I hope I gave you some time to jump into the scriptures and to pray about hearing God. My second tip is to hear God in your circumstances in regards to service. I did not know I had leadership abilities. I had mercy and compassion for others who were walking where I walked. I loved to share my story of God's grace in my life.
Then opportunities began to present themselves. "Lisa, tell your story". "Would you share at this group?" Phone calls from friends and then friend of friends desperate for help. They just started coming. Alas, God brought forth a ministry. I never felt led to promote myself and I don't think there is anything wrong with that. For me though, God just brought them.
So many times I have heard people say they are waiting on God to tell them what they should do. Align your circumstances. Do you love kids? Do you love music? Well if there is an opening for a children's choir director or assistant or room mom, that could be God. You may learn you have His anointing for it. If not you will learn something in it.
If you have a nudge to do "something" look at your situation, look at your experiences (both good and bad) and ask God where there is a need. Fall back on this scripture if you are a woman and this one too. Take a leap of faith to serve and see where God leads you!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Hearing God #1
My Pastor is doing a GREAT series this month called "Do You Hear?" You can tune in here. I am so excited about this because it is a passion if mine. Ever since I was in the 6th grade I thought, how weird that God would talk to people a thousand years ago and not talk to us now!
In my trials of life, when all seemed hopeless, I turned to God. In that, a relationship developed and I am SO thankful that it grows every day. I have decided to give you my practical tips on how to hear God. Now I KNOW God speaks to each of us differently, so I will talk about my experiences. Maybe it will help you tap into a deeper communion with our Creator!
First and foremost God speaks through His scriptures. His Word is alive and the revelations are neverending. Always seek His Word for direction, confirmation, encouragement and discipline. Having verses hidden in your heart is the safest bet. Also He will never contradict His Word. So start there.
John 10:4 says "his sheep follow him because they know his voice". That tells me we CAN hear Him. So I began to pray the verse back to God like this, "Lord your Word said Your sheep know Your voice. I want to know your voice and hear You. I do not want to be left wondering if it is You or not. Make it clear to me, open my ears to hear and my eyes to see." Then as you begin to "hear" and you obey, I believe God will do it more.
So start with those two things first and stay tuned for more "tips" to help you tune into God!
In my trials of life, when all seemed hopeless, I turned to God. In that, a relationship developed and I am SO thankful that it grows every day. I have decided to give you my practical tips on how to hear God. Now I KNOW God speaks to each of us differently, so I will talk about my experiences. Maybe it will help you tap into a deeper communion with our Creator!
First and foremost God speaks through His scriptures. His Word is alive and the revelations are neverending. Always seek His Word for direction, confirmation, encouragement and discipline. Having verses hidden in your heart is the safest bet. Also He will never contradict His Word. So start there.
John 10:4 says "his sheep follow him because they know his voice". That tells me we CAN hear Him. So I began to pray the verse back to God like this, "Lord your Word said Your sheep know Your voice. I want to know your voice and hear You. I do not want to be left wondering if it is You or not. Make it clear to me, open my ears to hear and my eyes to see." Then as you begin to "hear" and you obey, I believe God will do it more.
So start with those two things first and stay tuned for more "tips" to help you tune into God!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Physically Fit to..... Sleep?
There is somewhat of a bone of contention with me and working out. I really wonder why people work out to improve their stamina yet they get so tired from working out they fall asleep during conversations or have to take naps. To me, if you take the time to exercise and it zaps your energy its counter productive. I had this conversation with a certain work out enthusiast who blamed his/her lack of energy mid evening on the fact that he/she gets up at 4:30am to work out. My answer was "sleep in and stay awake, what good is being in shape if you sleep through your evenings?" Of course said person disagreed and I think said I was mean and unfair...
Then the thought of "physically fit to sleep" turned into a spiritual parallel (doesn't it always?). I immediately thought of the millions of Christ loving followers thrusting into scriptures, piling up on bible studies year after year, bench pressing conferences (get it?), reading books, building knowledge, knowledge and more knowledge. Truth be told they lack the POWER to do what they trained for. So they end up sleeping through their Christian life content with the thought that they are spiritually in shape.
Jesus says this in Matt 10:5-8: These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.
So I close with this...take care of your physical body but not to the point of exhaustion and take care of your spiritual life but make sure its a productive work out!
Then the thought of "physically fit to sleep" turned into a spiritual parallel (doesn't it always?). I immediately thought of the millions of Christ loving followers thrusting into scriptures, piling up on bible studies year after year, bench pressing conferences (get it?), reading books, building knowledge, knowledge and more knowledge. Truth be told they lack the POWER to do what they trained for. So they end up sleeping through their Christian life content with the thought that they are spiritually in shape.
Jesus says this in Matt 10:5-8: These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.
So I close with this...take care of your physical body but not to the point of exhaustion and take care of your spiritual life but make sure its a productive work out!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
The Butterfly
My kids and I went to a fall festival at a barn last weekend. It was the perfect fall day and we had a great time. Of all the horses, the cats, the dogs, the chickens and the goat, the butterfly struck me.
It was brown and orange and was sitting on the pebbled driveway. I bent down and placed my hand near its legs expecting it to fly off. To my surprise it walked up into my hand. As I stood, this beautiful butterfly moved its wings to show off its beauty, yet it did not fly away. My son noticed and asked to "hold it" I explained that this was a precious time because butterflies aren't usually so peaceful and how careful we have to be with their gentle wings. Just then the butterfly flew off and my son was a bit disappointed. I felt confident that my son would want to grab hold of it tightly so it would stay with him. Firmly grabbing a butterfly will surely cripple it,if not kill it.
God spoke to me in that example. It is so important as mothers, spouses, leaders and friends that we not hold too tightly to what WE want in another. It is so important to hold onto someone with an open hand caring enough to allow God to have His way in their lives. We should encourage them, love them, hold them accountable, but never to our own standards or for our own purposes. To truly see beauty in another is to want for them what God wants for them and then see them fly.
Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
It was brown and orange and was sitting on the pebbled driveway. I bent down and placed my hand near its legs expecting it to fly off. To my surprise it walked up into my hand. As I stood, this beautiful butterfly moved its wings to show off its beauty, yet it did not fly away. My son noticed and asked to "hold it" I explained that this was a precious time because butterflies aren't usually so peaceful and how careful we have to be with their gentle wings. Just then the butterfly flew off and my son was a bit disappointed. I felt confident that my son would want to grab hold of it tightly so it would stay with him. Firmly grabbing a butterfly will surely cripple it,if not kill it.
God spoke to me in that example. It is so important as mothers, spouses, leaders and friends that we not hold too tightly to what WE want in another. It is so important to hold onto someone with an open hand caring enough to allow God to have His way in their lives. We should encourage them, love them, hold them accountable, but never to our own standards or for our own purposes. To truly see beauty in another is to want for them what God wants for them and then see them fly.
Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
WHO WILL BE IN CHARGE?
Top 10 Predictions No Matter Who Wins the Election
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.
and God approves this message!
ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE
Amen!!
*This came from an email I received that was forwarded ALOT...I loved it but I did not write it. Thank You "anonymous" God knows who you are and HE IS PLEASED!
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.
and God approves this message!
ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE
Amen!!
*This came from an email I received that was forwarded ALOT...I loved it but I did not write it. Thank You "anonymous" God knows who you are and HE IS PLEASED!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
FINALLY!!!!!!
Oh its been a long time coming! Four years of prayers, door knocking, begging, almost giving up and more persistence and God said "YES". Thank You God!!
You may or may not know but Love and Respect Ministry dramatically changed and saved my marriage so I thank God for Dr. Emerson and Sarah and this message! Here are the details:
Watch the conferece trailer here.
Love and Respect Conference Location & Schedule:
Calvary Church 5801 Pineville–Matthews Road, Charlotte, North Carolina 28226
Friday, February 13 • 6:45 – 10:00 PM, Sanctuary
Saturday, February 14 • 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM, Sanctuary
Cost: $35/person, until January 30 Register now!
$45/person, until February 13 at noon
Note: No child care provided
One key word can revolutionize any marriage according to Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. Eggerichs says happiness and harmony are not achieved by love alone. Yes, LOVE is vital, especially for the wife, but a husband's need for RESPECT is equally important!
As the divorce rate among evangelical Christians has continued to rise, Eggerichs says, "The major problem, which I heard from wives, was ‘He doesn't love me.' Wives are made to love, want to love, expect love. Many husbands fail to deliver. But as I kept studying Scripture and counseling couples, I finally saw the other half of the equation. Husbands weren't saying it much, but what they were thinking was, ‘She doesn't respect me.' Husbands are made to be respected, want respect, expect respect. Many wives fail to deliver."
As a result, couples end up on what Eggerichs calls the Crazy Cycle: without love she reacts without respect, without respect he reacts without love — it is a painful, negative cycle that has thousands of couples spinning out of control. The Apostle Paul writes, "Nevertheless let each individual among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband" (Ephesians 5:33).
Eggerichs left the pastorate to launch the Love and Respect Conferences in 1999, convinced that these truths could restore, strengthen and improve any marriage relationship. He and Sarah, his wife of 30 years, have shared their message with thousands of couples, and receive confirmations daily that it is working.
Questions? Contact Calvary Church at 704.543.1200
I can't wait to see you there! Hurry and register you don't want to miss it!
You may or may not know but Love and Respect Ministry dramatically changed and saved my marriage so I thank God for Dr. Emerson and Sarah and this message! Here are the details:
Watch the conferece trailer here.
Love and Respect Conference Location & Schedule:
Calvary Church 5801 Pineville–Matthews Road, Charlotte, North Carolina 28226
Friday, February 13 • 6:45 – 10:00 PM, Sanctuary
Saturday, February 14 • 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM, Sanctuary
Cost: $35/person, until January 30 Register now!
$45/person, until February 13 at noon
Note: No child care provided
One key word can revolutionize any marriage according to Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. Eggerichs says happiness and harmony are not achieved by love alone. Yes, LOVE is vital, especially for the wife, but a husband's need for RESPECT is equally important!
As the divorce rate among evangelical Christians has continued to rise, Eggerichs says, "The major problem, which I heard from wives, was ‘He doesn't love me.' Wives are made to love, want to love, expect love. Many husbands fail to deliver. But as I kept studying Scripture and counseling couples, I finally saw the other half of the equation. Husbands weren't saying it much, but what they were thinking was, ‘She doesn't respect me.' Husbands are made to be respected, want respect, expect respect. Many wives fail to deliver."
As a result, couples end up on what Eggerichs calls the Crazy Cycle: without love she reacts without respect, without respect he reacts without love — it is a painful, negative cycle that has thousands of couples spinning out of control. The Apostle Paul writes, "Nevertheless let each individual among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband" (Ephesians 5:33).
Eggerichs left the pastorate to launch the Love and Respect Conferences in 1999, convinced that these truths could restore, strengthen and improve any marriage relationship. He and Sarah, his wife of 30 years, have shared their message with thousands of couples, and receive confirmations daily that it is working.
Questions? Contact Calvary Church at 704.543.1200
I can't wait to see you there! Hurry and register you don't want to miss it!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Faithful to the Faithful
It has been a long time since my last post, but this warrants a blog comeback!
Yesterday was one of the best days ever! You can read the history here and here. Adleigh and Liana Joye are now home with mommy Ferris and daddy Wade. It has been a rough 3 months for all of them. Born three months premature and after several surgeries they are now out of the hospital.
I want to thank the Lord for His promises. While driving to work on June 12, 2008, God spoke to me and said "Pray for Ferris and lay hands on her", at the time she was pregnant and they sensed complications with Liana (baby A) being much smaller than Adleigh (baby B). The Lord gave me specific instructions in my prayer and He gave me Psalm 16 for them.
As I continued to pray the Lord said the girls would be fine and He gave me Psalm 18. A few days later the girls were born emergency c-section at 27 weeks.
Wade and Ferris stood firm in their faith and held onto God's promises. They prayed scriptures over their daughters and believed that all would be well with them no matter what it looked like. When the doctor's suggested they take Liana off life support and let nature take its course, they said NO and let God take HIS course.
I thank God for Psalm 18:25 which says "you show faithfulness to the faithful". For those of you who are uncomfortable stepping out to lay hands on the sick, you will miss out on an opportunity to see God move like never before. For those who don't think prayer matters,well hundreds of people around the country prayed for these babies, God hears your prayers! To those who don't believe that God works miracles today, look at that picture! To those of you who think you don't have enough faith, stand strong in who God is and what He says He will do and you will not be shaken (Psalm 16:8). God does show His faithfulness to the faithful!
THANK YOU LORD!! All Glory goes to our Savior, Jesus Christ! Praise His Holy Name!!
Yesterday was one of the best days ever! You can read the history here and here. Adleigh and Liana Joye are now home with mommy Ferris and daddy Wade. It has been a rough 3 months for all of them. Born three months premature and after several surgeries they are now out of the hospital.
I want to thank the Lord for His promises. While driving to work on June 12, 2008, God spoke to me and said "Pray for Ferris and lay hands on her", at the time she was pregnant and they sensed complications with Liana (baby A) being much smaller than Adleigh (baby B). The Lord gave me specific instructions in my prayer and He gave me Psalm 16 for them.
As I continued to pray the Lord said the girls would be fine and He gave me Psalm 18. A few days later the girls were born emergency c-section at 27 weeks.
Wade and Ferris stood firm in their faith and held onto God's promises. They prayed scriptures over their daughters and believed that all would be well with them no matter what it looked like. When the doctor's suggested they take Liana off life support and let nature take its course, they said NO and let God take HIS course.
I thank God for Psalm 18:25 which says "you show faithfulness to the faithful". For those of you who are uncomfortable stepping out to lay hands on the sick, you will miss out on an opportunity to see God move like never before. For those who don't think prayer matters,well hundreds of people around the country prayed for these babies, God hears your prayers! To those who don't believe that God works miracles today, look at that picture! To those of you who think you don't have enough faith, stand strong in who God is and what He says He will do and you will not be shaken (Psalm 16:8). God does show His faithfulness to the faithful!
THANK YOU LORD!! All Glory goes to our Savior, Jesus Christ! Praise His Holy Name!!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
The Lord Will Fight For You.....
The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.
Exodus 14:14
What am I going to do? How will this ever resolve itself? I just can’t see any way through this? Hopeless, yep, just hopeless.
How often do we find ourselves blinded by the circumstances we are in? Isn’t it interesting that when we are in the midst of a challenge or trial our view gets clouded or distorted? It isn’t until after the “storm passes” or someone comes to our aid to reveal another perspective. Some of us never see another side to a situation, even after the challenge is over.
Many of us women are control freaks by nature. Now you may disagree. You may think that your spouse has more control if you are a milder personality. You may think that you hide your control. You may be proud of your control. The need to control is in our nature. Instinctively when there is a problem we, as women, wives, mothers, friends immediately begin to think, “What do I do now?” “Do something….it won’t get fixed unless I DO something”.
In marriage the challenge is there, no doubt about it. Two personalities living under one roof there is bound to be a tug of war over some issues.
Finances & child rearing are major examples, yet even how the garbage is taken out can grate on nerves over time. How do we get past this “trait” of ours in order for more peace and joy in our lives?
We need to focus on letting God fight our battles, let God be in control. Sometimes waiting on HIM is hard, but it is well worth the wait.
When I was trying to “fight” for things in my marriage, to be “heard”, things got worse. How could this be? Logically if I made my desires known and they were in the best interest of our family, my husband would agree. Little did I know the manner in which I went about this was wrong. By surrendering to God and His commands for marriage, being silent at times I would have fought, God stepped in. He fought the battle of our hearts. God changed our marriage when I got out of HIS way.
I did not sit and do nothing. My respectful behavior was a challenge. It took a lot of energy to bite my tongue and cease complaining. But in that “stillness” of my mouth, my tone, my facial expressions and my impatience God fought for my marriage. The result should not surprise you, He won!
Exodus 14:14
What am I going to do? How will this ever resolve itself? I just can’t see any way through this? Hopeless, yep, just hopeless.
How often do we find ourselves blinded by the circumstances we are in? Isn’t it interesting that when we are in the midst of a challenge or trial our view gets clouded or distorted? It isn’t until after the “storm passes” or someone comes to our aid to reveal another perspective. Some of us never see another side to a situation, even after the challenge is over.
Many of us women are control freaks by nature. Now you may disagree. You may think that your spouse has more control if you are a milder personality. You may think that you hide your control. You may be proud of your control. The need to control is in our nature. Instinctively when there is a problem we, as women, wives, mothers, friends immediately begin to think, “What do I do now?” “Do something….it won’t get fixed unless I DO something”.
In marriage the challenge is there, no doubt about it. Two personalities living under one roof there is bound to be a tug of war over some issues.
Finances & child rearing are major examples, yet even how the garbage is taken out can grate on nerves over time. How do we get past this “trait” of ours in order for more peace and joy in our lives?
We need to focus on letting God fight our battles, let God be in control. Sometimes waiting on HIM is hard, but it is well worth the wait.
When I was trying to “fight” for things in my marriage, to be “heard”, things got worse. How could this be? Logically if I made my desires known and they were in the best interest of our family, my husband would agree. Little did I know the manner in which I went about this was wrong. By surrendering to God and His commands for marriage, being silent at times I would have fought, God stepped in. He fought the battle of our hearts. God changed our marriage when I got out of HIS way.
I did not sit and do nothing. My respectful behavior was a challenge. It took a lot of energy to bite my tongue and cease complaining. But in that “stillness” of my mouth, my tone, my facial expressions and my impatience God fought for my marriage. The result should not surprise you, He won!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
You Got to Know When to Roll 'Em
Kenny Rogers sang "You got to know when to roll 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away and know when to run..."
How do you know when its God's timing to make a move or to "be still"? Here is an interesting tip that I am pondering:
One night as the famous Bible teacher F. B. Meyer stood on the deck of a ship approaching land, he wondered how the crew knew when and how to safely steer to the dock. It was a stormy night, and visibility was low. Meyer, standing on the bridge and peering through the window, asked "Captain, how do you know when to turn this ship into that narrow harbor?"
"That's an art," replied the captain. "Do you see those three red lights on the shore? When they're all in a straight line I go right in!"
Later Meyer said: "When we want to know God's will, there are three things which always occur: the inward impulse, the Word of God, and the trend of circumstances. Never act until these three things agree." (excerpt from Os Hillman 6/30/08 devotional TGIF Vol. 2)
I find this a challenge because I am impulsive, so I am not sure I can trust an inward impulse. I also can find scriptures that say "be still" or "wait upon the Lord" as well as "pick up your mat and walk" or "Abraham went even though he did not know where he was going". The trend of circumstances can be a tricky thing to read too.
So I ponder this and then go back to choosing the still small voice, the confirmation of 2 or 3 witnesses and the scriptures that God puts on my heart, not the ones I seek out to best suit my need. I think that is how I need to "roll 'em".
How do you know when its God's timing to make a move or to "be still"? Here is an interesting tip that I am pondering:
One night as the famous Bible teacher F. B. Meyer stood on the deck of a ship approaching land, he wondered how the crew knew when and how to safely steer to the dock. It was a stormy night, and visibility was low. Meyer, standing on the bridge and peering through the window, asked "Captain, how do you know when to turn this ship into that narrow harbor?"
"That's an art," replied the captain. "Do you see those three red lights on the shore? When they're all in a straight line I go right in!"
Later Meyer said: "When we want to know God's will, there are three things which always occur: the inward impulse, the Word of God, and the trend of circumstances. Never act until these three things agree." (excerpt from Os Hillman 6/30/08 devotional TGIF Vol. 2)
I find this a challenge because I am impulsive, so I am not sure I can trust an inward impulse. I also can find scriptures that say "be still" or "wait upon the Lord" as well as "pick up your mat and walk" or "Abraham went even though he did not know where he was going". The trend of circumstances can be a tricky thing to read too.
So I ponder this and then go back to choosing the still small voice, the confirmation of 2 or 3 witnesses and the scriptures that God puts on my heart, not the ones I seek out to best suit my need. I think that is how I need to "roll 'em".
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Faithful to the Faithful
Sorry its been awhile!
I am jumping for joy to share with you God's faithfulness to His promises! I received a "comment" from my previous post. Notice it never hit the webwaves. That delete button rocks! It was a "rebuke" for taking the scripture "calling things that are not as though they were" (Romans 4:17) out of context. I somewhat got what the person was trying to say, however when GOD gives you that scripture a week after the post to pray over sick babies you do it because HE said too.
I want you to be blessed through the story of The Joye Family.
Read their blogs (start from the beginning) about the journey they are on with God and their precious twin daughters,Adleigh and Liana. Read how standing on His promises and speaking life over the girls and praising God regardless of the "reports" has proved God's power! One of many scriptures given to my friends was Romans 4. That includes Romans 4:17!
So readers, check out this testimony and watch it unfold to the Glory of God and may you be inspired to stand on God's Word no matter what! Praise you Lord for showing yourself faithful to the faithful. (Psalm 18:25)!
Check out the story here:
wade joye
http://wadejoye.typepad.com
Ferris Joye
http://ferrisjoye.blogspot.com
Praise you Jesus! You are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow!!
I am jumping for joy to share with you God's faithfulness to His promises! I received a "comment" from my previous post. Notice it never hit the webwaves. That delete button rocks! It was a "rebuke" for taking the scripture "calling things that are not as though they were" (Romans 4:17) out of context. I somewhat got what the person was trying to say, however when GOD gives you that scripture a week after the post to pray over sick babies you do it because HE said too.
I want you to be blessed through the story of The Joye Family.
Read their blogs (start from the beginning) about the journey they are on with God and their precious twin daughters,Adleigh and Liana. Read how standing on His promises and speaking life over the girls and praising God regardless of the "reports" has proved God's power! One of many scriptures given to my friends was Romans 4. That includes Romans 4:17!
So readers, check out this testimony and watch it unfold to the Glory of God and may you be inspired to stand on God's Word no matter what! Praise you Lord for showing yourself faithful to the faithful. (Psalm 18:25)!
Check out the story here:
wade joye
http://wadejoye.typepad.com
Ferris Joye
http://ferrisjoye.blogspot.com
Praise you Jesus! You are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow!!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Thanks Joyce!!
Awhile ago I decided to start speaking out loud things that are not as though they were (Romans 4:17). So I decided to start calling Joyce Meyer, my good friend and mentor. It is funny because I have called her ministry several times to ask how to get information on her ministry journey. Does she have a bio? Does she have a select CD series I can buy? Anything? I even asked her product manager at her conference awhile ago. They said she just tells stories about her life in her preaching.
I was given one book title that is pretty much her life story, but I did not feel that was "it". Then one day wandering through a secular bookstore..there is was..."A Leader in the Making" by Joyce Meyer. WHAT??? Where did that come from? No one told me about that. I never saw it in her catalog. So I got it.
I have to say I have read ALOT of books on leadership. Books on how to lead and how to see leadership in others. But this one is the BEST, well for me anyway. This book describes what God does with those He has chosen to lead. It talks about where your heart is and where it needs to be. It talks about the tests that God allows leaders to go through. It encourages you to keep going even if its just you and the Lord and the word He spoke to you about your vision. I read that section on a day I was ready to quit everything and just be "normal".
I highly recommend this book. As a matter of fact it will be a "must read" for any of my leaders. Funny how God gave me just what I wanted. One on one training and encouragement with Joyce Meyer herself. Although it wasn't face to face it is more detailed than a conversation and its right here in front of me for easy reference 24/7.
God knows best! And until we meet, THANK YOU JOYCE!!!
Your friend,
Lisa
I was given one book title that is pretty much her life story, but I did not feel that was "it". Then one day wandering through a secular bookstore..there is was..."A Leader in the Making" by Joyce Meyer. WHAT??? Where did that come from? No one told me about that. I never saw it in her catalog. So I got it.
I have to say I have read ALOT of books on leadership. Books on how to lead and how to see leadership in others. But this one is the BEST, well for me anyway. This book describes what God does with those He has chosen to lead. It talks about where your heart is and where it needs to be. It talks about the tests that God allows leaders to go through. It encourages you to keep going even if its just you and the Lord and the word He spoke to you about your vision. I read that section on a day I was ready to quit everything and just be "normal".
I highly recommend this book. As a matter of fact it will be a "must read" for any of my leaders. Funny how God gave me just what I wanted. One on one training and encouragement with Joyce Meyer herself. Although it wasn't face to face it is more detailed than a conversation and its right here in front of me for easy reference 24/7.
God knows best! And until we meet, THANK YOU JOYCE!!!
Your friend,
Lisa
Sunday, June 1, 2008
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BABY!
On June 1, 1996 I married Michael Francis Shea. My very best friend. I actually said that in my vows...."I take you Michael, my very best friend, to be my husband". It was my grandparents' 56th wedding anniversary and a beautiful day for June in Buffalo NY. It was in the 70's and SUNNY!! Hey it had snowed 10 days before...NO JOKE!
Baby,
After 12 very eventful years I want to thank you for being my man. I want to thank you for being my best friend. I want to thank you for sticking with "US" when "US" was not good. I want to thank you for allowing God into your life and our lives. You amaze me everyday. You are a great daddy too. I love you more now than I ever have.
To those of you who don't believe in miracles, a Christian counselor told me to throw Mike out of our home to get his attention. I heard God tell me to be still and I chose the advice of God over man. I thank GOD for HIS voice, HIS Word, HIS power. I thank God for HIS mercy, HIS compassion, HIS forgiveness and HIS love.
I am excited about what the years ahead will hold for us as we follow HIS lead together. I know it will be more than we can think ask or imagine( Ephesians 3:20).
With all my respect,
Baby (nicknames...just roll with it)
Baby,
After 12 very eventful years I want to thank you for being my man. I want to thank you for being my best friend. I want to thank you for sticking with "US" when "US" was not good. I want to thank you for allowing God into your life and our lives. You amaze me everyday. You are a great daddy too. I love you more now than I ever have.
To those of you who don't believe in miracles, a Christian counselor told me to throw Mike out of our home to get his attention. I heard God tell me to be still and I chose the advice of God over man. I thank GOD for HIS voice, HIS Word, HIS power. I thank God for HIS mercy, HIS compassion, HIS forgiveness and HIS love.
I am excited about what the years ahead will hold for us as we follow HIS lead together. I know it will be more than we can think ask or imagine( Ephesians 3:20).
With all my respect,
Baby (nicknames...just roll with it)
Saturday, May 3, 2008
There Goes the Neighborhood
When we first moved into our neighborhood it was pretty much families w/ young children. Going to the pool every day was fabulous. It was safe for the kids and a pleasant experience. As our neighborhood got older so did the kids. Don't get me wrong there are still a lot of great young families and great kids here. Something though, shifted, and the pool went from family friendly to happy hour in just a few short years.
There are a lot of Christ followers in my neck of the woods. As last summer came to a close several shared their disappointment on how foal the language was and how awful that someone was thrown out of the 4th of July party for disorderly conduct. The kids aren't doing this either, it's the adults. So what do we do?
God spoke to me during one conversation w/ a sister in Christ. "Do not shrink back but take it back" Hmmm yes why not, instead of hiding in a corner or refusing to go to the pool why not pray over the property? Why not be the light instead of running from darkness?
This became even more pronounced when I heard about a man I will rename as "Bruce". He was a dad in his 40's & seemed like an alright guy. One day while the "end zone section" of the pool was getting rowdy (he would sit there often) we took up a conversation. It went like this Bruce: what book you reading? Me: this is my bible, pretty cool looking huh? Bruce: your bible? Me: Sure why not, in this place anything goes.
That is where the conversation ended. Did I not see it was an opportunity?
I admit I felt "funny" and I knew he felt awkward. What a cool opportunity to share my testimony in a casual conversation though.
Yesterday I was hammered on my head and in my heart. Bruce died. Brain hemmorage, just like that. Dead. He asked me what I was reading that day. I was bold enough to read my bible in public but not bold enough to keep a conversation going. Did he know Jesus? Only God knows that. I hate to think he did not and I sat next to him with the Word in my lap. God forgive me.
Today I received this in an email devotional about Esther:
For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" (Est 4:14-15).
So God is speaking to me very clearly about being a light. He wants me to be in the world and not of it. He wants me to not be ashamed of the gospel and to share the good news with the lost. I guess I start looking for opportunities or realizing when one sits right beside me...for such a time is this.
What will you do w/ the Bruce's that you meet? I had nothing to lose, he may have had everything to gain.
There are a lot of Christ followers in my neck of the woods. As last summer came to a close several shared their disappointment on how foal the language was and how awful that someone was thrown out of the 4th of July party for disorderly conduct. The kids aren't doing this either, it's the adults. So what do we do?
God spoke to me during one conversation w/ a sister in Christ. "Do not shrink back but take it back" Hmmm yes why not, instead of hiding in a corner or refusing to go to the pool why not pray over the property? Why not be the light instead of running from darkness?
This became even more pronounced when I heard about a man I will rename as "Bruce". He was a dad in his 40's & seemed like an alright guy. One day while the "end zone section" of the pool was getting rowdy (he would sit there often) we took up a conversation. It went like this Bruce: what book you reading? Me: this is my bible, pretty cool looking huh? Bruce: your bible? Me: Sure why not, in this place anything goes.
That is where the conversation ended. Did I not see it was an opportunity?
I admit I felt "funny" and I knew he felt awkward. What a cool opportunity to share my testimony in a casual conversation though.
Yesterday I was hammered on my head and in my heart. Bruce died. Brain hemmorage, just like that. Dead. He asked me what I was reading that day. I was bold enough to read my bible in public but not bold enough to keep a conversation going. Did he know Jesus? Only God knows that. I hate to think he did not and I sat next to him with the Word in my lap. God forgive me.
Today I received this in an email devotional about Esther:
For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" (Est 4:14-15).
So God is speaking to me very clearly about being a light. He wants me to be in the world and not of it. He wants me to not be ashamed of the gospel and to share the good news with the lost. I guess I start looking for opportunities or realizing when one sits right beside me...for such a time is this.
What will you do w/ the Bruce's that you meet? I had nothing to lose, he may have had everything to gain.
Friday, April 25, 2008
A Question......
I have been pondering this thought for quite awhile now. Is knowing the vision God's given you for your life good or bad? Now I know some of you may think...how could you say knowing your call is a bad thing?? How many people wish they knew what God wanted them to do? Do you wonder if some people stumble into their destiny? Or, did God tell them up front and then cheer them along the way?
Here is the dilemma. Knowing what it is is amazing when it inspires you to press into God, desire to become more like Christ, not make decisions that are based in the flesh for momentary gratification etc etc. But there is also the flip side of that. Knowing that you know that you know that you know where God wants to take you if you let Him....but not having a clue as to how to get there.
I KNOW HE directs your steps. But what if those steps appear to be heading backwards, or at least a strange detour. What about the looming thoughts of "maybe I would arrive quicker if so and so would have done this or that". What if you lose faith that God even spoke something to you in the first place. Maybe when HE said your destiny is to______________ it wasn't really HIM it was the refried beans at Qdoba.
How do you handle the confusion? Well that is not from God to begin with so start with that. I would chose to believe the confirmations HE HAS given you since he first spoke to you. I would read the story of Joseph being sent to the prison and then I'd read about David who was told he'd be king and then had to run for his life.
God is faithful and will finish what HE started. Surround yourself with encouragers
and look at everything that seems like a detour as a lesson you need to learn before you advance any further. Humble yourself and have a teachable spirit and see where HE leads! I think it is better to know because it keeps you focused...even if it drives you bonkers sometimes. Psalm 138:8.
Here is the dilemma. Knowing what it is is amazing when it inspires you to press into God, desire to become more like Christ, not make decisions that are based in the flesh for momentary gratification etc etc. But there is also the flip side of that. Knowing that you know that you know that you know where God wants to take you if you let Him....but not having a clue as to how to get there.
I KNOW HE directs your steps. But what if those steps appear to be heading backwards, or at least a strange detour. What about the looming thoughts of "maybe I would arrive quicker if so and so would have done this or that". What if you lose faith that God even spoke something to you in the first place. Maybe when HE said your destiny is to______________ it wasn't really HIM it was the refried beans at Qdoba.
How do you handle the confusion? Well that is not from God to begin with so start with that. I would chose to believe the confirmations HE HAS given you since he first spoke to you. I would read the story of Joseph being sent to the prison and then I'd read about David who was told he'd be king and then had to run for his life.
God is faithful and will finish what HE started. Surround yourself with encouragers
and look at everything that seems like a detour as a lesson you need to learn before you advance any further. Humble yourself and have a teachable spirit and see where HE leads! I think it is better to know because it keeps you focused...even if it drives you bonkers sometimes. Psalm 138:8.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Virgin Gorda
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life and only a few find it." Matthew 7:13-14 NIV
On a trip to Virgin Gorda in the Caribbean, my family and I stopped at a public beach. It was beautiful. White sand, swaying palm trees, hammocks and crystal clear warm water full of tropical fish. The people on this cruise excursion began to enjoy several hours of paradise. We spent some time in this area when my brother pointed out a small cave formed within the enormous rounded boulders for which the island is known for.
As we entered the cave there were small red arrows pointing inside these boulders that framed the beach. The arrows led us up large rocks, through waste deep water and down a steep slope. Some spots you had to hold onto a rope to guide you and to hold you up. When we finished our journey...the most beautiful lagoon you could ever imagine was there. Peaceful waters, clear to the bottom and even whiter sand. I remember thinking; this must be like heaven because my idea of paradise was just this, God’s creation in all its glory.
We headed back to get the rest of our family to enjoy this splendor. My uncle, a usually easy going fun loving man, became quite grumpy. "I am happy here, it is beautiful right here" we pleaded with him to join us to see what was even better. "I SAID this is perfect to me", he quipped. We left him with the other one hundred or so people to enjoy the pretty beach. We took my mother up, through and down the narrow path and shared this paradise with her. Even though the hike there was a bit of a challenge it was worth it to her as well. We marveled at the tranquility of the water, the blueness of the sky, the vastness of the boulders, so round they looked almost soft. The only way to describe it is breathtaking.
To this day, 13 years later, when my uncle looks at pictures of what he missed out on...he is regretful. "what was wrong with me?"....."What was I thinking?"...Jokingly we snarl up our faces at him and say "I am happy right here".......He was comfortable where he was, he did not want to make a little effort, he thought he found perfection where he was............He stayed were the "many" stay and missed what the few of us found. How many times do we miss the narrow gate? Do we choose what is comfortable because God’s way seems a bit more of an effort? Do we think that our circumstance is as good as it gets, not realizing God’s way is best? When have we “followed the crowd” and missed a glorious blessing?
My prayer for you today is that you take the narrow road and the small gate. The rewards for the few that find it are breathtakingly eternal! Society's road is broad and wide....many take that route. Wouldn’t you rather be with the few that choose God’s path? I am sure others will follow you!
On a trip to Virgin Gorda in the Caribbean, my family and I stopped at a public beach. It was beautiful. White sand, swaying palm trees, hammocks and crystal clear warm water full of tropical fish. The people on this cruise excursion began to enjoy several hours of paradise. We spent some time in this area when my brother pointed out a small cave formed within the enormous rounded boulders for which the island is known for.
As we entered the cave there were small red arrows pointing inside these boulders that framed the beach. The arrows led us up large rocks, through waste deep water and down a steep slope. Some spots you had to hold onto a rope to guide you and to hold you up. When we finished our journey...the most beautiful lagoon you could ever imagine was there. Peaceful waters, clear to the bottom and even whiter sand. I remember thinking; this must be like heaven because my idea of paradise was just this, God’s creation in all its glory.
We headed back to get the rest of our family to enjoy this splendor. My uncle, a usually easy going fun loving man, became quite grumpy. "I am happy here, it is beautiful right here" we pleaded with him to join us to see what was even better. "I SAID this is perfect to me", he quipped. We left him with the other one hundred or so people to enjoy the pretty beach. We took my mother up, through and down the narrow path and shared this paradise with her. Even though the hike there was a bit of a challenge it was worth it to her as well. We marveled at the tranquility of the water, the blueness of the sky, the vastness of the boulders, so round they looked almost soft. The only way to describe it is breathtaking.
To this day, 13 years later, when my uncle looks at pictures of what he missed out on...he is regretful. "what was wrong with me?"....."What was I thinking?"...Jokingly we snarl up our faces at him and say "I am happy right here".......He was comfortable where he was, he did not want to make a little effort, he thought he found perfection where he was............He stayed were the "many" stay and missed what the few of us found. How many times do we miss the narrow gate? Do we choose what is comfortable because God’s way seems a bit more of an effort? Do we think that our circumstance is as good as it gets, not realizing God’s way is best? When have we “followed the crowd” and missed a glorious blessing?
My prayer for you today is that you take the narrow road and the small gate. The rewards for the few that find it are breathtakingly eternal! Society's road is broad and wide....many take that route. Wouldn’t you rather be with the few that choose God’s path? I am sure others will follow you!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Exodus 14:14
The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.
Exodus 14:14
What am I going to do? How will this ever resolve itself? I just can’t see any way through this? Hopeless, yep, just hopeless.
How often do we find ourselves blinded by the circumstances we are in? Isn’t it interesting that when we are in the midst of a challenge or trial our view gets clouded or distorted? It isn’t until after the “storm passes” or someone comes to our aid that we see another perspective. Some of us never see another side to a situation, even after the challenge is over.
Many of us women are control freaks by nature. Now you may disagree. You may think that your spouse has more control if you are a milder personality. You may think that you hide your control. You may be proud of your control. The need to control is in our nature. Or mine at least. Instinctively when there is a problem we, as women, wives, mothers, friends immediately begin to think, “What do I do now?” “Do something….it won’t get fixed unless I DO something”.
In marriage the challenge is there, no doubt about it. With two personalities living under one roof there is bound to be a tug of war over some issues.
Finances & child rearing are major examples, yet even how the garbage is taken out can grate on nerves over time. How do we get past this “trait” of ours in order for more peace and joy in our lives?
We need to focus on letting God fight our battles, let God be in control. Sometimes waiting on HIM is hard, but it is well worth the wait.
When I was trying to “fight” for things in my marriage, to be “heard”, things got worse. How could this be? Logically if I made my desires known and they were in the best interest of our family, my husband would agree with me right?. Little did I know the manner in which I went about this was wrong. By surrendering to God and His commands for marriage, being silent at times I would have fought, God stepped in. He fought the battle of our hearts. God changed our marriage when I got out of HIS way.
I did not sit and do nothing. Choosing respectful behavior was a challenge. It took a lot of energy to bite my tongue and cease complaining. But in that “stillness” of my mouth, my tone, my facial expressions and my impatience God fought for my marriage.
The result should not surprise you, He won!
Praise the Lord!
Exodus 14:14
What am I going to do? How will this ever resolve itself? I just can’t see any way through this? Hopeless, yep, just hopeless.
How often do we find ourselves blinded by the circumstances we are in? Isn’t it interesting that when we are in the midst of a challenge or trial our view gets clouded or distorted? It isn’t until after the “storm passes” or someone comes to our aid that we see another perspective. Some of us never see another side to a situation, even after the challenge is over.
Many of us women are control freaks by nature. Now you may disagree. You may think that your spouse has more control if you are a milder personality. You may think that you hide your control. You may be proud of your control. The need to control is in our nature. Or mine at least. Instinctively when there is a problem we, as women, wives, mothers, friends immediately begin to think, “What do I do now?” “Do something….it won’t get fixed unless I DO something”.
In marriage the challenge is there, no doubt about it. With two personalities living under one roof there is bound to be a tug of war over some issues.
Finances & child rearing are major examples, yet even how the garbage is taken out can grate on nerves over time. How do we get past this “trait” of ours in order for more peace and joy in our lives?
We need to focus on letting God fight our battles, let God be in control. Sometimes waiting on HIM is hard, but it is well worth the wait.
When I was trying to “fight” for things in my marriage, to be “heard”, things got worse. How could this be? Logically if I made my desires known and they were in the best interest of our family, my husband would agree with me right?. Little did I know the manner in which I went about this was wrong. By surrendering to God and His commands for marriage, being silent at times I would have fought, God stepped in. He fought the battle of our hearts. God changed our marriage when I got out of HIS way.
I did not sit and do nothing. Choosing respectful behavior was a challenge. It took a lot of energy to bite my tongue and cease complaining. But in that “stillness” of my mouth, my tone, my facial expressions and my impatience God fought for my marriage.
The result should not surprise you, He won!
Praise the Lord!
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Surfing the Waves
I was really inspired by my Pastor's sermon from last week. He talked about our desire being stronger than our disability. He refered to John 6:5-9. I love this scripture. I use it every time I begin my wives study group.
Often we are paralyzed by our situation. We feel stuck and remain there w/ our lame excuses. We don't rely on God, His love, His power, His truth. We remain stagnant.
I related so well to my Pastor when he described his DNA. It is inbred in him to fight thru obstacles to get to the promise. He is not satisfied w/ sitting on the sidelines. Niether am I . I related because I too got front row tickets to concerts when my life was more about a party. Journey, Phil Collins, The Go Go's, Janet Jackson, Def Leppard, The Who, to date myself and to name just a few. GREAT front row or floor seats!
Recently...Beth Moore on the floor...Joyce Meyer(I drove 2 hrs alone which I hate to do)...row 5 and front row both days during worship. So being aggressive to pursue a goal is in my DNA too. My struggle is that I see the pool. I know where I am going but I don't know HOW to get there. I am rolling my disabled self from where I am but can't see far enough to know the best way the pool is. I struggle with am I doing enough. After all you don't get where you need to be unless you pick up your mat and walk. Am I doing the right thing? I know..I know.. God directs our steps right?
As I was belaboring this in my heart I had a vision for surfing. In order to ride the big wave you have to paddle out to the unknown sea. You go over waves and then dip down in the valley between them. Your speed is determined by the current. Then when you get where you need to be you stand up and ride the wave in.
I have to learn to be confident in the paddling out to sea. I can't go faster than the current will allow. I won't know where to stand up on the board until I get there. But at least my DNA is helping me move from where I was and I am trusting God will tell me when I can ride the big wave in.
Often we are paralyzed by our situation. We feel stuck and remain there w/ our lame excuses. We don't rely on God, His love, His power, His truth. We remain stagnant.
I related so well to my Pastor when he described his DNA. It is inbred in him to fight thru obstacles to get to the promise. He is not satisfied w/ sitting on the sidelines. Niether am I . I related because I too got front row tickets to concerts when my life was more about a party. Journey, Phil Collins, The Go Go's, Janet Jackson, Def Leppard, The Who, to date myself and to name just a few. GREAT front row or floor seats!
Recently...Beth Moore on the floor...Joyce Meyer(I drove 2 hrs alone which I hate to do)...row 5 and front row both days during worship. So being aggressive to pursue a goal is in my DNA too. My struggle is that I see the pool. I know where I am going but I don't know HOW to get there. I am rolling my disabled self from where I am but can't see far enough to know the best way the pool is. I struggle with am I doing enough. After all you don't get where you need to be unless you pick up your mat and walk. Am I doing the right thing? I know..I know.. God directs our steps right?
As I was belaboring this in my heart I had a vision for surfing. In order to ride the big wave you have to paddle out to the unknown sea. You go over waves and then dip down in the valley between them. Your speed is determined by the current. Then when you get where you need to be you stand up and ride the wave in.
I have to learn to be confident in the paddling out to sea. I can't go faster than the current will allow. I won't know where to stand up on the board until I get there. But at least my DNA is helping me move from where I was and I am trusting God will tell me when I can ride the big wave in.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Knee Jerk Reactions
My husband was offered a very cool opportunity to do something fun. Something that I would consider a rare chance happening. Something that we could do together and learn from. He instantly said "no".
When he told me his response, (I wondered WHY he would tell me at all), he said he was "caught off guard, was overwhelmed with what was going on in his job, did not think our weekend schedule would permit it....and on and on.
Taking all of my emotion out of it, he was right to a degree. I on the other hand would have said "let me check and I will get back to you ASAP." Then I would have moved heaven and earth to do what I thought was a very cool opportunity.
So who is right? Both of us I guess. We just have 2 different personalities. We do things differently. Neither are wrong just different. The enemy on the other hand had a field day with me. Mike's knee jerk reaction of "no" because at an instance he couldn't see how his schedule could be juggled sent my mind into "what is he craaaazzzyyy" over drive.
So after reminding myself(out loud several times) that I teach and mentor women on how to behave respectful as God commands and that I have to practice what I preach...I asked God....how could he do that God...?? How could he say no so quickly & pass up something because of what things look like on his schedule??
God stopped me right there. HIS response was "the same way you had a knee jerk reaction to his decision. You did not stop and look at the fruits of my Spirit or what I could do with his decision...you looked at you circumstances just like he did"
ouch. Lesson learned.
Thank GOD his mercies are new every day!
When he told me his response, (I wondered WHY he would tell me at all), he said he was "caught off guard, was overwhelmed with what was going on in his job, did not think our weekend schedule would permit it....and on and on.
Taking all of my emotion out of it, he was right to a degree. I on the other hand would have said "let me check and I will get back to you ASAP." Then I would have moved heaven and earth to do what I thought was a very cool opportunity.
So who is right? Both of us I guess. We just have 2 different personalities. We do things differently. Neither are wrong just different. The enemy on the other hand had a field day with me. Mike's knee jerk reaction of "no" because at an instance he couldn't see how his schedule could be juggled sent my mind into "what is he craaaazzzyyy" over drive.
So after reminding myself(out loud several times) that I teach and mentor women on how to behave respectful as God commands and that I have to practice what I preach...I asked God....how could he do that God...?? How could he say no so quickly & pass up something because of what things look like on his schedule??
God stopped me right there. HIS response was "the same way you had a knee jerk reaction to his decision. You did not stop and look at the fruits of my Spirit or what I could do with his decision...you looked at you circumstances just like he did"
ouch. Lesson learned.
Thank GOD his mercies are new every day!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Where Have I Been?
That is a good question. Right now God is teaching me, revealing to me, speaking to me about hearing His voice. You know you can;t hear much of anything when you are too busy to slow down and be still.
That being said I am going to do just that. I'm carving out more precious time w/ HIM. You see I am juggling being a good wife, mother, employee, women's ministry leader, but without being a good child of God I can't be good at any of the above. Now I know God's grace covers my faults and HE loves me unconditionally. What I am saying though is that I won't be a "fruit bearing Jesus follower" if I continue trying to strive on my own.
I need continuous filling and I love constant communication. John 14 clearly states: 5"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
I am making a choice right now. Its obvious that I have not blogged in weeks so I am sure me taking a hiatus won't be a big shock. I know to keep a blog audience I should regularly blog. I risk losing the 2 of you who check in on this. Why? Because God is calling me and I don't want to keep Him waiting. I am setting some boundaries and looking forward to returning with a renewed revelation and spiritual strength!
Thanks for understanding!
That being said I am going to do just that. I'm carving out more precious time w/ HIM. You see I am juggling being a good wife, mother, employee, women's ministry leader, but without being a good child of God I can't be good at any of the above. Now I know God's grace covers my faults and HE loves me unconditionally. What I am saying though is that I won't be a "fruit bearing Jesus follower" if I continue trying to strive on my own.
I need continuous filling and I love constant communication. John 14 clearly states: 5"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
I am making a choice right now. Its obvious that I have not blogged in weeks so I am sure me taking a hiatus won't be a big shock. I know to keep a blog audience I should regularly blog. I risk losing the 2 of you who check in on this. Why? Because God is calling me and I don't want to keep Him waiting. I am setting some boundaries and looking forward to returning with a renewed revelation and spiritual strength!
Thanks for understanding!
Saturday, March 1, 2008
BIRTHWEEK '08
Well today officially ends "BIRTHWEEK '08". I will say it started off MUCH better than it is ending BUT I am thankful for the week. I did get to hit all 3 of my favorite sushi restaurants in one week. That is a first. It started w/ Jade, then Sushi 101 and we finished off last night with Ru Sans. Delicious!!!
I have been under fire ALOT this week with emotions and struggles in our little family. I am frustrated and asking God, (after thanking Him for all He IS doing), why He is taking so long on certain areas.
I am THANKFUL that God has given me divinely appointed prayer partners and spiritual mentors. How great it was Friday morning when my phone rang and I answered with not a "hello" but, "who told you I was grumpy"? My armor bearer in MI replied, "God did". To have people in your life so spiritually in tune is something to be thankful for.
So Father even though my circumstances are testing my faith, I ask forgiveness that I have not extended your grace to certain people. I thank you that your promises to me are true. Increase my faith and help me rest in YOU while I wait.
I have been under fire ALOT this week with emotions and struggles in our little family. I am frustrated and asking God, (after thanking Him for all He IS doing), why He is taking so long on certain areas.
I am THANKFUL that God has given me divinely appointed prayer partners and spiritual mentors. How great it was Friday morning when my phone rang and I answered with not a "hello" but, "who told you I was grumpy"? My armor bearer in MI replied, "God did". To have people in your life so spiritually in tune is something to be thankful for.
So Father even though my circumstances are testing my faith, I ask forgiveness that I have not extended your grace to certain people. I thank you that your promises to me are true. Increase my faith and help me rest in YOU while I wait.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
MY BIRTHWEEK
I have NEVER been shy about my birthday. Ever. I tell anyone who might care and most who don't. I can't help it. The birthweek all started when I celebrated my birthday for longer than just one day. I would have a dinner w/ my grandparents on my mom's side. Then dinner w/ my paternal grandparents. Then dinner w/ my parents and brother. As I got older then there were celebrations w/ friends. Then add a boyfriend. So because having one huge event every year didn't work I developed the "birthweek".
My week officially kicked off last night when my awesome husband booked me a room at the Ballantyne Resort. A king size bed, a million thread count sheets, perfectly fluffy and way too many pillows and uninterrupted sleep. This all came after my favorite dinner of sushi. What followed this morning was breakfast in bed. Then a 50 minute Swedish massage. Her name was Lisa too, not Sven.
I forgot my cell phone and the internet hook up was $10. A rip off for what you pay for a room there. So it was me and my book and iPod and I was one happy camper. Mike and I had such a great time hanging out together last night and then he left so I could SLEEP AS LONG AS I WANTED!!!
You may think that is crazy BUT he is an early riser and I can't fall back to sleep if I awaken anytime after 5 hours of sleep. I slept until 9 am and did not HAVE to get out of bed. All moms know you HAVE to get out of bed eventually and usually sooner than we'd like.
As I was relaxing during my spa treatment I was overwhelmed with the feeling of love and deep appreciation. Love for and from my God who has been so AWESOME to me in this last year (my whole life really but I am reflecting yearly right now) to the over flowing love I have for my husband. He STILL, after 16 years makes my heart jump. Then the realization of where we were several years ago and how THANKFUL I am to God for restoring our marriage. Then I felt deep grief for those people who don't have faith that GOD will do ALL HE promises. Back to complete JOY for all that HE has given to me. HE HAS restored the years the locusts have eaten! I wonder if the masseuse thought it odd that tears were trickling. I sure did. Thank God it was dark in there!
Father,
I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I thank you for all you have done in me and through me. I thank you for my husband, my family, my pastor, my friends. Thank you for the challenges I faced that made You more real to me. Thank you for sending the women You entrust to me as I yield myself to your power. I do not take the role of child of God, wife, mother and mentor lightly. To whom much is given much is expected. I can not and will not do it without You. I humbly wait in eager expectation of all that You will do in this next year of my life! In Jesus name, Amen.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The Thumb Blast
I am quite proud of myself. Today they had a women's thumb blast event at work. How funny to say "work" when I actually get paid to do what I love...hmm
What is a thumb blast? Apparently it was a daring event shared by only the staff men at Elevation Church.....until.....TODAY!
That is right. Lisa Shea stepped up to the couch, along w/ Lori, Shannon and Jennica. Some bizarre hot sauce in a bottle, dabbed on the thumb. OF COURSE I got the chunks of some cayenne insanely hot pepper thing. Anyway the rules: Dab your thumb, rub your tongue w/ it, hold it for 30 seconds, then drink water. Oh and DO NOT TOUCH the eyes!
So with cameras flashing and video taping the three extremely tough girls blasted away. It wasn't so bad....at first. Tears rolled down a few cheeks...Lori said she was drooling, I was fine. Until...I ....swallowed it.
HOT FIERY strep throat burning feeling for about 30 minutes.
But I did it. I am almost old enough to be their mom, which is depressing....but I hung tough with those kids!! It was fun reliving those "double dog dare ya days".
Friday, February 8, 2008
TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!
Well it is our church's 2nd anniversary. We are celebrating by baptising over 100 people and finishing off with a live recording of our worship experience.
I can not believe God brought a church like this to my city. I can't believe that He gave me the desires for the vision and anointing and I longed for this church for 2 years before they moved here to start Elevation. I can't believe in 2 years God has grown us from the 750 when we began attending in Nov. 2006 to 4000 last week.
I can't believe I got to lead a special group of women and then was asked to lead the leaders of the wives group. I can't believe God uses me here to mentor women.
I can't believe I am now on staff, doing whatever needs to be done to make Elevation inviting and ready so that people far from God can be filled with life in Christ.
What I do believe is the Word of God. I have said before that I have a verse I said and believed MANY times in my struggles. It says that God will do more than we can think, ask or imagine...It is true. I am living it every day.
The other thing I "can't believe" is that one of our Pastor's favorite scriptures that he refers to often is this. God never ceases to amaze me.
I can not believe God brought a church like this to my city. I can't believe that He gave me the desires for the vision and anointing and I longed for this church for 2 years before they moved here to start Elevation. I can't believe in 2 years God has grown us from the 750 when we began attending in Nov. 2006 to 4000 last week.
I can't believe I got to lead a special group of women and then was asked to lead the leaders of the wives group. I can't believe God uses me here to mentor women.
I can't believe I am now on staff, doing whatever needs to be done to make Elevation inviting and ready so that people far from God can be filled with life in Christ.
What I do believe is the Word of God. I have said before that I have a verse I said and believed MANY times in my struggles. It says that God will do more than we can think, ask or imagine...It is true. I am living it every day.
The other thing I "can't believe" is that one of our Pastor's favorite scriptures that he refers to often is this. God never ceases to amaze me.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
A Slave to Sin
I have been bombarded this past 2 weeks with some strange stuff. I brought some of it on myself. This morning I actually said "I feel like a slave". Orders being barked at me with the expectation of me jumping to everyone else's need. I have been SO busy. I can't think straight. (side note: YES I KNOW God is teaching me boundaries...the hard way). Someone once said that BUSY stands for "Being Under Satan's Yoke". Well I fell victim to that yoke and all hell broke loose. I certainly was not walking in the fruits of the Spirit last night or this morning.
Then, because my God is SO good to me. He showed me that I have not been connected to Him. My obsession w/ accomplishing the goals I set for myself (even if it is a shower and a load of laundry done) should not be done until I have been with HIM. See I know this, I teach this. This week I did not live it.
So as I was about to flip my cork this morning God sent my friend unannounced (one of my squad..see earlier post)to "drop off something". She had to catch her flailing friend AGAIN. But she prayed and I felt a bit better. Then a call came in from my mentor. I sought her wisdom and she told me to walk in victory. The war is won! Jesus did it. Stop acting like the enemy still has a chance. Load my rifle and shoot out "In the Name of Jesus....(add what you need to overcome)." I KNOW that, but I forget at times too. I was too overwhelmed to get my self out of the pit. I'm feeling much better now.
Then I called my armor bearer. I THANK GOD for him!! Don't leave home without one. If you are a stay at home mom, don't stay home without one! I'm Feeling almost back to victory by this point!
Then I read this quote in a devotional:
"The man who has no inner life is a slave to his surroundings" Henri Frederic Amiel
Yes I was a slave this week to my surroundings. I did not spend time with my source, my God, my protector. I fell slave to circumstances and demands that are easily overcome by the name of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. God showed me my error. I asked forgiveness and am grateful for the reminder! I now put my "gun" back in my holster for the next time and I walk out of this week's mess in freedom!
Check out Romans 6:16.
Then, because my God is SO good to me. He showed me that I have not been connected to Him. My obsession w/ accomplishing the goals I set for myself (even if it is a shower and a load of laundry done) should not be done until I have been with HIM. See I know this, I teach this. This week I did not live it.
So as I was about to flip my cork this morning God sent my friend unannounced (one of my squad..see earlier post)to "drop off something". She had to catch her flailing friend AGAIN. But she prayed and I felt a bit better. Then a call came in from my mentor. I sought her wisdom and she told me to walk in victory. The war is won! Jesus did it. Stop acting like the enemy still has a chance. Load my rifle and shoot out "In the Name of Jesus....(add what you need to overcome)." I KNOW that, but I forget at times too. I was too overwhelmed to get my self out of the pit. I'm feeling much better now.
Then I called my armor bearer. I THANK GOD for him!! Don't leave home without one. If you are a stay at home mom, don't stay home without one! I'm Feeling almost back to victory by this point!
Then I read this quote in a devotional:
"The man who has no inner life is a slave to his surroundings" Henri Frederic Amiel
Yes I was a slave this week to my surroundings. I did not spend time with my source, my God, my protector. I fell slave to circumstances and demands that are easily overcome by the name of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. God showed me my error. I asked forgiveness and am grateful for the reminder! I now put my "gun" back in my holster for the next time and I walk out of this week's mess in freedom!
Check out Romans 6:16.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Mini Mafia
Because I can not Rise Above technology ...YET.... I could not figure out how to get a video to appear on my blog...so you'll have to do it the old fashioned way. Point and click!
It's funny and worth your effort! This is an announcement from our MADE series. How has God destined you for greatness? Who says God doesn't have a sense of humor!!
Tune in here for the sermons!
Enjoy!
It's funny and worth your effort! This is an announcement from our MADE series. How has God destined you for greatness? Who says God doesn't have a sense of humor!!
Tune in here for the sermons!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
My Squad
In case you did not know, it has been said that I have the gift of exhortation. I believe that to be true. I get so excited when I can encourage another person in the Word of God. I want to jump up and down and share some GREAT NEWS with anyone who needs to hear the TRUTH as God sees it and says it.
There is a flip side to me though. The cheerleader needs a squad to catch her after she is tossed high in the air. When I need to make a decision and I am waiting to hear clearly from God and things don't seem to make sense, I start dropping. Yes, I KNOW I am to wait patiently on the Lord. I struggle here.
That's when I count on my friends and mentors, my "squad", to pray for me and to give me their wisdom. I appreciate that they will catch me as I fall through the air flailing my arms and legs like a freak.
Thank YOU (you know who you are) for encouraging me, for being there for me, for advising me and praying for me! I thank God for you and I could not do what I do or do what I am going to do with out you!
Proverbs 15:22 says: Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Thank You GOD for sending such strong people of faith into my life!
There is a flip side to me though. The cheerleader needs a squad to catch her after she is tossed high in the air. When I need to make a decision and I am waiting to hear clearly from God and things don't seem to make sense, I start dropping. Yes, I KNOW I am to wait patiently on the Lord. I struggle here.
That's when I count on my friends and mentors, my "squad", to pray for me and to give me their wisdom. I appreciate that they will catch me as I fall through the air flailing my arms and legs like a freak.
Thank YOU (you know who you are) for encouraging me, for being there for me, for advising me and praying for me! I thank God for you and I could not do what I do or do what I am going to do with out you!
Proverbs 15:22 says: Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Thank You GOD for sending such strong people of faith into my life!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
VERY VERY BAD PARKING
Now this is funny. I met my friend for lunch today. When I returned to my van, in a not very full parking lot there was a note on my windshield. It read "VERY VERY BAD PARKING". I CRACKED UP!!! Then I look and there is a Fresh Market mini coffee cup stuck to my rear windshield washer. ..WOW I really upset this parking lot Nazi. However I was STILL cracking up laughing!!
There was no way I was offended. When I looked, ok I admit my van was not perfectly parked. But here is my defense.
Parking Nazi: Are you 100% SURE that I am the first offender of the poor park job? You see I happen to know for a FACT that there was a car parked on at least one side of me. Have you ever parked in a row of cars only to discover when you are the last to leave that you aren't anywhere in the lines. Why? Because it took one person to miss the mark and the rest of the bunch get thrown off.
Only God knows if I was a horrible parker today or if I fell victim to another horrible parker.
This is how I "rise above" the situation. The Parking Nazi is obviously a very hurt frustrated angry person. At first I felt bad that I had my church sticker on my van. I'd hate to advertise that I failed the parking discipleship program. But then I thought, maybe as my van was being vandalized w/ coffee cups and napkins, the Nazi was convicted and will come seek me out at church to apologize....or something like that. Maybe he/she will have nightmares of his/her deed and only see ELEVATION CHURCH like a neon light. If they are far from God (I imagine they would be) then rest assured they will leave filled with life in Christ!
So Parking Nazi I pray God's blessings on you. I pray your wounds are healed. I pray you understand that littering on another's vehicle is really worse than missing a few parking lines. Don't worry I threw out your trash for you and I pray you come into a strong relationship with Christ. I pray that you minister God's love in parking lots so others will come to know Jesus. Yes I will pay better attention to how I park. Although MAYBE I will go back tomorrow, park worse, wait for you to write me another note on your garbage and I will invite you to church! You see I rise above by taking this in prayer for you to our Father above! HA! Take THAT!
Parking Nazi, don't take the speck out of your brother's eye until you take the plank out of your own.....littering is against the law, missing a parking spot by a little isn't.
There was no way I was offended. When I looked, ok I admit my van was not perfectly parked. But here is my defense.
Parking Nazi: Are you 100% SURE that I am the first offender of the poor park job? You see I happen to know for a FACT that there was a car parked on at least one side of me. Have you ever parked in a row of cars only to discover when you are the last to leave that you aren't anywhere in the lines. Why? Because it took one person to miss the mark and the rest of the bunch get thrown off.
Only God knows if I was a horrible parker today or if I fell victim to another horrible parker.
This is how I "rise above" the situation. The Parking Nazi is obviously a very hurt frustrated angry person. At first I felt bad that I had my church sticker on my van. I'd hate to advertise that I failed the parking discipleship program. But then I thought, maybe as my van was being vandalized w/ coffee cups and napkins, the Nazi was convicted and will come seek me out at church to apologize....or something like that. Maybe he/she will have nightmares of his/her deed and only see ELEVATION CHURCH like a neon light. If they are far from God (I imagine they would be) then rest assured they will leave filled with life in Christ!
So Parking Nazi I pray God's blessings on you. I pray your wounds are healed. I pray you understand that littering on another's vehicle is really worse than missing a few parking lines. Don't worry I threw out your trash for you and I pray you come into a strong relationship with Christ. I pray that you minister God's love in parking lots so others will come to know Jesus. Yes I will pay better attention to how I park. Although MAYBE I will go back tomorrow, park worse, wait for you to write me another note on your garbage and I will invite you to church! You see I rise above by taking this in prayer for you to our Father above! HA! Take THAT!
Parking Nazi, don't take the speck out of your brother's eye until you take the plank out of your own.....littering is against the law, missing a parking spot by a little isn't.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
The "Yes Man"
I have to just say a public thank you to my awesome Pastor Steven Furtick. I need to thank him for stepping out. I need to thank him for hearing God and doing what God asked of him. He is doing it and we get to watch God move. It's as if Acts 2-4 has come into 2008!
Our service this past Sunday saw the record attendance of 3500 people. Not too shabby for an almost 2 yr. old church that started when 10 families sold their homes, quit their jobs and moved here to start a church. (God honors faith you know). All the Glory to God and a huge Thank you to the man who said "YES" to God..aka..Pastor Furtick and those who moved here with him. God also saved 135 people Sunday! The total for 2007 was around 1050!! And YES there is discipleship.
I love our church and I love our God. He wants so much more for us than we even know. Click on the website and catch the sermon. It's a powerful message on divine destiny, hey we all have one!! Did you know that???
I remember going to the Billy Graham library and the parting video said "Look what God can do through one man who was a farmer from Charlotte, NC. what can He do through you?" Add "Look what God can do through a 27 yr old guy from Moncks Corner, SC." Then ask yourself, "What can God do through me?" They only thing to do then is say "Yes".
So thank you Pastor for saying "Yes" to God at all cost. I know it can be challenging with the responsibility, the critics, the logistics. One thing is for sure though, you are bearing fruit, fruit that will last. I am grateful to be a part of it and to watch a movement of God! I am grateful that watching God work through you encourages me to say "YES" as well!!
And GOD gets ALL the Glory!!
Our service this past Sunday saw the record attendance of 3500 people. Not too shabby for an almost 2 yr. old church that started when 10 families sold their homes, quit their jobs and moved here to start a church. (God honors faith you know). All the Glory to God and a huge Thank you to the man who said "YES" to God..aka..Pastor Furtick and those who moved here with him. God also saved 135 people Sunday! The total for 2007 was around 1050!! And YES there is discipleship.
I love our church and I love our God. He wants so much more for us than we even know. Click on the website and catch the sermon. It's a powerful message on divine destiny, hey we all have one!! Did you know that???
I remember going to the Billy Graham library and the parting video said "Look what God can do through one man who was a farmer from Charlotte, NC. what can He do through you?" Add "Look what God can do through a 27 yr old guy from Moncks Corner, SC." Then ask yourself, "What can God do through me?" They only thing to do then is say "Yes".
So thank you Pastor for saying "Yes" to God at all cost. I know it can be challenging with the responsibility, the critics, the logistics. One thing is for sure though, you are bearing fruit, fruit that will last. I am grateful to be a part of it and to watch a movement of God! I am grateful that watching God work through you encourages me to say "YES" as well!!
And GOD gets ALL the Glory!!
Monday, January 7, 2008
My Sore Toe
Hey the title got your attention didn't it? Here is the deal. I have NO clue what happened. All of a sudden horrible pain in my toe next to my pinky toe. I guess you'd call it the ring finger toe? It looks pretty useless if you ask me. Yet when it hurts it throws off your entire walk and your whole body.
"Funny" that today I was reading 1Corinthians 12:12-26. We are all part of one body! Jump to verse 26: If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Oh my body is suffering! Its as if I don't have a toe nail. SO I hobble along in flip flops in January...I HATE COLD FEET. How many Christians are hobbling through life today?
But isn't God just showing me through HIS word and through my circumstance that when one member suffers we all suffer. We are not able to accomplish all we were called to do and therefore we can't function at maximum capacity. Function for the advancement of HIS Kingdom I mean.
Who in the body do you know that is suffering? What can YOU do to comfort them with the same comfort that you received from God? There is nothing that hurts too much that Jesus can't heal. Show the hurting body who HE really is and you will walk, skip and jump with joy!
"Funny" that today I was reading 1Corinthians 12:12-26. We are all part of one body! Jump to verse 26: If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
Oh my body is suffering! Its as if I don't have a toe nail. SO I hobble along in flip flops in January...I HATE COLD FEET. How many Christians are hobbling through life today?
But isn't God just showing me through HIS word and through my circumstance that when one member suffers we all suffer. We are not able to accomplish all we were called to do and therefore we can't function at maximum capacity. Function for the advancement of HIS Kingdom I mean.
Who in the body do you know that is suffering? What can YOU do to comfort them with the same comfort that you received from God? There is nothing that hurts too much that Jesus can't heal. Show the hurting body who HE really is and you will walk, skip and jump with joy!
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