In Ephesians 2:10, Paul clearly states a promise God has given to all believers, everywhere in the world, across the centuries, past, present and future. Beyond that, His promises are for believers whatever your age or station in life. Hold this one tightly. Unwrap it as though it were the most precious gift-just as all the promises in the Bible are-and apply it to your life. Remember that these gifts and promises are not to place on a shelf and admire, but are to be used in your life.
Are you ready for the promise? Here it is. "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
You are His workmanship- God has created you special and individual. You are not like anyone else in this world. He has designed and fashioned you to stand out and be all He has created you to be. Who are you created to be? That is something you need to take to the Lord in prayer. He is willing and able to show you if you would just ask. Seek His will and purpose for your life. He may not speak in an audible voice, but He might. He may not give you an answer in the moment you ask, but He can. The truth is we must first seek His face with a true and repentant heart. He will guide us and direct us if we will give our hearts to Him. Guard yourselves against the schemes of the devil. He is real and he wants to destroy you. If you listen to his lies you will begin to believe many things about yourself that are not true. You were created by God and God doesn't create any junk. Dear One, you are precious in God's sight. He loves you like no one else.
...created in Christ Jesus for good works-One thing I can tell you about your purpose with confidence is this; you were created for good works. Jesus came to this Earth all those years ago to show us how to live. He forgave those who hurt Him. He loved those who were in need. He healed the lame, fed the hungry, hung out with those who on the surface looked unworthy. Can we say the same? Good works can mean a range of things. The point is this. Through prayer and quiet in the Lord's presence, He will guide and direct you into the good works He has prepared for you. It is amazing what one act of kindness can do. For instance, when you take the time to smile or say hello to someone, there is the potential to make a huge impact on another life who then may make impact on another, and so on...
...which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.-From the beginning, God had a plan for your life. He created you male or female, placed you in the city, town or village in the part of the world, in the time and generation you are in for a reason. He knew what colour your hair would be, how old you would live to be and what your purpose would be. He does not want it to be a secret. Have you taken the time to truly seek His will and plan for your life. Know that His plan is perfect and when you are walking in it, there will be trials, but along with those trails come the joy of knowing the Lord.
Having a friend and personal relationship with Jesus Christ has held me up in times I felt I would be crushed under the weight of oppression I was experiencing. A personal relationship with Jesus is the one thing in life we all seek-whether we know it or not. Whatever you may be struggling with-and we all have struggles-realize that Jesus understands. If you don't believe me, read Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Bible and see for yourself. He is there standing at the door of your heart, knocking and waiting. He is a gentleman and will not force you, but He will be there when you are ready to accept His gifts and promises.
May He be your joy and your strength. With many blessings,
Natalie
Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Full Faith
"Above all, taking that shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one," Ephesians 6:16 NKJV.
Faith is the essence of Christianity. We live by faith. We go into the unknown on faith. We trust Him by faith. Faith in the work that Jesus Christ did on the cross; dying for my and your sins. Not just in death but He rose again, victorious over death. Jesus Christ rose. He arose. He came back from death, conquering death, the grave and sin in our lives, if we will just have faith in Him.
Faith. We can have it. It is ours for the asking. Give your life to Him and He will fill you. Be obedient to His call on your life and He will never leave you. Do not trust your feelings. Feelings lie. They deceive. Trust the promises of the Bible. When Jesus promised that He would dwell within believers that is what He meant. He gave us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us: to guide and direct us.
Each time we follow the prompting of the Spirit our faith grows a little bit more. Our shield gets a bit bigger. Stepping out in faith is not easy, but it promises the reward of trust and growth. God never said any of this life would be easy. In fact He promised that we will have difficult times, but He would always be near us.
Have you been listening to the Spirit or do you quench it? Do you do those things the Spirit asks or do you go the other way? Have faith and follow the Spirit's leading. He will never lead you and leave you, but He will take you through whatever He is asking of you. Have faith. Follow Him.
Faith is the essence of Christianity. We live by faith. We go into the unknown on faith. We trust Him by faith. Faith in the work that Jesus Christ did on the cross; dying for my and your sins. Not just in death but He rose again, victorious over death. Jesus Christ rose. He arose. He came back from death, conquering death, the grave and sin in our lives, if we will just have faith in Him.
Faith. We can have it. It is ours for the asking. Give your life to Him and He will fill you. Be obedient to His call on your life and He will never leave you. Do not trust your feelings. Feelings lie. They deceive. Trust the promises of the Bible. When Jesus promised that He would dwell within believers that is what He meant. He gave us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us: to guide and direct us.
Each time we follow the prompting of the Spirit our faith grows a little bit more. Our shield gets a bit bigger. Stepping out in faith is not easy, but it promises the reward of trust and growth. God never said any of this life would be easy. In fact He promised that we will have difficult times, but He would always be near us.
Have you been listening to the Spirit or do you quench it? Do you do those things the Spirit asks or do you go the other way? Have faith and follow the Spirit's leading. He will never lead you and leave you, but He will take you through whatever He is asking of you. Have faith. Follow Him.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Detour Through the Desert
Has God given you a vision of what your purpose is? Is it clear in your mind; what He has called you to do? Are things progressing as you thought they would or are you faced with nagging thoughts that maybe you heard wrong? Maybe you misunderstood.
Scripture has the ability to reveal truth in a very special way. Looking back to Exodus 13:17 we see God made a distinct decision to send the children of Israel the long way around. "When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, 'If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.'" (NIV)
God could have chosen to send them directly to the Promised Land, but He purposefully chose the long road. If you take the time to read through the whole account of the Israelites' journey out of Egypt in the Book of Exodus, you will find that these were a "stiff-necked" people-much like ourselves-who needed training and time in the wilderness.
It is possible God has called and shown you your specific ministry, yet things are not progressing in the way you thought they would or should. You may have your own agenda and timetable set. Be patient and accept the truth. God is not about our timetable. We see time as a hindrance but God, who created time, uses it to accomplish His perfect plan. His timing is Perfect. Perfect.
There is no use wasting your time or energy kicking against it. Accept it. Embrace the challenge and allow your desert detour to shape you gracefully in preparation for whatever the Lord has ordained your ministry. Your time will come. When it does you will be ready. He will make all things beautiful in His time. You may still have to learn some hard lessons but with His grace and by the power of the Holy Spirit that works within you, none of your obedience will be in vain.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight," Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).
Scripture has the ability to reveal truth in a very special way. Looking back to Exodus 13:17 we see God made a distinct decision to send the children of Israel the long way around. "When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, 'If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.'" (NIV)
God could have chosen to send them directly to the Promised Land, but He purposefully chose the long road. If you take the time to read through the whole account of the Israelites' journey out of Egypt in the Book of Exodus, you will find that these were a "stiff-necked" people-much like ourselves-who needed training and time in the wilderness.
It is possible God has called and shown you your specific ministry, yet things are not progressing in the way you thought they would or should. You may have your own agenda and timetable set. Be patient and accept the truth. God is not about our timetable. We see time as a hindrance but God, who created time, uses it to accomplish His perfect plan. His timing is Perfect. Perfect.
There is no use wasting your time or energy kicking against it. Accept it. Embrace the challenge and allow your desert detour to shape you gracefully in preparation for whatever the Lord has ordained your ministry. Your time will come. When it does you will be ready. He will make all things beautiful in His time. You may still have to learn some hard lessons but with His grace and by the power of the Holy Spirit that works within you, none of your obedience will be in vain.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight," Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Gifted Workers
"There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministires, but the same Lord."
~~1 Corinthians 12: 4-5 NKJV
Within the body of believers-that is the universal church as a whole-there are many spiritual gifts. Some differ greatly from others. There may be one who is great leading children's ministry, but put them in a group of adults and they don't know what to do. The same goes with the church administration, that person is probably a whiz with numbers and keeping things running smoothly, but put them in a room chock-full of youth and they may squirm. Each of us has been gifted by the Holy Spirit to do our part. Each part put together brings a balanced body of believers together that function as the "local" church.
We all have our part to play whether we realize it or not. In the church we need and depend on those who run a Sunday service: worship leaders, musicians, prayer partners, those who give spontaneous testimonies and the pastor or the one who brings the message are just some that come to mind. Then there are those who teach Sunday school, prepare coffee and a snack for pre or post service fellowship, the prayer warriors who will pray about everything and anything someone asks them too. There are also the elders and leadership of the church. Don't forget about those who serve in other ministries that the church you attend may offer such as women's ministries, small groups, missions and local outreach, youth group leaders and so on.
Do you see how important each of these ministries-and I've only named a few-are? Each is different and has its own place, some are more out in front and others behind the scenes. However, the Lord knew the differences of each of us and has made a place for all to fit and serve Him using their own gifts. God is so amazing and I hope I never lose the sense of awe in Him and His power. He has purposed you to serve in your local body of believers. Do not despise small beginnings if you are just starting out. Have faith that He will put you exactly where you need to be. Dig in and work hard for Him. Where are you serving right now? If you aren't pray about it and trust that He will place you where you need to be. Thank Him for gifting you in whatever area it is and work for Him. Be thrilled to be part of His wonderful plan and keep you eyes on the prize: eternal life in Heaven with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Where else would you rather be?
~~1 Corinthians 12: 4-5 NKJV
Within the body of believers-that is the universal church as a whole-there are many spiritual gifts. Some differ greatly from others. There may be one who is great leading children's ministry, but put them in a group of adults and they don't know what to do. The same goes with the church administration, that person is probably a whiz with numbers and keeping things running smoothly, but put them in a room chock-full of youth and they may squirm. Each of us has been gifted by the Holy Spirit to do our part. Each part put together brings a balanced body of believers together that function as the "local" church.
We all have our part to play whether we realize it or not. In the church we need and depend on those who run a Sunday service: worship leaders, musicians, prayer partners, those who give spontaneous testimonies and the pastor or the one who brings the message are just some that come to mind. Then there are those who teach Sunday school, prepare coffee and a snack for pre or post service fellowship, the prayer warriors who will pray about everything and anything someone asks them too. There are also the elders and leadership of the church. Don't forget about those who serve in other ministries that the church you attend may offer such as women's ministries, small groups, missions and local outreach, youth group leaders and so on.
Do you see how important each of these ministries-and I've only named a few-are? Each is different and has its own place, some are more out in front and others behind the scenes. However, the Lord knew the differences of each of us and has made a place for all to fit and serve Him using their own gifts. God is so amazing and I hope I never lose the sense of awe in Him and His power. He has purposed you to serve in your local body of believers. Do not despise small beginnings if you are just starting out. Have faith that He will put you exactly where you need to be. Dig in and work hard for Him. Where are you serving right now? If you aren't pray about it and trust that He will place you where you need to be. Thank Him for gifting you in whatever area it is and work for Him. Be thrilled to be part of His wonderful plan and keep you eyes on the prize: eternal life in Heaven with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Where else would you rather be?
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Living Faith
Faith: what does it mean? Does it mean trust, belief or hope? Faith is each of these and all of these. Faith is like a muscle; it grows and develops the more it is stressed and stretched.
We can put our faith in many things. Some put their faith in their money and think, "If I have enough money, I will never want for anything. Then I will truly be happy." Some put their faith in people thinking, "So and so will never let me down," only to find out that their faith has been misplaced. Some will put their faith in the status they hold thinking, "If I become a big-time star or get that new position at work, then I can stop worrying and really be happy." I could go on and I'm sure you can think of some yourself. However, money gets spent, people mess up and the higher your pedestal, the further you have to fall.
Any time we put our faith anywhere other than in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, we are headed for a fall. We will be hurt and disappointed. Sometimes it may feel like the pain will never go away and the hurt can never be repaired. Some of you may be saying, "I've put my faith in Him before and it didn't work for me. What makes this time any different? Why should I believe this?
To begin with, putting your full faith in Him means putting your wants and wishes aside. It means letting go of your hopes and dreams and beginning with a clean heart and mind, focused on His will for your life. Psalm 139 tells us that God created each one of us "one stitch at a time." He created us with a plan and a purpose (Jeremiah 29:11). If we are praying for what we want without knowing what His plan is for us, we are praying in vain. However, when we can lay aside our selfish desires and focus on the One who knows us most intimately, then we can begin to live up to our full potential and be filled with joy that is not dependant on the circumstances that are our lives.
Will you let go? Will you submit your life to the Father? Will you look to Jesus to leads you by the power of the Holy Spirit so you may have life to the full as it is intended to be (John 10:10)? If you are ready, seek the Lord and pray. Take the time and ask Him to forgive you for trying to do it your own way. Thank Him for your life and pray that He will reveal His plan to you for your life. Have faith in the promise that He has created you for a plan and a purpose (Jeremiah 29:11) and wait on the Lord to reveal the truth to you. May He bless you abundantly for your obedience.
In Him,
Natalie
We can put our faith in many things. Some put their faith in their money and think, "If I have enough money, I will never want for anything. Then I will truly be happy." Some put their faith in people thinking, "So and so will never let me down," only to find out that their faith has been misplaced. Some will put their faith in the status they hold thinking, "If I become a big-time star or get that new position at work, then I can stop worrying and really be happy." I could go on and I'm sure you can think of some yourself. However, money gets spent, people mess up and the higher your pedestal, the further you have to fall.
Any time we put our faith anywhere other than in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, we are headed for a fall. We will be hurt and disappointed. Sometimes it may feel like the pain will never go away and the hurt can never be repaired. Some of you may be saying, "I've put my faith in Him before and it didn't work for me. What makes this time any different? Why should I believe this?
To begin with, putting your full faith in Him means putting your wants and wishes aside. It means letting go of your hopes and dreams and beginning with a clean heart and mind, focused on His will for your life. Psalm 139 tells us that God created each one of us "one stitch at a time." He created us with a plan and a purpose (Jeremiah 29:11). If we are praying for what we want without knowing what His plan is for us, we are praying in vain. However, when we can lay aside our selfish desires and focus on the One who knows us most intimately, then we can begin to live up to our full potential and be filled with joy that is not dependant on the circumstances that are our lives.
Will you let go? Will you submit your life to the Father? Will you look to Jesus to leads you by the power of the Holy Spirit so you may have life to the full as it is intended to be (John 10:10)? If you are ready, seek the Lord and pray. Take the time and ask Him to forgive you for trying to do it your own way. Thank Him for your life and pray that He will reveal His plan to you for your life. Have faith in the promise that He has created you for a plan and a purpose (Jeremiah 29:11) and wait on the Lord to reveal the truth to you. May He bless you abundantly for your obedience.
In Him,
Natalie
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Water Walking
When was the last time you said, "I can't do it. That is just too hard!" Maybe it was earlier today or maybe it has been awhile. Personally, I have said it too many times about too many things. In the past few weeks-maybe even months-I have been preparing to get my new book out into the world. The Lord laid this message on my heart, gave me the words and the courage and led me through each step to hold a final product in my hands: Spiritual Training 101: Preparing for Eternity.
Has it been easy? No. Has it been rewarding? Yes, because I am doing what I have been called to do. However, when I was first called by the Lord to write, I had misgivings and feelings of inadequacy which I still wrestle with. However, I am learning that God is always near. He has a special relationship with us through the blood of Jesus Christ. He gave His Son so we could have a personal relationship with Him. When Jesus left the earth, He sent the Holy Spirit to minister to our hearts and lead us in all things. We are fortunate to be able to have such a close personal relationship with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
I think of the passage in Matthew 14:22-33, when Peter has the opportunity to grow in faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. The disciples had a busy day, following the Master, listening and learning how to reach out to people. Jesus needed to go off by Himself and spend time in the presence of His Father. He sent the disciples off in a boat across the lake to meet up with them later. While they were in the boat a storm came up and rocked and twisted the boat. They became very afraid. As time passed, they looked across the water and beheld a vision like that of a ghost walking on the water. Their hearts grew very afraid and they cried out in fear. Jesus then called out to them, "Be of good cheer,! It is I; do not be afraid." The disciples could not believe their ears. Peter quickly answered Jesus telling Him, "Lord if it is You; command me to come to You on the water."
I'm not sure if Peter had thought about what he was saying or if it just came out. I wonder if he was going through a moment of terror as he actually heard these words coming from his own mouth. Have you ever experienced that thought, wondering who was saying that, then realizing the truth...it was me?
Jesus then told Peter to come to Him and Peter did. In that precious moment, Peter truly walked on water! He had his eyes fixed on Jesus. He must have been gushing with excitement, overflowing with joy. Then something happened. His mind kicked in and the realization of the storm blocked his view of Jesus. He began to sink, the fear of drowning swept over him like the dark of night. He cried out for Jesus to help. "And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'"
You see, doubt and fear are two of our greatest hindrances. Whenever they creep in, they have the potential to overwhelm us and cover us to the point of death. Jesus came so we could have life to the full. He can give us the power and strength to do all things. Isn't that a wonderful promise? Do you believe it? Do you have the faith in Him that He can get you through all of those tough things that you cannot see accomplishing? He is waiting for you to call out in His name and request the strength from the Father to do and be all you are called to be. You do not have to feel oppressed. You have the power of Jesus Christ to cling to.
I have been completely amazed by what He has done in my life. He has given me the strength to accomplish things I have never thought possible. He has opened doors I could not see a way of even peeking in. Jesus is absolutely amazing and the courage and strength He offers as a gift will amaze you if you will take the time, jump out of the boat and go water walking with Him.
~quotes from the NKJV
Dear Heavenly and Gracious Father,
I thank you for this wonderful day. Thank you for giving me the gift of life. Lord, I know you have asked me to __________________. Lord, in Jesus name I ask for the strength, courage and power to do the work You have given me. I pray that You will stay by me and help me to grow in my faith of You. Keep me in Your loving care and may my focus never leave You. In the powerful and blessed name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Has it been easy? No. Has it been rewarding? Yes, because I am doing what I have been called to do. However, when I was first called by the Lord to write, I had misgivings and feelings of inadequacy which I still wrestle with. However, I am learning that God is always near. He has a special relationship with us through the blood of Jesus Christ. He gave His Son so we could have a personal relationship with Him. When Jesus left the earth, He sent the Holy Spirit to minister to our hearts and lead us in all things. We are fortunate to be able to have such a close personal relationship with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
I think of the passage in Matthew 14:22-33, when Peter has the opportunity to grow in faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. The disciples had a busy day, following the Master, listening and learning how to reach out to people. Jesus needed to go off by Himself and spend time in the presence of His Father. He sent the disciples off in a boat across the lake to meet up with them later. While they were in the boat a storm came up and rocked and twisted the boat. They became very afraid. As time passed, they looked across the water and beheld a vision like that of a ghost walking on the water. Their hearts grew very afraid and they cried out in fear. Jesus then called out to them, "Be of good cheer,! It is I; do not be afraid." The disciples could not believe their ears. Peter quickly answered Jesus telling Him, "Lord if it is You; command me to come to You on the water."
I'm not sure if Peter had thought about what he was saying or if it just came out. I wonder if he was going through a moment of terror as he actually heard these words coming from his own mouth. Have you ever experienced that thought, wondering who was saying that, then realizing the truth...it was me?
Jesus then told Peter to come to Him and Peter did. In that precious moment, Peter truly walked on water! He had his eyes fixed on Jesus. He must have been gushing with excitement, overflowing with joy. Then something happened. His mind kicked in and the realization of the storm blocked his view of Jesus. He began to sink, the fear of drowning swept over him like the dark of night. He cried out for Jesus to help. "And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'"
You see, doubt and fear are two of our greatest hindrances. Whenever they creep in, they have the potential to overwhelm us and cover us to the point of death. Jesus came so we could have life to the full. He can give us the power and strength to do all things. Isn't that a wonderful promise? Do you believe it? Do you have the faith in Him that He can get you through all of those tough things that you cannot see accomplishing? He is waiting for you to call out in His name and request the strength from the Father to do and be all you are called to be. You do not have to feel oppressed. You have the power of Jesus Christ to cling to.
I have been completely amazed by what He has done in my life. He has given me the strength to accomplish things I have never thought possible. He has opened doors I could not see a way of even peeking in. Jesus is absolutely amazing and the courage and strength He offers as a gift will amaze you if you will take the time, jump out of the boat and go water walking with Him.
~quotes from the NKJV
Dear Heavenly and Gracious Father,
I thank you for this wonderful day. Thank you for giving me the gift of life. Lord, I know you have asked me to __________________. Lord, in Jesus name I ask for the strength, courage and power to do the work You have given me. I pray that You will stay by me and help me to grow in my faith of You. Keep me in Your loving care and may my focus never leave You. In the powerful and blessed name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Pictures from Spiritual Training 101 Book Launch
May you grow in the grace of Jesus Christ.
With many blessings, Natalie
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