A couple of years ago a school teacher gave her young students (maybe third graders) an assignment that was "just for fun." My niece, Mary Dixon, was in that class. The teacher gave each student a list of the first few words of a well known phrase (idiom) and the students were to fill in the blanks with the rest of the phrase. An example (and one that was on the list) is "you can lead a horse to water, but ______ ______"
This assignment actually turned out to be a source of amusement for our family.
Actually, Mary Dixon did pretty well on this little project. She knew quite a few of the phrases. On those she didn't know, the answers she supplied were pretty creative. The phrase and answer from her that I liked the most was "A miss is as good as __ ______." Mary Dixon's answer was "A miss is as good as a Mrs." Now I think my niece's answer was better than the real phrase -"A miss is as good as a mile." And I hope she always has this attitude --that a Miss is as good as a Mrs.
You see, Mary Dixon has the right idea. Every one is the same in God's eyes. God loves us all and our value is not based on whether we are single or married. Remember John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world." But God's love is for each individual person. Jesus said, Matthew 22:30 "For in the resurrection, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven." In Acts 10:34 in the home of Cornelius, Peter said "Of a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons." Each person will be held responsible for their own actions. Just as we will all be judged individually, so Christ's blood was shed for each one of us individually.
Galatians 3:28 tells us "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." And Colossians 3:11 says "Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free; but Christ is all and in all."
So you see - your race, your culture, your social status, your gender or even whether or not you are married - none of that matters to God. He made you --YOU as an individual. What matters is your heart, your love for God and your willingness to follow Him.
God loves you as a person -He knows how many hairs are on your head. He knows your name. Jesus died for you and me -- so He will also judge us as individual persons. My point is, that to Him we are worth something. We are worth His very life. Those other things that people judge others by - looks, money, ethnic origin - that is not what He will judge us by. He will judge us by how much we believe Him, love Him and follow Him. He will judge us by our works. He won't judge you for my works, nor will He judge me for what someone else did. We are all on our own; but the wonderful thing is that we aren't either -- because if we are walking in the Light, we are not on our own. He will be with us.
So you see, Mary Dixon was exactly right - "A Miss- or a Mr.even - is every bit as good as a Mrs."
Christ above all things,
Robin
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Friday, February 8, 2013
Important Things
For those of you who might read my blog on a regular basis, I apologize for not having posted anything in a couple of days. A lot has been going on at work lately and it has been pretty stressful. Also, my uncle is in ICU at the hospital, so I was there last night for a couple of hours. I got to see him for a few minutes. Please pray for him and his family.
Now here I am back tonight and it feels so good to be writing again. I had a really strange dream last night. I was searching for a particular shirt to wear for a particular event. I looked through my dresser, my closet and even through the laundry hamper. I never found the shirt. That’s really about all I remember – just searching and searching. Now this could have been my brain’s way of telling me that I need to clean out my closet because I definitely do! J The dream could have also been related to my work somehow since it seems everything there is pure chaos at the moment. I’m not sure exactly what it meant. Maybe my mind was sending me a message about seeking the right things in life –in the right places. I am by no means a psychologist, but I do try to learn from my dreams when I can.
The dream does remind me a littlle bit of the parable of the lost coin. Remember? The woman has 10 coins and loses one. She goes about her entire house searching everywhere just for that one coin and then she finds it and there is much rejoicing. When teaching that parable Jesus said, "there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15: 10b). I think this parable reminds us of what is important:
The church – "And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18
Kindness –"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32
Love – "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." Matthew 22:37-40
Keeping His commandments –"Ye are my friends if you do whatsoever I command you." John 15:14
Have you ever been so caught up in something or so stressed out over something that it almost devoured you? You got tunnel vision and that one worry, problem- or maybe it was a good thing – but good or bad or neither, it was all-consuming and you forgot what was important. Then something happens to jerk you back into reality and it dawns on you that this "thing" had taken control of you. Finally you realize that it is in no way worth investing so much energy into one thing. That is what I almost did this week. I almost let myself get lost in stressing with work. I almost forgot there was life outside of the office.
Then my uncle got sick and I started remembering what was important. And I realized it wasn’t my job! Don’t get me wrong, I know we are supposed to "do all in the name of the Lord" (Col. 3:17); and that includes our work. Believe me, I really do know this. I have always been taught to do my very best. At the same time however, I shouldn’t stress over it to the point that I lose myself. I need to remember what is inportant and stay focused on my God and living my life for Him.
We must put God first in our lives so that we can be a blessing and example to others. We must love Him first and foremost and then love our neighbor as ourselves. Cherish your family, love them, hug them and teach them God's will. Keep the commandments of Christ. Take opportunities to teach the Bible when you can. Be a loyal friend -- the kind of friend that can be counted on no matter what. Love the church as it is the body of Christ. Help your local congregation in any way that you can. And always and everywhere be kind to everyone.
If someone you love is in the hospital – go be with them.
If your small children need some extra attention – give it to them.
If a sister in Christ just lost a family member – cry with her.
If a friend is excited about her upcoming wedding – rejoice with her.
If someone needs to confide in you – listen to him and honor that confidence.
If someone is down and out –comfort them.
If someone repents and comes back to the church – welcome them "home."
If a person asks you about the God you believe in – share the gospel with her.
If a church member is struggling with a weakness – pray with him.
I am being repetitive I know, but it is so important to remember that God, church, country, family and friends – these are important. These are the things that really matter. Don’t lose yourself like I almost did over my work. It’s not worth it. Doing a good job is important, but stressing out over something you can’t change isn’t.
Robin
Now here I am back tonight and it feels so good to be writing again. I had a really strange dream last night. I was searching for a particular shirt to wear for a particular event. I looked through my dresser, my closet and even through the laundry hamper. I never found the shirt. That’s really about all I remember – just searching and searching. Now this could have been my brain’s way of telling me that I need to clean out my closet because I definitely do! J The dream could have also been related to my work somehow since it seems everything there is pure chaos at the moment. I’m not sure exactly what it meant. Maybe my mind was sending me a message about seeking the right things in life –in the right places. I am by no means a psychologist, but I do try to learn from my dreams when I can.
The dream does remind me a littlle bit of the parable of the lost coin. Remember? The woman has 10 coins and loses one. She goes about her entire house searching everywhere just for that one coin and then she finds it and there is much rejoicing. When teaching that parable Jesus said, "there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15: 10b). I think this parable reminds us of what is important:
- Souls -- people – "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." John 3:17. That’s the primary lesson from this parable – gaining the lost for Christ.
Then my uncle got sick and I started remembering what was important. And I realized it wasn’t my job! Don’t get me wrong, I know we are supposed to "do all in the name of the Lord" (Col. 3:17); and that includes our work. Believe me, I really do know this. I have always been taught to do my very best. At the same time however, I shouldn’t stress over it to the point that I lose myself. I need to remember what is inportant and stay focused on my God and living my life for Him.
We must put God first in our lives so that we can be a blessing and example to others. We must love Him first and foremost and then love our neighbor as ourselves. Cherish your family, love them, hug them and teach them God's will. Keep the commandments of Christ. Take opportunities to teach the Bible when you can. Be a loyal friend -- the kind of friend that can be counted on no matter what. Love the church as it is the body of Christ. Help your local congregation in any way that you can. And always and everywhere be kind to everyone.
If someone you love is in the hospital – go be with them.
If your small children need some extra attention – give it to them.
If a sister in Christ just lost a family member – cry with her.
If a friend is excited about her upcoming wedding – rejoice with her.
If someone needs to confide in you – listen to him and honor that confidence.
If someone is down and out –comfort them.
If someone repents and comes back to the church – welcome them "home."
If a person asks you about the God you believe in – share the gospel with her.
If a church member is struggling with a weakness – pray with him.
I am being repetitive I know, but it is so important to remember that God, church, country, family and friends – these are important. These are the things that really matter. Don’t lose yourself like I almost did over my work. It’s not worth it. Doing a good job is important, but stressing out over something you can’t change isn’t.
Robin
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Hey Mister!
It was Saturday morning and the dog was barking outside. We had no idea why. My niece, Khloe was somewhere around 3 or 4 at the time. She and her family were visiting from Nashville and Khloe spent the night before with us. The dog kept barking. My husband, Robert went to see if he could figure out what was going on. He said, "What is that stupid dog barking at now?"
As soon as those words were out of his mouth, our little Khloe put her hands on her hips, stomped her foot, tossed her head to one side and said rather emphatically, "Hey, Mister! We don't say that right around here!" She was referring to the word "stupid." She had been taught (very well, I might add) that word was a big no-no. One did just did not use that word.
Her Uncle Robert replied, "I think that rule is just supposed to be for little girls."
That did not deter Khloe. She said, "No, Mama said that word was bad for everybody!"
Khloe, as small as she was and as big as her Uncle Robert is, was facing her giants that day and she was undaunted. She had made her stand and dug in. As Christians, we should be ready to make our stand. We are to teach by word and by example what our beliefs are and everyone should know that our beliefs come from the Bible. When I think of this story, I can't help but think of David and Goliath. David was offended by the words of Goliath and how he was defying Israel. I Samuel 17:26b --"for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?" We all know the story - he went before the giant with only 5 stones and a sling. But David's courage came because He loved and was devoted to his God. And he could not bear the thought of someone standing up there making fun of his family and his God.
Listen to what David tells Goliath before he kills him. I Samuel 17:45 -46: "Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I willl smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel."
David's courage came from his love and devotion for God. He had a deeply rooted faith that prompted him to stand up for what he believed in -- against all odds, with no fear. Although, it wasn't on quite as grand a scale, Khloe was standing up for what she believed in too. As Christians we are supposed to stand up for what is right. So many things are going on in this dark old world that should offend us; to stand up and say:
please don't say that - or lea
n this dark world, there are so many Corinthians 15:58 tells us "to be stedfast, immovable always abounding in the work of the Lord."
In Acts 4:19 -20 Peter and John told the counsel "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." The apostles stood up for the gospel, even though they were persecuted for doing so. Paul and Silas even sang while they were in prison.
In I Corinthians 16:13 - Paul, through the Holy Spirit, tells us "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong." We are told in Ephesians 6:10 to "be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." and in verse 13 we are told to take "the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
I could go on for quite sometime with scripture reference encouraging us to be strong; to stand for God; and even to count ourselves happy as we suffer for the Lord. Paul referred to devoting his life to Christ as "fighting the good fight." This is something we can do! We will be richly rewarded. God has promised us a home with Him if we take up our cross daily.
It is not always easy, even for adults, to stand up for what we believe in. We might not be afraid of physical persecution, but we might be afraid of being made fun of or of being considered a little nutty for being so zealous. We will stumble and maybe even fall from time to time - but if we repent of our weaknesses and strive to change - Jesus will be there to pick us up, dust us off , point us in the right direction and send us on her way. We can always count on Him. He is our Redeemer, our Savior. He will be the one to say "Well done thou good and faithful servant." Won't it be wonderful to hear those words?
Christ above all things,
Robin
As soon as those words were out of his mouth, our little Khloe put her hands on her hips, stomped her foot, tossed her head to one side and said rather emphatically, "Hey, Mister! We don't say that right around here!" She was referring to the word "stupid." She had been taught (very well, I might add) that word was a big no-no. One did just did not use that word.
Her Uncle Robert replied, "I think that rule is just supposed to be for little girls."
That did not deter Khloe. She said, "No, Mama said that word was bad for everybody!"
Khloe, as small as she was and as big as her Uncle Robert is, was facing her giants that day and she was undaunted. She had made her stand and dug in. As Christians, we should be ready to make our stand. We are to teach by word and by example what our beliefs are and everyone should know that our beliefs come from the Bible. When I think of this story, I can't help but think of David and Goliath. David was offended by the words of Goliath and how he was defying Israel. I Samuel 17:26b --"for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?" We all know the story - he went before the giant with only 5 stones and a sling. But David's courage came because He loved and was devoted to his God. And he could not bear the thought of someone standing up there making fun of his family and his God.
Listen to what David tells Goliath before he kills him. I Samuel 17:45 -46: "Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I willl smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel."
David's courage came from his love and devotion for God. He had a deeply rooted faith that prompted him to stand up for what he believed in -- against all odds, with no fear. Although, it wasn't on quite as grand a scale, Khloe was standing up for what she believed in too. As Christians we are supposed to stand up for what is right. So many things are going on in this dark old world that should offend us; to stand up and say:
please don't say that - or lea
n this dark world, there are so many Corinthians 15:58 tells us "to be stedfast, immovable always abounding in the work of the Lord."
In Acts 4:19 -20 Peter and John told the counsel "Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." The apostles stood up for the gospel, even though they were persecuted for doing so. Paul and Silas even sang while they were in prison.
In I Corinthians 16:13 - Paul, through the Holy Spirit, tells us "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong." We are told in Ephesians 6:10 to "be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." and in verse 13 we are told to take "the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
I could go on for quite sometime with scripture reference encouraging us to be strong; to stand for God; and even to count ourselves happy as we suffer for the Lord. Paul referred to devoting his life to Christ as "fighting the good fight." This is something we can do! We will be richly rewarded. God has promised us a home with Him if we take up our cross daily.
It is not always easy, even for adults, to stand up for what we believe in. We might not be afraid of physical persecution, but we might be afraid of being made fun of or of being considered a little nutty for being so zealous. We will stumble and maybe even fall from time to time - but if we repent of our weaknesses and strive to change - Jesus will be there to pick us up, dust us off , point us in the right direction and send us on her way. We can always count on Him. He is our Redeemer, our Savior. He will be the one to say "Well done thou good and faithful servant." Won't it be wonderful to hear those words?
Christ above all things,
Robin
Monday, February 4, 2013
"I'm a Big Brother Now"
He was a little over three years old, so he was a student in my Bible class. Two or three weeks earlier his Mom (and Dad) brought a little baby sister home. One Sunday night before worship began, I stopped to speak to the family and to get a little peek at the new baby. As I was talking to them, I sat down and my little friend came over to give me a hug.
After he hugged me, he very sweetly said, "Guess what, Mrs. Robin? I am a big brother now."
"I know and you will be a very good big brother," I said.
"Yes, I am going to help take care of her."
" And I know you will do a very good job." He hugged me again and I got to my own seat just before services began.
My thoughts have turned back to that moment over and over since it happened. That little boy had such pride and love for his little sister. She is right about one now and so far he is still doing a great job with his baby sister. He loves her dearly. Watching them at services you can see how much joy they get from one another. And of course, this has led me to think about how we might act toward our brothers and sisters in Christ. When a new soul comes to Christ are we happy to say that we are a big brother or sister now?
For most of us, I am sure this is true. How can we help but fill joy and love over a soul who had their sins washed away? But are we still as excited about that new Christian a year later? We have young people in our congregations who will need love, support, encouragement and guidance for several years to come. They are babes in Christ who have just begun their walk with God. Are you walking along with them? Do you encourage these young people as they strive to grow in their faith and service to the Lord? Do you offer yourself to them by telling them if they ever have any questions or need any help for them to let you know? Do you congratulate them for setting a good example when they bring their friends to a church service? Sisters and brothers there is so much we can do for these young people. And believe me, they will appreciate that you care. Actually, they will probably remember these kindnesses all their lives.
What about the Christian families who move into your area and become a part of your congregation? Consider also those from the community who might be converted to the Lord, either through their own study or by the efforts of someone within your church family. Do you give an honest effort to welcome them, not only by speaking to them at services, but by calling them or sending them a card? Do you encourage them to be involved in other activities of the church? Can they tell by the way you act that you are truly happy to have them among your number?
Just as plants need a little attention in order for them to grow, so too do new Christians. Remember the words of Paul? "I have planted, Apollos watered but God gave the increase." (I Corinthians 3:6) Doesn't this verse indicate that there is a need for that watering -- for the nurturing of a new Christian? I think so. After all, Jesus Himself told us in Matthew 28:19-20 -"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." I am pretty sure that the Holy Father and Son expect us to help new Christians to grow. If we love the church and understand that "if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another," (I Jn. 4:11) then it makes perfect sense.
Let's consider a few more scriptures:
I Thess. 5:11 -- "Wherefore, comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."
Titus 2:2-4: "That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, ....That they may teach the young women t be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, .."
Romans 15:5 --"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also recieved us to the glory of God."
Romans 14:19 --"Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another."
One more here (and there are really so many more than this) Eph 4:2-3 "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
All these scriptures have something to do with the way fellow Christians should treat one another. But we didn't even discuss the scriptures that compare the church to the body of Christ. I Corinthians 12 is a chapter that stresses the importance of each member of the body --each member of the church. If we, as Christians, truly love the church -which is the body of Christ and we understand that each member is part of the same body --then we are going to do everything we can to take care of that body. So then, yes - we will be glad to help those younger Christians, pleased to teach, love and support the body of Christ -of which we are all a part.
May we all consider it an honor to be a big brother or sister in Christ. Let's be like my little friend who was so happy and proud to be a big brother. Let's have as much love for our brothers and sisters as he did. If we love Christ as we should, then we are going to want to nurture His body. Our influence is a powerful force. Please use it for good!
Christ above all things,
Robin
After he hugged me, he very sweetly said, "Guess what, Mrs. Robin? I am a big brother now."
"I know and you will be a very good big brother," I said.
"Yes, I am going to help take care of her."
" And I know you will do a very good job." He hugged me again and I got to my own seat just before services began.
My thoughts have turned back to that moment over and over since it happened. That little boy had such pride and love for his little sister. She is right about one now and so far he is still doing a great job with his baby sister. He loves her dearly. Watching them at services you can see how much joy they get from one another. And of course, this has led me to think about how we might act toward our brothers and sisters in Christ. When a new soul comes to Christ are we happy to say that we are a big brother or sister now?
For most of us, I am sure this is true. How can we help but fill joy and love over a soul who had their sins washed away? But are we still as excited about that new Christian a year later? We have young people in our congregations who will need love, support, encouragement and guidance for several years to come. They are babes in Christ who have just begun their walk with God. Are you walking along with them? Do you encourage these young people as they strive to grow in their faith and service to the Lord? Do you offer yourself to them by telling them if they ever have any questions or need any help for them to let you know? Do you congratulate them for setting a good example when they bring their friends to a church service? Sisters and brothers there is so much we can do for these young people. And believe me, they will appreciate that you care. Actually, they will probably remember these kindnesses all their lives.
What about the Christian families who move into your area and become a part of your congregation? Consider also those from the community who might be converted to the Lord, either through their own study or by the efforts of someone within your church family. Do you give an honest effort to welcome them, not only by speaking to them at services, but by calling them or sending them a card? Do you encourage them to be involved in other activities of the church? Can they tell by the way you act that you are truly happy to have them among your number?
Just as plants need a little attention in order for them to grow, so too do new Christians. Remember the words of Paul? "I have planted, Apollos watered but God gave the increase." (I Corinthians 3:6) Doesn't this verse indicate that there is a need for that watering -- for the nurturing of a new Christian? I think so. After all, Jesus Himself told us in Matthew 28:19-20 -"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." I am pretty sure that the Holy Father and Son expect us to help new Christians to grow. If we love the church and understand that "if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another," (I Jn. 4:11) then it makes perfect sense.
Let's consider a few more scriptures:
I Thess. 5:11 -- "Wherefore, comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do."
Titus 2:2-4: "That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, ....That they may teach the young women t be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, .."
Romans 15:5 --"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also recieved us to the glory of God."
Romans 14:19 --"Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another."
One more here (and there are really so many more than this) Eph 4:2-3 "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
All these scriptures have something to do with the way fellow Christians should treat one another. But we didn't even discuss the scriptures that compare the church to the body of Christ. I Corinthians 12 is a chapter that stresses the importance of each member of the body --each member of the church. If we, as Christians, truly love the church -which is the body of Christ and we understand that each member is part of the same body --then we are going to do everything we can to take care of that body. So then, yes - we will be glad to help those younger Christians, pleased to teach, love and support the body of Christ -of which we are all a part.
May we all consider it an honor to be a big brother or sister in Christ. Let's be like my little friend who was so happy and proud to be a big brother. Let's have as much love for our brothers and sisters as he did. If we love Christ as we should, then we are going to want to nurture His body. Our influence is a powerful force. Please use it for good!
Christ above all things,
Robin
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Take the Time to Pray
I would like to share another poem I wrote. This one on prayer.
Take the Time to Pray
The most important words spoken each day
are the ones we use when we pray.
For when we to turn to Him in prayer
it is our God who meets us there.
As our Father, He longs for us to share
all our troubles and all our cares.
He loves to hear about good times too -
for He is the One who gives those to you!
God listens with such love and grace;
and we can talk to Him at any time, in any place!
Even when we don't know just what to say
the Spirit gives our words to God that day.
The best way to start each day
is to take the time to pray.
Mostly I do, but I must confess. I'm sad to say
that I don't always start my day this way.
Do you think my God wonders why
I foolishly let the chance go by
to tell Him what's on my heart -
to give my day the best possible start?
Talking to God keeps us close.
Prayer helps my faith to grow.
I thank Him for all He has given me
including His Son who died to set me free.
I ask forgiveness for the wrongs I've done
and beg Him to keep me from the evil one.
And when my prayer comes to an end.
I'm so glad I have spoken with my Best Friend.
I cannot help but be both humbled and amazed
that my great God longs to hear me pray.
Yet the most important words I speak each day
are the ones I choose to send God's way.
So please take the time to pray
each and every single day!
Christ above all things,
Robin
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Woo Hoo!
Woo Hoo! God loves me and God loves you. This thought should give us tremendous joy! Christians are supposed to be a happy and thankful people. We have so much to be thankful for. First of all, our God and Savior created the beautiful world we live in. All we have to do is step outside and look around us to see the majesty and glory of God's creation. What a blessing to have such a lovely world to live in! This is just my opinion, but I believe that God not only made it this way for us to enjoy now, but also so we would understand and imagine (as many of us do) that if earth is this beautiful, how much more beautiful will heaven be? Woo hoo! It gives us hope and helps us understand that living for God faithfully will be well worth it.
As Christians, we are also thankful that "God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. That word should is conditional. We have a choice to make. Each of us do. "Should not perish" is not a promise. It implicates action propelled by our belief. That is our choice - to have the kind of belief that compels us to love Him enough to obey His commandments. You see Jesus tells us in verse 17 "For God sent not His son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through might be saved." Jesus says we might be saved --another conditional word. Another implication that a choice is involved in obeying Him - from believe to repentance, confession, baptism and living a faithful life of following Him.
So we read of the great love He has toward us; but can we even begin to comprehend why or how God could give His Son for the whole world of sinners? It is also difficult to take in the fact that Jesus Himself was willing to go through the pain and agony of the crucifixion. The sacrifice of Christ should grieve our hearts when we think that our sins are what put Him on the cross. At the same time, we are to be eternally grateful for the awesome gift of His blood for the washing away of our sins. As we reflect on our sins, hopefully we repent, obey and then rejoice in our salvation. After all, the angels in heaven rejoice over sinners who repent. We can never be thankful enough. We can however understand that His death for us causes us to "present our bodies as a living sacrifice." Romans 12:1 Since Christ died for us, how can we do anything else except LIVE FOR HIM?
The resurrection of our Christ is a third reason for rejoicing in thanksgiving. Yes Jesus suffered death on the cross and we should remember that no other religion has as their founder someone who died for our sins and they certainly have no one who conquered death and rose to live again! The resurrection of our Lord is the final triumph over Satan. It is the anchor of our hope. Christ still lives; just as God is the one and only true and living God. Christ promises us that we will live too - if we follow Him. If we allow Him to reign in our lives now - He will allow us to live with Him in eternity as He reigns in heaven. Woo hoo! Isn't that a wonderful thought?
Think about the good news of the gospel. Remember how excited and full of the Spirit the apostles were in the book of Acts. Remember how the first Christians ate their meat with gladness and singleness of heart? Why? Well, Peter tells them why -- Acts 2:24 "whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it." Acts 2:36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ." The resurrection of Christ is truly a cause for great joy! He is on the right hand of God, who has put all things under His feet and He is waiting for us to join Him there!
The rejoicing doesn't stop here. Jesus' blood was also shed to build His church, established on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. The church was established so that we would not be alone in our beliefs and so that we would have others to worship with, to fellowship with, to help us fight our spiritual battles, to help us grow our faith. Yes, God and Jesus knew what they were doing when they built the church. We can rejoice in the majesty and omniscience of God for understanding that we would need support as faced living in the world every day.
Yet another cause for great joy -- for our feeling of great happiness -- for our woo hoo --is the fact that Jesus promised us an abundant life. Jesus gives us this promise in John 10:10 - "The thief cometh not but for to steal and destroy: I am come that they might have life and have it more abundantly." Now, I know that Jesus has promised us an abundant eternal life, but I think this verse also refers to our life here on earth. I believe this with all my heart because I have experienced it first hand! OK, you might be saying, "Now Robin - why do you say that? Did you come into a bunch of money or find the fountain of youth or what?" The answer of course is no. I am not financially wealthy - - far from it. And I am getting older every day just like the rest of you. I have simply experienced the incredible joy of serving our Lord!
I have seen prayers answered which has built up my faith. I have experienced the joy of watching people give their life over to Christ as they are baptized to become Christians. I have fallen in love with the Word of God. I have had the opportunity of being kind and helping others from time to time and through this I have learned it truly is more blessed to give than recieve. The older I get the more I understand that living the Christian life is the absolute best life to live. Great joy and happiness are found in walking with the Master. That is the abundant life!
So you see, whatever happens as we live out here in this dark old world, we can find joy in Christ. The apostles faced persecution from the world. Yet they were thankful and found joy even in their persecutions. That is what Paul means when he tells us to Rejoice always! - which is a commandment by the way. You see, God wants us to have woo hoo moments in our lives. Those who find joy in Christ are mindful of Him (and God) as our creator. They are thankful for and truly enjoy the beauty of God's creation. They are humbled because of Jesus' great sacrifice, yet find joy in the fact that His sacrifice takes our sins away. They get so excited when they think of the resurrection of Jesus and the promise that brings. They have experienced the abundant life. No wonder they are joyful and happy.
So what about you? Do you have that kind of joy? Are you living the abundant life?
And can you woo hoo?
Christ above all things,
Robin
As Christians, we are also thankful that "God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. That word should is conditional. We have a choice to make. Each of us do. "Should not perish" is not a promise. It implicates action propelled by our belief. That is our choice - to have the kind of belief that compels us to love Him enough to obey His commandments. You see Jesus tells us in verse 17 "For God sent not His son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through might be saved." Jesus says we might be saved --another conditional word. Another implication that a choice is involved in obeying Him - from believe to repentance, confession, baptism and living a faithful life of following Him.
So we read of the great love He has toward us; but can we even begin to comprehend why or how God could give His Son for the whole world of sinners? It is also difficult to take in the fact that Jesus Himself was willing to go through the pain and agony of the crucifixion. The sacrifice of Christ should grieve our hearts when we think that our sins are what put Him on the cross. At the same time, we are to be eternally grateful for the awesome gift of His blood for the washing away of our sins. As we reflect on our sins, hopefully we repent, obey and then rejoice in our salvation. After all, the angels in heaven rejoice over sinners who repent. We can never be thankful enough. We can however understand that His death for us causes us to "present our bodies as a living sacrifice." Romans 12:1 Since Christ died for us, how can we do anything else except LIVE FOR HIM?
The resurrection of our Christ is a third reason for rejoicing in thanksgiving. Yes Jesus suffered death on the cross and we should remember that no other religion has as their founder someone who died for our sins and they certainly have no one who conquered death and rose to live again! The resurrection of our Lord is the final triumph over Satan. It is the anchor of our hope. Christ still lives; just as God is the one and only true and living God. Christ promises us that we will live too - if we follow Him. If we allow Him to reign in our lives now - He will allow us to live with Him in eternity as He reigns in heaven. Woo hoo! Isn't that a wonderful thought?
Think about the good news of the gospel. Remember how excited and full of the Spirit the apostles were in the book of Acts. Remember how the first Christians ate their meat with gladness and singleness of heart? Why? Well, Peter tells them why -- Acts 2:24 "whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it." Acts 2:36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus whom ye crucified, both Lord and Christ." The resurrection of Christ is truly a cause for great joy! He is on the right hand of God, who has put all things under His feet and He is waiting for us to join Him there!
The rejoicing doesn't stop here. Jesus' blood was also shed to build His church, established on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. The church was established so that we would not be alone in our beliefs and so that we would have others to worship with, to fellowship with, to help us fight our spiritual battles, to help us grow our faith. Yes, God and Jesus knew what they were doing when they built the church. We can rejoice in the majesty and omniscience of God for understanding that we would need support as faced living in the world every day.
Yet another cause for great joy -- for our feeling of great happiness -- for our woo hoo --is the fact that Jesus promised us an abundant life. Jesus gives us this promise in John 10:10 - "The thief cometh not but for to steal and destroy: I am come that they might have life and have it more abundantly." Now, I know that Jesus has promised us an abundant eternal life, but I think this verse also refers to our life here on earth. I believe this with all my heart because I have experienced it first hand! OK, you might be saying, "Now Robin - why do you say that? Did you come into a bunch of money or find the fountain of youth or what?" The answer of course is no. I am not financially wealthy - - far from it. And I am getting older every day just like the rest of you. I have simply experienced the incredible joy of serving our Lord!
I have seen prayers answered which has built up my faith. I have experienced the joy of watching people give their life over to Christ as they are baptized to become Christians. I have fallen in love with the Word of God. I have had the opportunity of being kind and helping others from time to time and through this I have learned it truly is more blessed to give than recieve. The older I get the more I understand that living the Christian life is the absolute best life to live. Great joy and happiness are found in walking with the Master. That is the abundant life!
So you see, whatever happens as we live out here in this dark old world, we can find joy in Christ. The apostles faced persecution from the world. Yet they were thankful and found joy even in their persecutions. That is what Paul means when he tells us to Rejoice always! - which is a commandment by the way. You see, God wants us to have woo hoo moments in our lives. Those who find joy in Christ are mindful of Him (and God) as our creator. They are thankful for and truly enjoy the beauty of God's creation. They are humbled because of Jesus' great sacrifice, yet find joy in the fact that His sacrifice takes our sins away. They get so excited when they think of the resurrection of Jesus and the promise that brings. They have experienced the abundant life. No wonder they are joyful and happy.
So what about you? Do you have that kind of joy? Are you living the abundant life?
And can you woo hoo?
Christ above all things,
Robin
Friday, February 1, 2013
Favorites
Have you ever known someone that makes you feel better simply by being around them? Hopefully, you know several people like this. These people are naturally gifted at making others feel special. They seem to have this uncanny way of always saying just the right thing at just the right time. They are the folks who are always happy to see you. They are cheerful and always encouraging. You can't help but smile when you think of them.
Do you ever think about why people are like this? Well, for one thing they are Christians who love God and have allowed Christ to reign in their hearts. I am reminded of the children's song: "Love is a flag that's flown in the castle of my heart, the castle of my heart, the castle of my heart; love is a flag that's flown in the castle of my heart and the King is in residence there." Those who are able to make others feel special have allowed the love of God into their hearts. They let that love fly high and have placed the King of Kings in residence of their hearts. You see these Christians have learned how much God loves them. They realize that God's love has given them the hope of salvation and they acted on that faith by obeying God and becoming one of His children. In so doing, they have come to understand the love God has for the whole world. Christ the King does literally live in their hearts, for as Christians we are baptized into Christ. So you see these people are full of the love of God.
Naturally, being full like that effects the way they feel about themselves. They have come to understand that they have been bought with a precious price - which is the blood of Christ. When someone is full like that it shows. They can't help but let it show. They are joyful and happy people and they share that joy and happiness with others.
OK, now let's quit saying "they" and start saying "we." As Christians we should all strive to be this kind of person. I know some are not as vocal as others. Some enjoy meeting and greeting large groups of people; others are more reserved and like to stand a little closer to the shadows. That is fine -- that doesn't matter. We don't have to be the life of the party to treat as others as we should; to greet people with warmth and a smile, and maybe a hug for those we know well enough. It is not about being the extrovert; it is simply about being Christ like -- about being a blessing to others.
As Christians full of the love of God, we should be happy to allow Christ to reign in our hearts. As we grow in this knowledge and increase our faith we will begin to see others as God sees them. And let me tell you, to God everyone is special. We begin to really understand that as personal as our relationship is with God, His love extends to every individual. He loves us all and He is not willing that any should perish. Once we see people the way
God does --with this immeasurable love, the seeing leads to a changed way of thinking, which leads to a changed way of acting and before we know it -- we become one of those cheerful, loving and caring persons that others that everyone loves to be around.
It's a beautiful never ending circle. We love God because He first loved us. We keep His commands because we love Him. One of these commands is to love our neighbor. We understand that loving your neighbor means treating everyone with love and respect. God says that people will know us because of our love for one another.
I remember once having the opportunity after morning services to sit with one of the more senior ladies of our congregation. She was the type of person who was always so very encouraging to everyone she met. She was a special lady that I just loved to be around. That day, she was telling me she loved me and talking about what a good job I do as a Bible class teacher. Well, she was just encouraging me in her own very special way.
As we were talking a young person walked by and spoke to us. I said something about the young man being so nice and she said "Oh yes, he is one my favorites." A few minutes later another person walked by and spoke to us. As they did so, this good sister said --"Oh, she is so sweet and always so polite - she is one of my favorites." Well, it didn't take me long to understand that to this lady everybody was her favorite.
I know that might sound silly to some of you to think that everybody in her church family was one of her favorites; but it's really not hard to understand if you think about it. You see, this wonderful Christian lady was full of the love of God. And when you are that full, you can understand God's love toward others and realize that to God - we are all His favorites. So she being a daughter of God had opened her eyes enough to grasp this concept and act upon it.
Now let's bring this on home ....as Christians we are to strive to grow toward that attitude. We are to stive to be like Christ. He is definitely who we should model our lives after. And the multitudes loved being around Jesus. They thronged Him because He gave them comfort and hope and made them feel special. Everyone should be a favorite to us because that is how our God and our Christ see those that love and follow them.
Doesn't it feel grand to know you are one of His favorites? And because you are -- take the time to give others that special feeling.
Christ above all things,
Robin
Do you ever think about why people are like this? Well, for one thing they are Christians who love God and have allowed Christ to reign in their hearts. I am reminded of the children's song: "Love is a flag that's flown in the castle of my heart, the castle of my heart, the castle of my heart; love is a flag that's flown in the castle of my heart and the King is in residence there." Those who are able to make others feel special have allowed the love of God into their hearts. They let that love fly high and have placed the King of Kings in residence of their hearts. You see these Christians have learned how much God loves them. They realize that God's love has given them the hope of salvation and they acted on that faith by obeying God and becoming one of His children. In so doing, they have come to understand the love God has for the whole world. Christ the King does literally live in their hearts, for as Christians we are baptized into Christ. So you see these people are full of the love of God.
Naturally, being full like that effects the way they feel about themselves. They have come to understand that they have been bought with a precious price - which is the blood of Christ. When someone is full like that it shows. They can't help but let it show. They are joyful and happy people and they share that joy and happiness with others.
OK, now let's quit saying "they" and start saying "we." As Christians we should all strive to be this kind of person. I know some are not as vocal as others. Some enjoy meeting and greeting large groups of people; others are more reserved and like to stand a little closer to the shadows. That is fine -- that doesn't matter. We don't have to be the life of the party to treat as others as we should; to greet people with warmth and a smile, and maybe a hug for those we know well enough. It is not about being the extrovert; it is simply about being Christ like -- about being a blessing to others.
As Christians full of the love of God, we should be happy to allow Christ to reign in our hearts. As we grow in this knowledge and increase our faith we will begin to see others as God sees them. And let me tell you, to God everyone is special. We begin to really understand that as personal as our relationship is with God, His love extends to every individual. He loves us all and He is not willing that any should perish. Once we see people the way
God does --with this immeasurable love, the seeing leads to a changed way of thinking, which leads to a changed way of acting and before we know it -- we become one of those cheerful, loving and caring persons that others that everyone loves to be around.
It's a beautiful never ending circle. We love God because He first loved us. We keep His commands because we love Him. One of these commands is to love our neighbor. We understand that loving your neighbor means treating everyone with love and respect. God says that people will know us because of our love for one another.
I remember once having the opportunity after morning services to sit with one of the more senior ladies of our congregation. She was the type of person who was always so very encouraging to everyone she met. She was a special lady that I just loved to be around. That day, she was telling me she loved me and talking about what a good job I do as a Bible class teacher. Well, she was just encouraging me in her own very special way.
As we were talking a young person walked by and spoke to us. I said something about the young man being so nice and she said "Oh yes, he is one my favorites." A few minutes later another person walked by and spoke to us. As they did so, this good sister said --"Oh, she is so sweet and always so polite - she is one of my favorites." Well, it didn't take me long to understand that to this lady everybody was her favorite.
I know that might sound silly to some of you to think that everybody in her church family was one of her favorites; but it's really not hard to understand if you think about it. You see, this wonderful Christian lady was full of the love of God. And when you are that full, you can understand God's love toward others and realize that to God - we are all His favorites. So she being a daughter of God had opened her eyes enough to grasp this concept and act upon it.
Now let's bring this on home ....as Christians we are to strive to grow toward that attitude. We are to stive to be like Christ. He is definitely who we should model our lives after. And the multitudes loved being around Jesus. They thronged Him because He gave them comfort and hope and made them feel special. Everyone should be a favorite to us because that is how our God and our Christ see those that love and follow them.
Doesn't it feel grand to know you are one of His favorites? And because you are -- take the time to give others that special feeling.
Christ above all things,
Robin
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