So, for today, how about a fun Christmas meme! Steal it! I stole it from my dear friend Rebekah at Mudane Musings who stole it from someone who stole it from someone else! But make sure that you leave me a comment so I can come read all your Christmas-y answers! I *LOVE* Christmastime and all the wonderfulness that it brings!
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Egg Nog in a Chai Salted Carmel Latte!
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Everything is wrapped! We take turns opening the gifts. I love to hear the squeals of delight as each one opens their gifts.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
White. We have white Icicles for outdoors (however we didn't hang them this year) and Our tree has white lights too!
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Haven't for many years however I used to have a kissing ball that had some dangling from it but we have lost it in one of our moves :)
5. When do you put your decorations up?
Usually the Saturday following Thanksgiving but this year due to schedule conflicts it was a week late!
6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
Prime Rib and Cheesecake! hmmmmm My husband is a great cook!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child?
The only year that I can remember all of my siblings being together for Christmas! It was exciting! And Santa came and left my gifts on the front porch!
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I overheard someone talking about "him" in the kitchen.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
We each open one gift and usually I get to choose which one that they open :)
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
When we had kids at home we all did it together. This year my husband put up the tree and I decorated it!
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
I love it for a few days and then I want spring to come early!
12. Can you ice skate?
Yes, but it has been years!
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
My engagement ring first and then 29 years later my husband bought me another diamond ring! I love diamonds :)
14. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
Family. I love it when all of my kids are home together and there is lots of noise. Ahh a wonderful type of chaos that only a parent can appreciate fully.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
My husband's cheesecake :) with a cup of coffee.
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Hanging with my adult children, hearing them laugh together. The love that is expressed to one another. The opening of the stockings and another favorite is our Candlelight service on Christmas Eve. God is so good.
17. What tops your tree?
I have an angel topper that my dad bought for my mom on their first Christmas together. It is now 71 years old. I cherish it. One day it will go to my daughter, Amber.
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
I like both but I really get excited to give more than to receive. Especially as I get older. The thrill of seeing others' faces light up with their gift is worth it all!
19. Candy Canes: Yuck or Yum?
I love Candy Canes however I think that Bob's Candy canes are the BEST!
20. Favorite Christmas show?
ELF! Is my most favorite the second would have to be How Ernest Saves Christmas.
21. Saddest Christmas Song?
There should not be any sad songs at Christmas!Can you say Oxy moron?
22. What is your favorite Christmas song?
The Christmas Song, Silent Night and Who Would Imagine a King.
23. When do you open your Stockings?
On Christmas morning before the presents and breakfast!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Life Changing
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:6-9
I love this passage of scripture. I was excited to see it to be what I was scheduled to read today:) I especially love verse 9 where it says the things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Wow! Paul was tortured, beaten and held captive many times and he would and could still minister wherever he was at, at the moment! He still encouraged others! There have been many times where I have been crying in bed and would repeat to myself, whatever things are TRUE, whatever things are NOBLE, whatever things are JUST, whatever things are PURE, whatever things are LOVELY, whatever things are of GOOD REPORT and IF there is ANY VIRTUE and IF THERE IS ANYTHING PRAISEWORTHY...meditate on these things. I think that many times we (especially as women) get sidetracked by our circumstances instead of meditating on the things that are listed. We are emotional women! We tend to FEEL things but no matter HOW we FEEL the truth is we need to focus on Jesus! He is the truth, He is the way and the Light! The world would love to tell us things that are not true, the enemy would love to get us sidetracked and off kilter so that we forget the REAL focus! Jesus! The enemy would love for us to become embittered women instead of women who spend time with the Lord and spend time in WORSHIP!
I want to encourage you! If we read the Word and truly DWELL in His presence then we can speak and know the truth because we will have been soaked in the Word! We will have become steeped in the word just like a good tea bag :) Then when we are having a bad day or the enemy tries to whisper a lie we can say, "NO. The Word of God says, "No weapon formed against me will prosper!" or the word of God says, I am a daughter of the King! The Word of God says that He is my provider! He won't give me a snake when I ask for a loaf of bread :) (my own personal translation!)
If you do not have a daily time to spend in the Word of God I would encourage you to make time. It is so important to dwell in the Word. The only way to know the Word is to spend time in it. It is a process. It doesn't happen overnight, by osmosis, by going to church for one hour a week or because your grandma was a great Christian. The Word of God will equip you to handle any situation that arises. The Word of God comforts you, gives you direction, and solutions that you would never think of on your own. I promise you that the benefits are amazing! If you are the type of person who has a hard time remembering or understanding what you just read then pray and ask Jesus to help you. I was that type of person. By spending time reading the Word of God daily it literally washes you. You will be transformed into a new creation...His creation! You will think more rationally, because you are equipped. You will have peace! This will be life changing for you. It has been life changing for me.
The best part is that it really is a "One SIze FIts All!" It applies to everyone, everywhere.
Shanin
8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:6-9
I love this passage of scripture. I was excited to see it to be what I was scheduled to read today:) I especially love verse 9 where it says the things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. Wow! Paul was tortured, beaten and held captive many times and he would and could still minister wherever he was at, at the moment! He still encouraged others! There have been many times where I have been crying in bed and would repeat to myself, whatever things are TRUE, whatever things are NOBLE, whatever things are JUST, whatever things are PURE, whatever things are LOVELY, whatever things are of GOOD REPORT and IF there is ANY VIRTUE and IF THERE IS ANYTHING PRAISEWORTHY...meditate on these things. I think that many times we (especially as women) get sidetracked by our circumstances instead of meditating on the things that are listed. We are emotional women! We tend to FEEL things but no matter HOW we FEEL the truth is we need to focus on Jesus! He is the truth, He is the way and the Light! The world would love to tell us things that are not true, the enemy would love to get us sidetracked and off kilter so that we forget the REAL focus! Jesus! The enemy would love for us to become embittered women instead of women who spend time with the Lord and spend time in WORSHIP!
I want to encourage you! If we read the Word and truly DWELL in His presence then we can speak and know the truth because we will have been soaked in the Word! We will have become steeped in the word just like a good tea bag :) Then when we are having a bad day or the enemy tries to whisper a lie we can say, "NO. The Word of God says, "No weapon formed against me will prosper!" or the word of God says, I am a daughter of the King! The Word of God says that He is my provider! He won't give me a snake when I ask for a loaf of bread :) (my own personal translation!)
If you do not have a daily time to spend in the Word of God I would encourage you to make time. It is so important to dwell in the Word. The only way to know the Word is to spend time in it. It is a process. It doesn't happen overnight, by osmosis, by going to church for one hour a week or because your grandma was a great Christian. The Word of God will equip you to handle any situation that arises. The Word of God comforts you, gives you direction, and solutions that you would never think of on your own. I promise you that the benefits are amazing! If you are the type of person who has a hard time remembering or understanding what you just read then pray and ask Jesus to help you. I was that type of person. By spending time reading the Word of God daily it literally washes you. You will be transformed into a new creation...His creation! You will think more rationally, because you are equipped. You will have peace! This will be life changing for you. It has been life changing for me.
The best part is that it really is a "One SIze FIts All!" It applies to everyone, everywhere.
Shanin
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Amazing Love
I love that song! Amazing love, how could it be, that You, my King would die for me. Amazing love, I know it's true, it's my joy to honor You in all I do, let me honor You,
I am so thankful for His perfect love. You see my love is not perfect. I love my husband and kids more than anything but even then it isn't perfect. I have made mistakes (boy have I made mistakes)but I am thankful that I serve the One who buys back my mistakes.
God's love is perfect. His motives are always pure. He looks out for what is in my best interest. He has a plan...this huge plan! I don't always understand it but I just have to trust in Him and His love for me. So when times get tough and you can't see the forest for the trees, know that He has it all under control. I am thankful for that plan. I am thankful for His love and His grace for me. He loves me unconditionally.
I am thankful that He loves me even when I screw up. I am thankful that He paid for everything that I have ever done or will do. I am thankful for Him.
I have so much to be thankful for this year. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my job and coworkers. I am thankful for my church body. I am thankful for my doctor! (especially this week!)I am thankful for America, the land of the free. I am thankful for my house. I am thankful for my furnace that heats the house...the list goes on and on.
I am most thankful for that Amazing love :) And that He died for me.
Shanin
I am so thankful for His perfect love. You see my love is not perfect. I love my husband and kids more than anything but even then it isn't perfect. I have made mistakes (boy have I made mistakes)but I am thankful that I serve the One who buys back my mistakes.
God's love is perfect. His motives are always pure. He looks out for what is in my best interest. He has a plan...this huge plan! I don't always understand it but I just have to trust in Him and His love for me. So when times get tough and you can't see the forest for the trees, know that He has it all under control. I am thankful for that plan. I am thankful for His love and His grace for me. He loves me unconditionally.
I am thankful that He loves me even when I screw up. I am thankful that He paid for everything that I have ever done or will do. I am thankful for Him.
I have so much to be thankful for this year. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for my job and coworkers. I am thankful for my church body. I am thankful for my doctor! (especially this week!)I am thankful for America, the land of the free. I am thankful for my house. I am thankful for my furnace that heats the house...the list goes on and on.
I am most thankful for that Amazing love :) And that He died for me.
Shanin
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Worship!
For those of you who know me, you know that I LOVE to worship. I have had this love since I was tiny. I love to worship whenever and wherever I am. I know that I was created to worship without a shadow of doubt. There are many people out there with amazing voices and an abundant amount of talent, or as my friend Will would say, a gratuitous amount of talent, but without a heart of worship that talent is used as performance and not worship. There are countless performers in this world.
When I am leading worship with my worship team I would rather have someone who is just learning their instrument playing with a heart of worship than someone who is a professional and is just there for the performance. There is a huge difference when leading worship. You see, when you come before the Lord with a heart of worship, the other stuff will just fall in place and even if you mess up the Lord knows your heart and is pleased! But if there is no heart behind the worship then it is just songs and music. It may sound good but it is hollow, no depth. So when I am leading worship, I would take, what I call, a raggin muffin band anyday over the professional team. I am so proud of my worship team. We may not be trained professionals but we know how to worship the Lord our God.
Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! Psalm 146:1-2 NKJV
This is my declaration and prayer. That I will never lose the passion to worship my Lord as long as I live. A legacy of worship is what I desire to leave behind when I am gone.
Thankful to be chosen by Him,
Shanin
When I am leading worship with my worship team I would rather have someone who is just learning their instrument playing with a heart of worship than someone who is a professional and is just there for the performance. There is a huge difference when leading worship. You see, when you come before the Lord with a heart of worship, the other stuff will just fall in place and even if you mess up the Lord knows your heart and is pleased! But if there is no heart behind the worship then it is just songs and music. It may sound good but it is hollow, no depth. So when I am leading worship, I would take, what I call, a raggin muffin band anyday over the professional team. I am so proud of my worship team. We may not be trained professionals but we know how to worship the Lord our God.
Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! Psalm 146:1-2 NKJV
This is my declaration and prayer. That I will never lose the passion to worship my Lord as long as I live. A legacy of worship is what I desire to leave behind when I am gone.
Thankful to be chosen by Him,
Shanin
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Hakuna Matata
Last night I had the pleasure of going to watch the 3-D movie The Lion King. The best part is that when we got into the theater my youngest granddaughter Abbie had saved us two seats right beside her! Her excitement was so awesome! She was fanning herself in excitement. If you were to know Abbie you would know exactly what I mean. She has done this since she was an infant. She told me, "Grandma, hurry, you missed some of the best parts! The balls flew right out to me and I tried to catch them!" LOL I loved her exuberance.
The movie began. We both sat there side by side taking in all of the scenery. We would reach out to touch some of the grasses as they went by :)I had watched the Lion King the first time it came out in the movie theater 15+ years ago. I remember my husband and Pastor Darrell singing with the music and I was laughing because it was hysterical and embarrassing all at the same time.
Whenever something would happen, Abbie would lean over and whisper to me, preparing me for what was coming next. She, not realizing that I had seen it before. I loved every moment. I watched the Lion King in a whole new "light." At one point she pushed her little hand between our seats back to her mother asking specifically for two candies. Her mom placed two hot tamales in her little hand. Abbie then took one of the candies and placed it to my lips and smiled. I loved her act of sharing. At one point she leaned over and kissed my cheek. Once again my heart just swelled to another size bigger.
Scar was definitely the bad guy. When I watched Scar he depicted evil to me. Like the serpent in the Garden of Eden. He lied to the little male cub telling him that his Father gave him access to everything in the kingdom except the "really cool place" the elephant graveyard. Scar took a tiny bit of the truth and twisted it into a big old fat lie! Hoping that the end result would be to destroy the lion cub, the heir to the throne. He almost succeeded that time but Mufasa, the cub's Dad, was told that of Prince Simba's location and he jumped in and saved him and his friend from the hyenas.
How often do we believe the enemy's lies? More often than we would like to admit. He wants to destroy our relationship with the King (our father) and he wants to kill and or meme us. We need to be careful and stay close to our Father.
Back to the movie...Then the really sad and scary scene was about to happen. Abbie got up and sat in my lap reaching over to take her papa's hand. So very sweet. While watching the movie I enjoyed listening to my grown kids laugh out loud while sitting behind me. I enjoyed the tender love and joyous company of my youngest grandgirl sitting with me. I had memories return to me of watching the Lion King the first time with my kids while they were little. I am so very blessed. The movie seemed so very short this time. Simba lived and grew up to return and take the kingdom back from Scar. The pride lands returned back to its former beauty.
I can say that I enjoyed literally every single minute of the Lion King 3-D. If you haven't seen it I encourage you to go and watch it! If you have watched it a million times before I encourage you to go watch it again but with a child. Look at the movie through their eyes. I promise you that it will be even more exciting. Look at the characters...see if you see the love of the Father for his son. See if you see evil and how he tries to manipulate and destroy the new kingdom. And if you don't have a relationship with my Father...get one. He enjoys his kids even more than I enjoy mine :)
Hakuna Matata,
Shanin
The movie began. We both sat there side by side taking in all of the scenery. We would reach out to touch some of the grasses as they went by :)I had watched the Lion King the first time it came out in the movie theater 15+ years ago. I remember my husband and Pastor Darrell singing with the music and I was laughing because it was hysterical and embarrassing all at the same time.
Whenever something would happen, Abbie would lean over and whisper to me, preparing me for what was coming next. She, not realizing that I had seen it before. I loved every moment. I watched the Lion King in a whole new "light." At one point she pushed her little hand between our seats back to her mother asking specifically for two candies. Her mom placed two hot tamales in her little hand. Abbie then took one of the candies and placed it to my lips and smiled. I loved her act of sharing. At one point she leaned over and kissed my cheek. Once again my heart just swelled to another size bigger.
Scar was definitely the bad guy. When I watched Scar he depicted evil to me. Like the serpent in the Garden of Eden. He lied to the little male cub telling him that his Father gave him access to everything in the kingdom except the "really cool place" the elephant graveyard. Scar took a tiny bit of the truth and twisted it into a big old fat lie! Hoping that the end result would be to destroy the lion cub, the heir to the throne. He almost succeeded that time but Mufasa, the cub's Dad, was told that of Prince Simba's location and he jumped in and saved him and his friend from the hyenas.
How often do we believe the enemy's lies? More often than we would like to admit. He wants to destroy our relationship with the King (our father) and he wants to kill and or meme us. We need to be careful and stay close to our Father.
Back to the movie...Then the really sad and scary scene was about to happen. Abbie got up and sat in my lap reaching over to take her papa's hand. So very sweet. While watching the movie I enjoyed listening to my grown kids laugh out loud while sitting behind me. I enjoyed the tender love and joyous company of my youngest grandgirl sitting with me. I had memories return to me of watching the Lion King the first time with my kids while they were little. I am so very blessed. The movie seemed so very short this time. Simba lived and grew up to return and take the kingdom back from Scar. The pride lands returned back to its former beauty.
I can say that I enjoyed literally every single minute of the Lion King 3-D. If you haven't seen it I encourage you to go and watch it! If you have watched it a million times before I encourage you to go watch it again but with a child. Look at the movie through their eyes. I promise you that it will be even more exciting. Look at the characters...see if you see the love of the Father for his son. See if you see evil and how he tries to manipulate and destroy the new kingdom. And if you don't have a relationship with my Father...get one. He enjoys his kids even more than I enjoy mine :)
Hakuna Matata,
Shanin
Saturday, September 24, 2011
0 Comments
0 comments is what I see when I look to see if anyone has commented for my post. That is okay! But I see someone from New Mexico that reads my blog frequently. May I ask...your name? Why do you read my blog? I am just curious. I know that some who read my blogs are from my blessedpw list :) They read my blog to either humor me, out of pity, or because they have to! LOL Just kidding! But I am interested in who does read my blogs! Do you have a blog that I could follow? Drop me a line!
Well, thanks for reading! It is encouraging to me that someone reads what I write about. I need to get back to studying for my criminal law test!
Be blessed!
Shanin
Well, thanks for reading! It is encouraging to me that someone reads what I write about. I need to get back to studying for my criminal law test!
Be blessed!
Shanin
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Flexibility
Are you flexible? I'm not really flexible physically. Are you flexible at work or home? I try to be...but isn't it easy to be flexible when it doesn't go against what you have planned? That's because it isn't really "flexing" if it doesn't go in another direction or stretches you.
The Lord has been speaking to my heart about flexibility. I need to be more flexible in some areas of my life. I need to let the Lord use others to stretch me. I just do not always like the choice of people that He uses to stretch me in those stiff arenas of my life. But I have decided to make an effort to work hard at flexing. Not compromising...but flexing where and when He wants me to stretch and grow. I need to keep flexible so that I don't grow stiff and rotten like an old rubber band. Old rotten rubberbands break. I do not want to break. I want to stretch and expand in the good way. The way God plans for me!
So trying to expand in the right direction for Him,
Shanin
The Lord has been speaking to my heart about flexibility. I need to be more flexible in some areas of my life. I need to let the Lord use others to stretch me. I just do not always like the choice of people that He uses to stretch me in those stiff arenas of my life. But I have decided to make an effort to work hard at flexing. Not compromising...but flexing where and when He wants me to stretch and grow. I need to keep flexible so that I don't grow stiff and rotten like an old rubber band. Old rotten rubberbands break. I do not want to break. I want to stretch and expand in the good way. The way God plans for me!
So trying to expand in the right direction for Him,
Shanin
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Good Day to You All!
Well today is the day that the Lord has made I am choosing to rejoice and to be glad in it! (smile)
I started my day way to early this morning. Even though I started things at an evil hour I was still late for work. So since I was late for work I decided to run to the grocery store to make a last minute salad. While standing in line with my favorite checker Irma, there was a lady standing in line behind me. The store was busy and their phone started to ring in customer service and no one was available to take the call. The lady that was standing behind me said, "When that happens to me it totally ruins my day!"
I smiled and replied, "Oh I try not to let stuff like that affect me."
She then kind of growled at me (okay more like a deep mutter), "Well you and your perfect little life!"
I started to say something but stopped and smiled again and responded, "Yes I am blessed with a perfect life."
Now my life is not really so perfect but I am blessed. Blessed beyond measure. I have run into this lady before at the local coffee shop. When I left the store I whispered a little prayer for her and for me. First so that I wouldn't take on her attitude (because that stuff can be contagious). Second that she would find Jesus and that she too could have such a great life :) Last but not least for Jesus to bless my day. LOL I had to recommitt to this a little later (especially after spilling a crock pot of potato soup in my vehicle but not the whole thing). Ever since deciding that I was going to choose to rejoice in this awesome day it has gone so much better!
So today I challenge you to really rejoice and have an awesome great day!
Shanin
I started my day way to early this morning. Even though I started things at an evil hour I was still late for work. So since I was late for work I decided to run to the grocery store to make a last minute salad. While standing in line with my favorite checker Irma, there was a lady standing in line behind me. The store was busy and their phone started to ring in customer service and no one was available to take the call. The lady that was standing behind me said, "When that happens to me it totally ruins my day!"
I smiled and replied, "Oh I try not to let stuff like that affect me."
She then kind of growled at me (okay more like a deep mutter), "Well you and your perfect little life!"
I started to say something but stopped and smiled again and responded, "Yes I am blessed with a perfect life."
Now my life is not really so perfect but I am blessed. Blessed beyond measure. I have run into this lady before at the local coffee shop. When I left the store I whispered a little prayer for her and for me. First so that I wouldn't take on her attitude (because that stuff can be contagious). Second that she would find Jesus and that she too could have such a great life :) Last but not least for Jesus to bless my day. LOL I had to recommitt to this a little later (especially after spilling a crock pot of potato soup in my vehicle but not the whole thing). Ever since deciding that I was going to choose to rejoice in this awesome day it has gone so much better!
So today I challenge you to really rejoice and have an awesome great day!
Shanin
Monday, September 19, 2011
Live Your Life Well
Today is Monday :) I am generally not a fan of Mondays, mostly because I am tired from Sunday. But yesterday I got to take a nap which is an unusual occurrence for me on Sundays. So today I woke up with the first ring of my alarm. Jumped up and showered. I made a bowl of oatmeal before dashing out the front door.
So today my bible reading was in Luke. The phrase that stood out to me today was "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19. Later in the chapter it repeats that Mary treasured up all of these things in her heart.
Interesting...how often have we treasured up things in our heart and pondered them? Mary had a lot to ponder about. This was her baby, her firstborn, the Son of God. So much information, shepherds finding them in a barn to worship her baby. Talk about a birth announcement! The Angels took care of that! Then there was the purification rite at the temple. Simeon came up and spoke of their son being the Messiah. Then right after that there was Anna, who also spoke about their child being the redemption of Israel! Wow...so much for such a young mama to take in. Yet I am sure when she looked into her baby boy's eyes she saw love and compassion. Not really knowing what the future held.
Mama and Daddy, look into the eyes of your babies. Pray over them, love them. You do not know what the future holds for your babies. We know that they aren't deity but they do have an important role to fill. They very well may be pivotal in our world. Teach them, prepare them! Teach them the Word of God. Teach them how to live a righteous life, every moment. Tell them the love of their heavenly Father, their Savior. Let them know that they are called now to serve the Most High. They are not too young and we never know what their future holds.
I have a friend named Beth on an e-list that I participate in. Her church family lost a dear servant of Lord this past week. His name is Brian. Brian was only 24 years old but he knew the Lord. He served the Lord well. She has shared about Brian's faithfulness before on the list. He did whatever he could to serve the Lord. He worked in the sound booth, he read the Word, and he loved and shared the gospel with everyone who would listen. Brian left a hole to fill in his church and his family's lives. Brian lived every moment of his life!
You notice that I said his name is Brian. That wasn't a mistake. His name is Brian. Brian may have left this world but he is very much alive in heaven. He is face to face with God. Brian's time here was too short but it was well spent. When he entered the gates of heaven, The Lord was able to say, "Well, done good and faithful servant." I didn't know Brian personally but he left a testimony of grace, love, compassion and faithfulness behind. He would want EVERYONE to accept Jesus as their Savior. I am sure there would be nothing more comforting to his parents and pastors if someone accepted Jesus because of Brian's life and testimony. That would be the legacy that Brian would want.
So would you all join in prayer with me for those left behind? For Brian's parents, his grandparents, his church family. That they would feel God's comfort and peace surrounding them. And please pray that if anyone who knew Brian but doesn't know Jesus would choose salvation today. Then they too would get to see Brian again one day in the future and most importantly they would know that they have a hope and a future in Christ.
Well done Brian, good and faithful servant of the Lord.
Shanin
So today my bible reading was in Luke. The phrase that stood out to me today was "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:19. Later in the chapter it repeats that Mary treasured up all of these things in her heart.
Interesting...how often have we treasured up things in our heart and pondered them? Mary had a lot to ponder about. This was her baby, her firstborn, the Son of God. So much information, shepherds finding them in a barn to worship her baby. Talk about a birth announcement! The Angels took care of that! Then there was the purification rite at the temple. Simeon came up and spoke of their son being the Messiah. Then right after that there was Anna, who also spoke about their child being the redemption of Israel! Wow...so much for such a young mama to take in. Yet I am sure when she looked into her baby boy's eyes she saw love and compassion. Not really knowing what the future held.
Mama and Daddy, look into the eyes of your babies. Pray over them, love them. You do not know what the future holds for your babies. We know that they aren't deity but they do have an important role to fill. They very well may be pivotal in our world. Teach them, prepare them! Teach them the Word of God. Teach them how to live a righteous life, every moment. Tell them the love of their heavenly Father, their Savior. Let them know that they are called now to serve the Most High. They are not too young and we never know what their future holds.
I have a friend named Beth on an e-list that I participate in. Her church family lost a dear servant of Lord this past week. His name is Brian. Brian was only 24 years old but he knew the Lord. He served the Lord well. She has shared about Brian's faithfulness before on the list. He did whatever he could to serve the Lord. He worked in the sound booth, he read the Word, and he loved and shared the gospel with everyone who would listen. Brian left a hole to fill in his church and his family's lives. Brian lived every moment of his life!
You notice that I said his name is Brian. That wasn't a mistake. His name is Brian. Brian may have left this world but he is very much alive in heaven. He is face to face with God. Brian's time here was too short but it was well spent. When he entered the gates of heaven, The Lord was able to say, "Well, done good and faithful servant." I didn't know Brian personally but he left a testimony of grace, love, compassion and faithfulness behind. He would want EVERYONE to accept Jesus as their Savior. I am sure there would be nothing more comforting to his parents and pastors if someone accepted Jesus because of Brian's life and testimony. That would be the legacy that Brian would want.
So would you all join in prayer with me for those left behind? For Brian's parents, his grandparents, his church family. That they would feel God's comfort and peace surrounding them. And please pray that if anyone who knew Brian but doesn't know Jesus would choose salvation today. Then they too would get to see Brian again one day in the future and most importantly they would know that they have a hope and a future in Christ.
Well done Brian, good and faithful servant of the Lord.
Shanin
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The Battle Inside of Myself
Sounds like a deep topic. It isn't so deep...it is skin deep :) My flesh has not been wanting to go to my excercise class (Zumba). Now just like taking a dog to obediance training, the worse part is just getting there! Once I am there I enjoy it! At least for the first thirty minutes(grin).
I don't know why I have been having this internal arguement within side myself. I know that it is good for my body. If I want to keep my weight off I have to exercise! Not to mention the other benefits of sleeping better, being physically fit and feeling more confident. The benefits far out weigh my excuse of just wanting to lay on the couch! Oh but how my flesh puts up a fight!
Isn't that how it is with your flesh and spirit? You might not feel like doing your devotions but you need to! You can think of a million things that need to be done while you read but oh the benefits so outweigh the excuses our flesh thinks of...and it all comes down to this: Be obediant and just do it! Choose to do the right thing! What about sin? Same battle again.
The good news is that God gives an escape! All we have to do is cry out to Him and He will help us. The problem is that I don't always want help...I want to lay on that couch! But I will CHOOSE to do the right thing and get my butt up and go to Zumba!
Obediance is Always the Right Choice!
Shanin
I don't know why I have been having this internal arguement within side myself. I know that it is good for my body. If I want to keep my weight off I have to exercise! Not to mention the other benefits of sleeping better, being physically fit and feeling more confident. The benefits far out weigh my excuse of just wanting to lay on the couch! Oh but how my flesh puts up a fight!
Isn't that how it is with your flesh and spirit? You might not feel like doing your devotions but you need to! You can think of a million things that need to be done while you read but oh the benefits so outweigh the excuses our flesh thinks of...and it all comes down to this: Be obediant and just do it! Choose to do the right thing! What about sin? Same battle again.
The good news is that God gives an escape! All we have to do is cry out to Him and He will help us. The problem is that I don't always want help...I want to lay on that couch! But I will CHOOSE to do the right thing and get my butt up and go to Zumba!
Obediance is Always the Right Choice!
Shanin
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Oh How He Loves Us
There is a young man in our lives whom we love very much. He doesn't know Jesus but he is a genuine person. N played football with my son all of the years of jr high and high school. I love N because you never will have to wonder how he truly feels...he will tell you :) Because of this trait he has offended his share of people.
Well a short time ago N posted on his social network account something like this but edited of course :) "If God is going to kick me in the "privates" He could at least give me two aspirin." It broke my heart to hear his pain. Let me tell you of a time that God indeed sent him two ib profen.
I will never forget the night. It was a Friday night and our team was playing at an away game in Blackfoot, Idaho. Right before I left the house to drive to Blackfoot the Holy Spirit prompted me to bring some ib profen. At first I thought that it was just me but I felt the prompting again. I asked the Lord, "Lord, am I going to have a headache because if I am I can pray." But I got nothing! So I was obediant and brought the ib profen in my pocket.
By the time that I arrived to the game I had realized that there was going to be someone who would need the ib profen or why else would God tell me to bring it? So as soon as I climbed the stairs of the grand stands I saw a co-worker friend of mine and I asked him, "Do you have a headache?"
He said, "No, why?"
Now my friend, Tab knows me and he knows the Lord too so I responded, "Because the Lord told me to bring them so I am pretty sure someone is going to have a headache tonight!" He smiled and shook his head. I told him that I was serious! He then told me that he knew that I was serious! LOL
Well, the game started and it went all the way to half time. I had stopped looking for the "headache." All of a sudden N came running up to the fence that separated the field from the fans and jumped up onto it and yelled, "Does anyone have any ib profen?"
I jumped up and waved my arms and said, "I do!" I took them out of my pocket and gave them to him. He was grateful. I looked over to my friend Tab and smiled and he just shook his head again and laughed.
I was talking to the Lord about it later on the drive home. I asked Him why did he have me bring the ib profen for N? And this is what He said back to me, "N doesn't know me but I love him so very much that I don't want his head to hurt." I cried. I cried because the Lord loves him so very much, I cried because N doesn't know of that love and I cried because I love N too just like one of my own sons and God gave me the opportunity to bring the ib profen.
I am still praying for N. I pray for his protection and for his salvation. So even though I thought his post was sad it also reminded me of the love that the father has for this young man and to not give up praying for him. God has great plans for N and I hope that I get to see that fruit one day. I can hardly wait until he realizes that God loves him so very much that He would send two ib profen to be hand delivered 100 miles from his home and that He would never kick him when he is down but that He would tell him of His great love for him! Oh how I love that boy and I know that God loves him even more.
Amazing Love,
Shanin
Well a short time ago N posted on his social network account something like this but edited of course :) "If God is going to kick me in the "privates" He could at least give me two aspirin." It broke my heart to hear his pain. Let me tell you of a time that God indeed sent him two ib profen.
I will never forget the night. It was a Friday night and our team was playing at an away game in Blackfoot, Idaho. Right before I left the house to drive to Blackfoot the Holy Spirit prompted me to bring some ib profen. At first I thought that it was just me but I felt the prompting again. I asked the Lord, "Lord, am I going to have a headache because if I am I can pray." But I got nothing! So I was obediant and brought the ib profen in my pocket.
By the time that I arrived to the game I had realized that there was going to be someone who would need the ib profen or why else would God tell me to bring it? So as soon as I climbed the stairs of the grand stands I saw a co-worker friend of mine and I asked him, "Do you have a headache?"
He said, "No, why?"
Now my friend, Tab knows me and he knows the Lord too so I responded, "Because the Lord told me to bring them so I am pretty sure someone is going to have a headache tonight!" He smiled and shook his head. I told him that I was serious! He then told me that he knew that I was serious! LOL
Well, the game started and it went all the way to half time. I had stopped looking for the "headache." All of a sudden N came running up to the fence that separated the field from the fans and jumped up onto it and yelled, "Does anyone have any ib profen?"
I jumped up and waved my arms and said, "I do!" I took them out of my pocket and gave them to him. He was grateful. I looked over to my friend Tab and smiled and he just shook his head again and laughed.
I was talking to the Lord about it later on the drive home. I asked Him why did he have me bring the ib profen for N? And this is what He said back to me, "N doesn't know me but I love him so very much that I don't want his head to hurt." I cried. I cried because the Lord loves him so very much, I cried because N doesn't know of that love and I cried because I love N too just like one of my own sons and God gave me the opportunity to bring the ib profen.
I am still praying for N. I pray for his protection and for his salvation. So even though I thought his post was sad it also reminded me of the love that the father has for this young man and to not give up praying for him. God has great plans for N and I hope that I get to see that fruit one day. I can hardly wait until he realizes that God loves him so very much that He would send two ib profen to be hand delivered 100 miles from his home and that He would never kick him when he is down but that He would tell him of His great love for him! Oh how I love that boy and I know that God loves him even more.
Amazing Love,
Shanin
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Fall and God's Greatness
Even though it is still hot during the day I can feel fall in the air in the morning....it excites me! I hate to see summer leave but I love fall. The smells, the crisp air, the pumpkins and football:). It will be time to place my fall candles on the candle warmers, time to drink my fall teas like cinnamon and french vanilla chai. I have a nice saxophone cd playing on my laptop as I am writing this post. Praying for each of you to find contentment into today. I have a few needs on my list but I have decided to not let them become my focus, but to let God's awesomeness to remain center stage. His plans for us are so great!
I have my homework for my morning class all ready to go. I still have two chapters to read before tonight's class. I have one quiz to do for my other class and one more chapter to read for that class. I wonder what great things of God will we see today? Make sure to look everywhere so you don't miss it! Because somedays it is the little things that speak the loudest of God's greatness. He cares about details! I love that about God.
Well be blessed! Don't miss anything from God. Be watchmen on the towers! Take time to smile at others...enjoy every moment that He gives us.
Taking it all in,
Shanin
I have my homework for my morning class all ready to go. I still have two chapters to read before tonight's class. I have one quiz to do for my other class and one more chapter to read for that class. I wonder what great things of God will we see today? Make sure to look everywhere so you don't miss it! Because somedays it is the little things that speak the loudest of God's greatness. He cares about details! I love that about God.
Well be blessed! Don't miss anything from God. Be watchmen on the towers! Take time to smile at others...enjoy every moment that He gives us.
Taking it all in,
Shanin
Thursday, August 18, 2011
My New Friend, Hal
I have to share with you something that happened last night. Our youth group has been focusing on a new theme of PUR. Pure Undefiled Religion. Helping the orphans, widows, outcast and lonely. Well, last night Jesus gave me an opportunity to experience it in the flesh.
I had about an hour before I had to be at church to grab a bite to eat. Normally I would go home and eat but on Wednesday nights is "fend for yourself night" and the County Fair is the happening spot in Burley, Idaho. So I went to the fair! I bought a crazy spud for supper. For those of you who have never had a crazy spud, it is a huge potato that is cut thinly in a spiral so it is one ruffle! They then deep fry it and it is basically a huge heaping plate of fresh potato chips. You can sprinkle your own seasoning. I took my plate and went on a mission to find a place to sit in the shade on this hot fair day and enjoy my chips.
I found a bench with an older gentlemen sitting on it in the shade! I asked if he minded if I sat beside him. He smiled with excitement and said, "No, not at all and you can even sit closer!" I sat beside him. I started a conversation with him and offered him a chip. He gladly accepted. I continued to share this bounty of fresh made chips with my new friend Hal. He was careful to be polite and not to eat too many. I could just tell that he was hungry. I found out that Hal had been attending church for about a year at the local Calvary Chapel. I learned, from Hal, that there was another bench that you could sit on for eight hours and see new people all day long. It made me smile. He had been sitting here all day long. Before long, it was time for me to leave for church. I offered the rest of my crazy spud to Hal. He said, "Oh no I can't take your dinner." I explained to him that I was going to throw it away if he didn't take it. He quickly agreed to take the food.
I want to say how incredibly blessed I was by meeting Hal and sharing my dinner. I first set out to bless him but it ended up being the other way around. I hope to see Hal around town again. He told me that if I ever see him to holler at him!
Don't get so caught up in your own world that you miss out on meeting a Hal. Don't let the enemy distract you with drama that you miss out on a blessing. Take time to look for God moments. Remember that ministry is never convienent. Take just a moment of your busy schedule to share a smile or a kind word, or a crazy spud. It will so bless your day and life. I am looking forward to seeing Hal again. If not here I will see him in heaven. We will be able to share how we met at the Cassia County Fair over a plate of fresh potato chips.
Truly Blessed,
Shanin
I had about an hour before I had to be at church to grab a bite to eat. Normally I would go home and eat but on Wednesday nights is "fend for yourself night" and the County Fair is the happening spot in Burley, Idaho. So I went to the fair! I bought a crazy spud for supper. For those of you who have never had a crazy spud, it is a huge potato that is cut thinly in a spiral so it is one ruffle! They then deep fry it and it is basically a huge heaping plate of fresh potato chips. You can sprinkle your own seasoning. I took my plate and went on a mission to find a place to sit in the shade on this hot fair day and enjoy my chips.
I found a bench with an older gentlemen sitting on it in the shade! I asked if he minded if I sat beside him. He smiled with excitement and said, "No, not at all and you can even sit closer!" I sat beside him. I started a conversation with him and offered him a chip. He gladly accepted. I continued to share this bounty of fresh made chips with my new friend Hal. He was careful to be polite and not to eat too many. I could just tell that he was hungry. I found out that Hal had been attending church for about a year at the local Calvary Chapel. I learned, from Hal, that there was another bench that you could sit on for eight hours and see new people all day long. It made me smile. He had been sitting here all day long. Before long, it was time for me to leave for church. I offered the rest of my crazy spud to Hal. He said, "Oh no I can't take your dinner." I explained to him that I was going to throw it away if he didn't take it. He quickly agreed to take the food.
I want to say how incredibly blessed I was by meeting Hal and sharing my dinner. I first set out to bless him but it ended up being the other way around. I hope to see Hal around town again. He told me that if I ever see him to holler at him!
Don't get so caught up in your own world that you miss out on meeting a Hal. Don't let the enemy distract you with drama that you miss out on a blessing. Take time to look for God moments. Remember that ministry is never convienent. Take just a moment of your busy schedule to share a smile or a kind word, or a crazy spud. It will so bless your day and life. I am looking forward to seeing Hal again. If not here I will see him in heaven. We will be able to share how we met at the Cassia County Fair over a plate of fresh potato chips.
Truly Blessed,
Shanin
Monday, August 15, 2011
Getting Ready!
So, we are getting ready to go camping with our Bridge Peeps! I thought that I might update you on the remodel of the fixer upper camp trailer. I now LOVE the paint color that I chose! It has made a huge difference. He has done one coat of kilz paint and two coats of my color. I am so excited. Also my husband has ripped out the twin beds and has built in a bed built for two and moved the night stand so that it is now useable. Today he is going to paint the rest of the inside of the trailer white primer, clean the cushions and sweep it out once again.
So I am thankful for a wonderful crafty husband who can vision things that I cannot even begin to see and figures out a way to get it done! Before long we will be around a warm campfire with people whom we love to hang out with eating sm'ores, playing games and making memories :)
One Happy Camper :)
Shanin
So I am thankful for a wonderful crafty husband who can vision things that I cannot even begin to see and figures out a way to get it done! Before long we will be around a warm campfire with people whom we love to hang out with eating sm'ores, playing games and making memories :)
One Happy Camper :)
Shanin
Friday, August 12, 2011
Heart's Desire :)
My sweet husband is getting our trailer ready for camping. Now this trailer is a recent purchase. We had an opportunity to buy a "fixer upper" about two or three months ago. It has been patiently waiting for some t.l.c. This is the week! My hubby and I had talked about getting it "camping ready" for this year and then work on it some more later to fix it all up the way it should be. Jason had talked to me about painting it white because we already had white paint. That made perfect sense to me! It used whatever we already had and it was saving money. Now, secretly inside I had thought about how nice it would be to get to pick out some pretty color to splash on the walls but placed that thought aside for the practical. Well, only God knew that little heart's desire/wish. Last night my husband tells me that he can't use that paint because he read it and it is for metal only. He then tells me that he thought that I would like to go pick out some pretty colors since we had to buy paint! Yippy! We chose "Wind Over the Plains" for the wall color and "Bronze Sundial" for the trim. Oh I am happy!
Now for another glimpse at the type of person I am and who my husband puts up with...I am the person who "knows" what she wants when going to an eating establishment and then changes her mind twenty times until the waiter or waitress comes to take the order and then I will pick something that I might not have even looked at! And to top all of that off when the food comes I want to taste my husband's yummy looking food! LOL It has driven him crazy over the years but he is soooo gracious to me :)
So I love the paint colors that we chose last night...well, actually I got to choose but he did have a little input. Today I was thinking...I could have gone with a color of deep plum for the trim and another wall color. LOL Okay not really. I know that the trailor is far too small for such colors but I was thinking that it could go with the gold flooring...no, I love my greenish earthy tones. I just hope that I didn't go too dark :)Now that you followed me in all of that, I just wanted to tell you that I serve such a great Father that He knew that my heart's desire was to have a splash of color in our trailer. Not a necessity or even a need but a real frivelous treat for his little girl. And I have such an awesome husband that he too would be sensitive to his girl's wishes. I never said anything but He knows and loves me so very much that he even thought to ask me and just didn't run to the paint store and picked up the color that someone else rejected. My heart is truly happy! I am amazed by the love showered on me! For that I am grateful.
Feeling the Love,
Shanin
Now for another glimpse at the type of person I am and who my husband puts up with...I am the person who "knows" what she wants when going to an eating establishment and then changes her mind twenty times until the waiter or waitress comes to take the order and then I will pick something that I might not have even looked at! And to top all of that off when the food comes I want to taste my husband's yummy looking food! LOL It has driven him crazy over the years but he is soooo gracious to me :)
So I love the paint colors that we chose last night...well, actually I got to choose but he did have a little input. Today I was thinking...I could have gone with a color of deep plum for the trim and another wall color. LOL Okay not really. I know that the trailor is far too small for such colors but I was thinking that it could go with the gold flooring...no, I love my greenish earthy tones. I just hope that I didn't go too dark :)Now that you followed me in all of that, I just wanted to tell you that I serve such a great Father that He knew that my heart's desire was to have a splash of color in our trailer. Not a necessity or even a need but a real frivelous treat for his little girl. And I have such an awesome husband that he too would be sensitive to his girl's wishes. I never said anything but He knows and loves me so very much that he even thought to ask me and just didn't run to the paint store and picked up the color that someone else rejected. My heart is truly happy! I am amazed by the love showered on me! For that I am grateful.
Feeling the Love,
Shanin
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Believe!
Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:28,29 NIV
This is an important question and answer. The question was asked by the crowd that he had fed by multiplying the five loaves of bread and two fish. He had fed A LOT of people and had baskets of left overs. The next day the diciples and Jesus got in the boat and crossed "the lake" (smile) to Capernaum. The crowds realized He had left and they got in their boats and followed to where they found Him. Then they asked "the question." "What must we do to do the works God requires?"
I have heard so many people in my lifetime ask something very similar. What is God's will for my life? What do I have to do to follow Jesus? What must we do to do the works God requires? Jesus answered this question in one answer, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
BELIEVE in the One He has sent...BELIEVE in the One He has sent. That is such a short answer but wow is it big if you really think about it. I heard a retreat speaker once say, "Just pretend that you really believe in the Word of God and act like it's true." I had to laugh because it is one thing to say that you believe but it is a whole different ball game to act on it! But isn't that believing? Acting on it...acting like you believe it's true? But when the chips are down many times we fall apart rather than choose to believe in Him!
So before the crisis hits choose to believe in Him. Then act like you believe in Him! It will change your life! If you truly believe in Him, and live your life like your truly believe in Him and the Word of God your life will reflect it. Your life will be changed. Others will see a difference. What a testimony if every Christian would just truly believe.
Believing in Him,
Shanin
Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:28,29 NIV
This is an important question and answer. The question was asked by the crowd that he had fed by multiplying the five loaves of bread and two fish. He had fed A LOT of people and had baskets of left overs. The next day the diciples and Jesus got in the boat and crossed "the lake" (smile) to Capernaum. The crowds realized He had left and they got in their boats and followed to where they found Him. Then they asked "the question." "What must we do to do the works God requires?"
I have heard so many people in my lifetime ask something very similar. What is God's will for my life? What do I have to do to follow Jesus? What must we do to do the works God requires? Jesus answered this question in one answer, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
BELIEVE in the One He has sent...BELIEVE in the One He has sent. That is such a short answer but wow is it big if you really think about it. I heard a retreat speaker once say, "Just pretend that you really believe in the Word of God and act like it's true." I had to laugh because it is one thing to say that you believe but it is a whole different ball game to act on it! But isn't that believing? Acting on it...acting like you believe it's true? But when the chips are down many times we fall apart rather than choose to believe in Him!
So before the crisis hits choose to believe in Him. Then act like you believe in Him! It will change your life! If you truly believe in Him, and live your life like your truly believe in Him and the Word of God your life will reflect it. Your life will be changed. Others will see a difference. What a testimony if every Christian would just truly believe.
Believing in Him,
Shanin
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
We Struck Gold!
Hello! Sorry it has been so long since I last blogged. My life has been very full and blessed.
Today I want to talk about gold. Gold has been a valuable and highly sought-after precious metal for coinage, jewelry, and other arts since long before the beginning of recorded history. The Bible has many references to gold.
The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, And a man is valued by what others say of him. Prov. 27:21
Today I am going to talk about the recent deposit of gold that we found. Actually I knew it was there all of the time but I had the chance to see some refining of that very deposit of gold this past weekend. The treasure I am talking about is our youth group, The Stand(ers) at the Bridge. I had the opportunity to go to their youth retreat at the Oregon Coast this last weekend. Let me tell you (just in case you didn't know), our youth ROCKS!
I saw a body of young believers worship together in the presence of God the way I would like to see our whole church worship! I got to worship with them! It reminds me of the song Hosanna (by Hillsong United, the second verse, "I see a generation rising up to take their place with selfless faith, with selfless faith." I am so excited to see our youth press into a realtionship with God that is not just a surface relationship but a deep relationship. I am so excited because we have a great deposit of gold in our body that is dispersed in our church, community and schools. They are leaders. They will rise up and take their place. I am so thankful for them.
1Ti 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Hang in there,
The Stand(ers). You will win the race. And I will say that you are an awesome group of young men and women. I am so grateful that you are part of our church. I would stand and serve beside you anyday of the week. Thank you for letting me come and serve you this weekend.
Let me finish with this. And to the general people, value our youth, invest in our youth. Your investment will never go wrong when you invest in gold :)
Shanin
Today I want to talk about gold. Gold has been a valuable and highly sought-after precious metal for coinage, jewelry, and other arts since long before the beginning of recorded history. The Bible has many references to gold.
The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, And a man is valued by what others say of him. Prov. 27:21
Today I am going to talk about the recent deposit of gold that we found. Actually I knew it was there all of the time but I had the chance to see some refining of that very deposit of gold this past weekend. The treasure I am talking about is our youth group, The Stand(ers) at the Bridge. I had the opportunity to go to their youth retreat at the Oregon Coast this last weekend. Let me tell you (just in case you didn't know), our youth ROCKS!
I saw a body of young believers worship together in the presence of God the way I would like to see our whole church worship! I got to worship with them! It reminds me of the song Hosanna (by Hillsong United, the second verse, "I see a generation rising up to take their place with selfless faith, with selfless faith." I am so excited to see our youth press into a realtionship with God that is not just a surface relationship but a deep relationship. I am so excited because we have a great deposit of gold in our body that is dispersed in our church, community and schools. They are leaders. They will rise up and take their place. I am so thankful for them.
1Ti 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. Hang in there,
The Stand(ers). You will win the race. And I will say that you are an awesome group of young men and women. I am so grateful that you are part of our church. I would stand and serve beside you anyday of the week. Thank you for letting me come and serve you this weekend.
Let me finish with this. And to the general people, value our youth, invest in our youth. Your investment will never go wrong when you invest in gold :)
Shanin
Monday, March 28, 2011
Doubly Blessed!
1 Blessed are those who have regard for the weak;
the LORD delivers them in times of trouble.
2 The LORD protects and preserves them—
they are counted among the blessed in the land—
he does not give them over to the desire of their foes.
3 The LORD sustains them on their sickbed
and restores them from their bed of illness. Psalm 41:1-3 NIV
Wow! Think about it...first of all you are blessed when you stop to help someone who is in trouble or when you take the time to minister to someone. It's true! It blesses me so much more whenever I have helped someone than the person I am actually helping! Then this scripture says that the Lord blesses those who help those in trouble! Talk about being Doubly Blessed!
So remember this whenever a ministry opportunity comes up! Ministry is not always convienent but no matter what the Lord will so bless you for taking the time to speak a kind word to someone who is wounded. He will bless you! So don't miss an opportunity for double blessings, look for ministry moments. They happen all around us all of the time. You are needed! Needed for ministry. Jesus has equipped us to be His hands and feet.
Peace Out,
Shanin
the LORD delivers them in times of trouble.
2 The LORD protects and preserves them—
they are counted among the blessed in the land—
he does not give them over to the desire of their foes.
3 The LORD sustains them on their sickbed
and restores them from their bed of illness. Psalm 41:1-3 NIV
Wow! Think about it...first of all you are blessed when you stop to help someone who is in trouble or when you take the time to minister to someone. It's true! It blesses me so much more whenever I have helped someone than the person I am actually helping! Then this scripture says that the Lord blesses those who help those in trouble! Talk about being Doubly Blessed!
So remember this whenever a ministry opportunity comes up! Ministry is not always convienent but no matter what the Lord will so bless you for taking the time to speak a kind word to someone who is wounded. He will bless you! So don't miss an opportunity for double blessings, look for ministry moments. They happen all around us all of the time. You are needed! Needed for ministry. Jesus has equipped us to be His hands and feet.
Peace Out,
Shanin
Friday, March 4, 2011
The Plan
But the Lord's plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken. Psalm 33:4,11 New Living Translation
I am so relieved that I can trust in God's plans because man's plans are so evil. I am so glad that I can trust in His intentions for me. I know that His desires for my life are good! I just have to be obediant and trust Him. Regardless of the circumstances that surround me.
So today I am trusting in His Word and His Plan for my life, my work place, my church, my home and my family. His plan has to be better than mine! I know that His Vision is much bigger than mine :)
Every blessing You pour out I'll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in Lord, still I will say, "Blessed Be The Name of the Lord!"
So today, right now, I choose to say, "Blessed be the Name of the Lord!"
Can I hear an Amen?
Shanin
I am so relieved that I can trust in God's plans because man's plans are so evil. I am so glad that I can trust in His intentions for me. I know that His desires for my life are good! I just have to be obediant and trust Him. Regardless of the circumstances that surround me.
So today I am trusting in His Word and His Plan for my life, my work place, my church, my home and my family. His plan has to be better than mine! I know that His Vision is much bigger than mine :)
Every blessing You pour out I'll turn back to praise. When the darkness closes in Lord, still I will say, "Blessed Be The Name of the Lord!"
So today, right now, I choose to say, "Blessed be the Name of the Lord!"
Can I hear an Amen?
Shanin
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Music and Friends
I am sitting here at my computer listening to some awesome music. For those of you who know me personally, you know that music permeates everything in my life! It has been that for as long as I can remember.
Smells take some people back to a memory, for me it is music. I was created for worship and because of that I have always had a love of music. Music of all kinds.
I remember singing my way through elementary, jr. high, and high school. Through good times and hard times. It marked a joyous occasion or it could bring comfort to my heart during rough times. I have some great friends that when we get together after all of these years we still like to sing together! Even on facebook when someone from high school types one line of a song that we sang thirty years ago, two or three of us will join in writing the next line. It just puts a smile on my face and places a song in my heart. In many ways it can make me feel young at heart just like it was yesterday. Many, many memories placed to beautiful music.
So today I am thankful for the gift of music. Hey if anyone from High School happens to read this, could you share a memory with me? Thanks!
My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul.
Psalm 108:1 NIV
A Song On My Lips Always in Everything,
Shanin
Smells take some people back to a memory, for me it is music. I was created for worship and because of that I have always had a love of music. Music of all kinds.
I remember singing my way through elementary, jr. high, and high school. Through good times and hard times. It marked a joyous occasion or it could bring comfort to my heart during rough times. I have some great friends that when we get together after all of these years we still like to sing together! Even on facebook when someone from high school types one line of a song that we sang thirty years ago, two or three of us will join in writing the next line. It just puts a smile on my face and places a song in my heart. In many ways it can make me feel young at heart just like it was yesterday. Many, many memories placed to beautiful music.
So today I am thankful for the gift of music. Hey if anyone from High School happens to read this, could you share a memory with me? Thanks!
My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul.
Psalm 108:1 NIV
A Song On My Lips Always in Everything,
Shanin
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Today I am Thankful for...
Today I have so many things to be thankful for! I am thankful for a great husband who loves me, for my kids who have grown up to be amazing adults and married wonderful people to add to our family! I am thankful for a diverse group of people that I call my friends and church family. I am thankful for my warm house and for pumpkin chocolate chip cookies! They are soft and chewy and full of flavor. I am also very thankful that I live in a country of wealth where I can get a bottle of ib profen! It is the little things that count! (smile)
Have a wonderful blessed evening.
Shanin
Have a wonderful blessed evening.
Shanin
Friday, February 18, 2011
The Word of God Says...
that wisdom is more valuable than silver or gold. The Word of God says, that a beautiful woman without discretion is like a pig with a gold ring in its' snout. The Word of God says, it better to give than receive. The Word of God says that one day in His presence is better than a thousand elsewhere. The Word of God says to run from evil. The Word of God says that wisdom is more precious than rubies and nothing you desire can compare to her! The Word of God says that I have a purpose and there is a great plan for me because I serve Jesus! I fear the Lord! I love the Lord...
Just saying...
Shanin
Just saying...
Shanin
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentines Day!
I just wanted to tell everyone Happy Valentines Day! It is my anniversary and I just love the holiday too! To me it is an opportunity to tell people that they are loved and valued. It doesn't have to be a spouse or someone of romantic interest. It can be a teacher, the produce person,the checker or your son or daughter!
So when you are out and about take time to wish someone a Happy Valentine's Day. Speak a kind word into their day and life. You might become the bright spot in their day.
23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth,
And a word spoken in due season, how good it is! Proverbs 15:23 NKJV
Happy Valentine's Day!
Shanin
So when you are out and about take time to wish someone a Happy Valentine's Day. Speak a kind word into their day and life. You might become the bright spot in their day.
23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth,
And a word spoken in due season, how good it is! Proverbs 15:23 NKJV
Happy Valentine's Day!
Shanin
Friday, February 11, 2011
Humbled
First of all sorry that it has been so long since I have posted! I was really sick for about two weeks!
Last night I went to the local grocery store to pick up a few items for dinner. When I first went in I saw a young gal that I used to work with a few years ago and she was visiting with a gentlemen so I smiled and gave her a side hug and kept shopping. She told me that she would see me before I would leave. I picked up a few items and she sure enough found me in the check out line and walked with me out to the car. I love this girl. She is a sweetie and I used to pray for her when we worked together. Jesus was so good to give me opportunities to share and pray with her about various subjects. Whenever she needed to sell a car we would pray and God would be faithful to provide the customers to purchase a vehicle!
Well, last night she told me how much she missed having me pray for her and praying with me. She told me that she still tells people about how much she loved working with me and loved our prayer times. While I was talking to her another young lady, whom I work with now, came up and I introduced them to each other. I pray with her too :) I enjoyed that few minutes of time so very much!
God really used those two "coincidental" meetings to minister to me! I realized that maybe, just maybe I have made a difference in one person's life! Oh what a blessing! But wait, not just one life, but I have had the privilege to speak into two lives! I cried on the short car ride home to think what an honor I have had to have the opportunity to pray for two young ladies. Two divine appointments to be Jesus with skin on, and for that I am honored.
Don't miss those opportunities. They are so important. Look for them. I have prayed for many people but you never know who it really touches. But I know this, if I throw enough seed far and wide some will take root. I have always said that I would have moved to Burley even if only one person would receive Christ. I am abundantly blessed. The enemy would like us to think that we make no difference and that we live our lives for Christ in vane but we know different! So be faithful, all of the time. You never know when something so simple, as praying for someone in a moment will truly touch their life.
Throwing Seed Everywhere!
Shanin
Last night I went to the local grocery store to pick up a few items for dinner. When I first went in I saw a young gal that I used to work with a few years ago and she was visiting with a gentlemen so I smiled and gave her a side hug and kept shopping. She told me that she would see me before I would leave. I picked up a few items and she sure enough found me in the check out line and walked with me out to the car. I love this girl. She is a sweetie and I used to pray for her when we worked together. Jesus was so good to give me opportunities to share and pray with her about various subjects. Whenever she needed to sell a car we would pray and God would be faithful to provide the customers to purchase a vehicle!
Well, last night she told me how much she missed having me pray for her and praying with me. She told me that she still tells people about how much she loved working with me and loved our prayer times. While I was talking to her another young lady, whom I work with now, came up and I introduced them to each other. I pray with her too :) I enjoyed that few minutes of time so very much!
God really used those two "coincidental" meetings to minister to me! I realized that maybe, just maybe I have made a difference in one person's life! Oh what a blessing! But wait, not just one life, but I have had the privilege to speak into two lives! I cried on the short car ride home to think what an honor I have had to have the opportunity to pray for two young ladies. Two divine appointments to be Jesus with skin on, and for that I am honored.
Don't miss those opportunities. They are so important. Look for them. I have prayed for many people but you never know who it really touches. But I know this, if I throw enough seed far and wide some will take root. I have always said that I would have moved to Burley even if only one person would receive Christ. I am abundantly blessed. The enemy would like us to think that we make no difference and that we live our lives for Christ in vane but we know different! So be faithful, all of the time. You never know when something so simple, as praying for someone in a moment will truly touch their life.
Throwing Seed Everywhere!
Shanin
Monday, January 24, 2011
The Little Things
I realized today how grateful I am for the little things. People laugh at me because I get excited over little things. My mom told me once that I would get excited if she was to bring me a toothpick home for a gift! LOL Well, you will be happy to know that my tastes have gotten a little more expensive but I still get excited over the little things.
Today I was thinking about how great life is at this moment. What made me think this? I had a big water bottle full of plain ol' brewed ice tea, the sun was shining and I was chewing a piece of watermelon gum, listening to worship music while reading about Moses in Exodus! Life is good! It doesn't seem like a whole lot to some but to me it just made me happy! God is so good to me.
While I was reading in the first few chapters of Exodus it was talking about Moses meeting God in the desert (at the burning bush.) God had told Moses how He had heard the crys of the Israelites and God was sending Moses to deliver them. He told him to take his stick or rod and throw it on the ground and it turned into a snake! This next part is the part that made me smile... Exodus 4:3 And He said, "Cast it on the ground." So he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from it. NKJV LOL That is exactly what I would have done! I would have RAN!
Isn't it great that God used/uses ordinary people with ordinary reactions? This means that I am qualified to be used by God! God told Moses that he was going to speak to Pharoah and Moses told God that he was slow of speech! Like God didn't know that? Probably God had seen something in Moses that Moses didn't see, but still, God worked with him!
So today I am so thankful for iced tea, watermelon gum, worship music, sunshine and the Word to encourage me! My God loves me so much that He knows the little things that make my day! Thank You Jesus!
Shanin
Today I was thinking about how great life is at this moment. What made me think this? I had a big water bottle full of plain ol' brewed ice tea, the sun was shining and I was chewing a piece of watermelon gum, listening to worship music while reading about Moses in Exodus! Life is good! It doesn't seem like a whole lot to some but to me it just made me happy! God is so good to me.
While I was reading in the first few chapters of Exodus it was talking about Moses meeting God in the desert (at the burning bush.) God had told Moses how He had heard the crys of the Israelites and God was sending Moses to deliver them. He told him to take his stick or rod and throw it on the ground and it turned into a snake! This next part is the part that made me smile... Exodus 4:3 And He said, "Cast it on the ground." So he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from it. NKJV LOL That is exactly what I would have done! I would have RAN!
Isn't it great that God used/uses ordinary people with ordinary reactions? This means that I am qualified to be used by God! God told Moses that he was going to speak to Pharoah and Moses told God that he was slow of speech! Like God didn't know that? Probably God had seen something in Moses that Moses didn't see, but still, God worked with him!
So today I am so thankful for iced tea, watermelon gum, worship music, sunshine and the Word to encourage me! My God loves me so much that He knows the little things that make my day! Thank You Jesus!
Shanin
Friday, January 21, 2011
Pictures are Worth a Thousand Words
In my office I have three pictures of my grandaughter that hangs on the wall in front of my desk. They were taken when she was about two year old. She was wearing a pretty little homemade yellow flowered dress with a pink sweater with a little rose on it. I had been given a giant cup and saucer bird feeder and it was just a little taller than her. In the first picture she is easing up to the saucer and trying to see what was in the cup. In the second picture the seed spills out and in the third picture she steps back and looks at me and just laughs!
I absolutely love these pictures. First of all it freezes in time the moment when she was little. It captures her curiosity and then her delight at her discovery. These three little pictures are worth a thousand words. My Hannah is growing up so very fast. I have enjoyed every single stage of her young life. The pictures take me back to a time that I had almost forgotten. Her cherub little face,and her fine short hair. It is so important to not waste a day.
Today I am reminded about the scripture that says not to worry about tomorrow for today has enough worries of it's own. If we spend our time wishing for tomorrow or so consumed at the concerns for tomorrow, we will miss out on what we have today. We have a lot to live for, so enjoy and make the most of each day! I am so thankful that for that one day, I was there to watch Hannah discover the birdfeeder. I am really thrilled that I caught it on film to keep and look back on!
One more funny thing...my son Jason was home from college and bought a huge bag of birdseed to keep the birdfeeder full of seed. He loved watching his niece play with her new find. Hannah loved emptying that cup after her discovery. Well let's just say that we sowed a lot of seed that spring and it took me forever to get rid of all of those producing birdseeds! LOL The gift that kept on giving!
I am enjoying great memories and love making new ones. Don't get so busy that you miss the opportunity to make some good memories of your own today!
Shanin
I absolutely love these pictures. First of all it freezes in time the moment when she was little. It captures her curiosity and then her delight at her discovery. These three little pictures are worth a thousand words. My Hannah is growing up so very fast. I have enjoyed every single stage of her young life. The pictures take me back to a time that I had almost forgotten. Her cherub little face,and her fine short hair. It is so important to not waste a day.
Today I am reminded about the scripture that says not to worry about tomorrow for today has enough worries of it's own. If we spend our time wishing for tomorrow or so consumed at the concerns for tomorrow, we will miss out on what we have today. We have a lot to live for, so enjoy and make the most of each day! I am so thankful that for that one day, I was there to watch Hannah discover the birdfeeder. I am really thrilled that I caught it on film to keep and look back on!
One more funny thing...my son Jason was home from college and bought a huge bag of birdseed to keep the birdfeeder full of seed. He loved watching his niece play with her new find. Hannah loved emptying that cup after her discovery. Well let's just say that we sowed a lot of seed that spring and it took me forever to get rid of all of those producing birdseeds! LOL The gift that kept on giving!
I am enjoying great memories and love making new ones. Don't get so busy that you miss the opportunity to make some good memories of your own today!
Shanin
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Kid's Night
Tonight I taught on Jacob and Essau. We shared how they both made wrong choices and their parents made wrong choices too. We talked about the birthright that Essau gave up for a bowl of stew and a piece of bread. I had some pieces of "fur" to explain how Jacob and his mama used to trick or fool the Dad (Issac) into giving Jacob his brother's blessing. When I was telling my story (with many helpful interruptions and input)I got to the part where Isaac and Essau both realized that Jacob had deceived them into stealing his blessing and I was telling the kids that I'm sure that Issac was crying and Essau was crying...I looked out at all of the kids and saw Hannah's eyes tearing up. Such compassion...I almost cried. I finished the story and told them at how blessed we are that once we accept Christ that we have a Father who doesn't play favorites! He loves us all and He desires to bless us all! We all have our own identity in Christ. He is our inheritance! We get to spend eternity with Him! How exciting!
We finished the night with our craft. Each of the kids had a little notebook and I had them each put their fingerprints on each page. They had the choice or black or green ink. I explained how everyone had their own fingerprint and that Jesus had made each one of them as an individual that He loves so very much! They then made fun little people or creatures out of their fingerprints!
Then when I drove home I pulled into our driveway and turned off our car. On the radio the song "Your Love O Lord" came on. I got to sit there and listen and worship the entire song. It was so great. I love that song.
Your love, oh Lord
Reaches to the heavens
Your faithfulness stretches to the sky
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains
Your justice flows like the ocean's tide
I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings.
I am so thankful that with all of the injustices of the world that we serve a faithful God. He is the hope of all generations, from babies to the elderly across all barriers.
I am so thankful that I get to teach our kids every other week. I am so thankful that I serve such a great and compassionate God. I am thankful for hope.
Have a wonderful night!
Shanin
We finished the night with our craft. Each of the kids had a little notebook and I had them each put their fingerprints on each page. They had the choice or black or green ink. I explained how everyone had their own fingerprint and that Jesus had made each one of them as an individual that He loves so very much! They then made fun little people or creatures out of their fingerprints!
Then when I drove home I pulled into our driveway and turned off our car. On the radio the song "Your Love O Lord" came on. I got to sit there and listen and worship the entire song. It was so great. I love that song.
Your love, oh Lord
Reaches to the heavens
Your faithfulness stretches to the sky
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains
Your justice flows like the ocean's tide
I will lift my voice
To worship You, my King
I will find my strength
In the shadow of your wings.
I am so thankful that with all of the injustices of the world that we serve a faithful God. He is the hope of all generations, from babies to the elderly across all barriers.
I am so thankful that I get to teach our kids every other week. I am so thankful that I serve such a great and compassionate God. I am thankful for hope.
Have a wonderful night!
Shanin
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Looking for Eagles
Today I had the pleasure of working in the "field" at work. We drove a particular route and counted Eagles. Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles. While counting these majestic birds we also kept track of the number of a few other birds such as ravens, magpies to name a few.
Before I actually spotted my first official eagle sighting, I would look at these cool hawks and say, "Look there is a big boy!" And the wildlife biologist would say, "No that is a such and such hawk." Disappointed I would keep looking. Then I finally saw "him." He was a BIG BOY! LOL I would never mistake a hawk (unless it was at a great distance) for an eagle again! They almost missed him! I was the one who saw him! He was HUGE! I don't know how they didn't see him! Then my boss said something that was true but stood out to me. He said, "You won't see them unless you are looking for them."
Hmmmm...it is kind of that way with God. He is always there. There are days that He is right there and you see Him right in front of you. There are other days that you have to "look for Him" in order to see Him or what He is doing in your life.
While staring at these amazing birds through my binoculars I had a hard time not breaking into worship with song! LOL I am sure that the three men that I was with would have appreciated that! Instead I hummed quietly to myself and had a nice talk with God.
God is so awesome. He created everyone of those beautiful species. He designed their coloring and markings. He taught them how to hunt,fish and soar. It truly is breath taking. I thought of the scripture that says, But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Lord help me to always look for You all of the time. At all times and everywhere. Help me to remember to wait on You. Thank you for renewing our strength so that I will not grow weary. You are awesome.
Love,
Shanin
Before I actually spotted my first official eagle sighting, I would look at these cool hawks and say, "Look there is a big boy!" And the wildlife biologist would say, "No that is a such and such hawk." Disappointed I would keep looking. Then I finally saw "him." He was a BIG BOY! LOL I would never mistake a hawk (unless it was at a great distance) for an eagle again! They almost missed him! I was the one who saw him! He was HUGE! I don't know how they didn't see him! Then my boss said something that was true but stood out to me. He said, "You won't see them unless you are looking for them."
Hmmmm...it is kind of that way with God. He is always there. There are days that He is right there and you see Him right in front of you. There are other days that you have to "look for Him" in order to see Him or what He is doing in your life.
While staring at these amazing birds through my binoculars I had a hard time not breaking into worship with song! LOL I am sure that the three men that I was with would have appreciated that! Instead I hummed quietly to myself and had a nice talk with God.
God is so awesome. He created everyone of those beautiful species. He designed their coloring and markings. He taught them how to hunt,fish and soar. It truly is breath taking. I thought of the scripture that says, But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
Lord help me to always look for You all of the time. At all times and everywhere. Help me to remember to wait on You. Thank you for renewing our strength so that I will not grow weary. You are awesome.
Love,
Shanin
Monday, January 10, 2011
Personal Ministry in Spite of the Masses and Circumstances! He Cares!
40 So it was, when Jesus returned, that the multitude welcomed Him, for they were all waiting for Him. 41 And behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue. And he fell down at Jesus’ feet and begged Him to come to his house, 42 for he had an only daughter about twelve years of age, and she was dying.
But as He went, the multitudes thronged Him. 43 Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, 44 came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped.
45 And Jesus said, “Who touched Me?”
When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’”
46 But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” 47 Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately.
48 And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
49 While He was still speaking, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, “Your daughter is dead. Do not trouble the Teacher.”
50 But when Jesus heard it, He answered him, saying, “Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well.” 51 When He came into the house, He permitted no one to go in except Peter, James, and John, and the father and mother of the girl. 52 Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, “Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping.” 53 And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead.
54 But He put them all outside,took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” 55 Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat. 56 And her parents were astonished, but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. Luke 8:40-56 NKJV
Now this passage is a little long for a blog, I know, however I included it all for a purpose. There was this man named Jairus who came to Jesus and pleaded for help from Him for his daughter, who was only twelve and dying. Jesus agreed to go with Jairus to pray for his daughter but the crowds were huge and many were clamouring for his attention and help. In the midst of these crowds a woman, who was also desperate for healing reached out and touched his clothing. Now Jesus, asked, "Who touched me?" The disciples were like, who didn't touch you? We're surrounded by people. But Jesus knew that someone touched Him and he took the time to find out and talked to the woman.
In the meantime Jairus's people came and said for them not to bother it was too late, that his daughter was dead. How devastating. But it wasn't! Jesus' timing was different than ours. He was big enough to take time for the woman who was bleeding out and death wasn't going to cheat them either.Jesus told Jairus to not worry, only believe and his daughter would be made well. Even Jesus didn't let the surrounding circumstances take center stage. When He got there He only let Peter, James, John and the parents go into the room with Him. He told all of the mourners and hysterical people to stop crying that she was not dead. Now all of those people stopped crying long enough to ridicule Jesus, because they "knew" that she was dead.
How often do we get so focused on the circumstances that we panic, or cry and if anyone tries to speak some hope into our situations that we are quick to say, "You have no idea what it is like?" hmmmm....
Jesus placed the disbelievers outside and then picked up the little girl's hand and called for her to arise! She did! Jesus then instructed for the parents to get the girl something to eat.
Let's examine this from a few different angles. Jesus' timing was not their timing but He was still able to meet all of their needs! He had time to not only heal the woman who reached out to touch Him but to minister to her personally too. He reassured Jairus not to worry. He then went with Jairus to his house. He took the people who were freaking out, out of the room. He then , despite the bleak appearing circumstances, healed the little girl and made sure that her physical needs were met afterwards too! The passage says that her parents were astonished! How often does God surprise us even when we've asked for something? It might not get answered the way we thought but He always answers. Sometimes we need to separate ourselves from those who are freaking out and won't focus on Jesus. Why? Because if it is causing us to concentrate on the crisis or circumstance instead of on Jesus then it isn't good for us. Remove yourself from a fear ridden environment. Fear is not of the Lord! Speak His truth outloud if you have too, sing or worship! It will help you to readjust your focal point! We need to remember that Jesus does not have to fit in our box or to be confined by our rules. He is God!
So be of good cheer! Have great faith! Jesus will minister to us! He has time for all of us! He is big enough for every situation and circumstance!He is control of the situation. He is GREAT!
Loving His Word,
Shanin
But as He went, the multitudes thronged Him. 43 Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, 44 came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped.
45 And Jesus said, “Who touched Me?”
When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’”
46 But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” 47 Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately.
48 And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
49 While He was still speaking, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, “Your daughter is dead. Do not trouble the Teacher.”
50 But when Jesus heard it, He answered him, saying, “Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well.” 51 When He came into the house, He permitted no one to go in except Peter, James, and John, and the father and mother of the girl. 52 Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, “Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping.” 53 And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead.
54 But He put them all outside,took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” 55 Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat. 56 And her parents were astonished, but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. Luke 8:40-56 NKJV
Now this passage is a little long for a blog, I know, however I included it all for a purpose. There was this man named Jairus who came to Jesus and pleaded for help from Him for his daughter, who was only twelve and dying. Jesus agreed to go with Jairus to pray for his daughter but the crowds were huge and many were clamouring for his attention and help. In the midst of these crowds a woman, who was also desperate for healing reached out and touched his clothing. Now Jesus, asked, "Who touched me?" The disciples were like, who didn't touch you? We're surrounded by people. But Jesus knew that someone touched Him and he took the time to find out and talked to the woman.
In the meantime Jairus's people came and said for them not to bother it was too late, that his daughter was dead. How devastating. But it wasn't! Jesus' timing was different than ours. He was big enough to take time for the woman who was bleeding out and death wasn't going to cheat them either.Jesus told Jairus to not worry, only believe and his daughter would be made well. Even Jesus didn't let the surrounding circumstances take center stage. When He got there He only let Peter, James, John and the parents go into the room with Him. He told all of the mourners and hysterical people to stop crying that she was not dead. Now all of those people stopped crying long enough to ridicule Jesus, because they "knew" that she was dead.
How often do we get so focused on the circumstances that we panic, or cry and if anyone tries to speak some hope into our situations that we are quick to say, "You have no idea what it is like?" hmmmm....
Jesus placed the disbelievers outside and then picked up the little girl's hand and called for her to arise! She did! Jesus then instructed for the parents to get the girl something to eat.
Let's examine this from a few different angles. Jesus' timing was not their timing but He was still able to meet all of their needs! He had time to not only heal the woman who reached out to touch Him but to minister to her personally too. He reassured Jairus not to worry. He then went with Jairus to his house. He took the people who were freaking out, out of the room. He then , despite the bleak appearing circumstances, healed the little girl and made sure that her physical needs were met afterwards too! The passage says that her parents were astonished! How often does God surprise us even when we've asked for something? It might not get answered the way we thought but He always answers. Sometimes we need to separate ourselves from those who are freaking out and won't focus on Jesus. Why? Because if it is causing us to concentrate on the crisis or circumstance instead of on Jesus then it isn't good for us. Remove yourself from a fear ridden environment. Fear is not of the Lord! Speak His truth outloud if you have too, sing or worship! It will help you to readjust your focal point! We need to remember that Jesus does not have to fit in our box or to be confined by our rules. He is God!
So be of good cheer! Have great faith! Jesus will minister to us! He has time for all of us! He is big enough for every situation and circumstance!He is control of the situation. He is GREAT!
Loving His Word,
Shanin
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