Christmas Traditions

Christmas time! Can you believe it is here already? Each year it seems to creep up more quickly than the last, yet the number of days on the calendar are the same. Everyone is rushing around trying to prepare food, gifts, concerts, and the other things that we traditionally do during the Christmas season. What are the things most important to you at Christmas? Have you ever really thought about it? Truly, I would love to hear what they are. How about listing your top 5?

One of our favorite things to do is to prepare for our church Christmas concert. We all sing and enjoy taking time to do this as a family. We also love to cook and prepare goodies for family and friends then do them up in nice packages and deliver them. We have an advent calendar that goes up every December to count the days down to Christmas. We clean the house and scurry around trying to get things in order so we can relax for a few days over Christmas. Then on Christmas day, we love to read the Christmas story (from Luke 2) together discussing what it might have been like on that very first Christmas day.

In the busyness this season brings, have you yet taken time to "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10)? You can do this as a family or alone. I encourage you to take some time, settle in a quiet place with your Bible and your Lord and pray that He would reveal more of Himself to you. If you don't yet have a relationship with Jesus, you can accept His gift this day and become one of His children. If you are unsure how, just click on  http://www.promisesforall.blogspot.ca/2010/09/greatest-promise.html

Christmas is a wonderful time to begin spending time with Jesus, but don't stop there. Take time each day to spend in His presence, reading His Word, praying and seeking His will for your life and you will find He is right there with you. What a wonderful tradition to begin that will carry you through the days ahead.

Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Wonderful New Year - May the peace and joy of the birth of Jesus be with you and yours this holiday season and each coming day!

Natalie

RENEW our Pilgrimage

Each day we get out of bed and begin our day. How did you do it this morning? Did you roll out looking for your first cup of tea or coffee? Did you jump out energized and ready to get going? Did you open your eyes and praise the Lord for giving you another day, committing it to Him and praying for His direction and guidance?

We all live each day making choice after choice. Living a Christian life is more than going to church on Sunday, giving your tithe, and doing a few mission minded things throughout the year. Living a Christian life is turning it all over to the One who gave everything up for you; committing your life to the One who loves you so much that He would suffer and die for you. It is the realization that He wants all of you and nothing but the best for you.

Each day we can renew our pilgrimage by praying and seeking God's best for us. Learning to put our own agendas aside and asking the Lord to reveal His plans and people He wants us to connect with. This does not mean that we quit our jobs and forsake the things we have committed to (unless He directs us to), yet in the midst of life, He sometimes has divine appointments for us. There may be someone in your office or place of work who spends their free time alone who would really appreciate it if someone took the time to reach out and say "Hi, how are you?" caring enough to really listen. There may be a single mom in a grocery store with screaming babies who would like someone to simply smile and say a positive, encouraging word to her. There are opportunities all around us, right where we are to show the love of Christ. Are we taking the opportunity to pray and seek Jesus' guidance, are we open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit?

Second Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." (NKJV) When we give our lives to Christ and commit ourselves to Him, we are no longer the same as we once were, nor are we alone. The Holy Spirit dwells within us and we are free to obey God. Taking the time daily to renew our pilgrimage and seek guidance from Him to see what is on His agenda will help us to live abundant lives (John 10:10). Are you willing to renew your pilgrimage and commit your works to the Lord? Dwell in His ways and seek His call, obey His voice and you will have abundant living.




Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the gift of salvation offered by Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me each day to seek Your will and Your ways. Help me Lord by the power of the Holy Spirit to see the needs You want me to fill and fill me with the boldness of the Spirit and strength I need to be obedient. I pray for Your blessing as I step out in faith to follow you. In Jesus mighty and Holy name I pray, Amen.

REVIVE our Souls

Do you know how much you are loved? Do you realize that you are precious in God's sight? Do you realize Jesus died for you-to forgive you and cleanse you of your sins?

Step back for a moment and take a look at your life. Are there any storms present, brewing, or subsiding? If so, rest assured you are not alone. Jesus is right there to hold you up, to carry you, and to be "your sufficiency". He is able and can calm the storm.

Now when He got into a boat, His disciples followed Him.  And suddenly a great tempest arose on the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves. But He was asleep.  Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”
But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. So the men marveled, saying, “Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (NKJV accessed via biblegateway.com)

These disciples were physically with Jesus, in the middle of a storm, fearful for their lives. Yet, they woke Him, trusted in Him and He brought them through it all. We can learn much from this passage. Today, I want you to focus on giving it to Jesus, whatever your it is. The fear you have, the health issues, family difficulties, financial woes, spiritual lacking, or a range of other possibilities. Give them to Jesus and allow Him to take control. Pray, listen to His instruction, obey His voice, and raise your thanks to Him through praise, whatever your circumstance. Our God is able. Jesus is mighty to save and He's just waiting for you to seek Him.

Rest in Him

I had the privilege to share at Camp Peniel (in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia) this past weekend. They host a Ladies' Spa Retreat each fall in September and they invited me to be their speaker this year. It is always an amazing time for ladies to come together, get rested, be pampered, have fun, laugh, cry, and get filled up spiritually. There were many prayers prayed as this weekend came and the presence of the Lord filled the place.

I have always been amazed each time I go there, how the Lord makes Himself so real and my heart can be stilled in the beauty of such a wonderful God-given place. His handprints are all over it. This year the theme was nautical and my topics reflected that in "Faith in the Waves". On Friday I spoke about Resting in Him, Saturday was a time to Revive our Souls, then Sunday the Lord gave us strength to Renew our Pilgrimage with Him.

Do you take time to simply REST in Jesus? Is your life just too busy? If so, today is the perfect day to go to Him and pray for rest.

Matthew 11:28-30 says, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,

and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,

for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (NKJV)

 

 

Have you ever seen a yoke of oxen? How many are yoked together? Of course, two. This is how Jesus wants us to be with Him. Yoked to Him, trusting Him to direct our paths and leading us in His ways and His timing. This is where we find rest. Trusting Jesus to go ahead of us. I pray for all you dear ones that you will call on the name of Jesus, yoke to Him, and trade in your heavy burden for His light one. May you begin today resting in Him.

 

May Jesus be your joy and your strength,

Natalie

Wanted: Brokenness

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit,

A broken and a contrite heart -

These, O God, You will not despise."

Psalm 51:17 NKJV

Look at your life for a few moments. Are you taking time to seek God's will for your life or are you "going it alone"? What breaks your heart? What breaks our Savior's heart? Do these things line up or are they far off the mark?

Taking time to examine ourselves is a quality in need of development in the North American (and maybe other) church. We are constantly reminded of grace - which I am so thankful for - yet there is more than grace at work. We serve the same God as Abraham, Moses, David, Deborah,  Esther, Mary, Peter, and Paul served. The above Scripture reference comes from David's heart and reflects a brokenness that surrenders fully to the Lord we serve today.

Are you broken? If not, will you allow God to break you? He will not leave you broken but,

 "The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart,

 And saves such as have a contrite spirit."

 (Psalm 34:18 NKJV)

Jesus died on a cross to save all who are willing to accept Him as their Lord and Savior without prejudice. He loves everyone. His heart breaks for those who are caught in the vicious cycle of sin, whatever it is. No one is beyond help. Does your heart break at the sight of sin in the news, in your community, in your home -  I mean break enough that you give it to the Lord to be in control? Or do you desire justice - dished out the way you feel it deserves?

What if we begin to pray through the news we see on the TV, computer, or hear on the radio? What if we begin to give all those things in our lives that are not pleasing to God and allow the Holy Spirit to direct our lives? What if our focus in the home started with Father, Son, and Holy Spirit rather than self? I encourage you pray, seeking the Lord's will with all your heart and allow Him to break you, then to fill you with His Spirit to be hands and feet for Him, trusting everything to His direction. It may not be easy, but remember the eternal rewards are His to give. Those are not ones which will rot, rust, or be destroyed.

May you rest in Jesus,

Natalie

The Perfect Plan

Hebrews 12:1 says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us," (NIV emphasis added).

God has a plan for everyone. The plan He has for me probably differs from yours, as yours is probably different from the next person. Many times I have struggled with knowing God's voice and plan for my life. However, right now I am clear about the call He has placed on me for this time. Now in saying that I must tell you that knowing is not always the easiest thing. Once we know, we need to step out in faith and do. Trusting His will and plan for our lives can be difficult, but following Him is the best place to be.

Being in the Lord's will and following Jesus is not a place the enemy wants you to be. He will throw things at you and discourage you without remorse. He is the enemy of our Lord and Saviour and when you trust Jesus and step out in faith, that makes you his enemy as well. When we are discouraged and frustrated with our circumstances, we need to trust Jesus and keep our eyes on Him. Throw off the "stuff" that discourages and plow through with your eyes on eternity.

A question I learned to ask myself a long time ago is this, "Will it matter 5 years from now?" Now I have expanded that to, "Will it make a difference for eternity?" This earth we call home is temporary, yet we have the gift of eternal life thanks to Jesus Christ. Are the things you are doing glorifying Him and making a difference for eternity?

It doesn't matter where you are. God can use you to make an eternal impact if you would seek His face and trust Him with everything you are. Pray and ask Him what He wants you to do for Him. Trust in His ways and plan for your life. May He bless you.

Trusting in Him,
Natalie

Complete Trust

Today I thought it would be nice to look at some Scriptures that focus our hearts on trusting the Lord. Times can be tough. Changes come that we are not always ready for. Time continues to tick away whatever our lives are experiencing. Trusting God with our lives and all the circumstances that come our way instill a peace within that nothing else can. Are you trusting God with all the what ifs? if onlys? and every victory, question, and frustration you are encountering?

I encourage you to choose a Scripture that speaks to your heart and write it out. Put it somewhere you will read it often, then memorize it.

"In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Psalm 56:11 NASB

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB

"Many are the sorrows of the wicked, But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him." Psalm 33:5 NASB

This is but a small sampling. Read and study the Scriptures and see what the Lord will reveal to you about trusting in Him. We serve the God of the universe. The one who sent His one and only Son, Jesus to bear the burden of sin. To be born, live, die, and be resurrected so we might find freedom from sin and be given the gift of eternal life.

Have you given your life, your all to Him? If not, my prayer for you is that you would seek Him and find Him. Pray for forgiveness of your sins and ask Him to dwell in your heart and guide your life. Jesus says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." Revelation 3:20-22 NASB

Faith Walking

Second Corinthians 5:7 says, "For we walk by faith, not by sight." (NKJV) Memorizing this verse has been a very helpful tool for me. We live in a world saturated with "stuff" for the eyes to behold and pull our attention this way and that. However, our relationship with the Lord is one without a visual cue for us to cling to.

Faith can also be defined as trust, hope, or belief. One question we can all ask of ourselves is, "Where do I place my faith?" Is your faith in your income, your abilities and talents, your family, your connections, your friends? All of these things we can see and sometimes we get caught up in the tangibility of them, trusting in ourselves or our ability rather than in God whom we cannot see.

Developing a personal relationship with Jesus is the single most important decision anyone can make. It does not, however, guarantee a bed of roses or an easy life. What it does guarantee is that you will never, ever be alone again (Hebrews 13:5). Trusting the Lord with every aspect of your life, giving Him everything from your children to your bank accounts, your time to your vacations. Every single aspect small or large whether you think God would care about it or not.

Spending time quietly in His presence will grow your ability to hear His voice, understand His Word, and give you courage to stand on the solid foundation He will provide if you let Him. Read the Bible prayerfully asking the Lord to reveal the truths to you. Living a life of faith may require some things of you. It may require giving up some things or investing time, resources, or more of yourself, yet the benefits outweigh the expense.

I encourage you to take a "faith walk"; step out in faith and trust Him in an area He has been calling you to. Give it all into His hands and do not try to do it on your own.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart

And do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He will make your paths straight."

Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB

Trusting in Him and His Word,

Natalie

Safe in the Shepherd's Arms

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." Psalm 23:1 NKJV

This week I have been memorizing Psalm 23. In my time memorizing, I have also been meditating on the significance of this verse. Sheep are not self-sufficent. They are helpless and in need of someone to tend, care for, and protect them. For them to be safe and secure, they need a shepherd. We are no different.

We are in need of a Helper. Someone who gets us. Someone who loves us unconditionally. Someone who is there for us no matter the situation or circumstance. Being human, we are flawed. As much as we may want to be self-sufficient, we are all in need of a Savior (Shepherd) who is there for us and knows our needs before we ask (Matthew 6:8).

Please don't misinterpret this passage of Scripture. It does not guarantee we will be exempt from hard times or difficult circumstances. It also does not mean that we will be given everything we want.

I encourage you to read the rest of this Psalm. I think you will find-as I have-your rest will be found in Him. Trust your life in the nail-scarred hands of Jesus as your personal Savior. Allow Him to be your Shepherd.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Natalie

Filling Up

I've been reading through the book of Proverbs. It amazes me how simple some of these verses are. The simplicity leaps off the pages and turns my thinking to wonder how humanity has gotten so far away from laws and commandments that our Creator put in place to keep us safe and make us good citizens on this earth, and one day in eternity with Him.

When did things go awry? I guess we have to go back to the Garden of Eden and examine the hearts of the first created humans. Eve thought God was keeping something from her-something good. The serpent whispered silky lies in her ear, seducing her to believe lies that would wound all of humanity.

It still happens to us today. God's Word tells us we are made in His image (Genesis 1:27), yet many of us tear ourselves apart and speak terrible things about one another. God's Word tells us that if we are in Him, we have the fruit of the Spirit which is, "love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control." (Galatians 5:22-23) Yet how many of us truly have all of these. These fruit are there, ripe for the picking if we would just reach out and accept the gifts Jesus died to give us. "Abundant life," John 10:10 says. That is what Christ came to give us. Yet, like Eve, we scorn it and toss it back as a worthless trinket.

The daily practice of Bible reading opens the mind and the heart to grow more like Jesus. That is truly our calling. I encourage you to begin reading daily, prayerfully for Jesus to fill you with the Spirit allowing the truth of God's Word to penetrate your heart and make a lasting change from the inside out. Claim the fruit of the Spirit, walking daily in it and see the difference living in His will can make. Why not start right now!

May the joy of Jesus fill your heart and soul to overflowing. With blessings,
Natalie

In His Hands

                                   


Hannah is quite a lady. Last week, I spent quite a bit of time reading and researching her biography in 1 Samuel chapter 1. She was barren, unable to have children. Her husband took a second wife who was able to bear him children. Because of this, she was a constant source of aggravation to Hannah. Year after year, Elkanah (their husband), Hannah, Peninnah, and their children would take the journey to make their yearly sacrifice at Shiloh.

During this time, Peninnah would pick at Hannah, making her miserable. After eating, Hannah went to the temple and poured her heart out before the Lord. She was desperate. She had come to the end of herself and could no longer take it. She prayed from misery and heartache so deep down that her mouth was moving, yet no words would come forth. When Eli the priest saw her, he rebuked her for being drunk. Hannah explained the ache within her being. This hurt ran down inside the core of her heart. He responded telling her to go in peace and asked the Lord's blessing to be upon her.

This is where God calls us to be (Psalm 57:2). This is where Jesus called his disciples to be (Matthew 16:24). We are called to be clay in the Potter's hands (Jeremiah 18:6). Hannah lived in a time when having children was looked upon as a blessing from God and a barren womb a curse. Yet, they failed to see God's timing. We see in verse 5 that the Lord closed her womb. Then inversely we see in verse 19 that she conceives. God's timing is perfect; it was in Hannah's and it is in yours.

What is He calling you to today? Is there something you know God is asking of you? Is Jesus asking you to follow Him? Is the Holy Spirit nudging your soul? Allow Hannah to be a messenger of hope to you today, take a lesson from her life and cry out to Him from the depths of your heart and listen for His answer. Remember, His timing is perfect and there is nothing He cannot do.

Comfort of the Psalms

Do you ever get heavy hearted? For me, reading the Psalms help me see God differently when I feel burdened and heavy laden. This week I thought I would share some that have touched my heart in a special way now and times in the past.

Jesus is our Refuge, Redeemer, Saviour, and Friend. Allow Him to speak to you as you read through the Words from Psalms. May you be blessed and changed from the inside out.

Psalm 71:1 In You, O Lord, I put my trust.
                   Let me never be put to shame.

Psalm 71:19-21 Also Your righteousness, O God, is very high,
                          You who have done great things;
                          O God, who is like You? 
                          You, who have shown me great and severe troubles,
                          Shall revive me again,
                          And bring me up again from the depths of the earth.
                          You shall increase my greatness,
                          And comfort me on every side.

Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
                      Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
                      I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress;
                      My God, in Him I will trust."

Psalm 116:1-2 I love the Lord, because He has heard
                        My voice and my supplications.
                        Because He has inclined His ear to me,
                        Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live.

Dear friend, I pray in Jesus' name that these Scripture passages will comfort you and encourage you to grab your Bible and seek out His Word to you and your life. Remember, God loves you, Jesus dies for you, and the Holy Spirit dwells in all Christians. I urge you, give your life to Him-fully and completely. Whatever He is calling you to, say yes. It will change your life. Put you all in the palm of His hands and have faith.

In Him,
Natalie

Never Separated

                                                   

What is going on in your life right now? Thinking about the people around me, there are many different circumstances people find themselves in each and every day. Some people are where they are by choice, some have no choice. I have friends who are going through mountaintop experiences: enjoying the presence of newborn babies in their families, waiting to have books published, finishing up college, preparing to graduate their children from high school, and such. I also have friends who are going through valley times: parents in long-term care facilities, illness of all sorts, times of struggle with family members, and the list goes on. Take a moment to think about your life. Where are you?

In whichever list you find yourself (and you may be going through times that place you in both), you can rest in the assurance that you have a Comforter and Redeemer in Jesus Christ. Paul was no stranger to tough times. In his life he was persecuted, beaten, shipwrecked, and imprisoned. But he continued to trust his Saviour. In Romans 8:38-39 he shares a promise we can cling to:

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life,

nor angels nor principalities nor powers,

nor things present nor things to come, 

nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing,

shall be able to separate us from the love of God

which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." NKJV

Did you see it? NOTHING can separate us from the love of God! I think of illness that robs a person of their faculties - that does not separate them from the love of God. What about  the loss of a job? No, that can't separate them from the love of God. Do you see? God's love is more powerful than anything. He is "the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last" (Revelation 22:13 NKJV).

Looking at where we are may give us perspective to see that God can work wherever He has us.

"To everything there is a season,

A time for every purpose under heaven:"

Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV

Remember, there is a time and season for everything. This season you are experiencing will not last forever. If you are experiencing a moutaintop time, don't lose heart. When the valley comes along, take time to look around. In the valley is where we grow, if we will take the time to focus on Jesus and not on the circumstances we find ourselves in. If you find yourself in the valley, keep you eyes on Jesus and be comforted in the knowledge that everything has a season, and seasons do not last forever.

Dear friends, keep your eyes on the Lord. Pray and draw near to Him.

Blessings, Natalie

FREEDOM

"And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." John 16:23-24 NKJV

Jesus' resurrection paved the way for us to be in relationship with the Father. We are no longer separated by the chasm of sin. Jesus paid the price: it was not free for Him. However, He made a way and it is free for us. He stepped in and filled the gap created by disobedience. What joy we can have, what fullness of life we can live!

Is your life full of joy? If not, why? We have the promise of His joy to fill us. Have you asked for it? As sons and daughters of the King of kings, we are heirs to all of His promises. In the above Scripture passage, we have a promise to receive what we ask for. The only condition is that we ask for God's will in our lives. He wants all that is best for us. Not just the good stuff, but the great stuff!! Isn't that exciting?

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord,

thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and

I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me,

when you search for Me with all your heart."

Jeremiah 29:11-13 NKJV

He knows what He has in store for each of His children. We only need to say "YES". Saying yes can be hard to do, but when you know the One who is leading, it is much easier to follow. If you aren't ready to say yes, take some time and read, study your Bible, and pray. Get to know the Lord on a personal level. Spend time talking to Him like you do your best friend. Be honest and take time to listen. He may speak through the Word of the Bible. He may speak through Christian friends. He may speak in very unexpected ways, but I desire for you to know that He does speak. Listen carefully my dear friends, Jesus is "standing at the door and knocking. If you hear His voice and open the door, He will come in and be with you." (Revelation 3:20 paraphrased)

Dear friend, Jesus awaits. Call on Him today.

Spring Forth

Easter is coming. This is a time of preparation and reflection. Our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ, gave His all for each of us: that is why we celebrate. It has nothing to do with Easter bunnies or egg hunts. What does it mean to you?

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again

to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ

from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and

that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,

who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation

ready to be revealed in the last time." (1 Peter 1:3-5 NKJV)

What great hope we have, thanks be to Jesus and the work done on the cross those many years ago. This world is filled with things. There are homes, cars, tvs, cell phones, computers, e-readers, video games, movies, purses, shoes, golf clubs, food, and I could list every moment for every day for the next year and not even scratch the surface of what is available. The only problem is that no matter what phone, computer, purse, or car you get, there will be a new and better one available tomorrrow. The insatiable lust of the flesh tells us it will never be enough, big enough or good enough. We want more, More, MORE.

The promise that comes with this Scripture fills my soul and grants me peace to be content with the wonderful "things" I am blessed with (for the most part). Our true treasures are not on this earth, nor are they seen, but they are stored in heaven with the Author and Finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ. Our inheritance is incorruptible and undefiled and will not fade away... Praise You Jesus!

This life is not all we have. This is a training ground for better things coming. This is a time to prepare ourselves to meet our Savior "face-to-face". My question is this: Are you ready? Is your heart focused on things of this world, or on the Savior of this world? Are you ready to meet Him and answer His questions? Have you given Him all of yourself, your possessions, your everything?

If you take time to read the Scriptures this Easter season, I urge you to read the accounts in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, from the Last supper through the Resurrection. Read it prayerfully, asking God to reveal the truth to your heart, softening it so you may hear His voice, then for the courage to obey Him. It can be scary because none of us know what He will call us to. However, we have the promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). What more do we need?

Praying you will find hope and rest in Jesus Christ beginning today.

Natalie



Worship Notes-Part 2

Have you considered your time all alone, praying and seeking God as a time of worship? It can be. When we go into our "prayer closet" (which can be anywhere you are alone with God) and spend time in His presence, we are in fact worshiping Him. A personal relationship is what He desires with each person who calls Him Father. In saying this, we too have a part to play. Going before the Lord with a list of demands is really not the way to approach Him. Think of it this way. He loves you and you love Him. He knows the things you have need of before you ever ask Him (Matthew 6:8).

Take time to go before the Lord and ask Him to reveal the truth in your heart. David, the man after God's own heart, wrote many Psalms. In Psalm 139 he exposed his heart to God. We can learn much if we will seek God's will for our lives and ask Him to reveal the truth to us about ourselves. Just listen to the last two verses from Psalm 139:

"Search me, O God and know my heart;

Try me, and know my anxieties;

And see if there is any wicked way in me,

And lead me in the way everlasting." (23-24 NKJV)

What if we prayed this prayer and remained in God's presence until He revealed the truth to us? What if we then repented and prayed for forgiveness and cleansing from those things He revealed? Would we be different? Would this look like worship? YES!! Definitely, it would. We serve a mighty and great God who loves us just the way we are, but refuses to let us stay that way. Yet, He is a gentleman, and will not force Himself anywhere we won't invite Him in.

I have struggled with many things. I also tried very hard to keep certain places in my heart veiled from the Lord (what a joke), but when I went before Him and prayed this prayer, many things and motives were revealed to me. Things I didn't even know were there! But as I work through them (He's still working on me), I realize more and more how much He loves me and how patient He truly is.

Don't be afraid to let Him in to every part of your life. Allow Him to wash you "white as snow", cleansing you from everything that stands between you and Him. He loves you with a love that is incomparable.  Take time to worship Him today and everyday.

Worship Notes - Part 1

What a beautiful day! God is so good! Thank you Lord for health, food on the table, a warm place to sleep, my beautiful family...

What is worship? Would you call my opening lines in this post worship? Why or why not? Is singing and dancing worship?

When asked the question what is worship we may say: singing hymns, praying, meditating on Scripture, or that sort of thing. Do you realize you can worship the Lord in all the things you do? What about carrying out the trash, getting the groceries, paying the bills, going to work, doing your schoolwork?

Yes, all the above can be a worship experience if our hearts are focused on the Lord, our almighty God. When we obey Him, we are worshiping Him. Doing any chores that seem menial can be done with a heart and attitude of worship as though you are doing it for Him and not for yourself or any other person. God has given us life, abundant life (John 10:10). Even in the things that annoy us, we can learn to do with a thankful heart, overflowing with love for our Savior, Jesus Christ. We have the awesome privilege of being in personal relationship with Him and we can show our appreciation for Him through our actions and attitudes.

The Lord sees our hearts (1 Samuel 16:7) and the intentions in it. Are you being intentional in your worship to Him? Is your focus on Him or on others or yourself? Over the next couple of weeks, we will explore the meaning of worship and how we can worship more effectively. To leave you this week, I want to challenge you. Think about the one thing you dislike doing more than anything. Rather than dread it, take the time to praise the Lord when you are right in the middle of it. Thank Him for giving you the physical and/or emotional capabilities to do it. Praise Him for all that He means to you and for all He's done for you. Do that job for Him-whoever it is for-keep Him in the forefront of your thinking. It will make a difference!

This Means WAR

Around the world, even right now wars rage on. Some are for socio-economic reasons, some for freedom, some for religious regions, some for reasons no one can seem to remember. Do you realize there is a war raging on in the unseen world all around us. "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickeness in the heavenly places," Ephesians 6:12 NKJV.

Every one of us is suseptible to the fall-out from this war. Believers in Christ are the target. Because we live to glorify God, we are the enemy. Satan likes to dress himself up to appear that which he is not. He has not earned the title of deceiver for no reason. He messes with our minds and many times we fall into the trap of agreeing with him and believing those lies.

For instance, looking in the mirror, I notice the gray hairs multiplying, wrinkles where the skin used to be smooth, extra pounds pulling at the cheeks and chin-I could go on but I'm certain you understand where I'm going. There are days when the enemy will whisper something like, "You're getting old, ugly, fat and no one loves you. How can they...just look at what you've become." In that moment, I have a choice. Will I believe and agree with what the enemy of my souls says OR will I take that thought to Christ and ask Him what He says about me? The choice is mine. It is quite simple to agree and then beat myself up for not dyeing my hair, not using a moisturizer when I was younger, and not shedding those extra pounds years ago. However, that is just what our enemy wants. Agreeeing with him gives him the opportunity to further assault us and our relationship with God.

The choice we need to develop is to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). In doing this, we can see what He really has to say about us.

You are made in the image of God. Genesis 1:26

He loves you so much that He died to take your place. John 316

He delights in you. Psalm 18:19

You are a friend of Jesus. John 15:15

These are just a few of the many things said about you. I encourage you to grab your Bible and read, study, meditate, and pray on the verses He shows you. When you find one that answers a negative thought you hear about yourself (or one you already believe), pray and ask God to heal your heart, mind, body, and spirit from the schemes of the devil. Give Him the permission to come in and cleanse you of your disbelief. Allow Him to fill you with the truth. Stand up to the enemy and fight. Do not allow him to manipulate and lie to you one more second. Take these thoughts to Christ. Fight the war against the enemy. Remember, we have one weapon in our arsenal; the Bible. The exciting thing is, it's the only one we need! 

I encourage your to memorize theses phrase (or better yet, look up and memorize the whole verses from the Bible) then claim them over yourself. Thanks to Jesus we can go before our Holy and Heavenly Father in prayer, trusting Him to reveal the truth. May God be with you as you walk in obedience in all you do.

With blessings,

Natalie

Wisdom in Looking Back

Hi all! I apologize for being so long since my last post. God has been doing amazing things in my life and I pray you can see Him working in yours too!! We serve a great God who is always near and always cares what we are going through. Of this I am certain. I have been reading through the Bible, following a chronological reading pattern, which I began in January. It amazes me how the Scriptures come alive each time I read it. No matter how many times I have read or studied an account or story in the Bible, each time there is a new lesson or promise to pick up. Truth is encapsulated within the covers of The Holy Bible.

I want to encourage you to pick up the Bible and begin reading it. If the whole seems too big, begin with a verse, then read a chapter, and then a book. It will amaze you how rich and wonderful the experience of relationship with God is when you read, study, and meditate on His Word. Romans 15:4 states it poetically. "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope."

There is wisdom in looking back. Not looking back at all the negative things in our lives, but looking back at the things God has done. When I read the account of God speaking to Moses, raising him up as a leader (as unlikely as that seemed), and giving him everything he needed to bring those people (great in number) out of Egypt and eventually to the Promised Land; well, it makes my heart race.We know He was able in Moses' time, so why do we think He is not able now? We are talking about the same God who does not change.

In Luke 1, an angel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would become mother to the Messiah. He told her, "For with God nothing will be impossible." (vs 37) If you doubt God, you may want to take the time to get to know Him better. I encourage you to grab a Bible and start reading. Pray and ask Him to open your eyes to the truth. Pray asking God to open your mind to understand all that you read. He will reveal things to you as you are ready for them. It is amazing what we can learn, how we can grow, and how much wisdom there is in studying the Word of God. May He bless you and be near you as you journey with Him.

With prayers,
Natalie

Who AM I In Christ?

Ever struggle with doubts and nagging thoughts that tell you negative things about yourself? If you do, what do you do next? Do you believe the lies of the enemy, or do you claim the truth about who you are as a believer and follower of Jesus Christ? Let's look at the truth. (There are many verses I could have used, but I chose just a few.)

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:1-2 NKJV

"You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 NKJV

"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God." 1 Corinthians 2:12 NKJV

"Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him," Colossians 3:9-10 NKJV

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:29 NKJV

We have the privilege of being the living temple of the Living God. Wherever we live, whoever we are, if we have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, He dwells within us. These are the truths and promises you can trust. When there is a voice or person telling you untruths, claim these promises and release the negative words. Train yourself to focus on the truth, no matter how loud the voice of lies are.

I strongly recommend you take these verses and memorize them, hiding them in your heart so when the poison darts of the enemy are launched against you, your shield of truth will be able to extinguish them. We need to know who we are in Christ. His promises are there for us. What He has promised, He will fulfill.


If you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, yet you would like to accept His gift of salvation, there is no better time than now to do that. If you would like to, click on this link http://promisesforall.blogspot.com/2010/09/greatest-promise.html to go to one of my earlier posts that will lead you through the steps to a personal relationship with Christ. After reading it, take the time to pray through the steps simply. You do not need to use big words. The only requirements are to admit you are a sinner in need of a Savior, accept the work Jesus did-dying on the cross in your place-believing him, and commit your life to Jesus, asking Him to guide and direct your life.

May God bless you abundantly. May He guide you as you grow stronger and deeper in the Word of God. Trust who He says you are.

A Giving New Year

I pray you all had a wonderful Christmas season. There is something very special about Christmas, the birth of our Savior. It is celebrated for a month, rather than simply a day. However, I want you to consider this celebration to last for the whole year rather than just for a season. What a wonderful gift we have been given, the promise of eternal life for all who will trust in the Lord Jesus as their personal Savior and give their heart to Him, believe in Him, and commit their life to Him. This is not just a promise at Christmas, but for each and every day.

Throughout the past month, I blogged about giving Jesus a gift for Christmas. What did you give Him? If you haven't given to Him yet, it is not too late. Decide now and give. Sometimes when we think of tithing (giving 10%), we only consider our money. However, what if we were to tithe our time too? What if we gave to God's people of our time and resources-money and all we have? Would the face of this earth be changed? What if we gave forgiveness, love, compassion...? What if we truly began to give of ourselves without thinking about what we would receive in return?

2012 can be a totally different year from the rest. This can be a year of giving. This can be a year of selflessness, being polite, and a year of radical Christianity. What if we would start to love like Jesus? What if we took His example and truly began to live like Him?

I challenge you to live a life of giving and trusting the Lord. Give it all to Him and ask Him what to do with it. He owns it all, we are only entrusted with whatever we have for a time. When we are gone, we cannot take it with us. May God bless you for your obedience and faith.

"Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,

That there may be food in My house,

And try Me now in this,"

Says the LORD of hosts,

"If I will not open for you the windows of heaven

And pour out for you much blessing

That there will not be room enough to receive it."

Malachi 3:10 NKJV