Showing posts with label Chapel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chapel. Show all posts
Christmas Chapel
They showed this video in chapel yesterday and I loved it. It is so amazing to me anytime I watch someone speak complete truth. Especially when it is in such a creative way. Check it out! I promise you won't be disappointed.
God's Word Trumps Mine
In chapel today a fellow student taught on 2 Peter Chapter One. After chapel I came back and found this online. It's good you should read it.
2 Peter Chapter 1 - Who, What, Why, How Part 2
2 Peter Chapter 1 - Who, What, Why, How Part 2
Possible
"Possible" is a word that isn't often used with confidence. We encourage each other with good intentions and a right heart when we say "You can do it! you will do good on this test!"But when we say those things I wonder how many times we actually believe it? I learned recently, by the grace and mercy of God, that things are truly possible with Him. In fact, I know that nothing is impossible with God.
You see, this weekend I had to study for two very important exams. While this may seem silly to you, to me it was a huge deal. I'm in my last year in college and I want to do the best I can. However, while studying for these two test I felt like it wasn't possible to do well on both. I might be able to pass both exams, but actually doing well on the two of them was unlikely in my mind. Through a lot of prayer, and the ear of a good friend I was able to come to terms with my work and be calm. Then last night as I was taking my 9 essay exam, the Lord enabled me to remember what I had studied. When I handed my test in I was able to give my prof the thumbs up he was looking for. I left my night class ecstatic that God had made my test possible.
This afternoon I had my second test. Going in, I wasn't as confident as I was last night, and I felt that my studying wasn't up to par. I even said to my classmate that this test's grade will be at the expense of the other. As I left class today I felt relieved knowing that I had passed and maybe even better than passed.
That is why I began this post writing what is below.
This verse is perfect for today and what God has been teaching me. He can do all things and is limited by nothing. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, for the joy of the Lord is my strength.
“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:20-21 NIV
His plans are beyond our wildest imagination. Praise God! We are so blessed <3
All things are possible with Him.
You see, this weekend I had to study for two very important exams. While this may seem silly to you, to me it was a huge deal. I'm in my last year in college and I want to do the best I can. However, while studying for these two test I felt like it wasn't possible to do well on both. I might be able to pass both exams, but actually doing well on the two of them was unlikely in my mind. Through a lot of prayer, and the ear of a good friend I was able to come to terms with my work and be calm. Then last night as I was taking my 9 essay exam, the Lord enabled me to remember what I had studied. When I handed my test in I was able to give my prof the thumbs up he was looking for. I left my night class ecstatic that God had made my test possible.
This afternoon I had my second test. Going in, I wasn't as confident as I was last night, and I felt that my studying wasn't up to par. I even said to my classmate that this test's grade will be at the expense of the other. As I left class today I felt relieved knowing that I had passed and maybe even better than passed.
That is why I began this post writing what is below.
This verse is perfect for today and what God has been teaching me. He can do all things and is limited by nothing. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, for the joy of the Lord is my strength.
“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:20-21 NIV
His plans are beyond our wildest imagination. Praise God! We are so blessed <3
All things are possible with Him.
Re-evaluate
Monday's chapel spoke straight to my heart. The speaker challenged us to re-evaluate our hearts and explained the meaning of salvation in a way that was new to me. Below are the verses he used.
Romans 10
If you declare 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, and it is
with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.”[e] 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”[f]
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and
mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own
life—such a person cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— Matthew 20:25-27
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14
18 “Which ones?” he inquired.
Jesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’[c] and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’[d]”
20 “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”
21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
25 When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?”
26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
27 Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?”
28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife[e] or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.
Matthew 19:16-30
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— Matthew 20:25-27
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14
The Rich and the Kingdom of God
16 Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” 17 “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.”18 “Which ones?” he inquired.
Jesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’[c] and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’[d]”
20 “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”
21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
25 When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?”
26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
27 Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?”
28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife[e] or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.
Matthew 19:16-30
Moved to Tears
Today was talents for Christ chapel. This is a service where the students get to glorify God in their unique ways. One skit in particular moved me to tears, the lighthouse skit. It wasn't the first time I've seen it by any means but it's meaning still holds so true in my heart. This morning I was very aware of the reality that people all around us struggle everyday, fighting to get closer to God, or at least away from the trials that they presently endure. I encourage you to pray for everyone around you, including me, we need it.
From a Christian Social Work perspective.... This week I went to a child welfare conference and learned so many things. I encountered the realities of child welfare, the tragedies, those that slip through the system. This encourages me even more to seek for policy change, if only to help one person from slipping through the cracks, that one person is worth it. This life relevance and awareness paired with today's chapel skit moved my heart. Not only do I want to fight through my trials and reach the other side but I also want to help others do the same. That is why I want to be a social worker.
From a Christian Social Work perspective.... This week I went to a child welfare conference and learned so many things. I encountered the realities of child welfare, the tragedies, those that slip through the system. This encourages me even more to seek for policy change, if only to help one person from slipping through the cracks, that one person is worth it. This life relevance and awareness paired with today's chapel skit moved my heart. Not only do I want to fight through my trials and reach the other side but I also want to help others do the same. That is why I want to be a social worker.
I'll Go Where You Send Me
Today in chapel the message was about going where God sends us. God sends some of us to the darkest places on earth, places where at worst we will be tortured and killed. So naturally as humans we reject His request and respond with fear and anger. Until we realize that the end of the story is living happily ever after in the Kingdom of God. Then when we gain this perspective we realize the Lord is present with us wherever we go, we are not alone and nothing in this life is worth sacrificing the life that God has prepared for us. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
As Christians in the United States we are comfortable, but we are not exempt from God's call to the dangerous places. I would not want to be exempt from the dangerous places because those are the places where God does the coolest things. It seems that in our times of trouble and heartache is when God's glory shines the brightest. "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
As Christians in the United States we are comfortable, but we are not exempt from God's call to the dangerous places. I would not want to be exempt from the dangerous places because those are the places where God does the coolest things. It seems that in our times of trouble and heartache is when God's glory shines the brightest. "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
Sacred Vs Secular
There is no such thing as a secular workplace. Wherever we are, having Christ within makes that place sacred. Therefore, as His children let us live sacred and holy lives. - Chapel by Robin Smith
Love Lov Luv
Better Read That One Again
This devotion shares a great message. Back at school now and getting in routine has been a little strange. But I'm glad to be back in a place where God is overflowing. This years theme verse is "Therefore I urge you brothers in view of God's mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices holy and pleasing to God this is your spiritual act of worship Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may be able to test and approve what God's will is His good pleasing and perfect will" Romans 12:1-2 I really like this verse because it is a perfect followup for last years theme to Love God Love People. A part of learning to love is learning to surrender our whole lives to God so that we can be transformed for His glory. When God comes in and transforms our lives it is shown by the love that we show others. Not just the love that we give those who love us but also the love that we show to those who despise us.
This week our chapel services have been all about God's Love. Sometimes it is much easier to give love than to receive it, especially when we know we are sinners undeserving of it. But this week the fact that GOD LOVES ME! is setting in. There is nothing I can do to make him stop loving me nor is there anything that I can do to make Him love me more. GOD LOVES EACH OF US WITH HIS WHOLE BEING! And all he asks, all he gives, in an opportunity for us to love Him back. Therefore we choose how much God we have, we are in the chair of that decision. I hope that you will choose to love Him back.
Once we are in Christ, the enemy tries to make us believe that we are condemned, but God says THEREFORE THERE IS NOW NO CONDEMNATION FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS FOR THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE SET ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH. - Romans 8:1-2
This devotion shares a great message. Back at school now and getting in routine has been a little strange. But I'm glad to be back in a place where God is overflowing. This years theme verse is "Therefore I urge you brothers in view of God's mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices holy and pleasing to God this is your spiritual act of worship Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind so that you may be able to test and approve what God's will is His good pleasing and perfect will" Romans 12:1-2 I really like this verse because it is a perfect followup for last years theme to Love God Love People. A part of learning to love is learning to surrender our whole lives to God so that we can be transformed for His glory. When God comes in and transforms our lives it is shown by the love that we show others. Not just the love that we give those who love us but also the love that we show to those who despise us.
This week our chapel services have been all about God's Love. Sometimes it is much easier to give love than to receive it, especially when we know we are sinners undeserving of it. But this week the fact that GOD LOVES ME! is setting in. There is nothing I can do to make him stop loving me nor is there anything that I can do to make Him love me more. GOD LOVES EACH OF US WITH HIS WHOLE BEING! And all he asks, all he gives, in an opportunity for us to love Him back. Therefore we choose how much God we have, we are in the chair of that decision. I hope that you will choose to love Him back.
Once we are in Christ, the enemy tries to make us believe that we are condemned, but God says THEREFORE THERE IS NOW NO CONDEMNATION FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN CHRIST JESUS FOR THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE SET ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH. - Romans 8:1-2
Prayers in Song
Recently I've been writing a 20 page research paper for my worship foundations class on worship in the Bible. From doing so I've been introduced to the idea of the music form of worship as a prayer. This morning while I was in Chapel the worship was so beautiful and for the first time in a long time, with the new thinking, I just was able to have a awesome time with God singing my heart soul and mind out for Him in prayer that my own life might reflect His.
Also, I've been reading the book of Psalms and if you haven't yet I recommend it. These prayers are so beautiful and they are a magnificent display of God's work in us humans. They help me relate what I'm feeling and thinking to understand myself better and my relationship with God it is so cool. Tonight I read this,
7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
I just admire the beauty of those words, not only in the form they are written but the meaning of them. How Mighty is the Most High God. <3
Also, I've been reading the book of Psalms and if you haven't yet I recommend it. These prayers are so beautiful and they are a magnificent display of God's work in us humans. They help me relate what I'm feeling and thinking to understand myself better and my relationship with God it is so cool. Tonight I read this,
Psalm 19:7-9 (New International Version)
7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
I just admire the beauty of those words, not only in the form they are written but the meaning of them. How Mighty is the Most High God. <3
To Know God
Lately I've been striving to know God better. To not just pay lip service and participate in church and chapel, or mindlessly read my Bible. The Chapels this week talked about the steps we need to take to know God. Today the Chapel speaker, Tony Jackson, started out by saying that he would assume that we all know Jer. 29:11 by now and that he wasn't going to talk about how God has a plan and a purpose because we already know that. However, he was going to tell us that are purpose isn't just in the future it is TODAY! Sometimes as Christians we are stuck in our relationship with God, stagnant and frustrated. He said that the reason for our frustration is because we need to take action. We can wait on God all we want but if we're not caught up to Him we'll never stop waiting because He is ahead of us. This means that yes God has a plan but we have to do are part. He'll walk with us, and carry us if need be - but if we don't need carrying and we stop walking, how can we ever expect to stay at pace with God. We have to take ACTION! LITERALLY!!!
I've recently finished reading Jeremiah and have begun to read the Psalms. Tonight Psalm 7:8 stood out to me it says, "Let the Lord judge the peoples. Judge me, Oh lord, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High." This is relevant because I'm frustrated. God has been doing his part in my life but it's time for me to wake up and smell the Coffee. It is my turn to take action. So I want God to show me where I need to take action.
I've recently finished reading Jeremiah and have begun to read the Psalms. Tonight Psalm 7:8 stood out to me it says, "Let the Lord judge the peoples. Judge me, Oh lord, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High." This is relevant because I'm frustrated. God has been doing his part in my life but it's time for me to wake up and smell the Coffee. It is my turn to take action. So I want God to show me where I need to take action.
Worship
God is amazing! Today was worship Chapel, and in the past this usually means music and singing. Much to my surprise today's chapel wasn't just music, it was also a wonderful speaker from our peers. Although, I absolutely loved the electric violin and a cappella trio, the speaker was a great way to worship. Her name, Sarah, she spoke to us, her peers, in encouragement. Lifting us up to God with the power of the Holy Spirit into worship. Encouraging us to be intentional in persuing God. Whether that means through prayer, worship, or reading His Word. Something truly amazing is happening on the campus of Spring Arbor University and I can't wait to hear what God is doing!
Prayer
Today's chapel was about prayer. In Luke 11:1 the disciples say to Jesus "Lord teach us to pray" notice that they didn't ask Him how to pray. But said teach us to pray, they wanted to gain the habit of praying. The speaker talked about how God says in the Bible you didn't get because you didn't ask. There are some things that God wants us to ask for. Thus we need to ask him through prayer.
As Christians prayer is one of our most powerful tools. Having the ability through Christ to speak to Almighty God amazes me! Why is it that when we don't know what to do in some situations prayer is the last thing we try.
There is a passage in the Gospels where the disciples were unable to cast out a demon and Jesus went over and did it. Then they asked Him why they could not and Jesus said this kind only leaves through prayer which means they didn't even try praying before going to Jesus.
Prayer is such an important aspect of our relationship with God, not only presenting our thoughts to Him, but we also need to be listening for His. Therefore, today I encourage you to pray, and make it a habit.
As Christians prayer is one of our most powerful tools. Having the ability through Christ to speak to Almighty God amazes me! Why is it that when we don't know what to do in some situations prayer is the last thing we try.
There is a passage in the Gospels where the disciples were unable to cast out a demon and Jesus went over and did it. Then they asked Him why they could not and Jesus said this kind only leaves through prayer which means they didn't even try praying before going to Jesus.
Prayer is such an important aspect of our relationship with God, not only presenting our thoughts to Him, but we also need to be listening for His. Therefore, today I encourage you to pray, and make it a habit.
L-O-V-E
In chapel on Wednesday, Pastor Mark Van Valin spoke about God being love. He talked of how many people have a hard time understanding that God would make us if he was already complete in the trinity and so he explained it this way. God made us because He was full, not because he was lonely. Take for instance a young girl who has a child because she is lonely verses a married couple who is full of love and wants to expand that love into a family. God is full, like the couple is full. Then the Pastor went on to take about self-giving love verses self-serving love. Self-giving love is that of God, a love that gives to others, a full, complete love. Whereas Self-serving love is selfishness, ie me and you. Often we get caught up in ourselves during the day thinking about what I want, what I need, the many things I have to do today. Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." God tells us in this verse that even when we where still doing everything wrong and bad, he loved us, and continues to today. We are commanded to love as Christ loves us. To forgive as much as we need forgiving. To have mercy, grace.... We are commanded to love our neighbor as ourselves. Today I encourage you to L-O-V-E the self-giving love of God, to do something for your neighbor that you would do for yourself, or would like to do for yourself.
Set Apart
Last Chapel the speaker talked about being set apart. God calls us to be different than the rest of the world. Not only different, but we as Christians are called to stand out. Matthew 7:13-14 says, “Enter through the narrow gate, because the gate is wide and the way is spacious that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. But the gate is narrow and the way is difficult that leads to life, and there are few who find it." You see, the problem today is many Christians look just like everybody else. Walk, talk, dress, act. People are not seeing us any different and that is a big problem. The thing is we are supposed to be a lot cleaner than everyone else, but fact is we are only a little cleaner. The world is like a funnel, if you get too close to the edge your sucked in. That is why we are called to stand on the outside, not only in order to avoid being sucked in, but also to help pull everyone else out. But we can't do that when we're struggling for balance near the edge. Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." 55% of communication happens through body language. Thus you can talk the talk, but if you don't walk the walk people will notice. So, ask yourself, Do my actions reflect Christ? Another point the speaker made was that we can't most of the time bring people to the church, so we need to bring the church to them. We have to be the message through our actions. What kind of message are you leaving? We must develope loving connections and model the truth. Who we are is more than what we say, so be legit.
Catching up again
Okay, so I was in the bathroom yesterday and read this beautiful note on the building posters.
"A Love Prayer of Surrender"
Jesus,
I am humble, lowly servant. Take me... all of me. Add anything. Take anything away. At any cost. Make me yours completely... wholly. May I not be remembered for the way I wear my hair, or the shape of my face, or the people I know, or the crowds I've addressed. May I be known for loving you... For carrying a dream... For building bridges to the hurt and broken and lost in the world. Make me what you would be if you lived in person where I do. May everything accomplished through my simple life bring honor and glory to you. Take my human flaws and failures and use them to remind those who know me that only you are God and I will always just be... (Your name). Amen.
In Logos Sunday morning, we learned about the Passover in exodus. From that we learn that God keeps His word, Judges sin, and that Jesus was the ultimate sacrificial lamb. We also talked about how tradition is important to keep, such as remembering the resurrection on Easter and God coming in Human form at Christmas. Here to remember that God delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians in keeping with his promise. Although, the Israelites did have to suffer and the release wasn’t immediate it took several plagues until Pharaoh gave in. Thus even when we suffer and wait a long time upon the Lord to deliver us He is there working in the situation and always come through.
Then at Church, Pastor Mark Vanvalin asked what do you really know? He told a story of a man who had an ongoing nightmare for 1yr and 4 months. He dreamed that he was going down a very long tunnel and they wanted to kill him. One day he had went to a church and stole the cross that was behind the podium and slept with it that night. Thus, that night in his dream he was carrying a cross with him. Then at a service he came on the alter call. He fell on his knees weeping then he hears a voice that he thought was the pastor saying, "not your tears, but my blood" but when he looked up it wasn't the pastor who said it. - How cool is that! He said, "I know whom I believe" The Pastor Mark went on ... "Do you possess an unshakable hope? Does it show? Do you choose to suffer for what is right? Has anyone asked you lately what is different about you? Could you give a thoughtful and genuine answer? When is hope most apparent? (In suffering) sometimes life just happens - Hope is brightest when things are most difficult.
Next, last night in my devos was John 15:12-14 "My command is this: love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friend. You are my friends if you do what I command." The last part really stood out to me, the concept of obedience. God knows best, so why wouldn't we follow what he wants us to do? Well, there are many reason we don't none valid. No matter what excuse, the hindrance is often fear. More specifically, fear of pain, of suffering, of having to sacrifice something in order to do what God is asking of us. That is where we must surrender all. Lay everything down at His feet withholding nothing.
Lastly, in Chapel this morning Carlos Garcia spoke on suffering. He shared with us how it was hard for him to watch his daughter suffer and he wanted God to fix it Now! but he never took into account that God could have been doing somthing in her life. he asked "what are we doing with God while we are waiting" in the midst of suffering circumstances. Are you using your experience of life to improve your experience with God? or have you been using God to improve your experience with life? He listed three things that all humans need. 1 physical comfort 2 Good relationships 3 Joys only coming from God. *note 2 cannot fulfill 3 C.S. Lewis said "If i find in myself a desire which no experience in the world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that i was made for another world" In the Lord's prayer, God's will is listed before daily bread. Thus it is more important. It's okay to hurt, and be upset. but it is important to fix our eyes on Jesus. After all did he not suffer in one day more than we will ever will in one lifetime. What prevents you from inticing Christ? My last note from this chapel says, we need to realize sin and then bury daily. Meaning put it behind, don't let it hold you back it's in your past. Repent confess and move on. God has greater things and he will still use you.
"A Love Prayer of Surrender"
Jesus,
I am humble, lowly servant. Take me... all of me. Add anything. Take anything away. At any cost. Make me yours completely... wholly. May I not be remembered for the way I wear my hair, or the shape of my face, or the people I know, or the crowds I've addressed. May I be known for loving you... For carrying a dream... For building bridges to the hurt and broken and lost in the world. Make me what you would be if you lived in person where I do. May everything accomplished through my simple life bring honor and glory to you. Take my human flaws and failures and use them to remind those who know me that only you are God and I will always just be... (Your name). Amen.
In Logos Sunday morning, we learned about the Passover in exodus. From that we learn that God keeps His word, Judges sin, and that Jesus was the ultimate sacrificial lamb. We also talked about how tradition is important to keep, such as remembering the resurrection on Easter and God coming in Human form at Christmas. Here to remember that God delivered the Israelites from the Egyptians in keeping with his promise. Although, the Israelites did have to suffer and the release wasn’t immediate it took several plagues until Pharaoh gave in. Thus even when we suffer and wait a long time upon the Lord to deliver us He is there working in the situation and always come through.
Then at Church, Pastor Mark Vanvalin asked what do you really know? He told a story of a man who had an ongoing nightmare for 1yr and 4 months. He dreamed that he was going down a very long tunnel and they wanted to kill him. One day he had went to a church and stole the cross that was behind the podium and slept with it that night. Thus, that night in his dream he was carrying a cross with him. Then at a service he came on the alter call. He fell on his knees weeping then he hears a voice that he thought was the pastor saying, "not your tears, but my blood" but when he looked up it wasn't the pastor who said it. - How cool is that! He said, "I know whom I believe" The Pastor Mark went on ... "Do you possess an unshakable hope? Does it show? Do you choose to suffer for what is right? Has anyone asked you lately what is different about you? Could you give a thoughtful and genuine answer? When is hope most apparent? (In suffering) sometimes life just happens - Hope is brightest when things are most difficult.
Next, last night in my devos was John 15:12-14 "My command is this: love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friend. You are my friends if you do what I command." The last part really stood out to me, the concept of obedience. God knows best, so why wouldn't we follow what he wants us to do? Well, there are many reason we don't none valid. No matter what excuse, the hindrance is often fear. More specifically, fear of pain, of suffering, of having to sacrifice something in order to do what God is asking of us. That is where we must surrender all. Lay everything down at His feet withholding nothing.
Lastly, in Chapel this morning Carlos Garcia spoke on suffering. He shared with us how it was hard for him to watch his daughter suffer and he wanted God to fix it Now! but he never took into account that God could have been doing somthing in her life. he asked "what are we doing with God while we are waiting" in the midst of suffering circumstances. Are you using your experience of life to improve your experience with God? or have you been using God to improve your experience with life? He listed three things that all humans need. 1 physical comfort 2 Good relationships 3 Joys only coming from God. *note 2 cannot fulfill 3 C.S. Lewis said "If i find in myself a desire which no experience in the world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that i was made for another world" In the Lord's prayer, God's will is listed before daily bread. Thus it is more important. It's okay to hurt, and be upset. but it is important to fix our eyes on Jesus. After all did he not suffer in one day more than we will ever will in one lifetime. What prevents you from inticing Christ? My last note from this chapel says, we need to realize sin and then bury daily. Meaning put it behind, don't let it hold you back it's in your past. Repent confess and move on. God has greater things and he will still use you.
Promises
Thursday night I opened up my devotional and there again was 1 Peter 5:5-10 but one thing I noted this time that I had not before was verse 10. There it says, "After you have suffered for a little while the God of all grace, who called you to eternal glory in Christ will himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you." What a great promise from God. In Romans 8, I read tonight about how we are to share in Christ's sufferings here on earth, in order that we may share in his glories even more in Heaven.
Often times here, especially in the comfortable lives we live in the United States, it is hard to make that one painful decision simply because it will be painful. I don't know about you but I definitely avoid pain. But God says we should go and make those decisions and stand firm in His foundation resisting the devil. That we may share in His sufferings and even more in His glories.
Often times here, especially in the comfortable lives we live in the United States, it is hard to make that one painful decision simply because it will be painful. I don't know about you but I definitely avoid pain. But God says we should go and make those decisions and stand firm in His foundation resisting the devil. That we may share in His sufferings and even more in His glories.
Everything at Once!
So much has happened this week, mostly in the last two days that I want to share with you so here it is everything at once.
First off, yesterday in my acting technique class I had the honor to work with a group of Chinese drama students who are visiting the University. Dr. Patton took us through several acting exercises with them that were a lot fun, then before they left us he had us American students either pray for or encourage the Chinese students. I was privileged to spend a half hour with them and even got to pray for a girl who called herself Katie - for the sake of all of us Americans who cannot pronounce their real names. It took a couple of tries to communicate what I wanted to tell her but after a few different explanations and some hand gestures she said that I could bless her which was close enough for me. Then she let me take her hand and pray for her. After they had all gone, we discussed our individual experiences with them. We talked about how awesome it was to see their faces light up after they had been prayed for or "blessed". I'm so thankful for the opportunity I had to speak up and the fact that I actually did it!
Next topic - at Chapel this morning the University’s President’s son spoke on living dangerously. He presented the question “will I live dangerously for God, or will I just live dangerously? Lets face it life isn’t safe no matter what we think. In every moment, there is a chance that we could die, because we don’t know when that will be. We need to get past busyness, get off Facebook, and get out into the world. Reaching out to the people around us who are in need, and whom we need. We need to STAND OUT for God with our love for each other “This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples--when they see the love you have for each other” – John 13:35 MSG No matter what the cost. The Bible tells us of the many horrible ways that the Apostles died for example, stoning, and flogging, being crucified upside down. Now, in America it is less likely that you will encounter such horrendous persecution for your faith. However, isn’t that even more reason to speak up and reach out? What do you have to lose? So, people will fight with you, disagree, call you names and make fun. So what? I’ll ask again, what do you have to lose? Your probably not going to be crucified or stoned and God is on your side. The speaker quoted Craig Graeschel who says, “The difference between where we are and where God wants us to be is the painful decision you refuse to make.” What is that decision for you? What can you do today to progress in making that choice? Will you ask for help? He also quoted Narnia, "Don't you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? Of course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the king, I tell you!" Jesus was in danger several times throughout his life. He isn’t safe, but he’s good. He is the King!
One last thing, tonight I read Haggai Chapter One which really goes along with everything I’ve been writing this week and learning. There it says, “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?.... You have planted much but have harvested little…. You expect much but see, it turned out to be little….Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house…. Therefore because of you….I called for a drought…. The people obeyed the voice of the Lord…. And the people feared the Lord”
God calls us to get out of our comfortable place and restore His house. To stop being busy, get priorities in line, and obey God’s commands. Here he cursed the people for disobedience, He disciplined them.
I leave you with this thought, my prayer.
Psalm 119:73 “your hands made me; give me understanding to learn your commands.”
First off, yesterday in my acting technique class I had the honor to work with a group of Chinese drama students who are visiting the University. Dr. Patton took us through several acting exercises with them that were a lot fun, then before they left us he had us American students either pray for or encourage the Chinese students. I was privileged to spend a half hour with them and even got to pray for a girl who called herself Katie - for the sake of all of us Americans who cannot pronounce their real names. It took a couple of tries to communicate what I wanted to tell her but after a few different explanations and some hand gestures she said that I could bless her which was close enough for me. Then she let me take her hand and pray for her. After they had all gone, we discussed our individual experiences with them. We talked about how awesome it was to see their faces light up after they had been prayed for or "blessed". I'm so thankful for the opportunity I had to speak up and the fact that I actually did it!
Next topic - at Chapel this morning the University’s President’s son spoke on living dangerously. He presented the question “will I live dangerously for God, or will I just live dangerously? Lets face it life isn’t safe no matter what we think. In every moment, there is a chance that we could die, because we don’t know when that will be. We need to get past busyness, get off Facebook, and get out into the world. Reaching out to the people around us who are in need, and whom we need. We need to STAND OUT for God with our love for each other “This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples--when they see the love you have for each other” – John 13:35 MSG No matter what the cost. The Bible tells us of the many horrible ways that the Apostles died for example, stoning, and flogging, being crucified upside down. Now, in America it is less likely that you will encounter such horrendous persecution for your faith. However, isn’t that even more reason to speak up and reach out? What do you have to lose? So, people will fight with you, disagree, call you names and make fun. So what? I’ll ask again, what do you have to lose? Your probably not going to be crucified or stoned and God is on your side. The speaker quoted Craig Graeschel who says, “The difference between where we are and where God wants us to be is the painful decision you refuse to make.” What is that decision for you? What can you do today to progress in making that choice? Will you ask for help? He also quoted Narnia, "Don't you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells you? Who said anything about safe? Of course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the king, I tell you!" Jesus was in danger several times throughout his life. He isn’t safe, but he’s good. He is the King!
One last thing, tonight I read Haggai Chapter One which really goes along with everything I’ve been writing this week and learning. There it says, “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?.... You have planted much but have harvested little…. You expect much but see, it turned out to be little….Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house…. Therefore because of you….I called for a drought…. The people obeyed the voice of the Lord…. And the people feared the Lord”
God calls us to get out of our comfortable place and restore His house. To stop being busy, get priorities in line, and obey God’s commands. Here he cursed the people for disobedience, He disciplined them.
I leave you with this thought, my prayer.
Psalm 119:73 “your hands made me; give me understanding to learn your commands.”
Do Not be Silent
Wow, so I just returned from the first Chapel of the Semester and it was amazing. Tim Dilena, the senior pastor of the Revival Tabernacle Church in Highland Park spoke this morning on 1 Samual 26:6 which says, "David then asked Ahimelech the Hitite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, 'Who will go down into the camp with me to Saul?' 'I'll go with you,' sad Abishai.'" The main point was that the Hitite said nothing, he didn't say he wouldn't go but it didn't say that he would. Thus we need to not be the man who said nothing, we need to speak up and reach out to the people around us in our lives. I know many times when I have prayed that God would bring my friends and family to know Him and ask that He would send someone. But what about realizing that I could be (or you) the one to tell them. One story that he told us from his experience was when he was on a plane ride. Everyone was boarded and ready to go and he happened to have an extra seat next to him so he spread all his things out getting ready to do his devotions. But then walks in this hillbilly who of coarse was supposed to sit right next to him. But instead of saying anything to the guy he just inwardly complained about how his devotional time was interrupted. Then someone was asking if he could move over and take a picture with the sleeping hillbilly - and he was confused about why. Then he found out that the hillbilly was Kid Rock - he sat next to him on a plane for two hours and never said a word. - Therefore, don't be silent, God wants to use me and you to do great things, we need to get past ourselves and reach out to others. Saying to God, Here am I send me!
There was another story he told about a time when they had started a Church prayer meeting and one day someone brought in this man who had gotten into a fight in the city and had broken ribs. The person who brought him wanted to pray for his healing - and Tim was thinking - this never works when I pray for it so I'll ask in God's will that way if it doesn't happen its His fault. Then, after they had prayed and the guy was healed, Tim didn't believe him at first. - Thus we need to pray expecting that God is going to work - Which Reminds me of Church yesterday - They did a drama where there was a drought and they were going to pray for rain but then after they had prayed the one girl opened up her umbrella expecting to get wet and the others laughed at her saying there weren't any clouds - which she responds to saying that well we're not counting on the rain, we're counting on God. - pray with expectation - Closing with Tim, do things that need God to show up - that require Him to do miracles.
You can find out more about Tim Dilena and the Revival Church at http://www.revivaltab.org/staff.php
There was another story he told about a time when they had started a Church prayer meeting and one day someone brought in this man who had gotten into a fight in the city and had broken ribs. The person who brought him wanted to pray for his healing - and Tim was thinking - this never works when I pray for it so I'll ask in God's will that way if it doesn't happen its His fault. Then, after they had prayed and the guy was healed, Tim didn't believe him at first. - Thus we need to pray expecting that God is going to work - Which Reminds me of Church yesterday - They did a drama where there was a drought and they were going to pray for rain but then after they had prayed the one girl opened up her umbrella expecting to get wet and the others laughed at her saying there weren't any clouds - which she responds to saying that well we're not counting on the rain, we're counting on God. - pray with expectation - Closing with Tim, do things that need God to show up - that require Him to do miracles.
You can find out more about Tim Dilena and the Revival Church at http://www.revivaltab.org/staff.php
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