Saying What You Believe Is Clearer Than Saying “Calvinist”
well I haven't posted anything in a while, I almost forgot this existed, but I'm glad there is always an outlet for me to share what God might be teaching me.
it is very important to articulate what you believe.
We are Christians. Radical, full-blooded, Bible-saturated, Christ-exalting, God-centered, mission-advancing, soul-winning, church-loving, holiness-pursing, sovereignty-savoring, grace-besotted, broken-hearted, happy followers of the omnipotent, crucified Christ. At least that’s our imperfect commitment.
In other words, we are Calvinists. But that label is not nearly as useful as telling people what you actually believe! So forget the label, if it helps, and tell them clearly, without evasion or ambiguity, what you believe about salvation.
If they say, “Are you a Calvinist?” say, “You decide. Here is what I believe . . .”
I believe I am so spiritually corrupt and prideful and rebellious that I would never have come to faith in Jesus without God’s merciful, sovereign victory over the last vestiges of my rebellion. (1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 3:1–4; Romans 8:7).
I believe that God chose me to be his child before the foundation of the world, on the basis of nothing in me, foreknown or otherwise. (Ephesians 1:4–6; Acts 13:48; Romans 8:29–30; 11:5–7)
I believe Christ died as a substitute for sinners to provide a bona fide offer of salvation to all people, and that he had an invincible design in his death to obtain his chosen bride, namely, the assembly of all believers, whose names were eternally written in the book of life of the Lamb that was slain. (John 3:16; John 10:15; Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 13:8)
When I was dead in my trespasses, and blind to the beauty of Christ, God made me alive, opened the eyes of my heart, granted me to believe, and united me to Jesus, with all the benefits of forgiveness and justification and eternal life. (Ephesians 2:4–5; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Philippians 2:29; Ephesians 2:8–9; Acts 16:14; Ephesians 1:7; Philippians 3:9)
I am eternally secure not mainly because of anything I did in the past, but decisively because God is faithful to complete the work he began—to sustain my faith, and to keep me from apostasy, and to hold me back from sin that leads to death. (1 Corinthians 1:8–9; 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24; Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 1:5; Jude 1:25; John 10:28–29; 1 John 5:16)
Call it what you will, this is my life. I believe it because I see it in the Bible. And because I have experienced it. Everlasting praise to the greatness of the glory of the grace of God!
Topic The Doctrines of Grace / Calvinism
this is from Desiringgod.org, click on the subtitle to be brought to the page.
In Christ,
Amy
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Let Not One of Them Escape- 1 Kings 18:40
this is a Devotional from Spurgeon's Morning and Evening classic for July 17...
I just had to post it, more for my edification but hopefully for others' as well..
- When the prophet Elijah had received the answer to his prayer, and the fire from heaven had consumed the sacrifice in the presence of all the people, he called upon the assembled Israelites to take the priests of Baal and sternly cried, "Let not one of them escape." He took them all down to the brook Kishon and slew them there. So must it be with our sins-they are all doomed; not one must be preserved. our darling sin must die. do not spare it because it cries. strike though it be as dear as a beloved son. strike, for God struck at sin when it was laid upon His own Son. With stern unflinching purpose you must condemn to death that sin that was once the idol of your heart. Do you ask how you are to accomplish this? Jesus will be your power. You have grace to overcome sin, given you in the covenant of grace; you have strength to win the victory in the crusade against inward lusts because Christ Jesus has promised to be with you even unto the end. If you would triumph over darkness, set yourself in the presence of the Sun of Righteousness. There is no place so well adapted for the discovery of sin and recovery from its power and guilt as the immediate presence of God. Job never knew how to get rid of sin half as well as he did when his eye of faith rested upon God, and then he abhorred himself and repented in dust and ashes. The fine gold of the Christian is often becoming dim. We need the sacred fire to consume the dross. Let us fly to our God. He is a consuming fire; He will not consume our spirit, but our sins. Let the goodness of God excite us to a sacred jealousy and to a holy revenge against those iniquities that are hateful in His sight. Go forth to battle in His strength and utterly destroy the accursed crew: "Let not one of them escape."
copied by Amy Datsko
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
COLLEGE!!
So by God's sovereign and amazing grace I have been admitted to William Jessup University. Because of His goodness, out of the total cost I only have about 4000 not covered. Scholarships, financial aid, and grants have all pushed me to a place I never really believed I would get to. Again the glory is to God alone. From the very beginning I have seen and felt His guidance...honestly every door has been opened and every path cleared for this university miraculously. This is how I know it is God's will.
And therefore I want to encourage everyone out there to pursue your dreams. I never thought that I would be the first one in my family to move out for college, it was always this far and vague dream. But God opened the door and I walked through it. I know it hasn't been easy, there have been many sleepless nights and tears but it is all worth it! And now here I am ready to move out on my own and take the very first step in achieving those goals which were always simply dreams. It is hard...it will cost you. But let me assure you, if it is God's will He will guide you through. We have all been brought to this planet for a purpose, and each have been equipped with special talents to fill out that purpose. The greatest tragedy? WASTING YOUR LIFE!! So I would just like to tell you all that God does have a plan for you, and you can achieve your goals. Don't let anything stand in your way, don't let anyone tell you that it's impossible. With God there is a way. In Christ everything is possible.
Lord willing, if I am alive and well I will be moving out this August to Rocklin, CA. I would like to ask you to pray for me. I know there are many struggles and difficulties ahead but I also know that my sins have been paid for at the Cross. And there is nothing bigger than that.
And therefore I want to encourage everyone out there to pursue your dreams. I never thought that I would be the first one in my family to move out for college, it was always this far and vague dream. But God opened the door and I walked through it. I know it hasn't been easy, there have been many sleepless nights and tears but it is all worth it! And now here I am ready to move out on my own and take the very first step in achieving those goals which were always simply dreams. It is hard...it will cost you. But let me assure you, if it is God's will He will guide you through. We have all been brought to this planet for a purpose, and each have been equipped with special talents to fill out that purpose. The greatest tragedy? WASTING YOUR LIFE!! So I would just like to tell you all that God does have a plan for you, and you can achieve your goals. Don't let anything stand in your way, don't let anyone tell you that it's impossible. With God there is a way. In Christ everything is possible.
Lord willing, if I am alive and well I will be moving out this August to Rocklin, CA. I would like to ask you to pray for me. I know there are many struggles and difficulties ahead but I also know that my sins have been paid for at the Cross. And there is nothing bigger than that.
Monday, January 25, 2010
The Clock Ticks and the Time Flies
The clock ticks and the time flies. One by one we all change, no eraser for the years. Face, hair, eyes and heart all bear the scars of days forever gone. The people we meet, the conversations we have, the books we read al shape us into the person we see in the mirror.
The clock ticks and the time flies and with it we step another step closer to the grave. What lies beyond, only some of us know. The One who waits above, only some of us have. And though all must fall, only some will in adoration. Some must fall in horror.
The clock ticks the the time flies. Only One remains the same. His hands still scarred, He reaches out for us to grab ahold. I have grabbed and He has held. Wind, storm, tempest have battered and yet He holds me close. Screaming, fighting, kicking but still He doesn't let go. I love you, child He whispers when I plug my ears and scream. I chose you, child He says when I cut open His wounds once more.
The clock might tick and the time might fly
but I will never leave or forsake you.
My love continues and My blood will cleanse you.
Sun or clouds, raw pain or joy you'll always be in My arms.
And though these days scar you
and your sobs echo in the darkness,
I hold you with Me in all these days.
The clock ticks and the time flies, I harden and He breaks. The Cross before me, I struggle on. Tripping, falling, bruising, failing His tender hands grab ahold. My discipline you will love, and My chastening you shall desire. His voice rings in my ears and I continue to live. All because the clock ticks and the time flies.
The clock ticks and the time flies and with it we step another step closer to the grave. What lies beyond, only some of us know. The One who waits above, only some of us have. And though all must fall, only some will in adoration. Some must fall in horror.
The clock ticks the the time flies. Only One remains the same. His hands still scarred, He reaches out for us to grab ahold. I have grabbed and He has held. Wind, storm, tempest have battered and yet He holds me close. Screaming, fighting, kicking but still He doesn't let go. I love you, child He whispers when I plug my ears and scream. I chose you, child He says when I cut open His wounds once more.
The clock might tick and the time might fly
but I will never leave or forsake you.
My love continues and My blood will cleanse you.
Sun or clouds, raw pain or joy you'll always be in My arms.
And though these days scar you
and your sobs echo in the darkness,
I hold you with Me in all these days.
The clock ticks and the time flies, I harden and He breaks. The Cross before me, I struggle on. Tripping, falling, bruising, failing His tender hands grab ahold. My discipline you will love, and My chastening you shall desire. His voice rings in my ears and I continue to live. All because the clock ticks and the time flies.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
essay scholarship editted
hey everyone this is my essay for the bible &theology departmant scholarship. this is the topic: write an essay descring your intent to study Scripture and Theology, your views regarding christian truths and the ways in which you plan to implement these studies in your life and ministry. what is your overall purpose in coming to WJU and studying the bible? so this is my attempt..its probably going to go through several more edits but please let me know what you think. my main goal in this essay is to glorify God and proclaim Christ. this is VERY important to me as the only way im getting into this college is if i win scholarships so please help by commenting and praying. thanks so much!
Heralds of truth--a call that has been lost in an age when truth is valued as nothing more than a mere personal perspective. "There is no such thing as absolute truth, and if there was, people cannot know it". Words which strike hopelessness into the souls of millions. What is the meaning of life if there is no sure foundation to build it on? How can one make a difference if he does not know what is the right kind of difference? Truth exists, and it must be taught and applied in both heart and life to have a lasting impact in this world.
Young Christians today must be trained in the Word to be able to carry out the call of Christ. Without the Sword of Life which is the only offensive weapon, Christians are left defenseless. Whether at home or in the mission field, all followers of Christ must have sufficient knowledge in order to take an effective stance. Today, all those who claim that there is only one truth are attacked and labeled as bigots. Lukewarm tolerance is seeped into the church until pastors cower behind political correctness. In order to reclaim that which is rightly hers, the Bride of Christ must be trained in hard, unapologetic truth. There are few schools left today which can teach that truth without shrinking from the demands of the Book of Truth. And yet these schools must be found, and must be entered.
And yet knowledge in the heart is not enough. To know is not to act. Once one knows what he must do, he must do what he knows. Christian truth must be applied practically in the everyday life in order for others to be attracted to Christ. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35) Attending a biblical university is not strong enough a witness to the world; that world must see the Bible lived out in a daily life. A truly biblical university must teach its student how to apply the Bible in his life in an effective and practical way. Places where this is found are rare, which is why they must be found and entered.
God has called me to the distant mission field. However, before I go I must know what I will proclaim. Missionaries are exposed to more difficult questions, more intense opposition and therefore must be doubly trained in their armor before they enter the battlefield. God trained Moses for forty years before he was deemed worthy to shepherd the chosen nation. The seriousness of the mission field and the right training has been lost among the American nation, and must be regained if the world is to be turned upside down by the Good News. The Bible is a Book which gives directions to eternal salvation and practical advice on how to please the God of salvation and winning others to Him. It must be read, memorized, and applied in every Christian's life. I have applied at William Jessup University because I believe it is one of the few school left today which can teach that Truth. I have applied at this school because I have witnessed a true testimony to my Lord Jesus Christ. William Jessup University has stood out among the thousands of of other schools because I have seen godly teachers who are passionate about preparing young adults for this world.
"For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth."(John 18:37) Jesus' final words before Pilate give Christians a goal only attainable by the grace of God. If Jesus deemed truth important enough to testify of it all of His life, then surely His Bride must not shrink from this call. "Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did."(1 John 2:6) If Jesus defined His life as a testimony to the ultimate Truth, then surely all Christians must follow. And that Truth is found only in the Book of Truth. This is why I have chosen Bible& Theology as my major at the University of William Jessup.
Heralds of truth--a call that has been lost in an age when truth is valued as nothing more than a mere personal perspective. "There is no such thing as absolute truth, and if there was, people cannot know it". Words which strike hopelessness into the souls of millions. What is the meaning of life if there is no sure foundation to build it on? How can one make a difference if he does not know what is the right kind of difference? Truth exists, and it must be taught and applied in both heart and life to have a lasting impact in this world.
Young Christians today must be trained in the Word to be able to carry out the call of Christ. Without the Sword of Life which is the only offensive weapon, Christians are left defenseless. Whether at home or in the mission field, all followers of Christ must have sufficient knowledge in order to take an effective stance. Today, all those who claim that there is only one truth are attacked and labeled as bigots. Lukewarm tolerance is seeped into the church until pastors cower behind political correctness. In order to reclaim that which is rightly hers, the Bride of Christ must be trained in hard, unapologetic truth. There are few schools left today which can teach that truth without shrinking from the demands of the Book of Truth. And yet these schools must be found, and must be entered.
And yet knowledge in the heart is not enough. To know is not to act. Once one knows what he must do, he must do what he knows. Christian truth must be applied practically in the everyday life in order for others to be attracted to Christ. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35) Attending a biblical university is not strong enough a witness to the world; that world must see the Bible lived out in a daily life. A truly biblical university must teach its student how to apply the Bible in his life in an effective and practical way. Places where this is found are rare, which is why they must be found and entered.
God has called me to the distant mission field. However, before I go I must know what I will proclaim. Missionaries are exposed to more difficult questions, more intense opposition and therefore must be doubly trained in their armor before they enter the battlefield. God trained Moses for forty years before he was deemed worthy to shepherd the chosen nation. The seriousness of the mission field and the right training has been lost among the American nation, and must be regained if the world is to be turned upside down by the Good News. The Bible is a Book which gives directions to eternal salvation and practical advice on how to please the God of salvation and winning others to Him. It must be read, memorized, and applied in every Christian's life. I have applied at William Jessup University because I believe it is one of the few school left today which can teach that Truth. I have applied at this school because I have witnessed a true testimony to my Lord Jesus Christ. William Jessup University has stood out among the thousands of of other schools because I have seen godly teachers who are passionate about preparing young adults for this world.
"For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth."(John 18:37) Jesus' final words before Pilate give Christians a goal only attainable by the grace of God. If Jesus deemed truth important enough to testify of it all of His life, then surely His Bride must not shrink from this call. "Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did."(1 John 2:6) If Jesus defined His life as a testimony to the ultimate Truth, then surely all Christians must follow. And that Truth is found only in the Book of Truth. This is why I have chosen Bible& Theology as my major at the University of William Jessup.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
She Was Only Ten Years Old
a poem i wrote several years ago... by the end i was bawling, unable to face the faith of the little girl. as an author you must put yourself in the shoes of your main character, going through everything they go through in your writing. you should be exhausted in the end..and i was. though this particular poem is fiction i have read of similar accounts in Foxe Book of Martyrs, which i highly recommend as a must for everyone. as you read, please try putting yourself in this yound girl's place and praise the Lord for such testimony which grounded our precious faith in the highest price there is: one's own blood. ..only because of the cross.
She Was Only Ten Years Old
The footsteps come nearer, echoing off the cold bare stones.
The faces grow still, a small flicker of fear jumps to her eyes.
A warm hand steadily grips her cold one.
“He has not given us a spirit of fear.”
The soft words seem to calm her, the shivering stops.
A man appears at the door, his thin lips stretched into a mocking smirk.
Blood glistens at the end of his spear, not his own.
He smiles at them.
“Hear the crowds? They’re waiting for you.”
The shivering begins again; the ache in her chest sharpens until her breath catches.
Suddenly, his eyes meet hers. “My dear, you are yet so young. Does your God really demand your death? Nero would be happy to have you serving in his palace, your pretty face will surely please him. Come now, my child, don’t be foolish. Bow just once to our great emperor and I will give you life.”
Fear burns steadily in her blue eyes.
Her hand trembles slightly in the steady grip.
“For whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, Of him will the Son of man also be ashamed
When he comes in the glory of the Father with the holy angels.”
The shivering stops and she squeezes the warm hand as her eyes steadily meet the guard’s.
He shrugs and wipes the blood again with a thin smirk.
“We’ll see how you’ll run when the lions take the first bite.”
His eyes glitter with something ugly as he laughs, a coarse and ugly sound.
“Get up, you stupid lunatics, the people await.”
As if to affirm his words, the crowds roar impatiently.
They stand together, the shivering begins again except now the steady hand is gone.
One by one, in total silence, they file through the door.
She tries to rush through but the cold iron of the guard’s spear pierces her skin.
The only answer to her quiet gasp is a chuckle.
Again the iron pierces her skin, except this time fresh blood glistens on the tip.
Her blue eyes fill with tears as she tries to escape the next prod.
“Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life”
Again the quiet words steady her and she raises her chin toward the light.
Blood seeps through the once gray cloak her mother knit for her many months ago.
Finally they reach the light.
“Good-bye my little one.”
The whispered words are accompanied by the final hard prod, the cold iron is thrust into her side.
She stumbles but before her knees buckle, the guard pushes her through with a sneer.
“Your audience awaits you, my dear.”
The sudden light blinds her, she raises her sticky hand to her eyes and stumbles through the iron gates.
“But take heart, I have overcome the world.”
The steady hand helps her to her feet, and she continues to stumble across the sand.
The cheers of the crowd roar in her ears, she doesn’t understand.
Why must they take so much pleasure in her pain?
A small stone flung from somewhere above cuts her cheek, instantly her eyes ignite with anger.
What for?
The injustice of it all boils inside of her.
Why must they scream so loud?
Why were they so eager to see her blood?
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
The hot fury subsides as she grips her wounded back.
Suddenly, another roar joins the crowd.
She jerks as her eyes follow the young tigress running through the gates.
Her eyes glitter and she seemed to smile at her as another lion joins her.
Fear floods her chest, her heart begins to hammer loudly in her chest.
Her blood roars in her ears, drowning out all other sounds.
The tigress approached her, her eyes on the blood gushing through her
cloak.
She stumbles backward, her hand gripped steadily.
Suddenly the tigress’s golden eyes leave her and fasten onto the one who still held her hand.
The steady grip loosened.
“NO!”
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, Neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.”
The final quiet words were stolen by the cold wind.
Her frozen blue eyes widen in horror as she watches the tigress devour her daddy.
Time seems to freeze as the golden eyes latch onto her.
Cold panic pours through her, she stumbles backwards.
An involuntary scream rips from her throat as she trips over the small stone flung at her only moments ago.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubles, neither let them be afraid.”
Familiar words, yet from whom?
Her daddy is dead, pieces of his body strewn on the once golden sand.
His lips can no longer whisper the comforting words.
“Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.”
Her heart slows, a warm light filling her eyes.
Her heavenly Father was there, His quiet whisper was resounding in her
small soul.
His promises melting the bitterness into a pool of love for those who still cried out for her blood.
The roar of the crowd increased as another tear splashed onto the crimson sand.
A calm smile spread across her face as she saw the claws rip through her leg.
Pain and heat exploded before her eyes, the scarlet blood spreading fast over the sand.
Lights flashed her eyes, pain racking through her small frame at the first bite.
The screams of the crowd deafened her, she smiled.
One tear glistened in her shining eyes.
“Forgive them, Father,” her lips whisper as everything slowly faded away.
“Forgive them, my Lord. They don’t know I’m only ten years old.”
She Was Only Ten Years Old
The footsteps come nearer, echoing off the cold bare stones.
The faces grow still, a small flicker of fear jumps to her eyes.
A warm hand steadily grips her cold one.
“He has not given us a spirit of fear.”
The soft words seem to calm her, the shivering stops.
A man appears at the door, his thin lips stretched into a mocking smirk.
Blood glistens at the end of his spear, not his own.
He smiles at them.
“Hear the crowds? They’re waiting for you.”
The shivering begins again; the ache in her chest sharpens until her breath catches.
Suddenly, his eyes meet hers. “My dear, you are yet so young. Does your God really demand your death? Nero would be happy to have you serving in his palace, your pretty face will surely please him. Come now, my child, don’t be foolish. Bow just once to our great emperor and I will give you life.”
Fear burns steadily in her blue eyes.
Her hand trembles slightly in the steady grip.
“For whoever is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, Of him will the Son of man also be ashamed
When he comes in the glory of the Father with the holy angels.”
The shivering stops and she squeezes the warm hand as her eyes steadily meet the guard’s.
He shrugs and wipes the blood again with a thin smirk.
“We’ll see how you’ll run when the lions take the first bite.”
His eyes glitter with something ugly as he laughs, a coarse and ugly sound.
“Get up, you stupid lunatics, the people await.”
As if to affirm his words, the crowds roar impatiently.
They stand together, the shivering begins again except now the steady hand is gone.
One by one, in total silence, they file through the door.
She tries to rush through but the cold iron of the guard’s spear pierces her skin.
The only answer to her quiet gasp is a chuckle.
Again the iron pierces her skin, except this time fresh blood glistens on the tip.
Her blue eyes fill with tears as she tries to escape the next prod.
“Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life”
Again the quiet words steady her and she raises her chin toward the light.
Blood seeps through the once gray cloak her mother knit for her many months ago.
Finally they reach the light.
“Good-bye my little one.”
The whispered words are accompanied by the final hard prod, the cold iron is thrust into her side.
She stumbles but before her knees buckle, the guard pushes her through with a sneer.
“Your audience awaits you, my dear.”
The sudden light blinds her, she raises her sticky hand to her eyes and stumbles through the iron gates.
“But take heart, I have overcome the world.”
The steady hand helps her to her feet, and she continues to stumble across the sand.
The cheers of the crowd roar in her ears, she doesn’t understand.
Why must they take so much pleasure in her pain?
A small stone flung from somewhere above cuts her cheek, instantly her eyes ignite with anger.
What for?
The injustice of it all boils inside of her.
Why must they scream so loud?
Why were they so eager to see her blood?
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
The hot fury subsides as she grips her wounded back.
Suddenly, another roar joins the crowd.
She jerks as her eyes follow the young tigress running through the gates.
Her eyes glitter and she seemed to smile at her as another lion joins her.
Fear floods her chest, her heart begins to hammer loudly in her chest.
Her blood roars in her ears, drowning out all other sounds.
The tigress approached her, her eyes on the blood gushing through her
cloak.
She stumbles backward, her hand gripped steadily.
Suddenly the tigress’s golden eyes leave her and fasten onto the one who still held her hand.
The steady grip loosened.
“NO!”
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, Neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.”
The final quiet words were stolen by the cold wind.
Her frozen blue eyes widen in horror as she watches the tigress devour her daddy.
Time seems to freeze as the golden eyes latch onto her.
Cold panic pours through her, she stumbles backwards.
An involuntary scream rips from her throat as she trips over the small stone flung at her only moments ago.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubles, neither let them be afraid.”
Familiar words, yet from whom?
Her daddy is dead, pieces of his body strewn on the once golden sand.
His lips can no longer whisper the comforting words.
“Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.”
Her heart slows, a warm light filling her eyes.
Her heavenly Father was there, His quiet whisper was resounding in her
small soul.
His promises melting the bitterness into a pool of love for those who still cried out for her blood.
The roar of the crowd increased as another tear splashed onto the crimson sand.
A calm smile spread across her face as she saw the claws rip through her leg.
Pain and heat exploded before her eyes, the scarlet blood spreading fast over the sand.
Lights flashed her eyes, pain racking through her small frame at the first bite.
The screams of the crowd deafened her, she smiled.
One tear glistened in her shining eyes.
“Forgive them, Father,” her lips whisper as everything slowly faded away.
“Forgive them, my Lord. They don’t know I’m only ten years old.”
Thursday, December 17, 2009
a good reminder to write in our hearts
This was taken from a Scripture reference book for counseling by John G. Kruis that my step sister let me read. It was very beneficial to me so I will share the Salvation excerpt with you :).
Salvation (Leading a Person to Christ)
Apart from Christ, we are helpless and sinful.
We are all sinners.
1. We are all born in sin.
Ps. 51:5. Surely I have been a sinner from birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.
2. We all, like sheep, have gone astray.
Isa. 53:6. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
3. All have sinned through Adam.
Rom. 5:12. Just as sin has entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned.
Rom. 5:19. Just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
4. Jews and Gentiles alike are sinners.
Rom. 3:9-12. What shall we conclude then? are we any better? Not at all! we have already made the charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are all under sin. As it is written: "there is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.
Rom. 3:22-24. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
5. We are like lost sheep whom Jesus goes out to seek.
Luke 15:3-7.
6. We are like the prodigal son.
Luke 15:11-24.
7. Even our righteous acts are as filthy rags.
Isa. 64:6. All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.
8. If you claim to be without sin you deceive yourself and even make God out to be a liar.
1 John 1:8-10. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. if we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.
9. Apart from God's grace, our hearts are deceitful, beyond cure.
Jer. 17:9. The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. who can understand it?
10. In the like of God's Holiness we see that we are very sinful. The is what happened to Isaiah.
Isa. 6:1-5. In the year that King Uzziah Died, I saw the LORD seated on a throne, High and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. and they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." at the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty".
..... more to come :)...
Friday, December 11, 2009
Though None go with me
what a movie...
I'm just speechless at the way this movie stays true to reality and how hard life really is. it's riveting, convicting, personal, and honest about how God provides comfort even in the worst circumstances. I don't want to just take this movie as a typical love story.. I believe there are many things a person can learn from it.
Father I pray that our generation will come to treasure your presence and seek you wholeheartedly, by the power of the Holy Spirit. that we and many others will say, "Your will Lord, not mine" and that they may experience true joy that is eternal.
that we may not take lightly the Call of the Lord to trust and obey.
thank You Lord for each gift that you richly provide us. let us not presume to think we have the luxury of wasting our lives for man-centeredness, only to miss the whole point of life.
"a guilty, weak, and helpless worm, on thy kind arms I fall. Be thou my strength and righteousness, My Jesus, my all."
Amy
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The Cross of Christ Is...
Eternal
Breathtaking in its beauty
Humbling
Breaking in its revelation of reality
Perfect
The clay shaped anew by its Maker
Perfection bearing the corruption of another
The slaves redeemed by their Master
A mystery beyond comprehension
The object of eternal praise
Captivating
The Son slaughtered by His Father
The day the universe was ripped in two
The crucifix, the epitome of history
The victory of mercy
Righteous judgment poured out on the only Righteous
The source of all genuine life
Magnificent in its purpose
The Bridegroom purchasing His Bride
Transcendent over nations and tongues and cultures
The ultimate exaltation of the only True and Worthy
Heaven's clearest picture of love
The shattering of sin's chains
Satan's final defeat
The ransom of the unworthy
God saying "I love you"
...So much more than stammering lips can pronounce
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Why There Aren't Any American Jobs
John Smith started the day early having set his alarm clock
(MADE IN JAPAN ) for 6 am.
While his coffeepot
(MADE IN CHINA )
Was perking, he shaved with his Electric razor
(MADE IN HONG KONG )
He put on a Dress shirt
(MADE IN SRI LANKA ),
Designer jeans
(MADE IN SINGAPORE )
And Tennis shoes
(MADE IN KOREA)
After cooking his breakfast in his new Electric skillet
(MADE IN INDIA )
He sat down with his Calculator
(MADE IN MEXICO )
To see how much he could spend today.
After setting his Watch
(MADE IN TAIWAN )
To the radio
(MADE IN INDIA )
He got in his car
(MADE IN GERMANY )
Filled it with GAS
(from Saudi Arabia )
And continued his search for a good paying AMERICAN JOB.
At the end of yet another discouraging and fruitless day
Checking his Computer
(made in MALAYSIA ),
John decided to relax for a while.
He put on his sandals
(MADE IN BRAZIL ),
Poured himself a glass of Wine
(MADE IN FRANCE )
And turned on his TV
(MADE IN INDONESIA ),
And then wondered why he can’t find a good paying job in AMERICA
(MADE IN JAPAN ) for 6 am.
While his coffeepot
(MADE IN CHINA )
Was perking, he shaved with his Electric razor
(MADE IN HONG KONG )
He put on a Dress shirt
(MADE IN SRI LANKA ),
Designer jeans
(MADE IN SINGAPORE )
And Tennis shoes
(MADE IN KOREA)
After cooking his breakfast in his new Electric skillet
(MADE IN INDIA )
He sat down with his Calculator
(MADE IN MEXICO )
To see how much he could spend today.
After setting his Watch
(MADE IN TAIWAN )
To the radio
(MADE IN INDIA )
He got in his car
(MADE IN GERMANY )
Filled it with GAS
(from Saudi Arabia )
And continued his search for a good paying AMERICAN JOB.
At the end of yet another discouraging and fruitless day
Checking his Computer
(made in MALAYSIA ),
John decided to relax for a while.
He put on his sandals
(MADE IN BRAZIL ),
Poured himself a glass of Wine
(MADE IN FRANCE )
And turned on his TV
(MADE IN INDONESIA ),
And then wondered why he can’t find a good paying job in AMERICA
Monday, November 23, 2009
A God-Glorifying and Edifying Crush
Ok ladies...time to fess up.
how many times have we had our eye snagged on a cute guy and spent hours dreaming about him? You've talked to him maybe about ten minutes and you're talked about him for about 82903748748934 hours(might be a slight exaggeration on that last number but if you're best friend you wont think so :) So majority of us guilty right? right.
I was chatting with amy about that and knowing she would, by the grace of God, point me back to the Gospel I asked her about what she thought. here's the actual conversation (amy's is bolded and mine arent)we're jumping into the part where I am asking how i could make having a crush an excercise in Godliness..might be a little jumpy at first but i think you get the message overall:
haha..i just dont know how to make that godly
or is it?
thats a hard one to figure out
can we be godly in that or should we focus solely on that?
solely on Jesus*
because the most Godly thing to keep in mind is to treat him like a brother
idk...im wondering if we should be focusing only on Jesus right now and not think about others..especially if we know there probebly isnt a future
but its hard to tell yourself "stop" .. not always that simple
where does the Gospel come in?
the Gospel is clear, we deserve God's wrath
everyday is God's grace
that is enough
Christ is enough
yes I deal with it a lot recently too
He is enough..so is focusing on another sinful?
I think it can be
if we let it distract us from God
how can we keep it from distracting us?
but everytime we think about it , it should drive us to prayer
i have been praying about it
prayer for an undivided mind
hmm..good advice
these realizations that you are fallen and prone to think too often about a guy only point more to your human-ness
and depravity
that is why it drives us upward towards God
it should anyway
so its a tool of the Holy Spirit to drive us back to the Gospel and remind us of the cross
and ask him for a way out.. maybe it could be to filling your mind with the things of the Lord
yes I think that would be most helpful for me
AMAZING! amy im writing a blog about this
:):) you and I both need to be pointed to Christ in every situation of our lives
yes and especially in this since it is in an area we often delve into
so if you have a mind that is at my level or above (and trust me you are..i have a brain tinged with blonde) you reached the conclusion I did. Having a crush glories God..it reminds us of the Gospel..it renews us in our love for Calvary..it strengthen your prayer life. bet you never thought having a crush gave so much. But if you didn't get it; here's the rundown for you:
having a crush should drive us to our knees in asking God to clear our mind and help us focus on Him. the fact that we have to do that should remind us of our always sinful, fallen depravity which always wants to focus on/exalt man rather than God. that should point you to the cross where Jesus paid for that and paid for the power of the new life you now live in Christ, giving you the power to focus on God and treating that certain young man(or woman) as a brother in Christ(or sister).
and so I leave you one o'clock in the morning with this thought: the next time you're pining away after some guy be reminded of the Gospel and God's good grace. pray and never ever let that certain person distract you from the Lord but instead, drive you closer to Him and another step closer to Calvary.
how many times have we had our eye snagged on a cute guy and spent hours dreaming about him? You've talked to him maybe about ten minutes and you're talked about him for about 82903748748934 hours(might be a slight exaggeration on that last number but if you're best friend you wont think so :) So majority of us guilty right? right.
I was chatting with amy about that and knowing she would, by the grace of God, point me back to the Gospel I asked her about what she thought. here's the actual conversation (amy's is bolded and mine arent)we're jumping into the part where I am asking how i could make having a crush an excercise in Godliness..might be a little jumpy at first but i think you get the message overall:
haha..i just dont know how to make that godly
or is it?
thats a hard one to figure out
can we be godly in that or should we focus solely on that?
solely on Jesus*
because the most Godly thing to keep in mind is to treat him like a brother
idk...im wondering if we should be focusing only on Jesus right now and not think about others..especially if we know there probebly isnt a future
but its hard to tell yourself "stop" .. not always that simple
where does the Gospel come in?
the Gospel is clear, we deserve God's wrath
everyday is God's grace
that is enough
Christ is enough
yes I deal with it a lot recently too
He is enough..so is focusing on another sinful?
I think it can be
if we let it distract us from God
how can we keep it from distracting us?
but everytime we think about it , it should drive us to prayer
i have been praying about it
prayer for an undivided mind
hmm..good advice
these realizations that you are fallen and prone to think too often about a guy only point more to your human-ness
and depravity
that is why it drives us upward towards God
it should anyway
so its a tool of the Holy Spirit to drive us back to the Gospel and remind us of the cross
and ask him for a way out.. maybe it could be to filling your mind with the things of the Lord
yes I think that would be most helpful for me
AMAZING! amy im writing a blog about this
:):) you and I both need to be pointed to Christ in every situation of our lives
yes and especially in this since it is in an area we often delve into
so if you have a mind that is at my level or above (and trust me you are..i have a brain tinged with blonde) you reached the conclusion I did. Having a crush glories God..it reminds us of the Gospel..it renews us in our love for Calvary..it strengthen your prayer life. bet you never thought having a crush gave so much. But if you didn't get it; here's the rundown for you:
having a crush should drive us to our knees in asking God to clear our mind and help us focus on Him. the fact that we have to do that should remind us of our always sinful, fallen depravity which always wants to focus on/exalt man rather than God. that should point you to the cross where Jesus paid for that and paid for the power of the new life you now live in Christ, giving you the power to focus on God and treating that certain young man(or woman) as a brother in Christ(or sister).
and so I leave you one o'clock in the morning with this thought: the next time you're pining away after some guy be reminded of the Gospel and God's good grace. pray and never ever let that certain person distract you from the Lord but instead, drive you closer to Him and another step closer to Calvary.
Friday, November 13, 2009
More Than Just a Job
I have a new job now..at Majesty Bible and Gifts(Herndon and Ceder) .. (come visit me =)
first three days I came home and cried. I was simply overwhelmed by all of the new information I had to memorize, I felt incompetent, and not needed. To top it all off I felt like I wanted to pour my heart out to someone but I didn't want to be complaining(though I did) and I couldn't find anyone who would direct me back to the bigger picture of serving Christ and humility.
But today went really well. We were busy and I felt like I was accomplishing something. I also was able to work without someone breathing down my neck (my bosses are absolutely wonderful though, very very blessed to have them..i just dont like to be watched). I was reminded that my work should not be viewed as simply a job..four hours to kill earning money. Today for the first time I was able to see my work as a service for Christ.
I encourage those who have a new job or those who have had a job for a long time to rethink your service. Do you see those whom you serve as people who need to be smiled at and treated like porcelain glass and escorted with a relieved glance out the door? Or do you see your customers as real people with souls, with wounds and scars from their life? People to be reached for Christ? People to be encouraged and prayed over? I'm not going to tell you how I first categorized ... =)
To sum it all up I just want to say that I have a great job. God brought these people into my life for a purpose, every face I see is there for a reason and there is a sea of opportunities every time I walk through that front door. I want to be reminded of the Gospel in my work everyday, and I want to touch those people with the wondrous Gospel with every breath I take. Which will only happen through prayer. So pray for me that my job can be more than just a job.
first three days I came home and cried. I was simply overwhelmed by all of the new information I had to memorize, I felt incompetent, and not needed. To top it all off I felt like I wanted to pour my heart out to someone but I didn't want to be complaining(though I did) and I couldn't find anyone who would direct me back to the bigger picture of serving Christ and humility.
But today went really well. We were busy and I felt like I was accomplishing something. I also was able to work without someone breathing down my neck (my bosses are absolutely wonderful though, very very blessed to have them..i just dont like to be watched). I was reminded that my work should not be viewed as simply a job..four hours to kill earning money. Today for the first time I was able to see my work as a service for Christ.
I encourage those who have a new job or those who have had a job for a long time to rethink your service. Do you see those whom you serve as people who need to be smiled at and treated like porcelain glass and escorted with a relieved glance out the door? Or do you see your customers as real people with souls, with wounds and scars from their life? People to be reached for Christ? People to be encouraged and prayed over? I'm not going to tell you how I first categorized ... =)
To sum it all up I just want to say that I have a great job. God brought these people into my life for a purpose, every face I see is there for a reason and there is a sea of opportunities every time I walk through that front door. I want to be reminded of the Gospel in my work everyday, and I want to touch those people with the wondrous Gospel with every breath I take. Which will only happen through prayer. So pray for me that my job can be more than just a job.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
What to Do When You Find Yourself Surrounded by Conversations Which Aren't Christ-Centered
How many times do you find yourself surrounded by people whose conversations are centered about anything but Christ? About everything that has absolutely no value? If you're me...a lot! How do you react to these situations? Look around with a dark glance and then loudly declare the godlessness of this crowd? Judge harshly and then give up? If you're me...most of the time
But how should we react? Should we retreat into our personal bubble of self-pity and religious hypocrisy? I sure hope that's not our only option...and thank the Lord it isn't! here's the solution God opened up to me after a frustrating night of talking about everything but God...
Paul tells us "let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt..."(col. 4:6) and again "let no corrupting talk come out of your mouth but only that such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear" (eph. 4:29) note the absolutes... ALWAYS and NO .. doesn't leave much room for negotiation does it? also please note in both passages it explicitly says "your" not those around you. Scripture makes it perfectly clear we are responsible for ourselves..and we are going to give an answer for what WE did in the body..me for myself and you for yourself..Rom 14:12
So what conclusion did I reach that night? Well..that I am responsible for myself. Gone are the judgments and complaints. I am responsible for what I talk about, and may I always be speaking with grace that it may build others up. if you know me..you know that's far from the truth...ever meet those people who always bring up God no matter the topic? well that can be you too..here are a couple of suggestions.
what experience has taught me is that the more you read Bible the more you can talk about it with more ease. read ps 119 to get an idea of how much time david spent in God's Word...psalm one: "and on His Word he meditates day and night" .. more time than the average Christian spends right?... when i spent three-four hours daily in devotions I found Christ ALWAYS in my mind, always in my speech. i was heavenly-minded. i dont spend as much time now and it takes some work to bring the conversation back to my Jesus...it's in direct parallel to how much time I spend with God!! "skem povideshsya tovo i nobireshsya" .. english translation: "who you're spending time with that's who you're going to be like" .. i cannot enough emphasize: SPEND MORE TIME WITH GOD!! and you'll find yourself thinking about those things which are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, worthy of praise (phil. 4:8) and what a person spends time thinking about he will also spend time talking about.
so there's my solution to situation where no one is talking about Christ..or about anything without value: you talk about Him...and as long as you're doing the right thing that's all that matters. you'll be amazed at how the crowd around you changes. people who hoestly do not care about God will find others to talk with and those who wish to speak of greater, more lasting truths will be drawan to you. but dont just wish..start taking action. talk about Him; always and around all. hard? yes!!! possible? "i can do all thing through Christ who strengthen me" (phil 4:13)
p.s. now im speaking about everyday situations when you're out in the world..if you find yourself constantly surrounded by unChrist-centered even in the church you have a problem. you need to find good friends who are Christ-centered, Gospel-saturated, and cross-exalting..perhaps a seperate article on that later ;)
But how should we react? Should we retreat into our personal bubble of self-pity and religious hypocrisy? I sure hope that's not our only option...and thank the Lord it isn't! here's the solution God opened up to me after a frustrating night of talking about everything but God...
Paul tells us "let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt..."(col. 4:6) and again "let no corrupting talk come out of your mouth but only that such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear" (eph. 4:29) note the absolutes... ALWAYS and NO .. doesn't leave much room for negotiation does it? also please note in both passages it explicitly says "your" not those around you. Scripture makes it perfectly clear we are responsible for ourselves..and we are going to give an answer for what WE did in the body..me for myself and you for yourself..Rom 14:12
So what conclusion did I reach that night? Well..that I am responsible for myself. Gone are the judgments and complaints. I am responsible for what I talk about, and may I always be speaking with grace that it may build others up. if you know me..you know that's far from the truth...ever meet those people who always bring up God no matter the topic? well that can be you too..here are a couple of suggestions.
what experience has taught me is that the more you read Bible the more you can talk about it with more ease. read ps 119 to get an idea of how much time david spent in God's Word...psalm one: "and on His Word he meditates day and night" .. more time than the average Christian spends right?... when i spent three-four hours daily in devotions I found Christ ALWAYS in my mind, always in my speech. i was heavenly-minded. i dont spend as much time now and it takes some work to bring the conversation back to my Jesus...it's in direct parallel to how much time I spend with God!! "skem povideshsya tovo i nobireshsya" .. english translation: "who you're spending time with that's who you're going to be like" .. i cannot enough emphasize: SPEND MORE TIME WITH GOD!! and you'll find yourself thinking about those things which are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, worthy of praise (phil. 4:8) and what a person spends time thinking about he will also spend time talking about.
so there's my solution to situation where no one is talking about Christ..or about anything without value: you talk about Him...and as long as you're doing the right thing that's all that matters. you'll be amazed at how the crowd around you changes. people who hoestly do not care about God will find others to talk with and those who wish to speak of greater, more lasting truths will be drawan to you. but dont just wish..start taking action. talk about Him; always and around all. hard? yes!!! possible? "i can do all thing through Christ who strengthen me" (phil 4:13)
p.s. now im speaking about everyday situations when you're out in the world..if you find yourself constantly surrounded by unChrist-centered even in the church you have a problem. you need to find good friends who are Christ-centered, Gospel-saturated, and cross-exalting..perhaps a seperate article on that later ;)
Friday, October 30, 2009
Wanting Something More
Sometimes the pull of the world is strong--too strong.
The bright flashes of the world blind you to the steady light of His Holy Word. You are drawn to the heavy beat of this life which drowns out the quiet pulse of His Spirit.
In the light of the day you're all smiles but when the golden beams disappear tears brim brightly in your eyes because you are left wanting something more.
You can't cry out for fear someone might hear but you want to scream until the stark pain inside becomes physical.
Empty, empty, empty--a silent mockery drums into your bleeding heart.
Why are the others satisfied?
How can they be so happy when their soul rings hollow?
Was there none others left hungry?
Were there no others passed by when the food was served?
Does the world satisfy their cravings only?
Still empty, empty, empty...
Your weary arms droop, no more outstretched to the heavens made of brass.
Oh how empty is this world! How shallow are her joys and comforts! How deceitful is the lulling slur of compromise! Oh how deadly is the comatose creeping into the lives of many!
Oh but how difficult is that other path which calls for more!
How blood-soaked are the steps that lead to satisfaction!
And yet praise the Lord, His grace is sufficient!
Each day you rise to fight once again, and each day He comes to join you in the ranks.
"BE YE SEPERATE"(2 cor. 6:17)
"DO NOT BE CONFORMED BUT BE TRANSFORMED"(rom. 12:2)
His battle-cries ring in your ears, urging you on to a life of something more.
A life of battling compromising with sin.
A life on the other path.
Waiting on God
Many can forge ahead in the thick of the battle, sure and confident in the leading of their captain. But few can wait...few can sit and listen intently for the long-awaited voice of their commander. Few can gaze at others making history and be content to await their call, their turn. And yet...Waiting is a major part of the Christian's path. There are times when we must rush ahead with our sword of the Spirit but there are also many moments when we must be content to wait for the voice of our Captain. Many are the moments when all lights are out and silence is the only sound heard. How hard it is to wait then! The world's weight on your shoulder and decisions pressing in and still your Commander is silent! Others battle on, tackling new giants daily and you must simply watch them. How you long to join their ranks and lift up your voice to join in the battle cry! But you must wait. The whisper of complaint pushes up your throat and how you long to set it free! But you cannot, you must simply wait.
These are the moments which test us. All of heaven peers down to watch as your faith stumbles, then slowly beginning to take root. King David cried out "For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him." (psalm 62:5) O Christian, wait for Him.. wait on Him! Let not the murmur of complaint escape your lips when you pour out your heart before Him(psalm 62:8). Many will be the moments when you cry out in pain, in confusion, in frustration. In all moments, remember that His ways are above yours and His thoughts above your own(isaiah 55:8-9). He commands for you to wait...therefore wait. He is perfect, He is divine, He is sovereign. Dear Soul, pour out your anguish before His inclined ear but dare not to question. In moments of waiting praise Him. Praise Him for not lowering Himself to your own human comprehension--thank Him for being beyond your finite mind. Fill up the silence with your cry of praise for the Everlasting who is ever worthy. Trust in Him to hear you--trust in Him to answer you. And keep on waiting until His voice comes afresh with your orders in the battle.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
contrasting idealogies explained with two cows
humourous, oversimplified explanation of contrasting ideologies..taken from Genesis: First Things (my Bible textbook :)
capitalism: you have to cows. you milk one, sell the other along with some of the mil, and you keep all the money and some milk which you haven't sold for yourself.
socialism: you have two cows. the government takes one of the cows, and part of the milk, allowing you to keep some milk for yourself which you can sell if you want.
communism: you have two cows. government takes both cows, makes you milk both and gives you part of the milk for yourself. if you try to sell the milk to anyone you will spend the rest of your life in prison learning the "errors" you have committed by oppressing others.
Nazism: you have two cows. the government takes both cows, makes you milk both. then shoots you and takes all of the milk.
bureaucracy: you have two cows. the governments fines you in excess of what the cows are worth, because you have the wrong type of feed that you got delivered by mistake because you didn't have the correct form filled out completely. you are called into court for cruelty to animals because you killed a rat that was trying to eat the wrong type of feed, that you cant get rid of now, since the government considers it a potential health hazard. the government subsequently confiscates both cows, shoots one of them, milks the other and pours half of the milk down the drain. you get some of the rest to feed your family as part of a special government welfare program for destitute ex-milk farmers.
-joel vincent
btw as a reminder you are called to obey your government WHATEVER type it is (Romans 13) but you (probably) live in America where you can influence what kind of government you have..so use time wisely and be the salt
capitalism: you have to cows. you milk one, sell the other along with some of the mil, and you keep all the money and some milk which you haven't sold for yourself.
socialism: you have two cows. the government takes one of the cows, and part of the milk, allowing you to keep some milk for yourself which you can sell if you want.
communism: you have two cows. government takes both cows, makes you milk both and gives you part of the milk for yourself. if you try to sell the milk to anyone you will spend the rest of your life in prison learning the "errors" you have committed by oppressing others.
Nazism: you have two cows. the government takes both cows, makes you milk both. then shoots you and takes all of the milk.
bureaucracy: you have two cows. the governments fines you in excess of what the cows are worth, because you have the wrong type of feed that you got delivered by mistake because you didn't have the correct form filled out completely. you are called into court for cruelty to animals because you killed a rat that was trying to eat the wrong type of feed, that you cant get rid of now, since the government considers it a potential health hazard. the government subsequently confiscates both cows, shoots one of them, milks the other and pours half of the milk down the drain. you get some of the rest to feed your family as part of a special government welfare program for destitute ex-milk farmers.
-joel vincent
btw as a reminder you are called to obey your government WHATEVER type it is (Romans 13) but you (probably) live in America where you can influence what kind of government you have..so use time wisely and be the salt
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sibling Rivalry
I want to share a video shown to me...a video, which if you have siblings will ring oh so true! I have been so blessed with a large family(nine children). Sometimes though that blessing is a little hard to see...for example, in moments you try to take a family picture. (Our last one was a disaster!) and we have been trying to take another for several months now...But it is a blessing and I am so thankful for God placing me in this wonderful family! It's fun to fight over clothes (afterwards you see it as fun) fun to gather for a birthday time, fun to have a family gathering where we usually team up girls vs. guys... .
And as I read about Jesus' life I can't help but think whether His was the same. Jesus is perfect, and was perfect in His human form so He never lost His temper and said something He knew would wound a loved one. How many words I wish I could take back..words I said in the heat of argument and were regretted after. Jesus never had to regret saying something harsh and untrue out of anger... because He never got angry over silly little things that often set us off.
I share a special status in my family. I know my dad loves me more than my cousin..because I am his daughter. I love my sister more than I love my best friend. After all, they are family and "blood is thicker than water". Friends are temporary but family is forever... Don't you think Jesus' family thought the same thing? In Luke 8:19-21 His family tries to get through the crowd but can't because there are so many people! I can just imagine them saying "I am His BROTHER...hello! His brother--we're united by blood!! You know what..why don't you call Him? Tell Him His BROTHER is here and see what He does to you when He finds out you aren't letting me through!" And then Jesus' answer floats back to them "my mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it." Can you imagine their indignation? Their fury at being dismissed in front of so many people? Their hurt at being put at a level equal to all the strangers around them? Yet Jesus was not saying this merely to be harsh, or to get back for that one time that older brother didn't let Him borrow his tunic. He said it to make clear that His family was not to be worshiped or seen as divine. He made all equal at the cross! He died for His mother just as much as He died for me...He didn't pay a lesser punishment for her or a greater one for me. He raised me up to the same status as His brother!! Does this not amaze you? Does not His grace astound you?
I'm sure Jesus holds a special spot for His earthly family..after all He did spend 30 years with them but He sees me no different from His sister or His brother. His family might not have gotten that message that day in that moment. But at least one person did: James. He starts out His epistle with "James a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ..." The literal word there being "slave". He, the brother of Jesus who lived with Him perhaps in the same house, introduced himself as the slave, the lowest class which holds absolutely no esteem. I would have introduced myself as His brother, milking my authority as far as it can get me. Even here we do that..."yeah I'm the daughter of the head pastor...you know the guy who hires and can fire your daddy?" James could have said "James the brother of our Lord Jesus Christ who will judge all creation and at whose name every knee will bow." And yet he chose to introduce himself as a slave, one that has been enslaved for life and holds no redeeming power in the household. THAT's what Calvary produces....
anyways...all that to show a silly video which I think so clearly portrays our sibling rivalry played out day after day.......
And as I read about Jesus' life I can't help but think whether His was the same. Jesus is perfect, and was perfect in His human form so He never lost His temper and said something He knew would wound a loved one. How many words I wish I could take back..words I said in the heat of argument and were regretted after. Jesus never had to regret saying something harsh and untrue out of anger... because He never got angry over silly little things that often set us off.
I share a special status in my family. I know my dad loves me more than my cousin..because I am his daughter. I love my sister more than I love my best friend. After all, they are family and "blood is thicker than water". Friends are temporary but family is forever... Don't you think Jesus' family thought the same thing? In Luke 8:19-21 His family tries to get through the crowd but can't because there are so many people! I can just imagine them saying "I am His BROTHER...hello! His brother--we're united by blood!! You know what..why don't you call Him? Tell Him His BROTHER is here and see what He does to you when He finds out you aren't letting me through!" And then Jesus' answer floats back to them "my mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it." Can you imagine their indignation? Their fury at being dismissed in front of so many people? Their hurt at being put at a level equal to all the strangers around them? Yet Jesus was not saying this merely to be harsh, or to get back for that one time that older brother didn't let Him borrow his tunic. He said it to make clear that His family was not to be worshiped or seen as divine. He made all equal at the cross! He died for His mother just as much as He died for me...He didn't pay a lesser punishment for her or a greater one for me. He raised me up to the same status as His brother!! Does this not amaze you? Does not His grace astound you?
I'm sure Jesus holds a special spot for His earthly family..after all He did spend 30 years with them but He sees me no different from His sister or His brother. His family might not have gotten that message that day in that moment. But at least one person did: James. He starts out His epistle with "James a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ..." The literal word there being "slave". He, the brother of Jesus who lived with Him perhaps in the same house, introduced himself as the slave, the lowest class which holds absolutely no esteem. I would have introduced myself as His brother, milking my authority as far as it can get me. Even here we do that..."yeah I'm the daughter of the head pastor...you know the guy who hires and can fire your daddy?" James could have said "James the brother of our Lord Jesus Christ who will judge all creation and at whose name every knee will bow." And yet he chose to introduce himself as a slave, one that has been enslaved for life and holds no redeeming power in the household. THAT's what Calvary produces....
anyways...all that to show a silly video which I think so clearly portrays our sibling rivalry played out day after day.......
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