2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give,... for God loves a cheerful giver."
I was standing at the deli counter talking to Carolyn, a co-worker, when Margo approached. She put her arm around my shoulder, smiled and announced to Carolyn, "She's a good friend; she really helped me out this past year."
I knew what she was referring to. Over a year ago Margo had started working at the grocery store where I am employed. I worked in the deli and she in the kitchen. She had a constant smile and a bubbly personality that stood out. She also was bald, which got everyone talking and wondering why she would choose to look like that. I on the other hand don't like to assume anything. Through conversations with Margo on lunch breaks I really got to know her. I learned her hair loss was a result of a treatment she'd received years earlier. There was a medical solution to regain her hair but the insurance wouldn't cover it. Well, so much for gossip!
Several months later I noticed Margo wasn't smiling and seemed to be stressed. During one of our conversations she revealed she was having some financial problems. She was even having a hard time putting a meal on the table. I remember the compassion God layed on my heart at that time. My finances weren't great but I decided I could help in a small way. I noticed the 8 piece chicken meal was on special. I paid for the chicken and gave her the receipt so she could take it with her when she left work. You would have thought I'd given her a $1000.00 by her reaction. She was overjoyed.
Here it was a year later and she was still expressing gratitude. Who would have thought that this one small gesture of giving would have made such an impact. We don't always know how God can use us if we allow Him to fill our hearts with compassion. It can be a word of encouragement, a card, service or even "just a box of chicken."
Colossians 3:12 NIV
Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Pressing Toward the Goal
Hi, I'm back! I'm sorry I've been away so long. Exhaustion and health problems have played a part, but this is where God has placed my heart and I know it's just the beginning of where He wants to take me. He has been teaching me during the meantime. I'm learning how to place "life"(things I do), in order of importance. It takes alot of listening to what the Holy Spirit is saying. I know it's a day to day process and will not be completed until the day of redemption. It's the same thing that was placed on Paul's heart in Phillippians.
Phillippians 3:12 NIV
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me."
Please be patient. I may not post as often as I'd like. I may not run as fast as others, but I will trust God to complete in me that which He has chosen me for.
Phillippians 3:13-14 NIV
13.....But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
You'll be hearing from me soon. Love in Christ, Marie
Phillippians 3:12 NIV
"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me."
Please be patient. I may not post as often as I'd like. I may not run as fast as others, but I will trust God to complete in me that which He has chosen me for.
Phillippians 3:13-14 NIV
13.....But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
You'll be hearing from me soon. Love in Christ, Marie
Thursday, January 1, 2009
God Has A Plan - Believe and Receive
Jeremiah: 29: v. 11-12 NIV
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." 12. "Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
In the midst of everything that's happened this past year, from the failing economy, to the violence, death and destruction in other countries, one may wonder if there is hope. But hope and a future is exactly what God has promised.
Did you know that God has a plan for you? His word says that His plan for you is one that will prosper, give hope and a future. Haven't seen that plan yet? There's a reason for not seeing God's hand in our lives. That reason is unbelief. If you noticed in Jeremiah, v. 12 it says, "then you shall call upon me and pray to me and I will listen to you."
I believe God is trying to show you the plan He's already laid out for you. First of all you have to realize that we all fall short of God's glory, but His plan included forgiveness and eternal salvation.
Romans 3: v. 23-24 NIV
23. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." 24. "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ."
Romans 5: v. 8, 12 NIV
8. " But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." 12. "For if, when we were enemies; we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more..., shall we be saved through His life."
You have to accept His plan by faith. God cannot give you something unless you believe He has it to give in the first place. Why else would He say, "then you will call upon me..." God wants to raise you above the circumstances in your life and give you peace even in the midst of the turmoil of this world. God has blueprints for your life- "plans to give you hope and a future." Believe, then pray by faith, so you can receive all He has for you.
Romans 10: v. 8-10 NIV
8. "...the word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart..." 9. " That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." 10. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified...."
BELIEVE, PRAY AND RECEIVE
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." 12. "Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
In the midst of everything that's happened this past year, from the failing economy, to the violence, death and destruction in other countries, one may wonder if there is hope. But hope and a future is exactly what God has promised.
Did you know that God has a plan for you? His word says that His plan for you is one that will prosper, give hope and a future. Haven't seen that plan yet? There's a reason for not seeing God's hand in our lives. That reason is unbelief. If you noticed in Jeremiah, v. 12 it says, "then you shall call upon me and pray to me and I will listen to you."
I believe God is trying to show you the plan He's already laid out for you. First of all you have to realize that we all fall short of God's glory, but His plan included forgiveness and eternal salvation.
Romans 3: v. 23-24 NIV
23. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." 24. "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ."
Romans 5: v. 8, 12 NIV
8. " But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." 12. "For if, when we were enemies; we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more..., shall we be saved through His life."
You have to accept His plan by faith. God cannot give you something unless you believe He has it to give in the first place. Why else would He say, "then you will call upon me..." God wants to raise you above the circumstances in your life and give you peace even in the midst of the turmoil of this world. God has blueprints for your life- "plans to give you hope and a future." Believe, then pray by faith, so you can receive all He has for you.
Romans 10: v. 8-10 NIV
8. "...the word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart..." 9. " That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." 10. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified...."
BELIEVE, PRAY AND RECEIVE
The Wisdom of His Word
Jeremiah: 29: v. 11-12 NIV
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." 12. "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
For the last few years I've struggled with this verse, especially v. 12. I couldn't quite understand why God said we would pray after receiving His plans instead of praying before, then receiving plans for our lives.
Then just a few days ago, out of the blue, an elderly gentleman approached me at the gas pump- he was on the other side. He just started talking about how bad the economy was, the violence in the Middle East and just how dark our future looks. During the conversation I had several things go through my mind as how to respond back. Just as quickly as the conversation started though, it ended. Maybe there wasn't time to respond due to others wanting to get gas.
However, since then God has layed on my heart what's really important; getting His word and the hope that is in Jesus Christ out to others. I decided I wanted to write God's plan of hope and salvation and hand it out to those in need-as God's Spirit leads.
Of course in God's all knowing wisdom He gave me Jeremiah 29: v. 11-12. As I began to write, I looked at the scripture and asked, "Lord, I don't understand. Why wouldn't we pray first, then receive the plans You have?" Suddenly, He gave me the understanding I needed. " You have to believe in what I have for you to be able to ask for and receive it by faith."
Wow! So simple, but what a revelation. He already has the plans for our lives. We don't have to pray for them. We just have to believe and receive them. We certainly want to pray about them and be opened to what they are, but faith comes first.
It's the same with salvation. He's already provided the way. We just have to believe and receive through prayer what He already has given. This will be the foundation for what I've decided for my tract, (devotional), I want to give out so that others may believe, then pray for God's plan for their lives.
Following is a posting of the writing I want to give out. I pray the words belong to God and that His Spirit will minister to others through what's written.
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." 12. "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
For the last few years I've struggled with this verse, especially v. 12. I couldn't quite understand why God said we would pray after receiving His plans instead of praying before, then receiving plans for our lives.
Then just a few days ago, out of the blue, an elderly gentleman approached me at the gas pump- he was on the other side. He just started talking about how bad the economy was, the violence in the Middle East and just how dark our future looks. During the conversation I had several things go through my mind as how to respond back. Just as quickly as the conversation started though, it ended. Maybe there wasn't time to respond due to others wanting to get gas.
However, since then God has layed on my heart what's really important; getting His word and the hope that is in Jesus Christ out to others. I decided I wanted to write God's plan of hope and salvation and hand it out to those in need-as God's Spirit leads.
Of course in God's all knowing wisdom He gave me Jeremiah 29: v. 11-12. As I began to write, I looked at the scripture and asked, "Lord, I don't understand. Why wouldn't we pray first, then receive the plans You have?" Suddenly, He gave me the understanding I needed. " You have to believe in what I have for you to be able to ask for and receive it by faith."
Wow! So simple, but what a revelation. He already has the plans for our lives. We don't have to pray for them. We just have to believe and receive them. We certainly want to pray about them and be opened to what they are, but faith comes first.
It's the same with salvation. He's already provided the way. We just have to believe and receive through prayer what He already has given. This will be the foundation for what I've decided for my tract, (devotional), I want to give out so that others may believe, then pray for God's plan for their lives.
Following is a posting of the writing I want to give out. I pray the words belong to God and that His Spirit will minister to others through what's written.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Choose Your Gift Wisely
Isaiah 9: v. 6-7 NIV
6." For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the goverment will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7. Of the increase of his goverment and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Mighty God will accomplish this."
The realization that Jesus was sent to be a permanent solution for the dilemma of mankind was completely missed by the Pharisees and the people of Israel. They wanted political freedom and freedom from bondage, but were only willing to accept that freedom for a short time. They were short sighted and didn't see beyond the "now" of their lives and their nation.
Had they really given thought to the previous reign of kings, they'd have realized there can never be any long term peace or freedom with any earthly goverment or king. Once a ruler's reign ends, who's to say will take their place, leaving them once again in a vulnerable position.
They were blinded to the words in scripture, such as "there will be no end, forever and Mighty God." Isaiah spoke of a king that would rule forever. He would also be able to deliver them from their sins because he would be divine or holy, something only God could do.
Matthew 1: v. 18, 21 NIV
18. "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary .... was found to be with child through the Holy Ghost." 21. "She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
You have two packages to choose from this Christmas. One is an earthly package wrapped with fancy paper, a huge bow and gives the most sparkle. It's usually the one we reach for first. When opened it may contain an instant but temporary solution or relief to your "now" situation.
The other is a heavenly package, but it isn't wrapped with fancy paper, ribbons and doesn't sparkle.
Luke 2: v. 7 NIV
"She wrapped him in clothes and placed him in a manager...."
This gift will be chosen with the heart and opened by faith. It was wrapped in love and when opened will reveal in light and glory a permanent and eternal solution for all mankind.
Luke 2: v. 30-32 NIV
30." For my eyes have seen your salvation," 31." which you have prepared...." 32." a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
Which gift will you choose?
6." For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the goverment will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7. Of the increase of his goverment and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Mighty God will accomplish this."
The realization that Jesus was sent to be a permanent solution for the dilemma of mankind was completely missed by the Pharisees and the people of Israel. They wanted political freedom and freedom from bondage, but were only willing to accept that freedom for a short time. They were short sighted and didn't see beyond the "now" of their lives and their nation.
Had they really given thought to the previous reign of kings, they'd have realized there can never be any long term peace or freedom with any earthly goverment or king. Once a ruler's reign ends, who's to say will take their place, leaving them once again in a vulnerable position.
They were blinded to the words in scripture, such as "there will be no end, forever and Mighty God." Isaiah spoke of a king that would rule forever. He would also be able to deliver them from their sins because he would be divine or holy, something only God could do.
Matthew 1: v. 18, 21 NIV
18. "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary .... was found to be with child through the Holy Ghost." 21. "She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
You have two packages to choose from this Christmas. One is an earthly package wrapped with fancy paper, a huge bow and gives the most sparkle. It's usually the one we reach for first. When opened it may contain an instant but temporary solution or relief to your "now" situation.
The other is a heavenly package, but it isn't wrapped with fancy paper, ribbons and doesn't sparkle.
Luke 2: v. 7 NIV
"She wrapped him in clothes and placed him in a manager...."
This gift will be chosen with the heart and opened by faith. It was wrapped in love and when opened will reveal in light and glory a permanent and eternal solution for all mankind.
Luke 2: v. 30-32 NIV
30." For my eyes have seen your salvation," 31." which you have prepared...." 32." a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."
Which gift will you choose?
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Faith Driven
Thursday, Nov. 20th my husband lost his job. Wow! What a blow in light of how I avoided thinking about the economy. Now I was faced with it on a personal level. Not only did he face not having a paycheck until he found another job, that following Monday his car wouldn't start. With perseverance though he walked several miles to get a car part, only to find it wasn't the one needed. The next day, prepared for interviews and wearing dress shoes, he walked several miles again to fill out job applications. He did this every day, walking between finding car parts and trying to find a job. Finally, this past weekend he did get his car fixed.
The Bible speaks of those who had perseverance. It was driven by faith, sometimes not seeing the end result, but trusting God for it.
Hebrews 10: v. 36 NIV
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."
Chapter 11 of Hebrews gives a long list of those who persevered through faith.
Hebrews 11: v. 7,8
7. By faith Noah, when warned about things, not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. 8. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
I admit I don't have the perseverance that some have. I don't think I'd be able or willing to walk miles as my husband did. This may be because it wasn't God's plan for me. He knows each individual and their abilities. I believe God will give us the faith, energy, courage or whatever it takes for the task at hand and at the time it's needed.
If our pursuit toward a goal, job, etc. is filled with struggles and empty gaps of energy, desire or faith, perhaps we're pursuing a path that isn't God's will. Our perseverance needs to be driven by faith-when we hear God's call. Remember, Abraham responded "when called" and Noah responded "when warned." Sometimes we're not listening.
"Listen ever so quietly." What has God put within your heart to pursue? It's something, perhaps just an idea or a dream, but it's followed by faith. Unlike desires that are worked up by human effort, fizzle out and leave us disappointed, it will be one that is God given and God driven.
My husband is still pursuing a job and we're praying God will direct him to the right one. I'm learning to stop and listen for God's voice in my life. It's a walk by faith that only God can give.
Hebrews 11: v. 1 NIV
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
The Bible speaks of those who had perseverance. It was driven by faith, sometimes not seeing the end result, but trusting God for it.
Hebrews 10: v. 36 NIV
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised."
Chapter 11 of Hebrews gives a long list of those who persevered through faith.
Hebrews 11: v. 7,8
7. By faith Noah, when warned about things, not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. 8. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
I admit I don't have the perseverance that some have. I don't think I'd be able or willing to walk miles as my husband did. This may be because it wasn't God's plan for me. He knows each individual and their abilities. I believe God will give us the faith, energy, courage or whatever it takes for the task at hand and at the time it's needed.
If our pursuit toward a goal, job, etc. is filled with struggles and empty gaps of energy, desire or faith, perhaps we're pursuing a path that isn't God's will. Our perseverance needs to be driven by faith-when we hear God's call. Remember, Abraham responded "when called" and Noah responded "when warned." Sometimes we're not listening.
"Listen ever so quietly." What has God put within your heart to pursue? It's something, perhaps just an idea or a dream, but it's followed by faith. Unlike desires that are worked up by human effort, fizzle out and leave us disappointed, it will be one that is God given and God driven.
My husband is still pursuing a job and we're praying God will direct him to the right one. I'm learning to stop and listen for God's voice in my life. It's a walk by faith that only God can give.
Hebrews 11: v. 1 NIV
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
Monday, November 24, 2008
My Call To Clown Ministry
Me, a clown? "No way," was my answer. This was back in the spring of 2001 when the grocery store where I worked asked me to dress as a clown and give out cake and balloons one Sat. They were celebrating their bakery's 25th anniversary.
That same week my church was having a Ministry Fair and the pastor had asked that everyone be in prayer about what ministry God wanted them to be used in. As I prayed, my thoughts turned to choir, teaching children, or missions. Perhaps God could use me in one of these areas.
That Sat. morning, the day before the Ministry Fair at church, I arrived at work in tow with this "stupid" outfit someone had provided and an array of makeup I'd managed to find at home. I figured white highlighter, lipsticks, and rouge would have to do. I stomped up the steps to the breakroom mumbling, "This is stupid, I hate this, I hate this," over and over to myself. I managed to get on the makeup as best I could according to what I thought a clown should look like. It was scarey to say the least. I stomped back down the steps, not a very happy clown.
I retrieved the cart from the bakery along with the balloons and started my pilgrimage through the store. Before long I noticed not only everyone's reaction to my presence, but my sudden change in attitude. I was amazed that the children, with mothers running behind, would scan every section just to find "the clown" someone had mentioned was here.
I became aware of changes in people's attitude and facial expressions. The smiles on the faces of the elderly and their need to express their graditude just touched my heart. It was as though "this clown" had made their day.
I had never heard of a "clown ministry," but by the end of the day God had opened my heart and I knew this was what He wanted. Sunday evening at church, I approached my pastor and youth director. "I believe God wants me to start a clown ministry." Out of their mouths came, "Good, we've been wanting to start one."
So "Charms," the clown was born. My name tag reads, "Not Lucky, Just Blessed." I would have never for a moment thought that I would be able to stand up in front of an audience, perform gospel illusions, do puppets, and entertain. But God equips us with what we need.
Hebrews 13: v. 20, 21 NIV
That same week my church was having a Ministry Fair and the pastor had asked that everyone be in prayer about what ministry God wanted them to be used in. As I prayed, my thoughts turned to choir, teaching children, or missions. Perhaps God could use me in one of these areas.
That Sat. morning, the day before the Ministry Fair at church, I arrived at work in tow with this "stupid" outfit someone had provided and an array of makeup I'd managed to find at home. I figured white highlighter, lipsticks, and rouge would have to do. I stomped up the steps to the breakroom mumbling, "This is stupid, I hate this, I hate this," over and over to myself. I managed to get on the makeup as best I could according to what I thought a clown should look like. It was scarey to say the least. I stomped back down the steps, not a very happy clown.
I retrieved the cart from the bakery along with the balloons and started my pilgrimage through the store. Before long I noticed not only everyone's reaction to my presence, but my sudden change in attitude. I was amazed that the children, with mothers running behind, would scan every section just to find "the clown" someone had mentioned was here.
I became aware of changes in people's attitude and facial expressions. The smiles on the faces of the elderly and their need to express their graditude just touched my heart. It was as though "this clown" had made their day.
I had never heard of a "clown ministry," but by the end of the day God had opened my heart and I knew this was what He wanted. Sunday evening at church, I approached my pastor and youth director. "I believe God wants me to start a clown ministry." Out of their mouths came, "Good, we've been wanting to start one."
So "Charms," the clown was born. My name tag reads, "Not Lucky, Just Blessed." I would have never for a moment thought that I would be able to stand up in front of an audience, perform gospel illusions, do puppets, and entertain. But God equips us with what we need.
Hebrews 13: v. 20, 21 NIV
20. May the God of peace...21. equip you with everything good for doing His will and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him through Jesus Christ..."
I sought learning about clowning through books first, then I found a small group of clowns I joined called "The Funtastics." We did volunteer work in hospitals, churches, etc. including manning the phones for the MDA telethon one year. In 2002 I joined a professional clown group after taking a "clown class." Yes, there are classes you can take on clowning.
I now have my own clown ministry and I am on call for churches, retirement homes, schools, or wherever God leads this clown heart-and loving it!
Ephesians 4: v. 11
I sought learning about clowning through books first, then I found a small group of clowns I joined called "The Funtastics." We did volunteer work in hospitals, churches, etc. including manning the phones for the MDA telethon one year. In 2002 I joined a professional clown group after taking a "clown class." Yes, there are classes you can take on clowning.
I now have my own clown ministry and I am on call for churches, retirement homes, schools, or wherever God leads this clown heart-and loving it!
Ephesians 4: v. 11
It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be "clowns" - (my calling).
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