It is GOD who BLESSES and TRANSFORMS...

This is a blog for women (not just moms) who:

(1) Desire to be transformed by JESUS' LOVE, HOLINESS, AND GRACE;

(2) Believe that GOD'S WORD is the true Spirit food for HIS HOLY SPIRIT who lives within us;

(3) Submit to GOD and walk this journey of life with HIM transforming us more and more into HIS likeness.

It's a blog about the POWER OF TRANSFORMED LIVES. Let's begin with yours and mine and pass it on... 1 + 1 + 1...

Since GOD's HOLY SPIRIT lives inside a christian, let's choose to be nurtured and transformed by feasting daily on HOLY SPIRIT food - GOD's WORD - The Holy Bible..

My regular posts stopped in 2013, with a major move and the chronic illness and eventual death of our oldest daughter. Yes, we grieve daily, yet I am determined to continue to let the LIGHT of my LORD and SAVIOR shine through me. I have tried to start posting again, over the last few years, but have not been consistent. So, I think the biggest blessing for you and me both will be to intersperse some new posts while revisiting some of the former posts. Let's begin with "Oh, the JOY!" as we head into living through Fall 2019; meeting back here 1-2 days a week.

If you need daily encouragement, you will find plenty by clicky on past posts. When reading earlier posts, you will see that I often posted daily, following this format: ...Sunday in the SON, Meditation Monday, GratiTuesday, Women in the WORD Wednesday, Transforming Thursday, Family Fellowship Friday, Ketchup & Mustard Saturday.


There's a whole lot here! Take your time to browse.

Please come back and visit each week. Welcome!

Because of JESUS, we can be family,

Patti





TRANSFORMED MOMS:MOMS TRANSFORMED

Romans 12:1-2 "Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect."

Monday, June 30, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Fourteen

Today's the last day of our MASTER-FULL MOMS 14 day devotional challenge. It has been a blessing! We'll talk about it more in the next few days. In the meantime, see you in class tomorrow when we talk about HONORING THE DIFFERENCES.

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"All things will work together for good..." Romans 8:28

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

Romans 8:24-39
24 For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.

26 And in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; 27 and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose…

31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?... 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • Hope
  • Confidence in salvation
  • Perseverance
  • Eager anticipation
  • Submission to The SPIRIT
  • Know that ALL things will work together for good
  • Love of GOD
  • Answering HIS call for HIS purpose
  • Overwhelmingly conquer because of GOD
  • Confident and connected in GOD’S love, because of CHRIST JESUS, my LORD

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

GOD, as a daughter of YOURS, wife of Steve, mother of four….I read YOUR verse about ALL things working together for good…it takes me time to wrap my brain/spirit around that….it certainly does not say that everything in my life will be good…but, that things both good and bad will work together to make something good. Give me YOUR eyes to see this. In ALL circumstances…good will come…

At the Pitman church, we hear or say it on a regular basis: GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD…This week has been tough…we lost a special friend…a brother in Christ at a very young age. Franny Stetser, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, nephew died of a brain hemorrhage at the age of 46. You’ve had his heart for a little over a year and now you have taken him to his eternal home. His family grieves, his church family grieves…but, I am convinced that because you say it – it is true – ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THOSE WHO LOVE GOD AND ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE. In this case, I pray that much good comes from the death of this dear soul. Thank YOU, Jesus that much good came from YOUR death….AMEN.

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…


GOD IS SO GOOD.
GOD IS SO GOOD.
GOD IS SO GOOD.
HE’S SO GOOD TO ME.

HE LOVES ME SO.
HE LOVES ME SO.
HE LOVES ME SO.
HE’S SO GOOD TO ME.

HE’S COMING BACK.
HE’S COMING BACK.
HE’S COMING BACK.
HE’S SO GOOD TO ME.

I LOVE HIM SO.
I LOVE HIM SO.
I LOVE HIM SO.
HE’S SO GOOD TO ME.


Sunday, June 29, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Thirteen

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"My grace is sufficient." 2 Corinthians 12:9

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

2 Corinthians 12:7-10
…to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me — to keep me from exalting myself! 8 Concerning this I entreated the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10 Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. NASB


A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • Humility
  • Prayer
  • Grace
  • Power perfected in weakness
  • Power of Christ indwelling
  • Content with weaknesses
  • Content with insults
  • Content with distresses
  • Content with persecutions
  • Content with difficulties
  • Weaknesses make me strong


P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

Whew! GOD, YOUR grace is sufficient, for power is perfected in weakness! Wow! What a thought to ponder. I remember the time several years ago that YOU brought this to the attention of some people very close to me. On a two lane highway, heading north to our house for the Sikes’ Christmas, my brother-in-law saw a pick-up truck stopped ahead of him and not totally pulled off to the side of the road. People were outside the car. Needing to make a quick judgment, he looked to the left and saw a semi-truck coming toward them in the southbound lane. He might be able to go to the right of the pick-up but there was also a ravine if he went too far right. Left or right? Quick judgment sent him to the right. They hit something and then rolled down into the ravine. After a quick check, all four of them were alive but shaken up. Did anyone see them go down the embankment? Their cars electrical system was now messed up and the y could not open the electric door locks or windows. How long would they have to wait for help to arrive? Would help come? A few minutes before, as they had been driving down the road, they had been listening to a tape of a well known preacher, Richard Rogers. It had stopped once the car crashed and the electrical system stopped. They sat in silence. Time moved slowly on. Then, a voice said, “MY grace is sufficient for you.” A short sentence. A powerful message. I know YOU remember this GOD! The tape had come back on to play the next few words, only to go off again. YOU allowed them to have GRACE FOR TODAY AND HOPE FOR TOMORROW. That’s all any of us ask for; that’s certainly what I am asking for today and each day of my life. GOD, YOU also know the rest of the story: They were rescued, only to find out later that the pick-up that had been stopped in front of them had hit a deer. As the occupants of the truck were getting out of the car, this sweet family behind them could not stop. When they swerved to the right and hit something – it was a young woman. She was killed. Time stands still at the thought. Not understanding, we say: “YOUR grace is sufficient…” YOU give all of us grace for today and hope for tomorrow….should we choose to accept it. Thank you JESUS for providing a way for this to happen, AMEN.


S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…



HIS GRACE REACHES ME, YES, HIS GRACE REACHES ME,
AND WILL LAST THROUGH ETERNITY.
NOW, I’M UNDER HIS CONTROL AND I’M HAPPY IN MY SOUL.
JUST TO KNOW THAT HIS GRACE REACHES ME.

HIGHER THAN THE MOUNTAINS AND WIDER THAN THE SEA
IS THE GRACE OF THE SAVIOR FOR SINNERS LIKE ME.
SENT FROM THE FATHER AND IT THRILLS MY SOUL
JUST TO FEEL AND TO KNOW THAT HIS BLOOD MAKES ME WHOLE.

HIS GRACE REACHES ME, YES, HIS GRACE REACHES ME,
AND WILL LAST THROUGH ETERNITY.
NOW, I’M UNDER HIS CONTROL AND I’M HAPPY IN MY SOUL.
JUST TO KNOW THAT HIS GRACE REACHES ME.



Saturday, June 28, 2008

R.E.A.P.S - Day Twelve

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: God, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28-30


E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT God, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to ME, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For MY yoke is easy and MY burden is light." NIV

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS God, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:


  • Open arms – welcoming
  • Burden bearer
  • Rest giver
  • Teacher
  • Gentle
  • Humble
  • Easy and light

P ray to GOD THE FATHER God, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

GOD, this scripture talks about having rest when I’m yoked to JESUS. It is quite obvious to me that when I am yoked to someone, I must keep in step with that someone. Why is it that I always run ahead or lag behind JESUS? Teach me to keep in step with HIM…I need the rest… Because of Jesus I can make this request boldly, AMEN.


S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…


LEARNING TO LEAN, LEARNING TO LEAN,
I’M LEARNING TO LEAN ON JESUS.
FINDING MORE POWER THAN I’VE EVERY DREAMED…
I’M LEARNING TO LEAN ON JESUS.

R.E.A.P.S - Day Eleven

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"Cast all your cares on ME." I Peter 5:7

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

When I think of a boat going down for the last time, I see passengers throwing everything overboard to keep themselves from sinking – “casting everything overboard.” In the same way, I am sinking and I need to “cast every care of mine to GOD”. It seems that humbling myself is the first step before I can give GOD all my “worries”.

1 Peter 5:6-11
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of GOD, that HE may exalt you at the proper time, 7 casting all your anxiety upon HIM, because HE cares for you. 8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. 10 And after you have suffered for a little while, the GOD of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in CHRIST, will HIMSELF perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. 11 To HIM be dominion forever and ever. Amen. NASB

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:


  • Humility
  • Giving up worries
  • Sober spirit
  • Alert
  • Resisting the devil
  • Faithful
  • Knowledgeable
  • Full of grace
  • Praying to GOD THE FATHER

GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…GOD, worry is a killer.

I confess, I especially worry over money…yet, I know YOU have continually taken care of me. Right now, I’m casting….casting my cares to YOU God…finances, bills…bills…bills…, health insurance, the right job for me, Steve’s back, Jessica’s migraines & general health, Crystal’s schooling, Caleb’s job/schooling/health insurance, Jordan’s schooling…one at a time I’m throwing them overboard to YOU…please don’t let me take them back… just help me stay alert and resist the devil...Because of Jesus…I CAN!

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding
Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful

LOVE LIFTED ME! LOVE LIFTED ME!
WHEN NOTHING ELSE COULD HELP
LOVE LIFTED ME!

I WAS SINKING DEEP IN SIN, FAR FROM THE PEACEFUL SHORE.
VERY DEEPLY STAINED WITHIN, SINKING TO RISE NO MORE.
BUT THE MASTER OF THE SEA HEARD MY DISPARING CRY.
FROM THE WATER LIFTED ME, NOW SAFE AM I.

LOVE LIFTED ME! LOVE LIFTED ME!
WHEN NOTHING ELSE COULD HELP
LOVE LIFTED ME!

Thursday, June 26, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Ten

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I haven't given you a spirit of fear." 2 Timothy 1:7

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

The Bible is filled with stories of people being told not to fear because GOD was greater than their hearts and in control. An angel came to both Joseph and Mary before Jesus was born to remind them of this. Today’s scripture reminds me, once again, of how powerfully GOD will work through a mother and a grandmother:

3 I thank GOD, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of GOD, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For GOD did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

8 So do not be ashamed to testify about our LORD, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of GOD, 9 who has saved us and called us to a holy life-not because of anything we have done but because of HIS own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in CHRIST JESUS before the beginning of time 2 Tim 1:3-9

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • Prayer
  • compassion
  • joy
  • faith
  • sharing the Good News
  • persistence
  • power
  • love
  • self-discipline
  • willing to suffer
  • holiness
  • purpose
  • grace
  • longevity…

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

GOD, this verse has always been so convicting to me…YOU have authority over everything and YOU want us to trust in YOU to work through us…No Fear…just trust! Today, I go to Ground Zero for the first time…I’ll see remembrances of horror…lives shattered…moms who never got to go home to their kids…give me perspective…help me see through YOUR eyes…

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, YOU have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

In heavenly armor we enter the land…
The battle belongs to the LORD…
No weapon that’s fashioned against us will stand
The battle belongs to the LORD…
And we sing glory, honor, power and strength to the LORD.
We sing glory, honor, power, and strength to the LORD.

When the power of darkness comes in like a flood…
The battle belongs to the LORD…
He’s raised up a standard, the power of HIS blood…
The battle belongs to the LORD…

And we sing glory, honor, power and strength to the LORD.
We sing glory, honor, power, and strength to the LORD.

When your enemy presses in hard, do not fear…
The battle belongs to the LORD…
Take courage my friend, your redemption is near…
The battle belongs to the LORD…

And we sing glory, honor, power and strength to the LORD.
We sing glory, honor, power, and strength to the LORD.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Nine

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture: God, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I will supply your needs." Philippians 4:19

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT God, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

Over and over again in my life, I have watch GOD supply my needs through my brothers and sisters in CHRIST, my physical family, and even strangers. GOD can use whoever or whatever HE wants to bless HIS children. There are times we are the givers and others when we are the receivers. For me, It is much harder to be the receiver!

The apostle Paul said:
“10 I rejoice greatly in the LORD that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through HIM who gives me strength.

14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. 17 Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to GOD. 19 And my GOD will meet all your needs according to HIS glorious riches in CHRIST JESUS. Philippians 4:10-19

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS God, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:
  • Trust
  • Faith
  • Humility
  • Dependence
  • Thanksgiving….

P ray to GOD THE FATHER God, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…


GOD, repeatedly YOU hear me say “I NEED”. I am not high maintainence but there is something about this old life that makes it really hard to “get ahead”. Please know how very aware I am that it is YOU WHO supplies my needs….Thank You!

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

“I need thee every hour, most gracious LORD,
No tender voice like Thine can peace afford.
I need Thee, O I need Thee;
Every hour I need Thee!
O bless me now, my Savior: I come to Thee!

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Eight

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: God, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I forgive you." I John 1:9; Romans 8:1

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT God, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

WHAT A READ!!! THIS SHOULD BE DAILY FOOD!!!!
1 John 1:5-2:2
GOD is light; in HIM there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with HIM yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as HE is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of JESUS, HIS SON, purifies us from all sin. 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make HIM out to be a liar and HIS word has no place in our lives.

1 John 2
1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin,
we have one who speaks to the FATHER in our defense-JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS ONE. 2 HE is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

Rom 7:21-8:17
21 So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.
22 For in my inner being I delight in GOD’S law; 23 but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24 What a wretched woman I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to GOD-through JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to GOD’S law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.

Romans 8
8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in CHRIST JESUS,
2 because through CHRIST JESUS the law of the SPIRIT OF LIFE set me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, GOD did by sending HIS own SON in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so HE condemned sin in sinful man, 4 in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the SPIRIT. 5 Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires;
but those who live in accordance with the SPIRIT have their minds set on what the SPIRIT desires. 6 The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the SPIRIT is life and peace; 7 the sinful mind is hostile to GOD. It does not submit to GOD’S law, nor can it do so.
8 Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please GOD.

9 You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the SPIRIT, if the SPIRIT OF GOD lives in you. And if anyone does not have the SPIRIT OF CHRIST, he does not belong to CHRIST. 10 But if CHRIST is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11 And if the SPIRIT OF HIM who raised JESUS from the dead is living in you, HE who raised CHRIST from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through HIS SPIRIT, who lives in you.

12 Therefore, sisters, we have an obligation-but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the SPIRIT you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, 14 because those who are led by the SPIRIT OF GOD are SONS OF GOD. 15 For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the SPIRIT OF SONSHIP. And by HIM we cry, "Abba, FATHER." 16 The SPIRIT HIMSELF testifies with our spirit that we are GOD’S children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of GOD and co-heirs with CHRIST, if indeed we share in HIS sufferings in order that we may also share in HIS glory.

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS God, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:
  • Light
  • willing to bleed for me
  • sinless, faithful
  • forgiving
  • righteous
  • no condemnation
  • submissive
  • mindset on the SPIRIT
  • controlled by the SPIRIT
  • willing to suffer…

P ray to GOD THE FATHER God, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

Whoa! I need to stop and take a breath…oh, that’s what it’s all about…isn’t it GOD? It’s about eating and breathing YOU! It’s about believing YOU when YOU say that I am forgiven and then living like I’m free…thank YOU for this overwhelming gift of YOUR forgiveness…my mess is YOURS and YOU’RE okay with it…thank you!

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of LIFE;
Let me more of their beauty see, wonderful words of LIFE.
Words of LIFE and beauty, Teach me faith and duty.
Beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of LIFE.

CHRIST the blessed ONE, gives to all, wonderful words of LIFE;
Sinner, list to the loving call, wonderful words of LIFE;
All so freely given, wooing us to heaven,
Beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of LIFE.

Sweetly echo the gospel call, wonderful words of LIFE.
Offer pardon and peace to all, wonderful words of LIFE.
JESUS only SAVIOR, Sanctifies forever,
Beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of LIFE.

Monday, June 23, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Seven

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I Love you." John 3:16

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD,as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

Nicodemus asked some questions and Jesus gave Him some deep and powerful answers…His love filled answers, show me where the power comes from and give me the power to go on:

1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council.
2 He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him."
3 In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."
4 "How can a man be born when he is old?" Nicodemus asked. "Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!"
5 Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."
9 "How can this be?" Nicodemus asked.
10 "You are Israel's teacher," said Jesus, "and do you not understand these things? 11 I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven-the Son of Man. 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS - GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • confident
  • truthful
  • willing…willing to be sacrificed by His Father
  • submissive
  • full of love…

P ray to GOD THE FATHER: - GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…


GOD, YOUR love is so great…to give up YOUR pride and joy, YOUR only Son, is hard to fathom…yet You did it willingly because of YOUR great love for us…thank YOU, thank YOU both for wanting to save us…

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding - Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

Oh, love that will not let me go…
I rest my weary soul in thee…
I give thee back that life I owe…
That in Thine ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller be…

Sunday, June 22, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Six

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I will never leave/forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

First, there is Hebrews 11, the “Hall of Faith” chapter…
Then, there’s Hebrews 12 which begins with the word “therefore” to connect the next thoughts with that big idea of living/walking by faith:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,


LET US…LET ME...

  • throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles
  • run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
  • fix our eyes on JESUS, the author and perfecter of our faith…
  • consider HIM who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
  • not make light of the LORD's discipline, and do not lose heart when HE rebukes you, 6 because the LORD disciplines those HE loves, and HE punishes everyone HE accepts as a son."
  • endure hardship as discipline; GOD is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons…GOD disciplines us for our good, that we may share in HIS holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
  • strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 "Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
  • make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the LORD.
  • see to it that no one misses the grace of GOD and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
  • see that no one is sexually immoral, or is godless like Esau, who for a single meal sold his inheritance rights as the oldest son. 17 Afterward, as you know, when he wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. He could bring about no change of mind, though he sought the blessing with tears.

18 You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; 19 to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them, 20 because they could not bear what was commanded: "If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned." 21 The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, "I am trembling with fear."

22 But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the LIVING GOD. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, 23 to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to GOD, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, 24 to JESUS the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

LET US… LET ME…

  • see to it that you do not refuse HIM who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused HIM who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from HIM who warns us from heaven? 26 At that time HIS voice shook the earth, but now HE has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." 27 The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken-that is, created things-so that what cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken...
  • be thankful
  • worship GOD acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our "GOD is a consuming fire."

Hebrews 13

LET US… LET ME…

  • keep on loving each other as sisters.
  • not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
  • remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
  • remember that marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for GOD will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.
  • keep your lives free from the love of money
  • be content with what you have, because GOD has said,
    "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

6 So we say with confidence,"The LORD is my helper;
I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • Dependence on God…I must KNOW that I can’t do it without HIM…
  • HE will never ever leave me or forsake me… in Psalms 104 the creatures of the sea are “terrified” when God hides HIS face from them…I BELIEVE that HE will NEVER leave me or forsake me as long as I choose to remain HIS child…the only one who moves is me…

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…


GOD, forgive me for sometimes believing that YOU leave me and forsake me…I am terrified to not have YOU in my life…help me to focus on YOU…to focus on staying and basking in YOUR love for me…help me to internalize Hebrews 11 and Hebrews 13:6 and what comes between…as I fix my eyes on JESUS…

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding: Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

FAITHFUL LOVE FLOWING DOWN FROM A THORN COVERED CROWN
MAKES ME WHOLE, SAVES MY SOUL, WASHES WHITER THAN SNOW…
FAITHFUL LOVE CALMS EACH FEAR
REACHES OUT…DRIES EACH TEAR…
HOLDS MY HAND WHEN I CAN’T STAND ON MY OWN…

FAITHFUL LOVE….FROM ABOVE…
CAME TO EARTH TO SHOW THE FATHER’S LOVE…
AND I’LL NEVER BE THE SAME
FOR I’VE SEEN FAITHFUL LOVE FACE TO FACE
AND JESUS IS HIS NAME…

FAITHFUL LOVE IS A FRIEND JUST WHEN HOPE SEEMS TO END
…………………………WARM EMBRACE
TENDER TOUCH FILLED WITH GRACE
FAITHFUL LOVE…ENDLESS FIRE...

….BURNING BRIGHT IN THE NIGHT
GUIDING MY WAY…

FAITHFUL LOVE….FROM ABOVE…
CAME TO EARTH TO SHOW THE FATHER’S LOVE…
AND I’LL NEVER BE THE SAME
FOR I’VE SEEN FAITHFUL LOVE FACE TO FACE
AND JESUS IS HIS NAME…

Saturday, June 21, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Five

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I am able." 2 Corinthians 9:8

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD,as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

When GOD says that HE IS ABLE… I believe HIM…
2 Corinthians 9:6-15 gives me a deeper perspective into the thought that GOD IS ABLE…

6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each woman should give what she has decided in her heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for GOD loves a cheerful giver. 8 And GOD is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written:

"HE has scattered abroad HIS gifts to the poor; HIS righteousness endures forever."

10 Now HE who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to GOD.

12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of GOD’S people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to GOD. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise GOD for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of CHRIST, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace GOD has given you. 15 Thanks be to GOD for HIS indescribable gift!

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • Generous sower
  • Cheerful giver
  • Grace
  • Meets needs of others
  • Gives to the poor
  • Righteous
  • Thankful
  • Servant
  • Obedient
  • Confessing
  • Praying
  • Gift giving
  • Able

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

GOD YOU are able…able to make beauty come from the mess of my life…health to come to the unhealthy…riches to come to the poor…gifts to come to the learning disabled….healing and revival to come to my family….thank YOU for not only being able but willing…thank YOU for what YOU have done, what YOU are doing, and what YOU will do to resolve these things…thank YOU for JESUS WHO makes me able to even ask…

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding: Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

JESUS, YOU’RE ABLE TO DO ANYTHING…
YOU MAKE ME HAPPY…
YOU MAKE ME SING…
YOU LIFT ME UP WHEN I AM DOWN…
IF I LET YOU, YOU WILL PICK ME UP AND TURN MY WHOLE LIFE AROUND!

MY GOD, YOU’RE WONDERFUL…
YOU ARE BIG AND STRONG…
YOU BEAR MY BURDENS ALL LIFE LONG….
YOU TAKE MY LIFE AND MAKE ME WHOLE….
IN MY BODY AND MY MIND AND MY SPIRIT AND MY HEART AND SOUL.

DO YOU KNOW JESUS?
DO YOU KNOW HIS GRACE?
HAVE YOU EVER MET HIM FACE TO FACE?
HAVE YOU ALLOWED HIM TO SET YOU FREE?
TO THE WONDERFUL BLESSINGS AVAILABLE TO YOU AND ME.






R.E.A.P.S. - Day Four

Saturday, June 21, 2008 a.m.:
I missed Friday so I’ll try to do 2 today to stay caught up…but if I don’t the world will not end!

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I will direct your steps." Proverbs 20:24

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD,as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

When GOD says that HE will direct my steps…that in itself is empowering! These verses in Proverbs 20 not only feed me, but connect so well with my focus for today…

  • The LORD will direct my steps: NOT WINE! v. 1
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO AVOID STRIFE / QUARRELING v. 3
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO PLAN AHEAD AND NOT BE LAZY v.4
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO MAKE ME A WOMAN OF UNDERSTANDING v.5
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO MAKE ME A FAITHFUL WOMAN v.6
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO MAKE ME RIGHTEOUS AND BLAMELESS…(which will bless my children) v.7
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO KEEP MY HEART PURE v.9
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO BE HONEST IN MY DEALINGS v.10
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO HELP MY CHILDREN HAVE CONDUCT THAT IS PURE AND RIGHT v.11
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO HONOR HIM WITH MY EARS AND EYES v.12
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT LOVE SLEEP v.13
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO HELP MY WORDS AND ACTIONS MATCH v.14
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO HELP MY LIPS SPEAK KNOWLEDGE v.15
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NEVER FRAUD ANYONE v.17
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO SEEK WISE ADVICE/GUIDANCE v.18
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT GOSSIP OR TALK TOO MUCH v.19
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT CURSE v.20
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT BE QUICK WITH MONEY v.21
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT PAY BACK EVIL FOR EVIL v.22
  • The LORD will direct my steps: TO NOT MAKE VOWS I WILL NOT KEEP v.25
  • The LORD will direct my steps: BY SEARCHING MY SPIRIT/INMOST BEING v.27
  • The LORD will direct my steps: IN LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS v.28
A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see CHRIST-LIKE attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

  • humility
  • meekness - letting God direct my steps
  • self - control
  • avoider of strife/quarreling
  • planner
  • worker...not lazy
  • understanding
  • faithful
  • righteous
  • blameless
  • honest
  • pure
  • true
  • knowlegeable
  • wise
  • controlled tongue
  • money wise
  • careful with vows
  • spiritual
  • loving

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

Father GOD, I ask for YOU and YOU alone to direct my steps…forgive me of not allowing that to happen so many times…give me the awareness that it is YOU WHO is doing it…teach me to be aware of YOUR presence, YOUR direction…

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding: Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful…

It’s interesting that it is not necessarily the song that I would have picked, yet….I am convinced that when YOU lead / direct my thoughts that I must follow:

LEAD ME TO SOME SOUL TODAY…
OH, TEACH ME LORD JUST WHAT TO SAY…
FRIENDS OF MINE ARE LOST IN SIN
AND CANNOT FIND THEIR WAY.
FEW THERE ARE WHO SEEM TO CARE
AND FEW THERE ARE WHO PRAY…
MELT MY HEART AND FILL MY LIFE….
GIVE ME ONE SOUL TODAY.

Friday, June 20, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Three

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

“ I give you wisdom." James 1:5

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

James 1:2-8 2
Consider it pure joy, my sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, she should ask GOD, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to her. 6 But when she asks, she must believe and not doubt, because she who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That woman should not think she will receive anything from the LORD; 8 she is a double-minded woman, unstable in all she does.

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:
  • JOY THROUGH TRIALS
  • FAITH
  • PERSEVERANCE
  • WISDOM

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…


Father God, I ask for wisdom today…take away my unbelief…give me mustard seed faith that YOU will give me YOUR wisdom to guide me through this day and on into eternity…YOUR judgment in being a wife and mother, a physical and church family member, just a member of society…there are so many decisions that need to be made on a daily basis….GIVE ME YOUR WISDOM, GOD….I thank you in advance.

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding: Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful… please keep it there throughout the day, help it teach me, help it to make a difference in me today:

I’m gonna hide GOD’S WORD in my heart…
It’s a lamp unto my feet.
I’m gonna read GOD’S WORD everyday….
It’s my food, my bread, my meat…
I’m gonna stand on the truth of the Bible…
I’m gonna open my eyes, I’m gonna memorize….




ABC’s of Jesus

A- Author of life
B- Bread of Life
C- Creator
D-Deliverer/ Desired of all nations / Door
E- Eternal Life
F- Friend / Faithful & True
G-Good Shepherd / Good teacher / Great Physician
H-Holy One of God / High Priest forever
I- Indescribable gift
J- Just Judge
K-King of kings
L-LORD of lords
M- Mediator of the New Covenant
N- Nazarene
O- Only Begotten Son of God
P- Passover lamb
Q-Quieter of the winds and waves
R- Resurrection & Life
S- Savior
T-Truth
U-Unspeakable gift
V- Vine
W- Way
X-eXact representation of God’s being
Y-YHWH (which is, which was, which is to come)
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ – Jesus gives me rest……


ABC’s of Proverbs


A- Acquire wisdom, acquire understanding. 4:5
B- Better is open rebuke that love that is concealed. 27:5
C- Commit your works to the LORD. 16:3
D- Death and life are in the power of the tongue. 18:21
E- Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise. 17:28
F- For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again. 24:16
G- Give instruction to a wise man and he will be still wiser. 9:9
H- He who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. 17:27
I- Iron sharpens iron as one man sharpens another. 27:17
J- Joyful heart is good medicine. 17:22
K- Keep my commandments and live. 4:4
L- Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD. 12:22
M- My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent! 1:10
N- Naïve believe everything! 14:15
O- On the lips of the discerning, wisdom is found. 10:13
P- Pride goes before destruction. 16:18
Q- Quick tempered men act foolishly. 14:17
R- Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. 11:4
S- Strength and dignity are her clothing. 31:25
T- Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. 3:5 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. 9:10
U- Understanding is a fountain of life to him who has it. 16:22
V- Vinegar to the teeth & smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy one to those who send him. 10:26
W-Whoever is intoxicated by wine is not wise. 20:1
X- Xcellent speech is not fitting for a fool. 17:7
Y- Your enemy is hungry – give him food to eat. 25:21
Z- Zzzzzzzzzz – Do not love sleep, lest you become poor. 20:13



Wednesday, June 18, 2008

R.E.A.P.S. - Day Two

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture thought: GOD, give me the wisdom to understand the simple thought that comes out of this verse:

"I'm fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalm 139

E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT GOD, as I read YOUR WORD-specifically those around my scripture thought for today, it does what it is meant to do: feed YOUR HOLY SPIRIT WHO lives within me:

As I ponder the context of that statement above in Psalm 139, I am reminded once again of the enormity of YOUR presence. YOU, THE CREATOR of the universe, created me AND YOU are always there / here... YOU know me better than I know myself…Yet, YOU still love me and YOU choose to live inside of me (because Jesus has cleansed me)…I can’t really leave any part of this HOLY SPIRIT inspired chapter out…

139:1 For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.
O LORD, YOU have searched me and YOU know me.
2 YOU know when I sit and when I rise;
YOU perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 YOU discern my going out and my lying down;
YOU are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue YOU know it completely, O LORD.
5 YOU hem me in — behind and before;
YOU have laid YOUR hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from YOUR SPIRIT?
Where can I flee from YOUR presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, YOU are there;
if I make my bed in the depths,YOU are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there YOUR hand will guide me,
YOUR right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to YOU;
the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to YOU.

A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS GOD, I see Christ-like attitudes in these scriptures-please be molding them in me:

My simple GRATITUDE ATTITUDE seems so small for what YOU’ve done, are doing, will do, AND can do. Thank YOU for making me…thank YOU for making my children inside of me…thank YOU for loving me no matter what…

P ray to GOD THE FATHER GOD, please listen while I feebly pray about these thoughts…

FATHER, forgive me of my harsh spirit… YOU did not make me to be that way…I am so thankful that YOU made me who I am….yet, God, I need YOU to keep teaching me how to live in this skin…YOU made me…please help me to mature /grow up in YOU… to see YOUR purpose for me…today it is so gray…I ask YOU, THE CREATOR, to shed light on my circumstances and guide my steps to the purpose that YOU want me to fulfill.

S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding: Today GOD, as we have talked, You have put this song on my heart...I give it back to YOU…YOU are so faithful… please keep it there throughout the day, help it teach me, help it to make a difference in me today:

LITTLE BY LITTLE IN EVERY DAY…LITTLE BY LITTLE IN EVERY WAY
JESUS IS CHANGING ME…HE’S CHANGING ME. SINCE I’VE MADE A TURN ABOUT FACE, I’VE BEEN GROWIN’ IN HIS GRACE, JESUS IS CHANGIN’ ME. HE’S CHANGIN’ ME, MY BLESSED SAVIOR…I’M NOT THE SAME PERSON THAT I USED TO BE…SOMETIMES IT’S SLOW GOING BUT THERE’S A KNOWIN’ THAT SOMEDAY PERFECT (MATURE) I WILL BE…

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

MASTER - FULL MOMS

MASTER-FULL MOM'S met this morning...it was good to be together.

We will not meet again for 2 weeks, but talked today about several very important things:

1. The ongoing spiritual battle for our minds and our families. The battle belongs to the LORD, therefore, we must put on our Daddy's armor...Ephesians 6:10-20


  • Belt of truth: Do our children witness a Mom who always tells the truth
  • Breastplate of righteousness: Do our children know that Mom is trying to do the "right thing" - God's way?
  • Feet ready for peace: Do our children see us as peacemakers OR instigators, arguers, complainers, naggers...?
  • Shield of faith: Do our children hear words and see actions of doubt (Mom as a "damsel in distress"?) OR hear words and see actions of faith "because God can" (Mom as a "Maiden for the Master?") ????
  • Helmet of Salvation: Do our children witness a Mom who is confident in her salvation because she is confident that her God keeps His promises?
  • Sword of the Spirit: Do our children hear us reading the Bible (could be picture Bible) with them daily? Are you memorizing God's word with them and making it practical?
  • Praying in the Spirit: Do your children hear you talking to God daily (multiple times)? Do you talk to God together with them on all occasions and will all kinds of prayers and requests? Do you talk about being alert to people's needs to know what to pray for?

2. How do each of us leave the "damsels in distress" lifestyle and become "maidens for the Master"? By learning to walk daily in, by, and with the Holy Spirit...it is then that we truly begin growing into Mom's "full of the Master" -"Master-full Moms" - "MOMS TRANSFORMED" - "TRANSFORMED MOMS". This chart is pretty convicting:

THE BATTLE

BELONGS TO THE LORD


****************Are you someone who talks as if you are a**********************


DAMSEL in DISTRESS? MAIDEN for the MASTER?

…Listening to Satan?.......................... …Listening to the Spirit of God?
…Believing his lies? .............................…Believing The TRUTH?
…Submitting to Darkness? ................…Submitting to LIGHT?

.........BY SAYING…..............................BY SAYING...,..............


“I’m worthless!”.................................“I’m a gift of the LORD.” Psalm 12:7
“I’m nothing!”..................“I’m fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139
“I’m stupid!”.......................................“I give you wisdom.” James 1:5
“I can’t figure things out!”...........“I will direct your steps.” Proverbs 20:24
“I’m not able!”....................................“I am able!” 2 Corinthians 9:8
“I’m not alone!”.................“I will never leave/forsake you!” Hebrews 13:5
“Nobody loves me!”...........................“I love you.” John 3:16
“I can’t forgive myself!”...................“I forgive you!” I John 1:9; Romans 8:1
“I can’t manage!”........................“I will supply your needs.” Philippians 4:19
“I’m afraid!”..................“I haven’t given you a spirit of fear.” 2 Timothy 1:7
“I’m worried/frustrated!”...............“Cast all your cares on ME.” 1 Peter 5:7
“I’m too tired!”................................ “I will give you rest.” Mathew 11:28-30
“I can’t go on!”............................“My grace is sufficient.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
“It’s not worth it!”......“All things will work together for good…” Rom.8:28



3. What does that look like? ...Mom's who keep our eyes focused on the LORD...Mom's who feed the Holy Spirit of God Who lives within us....Mom's who become so full of the Spirit that our cup runs over with thankfulness....Mom's who reap what we sow...


4. In the summer, life is so full of kids that instead of putting God first, we put our kids first.....so, we would like to focus on the next two weeks getting in the habit of putting God first, if at all possible, the first 5-10 minutes of each day. We are going to use the acrostic R.E.A.P.S. to help us "reap what we sow". Each day, for 14 days, we will take one of our 14 verses (listed below) and follow the acrostic plan. Below is the acrostic, then in the next 14 postings I will enter my Day One through Day 14 devotionals following the acrostic template.

R ead, ‘rite, and repeat Scripture


E mpowered by the HOLY SPIRIT


A ttitude of CHRIST JESUS


P ray to GOD THE FATHER


S ing with the SPIRIT & Understanding



1. "I'm a gift of the LORD!" Psalm 127
2. "I'm fearfully and wonderfully made." Psalm 139
3. "I give you wisdom." James 1:5
4. "I will direct your steps." Proverbs 20:24
5. "I am able." 2 Corinthians 9:8
6. "I will never leave/forsake you." Hebrews 13:5
7. "I Love you." John 3:16
8. "I forgive you." I John 1:9; Romans 8:1
9. "I will supply your needs." Philippians 4:19
10. "I haven't given you a spirit of fear." 2 Timothy 1:7
11. "Cast all your cares on ME." I Peter 5:7
12. "I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28-30
13. "My grace is sufficient." 2 Corinthians 12:9
14. "All things will work together for good..." Romans 8:28


TRANSFORMED MOM, LISA, REQUESTED PRAYERS FOR HER HUBBY: FULLY RESTORED! FULLY HEALED!