01.30.10
*Weekly Inspiration
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Down In The Valley
Once, one of my wonderful daughter in laws said to me a very remarkable thing. Her comment was that the best pastures are in the valleys and not on the mountain tops. In my area, the river bottoms, that area of land that borders a river, is the most fertile land; the best pastures. We often believe that we are much better when God allows us to be on top of a mountain. Being on top of a mountain is a nice place to rest and relax but when God is ready to bring new learning into our lives we often must travel into a deep valley. Sure we complain; we like the trouble freeness of the high country. The valley represents problems, troubles and in Psalm 23, even death. The next time you find yourself in a valley, stop; ask God to explain the purpose of the move and what you are to receive in the valley. God is very willing to tell you the lesson He has for you. He doesn't hide what He wants to teach you but, if we will ask, will make it abundantly clear. Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it will be opened to you.
I Am What I Am
Sometimes I become so frustrated with me. I see others around me who appear different; who seemed to have a completely different outlook on life than me. My human nature tells me to desire to be as those I see, to become a cookie cutter copy of everyone else. But God tells me I am unique; He didn't make another just like me. Of the billions that have come before me and many that will follow, I am the only me. Even before God designed this earth and began to create it, He had a plan for me; He knew I would exist now. He had a devised plan for my life, allowing me the freedom to either follow or reject that plan. Because of His marvelous love he has influenced me along the way and today I am what I am. We are told that to whom much is given, much is required; much has been given to me therefore much is required of me. I must take the blessings received and the uniqueness created and focus my life on service to God by being a servant to all.
Check's in The Mail
If you remember, I suggested that we contribute to the relief effort in Haiti an equal amount as we spend on ourselves during the weekend. I always try to comply with what I suggest and I did this time. However, when I said what i did about giving I had a figure in mind based on what I normally spend during a weekend. This weekend was going as normal until I happened to stop by the shoe store again; I had been looking for a few weeks. This time I found just what I needed and bought them. I didn't think of the giving to Haiti until after the purchase was made, then God said "you just bought your neighbor a pair of shoes". To be honest, I twisted and squirmed. I tried to convince myself I couldn't do this but God wouldn't allow me to back out. Yesterday, I wrote the check including a pair of shoes and dropped it in the mail. I do hope my neighbor likes their new shoes. I really like the feeling I have knowing I did what I should do. Thank you Lord, for helping me to give.
Yes, We Can
I just saw the report that the GOP won the special election to fill the Senate seat of Teddy Kennedy; in a state with a large democratic majority
I will insert my disclaimer here: I am not saying these political parties represent good and evil. We can bring about a change in this world if we will follow our leader and unite. We need to stop allowing the enemy to divide us. If we would but focus on the goal at hand with country, this world can change. We can lead the lost to Christ. We can recommit ourselves to the Lord. We can stand up and speak up for what is right according to the Word of God. Why is there a Republican senator in Mass. today? Because many people wanted a change and were willing to do what was necessary to make a change. God isn't going to change our land until we do our part. He is not going to make the first move. Are you happy with the status quo? If you are sit still and do nothing but if a world according to the laws and principles of God is your desire then take the first step. 2 Chronicles 7:14 Humble yourself, pray, seek God and repent of your sin are the first steps necessary.
I will insert my disclaimer here: I am not saying these political parties represent good and evil. We can bring about a change in this world if we will follow our leader and unite. We need to stop allowing the enemy to divide us. If we would but focus on the goal at hand with country, this world can change. We can lead the lost to Christ. We can recommit ourselves to the Lord. We can stand up and speak up for what is right according to the Word of God. Why is there a Republican senator in Mass. today? Because many people wanted a change and were willing to do what was necessary to make a change. God isn't going to change our land until we do our part. He is not going to make the first move. Are you happy with the status quo? If you are sit still and do nothing but if a world according to the laws and principles of God is your desire then take the first step. 2 Chronicles 7:14 Humble yourself, pray, seek God and repent of your sin are the first steps necessary.
You Are a Writer
We each are busy wrting the story of our life. Each day we add a bit more to that story; be it good or bad. We have the luxury of creating the story we desire. As you plan the story of you, what do you desire to include. Is education going to be a major chapter? What about having a family: marriage, kids, a home, bills, headaches, laughter, hugs, and all that comes with a family? Have you considered including anything about God? Will God be an important chapter in your story or just casually mentioned from time to time throughout your life's story without any real importance given to God? You are writing this story not so much for you but for those that follow you. What do you wish them to find? Does your life include loving, giving, sharing, putting others first? Does your life's story tell of that time when you confesssed your sin to God and accepted the gift of Hiis Son as payment for your sin? You are the author, write your story as you desire; but remember others will read it. Once it is written you can't change it.
