It's not often that God is referred to as a hiding place. He is known as a Rock, Savior, Redeemer, Lover, etc. However, He is also a refuge in times of trouble. There are days when I want to curl up under a rock and hide away from the world. There are times when the things of this world are too much for me. I am overwhelmed by the sin, by the sadness, by the poverty, by the despair, by the utter sense of hopelessness that most people are living with. I just want to run away and cry. However, when these days come, God is always there. He is my hiding place. He is the only one that I can turn to. When I am afraid, I will trust in Him. Selah's song "Hiding Place" is what I am basing this from. It's is a beautiful song with an amazing message.
Just when we think that we can't take another step, just when we want to die and end the pain we feel, God is there. We can fall into His arms and know without a shadow of a doubt that our God will never let anything harm us. We can stay in His presence knowing that He has conquered this world. When the things of life get us down, we need to remember Who wins in the end. Evil will one day be cast out of this world.
Oh Lord, I thank You for being my hiding place! I would be absolutely lost without You! Help me to stay grounded in Your Word and Your principles. Guide and direct Christians all over the globe. Give us a fire for the lost and a passion for Christ. Let Your perfect love overwhelm this lost and dying world!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
My life during summer vacation
Okay, so I realize that I haven't updated in quite a while, so I figured that I might as well let everyone know what has been going on lately. I finished my junior year of high school on June 5 and have been happily living homework free since.
I ordered quite a few books at the beginning of the summer, and so far, I am almost finished with them already. First off, I love Ted Dekker's books. He is a great writer, and he really keeps your attention. With that said, the books I ordered were Kiss, BoneMan's Daughters, Lunatic (Lost book #5) and Elyon (Lost book #6) all by Ted Dekker. I also ordered The Shack because I had heard that was a good book. I have already read Kiss, Lunatic, Elyon and I just finished BoneMan's Daughters an hour ago. They were all really good books. If you haven't read Ted Dekker, you really should.
Those were the fun books that I ordered. Now on to the required stuff. For those who aren't aware, my English teacher decided that this year would be a good year to start some required reading over the summer. I just love how it coincides with my last summer of high school. Haha, actually, I am looking forward to this reading, though that feeling probably won't last very long. The books that I am required to read are: Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, Lord of the Flies by William Golding and One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitzen. Yeah, some pretty good books... I haven't started yet. I am kind of putting it off until after I finish my fun books. Besides, my sister had started to read Heart of Darkness and she said it was terribly boring. Fun, fun.
Reading hasn't been the only thing taking up my time this summer. I have had VBS from 9-11 so far this week, and I have been working Thursdays and Saturdays. However, a big part of my summer... and I am almost (almost) ashamed to say has been my Xbox 360. Along with books, I bought Halo and Halo 2 to go along with Halo 3 and Halo Wars. Needless to say, I like Halo. That was pretty much the only reason why I bought the 360, and let me tell you, I have not regretted it at all. I have already beaten Halo and Halo 2... again. And I am working on beating Halo 3... again, though this time on the Normal difficulty (which is still pretty stinkin' hard!) Okay, I'll leave it at this because I know that none of you are interested.
One last thing that I have done everyday this summer is running. I have been eating a lot of junk food this year, and I am determined to work it off and return to my former self. Also, I need to get in shape for my last year of soccer in high school! That is exciting and sad at the same time. It would be great if we made it to the tournament this year.
Anyway, that is pretty much my life so far. I will try to stay updated, but who knows... I might be busy... playing Halo... or something cool like that.
I ordered quite a few books at the beginning of the summer, and so far, I am almost finished with them already. First off, I love Ted Dekker's books. He is a great writer, and he really keeps your attention. With that said, the books I ordered were Kiss, BoneMan's Daughters, Lunatic (Lost book #5) and Elyon (Lost book #6) all by Ted Dekker. I also ordered The Shack because I had heard that was a good book. I have already read Kiss, Lunatic, Elyon and I just finished BoneMan's Daughters an hour ago. They were all really good books. If you haven't read Ted Dekker, you really should.
Those were the fun books that I ordered. Now on to the required stuff. For those who aren't aware, my English teacher decided that this year would be a good year to start some required reading over the summer. I just love how it coincides with my last summer of high school. Haha, actually, I am looking forward to this reading, though that feeling probably won't last very long. The books that I am required to read are: Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, Lord of the Flies by William Golding and One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitzen. Yeah, some pretty good books... I haven't started yet. I am kind of putting it off until after I finish my fun books. Besides, my sister had started to read Heart of Darkness and she said it was terribly boring. Fun, fun.
Reading hasn't been the only thing taking up my time this summer. I have had VBS from 9-11 so far this week, and I have been working Thursdays and Saturdays. However, a big part of my summer... and I am almost (almost) ashamed to say has been my Xbox 360. Along with books, I bought Halo and Halo 2 to go along with Halo 3 and Halo Wars. Needless to say, I like Halo. That was pretty much the only reason why I bought the 360, and let me tell you, I have not regretted it at all. I have already beaten Halo and Halo 2... again. And I am working on beating Halo 3... again, though this time on the Normal difficulty (which is still pretty stinkin' hard!) Okay, I'll leave it at this because I know that none of you are interested.
One last thing that I have done everyday this summer is running. I have been eating a lot of junk food this year, and I am determined to work it off and return to my former self. Also, I need to get in shape for my last year of soccer in high school! That is exciting and sad at the same time. It would be great if we made it to the tournament this year.
Anyway, that is pretty much my life so far. I will try to stay updated, but who knows... I might be busy... playing Halo... or something cool like that.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Living in an unraveling world
Right now I am listening to random Christian songs, and at the moment "Still The Cross" by FFH is playing. It is such a powerful song when you really listen to the lyrics. Basically it says that no matter what happens in this world, the cross will still stand as a tower of hope over us. It will always remind us that we are not alone in our troubles. Jesus paid our debt and because of His selfless sacrifice we will be able to leave this unraveling world and enter into the perfect peace in Heaven with Him. It is so comforting to me. There have been days recently when I just can't see myself going on living in this world. There is hardly any good news anymore. However, a beacon of Light shines on me, and it fills my heart with encouragement and comfort.
Now "You Were There" also by FFH is playing. This is one of my all time favorite songs. If you haven't heard it before, stop reading this and go listen to it. It is an amazing song with an even more amazing message. When you stop to think about it, God has always been there for everything. He was there in the garden of Eden, His heart broken because He knew what Adam and Eve had done and how it would shape the world. He was there when Abraham stood poised over his son, ready to kill him in an instant. He was with David when he faced the impossible - a giant threatening his land. He was right next to Daniel in the lions' den, whispering words of comfort in his ear. He was there when Israel turned to idols. He was there when they repented and cried out to Him - though He knew it wouldn't last. He was there that night when His perfect Son, who had taken the body of a man, was hanging on the cross, unrecognizable. He turned His back on His Son. Such a heartwrenching pain filled Him. It is a pain unknown to man. It is a pain that would kill us. He is there with us... in the corners of the classroom talking about unnecessary stuff. He is there when we are gossiping about a "friend." He is there when that word slips out of our mouths, and we only laugh about it. He is there when we are crying our eyes out. He is there when our heart is so filled with pain that we feel like exploding. He is there to hold our hands and dry our tears even when we don't acknowledge His presence. He is with us at every moment of our existence. There is nothing that we can do to escape Him.
Here are some other songs that I have listened to, and I really believe you should listen to them to. They are amazing.
"Uncommon" by Greg Long and Kristy Starling
"Feels Like Redemption" by Michael English
"On My Cross" by FFH
"Your Grace Still Amazes Me" by Philips, Craig and Dean
"When God Ran" by Philips, Craig and Dean
"In Not Of" by Avalon
"Healing Rain" by Michael W. Smith
"I Can Only Imagine" by Mercyme
"From the Inside Out" by Hillsong
"He Reigns" by Newsboys
"Only Grace" by Matthew West
If you would like more, let me know. I know of tons more. =)
Now "You Were There" also by FFH is playing. This is one of my all time favorite songs. If you haven't heard it before, stop reading this and go listen to it. It is an amazing song with an even more amazing message. When you stop to think about it, God has always been there for everything. He was there in the garden of Eden, His heart broken because He knew what Adam and Eve had done and how it would shape the world. He was there when Abraham stood poised over his son, ready to kill him in an instant. He was with David when he faced the impossible - a giant threatening his land. He was right next to Daniel in the lions' den, whispering words of comfort in his ear. He was there when Israel turned to idols. He was there when they repented and cried out to Him - though He knew it wouldn't last. He was there that night when His perfect Son, who had taken the body of a man, was hanging on the cross, unrecognizable. He turned His back on His Son. Such a heartwrenching pain filled Him. It is a pain unknown to man. It is a pain that would kill us. He is there with us... in the corners of the classroom talking about unnecessary stuff. He is there when we are gossiping about a "friend." He is there when that word slips out of our mouths, and we only laugh about it. He is there when we are crying our eyes out. He is there when our heart is so filled with pain that we feel like exploding. He is there to hold our hands and dry our tears even when we don't acknowledge His presence. He is with us at every moment of our existence. There is nothing that we can do to escape Him.
Here are some other songs that I have listened to, and I really believe you should listen to them to. They are amazing.
"Uncommon" by Greg Long and Kristy Starling
"Feels Like Redemption" by Michael English
"On My Cross" by FFH
"Your Grace Still Amazes Me" by Philips, Craig and Dean
"When God Ran" by Philips, Craig and Dean
"In Not Of" by Avalon
"Healing Rain" by Michael W. Smith
"I Can Only Imagine" by Mercyme
"From the Inside Out" by Hillsong
"He Reigns" by Newsboys
"Only Grace" by Matthew West
If you would like more, let me know. I know of tons more. =)
Friday, April 17, 2009
An "in computer class" post
Today is such a beautiful day. It is supposed to get up into the 70s which is long overdue. However, I have to work, and so I will be inside pretty much all day. It seems like I always work on the gorgeous days. Oh well, I just have to keep telling myself that I am lucky to even have a job.
This isn't going to be long because I seriously have no idea what to write. Lately I have been l been listening to a few songs that are really inspiring to me. For example, one song is "Feels Like Redemption" by Michael English. Also, some other awesome songs are "Your Grace Still Amazes Me" by Philips, Craig and Dean and "Uncommon" by Greg Long and Kristy Starling. If you have the chance to listen to them, you definitely should because they are awesome.
Well, I am out of things to talk about... so yeah, this is it.
This isn't going to be long because I seriously have no idea what to write. Lately I have been l been listening to a few songs that are really inspiring to me. For example, one song is "Feels Like Redemption" by Michael English. Also, some other awesome songs are "Your Grace Still Amazes Me" by Philips, Craig and Dean and "Uncommon" by Greg Long and Kristy Starling. If you have the chance to listen to them, you definitely should because they are awesome.
Well, I am out of things to talk about... so yeah, this is it.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
More rambling
Well, Easter is over, and I have to go back to school tomorrow - something that I am not looking forward to. My break has been pretty great, though, so I really can't complain. My sister was home for a little over a week, and we spent most of the time watching CSI episodes. We are almost caught up... only about a season or two left, and judging by the way she has been watching them, we will be caught up within a matter of months. Yeah, I know, we have no lives.
Lately I've found myself to be completely surprised by God. He keeps showing Himself to me in ways that I would have never expected. Sometimes it's through a song that I hear on FLN, sometimes it's something that Pastor Doug says in church, and sometimes it is something that I read in my devotions. I find that I am taken back by His power every single time. It's funny because sometimes I get this feeling that I have God all figured out. I have to laugh at myself because that notion is absurd. We can't figure out God. Not at all. He's too great for our minds to comprehend.
Sometimes I feel myself becoming overwhelmed with prayer. There are so many people that I try to pray for, and most of the time I forget them. Other times I feel like the people I am praying for are lost causes. It's very frustrating and disappointing when you pray for someone who doesn't care or someone who only seems to sink further into their sin. It's extremely hard to keep on praying for them. But God works in mysterious ways. He knows what is going to happen even before you start praying about it, so that is definitely an encouragement.
Haha, I don't really know why I am posting all this. I am sort of in a comtemplative mood, I guess. Well, enough with the deep stuff. I am just ready for it to be summer. I am sick of school, and I am looking forward to being a senior. However, that prospect scares me. I've always known that it was coming, and I have seen many friends graduate from high school and college, but it's never hit me that that will be me. I can't grasp the concept of me graduating. I mean, high school is all I've ever known, and college is a terrifying thought. However, after spending some time with April at Grove City, some of my fears have been calmed. College is actually a lot of fun (and I am not talking about partying... I don't see why people enjoy that). I am looking forward to it more now, but I don't know how long that is going to last seeing as how I am looking at close to 8 years there...
Here I go on rambling again. I guess this means that I should stop, haha. Besides, I have to leave for my piano lesson in 10 minutes.
Until next time...
Lately I've found myself to be completely surprised by God. He keeps showing Himself to me in ways that I would have never expected. Sometimes it's through a song that I hear on FLN, sometimes it's something that Pastor Doug says in church, and sometimes it is something that I read in my devotions. I find that I am taken back by His power every single time. It's funny because sometimes I get this feeling that I have God all figured out. I have to laugh at myself because that notion is absurd. We can't figure out God. Not at all. He's too great for our minds to comprehend.
Sometimes I feel myself becoming overwhelmed with prayer. There are so many people that I try to pray for, and most of the time I forget them. Other times I feel like the people I am praying for are lost causes. It's very frustrating and disappointing when you pray for someone who doesn't care or someone who only seems to sink further into their sin. It's extremely hard to keep on praying for them. But God works in mysterious ways. He knows what is going to happen even before you start praying about it, so that is definitely an encouragement.
Haha, I don't really know why I am posting all this. I am sort of in a comtemplative mood, I guess. Well, enough with the deep stuff. I am just ready for it to be summer. I am sick of school, and I am looking forward to being a senior. However, that prospect scares me. I've always known that it was coming, and I have seen many friends graduate from high school and college, but it's never hit me that that will be me. I can't grasp the concept of me graduating. I mean, high school is all I've ever known, and college is a terrifying thought. However, after spending some time with April at Grove City, some of my fears have been calmed. College is actually a lot of fun (and I am not talking about partying... I don't see why people enjoy that). I am looking forward to it more now, but I don't know how long that is going to last seeing as how I am looking at close to 8 years there...
Here I go on rambling again. I guess this means that I should stop, haha. Besides, I have to leave for my piano lesson in 10 minutes.
Until next time...
Monday, April 6, 2009
Random update
Well, I haven't written in a while, so I thought that I would write a little update. My life has been going pretty normally, although this weekend I had to work quite a bit. I worked 8-3 on Saturday (which feels like the longest shift EVER) and 11-5 on Sunday. I was really upset because I wasn't supposed to work this Sunday, but something came up and I ended up working. I haven't been to church in over a month, and I didn't realize how much I would miss it. However, I am NOT going to work this Sunday. No power on earth could make me work another Sunday, especially Easter Sunday. Okay, so maybe a nuclear threat to the United States, Canada and Brazil could, but when that happens, I will be open to discussion.
Anyway, we had the Benefit Banquet at school on Friday night. I was a server at my parents table, which was fun. The food looked so amazing, and I wasn't allowed to eat any of it. The whole high school ended up singing three songs, which was a lot of fun. I especially liked "The Sound of the Round" song. It's pretty much awesome to sing. The only bad part was that we were so confused when we walked up on stage, everyone was chaotic pretty much. But we got through it and sounded good (I thought).
I am excited for this week because we only have Geometry once this week. Plus, we are going to see a Shakespeare play tomorrow so no classes, Thursday is a 1:00 dismissal along with Korean Day (headed up by our wonderful exchange students) and Friday, Monday and Tuesday we have off for Easter break. It is going to be so much fun because I only have to work on Thursday and Saturday - so the rest of my break is off! And I will get to hang out with my sister and Kent (who comes home on Wednesday for his break). I am excited, though I already said that.
Well, I am sitting here in Government class doing class related things on the Internet, so don't worry, I am not being illegal! And if you need a witness, just ask Cassie because she is sitting next to me... albeit, she is doing some questionable things - oh wait, she is looking at her blog and my blog. Okay, I had better post this before the bell rings.
Anyway, we had the Benefit Banquet at school on Friday night. I was a server at my parents table, which was fun. The food looked so amazing, and I wasn't allowed to eat any of it. The whole high school ended up singing three songs, which was a lot of fun. I especially liked "The Sound of the Round" song. It's pretty much awesome to sing. The only bad part was that we were so confused when we walked up on stage, everyone was chaotic pretty much. But we got through it and sounded good (I thought).
I am excited for this week because we only have Geometry once this week. Plus, we are going to see a Shakespeare play tomorrow so no classes, Thursday is a 1:00 dismissal along with Korean Day (headed up by our wonderful exchange students) and Friday, Monday and Tuesday we have off for Easter break. It is going to be so much fun because I only have to work on Thursday and Saturday - so the rest of my break is off! And I will get to hang out with my sister and Kent (who comes home on Wednesday for his break). I am excited, though I already said that.
Well, I am sitting here in Government class doing class related things on the Internet, so don't worry, I am not being illegal! And if you need a witness, just ask Cassie because she is sitting next to me... albeit, she is doing some questionable things - oh wait, she is looking at her blog and my blog. Okay, I had better post this before the bell rings.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Happy
Today is such a beautiful day. I am in a really good mood, even though I have to work tonight. That would have to be the only rainy cloud in my sky today. Also, today is the first day of spring, and that is another reason why I am happy. Currently, I am having a grand computer class. We took a final (that wasn't so grand at all), but now we are working on our websites. It's cool! I am very proud of my website, though some people would think that it is stupid and pointless and irrelevant. Who cares, though. I certainly don't. Well, I guess I will end this now because I am just rambling. If you didn't already think me completely and utterly weird... you probably do now.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Good morning!
Well, I am writing this before school while waiting for my oatmeal to cool. It's going to be a beautiful day, I just know it. Or at least, I hope that it will be beautiful. I went on a long run yesterday, and it felt amazing! They say that exercise releases pain-killing endorphins in your brain, and I definitely think that is true. My dog went with me, and while I was running, she found a deer leg (not just a bone... the entire leg) and felt that she just had to pick it up and run with it. Finally I got her to put it down, thankfully. I wouldn't have wanted to run with a ginormous deer leg in my mouth. Not to mention it isn't very sanitary. Well, I think my oatmeal is done now. Just wanted to say "good morning" to the two people that actually read this!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
SAT's
I just got back from taking the SAT's... my first time. All I can say is "wow." Nothing makes you feel more braindead than spending 3-4 hours sitting in a classroom, taking tests that are all basically the same thing (except there are two subjects). And now I get to go to work... what a fun, fun day.
By the way, my computer teacher, Mr. Colegrove, is radically awesome!
By the way, my computer teacher, Mr. Colegrove, is radically awesome!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Youth Leadership Session 6
Okay, so I haven't really said anything about my leadership program on here yet, but I'll give a little overview. Last year when I was a sophomore, my principle (and then driver's ed teacher) informed us of a leadership program for juniors that runs throughout the entire school year once a month. It takes students from the different school districts in Tioga County, and it allows them to do things and see things that other students wouldn't have the opportunity to do. For example, each month we would go to a different business in Tioga Co. And for each month we would have an assignment to do and we would have to give a one-minute speech in front of the others at the next session.
Today was the sixth session. After this one we only have one more before we "graduate", and yes we have a graduation. We went to the courthouse in Wellsboro where we toured different areas of the courthouse. My personal favorite was going down and see the 911 Dispatch Center. This is where your call goes when you call 911 in Tioga County. It was really interesting, and I think that it would be a pretty cool career.
Also, we got to sit in on a commissioner's meeting. It was interesting because this meeting is open to the public, and some of the "public" had some very... uhhh... interesting comments. For example, one of the men just sat there are criticized pretty much everything that the government was doing. Apparently he is a regular, though, so the commissioner's knew exactly how to handle his "rudeness".
We also got to talk with some people who work with Sen. Scarnati, Congressman Thomas and Rep. Baker. It was interesting to hear about their jobs and what they enjoy about them. The more that I hear about government, the more interested I become. I still really want to be a vet, but if for some reason that doesn't work out for me, I am thinking more and more about pursuing a career in the government somewhere. Call me crazy, and maybe I am, but for some reason it's standing out to me.
So basically that was my day in a nutshell. The reason why I am posting all of this is because I am really lazy, and I don't want to have to work on the stuff for the 4 tests that I have to take tomorrow. Well... I probably should get to that so I don't fail.
Today was the sixth session. After this one we only have one more before we "graduate", and yes we have a graduation. We went to the courthouse in Wellsboro where we toured different areas of the courthouse. My personal favorite was going down and see the 911 Dispatch Center. This is where your call goes when you call 911 in Tioga County. It was really interesting, and I think that it would be a pretty cool career.
Also, we got to sit in on a commissioner's meeting. It was interesting because this meeting is open to the public, and some of the "public" had some very... uhhh... interesting comments. For example, one of the men just sat there are criticized pretty much everything that the government was doing. Apparently he is a regular, though, so the commissioner's knew exactly how to handle his "rudeness".
We also got to talk with some people who work with Sen. Scarnati, Congressman Thomas and Rep. Baker. It was interesting to hear about their jobs and what they enjoy about them. The more that I hear about government, the more interested I become. I still really want to be a vet, but if for some reason that doesn't work out for me, I am thinking more and more about pursuing a career in the government somewhere. Call me crazy, and maybe I am, but for some reason it's standing out to me.
So basically that was my day in a nutshell. The reason why I am posting all of this is because I am really lazy, and I don't want to have to work on the stuff for the 4 tests that I have to take tomorrow. Well... I probably should get to that so I don't fail.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Lifehouse "Everything" Skit
So here's the video of the "Everything" skit that I mentioned in my last blog.
Monday the 9th
I know that it hasn't been that long since I last posted, but I'm just in a blogging mood, I guess. Today was a pretty good day once I got through 1st period (nothing against Bible class!). I had a rough weekend with work, and I didn't get much sleep. This morning I was dragging. I was very grumpy, and I just wanted to sleep. However, as usual, when I sat down for the 5-10 minutes of prayer that we have at the beginning of Bible class, I began to feel a lot better (talking with God has a tendency to do that to you!). God always makes me feel better. I try to talk to Him constantly throughout the day, but this morning, my mind was just filled with sleep deprivation. Thankfully He is forgiving of my attitude, and thankfully my friends are too.
Since our amazing chapel service on Thursday, things have been put a little more into perspective. We watched the "Everything" video, and it just made me want to cry. To think that when we believe God to be so far away, and when we think that He doesn't care, He is right there the whole entire time. He cares so much. He tries so hard to get us to listen to His voice. However, Satan comes between us. He fills us with worldly pleasures, and he distracts us from God. However, God never, ever gives up on us. He is always there pulling on us. And when we are at our lowest point, He jumps in and shoves Satan aside. Nothing can keep us from Him.
Lately, it's been really hard to keep optimistic. Our economy is going down the drain, and the government seems to only make things worse. To add to it, I just read an article on Foxnews.com that more Americans are saying that they don't have a "religion". We are starting to believe more in ourselves. The only thing I can think is... it's believing in ourselves that got us into this whole mess! When are we going to learn? To be honest, I don't think we will ever learn.
So tomorrow is the second to last session for my leadership program. I am kind of glad, yet kind of sad. I have met a lot of great people in this program, and it will be weird not seeing them all once a month. Yet it is getting harder and harder to miss a day of school. I know that most of you would be glad to miss a day, but missing one day piles on so much extra work for the next day. Not to mention that I have a Geometry and Health test tomorrow.. plus my English teacher is giving back our vocab worksheets that I need to study for the test on Wednesday. Oh well, I will work something out.
The weather has been getting nicer, which is great. I love winter, but near March it starts to get extremely annoying. There comes a time when I am ready to step out of the cold weather and start wearing shorts and t-shirts. Plus, I really, really need to start running. I've been eating a lot of junk this winter, and I need to burn it off... badly. Plus, warmer weather means summer... and summer means no school! What is even more cool is next year is my senior year. That thought is incredibly, incredibly scary. I am really excited to get on with my future, yet the future is daunting. I am not sure where I am going to go to college (since the one I really want to go to is really expensive), and I am not even sure if I will make it in a veterinary major. I am scared to death. However, when thinking about my future, I always remember Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God holds my future, and He won't let me fail. If I try my best in everything I do, God will prosper me. And even if I don't become a vet, God will take care of me. After all, He takes care of all the animals!
So there is a little update from me. It's a bit lighter than my previous few blogs. I don't know, I just get in these moods, and I just start typing. Half the time, I don't even know all that I am typing - it's completely from God. When I was reading the blog that I just posted, the stuff hit me so hard. It's crazy how God uses His own words through you to inspire you. Man, I love my God!
Have a great day/week everyone!
Since our amazing chapel service on Thursday, things have been put a little more into perspective. We watched the "Everything" video, and it just made me want to cry. To think that when we believe God to be so far away, and when we think that He doesn't care, He is right there the whole entire time. He cares so much. He tries so hard to get us to listen to His voice. However, Satan comes between us. He fills us with worldly pleasures, and he distracts us from God. However, God never, ever gives up on us. He is always there pulling on us. And when we are at our lowest point, He jumps in and shoves Satan aside. Nothing can keep us from Him.
Lately, it's been really hard to keep optimistic. Our economy is going down the drain, and the government seems to only make things worse. To add to it, I just read an article on Foxnews.com that more Americans are saying that they don't have a "religion". We are starting to believe more in ourselves. The only thing I can think is... it's believing in ourselves that got us into this whole mess! When are we going to learn? To be honest, I don't think we will ever learn.
So tomorrow is the second to last session for my leadership program. I am kind of glad, yet kind of sad. I have met a lot of great people in this program, and it will be weird not seeing them all once a month. Yet it is getting harder and harder to miss a day of school. I know that most of you would be glad to miss a day, but missing one day piles on so much extra work for the next day. Not to mention that I have a Geometry and Health test tomorrow.. plus my English teacher is giving back our vocab worksheets that I need to study for the test on Wednesday. Oh well, I will work something out.
The weather has been getting nicer, which is great. I love winter, but near March it starts to get extremely annoying. There comes a time when I am ready to step out of the cold weather and start wearing shorts and t-shirts. Plus, I really, really need to start running. I've been eating a lot of junk this winter, and I need to burn it off... badly. Plus, warmer weather means summer... and summer means no school! What is even more cool is next year is my senior year. That thought is incredibly, incredibly scary. I am really excited to get on with my future, yet the future is daunting. I am not sure where I am going to go to college (since the one I really want to go to is really expensive), and I am not even sure if I will make it in a veterinary major. I am scared to death. However, when thinking about my future, I always remember Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God holds my future, and He won't let me fail. If I try my best in everything I do, God will prosper me. And even if I don't become a vet, God will take care of me. After all, He takes care of all the animals!
So there is a little update from me. It's a bit lighter than my previous few blogs. I don't know, I just get in these moods, and I just start typing. Half the time, I don't even know all that I am typing - it's completely from God. When I was reading the blog that I just posted, the stuff hit me so hard. It's crazy how God uses His own words through you to inspire you. Man, I love my God!
Have a great day/week everyone!
Friday, March 6, 2009
Consume me from the inside out
"Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades/Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame." These are the words to the chorus of one of my favorite songs by Hillsong United. Ever since my amazing chapel experience on Thursday, things have been hitting me like rocks to my chest. I wish with all of my heart that I could express God to you. I wish that there was one word that would sum Him all up. But frankly, it is impossible. I can name a dozen adjectives - mighty, awesome, indescribable, loving, majestic, kind, amazing - but not one of those seems to do Him justice. If only unbelievers could see Him. If only they would open their eyes and their hearts. It would blow them away. My heart absolutely breaks for them! I spent most of the 45 minutes of chapel on Thursday just crying my eyes out. Why can't they see? Why are we so incompetent to show them? We have the secret to the best life ever, and yet when it comes to giving them the Light of Jesus... we stumble, we stutter, we forget.
How can we forget Him? I am especially guilty of this. I cannot express to you how many times I have tried to share my faith. And every single time, Satan takes a hold of my words and shoves them right back into my mouth. In that regard, I feel like a failure. I see the hurt and pain of unbelievers every single day, yet for some reason, that must not strike me hard enough.
Now I understand that some people have hardened themselves so much to the idea of a God. I work with some people like that. Maybe it's because they have been personally hurt by a "follower" of Jesus. Maybe it's because they feel that God hasn't been there for them, so they are just going to convince themselves that He isn't true. To be honest, I don't know why some people don't believe. I mean, how more crystal clear can you get? When you think of the human body and all of its mechanics... it is astounding! We are the most technological advanced organisms that this planet... that this universe will ever know! Our heart and our brains have been studied continuously by the greatest minds in science, yet we will never know all that they both are capable of. God has created us each so unique and so precious. I just wish so badly that the world could see this!
What will it take? I don't know about you, but I am willing to do just about anything to see my friends saved. I would give my life to see them in Heaven someday. And I am extremely thankful that I have Christian friends. They are an abounding encouragement to me every day. On Thursday, I just cried out to God, "What will it take? God, I will do anything!" And you know what He has said to me? He has said, "Sarah... just tell them about Me!" When you think about it, it is so easy. He isn't asking us to amputate our left arm. He isn't asking us to gouge out our eyeballs. He isn't asking us to jump off the side of the Grand Canyon. For some of us, witnessing might as well be doing those things, but we need to remember that we serve an incredible, enormous and understanding God. He lived on this earth with us for 30+ years, and He knows our struggles. Paul puts it very simple in his letter to Timothy, he says, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." God has given us every resource that we need to accomplish the task He set before us. It's like sitting down to take a test and having the teacher give you all of the notes that you need to know and the knowledge already in your head to pass the test. God has given us His notes - the Bible - and He has given us this amazing brain to comprehend and remember an incredible amount of information. Plus, He has told us that He will never, ever, ever, ever leave us. So next time you go to witness to someone, just remember that God is standing right next to you, and He has His hands on you. He is whispering in your ear the words to say. In all honesty, how could it get easier?
Yes, people are going to turn you away, and yes, you can't save everyone. But God only instructs that you plant the seed. It is His job to make it grow. You may never see that person again on the face of this earth, but someday in Heaven, they will walk up to you and thank you with everything that they have because of what you said to them. It may not have sounded good to you, but it was enough.
I guess that's just my encouragement of the day. I actually need to read this over again because everything that I have written applies to me. I struggle so much with my witnessing, but I need to remember that God is in control. And nothing happens without His allowance.
How can we forget Him? I am especially guilty of this. I cannot express to you how many times I have tried to share my faith. And every single time, Satan takes a hold of my words and shoves them right back into my mouth. In that regard, I feel like a failure. I see the hurt and pain of unbelievers every single day, yet for some reason, that must not strike me hard enough.
Now I understand that some people have hardened themselves so much to the idea of a God. I work with some people like that. Maybe it's because they have been personally hurt by a "follower" of Jesus. Maybe it's because they feel that God hasn't been there for them, so they are just going to convince themselves that He isn't true. To be honest, I don't know why some people don't believe. I mean, how more crystal clear can you get? When you think of the human body and all of its mechanics... it is astounding! We are the most technological advanced organisms that this planet... that this universe will ever know! Our heart and our brains have been studied continuously by the greatest minds in science, yet we will never know all that they both are capable of. God has created us each so unique and so precious. I just wish so badly that the world could see this!
What will it take? I don't know about you, but I am willing to do just about anything to see my friends saved. I would give my life to see them in Heaven someday. And I am extremely thankful that I have Christian friends. They are an abounding encouragement to me every day. On Thursday, I just cried out to God, "What will it take? God, I will do anything!" And you know what He has said to me? He has said, "Sarah... just tell them about Me!" When you think about it, it is so easy. He isn't asking us to amputate our left arm. He isn't asking us to gouge out our eyeballs. He isn't asking us to jump off the side of the Grand Canyon. For some of us, witnessing might as well be doing those things, but we need to remember that we serve an incredible, enormous and understanding God. He lived on this earth with us for 30+ years, and He knows our struggles. Paul puts it very simple in his letter to Timothy, he says, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." God has given us every resource that we need to accomplish the task He set before us. It's like sitting down to take a test and having the teacher give you all of the notes that you need to know and the knowledge already in your head to pass the test. God has given us His notes - the Bible - and He has given us this amazing brain to comprehend and remember an incredible amount of information. Plus, He has told us that He will never, ever, ever, ever leave us. So next time you go to witness to someone, just remember that God is standing right next to you, and He has His hands on you. He is whispering in your ear the words to say. In all honesty, how could it get easier?
Yes, people are going to turn you away, and yes, you can't save everyone. But God only instructs that you plant the seed. It is His job to make it grow. You may never see that person again on the face of this earth, but someday in Heaven, they will walk up to you and thank you with everything that they have because of what you said to them. It may not have sounded good to you, but it was enough.
I guess that's just my encouragement of the day. I actually need to read this over again because everything that I have written applies to me. I struggle so much with my witnessing, but I need to remember that God is in control. And nothing happens without His allowance.
One man's opinion
I was surfing on MSN just now when I came across this article entitled, "Beautiful Arguments with God." To me, this sounded interesting. It's not often that one comes across a "religious" article on a secular website. For those who are curious, the article is found here.
The writer of this article claims that he is an agnostic. In short, an agnostic is someone who believes that the supernatural is unable to be proven. So unlike a Christian who believes in a God or an atheist who firmly does not believe in a God - an agnostic believes that it is impossible to prove or disprove. He says in the article that he decided to read through the entire Bible. Here is where I get to the part I don't understand. In the middle to the end, he says that it is impossible for him to believe in a God who is responsible for the mass killings of thousands of people in the Old Testament. For instance, he can't fathom how a God would kill innocent Egyptian children in order to compel Pharaoh enough to let the Israelites go. He claims that God is heartless and cruel, and he doesn't want to believe in someone like that.
However, the only thing I can think is, "Did this guy actually read the entire Bible?" If so, then how can he truly believe that God is heartless? He says that he is a Jew. He goes on to say, "I don't, and can't, believe that Christ died for my sins. And even if he did, I still don't think that would wash away God's crimes in the Old Testament."
The New Testament is saturated with countless instances of God's divine love for us. For example, John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world..." Yes, God. The God of the Israelites. It mentions God sending His Son to die for us, also. I understand that Jews don't believe that Jesus is God's Son, but I can't comprehend why. There are prophecies in the Old Testament about Christ. It speaks of Him in Isaiah and Jeremiah. Yet Jews still don't believe this?
This man claims God to be cruel. How is God cruel? Yes, He was the instigator of the deaths of those Egyptian children, but they had a way out. God gave Pharaoh countless times to change his mind and let the Israelites go. Yet Pharaoh's heart remained hardened. God is a loving God, yet He is also just. He gives us opportunities, but we must be prepared to face the consequences. For every action, there is a reaction.
So basically, this is my little rant. I'm sorry if I have gotten my facts mixed up or whatever, but I'm just trying to say that this man needs to pay a little more attention. If he did indeed read the same Bible that I have read, then I guess he must not have been reading with the same insight as Christians. Is it possible that he misunderstood it? Absolutely. I am not trying to blame him, I am just trying to point this out so that others don't make his mistakes. You must read the Bible very, very carefully. If you have questions, ask a pastor or a knowledgeable Christian friend. God will open your eyes to His word if your heart is in the right place. In the words of Matthew 7:7-8, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."
The writer of this article claims that he is an agnostic. In short, an agnostic is someone who believes that the supernatural is unable to be proven. So unlike a Christian who believes in a God or an atheist who firmly does not believe in a God - an agnostic believes that it is impossible to prove or disprove. He says in the article that he decided to read through the entire Bible. Here is where I get to the part I don't understand. In the middle to the end, he says that it is impossible for him to believe in a God who is responsible for the mass killings of thousands of people in the Old Testament. For instance, he can't fathom how a God would kill innocent Egyptian children in order to compel Pharaoh enough to let the Israelites go. He claims that God is heartless and cruel, and he doesn't want to believe in someone like that.
However, the only thing I can think is, "Did this guy actually read the entire Bible?" If so, then how can he truly believe that God is heartless? He says that he is a Jew. He goes on to say, "I don't, and can't, believe that Christ died for my sins. And even if he did, I still don't think that would wash away God's crimes in the Old Testament."
The New Testament is saturated with countless instances of God's divine love for us. For example, John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world..." Yes, God. The God of the Israelites. It mentions God sending His Son to die for us, also. I understand that Jews don't believe that Jesus is God's Son, but I can't comprehend why. There are prophecies in the Old Testament about Christ. It speaks of Him in Isaiah and Jeremiah. Yet Jews still don't believe this?
This man claims God to be cruel. How is God cruel? Yes, He was the instigator of the deaths of those Egyptian children, but they had a way out. God gave Pharaoh countless times to change his mind and let the Israelites go. Yet Pharaoh's heart remained hardened. God is a loving God, yet He is also just. He gives us opportunities, but we must be prepared to face the consequences. For every action, there is a reaction.
So basically, this is my little rant. I'm sorry if I have gotten my facts mixed up or whatever, but I'm just trying to say that this man needs to pay a little more attention. If he did indeed read the same Bible that I have read, then I guess he must not have been reading with the same insight as Christians. Is it possible that he misunderstood it? Absolutely. I am not trying to blame him, I am just trying to point this out so that others don't make his mistakes. You must read the Bible very, very carefully. If you have questions, ask a pastor or a knowledgeable Christian friend. God will open your eyes to His word if your heart is in the right place. In the words of Matthew 7:7-8, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Wow
Well, we just got done with the most amazing worship experience that I have had in a long, long time. It was pretty much awesome. We sang, prayed, said verses, cried (yes, I cried a lot)... and it was just so powerful.
Yeah, I can't even express it.
Wow, wow, wow.
Yeah, I can't even express it.
Wow, wow, wow.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
A little about me
My name is Sarah.
I turned 17 years old on January 25, 2009.
My favorite color is green.
I am currently listening to the Halo 3 soundtrack.
I like fast cars.
I am 5'11".
I answered 5 questions in the Academic Bowl today.
I love God.
My dog is one of my best friends.
I want a Shelby Mustang GT500KR.
Money is overrated.
I am a cashier.
I do not enjoy my job.
I hope to be a small animal veterinarian.
Cornell University is my goal.
My family is the best.
My friends are great, too.
I wish I could ride horses again.
I am a good driver.
I say stupid stuff way too much.
I can be extremely immature.
I can also be too mature.
I try to make people smile.
I tend to have a temper.
Tioga County is my favorite place.
I live in a log house.
My favorite subject is Chemistry.
I like reading the book of Proverbs.
I wish Houyhnhnms were real.
My sister is my best friend.
I sleep in a twin bed.
I like playing video games.
I like watching Knight Rider 2008.
I have never had a boyfriend.
Running de-stresses me.
I pray to be Salt and Light.
I try to show people respect.
I hope people respect me in return.
I like wearing sweatpants and being lazy.
I am a natural leader.
Sometimes I am overpowering.
I say too many things I regret.
I make many, many mistakes.
But despite all of my flaws, all of my mistakes, all of my regrets -- my God loves me for who I am! I am not afraid to be... just me. That is who God created me to be.
I turned 17 years old on January 25, 2009.
My favorite color is green.
I am currently listening to the Halo 3 soundtrack.
I like fast cars.
I am 5'11".
I answered 5 questions in the Academic Bowl today.
I love God.
My dog is one of my best friends.
I want a Shelby Mustang GT500KR.
Money is overrated.
I am a cashier.
I do not enjoy my job.
I hope to be a small animal veterinarian.
Cornell University is my goal.
My family is the best.
My friends are great, too.
I wish I could ride horses again.
I am a good driver.
I say stupid stuff way too much.
I can be extremely immature.
I can also be too mature.
I try to make people smile.
I tend to have a temper.
Tioga County is my favorite place.
I live in a log house.
My favorite subject is Chemistry.
I like reading the book of Proverbs.
I wish Houyhnhnms were real.
My sister is my best friend.
I sleep in a twin bed.
I like playing video games.
I like watching Knight Rider 2008.
I have never had a boyfriend.
Running de-stresses me.
I pray to be Salt and Light.
I try to show people respect.
I hope people respect me in return.
I like wearing sweatpants and being lazy.
I am a natural leader.
Sometimes I am overpowering.
I say too many things I regret.
I make many, many mistakes.
But despite all of my flaws, all of my mistakes, all of my regrets -- my God loves me for who I am! I am not afraid to be... just me. That is who God created me to be.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
I'll take a fast car over a guy any day!
So I have decided that instead of getting married, I will just invest in some good, fast cars. Take for instance the new style Chevy Camaro (recently featured in the great movie Transformers as Bumblebee!). This car is fast and it comes in yellow! A great combination, though my computer teacher wouldn't agree with the yellow part.
Or, if that style doesn't suit you, I have another option. The Shelby Mustang by Ford. Now usually I don't like Fords very much, but I must say that this car is impressive. I first saw it on the Knight Rider TV show (the newer one... not the old one). It's a pretty sweet car.
Yeah, I'm really tired, and just thought that I would share a few of my interests with you. If you find me a car that is better than either of these, please let me know. I am always open to expanding my horizons!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Since the weather was nice today, I went for a little run. It felt good to exercise again. Winter always has me cooped up, and by the time spring comes around, I am terribly out of shape. For those who don't know, I probably won't be doing track this year. I just can't seem to find myself motivated for it. Even the thought of track puts a dreaded feeling in my stomach. I've prayed about it, and for the time being, I feel like what I am doing is right.
This week has been crazy as far as tests go. We had a mountain of them today, but thankfully they were all easy. Tomorrow is an English test - they tend to be more difficult than your average test. That's just because Mrs. Hindman is such a good teacher, and she really wants us to know our stuff.
I got my new video game Psychonauts last Friday, and it's so much fun! Yes, it is a very weird game, but as I said, it's enjoyable. If you want to know what it's about, there is this little thing that we sane people like to call Google. Or if you are feeling ambitious, you can go to Youtube! Just type in Psychonauts in either of those, and I am sure you will get the proper results.
Well, I thought I would give you a little update. I just ordered my Halo 3 soundtrack, which will be cool to get. For those who know me, I will see you at school... that is, if you go to my school.
This week has been crazy as far as tests go. We had a mountain of them today, but thankfully they were all easy. Tomorrow is an English test - they tend to be more difficult than your average test. That's just because Mrs. Hindman is such a good teacher, and she really wants us to know our stuff.
I got my new video game Psychonauts last Friday, and it's so much fun! Yes, it is a very weird game, but as I said, it's enjoyable. If you want to know what it's about, there is this little thing that we sane people like to call Google. Or if you are feeling ambitious, you can go to Youtube! Just type in Psychonauts in either of those, and I am sure you will get the proper results.
Well, I thought I would give you a little update. I just ordered my Halo 3 soundtrack, which will be cool to get. For those who know me, I will see you at school... that is, if you go to my school.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
God is indescribable
I just got done watching "Indescribable" by Louie Giglio again for the third time. It is such an amazing video. If you haven't watched it, I would strongly encourage you too. The pictures are incredible. If you like astronomy, you will like this video a lot.
Things lately for me have been going great, and I give all the credit to God. He has blessed me outstandingly, and I don't know what I would be like without him. My uncle is doing very well. In fact, if I have heard correctly, he will be able to go back to work soon. God is working through him, I just know it. Keep praying, though. They aren't out of the ballpark yet. My prayer is for remission and no relapses.
I also ask that you pray for another man. I talked to his wife last night at the library in Lawrenceville. She is looking to volunteer, so I showed her how everything works. My mom and I got to talking to her, though, and she told us a little bit of her story. She has two children and a husband. Three years ago, her husband was diagnosed with viral myocarditis, which is a severe problem with the heart. He was a man in the military, and he had gotten a good job after leaving. However, since this came up, he hasn't been able to work. Last June he was put on a heart transplant list, which is good, but it won't do him any good unless he gets a new heart. I ask of everyone who reads this - please pray for this man and his family. It has drastically changed them. They no longer have a steady income except for his military benefits, social security and disability that they are receiving. But we all know that in this economy, it is rough to survive without someone working. So just pray for their family - that he would get a new heart, that his body would accept it, and that their life can get back to normal.
Other than that, school has been going well for me. Finals are over, thank goodness, and I did decent on them - another praise. Now it's back to the old routine. In computer class, we are making our own websites, and I am planning on doing a website on all the things that I enjoy. Once it's up and running, I'll be sure to post the link so you can check out my amazing web designing abilities.
Things lately for me have been going great, and I give all the credit to God. He has blessed me outstandingly, and I don't know what I would be like without him. My uncle is doing very well. In fact, if I have heard correctly, he will be able to go back to work soon. God is working through him, I just know it. Keep praying, though. They aren't out of the ballpark yet. My prayer is for remission and no relapses.
I also ask that you pray for another man. I talked to his wife last night at the library in Lawrenceville. She is looking to volunteer, so I showed her how everything works. My mom and I got to talking to her, though, and she told us a little bit of her story. She has two children and a husband. Three years ago, her husband was diagnosed with viral myocarditis, which is a severe problem with the heart. He was a man in the military, and he had gotten a good job after leaving. However, since this came up, he hasn't been able to work. Last June he was put on a heart transplant list, which is good, but it won't do him any good unless he gets a new heart. I ask of everyone who reads this - please pray for this man and his family. It has drastically changed them. They no longer have a steady income except for his military benefits, social security and disability that they are receiving. But we all know that in this economy, it is rough to survive without someone working. So just pray for their family - that he would get a new heart, that his body would accept it, and that their life can get back to normal.
Other than that, school has been going well for me. Finals are over, thank goodness, and I did decent on them - another praise. Now it's back to the old routine. In computer class, we are making our own websites, and I am planning on doing a website on all the things that I enjoy. Once it's up and running, I'll be sure to post the link so you can check out my amazing web designing abilities.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Finals are finally over!
I am pleased to announce to the entire world that my finals are officially over. Well, maybe I can't say that until the end of 7th period today, as we have a vocabulary "final" (not officially a final). It's a big relief to know that I won't have to take any more finals until ... May - which will probably be here sooner than I think.
Today has been a great day. I took my computer final and did well on that. I even got all of the parts for the bonus question! Pretty neat. We watched another video by Louie Giglio today in Bible class. This one was called "Fruitcake and Ice Cream". He is a phenomenal speaker and convicts me every time I watch. I like his videos so much, though, that I decided to buy the "Indescribable" DVD and show it at my youth group.
I am excited today because hopefully my mom will be coming home. It's been a week since she left for Baltimore to be with my aunt and uncle, but I still missed her. I never understood how much work around the house she actually does until I had to do it. Thankfully my sister is still home, and she has been a big help.
Keep my uncle in your prayers. He is doing well, and hopefully coming back home will help him.
That is it for now. I know that all two of you who read this are looking forward to another post. =P
Today has been a great day. I took my computer final and did well on that. I even got all of the parts for the bonus question! Pretty neat. We watched another video by Louie Giglio today in Bible class. This one was called "Fruitcake and Ice Cream". He is a phenomenal speaker and convicts me every time I watch. I like his videos so much, though, that I decided to buy the "Indescribable" DVD and show it at my youth group.
I am excited today because hopefully my mom will be coming home. It's been a week since she left for Baltimore to be with my aunt and uncle, but I still missed her. I never understood how much work around the house she actually does until I had to do it. Thankfully my sister is still home, and she has been a big help.
Keep my uncle in your prayers. He is doing well, and hopefully coming back home will help him.
That is it for now. I know that all two of you who read this are looking forward to another post. =P
Saturday, January 10, 2009
The Love of God
What is love? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as: 1. strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties or 2. warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion. However, true love is far more than this. In fact, true love can hardly be defined. It is so complex, so indescribable, so holy - it is hard for a mortal human being to define. Webster did a fine job but didn't get the whole picture.
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, defined love as this: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13 NIV) Love isn't just your typical gooey looks, butterflies in your stomach deal. Love is the gutwrenching feeling you get when you die for someone you love. Love is when you are willing to do a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g for the other person. Love is when you forsake your own hopes and desires to accomplish the will of someone else. And the greatest example of love came from the very person who defined it. Jesus Christ subjected himself to incredibly painful torture and death on a cross. For us. For you. For me. I am not talking about a few lashes on the back. If any of you have seen The Passion of the Christ, you see man's glimpse of the torture. It is unspeakable.
Now we are talking the Creator of the universe. The Alpha and Omega. The One who set the stars in place. The One who has named every single star in every single galaxy. Why should He give His life for us? Because He loved us. He was willing to do whatever it took - no questions asked - to ensure that we would live with Him eternally. He didn't look for a quick and painless death. No! He experienced one of the worst ways to die in the history of this earth. All this to show us just how much He loves us. Love is so much more than a "warm attachment" as Webster says. True love - the love that God shows to us - is amazing. Words cannot describe how precious and pure it is.
Yet we still reject Him. As if He hasn't done enough already. And let me remind you that He did not have to do anything. He didn't even have to create us! But He did, and He loves us so unconditionally. One of my favorite hymns says,
"The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell.
It goes beyond the highest star and reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care, God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled, and pardoned from his sin.
Oh love of God, how rich and pure! How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure, the saints' and angels' song.
Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill and every man a scribe by trade;
To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole, tho' stretched from sky to sky.
Oh love of God, how rich and pure! How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure, the saints' and angel's song."
Such beautiful words by Frederick M. Lehman. Even if man exhausted his every resource, we would not come a fraction closer to defining God's love. God loves you so much, and He is willing to do whatever, whatever, it takes to bring you into His fold. I have experienced only a portion of God's tremendous love for me, and let me tell you, there is no greater feeling.
And the miracle of this is that we don't need to earn God's love. We can experience it freely! All we need to do is put our trust and hope in Him. We need to surrender our every dream, our every hope, our every being to the power and love of God. Opening your heart to the Maker of the galaxies will change your life forever. I guarantee that if you do that... you will never regret it.
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, defined love as this: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13 NIV) Love isn't just your typical gooey looks, butterflies in your stomach deal. Love is the gutwrenching feeling you get when you die for someone you love. Love is when you are willing to do a-n-y-t-h-i-n-g for the other person. Love is when you forsake your own hopes and desires to accomplish the will of someone else. And the greatest example of love came from the very person who defined it. Jesus Christ subjected himself to incredibly painful torture and death on a cross. For us. For you. For me. I am not talking about a few lashes on the back. If any of you have seen The Passion of the Christ, you see man's glimpse of the torture. It is unspeakable.
Now we are talking the Creator of the universe. The Alpha and Omega. The One who set the stars in place. The One who has named every single star in every single galaxy. Why should He give His life for us? Because He loved us. He was willing to do whatever it took - no questions asked - to ensure that we would live with Him eternally. He didn't look for a quick and painless death. No! He experienced one of the worst ways to die in the history of this earth. All this to show us just how much He loves us. Love is so much more than a "warm attachment" as Webster says. True love - the love that God shows to us - is amazing. Words cannot describe how precious and pure it is.
Yet we still reject Him. As if He hasn't done enough already. And let me remind you that He did not have to do anything. He didn't even have to create us! But He did, and He loves us so unconditionally. One of my favorite hymns says,
"The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell.
It goes beyond the highest star and reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care, God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled, and pardoned from his sin.
Oh love of God, how rich and pure! How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure, the saints' and angels' song.
Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill and every man a scribe by trade;
To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole, tho' stretched from sky to sky.
Oh love of God, how rich and pure! How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure, the saints' and angel's song."
Such beautiful words by Frederick M. Lehman. Even if man exhausted his every resource, we would not come a fraction closer to defining God's love. God loves you so much, and He is willing to do whatever, whatever, it takes to bring you into His fold. I have experienced only a portion of God's tremendous love for me, and let me tell you, there is no greater feeling.
And the miracle of this is that we don't need to earn God's love. We can experience it freely! All we need to do is put our trust and hope in Him. We need to surrender our every dream, our every hope, our every being to the power and love of God. Opening your heart to the Maker of the galaxies will change your life forever. I guarantee that if you do that... you will never regret it.
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