Goodbye Fear!

Fear is a crippling emotion. The Lord never intended for His followers to dread the future. Although we may feel afraid at times, we should never let fear control us. - Dr. Charles Stanley

 

 

Have you ever felt led by the Holy Spirit to a task and fear held you back?  Maybe you were supposed to speak truth to someone in a difficult situation or lead out or organize an event or ministry at your church.  Or maybe you felt like God was directing you to quit your job and stay home, or get a job and help your family make it through a difficult financial struggle.  The list is endless of what we may have been directed to do but wouldn't because we were controlled by fear.  Oh the blessings fear has caused us to miss out on.  We are not alone in this.  We are not the only ones who have had to deal with and overcome fear.  There are many examples of this very thing in the Bible.

 

   

 

Here are just a few examples.

 

Moses was reluctant to leave behind the safety of his shepherd life in the back country of Midian, and fearful to answer God’s call to go back to Egypt and confront the mighty Pharaoh with God’s command to free the Israelites (Exodus 3 & 4)

 

The ten scouts were afraid to trust God to lead them into the promised land of Canaan, thus causing the Israelites to waste 40 years in the wilderness before finally being allowed to enter Canaan .(Numbers 13 & 14)

 

Joshua had seen God's people rebel against Moses and was afraid he could not lead them to take possession of the Promised Land. (Joshua 1)

 

In fear, Jonah ran away from God and the mission to preach to the people of Nineveh. (Jonah 1 & 2)

 



The rich young ruler who was afraid and unwilling to give up the comfort of his wealthy lifestyle to follow Jesus. (Luke 18:18-23)

John Mark allowed fear to cause him to abandon Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. (Acts 13:13; 15:36-38)

Whatever the nature of God’s invitation to each of us to serve him, it can create some anxiety or fear in us, because it often means leaving our comfort zone, and venturing into the unknown.

The truth is, God will not force us to do it- whatever IT is in each of our lives- but like an earthly father teaching his young child to ride a bike, he encourages us to trust him for our needs, safety, and our future.  He is always assuring us of His unconditional and unfailing love.

These are the truths that the Holy Spirit gave me this morning to help me overcome fear when He directs and calls me to a task.

1.  The plans that God has for me are always full of hope!

“I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster,

to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NLT)

2.  God is love, and His perfect love resides right inside of me.  It is that perfect love that casts out ALL FEAR!

 

“We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in him.

God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.

And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect….

Such love has no fear because perfect love expels all fear.

If we are afraid, it is for fear of judgment,

and shows that his love has not been perfected in us.”

(1 John 4: 16, 17a, 18, NLT)

3.  When I am obedient, I am consumed in the Father's love and my joy will overflow!  

“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.

When you obey me, you remain in my love,

just as I obey my Father and remain in his love.

I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy.

Yes, your joy will overflow!” (Jn. 15: 9-11, NLT)

4.  If He directs me, I CAN DO IT!

 

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

(Philippians 4:13, NLT)



This is an excerpt from a devotional about fear by Dr. Charles Stanley that a precious friend of mine sent recently.

What can we do to develop courage?

A. Meditate on God’s Word: Instead of just quickly reading a large section of the Bible each day, choose a shorter passage and really think about its message. Ask God for help interpreting and applying it to your life.

Meditating on God’s Word will:

1) Quiet your spirit.

2) Sharpen your perception (Ps. 119:105).

3) Purify your heart (Heb. 4:12).

4) Clarify your direction (Prov. 3:5-6).

B. Recall past experiences of God’s faithfulness: Remember the way you relied on the Lord in previous crises and how His goodness carried you through difficulties.

C. Observe the courage of others: As fellow believers share their testimonies of the Lord’s faithfulness, let their stories reinforce your faith in Him.

D. Ask the critical question: If I don’t obey God, what will happen?: Every action, whether good or bad, has a consequence. Rebelling against the Lord may seem like an easier path, but it will be ultimately be painful. Trusting and obeying Him always brings spiritual blessing.

E. Recall His promise to be with us at all times: The Lord told Joshua that He would never forsake him. Through Scripture, you and I have been given the same assurance today. Our omnipotent God has all power to guide us and bring success in our lives.

 

My prayer is that the Lord will make us courageous and help us be the difference makers He has called us to be!  I hope you have a great weekend.

*****The countdown is on to our July Bible study on the book of Proverbs!  Who's excited!?!  Just because I am anticipating great things, I am going to add the countdown to all my posts in June.  Let's count it down like my girls do.....there are 25 sleeps left until we start.☺ Please be praying for the women who will be writing for the study and for that the Holy Spirit will speak to all who are participating!

Amazing Grace!

Ephesians 2:4-9  But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.


It occurred to me that the song that was being sung when I was saved is pretty much my testimony:

Amazing Grace, How Sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me!

 

Grace, it is amazing. Grace is God's favor.  How could a person like me, who had done so many terrible things, be deserving of anyone's favor?  Let alone, God's?

 

A Wretch?  Yes, I was.  I had hurt and disappointed everyone who loved me.  Burned bridges and deserved the absolute worse life had to offer.

 

I once was lost, but now I'm found

Was blind, but now I see

 

I was selfish and untrustworthy.  I was full of shame and disgust for myself.  Then a total stranger reached out to me.  They saw a glimmer of hope for me and led me to the moment where I was open to God.  Jesus rescued me and opened my eyes so that I could see a glimmer of hope for my future.

 

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear

And grace my fears relieved

 

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed

 

Fear of the Lord is indeed the beginning of it all.  Before the moment I received The Lord's Salvation, I felt the entire weight of my sin-filled past growing heavier and heavier.  I was drowning under it.

 

Accepting His invitation, fearing His great presence and humbling myself before Him made it possible for His grace to remove that weight of guilt, shame, despair, and hopelessness from me.  I no longer needed to fear the future.  He was with me.

 

The Lord has promised good to me

His Word my hope secures

 

He loves me, no matter what I did in my past.  His promises ring truer and truer with each passing day.  The security I have in knowing Him and His unending love is beyond what words can describe.

 

He will my shield and portion be

As long as life endures

 

He not only cleansed me of my past, He fights my battles for me and He provides me with everything I need.  He has restored me!  I will praise Him forever with a thankful heart, because He has given me so much more happiness than I would have ever imagined possible.



 

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow

The sun forbear to shine

But God, Who called me here below,

Will be forever mine.

Will be forever mine.

WILL BE FOREVER MINE.

 

I will not be here on earth forever.  We are all mortal.  I will however, continue to do the Lord's work as long as He needs me to. 

 

I can sing this part from the mountaintops!!!!!!

 

 

My chains are gone

I've been set free

My God, My Savior has ransomed me

And like a flood His mercy reigns

Unending Love, AMAZING GRACE!



 

 

This was written by Jessica Honc.  She is a wife and homeschooling mom of 3, President of Freedom Fellowship Co-op, Church Librarian, and 1st-3rd grade Girls' class teacher. 

Cooking with a Twist!

 

I almost didn't want to post recipes today because I am so excited about the Week of Prayer at our church this week.  I just wanted to talk about prayer and the Power of God.  It amazes me sometimes, how we can see Our Lord do some A-MA-ZING things, yet we can still be apathetic to the prompting of His Holy Spirit.

 

John 14:13-14

"And whatever you ask in My name, that will I do,

that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

"If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it."

 

There are two people in my family who were dead....AND IN JESUS NAME.....THEY WERE RAISED TO LIFE!  I, personally, have experienced the healing power of the Blood of Jesus in my body and heard many testimonies of people being healed of all manner of disease.   

 

The countless miracles that I have seen.  How could I still be passive? 

 

1 John 5:14-15

And this is the confidence which we have before Him,

that, if we ask anything according to His will, 

He hears us.

And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask,

we know that we have the requests which we

have asked from Him. 

 

People addicted to drugs, alcohol, and perversion - set free.  Sinners saved by the grace of a loving Savior!  What a beautiful sight.....even the angels rejoice every time a sinner comes to repentance (Luke 15:10)!  Lazy Christians who have had their passion and zeal renewed and reignited by the Presence of a Consuming Fire. 

 

Oh, that the things of earth would grow strangely dim.....that the eyes of our heart would turn fully to our Savior.

 

Prayer is powerful!     

 

Psalm 145:18

The LORD is near to all who call upon Him,

To all who call upon Him in truth.

 

I encourage you, if you aren't already, make every effort to attend the Prayer Meetings at Freedom Fellowship.  Just as you spend time getting your physical body ready by getting dressed, applying makeup, and fixing your hair, spend time in prayer and worship to prepare your spirit man! 

 

We sing Hallelujah!  We sing Hallelujah!  We sing Hallelujah!  The Lamb has Overcome!   

 



Here are the recipes I promised yesterday.  I hope y'all have a great day, and I will see you back here tomorrow!



 

CHICKEN PARMESAN

1/2 c. breadcrumbs
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 eggs, beaten
Marinara sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Spaghetti
Parsley, optional

Heat oven to 400°.  Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a bowl.  Put eggs in a separate bowl.  (I personally season my chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder at this point, but the recipe doesn't call for it.)  Dip chicken in egg and then in breadcrumb mixture.  Place in a large greased or sprayed pan.  Sprinkle with parsley flakes.  Bake for 35-40 minutes.  Cook spaghetti about 10 minutes before chicken is done.  Place spaghetti on a plate, chicken in center of spaghetti, and top with marinara.  Sprinkle generously with mozzarella.



MONKEY BREAD

1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
4 cans of biscuits (8 ct., skinny tubes.....Or 2 cans Grands Biscuits or any the same size.  If you use the bigger biscuits, cut them into 6 pieces instead of quarters.)
3/4 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. pecans, optional

Heat oven to 350°.  Spray Bundt pan thoroughly.  In a baggie, mix 1/2 c. sugar and cinnamon.  Cut each biscuit into quarters.  Put in baggie and shake to coat.  Arrange in pan.  (If adding nuts, add 1/2 biscuits, nuts, then the rest of biscuits.)

On stove melt butter, brown sugar, 1/2 c. sugar, and vanilla.  Pour mixture over biscuits.  Bake 30 minutes.  Cool in pan for 5-10 minutes. (Don't wait longer than that, or you will not be able to get the monkey bread out of the pan....not that I know from experience or anything! ;)  )  Turn upside down on to a plate or platter, and serve warm.

 

This is Kelanie and Kathleen's favorite recipe to help with!  They pretty much

can do the whole thing by themselves except get the pan out of the oven.

Here, they are quartering the biscuits.  Then they roll or shake them in cinnamon

and sugar until the floor...um, I meant, the biscuits.... are coated and put

into the greased Bundt pan.

 The biscuit quarters, prepared with sugar and cinnamon.

 Heat the butter, vanilla, and sugars just long enough to mix well.  Pour over

biscuits in the Bundt pan and bake.

 The finished product!  You are going to want some coffee to go with this!

 

It's A New Year!

Behold, I will do a NEW thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you know it?  I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.  Isaiah 43:19

It's a new year!  Isaiah 43:19 is one of my favorite verses.  Don't we all love new and exciting things?  I thought about posting all the things I wanted to accomplish this year starting with lose the same 20 pounds I lose at the beginning of every year, but, well, that just isn't new.  I could think of about a million things I want to do more of or do better at, but I needed something NEW!  When I narrowed down what my resolution would be there was only one thing that mattered to me: Read and memorize more scripture. (And help my children do the same.)

I want to know God.  I want to trust Him in all things!  I want to trust His sovereignty in all areas of my life.

"You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail!" Proverbs 19:21 

It seems that just when I think I have things planned out in a way that should be pleasing to Him, God puts a curve in my road.  Anyone else know what I mean!?!  He must constantly remind me that He is in control, not me.  With more of The Word hidden in my heart, I become more confident in His ability to lay out good plans (Jeremiah 29:11) for my life.

With the New Year, I would like to get back to posting on my blog more.  I would also like to have more guest posts....HINT! HINT! HINT!  Especially for Wedded Wednesdays, as that was the highest viewed posts.  We could all use some encouragement and wisdom when it comes to marriage. 

Some things that I have considered doing on my blog this year:

-A post committed to just letting you look into a day of our home school life. (Our schedule and curriculum choices.  This is especially for those who are interested in homeschooling.)
-Maybe quarterly doing week long studies on a certain book of the Bible.  (We could all read and discuss what we're learning.)
-Some posts on Essential Oils and what I am learning!
-Highlight some influential women in Christian History. (Sarah Edwards-Jonathon Edwards' wife, Gladys Aylward, etc.)
-Chore system that works well for us.
-Frugal tips and recipes. (I'm trying to learn!)
-Why I choose Home birth to a hospital birth.
-Giveaways.......I love Giveaways!

Do you have some ideas or suggestions for me?  Please share.

I absolutely love blogging.  It is a short time each day when I feel like I get to interact with other women who love God, love their family, and just love people!  Thank you for spending time with me everyday.  You will never know how valuable your encouragement is to me!

So in accordance with my resolution, I am about to start memorizing more scripture.  I just finished learning Psalm 23.  I think I will learn Psalm 139.  Does anyone want to do this challenge with me?

I think I will give myself 2-3 weeks, (Is this a reasonable amount of time?) then I am going to try to post a video of me doing it.  Hopefully, I will get a little better at technological things before then. LOL!  I am going to use this video by Sarah Reeves Kothlow to help me.  I love this Woman of God.  (Yay!  We get to see her in just a few weeks!) 




NOTE:  Because Facebook has changed so many policies on what we can see in our news feed each day, everyone does not see when I post my blog for the day.  If you feel encouraged by this blog, please share on your page.  This way more people will see it. If you don't do Facebook, (or even if you do!) you can get my blog sent straight to your email by subscribing on the side bar of the blog.  Thank you!

HAPPY 2014, FRIENDS!

Insurance Agents!

This post is by Jessica Honc!  She is so creative.  I guarantee you this will put a smile on your face!

 

 

TO MY FELLOW INSURANCE AGENTS:

Romans 8:38-39 (NIV) 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Our time on earth is too short to not have a sense of humor. J

I took advantage of the early morning peace today to clean out my wallet.  Soon I discovered that I have been carrying around an expired insurance card.  Oopps.  As I got up from my desk to get a more recent insurance card from my “Insurance Information” binder (I am a little organized), I noticed that my daughter’s goldfish had also expired.  Suddenly all of these puns began running through my head regarding the fact that all of us will eventually “expire”.  Our earthly bodies will someday die & then what?  Well, if you are smart enough to grab the FREE INSURANCE OF JESUS, then you are in the clear.  Your insurance policy will never expire, even after your earthly body is caput!  What a good deal!  I love a good bargain.

Like a good neighbor, JESUS is there. (State Farm)

When Mr. Mayhem / Satan appears, are you in good hands? (AllState)

15 minutes (of accepting the Lord as your Savior) can save you……forever. (Geico)

It’s at times like this, that you can set yourself apart. (MetLife)

Our business is salvation, and our customer is you. (Wellpoint)

Jesus brings peace of mind. (Chubb)

Let Jesus be your rock. (Prudential)

Helping people live an eternity in heaven. (United Health Group)

Here is my thought this Christmas season, we should all become insurance sales people for JESUS.  Now, I know insurance agents can sometimes get a bad rap for being too pushy, so we should keep that in mind while we are trying to sell the policy we currently have.  A good sales person can convince other people that they not only want, but they NEED the policy that is in front of them.  By showing others the light of Jesus that lives in us this holiday season and all year long, we can become the greatest insurance agents ever, and we won’t even have to have a cheesy commercial to do it.

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

 

Catch Your Breath!

Today's post is by Naomi Chance!  I don't have to brag on her to y'all, because if you know her, you love her as much as I do!  Sometimes I wonder how I am so blessed to be friends with such a giving, caring, compassionate woman of God!  I know, I know....you get it.....I love this lady! 

Naomi Chance

If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath. ~Psalm 34:18 (The Message)

 

Have you ever had a hurt so deep you felt like you couldn’t catch your breath? Have you ever had heartache so brutal you thought you couldn’t possibly make it through another day? I know I have. God’s Word promises over and over to bring healing.

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They ARE new every morning; great is thy faithfulness. ~Lamentations 3:22-23

I love, love, love this scripture!! It gives me hope in every storm that comes into my life. He sees ME! My innermost! There isn’t a sorrow felt, a tear shed or a groan uttered that my Jesus doesn’t know about. I will never be consumed by my circumstances!

As a believer I have 2 of the most powerful tools EVER!

#1 is The Word of God!

 

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. ~Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)

The Word cleanses our minds and our hearts. I don’t know about you, but I am a work in progress. He’s changing me from glory to glory every day! My mind and heart need cleansing daily. God’s Word is also POWERFUL! When a trouble comes it is what keeps my eyes fixed on the Savior. If Jesus can use it when being tempted by Satan then so can I!

 

#2 is Prayer

 

And when you pray, you are not to be as the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners, in order to be seen by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will repay you. And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition, as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need, before you ask Him. ~Matthew 6:5-8

Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s not about religion….it’s about relationship.”  It is so true. We can SAY we’re a believer all day long but there is so much more to be had.  There is a Savior who wants your all (even in the storms of this life). He wants to take you onto Holy Ground! How can He do that if we don’t know Him or His will for us? A relationship is built on communication and quality time.

Time spent in The Word and prayer is NEVER time wasted…..EVER!

My Pastor says all the time, “Bad things happen to good people.”  Sounds so simple, but how true it is. Life isn't fair. But I am learning to always, always, always remember there is a greater picture I don’t see. Praise Him in your storm! There is a light at the end of the tunnel. You don’t know what He’s preparing for you. He may need you to encourage someone who is going through the same thing one day.

 

Wise men lay up knowledge ~Proverbs 10:15

 

He that gathereth in summer is a wise son ~Proverbs 10:5 

Gather wisdom and knowledge through your heartache. God wants to use you for His mighty glory! He will turn you mourning into dancing! (Psalm 30:11)

 

 

The Persecuted Church

Last night, I was reading an article about the U.S. Army telling troops that American Family Association should be classified as a "domestic hate group".  This basically means that to them, people who hold to Biblical Christian values and "Traditional family values" fall under the same category as the K.K.K., Black Panthers, and Islamic extremists.  Is anyone really surprised that under this Administration we are seeing this?

You will not find this post to be all about politics, I promise.  First of all, I am not near intelligent enough to debate politics.  Secondly, I have one passion and His Name is Jesus!  He governs everything anyway!  I don't need to wait and see how this unfolds because I know the end of the story.....JESUS WINS!

The thing I want to talk about is the fact that I saw someone post on Facebook that the Church in America is under such persecution.  REALLY?  Apparently, the "American Church" has no idea what persecution looks like. 

In the world, there are approximately 60-65 restricted countries/states.  This means that these places have a government restriction on the Gospel of Jesus Christ being shared.  Of the 60-65, 2 of them are in Mexico and 2 are in South America.  The rest are found in the eastern hemisphere.  THE CHURCH IN THESE PLACES ARE BEING PERSECUTED.  What might that look like?  Believers are being skinned alive, burned alive, tortured, and made to watch their spouses and children tortured and killed.  If they are lucky to escape with their life, they are left with no shelter and no belongings.  Most of these believers meet in what is called secret church.  Most of them walk for hours in the middle of the night to meet in a secluded place to hear someone share the precious Words of the Gospel.  Some of these secret churches are lucky to have a Bible, while others have one page of the gospel that they tore out of a Bible before it was burned.  Real people smuggle in Bibles and provision to help the persecuted church.  There are people martyred every day!

These believers have made up their mind that at all cost they will not deny their Savior.  They are my heroes!  They can read the words of Paul and actually know what he was going through. 

I see a line in the sand for the American Church.  For far too long, Christianity has cost us hardly anything.  We have churches on every corner.  Some of them are much like attending a concert and listening to a feel good "talk" so we can have our "Best Life Now."  Very few believers are ever made fun of, much less persecuted, for their belief because the evidence is not there to prove that they might actually be a Christian.  It is time for the church to rise up in boldness and say, "No matter the cost, I will proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ." 

Oh that we would have the courage to say, " For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Phil. 1:21)  Get these words in the context they were written.  Paul was in prison in Rome.  (His first Roman imprisonment.)  He wasn't sitting in a McDonalds eating a Big Mac with his favorite soda or preaching to a large congregation in a state of the art, Billion dollar building.   

Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come

and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit,

with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 

²⁸ and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition,

but to you of salvation, and that from God. 

²⁹ For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him,

but also to suffer for His sake,

  ³⁰ having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me. 

Philippians 1:27-30 

If you are interested in learning more about the Persecuted church, check out Voice of the Martyrs and Open Doors International. 


 

Be Careful What You Ask For!

I don't usually post on Saturday but today I just am!  I was going to try to save this until Monday, but I want it to be fresh from my heart as the Holy Spirit gives it to me.  I hope that you have a GREAT weekend and have a great time of fellowship with other believers tomorrow.  I know I am looking forward to church!  I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the House of the Lord! Psalms 122:1
 
Matthew 14:22-33 NLT 

Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home.
²³ After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone.
²⁴ Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves.
²⁵ About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water.
²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
²⁷ But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”
²⁸ Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”
²⁹ “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.
³⁰ But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
³¹ Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
³² When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.
³³ Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

I love this story for so many reasons!  It resonates so much TRUTH that the Church needs to hear.  More importantly, that I need to hear. 

I have to tell you that before, when I have read this story, the emphasis was always on the fact that Peter started to sink.  Oh ye of little faith!  Why couldn't he just trust Jesus, right!?!  Today as I read, the Holy Spirit echoed in me, "AT LEAST PETER WAS WILLING TO GET OUT OF THE BOAT!"  That's right, he got out when no one else would.  He did not know the outcome.  He didn't know if He would stand on top of the water or sink.  As a matter of fact, the circumstances surrounding this calling looked pretty alarming.  All Peter knew was that Jesus called him and he had to go.

Many Believers want to be used for the Kingdom of God.  We pray that the Lord will open doors to use us or put people in our path who need us.  We ask for it.  BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR!  The Lord will take you at your word and call you out.  We begin to hear Jesus calling us.  We feel a tug at our heart to make a move toward Him.  It just looks too scary.  The waves are crazy.  It seems like a really long way to even get to Jesus and as far as I know, I have never been able to walk on water.  It seems impossible.  He's beckoning us out into the unknown!  Just like Peter, we're not even sure where we are headed, the vision isn't completely clear, but we are just following the voice of God for direction.  (Can you relate to this!?!  I am not sure of the entire mission Jesus has for me, I just know it's time to go forward.)

NOW HERE IS THE MESSAGE THAT REALLY CONVICTED ME!!!!!!  Step out of the boat!  Quit looking around.  Quit waiting for someone to get on this journey with you.  All the other disciples might not go with you because this is YOUR calling.  I have a habit of wanting everyone around me to be excited about what I am excited about at the time.   (I'm sorry,my friends!)  If I am dieting, I need everybody around me to be dieting. We need to talk about it, study, eat it, breathe it.......I think you get it!  I don't necessarily want to step out of the boat unless ____________ (insert friend's name) can go with me on the journey.  I think if I don't have someone along on the same ride, I can't do it.  For once in my life I get it.....I REALLY GET IT......He is ALL that I need.

We are all going to be like Peter.  We will begin to sink because we can do nothing in our own power.  They key is grabbing hold of Jesus.  His strength causes all things to be possible.  I think that is why Jesus choose the least likely men to be His disciples.  They were just real people with faults and failures who heard the call and went.  He took care of the rest!  It demonstrated Jesus' ability to use whomever He pleased for whatever He wanted to be accomplished.  He doesn't need someone with a good resume, He just wants a willing heart. 

This song is my hearts cry in a song.  I love it!  Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders. Let me walk upon the waters wherever you would call me.  Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander and my faith will be made stronger in the presence of my Savior! Yes, Lord!!!!!!!

           

1..2..3...JUMP!

Where to begin?  I have not posted in a few days because the Lord gave me a specific burden that I felt like I needed to commit some time to pray for.  The few hours I get before the girls wake up is normally when I read my Bible and write on my blog.  I needed this time to pray. (I'm sure you'd never confess to it, but you enjoyed the break from me as well! LOL)  I have also had some sick kiddos.  (I hate strep!)

As I type, I feel such a stirring in my Spirit.  God is moving!  I know, I know.  He's always moving.  BUT right now, he's moving in me!  I don't know about you, but when He starts shaking things, He really has a tendency TO GET ALL UP IN MY BUSINESS!  It can really be uncomfortable sometimes.  I feel like the Lord of Hosts is constantly trying to push me outside my comfort zone. (Yikes!)  I feel like I'm standing on the edge of a cliff and he's telling me, "Just jump, Tera!  I am with you.  It will be the most adventurous thing you will ever do.  Can you trust me?"   (As embarrassed as I am to admit it, I am not really the most adventurous person you've ever met!  I have a tendency to stick with safety, rather than adventure!)  While my heart is screaming a resounding "YES" to his command, somewhere inside me, a trace of fear is squeaking out a tiny, barely audible, "No, I don't think I can do this." 

I have my things that I do for the Lord that I am comfortable doing.  I play the piano and sing at church.  I home school my children and dedicate my life to nurture and disciple them.  I support my husband in His ministry.  I give financially to help causes of the church that are reaching out to hurting people like the Hope Crises Pregnancy Center, Samaritan's Ministry, Soul Winners India, and A21 (Rescuing girls from Human Trafficking).  I volunteer for VBS and work with our church's Home school Co-op.  Oh, and I blog!  I AM COMFORTABLE HERE!  These are all things that are needed.  (Except, perhaps the blogging!) For some reason I can't shake this. I keep hearing the Lord say, "Jump, Tera!"  For the last few days, I keep feeling something that I am almost scared to share.  I know that when you share, then you are accountable to your words. 

Serving in the church is needed, don't misunderstand me, but what if I use all of my resources only on the church.  If all I do is serve the church and be a blessing to those who are already blessed, when have I fulfilled the Great Commission?  If I only chose to be around those who are saved and act like good church members, I choose safety over courage.  Look at that list above!  What part of that list is not ministering inside the church?  None.  Giving to a ministry is not the same as doing ministry.  What part of that causes me to jump?  None.  What part of that requires great faith and strength from God?  Those are all things I WANT to do.  I know that I can do them, because I have the physical ability to.  Trying to live a comfortable, sheltered life just won't do.  God's mission can make life a little messy sometimes.  Are we ready?

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
Because the Lord has anointed Me
To preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord,
And the day of vengeance of our God;
To comfort all who mourn,
To console those who mourn in Zion,
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they may be called trees of righteousness,
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

Isaiah 61:1-3 NKJV

 

The one thing I hate with a passion is public speaking!  If you know me at all, you know that is so true!  Isn't it a little funny that in the last year, I have been on our platform twice to speak to our congregation.   I have a feeling that it probably won't be the last time either. God has such a great sense of humor doesn't he?!?!  There are a multitude of things like speaking that are out of my comfort zone!  For example, going to  minister at a prison.  Yet, I keep feeling a tugging at my heart to go.  It's time for me to jump! 

 

How about you?  What are you afraid of?  I could make a list a mile long of things that I hope the Lord never calls me to do.  (Like going door to door to spread the Good News of Jesus!)  I know people who have the gifting for those things, and it is NOT ME!  (It's so scary and my words get jumbled up...surely, you can relate.)  I am reminded of the song by Casting Crowns,

If we are the body why aren't his arms reaching?  Why aren't his hands healing?  Why aren't his words teaching?  And if we are the body, Why aren't his feet going?  Why is his love not showing them there is a way?

I DO NOT WANT THIS TO BE MY THEME SONG BECAUSE I WAS TOO AFRAID TO LET GOD USE ME IN A WAY THAT WAS OUTSIDE MY COMFORT ZONE!

We will not win a lost and dying world from inside the four walls of the Church.  I remember sitting in a class, probably ten years ago, taught by Buddy Buckner.  I can still see the seriousness on his face.  He said, "The only way we will reach the world is by being Jesus to the world through practical service out of love!  Service and ministry are one in the same.  You are a tract (piece of literature that Christians will pass out as a witnessing tool) in human form."  Simply brilliant, don't you think!

 

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon us!  His anointing can allow us to do things that in our own ability, knowledge, or strength would never be possible.  There is a hurting world outside the four walls of the church.  We need to go preach good news to the poor not wait until we can get them in the church so the Pastor can convince them they need Jesus.  That might look like serving food at a soup kitchen or collecting jackets for the homeless.  Who knows how God will allow us to share His good news!?!  It might not look like the way we think it will.  We are sent to seek out the brokenhearted and those bound up and point them to Jesus!  Go to that prison ministry!  Go serve at a Pregnancy Crisis Center!  Bring food to the widow.  Keep children for a single mother.  Bless someone who has found themselves in a financial mess.  WE HAVE WHAT THEY NEED and God will give us what we need when we JUMP!

It is time to plant seeds.  I don't know if you have ever planted a garden, but you can believe me when I say, IT DOES NOT LOOK LIKE THE PICTURES!  I had this fairytale dream of working in the garden to relieve stress.  You know, dressed in my beautiful 1950's Leave It to Beaver dress and apron, with perfect hair and makeup!  That it would be such a joyous occasion. Um...... I did not find that to be the case.  My knees and back ached from being bent over.  I was filthy.  I got attacked by ants multiple times.  It was not the glamorous work that I had set out for.  Working in the field of The Lord's garden is the same way.  It might be messy.  You will probably get dirty and you might get attacked.  You might get tired and sore from the labor.  Oh, but the fruit of your labor is so sweet! 

What does the Lord want you to do?  Are you willing?  Will you jump and trust Him?   

 

JUMP,
LET'S DO IT TOGETHER! 


1....2.....3  GO!

 

Fruit

I can't believe it is Monday again already!  Did y'all enjoy the rain as much as I did?  It gave me a good reason to be lazy all weekend. Every now and then you just need to rest.  We watched football all weekend.  Billy Joe is huge Aggies fan! (And they won!)  Ugh, let's don't even talk about the Houston Texans!!! (We are big Texans fans so we will overlook this week!) 

Yesterday, while watching the Texans, we had a beautiful salad with tomatoes from our garden.  They were delicious but oh so tiny!  That would have been a good thing, except these tomatoes we planted were supposed to be Roma tomatoes.  Those are supposed to be a medium sized tomato.  I am not sure what happened!  We researched and did everything just so.  We fertilized.  The plants look large and healthy, still the tomatoes only grew to be about the size of cherry tomatoes.  Even though we did everything we knew to do to the best of our ability, the tomatoes still didn't grow.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,   gentleness, self-control.

Against such there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23 

 

 

 Have you ever felt that way about the fruit of the Spirit?  Have you desperately wanted to be patient or longsuffering, and no matter how much you work on it, your patience is still very small?  Have you wanted to have more self-control and find that in your own power your self-control is very small and weak? 

 

You can do all the work in the world to try to make this fruit grow yourself, but the Holy Spirit is the only Gardener who has the power to do that.  If you are like me and wish to see your heart be fruitful, it is just a prayer away!  Ask the Father to grow these in your life.  Even if I don't have a natural green thumb, I know one who does!