Broken Together.....Casting Crowns

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhxELo-uD3c

 

“As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” I can’t stress this enough!! Stand for what is right in your house and the devil will flee. If you don’t, get used to living with him because you are fearing him more than standing for God and what is right under your roof! You will live in disharmony a long time until you do. Trust me, I know.

 

As I grow older and look at my husband, I am so thankful to God for holding us together. Through many ups and downs, and many small separations, it’s ending up to be what I always dreamed of. I thank God that He took the spirit of fear away from me so I could stand for what was right in our home and what a marriage should be. Only God can change our minds. I can tell you, if a spouse doesn’t put forth an effort, it is extremely hard to hold on. 2 Corinthians 12:9, But with the promised grace of God, and the Holy Spirit guiding your every move, you will know what to do.

 

It is very hard to watch this video without it bringing tears to my eyes and an ache in my heart for anyone whose dreams have been shattered of what they always dreamed their marriage would be. So many people who are broken to pieces over something that is going to take more than just promises this time. Secrets have been exposed in the light. Could healing be spoken and save a marriage? Yes, but the only way is to be broken together. Psalm 147: 3, He heals the broken hearted and bandages  their wounds.”

 

I look at this old man in the video sitting at the table and think of my pop. My mom and dad will be 60 years married this April, but, ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD!! Talk about hard times, oh boy did they. But the battle was won, the race was run, and they made it through their dark nights. Not many today will run as long as they did because it’s easier to call it quits. Satan tries to destroy anything that belongs to God. Divorce, and all the destruction it does, including to the children, is what he loves to go after. He wants to destroy it from generation to generation if he could. But God being ALMIGHTY and TRUE, has given us His promises. One of my favorites that I have witnessed with my mom and dad and myself personally is, Joel 2:25, “I will restore to you the years the locust has eaten.” Now I’m not saying how long it will take, but I believe that nothing is too hard for God. It’s just a matter of if we want to wait on His timing. For my mom and dad, it is now, in the very later years of their lives together. For me, it is now after 30 years together.  It was all worth the wait just to know God more and more, and that His promises are true in His time not ours.

 

In relationships, and a world that is falling apart, there is something I don’t understand. If you’ve found hope in Jesus, and felt the power of God that won the battle of salvation over your soul, and you now feel the freedom that has brought you to life, why wouldn’t you think, the one that you think is impossible to save, is possible with the same God that won you? (Selah) The grace of Jesus Christ makes me want to scream till everyone hears. “ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD!”

 

Remember, 1 Corinthians 15:58… “be steadfast, IMMOVABLE, always abounding in the work of the Lord, KNOWING that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

 

Don’t leave love behind. PRAY continuously to God for guidance. Bring your shattered dreams before Him and be “Broken Together.”

 

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Kim

 

 

 

 

Different Kind of Christmas...Mark Schultz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PBEMfbWq_Y

 

For some of us it is a Merry Christmas. But then for others it is a very “Different Kind of Christmas.”

I thank God for every Christmas, and that every chair at our Christmas dinner is still occupied. I know one day I will have to face a different kind of Christmas too.

But I have the most awesome memories that I will carry in my heart forever until we meet again.

 

Many of my family members are believers, and many friends too.

Please share the “Gift” of Christmas,…. Jesus Christ.

 

I pray this song brings some joy to your heart if there is an empty spot at the table this year.

 

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Kim

 

Rediscover You...Starfield

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdeECdQijbc

 

Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and LEARN FROM ME, for I am gentle and humble in heart”….

 

Is your faith paper thin? Are you feeling burnt out on religion? Are your prayers empty because your passion is gone? Maybe you need to discover, or rediscover Jesus for Who He says He is for yourself. That’s what makes it a personal relationship. Stop depending on others,  or church just on Sunday. Church is everyday within yourself waiting to come alive.

1 John 2: 27 “As for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in Him.”   Question is, are you, or were you, ever really in Him?

 

Jesus is the ultimate gift of God to us. Jesus said look for Him and you will find Him. So whether it is now, your first time searching, or you fell back, I strongly suggest you take the time to discover Who He says He is. “I am gentle and humble in heart”… The same way you take the time to search out the best prices for those Christmas gifts on line, or maybe you were first in line on black Friday somewhere. All the Christmas presents you could ever imagine receiving, doesn’t compare to the presence of Christ. You search and go out of your way for many things in this life, WHY NOT FOR JESUS?  Every excuse comes up not to have time for Him, I don’t get that, especially from believers. It cost you nothing, but cost Him everything!

 

I don’t know about you, but I want my Spirit to jump for joy when I hear His name, and then share to others all that He’s done for me. He gives me breath every day to go out and enjoy my life. I am blessed to have health and live in this country. I can go on and on….. I always want to hunger for Him, because ONLY JESUS can bring our cold hearts back to life. No teachings of men, only God alone, can shed the burning light which opens the mind of truth. If you’re not getting it, you must not be searching it with your whole heart for yourself. If you say He is Lord of your life, than you should be desperate for Him over anything else in your life. If you call Him Lord, your everything, than He should be above all, and before all things on your list of things to do. Deuteronomy 4: 24, Our God is a jealous God. He wants that personal relationship with you, that He died to have with each and every one of us. God will perfectly teach you, if you would only give Him some of your time.

 

I hope that whatever you decide this year to be your New Year’s resolution, I pray that Jesus is a BIG part of it.

 

 

 

 

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Kim

 

That was the night before Christmas....Brandon Heath

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCitZPr2oD0

 

 

Colossians 1: 15-16 “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, ….all things were created through Him and for Him.”

 

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, than you must believe in the virgin birth of our Lord and Savior right? Christ was not God because He was virgin born. He was virgin born because He is God.

 

I read in a devotional, and found it to be a great statement, but also great truth. “If Christ was not conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Spirit, if His biological father was Joseph, then He was a sinner. And if He was a sinner, then His death on the cross did not atone for my sins or yours.”

So the fact is, because Jesus was supernaturally conceived in Mary’s womb, He was fully God, and also fully man. Jesus even said in John 8:24, “Unless you believe that I AM who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”

 

He was born “into darkness, sadness, desperate madness, creation so torn. We were so lost on earth, no peace, no worth, no way to escape. In fear, no faith, no hope no grace, and no light. But that was the night before Christmas.”

 

A lot of people in the world have a hard time believing that the truth of the cleansing of our sins was as pure as a Child. But that is a fact! Jesus, “the image of the invisible God” came to earth, went to the cross, died for our sins and rose again. Now He stands at the door of our lives and knocks.

 

As you celebrate Christ…mas, don’t leave Christ out of His own birthday. Open the door of your life and invite Him in.

 

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Kim

 

Thrive.... Casting Crowns

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ71RWJhS_M

 

“We were made for so more than ordinary lives. It’s time for us to do more than just survive”…. Get the full nourishment needed to make Jesus known. Thrive, to know Him and to make Him Known.

 

Mark Hall, the lead singer from Casting Crowns, gave a great analogy on this song and their “Thrive five” sign they make with their hands when they’re singing it. It’s very catchy. I am now teaching it to my grandson Gavin. It is a high five with one hand, five fingers up, then with your other hand touching your other one at the wrist, your five fingers are pointing down. So when they sing, “Just to know You” they point their five fingers down. Then when they sing, “To make You known” attach at the wrist, with your five fingers up.

 

He explained it like their picture I attached. A tree thrives for nourishment from its roots (five fingers down.)Then the tree flourishes at the top from the food it receives (five fingers up.)

 

I love the definition I found. “If something is thriving, it’s doing well—so well you could call it blooming vigorously.” WOW, I want to be like that for Jesus! The bible has a great verse for explaining it as well. Hebrews 5: 13-14, “For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are full of age, that is, have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”

 

How do you learn more of something, so you can make what you learned be known to others?

You have to thirst, thrive, for more of God. Hungry, digging deep in the word to keep growing. That is how we learn our Fathers heart.

 

Like our children go from milk to solid food to grow, God wants us to grow spiritually. Feeding on spiritual milk will not help us to grow to full bloom. So “THRIVE” for, and enjoy the taste of solid food.

 

 

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Kim

 

 

Overwhelmed....Big Daddy Weave

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6oxXwRWFTo

 

I really don’t have to know you to tell you that sometime in your life you will go through hard times. It’s just a part of life. There are many people in the bible that I can’t wait to talk to one day, but Job just fascinates me. After all that he went through, his life still showed he loved God just for Who He is. Just like a marriage, for better, for worse, in sickness, and in health.

 

How far are you willing to go with God? Are you willing to go past your understanding and comfort? To stay in this relationship for better, for worse, in sickness and in health? The best part is at death you do not part.

 

Isaiah 55: 8,…. I am learning that, who am I to even think I can understand God’s ways? I will never be able to wrap my little mind around His greatness! But I will always trust Him. In all my questions His word still remains true. Always remember His goodness, Psalm 77: 11-12.

 

When I think of Jesus, mention His Name, or whenever I look at the cross, I don’t just want to remember all that He went through  for me, I want to be “OVERWHELMED” every time! Overwhelmed with all that He created, all that He was, is, and is to come! All that He is, is so overwhelming!

 

When you read the book of Job, you will understand why he had questions, and even lost hope. God’s answers to him in a whirlwind was awesome. Job 38: 4---chapter 41, “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?” I have to say, that would shut my mouth. If you haven’t read His GREAT BOOK, the BIBLE, digested it, spend time with Him on a daily basis, than I guess that’s why you have so many questions, and even unbelief.

Sometimes God comes gently, and sometimes He comes in a thundering noise. No matter how He comes in my life, He will always be my God, my Father. No matter what I ask, do, did, or ever will do, I can run into His arms unashamed because of mercy. This is something I will NEVER take for granted.

The book of Job is a great story to see God in the many different ways He comes into action in our lives. Be it through allowing severe affliction Job 1: 9-22, to where Job begins questioning why Job 3: 10-26, and God’s reaction of great mercy Job 42: 12-13. But my favorite part is where God reminds Job of all He is from Chapter 38 to 41.

 

I am reminded from the book of Job, we are not guaranteed a pain free life. Afflictions will come, and God will be there to remind us of all He is, and that we can trust Him. Look at Job’s response to God after all he went through in the final chapter Job 42: 2-5. “ I know that You can do everything, and no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You. You asked ‘Who is this who hides counsel without knowledge?’ Therefore I uttered what I did not understand. Things too wonderful for me, which I did not know…… I have heard of You by the hearing of my ear. But now my eye sees You.”

 

How do you see God?

Until you come to faith, and see Jesus as Lord, than He will just be a name to you. A great person who lived a long time ago. To you, His life is just a part of history. How sad, but only you can change that.

 

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Kim

Fighter.... Jamie Grace

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBy6UJTdvmo

 

This note is from a very good friend of ours at work whose young wife is battling a horrible cancer called lymphoma. It’s a cancer of the blood cells. All cancer is horrible, but this one the doctors gave them no hope because of the stage it was in. For 6 months now, he works, and after work goes to the hospital and sleeps there to be with her. In the middle of the night, he goes home to take care of the dogs. He has seen it all, and cleaned up it all, if you know what I mean without going into detail.

 

I don’t think I have ever met someone so unconditionally in love with his wife. He said he didn’t marry her for her hair, or looks, or her body, he just loved her. I never believed in love at first sight, but what he told me amazed me even more about their relationship. They didn’t even speak the same language, but they just knew they wanted to get to know each other more. Well he not only learned her language, he learned of her faith too.

 

He would come into my office and just cry sometimes, and then say he was so sorry. He felt he should be stronger. We would pray, and the smile and hope on his face was amazing. He would tell me what a fighter she is. He shares with us some of the funny moments he and his wife have together. Even though she is so sick and weak from the treatments, they find time to laugh.

 

Please continue prayer for Michael and his wife. She has 4 more weeks of treatment to go, and she should be going home.

 

Jeremiah 29: 11 “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to proper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

 

God has plans for each and every one of us, and a time frame for our life here. I have learned that His will may not be ours. But if you are a believer, whatever the outcome it is a win, win situation. (Selah)

 

I have learned so much from being a part of Michael’s journey, and NEVER ONCE, did I see him complain. They are both “Fighters” who inspire me.

*******************************************************************************************************************************************************

 

Hello all.

 

First off, please excuse me for taking up your valuable time, however I feel strongly compelled to share with you all the greatest news I feel I have ever received in my life. Yesterday, Nelly’s (my wife’s) doctors had a consultation with each other and they have finally given us a prognosis and a game plan. They have decided with her wonderful progress since getting out of the ICU that if she continues to eat well, exercise, and her body continues to respond well to the therapy that she will remain for 6 more weeks of in hospital treatments, the last to be on November 25^th and her “tentative” discharge date is the 28^th. (SHE’S COMING HOME!)

I just wanted to thank you all for all you have done for us. Without your thoughts, your prayers, your understanding, your compassion, and your patience, we don’t know what we would have done. We owe you more than we can ever repay. Like I said before, it’s nice to work with people you like, but it’s amazing and rare to work with people you can call your friends. All I ask is that you keep your fingers crossed for her for the next several weeks, and if you ever need anything I can possibly do for you, please let me know.

Thank you for everything. I love you all (Heck, I love everyone right now)

Sincerely,

Michael Mellott

 

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Kim

 

 

 

Powerful message to my heart in this adorable video of a baby's first crawl.. Watch!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kshb9a6mZS8

 

Such a cute video!!

 

The vision and thought that I got when I saw this was…. yes a Spiritual one, but that’s how God lets me see things that He desires to turn into a writing. Usually it is with a song, but this time it was with this heartwarming video.

It’s funny too, that dog spelled backwards is God. I’m amazed at how the dog was looking away until he heard the baby cooing. Then he wouldn’t take his eyes off of her. As she struggled her way towards the dog, not giving up, watch how the dog scoots forward to kiss her face. As if to say, “I was here the whole time, desiring to kiss you. ” How precious!!

 

It was to me, like how God is with us. He is always there, waiting patiently to kiss our face. Some of us are just too far away and we don’t realize our desperate need for a Savior. God waits so patiently. Like the psalmist said in Psalm 40: 1, “He turned to me and heard my cry” That is the vision this video gave me. A faithful, patient, unconditional, forever loving friend, my God is. He will turn His face to me, and say to my heart…. “Do you desire me as much as I desire you? Come just a little closer, I want to kiss your face.”

 

Why is it so hard for some of us to become like little children. Matthew 18: 2-4, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” The key word is.. “CHANGE”….. Some of us think everything, and everyone else around us should change first. God doesn’t work that way. He’s building our character, and He’s personal with each  and every one of us. But are we wanting that relationship with Him? Or does everything in your life have to be understood and perfect before you desire Him? God didn’t wait for us to be perfect. Romans 5: 8, He offered His Son as a sacrifice while we were yet sinners.

 

Song of Songs 1: 1 “Let Him kiss me with the kisses of His mouth…for Your love is more delightful than wine.”

 

God has made us for His kiss. Don’t lose the connection with your heart to God’s. He has designed each of us to receive and give affection. We serve a selfless loving God Who made a perfect way to be united to Him. He has given us His Son Jesus as a living sacrifice, so that we can know His kiss. John 1: 12, It is through believing, and receiving Jesus Christ into our hearts by faith, that makes us His children.

 

So many of us long for a kiss from God. To know that He loves us, approves of us, and claims ownership of us.

Jesus is the kiss from heaven. If you haven’t started to move forward, what are you waiting for?

 

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Kim

 

 

Only Jesus.... Point of Grace

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X47W_riSASM

 

Can you relate to any of the statements in this video? I sure can, and still consider myself SO BLESSED!!! I am saved from eternal punishment because of the Love of my Jesus!!

 

What kind of heart can heal our pain? What kind of water can wash our stain?

 

Philippians 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.”  This verse says so much to us. So long as we live on earth we are a constant work in progress, because life will constantly take us through many challenges. We expect that life should be happy and pain free. It truly isn’t what the bible teaches us. To me, now that I have a relationship with Jesus, this world is a place of spiritual development through both good and bad times. Only because of Jesus Christ, and His presence in me, I find I could “be of good cheer” John 16:33, in a world where Jesus said we will have tribulation.

 

I know that this life will not be pain free, but it is the pains of this life that makes us into the very witnesses that glorify all the Holy Spirit is in us. He is our only source of real power, Acts 1: 8.

 

I also won’t give into the lie that I am disqualified from the forgiveness of my Great God.  No matter what I’ve ever done, grace washes me clean. It is what makes me right with God, and the grace and mercy of God will never change. I have unmerited favor of God, grace which I don’t deserve, only because Jesus took on all my sins and nailed them to the cross. There is nothing that I will ever do, or have done to earn this favor. It is a gift of God. Because of God’s mercy, I will never get what I  deserve, eternal punishment. That is why I try and live a life to show how much Jesus means to me.

 

So if you’ve ever looked in the mirror and wondered, “How can I ever face myself? What kind of love can ever forgive this?” “How will I ever get through this pain?” The answer is……………….

                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                                                  “ONLY JESUS”

 

 

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Kim

 

I still haven't found what I'm looking for...... U2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_ISAntOom0

 

I finally found what I’ve always been looking for in Jesus. He is my Savior, not my religion.

You may be a believer, but to experience the fullness of God, you can’t keep going in 2 different directions. (Selah)

 

Jesus saves and stays, religion sways. I pray you find what you’re looking for and plant your feet on the Solid Rock. Everything else is sinking sand.

 

In a world that is so greatly connected through technology, why is it that we are so disconnected Spiritually? So many always searching to fill what only the “Living Water” can satisfy.

I believe we live in a world that is still greatly connected to religion and rules, verses relationship and grace.

 

John 4: 5-30,The story in the bible of the women at the well with Jesus (only she didn’t know it was He)always speaks to me more and more magnified every time I hear it, or read it again myself.

 

In verse 9 you can see that the Samaritan women was focused on law. She said to Jesus “How can You, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan women for a drink?” Jesus focused on grace. Verse 10 Jesus responded, “If you knew the gift of God and Who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink’ you would have asked Him and He would have given you “Living Water.” In verse 16 we can see that Jesus was more concerned about uncovering truth. Jesus knowing everything, told her, “Go call your husband and come back.” She responded, “I have no husband.” Jesus knowing this, told her He knew she had 5 husbands, and the one she was living with now was not her husband. What do most of us do when sin is exposed in the light, lie, run, change the conversation, say we don’t believe anymore, or own up? She changed the conversation to religion in verse 19. Jesus brings her right back to what it’s all about in verse 24, RELATIONSHIP AND TRUTH! He says “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in Spirit and truth.” She then said to Jesus that she knew the Messiah was coming. In verse 26 Jesus tells her, “I AM HE” Can you imagine how she felt? I don’t believe she felt ashamed, even though Jesus knew everything about her. She must have finally found what she’s always been looking for. Verse 28, she was so excited she left her water jar and went to town to tell everyone about the “Living Water.”  There is no water jar that can contain what Jesus pours out.

 

John 3:17, Once you realize that Jesus did not come to judge or condemn but to save. It should change your way of looking at Who He is and why He came. Yet so many people don’t want to own up to their mistakes because they really don’t want to change. So if you “still haven’t found what you’re looking for” maybe you haven’t confronted your true self. (Selah)

 

Revelations 3:16, It’s a choice you personally have to make. You can continue to hold the hand of the devil and satisfy only the flesh. Or you can hold the hand of Jesus and be totally satisfied. You can’t have one foot in the world and one in the kingdom. Life just doesn’t work that way. If you have a problem with that, then you should talk to Him about it.

 

Drink of Him, and He will change your everyday life, to everlasting life.

 

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Kim

 

Reason for the World...... Matthew West

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swKPS9q7rMU

 

I felt led to use this song again with all that is going on in this world, and all the questions that we can have at times like… “If there is a God why would He allow… How can He let…..Why doesn’t He”… and so many other questions that may not ever be fully understood, or answered, this side of a GLORIOUS PLACE awaiting those who never give up hope and believe that God is Who He says He is.  Continue believing that God is good no matter what things look like here. Jesus Christ will come again and make all things right and new…....never stop believing that. What other hope do you have? Do you really think this is it? Revelations 21:4, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever! This is what makes me look forward to home. A home where there is never a goodbye to our loved ones. It will be a forever hello, as long as we believe, turn from sin and turn to Jesus.

 

I am so thankful to God for giving me a chance to live, and the time and place in which He placed me on this earth to share the good news, and live my faith.  That He never gave up drawing me to Himself, and it was the very pains of life that did it. I couldn’t imagine living in these countries that are in constant horror, fear, pain, and even death for their faith. I am sure that there are some who live there that wish they were never born. Some there are also VERY QUICK to say that they believe, and that they are Christians because they probably long for home, and just want to get out of the hell they are in.

 

God has a purpose for us all. Some of us fall to our knees in desperation for a Savior. Some choose to walk away and say there is no God. Some of us have Jesus and do nothing with it.

 

I guess it all comes down to what each of us believe our purpose and the “Reason for the world” is.

 

Try to look at this world as a beginning to a new beginning one day soon. Just like a baby in its mother’s womb, is a beginning to a new beginning.

 

We live in a world where Jesus Himself came to seek and save the lost, Matthew 18: 10-12. To bring us one day to an everlasting place, John 14: 2-3. He told us this is not our home, and He is preparing a place for us. The bible tells us that this world belongs to Satan, 1 John 5: 19. This truth of God’s word, and really meditating on it daily, brings my soul to a “peace that passes all understanding” Philippians 4: 7. There will be things that break my heart and your heart daily because we live in a fallen world that all comes from the choices people make. God gave us all free will. I know what non-believers are doing with it, but what are we, God’s children doing with it? We really should be living our faith out loud, unashamed. With hopes of enlightening other people’s lives with what we know to be true. Following the example of those who have gone before us. If you’ve read the bible, you know that all who followed experienced ridicule and opposition, but it didn’t stop them.

 

We as followers of Christ, should have the same passion that Jesus showed while He walked this earth. His walk was no walk in the park, and ours won’t be either. As followers of Christ, we are called to go out into the world and seek those who are lost. It starts right in our own families, neighborhood, workplace, and anywhere else the Spirit of God leads you. Mark 16: 15, Jesus tells us to “Go into the world and preach the gospel.” So what are we as believers doing with the Savior that we know so well? John 3:16 This great news of God providing a way for us to Himself through Jesus Christ His Son, and that “whoever believes in Him shall not die but have everlasting life” should be shouted from the rooftops! That’s great news! That’s the gospel, but it’s your choice to believe it, and then share it. This may make you very uncomfortable, but just remember the pain Jesus went through for us, and the reason why He did it.

 

Are you thankful for your life? Than live a life of thanks to the ONE who gave it to you.

 

 

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Kim

 

Bring the rain.... Mercy Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kseRKxkq5iY

 

I find myself sometimes being in agreement with others and not understanding God, or wonder why He doesn’t perform the way I think He should. You would think that He would just stop all the evil that continues. But I do believe from the beginning of time we were created by God, to become children of God. We are all given free will, but at least God gave us an instruction manual to follow(the Bible). Question is do we follow it? Do we even believe it? Just like raising and teaching our own children, when they get older they will make their own choices. Some of which are very wrong. One thing I know for sure, one day your choice of believing and following Jesus, will come to a beautiful, or drastic end.

 

I know God is big enough to understand all my questions and anger over the things that happen to innocent people. But really think about it, there was, and never will be, anyone as innocent as Jesus. Gods own Son, innocent, sent here to die for our ugly sins. Our heavenly Father performed exactly how He had to. With hopes that His creation would choose to believe why He sent His Son, rather than choosing disbelief.

 

War, destruction, hate ,evil, divorce, death, murder, there are just things in this life that are inevitable. Horrible things have happened from the beginning of time. We live in an imperfect world. If you are a believer, the only comfort is knowing we are not home yet. We are here for a purpose. If you are a follower of Jesus Christ, then you are a part of building His kingdom right here while you are given time on earth.

 

Evil comes down to the choices people make, free will. Take comfort in knowing our Sovereign God knows and loves us. Nothing will ever come into our life that He does not allow. That’s why I find John 19: 10-12 so fascinating. Jesus said this to Pilate. Look how Pilate wanted to respond, and then look how the crowd responded. No matter what we face in life, take comfort that God is Sovereign. All these things that are allowed to come into our life are instruments to show the power of God in a follower of Jesus Christ. We should love God in good and bad times. Just like we love our parents, or as a parent, you love your children. It’s o.k. to have a lot of whys, but if you are not seeking knowledge you will NEVER get understanding, Hosea 4: 6. One day all our whys will be answered.

 

Like the lyrics of this song says, “I can count a million times, people asking me why I can praise You with all that I’ve been through. The question just amazes me, can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You?” God in all His Sovereignty, knew just how much to give me little by little, and little by little I grew in my faith. He has been my shelter through each and every storm. My choice was not to turn my back on Him, but to grow closer to Him through them. He proved His word to me over and over. Scripture like, Romans 8: 28, that all things work out for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Psalm 46, He is my present help in times of trouble. He is not a faraway God. He is right there in the mix of everything we go through. 2 Corinthians 12: 10, He takes our weakness and PROVES HIMSELF STRONG! Colossians 1: 16, He holds ALL THINGS together, both in heaven and earth.

 

Little faith will bring our souls to heaven when we leave this world, but great faith will bring heaven to our souls. Did you get that? Bring heaven to our souls while we are here in this crazy world. That is the faith I want. As I grow in my faith, instead of saying “God get me out of this.” I’ve learned to say with much faith, “God, I know You’re going to get me through this.” Faith is more than just belief in Jesus. It’s how we respond to life circumstances.

 

He is Who He says He is! It is a growing process to get this view of God. Keep seeking, and remember, we are not home!

 

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Kim

 

 

Something in the Water ... Carie Underwood

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZ2kdx4zZUY

 

Amazing song!!!! Goes along with Amazing Grace!

 

Don’t you just love vacation? I sure do, but there is something very special about a cruise. Could it be the water? Something about the water that is so tranquil, so peaceful. Unless there is a storm, then it’s not so peaceful. The seas can get very rough and cause much destruction.

 

It’s the same way with our lives. What we choose to believe, or even try to understand, can cause peace or destruction.

 

If things have to make sense to us to believe or understand, than we are putting our own understanding in the place of Gods. This can cause MUCH damage within ourselves, and to others!

 

Some of us don’t trust in “Someone” Who is much bigger than us and our understanding of things. We are just wasting the life that the good Lord gave us. Open your eyes and heart and listen to the truth. If we are leaning on our own understanding, than we are doing the very opposite of God’s word. Proverbs 3: 5-6 “Trust in the Lord with ALL YOUR HEART and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  So, is your path becoming a path of destruction? Than you must still be your same old self, with your same old thinking. You must not have tried the “Living Water!” If your path is a path without God, than you are on that path of destruction. You are hand in hand with the enemy of lies and confusion, sinking in the water, rather than walking on it.

 

Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction” Proud people are easily tripped up by Satan. They seldom realize that pride is their problem, although everyone else around them is aware of it and tells them. Self-satisfaction will blind you!

 

John 4: 14, “But those who drink the water I give them will never thirst again.” This is a great story and promise of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Just one of the many stories and promises that are told in the LIVING WORD of GOD.

 

Do you want to stop sinking in the rough waters in your life? Than stop leaning on your own understanding of things, swallow your pride and drink of the “Living Water.” There truly is “Something in the Water.”

 

Do you want to see God run? Than tell Him you want to know Him more. Make the effort to…… SEEK HIM!

 

 

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Kim

 

Face to Face.... Mandissa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpfI7R7xHEs

 

When a baby is in its mother’s womb, it probably thinks that’s home. Of course, none of us can remember if we even had any thoughts.  One day when space runs out, they push their way into a big surprise.

This world may feel like home to you, but it’s not. One day we are in for a big surprise too.

 

Well out of 5 boys, the first little baby girl was born into our family. Little precious Kiya. I am always in awe and wonder when I think about the world inside mommies womb. In this dark warm place, those precious gifts of God are developing into this little bundle of joy.  Not one of us remember that place. It is a world we passed through, just as we are passing through this world. I look at it as one great BIG BELLY, but not all of us are going to the same place for all eternity.

 

So here we are, on this side of the babies developing world, praying that they would hurry up and come. Well she must have heard, because she came early. Seven months of developing, and she is just perfect. What a blessing.

One day, they run out of space and start pushing themselves into this new world. A world full of voices calling their name and a brightness like they’ve never seen before. As I was holding Kiya and looking at her little face, I kept calling her name. She kept opening and closing her little eyes as if in amazement of this new place and noise. I am sure the light had a lot to do with it too. Then the nurse came in the room and noticed that she was cold. She said, “give her to mommy. I want her skin to skin to feel mommies warmth. It is amazing to me how fast those little ones know their mommies touch, voice, and I’m sure her heartbeat, as Kiya laid her head upon her mommies chest.

 

As I walk through life here, I love the feeling of the closeness I feel with my God. But one day it won’t be just be a feeling. I will get to look right into His eyes.

 

I look at leaving this world like a baby leaves the womb. The only difference is we know the beauty that waits ahead if you are a believer.  Jesus tells us this in His word. (John 3: 16, 2 Corinthians 5:1, John 14: 3) I can only pray you believe and receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. We will probably open and close our eyes too, in amazement of this Glorious view. John 3: 19, No longer living in a dark world, but living where the light will never dim. Just like a baby hears voices calling them by name, I’m sure we will hear voices of our loved ones calling us too,( 1 Corinthians 13: 12…Matthew 17: 1-8) But most of all, I can’t wait to hear my Savior call me by name. I will worship my God “Face to Face” no longer worlds apart. I will be close enough to feel His heart, because I will be holding Him, laying my head upon His chest.

 

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Kim

Remedy... David Crowder

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afgwvO5GI4Y

 

A lot of people I talk to today want change in something or other. In the relationship they are in, change within themselves, with the job they are in, and so on….

Question is, what are you doing to change, or get the change you want? Do you have some kind of “Remedy?” If not, maybe I can help you.

 

First, you need to be broken, humbled. Pride will get you nowhere. Isaiah 66:2 … “but this is the one to whom “I” will look, he who is humble and contrite in spirit and TREMBLES at My word.” I don’t know about you, but I want the Creator of the universe looking my way. The International Bible Encyclopedia describes a contrite heart as one in which the natural pride and self-sufficiency have been completely humbled by the consciousness of guilt. A contrite heart offers no EXCUSES and SHIFTS NO BLAME. A contrite heart does not take the forgiveness of God for granted! Don’t be like the Pharisees, going through the motions of religion and being ignorant of a relationship you are in so need of. Psalm 51: 17 “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit. A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. Anything else is you, and that’s called PRIDE.

 

Jesus Christ, and looking to Him is the cure. It is the only cure for change. And if you don’t think that is the answer, good luck with your change. You are in for the roller coaster ride of your life. When you get tired of that, maybe then you will see what you always needed first in your life for lasting change.

 

1 Peter 3: 15 The bible tells us to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. I love this, because no one can tell me that what, and “Who,” I put my hope in isn’t true. It’s my personal experience, so therefore I can’t be wrong. It’s Jesus Christ, and only Him, Who has carried me through the roughest waters of my life. I would love to sit with anyone who wants to hear the reason why I believe in every written word of God. Sadly, it’s usually their pride that stops them from wanting to know.

 

         “He is the One Who has saved us. He is the One Who embraced us. He is the One Who has come and is coming again. He’s the Remedy,” for LASTING CHANGE.

 

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Kim

 

Today is beautiful..... David Dunn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdj_w3MxQXo

 

Learn to look at things in a different “Light.”

 

Each day is a gift, so my thought each day is, “Today is beautiful.”

 

I went to the gym today and had a GREAT workout. I’ve been at this workout thing for a long time now. To me it’s a way of life, but it can also teach you a lot of things spiritually too. I use to hate working out really, so I had to change my thoughts, and the way I looked at things. How was everything I wanted for my health and body going to happen if I didn’t endure and persevere through the hard workouts? How would I get stronger and feel more energized if I gave up because it was just too hard, or I had no time? Really,.. than nothing would change. I would just get weaker and probably more and more health issues as I get older.

So by changing the way I looked at things, it made my thoughts about working out more positive. The difficult workouts then became fun and easier. I reached my goals as I persevered and didn’t give up. Workouts, and hanging in there with all the muscle soreness and hurts, toughen you up. Like they say, “what doesn’t kill you, will only make you stronger.”

 

Life can be like a workout, and all the trials that come with it. James 1: 2-3 “Consider it pure joy..…whenever you face trials of MANY KINDS, because you know that the testing of your faith PRODUCES PERSERVERANCE.” Verse 4, “Let perseverance FINISH its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

 

Our trials in life are not limited, that’s why the scripture says “many kinds.” Just like my workouts aren’t limited, always changing them to make change. Do you want to be mature and complete? Faith says PRESS ON, but a lot of people quit when the going gets tough. Endurance produces our character, DON’T QUIT.

 

Not giving up on our workouts builds muscles and endurance, it’s a fact. Not giving up when things get tough in life builds faith and character. It’s God’s word, and that’s a fact.

 

So what do you do with tough life situations? Never trust your own direction or thoughts. Trust God and take Him at His word. Don’t let fear direct your path. Psalm 119: 105, Let God’s word be a light unto your path.

 

“If you see more than what’s in front of you. You might see more of heavens view. Lift your eyes, see it in a different light. Just a cloud up in the open sky. Let the rain fall away because “Today is beautiful.”

 

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Kim

 

 

Lead me..(The cry of a women's heart) Sanctus Real

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLr6G8Xy5uc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtIJqNrNKsI ….Story behind this song. LISTEN!

 

How many of us women have been here? Men please listen to these words, it is the cry of our hearts, but most importantly, our Creators!

 

Ephesians 5: 25 “Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her”….. It is so much easier for a women to submit to this kind of man.

 

What kind of man are you? I guess if your wife is smiling and full of joy,(not just in picture frames) you must be a man of God and fighting for your marriage.

 

It seems like people today are finding it easy to say, “I tried God, it just doesn’t work for me.” Wow, what a cop out! People find it just as easy to cop out of marriage relationships today as well. How Sad! What happened to… “For better or worse, in sickness and in health, till death do us part.” I guess what we said at the alter in the presence of our Lord doesn’t matter.

 

You don’t just try marriage on like a sweater, and then take it off when times get hot and  you are full of excuses.  Lines like, we are just growing apart (Then grow together)….You deserve better than I can give you (Then work on better)….I just don’t feel it anymore (Then reach out and try harder) The list can go on and on. It doesn’t change the fact that they are still excuses. You just don’t try Jesus either, and then when the going gets tough you cop out and stop believing. I agree with the bible, and the bible says “Pride goes before destruction” Proverbs 16: 18. “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4: 6….. I would much rather feel the grace of my God than have destruction come upon me and my marriage. How about you? Is pride holding you back?

 

Whoever said walking with Jesus is easy should be knocked right out of the pulpit. The bible tells us we will share in His sufferings, Romans 8:17…. 2 Corinthians 1: 5. Whoever said marriage is easy, needs to wake up from their dream. It is a fight for your marriage, and Satan wants to make it as hard as he can for you.  Ephesians 6: 13 “Therefore put on the FULL ARMOUR OF GOD, so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground”….If you read on in this chapter, it tells you what to be clothed with. So if you just try Jesus, you can never be fully armored for the battles to come, and they will come. You will be easily defeated EVERYTIME!

 

So if things aren’t working for you, and everything feels like it is falling apart, Romans 13: 14 says, “But cloth yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ.” Don’t just try Him, wear Him, and never let Him go.

 

We all need to pray for strength to be everything we are called to be. Our Heavenly Father can show us the way.

 

 

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Kim

  

Dear fellow readers,

It’s me Kim’s husband again. Hi. I don’t usually chime in on Kim’s blogs because this is her field of expertise and she does it great but I felt lead to share this with all of you. Kim, being modest as she is neglected to say that she is not only writing this from scripture and words from songs but from her real life and hands on experience.  Kim has been in a battle for a long time and I regret to say  it was FOR ME rather than WITH ME.

After 7 years of dating and 31 years of marriage ( 38 years total) we have been through A LOT. God blessed me with Kim and then he blessed us with two beautiful daughters and two beautiful grandsons, and now a beautiful marriage. So yes Kim’s fight was worth it and has finally has paid off.  Now we stand together fully armored ( the Holy Spirit) our weapons ready ( Our Bibles ) and Gods strength to support us. We are now ready to fight until “Death We Do Part” because those were the vows we said to each other in front of God.  It is true that two heads are better and stronger than one but when you add God as the third then you have a cord of three that cannot be broken by anything or anyone( Kim taught me that). So MEN pick your Bible, read Song of Songs to start (otherwise known as Song of Solomon), and then read with your wife some form of God’s word everyday.  Amour up with your wife, bring God into your life and get ready to FIGHT before it’s too late. It will be well worth it. Trust me I know it was for me.

 

God’s Blessings to all of you who read these devotionals

 

Thank you Kim for writing this devotional which inspired me to write this.. I love you…see you home…

 

I will let these speak for themselves!!! Watch and listen to wisdom!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IAhDGYlpqY …..Why I hate religion

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4OK9DmLpCY...... sex, marriage, and fairy tales

I hope these short powerful messages help someone. This is worth the few minutes to watch, more important, LISTEN!

 

Mercy Tree... Lacey Sturm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrgl9z3grKU

 

Love this artist… See the joy she has singing this song with all her heart, and the new life she has in Christ. Death didn’t get her in suicide. She died to her old life and raised to a new one in Christ. All glory to You Lord God!!!

I hope you got to hear her testimony…. AMAZING!!!!!  I sent it out in a devotional “The cross, My hope America, Billy Graham”

 

Do you have a desire to be noticed? Some people go to great lengths just to be noticed. Look at some of your talk shows like Jerry Springer and what people do on camera, or postings people put on face book. We can continue to fool ourselves in trying to be noticed, and thinking we have hundreds of friends on face book. But have you actually met them all? We can have all the human connection we want, but do you really know them in a personal way. Can you really trust their opinion of you, or the things you may be struggling with. 

 

We can all stop searching for ways to be noticed. Find your rest, and be made whole. Jesus said “It is finished” John 19:30. Let’s praise Him for the “Mercy Tree” Love has won!!!!

 

You won’t find wholeness in anything you do, any amount of money you make, having all the friends you can imagine. You won’t find wholeness in anything or anyone until you are made whole in Jesus Christ! That is the hole you have to fill or you will never be satisfied. You will never feel you are good enough, even though God says you are perfect just the way He made you. We were created in His image. What more perfection are we looking for?

 

I believe that so many of us who need attention, is because of our distance from the “One” who should get all our attention. The feeling of loneliness and insecurity can be filled. Jesus waits with open arms for you to receive Him. But because magazine articles, TV talk host, science, and everything else, and everyone else has the answers to our problems, we put Him on the shelf. Doing this totally blinds us of our DEEPEST NEED that only He can satisfy. Until we are connected with our Savior, personally and intimately, we will always be lacking the feeling of being secure, and always looking for more.

 

All  our searching for meaning, fame, security, belonging, is all satisfied when we realize that we are loved beyond what we can possibly ever imagine by our Great God, Who gave us His One and only Son out of His love for mankind.

 

 

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Kim

Mystery... Phil Wickham

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gc8fK0ns53A

 

 

Some think that God is such a “Mystery.” Yes, that is true, but if we would just sit a little while with Him each day, He would be glad to reveal more and more of Himself to us.

 

Are your ears open to Gods sweet whisper? Or are you one who only listens when the loud thunder sounds? Some of us are like that. I am growing to get better at listening sooner rather than later. Sadly, some listen when it’s too late. 

 

Sometimes after the lightning strikes, the thunder sound is far off. But the lightning is what gets our attention first. Then there’s those times after it strikes it scares you half to death because the thunder is so loud because the strike was so close. Well that sure gets my little grandbaby Chase’s attention. He looks right at you when the lightning strikes, waiting with anticipation, then the BIG BOOM!! He sits right down wherever he’s at and says, “OH BOY!” Some of us really need to sit that quickly and listen to our great God.

 

God will speak to you in a sweet whisper at times. But sometimes it takes the loud thunder of His rage to break down the door of our stubbornness. Then, just maybe, we will sit down and listen.

 

I love the lyrics of this song: “Shine down Your bright light, I need a lamp for my feet. I want to hear the thunder of Who You are. To search out Your heart and all of Your mysteries.”

 

This weekend God spoke to me 2 times, using my grandchildren. I was a bit scared when my husband called me and told me he was in the emergency room. He felt pain in his chest, and a tingling down his arm at work and drove himself to the hospital. I was babysitting my grandsons when my husband called. My 5 year old grandson looked at my face when I was on the phone and knew something was wrong.  With the sweetest face he called me and said, as he tapped his heart “Nanny, remember Jesus.” This is something I always would say to him when he was only 2. “Where is Jesus?” Then we would tap our heart. Well that sure stuck with him, and he knows right when to use it. This wasn’t the first time. Then seeing Chase drop to the ground every time the thunder sounded. God couldn’t speak to me any clearer Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.”   Thank God, after the test were done everything was o.k. They were able to find some other health issues my husband will have to work on. God is so good!

 

All I can say is, God doesn’t want to be a “Mystery” to any of us. But it is up to us to want to know more about Him. He has nothing to hide, and EVERYTHING to give. It’s up to us to desire it FULLY! Jesus said the #1 commandment is to, Matthew 22: 37, “Love the Lord your God with ALL your heart , soul and mind.” Do you want to know Him? Then just simply love Him.

 

 

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Kim