Saturday, October 27, 2012

The Next Chapter - October 27,2012

The Next Chapter

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. John 15:7

Let me wonder in his love and my relationship with him. I am amazing in how his peace is in me and always has been.... John 14:27 Jesus gives it to me. Me and you and everyone who believes in him.

Follow You - (ft. Brandon Heath)

You lived among the least of these,
The weary and the weak,
And it would be a tragedy for me to turn away.

All my needs, you have supplied.
When I was dead, you gave me life.
How could I not give it away so freely?

And I'll follow you into the homes of the broken,
Follow you into the world.
Meet the needs for the poor and the needy, God.
Follow you into the World.

Use my hands, use my feet,
To make your kingdom come,
To the corners of the earth,
Until your work is done.
Cause Faith without works is dead,
And on the cross your blood was shed.
So how could I not give it away so freely?

And I'll follow you into the homes of the broken.
Follow you into the world.
Meet the needs for the poor and the needy, God.
Follow you into the World.

I'll follow you into the homes of the broken.
Follow you into the world.
Meet the needs for the poor and the needy, God.
Follow you into the World.

I give all myself.
I give all myself
I give all myself... to you.

And I give all myself.
Yes, I give all myself.
And I give all myself... to you.

And I'll follow you into the homes of the broken.
(homes of the broken)
Follow you into the world.
(follow you)
Meet the needs for the poor and the needy, God.
(poor and the needy, God.)
Follow you into the World.
(I will follow)

I'll follow you into the homes of the broken.
Follow you into the world.
Meet the needs for the poor and the needy, God.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

The Next Chapter ~ October 23, 2012


The Next Chapter

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. ~ Proverbs 27:9

I had trouble sleeping last night, I woke this morning tired and cranky, rushing out of bed because Jack had to get to school early for morning math program. I just wanted to stay in bed. I need to bulk up on my sleep, with (2) classes starting next week, I will be staying up late doing homework.

Once I stopped rushing and started to focus on my day, I began to think about my current path, and confused with various comments and strategies, I turned to a friend(who happens to be my Mama) for advice, and listening rather than formulating my response I heard what I needed to hear to begin to work through what could be a stumbling block. It was timely, needed. I am in a good place, and I look forward to today and tomorrow.

"When the Lord closes a door, somewhere He opens a window" - I got a letter from a job I applied for, stating they went with a different candidate. I knew it was between me and 2 others, and it did not meet my fincial needs.... so it is a blessing this door closed. Many changes regarding lifestyle and schedules (working Saturdays was a requirement) were necessary to manage this position. I have a second interview on Thursday for another position in Plymouth, that would fit our needs. The Lord knows our needs, and the right door will open. I find it interesting to see where I have been from one year ago. One year ago, I was starting this contract position. This journey has been interesting, and far from boring. I am grateful tor this company for the job, and I look forward to what lies ahead!
I am not afraid of my giants.


"Voice Of Truth" - Casting Crowns

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes to climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves

To step out of my comfort zone
To the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He's holding out his hand

But the waves are calling out my name and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again. 'Boy, you'll never win!'
"You'll never win"

But the voice of truth tells me a different story
And the voice of truth says "Do not be afraid!"
And the voice of truth says "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a Sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again "boy, you'll never win!
"You'll never win"

But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them looking down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me

I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth


Monday, October 22, 2012

The Next Chapter - October 22, 2012

The Next Chapter

In everything, give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Gratitude is easy said than done.  We know that each day is a gift, and giving thanks for a gift is the expectation.  I found myself being thankful today for some of the strangest things, like forgetting my cell phone on the counter, so when I returned to retreive it, I realized I left on the heat... which gets expensive to heat an empty house during the day.  I am also grateful for clarity in my path.  I recently read an old blog and while writing it the pain, and sadness were really real....the difference a year makes, and the growth experienced in one year's time is amazing to me.  I am truly grateful to be where I am, even when where I am comes with its own struggles.  I am not going to settle for what is comfortable.  I am going to strive for living and loving like Jesus.  As choices come my way, I will be steadfast in my path to find his peace.   I will ask for help, and be grateful when it comes!


Love Them Like Jesus - Casting Crowns

The love of her life is drifting away
They're losing the fight for another day
The life that she's known is falling apart
A fatherless home, a child's broken heart

You're holding her hand, you're straining for words
You trying to make sense of it all
She's desperate for hope, darkness clouding her view
She's looking to you

Just love her like Jesus, carry her to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves her and stay by her side
And love her like Jesus, love her like Jesus

The gifts lie in wait, in a room painted blue
Little blessing from Heaven would be there soon
Hope fades in the night, blue skies turn to gray
As the little one slips away

You're holding their hand, you're straining for words
You're trying to make sense of it all
They're desperate for hope, darkness clouding their view
And they're looking to you

Just love them like Jesus, carry them to Him
His yoke is easy, His burden is light
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
And love them like Jesus

Lord of all creation holds our lives in His hands
The God of all the nations holds our lives in His hands
The Rock of our salvation holds our lives in His hands
He cares for them just as He cares for you

So love them like Jesus, love them like Jesus
You don't need the answers to all of life's questions
Just know that He loves them and stay by their side
And love them like Jesus, love them like Jesus
Love them like Jesus, love them like Jesus

Friday, October 19, 2012

The Next Chapter - October 19, 2012

The Next Chapter ~


What a difference a day makes! When you truly give it up and pray for peace....he is generous and lavishes you with peace. The Holy Spirit can feel like a warm blanket.....


You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you...
Isaiah 26:3

 I saw this verse 2 times today from 2 seperate sources. It always amazes me, when I call out in prayer for peace and patience how quickly it comes. I am waiting on a job, and I continue to give it up and "try" to patiently wait for his will to develop, and today I got a call for a 2nd interview at Partylite in Plymouth...... A job that would be truly wonderful for my family. Close to home and a salary range we can live with. :) I will continue to have faith. At times it is blind, but faith none the less is what carries us to follow his path for us. In uncertain times, focusing on his perfect love can keep us from falling into panic, and practicing peace. Even at home this morning, by praying for a peaceful morning, I found my peace inside, outside breakfast and kids were still chaos, but by not playing into their games, I was truly at peace. I was amazed, and blessed with this discovery. His peace is with me, and in me. John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." I just need to remember to call it out.


"From The Inside Out" - Hillsong

A thousand times I've failed
Still your mercy remains
Should I stumble again
Still I'm caught in your grace
Everlasting, your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, your glory goes beyond all fame

Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself in bringing you praise
Everlasting, your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, your glory goes beyond all fame

In my heart, in my soul
I give you control
Consume me from the inside out
Let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out

Everlasting, your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, your glory goes beyond all fame
And the cry of my heart is to bring you praise
From the inside out
Lord my soul cries out

Thursday, October 18, 2012

The Next Chapter ~ October 18, 2012

The Next Chapter



But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.
Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.  They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."  - Mark 12:42-44


Interesting concept giving everything even when you feel you have nothing to give.  I feel empty today, I feel like I am putting out everything I have, and I have nothing left.  I am tired, and I want to receive something.... anything.  Something as simple as a peaceful house at breakfast.  Even as the bus drove away, I got a puss face from Merry and I had to drive away to start my day at a job that does not want me, not knowing when or where my next job is coming from.  It is hard to stay positive but just as I type these words I recall my devotional this morning, and the verse from Mark 12:42-44, Jesus tells us to give everything.  I know there are miracles all around all the time, and God puts people in my life for his glory, and impowering me to serve him with everything I have.  I hear of friends and loved ones struggling with bigger fish, and I wonder why am I down about what I have, and why should I be feeling low.  Yes, I got a puss face this morning, but I have a great kid with her own mind and personality, and I don't let her attitude rule my day.  I don't depend on her for my own happiness, I can focus daily on the big picture, and do it one day at a time. 



"You Raise Me Up" - Josh Groban

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up... To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up... To more than I can be.

There is no life - no life without its hunger;
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder,
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up... To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up... To more than I can be.

You raise me up... To more than I can be.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

The Next Chapter ~ October 17, 2012

The Next Chapter

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Psalm 34:18

Brokenhearted and crushed in spirit, these are strong words, but some days are seemingly the only words that fit the feeling. I started today just as I wanted to...on my knees. Both my kids were waking at the same time, in the same bed (mine!), and I suggested they get up and get going, and they were welcome to start their day with a prayer. Much to my surprise, Jack slided right down next to me :) ~ and of course Merry bolted. It was awesome to have my little prayer warrior start the day in prayer. So now you wonder why I am brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. It is this job, coming to a job where I know I am not permenant, and I have no other job to speak of now. It is disheartening..... I am trying to be positive and happy. I continue to give it God all day everyday, and take it one day at a time. But it is a lonely business being a single mom, and only having your kids to rely on for conversations, and entertainment. I miss being a "couple" and doing things with other adults. .....  I don't give up, and I will always go to the Lord for help.  He knows my needs and will meet them when I am ready.

Calling Glory - Don't Give Up

This time your heart said its had enough
Sick and tired of everything that's so messed up
You don't wanna move on just playing games
Praying hard somehow your life will change
When you feel like you don't know what to do
Stuck inside this maze you can't go through

(chorus)
Don't give up
and help is surely on its way
and don't give up
and the dark is breaking in today
and just keep on moving through these storms
and soon enough you'll find the door
just don't give up
oh and don't give up

These walls around you are caving in
And your life seems like it is wearing thin
Your hope is drowning in despair
It looks like you're not going anywhere
Step inside this Heart and then you'll see
Such a love that is so amazing

(Chorus)

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

The Next Chapter ~ October 16, 2012

The Next Chapter -


Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:14-15


The Word of truth.... I sometimes mistake or take the Word out of context. When I hear a verse I try and read the before and the after to get the complete context. I think I hear what I want to hear, and apply it to as I understand it. "Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22 I think back to this morning when my ankle biters were fighting at breakfast, and I remembered the words from Sundays sermon about humbling myself before God and asking for help, after raising my voice at their behavior I practically threw myself down on my knees to ask for forgiveness and guidance for the reminder of the day, and it was only 7:45am. My mistake was not slipping out of bed and onto my knees to begin with.


"Beautiful History" - Plumb


I have made mistakes and I have been afraid
I have felt alone then You called my name
Things were crashing loudly, happening all around me
But Your still small voice was all that I could hear

I am here, I'm holding you
You'll make it through this, I am here, I am here
I am here, I'm holding you
You'll make it through this, I am here, I am here

Whenever you run away
Whenever you lose your faith
It's just another stroke of the pen on the page
A lonely ray of hope is all that you'll need to see a beautiful history

Well, I've been such a fool when I've known the truth
I've wasted so much time doing what I wanted to
I've been living solely for myself and myself only
But Your still small voice is whispering

Whenever you run away
Whenever you lose your faith
It's just another stroke of the pen on the page
A lonely ray of hope is all that you'll need to see a beautiful history

I toss and turn and scream, I try to do everything
With two feet on the ground I just keep falling down again
I feel so far from home, completely all alone
And then I hear You say I am here, I am here

Whenever you run away
Whenever you lose your faith
It's just another stroke of the pen on the page
A lonely ray of hope is all that you'll need to see a beautiful history
A beautiful history, a beautiful history