tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-877998701329048392024-03-05T01:15:11.636-05:00~ Because He First Loved Me ~I am a sinner saved by grace. I once was an empty shell. Then I heard a knock at the door and invited Him in. Now, my soul is not only filled up it is overflowing! Every moment with the Lord has been better than a thousand without. Anything else you want to know...feel free to ask!Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-67096897223660995452017-09-15T20:29:00.000-04:002017-09-15T20:30:11.719-04:00For Anyone Complaining in the Wake of Irma<div data-contents="true">
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<span data-offset-key="dn3qo-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">For those of you complaining about ANYthing at all today...</span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> This post is for those of you complaining about not having power and those of you complaining about those complaining about not having power and any other complaint on the table today. Tragedy stinks. I get it. I really do. All we heard for an entire week was hurricane Irma this and hurricane Irma that and watch out for the storm surge and "get out while you can!" Then the storm hit and everything went dark (and hot and sticky) for days. And the enormity of the silence after all that talking.... Some of us are STILL without power. Some of us have had to throw away entire refrigerators full of food. Some of us don't even have a home left to put a refrigerator in. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> And so I get it. Social media (mainly Facebook) is a way to connect with others, vent our frustrations and even in some weird, intangible way, bear one another's burdens. It is also, thanks to the mobile network, the only link many of us have to the outside world after being plunged into darkness and silence by this beast of a storm due to power and internet loss. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> As a society, our bend has become "sharing" our lives and happiness and sadness and whatever other emotions drive us on a daily basis. So when something like this happens and gives us an actual reason to get our stories out there but we actually can't because we are cut off from the proverbial "grid", of course we are going to flock to the <em>one</em> outlet we have to connect with the world outside of our dark, hot and sticky homes. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Think about it. The power and internet is down. You can't watch the news talk about the storm anymore. You can't cook anything on your electric stove. You can't even give up and go to sleep because you have <em>no air conditioner</em>. You can't go out on the roads to escape the miserable situation at home because everyone else is also experiencing the same situation. Also, it is just plain DANGEROUS to be driving around when there are virtually NO street lights or police readily available. So, I totally get that people want to take to social media to complain, rant, rave, praise, cry....whatever. That's ok. I just want to say to each and every one of you, no matter what you are complaining about,<em><u> I hear you</u></em>. I am right there venting with you. I hear and feel your pain. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> This storm was awful. Downright unfeeling and merciless. No, I cannot imagine what it is like for those down south who lost their entire lives. I cannot imagine what it feels like to see every memory you've ever made washed away by the ocean. I cannot imagine what it feels like to have a loved one out working for hours and even days at a time to restore the lives of people who are only complaining and moaning about how long it is taking to make them comfortable again. I also cannot imagine what it would feel like to be 5+ days with no power in 90 degree plus weather. I really cannot (nor do I want to) imagine what being without power in those conditions for 5+ days WITH YOUNG CHILDREN feels like. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Would I want to take to the one outlet I could in order to connect with my fellow humans in search of some shred of sympathy and encouragement? Absolutely. Would I want to go to the one place I could freely rant and release my frustration and possibly receive a "I feel ya sister!" in return? Heck yes! I think we all can relate. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> But just remember that tragedy takes no names and plays no favorites, my friends. That person you are blasting on Facebook for complaining about the electric company taking forever could be your very own neighbor. She could be the one who calls you into her door when the storm rips your roof clean off your house and you are forced to the street with your family. Likewise, the electric company worker that you are complaining about taking <em>forever</em> could b</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">e the very one who donated the money to the charity that gave you the assistance you needed to get back on your feet after the storm. You just never know, my </span></span></span><span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">friend. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> So I get that we all need to vent and we all need to feel validated in our frustration. But please, before we call someone an idiot or tell them to "shut the **** up and sit down" let's try to put ourselves in the other person's shoes. Let's try to remember that the ones we are condemning and humiliating, while their suffering may be different from ours, are still suffering. And to them, not knowing what it is like in your s</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">hoes, it <em>is</em> the worst suffering right now. </span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> The bible says we are supposed to give grace as we ourselves have received it. And as one of the biggest receivers (and daily needers)</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="2vg1e-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">of grace, I am dolling it out in abundance. I hear you, I validate you, I feel you! Sister, brother, friend....neighbor. My prayer is that we <em>all</em> can find it in our hearts to offer grace in the face of unreasonableness, selfishness, and (most importantly) in the face of suffering. That we can all come back together as a community and lift each other up online the way I've seen us do in real life. After all, if we think back real hard, haven't we all at one time or another been a little unreasonable and selfish ourselves? Isn't this what Jesus meant when He said we should be mindful of the log in our own eye before we try to take the spec out of our brother's eye? More importantly, isn't this what He meant when He said "<em>Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy</em>"?</span></span></span></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-87103527816054368812017-08-22T11:00:00.000-04:002017-08-22T11:00:15.742-04:00Seek First....<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" Matthew 6:33</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(**This post was actually written yesterday, August 21, 2017. I just didn't get to post it here until now!**)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> This morning, I had some alone time with God and I wanted to share with you what I learned. I was reading in Matthew the sermon that Jesus gave on the mount. More specifically, I was reading the part where Jesus is telling the poeple to stop worrying about what they will eat or drink or even wear. I've heard this passage preached and read it in devotionals more times than I can remember and the message is always the same: God doesn't want you to worry, He will take care of it. While I believe that is true, I think there is something missing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Jesus said, "You cannot serve two masters. You cannot serve both God and money" God said in Isaiah that HE is the Lord and He will NOT give His glory to another. God is God. He is the beginning and the end, the first and the last, the Creator of ALL creation, the executor of judgment and the giver of grace. His glory and power and might and wisdom and all that He is is so much so that He doesn't even need meaningless words to describe Him. He tells Moses in Exodus, "Tell them I AM has sent you." He <em>is</em>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> So when we worry and fret about having "enough" (I believe) we are essentially robbing God of the glory and honor and praise that rightly belongs to Him. When we worry or become anxious about something we essentially make that thing our master over God. 2 Peter 2:19 says by what a man is overcome, by this he is enslaved. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> (Don't get me wrong, I'm not talking about life's surprises that come along once in awhile and knock your feet out from under you and leave you on your knees crying out to Jesus for help. Sometimes we all go through things that divert our attention to the circumstance over the One in control of the circumstance. But I am talking about a life and a heart that is characterized by worry and stress and a constant state of striving.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> When we worry and stress, we are not just robbing ourselves of peace, we are robbing our God of His rightful praise and honor. We are robbing Him of His rightful place in our lives. Hebrews 13:5 says to be content with what we have. Why? Not because God is greedy. Not because He doesn't have enough to give. But it is because Jesus Himself said "I will never leave you or forsake you." Jesus Christ who is God and who is with God said He will NEVER LEAVE US! And He, who is worthy of all praise, who's name is above every single name there is or ever will be, who actually has every right that we think we should have ourselves, has said He will be to us everything we could ever need. When we worry about sufficiency, we not only are saying we don't trust Him to give us what we need but, more importantly, we are denying His ALL-sufficiency for us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> Jesus asked the people, "How many of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" The answer is none. Because worrying accomplishes nothing except taking our focus off Jesus and His sufficiency for us. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you. What are you seeking today? I confess that I have been guilty of seeking "enough". Even "more than enough". But Jesus promised if we seek Him first, He will take care of all our needs (Matthew 6:33, Phillipians 4:19). Let's give our glory and honor and praise back to the One it rightfully belongs to and give our allegience back to the rightful master, Jesus Christ our LORD and Savior.</span>Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-82076885971761355782017-08-22T10:53:00.000-04:002017-08-22T10:53:20.799-04:00Ask, Seek, and Knock<span data-offset-key="3m6dd-0-0"><span data-text="true"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will
find, knock and the door will be opened to you" Matthew 7:7<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">During my quiet time
with God this morning, I got to finish reading the sermon that Jesus gave on
the mount. You know it’s amazing how easy it for us to take a piece of
scripture out of the bible and make it stand on its own. I can't tell you how
many times I've done this. But when we do this, we are not getting the whole
story. We do not have all the facts. It is similar to taking a piece out of the
puzzle and trying to make it become a picture on its own. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> I can't tell you
how many times I've heard, read, and even sung the verse above. And the message
I've always gotten from it was that if I am really persistent in my prayers God
will give me whatever I want. This morning I realized the error in my thinking.
I don't believe that's what Jesus was saying at all. I believe what He was
saying was so much deeper and more beautiful than that!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"> A wise person once
showed me in other areas of scripture how God will often use progression words
to make a point. Psalms 1 is a great example. The psalmist talks first of
walking, then standing, then sitting with people who have no interest in Godly
things. First you are walking, then you get comfortable so you stop and hang
around for a while (standing), then you get really comfortable and take a load
off (sitting). Now, you are one of them. The point, I believe, the psalmist was
trying to make was that turning your back on God doesn't happen all at once.
It's a slow and sneaky process which is why we need to be careful!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"> When Jesus said
to the people to ask, seek and knock, I believe He was using progression words
to make a point. First, you ask Jesus into your heart. Then, you seek His
kingdom and His righteousness. Last, you go right up to the door of heaven
itself and knock because you know, being an adopted child of God, you belong
there! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">The most beautiful
thing to me is the response of the Son of God to these instructions....<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Ask, He said, and
it WILL be given you. He's saying, "If you ask Me to come into your heart,
I will!" In Revelation He says, "I stand at the door and knock. If
anyone lets Me in I will come and make my home in him." And remember, it
is impossible for God to lie. So if He says His answer will be yes when you ask
Him in, then you can rest assure His answer will be YES! <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"> Seek, He says,
and you will find. He's saying, "If you seek Me with all your heart, you
will find Me!" Seeking requires movement, action. When you are hunting,
you cannot find game unless you go out and seek it. The deer or rabbit or
whatever it is you are hungry for is not going to come right up to you and say
"Here I am. Go ahead and shoot!" You must go out and seek it. So it
is with the kingdom of heaven. If you stay in the same place spiritually you
will never find it. (I am not saying at all here that you must work to obtain
your salvation. Salvation cannot be possessed by anything we could ever do or
say. That is why, I believe, Jesus says to ask first. You cannot even begin
seeking unless you first have the Spirit of God in you to motivate and empower
you!)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> Knock, He says,
and the door will be opened to you. He's saying "I have adopted you into
my family. Come right up to the door and knock because you are welcome
here!" I love this because Jesus said in John 10:7 that He, Himself, is
the door for the sheep. If we ask Jesus into our hearts, we are essentially
inviting the very Doorway to Heaven into our hearts. And He says, "Yes! I
will open the door for you!" <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"> I really wanted
to share this with you this morning because for a long time I thought this
verse (along with others like it) meant whatever whim or desire I had on earth
could be granted if I can just be persistent enough. The problem with this thinking
is that it not only lowers Jesus Christ from the all-powerful, all-knowing,
all-sufficient God that He is down to more of a genie in a bottle, but when the
Lord sees fit to leave your prayers unanswered, what then? There begins to grow
a disconnect in your heart and you begin to doubt His love for you. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> No, our God is
much more loving and wise and powerful than to just give us everything we want
whenever we desire. (Parents, do you give your children everything they want? I
certainly hope not!) Jesus is promising something much deeper and more beautiful
and eternal here than answers to earthly prayers. Colossians 3:2 tells us to
set our minds on heavenly things and not on earthly things. 1 Corinthians 2:9
talks about the wonderful things that nobody has seen or heard that God has
prepared for those who love Him. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> Don't get me wrong, our earthly prayers are
important and even commanded by the Lord. But I believe when Jesus is saying
ask, seek, and knock, He is talking about Himself and the kingdom of heaven. It
is not that we should not pray for our own lives and the lives of those around
us, but I think the important thing is to have eternity in mind when we
are praying. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-29822158907034681892017-03-15T08:57:00.001-04:002017-03-15T19:15:22.566-04:00Coffee and Water<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #3d85c6; text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6:24" target="_blank">"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other"</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I was thinking this morning, on my way to work, about the daily struggle I endure between my cherished coffee and the ever healthy (yet ever tasteless) water. Stay with me here. So I love (LOVE) my coffee during work. It serves as not only a pick-me-up for that afternoon lull when I could put my head down and dream away right there on my desk, but also as sort of a warm, fuzzy blanket for my tummy. Yum! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">However, I also know that I need to be drinking more water. It's healthy, it's thirst-quenching, and just all-around good. So usually I come into work and go get myself a nice, hot cup of coffee and a nice, cold glass of water and figure on drinking them both throughout the day. I reason with myself that I can take a sip of coffee then a sip of water and so on. The only problem is that usually the coffee wins out and the water ends up sitting, untouched, on my desk and my body ends up missing out on the healthy benefits of the water.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This morning it got me to thinking about this verse where Jesus is telling the people that you cannot serve two masters. If you are going to follow Jesus, He has to be the most important. If you are trying to live your life for Jesus but also the things of the world, as He said, you will love the one and despise the other. It probably won't be intentional. And you may even do a good job of splitting your affections equally at first. But eventually, the things of the world (your coffee, your sweets, your bank account, your tv shows...)will end up stealing all your attention. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Now, I realize the decision whether to drink coffee or water is not a life altering decision and in light of eternity it is pretty minuscule. However, God showed me that this can be a metaphor for approaching our relationship with Jesus. Are we willing to put down the "tasty" thing in order to pick up that which is best for us? I began to wonder what other areas of my life I was willing to share my devotion with. Where else was I dividing my affections? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">If you're realizing, like me this morning, that you have been trying to serve two masters in any area of your life, you are not alone. I'm so thankful that we have a loving God who gives us verses and analogies such as coffee and water to show us where we are failing and lovingly point us back to the right direction. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Father, I pray that you will help me see the areas in my life where I have been dividing my affection and attention and help me to give it all back to You to whom it rightfully belongs. In Jesus' name, Amen.</span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-86173146793067415412016-10-20T18:24:00.001-04:002017-08-22T10:41:03.901-04:00Why I Do Not Believe Abortion Is Ever The Answer<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">With the upcoming election and political debates going on the past few weeks, there has been so much talk about the issue of abortion and I feel like I need to speak out about this topic. Yes, yes, I know everyone and their mother has an opinion on either this topic or some other politically charged issue but that is not where I am trying to go with this post. This is not a political post but a spiritual one. I have heard many arguments (and even gotten into a few myself) on why this practice should be allowed and I'd like the time and space to explain why I do not agree. (Facebook to me just seems too hostile of an environment already and I've already stuck my foot in my mouth more than once on there anyway!)</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">****Disclaimer!! Let me just say, first off, that just because I do not feel the same way as you about an issue does not mean I do not love you. A person can love another human without loving their beliefs.****</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Like I said, I've heard many reasons why people think a woman should have the right to decide if the life of her baby should continue or not. I'd have to say the argument of "my body, my choice" is the one that gets me the most. Let me just say first (with as much love as I can possibly express through my keyboard), that it is NOT your body. Yes, there is a teeny, tiny human body <em>inside</em> of your body but that does not mean you get to do whatever you see fit with it. This human, while dwelling inside of you, is completely separate from you. Separate heartbeat, separate DNA....totally different being. So no, I'm sorry but it is not "your body" (I am going to attempt to leave out any description of partial birth or late term abortion here because 1. WHEN the abortion is performed has no bearing in my mind of whether or not it is ok and 2. It only seems to lead to more anger and division which is far from my intent here.)</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Friend, let me just stop and appeal to you here. Not instruct harshly or even "just say" while looking down my nose at you. But let me simply and passionately implore you because I love God and I know He loves you and He instructs me to do the same. That baby? The one that the world says is an inconvenience or a hazard to your health or career or whatever? That baby was created by a loving God who loves you and loves that little body inside of yours.</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #cfe2f3; color: #0b5394; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Psalm 139 says that God <em>weaves</em> us in our mothers' wombs, with great care and wonder. He loves and cherishes every single life that He breathes into existence. And no matter what situation you are facing that has you thinking you have no other way out, I promise you - no, God promises you - He will never leave you. Deuteronomy 31:8 says just that. He will go before you, marching headlong in full battle gear into whatever sticky, messy or downright horrid situation you are facing. We never <em>ever</em> need to be afraid or feel like we have no other way out.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Some would say "Well, what if a woman is raped?" Well, I have never been forcibly raped and I cannot begin to comprehend the magnitude of this atrocity against a person's body. But I have been taken advantage of before in vulnerable situations and I know that <em>that</em> in particular is even extremely hard to deal with. So, while I do not understand the effects rape, I do understand the feeling of having something stolen from you that you can never get back. Awful, tragic, and lasting are words that do not begin to describe the effects.</span> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">And yet...I still stand firm on my belief that even in this tragic situation God would not want you to snuff out that tiny life. Here's why, friend. Once a woman has gone through that, it is there and there are no take backs on that kind of hurt. There will be years (and quite possibly a lifetime) of Skele-Gro type healing. (Skele-gro...think <i>Harry Potter</i>) But aborting the resulting pregnancy is <em>not</em> going to change what happened. In fact, I truly believe it would only add to the heartache, confusion, and pain.</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Some would say "How can I live with a walking, breathing reminder of the stealing of part of my soul around??" I get it. I truly do. Add to that the complexity and utter confusion of knowing that, in all natural terms, you are actually supposed to be loving this child with an unconditional love but mostly wanting to never look at them again?? I imagine the division of your mind and heart would be something likened to utter madness. Still...the bible also says that children are a gift from the Lord. What if, just <i>what if, </i>this child is a gift of healing? To help the mother by offering that unconditional love as children do best. Just <i>what if</i> out of the dark evil is born pure light-filled innocence? I'm not saying it would be easy but what if you tried? Worse....what if you didn't try?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">And still... there are other ways. There are many desperate, would-be parents in the world unable to conceive. The child could be given to loving parents and he (or she) would never even have to know the circumstances surrounding their birth. Yes, the pregnancy would be incredibly hard but, for me, the good that would come out of it would be at least a tiny bit of salve for my gaping wound.</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Paul said in his letter to the Roman church, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Yes, yes <i>a</i> <i>million</i> <i>times</i> yes, we should have the <i>utmost</i> compassion and tenderness with a woman who has experienced a rape but I do not for one second believe ending the life of the fetus inside her will help to ease her pain in any way. And, at the risk of sounding harsh, your pain does not give you the right to take a life. No matter who it is or how it came to be. The bible says in Deuteronomy 32:39 that He is the One who gives life and takes it away. It is His responsibility and right and His alone. The same goes for the woman whose health is in danger. <i>Please</i> friend, trust in God. He is near to the broken hearted and He <u>will</u> <u>be</u> <u>with</u> <u>you</u>!</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">I am not saying, by any means, that if a woman is facing a rape or an unplanned pregnancy or health crisis that it should be a cut and dry, super easy decision for her. We are human beings for heaven's sake! We feel and bleed and hurt and love and every situation we experience changes and shapes us in innumerable different ways. I'm not saying it should be easy. But I am saying it should be painfully thoughtful and we should wrestle with it in prayer until we are too exhausted to stand on our own! I also think, as the church, we need to be coming alongside of these women and wrestling with them and just being a strong presence of support and deep caring. We are, after all, the hands and feet of Jesus. But I stand firm that I do not believe abortion is <i>ever</i> an acceptable option. <i>Hard</i> does not equal <i>impossible</i>.</span> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">And, because I feel like when people hear the words pro-life they get this image of a bible-wielding, red-faced, crazy-haired preacher on a mission I just have to inject this here: please know I am not <i>at all</i> judging you for your beliefs or even if you have already made this decision and acted on it (see: disclaimer!). I have committed a multitude of sins in my own life. And yes, He is a God of love and mercy and He is always ready to forgive us <i>if we will only ask Him. </i>But just because He is a God of mercy and forgiveness does not mean we should commit a sin just because we know He will forgive. Would you break your earthly Father's heart by running away from home just because you knew he'd take you back?</span> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">Let me just close with this final thought. I do not believe abortion is ever a viable option because it states in big bold black letters THERE IS NO HOPE. It sadly snuffs out the life because it believes that life has no value, no chance of being great, no possible way of bringing joy to other lives already existing. It says that God has failed and I know that my God NEVER fails. With God, there is <i>always</i> hope. Always possibility. Our God is the <em>God of hope</em> and I know if you are facing an impossible situation He can help you turn it into possible.</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763;">In the end, after all the arguments and semantics have played out and the political debates have ended, it really boils down to this: God is the One who gave us life. He is the One who has the full right and responsibility to say who lives and who dies. It is not our right to take that away from Him. And if you are a woman in trouble and not sure where to turn I beg you to talk to someone. Heck, talk to me if you need to! I pray that this post does not hurt anyone who is already hurting with this type of situation. But as for offending.....well....at the risk of sounding harsh it is not me you are offended at it is God. (But He still loves you...and so do I!)</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-41570808111007568682015-03-18T19:08:00.000-04:002015-03-18T22:48:41.021-04:00When The Fire Burns Low<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"><i>"But the Lord sustains the righteous." Psalm 37:17 </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"><i>"In Your righteousness deliver me; incline Your ear to me and save me. Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come; You have given commandment to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress." Psalm 71:2-3</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> Oh Lord, thank You for Your word with which you have <i>sustained</i> me. Sometimes I need to be rescued from others, from the enemy trying to destroy me. And sometime...sometimes I need to be <i>literally</i> rescued by You from my own ungratefulness. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> I often wondered why many of Your peoples' fires go out. They receive You into their hearts for the first time with all joy and awe and it's amazing the love and happiness and pure glee that spills forth from them. Then somewhere, somehow that fire begins to burn down and...just...slowly...dies. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> That's how I was feeling today.That is, until You graciously and faithfully reminded me. You took me to these Psalms and showed me what to pray. Because, oh, when my own prayers become tired and feel sluggish and weighed down with "<i>is this good enough, God?</i>" I know that I <i>need</i> to keep praying like I need the air in my lungs You graciously give. But sometimes...I don't know...my heart just can't seem to find it's footing on the mountain of Your praise. But lo, our faithlessness does <i>never</i> nullify Your faith<i>ful</i>ness and love. (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+3%3A3&version=NASB" target="_blank">Romans 3:3</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> I believe we get knocked off the course of our path so easily because we</span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> </span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">so desperately</i></span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> want that "on fire" feeling to last forever. We want to constantly be walking on Your high mountains and looking out over Your indescribable canyons of never-ending glory. And there is nothing wrong with that. I believe Your never-ending-love-beating heart rejoices that we, Your scurrying and chaotic children, have a place deep inside that just can't get enough of Your holy presence. A place surely created and placed tenderly by Your very own hand.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> But life </span><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">always</i><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> creeps in. The dishes must be done. The floor must be swept (again). And the laundry..."</span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">wasn't that basket just empty 5 minutes ago and now its gone and bred even more clothes??</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">" And we can't avoid our lives. We can't simply toss everything into the air and change it all up just because we are changed. We must now begin to learn how to live, completely and wholly new, among that which is still the same. </span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">Still the same</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">. To </span></span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">the point of being mundane. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> But You, oh Lord, are never mundane. Your Spirit which You give to us is </span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">anything</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> but ordinary. Splendor, majesty, strength, beauty...</span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">these</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> are qualities of the Most High! (</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+96%3A6&version=NASB" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Psalm 96:6</a><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">) Your Spirit, which You </span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">give</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> to us (</span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">to me??</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">) is power and life. (</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A26&version=NASB" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">John 14:26</a><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">, </span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5%3A5&version=NASB" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Romans 5:5</a><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">) Isn't that what we all want, Lord?? To feel wholly and eternally </span><i style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">alive</i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: inherit;">??</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #073763; font-family: inherit;"> So Lord, let me remember that, when I feel the mundaneness of my perpetually still-same schedule creeping in, that You are a rock of habitation to which I may continually come. Let me not put my hope in my feelings and emotions (may it never be!) but only in You and Your beautiful promises Lord. Teach me how to live and walk changed among that which is still the same so that the "same" might also put their hopes in You and become changed too. Holy Spirit, teach me to be faithful to You even, <i>especially</i>, when the flames inside me are burning low, for <i>You</i> are my Source now and always. Amen.</span></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-25816260882595985092015-02-07T11:40:00.000-05:002015-03-18T19:08:41.920-04:00Just In Case Someone Out There Is Broken Like Me<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Psalm 145:8-9 NASB</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">The LORD is gracious and merciful; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The LORD is good to all, And His mercies are over all His works.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Psalm 119:156 NASB</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Great are Your mercies, O LORD; Revive me according to Your ordinances.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.</span></div>
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Today is a new day and if you have breath in your lungs and woke up this morning God has given you another chance. He is the God of mercy and abundant lovingkindness.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> If you are feeling today like you are too far gone and have strayed too far away you need only to read these verses to know that today is a new day the Lord has given you. A gift from His very own hand. If you woke up feeling discouraged or downtrodden know first that you DID wake up. He is saying to you "Get back up. I am giving you a fresh start this morning. Let's tackle this thing together"</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> Yesterday is gone and forgotten. (Isaiah 43:25) "I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, And I will not remember your sins." Let us not forget that He has created time in such a way that we cannot go back...only forward. He has done this for a reason. Don't let Satan hold you in the chains of yesterday. God has given you a blessing of another NEW day.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> And, yes, He wants you to do the right thing in His sight. But He also wants you to move forward, believe His promises, and (if necessary and possible) make an attempt to right your wrongs. He will help you. He will move mountains for you if you cry out to Him. We just need to understand some mountains are huge and take a really long time to get out of the way. In the mean time, just put one foot in front of the other.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> I am with you friend. I feel you. I hear the cries of your broken heart. I love you...every part of you (even the broken parts). And Jesus loves us all (jagged edges and rips and all).</span></div>
Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-49447489920916419422014-12-12T11:25:00.001-05:002015-03-18T19:08:30.665-04:00Why You Shouldn't Be A Harsh Judge<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Ok, ladies, here's the deal: we are not perfect. We as moms, wives, daughters, friends?? We will make mistakes today. We will stumble (probably a bunch of times) and maybe even fall. We will say something to hurt someone we love or snap at someone out of exasperated pride or maybe even snub a friend when she needs us most. At the very least we will have a few sinful thoughts brewing in our pride-ridden hearts. But Jesus says that He loves us with and <i>everlasting love</i> (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=jeremiah+31%3A3&version=NASB" target="_blank">Jeremiah 31:3</a>). So let's muster up the courage to just admit and accept that fact before we even put our weary bare feet on the floor this morning. Let us just look up to our gracious Savior, raise our hands (partly in praise and partly in surrender) and say, "Lord, I accept that I am far from perfect and I know You do not expect me to be that way today. I trust in Your perfection and holiness and know that it is not because of my clean house or perfectly obedient children (ppffftt. . .yeah right) that You love me. But only because You created me and because You <i>are</i> love."</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> So your probably saying to yourself right about now, "Trust me, I already know I'm not perfect. I don't need you to tell me." So why, oh why, dear sisters do we as women <i>constantly</i> beat ourselves up over even the silliest, most insignificant things?? Oh...you don't do that? Your balanced and emotionally stable enough to smile calmly and take it in astride when you pick your child up from preschool only to realize his pants have been on backwards ALL day?? (<i>yes, that was me...the poor child</i>) Well then a-maz-ing woman, <i>please</i> friend me on Facebook so I too can learn your secret.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> But let's be real here. While most of us may put on a brave face in light of a faux pas moment, deep inside I believe we are all imaging all sorts of gossipy judgments raining down on us. Or am I the only one here? (c'mon ladies, don't leave me hanging here all alone on the crazy train) And I think also that we can be so used to these imaginary character attacks that we don't even realize how tense and anxious we have become. At least I know that's true for me. And when I talk with my very dear (and very admirable) sisters I realize I am far from alone.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> Ladies, I know our wonderful Savior who created us in such love and dedication would rarely, if ever, be as harsh and demanding and even downright tyrannical on us as we are on ourselves. I mean, He is called the God of forgiveness <i>for a reason</i>. (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=nehemiah+9%3A17&version=NASB" target="_blank">Nehemiah 9:17</a>) When I think of Jesus putting the scribes and pharisees in their place for judging the sinful woman who anointed His feet with her very own tears... </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> Here is a woman, probably a prostitute (Jesus Himself said her sins were many), probably a total spiritual wreck on the inside. I am willing to bet this poor woman beat herself down daily for her mistakes. I am also willing to bet that this woman was trying her best to survive in a not-so-nice world, doing the best she could with what she had. And our sweet, tender-hearted Jesus still loved her with an <i>everlasting love</i>. He forgave <u><i>all</i></u> her sins, which were many because He alone could see deep into her heart. That she desperately wanted to change. To be accepted and loved for who she was inside, not for what she did or said or how she dressed. She wanted to be a better person than who she was. If only she could get out from under the heaviness of society's judgments that covered her like a blanket of bricks, keeping her as low to the ground as possible. She longed to live a different way. A <i>better</i> way. She just didn't know how. (Ever felt like that?)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> And if Jesus, the same God who created us in tender love all the way back in the beginning, so loves to forgive - why, oh why, dear sisters do we not forgive ourselves? Why do we carry around our past mistakes like bricks hidden in our handbags, silently struggling with the weight as we smile politely on the outside? If He removed our transgressions as far from us as the east is from the west, why can't we <i>just. let. it. go? </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"><i> </i>Now this is not to say that we should walk around all sin-happy just because He is a God of forgiveness and grace. Remember the words of the Holy Spirit through Paul: "<i>How can we who died to sin still live in it?</i>" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+6%3A2&version=NASB" target="_blank">Romans 6:2</a>) But it is a heart that wants to be better. That recognizes it's dark parts and longs for a Savior to wash it clean. This is the heart that the God of the whole<i> entire </i>universe, who created<i> e-v-e-r-y-thing</i> falls in love with (<i>doesn't it just give you chills?</i>). This is also the heart that is mightily blessed to fall in love with Him.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> I know, as I read blogs and Facebook posts and listen to my dear sisters, that this is the cry of all our hearts. With one resounding and harmonized voice many hearts cry together to the mighty Shepherd "Yes, Lord! We want to know You more so that we can be <i>more like You</i>!" </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> So, today, I offer two challenges. The first has to do with judging others. I know its a hard thing to admit so I'll be the first to come clean: I have had judgmental and criticizing thoughts about my family, friends, even that guy in the post office whom I have never before met in my life (<i>whew! there, I said it</i>). But God's word says there is no partiality with Him. He does not play favorites. (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+2%3A11&version=NASB" target="_blank">Romans 2:11</a>) He loves the mom losing it with her screaming kid (you know, the one I just judged as a bad mom?) in Walmart just as much as He loves me. So the challenge is: the next time one of those ugly little thought bubbles pops up and attempts to turn you heart against a person who is probably just doing the best they can with what they have, just pop it. Let's, instead, try to imagine how we would feel if somebody said or thought that about us. Let's ask our gracious God for wisdom to see that person through His eyes of love and for a heart softened and changed. (<i>and let's not forget about our own logs...hmm?</i>)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> The second challenge has to do with judgement of ourselves. Remember what the Holy Spirit said about partiality through Paul? Well, the same goes for you and I. Jesus loves us just as much as that perfectly-put-together mom we are comparing ourselves with. (Because, let's face it, how many times have <i>I</i> been that mom in Walmart losing it on my kids?) So here it is: the next time we have a negative thought about ourselves I challenge us to pray first and second figure out what the exact opposite of that thought is (I <i>am</i> pretty, I <i>am</i> a loving wife, my children are <i>not </i>going to grow up to be serial killers) and purposefully think it. <u><i>Choose</i></u> to believe it. (And remember Jesus left His heavenly home to come to this earth and suffer greatly and die for you...you really think He'd do all that if He wasn't crazy mad in love with you??)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; font-family: inherit;"> Believe me my beautiful sisters (and brothers), I know this is much easier said than done. But I also know if we ask our loving Father for grace and help in time of need He will provide the manna for us (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews+4%3A16&version=NASB" target="_blank">Hebrews 4:16</a>). <i>Just for today</i>...think beautiful thoughts!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">"He does not delight in the strength of the horse;</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">The Lord favors those who fear Him,</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Those who wait for His lovingkindness."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Psalm 147:10-11</i></span></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-33426910840920208372014-04-08T10:10:00.002-04:002014-04-08T10:10:29.672-04:00Unconditional <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">I opened the boys' bedroom door softly and tiptoed into the darkened room. I had been drinking my morning coffee and relishing some alone time with the Lord when I heard the familiar sound of Ely's soft voice singing in his bed. The sound of my boys' tiny little voices letting me know when they are awake in the morning is one of those things I will remember fondly and my heart will truly ache for when they are grown up and have moved out to start families of their own.</span> <br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">I went to Elyas' bed first seeing as how he was sitting up and Ephraim was still laying down. I reached down to him and he immediately stood up and climbed into my arms. This is our usual morning ritual. I always try to remember to give them hugs and kisses before they even hit the floor, as I believe it is very important to start the day off feeling loved. Normally, being the bouncy, energetic toddlers they are, they immediately try to squirm out of my grasp and run head long into the day. This morning, however, when I picked up Elyas he neither squirmed nor tried to break free. Instead, he laid his little head on my shoulder and released the full weight of his body into my arms. Completely at rest and completely trusting me to hold him up. He could have been fast asleep if I didn't know any better.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">This was such a rare treat to me as I feel like I am always chasing these little bundles of energy around trying to steal just one more minute of snuggle time, just one more kiss. And they are <em>always</em> trying to get away. Sitting still for my boys probably feels similar to what kryptonite felt like for Superman. This morning, though, I was blessed with a special gift. The funny thing is I didn't realize how precious the feeling of them in my arms was or how much I was missing it until that moment. Sure, I pick them up a hundred times a day. But since they developed their own internal sources of renewable energy it's never without them attempting to get away.</span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4Bo4Bz009ilYg6bInGW7nHbVloIACe6ApNrSxQzg4YFzdfpIrfJx6bQcn4Jy3PpPX0Ae9NvwXSal1u2dyg1qAA6xNyLAlPq_uymBwq28OfRYqoE55wofQAv0VfSKo6kPhkHavZYkd9Y/s1600/IMG_7074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4Bo4Bz009ilYg6bInGW7nHbVloIACe6ApNrSxQzg4YFzdfpIrfJx6bQcn4Jy3PpPX0Ae9NvwXSal1u2dyg1qAA6xNyLAlPq_uymBwq28OfRYqoE55wofQAv0VfSKo6kPhkHavZYkd9Y/s1600/IMG_7074.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> As I stood there holding my baby boy I thought to myself, <em>I wonder if this is how Jesus wants us to lean on Him? </em>The answer came to my heart quickly and without delay - <em>Yes! </em></span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+6:10&version=NASB" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #ffe599;">Ephesians 6:10</span></a><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> tells us to be strong in the strength of <em>His</em> might. </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4%3A13&version=NASB" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #ffe599;">Philippians 4:13</span></a><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> says we can do all things <em>through Christ</em>, who strengthens us. We are meant to trust in and rely completely on the Lord - not ourselves!</span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">To reiterate this truth, on a few recent nights I have found Elyas not in bed where he was supposed to be but, instead, playing with his trains on the floor in the dark. I didn't know why at the time but it just completely broke my heart and gave birth to such pity for my precious baby boy. To see him so consumed with playing with those toys that he was willing to sit on the cold floor in the dark, instead of warm in his bed, and play all by himself....I just can't describe the love and pity and compassion it gave me for him. I couldn't even bring myself to reprimand him sharply like I normally would have. Instead, all I could do was gently take the trains from him, scoop him up in my arms, and tuck him back in bed.</span> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcFkdDk5SGn9NVRgPo6aVy2OUrmem6TzMeHU-38m81tIrywKjPtfTyLNu4FWxS8Ib4JiOlCIW4jr_KceAaZlEEVU5eBIkD7wYI6oefEV6fh6RrNEN8LyDUpjzkAyYYWI0dfZTXfovorFA/s1600/IMG_3519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">It might sound crazy to some but I believe the Lord, through this experience, was showing me the kind of love He has for us. He sees us through eyes of love. The eyes of a parent. He sees our sin and takes pity on us because of that love. He knows we are desperately flawed. He knows that sometimes we are even a danger to our own physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. And that is why He not only died for us to reconcile us to Himself, but also was raised again to life on the third day so that He can guide us, mature us, love us, <em>protect us</em>. </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans+5%3A10&version=NASB" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #ffe599;">Romans 5:10</span></a><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> speaks of this.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> I think sometimes it can be hard to trust in the Lord not because He is untrustworthy (by no means!) but because of our own sin. The enemy uses our mistakes and shortcomings against us so that we ask the question, <em>How can Jesus possibly love someone like me?</em> He shouts our sins in our face and glaringly illuminates our flaws so that we are unable to see past our own imperfections to the indestructible and unfailing love of God. He is a </span><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+8:44&version=NASB" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: red;">murderer</span></a><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> and, therefore, loves to kill and destroy. Have you ever seen those cartoons with the person wrestling with a decision and a devil is on one shoulder talking in their ear while the angel is on the other side? Those cartoons are not too far off. Satan stands right in our ear and hopes if he talks loudly enough we won't hear the voice on the other shoulder. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> The one problem with that is that our Angel, the Spirit of the Lord Jesus, does not merely whisper in our ear and hope we will hear it. He speaks directly to our hearts. Where, even if we don't recognize it at first because of all the other "noise" around, it will burrow deep into the soil and take root. He makes sure the job gets done!</span><br />
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<em><span style="background-color: #ffe599;">Father, I thank You for being so wise and loving. Thank You for having such pity and compassion for me in my sin. I pray that, by Your Spirit, You will teach me to become more mature - less like me and more like You. Dear Savior, please take any "toys" from my hand that might be keeping me from resting safe and warm in the "bed" of Your everlasting arms. Amen.</span></em>Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-65514383186659182822013-10-10T21:57:00.001-04:002013-10-10T21:57:07.115-04:00Love<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> So often I believe the enemy's lie that I am a bad mom, a terrible person, because the feeling of love - of total adoration - does not always come easy for me as a mom of three-year-old boys. Sometimes I have to cultivate that love-feeling by remembering they are a gift from the hand of my loving Creator. By remembering their good qualities in the midst of temper tantrums. By asking for a "huggie" or "kissie" when I honestly don't even want to look at them. And sometimes I have to get on my knees and beg for that feeling. For just one shimmering glimpse through the eyes with which I used to see them when they were infants (<em>before</em> they developed their own will). Through the eyes of <em>their</em> loving Creator.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> And, honestly, it makes me feel like the worst mom e-v-e-r! But I believe that is a lie of the enemy himself. You see, if love were this super easy thing that humans could just feel (and act on) whenever they should, I don't think God would have had to reiterate it so many times throughout the bible. Over and over again He reminds us to love one another - even when we do not <em>feel</em> loved by the other person.</span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20corinthians%2014:1&version=NASB" target="_blank">1 Corinthians 14:1</a> tells us to "pursue love". In chapter 13, Paul actually describes what true, unconditional love looks like. It is patient, kind, not arrogant or jealous and - most important to me at this stage in my life - is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered and bears all things. Hmm...I wonder why the Lord would feel the need to inspire such a detailed account of true, Godly love. Perhaps because He knows the heart of man?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> There are many more places in the bible where the author (inspired by the Holy Spirit) reminds and challenges us to love. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus%2019:18&version=NASB" target="_blank">Leviticus 19:18</a>, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2010:19&version=NASB" target="_blank">Deuteronomy 10:19</a>, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2015:12&version=NASB" target="_blank">John 15:12</a> and <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2013:8&version=NASB" target="_blank">Romans 13:8</a> are all wonderful examples of God's messengers emboldening and encouraging us to love the Lord and love His people. And there are tons more too! The New Testament is woven intricately together with charges to and descriptions of love. Not the way the world loves but the way God loves. The way Jesus loved on that cross. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> I believe the Lord knows the human heart and how difficult it can be for us at times. It is so easy for the Holy Spirit's call to love, forgive, and have compassion on to be drowned out by our own pride's call to contend, turn away from and get revenge on. That's why the bible tells us over and over again to <em>pursue</em> love. To <em>put on </em>kindness and compassion (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians%203:12&version=NASB" target="_blank">Colassians 3:12</a>). To love our enemies and do good to those who hate us (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%206:27&version=NASB" target="_blank">Luke 6:27</a>). Not to mention all the places where God's beautiful and perfect love <em>for us</em> is described. You know, come to think of it - I can name countless places in the bible where He reminds us to love Him with all our heart and souls, love others and put them before ourselves, and just how great His love for us is. I cannot, however, remember ever reading in the bible a reminder to love myself. Why? Probably because the sinful heart of man needs no reminder to love himself. We do, however, need plenty of reminders to forget about ourselves and put others first! (I know I do, anyway.)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> So often we need to look past our feelings and emotions and focus on the word of God. We <strong><u>must</u> </strong>learn to tear down - thought by thought and emotion by emotion - the lies satan sells us. </span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">"If you don't <em>feel </em>love you don't have to show it" he says. </span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">"If you don't <em>feel </em>the love," he lies, "there must not be any in your heart." </span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">I can't even tell you how many times I have heard this one - "You should just give up and succumb to your anger." </span><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">However, I learned something today, as I looked at my child who had just gotten done throwing one of his many temper tantrums of the day. Unlike my fit-throwing little cherub, I don't have to let my emotions boss me around. I can look at my child (or any other person for that matter) faults and all and make the conscience decision to show love to them regardless of how badly they are behaving. (Like I'm such an angel myself!) The amazing thing is this: if I make that decision in my head, the Lord will honor it in my heart.</span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> You see, that is what He wants. He doesn't expect His children to be perfect all the time. In fact, He is unscathed and unmiffed (unlike us) when we make the same mistake for the one<em> hundredth</em> time. (Try having <em>that</em> kind of patience with your children!) But He does want us to mature and grow to a point where we say, "Yes Lord! I will follow Your way and not my own!" To be driven less and less by our heart of emotions (which, by the way, will lie to us) and more and more by the desire to obey Him.</span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> And like a child who knows not what is best for her (but thinks she does) I will certainly come back to this place again where I am struggling to "feel" the love in my heart for my children. Probably tomorrow when they have spilled their third drink of the day on my just-cleaned kitchen floor or after I've told them (in my nicest mommy voice) for the seventh time to sit on the couch so I can put their shoes on or when they are throwing a royal fit complete with limp bodies laying on the floor and high-pitched wailing because I've told them it's nap time.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> But what I'm learning more and more lately is that love - true, unconditional love - is about 30% "feeling" and 70% decision. Because eventually that new baby smell and post pregnancy hormones are going to fade away. Eventually the excitement of the new romance and first date flush will disappear. And then what are you left with? A true, 100% raw version of the edited fairy tale you had made up in your head. A real person, unique with all sorts of flaws and quirks and special qualities and talents instilled by the Lord's own hand. That's when you get to make the beautiful decision of loving that person anyway. (Because let's not forget about our <em>own</em> logs!)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> You see, the Lord is teaching me one very special thing about love. True love - Godly love - is more than butterflies in your stomach or a desire to be near EVERY waking moment. It is crying when your loved one is crying. It is rejoicing when he (or she) is rejoicing. It is offering your silent presence when there are no words to say. It is swallowing your pride even when you know you are right. It is enduring heartache and hurt even when you don't deserve it. And, in it's ugliest and most beautiful state, it is staying when all you want to do is leave. Love is more than just a feeling - it's an action. After all, wasn't it pure, holy love when Jesus made the decision to leave His heavenly home and come to dwell among us here in this sin-ridden world? Wasn't it perfect, unconditional love when He chose to stay up on that cross, beaten and broken, and suffer death so that we might live?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> When I think about that, choosing to show my children love in action - even when they are screaming in the middle of Walmart and e-v-e-r-y one is staring at me - doesn't seem like such an impossible task.</span><br />
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<em>"Love <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28670K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></sup>is patient, love is kind and <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28670L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)"></sup>is not jealous; love does not brag and is not <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28670M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)"></sup>arrogant, <span class="text 1Cor-13-5" id="en-NASB-28671">does not act unbecomingly; it <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28671N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></sup>does not seek its own, is not provoked, <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28671O" title="See cross-reference O">O</a>)"></sup>does not take into account a wrong suffered,</span> <span class="text 1Cor-13-6" id="en-NASB-28672">does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28672Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></sup>rejoices with the truth;</span> <span class="text 1Cor-13-7" id="en-NASB-28673">bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7</span></em></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-32552964490782373852013-08-22T09:24:00.002-04:002013-08-22T09:30:31.329-04:00Hope and Patience<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">Well it has been SUPER long since I last wrote and so I decided it was time. The Lord is being faithful (as always) to lead me into a deeper and stronger connection with Him and I feel that I need to write it down. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> The other day I was (I believe) under attack from the enemy. I didn't realize it while in the thick of it but later that day I just had this picture in my mind of all these thoughts bombarding and attacking me like little mini kamikaze planes at my head. It was weird but He knew it was exactly the picture I needed to make sense of it. Anyway, I was calling out to Jesus because I knew these thoughts were not only wrong but also not my own. However, I kept thinking that He was ignoring me. As much as I pleaded with Him for help He just stayed silent! I knew even this thought was wrong but couldn't shake it. Yep. I was being driven and pushed around by my <em>emotions</em>. Oh, how I am growing to dislike that word. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> I talked to a very dear friend and mentor later and she really helped me. She said to speak the Word (out loud!) in those moments when I am being attacked and keep speaking it. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> "Even if I don't believe it right then?" I said. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> "Absolutely!" she said. "You don't believe it because you don't <em>feel</em> it." Doesn't make His word any less true. <em>What then? If some did not believe, their unbelief will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it?</em> (Romans 3:3) She also said to ask God what He wanted me to learn from this situation and trust that He will be faithful to answer. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> "Maybe not today," she said, "but maybe tomorrow or a few days from now. Something will happen or you'll read a verse of scripture and it will just make sense." Hmm....funny she should say that. A few days later when I picked up my bible this is what I read: <em>For <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28141F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>in hope we have been saved, but <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28141G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup><strong>hope that is seen is not hope</strong>; for who hopes for what he already sees? </em><span class="text Rom-8-25" id="en-NASB-28142"><em>But <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28142H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup>if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. </em>(Romans 8:24-25) </span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-8-25" style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> And then, as she had said, it all made sense. The Lord had never once left my side during that time, He was simply allowing me to grow. He was strengthening my faith. I am certain beyond a shadow of a doubt that if I had come too close to the edge He would have reached out and grabbed me. But that's the amazing thing about our Lord. He already knows! He already knew how that was going to play out and He planned it that way. The enemy had an attack planned for that day but Jesus had it planned for my good and His glory.</span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-8-25" style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> The other day I caught myself in something I said to Ephraim. He found a water bottle that had been left out in one of the diaper bags. Of course he wanted to have a sip but I, being the protective mother, did not want to give that one to him because I didn't know if it had been left in the heat at any point in time. (Still not really sure whether that's an urban legend or not but, hey, better safe than sorry.) So I took the water bottle from him, planning to give him a nice cold and fresh water from the fridge, and sure enough he began to cry. "Have patience," I said to him, "I'm going to give you water, just not this water <em><strong>because I have something better for you</strong></em>." Wow. How many times has the Lord said <em>that</em> to me when I complained because I didn't get what I wanted immediately?? </span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-8-25" style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"> Thank you, Lord, for your patience and slowness to anger with me. Thank you for knowing and giving me exactly what I need instead of what I want. Amen.</span></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-32916638183927034542013-06-18T15:18:00.001-04:002013-06-18T15:21:11.450-04:00The Kingdom of Heaven Belongs to Such as These<div style="text-align: center;">
Last night at dinner, my husband and I stared at each other in shocked amusement as Ephie reached his little hand carefree-as-could-be over the macaroni and cheese my husband was offering him and helped himself to a few choice French fries instead. He didn't even look up as if to say, "Is this ok?" as he shoveled them into his little button mouth. Eyebrows raised, my husband and I could only gape at him as we wondered whether to laugh or scold him. </div>
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We chose neither and continued on with our dinner after exchanging surprised smirks. However, I couldn't help but wonder at the trust of this child. With total ease and complete faith he simply took what his little heart desired and, in all innocence and humility, what he knew his father would not deny him. "Wow!" I thought. "This must be how our Heavenly Father desires <em>us</em> to come to <em>Him</em>." </div>
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Ephraim <em>wanted</em> that French fry and he just instinctively knew in his little heart that his father would not deny him that joy. I believe this is how we are to approach the Lord - total and complete trust that He loves us and wants to bless us. When we approach the Lord hesitantly with our prayers, it can become a slippery slope right down to doubting His goodness. I have experienced this many times and I can tell you from experience, it is the crack in the door the enemy longs for. A very good friend recently reminded me of the oldest trick in the book (and I mean LITERALLY the oldest trick in the book). Back in the day when Adam and Eve were hanging out and living life in the beautiful sanctuary of Eden, satan came along and used doubt to trick Eve into disobeying God. We all know the rest of <em>that</em> story!</div>
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Now, am I saying that we should just expect the Lord to give us whatever we want, whenever we want it? Absolutely not! If God always just gave us whatever we wanted, wouldn't He be harming us instead of helping us most of the time? If your child said he wanted to go up to the roof of the house and jump off because he wanted to fly would you let him? In the same way we, as children of God, do not always know what is good or right (or even safe) for ourselves. So, while we cannot expect to get every little thing we desire in our hearts (because God is merciful and loving) we ought to approach Him always expecting <em>His goodness</em>. That even if we do not receive what we have prayed for we can know it is for our own good and because HE LOVE US! </div>
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I am quite certain if my husband had told Ephraim, "No, you can have the macaroni I am offering you instead of the French fry" Ephraim, being the child he is, would have been just fine with that. Why? Because he knows who his father is. No matter what happens in his tiny world, he knows without a doubt his father (or mother) will be there to protect and shelter him. He <em>trusts</em> his father wholly and completely because he has never known not to. He may not always like our decisions as parents but he will always (sometimes kicking and screaming) follow us. This is what Jesus was talking about when he told his disciples "<span class="woj">Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-23777C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”</span></div>
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<span class="woj">"For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, </span></div>
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<span class="woj">But My lovingkindness will not be removed from you,</span></div>
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<span class="woj">And My covenant of peace will not be shaken" </span></div>
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<span class="woj">Says the Lord who has compassion on you.</span></div>
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<span class="woj">Isaiah 54:10</span></div>
Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-70925050574168527272013-06-13T16:05:00.000-04:002013-06-13T16:08:29.747-04:00Trust<div style="text-align: center;">
So, I'm picking up where I left off a few months back in <u><a href="http://onethousandgifts.com/" target="_blank">One Thousand Gifts</a></u> and it is a wonder of a blessing! I am reminded that giving thanks is the way to truly experience the joy the Lord has set before us. Giving thanks in all circumstances (even when it's hard and every fiber of my being is screaming against it and it feels all mechanical and awkward) is the only way to see the blessings, yes even the face, of God in all. To feel His presence even when I can't <em>feel</em> His presence. </div>
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So, I had a "light bulb" moment. Ann says, "Do I hold worry close as this ruse of control, <em>this pretense that I'm the one who will determine the course of events</em>, as I stir and churn and ruminate?" (Emphasis added.) I read that and it was like coming out of a deep cave into the sunlight after days of darkness. Every day I walk around subconsciously believing I am the one controlling my destiny. How quickly I forget! Sometime ago I gave my heart to Jesus and, in doing so, relinquished all control to Him. </div>
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Him, the Creator of huge galaxies and tiny microbes. Him, who had all the days of my life written in His book before I was even born. So why, as Ann puts it, the "spiritual Alzheimer's"? Why do I so easily, almost eagerly, forget that it is not I - but He - who is control of my destiny? The author speaks of the <em>hard eucharisteo</em> and the struggle to give thanks in all circumstances. I totally get it. But for me, the light came on when I read that sentence about "the pretense that I am the one who determines the course of events" (chapter 8, pg. 143). It is this very idea that has been allowing the weeds of doubt, fear, and anxiety slip in silently and choke out the beautiful blooms of trust, confidence, and passion for the Lord. When I buy into the idea that I must control everything (from finances to career to relationships) all on my own, it's no wonder I would be stricken with panic! It's only when I understand that He is the One who determines the course of <em>all</em> events that I can truly see and, as Paul urges the Thessalonians, give thanks in <em>all</em> circumstances.</div>
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If all His ways are good then I don't need to worry about our waning bank account or when my children are being tiny terrorists or when there's an unexpected problem with the car because I know it's all a part of <em>His</em> plan. And I can know for a fact that His plan was written with my good in mind for, "We know that God causes <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28145A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28145B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>called according to <i>His</i> purpose" (Romans 8:28). So why do I regularly insist on grabbing hold of that fear and pulling it to myself as if my next breath were coming from it? I lay it down at my Savior's feet only to quickly steal it back again in that first moment of uncertainty. </div>
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Isn't it a painfully simple matter of trust? Isn't that what all my angst, guilt, worry, irritation, and ungratefulness boils down to? When I am afraid that we will not be able to pay the bills I am saying that I don't trust the Lord to provide. If I don't trust that He will provide I am saying I don't trust that He loves me enough to provide. If I don't trust in His unfailing, unending, undeserved love for me I am saying I don't trust in His goodness. If I don't trust in His goodness, what else - on all this earth - is there? For, "Whom have I in heaven but You?" (Psalm 73:25) </div>
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<em>Trusting in His goodness</em>. Isn't that what being a Christian is all about? Loving and trusting in God because I know, without doubt, that <em>all</em> His ways are good? Yes, I am to worship and fear Him because He is the Lord of Lords, creator of heaven and earth. But my <em>love</em> for Him, the yearning to walk every day with Him, my most intimate and personal relationship with Him should flow because of His kindness, faithfulness, gentleness compassion, and perfect love. Isn't this the reason He graciously gave us free will? I know if my children only "loved" me because I commanded them to and could somehow force them to, it would certainly be a love lacking. It would not be true love at all! If we do not see the value in forced "love" from our children why would the most perfect Father of all want this from His children? </div>
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Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me not only who You are, but who I am in You. Thank you for teaching me that the only way to experience the closeness I long for with You is to trust in Your goodness, faithfulness, and love. Not as the world trusts but as a little child trusts his parent. Thank you also for loving my praise and thanksgivings and reminding me to give them constantly in order that I may have the grateful and humble heart I desire and You command! </div>
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"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18</div>
Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-45632794184143629402013-05-07T13:50:00.001-04:002013-05-07T14:03:33.794-04:00Love Notes from God Have you ever felt that God is too busy to really be involved in the small stuff? I have. However, yesterday morning was a morning that I really want to share with everyone. The other night was a very rough night as I awoke in the middle of the night due to sinus issues and could not fall back asleep. I woke up probably somewhere around 12:30 a.m. to use some saline nose spray but it wasn't doing the trick like I'd hoped. By the time my nose was clear, the damage was already done. I was fully awake, frustrated, and in no shape to drift back off to sleep. <br />
You see, I have always had trouble with sleeping and bad dreams. Since coming to know the Lord it has gotten better, however I still have "those nights" sometimes. Once I get it in my head that it is going to be "one of those nights", its impossible for me to quiet my thoughts and return to peaceful slumber. I toss, I turn, I get up and lay on the couch, I return to bed, I toss and turn some more. Somewhere around 4 a.m. I even resorted to a glass of wine hoping it would sooth my nerves which had frayed considerably by then.<br />
"This might actually work!" I thought, as I snuggled up under 2 of my favorite blankets on the couch with the window fan blowing cool air on me. And it might have.....had it not been for those dreaded early birds chirping away outside my window, waking up the whole neighborhood with their incessant singing! (Ok, maybe "the whole neighborhood" is blowing it a <em>little</em> out of proportion.) Eventually, somewhere around 5 a.m. I gave up and went to Walmart to get some coffee since we had run out the night before. <br />
"Why, Lord? Why won't You help me when I am tossing and turning and my thoughts refuse to be turned off so I might get some sleep?!" This is the question I held in my heart but was too afraid to say out loud. Then, somewhere in the middle of my inward temper tantrum, I heard it sure and clear. "You asked for more quiet time to read My word, didn't you?" Yep. I sure did. I have been praying eagerly for more time to read and meditate on the Word of God and here was my opportunity. What time is more quiet than when the rest of your household and the world is asleep? Perhaps if I had listened to that gentle voice when I first heard it instead of ignoring and excuse-ing it away, I would have gotten back to sleep much sooner.<br />
Anyway, I did end up making myself a nice strong cup of coffee, sitting down with my bible and getting into the book of Acts. And I was thankful for it. Once I sat down in the stillness of the morning hour and it was just me and the Teacher, I knew it was all for my good. I also was reminded that our prayers may not always be answered the way we think they should be, but they are <em>always</em> answered!<br />
Later on that morning, I went online to find a pleasant surprise - I had won a prize on my friend Rachel's giveaway on her heart warming blog, <a href="http://morethanadayswork.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #741b47;"><strong>More Than a Days' Work</strong></span></a>! (Trust me, check it out!) Now, I have to admit that while I was glad to have had the time with the Lord in the morning, I was thinking it was going to be a rough day due to my lack of sleep. When I saw this, it was unexpected and really lifted my spirits. Then a few minutes later I received a text from my husband to let me know my car (which had a pretty bad exhaust leak) was only going to cost about $200 to be fixed, instead of the $1000 we thought it would be! Praise God!<br />
I often get so caught up in the Lord's big-ness that I forget how intimate He is with us. Sometimes, I need a reminder that He cares about <em>every</em> detail of my life, not just the big ones. I was all prepared, yesterday morning, to have a rough day of chasing two-year-olds on no sleep but the Lord had other plans. He knew I needed a little something to make me smile and lift my spirits and He (as always) came through.<br />
I am just in awe of our Lord and how loving He truly is. Many do not realize this and it is tragic. They believe He is too big and mighty to care about the little details of our lives. While He certainly is big and mighty, one thing I am learning is that our God is a God of details! He cares deeply for His children, even whether they are having a good day or a bad day. Peter tells us to <strong><span style="color: #741b47;">cast <em>all</em> our anxiety on Him because He cares for us. (1 Peter 5:7)</span></strong> He doesn't say, "Cast only your big problems that are life and death on Him because He is too busy to deal with the small stuff." <em>Could you imagine??</em><br />
<em> </em>I understand that being a Christian does not mean my life will be all lollipops and rainbows all the time. However, it does mean that in those rough moments, and even days or weeks, I have an assurance that He still loves me and is in full control of my path. It won't always work out this way and sometimes I will be called to venture through those rough days with no spirit-lifting blessings (or "love notes from God", as I think of them). It doesn't mean He doesn't care. It just means there's something better planned somewhere down the road.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #741b47;">"For I know the <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-19647A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>plans that I have for you," declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, "plans for <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-19647B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-19647C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>hope." Jeremiah 29:11</span></strong>Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-45444088278782733442013-04-25T15:39:00.000-04:002013-05-07T13:51:19.362-04:00Do Everything I was driving along the other day, windows open to that exhilarating warmth of first spring air and sunshine pouring in, radio turned loud. Stephen Curtis Chapman was on the IPod and "Do Everything" was emulating through the speakers, emulating through me. Maybe it was the stark white of mountainous cumulus clouds against the pale blue canyon of the noon sky. Maybe it was the promise of new life in the muted pinks and milky whites of the Dogwoods. Perhaps it was the way the flow of the trees and houses, along with the rest of the world passing by, seemed to melt perfectly into the melody and beat of the music. Whatever it was, I suddenly realized that in the catchy, upbeat rhythm and charmingly honest lyrics there existed great wisdom.<br />
Sure, I know that I have been created to bring glory to my Heavenly Father. Of course I understand that I am to behave in a manner becoming to Christ. Don't <em>all</em> Christians know that??<br />
Today, though, I realized Mr. Chapman was singing about much deeper things than these. While I am certain he was referring to our responsibility to be "harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kind-hearted, and humble in spirit" (1 Peter 3:8)I believe he was also saying much more than that. I believe, on a much deeper level, he is talking about trust. Trust that God does, in fact, have a plan for your life. Trust that He's got you exactly where He wants you for the moment. Trust that the things He has called you to <em>are</em> important.<br />
This particular song holds a lot of meaning for me because I have been that woman "pickin' up toys on the living room floor for the 15th time today". I have swept up a multitude of Cheerios and wondered if the monotony would ever end. And somewhere in the middle of laundry and grocery shopping and singing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" for the one gazillionth time I have found myself asking, "Lord, is this <em>really</em> important for Your kingdom??"<br />
I wondered how the same God who raised the dead back to life, walked on water, and commanded the heavens to be simply with His words could possibly be pleased with my changing diapers and cutting peanut butter and jellies into star shapes. How could the same God who calls missionaries to feed orphans in Haiti and care for the dyeing in Kenya really care about the noses I wipe and silly songs I make up just to relish a goofy, drooly, two-year-old smile?<br />
Here's what I have come to learn, though, about those missionaries caring so compassionately for the sick and hungry and dyeing and lost. Somebody, somewhere, a long time ago wiped <em>their</em> nose gently with a tissue and sang soft when <em>they</em> were sick. The people who spread God's love today were cared for by a loving, compassionate, and exhausted mom (or dad, or someone else who loved them) yesterday. That's what Mr. Chapman is talking about when he says "Do <u>everything</u> you do to the glory of the One who made you". The little hands we hold today through all the "firsts" and "scarries" will be the hands that reach out to others tomorrow. <br />
We have no idea what the Lord has in store for our little ones, we can only be sure of one thing - it is our responsibility to "train them up in the way they should go" so they will not depart from it. God said it himself in Proverbs 22:6. If we do our part in teaching them to love the Lord and, thus, love others as themselves they <em>will not</em> depart from it! I heard in church the other day that some are called to go down into the well while others are called to hold the rope for those descending. Perhaps, in singing silly songs, wiping noses, and kissing booboos we are the mothers (and fathers) standing proudly at the top of the well, holding for dear life onto that rope which holds our little ones. <br />
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<em> Lord, thank you for calling me to raise my children up in the way they should go. You may not have called me to far away places to heal the sick or minister to orphans (at least not yet), but I trust that the things You have called me to for now are just as important in Your plan. Besides, if everyone went down into the well, who would be there to hold the rope?</em><br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVTeIMursb8" target="_blank">Do Everything, Stephen Curtis Chapman</a><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-73163368591122195262013-04-18T16:37:00.000-04:002013-05-07T13:55:58.300-04:00New Wine Skins and Straight Paths I went to Walmart today to buy a few things and ended up getting more than I bargained for. I pulled into the parking space and sat in the car for a few minutes, sharing my yummy chocolate-peanut butter Odwalla bar (if you've never tried, I highly recommend!) with the boys before we went into the store. All of a sudden, for no particular reason at all, I glanced up. There in my rear view mirror was the face of a ghost from my past.....someone I suffered greatly for in my addiction. Of course I will not mention names but this person had used, abused, and taken great advantage of the state I was in at that period of my life. There, in my rear view only 20 feet from where I sat, was the embodiment and epitome of all the pain and guilt and shame that was the worst part of my addiction. I have to admit I have wondered before how it would feel to see this person and rub my blessed, beautiful life right in their face....but I suppose that wouldn't be very Christ-like, huh? Well, the Lord gives and the Lord takes away and, here, He was giving me something <em>and</em> taking something away. He was giving me the chance to finally show off the new me but, at the same time, He was taking away the desire to do so. <br />
I think I was in a state of shock for a little while because I could not hold back tears and I had no idea why they were coming. Maybe it was memories. Maybe it was awake nightmares. I think it was really the fact that for a few minutes, I actually felt like that girl again. I felt as though I had been transported back years ago when I was so desperate for love and affection that I allowed myself to become enslaved - not only by drugs but by someone who was even sicker in the heart than I was. I believe it was also the fear that simply this person's presence was enough to wipe away the new person Christ had given birth to in me. That if I <em>had</em> gone in the store and ran into this person, my beautiful, blessed life as a mother, wife, and (most of all) daughter would vanish away.<br />
After a little while I began to hear the Lord gently reminding me, though. Reminding me that <em>He</em> was the One who brought me from my bondage. <em>He</em> was the One who stayed with me, cried with me, hurt with me, carried me all the way through even the darkest of times. And that, if He was strong enough to break those chains and lift me up to where I am today, He is surely strong enough to hold me. <span style="color: #a64d79;"><strong>"My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; And no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." (John 10:29)</strong></span> He also reminded me that I am <strong>not</strong> that girl anymore. <span style="color: #a64d79;"><strong>"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." (2 Corinthians 5:17)</strong></span> It is not simply my words that are new or my clothes that are new.<em> <u>I</u></em> am new! My heart, soul, and mind are new and the old have passed away. To the rest of the world I may look the same, but Christ knows differently. <br />
I think of the parables Jesus used about the new patch and the new wine skins. The Lord could have given me this new life and even this new way of behaving, but if He didn't make me a <em><u>new creature</u></em>, I would have surely gone back to my old ways and ruined the new life He had given me. I cannot describe the comfort in knowing these things. God is always good!<br />
I am still amazed at the Lord's perfect timing, although I should be used to it by now. (I don't really think He wants us to ever "get used to" Him, though!) If I had not parked in that space and sat there for a minute to finish my snack with the boys..... If this person had not parked where they had parked and walked right up the same isle I was parked in.... If I had not looked up at the exact moment this person was walking behind my car to be seen in my rear view.... If all these things had not happened exactly as they had, I would have undoubtedly gone into the store and had to face a very painful part of my past. <br />
I don't believe it is the Lord's intention or desire for us to never have to face (and be reminded of) our mistakes in life, but I do believe He knew I would not handle seeing this person well. I believe He was protecting me - in more ways than one. Yes, it would have hurt me tremendously to see someone who deliberately tried to keep me chained to my addiction. But who knows what hateful and spiteful words would have come out of my mouth? Who knows what vengeful and prideful thoughts would have formed in my heart? I believe the Lord was doing what He could to keep me from sinning against Him and, thus, moving myself away from Him rather than toward Him. How loving and merciful is our God!<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">"I will lead the blind by a way they do not know, in paths they do not know I will guide them. I will make darkness into light before them, and rugged places into plains. These are the things I will do, and I will not leave them undone." (Isaiah 42:16)</span>Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-71298862317767278372013-04-12T15:29:00.001-04:002013-04-12T15:30:00.965-04:00"Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God"<span style="color: #073763;"> Well, I know it's been quite a while since my last post. What with holidays to prepare for and books to read and projects to finish and laundry to do and kids to chase, it's a wonder any of us even have time to breathe! However, I finally decided it was time to get these thoughts that have been swimming around in my head out and into some sort of organized manner.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> The Lord has been leading me on somewhat of a journey of gratitude over the past few weeks. Probably over the last few months - this is one of the great characteristics of our Lord. He has the ability to work behind the scenes without us even realizing it! Gentle and, yet, so irresistible. One of the three (yes, I said three) books I am currently reading is called One Thousand Gifts. (Please forgive me if you find some of my thoughts to be highly similar to Ann Voskamp's - her book has been an amazing blessing to me thus far!) As I mentioned in my previous post, this book is about being thankful in all circumstances. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> Now, some people might hear this and think, "What?! Is she crazy?" Some hear the words <em>be thankful</em> and automatically think of all the things in their lives for which they couldn't possibly be thankful - bills, debt, workloads, broken relationships, addictions, wayward children and spouses, long lost dreams. I used to be one of those people. Actually, up until fairly recently I looked at my life through the scratched, cloudy, and terribly warped lens of "want". I could never be happy with what I had because I ached for more. I longed for a bigger house, yearned for a better paying job, and desperately <em>needed</em> more "me" time. I was blindly searching and praying for circumstances which were anything but the ones I'd been given.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> Then, the Lord began leading me on a journey to open up the eyes of my heart. That line in "Amazing Grace" that says, "I once was blind but now I see" is a stunning truth when you accept the Lord into your heart. It still amazes me the way He commands all the pieces and elements to fall in the perfect place at exactly the perfect time. When you pray for wisdom and truth you'd better be ready to receive it! Because the Lord is diligent and faithful to respond to the calls of those who sincerely seek Him. Jeremiah 33<strong>:</strong>3 says, "Call to me and I will answer you". Isaiah 65<strong>:</strong>24 says, "I will answer them <em>before they even call to me</em>" And so I prayed for wisdom, which is what I got.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> I began to realize that my problem was not external. It was not my car, nor my job, nor my living space, nor any of the circumstances surrounding me that were causing me to yearn for more than what God had already given me. The problem I had was internal. It was a disease, a sickness that infected me all the way down to the very fibers of my heart muscles. A disease called pride. I was so busy focusing on what I thought I <em>should</em> have that I was blinded to the beautiful (and undeserved) blessings that I <em>already</em> had. When we think we deserve more, how can we ever be grateful for what we have?</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> I began to realize that if I could learn to see myself from God's perspective instead from my own human perspective, I would see things very differently. From my perspective, I was a pretty good person. I take care of my family, go to work every day, pay the bills, don't murder, don't steal, and don't commit adultery. I'm a good person, right? Don't I deserve a better life? A life of more? Ah . . . but God sees things differently. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> First Samuel 16<strong>:</strong>7 says, "God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart." (NASB) Aha! Now it was all beginning to make sense to me. Sure I help take care of my family . . . but the Lord saw the irritation and annoyance when I couldn't put myself first before them as I thought I <em>deserved</em>. Sure I went to work every day . . . but the Lord saw the pride and resentfulness in my heart when I felt I was not making as much money as I <em>deserved</em>. Sure I help pay the bills . . . but the Lord saw the doubt and mistrust in my heart when I held back His portion that I thought <em>I deserved</em>. Sure I don't run around with a butcher knife stabbing people in plain view of society . . . but the Lord heard the hateful gossip spoken in secret, bringing death to the person I spoke of (Proverbs 18<strong>:</strong>21). All these things I do or don't do because I think others are watching are "like a filthy garment" to the Lord (Isaiah 64).</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> I cannot think of one good thing that ever came out of my life, or mouth for that matter, from thinking I deserve more. When I feel that I deserve more, I am saying that what God gives is not enough. I am learning now that it is only when I see myself for what I truly am, a sinner who does not even deserve to be in the presence of the Most High, that I can begin to turn my prideful ingratitude into humble thanksgiving. When I begin to realize that I really don't deserve any of the things God has blessed me with, I see my life - my whole life - as a beautiful gift. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> Psalm 139 tells us the Lord has formed our inward parts and <em>woven</em> us together in our mothers' wombs (NASB). Let me tell you, I checked the internet for videos of weaving and it does NOT look easy! In fact, it's a rather complicated and tedious process. It also says we are <em>skillfully wrought</em>. Merriam Webster defines the word <em>wrought</em> as being "worked into shape by artistry or effort"<em>.</em> Another definition of the word is "elaborately embellished"<em>.</em> This second definition of the word which the bible uses to tell us how we are made by God makes tears well up in my eyes. We are elaborately embellished!! Woven skillfully and carefully by the same God who placed the stars in the heavens one by one and fashioned the earth with His very hands. It is more than we deserve. It is better than we deserve. And, yet, He held nothing back from us - not even His own Son.</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> It has been (and continues to be) immensely humbling for me to awaken to the truth that the Lord sees and knows everything about me and still loves me anyway. He knows every hurtful word before I even speak it. He sees every ungrateful thought before it's even formed in my mind. He sees the very pride that lurks in the darkest corners of my heart, causing me to turn away from Him again and again. Yet, He loves me anyway. Not only that, but He goes to great lengths to demonstrate it to me . Maybe this eye-opening truth that I really am just a sinner, this stark reality that I once turned my back on the God who put so much effort into creating and loving me, is the key to the heart of gratitude I have been praying for since I first came to know the Lord. Maybe the way for me to know that what God gives is enough, is for me to know that I don't deserve any of it.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;"> Love always,</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> Eva</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"> "A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor." </span><span style="color: #073763;">Proverbs 29<strong>:</strong>23</span><br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d;"></span><br />Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-12728114137269272412013-03-25T14:37:00.000-04:002013-03-25T14:37:52.028-04:00One Thousand Gifts <span style="color: #c27ba0;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Recently, some friends and I started a book club. Me and a few other ladies from church picked a book and decided to meet on Thursday evenings to discuss what we have read during the week. This is our way to ensure that we are surrounding ourselves with other Godly women and nurturing healthy relationships throughout the week - not just on Sundays. The only issue is that we all have children who are all usually in tow. Thankfully, one saint of a friend has graciously allowed us to use her house as a corral for the ten (yes, I said ten) kiddos that accompany us four adults (she also has little ones so her house is already baby proofed - double blessing!).</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"> I can just imagine what this would look like to an outsider who had no idea what was going on. Ten children ranging in age from (roughly) eight all the way down to one year running around in basically a free-for-all while their mothers attempt "grown up" conversation through the chaos. Only in a room full of mothers and children would one see a woman speaking casually about a recently read book while reaching out to catch a falling child with one arm and swatting a toddlers hand away from an electrical outlet with the other. (By the way, this saint of a friend has all her outlets responsibly covered - I was just trying to paint a picture here.) </span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"> Well, the book we chose to begin our book club journey with is called <u>1000 Gifts</u> by Ann Voskamp and, so far, it is amazing! I highly recommend reading if you ever get the chance. I don't want to spoil it for anyone so I'll just say it is a book about tremendous loss, great blessing and learning to praise God through all circumstances. There is also a list involved, which is how I got the idea for this blog post. We all decided we would join Miss Voskamp and make our own "gift" lists. I have been promising myself (and this may have been the Holy Spirit's leading here, as well) that once I reached 100, I would post them here. Well, today was the day! This morning I reached 100 and have even a few more now. They are not in any particular order so please do not look for rhyme or reason in them. I simply wrote down what the Holy Spirit gave me to write. Here goes:</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">1) Sunshine out my window</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">2)Daylight out my window (if it's cloudy)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">3)Quiet moments of nap time</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">4)Freshly made Irish Potatos</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">5) Comfy sweat shirts that are also cute</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">6)Strength in Christ</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">7)Putting one foot in front of the other</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">8)Whisper of the Holy Spirit</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">9)Birds chirping</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">10)Weight of heavy blankets covering me</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">11) Awesome thrift store finds</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">12)Tiney hineys</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">13)Ephie and Ely hugs</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">14)"Your silly!" , "No, your silly!" (game I play with Ephie)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">15)Children screeching with glee chasing each other</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">16)Open lipped, slobbery kisses from little ones</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">17)Sunshine on first day of spring</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">18)Old, worn, highlighted, written-all-over bible</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">19)Excitment of new friendships</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">20)Other moms who understand</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">21)Long lost cousins coming to Easter egg hunts</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">22)Trials that draw me closer to God</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">23)Husband who loves to tickle</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">24)Husband who loves to cook</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">25)Husband who loves my body (just the way it is)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">26)Black and white photos</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">27)Sepia photos</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">28)Bumble bee on a flower in March</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">29)Playgrounds right up the street</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">30)Big boys on big boy swings</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">31)Super thick hair</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">32)Favorite shows that leave you in suspense</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">33)Wild tickle giggles</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">34)Little hands reaching up to me</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">35)Ephie and Ely realizing the moon . . . first time</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">36)C-section scar</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">37)Humble-spirited, child innocence</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">38)Very first parking space</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">39)Children repeating everything you say</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">40)Picking up husbands socks</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">41)Intimacy the way God intended it </span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">42)Tiny details in dreams</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">43)Making husband's lunch for work</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">44)Struggles to lean on God through</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">45)Early morning quietness</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">46)First pot of morning coffee</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">47)Flavored creamers</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">48)Little love notes left around</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">49)Children's art work on the fridge</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">50)Ephie imitating Elmo dancing</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">51)Cheering others up</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">52)Fluffy white clouds on bright blue sky</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">53)Not one but TWO Saturdays off in a row</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">54)Ephie's goofy smile</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">55)Ely's fills-up-his-whole-face smile</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">56)Husband's mischevious smile</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">57)Focal point B&W pictures</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">58)A book that calls you to action</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">59)Friends further along in their walk with Christ</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">60)"I ya you" (I love you)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">61)Pale skin freshly tanned (obviously this is a gift "to be")</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">62)Arguments resolved</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">63)Fingernails painted clear</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">64)Fireworks</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">65)Children finishing dinner (all of it!)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">66)Healthy, active children</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">67)Freedom from addiction</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">68)Freshly fallen snow . . . . yet unmarred by bootprints or tire tracks</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">69)Spring cleaning</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">70)Glass of red wine after long day</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">71)Sunglasses doubling as headband</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">72)Gratitude</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">73)First day of manicure</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">74)Self-done manicure (its pretty <em>and </em>free!)</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">75)Long stretches after long sitting</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">76)Road trips</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">77)Seashore in summer (also one "to be")</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">78)Children saying grace</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">79)Huge weeping willows</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">80)Tire swings</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">81)Vegetable gardens</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">82)Back yard away from home . . . Penn Warner</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">83)Children watching rains drops</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">84)Mom coming to church</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">85)Bright white moon against sky almost black</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">86)Hitting all green lights...in a hurry</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">87)Hot sauce on everything</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">88)This one is personal so I will keep it between the Lord and I</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">89)This one is also just between me and Him</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">90)Morning baby babble</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">91)Children's sleep breathing</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">92)Flag blowing in the wind</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">93)Spotless blue skies</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">94)Pure doggie glee hanging out car windows</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">95)Long shadows in the afternoon</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">96)"Big boys" in footie pj's. . . .reminder they are still my little guys</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">97)Mom<em> in</em> church</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">98)Crickets chirping on summer nights</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">99)Children watching snowflakes</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">100)Pillowtop cloud softness</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">101)Pancakes in the morning</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">102)Dried roses lasting forever</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">103)Big fluffy snowflakes</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">104) Walls separating warmth from cold</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">105)Refrigerator/freezer full</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">106)Bellies filled</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;">107)Breath filling up lungs</span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"> How amazing that we lift up empty hands to our God and He fills them! I hope and pray these gifts will be as much of a blessing to you as they have been to me. I know there are more than a hundred here and I will be on the hunt for many more. </span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"> I would love to hear from some of you about gifts the Lord has given you, as well. Perhaps these gifts could spark an idea for your own list! I would love to hear about it and I'm sure the Lord would love for you to tell about it. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">"<u>You are <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-23249B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; </u><span class="text Matt-5-15" id="en-NASB-23250"><span class="woj"><u>nor does <i>anyone</i> light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.</u>"</span></span></span><br />
<span class="text Matt-5-15"><span class="woj"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> Mathew 5:14-15</span></span></span><br />
<span class="text Matt-5-15"><span class="woj"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"></span></span></span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-23225832949582205792013-03-20T14:58:00.002-04:002013-03-20T14:58:41.752-04:00How big is God.....really?<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"> As I was driving down the road today, coming back from the library with my little ducklings in tow, I began to think about the Lord. Sometimes my wheels get spinning and they run away with themselves and this is usually when an idea for a piece of writting falls right into my lap. Today, I began to think about and ponder this thought: just how BIG is God....really? How amazingly huge, complex, superior, and soverign (just to name a few) our Lord must be to have created the entire universe and everything in it! Every once in a while I think I <em>may</em> have a <em>tiny</em> <em>glimmer</em> of an idea of how big He must be and my breath is taken away by it. It only lasts for a split second, though, and then it evades me once more. </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"> Think about the amount of time and energy it takes for us to love somebody. Not just love them as in that <em>oh-she's-so-sweet-I-love-her</em> love, but LOVE them as in <em>till-death-do-us-part</em> love. To know someone up and down, inside and out, down to the very marrow of their bones. To seek out their every emotion, thought, like, dislike, good and bad quality and to write this information on the very flesh of your heart, to store it away in the very core of your soul. Now <em>that's</em> giving one hundred percent of yourself one hundred percent of the time! It makes me weary just thinking about the time and energy it takes for us, as humans, to love even one person this way. God, however, loves <em>all</em> His children this way.</span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"> This is how big the Lord is. He didn't simply create us and then leave us to go on our way, fumbling through the world and <em>hoping</em> we'll get it right at some point. He didn't just randomly throw darts at the board of physical, mental, and emotional attributes when creating His precious children. No. He scrutinized, analyzed, pondered, and put some serious thought into how each and everyone of us would turn out. Jeremiah 1:5 says, "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you." Our Lord is not an arbitrary God! Psalm 139 says our God has <em>searched</em> us and <em>known</em> us. In verse 3 the Psalmist says, "You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways." Did you catch that? The Lord does not simply sit back and watch us as we scurry along the earth, he <em>scrutinizes</em> our paths and is <em>intimately acquainted</em> with every detail of our lives! Can you imagine how much energy (both physical and emotional) this must take? It's quite humbling to think about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #e06666;"> While I cannot even begin to fathom the greatness (in all senses of the word) of our God, it is quite comforting to know that no matter where I go, no matter what I do I can never get away from Him. Not that I would want to, of course! However, it is nice to know that in case I ever have a moment of temporary insanity/stupidity and try to escape Him, it simply cannot be done. Paul says in Romans that, "I am convinced that neither <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28155CK" title="See cross-reference CK">CK</a>)"></sup>death, nor life, nor <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28155CL" title="See cross-reference CL">CL</a>)"></sup>angels, nor principalities, nor <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28155CM" title="See cross-reference CM">CM</a>)"></sup>things present, nor things to come, nor powers, <span class="text Rom-8-39" id="en-NASB-28156">nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28156CN" title="See cross-reference CN">CN</a>)"></sup>the love of God, which is <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-28156CO" title="See cross-reference CO">CO</a>)"></sup>in Christ Jesus our Lord." I'd say that pretty much sums up just how BIG our Lord really is, wouldn't you? </span></span></span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-39" style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"> This is not something I ever expect to be able to comprehend or wrap my mortal, human brain around. At least not until that glorious day He calls me home and I see Him face to face. For now, I can trust in a Father's love so big, so immensely huge, that (even though this world is big and scary) I will never get lost again.</span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-39"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-39"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="color: #e06666;">Love always,</span></span></span><br />
<span class="text Rom-8-39"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: inherit;"> Eva</span></span><br />
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<br />Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-1294830412874356192013-03-20T13:54:00.000-04:002013-03-20T13:54:00.872-04:00A Work Worth Completing
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I think we frequently can become so
used to the chaos and anxiety life produces that we simply accept it as normal.
I have done this myself on more than one occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Burdens, guilt, fear, worry, sickness….we
carry it all without even asking for help. We so quickly forget that Jesus is
there holding out His hands waiting to take the heavy loads from us. Much too
often I think we simply don’t even see Him standing there. The busyness and
noise of the world vies for our attention, stealing it away from the one it
really should be on. Or perhaps we cling ever so tightly to those cumbersome
loads because to let go would seem much too foreign to us. In a sense, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it would be very similar to stepping out of
the boat and onto the water.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Tonight
I asked God why humans are so obsessed with perfection. Even as believers (and
sometimes even more so as believers) we often forget that we are born sinners
and strive for perfection. Perhaps this fascination with perfection and
subsequent aversion we harbor toward (gasp!) mistakes is one reason we find it
so hard to allow our Father to give us a hand with that pesky baggage. We try
so hard not to sin (often to the point of self-righteousness) and when we do we
withhold forgiveness from ourselves as if it is even ours to give. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Every
so often the Lord has to remind me that it is He and He alone who can bring
about a change in me. When I begin to strive for perfection I begin to see
myself as worthy of perfection and consequently I am taking the glory away from
Him. When I pass judgment on my own sins instead of turning to God and asking <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Him</i> for forgiveness I am attempting to
do His job. A job for which I am <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u>highly</u></i>
unqualified! Besides, if we humans were able to attain perfection on our own we
wouldn’t need salvation. Our beautiful, merciful, and loving savior would have
died in vain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
This is
not to say we should not endeavor to become the true children God created us to
be, which means making a valiant effort to turn away from our sins. Oh no! How
would we ever reflect God’s unfailing and perfect love if we all stayed exactly
the same as when He called us? How would the still lost ever get found? No. We
must first believe and invite Jesus to make His home in our hearts. Then we can
begin to yield to His gentle and loving correction. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
In spite of this truth, I think far
too many people have a skewed idea of Christianity. Many (myself included) feel
as soon as they get saved they must live perfectly blameless lives or else they
are just failures. Many new believers (again, myself included) think that if
they are not instantly changed and matured there is something wrong with them.
I can’t tell you how many times I have told myself, “Maybe your sins are worse
than any others. Maybe you are the one person God cannot forgive.” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Let us not forget, however, that
God is not some fancy, deceptive magician. He does not simply touch us with a
magic wand and transform us overnight. Not that He couldn’t do this type of
magic if He wanted to (trust me – He could), this is just not usually the way
He does things. Changes which seem to happen overnight often are only skin deep
and rarely last. Our Lord is on to something much bigger! He has started a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">work</i> in us. A work takes time. A work
takes nurturing and love. A work takes a mighty hand to see it through to
completion. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So instead of beating
ourselves down mentally the next time we find ourselves falling short (yet
again!), let’s turn our faces to the loving God who has begun something big in
us – a complex and intricate work which He sees as worth completing. Remember,
He is always faithful to complete His work and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always</i> knows what He is doing!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-71192176690022736432013-03-18T22:37:00.001-04:002013-03-20T13:32:22.619-04:00Even When We Don't<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;"> It's hard to imagine, when looking at my children whom I would walk through the hottest fire to protect, that there are other children out there in the world who are totally <em>un</em>protected and even in danger in the presence of their own parents. I think "rape" is the ugliest word in the entire universe. When I hear the ugliest word in the universe paired up with one of the most beautiful and blessed words, <em>children</em>, it makes me feel as though the floor were falling out from under me and there is nothing I can do to stop it. I remember having that same feeling in the first few seconds after I found out my father died. It is not a good feeling.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
The other day at work I was
scanning the news pages on the internet at work (terribly swamped, as you can
imagine) and a bright red headline jumped out at me from the bottom of the
page. I will not repeat exactly what it read here because just seeing the words
in print on the computer overcome me with a sadness so heavy I cannot hold it
up. The man the article spoke of had hurt a lot of young children in a tragic
way. I did not read the article because shortly after seeing that on the screen
I excused myself, went outside and sat on the steps next to the front door. I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">had</i> to have a moment with God after
reading that. I cried and asked Him why He allows things like this to happen (major
cliché, I know). The interesting thing was I did not feel fearful as I asked
God for answers or even just some reassurance. I remember a time in my life
when I saw Him as this intimidating, stern-looking judge waaaaay high up on His
bench just waiting with His gavel perched in the air to strike it down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A loving, but unsympathetic and uncompassionate
God. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
Lately, however, something has been
changing. The night I read the headline for this article (I never even read the
article itself) I came to God in a way a child comes to her father when the
world is being unfair and she wants Him to fix it. That night, driving home, I
began to think of those children again. I think maybe things like this affect
me in such a sever way because, in a way, I feel like somebody ought to feel
pain for these precious blessings from our loving God. Somebody ought to cry
for them. No doubt their parents and loved ones would cry, of course. But what
about people who <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">didn’t</i> know them? We
are a world that can simply turn its head and pretend nothing is wrong, pretend
it didn’t happen. I cannot. Sometimes I feel that if we weren’t so busy
pretending all the time we’d face reality and fix it instead of pretending it
was something else.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
As I was driving, I talked candidly
with God. I cried that if He looks upon the heart than why doesn’t He stop such
a sinful thing when He sees it brewing in a man’s heart? I cried for the
infants (infants! Infants, for Heaven’s sake!) I cried that I wanted to help
but that I could never stop all the children from getting hurt because I could
never be everywhere all at once. That is precisely when He cut me off, in
mid-sentence, and said, “I can". Very simply but with incredible power. Then He
said, in a voice that sounded just like my conscience, that I should pray for
the children. This “judgmental and overly stern” God I had imagined was taking
me by the hand and comforting me. It was as if He was saying, “I know life is
unfair, but I am bigger and stronger than you could ever imagine – don’t sell
me short.” <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
That night I needed a reminder that
God was still there. He did not condemn me for doubting. He did not judge me
for wavering. He reassured me. He offered me a place to rest my heavy and
heartbreaking burdens, right in His hands. Lately I have been feeling such a
heavy sorrow for the world. I find myself coming home from work at night wanting
to wake my two sleeping little angels/maniacs to just hold them and feel the
weight of them in my arms. I once heard the phrase, “When a woman becomes a
mother for the first time she becomes a mother to all children.” Perhaps this
is why I cannot stop myself from breaking down in tears when I hear of an
innocent, helpless child being hurt. Sometimes I think I am too sensitive but I
don’t know how to be any other way. Besides this is the way God made me and I
am quite sure He knew what He was doing. (He <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> God, after all). <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: inherit;">
I ended that car ride home with a
new prayer; one that gave me a little peace. I prayed for God to be a shield
and fortress of protection for those who cannot protect themselves. I asked for
Him to stop this kind of sin if He saw it brewing in a man’s heart. I asked for
Him to be the justice these children deserve. I do not know how, exactly, He
will answer my prayers, but I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">do</i> know
that He knows exactly what He is doing – even when we don’t.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: inherit;">Love always,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: inherit;">Eva</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-56366712187510189062013-03-16T19:16:00.001-04:002013-03-16T19:16:15.866-04:00The Art of Forgiveness <span style="color: #38761d;">I learned something (or, I should say, remembered something) about my husband over this past week. Everyone has certain skills that they are good at, even great at. Some women are great mothers, seemingly born with a nurturing ability. Some men are excellent fixers. Give them a hammer, some glue, and a wrench and they can refurbish a Toyota in their sleep. Others have what I call emotional skills. These are less tangible, although no less important. Some can sense the aura of a room full of people simply by walking into it, while others can detect the deeply hidden pain in a close friend’s voice over the phone. Everyone has something (usually a few things) God has made them pros at. For my husband, it is the art of forgiving.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> I realized over this past week, as we fought and made up, that he is an excellent forgiver. There have been many times when we have fought and have done things (not on purpose, usually) to hurt each other. I, being the imperfect forgiver I am, will kiss and make up easily but not quite truly forgive him. I say (and even believe) that I do effortlessly enough. Yet, a few days or even weeks later the incident will pop up in my head and I’ll realize I am still harboring some anger. I may even (gasp!) save it for a later fight to throw back in his face just to prove how wrong he is.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> With my husband, though, when he forgives me it is as if the incident had never occurred. He says he forgives and, here’s the kicker, he <em>actually means</em> it! I stand there, waiting for some more words on how badly I’ve hurt him and how wrong I was, but they never come. Perhaps it is so hard for me to believe it is really as simple as “I forgive you” because God has not yet perfected that art in me. If the tables are turned and I am the one being asked for forgiveness, you better believe the accused is going to know exactly how wrong they are. (Yes, this is something I am working on) My dear, sweet hubby, however, has this ability to forgive the way God forgives us – by <em>forgetting</em> afterward!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> Perhaps this is not the kind of thing one thinks of when listing another’s good qualities and special skills and very few ever perfect this art. But let me tell you this – it is one of <em>the most</em> special skills a person can have. God said in Hosea 6:6, “I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.” Forgiveness is a Godly quality! Sometimes the Lord needs to shake us out of complacency and He will often use my husband to achieve this with me. Often, I do not even realize that I am swimming in self-righteousness until I see that sweet humility in my husband when he so readily forgives my trespasses. Or when he willingly apologizes to end a fight (even though we both know<em> I</em> was the one who was wrong). Thank you, Father, for giving me a husband through whom you can mold me, and thank you that you have already set him apart for your own.</span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-89001702693515477442013-03-16T16:14:00.003-04:002013-04-09T19:53:24.263-04:00A Little Voice<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">
<span class="userContent">Here is a poem I recently wrote and posted on "the book". I hope you enjoy it I pray the Lord's name will be honored by it! <span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">It's green for Saint Patty's Day!!</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">A little voice inside me<br />tells me where to go<br />Your small and gentle whisper<br />without a doubt I know.<br />You’re there when I lay down<br />there when I arise <br />a constant, steady presence<br />in You my safety lies. <br />Your guidance is like rubies<br />Your conviction as pure gold</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Your rebuke is a Father’s hand<br />my wayward soul to hold.<br />You’re gentle when I need compassion<br />firm when I go astray<br />defending when I need a shield<br />a shepherd when I lose my way.<br />The words I give are not enough<br />my praises sell You short<br />the beauty of the most precious jewel<br />could not describe the Lord.</span></span></span></div>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-7630927777157152692013-03-15T15:06:00.002-04:002013-04-13T22:52:32.204-04:00The Fairness of Parenthood <span style="color: #a64d79;">So here is my second ever blog post - yay! I promise I will not announce each blog post's number as I write them, lol. I guess I'm still excited about this new journey. Well, this one is one that I wrote on the infamous Facebook as a "note" back in January and so some of you may recognize it. I always thought, however, that this would be on my blog - if and when I ever got one. So here is my perception on the "fairness" of parenthood.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime;"> </span><span style="color: #e06666;">It is so unfair. Why does it always seem that your children have an overabundance of energy - which bursts forth in various forms such as yelling, jumping wildly, kicking, and (my personal favorite) head butting you right in the nose – right at the exact same moment all of YOUR energy appears to have abandoned you? Ephraim happily and giddily played drums on my arm and shook his little head back and forth (quite similarly to Linda Blair in that movie, The Exorcist) all the while squirming as if he had a horde of fire ants in his diaper. He could not sense the tension growing in me as I tried to put pants on his flailing feet and a shirt on his thrashing arms. He could not feel the anger swelling up inside of me which I held desperately onto so as not to unleash it on my unsuspecting and oblivious 2 year old. </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"> There have been many times when that tension has flowed forth, tearing down the floodgates of my gritted teeth and clenched fists on its way out. Those walls were not even close to being strong enough to hold onto that ire and, sadly, my children were not strong enough to catch it. And why should they have to be? For the most part, our boys are pretty well behaved. They have their “two-year-old” moments like any normal toddler. For example when I say, “Time to eat” and they take off running. Or when I say, “Don’t touch that” and Ephraim splays a smile across his face wider than the Rio Grande and closes his eyes as tight as he can as if to say, “You can’t see me!” Or, for example, when it’s time for the boys to get out of the tub, freshly cleaned, and Ely decides to poop in the water. Yes, they certainly have their moments of toddler hood but, then again, don’t we all? </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"> My children are, after all, just children. Oblivious, innocent, mischievous, trusting. They do not know that their game of run-away-from-mommy is making me madder than a swatted bee. They do not understand why milk all down the front of the freshly cleaned shirt, which they have only been in for five minutes, is a bad thing. All they know is that it’s <em>fun</em>. All they understand is that “mommy laughed once before when I did this so she’ll laugh this time, too!” My babies are too young to know about fatigue, too innocent to know about anger and irritation, too free to understand restraint. And that is precisely the reason I did not allow my anger at my wiggly Ephraim to seep out to be detected. I simply finished dressing him, put him in his crib, and said good night to them both. True, my children can drive me nuts at times but then I think about what it will be like when they are old enough to understand the “give and take” of relationships. They will certainly learn about restraint, fatigue, anger, and frustration soon enough. For now, though, I chose to let them go on believing that if they shut their eyes tight enough, I truly can’t see them.</span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"> Love always,</span><br />
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87799870132904839.post-90530862693001511162013-03-14T15:46:00.002-04:002013-04-13T22:53:07.009-04:00My first blog post! Yay!<span style="background-color: white; color: #3d85c6;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="color: black;">
</span></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> Being that is my very first blog post - EVER - I will keep
it short and sweet. Lately, the Lord has been pressing my love of writing on my
heart and I believe He is calling me to use it for His glory. Well, I am all
about using the talents He has given me to bring honor to His name and maybe
even (eep!) be a reflection of His light for others. Nothing excites me more
than to think the Lord could possibly use me for the growing of His kingdom!
So, here it is....the blog I have been thinking about (and, thus, praying
about) for a few months now.</span></span></span></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: inherit;"> I cannot promise it will be riveting. I cannot promise it
will make perfect sense. I cannot even promise it will be constant or extremely
regular. The only thing I <i>can</i> promise is that my words will come from
the heart and will have been prayed over and talked about with the Big Guy. I
will ponder and analyze my thoughts, as I usually do with my writing, and try
with all my might to only post things that He presses on my heart. It is my
prayer that this blog will find those it is intended for and bless them in a
way only the Holy Spirit can. With that - here goes my first attempt at
"blogging"! (I feel like an insider at a secret club or something!)</span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #741b47;">Could you imagine living in a perfect place with no tears,
no pain, no strife, no evil or sadness? Could you imagine not just living in in
this place but being the <i>King</i> of it all?? Reigning supreme over
perfectly endless beauty and wholly complete love? Now, imagine giving all that
up to move to a place saturated with sorrow, injustice, and intentional malice.
All for someone who ignores, disobeys, mocks and defames you! Our Lord did
exactly this. He stepped down from His glorious throne in heaven and immersed
Himself in the gritty muck that is our world. He rolled up His sleeves, girded
up His loins and jumped head first and full force into the sinful mess that was
keeping His people (us) separated from Him. Our precious, loving Father knew
there was no way we'd be able to reach Him through our own efforts and so He
took it upon Himself to fix what we never could. We could never avoid sin left
to our own devices (and some of us would never even try!) Our beautifully
merciful Father knew this and so decided to provide us with a solid,
unwavering, and impenetrable way around this problem - our Lord Jesus Christ!
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<span style="color: #741b47;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #741b47;">That's just His kind of love. Amazing. Freeing. Beautifully humble.
Indescribable. <o:p></o:p></span></span>
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<span style="color: #741b47;">
I hope and pray this blog will only be a reflection of this
love - of His love. The Lord has done indescribably amazing things in this sinner
and it is my joy to shout it from the rooftops. I hope you will stay with me
through this journey and I pray you will be blessed through it. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: inherit;">Love always,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #741b47;">Eva<o:p></o:p></span></span>
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Eva Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10659072373000950971noreply@blogger.com0