tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61124453605276205472024-03-05T20:41:52.939-08:00Lessons from the Sticker PatchRecognizing GOD'S IMMEASURABLE LOVE in everyday lifeShari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-76051938344166365132016-07-27T18:19:00.002-07:002016-07-27T18:19:57.935-07:00The Day Before <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="line-height: 150%;">Only a few today will be able to recount where they were and what they were doing the day of President Kennedy’s assassination. A later generation will recall the day of the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. Even more will vividly remember the day of the Murrah Building bombing and most recent, the moment terrorists shook America’s foundation of safety, destroying the World Trade Centers.</span></div>
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However, do you remember what you were doing <i>the day before?</i> </div>
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Odd question, I know. Most certainly, it is not the common question. Some, I am sure, have a particular personal event cementing the day before in their minds. For most, however, it was business as usual—going to work, getting the kids to school, planning parties, attending meetings, etc.</div>
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Have you noticed that it seems only when disasters occur we automatically shift into another frame of mind? We become more aware of our surroundings, more compassionate with our neighbor, perhaps even more self-disciplined. Disasters cause us to re-establish our priorities, reminding us of our mortality and of how fallible and temporary we are. It usually lasts only as long as the media broadcasts the chaos. Then it is “business as usual” all over again. Alas, the change was only temporary.</div>
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Time, experience, and education can prepare us somewhat for our readiness and reaction to the unexpected, but what of our attentiveness and reaction to expected events? The answer to that question depends solely upon one’s belief, perception, and understanding of the anticipated event. </div>
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<i><b>How one believes determines how one responds!</b></i></div>
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Before the Great Flood, people bustled about, eating and drinking, going to work, walking the saber-tooth, catching a great pantomime, listening to “rock” music, and texting on stone tablets. They had no idea of what was coming or of what was to come. Noah tried to warn them, but they perceived him as foolish, turning their backs to the ark. The clouds came, the thunder clapped, and the Lord shut the door to the ark. Noah’s family was safe, but not so for those outside of the ark caught up in the ways of the world.</div>
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In Luke 17, the Pharisees questioned Jesus about the coming kingdom of God foretold by the prophets. Jesus told them,</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i>“Behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst”</i></span> (Luke 17:21).</blockquote>
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As usual, the Pharisees missed it. He was telling them they did not need to look for any future signs; the kingdom of God was already there, standing close enough to touch. So close and yet so far.</div>
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Jesus then turned to His disciples, who were still struggling to understand this "present kingdom” and had questions about the future. He encouraged them, however, not to chase after those claiming to “look here” or “look there.” He then proceeded in their interest telling them, </div>
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“And just as it happened in the days of Noah, so it shall be also in the days of the Son of Man: they were eating, they were drinking, they were marrying, they were being given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all” (Luke 17:26–27).</blockquote>
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The kingdom of God remains in our midst through the Holy Spirit. </div>
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“And He will guide you into all truth … and He will show you things to come” (John 16:13.) </blockquote>
<span style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">Just as Noah and his family entered the ark by faith, we too enter The Kingdom by faith. He who has ears to hear, let him hear. Those who are not born again cannot see the kingdom of God.</span><br />
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Our present days are indeed like the days of Noah. Let us not grow complacent in our activities. We must be about our Father’s business.</div>
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“Straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).</blockquote>
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Often, change is only temporary. Allow God to use every resource available in preparing you to remain dedicated and determined in making the necessary changes and preparations for you or your family. Utilize disaster as a means to strengthen you, forever increasing your faith.</div>
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Today is the “day before” whatever happens tomorrow. The blessing of the “day before” is that it offers an opportunity to prepare for tomorrow. Today is the day of salvation. Today is the day of decision.</div>
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Jesus is the Ark of our salvation, and all who enter will be saved. The Son of God is returning soon. Are you on board?</div>
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<i>Eternal Father, we thank you for Jesus, who is our salvation and for the Holy Spirit—Your kingdom come to earth. May Your will be done in our hearts today, Lord, as You establish Your kingdom of righteousness within us. May we continually be on guard, praying at all times for strength to endure the days, while living in faith-filled expectation of our coming King. In Jesus’s name, amen.</i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-26648591904110896582015-04-14T17:19:00.000-07:002021-01-24T12:46:17.949-08:00Give Me Some Skin!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwyVcGCeBh1SPlMDId-ANFP42hx4yr01YDrVqqUCBIOda4U6uY5swEdrvckjJlxotZwy_YeL7mQMsNtE29h22ZmH0J895tEopGmG7MnReP-GrmQ4qGZAyfhCvdzUpHeDFgA5DG6byWkg/s1600/Child+in+hands+of+God.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdwyVcGCeBh1SPlMDId-ANFP42hx4yr01YDrVqqUCBIOda4U6uY5swEdrvckjJlxotZwy_YeL7mQMsNtE29h22ZmH0J895tEopGmG7MnReP-GrmQ4qGZAyfhCvdzUpHeDFgA5DG6byWkg/s1600/Child+in+hands+of+God.jpg" height="248" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I have learned that if you listen very carefully, you can hear God speaking through the lips of your little ones. There have been numerous times when the words of my young children brought conviction upon me as I hustled through the daily routines of the busy parent. God’s Word tells us we are to have the faith of a child. I think that as adults we can learn much from our children if indeed we really listen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">One stormy evening many years ago, we were putting the children to bed. Our boys shared a room and went on to bed without incident. Our three-year- old daughter, however, was another story. She was already planning her strategy to sleep with us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">She was not exactly pleasant bed company, as she usually ended up sleeping crosswise with her feet in someone’s face. I steered her back to her room and placed her back into her own bed. We visited for a few minutes and said another prayer. Before I left, I tried to reassure her of her safety, with all of her teddy bears tucked in tightly around her, and then reminded her that Jesus was always with her too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Pining for the inevitable last word, she looked up at me from beneath her blankets and with the saddest of eyes said, </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";"> “But I need somebody with </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">skin </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">on!”</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">So as she climbed into our bed (yes, she won that one), I lay there beside her and thought about the depth of the words she had just spoken. I realized that too many times in ministering to others we attempt to offer a quick fix with words of consolation and promises of God’s presence.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">There is a popular phrase among church leaders stating, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” I have found this to be profoundly true. There are times when someone needs more than brief consolation; they need you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">And isn’t that what Jesus calls us to do?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Second Corinthians </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">1</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">3</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">–</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">4 </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">declares, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our afflictions, that we may be able to comfort those which are in any affliction, by the [same] comfort with which we ourselves are comforted of God.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">God does not comfort us just to make us comfortable but to make us </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">comforters!</span></i></div>
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</style> <![endif]--><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">miserable. What misery really wants is help! It wants </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">understanding, compassion, mercy, grace, forgiveness, and acceptance. It wants to be heard, and many times, it just wants to be held!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">God is calling us to put into practice with others what He has done for us. Recognize that sometimes people need more than just a pat on the back; they need true, heartfelt comfort, full of mercy and compassion. It is the beauty of the family of God living out the kingdom of God.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Heavenly Father, I thank you for the times You speak to us through our little ones. Give us ears to hear and hearts to receive. Help us to comfort others with the same comfort by which we have been comforted. Teach us to be sensitive and compassionate. Teach us to be Jesus </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">… </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">with skin on! </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">In His precious name, amen.</span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-47589804676263704802015-02-02T19:00:00.000-08:002015-02-03T18:23:02.176-08:00Oh, Be Careful Little Mouth<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Have you ever noticed that when <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">we</i> mess up, it is a temporary lapse of judgment, but if someone else messes up, he or she will be immediately declared a hypocrite and unfit for the kingdom? I once heard a comment by a pastor saying, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“We cannot measure Christianity by the conduct of Christians; but rather by the character of Christ!”</i> </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">One of my favorite childhood stories of self-righteousness came out of a daily routine carried out in the opening exercises my fourth grade year in 1969. Every morning, we stood at attention to recite the flag salute and the Lord’s Prayer. Our teacher encouraged us before the prayer to bow our heads and close our eyes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">There was a certain boy in the class most of us considered a source of irritation. He bounced off the walls, rarely brushed his teeth, and had an incessant runny nose. Girls avoided him like the plague and boys taunted him mercilessly. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Johnny </i>wanted so desperately just to fit in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">During the morning exercises, I noticed a grave infraction of the “heads bowed, eyes closed” rule. Out of the corner of my eye, I was secretly watching Johnny look around the room during the Lord’s Prayer. As soon as we came to “Amen” and began taking our seats, my hand shot up. I felt it was my duty to inform the teacher that there was an irreverent defector among us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mrs. Schuneman, Mrs. Schuneman,”</i> I blurted as my hand waved wildly. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Johnny had his eyes open during the prayer!”</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>I just knew Johnny would be staying inside for recess. I felt I had single-handedly saved the entire class from the would-be tormenter for the day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Mrs. Schuneman, without missing a beat, very calmly returned, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Shari, how did you know?”</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">OK, I was young, but I was no dummy. I heard the bars of guilt slam shut in my conscience. I had just hung myself with the rope intended for Johnny. Her question did not demand a verbal response. With gentle wisdom, she tenderly admonished me, but sweltering conviction was throbbing in my head.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Throughout the years, there have been several times when I pulled out the self-righteous rope of condemnation. As Christians, many times we can come across as harsh as a blowtorch instead of the gentle candle God calls us to be. I envision an angel of the Lord coming along after me with a broom and dustpan sweeping up my messes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">First Corinthians 4:21 says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness?”</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>Paul reminds us in the third chapter of 2 Thessalonians that we are to be gentle even with those who lead undisciplined lives, to not consider them an enemy but to gently admonish them as a brother [or sister]. The hard part is then leaving the rest of the work to the Holy Spirit to change the heart of the person. The Christian life is indeed a daily work in progress. We will only have arrived when we see Him face to face.</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></i><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Merciful Father, You sent Your Son into the world not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. Thank you that the Spirit of Christ sets us free from the law of sin and death. Forgive us for the times we really mess up. Help us to be as patient with others Lord, as You have been with us. Holy Spirit, remind us to be tenderhearted and forgiving and to let the warmth of the light of Christ draw others to the Cross. In Jesus’ name, Amen. </span></i><br />
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-4109052698534025312015-01-30T10:30:00.000-08:002015-01-30T08:57:21.836-08:00GOT ARROWS?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Every father looks forward to the day he is finally able to take his son along on “the hunt”. Sometimes the excursion becomes more of a valuable lesson than a successful hunt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">One evening, when our oldest son, Cory, was around seven years old, he and my husband, Chuck, filled one thermos with hot chocolate, another with coffee and set out for the wild kingdom of northern Grant County. It was “Bow Season” in the state, which adds a completely different element to the hunting experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">All good hunters quickly learn that stealth and stillness are crucial and Cory received extensive instruction in this discipline. Equipped with bow-hunting gear, he and my husband quietly made their way through the wooded terrain, dried autumn leaves crunching beneath their boots. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Suddenly, with a gentle tug on the back of his dad’s jacket, the still of the moment was broken as Cory whispered, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“D-a-a-d.” </i></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Chuck turned and motioned, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Quiet!” </i>while continuing toward his usual hunting spot. Moments later, as my husband began his ascent into the tree stand, Cory firmly taps his dad on the back and whispered, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“But D-a-a-a-d”.</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Chuck gave him the “just a minute” signal as he helped Cory up into the stand. With the strong-willed hunters finally settled in place, Cory attempted one last time, whispering,<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> “D-a-a-a-d!”</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Chuck relented, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Cory, yes, what is it?”</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Cory answered, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You forgot your arrows!” </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">There was a time when the bow and arrow were more than hunting gear; they were a necessity, a means of self-defense against the enemy. The good warrior was well trained for accuracy and made sure his quiver was well equipped with carefully sharpened arrows. A bow without arrows falls short of its intent. One is in need of the other. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Arrows in scripture hold various representations, but for this particular narrative, arrows represent spiritual truths. As such, as believers we can see the necessity for taking care not only to gather, but also to sharpen our arrows, whether we are speaking of spiritual warfare or simply the accurate application of the Truth in a particular situation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man (or woman) of God my be adequate, equipped for every good work.” </i></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman (or warrior) who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” </span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I have found myself (maybe you have too) in situations when I felt the Spirit urging me to minister a word or pray with someone, and panic raced through my body like a bolt of lightening.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i> It is in those moments that we realize the importance of gathering truth through memorization of scripture. We can only recall what we have attained through study. We sharpen our skills through consistent use of what we have learned. </span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It is the responsibility of the Christian first to KNOW the truth of God’s Word, to gather it as precious arrows of a warrior and then to accurately and skillfully apply it in his or her life, or in the lives of others. Just as the arrow requires a strong bow and a skilled archer, the arrows of truth are dependent upon the bold faith of the adequately prepared Christian for an incisive aim, in season or out of season. (2 Tim. 4:2) <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Holy God, like a warrior draws arrows from his quiver, may we be diligent to prepare ourselves by Your Word so that we are able to reach into our memory and pull out the proper words of truth, being ready at all times. We thank you for Your Word, Father. We are not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe. Halleluiah to the Lamb!</i></span></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-54206275660577452872015-01-26T18:00:00.000-08:002015-01-30T08:58:25.264-08:00Freedom Fighters<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When the kids were small, we took on a project of hatching quail eggs, raising them until old enough to release. We eagerly gained the use of an incubator and a few dozen very tiny quail eggs. Placing the box on a counter beneath a window, we positioned the special lamp over our new and crowded maternity ward. We then watched expectantly the following weeks for the first signs of life.<br />
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The miracle began one day as we noticed the eggs moving ever so slightly. Their movement reminded me of the dancing beans I had seen as a child. Excitement grew as we heard tiny tapping sounds from within the shell. This was the moment we had been waiting for!<br />
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Inexperienced with quail hatching as I was, I noticed one of the first eggs seemed to be in trouble. The tiny bird had pecked for what seemed a very long time, but wasn’t making as much progress as I thought he should. It was obvious he needed my help!<br />
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So with the assistance of a sewing needle and the precision of a surgeon, I picked up the fragile egg and very delicately began to remove tiny portions of the stubborn shell that seemed to be “in the way”. I chipped away enough to ensure a quick and painless entry, laid the egg back down and left the infant quail to do the rest, feeling rather triumphant in my rescue.<br />
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A few hours later, I returned to the quail nursery and to my shock and disbelief, my patient was barely alive. By the next day, he was dead. I learned later that the very process of pecking through the shell is a sometimes lengthy but necessary task for the young chicks in order to gain strength, stamina and maturity. I had robbed the baby quail of the opportunity to become what nature had intended and I unwittingly killed him. <br />
<br />
It is natural for us to want to come to the aid of one who is in trouble. As Christians, God calls us to come along side our brother or sister in Christ, as well as those who have not come to faith in Him. I have found myself at times wanting to do as I did with the quail egg and through impatience, apply a little too much “encouragement” in their journey. I forgot the struggle was necessary. <br />
<br />
Our journey toward and with God is as unique and individual as we are. The struggles and challenges we bear build strength and character and to deny someone of that short-circuits opportunities for growth. Painful as it seems, it is wise to step back and allow God’s will to unfold in His appointed time. <br />
<br />
Unlike my “Project Free Bird” calamity, God is ever patient. He knows our heart and will bless even the blunders of the over-zealous freedom fighters in our attempts to minister truth into the life of another. God’s love never fails. <br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 7:17 reminds us that, “Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk”. Remember also “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)<br />
<br />
There are no quick and painless journeys through life in the Kingdom of God. There also are no drag marks to the foot of the Cross. There are lessons to learn and breakthroughs to make. We grow, we mature; we gain wisdom, insight and understanding compelling us to the next level, grace upon grace, from glory to glory!<br />
<br />
<i>Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. Be Glorified, Father, even in our blunders, as we minister in Spirit and in Truth. May the blind be made to see and the bound be set free, in Jesus’ name. For whom the Son sets free is free indeed! Halleluiah to our King! <br />
<br />
</i></div>
Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-41767180209033393072015-01-16T18:00:00.000-08:002015-01-16T18:05:09.201-08:00Keys of Wealth <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">They are nestled securely in nearly
every household junk drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their
unique size, shape and finish leave us guessing what their original employment
was. Once useful, they are now members of the jobless, homeless, heavy metal “groovy”
band of brothers -- the Loose Keys. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Rifling through my junk drawer (and
that’s what we all do, unless you are June Cleaver), I came across the
neglected assembly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were they the lost
souls of the key society, the penniless drifters, the down and outers?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What about the shiny one that appears to be a
newcomer?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s its story?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was it recently laid off? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Further study revealed much more than their
disadvantaged service; it brought back a rush of memories. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">One key belonged to the back door of
the home we had moved from several years ago. Another was our daughter’s spare
key to her car; actually one of several, as it was a common practice to lose
her keys. A silver key marked with pink nail polish reminded me it belonged to
my sister’s apartment, but she no longer lives there. Not sure why I’ve kept
it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Then I uncovered one of those odd shaped
keys, very tiny and delicate; the kind you know fits neither a car nor a door.
This key belonged to a small wooden box that resembled a treasure chest I had
received as a gift several years ago. It was now home to several personal and
family valuables, but I’ve never locked it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Finding the key prompted me to reopen
our box of valuables. Going through it took me on the most wonderful journey,
having never left my living room.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">The first was a palm-sized New
Testament given to my husband by his great-grandmother when he was only ten.
Next was a 1926 Language Primer issued to my would-be-father-in-law in 1934
from a tiny one-room country school. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Tears filled my eyes as I held the copy
of the first letter I had written to the family of my transplant donor. It
holds a place of honor among my treasures, along with the page torn from a
calendar the day of my surgery. Beside it was a hand written letter by our comedic
son his first year of college. I broke out into laughter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Pictures, cards, napkins, brochures, and
my grandparent’s tattered and dog-eared Bible replayed years of memories
sparking laughter, tears, thankfulness and wonderment. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Near the bottom, I found precious tokens of
bereavement from loved ones I miss dearly, sharply snapping my mind back into
the living room. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">My journey that day began with a key,
which led me to a wealth of my life’s treasure. A brief exploration through my
special wooden box would reveal precious memories of my family and friends, the
generosity of mankind, but most of all, the hand of God at work in my life. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: center;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Father,
thank you for the little reminders that You lovingly and ingeniously place into
our hectic lives to freshen our spirit, stir our souls and bring a smile to our
face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray we be ever attentive to
Your leading, that we might recognize those God moments and praise You in and
for them. You are the Ever-loving and Everlasting Father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Amen. </span></span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-74478393749820840792014-10-27T11:09:00.001-07:002014-10-27T11:09:33.907-07:00Where's Jesus? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Years ago, when the kids were small, Sunday mornings became something of a well-orchestrated exercise. It took two vehicles to get five people to church. I left early with my young daughter to set up for my Sunday school class, and my husband trailed a few minutes behind with the boys. After the service, we usually left in reverse order.<br />
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Following one Sunday morning service, I stayed behind arranging my classroom for something later in the week. My husband informed me he was going to take the kids home. I packed up my things only a minute or two behind my husband and headed for the house. Pulling in behind him in the driveway, I noticed the boys already playing with the dog but did not see our five-year-old daughter. My husband walked toward me with a jokey smirk on his face, while I sported the same.<br />
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"Where's Kaci?" he teasingly asked.<br />
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Thinking she had ducked down in the seat of his pickup, I answered, "Well ... I don't know? Where is Kaci?"<br />
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We exchanged this playful banter for only a couple more rounds, until it suddenly turned more somber.<br />
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"Seriously, where is Kaci?" we both anxiously inquired.<br />
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Immediately, I was sick to my stomach, realizing what we had done. My husband thought she had stayed with me; I thought she had gone with him. I raced back down to the church, expecting to find her little face and hands plastered to the glass of the front door of a locked church, screaming. Instead, she was calmly helping a dear woman empty the communion trays, but I still felt like we were the world's worst parents.<br />
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I wonder if that is how Jesus' parents felt when they learned they had left Jesus behind in Jerusalem<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="verse v41" data-usfm="LUK.2.41"><span class="content">Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. </span></span><span class="verse v42" data-usfm="LUK.2.42"><span class="label"></span><span class="content">And when He became twelve, they went up </span><span class="it"><span class="content">there</span></span><span class="content"> according to the custom of the Feast; </span></span><span class="verse v43" data-usfm="LUK.2.43"><span class="label"></span><span class="content">and
as they were returning, after spending the full number of days, the boy
Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. But His parents were unaware of it (Luke 2:41-43) </span></span></blockquote>
Most likely, in the bustle of the feast and the crowd of people, they assumed Jesus surely was with someone in the large traveling group.<br />
<br />
It would be three days before they reunited with Jesus; it was only three minutes before I found my daughter. They found Jesus in the temple speaking with the elders and teachers; I found my daughter in the kitchen sipping down surplus communion cups.<br />
<br />
Have you ever wondered how Mary and Joseph could have possibly left Jesus, the Son of God, behind? How could they have traveled for so long before missing Him, but do we not do that ourselves? How often have we become so engrossed in the acceleration of our hectic lives that we really had not thought that much about Jesus for several days? It is easy to forego personal Bible study or Scripture reading because of a busy schedule, assuring ourselves that we will get back on track as soon as things settle down. <br />
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Perhaps we temporarily neglect our calling and leave the responsibility of keeping track of Jesus to a spouse or Sunday school teacher, assuming He surely is with him or her. Eventually, almost without notice, we lose focus and fear takes over. Finally, in a moment of chaos and panic, we recognize that we have walked away from Jesus.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us" (Hebrews 12:1). </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Hebrews 12:2 NKJV). </blockquote>
Praise God, Jesus will never leave us or forsake us, even when we walk away from Him.<br />
<br />
He longs for fellowship with us every day, not just on Sundays or holidays. When Christ is our focus, He blesses us with the peace that surpasses all understanding.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you" (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). </blockquote>
<b><i>Father, You are so holy. Worthy are You, Lord, of all glory, honor, power, and praise. Thank you for the strength and encouragement we receive from those who bear witness to Your goodness and mercy. Forgive us for taking our eyes off You for even a moment. Keep us in perfect peace as we set our eyes on the author and finisher of our faith. In Jesus' name, amen.</i></b><br />
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-6035723408745358462013-09-20T10:30:00.000-07:002013-09-20T09:42:20.301-07:00Trust and Obey<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WpNeT4bkJ1l4MAS2wI84ox49eo90a41CJR9uQA9B2XH5ov13jPjxQf-De23W9qpdLzEOthwa7wNzCAcPrhWj4AofMM1wdATMX1H4MPseBa4kTZ05aJ369YD17Wi8DPsw_DvnQOD5Z3A/s1600/Trust+and+Obey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WpNeT4bkJ1l4MAS2wI84ox49eo90a41CJR9uQA9B2XH5ov13jPjxQf-De23W9qpdLzEOthwa7wNzCAcPrhWj4AofMM1wdATMX1H4MPseBa4kTZ05aJ369YD17Wi8DPsw_DvnQOD5Z3A/s1600/Trust+and+Obey.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Though my mother held no college degree, she was an amazing teacher. At a very young age, her ability at the sewing machine completely captivated me. So little by little, she began instructing me in the craft of sewing. As genetics would have it, Mom and I were both sticklers for detail, so we were a good match as teacher and student.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I learned to pay attention to every notch and marking and to follow the pattern guide precisely. Most important was the preparation and layout of the patterns in order to have the best possible foundation for my creation. In addition to that, pin, pin, pin, and pin some more in order to hold my project together until permanently stitched.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The greatest thing she did as teacher was demonstrate her confidence and belief in me. She would make sure I had everything going in the right direction, and before walking away, she would always add, “I know you can do this!” She did not stay and hover over me but instead went back to the work in which she previously had been engaged.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I remember at times being somewhat fearful at her leaving, but I also remember feeling empowered. I truly believed that if she trusted me enough to leave the room, she must also truly believe I could handle the challenge. My mother did well in teaching me the powerful principles of trust and obedience. She trusted me with all her sewing tools and machines, as well as my ability to follow the guides as she taught.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Likewise, I fully trusted her knowledge and understanding of what she taught, and I closely followed all her instructions, knowing that I could still call on her at any moment. Scripture also teaches us of the powerful principles of trust and obedience, along with the peace that accompanies the faithful and obedient heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Additionally, it teaches that God will not allow anything to come into our lives that we are not capable of withstanding. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also provide a way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it." (1 Cor. 10:13) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Just as one can be tempted to sin, one can also be tempted to doubt God’s sovereignty. When I became gravely ill, there were times when at first I questioned whether I was able to handle such an enormous challenge. I also remember specifically the day God reminded me of what my mother had taught me as a young seamstress, and something clicked in my head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Immediately I became empowered and, oddly enough, rather excited when I stopped to realize that God must trust me completely to allow me to bear such a difficult burden. Thankfully, I had spent several years in “faith training” in the word of God, so I had an excellent foundation in place and was fully prepared with all the directions and instructions I could possibly need. In addition, I learned to pray, pray, pray, and pray some more, as prayer was a necessity in holding it all together in those days. I simply trusted and obeyed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Often our doubt is a sign of our own spiritual immaturity and lack of faith. Conquering doubt demands a growing, obedient relationship with God. “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." (Romans 10:17) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Trusting the wisdom of my mother enabled me to easily accept every level of her training, eventually strengthening my level of confidence, along with increased skill. Likewise, our trust in God strengthens and increases our level of faith and ability. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Prov. 3:5) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Doubt is destructive. God knows this and wants us to know it too. “The Lord gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, how blessed is the man who trusts in Thee!" (Ps. 84:11-12) </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Holy God, like a shepherd, You lead me to green pastures and quiet waters and restore my soul. You walked with me through my valley of the shadow of death and comforted me in my sorrow. You prepared me with Your promises in the presence of bad news and anointed me with Your healing oil. My cup surely overflows from Your goodness and kindness, and I will tell of Your wonders all the days of my life. Amen.</span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-69840553048013938992013-03-20T15:50:00.009-07:002021-01-24T09:44:28.697-08:00Message in a Jar <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJatVhhLZn2cs9KB_yuQJdX3U8l_LNYLb6QNtk6yluY4Xc5ayObBd9akQ03jHnZ053of-V17Pp6ur4gGo-JdKxMe5nKgMtWmWBa2sDosND4jNDwCZbES5unAokkX5HTWMhyIWNT2Z1obE/s1600/peanut+butter.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJatVhhLZn2cs9KB_yuQJdX3U8l_LNYLb6QNtk6yluY4Xc5ayObBd9akQ03jHnZ053of-V17Pp6ur4gGo-JdKxMe5nKgMtWmWBa2sDosND4jNDwCZbES5unAokkX5HTWMhyIWNT2Z1obE/s200/peanut+butter.jpg" width="194" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>My
Dad is a peanut butter fanatic. So am I. He puts peanut butter on nearly
everything, or so it seems, and thick enough to leave teeth marks in the dense
spread.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like mine spread v-e-r-y thin.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Years
ago, a friendly rivalry ensued between us when a new jar of peanut butter
appeared in the cabinet. The challenge was to make the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">first dent</i> in the smooth untouched layer of the peanut spread. It
started with just a finger indention that marked our territory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then someone got clever. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I
remember opening a new jar with the intention of making my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">mark</i>. I twisted the lid open expecting to find that shiny level
surface, but instead found a message inscribed. “Ha-Ha, I beat you!” with a
smiley face underneath. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>From
that day on, until the day I moved out, and even a few days since then, when
the opportunity presented itself, we both enjoyed writing tender, silly, and
even teasing messages with a toothpick in the fresh layer of the new jar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a bummer for both of us if we found
that someone else, not as “clever” as we were, had the audacity to plunge their
knife into our peanut butter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I
am sure what made it so special to me was the fact these were messages from my
dad. Special messages intended just for me, and I knew with each one, there was
an even deeper underlying message.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Nearly three decades ago, when I began what I call my "<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">true spiritual journey"</i>, inscribed on
the pages of my Bible I found messages for me—intended just for me—for that
day—at that particular time and place in my life. More importantly, these
messages did not come from the great prophets or writers of the Bible, but
rather my Daddy God, or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Abba Father</i>,
as Jesus had lovingly called Him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I
have attempted to make it a daily practice to spend time in the Word, but I
confess there have been days I have missed for various reasons. But, each time
I do, I look forward to discovering something new that day. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Many
times I can be reading a scripture I’ve read before, possibly even underlined
or highlighted, but for some reason—on that day—a special message will jump off
the page. That is the excitement of God’s Word.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It can be fresh and new every time you open it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lamentations
3:22-23 says, “The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions
never fail. They are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><i>Abba
Father, I thank you that Your word is personal and unique no matter who sits
down to read it. You speak to us individually through Your word. I ask, as Paul
did, that each of us would be filled with the knowledge of your will in all
spiritual wisdom and understanding, so we might walk in a manner worthy of the
Lord and that we would be continuously increasing in the knowledge of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great is your faithfulness Father; Your
compassions are fresh and new every morning. May the word of God continue to
spread as the family of God increases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Amen</i></span></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-58894862833190560992013-02-03T20:15:00.001-08:002013-02-03T20:22:03.386-08:00"Who Dressed You This Morning?"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">I
will never forget the embarrassment I felt one Sunday morning as we
settled into “our pew” preparing for worship service. I glanced down,
only to discover I was wearing one navy shoe and one black shoe. It was
undeniably a noticeable mismatch. Since service had already begun, it
was too late to run home to change shoes. I nudged my husband and
pointed out my high-heeled blunder to him, to which he replied, “So </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">which one of the kids dressed you this morning?”</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z52FWvWv4pu_tTm03ZSyc0qk_ibebgtA7SZpe_6bqEBB9tO3VplV27Q7zSkM8SQbZmPerjqHbIdqh6cp1D6pdWowTTOzSAcJ_ZOsk9XndGqCCHdZLBOX6rekQkXvShzJO9dVBc8XFxU/s1600/Who+Dressed+You+pumps.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Z52FWvWv4pu_tTm03ZSyc0qk_ibebgtA7SZpe_6bqEBB9tO3VplV27Q7zSkM8SQbZmPerjqHbIdqh6cp1D6pdWowTTOzSAcJ_ZOsk9XndGqCCHdZLBOX6rekQkXvShzJO9dVBc8XFxU/s1600/Who+Dressed+You+pumps.jpg" /></a></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The
revelation of a personal fashion faux pas can quickly impart a lack of
confidence that, if unable to correct, can accompany us throughout our
entire day. The trouble zone will become our sole focus. We will find
ourselves planning our entries and exits in such a way as to minimize
exposure. Some may attempt a clever distraction or even create an excuse
to abandon their post in search of a remedy for the fashion offense.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Why
is it that it seems we are more concerned about our physical garments
than we are our spiritual garments? Perhaps we either are not aware that
we even </span><i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Italic","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">have </span></i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">spiritual garments, or else we do not recognize the magnitude of their importance. Maybe we simply fail to understand that <b>“our
struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers,
against darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the
heavenly places (Eph. 6:12) </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The
Apostle Paul employed the knowledge he gained throughout his frequent
incarcerations in structuring what is known as the “armor of God”
passage. The armor and weaponry of the Roman soldier was the perfect
example of what is necessary for spiritual warfare, both defensive and
offensive. If anyone had an up close and personal examination of Roman
armor, it was Paul.</span></div>
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<blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Finally,
be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the
full armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the
schemes of the devil </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Therefore,
take up the full armor of God that you may be able to resist in the
evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Eph. 6:10-13</span></b></div>
</blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The scripture continues in verses </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">14</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">17</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">, entreating us to <b>“Stand firm then, having girded your loins with truth” (Eph. 6:14</b></span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>)</b>. The belt was the first item the soldier put on and one of the most important pieces of armor, as it held everything together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Applying the truth of God’s Word at the start of each day securely fastens us with power of the word of God.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And having put on the breastplate of righteousness</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:14</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>The
breastplate was designed to protect the heart of the soldier. The Bible
declares that the heart of man is prone to temptation (Matt. 26:41</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">). Righteousness defends against the strategies of the devil.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:15</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>Peace
helps us to stand firmly planted on the word of God while steadying and
protecting us in our daily walk through life’s often-treacherous
places. “He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me walk on
my high places” (Hab. 3:19</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">).</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith, by which we can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:16</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>Faith
comes by hearing the word of God. Knowing the Bible and the God of the
Bible gives us greater faith in trusting God as our protector.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And take the helmet of salvation </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>).</b>
Satan attacks the mind more than any other area, attempting to cause
doubt in the assurance of our salvation. Immersing ourselves in God’s
Word as well as prayer brings a clear and discerning mind.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>).</b>
The sword of the spirit is the word of God. There is authority and
power in the word of God. No weapon of the enemy can stand against it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">To
neglect one piece of armor makes us more vulnerable to the attacks of
the enemy and reduces our capacity to fully serve God. We find ourselves
rationalizing our lack of preparation, making excuses, planning
diversions, or perhaps even neglecting or abandoning our spiritual
position altogether. Our focus will be on concealing our weakness rather
than on God’s call for our lives. <b>Being “fully dressed” spiritually frees us up to </b></span><b><i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Italic","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">fully </span></i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">do what God has called us to do.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">So </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">who dressed you this morning?</span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Father,
it is good for us to be dressed and equipped not only for battle, but
for the peaceful days as well, for that is the time we can become most
complacent. Your Word also reminds us that our battle is not against
man, but against rulers and powers of darkness and against the spiritual
forces of wickedness in high places revealed through the actions of man
on earth. Grant us discernment in all our circumstances. We rejoice
greatly as a child of God that You clothe us in the robe of
righteousness, which is Christ Jesus. Great is our God and worthy of all
our praise! </span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-44056853640332301372012-03-08T14:59:00.002-08:002013-02-03T20:24:58.782-08:00Enemy Territory<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">One evening, my sister and I sat upon her patio watching a young couple who lived across the pond, playing with a pair of Labrador retrievers along the grassy bank. Suddenly, one of the dogs took in after a duck that was sunning itself at the edge of the bank. Immediately the duck scrambled toward the water and swam a safe distance out. The young Lab followed with reckless abandon, paddling with all he had, while the duck appeared to propel away effortlessly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">The clever duck, more comfortable in its watery surroundings, would occasionally disappear under the water. It had become obvious that what began as a game of chase for the dog, had now turned into a devious game of hide and seek for the duck, as the feathery foe would dip and then pop up several yards away, taunting the dog repeatedly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">We watched as the dog, now exhausted and confused, began to sink lower and lower in the water as his strength and stamina waned. Once confident and secure on dry land, the dog now floundered in the depths of enemy territory.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Simon Peter made the mistake of tempting fate in enemy territory. Peter, so confident when he was with Jesus, promised never to disown Him. We know that very night, he denied Jesus three times after entering the courtyard of those who arrested him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">It is a common scenario for believers as we too find ourselves sinking deeper and deeper when we enter territory opposed to God’s will. We rationalize our entertainment, our habits, or even hobbies as not being “that big of a deal” and we let down our guard giving Satan a foothold.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Peter thought his faith was strong enough to handle any temptation and was caught off guard as he warmed himself by the fire. We do the same. We may not see the consequences as quickly as Peter did, but they eventually will surface. It is impossible to sit at the devil’s fire and not get burned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">I love the quote by Pastor E. Ray Jones: “We have a tendency to overestimate our ability to cope with temptation and underestimate our ability to cope with suffering.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">First Corinthians 10:12 states <i>“If you think you are standing firm, be careful not to fall” (NIV). </i> Most often, what we consider our greatest strength will trip us up simply because in our confidence, we let down our guard.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">The good news is we serve a God of second (and third) chances. Jesus restored Simon Peter for every time he denied Him by asking, <i>“Peter, do you love me?” Peter replied, “Lord, you know I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep” (John 21:17, NIV), </i>essentially a statement of ordination.</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Failure is never final. The Bible is full of people who have fallen, have been restored and used of God in a mighty way. Just as Jesus fully restored Peter, giving him the keys to the Kingdom, He will restore us…for every time we have fallen.<i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Lord, in quiet confidence, we come before Your throne knowing that there we will find the mercy and grace for our individual circumstance. Forgive us for the times we have failed You. Strengthen and restore us as we worship You in spirit and in truth. Remind us that failure is never final, but often times a springboard for Your sovereign plan. In Jesus’ name, Amen.</i></span></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-41046179043159614782011-09-03T07:49:00.000-07:002013-02-03T20:26:58.748-08:00In the Land of the Living<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
One day each year, we celebrate the twenty-four hours that literally saved my life. On August 8, 2001, I received the precious gift of an organ transplant. In transplant groups, they call me a “survivor” according to the number of years, but I prefer to say, like everyone else who takes a breath every morning, “It’s great to be alive.” No life expectancy frames, but also no grandiose expectations of immortality either. As they say, “One day at a time.”<br />
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As I opened my Bible one morning, I noticed several scriptures I had penned on the back inside pages. Some had dates, leaving me wondering why I had noted it at that particular time. Other scriptures had comments in parentheses reminding me of their distinction. Two, however, earned a position of merit in the upper corner rather than the random placement of the others.<br />
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Psalm 118:17 and Psalm 27:13 are scriptures of the realization of looming death while holding on to the hope of life, placing our trust and confidence in the will and work of God.<br />
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Psalm 118:17 says, “I shall not die, but live, and tell of the works of the Lord.” Originally, I had noted and claimed this for our cancer-stricken pastor in 1994. I gained strength in observing how his sermons grew more powerful as his body grew weaker.<br />
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Little did I know I would be claiming it yet again a few years later when, in 1997, I was diagnosed with a disease giving me less than five years to live. Blood drawn during a routine physical eventually led the doctors to the discovery of an autoimmune disorder that had been silently destroying my liver, as well as other smaller organs, for years. We would learn later that the five-year life expectancy would only be four.<br />
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In February of 2001, I awoke from a dream with the most ominous presence around me. In the dream, I heard a voice shrouded by darkness speak the date of August 19. Puzzled, I wanted to believe it to be my coming transplant date, but I could not shake the feeling of darkness and gloom that had so engulfed me. So I rose and returned to the Scriptures.<br />
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I turned to Psalm 27, a psalm of David of trusting in the Lord without fear. The psalm begins with “The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” I continued to read, trying to shake the menacing feeling. Then my eyes fell upon verses 13 and 14, and I wept.<br />
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“I would have despaired unless I had believed I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD.”<br />
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“Yes!” I shouted to the darkness. “Did you hear that? It says, ‘In the land of the living!’”<br />
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My eternal soul was secure, but I wanted to believe the Lord for the here and now, in this life—the land of the living! Though not my will, but His, I knew He was moving me into a place where He would show me that indeed I needed to “be still, and know that He was God” while learning to trust Him with my life—literally.<br />
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The ominous feeling, however, did not leave. Perhaps it is a feeling only those who are gravely ill can understand. Nevertheless, August was rapidly approaching, and I was getting weaker. Though I attempted to hide it from family and friends, <b><i>I knew I could not survive to see my October birthday.</i></b><br />
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Then the call came late evening on August 7, 2001. After hours of preparation, followed by seven hours in transplant surgery, the doctor finally consulted with my anxious family. My surgeon spoke in amazement at how it appeared that tiny veins were miraculously melding together during the reconstruction. Then he informed them of the news I would learn a while later—that I would not have survived even two more weeks without the transplant. What would have been the month of my funeral became the month of celebration!<br />
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So, was August 19 to be the date of my death or perhaps my funeral? I will never know this side of heaven. I do know that the thief, the prince of darkness, “comes to kill, steal, and destroy; but Jesus came that I may have life, and might have it abundantly” (John 10:10). For now, though, August 19 no longer matters. What mattered in those crucial moments was that my faith and my hope rested in the word of God.<br />
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Death was defeated that day as we beheld the “goodness of the Lord in the land of the living” through His perfect timing and His hand in the surgery, as well as in the many days and months that followed. I have never ceased to stand amazed at the mighty works of our heavenly Father.<br />
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Whatever struggle, illness, or loss you may be going through; I encourage you to turn to the word of God for your strength, your peace, and your comfort. Allow the Lord to wash over your fears, your darkness, and your pain with the water of His Word. May your heart take courage today; be strong and wait for the Lord. For through we may not always understand, His timing is always perfect.<br />
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~~~♥~~~<br />
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We thank you, Father, that in our darkest hours, we find our strength, our peace, and our comfort in Your Word. Though we may never fully understand, we know that Your ways and Your timing are always perfect, and we will spend the rest of our days telling of Your goodness in the land of the living! All glory, power, and honor are Yours, Almighty God and Eternal Lord. Hallelujah to our King!<br />
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-35886232877141837572011-05-28T18:00:00.000-07:002013-02-03T20:10:39.818-08:00Who Dressed You?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">I will never forget the embarrassment I felt one Sunday morning as we settled into “our pew” preparing for worship service. I glanced down, only to discover I was wearing one navy shoe and one black shoe. It was undeniably a noticeable mismatch. Since service had already begun, it was too late to run home to change shoes. I nudged my husband and pointed out my high-heeled blunder to him, to which he replied, “So </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">which one of the kids dressed you this morning?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The revelation of a personal fashion faux pas can quickly impart a lack of confidence that, if unable to correct, can accompany us throughout our entire day. The trouble zone will become our sole focus. We will find ourselves planning our entries and exits in such a way as to minimize exposure. Some may attempt a clever distraction or even create an excuse to abandon their post in search of a remedy for the fashion offense.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Why is it that it seems we are more concerned about our physical garments than we are our spiritual garments? Perhaps we either are not aware that we even </span><i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Italic","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">have </span></i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">spiritual garments, or else we do not recognize the magnitude of their importance. Maybe we simply fail to understand that <b>“our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Eph. 6:12) </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The Apostle Paul employed the knowledge he gained throughout his frequent incarcerations in structuring what is known as the “armor of God” passage. The armor and weaponry of the Roman soldier was the perfect example of what is necessary for spiritual warfare, both defensive and offensive. If anyone had an up close and personal examination of Roman armor, it was Paul.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Therefore, take up the full armor of God that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Eph. 6:10-13</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">The scripture continues in verses </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">14</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">17</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">, entreating us to <b>“Stand firm then, having girded your loins with truth” (Eph. 6:14</b></span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>)</b>. The belt was the first item the soldier put on and one of the most important pieces of armor, as it held everything together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Applying the truth of God’s Word at the start of each day securely fastens us with power of the word of God.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And having put on the breastplate of righteousness</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:14</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>The breastplate was designed to protect the heart of the soldier. The Bible declares that the heart of man is prone to temptation (Matt. 26:41</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">). Righteousness defends against the strategies of the devil.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:15</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>Peace helps us to stand firmly planted on the word of God while steadying and protecting us in our daily walk through life’s often-treacherous places. “He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, and makes me walk on my high places” (Hab. 3:19</span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">).</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith, by which we can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:16</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>). </b>Faith comes by hearing the word of God. Knowing the Bible and the God of the Bible gives us greater faith in trusting God as our protector.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And take the helmet of salvation </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">” (Eph. 6:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>).</b> Satan attacks the mind more than any other area, attempting to cause doubt in the assurance of our salvation. Immersing ourselves in God’s Word as well as prayer brings a clear and discerning mind.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17</span></b><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;"><b>).</b> The sword of the spirit is the word of God. There is authority and power in the word of God. No weapon of the enemy can stand against it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">To neglect one piece of armor makes us more vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy and reduces our capacity to fully serve God. We find ourselves rationalizing our lack of preparation, making excuses, planning diversions, or perhaps even neglecting or abandoning our spiritual position altogether. Our focus will be on concealing our weakness rather than on God’s call for our lives. <b>Being “fully dressed” spiritually frees us up to </b></span><b><i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Italic","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">fully </span></i><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">do what God has called us to do.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">So </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-RegularSC","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">who dressed you this morning?</span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "ACaslon-Regular","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Father, it is good for us to be dressed and equipped not only for battle, but for the peaceful days as well, for that is the time we can become most complacent. Your Word also reminds us that our battle is not against man, but against rulers and powers of darkness and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in high places revealed through the actions of man on earth. Grant us discernment in all our circumstances. We rejoice greatly as a child of God that You clothe us in the robe of righteousness, which is Christ Jesus. Great is our God and worthy of all our praise! </span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-90758155620598303322011-02-04T13:29:00.001-08:002013-10-11T19:59:56.414-07:00"But Who Do You Say That I Am?"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love the story from the book of Matthew when Jesus and His disciples arrive in a particularly pagan area. Jesus asked his followers, “Who do people say that the <u>S</u>on of Man is?” (Matthew </span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">:</span><span style="font-size: large;">13</span><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The disciples answered with a variety of nam<u>e</u>s derived from a mixture of ideologies. “Some say John the Baptist; others, Elijah; but still others, J<span style="color: #666666;">e</span>remiah, or one of the prophets” (Matthew </span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">:</span><span style="font-size: large;">14</span><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then Jesus turned to His disciples and asked a simple yet most profound qu<u>e</u>stion: <i>“But who do you say that I am?”</i> (Matthew </span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">:</span><span style="font-size: large;">15</span><span style="font-size: large;">) </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Most everyone has a favorite scripture. This is one that I call my “signature scripture.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Several years ago, I found myself in a place of searching. I had <u>k</u>nown and revered the Lord since I was a small child, but as an adult I had grown complacent in my faith walk. Frankly, I had become qui<u>t</u>e stagnant, but God had already begun a work in me, beckoning me to draw closer. I prayed and asked t<u>h</u>at God would create a hunger in my spirit, not only for His Word, but also for th<u>e</u> things of God.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I dusted off a Bible I had received as a gift years earlier and developed a plan. I was going to start with the New Testament, beginning with Matthew. I was already fami<u>l</u>iar with many of the stories, but I noticed as I continued to read that s<u>o</u>mething else was happening. As if a veil was lifting from my eyes, my understanding of what I was <u>r</u>eading was changing, and halfway through the sixteenth chapter of Matthew, a light came on!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>“But who <u>d</u>o you say that I am?”</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The <u>w</u>ords nearly</span><span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i>leapt from the page. I could not go any further. I<i> </i>hung on those eight tiny words.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">“But w<u>h</u>o do </span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>you </i>say that I am?”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I sensed the Lord was asking me d<u>i</u>rectly the one truly reveal<i>i</i>ng question of where I was in my walk with the Him. Confronted by the shallowness of my own <u>l</u>ife, I cont<u>e</u>mplated the depth of that simple yet profound question.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Who did my language say that <u>H</u>e was? Who did my thoughts say that He was? Who did my actions say that Jesus was? Everything I said or did, I r<u>e</u>alized, was a reflection of who Jesus was in my life.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I had been guilty of putting Hi<u>m</u> in a box, pulling Him out on Sundays, and using Him only in the case of emergencies. My he<u>a</u>rt was heavy from the weight of my superficial faith.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">However, joy and restoration came as I read the next two verses. Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Matthew </span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">:</span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus answered, sa<u>y</u>ing, “Blessed are you, Simon, for flesh and <u>b</u>lood have not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew </span><span style="font-size: large;">16</span><span style="font-size: large;">:</span><span style="font-size: large;">17</span><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">In that moment I kn<u>e</u>w beyond any doubt that, just like Simon Peter, God was revealing himsel<u>f</u> to me in a way that w<u>o</u>uld affect me forever. That tiny, simple scripture held a mirror to my so<u>u</u>l and became the springboard of my faith.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jesus k<u>n</u>ew the heart of Simon Peter; He wanted Peter to know too. The same is true for each of us.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But who <u>d</u>o </span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>you </i>say that He is?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Your Word, O Lord, lifts the veil from our eyes and reveals the mystery of Christ to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Forgive us, Father, for the complacency in our lives that has blurred our walk with You. Thank you for restoring our spiritual vision that we might see the kingdom of God. Reveal to us those things that have kept us from living a life that truly reflects the character of Christ. Empower us by the Holy Spirit to be bold witnesses for You. In Jesus’s name, amen.</i></span></span></span></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-32597426394968421952011-01-17T17:07:00.001-08:002011-06-22T16:22:52.222-07:00Unmerited Favor<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I have never been a huge fan of carnivals. The games made me lose my money, and the rides made me lose my lunch. Nevertheless, while walking the fairway one county fair evening, my nephew and I decided to play one of the seemingly simpler games. For only two dollars, all we had to do was toss a golf ball into the hole of the center ring as many times as we could and watch our plastic pony cross the finish line. During a few practice throws, I found I was ridiculously uncoordinated at this game.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">The starting bell sounded and the race was on. Toss after toss I laughed at the disgrace of my “skill” but continued with the game, recognizing I was a total failure. I glanced up at the tracks, expecting to see my lonely horse still in the starting gate, but amazingly, it was in the lead!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">How did that happen? I hadn’t put </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">one </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">ball in the hole to that point. Granted, the person to my left could hardly stay in his seat due to an over-consumption of </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">refreshments, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">but my nephew seated on my right, as well as others, were making score after score.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Now, I am not so naïve to the fact that I had a little help somewhere. The carnie demonstrated his peculiar favor for me in that while I was yet a pathetic player, he nudged my pony to victory. I felt a little undeserving as I chose from the large stuffed animals lining the top shelf. Even so, I quietly walked away with a floppy, cross-eyed tiger.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7ScvlR7pbr0adQxI7XO50lurPFptHfK4YksQgm0_pLElH6oTNlD2dAGoEMRmX5D9yHuwccR2ygbqRasl3y4wrsG6LkfOdse9b5LJ_BDNZcL4WScpGY-cSPHuFnfOL3MBXP-Cnvc9erE/s1600/tigertrent600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7ScvlR7pbr0adQxI7XO50lurPFptHfK4YksQgm0_pLElH6oTNlD2dAGoEMRmX5D9yHuwccR2ygbqRasl3y4wrsG6LkfOdse9b5LJ_BDNZcL4WScpGY-cSPHuFnfOL3MBXP-Cnvc9erE/s200/tigertrent600.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">As a child of God, we too find ourselves in a position of unworthiness, knowing that we do not deserve the rewards of heaven for the things we have done. My life proved to be try after failed try, leaving me feeling more and more a failure, recognizing I simply did not measure up to my own self-imposed religious standards.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">All will soon discover that no matter how much practice, skill, or will we may possess, we prove ourselves pathetic players in the seemingly simple game of life. We look at our lives and consider ourselves still locked behind the gates of our spiritual inadequacies.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">“But God demonstrates His own love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">(Romans </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">5</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">8</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">There is not a thing we can do on our own to earn salvation. There are no hoops to jump, targets to hit, or swindling to arrange to secure a place in the kingdom. The price was paid over two thousand years ago as the Son of God said, “It is finished” and died on the cross at Calvary. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">3</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">16</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Jesus did not deserve the cross; we did. We do not deserve the gift of God’s grace, but He gives to anyone who will receive.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works so that no one may boast” (Ephesians </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">2</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">8</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">–</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">9</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">God’s affection for us causes Him to reward us not just with eternal life but abundant life on earth, as well as a precious relationship with the King of kings and Lord of lords. Are we unworthy? Yes, but the offer still stands. Receive it in Jesus’ name.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Blessed be our God, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. Thank you Lord that even in our pathetic and wretched state, You died for us. Through Your Holy Spirit, we now live for You. To the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.</span></i></div>Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-9317092898066265052010-11-04T05:15:00.000-07:002010-11-04T05:16:10.148-07:00Precious Testimonies<div style="text-align: center;">(page 145) </div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Teaching Bible stories to kindergartners is both challenging and rewarding. My husband’s description of working with little ones is, “like lining up grasshoppers,” and I think it fits perfectly for that age group.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">As a Vacation Bible School volunteer, I had signed up to teach this lively class. Having memorized the stories in order to retell them effectively, I sat on the floor amid the young grasshoppers. As I spoke, one little girl began to wriggle her way toward the front, settling directly in front of me. She was listening intently to the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. Her eyes were locked and intense as she began to lean forward with curiosity.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Recognizing that I was wooing her with my enlivened message, I looked directly at her as I spoke, and she nudged in even closer. With wide eyes, she gingerly raised her hand. I paused to allow her innocent query.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“Do you have on lipstick?” she questioned in a loud whisper.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">My bubble burst as I realized I had “captured” her, not by my energetic reiteration of the story of Joseph’s coat, but rather the shiny pink coat on my lips.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Sharing God’s Word with others is both challenging and rewarding. If you’ve ever sat across from junior high or high school students and watched as their eyes glaze over, you know what I’m talking about<b>.</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">But the key is </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">just do it! </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Share the good news of Jesus Christ! It doesn’t matter if you haven’t memorized all the scripture you promised you would. If you know Jesus Christ, He is all you need!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">When Jesus called Saul (who we know as Paul), he had not spent years in seminary. In fact, he had been actively persecuting Christians. What could Jesus possibly see in him, and what did he have that he could possibly share with others?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">When Paul arrived in Damascus following his conversion, and after Ananias restored his sight, “he immediately began to proclaim Jesus saying, ‘He is the Son of God’” (Acts </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">9</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">20</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">). All Paul had was a genuine encounter with Christ. He had a life-changing experience, recognizing the depth of his sin and the wretchedness of his soul, compelling him even more to share his experience of God’s mercy and grace.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Later, when speaking to the Corinthians, Paul said,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><blockquote><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">"When I came to you, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God. For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">… </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">My message was not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God." </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Corinthians </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">2</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">:</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">1</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">5</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div></blockquote><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">Though the bells and whistles (and pink lipstick) may draw the crowd in, the Spirit of God alone draws the heart. Bells and whistles are only added attractions, but they are not life changing; nor will they provide you with a testimony. They are simply tools used to present the message of Christ.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">You may not have had a Road to Damascus experience as Paul did. Some testimonies are certainly more </span><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">colorful </span></i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">than others are, but that doesn’t make your story any less valuable or effective. If you have had a personal encounter with Christ, then you have a testimony.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">It is what God has delivered us from, brought us to, and led us through that become our message. It makes your story and mine real and effective to the glory and praise of God.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt;">God of wonders, how grateful we are for the anointed ones You send to minister the message of Christ. We thank you for the work of the Holy Spirit, who draws us in at our appointed time and who will give us utterance as we faithfully give testimony to the power of God at work in our lives. All praise and glory to God our Savior!</span></i></div>Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-49986404667631708162010-10-27T19:43:00.000-07:002010-10-28T03:44:12.191-07:00Daze of ConfusionI recently received one of those dreaded middle-of-the-night phone calls. At 3:30 in the morning, my cell phone rang. In mid-dream confusion, I brought the phone close to my blurry, astigmatic eyes and read a number I did not recognize. Immediately, I shifted into panic mode. In the time it took for me to open my phone to answer, my mind had already raced down the phobic path of fear and trepidation. It was a classic case of imaginations run amok. <br />
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It turned out to be a wrong number; someone speaking broken English was checking on a ride to the airport. Satisfied there was no crisis, I could put my mind at ease. The problem was that while my mind was at ease, my body surely was not. I was now wide-awake, accompanied by a stomachache and throbbing calves—the side effects of surplus adrenaline. By divine design, adrenaline is a wonderful partner for bodily threats, emergencies and even personal challenges, but at 3:30 in the morning, it is a nuisance. <br />
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Ironically, what had set the stage for my immediate panic mode was a conversation that took place earlier in the evening. My daughter had called from the cruise ship on which she and her fiance’s family were vacationing in Mexico. She was quite sick. Although she had received medical attention on board, the fact that she was so far away instilled a level of anxiety in me of which only mothers can empathize.<br />
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I went to bed that evening and took my concerns to the Lord. I adamantly believed for her safety and health as well as my peace, and drifted off into sweet sleep. Then, a few hours later the phone call came, and in a sleepy and shaken stupor, I impulsively assumed the foreign number was a call placed from the ship. <br />
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As Christians, we are reminded frequently that we are to “walk by faith and not by sight” (or feelings). This is one of the most difficult areas in which believers struggle. We struggle not because of a hyper-hormone, but rather a manic-mind most often out of fear of the unknown.<br />
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<i> Well, what exactly is faith, if we are to walk by it? </i><br />
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“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen…and without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God must believe that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:1,6) <br />
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<i> So what harm can fear really do anyway? </i><br />
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“The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted” (Prov. 29:25). <br />
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<i> But I think I can handle this problem on my own; I don’t really need to bother God with this one. </i><br />
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“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding…and do not be wise in your own eyes” (Prov. 3:5, 7).<br />
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“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7).<br />
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When life catches us off guard, we find ourselves at first in a daze of confusion. Often, our initial reaction is out of fear and panic, drawing all sorts of irrational conclusions. Almighty God, however, is not a God of confusion but of peace (1 Cor. 14:33). Learning to seek Him in those manic moments will lead us to the peace that surpasses all comprehension, to guard our heart and minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:7)<br />
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Furthermore, the Bible warns to “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour…” (1 Peter 5:8)<br />
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Yet take heart, because “the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His” (2 Chronicles 16:9).<br />
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While the devil is on the prowl, the eyes of Almighty God are constantly in motion to send whatever support is necessary in our time of need. The more we learn to trust the Lord in our circumstances, and acknowledge Him in all our ways, the more we are able to relax, knowing that all power in heaven and earth are in His hands. <br />
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Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. As we hear and speak the truth of God’s Word by faith in all our circumstances, we will begin to see our thoughts and responses line up with His Word. With our mind, body, and spirit in sync, walking by faith becomes more graceful, more resolute, and more courageous. <br />
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But cut yourself some slack at 3:30 in the morning. <br />
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<i>Blessed Father, we thank you that the evidence of Your goodness surrounds us every day. Though we may not see the reasons for our circumstance right now, we can be assured that all things work together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. Help us to remain firm in our faith, knowing that we have all the support of heaven. In Jesus’ name, amen. <br />
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</i>Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-51923542471492632322010-10-22T14:47:00.004-07:002021-01-24T08:14:52.591-08:00In My Father's Arms<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Author note: This story is particularly special to me in that it is the first story I ever wrote. It was originally a personal letter to my dad on Father's Day in 1993, therefore, it is also the first story in my book) </span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">In the early </span><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">1960</span><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">s, northern Oklahoma endured several especially bitter winters. The frosty wet flurries were a natural kid magnet, so for six snowbound and restless children, dry gloves were in steady demand. With necessity the mother of invention, many times in place of gloves we would layer thick socks over our hands. One frigid afternoon, my brothers, sister, and I were playing in the snow-filled sandbox. They began to get cold and decided to go inside. At the stubborn age of six, I was willing to tough it out.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">I was so absorbed in my play and determined to finish my snow castle, I had not noticed my socks/gloves were soaking wet. The outer layer was not only wet but had also become heavy, with little frozen pieces clinging to the ends dangling several inches past my fingertips. Having become quite awkward in the completion of my project, I removed the socks from my hands.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">How much better it now seemed to no longer be encumbered by such a hindering piece of clothing. I now had full use of my fingers, giving me the creative freedom I didn’t realize was possible while wearing socks on my hands. Within minutes, however, I began to notice I could no longer feel my fingers. I could barely even move them. Bending my fingers was painful, and though I tried, I could not get my “gloves” back on. In my stubbornness, I had waited too long. I felt helpless as I stared at my stiff, throbbing fingers.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">Then I saw him—my rescuer, my fixer of everything, my knight in dirty cowboy boots—my dad! I immediately burst into tears. “Daddy!” I cried. “My hands hurt so badly.”</span><br />
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">He did not scold me for staying out too long. He did not tell me how foolish I was for taking my gloves off. The look in his eyes was that of compassion and tenderness. He scooped me up into his arms and carried me inside.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">The fire was roaring in the old living room stove. Sitting there together before the fire, he repeatedly cupped his hands around mine, held them as close as he could to the warmth, and then gently closed them around my cold and lifeless hands. After a few minutes, I slowly began to feel life return to my frozen fingers. The painful throbbing had stopped, and I tested my fingers, opening and then closing them again </span><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">… </span><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">and again.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">I wish I could say I learned my lesson that day in the snowy sandbox, but there would be other times when I would again suffer the painful consequences of a stubborn self-will. The rebellious spirit of the flesh and its attempt to fill the void left from the failed promises of a self-seeking and godless world often brings bitter and lifeless results.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">I have always felt the greatest strengths of a man are his tenderness and gentleness. The same calloused hands of my father that toiled unceasingly around the farm gingerly buckled my shoes and tied my bows on Sunday mornings. Those seemingly unimportant things did not go without notice.</span></div>
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<span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">But, the most precious thing my dad showed me that day in the sandbox was not just his tenderness and love toward me but also the tender mercy of a loving heavenly Father. I often wonder if there are those who struggle with the love and acceptance of our heavenly Father because they did not feel the acceptance of an earthly father. I am thankful for that demonstration, thus giving me a deeper, richer understanding of the one I call Father, my rescuer, fixer of everything, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.</span></div>
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<i><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="font-size: 12pt;">Abba Father, You are our shepherd; we shall not be in want. You are our shelter, our deliverer, our comforter, and our refuge. With gentleness and tenderness, You lead us back into the fold when we have gone astray. You lift us high above our trials that we may give You the glory and exalt Your name forever. You are mighty God, Prince of Peace, the Lamb of God, and Father to the fatherless, and we are Your beloved. Amen. (Psalm 23:1-6) </span></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE27ikgsuzAmbbCFv4KdXX6fvp4LF-TjZO0P4-TO4EiGqu4obUsHux63jVX_Y1U-CweaUPLns7geswL_3l73BOj97p7Pv9cY457LX-gbVjy-1YFp4zm6g9T0kkpia0D71PZ_7NeR0YHzA/s1600/Dad+and+me+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE27ikgsuzAmbbCFv4KdXX6fvp4LF-TjZO0P4-TO4EiGqu4obUsHux63jVX_Y1U-CweaUPLns7geswL_3l73BOj97p7Pv9cY457LX-gbVjy-1YFp4zm6g9T0kkpia0D71PZ_7NeR0YHzA/s320/Dad+and+me+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad and me at Thanksgiving 2010. </td></tr>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6112445360527620547.post-502267699015938552010-08-09T06:33:00.001-07:002013-02-03T19:35:24.878-08:00Life Through Double Doors<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">What is it about double doors? They possess no magical powers. Most are made of solid wood, others maybe of aluminum or even glass. But a few I’ve noticed, throughout our lives seem to represent a rite of passage as we move from one stage of life into another. It is as if life’s most significant moments must first pass through double doors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">The first set of double doors in my memory was of a light colored wood with long slender windows near the centers. These doors were part of my introduction to faith. They were the doors to my first church as a young child.</span><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Even the elementary school bus had double doors. We rode one of these every morning for about a hundred years. What always fascinated me about these doors was one door swung one way; the other swung the opposite way. What can I say? I was easily entertained!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">The next set of doors was the entrance into my days of junior high and high school. They were of a very heavy metal, which took some effort to open, closely representative of the struggles which tend to accompany the teen years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">A few years later I found myself arm in arm with my dad standing behind double doors made of dark wood that swung open toward the church sanctuary decorated with flowers, bows and candles. We were awaiting the sound of the “Bridal March”. I noticed he had tears in his eyes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Only a couple years afterward I would find myself moving very quickly through another set of doors. These were very large, very cold, aluminum double doors as nurses rushed me into the delivery room for the birth of our first-born. We enjoyed this so much; we did it two more times. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">There would be more encounters with double doors throughout the years; some we walked boldly through, others we felt as if we crawled through. With each experience however, came a clearer understanding, sharper awareness, deeper wisdom and knowledge, unspeakable joy, and sometimes a great deal of heartache—the true test of unconditional love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Maybe it is a silly observation, but for whatever reason, they have become embedded into my memory. Perhaps it is simply to be a reminder of where I have been and where I am going. To borrow the saying of a pastor I heard years ago<i>, “I’m not where I need to be, but praise God I’m not where I used to be.”</i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">God is faithful at every stage of our life and apportions to us what He desires, as we are able to handle it. 1 Thessalonians 5:24 says, <i>“Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Father God, I thank you that You are faithful to complete in us that which You have started. I thank you that even when we act in disobedience, as Your children, You still watch over us; even arranging the doors of our lives in such a manner as to bring us back to You. Forgive me for the times when I have failed to be faithful, Father. I realize now that faithfulness is the fruit of your Spirit at work in my life. May others see Your faithfulness revealed in me, in Jesus' name, Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Shari Englandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09724286622966858201noreply@blogger.com0