Motivation (Matthew 11)

Dear God,

Forgive me for I have not been the best that I can be. That probably sounds silly to whoever reads this but it's the best way I can say it. Anyway...work has been blah. That's the only way I can describe it. I got to a point where I was unmotivated. I was overwhelmed with work but I don't think it was the fact that there was too much work, although some days or even weeks seemed like their was too much work. I realized today that I let myself down by becoming complacent. I didn't just let myself down, though. I let down those above me. Many times, I'm my own worst enemy. But thank you for your messengers.

In tonight's reading, two verses stuck out to me. Matthew 11: 10, "For this is he, of whom it is written. Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before them." Matthew 11:15, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." You sent two wonderful, supportive people my way. As hard as I can be on myself, it's not motivation. I can't do everything alone. I didn't realize how much of a burden I put on myself. I can't blame anyone else but I can seek help from others. I needed the constructive criticism. I needed someone to give it to me and I needed to sit and listen to it.

I hate that it got to this point but I'm not perfect. I can't be perfect. I shouldn't expect myself to be perfect. Failure is okay if I learn from it because then it's not failure. It's more like getting lost when you decide to wander off the path and whether it's because you sent someone or you knocked some sense into me, I find my way back. Well I've found my way and I'm motivated to go further down my path with much attentiveness.

What are you Here for?

Dear God,

You motivated me today. I know that my daily devotions and this blog is what you want me to do. Preacher Kevin's message this morning was simple: We should be doing some for You. Otherwise, what are we here for but to go to attend church service on Sunday morning? It just motives me to continue what I'm doing and to encourage others to find what it is that you want them to do.

I pray that the family of 8 who left this morning decides to come back. I hope that they don't judge your work in our church by one person's selfishness. Why do people think they own the seat in the pew that they sit in all the time? SOS! (scoot over some) It's so sad how so many people become so comfortable that they don't notice the road block they cause for the church and for other people. I hope that person heard what the preacher was saying this morning. We can't grow if people get comfortable and just assume someone else will do it (whatever it may be). Thankfully, not everyone is like that. Thankfully, our preacher is not like that. Bless him and his family, Lord.

I also pray that I don't get comfortable. No one likes to get out of their comfort zone but it has to happen. I know it does for me in order for me to continue growing. I can't do things based on how I feel.

Sheep in the Midst of Wolves (Matthew 10:16-42)

Dear God,

The wolves have become more noticeable in today's world. They seek to devour your sheep without hesitation or shame and out in the open. Thank you for protecting me from the wolves. I know that the wolves will try even harder to attack me because I am your child; they have tried. I also know that as long as you are my Savior and I continue to look to you, you will keep me safe.

Just as you warned and prepared your disciples for their journeys, you do the same for us. This is why it's important to fellowship with other Christians, study the Bible daily, seek help and comfort from godly people, and talk and listen to you. I may not understand it all or want to follow parts of the path you have for me, but I have to obey and be faithful. In the end, it's what I want to do.

Let Jesus Make You Whole (Matthew 8-9)

Dear God,

You are so gracious to have sent your son to die on the cross for us. It's just so hard for me to fathom the reality that after Jesus performed so many miracles, He still ended up nailed to the cross. Of course, I know that it was his purpose, to die on the cross for us. Thank you isn't enough.

Matthew 9: 20-22 is the story about the woman who had enough faith to know that all she was needed was to touch the hem of his garment. I love the song that was written from that story, "One Touch." Nicole C Mullen sings it best.

You made me whole when you saved my soul. I pray that more people would allow you to make them whole. Life's so much better with you in it. It's complete.


Nicole C. Mullen - One Touch [Press]
Uploaded by Warner-Music. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

Judging Others (Matthew 7:1-6)

Dear God,

Many people take your Word out of context to justify themselves or falsely lead people (purposeful or not). That's why it is important for me to read the Bible and not just listen to what others have to say about it.

I've heard a lot, "You shouldn't judge him" or "God is the only one who can judge." People who say this take the first verse out of context, "Judge not, that ye be not judged." Verses 1-6 in the entirety explains judging and being judged.

Let's dissect the verses individually.
Verse 1: Judge not, that ye be not judged. Don't judge so that you're not judged. Meaning, be ready to be judged if you are going to judge.
Verse 2: For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. For as much as you judge someone for something, you'll be judged the same way for the same thing.
Verse 3: And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Why point out someone's problem or flaw when you have a bigger problem or flaw?
Verse 4: Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye. Why would you offer to help someone when you need help yourself?
Verse 5: Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Handle your own business before trying fix someone else's problem.
Verse 6: Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before the swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Don't try to help those who don't want it. They will only try to bring you down with them.

Conclusion: It's okay to judge others. However, you better be prepared to be judged back. If you have things you need to work on yourself, you shouldn't go judging someone about something you think they need to fix. Get yourself right before trying to get someone else right. It's like when a woman criticizes the way another one dresses when she herself speaks with foul language or a drunk trying to help another drunk. And although you have dealt with your issues doesn't mean the person you are judging wants your help.

This passage spoke to me. Sometimes I can be judgmental when I don't have the right to be. I have found that unless you truly know that person inside and out, you may have no idea what they may be going through. And even if you do, it doesn't give you the right to take it upon yourself to help them because you think you're the expert. If they don't want your help, all you can do is speak from the heart and let it be. In the end, they either accept you, Lord, or they don't.

A God I Don't Deserve (Matthew 6)

Dear God,

Thank you for providing me with what I need and what I want. I can't be disappointed about where I am in my life, the people around me and the things that I have. For a long time we (Nate and I) have struggled spiritually and financially. We lived with you in the back of our minds, not giving you our whole hearts. We lived with little money, barely scraping by and sometimes not at all. Through all that, you not only stuck by us, but provided for us.
In the past 3 years, I have learned so much. We both have learned how to lean on you and to trust that things won't always be or seem so bad. When times got rough and we thought we wouldn't ever get a break, you gave it to us. We would think, "How are we going to pay for this?" All of  sudden, we'd get an unexpected check or you'd settle the unemployment issue or you'd provide a small job that was just enough to pay for whatever it was at the time we needed the money for. I know that was you. Who else would love us so much to continually give us what we need even after we doubted you?
Today, we both have jobs that we love. Not only did you provide financially but you provided spiritually. You provided a godly church family. You provided me with godly leaders. I'm surrounded by faithful Christians at work- my supervisor, my boss, and several of my co-workers. You provided me with godly in-laws, especially the grandparents. I cherish the grandparents in-laws (lol, sounds funny) because I never knew my grandparents. All but one died before I was born. That one died 3 years ago. He lived on the other side of the world and I only met him once.
I don't deserve anything you give me. I didn't outright reject you, but I did by not living the way you wanted me to. It's been 3 years since I rededicated my life to you and I don't regret it one bit. You continue to bless me and my family and I am forever grateful. I try not to go a day without thinking about one small thing that you've blessed me. When things aren't going well, it makes me feel better to think back, think now, and think forward. It gives me gratitude, hope and excitement.

Beware of Sneaky Sins (Matthew 5:31-32)

Dear God,

I ask that you continue to protect my marriage. As I read Matthew 4 and 5, there are a lot do's and don'ts. Two verses in particular discuss divorce and adultery. The rate of divorce among Christians and non-Christians is too high. What does it say about Christians if our divorce rate is the same with or without the non-Christians?

Adultery in today's world is a big problem. Adultery includes lusting; which is not physical like most of us think adultery is. I, now understand why this is considered adultery. Adultery, like many "big and bad" sins (as we humanly rate sins) starts somewhere for it to become physical- a picture, "innocent" flirting, comforting words, or even the clothes that we wear.

This got me thinking about the sneaky sins. The sneaky sins are the ones that get by unnoticed for a longer period of time than those "big and bad" sins. Eventually they become the "big and bad" sins. They are gateway sins. They open the gate to more sins if you don't "nip it in the bud."

So my lesson here is to pay attention and listen when you tell me something I think is nothing but is a sin. I can't let the devil get through my back door. Lord, continue to guide me so that when those gateway sins come along, I recognize them immediately and can kick them to the curb. Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me." With you by my side, I will see the sneaky sins and have the strength to overcome them.

...Unto the End of the World (Matthew 28:20)

Dear God,

Lately, there have been lots of protests and dangerous situations going on here, in America, and in other countries like Egypt, Libya, and Iran. . I pray for those who aren't ready for whatever end that they will face. When will people recognize it or acknowledge the warnings that you are giving us? My heart goes out to the lost.
As Your child, I can truly say that I am not afraid. Today's verse, Matthew 28:20 says,  "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."  (KJV) Thank you for being by my side at all times. When no one else is around to comfort me, protect me, give me advice, or even be my friend, you are here. I know that whatever Earthly death I will face will never be greater or compare to the eternal life I will have with you. You are awesome!

Change

Dear God,

Forgive me for I've missed a day of devotions. Thank you for safe travel down here to Batesburg. It's been enjoyable.

We skipped church this morning at Bethlehem. We're sitting here watching the First Baptist of Columbia on tv. He's been preaching about change. It makes me think about our church at Westgate FWB. Preacher Kevin is so excited about change and growth. I pray that the congregation as a whole becomes more excited and more supportive of his desires for change and growth.

My mother-in-law mentioned being a part of a small church. It made me think of Preacher Kevin when he said, "There's something wrong when you don't want to be a part of a big church." Why wouldn't you want your Bible-believing, Bible-preaching church to grow? I used to think, too big, too many people that I don't know. Who cares!?! I don't go to church to know every person who belongs to my church. I go to church to learn more about You and to grow spiritually and to provide support for the man of God. And, hopefully, along the way, I meet some members who I enjoy fellowshipping with, who encourage me and help me to grow. So you know what? Bring it on!

Change and growth are important. I don't want a stagnant church. I don't want a church that's comfortable without moving up. I want a church that marches on through your guidance. I want a church that outreaches and brings people to You. I want a church that is on fire for You. I want to do your will.That's my prayer this morning.

Matthew 1-2: The Birth of Jesus

Dear God,


Thank you for the birth of Jesus. Without him I would not have much purpose in life. I couldn't imagine living my adult life without you. Being an adult is hard and I say that with all seriousness, truth, and some humor. You give me a path to walk on where if I get lost, you'll bring me back on track.


Thank you for protection. Just as you protected Jesus from King Herod and his son, you protect me and my family from many things that come our way and we don't even know it. I pray that I will heed to ALL your directions for my life and not hesitate when you say, "Go."


I pray for those who don't have you in their lives, whether they know you or not. It would be extremely sad and a wasteful life to know you and what you can do and not let you guide them. What purpose in life would there be but to just live it and try to survive? They are not living up to their potentials. Imagine the things that could happen and come about if more people would just accept you and let you guide them. So many people rely on their own blind guidance. They may be happy for a little while, but it won't last in the things of the world.


This morning I of think of Brian and Suzanne. They have been such supportive in-laws. I love them very much. Suzanne's Aunt Nell has been sent back to the nursing home. However, it's not because she's better and will be fine. It's because she's slightly better but will get worst and because of her age there's not much the doctors and nurses can do. Brian's stepdad was in taken to the hospital Wednesday. He has congestive heart failure. These two people continue to trod on daily but I know that it won't be long until you take them to be with You. They have suffered much. Comfort the families.

 

Exodus 34-40

Dear God,

Today I struggled with focus, because I was running on about four hours of sleep. I managed to be productive and get some work done, but my ADD sure did kick in often. Thank you for helping me get through the day and helping me get through last night. Thank you for watching over Valerie after both episodes. I ask for rest tonight, which makes me think of my devotions tonight.

Throughout my reading you commanded over and over that the Children of Israel should rest on the 7th day after working for 6 days. So many times I have worked week after week with no rest. I, now, completely understand Nate when he insists on spending our weekends together as a family and when he gets upset because he doesn't get a full day off of work. I understood but part of me still thought, "Deal with it. It's life. Sometimes you don't get to spend the day together. Sometimes you don't get a day off." I guess I was being a bit insensitive. Maybe I should be more comforting and less abrasive. Forgive me, Lord.

As I was reading, I was thinking about what I would discuss in today's letter. What I've talked about has nothing to do with all the options that were in my head. Lord, you are definitely amazing! You change direction when we think we know we are going in the right way. This is the wonderfulness of your presence as a living God. It makes me want to give us less control and follow where you will lead me. It's an adventure.



Note to followers: I pray that you still find usefulness out of my rambling. At least the Lord knows what I'm trying to say. lol :)

The Beginning

Dear God,

You saved me when I was 16 years old. I remember it like it was yesterday. Since then I've been on a roller coaster. Shamefully, I admit, I haven't delve into Your Word like I should have. Yes, I know, I'm not perfect. I fail you daily. Several months after Nate and I married, you led us to a wonderful church with wonderful people. I can't thank you enough. We rededicated our lives and set course to be more faithful and more obedient.

One thing I have failed so much on is reading and meditation on Your Word daily. One of my New Year's resolutions is to be more faithful, more committed in doing so. When I became pregnant with Valerie two years ago, I engulfed myself into the Bible. I wanted to prepare to be good Godly mother. I read on my own and Nate and I even started our little family devotions. Unfortunately, once Valerie was born I quit reading. I can blame it on the new journey of parenthood but once things calmed down, I didn't return. Forgive me, Lord. It's like Preacher Kevin said one Wednesday (if I remember correctly ), I may do one thing right, but if I don't try to do other things right, the Lord will not bless me for being obedient in one area. We've done our best to obey what God wants us to do. However, daily reading and meditation has been my constant failure. I started off well after I made the resolution, but I began to make excuses and got lazy. I'm still doing my devotions but I'm having to catch up because it's not on a daily basis. Since I'm on the computer all the time, I might as well use for You.

I hope that others can be encouraged and blessed through my journey with you. I want it to also help me stay on the path of this commitment I've made.  It's not about doing the act, it's about growing as a Christian. It's about a desire to know You more so that I can be a better mother, wife, daughter, friend, employee, and most of all, Christian.