Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor. 15:58

design

Friday, September 30, 2011

day 103: A Time to Sing :)

Psalm 71:22
Then I will praise you with music on the harp, because you are faithful to your promises, O my God. I will sing praises to you with a lyre, O Holy One of Israel.


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As my 4 year old says, I have a song in my heart.  This is a song that we have on CD in the car and listen to it all the time.  As I was driving home from work today, I was singing it--- loudly--- and probably not in tune, but I didn't care.  And I know God didn't either.

Do you ever just sing out in random times?

My little kids at school do all of the time.  The songs range from "I Like to Move It" to "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star".  We also get the occassional "Jesus Loves Me" while someone is coloring.

The point is that no matter what/where we are, if God has put a song in your heart--- sing it :) 

If you can't sing.. sing anyway. :) 

If you are typing a blog and can't sing.... link a youtube page ;)

I LOVE this song :)  I had no idea what the title of it was until I found it tonight (Thanks God :) )

Anyway.... I hope you have a way to listen to it-- it has the lyrics with it so you can sing along :)  Turn up the volume and let it rip :)

I should probably say that I didn't make this video. I just found it. 

God Bless You :) 

Kelly

Thursday, September 29, 2011

day 102: Your Word...

James 5:12
But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by Heaven or Earth or anything else.  Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.

***************************

I'm sure you have heard all about not swearing.  Well, here is a verse that talks about it. 

Sometimes when we feel like others aren't listening to us, it's easy to say something quick like, "I swear to God." or  "I promise on my life that--"

God doesn't really like it when we do that.

If you say something like that, and it doesn't come true-- then it looks like you are a liar. If it does come true, then you have still gotten in the habit of doing it-- and next time it might not come true.

Let your reputation be so pure that your yeses and nos are all you need in this life.  If you have a good reputation and you say yes, you will do something, then that's good enough for some people.  But once you break that-- it is hard to get the trust back.

Instead of using big words and loud banter to get your point across (and also using 'oaths' or 'swearing'), le'ts let our reputation and our character speak for ourselves.

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

day 101: Trusting and Endurance

Revelations 14:12
This means that God's holy people must endure persecution patiently, obeying his commands and maintaining their faith in Jesus.

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Ah, Patience... that mose awesome of virtues.  Not easy at all.

It is so easy to get discouraged.  It's easy to see the way things are around us-- the world-- and start to lose faith. 

But, the good news is that we know the ending of this 'story'.  We know how it is going to end.  And it ends with God winning.

No matter what we go through in life, it is nothing compared to what God/Jesus has gone through.  When we have bad days (and yeah, I know a thing or two about those lol), we know that we dust ourselves off, obey God's commands, and keep our faith in Jesus because, ultimately, in the end, that's all that matters.

The secret to enduring (according to my study Bible) is having trust in God, and obedience in His word. 

If we put our trust in God, even the small persecutions won't bother us because we know that 1) It is all for God. 2) God is in control of everything--- even those who don't know they are being controled by Him.

Patience is hard.  But when we put our faith in God, it becomes easier.

God Bless You!

Kelly


Tuesday, September 27, 2011

day 100: What we need....

Luke 12:31-32
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.  So don't be afraid, little flock.  For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.

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Would we worry so much if we truly believed that God would provide everything we needed? 

That's a loaded question, ain't it? lol

I'm kinda bad about this if you want me to be honest.  I'm a worrier.  I'm better than I used to be, but still--- when I see the bank account going down, I get a bit freaked out.

I know that it makes God happy to give me everything I need-- but sometimes things I 'think' I need aren't really needs at all.  They are most defintely wants, but at the time I'm convinced they are needs. 

What are our needs?  Food, clothes, shelter.

That's it.  As long as God provides those 3 things for us, then we are set.  The rest is just extra. 

But how many of us just give our kids food,  clothing, and shelter?  we give them much more because we love them--- and we are God's kids whom He loves very much. 

There are certain situations that I don't know what the outcome will be.  The unknown tends to make a person nervous-- but God is the one who knows and who provides.  Trusting in him is the only way to truly have peace.

**I couldn't write this without acknowledging that this is day 100!!  Wow.  I can't thank God enough for letting me write these.  I sure couldn't think of them all on my own.  He is awesome :).  I wish I had something I could give you faithful readers-- but I have nothing-- so here is my love and admiration.  I'd type these anyway since I promised God I would, but it does help reading your comments and how they are helping you in your lives.  You have all encouraged me so much.  Thanks-- and here is to 265 (+) more :)

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Monday, September 26, 2011

day 99: God's Masterpiece

Do you know what God's masterpiece is?

Think really long and hard about it.  Do you have any idea in this entire world (filled with spectacular mountain views, glorious rivers, amazing wonders) what God's masterpiece is?....


Ephesians 2:10
For *we* are God's masterpiece.  He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.

Yeap...

We...

Us.

Humans...

Are God's Masterpiece!

When I think of Masterpiece I think of a great painting (well, actually I think of the cartoon Olivia because that's where my middle daughter got the word from and calls all of her painting 'masterpieces'... but I digress...).

If I were to think of God's masterpiece I would (in my human mind) think of a beautiful mountain..




Or a wide ocean.




I would have never have imagined that God's Masterpiece was this....

(Ok, that was me about 3 years ago when my hair was shorter... and there wasn't as much of me ;) )

Yeap... THAT is God's Masterpiece.

And you are too!

Insert your picture here.

God sure didn't make any mistakes and you are exactly the person He wanted you to be (How's that for encouragement? :) )

God created us new when we invite Jesus in our heart so we can do all of the good things God has planned for us.

Oh yes, God has plans for us (eek :) ).  But they have to be Good plans since they come from God :)

Masterpiece, you are awesome :)  You rock!  You are terrific!  You are YOU for a very important reason.

Because God made you that way.

Now.... Go and do what God has planned for you :)

God Bless you :)

Kelly

Sunday, September 25, 2011

day 98: s song to stick in your head

Psalm 84:10
A single day in your courts
is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.

**************************

Life here on Earth is a short thing.

Even if we live to be 102, it is still a drop in the bucket of 'eternity'.

The Psalmist here is saying that he would rather spend just one day with God, than a thousand anywhere else.  One day with God meant that much to Him.

Then he said that he would just like to be the gatekeeper of God's house than live in a mansion with the wicked.

I've heard people say before that they don't care if they have to sleep in a box by the river in Heaven as long as they were there.  I'm kinda that way.  I don't have to have a mansion. I don't have to have anything really. I just want to make it through those Pearly Gates.  Knowing me, I'll be sweating bullets trying to think of all the things I 'may' have done wrong before I have to see St. Peter-- Getting ready for the 'exam' as it were lol.

I'll be happy just to be there-- I'd be the gatekeeper or the shoe shine girl.  Not that I think God would do that to me, but I would gladly be ok with it if He did.

It is better to be the lowliest person in Heaven as the Top man in Hell.

Do you ever think about Heaven?  What will it look like?  What will it be like?  I know, I'm the one that doesn't like talking about Heaven and dying, but sometimes I do start wondering. 

I'm sure our little minds can't even imagine it.  Some how, I don't suspect it will be as white as they made it out on 'Bill and Teds Bogus Journey' ;).... but I could be wrong...

AND because I KNOW it got stuck in  your head after you read today's verse--- here ya go....



Now the song can get stuck in your head... which isn't entirely a bad thing ;)

God Bless you!  Happy Sunday. 

Kelly


Saturday, September 24, 2011

day 97: Nothing is Useless

1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable.  Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

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Have you ever felt useless?

It's not the greatest feeling ever. 

If you have some sort of ministry you felt led to do-- but it doesn't seem to be going anywhere-- you can feel useless.  It is so easy to let the Devil tell you that you aren't important.  That you don't matter.  That these 'other' people have much better ministries that you.  That you aren't doing anything for God.  That you aren't doing what He wants... etc.

What has the Devil been telling you?

Has he been telling you that whatever it is that you are doing isn't enough?  Is he telling you that your ministry isn't big enough and that you might as well quit???

Well, this is a good verse to throw right back at him!! 

NOTHING YOU DO FOR THE LORD IS EVER USELESS!

How is that for spelled out plain and to the point?!

Your 'little' ministry...

Your 'tiny' blog....

Your 'itsy' bible study.....

Your 'small' devotional time with God every day...


Your 'bitty' food collection program....

That are NOT useless to God.  He appreciates every second we spend with him/telling others about Him. He never said you had to preach to thousands (one person is enough for him)--- and he never said that your writing had to touch 1000 people-- He just said to obey Him and do His will. 

To God, one soul is as important as 1000.  If you reach out to one person and help them be saved--- God appreciates that.  He counts that as a victory.  If you have one follower/reader on a blog you've been writing for 10 years-- don't get disheartened.  You are doing God's will-- God's work and you might be the ONLY person getting through to that person.

We don't need big congregations, large rooms, successful blogs, etc to be important to God.  Whatever He has led you to do, do so enthusiastically :)  Be happy about it (This is the time I should probably appoligize for yesterday's post... I was 'not' my best self :( ) 

One person is as important as one thousand.  One soul as important as the World.  YES, we should try to get more people to God-- should try to grow-- but the growing isn't the point.  It is the message behind the growing that really counts.  It's that we deliver the message God wants whether it be to 1 or 1,000,0000,000. 

Do you ever feel like what you are doing isn't enough?  Like you should be doing more?  OR maybe that you aren't doing the right thing because your ministry isn't growing/working/successful in your eyes?

As long as you do it for God, it is a good thing.  Don't let the Devil convince you otherwise.

God Bless You :)  Enjoy your day.  Do something for God and be excited about it :)

Kelly

Friday, September 23, 2011

day 96: When you aren't your best self....

Psalm 34:1-3
I will praise the Lord in all times.
I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord.
let all who are helpless take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness;
let us exalt his name together.

**************************************

I'm going to be as honest as I can be---- I've not been my best self today.

To be honest, I've been a bit aggitated.

More aggitated than I really like to be.

I don't know why-- well I kinda do, but it's nothing I really want to type about.

To be truthful, I didn't really want to type this up--- that's a lie again. I DID want to type it, but I didn't know what to say.  Ever have those days when you know you haven't been your best self-- and then you have no idea what to say to encourage someone?

I don't believe I've said many nice words to my husband today (you know, if he could read my mind, it would be awesome lol).

I've used the "Im tired"excuse until I'm tired of it (for many different occassions lol).

BUT, I know that it will be ok.  Tomorrow (God willing), the sun will come up.  The birds will sing.  And I'll have a chance to have a better day-- I'll have another chance to do things differently-- to watch my tongue-- I'll have another chance to not feel bad at the end of the day.

And of course, (looking at the bright side) I'll have another day to make mistakes--- to do things wrong--- and to say the wrong things.

Life is nothing if not interesting lol.

SO, if you have had a bad day today (or if you did yesterday)... you, me, and the world needs to know that it is just one day.  In the entire scheme of life, one day is just 24 hours.  Not long at all.  Tomorrow will be better. 

Onward and upward--

It will be ok.

Life goes on.

God forgives--- and so should you :)

(Sorry for the ramble--- )

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Lets make today the best of the entire week :)


Thursday, September 22, 2011

day 95: Even Paul

Romans 7:21-23
I have discovered this principle of life-- that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.  I love God's law with all my heart.  But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind.  This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.

**************************************

This isn't the best written one of these that I've ever done (sorry about that), but I really would like you to look past that (please...) and look at the verse.  God lead me to this last night and it has become one of my favorite verses..... There is your disclaimer ;)....


------------------
I had no idea that Paul felt this way.

It is so--- human.

And so much like me.

Its funny how I never thought of Paul having doubts-- of having 'sin' in his life..... but he did.  He had the exact same thoughts and doubts that we have. 

I believe that his 'principle of life' is right.  I know for me the more I want to do what is right, the more I do what is wrong.  Vicious cycle and all that.

If one of the greatest apostles in the entire world did what was wrong and had wars in his mind, then I (er.. us) shouldn't beat ourselves up when we slip.  We shouldn't give up just because we mess up.  We "aren't the only ones".

This verse did my heart good.  I hope it did yours too.

God Bless You!

Kelly

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Day 94: Tear your heart: Not your clothes

Joel 2:12-13

That is why the Lord  says,
"Turn to me now, while there is time.
Give me your hearts.
Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.
Don't tear your clothing in your grief,
but tear your hearts instead.

***************************************

Part of me is sorry that this is kinda of another 'not so uplifting' post.  But only a part of me because the other part is so touched by this verse-- and am so happy that God led me to it.  I nearly have tears as I write this (I could be a *bit* emotional....)

I want to focus on the last 2 lines-- "Don't tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead."

If you read the Old Testament, lots of times people got very upset and tore their clothes in grief.  Mordecai did in Esther when King Xerxes ordered all Jews killed.  It was a pretty common thing to do in grief. It was an outward symbol of an inward feeling.

It was mainly for show--- or it could be used in such a way.

Sometimes, people show grief outwardly because they feel they have too. I'm not saying that Mordecai did that, but sometimes people go through the motions of outward mourning because it is what you are 'supposed' to do.  Some (not all) send Sympathy cards, send food, wear black more from tradition than from grief.  Sure they are grieved-- but the outward symbols are more a sense of "what I'm supposed to do".

God doesn't care if you wear black at a funeral.  It doesn't matter to him if you wear brown sackcloth and don't cut your hair.  What he DOES care about is your heart.

The main thing I got out of these verses is that God cares about what is in your heart much more than how you show yourself outwardly.  He focuses on the inside-- not on the outside.  If you've done something wrong and feel bad about it, don't just go through the motions of someone who is sorry-- REALLY be sorry.  REALLY 'tear your heart' and truly feel it inside.  No one else has to know.  It doesn't have to be a big production.  But it means everything to God.

God Bless you :)

Kelly

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Day 93: It's Ok To be Happy

Psalm 92:4
You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me!
I sing for joy because of what you have done.

***************

Lets get this point out of the way first......

It is OK to be happy!

Sometimes, we feel guilty for being happy...

Do you ever feel like that?

Like someone you know is going through a hard time, but something good is happening to you-- we (or I) sometimes feel bad by being happy for the good things happening to ourselves.

It is great to feel empathy for people.  We should always empathize with others and the situations in their lives.  But that doesn't mean that we can't be happy with things going on with us-- with the blessings we have.

I remember after Sept. 11, 2001, one of the big questions was, "When it is ok to be happy again?"  Babies were being born.  People were getting married.  Women were getting postive pregnancy tests.  Men were getting cured of cancer.  *GOOD* things were still happening, but people felt a bit uneasy about being happy because of what had happened to the country.

God wants us to feel for the ones who are facing difficulties-- but He also wants us to have joy. 

And if something is happening in your own life, and you don't know if it is 'ok' to be happy-- just know that it is.  It is good to laugh.  It is good to watch a funny movie or laugh at a joke.

It is OK to be happy :)

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Monday, September 19, 2011

Day 92: The Lord will Watch over you..

Psalm 121: 1-8

I looked up to the mountains--
does my help come from there?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.

He will not let you stumble;
the one who watches over you will not slumber.
Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.

The Lord himself watches over you!
The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.
The sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon at night.

The Lord keeps you from all harm.
and watches over your life.
The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever.

******************************

When we are tired-- God is just getting started.

When we are fearful-- God is watching over us.

When we don't see a way out-- God makes a door.

When we stub our proverbial toe, God keeps us from stumbling.

God is with us when we don't realize it-- and hears us when we pray.

Have you thanked God today for all of the things He's done for you? 

Have a great Monday :)

God Bless You :)

Kelly

***I am so excited!  Pam from http://www.2encourage.blogspot.com/ has Encourage 365 as her featured blog this week.  Thank you so much, Pam, for showcasing this little blog-- and I'm so glad that it touches you :)


Sunday, September 18, 2011

Day 91: Um... is it a sin?

Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.

Point out anything in me that offends you,
and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

********************

A lot of times, people wonder, "What exactly is sin?  Am I sinning and don't even know it?"

I was watching some videos on youtube from a preacher that dealt with sin (well what exactly is sin when it comes to the "bedroom".)  I'm  not going to get into that or link them because they weren't "bad", but he didn't mince words lol.

Anyway, it got me to thinking about if we know exactly what sin is.  Sure we know the biggies: don't murder, don't cheat, don't lie, don't steal, honor your parents, rest on the Sabbath, don't have idols, don't covet, etc.. but what about the ones that aren't exactly spelled out for us.

Is telling a dirty joke a sin?

Is calling someone a name a sin?

Is it a sin to lust after pictures of celebrities?

Is it sinful to watch shows that deal with immoral characters?

Is it a sin to wear a bikini at the pool?

To be honest, I don't have all the answers. I'm not 100% sure on some of those questions if it is a sin or not.

I have found that a good golden rule when considering "Is it a sin?" is to think 2 questions....

1) Why am I convicted into even questioning it?
Sometimes we question because we know in our heart that it is wrong-- but we want to do it anyway. I have actually had the thought before (honestly), "I hope God doesn't convict me of this show-- I really like it and don't want to give it up."
Sigh.
Yeah.
And you know what happened, right? Kelly got convicted lol. Our heart knows more than our brain-- because our brain wants to talk us out of it (or into it in certain situations)

2) Would I do it if I were standing in front of God?
If you wouldn't tell a dirty joke standing in front of the Almighty, then I dare say I wouldn't tell one to a friend because God is everywhere.  I have found that if I think of it that way-- that God is everywhere I am, then I'm less likely to do anything like that...

Notice I said 'LESS' likely.  Doesn't mean that I don't slip.  And God understands that.  We are human after all.  However, when we do, we need to say, "I'm sorry, God. Please forgive me." and don't dwell on it.  Try not to do it again, but don't beat yourself up either.

You've heard that saying, "Would you kiss your Mama with that mouth?".  Think instead, "Would I talk to Jesus with this mouth?"

The answers to these questions are personal.  I can't tell you if a bikini is a sin-- or if watching a certain show is bad.  It is something you have to ask yourself, pray about, and answer for yourself.  I can tell you that these 2 questions do work.  I've started using them and it really makes you think about things.

Remember, Jesus is always with you--- through the good, the bad, the ugly (and the dirty jokes....)

God Bless You!

Kelly

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Day 90: The Lord's Thoughts

Hebrews 11:33-35
Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways?
For who can know the Lord's thoughts?
Who knows enough to give Him advice?
And who has giving Him so much
that He needs to pay Him us back?

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Ok, I have to admit that this, part of this verse made me laugh-- at myself ;)

"Who knows enough to give Him advice?

Well, apparently *I* do-- or rather, I think I do.

If you are like me, you are a planner. I like to know exactly when, where, and what is going to happen. That is just how it is with me.  One of my girls is worse than I am about it.

SO-- sometimes I have a problem. It could be big or little-- doesn't matter.  But of course *I* (being all smart and all) work out the solution in my head and THEN pray to God that what *I* have figured out will happen.

Basically, I'm doing His job for Him.

I have thought for God-- I've made his decision for Him because I know SOOO much more than him (or so I think at the time).

And THEN, yeap, I get mad because what *I* have figured out (in my limited wisdom) hasn't come to pass.

I can just picture God, looking down on me, shaking His head, saying, "Oh Girl, you have a lot to learn."

Are you like that?  Do you give God advice? "Ok, God. I know I'm not You but if I *were* you, I'd definitely make me missions director at church.  You know that its something I'm good at." Or "Ok God, I have this job offer.  I know I want to take it, but I just wanted to make sure its what You want..... so give me a sign." Then the sign doesn't come and we get mad at God for forgetting us.

God knows much more than we know.  Our thoughts pale so much in comparison to His.  Things happen that we can't understand-- but God does. 

And we don't have to give Him advice... I think He has that covered. 

You know when we pray, "Thy Kingdom come... Thy will be done.."  we should probably mean it.  (Ok, Kelly getting whacked upside the head here... sigh )

Have a wonderful Saturday!  I just wanted to say that I can't believe this is day 90!!!  I love writing these.. I love that God allows me to write them (trust me-- it ain't me...), and I hope they bless you as much as they do me. 

Thanks so much for the support. It means a lot :)

God Bless You!

Kelly


Friday, September 16, 2011

Day 89: Our Plan; God's Path

Proverbs 16:9
A man's heart plans his way,
but the Lord directs his steps.
(NKJV)

*********************************

Kelly (me) had a plan for her life.

Kelly was going to become a Kindergarten teacher.

Kelly was going to get married.

Kelly was going to have kids once she was married a few years- quit work and become a Stay At Home Mom.

*KELLY* had lots of plans-- God had others....

GOD had a plan for Kelly's life

God made a way for Kelly to become a special education teacher (something I never really wanted to be-- but LOVE now and wouldn't want to teach anything else :).)

God allowed me to get married (so we both got that one lol)

God made it possible for me to have kids-- however, I never got that plan of becoming a Stay at home mom fullfilled. I was a bit upset by that for a while (ok, it was on the back of my mind for about 5 years lol).  Finally, I realized (with God's help) that God has placed me where He wants me.  I love my school kids.  I love my classroom.  I have accepted that God has me there for a reason-- even if it wasn't *Kelly's* "ideal" plan.

When we have situations in our lives that go against 'our' plans, we need to remember that God is stearing us to where we NEED to be... not necessarily where we WANT to be.  But when we get to the destination, man, it could be better than we could ever have imagined. 

God knows what we are good at/what we need much more than we do.  And isn't it cool that he takes time to take time for us instead of just saying, "Ok, sure whatever you want."-- giving us anything we want-- but ignoring us.

I'm glad God's plans have differed from mine.  It's been hard, but now, looking back, I see it was definitely for the best.  Our plans are filtered through human hearts-- but God's plans are formed from an Almighty power. I'd say 'Almighty' trumps 'Human' any day.

Your encouragement today is if you aren't where you thought you'd be right now in your life, stop and see if you can figure out why God put you there.  What are you doing for Him in your current situation?  Can you see why your plan would have never worked out?  Do you still long for your dreams?  Can you see how/why God has taken you down another path?

God Bless You!

Kelly

linked with Brag on God Friday

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Day 88: A Bright and Cheery Morning to You...

Galatians 3:5
I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not!  It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ.

*********************************

Lots of good people go to Hell....

Yeah, and Good Morning to you too....


Sorry to be so blunt, but it's true.  Works won't get a person to heaven.

You can give to Goodwill, the Salvation Army, Jerry's Kids, The Ronald McDonald House, your lottery winnings to widows, work in a soup kitchen every weekend you are off, foster kids, save whales, give a hoot-- and don't polute.  But if you aren't saved, the sad fact is, you aren't going to go to Heaven.

All of your rewards here on Earth are all you will get.

How scary is that?

That's not saying that once you are saved, then you are home free and can do whatever you want.  It means that it's awesome to be 'good' and do 'good' things, but don't bet your soul on it. 

Have you ever gone to a funeral or saw a news cast of a deceased person and the friends/relatives say, "He was a good man."

That is good-- that's what we want to be.  But we also need, "He was a godly man." added to the end.

Back in the old testament, your works got you to heaven.  Following all of the laws and sacrificing all of the animals at the right time (if you haven't read the Old Testament and found out about all of the laws, you should. It is a very good read and lets us see how good we have it now), determined if you were a good person or a bad person-- and where you went in your afterlife.

Luckily for us, Jesus was our sacrifice. 

He took the place of the pigeons, turtledoves, the rams, bulls, sheep, etc.  Some people still have the, "But I'm a good person." mentality-- but we know that it isn't enough.

Being 'good' and living 'right' is what we need to stive for.  We need to help other, do what we need to do, follow the Bible, etc.  We just have to remember that it doesn't count UNLESS we have accepted that Jesus sacrificed Himself for us.

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Day 87: Happiness at/in Work

Ecclesiastes 3:9-13
What do people really get for all their hard work? I have seen the burden God has placed on us all.
Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.  He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end.  So I conclude there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can.
And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of labor, for these are gifts from God.

**********************************

One of the biggest disappointments in the world is when you have worked really hard on something and it either doesn't work, doesn't take off, or isn't what *you* thought it should be.  It's very hard.

If God has placed a burden on you, don't get caught up in how many people you are affecting, how big (or how little) your ministry is to others-- Your job is just to be obedient to God. And like the verse, we can't see the big picture.  God knows better than we do--- as much as we try to deny it at times.

No matter what, we need to be happy and enjoy life as long as we can.  That doesn't mean that we can blow off all of our responsibilities-- don't work--- don't take care of our families-- just rest, relax, and chill for the rest of our days.  No, that means that no matter what we do, we should do it happily and enjoy ourselves while we do it.  We won't get today back, so we need to enjoy it.  Responsibilities and all :)

God blesses us by the fruits of our labor. No matter what our labor is, if we do it joyfully and for Him (even working at our job) He will reward us.  We will "eat and drink" the gifts God gives us.  Be it money, satisfaction, the ability to talk to others about Him, joy in helping other, etc.  God will bless us with what He knows we need.

Lets make it a point to be happy today.  We will only have this day once. :)

God Bless You :)

Kelly


Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Day 86: The Mustard Seed

Matthew 17:20

New Living Translation (NLT)
20 “You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.”

***************************************

I, personally, have never moved an actual, physical, green, wide, and imposing mountain lol. Nor have I ever seen a physical mountain move.

But how cool would that be?!

To have that much faith-- not have any doubts-- and do something that seems impossible.

Jesus said we could.  He said if we had just a tiny amount of faith, we could move a mountain.

And not just a physical mountain-- but an emotional, physical, mental one.
We all have mountains in our lives.  Some mountains we have been able to move through prayer and committment to God.  Some, we haven't--despite our best efforts.

The point is, don't give up! 

No matter what your mountain is, keep praying, keep believing, and Jesus said it can be moved. It doesn't mean that it will move abruptly (or even the way we think it will)... but it will move.. .as long as we have the  faith. 

If you are struggling with 'faith', that's ok.  I think we all struggle at times.  It's definitely something to pray about-- and don't be shy.  Have others pray for you.  Email me or leave a comment and I'll pray for you (ohthatmomagain@yahoo.com

I could definitely use some prayer in this respect myself.
Jesus never said that it wouldn't be impossible to have enough faith-- just that if you did NOTHING would be impossible...

Wow!

:)

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Linked with....



Monday, September 12, 2011

Day 85: Do We Recognize Him?

Isaiah 1:3-4
"Even an ox knows its owner,
and a donkey recognizes its master's care--
but Israel doesn't know its master.
My people don't recognize my care for them.."
Oh what a sinful nation they are--
loaded down with a burden of guilt. 
They are evil people.
corrupt children who have rejected the Lord
They have despised the Holy One of Israel
and turned their backs on him.

*******************************************

I think its interesting that even an ox knows its master and will come when called--- but sometimes we don't.

Sometimes we hear God calling to us, like a parent on a playground, but we are too busy swinging (or kissing in the jungle gym) to follow his voice.

And then we ask, "God, why have you left me?"  He hasn't.  Sometimes He calls us, and we just either don't listen--- or are too busy doing our own thing to hear. 

What is He calling you to do today?

Despite our sayings to the contrary, we are a nation full of non-believers.  We say "God Bless America", but do we really mean it?  We need to find ways to bring our country back to Him.  To let Him know that we love Him and we know we need Him. 

We need to spread the word (somehow... and peacefully) around the country that God loves us-- that He takes care of us-- and He wants to help us. 

You can help (Yes you :) ).  Start off small.  Post things on facebook.  Talk to your friends.  Tell anyone you can about Jesus.  One person can make a difference.  If one person told one and that one told another one-- can you imagine how many people can be reached? :)

We can do it, people :) 

Also,  today is National Day of Encouragement! :)  Take time to encourage someone today.  Sometimes all we hear are negatives... lets throw some positives out there and see what happens.

God Bless You! Kelly

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Day 84: Your Actions

Matthew 7:20
Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.

****************************

We were talking in Sunday School last week about how when we die, what would people say.

Lets take me for example:  When I die, what will people say?

Will they say she loved her girls?

Will they say she took care of her husband?

Will they say she was a good teacher?

Will they say she was a little weird? (ok, yeah, they will probably say that one lol)

And above all, will they say without a shadow of a doubt that I was saved and in Heaven?

Most people don't going around with a sign on their head saying they are saved.  And normally, we don't share that with every person we meet.I don't go up to people and the first thing I tell them is my religious status normally.

So when they see my obituary some day, how will they know?

I think we've all heard of someone dying and think, oh, I wonder where they are now?

I don't want people to think that about me. I want people to know that when I die, I'm going to Heaven.

How do we show that?  By our actions.  If we are saved and love God, then we should live a godly live while will show up in our actions and how we treat others.

I don't want there to be a shadow of a doubt when I do die of where I am. 

How about you?  When you die, will people know without any doubt where you will end up?  What are your actions saying about you?


God Bless You, Kelly

Remembering 9-11

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Day 83: "My Friend"

Matthew 26:50
Jesus said, "My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for."

***********************

Pam asked yesterday if I wrote these verses in my own words.  No, they are actual verses (I do like to re-write them sometimes for my own purposes), but I use the New Living Translation version of the Bible. I love it :) It is so easy for me to understand.  Sometimes I'll be reading and go, "AH!"  I have nothing against any other translation. I figure you have the choice to pick which one you like. I just happen to like this one :)

Look at today's verse again: Jesus said, "My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for." (NLT)

Lets look some more.  Here are some more versions of the same verse...

50And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus and took him. (KJV)

50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.”[a]
Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him. (NLT)

50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”
Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him. (NKJV)

50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”
Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him. (AMP)

****************

I'll stop there, but do you see the trend here?  Jesus always is seen calling Judas Friend.

Even at the end... even when he knew he was looking at the person who was betraying him... who would ultimately lead to his death... he called him "Friend".

Sometimes people do us wrong.  There are some people who we never would think of as a true friend.  Oh sure, maybe an acquaintance... a "person I know"... a "person who has done me wrong, but I have to love anyway."

Jesus wasn't like that.  He loved Judas as a friend until the very end.  And he loves us to the end-- even when we think we don't deserve it. 

This verse was in my Bible in 90 days reading and it really hit me. 

Friend.

If no other thing in the Bible caused a person to doubt that Jesus was truly special or the Messiah, that should.  He didn't hate the people who were going to kill him. He didn't hate Judas.  He was his friend.

Can you imagine the hurt Jesus had to have felt?

We have all been hurt/disappointed by our friends in the past.  I dare say not many of us have been betrayed to our 'enemies' and killed, but the idea is the same.  It hurts. They say that no one can hurt you like someone you love.

Jesus was hurt by Judas' actions-- even though he knew it was necessary.

But he never gave up on him. He never called him anything other than Friend.

Now days, *we* might call Judas some words that I can't print on a Christian blog lol.  They wouldn't be nice. 

I'm also mentioning this because we are learning to 'love our neighbor' at Oh That Mom Again during our Bible Study on 1 Corinthians 13.  Jesus truly loved everyone. From the big to the small.  From the good to the evil. 

We will never exactly be as perfect as Jesus.... but we are supposed to live by his example.

Do you think you could call the person who was handing you over to be killed "Friend"?

God Bless You, Kelly

Linked with: Brag on God


Friday, September 9, 2011

Day 82: The Joy in Confessing





Psalm 32:1-11
Oh, what joy for those
whose disobedience is forgiven,
whose sin is put out of sight!
Yes, what joy for those
whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt,
whose lives are lived in complete honesty!
When I refused to confess my sin,
my body wasted away,
and I groaned all day long,
Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.
My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

Finally, I confess all my sins to you
and stopped trying to hide my guilt.
I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the Lord."
And you forgave me!  All my guilt is gone.

Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is till time,
that they may not drown in the flood waters of judgement.
For you are my hiding place;
you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory.

The Lord says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you. 
Do not be like a senseless horse or mule
that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control."

Many sorrows come to the wicked,
but unfailing love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey Him!
Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!


Thursday, September 8, 2011

Day 82: 'Thank You'

Psalm 75:1
We thank you, Oh God!
We give thanks because you are near.
People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds.

******************************************************

My husband said something interesting today.  I wasn't being my best self (ok, there might have been tears involved--- I'm apparently a crier lol).  I wasn't mad-- I was just sad (silly, silly things, but I let them get to me).

ANYWAY-- my husband (bless him) said, "Just raise your hands to God and give thanks even when the words won't come."

My husband is a smart man :)

I like this verse because the psalmist didn't say, "I thank you when you answer my prayers."  He didn't say, "We thank you when you perform miracles."

No, it says we give thanks because "You are near."  Simply because God is near us, we thank Him. 

That's a pretty simple/complex statement. 

God is God.  He can choose to do anything He wants.  But He chooses to be with us-- to comfort us, laugh with us, cry with us, feel with us.  He doesn't run in the bad or disappear in the good.

I do this at Oh That Mom Again for Thankful Tuesday, but I wanted to do it here too.  I want to "tell of (His) wonderful deeds."

I am thankful for:

1. A praying family
2. A God who loves me-- and shows His love.
3. Kids who care enough to pray for me.
4. The here and now
5. And time to think back and thank Him.

What are you thankful for today?  Have you told someone about God's wonderful deeds?I

I have a special prayer request-- my friend and I are going to the 'big city' to an inservice.  We have nothing but my car, a tank of gas, Google Maps, God, and your prayers guiding us... So, help a girl out :)  Thanks :)

God Bless You, Kelly




Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Day 81: Always Working

John 5: 17
But Jesus replied, "My Father is always working, and so am I."

********************

"A work in progress" is a good way to describe ourselves.  Just when we think we have it all worked out-- BAM-  Something happens.  The rules change.  Life throws us a curve ball.

Even when we don't exactly see it, God is working. He is working on us, on our family, on our friends, on our enemies, and on the Earth.  He never stops leading us to where we need to be.

I like to think of life as a big puzzle that had to be put together in such a way to get to where we are right now--- right at this second.

9 years ago, if I hadn't of gone on a date with this one guy, I never would have met (and eventually married) his cousin.

4 years ago, if I hadn't of thought "Oh my husband looks mighyt cute today", we never would have had our middle daughter (ok, sorry about that image lol, but it's true).

God is always working on us.  Molding us.  Fitting us in where we belong and where we need to be.

We may not even know where that is.

We may just be going with the flow until we get hit in the head with, "OH!!! I get it now!'

Even when we think God has taken a nap or has stopped being with us, this verse reminds us that He never stops working.  He has a full time job taking care of us, the other 50 billion + people in the world, plus the animals, the seas, the entire world, the universe-- yeah, He's a pretty busy guy.  He never stops working, and He never gives up on us. 


God Bless You, Kelly

linked with:    and Encouraging Words Wednesday

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Day 80: The Storehouse

Malachi 3:10
"Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple.  If you do,"says the Lord of Heaven's Armies, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in!  Try it!  Put me to the test!"

***************************************

Awesome!

I don't know about you (yes, it appears that I start all of these off like that...), but I don't raise a garden.  I don't have a cow. I don't have a chicken.  I don't have a little piglet.  All of my fruits and vegetables come from the store-- How they get there... I really don't want to know.

SO, according to this verse, we are off the hook, right?

I mean, I don't even know of a storehouse. My church certainly doesn't have a storehouse for food where the preacher goes to get his three meals a day.

I'm just being silly.. I know that you know as well as I do that God isn't just talking about food here, especially not in our day and time.

It's time to talk about that dreaded of topics--- Tithing.

I can feel you cringe.

Preachers don't like talking about it because it's kinda like you going to your boss and asking for money.  But it is an important part of ministry and following God.

Let me be very honest with you-- 2 weeks ago was the first time I had ever tithed.

I'll give you a minute to bring your jaw off of the floor.....

I've worked for 9 years.  We have struggled for money.  Often times, we had to dig into savings to make it though the month.  We have a larger family (well, large compared to family sizes now days).  I couldn't make myself tithe.

In fact, I'm ashamed to admit that one of my husband and my first fights was over tithing (He wanted too... and I didn't.)  I was scared.  I like the security of money.

Once I started writing this blog, I started seeing more and more about tithing in the Bible (coincidence? Probably not).  My husband and I started giving larger tips when we went out to eat.  I actually saw that the MORE we gave the MORE we had!

It seems like a mathmatical impossibility, but its true.  Since we started giving more in tips, we haven't had to dip into savings.

That lead to giving more in church and 2 Sunday's ago-- we took the plunge lol.

So far, so good.

I'm not worried about it.  I know God will take care of us.... and I know it was the right thing to do.  God didn't say give what you have left over.  He said give off the top.

I was reading in part of Malachi today where the people had no idea how they had upset God so much because they had offered sacrifices to Him like He wanted.  But God said (not a direct quote, btw), "Sure you sacrificed animals to me.  But they were mamed, had imperfections.  You didn't give off of the top--  You gave me your leftovers."

They were going through the motions, but none of it meant anything to God-- Well, I take that back.  It did mean something.  It meant that they didn't care.

I don't want God to think that I don't care-- and I told want to be lukewarm (or stale bread). 

I'll let you know at the end of the month (if I think of it), how it goes.  Like I said, I'm not worried about it.  It was actually kind freeing to give that to the church because, like I told my husband, if we didn't, it would go to something we didn't need anyway.....

God Bless You :)

Kelly

linked with: On Your Heart Tuesday

Monday, September 5, 2011

Day 79: Short and To the Point

1 John 4:19
We love each other, because He loved us first.

*************************

That's pretty short and straight forward, isn't it?

WE love Each Other... EVERYBODY (whether we think they deserve it or not), because God loved us first.

God loved the world so much that He formed Adam.

He loved Adam so much that He made Eve.

He loved Eve so much that He didn't turn her away when she sinned.

He loved her kids (even though one of them was a murderer).

He loved the people of Israel so much that he gave them prophets to tell them to turn from their evil ways.

He loved the Gentiles so much that He told prophets to go talk to them as well.

He loved the world so much, that He gave His own kid to save us from Our sins (Not *His* sins... *Our* sins).

That's love right there.

If God can love us with all of our imperfections-- then we should do everything we can to love/show love to others. 

There will be people we don't get along with.  We aren't in a world where we hold hands and sing "Kumbayah" every day.  But we can't use that as an excuse.  God loved Cain (the murderer), Rahab (the prostitute), Moses (the stutterer), David (the cheater).. and He loves You (the imperfect).

We need to try as hard as we can to love others because we have no right not too.  Its not up to us to judge people.  It's our job to love them.

God Bless You :)  Kelly


*** I don't do this a whole lot on here... but I wanted to talk about my other blog Oh That Mom Again.  Today starts a 12 week study on 1 Corinthians 13 (The love chapter). Yep, 12 weeks for ONE chapter--- but I promise it will be worth it.  I'm inviting you to come on over and join in.  It's nothing formal--just some God directed writing along with some homework for you (not much, I promise... one verse a night.. .easy as pie).  I'd love to see you over there. :)  And even if you don't, please pray for it to be 1. What God wants.  2. A blessing to others.  3. A study people will want to do. and 4. Whatever else you feel you'd like to pray about it lol.



Sunday, September 4, 2011

Day 78: When God Puts You in Time-Out

Proverbs 3:11-12
My child, don't reject the Lord's discipline,
and don't be upset when He corrects you.
For the Lord corrects those He loves,
just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

************************

I don't know anyone who truly likes discipline.

Except the rare few (I'm not judging), we don't normally tell God to pile more on us.

But, just like we parents have to discipline-- so does God.

It's not like He likes it. I know I really dislike disciplining my kids.  It's not fun.  Makes me feel bad (even if it's just having to use my 'stern' voice)... then they cry... which  makes me feel worse... gah!

Can you imagine having 50 billion 'kids' to watch out for?

I have 3 kids and I have white hair from it. 

I can't even imagine the power God has to have.  And to think that He loves you SO much that He takes time to discipline you-- to get you back on the straight and narrow.

He doesn't have too.  He's God-- He can do whatever He wants.  He could say, "ok, I'm tired of smacking Kelly upside the head.  I'm going to just let her keep sinning and let her deal with the consequences.  I'm tired of trying to help her."

If God thought that way-- we would all be in a world of hurt!

God is like any parent-- He wants his kid home with Him.  Tonight at the church cookout, I let my oldest 2 play with the other kids.  I didn't keep a tight reign on them, but I did watch them and know where they were.  I called to them when they got too far away from me and even though I might not have been right with them, I knew where they were, and when I needed to call them back to me.

That's how God does us.  He lets us play on the 'playground' of Earth-- away from home (ie Heaven). He sits back-- watches us-- keeps an eye on us-- lets us get just out of reach-- but when we stray, he has to call us back, and if we don't WANT to come back, well, then He has to be stern with us.

If He didn't care, He wouldn't watch out for us.

So-- when you feel like God is disciplining you, don't get upset about it.  Be glad that God is taking the time to bring you back to him.  Look back at your life and see why He is doing what He is doing-- and if you can't figure it out, pray anyway.

God Bless You :)

Kelly

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Day 77: A Time To....

Eccelesiastes 3: 1-8
For everything theres is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die.
A time to plant, and a time to harvest.
A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.

***************************************

We may go back later and do 8 days to take apart this scripture and really get into what it means.

This is one of my all time favorite Bible quotes.

A lot of times, we Christians think that we have to be 'happy' all of the time-- and we do need to be 'happy', but that doesn't mean that we won't get upset, sad, mourn, get angry, etc. 

God gave us feelings for a reason.  If you don't feel, you get stale-- like bread that no longer has its ability to bend or be of any use. 

No one wants to be stale bread.

Do you want to be stale bread?

I sure don't.  I'd love to be (if we continue with the bread analogy-- and why stop now lol) a newly, out of the oven bread.  Warm, soft, and nice to the touch.  When you think of warm bread from the oven, you think of love (or I do at least).  You usually don't think 'stale' or 'stiff'. 

However, if you let yourself get stale-- if you try to just be "happy" (whether you are or not lol)-- it's not only 1. a lie and 2. makes you unusuable 

Mourn for people--

Cry for people--

Encourage people--

Laugh with them--

Dance with them--


Speak up if you need too (it doesn't have to be in a hateful way)--

Be quite if you feel you must--

But DO know that these are all ok.  I know some people (ah-hem) who gets upset if they get upset (got that?).  This person (ok, me lol) doesn't like to talk when something is bothering them.  Are you like that? I don't want to discourage someone, so I keep it to myself.

Does it do any good?  Probably not.

There are ways to deal with being upset, and without letting it lead to anger.

We need to talk about things... be there for people.  Pray for the right words.  And be quiet if we don't have them (a hug goes a long way).

What are some things you get out of these verses?  There is so much in them.  Like I said, one of my favorites.

God Bless You, Kelly

Friday, September 2, 2011

Day 76: The Fly in the Ointment

Ecclesiastes 10:1
As dead flies cause even a bottle of perfume to stink,
so does a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honor.
*********************
I don't know why, but this one made me giggle tonight.
.
I was picturing you, sweet reader, sitting eating your morning bagel and drinking your 'wake me up' coffee, ready to read an encouraging word.... and you come across... a post about dead flies.
.
Sorry about that ;)

.
The sad fact is that we can be the best person ever, but the one measly thing we do wrong, that's what people will remember. 
.
Yeah, that sounds harsh, and yeah, I know that we are human (boy do I know it).  However, if you think back on it, you rarely remember the good-- the smell of the perfume.  But you will never forget the stench of the fly-- the tiny, little insignificant fly.
.
Well, yeah, this sounds like a downer-- and I don't want that. 
.


We all make mistakes.  We all get angry.  We all get a little fly in our ointment at times, however it doesn't mean we should give up trying to live a good, godly life.
.
Sorry to say, none of us are perfect. 

.
None.
.
We are going to have at least one fly in our ointment-- maybe even a whole bottle of them-- foot, your bottle may be more flies that perfume-- but don't give up! 
.
Ever been in a room/car that has been skunked?
.
It smells-- well-- terrible.
.
TERRIBLE.
.
It's the kind of smell that you don't think will ever go away.
.
However, over time (with a little airing out and maybe a bath or two) the smell goes away.  Its like it never was there.
.
We can't change the past.  We can't get that fly out of our ointment, but we CAN get a new jar, fill it, and try to put a lid on it (ie top it with God's word as a cork). 
.
Just because something has happened or you haven't acted a way you wanted and you let yourself get a little 'foolish', don't let that keep you from spreading/living the word of God.
.
He loves you anyway--- even if you do stink.
.
God Bless you!
Kelly

Beholding Glory