GOD WITH US
Christmas 2011
By Angi Waldrop (composed on 12.20.2011)
Earlier this year, God placed me in a position to lead worship at a small church in Lancaster, SC.
Each week, I simply ask Jesus what He would like us to sing/play on the following Sunday. Sometimes, He'll put a theme on my heart and other times, I'll hear songs on the radio or He'll bring them to my remembrance and my spirit will confidently know those are the ones He's asking for. He never fails me and I am amazed by His consistent leading and how it all fits together each Sunday morning.
Last week, I felt "Emmanuel" pressing on my spirit. He quickly gave me three songs that fit perfectly with this particular theme. A day or so after I decided on the music, I was listening to Joyce Meyer when she mentioned how He is referred to as "Emmanuel". On Saturday night, my brother said, "God be with you" as we were saying goodbye. On Sunday morning, the Lord lead me to Matthew 1:23 to be read at the beginning of the service: "Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel - which, when translated, means 'God with us'."
As usual, I was so excited about the Lord (once again) confirming Himself like this, but He didn't stop there. On Monday morning, I opened my Charles Stanley devotional (which sits on my desk at the office) and it was his commentary on - yep, you guessed it - Matthew 1:23. Furthermore, my Joel Osteen devotional directly mentioned the very same Scripture today.
At first, I thought it was all about this past Sunday, but then I remembered that it's been a few years since I've written a Christmas message. Recently, I knew that I must return to this once developing tradition, and I had asked the Lord to place on my heart what He wants to say this year. I have come to believe - by all of His confirmation - that this is it:
HE IS WITH US!
When the Lord of the Universe, Jesus Christ, first came to us 2000 years ago, it was in the humblest of any possible form He could've chosen; He came into the world as a helpless, completely dependent infant. His pure objective was to show us that He could relate to us from the very first breath we take to every single phase of our lives. Although He was without sin, He experienced infancy, adolescence, and adulthood, living 33 years in a real human body so that He could fully experience life just as we do.
2000 years ago, He was physically present on the Earth. Now, His Spirit lives in and through us when we believe in Him. No matter how you look at it, GOD IS WITH US - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. He has always been with us, and He never leaves or forsakes us (Hebrews 13:5)!
To my loved ones - including those who go to church faithfully and those who do not - Jesus Christ is with you everywhere you go. He knows everything about you and loves you unconditionally despite any of your issues and mistakes. He understands all of your emotions, He identifies with your struggles, and He celebrates the cool stuff that happens to you.
Just as He had friendships with His disciples, He passionately desires to be your friend.
If you do not have an intimate relationship with Jesus, let this Christmas be a turning point in your life. Allow this holiday season to never end but rather evolve into a personal relationship with Him to be celebrated daily throughout each year for the rest of your life! Hanging out with the Savior of the world will transform you in unimaginable ways!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO AND YOURS - 24/7/365!
Love, Angi
P.S. PLEASE pass this message along as you feel lead!
.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
Joy Overflowing
Last night, I - once again - had the time of my life at a Kenny G concert. I've lost track of how many I've gone to now, but I am grateful for each and every one. Getting to see him play live is truly a dream come true for me which has been made possible by God and only God. Being a fan of Kenny's for nearly 25 years has been an amazing journey.
At one point, he was talking to the audience (us) about how they (the band) were so happy to be playing in such a beautiful theatre, but shortly after the show, they would be on a bus for 12 hours (all night!) headed for Alabama. He was joking around that he was certainly in no hurry to go, not only because of the long trip ahead but because he has trouble sleeping on the bus.
I thought about his comments this morning as I sat at the dentist's office. Last night, an awesome evening of bliss at a Kenny G concert. This morning, the dentist. From the mountaintop to the pit. Blah.
I haven't been to the dentist in many years. When I started drinking, I more or less stopped going to the dentist. Not to mention, there were several periods of time when I didn't have the benefits to cover the cost, anyway. Having general anxiety about dentists based on my awful childhood experiences didn't motivate me to keep going, either.
Needless to say, my teeth have been neglected. They could be worse, but they are pretty jacked up and need some attention.
God's been dropping hints for about a year that it's time to go. You know how He is. I'll pull up behind a car and the bumper sticker says "1-800-Dentist" or I see a commercial and the spokesperson says, "Hey, do you have a friend who needs to go to the dentist but won't go?" Or maybe it was a billboard with a giant tooth on it. LOL! He's so funny sometimes!!!
A few weeks ago, I heard a quick ad on 91.9 (New Life) for a local dentist and I felt, in my spirit, that it's where I should go. I pressed past my denial and made an appointment.
I was a little bit nervous this morning, but I had prayerfully decided that even if they told me all of my teeth needed to be ripped out and it was time for dentures that I would be okay with such a verdict.
I arrived a few minutes late and needed to fill out the initial paperwork before being seen since it was my first time there. As I sat quietly and began to write down my information, I noticed there was very serene Christmas music playing overhead. I thought: well, that's nice.
Within 5-10 minutes, I noticed a very familar sound coming from those speakers. On the first note of "Oh Holy Night", I knew it was my Kenny G. Tears began to swell up in my eyes (and I am crying now as I type this) because I immediately knew the Lord was using that song and my favorite musician to let me know I was in the right place and that He was with me. It was such a profound moment.
That would've been enough on His part, but He didn't stop there. The assistant (who took care of me) and I quickly began to share on a personal level. Her testimony is much like mine in that she partied for many years, too, and her life was out of order. When she left the examination room to go get the doctor, I couldn't help but to sit there and cry. I was tearful when the doctor walked in, and I am still crying now.
In the car on the way home, I knew the Lord wanted this to be my next blog post. While writing it just now, He gave me the Scripture that fits.
"If you keep My commandments (if you continue to obey My instructions), you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father's commandments and live so in His love. I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing." (John 15:10-11)
I was afraid to go, and dreading it. I left there with so much joy overflowing that I cannot contain the tears today.
The Lord is even at the dentist office with us. How amazing and so very personal is our God!!!!!!!! Jesus rocks!!!!!!!!!!
At one point, he was talking to the audience (us) about how they (the band) were so happy to be playing in such a beautiful theatre, but shortly after the show, they would be on a bus for 12 hours (all night!) headed for Alabama. He was joking around that he was certainly in no hurry to go, not only because of the long trip ahead but because he has trouble sleeping on the bus.
I thought about his comments this morning as I sat at the dentist's office. Last night, an awesome evening of bliss at a Kenny G concert. This morning, the dentist. From the mountaintop to the pit. Blah.
I haven't been to the dentist in many years. When I started drinking, I more or less stopped going to the dentist. Not to mention, there were several periods of time when I didn't have the benefits to cover the cost, anyway. Having general anxiety about dentists based on my awful childhood experiences didn't motivate me to keep going, either.
Needless to say, my teeth have been neglected. They could be worse, but they are pretty jacked up and need some attention.
God's been dropping hints for about a year that it's time to go. You know how He is. I'll pull up behind a car and the bumper sticker says "1-800-Dentist" or I see a commercial and the spokesperson says, "Hey, do you have a friend who needs to go to the dentist but won't go?" Or maybe it was a billboard with a giant tooth on it. LOL! He's so funny sometimes!!!
A few weeks ago, I heard a quick ad on 91.9 (New Life) for a local dentist and I felt, in my spirit, that it's where I should go. I pressed past my denial and made an appointment.
I was a little bit nervous this morning, but I had prayerfully decided that even if they told me all of my teeth needed to be ripped out and it was time for dentures that I would be okay with such a verdict.
I arrived a few minutes late and needed to fill out the initial paperwork before being seen since it was my first time there. As I sat quietly and began to write down my information, I noticed there was very serene Christmas music playing overhead. I thought: well, that's nice.
Within 5-10 minutes, I noticed a very familar sound coming from those speakers. On the first note of "Oh Holy Night", I knew it was my Kenny G. Tears began to swell up in my eyes (and I am crying now as I type this) because I immediately knew the Lord was using that song and my favorite musician to let me know I was in the right place and that He was with me. It was such a profound moment.
That would've been enough on His part, but He didn't stop there. The assistant (who took care of me) and I quickly began to share on a personal level. Her testimony is much like mine in that she partied for many years, too, and her life was out of order. When she left the examination room to go get the doctor, I couldn't help but to sit there and cry. I was tearful when the doctor walked in, and I am still crying now.
In the car on the way home, I knew the Lord wanted this to be my next blog post. While writing it just now, He gave me the Scripture that fits.
"If you keep My commandments (if you continue to obey My instructions), you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father's commandments and live so in His love. I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing." (John 15:10-11)
I was afraid to go, and dreading it. I left there with so much joy overflowing that I cannot contain the tears today.
The Lord is even at the dentist office with us. How amazing and so very personal is our God!!!!!!!! Jesus rocks!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Jesus is your Friend!
If you could hear some of the conversations I have with Jesus, you might think I am crazy. But that's what intimacy with another person is for: you tell that person everything that is on your heart. No exceptions.
It blows my mind when He answers me with a Scripture I have read in the past, or when I can simply hear (sense) His voice in my Spirit.
A few nights ago, I was feeling badly about certain parts of my past and within minutes, I could feel Him reminding me of Isaiah 43: 18-19. "Do not earnestly remember the former things: neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs forth: do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Immediately, I knew that He was letting me know that I should never look back. He was saying that something new is in the future, so I should keep looking ahead at Him. Wow.
Recently, I have felt like He is leading me to write my own songs, but I have doubted my ability to do this. One night, while I was sitting at my computer, He said, "Angi, a painting does not just appear on a canvas. It takes the artist months or sometimes years to create it. So, go create." I cannot begin to tell you how this very simple statement motivated me. I knew that He was saying the songs would not come to me overnight, but that I must spend time developing them and it would be worth it.
Last year, when He told me to start writing more seriously, I also then doubted myself because I had no best-seller ideas. He spoke to me by saying, "Angi, the people in the Bible were no different from you, but they knew they must record what was happening to them..." I was so moved by this statement because I grew up thinking the characters in the Bible were super-human, perfect figures. I have since come to understand that they were, in fact, just like you and me and yet God used so many of them in absolutely amazing ways. I desire for Him to use my life in this way as well.
I could go on and on, but it's getting late and I need my rest. The point is, Jesus Christ is personal. He knew you before you were born, formed you in your mother's womb, and has the number of hairs on your head counted....so never be fooled into thinking you can't take every issue, emotion, celebration, and defeat to Him and talk with Him about it. Furthermore, you'll be amazed when you begin to hear Him speak back to your spirit. There is no greater friendship in this life.
It blows my mind when He answers me with a Scripture I have read in the past, or when I can simply hear (sense) His voice in my Spirit.
A few nights ago, I was feeling badly about certain parts of my past and within minutes, I could feel Him reminding me of Isaiah 43: 18-19. "Do not earnestly remember the former things: neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs forth: do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Immediately, I knew that He was letting me know that I should never look back. He was saying that something new is in the future, so I should keep looking ahead at Him. Wow.
Recently, I have felt like He is leading me to write my own songs, but I have doubted my ability to do this. One night, while I was sitting at my computer, He said, "Angi, a painting does not just appear on a canvas. It takes the artist months or sometimes years to create it. So, go create." I cannot begin to tell you how this very simple statement motivated me. I knew that He was saying the songs would not come to me overnight, but that I must spend time developing them and it would be worth it.
Last year, when He told me to start writing more seriously, I also then doubted myself because I had no best-seller ideas. He spoke to me by saying, "Angi, the people in the Bible were no different from you, but they knew they must record what was happening to them..." I was so moved by this statement because I grew up thinking the characters in the Bible were super-human, perfect figures. I have since come to understand that they were, in fact, just like you and me and yet God used so many of them in absolutely amazing ways. I desire for Him to use my life in this way as well.
I could go on and on, but it's getting late and I need my rest. The point is, Jesus Christ is personal. He knew you before you were born, formed you in your mother's womb, and has the number of hairs on your head counted....so never be fooled into thinking you can't take every issue, emotion, celebration, and defeat to Him and talk with Him about it. Furthermore, you'll be amazed when you begin to hear Him speak back to your spirit. There is no greater friendship in this life.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
God is Hilarious!
Whether you have experienced God's sense of humor in your life or not, I pray that this blog entry enlightens you. :-) He's been pressing me for about 24 hours to write it, so I better! Surely, there are many who need to see Him in this context.
A little over a year ago, He spoke to my spirit: "Cut back on sugar." I heard (sensed) Him very clearly and knew that He meant business. My flesh, however, has continued to struggle ever since.
You see, I'm what I call a "chocoholic". In fact, there should be meetings for people like me. Be it chocolate milk, a Hershey bar (dark!), a chocolate chip cookie, brownies, or my worst enemy, chocolate ice cream with Oreos in it...I love it all. The more chocolate, the better. In fact, my dessert motto is: "If it ain't chocolate, I don't eat it!" Why waste the calories on lemon pound cake or blueberry muffins?!?! I could easily find a place in my diet for alternative desserts like those, but I would much rather blow it on chocolate.
What I have learned is that the Lord Jesus is patient with us as we move toward the changes He's inspiring. I have also found His sense of humor again in this particular experience.
We have a cafeteria at the office where I work. Four days each week, a little restaurant called "Sports Page" caters lunch for us. I am frugal and don't believe in wasting money every day on eating out, so I carry my lunch. But they make this killer chocolate chip cookie, and it is often on my mind.
One afternoon, I decided it was okay to have one of these dreamy, giant cookies. I gathered up some change I had in my desk, as I knew it would be a total of $1.09. I eagerly found my place in line and smiled at the cashier who greeted me. "One chocolate chip cookie, please!"
"Oh, we don't have any more of those. But we have the Reese's peanut butter cup cookies."
"That sounds even better! I'll have one of those."
"Sure! That'll be $1.75."
I began to laugh. Needless to say, I didn't have enough money nor did I have any more back at my desk and I rarely carry much cash as it is. I declined her offer and walked away, outwardly polite but inwardly frustrated. Ha!
I then decided to go into the little snack room just around the corner from where lunch is served every day. I had another idea! There are chips and sandwiches in there, but most importantly, there is plenty of chocolate. I decided on a Three Musketeers bar.
When I got to the machine where we must ring up the item with our Market cards, the card would not scan. I knew I had enough money on it, but it simply would not scan. I became increasingly (but light-heartedly!) frustrated and decided to return to my desk. "Okay, God...You must be trying to stop me from doing this." I laughed to myself.
Later that afternoon, I completely rebelled and went back to the snack room. I refused to leave until I got that Market card to process, so I could have my candy bar!!! It tasted really good, but at the same time, I knew I was rebelling so it felt wrong! I could just feel God shaking His head at me, with a huge, loving smile on His face.
On another occasion, I thought I would have some hot chocolate. Seemed like a safe alternative. I went to the cafeteria to get some hot water from the machine so that I could mix the hot chocolate powder that I had in my desk with it. I also filled up my ice water while I was in there. When I returned to the area where I work, someone bumped me as I was coming through the door and - yep, you guessed it - the hot water flew out of my hands (NOT the ice water) and spilled on my jeans and the floor. LOL!!!!! God knew I was too lazy (that day) to go back and get more hot water, so I didn't end up having any hot chocolate that afternoon. He's so clever...
This past week, I was heading for the candy/chips aisle at Walmart. I have recently fallen in love with Hersheys' dark chocolate bars. Hey...antioxidants, right?!?!?!? The minis I buy are only a dollar and some change, so they are within the budget and they are manageable portions (that is, if I can stop at one!). Just as I began to make a bee-line for that area of the shelving units, an inventory worker pulled his giant (immovable to the ordinary citizen) cart with boxes on it full of items needing to be stocked on shelves. And yep, you guessed it...he parked directly in front of where the Hersheys dark chocolate bars are.
So, I rebelliously grabbed a box of Whoppers instead, because they were within reach. LOL...I'm soooooo bad....
Last night, I stopped by Walmart again and while I am trying to be disciplined with the candy bars thing, I decided that chocolate pudding is acceptable. When I got to the bakery aisle - yep, you guessed it again - there was a shopping cart full of merchandise situated directly in front of where the chocolate pudding was! I had to laugh...as I moved the cart and grabbed the pudding and ran!!! Ha ha ha ha!
As I have grown (and will be forever growing) in my personal relationship with Jesus, I enjoy the humor in things like this. As a kid, I always viewed Jesus as this big "force" somewhere out in the universe, and I firmly believed that He was way too busy to deal with me and my issues. But as I discover things like He cares about how much chocolate and sugar I'm consuming, I become more and more enamoured by Him and His personal touch.
After all, He knitted us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13) so this is proof -from the very beginning - that He wants to be intimately involved in our lives. In fact, He already is, but are we on board with it? Are we engaging with Him from a personal standpoint? Are we discussing life's struggles with Him honestly, or are we somehow keeping our distance by just going to church every week and reciting creeds like robots?
I passionately encourage you - right this minute - to let Him into your heart. It's more than just believing in Him and the fact that He died on the cross for our sins. And it's certainly more than church attendance.
He wants to be your best friend. Won't you let Him?
P.S. Please pray for me to continue getting better at cutting back on sugar in general, sweets, and especially chocolate! Be encouraged to know that I am making progress, though. It's just slow progress!
A little over a year ago, He spoke to my spirit: "Cut back on sugar." I heard (sensed) Him very clearly and knew that He meant business. My flesh, however, has continued to struggle ever since.
You see, I'm what I call a "chocoholic". In fact, there should be meetings for people like me. Be it chocolate milk, a Hershey bar (dark!), a chocolate chip cookie, brownies, or my worst enemy, chocolate ice cream with Oreos in it...I love it all. The more chocolate, the better. In fact, my dessert motto is: "If it ain't chocolate, I don't eat it!" Why waste the calories on lemon pound cake or blueberry muffins?!?! I could easily find a place in my diet for alternative desserts like those, but I would much rather blow it on chocolate.
What I have learned is that the Lord Jesus is patient with us as we move toward the changes He's inspiring. I have also found His sense of humor again in this particular experience.
We have a cafeteria at the office where I work. Four days each week, a little restaurant called "Sports Page" caters lunch for us. I am frugal and don't believe in wasting money every day on eating out, so I carry my lunch. But they make this killer chocolate chip cookie, and it is often on my mind.
One afternoon, I decided it was okay to have one of these dreamy, giant cookies. I gathered up some change I had in my desk, as I knew it would be a total of $1.09. I eagerly found my place in line and smiled at the cashier who greeted me. "One chocolate chip cookie, please!"
"Oh, we don't have any more of those. But we have the Reese's peanut butter cup cookies."
"That sounds even better! I'll have one of those."
"Sure! That'll be $1.75."
I began to laugh. Needless to say, I didn't have enough money nor did I have any more back at my desk and I rarely carry much cash as it is. I declined her offer and walked away, outwardly polite but inwardly frustrated. Ha!
I then decided to go into the little snack room just around the corner from where lunch is served every day. I had another idea! There are chips and sandwiches in there, but most importantly, there is plenty of chocolate. I decided on a Three Musketeers bar.
When I got to the machine where we must ring up the item with our Market cards, the card would not scan. I knew I had enough money on it, but it simply would not scan. I became increasingly (but light-heartedly!) frustrated and decided to return to my desk. "Okay, God...You must be trying to stop me from doing this." I laughed to myself.
Later that afternoon, I completely rebelled and went back to the snack room. I refused to leave until I got that Market card to process, so I could have my candy bar!!! It tasted really good, but at the same time, I knew I was rebelling so it felt wrong! I could just feel God shaking His head at me, with a huge, loving smile on His face.
On another occasion, I thought I would have some hot chocolate. Seemed like a safe alternative. I went to the cafeteria to get some hot water from the machine so that I could mix the hot chocolate powder that I had in my desk with it. I also filled up my ice water while I was in there. When I returned to the area where I work, someone bumped me as I was coming through the door and - yep, you guessed it - the hot water flew out of my hands (NOT the ice water) and spilled on my jeans and the floor. LOL!!!!! God knew I was too lazy (that day) to go back and get more hot water, so I didn't end up having any hot chocolate that afternoon. He's so clever...
This past week, I was heading for the candy/chips aisle at Walmart. I have recently fallen in love with Hersheys' dark chocolate bars. Hey...antioxidants, right?!?!?!? The minis I buy are only a dollar and some change, so they are within the budget and they are manageable portions (that is, if I can stop at one!). Just as I began to make a bee-line for that area of the shelving units, an inventory worker pulled his giant (immovable to the ordinary citizen) cart with boxes on it full of items needing to be stocked on shelves. And yep, you guessed it...he parked directly in front of where the Hersheys dark chocolate bars are.
So, I rebelliously grabbed a box of Whoppers instead, because they were within reach. LOL...I'm soooooo bad....
Last night, I stopped by Walmart again and while I am trying to be disciplined with the candy bars thing, I decided that chocolate pudding is acceptable. When I got to the bakery aisle - yep, you guessed it again - there was a shopping cart full of merchandise situated directly in front of where the chocolate pudding was! I had to laugh...as I moved the cart and grabbed the pudding and ran!!! Ha ha ha ha!
As I have grown (and will be forever growing) in my personal relationship with Jesus, I enjoy the humor in things like this. As a kid, I always viewed Jesus as this big "force" somewhere out in the universe, and I firmly believed that He was way too busy to deal with me and my issues. But as I discover things like He cares about how much chocolate and sugar I'm consuming, I become more and more enamoured by Him and His personal touch.
After all, He knitted us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13) so this is proof -from the very beginning - that He wants to be intimately involved in our lives. In fact, He already is, but are we on board with it? Are we engaging with Him from a personal standpoint? Are we discussing life's struggles with Him honestly, or are we somehow keeping our distance by just going to church every week and reciting creeds like robots?
I passionately encourage you - right this minute - to let Him into your heart. It's more than just believing in Him and the fact that He died on the cross for our sins. And it's certainly more than church attendance.
He wants to be your best friend. Won't you let Him?
P.S. Please pray for me to continue getting better at cutting back on sugar in general, sweets, and especially chocolate! Be encouraged to know that I am making progress, though. It's just slow progress!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
My Soul is Stirring
I'm on fire tonight. Call me restless. I don't know exactly how to explain it, but I will say this: I am not satisfied with the thought of living an 8-5 life stuck in a pattern of paying bills...and doing it all over again the next day, and the next day...
Do I hate my job? Not at all!! It's one of the best corporations I've ever worked for in my life, and I truly enjoy the office and my role each day. And actually, God told me to go work there last year because there might be someone I needed to meet. This has most certainly proven true; He has blessed me with many friends at this particular job!
But I still continue to experience a stirring in my soul. It's as if I know I was created for something else, and I can feel myself getting closer to it, although I don't know exactly what it is, where it is, or when it will come to fruition. The Lord has given me hints, but there are still pieces of the puzzle He's keeping in the box up on a shelf that I cannot ever reach without His permission and assistance.
A few nights ago, I listened to Pastor Adrian Rogers speak on the Wilderness, the Jordan River, and the Promised Land (from Joshua 3). I also found a great explanation of this at http://interruptingthesilence.com/tag/jordan-river/ if you want to check it out for yourself. What I got out of both Pastor Rogers and this website was this: once we get out of the wilderness, we have to cross the river in order to get to the promised land. As I said earlier, it's like I can see the promised land ahead - the pieces of the vision God has given me. I believe I'm out of the wilderness, but now I have to cross the river first, which may be calm and shallow at times or it may be deep, turbulent and seemingly impossible. Such are life's circumstances as we flow through them.
Additionally, God continues to bring the story of Abraham to my spirit. God called him away from his comfort zones in order that He could begin to reveal His Will to Abraham for his life. Abraham took matters into his own hands to a point, but God didn't stop loving him and He still stayed faithful to make Abraham a father of many nations as He had originally promised!
I have always been a dreamer. Today, the Holy Spirit said to me: 'He knows you have big dreams - not mediocre desires - in your spirit. He put them there and He will bring them to pass, in His timing.'
So, I'm going to keep dreaming big, every day. I can't wait to look back in five or ten years (sooner would be nice!) and be able to see that God did exactly what He said He would do! The best part will be an opportunity to witness to others about it!
Keep the faith, my friend! He has big plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11) if you stay faithful to His leading! Jesus rocks!
Do I hate my job? Not at all!! It's one of the best corporations I've ever worked for in my life, and I truly enjoy the office and my role each day. And actually, God told me to go work there last year because there might be someone I needed to meet. This has most certainly proven true; He has blessed me with many friends at this particular job!
But I still continue to experience a stirring in my soul. It's as if I know I was created for something else, and I can feel myself getting closer to it, although I don't know exactly what it is, where it is, or when it will come to fruition. The Lord has given me hints, but there are still pieces of the puzzle He's keeping in the box up on a shelf that I cannot ever reach without His permission and assistance.
A few nights ago, I listened to Pastor Adrian Rogers speak on the Wilderness, the Jordan River, and the Promised Land (from Joshua 3). I also found a great explanation of this at http://interruptingthesilence.com/tag/jordan-river/ if you want to check it out for yourself. What I got out of both Pastor Rogers and this website was this: once we get out of the wilderness, we have to cross the river in order to get to the promised land. As I said earlier, it's like I can see the promised land ahead - the pieces of the vision God has given me. I believe I'm out of the wilderness, but now I have to cross the river first, which may be calm and shallow at times or it may be deep, turbulent and seemingly impossible. Such are life's circumstances as we flow through them.
Additionally, God continues to bring the story of Abraham to my spirit. God called him away from his comfort zones in order that He could begin to reveal His Will to Abraham for his life. Abraham took matters into his own hands to a point, but God didn't stop loving him and He still stayed faithful to make Abraham a father of many nations as He had originally promised!
I have always been a dreamer. Today, the Holy Spirit said to me: 'He knows you have big dreams - not mediocre desires - in your spirit. He put them there and He will bring them to pass, in His timing.'
So, I'm going to keep dreaming big, every day. I can't wait to look back in five or ten years (sooner would be nice!) and be able to see that God did exactly what He said He would do! The best part will be an opportunity to witness to others about it!
Keep the faith, my friend! He has big plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11) if you stay faithful to His leading! Jesus rocks!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Forgiveness
Over the past few days, I have been dwelling in a part of my past where I truly don't need to go. But I went there, anyway.
Not only did I choose to revisit it, but I also decided to take it into my own hands and attempt to handle it independently.
The result? I ended up making decisions about it that went against what God would have me do. Not just once, but three times. Yes, three times.
I immediately began discussing it with the Lord while feeling guilty for my choices. I started wondering what was wrong with me when I know better than that.
Yesterday evening, I took my normal walk in my neighborhood. The sun was setting along South Boulevard, as usual. I was admiring the majesty of it and suddenly, I saw a large flock of birds - perhaps 75 or 100 - flying over me toward the sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool.
I walked in the same direction for another five minutes or so, and I then saw another flock of birds. Same type of birds, approximately the same amount, also flying toward the peaceful sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool, Lord...thanks for letting me see those.
I continued for another five minutes, and I looked up to see yet another flock just like the other two, making their way into the beautiful sunset. Suddenly, it hit me. "Okay, Lord...this is cool but why did I just see that same thing three times? Why did You do that?"
Immediately, I felt Him speak to my spirit. "Angi, remember when Peter denied me three times?"
I could feel the tears begin to form in my eyes. He continued.
"And remember when I asked Him if he loved me three times, in order that I should forgive his three denials of me?"
"Yes, Lord!" I replied.
"Well, there you go." And without hesitation, I knew that I was pardoned for the three wrong choices I had made...right then, and right there. The peace that came over me as the evening progressed was indescribable. It was like I could feel Him saying, "You're forgiven. Now don't let that happen again!"
This morning, while writing this, the Holy Spirit reminded me of a perfect Scripture to illustrate this story. "If we freely admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins (dismiss our lawlessness) and (continuously) cleanse us from all unrighteousness (everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action.)" - 1 John 1:9
Bring it all to Him, and He'll wipe your slate clean if you are honest with Him about what you have done. He understands you completely in a way that no one else ever can or will! Jesus rocks!
Not only did I choose to revisit it, but I also decided to take it into my own hands and attempt to handle it independently.
The result? I ended up making decisions about it that went against what God would have me do. Not just once, but three times. Yes, three times.
I immediately began discussing it with the Lord while feeling guilty for my choices. I started wondering what was wrong with me when I know better than that.
Yesterday evening, I took my normal walk in my neighborhood. The sun was setting along South Boulevard, as usual. I was admiring the majesty of it and suddenly, I saw a large flock of birds - perhaps 75 or 100 - flying over me toward the sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool.
I walked in the same direction for another five minutes or so, and I then saw another flock of birds. Same type of birds, approximately the same amount, also flying toward the peaceful sunset. I thought, wow, that was cool, Lord...thanks for letting me see those.
I continued for another five minutes, and I looked up to see yet another flock just like the other two, making their way into the beautiful sunset. Suddenly, it hit me. "Okay, Lord...this is cool but why did I just see that same thing three times? Why did You do that?"
Immediately, I felt Him speak to my spirit. "Angi, remember when Peter denied me three times?"
I could feel the tears begin to form in my eyes. He continued.
"And remember when I asked Him if he loved me three times, in order that I should forgive his three denials of me?"
"Yes, Lord!" I replied.
"Well, there you go." And without hesitation, I knew that I was pardoned for the three wrong choices I had made...right then, and right there. The peace that came over me as the evening progressed was indescribable. It was like I could feel Him saying, "You're forgiven. Now don't let that happen again!"
This morning, while writing this, the Holy Spirit reminded me of a perfect Scripture to illustrate this story. "If we freely admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins (dismiss our lawlessness) and (continuously) cleanse us from all unrighteousness (everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action.)" - 1 John 1:9
Bring it all to Him, and He'll wipe your slate clean if you are honest with Him about what you have done. He understands you completely in a way that no one else ever can or will! Jesus rocks!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Giving Thanks to the Creator
Jesus is not a bandaid; He's a healer.
He's not a panic button; He's the problem solver.
He's not a slogan on a bumper sticker; His Word is a lamp unto our feet (Psalm 119:105).
He's not a distant force in the universe; He's a person who knitted you together in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13).
He’s not limited to a season, a holiday, or a Sunday morning; He is a 24/7/365 relationship.
John 15:5 says it well. "I am the Vine, you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from me (cut off from vital union with Me), you can do nothing."
I remember when I treated Jesus like nothing more than a bandaid, a panic button, and a bumper sticker, and I recall how my life was when I viewed Him as nothing more than a distant force in the universe who could only be reached on "special" days. I was lost on the the route of my own choices, no matter how often I sat in church. I was a withering branch "cut off" from the Vine.
It's not that He didn't bless many places in the roads I chose for myself. It's not that He didn't use them for His good (Romans 8:28). But I was always missing something. I was always slightly off-course from His destiny for me, and I often found myself hiding away from the gifts He is now using to bear much fruit in my life.
Not just on Thanksgiving, but every single day of my life, I am most grateful for my intimate, personal relationship with Him. His love is unconditional at all times, I can talk with Him about everything, and He has all the answers. Nothing more amazing than that.
I'm so thankful that He moved me past "church pew" mentality and I pray that if you are still stuck there, He will also free you and walk you into an incredible closeness with Him that will transform your heart and life forever.
He's not a panic button; He's the problem solver.
He's not a slogan on a bumper sticker; His Word is a lamp unto our feet (Psalm 119:105).
He's not a distant force in the universe; He's a person who knitted you together in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13).
He’s not limited to a season, a holiday, or a Sunday morning; He is a 24/7/365 relationship.
John 15:5 says it well. "I am the Vine, you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from me (cut off from vital union with Me), you can do nothing."
I remember when I treated Jesus like nothing more than a bandaid, a panic button, and a bumper sticker, and I recall how my life was when I viewed Him as nothing more than a distant force in the universe who could only be reached on "special" days. I was lost on the the route of my own choices, no matter how often I sat in church. I was a withering branch "cut off" from the Vine.
It's not that He didn't bless many places in the roads I chose for myself. It's not that He didn't use them for His good (Romans 8:28). But I was always missing something. I was always slightly off-course from His destiny for me, and I often found myself hiding away from the gifts He is now using to bear much fruit in my life.
Not just on Thanksgiving, but every single day of my life, I am most grateful for my intimate, personal relationship with Him. His love is unconditional at all times, I can talk with Him about everything, and He has all the answers. Nothing more amazing than that.
I'm so thankful that He moved me past "church pew" mentality and I pray that if you are still stuck there, He will also free you and walk you into an incredible closeness with Him that will transform your heart and life forever.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Let Go of What Lies Behind
Yesterday evening, while I was working diligently on the book, I experienced a minor meltdown.
I am still struggling with a situation from my past that has deeply affected my soul. A part of me remains broken-hearted. I remember two years ago when I asked the Lord to remove the friend from my life because I couldn't bear it anymore. He said, "No, I want you to pray for him in a way that you never have before." And so I have been interceding for him on a very deep level ever since.
But last night, I just needed to stop and cry. My heart still aches, and I continue to have so many questions. I have yet to understand so many of the "whys" of it all.
I managed to get past the meltdown and re-engage (is that a word?) in some incredibly intense, fruitful writing. However, I just felt low the rest of the night. I am tired of going around the same mountain (Deuteronomy 2:3) and yet I don't know where the exit is, or if it is even time.
This morning, on the serene, 40-minute journey that I take to church every week, I felt God speak to my spirit: "Let go of what lies behind."
Immediately, the Holy Spirit reminded me of the Scripture to which He was referring. I knew I must share it with my church family before it was time for me to sing, and now I must also share it with you. "I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own (yet); but one thing I do (it is my one aspiration): forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the (supreme and heavenly) prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward." (Phillipians 4:13-14)
And just a few moments ago, as I have been writing, He brought Romans 8:28 to my remembrance. "We are assured and know that (God being a partner in their labor) all things work together and are (fitting into a plan) for good to and for those who love God and are called according to (His) design and purpose."
Why do we hang on to the past when there is nothing we can do to erase or alter it? Is it because we feel some obligation to linger in guilt? Is it because we get stuck and fear going forward? Is it because it's somehow safe and comfortable, even if it was wrong? I don't know; it could be any number of things.
I believe God wants to use our pasts in amazing ways and I believe He desires for us to see how far He has brought us in the process. And yet, we have to let the past stay in its proper context behind us so that we can continue to walk into God's destiny for our lives. He can and will take ALL things (not just "some" things) and work them together for His purposes when we love and trust Him.
Don't let the past hold you back, family and friends. Keep moving. Keep reaching. God has a mind-blowing plan for your life out in front of you if you will keep your eyes focused on Him rather than looking backwards at what you have done against Him. If He has removed our sins "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12), then we have no reason to hold onto them!!!
If that's not Good News, I don't know what is! Jesus rocks!
I am still struggling with a situation from my past that has deeply affected my soul. A part of me remains broken-hearted. I remember two years ago when I asked the Lord to remove the friend from my life because I couldn't bear it anymore. He said, "No, I want you to pray for him in a way that you never have before." And so I have been interceding for him on a very deep level ever since.
But last night, I just needed to stop and cry. My heart still aches, and I continue to have so many questions. I have yet to understand so many of the "whys" of it all.
I managed to get past the meltdown and re-engage (is that a word?) in some incredibly intense, fruitful writing. However, I just felt low the rest of the night. I am tired of going around the same mountain (Deuteronomy 2:3) and yet I don't know where the exit is, or if it is even time.
This morning, on the serene, 40-minute journey that I take to church every week, I felt God speak to my spirit: "Let go of what lies behind."
Immediately, the Holy Spirit reminded me of the Scripture to which He was referring. I knew I must share it with my church family before it was time for me to sing, and now I must also share it with you. "I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own (yet); but one thing I do (it is my one aspiration): forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the (supreme and heavenly) prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward." (Phillipians 4:13-14)
And just a few moments ago, as I have been writing, He brought Romans 8:28 to my remembrance. "We are assured and know that (God being a partner in their labor) all things work together and are (fitting into a plan) for good to and for those who love God and are called according to (His) design and purpose."
Why do we hang on to the past when there is nothing we can do to erase or alter it? Is it because we feel some obligation to linger in guilt? Is it because we get stuck and fear going forward? Is it because it's somehow safe and comfortable, even if it was wrong? I don't know; it could be any number of things.
I believe God wants to use our pasts in amazing ways and I believe He desires for us to see how far He has brought us in the process. And yet, we have to let the past stay in its proper context behind us so that we can continue to walk into God's destiny for our lives. He can and will take ALL things (not just "some" things) and work them together for His purposes when we love and trust Him.
Don't let the past hold you back, family and friends. Keep moving. Keep reaching. God has a mind-blowing plan for your life out in front of you if you will keep your eyes focused on Him rather than looking backwards at what you have done against Him. If He has removed our sins "as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12), then we have no reason to hold onto them!!!
If that's not Good News, I don't know what is! Jesus rocks!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Soundcheck
God knows I have a heart's desire to share what's going on behind the scenes as I write my book, article, or serious blog - whatever He wants it to be.
I was even going to create a section in the book called "Soundcheck". I still might. As a musician, I love soundchecks. They are raw and edgy and you sometimes get to see the performers in their street clothes eating cheeseburgers, so to speak. Errors are made, kinks are worked out, and people are genuine. They are the real deal, before the curtain goes up and the "masks" go on.
So, I am considering this blog my "soundcheck". You get to see what happens in the making of a book...what really goes on. Most of the time, all we see is the finished product and the polished author sitting at Barnes & Noble for a book-signing engagement.
But I desire for you to see not only the breakthroughs and victories but also the struggles. The bumps in the road. The frequent desire to quit. I pray that all of it will show you that you, too, can follow the dreams God has placed in your heart - even when you hit brick walls as you go. All things are possible in Christ Jesus (Matthew 19:26).
I was scared, at first, to break away from my comfort zone - the place where I could continue to admire and celebrate everyone else's magnificent creative works. For me, that was a safe place involving no vulnerability on my part. It is not risky to pat someone else on the back, but it is highly intimidating to put your own artwork up for display.
But I'm stepping out, no matter how much resistance I face on a daily basis from the adversary.
At the grocery store today, I thought about how amazing this leg of the journey is. How mind-blowing it is to uncover the creative gifts Jesus has given me and to begin to allow them to truly blossom as He intends for them to do. No matter what frustrations I face as I create, I am excited for where He will take it.
I remember, a few months ago, when the Lord said to me, "Angi, a picture does not just appear on a canvas. The artist spends months, sometimes even years, creating. So go create."
And I am. And I will. The crazy thing is, as much as I love my music and always will, writing is so easy for me that I sometimes can hardly believe it. I can write a piece like this in 10 minutes without much editing. Imagine what He will do if I continue to allow Him to truly use this gift...? The possibilities are endless.
I was even going to create a section in the book called "Soundcheck". I still might. As a musician, I love soundchecks. They are raw and edgy and you sometimes get to see the performers in their street clothes eating cheeseburgers, so to speak. Errors are made, kinks are worked out, and people are genuine. They are the real deal, before the curtain goes up and the "masks" go on.
So, I am considering this blog my "soundcheck". You get to see what happens in the making of a book...what really goes on. Most of the time, all we see is the finished product and the polished author sitting at Barnes & Noble for a book-signing engagement.
But I desire for you to see not only the breakthroughs and victories but also the struggles. The bumps in the road. The frequent desire to quit. I pray that all of it will show you that you, too, can follow the dreams God has placed in your heart - even when you hit brick walls as you go. All things are possible in Christ Jesus (Matthew 19:26).
I was scared, at first, to break away from my comfort zone - the place where I could continue to admire and celebrate everyone else's magnificent creative works. For me, that was a safe place involving no vulnerability on my part. It is not risky to pat someone else on the back, but it is highly intimidating to put your own artwork up for display.
But I'm stepping out, no matter how much resistance I face on a daily basis from the adversary.
At the grocery store today, I thought about how amazing this leg of the journey is. How mind-blowing it is to uncover the creative gifts Jesus has given me and to begin to allow them to truly blossom as He intends for them to do. No matter what frustrations I face as I create, I am excited for where He will take it.
I remember, a few months ago, when the Lord said to me, "Angi, a picture does not just appear on a canvas. The artist spends months, sometimes even years, creating. So go create."
And I am. And I will. The crazy thing is, as much as I love my music and always will, writing is so easy for me that I sometimes can hardly believe it. I can write a piece like this in 10 minutes without much editing. Imagine what He will do if I continue to allow Him to truly use this gift...? The possibilities are endless.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Breakthrough
Life is a series of breakthroughs, especially since I started walking beside Jesus.
One minute, I doubt what I think He says to do. Then, before I know it, I've broken through and I'm so excited to do whatever it is that I can hardly sleep at night.
Over this past weekend, I attended an "open mic" night at a church in Gastonia. On Saturday morning, I was feeling a little lazy and questioned if I should even go. The Holy Spirit encouraged me to show up, so I did.
I stepped out and sang my first original song. It would be my normal, skiddish habit to simply sing songs everyone knows, but I felt a boldness come over me that afternoon about singing "Run To You".
You see, I believe God has laid a somewhat unusual (perhaps, unpopular?) genre on my heart: Christian Blues. Everyone knows Christian music is light and Blues is heavy - two opposite ends of the spectrum. But I recently saw a young man on television (Antonio Pontarelli) who took his years of classic violin training and molded them into his love for rock music. So...why not Christian Blues?
I felt very natural singing "Run To You" in that church on Saturday night, and I was extremely encouraged by how well-received it was and how it ministered to many. I am grateful to God for nudging me to go, and to step out of the boat in the process. I believe He's pushing me to continue diving deeper into the abyss of the creativity He's given me.
Too many of us stay safe in our comfort zones. I am notorious for doing so my entire life, but God is changing me and I pray that the way He works through me will encourage you and many others to do something different. To be bold and follow a new path. To trust Him to take you places you never dreamed of.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome." Sure sounds to me like Jesus wants to show us the kind of life that stretches way beyond the ordinary things we face every day.
Have you put your faith in Him yet? Will you step out of the boat and grab His hand?
One minute, I doubt what I think He says to do. Then, before I know it, I've broken through and I'm so excited to do whatever it is that I can hardly sleep at night.
Over this past weekend, I attended an "open mic" night at a church in Gastonia. On Saturday morning, I was feeling a little lazy and questioned if I should even go. The Holy Spirit encouraged me to show up, so I did.
I stepped out and sang my first original song. It would be my normal, skiddish habit to simply sing songs everyone knows, but I felt a boldness come over me that afternoon about singing "Run To You".
You see, I believe God has laid a somewhat unusual (perhaps, unpopular?) genre on my heart: Christian Blues. Everyone knows Christian music is light and Blues is heavy - two opposite ends of the spectrum. But I recently saw a young man on television (Antonio Pontarelli) who took his years of classic violin training and molded them into his love for rock music. So...why not Christian Blues?
I felt very natural singing "Run To You" in that church on Saturday night, and I was extremely encouraged by how well-received it was and how it ministered to many. I am grateful to God for nudging me to go, and to step out of the boat in the process. I believe He's pushing me to continue diving deeper into the abyss of the creativity He's given me.
Too many of us stay safe in our comfort zones. I am notorious for doing so my entire life, but God is changing me and I pray that the way He works through me will encourage you and many others to do something different. To be bold and follow a new path. To trust Him to take you places you never dreamed of.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome." Sure sounds to me like Jesus wants to show us the kind of life that stretches way beyond the ordinary things we face every day.
Have you put your faith in Him yet? Will you step out of the boat and grab His hand?
Saturday, November 12, 2011
The Wilderness
After a tearful conversation with Jesus this morning while laying in bed, I believe I am in yet another "wilderness" stage.
So, I got up and read Mark 1:9-13. There, Jesus is baptized by John and He is then immediately lead into the wilderness to be challenged by the devil for 40 days.
It should be no surprise to any of us that, directly following an absolutely life-changing moment with the Father, Jesus is lead away to be tested. When we make serious commitments to God, it is the devil's job to interrogate us and attempt to distract our hearts from the mission.
I imagine that if we could translate Jesus' wilderness experience into contemporary language, it would probably be safe to say that the devil used hundreds of different tactics to say, "Man, are You really sure about all of this?" while simultaneously putting his own offers on the table to derail Jesus.
Although it was tough, Jesus stood His ground. Thank God (is an understatement)! The world was radically transformed forever.
I've been singing for a long time. There are so many gifted artists in this world, and it's a blessing to have their music at my disposal. I've also been a part of many groups, and it's always refreshing to work with established people and projects.
I've been writing for a long time. It is a very fruitful activity for me, and I have notebooks and journals full of some remarkable compositions.
But I've been hiding for a long time. Behind other people's music. By leaving my writings on the shelf, and only celebrating everyone else's best-sellers. While there is joy in supporting the creativity of others, I have recently found myself still carrying around an unexplainable emptiness.
Earlier this Fall, I prayerfully decided to step away from those comfort zones - out of the boat, so to speak (see Matthew 14). I believe that God has called me into the abyss of my own creative side. And now? Every day, I can hear that awful voice of the adversary: "Woman, are you really sure about all of this?" as he cleverly fills me with doubt and insecurity, attempting to get me to stop and go back to where I was safe before.
It is intense.
It often seems bleak.
It is lonely, and the weather (of my emotions) is often inclement.
And yet, something in my spirit compels me to continue going forward. Even when it seems sensible to go back to where I was comfortable and didn't face such spiritual and mental challenges.
What I do know for sure is, despite the struggles I am having in this phase, I don't want to die before God is able to use my life for His glory. I have always dreamed of doing something that will impact the globe. Maybe this is it. Maybe this is just the beginning.
Jesus rocks!
So, I got up and read Mark 1:9-13. There, Jesus is baptized by John and He is then immediately lead into the wilderness to be challenged by the devil for 40 days.
It should be no surprise to any of us that, directly following an absolutely life-changing moment with the Father, Jesus is lead away to be tested. When we make serious commitments to God, it is the devil's job to interrogate us and attempt to distract our hearts from the mission.
I imagine that if we could translate Jesus' wilderness experience into contemporary language, it would probably be safe to say that the devil used hundreds of different tactics to say, "Man, are You really sure about all of this?" while simultaneously putting his own offers on the table to derail Jesus.
Although it was tough, Jesus stood His ground. Thank God (is an understatement)! The world was radically transformed forever.
I've been singing for a long time. There are so many gifted artists in this world, and it's a blessing to have their music at my disposal. I've also been a part of many groups, and it's always refreshing to work with established people and projects.
I've been writing for a long time. It is a very fruitful activity for me, and I have notebooks and journals full of some remarkable compositions.
But I've been hiding for a long time. Behind other people's music. By leaving my writings on the shelf, and only celebrating everyone else's best-sellers. While there is joy in supporting the creativity of others, I have recently found myself still carrying around an unexplainable emptiness.
Earlier this Fall, I prayerfully decided to step away from those comfort zones - out of the boat, so to speak (see Matthew 14). I believe that God has called me into the abyss of my own creative side. And now? Every day, I can hear that awful voice of the adversary: "Woman, are you really sure about all of this?" as he cleverly fills me with doubt and insecurity, attempting to get me to stop and go back to where I was safe before.
It is intense.
It often seems bleak.
It is lonely, and the weather (of my emotions) is often inclement.
And yet, something in my spirit compels me to continue going forward. Even when it seems sensible to go back to where I was comfortable and didn't face such spiritual and mental challenges.
What I do know for sure is, despite the struggles I am having in this phase, I don't want to die before God is able to use my life for His glory. I have always dreamed of doing something that will impact the globe. Maybe this is it. Maybe this is just the beginning.
Jesus rocks!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
He said, "Write."
May 2010.
My kitchen. Washing dishes.
The still, small voice I'd been learning to know so well spoke to my heart.
“Write.”
I'd been writing casually all my life, but I knew He was referring to a new level of some sort. I questioned Him immediately. “Lord? I don’t have any ideas. No best-seller titles. Nothing. What do You mean…write?”
He responded quickly. “Angi, the people in the Bible were no different from you. But they somehow knew they must record what was happening to them back then. I want you to begin to write about everything that happens to you from here forward.”
He gave me no structure, no time frame, no title. Nothing but a simple command to “write” with a supportive statement attached because I asked what He meant.
I believe that the people in the Bible must have heard His whisper much like I did. So, I have been writing ever since. The results? Four messy notebooks containing over 18 months worth of revelations from and conversations with the King of the Universe, Jesus Christ.
Facebook has been an excellent outlet, but it can no longer contain the rivers of living water (John 7:38) overflowing from me at this point. And those journals are not meant to hide on a shelf away from the world.
So, here I am on Blogger. com, ready to share experiences with Jesus Christ that I pray will enlighten you about how personal He is and how deeply He loves you.
Enjoy, be blessed, and please share this site with others as you feel lead.
My kitchen. Washing dishes.
The still, small voice I'd been learning to know so well spoke to my heart.
“Write.”
I'd been writing casually all my life, but I knew He was referring to a new level of some sort. I questioned Him immediately. “Lord? I don’t have any ideas. No best-seller titles. Nothing. What do You mean…write?”
He responded quickly. “Angi, the people in the Bible were no different from you. But they somehow knew they must record what was happening to them back then. I want you to begin to write about everything that happens to you from here forward.”
He gave me no structure, no time frame, no title. Nothing but a simple command to “write” with a supportive statement attached because I asked what He meant.
I believe that the people in the Bible must have heard His whisper much like I did. So, I have been writing ever since. The results? Four messy notebooks containing over 18 months worth of revelations from and conversations with the King of the Universe, Jesus Christ.
Facebook has been an excellent outlet, but it can no longer contain the rivers of living water (John 7:38) overflowing from me at this point. And those journals are not meant to hide on a shelf away from the world.
So, here I am on Blogger. com, ready to share experiences with Jesus Christ that I pray will enlighten you about how personal He is and how deeply He loves you.
Enjoy, be blessed, and please share this site with others as you feel lead.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
John 7:38 "Living Water"
I heard a Scripture the other day, and my spirit jumped with delight. "He who believes in Me (who cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me) as the Scripture has said, 'From his innermost being shall flow (continuously) springs and rivers of living water'."
Now I know why I cannot shut up about Jesus. Now I know why I want to write a book and a collection of songs. Now I know why Facebook doesn't seem to hold what I have to say about Him anymore. Because I am in an intimate relationship with Him, He is filling me up with His Word. His Word is the "living water" that is overflowing out of me in order that others may find true life in Him. Wow..............seriously.........wow.
Do I always comprehend His supernatural side? No way. But one thing I am sure of is that it completely trumps any supernatural movie I've seen and any fantasies I've conjured up in my 40 years on this earth because He is REAL. Nothin' like the real thing!
I love You, Lord!!
Now I know why I cannot shut up about Jesus. Now I know why I want to write a book and a collection of songs. Now I know why Facebook doesn't seem to hold what I have to say about Him anymore. Because I am in an intimate relationship with Him, He is filling me up with His Word. His Word is the "living water" that is overflowing out of me in order that others may find true life in Him. Wow..............seriously.........wow.
Do I always comprehend His supernatural side? No way. But one thing I am sure of is that it completely trumps any supernatural movie I've seen and any fantasies I've conjured up in my 40 years on this earth because He is REAL. Nothin' like the real thing!
I love You, Lord!!
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