Full of Faith

Q-Do you BELIEVE in God?

Seems like a pretty simple question, but if your faith was tested, would you be able to stand?

We don't hear God's voice, we don't see him face to face, but yet, we do SEE HIM!

Look at:

• The design of the universe. Space travel is possible because of the movement; animals have instincts, our bodies are amazing themselves. (Ps. 19:1-2; 139:14; Rom 1:19-20)
• A Right and Wrong. People believe that some should act a certain way. In fact, it even angers some who claim to be atheists when an act of violence happens (such as murder).
• Instincts and Belief. Everyone has a craving to serve something or someone. It is in us and was placed there by God Himself (Acts. 17:26-27).

God is FAITHFUL all the time...not some, but ALL. He never lets us down!

The STAMP of Approval-Esther Chapter 3

Last week we revealed that Haman wanted to DESTROY the Jews all because of revenge towards Mordecai not bowing down to him. He ended up taking the "plan" to the king in which he was given the signet ring, or STAMP of APPROVAL, which allowed Haman to do what seemed good to him (Esther 3:10-11). Letters were sent out and the law was put into place that all Jews, both young and old, little children and women were to be killed, destroyed, annihilated. The king really didn't know what he had done until the plot is later revealed to him...

Our application...
Who holds the stamp of approval for you? Is it your friends (obviously we see some negative aspects of that in this story)? Is it worldly desires?

Who should be holding it?

Does God approve of your...

• dress? (1 Timothy 2:9)
• your speech (Matthew 5:37; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:8-9; 4:6; James 5:12)
• your actions (Philippians 1:27; Colossians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:12)
• your family life (you showing obedience to your parents-Proverbs 29:15)
• your attitude (Philippians 2:14; 1 Peter 4:9; Matthew 5:10-12; Philippians 4:4)
• Love and Unity (Matthew 5:43-48; John 17:21-23, 13:35)

Remember these are just a few examples. Can you think of more?

Make sure that you have God's signet ring...his stamp of approval in ALL areas of your life!

REVENGE-Esther Chapter 3

Chapter 3 of Esther is pretty intense.

Mordecai won't bow down to Haman, so wrath fills him...you know, the one where you want nothing but negativity towards someone who has "wronged" you. REVENGE!!

Haman takes advantage of his position and goes to the king, but doesn't reveal all the facts. He never tells the king that the people he wants to exterminate are Jewish, skewed the idea that all of these people didn't uphold the king's laws (even though it was just Mordecai), told the king these people were rebellious and troublesome, and said they were a danger to the peace and security of the empire so they should be destroyed!

Haman took revenge seriously here, didn't he?

It is easy to sit here and say Haman is a terrible person..which, I sure don't agree with his actions. But ask yourself this question...Have you ever wished bad things for someone? Sometimes, there is a little Haman in all of us! Our pride and our ego can easily get to the best of us! But, we are to act differently...Look at God's word for how your actions SHOULD be..

• Romans 12:17-21 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in sight of all men. If it is possile, as much as depends on you, live peacably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty ,give him drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
• Proverbs 25:21-22 If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for so you will heap coals of fire on his head, nd the Lord will reward you.
• Proverbs 20:22 Do not say, "I will recompense evil" ; Wait on the Lord, and He will save you.
• Matthew 5:38-39 You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I tell you not to rsist and evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

Make sure, in all aspects of your life, that LOVE is there..not wrath, not envy, not malice.

Being Thankful

In most cases, thankfulness is a learned trait. It doesn't come naturally for a lot of us. We have to work at it! It is an attitude, a way of putting others in front of yourself.

Often I am brought back to Jackson (my 3 year old son). I can teach him to say thank you when he receives a gift, or food, or whatever it may be, but does he really understand what those words mean? Sometimes, with the light in his eyes and a close hug right behind, I believe he does. It's a way of showing gratitude.

You know, our God deserves our thankfulness. He is the one responsible for every good and perfect gift we receive (James 1:17). He is the one who sent His only son to die for us so that we can have the gift of eternal life with Him (John 3:16) !

In everything you do, you should give thanks to HIM! (Colossians 3:17)

It is extremely easy to get caught up in WANT, WANT, WANT, but that shouldn't be our attitude! Instead, it should be GIVE, GIVE, GIVE! That is what a thankful heart looks like! Look at the gifts we receive from God DAILY!

Your challenge this week...make a list! Start a list of the blessings that God has provided for you. Keep it close! When you have those days where your attitude is not the way it should be, pull it out and see the goodness and grace of our Creator!

A Frightening Influence-Part 2

Part 2.....
Peer pressure is one of the strongests influences placed on young people today. It has been said that it is twice as strong as the influence of home and family and is an even greater influence than religion!

Why do people use peer pressure? Are they that lacking in confidence themselves? Do they honestly want to "hurt" those around them only to make themselves feel better?

What makes peer pressure so hard to fight against? Face it..our instinct is to want to seek approval from those around us...which in turn the only approval we should be seeking is God's! We also want to feel a part of something! You want to be accepted by your peers--some are willing to disobey parents, sell out their personal convinctions just to be a part of a group!

What characteristics does it take to resist peer pressure? Are you grounded? Do you know what is right and wrong? What is your goal? Is God on your side when you are making these decisions? Who are you surrounding yourself with?

Thought-provoking questions...So, what do you do to "avoid" it?

Read the words from the Proverbs writer in Chapter 1

Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching.

They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.

My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to the.

If they say, "Come along with us; let's lie in wait for someon'e blood, let's waylay some harmless soul; let's swallow them alive, like the grave, and whole, like thos who go down to the pit;

We will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our houses with plunder; throw in your lot with us, and we will share a common purse."

My son, do not go along with them, do not set foot in their paths for their feet rush into sin, they are swift to shed blood. how useless to spread a net in full view of all the birds!

These men lie in wait for their won blood; they waylay only themselves!

Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the lives of those who get it.

Know what is right or wrong--which means know the Word. Look at why these people are using peer pressure in the first place. Most of the time, do they have your best interests at heart when wanting you to do something? Absolutely not! Most of it is guided by selfish ambition!

Be prepared to be an "outcast." ---But, that is fine! Just because you don't follow the crowd, doesn't mean you are alone! If you make wise decisions, you have God on your team--and that will stand the test of time! He will always win! And...you will become stronger because of the adversity you face! Noah did it...Joshua and Caleb did it...JESUS did it (Matthew 4:11)!

You have to possess SELF-CONTROL! You must show restraint over your impulses, your emotions, your desires!

Make sure you are surrounding yourself with people who have the same goals as you! "Prevent" it the best you can! Your circle of friends says a lot about you! Make sure they are loyal...and make sure they hold you accountable just like you do them! If there is any peer pressure there--make sure it is the "peer pressure" that helps you--that leads you in the right direction! Take to heart 1 Corinthians 15:33--Evil companionship does corrupt good morals!

A Frightening Influence...Part 1

The influence exerted by a peer group in encouraging a person to change his or her attitudes, values, or behavior in order to conform to group norms....

You know...

PEER PRESSURE

It can influence the way you dress, the entertainment you see/listen to, trying drugs/alcohol, disobedience to parents, and......

It's scary isn't it?

The book of Daniel has 3 great examples for us to see how some stood up to peer pressure. They didn't go with the norm.

Daniel 1-The Case of the Unclean Food
Daniel and his friends wouldn't eat the food they knew they weren't to partake in...so, after some talking with the chief official, they were allowed to eat nothing but vegetables and drink water. Turns out, they ended up being healthier and better nourished than any other of the young men there!

Daniel 3-The Case of the Golden Idol
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego wouldn't bow down to the gargantuan idol...and faced consequences for it. They were thrown into a fiery furnace only to be saved by our powerful God!

Daniel 6-The Case of the Lion's Den
Later on, a decree was made stating that no one could pray to any man or god for 30 days. This didn't stop Daniel! He continued to open up his windows, set his eyes toward Jerusalem and pray 3 times a day! He had to face the consequences by being thrown into the lion's den, but our powerful God again shut the mouths of the lions and he lived!

These boys stood up...and so can you! Next week we will look at ways you can
PREVENT PEER PRESSURE!!

Test for your spirituality

I know you really don't like that word....TEST....but I came across some thought provoking questions I had written in my Bible a few years back from a lesson I had heard.

• Do you spend a considerable amount of time in prayer? (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
• Do you spend a considerable amount of time studying and reading scripture? (John 5:39)
• Do you look forward to the Lord's Day? (Rev. 1:10; Acts 2:42)
• Do you choose "spiritual" activities rather than worldly? (Ps. 122:1)
• Do you enjoy the company of Christians over those who are worldly? (Phil 4:1) STAND FIRM!!

These are some really hard questions. Really examine yourself and make the change!

Children, obey your PARENTS

Well, it may seem like the "uncool" thing to do in today's world, but the fact of the matter is, God is pleased when you do obey your parents.
Whether you want to believe it or not, your parents have a big responsibility that they do not take lightly. God has entrusted them with you, to train you up (Proverbs 22:6). They are not to provoke you (Colossians 3:21), but to teach you diligently when you sit in your house, walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up (Deut. 6:4-9). You are one of the qualifications of elders (Colossians 3:21).
God requires you to be obedient to them (Colossians 3:20). He even throws in being disobedient to parents with some other "hard" topics I wouldn't want to be compared to (blasphemers, unthankful, unholy, traitors, headstrong, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God-2 Timothy 3:1-5).

A great example of an obedient child is Jepthah's daughter (see Judges 11 for the text of this story). Jepthah was one of the judges. He made a vow with the Lord that he would make a burnt offering to whatever came out of his house to meet him if the Lord would deliver the Ammonites into his hands. Well, the Ammonites were delivered, but the plan didn't go as Jepthah wished. His daughter (only child) was the "whatever" that came out of the door to greet him. In despair, he told her what he had promised to God. Instead of arguing, she told him that he had to keep his vow.

Sometimes being obedient to God isn't the easiest thing to do, BUT it is the right thing. The only way you will ever achieve complete happiness is to be in accordance with God's will. Being obedient to your parents is one of those things.

Your prayer life...

Prayer RULED Jesus' life. In fact, the Word even gives us an example in Mark's account that Jesus got up very early in the morning while it was still dark to go to a solitary place and pray.

He prayed about important decisions. In Luke 6:12 we find out that he spent the night praying before he chose the twelve apostles.

He was very persistent in praying. Luke 18:1 tells us that Jesus used a parable to show his disciples that they should always pray and never give up. The widow kept bothering the judge and ended up granting her justice.

He prayed for others and let them know specifically what He prayed for. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned your back, strengthen your brothers. (Luke 22:32)

He taught others how to pray. Sometimes, especially as women, we tend to clam up when we are asked to lead a prayer in our ladies' classes. You might just be the person who could teach someone how to do this. (Luke 11:1-2)

Prayer is ALWAYS answered. The answer might not be what YOU are wanting, but God knows what is best...Be prepared for YES, NO, and YES but you need to WAIT.

Taking off the mask....

Are you the same person you were last year? Hopefully you can answer no because of how much you have grown in your faith.

But that isn't the direction I am wanting to take on that question. Do you act the same when you are around different sets of friends? Some of us run in different groups..you might have school friends, "church" friends, neighborhood friends, etc. In each situation, do you act the same or differently?

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)

That is the example we have set before us. A perfect example at that. HE NEVER CHANGES no matter the situation!! No matter the situation, He stayed the same!!

I want to challenge you to really take a look at yourself and your actions while you are around your different groups. Do you change for the better, or the worse? Can you get by with more "negative" with some than others? If so, maybe you should reevaluate those "friendships."

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.

1 John 3:1 Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.

Where are you looking?

Matthew 14:22-32
Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
"Come," He said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshipped him saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

Do you ever have those times when your eyes are taken off of what you should be focused on just like Peter in this story? Sure, everyone has! Most of the time sin occurs when we aren't thinking in the right frame of mind we should be. Our minds should constantly be set on things above, not the earthly things (Colossians 3:2).

So, what can we learn from this?

BELIEVE! Do you really believe that God can do anything? Ephesian 2:20 is an amazing verse to keep handy when "doubt" arises in your life. Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us! HE CAN DO ANYTHING!! Pull your FAITH in here! HE CAN DO ANYTHING!!

SPEND TIME WITH HIM! Jesus was in his quiet place to "pray." You have to spend time with God in order to know His power! He rescued you from darkness (Colossians 1:13), so why wouldn't you want to spend time with Him?

You must stay focused so you are not easily taken down a wrong path. Know the POWER that our Almighty Father has! He created you...He created everything around you. He knows you better than you know yourself. Get to know Him...study, pray, worship.

The Sword

When I think of a sword, I think of power. With its long, edged piece of metal, the main use of a sword is primarily a cutting or thrusting weapon, but also used to "club." There are many uses/descriptions in the Bible because of the importance of the sword during those times as a weapon.

Taking down of enemies
His word provides us with several instances in which a sword was used to take down enemies. Joshua used the sword to take down the Amalekites as Moses had to keep his hands raised (Exodus 17:8-14). Peter used a sword to cut off the ear of the servant of the high priest when Jesus was arrested (Matthew 26:51).

"Bad" Behavior Comparisons
Comparisons of the sword and "bad" behaviors are also found. Take Provers 25:18 into consideration (Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is the man who gives false testimony against his neighbor). Proverbs 30:14 tells us that those whose teeth are swords and whose jaws are set with knives to devour the poor from the earth, the needy from among mankind.
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise bring healing (Proverbs 12:18).

Our "Weapon"
The Bible is to be our sword (Ephesians 6:17). A verse that has really caught my eye this past week is Hebrews 4:12. For the word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Wow--that is powerful. If I want to know what God's will is for me, I have to know the "sword." This is how He communicates to us! You are in a battle every second of every day against Satan--in order to beat him, you have to know what our Heavenly Father expects of you and ways to fight off those temptations! Be diligent in getting your hands dirty and taking time to study!

The Path of Friendship-Choosing Your Friends Carefully

"Friends" can lead you down several different paths--some negative and some positive. Therefore, it is IMPORTANT who you choose to place in your life!

FRIENDS CAN...

Sharpen you (Proverbs 27:17). If you choose them carefully, they can lift you up just like the writer in Proverbs tells us (As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another). When you might not being doing things according to God's will, they can bring you back. Your conversations make you better people because maybe you study with them, talk about God's word, etc.

Counsel you in need (Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 15:22, Proverbs 24:5) Life is TOUGH, but the reward is worth fighting for. If we didn't face trials, where would our faith be? But, fortunately if you do surround yourself with friends, they can counsel you and help you through those rotten times! And you know, those trials you face WILL help others later on with circumstances just like you. I am amazed at some of the things I have gone through, and how many people are able to really understand it, because they were there once too.

But also lead you astray (Proverbs 13:20). He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. Be diligent who you choose to be around. Walk with the wise, not with the fools. Surround yourself with those who have the same desires as you!

A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. Proverbs 12:26

Which path are you going to take with your friends? Be very cautious with this decision!

Being Strong in the Lord

Fall is in the air, and along with that comes football. While watching The Blind Side recently, I was reminded of how strength plays a role in the game (Michael Oher could plow through people!). With a lot of determination, the offensive and defensive lines go up against each other hoping to "win" the short battle allowing movement (or lack thereof) with the ball.

We also see strength displayed in the animal world. It is said that a rhinoceros beetle can carry over 850 times its weight! That is remarkable!

Our STRENGTH comes from the LORD!
You can do everything through Him who strengthens you (Phillipeans 4:13). He is the strength of your life, so why should you be afraid? (Psalm 27:1) You have to be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might (Ephesians 6:10).

He WILL help YOU!
He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Why should we fear if we believe that? He is with you and will uphold you with His righteous hand (Isaiah 40:10).

In order to continually find His strength within you, you MUST seek his presence (Psalm 105:4).

Standing Out

When you are in the midst of a group, do you stand out? If so, are your reasons for standing out positive or negative?
So many times it is easy for us conform to the world instead of being transformed (Romans 12:2). One biblical character we can turn to for this is Esther. She stood out. Something about her caught the eye of Hegai who was the custodian of ALL of those women who were brought to the palace to "fight" to be the next wife of the king. But, how did she do it?

Read the next verse and focus on the description of the unmarried:
1 Corinthians 7:34
There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world-how she may please her husband.

Do you stand out because of your love of the Lord? Esther did.

2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Here are some quick references for you to "check" your characteristics throughout the week.
Behave like a Christian: Romans 12: 9-21
Obey your parents: Ephesians 6:1-3
The Whatevers: Philippians 4:8-9
Don't let anyone look down on you because of your age: 1 Timothy 4:12

Decision Making

Making choices in life can sometimes be stressful. Some may be due to time-whether pressed for it or given too much. Some may be due to our desires, instead of God's will. Some may really be not knowing what to do. Decisions can vary between picking a movie to watch, settling on a job, or picking a spouse. Here are some practical steps to take when that time comes in your life when decisions are needed to be made.

COMMUNICATION
God communicates to us through His word. He is pretty blunt in most of what He has to say in the Bible. He didn't make it where it is hard for the average person to understand. Now, there may be times when the answer isn't black and white, but I guarantee that you can find guidelines that will help aid you in this process.

We communicate to Him through prayer. Before making your decision, make sure you are praying for it...diligently....without ceasing. Be energetic in this! (James 5:16b)

COUNSEL
Another good step is to seek counsel from Christian examples in your life. It could be your parents, the elders, the evangelist, or someone you look up to within the body. Take what they have to say, listen to it, and ponder on it. Maybe there is someone who has had to make a decision similar to yours and they can add beneficial input. This isn't a good example of "seeking counsel," but King Ahasuerus did when Vashti went against him in Esther 1. It wasn't necessarily the "best" advice, so make sure when you seek it, you trust that person has a good head on their shoulders.

CONSCIENCE
If it bothers your conscience, then it probably isn't something you need to do. Don't you agree? We need to make sure that Satan doesn't sneak up on any of our decision making!

Here is a start to some questions you can ask yourself before you make your choices:

• Does it glorify God?
• Does it go against God's Word?
• If someone were to see me doing this, would my impression be hypocritical?
• Does this help me reach my goal of obtaining citizenship in heaven?

A rainbow painted across the sky and the hairs on your head...

I easily get wrapped up in the world that I forget God's promises. Sometimes though, a rainbow appears in the sky. The same rainbow that he sent after the flood to Noah and his family promising to never destroy the earth by flood again. Here are some quick verses for you to reflect on.

When you feel alone.....

• Note that our creator knows the very number of hairs on top of your head (Matthew 10:30).
• The Lord is your helper (Hebrews 13:6, Psalm 27:1)

When you are in trouble.....

• He is your refuge and your strength (Psalm 46:1)
• He will preserve you from all evil (Psalm 121:7-8)

When you don't have anywhere else to turn....

• Look at the Prodigal son...he was in that same place AND he came back (Luke 15:11-32)
• We all have sin, but if we confess them, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1John 1:8-9)

Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord because He WILL lift you up! (James 4:10)

Bravery-The story of Jehosheba

You hear of soldiers who display bravery through acts of saving their friends in war, or see our firefighters or policemen risk their lives daily for the safety of others. Bible examples include Esther, Paul, David...and the list could continue to go on.

Today we are going to talk about someone who displayed bravery and ended up helping preserve the lineage of Christ.

2 Kings 11 shows the wickedness of people through idol worshipping to how powerful and in control God is. You have someone in reign, Athaliah, who destroyed all the royal heirs so she could be in control after her son Ahaziah was dead. Little did she know that Ahaziah's sister, Jehosheba, had carefully hidden one of Ahaziah's sons, Joash, safely away into the temple of the Lord. 7 years later with specific directions, Joash was placed as king and Athaliah faced her fate with death, and not a pretty one at that.

When I read this story, a big question came to my mind. Do I fully believe that God is in control? No matter how bad things may seem in my life, or in the world, who is ultimately going to win? Who has already won? Can God move mountains? Can God change lives? ABSOLUTELY! These people in the story never lost faith in God, even when the world around them was so WICKED.

God is in control, but He does expect us to be "brave" and stand up for what is right, whatever the case may be.

• Do you know what is right? If not, study the WORD.
• Feeling scared? PRAY!

There are many plans in a man's heart, nevertheless the Lord's counsel-that will stand. Proverbs 19:21

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of food cheer, I have overcome the world. John 16:33

I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Psalm 16:8

I love the saying, "Do what is right, change what isn't." We, as Christians, have that duty. Make a change and know that God WILL WIN!

Sticks and Stones....

Sticks and stones can break my bones,

but words can never hurt me.

Do you believe that little statement? If someone has said something to you that was hurtful, I can guarantee that you don't agree.

The GIVER

I remember the little girl who lived behind me. I was in elementary school and she was known to be a little "different." And....I remember EVERY hateful thing I said about her to my friends, and to her face. It wasn't pretty. She moved, and I never apologized to her. I can't even imagine what she thinks of me now, especially with how mean I treated her. I know she hasn't forgotten....

The RECEIVER

On the flip side of that, my 7th grade year was the WORST school year I ever endured. One of my best friends from the time we were little turned on me. She accused me of talking about her (in which I didn't), went and told all sorts of people lies about me, as well as had 8th graders threaten me EVERY DAY. I have never felt so rotten, and even today when I run into her in my hometown, those feelings come back again.

WHAT GOD SAYS

• Treat others how you want to be treated. Matthew 7:12

• Be imitators of God. Ephesians 5:1

• Do not gossip. Leviticus 19:16, Proverbs 18:8, Proverbs 11:13

This is something that women struggle with at EVERY AGE. Unfortunately, the older you get, it is still there. It is up to you now to make the decision that you will not treat others unfairly, especially with your tongue. If someone around you is doing it...STOP THEM. Don't listen to it! It is poison.

Who are you?

Whether you want it to be or not, the truth of the matter is that school is here for most of you (or quickly approaching). Some of you will be walking new halls for all sorts of reasons (entering high school, changing schools, moved, ect.) and others will be doing the same ol', same ol'.



Here are a few tips to help your year be successful...

1. Let your light shine.....You are an influence. You have no choice here. Someone is ALWAYS watching. 1 Timothy 4:12 Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.


2. Surround yourself with those of same moral values...immodest dressing, drinking/partying, inappropriate language, ect. Does a bad apple really spoil the bunch?? It does....and what about evil company corrupts good habits (1 Corinthians 15:33)?? If you surround yourself with sin, you are going to fall....This is a trick I think Satan uses to deceive you...He makes you think that you are strong enough to surround yourself with "friends" who do these types of things...but you aren't. (If you have connections from previous years that you don't think are healthy--get rid of them!!)


3. Keep your priorities in check....Believe me, from personal experience I know how easy it is to allow school activities to interfere with your relationship to God...homework, basketball practice, and choir, as well as others take commitment, but you need to decide right now when you are going to study God's Word and take time for prayer EVERY DAY. On top of that note...don't allow it to take you away from worship either.....

Who are you going to choose to be this year?

Be holy....

Holy....I read a ton of definitions on the word holy...and none of them seemed to give the word any credibility...Some synonyms given were religious, pious, God-fearing...

I have really been thinking upon the second part of Leviticus 19:2. You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy. ---that my friends, is quite a challenge.


I love Romans 12. I have a subtitle in my NKJV that starts with verse 9 through the end of the chapter named Behave Like a Christian. Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs to the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. "Therefore if your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

As I reflect on this past month, week, or even today, I failed in so many ways listed above. The positive side, is that I know that God is the potter and I am the clay (Isaiah 64:8). I have to be willing to be the clay though...

Be holy because God is Holy---live up to the challenge.

Friendship--A Gift

Friend.

That word seems so simple, but can cause loneliness, joy, accountability, heartache.





Over the years I have had my fair share of "friends." Some have helped me on my path, and some, not so much. God gives us choice, so why not choose friends who have the same prize in mind as you?





What do you look for in the friendships you have right now?

A friend who is consistent?

A friend loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17a)

A friend who is constant?

Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father, and do not go to your brother's house when disaster strikes you-better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away. (Proverbs 27:10)

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)

A friend who is loyal?

Read the following verses in 1 Samuel about Jonathan's loyalty to David: Saul's anger flared up at Jonathan and he said to him, "You son of a perverse and rebellious woman! Don't I know that you have sided with the son of Jesse to your own shame and to the shame of the mother who bore you? As long as the son of Jesse (talking about David here) lives on this earth, neither you nor your kingdom will be established. Now send and bring him to me for he must die!" Why should he be put to death? What has he done?" Jonathan asked his father. (1 Samuel 20:30-32)

A friend who possesses openness and gives counsel?

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27:9)

I challenge you to look at your "Friend-list." Should you "weed-out" some? Are you the issue? God knew we needed friends, or he wouldn't have given us the many examples throughout His Word.

A Powerful Bird--the Eagle

The eagle---what a powerful creature.

It possesses keen eyesite that allows them to spot their prey from far distances (some say a mile and a half). They can dive at a rate of 100 mph and a large hooked beak allows them to tear apart their food quickly, along with the help of strong muscular legs and powerful talons. (Lamentations 4:19, Jeremiah 49:22, Deuteronomy 28:49, Job 9:46)

An eagle carries around 7,000 feathers, which are said to be stronger than an airplane. They provide waterproofing and protection which are crucial to their flight. A bald eagle's color is a mixture of brown and white, but once plumage occurs, it takes about 5 years for the head and tail feathers to gradually turn white. (Ezekiel 17:3 and 7, Daniel 4:33)

Some species can fly carrying up to 8 pounds of food, or even their young. Their wings are long and broad and soaring takes very little "wing-flapping" because they use currents of warm air (thermals) to help aid which also helps conserve energy. (Exodus 19:4, Deuteronomy 32:11)

They can fly at an altitude of 10,000 feet (yes, that is when the airlines allow you to turn on all approved electrical devices). (Proverbs 23:5, Proverbs 30:19)

They build their nests high, a lot of the time on cliffs. (Jeremiah 49:16, Job 39:27, Obadiah 1:4)

Mates are faithful for life. (Malachi 2:16, Matthew 5:31-32)

Our amazing Creator gave us these vivid examples (and more that I didn't share) in His Word on this powerful creature.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, 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 40:30-31

Be a Worker for the Lord

An ant....

These little creatures and I are about to go round and round! It seems they keep finding their way into the house! I clean, and clean, and clean, but they are so diligent to find even just a small piece of food (and with a 2 year old in the house, it is bound to happen). God knew that because He created them and even mentioned them by name in His Word.

Proverbs 6:6-8 Go to the ant, you sluggard, consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores it provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.

and yet another one in Proverbs

Proverbs 30:34-28 Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer (and then it goes on to discuss coney's, locusts, and a lizard).

So what do we need to learn from these small, but extremely wise creatures? You have to WORK!! They work ALL time to ensure that they have food during all times of the year. Are we required to work?

"Working" may not have the same connotation to you as what it might be to an adult who is responsible for you (i.e. putting food on the table, providing shelter, etc). But, you may have a job! I know I did growing up and what a great experience it was for me!

What I want to focus on is, do you work for the Lord's church? What are some ways you can "work?" What about....

• visiting the elderly or shut-ins (I know this might be hard if you can't drive, but get a group together to go)
• writing a card to those who are discouraged
• calling someone who is discouraged
• helping with daily chores for someone who is ill or injured

These are just a few examples so I challenge you to come up with your own list and DO THEM!

I love Romans 12:11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

What better ways to keep your zeal going! AND, better yet, serving the LORD.

Be more like an ant today......

My God is BIGGER than THAT!

Liar. Evil one. Father of Lies. Tempter. Thief. Accuser. Beast. Deceiver. Adversary. Enemy. Murderer. Lawless One. Ruler of Demons. Wicked One.

All of the above are names are those of someone who we are warned about by using a lion as a comparison (and FYI--the above list doesn't even compare to how many names the devil has in the Bible--I counted at least 40 and I know there are more).

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8)

Temptation---It is all something have to overcome. But, YOU CAN! God is stronger!

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Wilson taught a lesson in June 2009 of 7 Stages of Temptation. What great advice! I keep it right in the front of my journal so it is there for me to refer back to whenever I need it!

1. Overconfidence (Mark 14:27-31) We are most vulnerable where we consider ourselves the strongest (Prov 11:2; 16:18)

2. Prayerlessness (Mark 14:32-38) Prayer is a powerful defense because it is a declaration of dependence upon God, renounces fleshly pride and self-suffering, and sets our eyes upon God!

3. Misguided zeal (Mark 14:43-47) What motivates you spiritually?

4. Distance (Mark 14:50, 54a) Feeling unappreciated, some think prayers are unanswered or God has let us down.

5. Fellowship with the world (Mark 14:66-70) Make sure you choose your friends wisely (1 Cor 15:33) because wrong associations WILL cause you grief!

6. Pleasure (Mark 14:71-72)

7. Bitter Denial (Mark 14:72)

Don't get caught up in it...because the Devil is powerful...look again at all those descriptions. But you know what...GOD IS BIGGER THAN THAT!!

James 1:12-16 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin; when it is full-grown , brings forth death. Do not be deceived my beloved brethren.

When the world throws us to the lions....

Daniel--a brave man who stood for what he believed in.

I love the story of Daniel and the lion's den. A man who continued to pray to God even though he wasn't supposed to. A law that cannot be changed. Capital punishment is given by being thrown into the lion's den, but our Almighty God protected him. (Daniel 6)

It is hard for me to understand how Christians were persecuted in the days of the early establishment of the church or even in some parts of the world today. I have never had to deal with that...but what I have faced:

• betrayal
• hurt
• slander
• gossip

And others I am sure you can relate with...

So, here are some things you need to remember when the world throws you to the lions (these are some points I learned through Wilson Adams--thanks Wilson!)

1. We must be what we've always been.

2. We must do what we've always done.

3. We must trust whom we have always trusted.

Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For he Himself has said, " will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?

Guess Who...Encounters with Lions

Here is a little challenge for you. I am going to describe some scenarios/people in which a lion was killed. Try to guess who I am talking about.

Guess Who Scenario #1

A young lion came roaring against this person, but the Spirit of the Lord enabled him to tear it apart like a young goat with nothing in his hands. After going to visit with a girl, he came back to see the carcass of it and a swarm of bees and honey inhabited it. He took it out and began eating it sharing it with his parents...but he told them nothing about it. That began a riddle "out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet" in which he challenged people to figure it out for thirty linen garments and thirty changes of clothing.

Guess Who Scenario #2

A lamb was in the mouth of a lion and this person caught the lion by its beard, struck and killed it. He also was delivered from the paw of a bear. He put on armor right after this conversation in which he is telling the lion story, but couldn't walk in them so he took them off (this one might be a little easier).

Guess Who Scenario #3

He was the son of Jehoiada the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel who had done many deeds. He killed two lion-like heroes of Moab and had also gone down and killed a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day.

And the answers are.....

#1 SAMSON (see Numbers Chapter 14)

#2 DAVID (see 1 Samuel 17)

#3 BENAIAH (see 2 Samuel 23:20)

Added Bonus for you to read:

The above are stories of people killing the lion, but below I also listed instances in which a lion took the life of someone.

Disobedient prophet (1 Kings 13:24-28)

Unnamed person (1 Kings 20:36)

You don't have to be a rocket scientist--A look at the Lion

(a white lion at the Cincinnati zoo)

I absolutely love that God's word paints beautiful mind pictures for us (might be the writing teacher in me). He created it so that it would be applicable to EVERYONE, even years later. What is the saying...You don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure it out...The writers were inspired by God to make it where everyone can understand God's word, not just some.

One of my favorite chapters is James 3 about the tongue. A bit for a horse's mouth, a rudder for a ship, a fire, taming animals but not the tongue, a spring, a fig tree. 12 verses are FULL of comparisons to the tongue that we can easily relate to.

That brings us to the lion. I know that I mentioned yesterday that a lion was mentioned over 130 times. Another resource told me it was 157. Now, I haven't gone and counted every single one, but now that I am studying this, I can believe it. Let's look at the vivid descriptions used only with the example of the lion. (go look at yesterday's post if you haven't already for a run down on facts of a lion)

It is the KING OF BEASTS

• Micah 5:8 And the remnant of Jacob shall be among the Gentiles, in the midst of many peoples, like a lion among the beasts of the forest, like a young lion among flocks of sheep, who if he passes through, both treads down and tears in pieces.

It's FIERCENESS

• Job 4:10 The roaring of the lion, the voice of a fierce lion, and the teeth of the young lions are broken (a lion's roar can be heard up to 5 miles from where the pride is stationed)
• Job 28:8 The proud lions have not trodden it, nor has the fierce lion passed over it.
• Psalms 7:2 (a prayer for deliverance from Enemies) Les they tear me like a lion, rending me in pieces while there is none to deliver.
• Proverbs 22:13 The lazy man says, "There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!" (pretty funny that a lazy man is compared here considering a lion sleeps or rests 16 to 20 hours during the day)
• Jeremiah 2:15 The young lions roared at him and growled; they made his land waste; his cities are burned without inhabitant
• Jeremiah 49:19 Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the floodplain of the Jordan.......

Living in a PRIDE

• Job 4:11 The old lion perishes for lack of prey, and the cubs of the lioness are scattered (sometimes men of other "prides" will come and attack the males and take over a pride--sometimes killing the cubs to start over)

It's STRENGTH

• Proverbs 30:30 A lion, which is mighty among beasts and does not turn away from any (if you look at 29 you will see there are 3 things majestic inn pace, 4 in a stately walk--lion, greyhound, male goat, and a king whose troops are with him)
• Isaiah 38:13 I have considered until morning-like a lion, so he breaks all my bones; from day until night you make an end of me.
• Joel 1:6 For a nation has come up against My land, strong and without number; His teeth are the teeth of a lion, and he has the fangs of a fierce lion.
  

It's instincts

• Psalm 10:9 -10 He lies in wait secretly, as a lion in his den; he lies in wait to catch the poor; He catches the poor when he draws him into his net, so he crouches, he lies low, that the helpless may fall b y his strength.
• Psalm 17:12 AS a lion is eager to tear his pray, and like a young lion lurking in secret places.
• Lamentations 3:10-12 He has been to me a bear lying in wait, like a lion in ambush. He has turned aside my ways and torn me into pieces; he has made me desolate. He has bent His bow and set me up as a target for the arrow (couldn't not share the rest of the verses--again, wonderful example of a VIVID description)
• Amos 3:4 Will a lion roar in the forest, when he has no prey?
• Nahum 2:12 The Lion tore in pieces enough for his cubs, killed for his lionesses, filled his caves with prey, and his dens with flesh.

The LAIR of...

• Jeremiah 4:7 The lion has come up from his thicket....
• Jeremiah 25:38 He has left His lair like the lion; for their land is desolate because of the fierceness of the Oppressor, and because of His fierce anger.
  

A lion---fierce, king of the beasts, it's movements, it's strength, it's instincts. Amazing detail that God has provided for us to be able to understand his Word.

It is applicable to you, me, and even that rocket scientist!

A Lion---One of God's fascinating creations

It hit me last week that I don't marvel in God's creation. One of my struggles is praising Him. I catch myself praying all the time for needs or wants, but not thanking him or giving Him glory like I should. So, I am going to work on changing that. Why don't we look at some of his handiworks? I went to a ladies' weekend back in April and several women the first night took an animal and gave thoughts on it. We will begin with one that blew me away.....

A lion---It is a symbol of courage and power. They live in prides (made up of about 15 individuals-5 to 10 females with their young and 2 to 3 males). Their color tends to be yellow, but can possess different tones due to their habitats (deeper depending on vegetation or lighter if in a hotter, arrid climate).
A fact some of you might relate with...they are LAZY! Sleeping or resting occurs at least 16 to 20 hours per day with the rest spent hunting, eating, or protecting territory.....Females do about 85 to 90 percent of the hunting. The lion's pride play well together except when it comes to eating. Each man is out for itself when food is involved. Usually the men eat first, then the women, followed by the cubs.
Together Everyone Achieves More is their motto of catching prey. The pride works together to overtake animals such as wildebeests, buffalos, small elephants, zebras, rhinos, hippos, and giraffes which can provide meals for days. Other's added to the diet include mice, lizards, turtles, warthogs, antelopes, and even crocodiles.
They are SCAVENGES! They take over prey killed by hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards. This provides food for over half of their diet!

This week we are going to examine God's word and what he has to say about lions (which I might add is said to have been mentioned over 130 times). I am intrigued by the images God has created for us by use of the description of this animal.

And even the Pill Bugs (Rollie Pollies)

Facts About Pill Bugs

(something I know will make you sleep better tonight)

Amazing Fact #1: Pill Bugs (or you might know them as rollie pollies) are the ONLY crustacean to live their entire life on land. They are known for their armor like shell and the ability to roll into a ball.

Amazing Fact #2: They are only about 3/4" and oval in shape.

Amazing Fact #3: Have 7 pairs of legs, antennae, and no wings.

Amazing Fact #4: Vegetarians mostly dieting on rotted vegetation such as vegetables.

Amazing Fact #5: They live in wet locations and are found most of the time under damp objects or organic garbage. If they enter a building, most of the time they will die because of drying up.

Today I went on a nature hike with Jackson at a park here in Murfreesboro. They have a program called "Wild Things" in which they focus on some animal from nature. Today's was a snail (which, did you know they travel at 22 to 23 inches per hour???), so after the lesson we went on a search for them. And where do you find them most of the time? UNDER ROCKS! We picked up every rock on the trail that wasn't covered in poison ivy only to find absolutely no snails. But under every single one of them, we found a ton of rollie-pollies.

Which, brings me to my thoughts tonight.....

God--Our rock, our sustainer. He is there to protect us just like a rock helps to protect the pill bugs. Did you notice Fact #5? They have to survive under damp objects, because if not, they will dry up.

2 Samuel 22:47 The Lord Lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let God be exalted, The Rock of my salvation!

Psalm 31:3 For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore, for Your name's sake, Lead me and guide me.

Matthew 7:24 Go ahead...start singing the song....you know you want to

Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Me, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:

Is God your rock? Is he your fortress just like the pill bugs?

Training Schedule-Psalm 1

Psalm 1:1-2
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly. Nor stands in the path of sinners, not sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.

I have recently picked up running again. I have never been a long distant runner, but I am actually really enjoying myself. I had a goal to run 3 miles, and how was I going to obtain that?
Only by a training schedule. I ran in intervals of walking/running for weeks, then onto just running, then onto running for longer periods of time, until I was able to achieve running 3 miles. If I didn't stick to my training schedule, would I have been able to do that? No!

How is your "training schedule" going in your walk with God? The only way to obtain our prize (heaven) or our goal (to be Christ-like) is to dig into his Word and be plugged-in with your prayer life.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doc tine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)
Are you equipped for the race?

Psalm 1:3
He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.

I don't have much of a green thumb. In fact, the flowers that Jackson (my 2 year old son) and I planted yesterday are probably going to wilt up and die...but, a verse that constantly sticks with me is Ephesians 3:20.
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.
I don't have to have a green thumb to have God work through me. I have to be connected. And when I am connected, he can use me as a tool. So I ask again, How is your prayer life? How is your personal study going?

Psalm 1: 4-6
The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Ungodly.... Would you like that word to be used to describe you? So, how can you earn your crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8)? How about study....how about being connected to God through prayer?
For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. (1 Thessalonians 4:7). Holiness...achieve it.

Formulate your training schedule. Get going on your race. There is absolutely NO time to waste!