And, at some point while reading the bible verses, I got it. Suddenly I understood and recognized the missing step... I didn't repent before I was baptized. I stopped reading, and bowed my head in prayer. While asking God to forgive any and all sins that I may have committed between my first baptism and today's, my body became weightless, and my heart felt like a big hot air balloon. I suddenly felt more uplifted than I had in a while. And, I felt as if I had more room in my heart than ever before. Then, I realized what the true meaning of baptism was. A baptism is a cleansing, or a rebirth. But, you can not be cleansed of your sins unless you ask to be. However, this particular baptism was so much more than a simple cleansing...
Today I was baptized with my husband. Today my husband and I ourselves were not reborn. Today our marriage was reborn, and strengthened by the one who brought us together, Jesus Christ. On the thirty-first day of January Mark and I not only recommitted our lives to Christ, but we also committed our marriage to Christ. TOGETHER we walk, TOGETHER we dedicate our lives to Him. Together we took the steps forward to committing our family to a church family. What greater event, what greater thing, could a Christian couple possibly do than to be baptized together in a church in which God has led them to, and by a Pastor that speaks directly to their hearts every Sunday? I don't think that anything I will, or can do, this year will top the experiences of today.
As long as Mark and I follow the path God has made for us we will never be lost. As long as we trust and have faith that our lives will always turn out right no matter how "hard" it may seem at times, we will never go astray. There will be times when we don't understand why we must do something, but we have to do it anyway. We can not see where the end of our path will lead, and we don't have to. As long as we have faith, we don't need to understand, or see our paths... We must just walk the path in slow strides, taking one step at a time. He will never lead us to a dead end, or leave us stranded in the dark on a cold night. So, trust in the Lord. I pray that you will walk the extraordinary path designed for your life, and that you will always trust in the one that loves you unconditionally.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
22Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Ephesians 5:22-33
Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
Matthew 18:19-20
Acts 22:16: " And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Acts 2:38: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Day 15, 16, 17: BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!
Note: Since we've been so busy I haven't had that much time to edit my posts. Also, since I've been so busy my posts have been lacking that zest they once had (check out older posts). However, I'm certain that tomorrow's post will be full of life!
Our family has been so busy these past three days!... Christ has been a prevailing force in our lives, protecting us from any negative influences. He has been a guiding light, and our great protector. Not only has He been there for us, but He has also sent a few new friends our way... I guess to void out any of the negativity that came our way.
Mark and I have a few exciting things coming up...You'll have to check back to see what's in store. Recently we've done so much that I can't even remember all of it. Let's see, on Thursday I went to another Red Cross meeting with my mother. I guess this was our first "official" meeting. It was exciting, and I've decided what I want to do with the Red Cross... Disaster Relief, and AFES. AFES is basically answering phone calls from the comforts of my own home. And, as far as being involved in Disaster Relief, I'm not 100% sure what all I will be doing. Also, on Thursday Victoria gave Mum-Mum the heart we made for her. After stuffing it we added a suction cup to it so that my mom could hang it on her window. Although the suction cup fell off somewhere between the truck and my parent's front door, my mother loved it.
Our family has been so busy these past three days!... Christ has been a prevailing force in our lives, protecting us from any negative influences. He has been a guiding light, and our great protector. Not only has He been there for us, but He has also sent a few new friends our way... I guess to void out any of the negativity that came our way.
Mark and I have a few exciting things coming up...You'll have to check back to see what's in store. Recently we've done so much that I can't even remember all of it. Let's see, on Thursday I went to another Red Cross meeting with my mother. I guess this was our first "official" meeting. It was exciting, and I've decided what I want to do with the Red Cross... Disaster Relief, and AFES. AFES is basically answering phone calls from the comforts of my own home. And, as far as being involved in Disaster Relief, I'm not 100% sure what all I will be doing. Also, on Thursday Victoria gave Mum-Mum the heart we made for her. After stuffing it we added a suction cup to it so that my mom could hang it on her window. Although the suction cup fell off somewhere between the truck and my parent's front door, my mother loved it.
Friday... Friday was interesting! We had our first small flood. My husband used the toilet, flushed, and left the bathroom. Apparently the toilet kept running after Mark flushed. This caused the water to over flow the bowl, and we had about 1/4 inch of water fill our bathroom and laundry area. Mark, thank goodness, noticed the water before it had time to creep up the hallway. We called a Plummer that had been here before. He said that most likely one of the children had dropped a toy into the toilet... Long story short, Mark ended up removing the toilet and found something that was stuck in it. It wasn't a toy... It was something that no one would believe would be able to clog a toilet! And, I'm a little unsure as to how it was able to prevent the toilet from flushing properly. But, Mark removed it, and it works perfectly once again. And, of course Friday is grocery day... But, we did so much more than just grocery shopping! Mark took half the day off from work so that we could take care of a few things that had to be dealt with immediately. We got a lot of things done, but not everything. Come Monday we will have it all completed, and our "ducks in a row."
So, we've been pretty busy... And, although a lot of it has been "fun", and rewarding, I'm still looking forward to some REAL fun! I have talked with my brother about going to play paint ball, and I've talked with my mom about going on a small boat trip on a locally famous sail boat. Also, Mark and I have a few things that we would like to do together. But, we've been so busy with other things, that we haven't focused on making definite plans for the "real" fun yet. But, believe me, we'll get there, and do those things soon. As for now we have something amazing planned for tomorrow, and I may possibly be doing something tonight that's a pretty big deal for me... So until then, live for Christ. It's through him that my happiness is possible regardless of any obstacles that may come my way. Learn to laugh at yourself, and what you can't control. And, be comforted in the fact that Christ does it all for a purpose. Sit back, relax,or go out to have fun.. No matter what your speed may be, have fun while living an extraordinary life!
God Bless!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Day 14: The Red Cross
Tonight my mom and I had orientation for the Red Cross. I can not even begin to express the feelings of self-esteem, of accomplishment, of inspiration, and gratitude I had while sitting in the meeting. There is only one greater feeling in this world than the feeling that comes from the thought or action of selflessly helping someone. And, that is the feeling of being in the loving arms of my family. For me, the greatest joys in life come from my husband, and my children. They fill my life with so much happiness and love. And, I enjoy spreading that love, and comfort that my family provides me to other's that need it. From the orientation tonight I got the feeling that the Red Cross is the perfect place to do that!
It was so awesome that my mother was there with me tonight. Joining an organization like the Red Cross has been one of my mom's dreams since when she was a young girl. So, it was absolutely amazing to see her begin to fulfill her dreams later on in life. I feel so blessed that my mother and I have so many of the same hopes and dreams. I feel so blessed, and thank God so much for the amazing things He's doing in our lives. And, I am so proud of the both of us for nurturing the seeds planted in our hearts. All of our hopes, and dreams come from Christ. He planted the seeds in our hearts, and I can't wait to watched them grow and blossom.
It was so awesome that my mother was there with me tonight. Joining an organization like the Red Cross has been one of my mom's dreams since when she was a young girl. So, it was absolutely amazing to see her begin to fulfill her dreams later on in life. I feel so blessed that my mother and I have so many of the same hopes and dreams. I feel so blessed, and thank God so much for the amazing things He's doing in our lives. And, I am so proud of the both of us for nurturing the seeds planted in our hearts. All of our hopes, and dreams come from Christ. He planted the seeds in our hearts, and I can't wait to watched them grow and blossom.
The Last Word On My In-Laws
Supposedly my in-laws have people from all over the country reading my blog. And, supposedly "so many people" can't believe the way I'm treating them based on what I've said in my blog. So, first let me say that the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words" applies not only to the visual arts, but also to the written. Writing is a form of art. Therefore, people will draw their own conclusions from what they "see." Also, if someone dislikes you they can twist your words, and form them to best suite themselves. And, completely miss the point you are making. Now, I have to ask you what kind of person would recruit people to join them in a hate feast against someone? If you listen to my in-laws, and truly believe what they say, then you obviously do not know them. And, futhermore, you do not know me. You and I have never met, or if we have it was briefly. So, I invite you, whoever reads my blog to personally talk to me, not through the computer. I invite you to see my face, and hear the tones in my voice... And, then draw your conclusion.
Do not blindly follow what people say. You do not know all the stories, and the ones you do know, you only know one side of them. Also, do not pick apart every little thing about someone that labels themselves as "Christian". A Christian is not a perfect person. A Christian is a human being that has dedicated their life to Christ. A Christian is not without sin, but they strive to be. Do not pick apart someone to degrade them in order to make yourself look or feel better... If you need to feel good about yourself, if you are lacking something in your life... Then, I know who can help, and I invite you to meet with me to discuss salvation, and the ultimate unconditional love of the one that can lift your spirits and fulfill any void you may have in your life... Jesus Christ.
Zephaniah 3:17
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing
Titus 1:1-2
Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness— a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time
Jeremiah 29:11-12
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you
Jeremiah 17:7-8
But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit
PROVERBS 15:15
All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.
Do not blindly follow what people say. You do not know all the stories, and the ones you do know, you only know one side of them. Also, do not pick apart every little thing about someone that labels themselves as "Christian". A Christian is not a perfect person. A Christian is a human being that has dedicated their life to Christ. A Christian is not without sin, but they strive to be. Do not pick apart someone to degrade them in order to make yourself look or feel better... If you need to feel good about yourself, if you are lacking something in your life... Then, I know who can help, and I invite you to meet with me to discuss salvation, and the ultimate unconditional love of the one that can lift your spirits and fulfill any void you may have in your life... Jesus Christ.
Zephaniah 3:17
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing
Titus 1:1-2
Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness— a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time
Jeremiah 29:11-12
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you
Jeremiah 17:7-8
But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit
PROVERBS 15:15
All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Day 13: Arts and Crafts
Note: This post will need to be edited later. It is late, so, I'm quickly writing it. Enjoy.
My family does not subscribe to cable television. I do this for censoring purposes, as well as for a sacrifice. My two sponsor children are the monetary cost of what one would pay to have cable. And, of course I choose them over the superficial entertainment value of cable television. However, we do subscribe to Netflix. This cost is SIGNIFICANTLY lower than the cost of cable, and we can choose what we would like to watch, and what we wouldn't like to watch. The thing with cable TV is that although you can monitor what you view, you can't always monitor the inappropriate commercials that quickly pop up, or accidentally seeing something when flipping through the channels. With Netflix I have instant streaming, plus I get movies sent to my home.. It perfectly suites my family. Anyway, through Netflix I found a DVD titled "Art on a Shoestring." Tonight we watched it for the first time. In fact is was the first time I had ever watched an instructional video on how to do arts and crafts. And, it was FUN! After watching most of the DVD Rene and I made a stuffed heart for Valentine's day. We then made a Valentine's card to send to Sinny in Africa. It was so much fun that I can't wait to do another project from the DVD tomorrow! Actually, I'm thinking of starting a pop up scrap book tomorrow. But, we'll see, because tomorrow's an exciting day! You'll have to check out tomorrow's blog to see what I have planned. Although tomorrow's an excting day, what would make tomorrow perfect is if we have as nice of a day as we had today. I think today was the first time this month that I was able to turn off the heat and open the doors. In fact it was such a nice day that the girls and I took a long walk. Today was such an awesome, extraordinary day! I feel so blessed to have days like the one today! I didn't want this to become a "mommy blog", but right now I can't resist talking about my children. Stephie and Rene really make my life so perfect! They are my sunshine, and I miss them when they're napping, and I can't wait to see them in the morning. Being a mother is the best, most extraordinary job that I've ever been given. And, being a mother makes me appreciate my own mother more. A mother's love is the greatest love on earth. And, I love spending hours being with my children.
Anyway, so doing a simple art and craft project can bring so much joy. So, I encourage you to get out your scissors, sewing kit, paint brushes, whatever your media of choice may be, and create something extraordinary. And, perhaps give it to the most extraordinary woman in your life, which in my case would be my mother!
Have a blessed and extraordinary night!
My family does not subscribe to cable television. I do this for censoring purposes, as well as for a sacrifice. My two sponsor children are the monetary cost of what one would pay to have cable. And, of course I choose them over the superficial entertainment value of cable television. However, we do subscribe to Netflix. This cost is SIGNIFICANTLY lower than the cost of cable, and we can choose what we would like to watch, and what we wouldn't like to watch. The thing with cable TV is that although you can monitor what you view, you can't always monitor the inappropriate commercials that quickly pop up, or accidentally seeing something when flipping through the channels. With Netflix I have instant streaming, plus I get movies sent to my home.. It perfectly suites my family. Anyway, through Netflix I found a DVD titled "Art on a Shoestring." Tonight we watched it for the first time. In fact is was the first time I had ever watched an instructional video on how to do arts and crafts. And, it was FUN! After watching most of the DVD Rene and I made a stuffed heart for Valentine's day. We then made a Valentine's card to send to Sinny in Africa. It was so much fun that I can't wait to do another project from the DVD tomorrow! Actually, I'm thinking of starting a pop up scrap book tomorrow. But, we'll see, because tomorrow's an exciting day! You'll have to check out tomorrow's blog to see what I have planned. Although tomorrow's an excting day, what would make tomorrow perfect is if we have as nice of a day as we had today. I think today was the first time this month that I was able to turn off the heat and open the doors. In fact it was such a nice day that the girls and I took a long walk. Today was such an awesome, extraordinary day! I feel so blessed to have days like the one today! I didn't want this to become a "mommy blog", but right now I can't resist talking about my children. Stephie and Rene really make my life so perfect! They are my sunshine, and I miss them when they're napping, and I can't wait to see them in the morning. Being a mother is the best, most extraordinary job that I've ever been given. And, being a mother makes me appreciate my own mother more. A mother's love is the greatest love on earth. And, I love spending hours being with my children.
Anyway, so doing a simple art and craft project can bring so much joy. So, I encourage you to get out your scissors, sewing kit, paint brushes, whatever your media of choice may be, and create something extraordinary. And, perhaps give it to the most extraordinary woman in your life, which in my case would be my mother!
Have a blessed and extraordinary night!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Goals Update
Well, my goals for the year keep increasing. There are so many things that the Lord wants me to do! And, I am up for all the challenges He throws my way! However, the more I'm given and the closer I get to Christ, I'm also given other challenges that I don't believe to be those from the Lord. I'm having horrible problems with my in-laws... However, all of the problems are those of my own doing b/c I didn't listen to Mark. My husband told me a long time ago that we were to have nothing to do with his parents. But, I didn't listen to him, and I disobeyed his request to not talk to his parents... I like to give everyone chances upon chances. But, the bible tells me to not be around, or spend time with people that are a bad influence, or wish to work evil against me. See, they have issues in their lives that we do not approve of for our children to be around. In all actuality there are things about them that we do not approve of ourselves or each other to be around.
1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest,
so honor is not seemly for a fool
2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying,
so the curse causeless shall not come.
3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass,
and a rod for the fool's back.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly,
lest thou also be like unto him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly,
lest he be wise in his own conceit.
6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool
cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
7 The legs of the lame are not equal:
so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling,
so is he that giveth honor to a fool.
9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard,
so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 The great God that formed all things
both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, 2 Pet. 2.22
so a fool returneth to his folly.
12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit?
There is more hope of a fool than of him.
13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way;
a lion is in the streets.
14 As the door turneth upon his hinges,
so doth the slothful upon his bed.
15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom;
it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit
than seven men that can render a reason.
17 He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him,
is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 so is the man that deceiveth his neighbor,
and saith, Am not I in sport?
20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out:
so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire;
so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds,
and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
23 Burning lips and a wicked heart
are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips,
and layeth up deceit within him;
25 when he speaketh fair, believe him not:
for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit,
his wickedness shall be showed before the whole congregation.
27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein:
and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it;
and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Proverbs 26
Titus 2:11-12
11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
1 Corinthians 5:11-13
11But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator,
or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
12For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
13But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person
1 Corinthians 6:9
9Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
Matthew 5:10-12
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
1 Corinthians 15:33
33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
Proverbs 13:20
20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Ephesians 5:22-33
22Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
—2 Corinthians 6:14
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD,
as the rivers of water:
he turneth it whithersoever he will.
2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes:
but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
3 To do justice and judgment
is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
4 A high look, and a proud heart,
and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.
5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness;
but of every one that is hasty only to want.
6 The getting of treasures by a lying tongue
is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.
7 The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them;
because they refuse to do judgment.
8 The way of man is froward and strange:
but as for the pure, his work is right.
9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop,
than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
10 The soul of the wicked desireth evil:
his neighbor findeth no favor in his eyes.
11 When the scorner is punished,
the simple is made wise:
and when the wise is instructed,
he receiveth knowledge.
12 The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked:
but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.
13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,
he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger:
and a reward in the bosom, strong wrath.
15 It is joy to the just to do judgment:
but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
16 The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding
shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
17 He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man:
he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,
and the transgressor for the upright.
19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness,
than with a contentious and an angry woman.
20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise;
but a foolish man spendeth it up.
21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy
findeth life, righteousness, and honor.
22 A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty,
and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue,
keepeth his soul from troubles.
24 Proud and haughty scorner is his name,
who dealeth in proud wrath.
25 The desire of the slothful killeth him;
for his hands refuse to labor.
26 He coveteth greedily all the day long:
but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination:
how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
28 A false witness shall perish:
but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.
29 A wicked man hardeneth his face:
but as for the upright, he directeth his way.
30 There is no wisdom nor understanding
nor counsel against the LORD.
31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle:
but safety is of the LORD.
Poverbs 21
Romans 13:12-14
12The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
13Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
14But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said,
“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
—Genesis 2:18, 21-24
These passages let me know that what I am doing is the right thing to do. Sometimes it is hard to not have a relationship with a family member, but you have to do what is right for you according to God. If nothing but evil and negativity come from a relationship... Maybe you shouldn't be in that relationship! However, just because a relationship with someone doesn't work out doesn't mean you should ever stop loving, or praying for them...
Back to my Goals Update...
Anyway, so, I've increased my work outs... My time on the stair master, and stomach exercises. There, obvisouly, is no change in my weight yet. But, I'm confindent that I'll get there.
I don't think I've gotten anymore children sponsored yet, but that's b/c I've been focused on other things. My number one priority at the moment is listening to God. So, all of my goals for the year will have to wait until His are finished. However, I have accomplished one of my goals, so far since I've started this blog. We've attended church every Sunday.
1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest,
so honor is not seemly for a fool
2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying,
so the curse causeless shall not come.
3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass,
and a rod for the fool's back.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly,
lest thou also be like unto him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly,
lest he be wise in his own conceit.
6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool
cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
7 The legs of the lame are not equal:
so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling,
so is he that giveth honor to a fool.
9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard,
so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 The great God that formed all things
both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, 2 Pet. 2.22
so a fool returneth to his folly.
12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit?
There is more hope of a fool than of him.
13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way;
a lion is in the streets.
14 As the door turneth upon his hinges,
so doth the slothful upon his bed.
15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom;
it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit
than seven men that can render a reason.
17 He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him,
is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 so is the man that deceiveth his neighbor,
and saith, Am not I in sport?
20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out:
so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire;
so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds,
and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
23 Burning lips and a wicked heart
are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips,
and layeth up deceit within him;
25 when he speaketh fair, believe him not:
for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit,
his wickedness shall be showed before the whole congregation.
27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein:
and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it;
and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Proverbs 26
Titus 2:11-12
11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
1 Corinthians 5:11-13
11But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator,
or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
12For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
13But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person
1 Corinthians 6:9
9Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
Matthew 5:10-12
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
1 Corinthians 15:33
33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”
Proverbs 13:20
20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Ephesians 5:22-33
22Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 25Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?
—2 Corinthians 6:14
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD,
as the rivers of water:
he turneth it whithersoever he will.
2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes:
but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
3 To do justice and judgment
is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
4 A high look, and a proud heart,
and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.
5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness;
but of every one that is hasty only to want.
6 The getting of treasures by a lying tongue
is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.
7 The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them;
because they refuse to do judgment.
8 The way of man is froward and strange:
but as for the pure, his work is right.
9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop,
than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
10 The soul of the wicked desireth evil:
his neighbor findeth no favor in his eyes.
11 When the scorner is punished,
the simple is made wise:
and when the wise is instructed,
he receiveth knowledge.
12 The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked:
but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.
13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,
he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger:
and a reward in the bosom, strong wrath.
15 It is joy to the just to do judgment:
but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
16 The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding
shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
17 He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man:
he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,
and the transgressor for the upright.
19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness,
than with a contentious and an angry woman.
20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise;
but a foolish man spendeth it up.
21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy
findeth life, righteousness, and honor.
22 A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty,
and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue,
keepeth his soul from troubles.
24 Proud and haughty scorner is his name,
who dealeth in proud wrath.
25 The desire of the slothful killeth him;
for his hands refuse to labor.
26 He coveteth greedily all the day long:
but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination:
how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
28 A false witness shall perish:
but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.
29 A wicked man hardeneth his face:
but as for the upright, he directeth his way.
30 There is no wisdom nor understanding
nor counsel against the LORD.
31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle:
but safety is of the LORD.
Poverbs 21
Romans 13:12-14
12The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
13Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
14But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said,
“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
—Genesis 2:18, 21-24
These passages let me know that what I am doing is the right thing to do. Sometimes it is hard to not have a relationship with a family member, but you have to do what is right for you according to God. If nothing but evil and negativity come from a relationship... Maybe you shouldn't be in that relationship! However, just because a relationship with someone doesn't work out doesn't mean you should ever stop loving, or praying for them...
Back to my Goals Update...
Anyway, so, I've increased my work outs... My time on the stair master, and stomach exercises. There, obvisouly, is no change in my weight yet. But, I'm confindent that I'll get there.
I don't think I've gotten anymore children sponsored yet, but that's b/c I've been focused on other things. My number one priority at the moment is listening to God. So, all of my goals for the year will have to wait until His are finished. However, I have accomplished one of my goals, so far since I've started this blog. We've attended church every Sunday.
Day 11 & 12: Soup, and Prayer
Day 12: Prayer
The closer you get to Christ the more Satan will try to bring you down. Evil people don't want good people to succeed... Usually when someone is determined to make other people feel bad about themselves it's so they can feel good about themselves. That's because in order to feel like they're worth something they need other people to feel less than their best. For people to Say mean things, hurt other people, and to mistreat them in any form must mean that those people are very insecure. Do not return hurtful words with hurtful words. These people need our prayers, not our curses.
Satan doesn't want a saved Christian to fulfill God's plan for their life. We as Christians will be persecuted by mean, ignorant people. Yet, we must still love them. For, they are just that, ignorant. Most people know not what they are doing. Or, they are so full of pain, and anger that they wish to bestow it on those that have found happiness, especially those who have found happiness in Christ.
But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-28).
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse (Romans 12:14).
We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it (1 Corinthians 4:12).
I had a couple firsts tonight... The Lord has given me multiple tasks. I have to gather items for an orphanage in Haiti. I have to witness to a very lost person. I have to give condolences to someone that I once had a misunderstanding with. I also have set up a monetary fund for the person that I once had a misunderstanding with. The last thing I must do is complete the steps to joining the Red Cross... So, tonight in church I knelt down at the alter for the first time in the church that we are attending. It takes courage to listen to Christ. It takes courage to swallow all pride and to do what is asked of you... It takes an extraordinary person to leave their life in His hands... All Christians are extraordinary people!.. However EVERYONE has the ability to also be extraordinary. If you have yet to give you life to Christ, I encourage you to do so now. Jesus loves you. He wants you to be one of His children. Be extraordinary, and please, say this simple prayer...
"Dear Lord, I give my heart to you. Please lord enter me, and fill me with your love. I no longer want to live the life I've created for myself. I wish to live to glorify you, and only you. Lord, I'm a sinner. I've sinned against you. Please, forgive me. Please wash away all of my sins, and purify me.... In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."
I pray that the person who gave me my second "new" experience tonight reads this post, and allows Christ to enter their heart. Jesus loves you, and so do I. I don't care what you say, I forgive you. I sympathize with you. Don't let whatever happened in your life to make you this way control you. Let whatever it is go, and find extraordinary happiness! And this is my prayer for you...
"Dear God, please speak to the hearts of those who do and say unkind things to others. Please touch and soften their hearts. I know you have an amazing plan for their lives. Please allow them to see the plan, to see you, to experience the unconditional love that only you can provide. Please transform their lives. With you all things are possible! With you they can be extraordinary! Thank you, Lord. In your name I pray, Amen."
Day 11: Soup
I've never been a fan of canned foods. I prefer fresh, or frozen groceries. My family eats only fresh fruits, and a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables. And, I never buy any kind of canned meat. I also prefer organic foods over non-organic. Needless to say a canned soup that contains a combination of meat, and vegetables is not high on my grocery list. However, this week the cans of soup were on sale. So, we bought a few... Another thing I don't do is eat soup for dinner. My family eats hardy wholesome meals for dinner. To me soup is more of a lunch item. However, tonight we ate a can of corn chowder with our pasta dish. I can't say that I enjoyed it, or didn't enjoy it. The verdict is still out on that one. But, I can say I do not like the idea of my children eating anything out of a can, so I do not foresee any more canned soup dinners in the future.
The closer you get to Christ the more Satan will try to bring you down. Evil people don't want good people to succeed... Usually when someone is determined to make other people feel bad about themselves it's so they can feel good about themselves. That's because in order to feel like they're worth something they need other people to feel less than their best. For people to Say mean things, hurt other people, and to mistreat them in any form must mean that those people are very insecure. Do not return hurtful words with hurtful words. These people need our prayers, not our curses.
Satan doesn't want a saved Christian to fulfill God's plan for their life. We as Christians will be persecuted by mean, ignorant people. Yet, we must still love them. For, they are just that, ignorant. Most people know not what they are doing. Or, they are so full of pain, and anger that they wish to bestow it on those that have found happiness, especially those who have found happiness in Christ.
But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:27-28).
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse (Romans 12:14).
We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it (1 Corinthians 4:12).
I had a couple firsts tonight... The Lord has given me multiple tasks. I have to gather items for an orphanage in Haiti. I have to witness to a very lost person. I have to give condolences to someone that I once had a misunderstanding with. I also have set up a monetary fund for the person that I once had a misunderstanding with. The last thing I must do is complete the steps to joining the Red Cross... So, tonight in church I knelt down at the alter for the first time in the church that we are attending. It takes courage to listen to Christ. It takes courage to swallow all pride and to do what is asked of you... It takes an extraordinary person to leave their life in His hands... All Christians are extraordinary people!.. However EVERYONE has the ability to also be extraordinary. If you have yet to give you life to Christ, I encourage you to do so now. Jesus loves you. He wants you to be one of His children. Be extraordinary, and please, say this simple prayer...
"Dear Lord, I give my heart to you. Please lord enter me, and fill me with your love. I no longer want to live the life I've created for myself. I wish to live to glorify you, and only you. Lord, I'm a sinner. I've sinned against you. Please, forgive me. Please wash away all of my sins, and purify me.... In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."
I pray that the person who gave me my second "new" experience tonight reads this post, and allows Christ to enter their heart. Jesus loves you, and so do I. I don't care what you say, I forgive you. I sympathize with you. Don't let whatever happened in your life to make you this way control you. Let whatever it is go, and find extraordinary happiness! And this is my prayer for you...
"Dear God, please speak to the hearts of those who do and say unkind things to others. Please touch and soften their hearts. I know you have an amazing plan for their lives. Please allow them to see the plan, to see you, to experience the unconditional love that only you can provide. Please transform their lives. With you all things are possible! With you they can be extraordinary! Thank you, Lord. In your name I pray, Amen."
Day 11: Soup
I've never been a fan of canned foods. I prefer fresh, or frozen groceries. My family eats only fresh fruits, and a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables. And, I never buy any kind of canned meat. I also prefer organic foods over non-organic. Needless to say a canned soup that contains a combination of meat, and vegetables is not high on my grocery list. However, this week the cans of soup were on sale. So, we bought a few... Another thing I don't do is eat soup for dinner. My family eats hardy wholesome meals for dinner. To me soup is more of a lunch item. However, tonight we ate a can of corn chowder with our pasta dish. I can't say that I enjoyed it, or didn't enjoy it. The verdict is still out on that one. But, I can say I do not like the idea of my children eating anything out of a can, so I do not foresee any more canned soup dinners in the future.
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