Enjoy the message today. Also be blessed by this video of J. Moss singing *We Must Praise*. We definitely must use what God has given us to honor, glorify, and to praise Him. We do this by using our gifts and talents. (Lyrics of the song are posted below the video. These words minister to me each time I hear the song.)
WE MUST PRAISE - By J. Moss
If I were a drummer, I would use my cymbal
If I were a writer, I would use a pencil
I would use my voice, if I were a singer
No matter who or what we are, we must praise
If I was a doctor, I would use my research
A prolific dissertation, if I was a speaker
I would use my hands, if I were a potter
No matter who or what we are, we must praise
CHORUS
Let the people of God bless Him
Let it ring with love and truth
With our gifts we exalt Thee
Merciful, wonderful God
We must praise
If I were an eagle, I would use my wings
Since I'm a believer, I use everything
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord
All ye people
No matter who or what we are, we must praise
CHORUS
VAMP
Praise His Holy, Holy Name (X5)
With our gifts we exalt Thee
Merciful wonderful God
Oh Hallelujah, Oh glory, Oh holy of holies
Oh Bread of life God, Oh meat of hunger Lord
Water of thirst Lord, We magnify you
We thank You for what You've done God
What You¹re doing God and what You're gonna do
No matter who or what we are, we must praise
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
HAVE YOU LOST YOUR WAY?
Weekend cool down and meditation. I pray that this blesses you, along with the two videos included.
Blessings!
Carla
Blessings!
Carla
Friday, July 25, 2008
HANG IN THERE!
I realize that the day is basically over, but it's never too late for inspiration. I've been out and about since early this morning, so I apologize for the delay in this.
I am praising God for His goodness and blessings right now. He's a mighty God. Please be encouraged and blessed by my podcast. I'm also adding a few video links that reflect my testimony, as well as my joy. I know that they will bless you as well. Have a great weekend!
Blessings!
Carla
I am praising God for His goodness and blessings right now. He's a mighty God. Please be encouraged and blessed by my podcast. I'm also adding a few video links that reflect my testimony, as well as my joy. I know that they will bless you as well. Have a great weekend!
Blessings!
Carla
Thursday, July 24, 2008
REJOICE!
Today's podcast is very special to me this day. All of them are and they minister to me as well. But today's, God truly, truly, truly spoke directly and specifically to me in a way that I knew without a doubt that He's working it out. As I meditated and prayed this morning, focusing on Him, He later spoke to me and simply said "rejoice". And as I pondered about Today's Inspiration and wondered what He would have me to speak about, He again spoke to my spirit. Gave me the Words in the scriptures that I share with you in the podcast. But, I didn't know the reference off the top of my head. I couldn't get on the internet to do a quick check, as the phone was being used (okay....we're in the country......they don't have DSL or cable in my area, so I use dial up and I have one line). Anyway, I needed the time this morning to do a lot of meditating and praying. Well, when I got back to thinking about Today's Inspiration, again, I wondered exactly where to go to find the scripture reference.
Lo and behold......as I was quiet and just thought on the Words that God was speaking to me, He then spoke in that very still and quiet voice, leading me to Philippians. The stillness in His voice was actually quite loud. And I.....in my foolishness and flesh, actually "argued" within and said, "No, I don't think it's there. That's not where I should go." But, we know where those thoughts were coming from, don't we. God's voice spoke louder and said to go there. So I went. And sure enough, what He was speaking to me was there. And then I eventually was led to other references (when I did eventually get online), but not until I was obedient to His first leading.
It was also dropped in my spirit to add this video to the podcast to bless and minister to someone else (as well as myself) this day.
Please listen to the podcast, and watch/listen to this video. I know that you will be blessed!
Blessings!
Carla
Lo and behold......as I was quiet and just thought on the Words that God was speaking to me, He then spoke in that very still and quiet voice, leading me to Philippians. The stillness in His voice was actually quite loud. And I.....in my foolishness and flesh, actually "argued" within and said, "No, I don't think it's there. That's not where I should go." But, we know where those thoughts were coming from, don't we. God's voice spoke louder and said to go there. So I went. And sure enough, what He was speaking to me was there. And then I eventually was led to other references (when I did eventually get online), but not until I was obedient to His first leading.
It was also dropped in my spirit to add this video to the podcast to bless and minister to someone else (as well as myself) this day.
Please listen to the podcast, and watch/listen to this video. I know that you will be blessed!
Blessings!
Carla
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
SOAR!
Enjoy tonight's Passion4Life Radio Show broadcast. My topic was "SOAR!"
I am also posting a couple of resources for anyone who may need help. For anyone who feels overwhelmed, depressed, or have thoughts of suicide. Please seek professional help. Go to the link below, or if you're in a crisis mode (or know of someone), please call the number below.
RESOURCES:
Suicide Prevention Lifeline Organization
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in suicidal crisis. If you need help, please dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Blessings!
Carla
I am also posting a couple of resources for anyone who may need help. For anyone who feels overwhelmed, depressed, or have thoughts of suicide. Please seek professional help. Go to the link below, or if you're in a crisis mode (or know of someone), please call the number below.
RESOURCES:
Suicide Prevention Lifeline Organization
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in suicidal crisis. If you need help, please dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Blessings!
Carla
SPEAK IT!
Enjoy my blog podcast, as well as the video I've added. I pray that you will be blessed this day!
THIS IS MY FIRST TIME EVER HEARING THIS SONG, AND GOD LED ME TO IT THIS MORNING. LAST NIGHT, HE'D ALREADY GIVEN ME WHAT HE WANTED ME TO SHARE AS THE INSPIRATION TODAY. I KNOW IT WAS HE WHO DIRECTED ME TO FIND LAWRENCE'S SONG TO COMPLEMENT TODAY'S INSPIRATION. ACTUALLY, I DIDN'T EVEN LISTEN TO THE SONG UNTIL AFTER I RECORDED MY INSPIRATION. GLORY TO GOD!
Blessings!
Carla
THIS IS MY FIRST TIME EVER HEARING THIS SONG, AND GOD LED ME TO IT THIS MORNING. LAST NIGHT, HE'D ALREADY GIVEN ME WHAT HE WANTED ME TO SHARE AS THE INSPIRATION TODAY. I KNOW IT WAS HE WHO DIRECTED ME TO FIND LAWRENCE'S SONG TO COMPLEMENT TODAY'S INSPIRATION. ACTUALLY, I DIDN'T EVEN LISTEN TO THE SONG UNTIL AFTER I RECORDED MY INSPIRATION. GLORY TO GOD!
Blessings!
Carla
SPEAK IT!
Enjoy my blog podcast, as well as the video I've added. I pray that you will be blessed this day!
THIS IS MY FIRST TIME EVER HEARING THIS SONG, AND GOD LED ME TO IT THIS MORNING. LAST NIGHT, HE'D ALREADY GIVEN ME WHAT HE WANTED ME TO SHARE AS THE INSPIRATION TODAY. I KNOW IT WAS HE WHO DIRECTED ME TO FIND LAWRENCE'S SONG TO COMPLEMENT TODAY'S INSPIRATION. ACTUALLY, I DIDN'T EVEN LISTEN TO THE SONG UNTIL AFTER I RECORDED MY INSPIRATION. GLORY TO GOD!
Blessings!
Carla
THIS IS MY FIRST TIME EVER HEARING THIS SONG, AND GOD LED ME TO IT THIS MORNING. LAST NIGHT, HE'D ALREADY GIVEN ME WHAT HE WANTED ME TO SHARE AS THE INSPIRATION TODAY. I KNOW IT WAS HE WHO DIRECTED ME TO FIND LAWRENCE'S SONG TO COMPLEMENT TODAY'S INSPIRATION. ACTUALLY, I DIDN'T EVEN LISTEN TO THE SONG UNTIL AFTER I RECORDED MY INSPIRATION. GLORY TO GOD!
Blessings!
Carla
Monday, July 21, 2008
CHANGE YOUR MIND!
CHANGE YOUR MIND!
Be blessed by Today's Inspiration. Enjoy the podcast.
Blessings!
Carla
Be blessed by Today's Inspiration. Enjoy the podcast.
Blessings!
Carla
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
JAWS OF LIFE - SEARCH AND DELIVERANCE
Do you struggle with addictions? Any kind. Not just drugs.
What has you gripped? What strongholds wear you down? What do you seem not to have any control over?
Listen to my radio show, Passion4Life, which was recorded tonight. I was honored to have as my guest a wonderful lady who shared her story of deliverance from crack cocaine. Actually, her story is not simply of deliverance from drugs, but that of God rescuing her from herself. Are you bound and trapped by something that only a spiritual jaws of life (God) can deliver you from? You're not alone. Join us for this dynamic and powerful show.
Go here, or click the play arrow below on the media player:
Blessings!
Carla
What has you gripped? What strongholds wear you down? What do you seem not to have any control over?
Listen to my radio show, Passion4Life, which was recorded tonight. I was honored to have as my guest a wonderful lady who shared her story of deliverance from crack cocaine. Actually, her story is not simply of deliverance from drugs, but that of God rescuing her from herself. Are you bound and trapped by something that only a spiritual jaws of life (God) can deliver you from? You're not alone. Join us for this dynamic and powerful show.
Go here, or click the play arrow below on the media player:
Blessings!
Carla
Monday, July 14, 2008
LET ME HELP YOU!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
52
Fifty-two. That was the number God showed me as I had fallen into a pretty deep sleep yesterday. I didn’t even know that I’d fallen asleep. That happens sometime. I last remembered stretching out in my bed because I was feeling extremely weak and lethargic. I just needed to lie down, I thought, and hopefully regain some strength. It was late afternoon/late evening time, so I wasn’t looking to go to sleep just yet. I was just tired because for the last two weeks, I’d been going and doing non-stop without much of a break.
First my trip to Dallas as God blessed me to speak during a wonderful revival. The adrenalin of the entire experience continued to keep me going as I needed it for my return home. The very next day began my own church’s revival, as well as our Vacation Bible School. I had been asked to teach the adult classes. It was my pleasure and honor to do so. But………and there’s always a but, isn’t it……..there was a hitch. I was asked about 2 weeks prior to the VBS, which should have been enough time to be ready. However, they never got the material to me before my trip before Dallas. One person thought that someone else would give it to me…..and it didn’t pan out that way. Well, while I was in Dallas, I even called and asked them to please, please, please , bring the material to my daughter who would be at church that Sunday (I got home Sunday evening). Just the day before the classes were to begin, but I felt confident that I would be able to study it that night and during the day on Monday.
Well, I get home and learn that I still have no material because of a number of reasons. I was eventually told that the curriculum for my class never came in after all………….sigh. The director apologized vehemently and asked me to use the curriculum from last year’s VBS. I had to remind her that I wasn’t at last year’s school because I was working and could not make it, therefore, I had no material! So, around mid-day on the day of the first class, she came to my house and brought me last year’s material (it comes in 10-day sessions, so there were more that could have been used).
At this point, it was quite overwhelming and I felt a lot of pressure. And I was still floating on the adrenalin that had been keeping me up to and through the revival in Dallas. However, the material was not working for me. The Director told me when she brought it that I didn’t have to use it if I didn’t want to. She had total confidence in me. Actually, much more than I felt within myself, yet I trusted God to work through me. And in my trusting and my praying and my leaning on Him, His Spirit kept leading me to some material that I’d already written myself some weeks prior to this. Actually, it was a combination of things that He’d already given me. At this 11th hour, I totally depended on Him to guide me and I was able to put together a lesson plan.
Everything went well. God truly prepared me, as everything that He’d previously given me was exactly what was needed for my classes. In fact, the themes and subjects were in perfect alignment with the overall Vacation Bible School’s. I had no idea because I had not seen any material for the school in advance. But God………God had already worked it out. And my class loved the presentation, praise God.
My only dismay, after all of this was over, was with the expectations that were put on me. It was believed that regardless of the mishaps, I would be able to do the job. I am dismayed because unfortunately, this is something that has been going on for way too many years, from too many people. I don’t know why they think that I can just do things off the top of my head with little or no preparation. That drives me crazy! I don’t like to function like that. It is unnecessary stress and poor planning. I need to be prepared! But, I blame myself because I know and truly believe that people will treat you as you allow them to treat you. I’m working on this…
Well, the adrenalin was still flowing. I was able to give a short sigh of relief that VBS was over and the revival in Dallas. All of that was behind me, yet I had so much inside of me that I continued to work on my own projects and the things that God is allowing me to do with my online ministry, the radio show, and my writing. Meanwhile, I am still working on putting together my own media/marketing information and packet. Working on my writing, my studying, and even on finding ways to generate income for myself. Of course, I still have a family and am wife and mother. That job never ends and is my first priority over everything else.
With the adrenalin still flowing, and no real break from anything, I shifted into yet another gear as my husband’s family reunion took place. It was a wonderful 3-day event with basically non-stop activities. It was great and I enjoyed meeting the Nix/Nicholson family members that I didn’t know. And it was definitely a blast to be with those family members that I know, but don’t get to see too often. I am happy that my children got to meet and greet their family! They know more of my family than they do the Nix’s. It was nice for me to see them with this other side.
Well, finally, we approach this week. I still never really stopped anything. Never took a break. I guess the adrenaline eventually waned and took its toll. It’s amazing, though, that some people think that just because I do not go to a 9 to 5 anymore that I don’t do anything. They think that I “play” on the computer and I am doing nothing significant in my life. In fact, I was contacted to do some small administrative projects for someone I know. I accepted to do the work, but it amazed me that it was believed that since I am “home”, I have nothing else to do and they……like some others…….needed the work like yesterday! They figured that I could do that, since, after all, I’m home. I did do the work, but I had to let them know that I had other things I was already working on and I did it in a manner that was more timely for me (see, I’m working on teaching others how to treat me…….).
Never forgetting my most important job – being mother and wife – no matter how tired I’d become, it doesn’t matter because they are my work. They are my true ministry. They are my responsibility. So, I spent a great week of quality time with my girls, and my husband. Never forgetting my responsibility as Mom even to my 23 year old son who lives in North Carolina, I even had my share of phone discussions with him. I am truly blessed to have my family. I love them so much. God has a way of encouraging us as we do the work we were called to do. My husband told me the other day that he loves me so much and he thanks God for me. He went on to thank me for loving him and for always standing behind him in support and with him in partnership. He said that he needs me and he appreciates me. That warmed my heart, and more than he knew, it was a huge sense of encouragement for me.
Well, yesterday, as I’d entered into that stupor of sleep unaware, two things happened. One being that my husband was thinking about me. He said that he was just thanking God in his heart for me and he felt so much love for me. He couldn’t call me at that time (he works 2nd shift), as they can’t use their phones in the building. So, his thought was that he would call me on his break. Meanwhile, I’m in the heavy sleep, and God shows me the number 52. I don’t remember dreaming about anything, or hearing anything around me (i.e., television). But, I SAW the number 52, and I remember thinking, “Oh, don’t tell me that my ‘sugar’ is as low as 52”. Yet, I couldn’t wake up. I remember that. But, eventually I did awaken and as I got up, I felt the signs of the low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). I struggled to test my blood and in the back of my mind, I remembered the 52. Lo and behold, my blood sugar read 51. Yes, 51. Way too low (blood glucose level should not be lower than 80 - 70).
I know that God was showing me this……and I’m assuming that when He was showing me, I was at 52. However, by the time that I’d awaken and tested myself, it dropped one more point down to 51. I could’ve slept away into a coma!
Praise God for awakening me.
This is not the first time that my sugar has dropped while asleep. However, I thought that I was maintaining better by now. I am thinking that the fact that I was so tired from the non-stop adrenalin and the running, I just crashed yesterday and I didn’t even have much energy. I had eaten a small breakfast that morning, but as the day went on, just being exhausted I didn’t even feel like eating anymore (I missed lunch, and by the time I’d awaken, it was even past dinner time). Before I’d fallen asleep, I’d cooked and fixed my husband’s plate to bring to work for his supper. When he left, I’d even made sure that my girls ate, or at least, had access to things to eat in the house. Yet, all I could do for myself was to crash even though that wasn’t my intention.
I am still in awe as to how God showed me 52. And, simultaneously, He had me on my husband’s mind in a very strong way. Who knows. Maybe knowing that number in my subconscious mind forced me to respond to God’s nudging to awaken me. And maybe that was in response to my husband subconsciously praying for me because God laid me on his mind.
Never doubt the power of prayer, and never, ever, lightly wipe aside thoughts of people that God places in your spirit. I have learned to simply pray when it happens to me and I truly believe that my husband’s prayer for me exemplified James 5:16 - simply put, that our prayers are powerful and effective!
It is no coincidence that my radio show on Tuesday was about the power of prayer. I am so thankful for Robert Cushman being my guest. I thoroughly enjoyed that show and I am still reading his book, “What If You Pray?” It’s a great read and one that you want to read over and over.
There are no coincidences in God. He order our steps, He’s the author and finisher of our faith, He orchestrates the experiences of our lives, and He is in full control. The number 52 that He flashed in my mind simply proves, yet again, His power! I’ll probably never forget that number (although I pray that I don’t see it again on my glucose meter).
First my trip to Dallas as God blessed me to speak during a wonderful revival. The adrenalin of the entire experience continued to keep me going as I needed it for my return home. The very next day began my own church’s revival, as well as our Vacation Bible School. I had been asked to teach the adult classes. It was my pleasure and honor to do so. But………and there’s always a but, isn’t it……..there was a hitch. I was asked about 2 weeks prior to the VBS, which should have been enough time to be ready. However, they never got the material to me before my trip before Dallas. One person thought that someone else would give it to me…..and it didn’t pan out that way. Well, while I was in Dallas, I even called and asked them to please, please, please , bring the material to my daughter who would be at church that Sunday (I got home Sunday evening). Just the day before the classes were to begin, but I felt confident that I would be able to study it that night and during the day on Monday.
Well, I get home and learn that I still have no material because of a number of reasons. I was eventually told that the curriculum for my class never came in after all………….sigh. The director apologized vehemently and asked me to use the curriculum from last year’s VBS. I had to remind her that I wasn’t at last year’s school because I was working and could not make it, therefore, I had no material! So, around mid-day on the day of the first class, she came to my house and brought me last year’s material (it comes in 10-day sessions, so there were more that could have been used).
At this point, it was quite overwhelming and I felt a lot of pressure. And I was still floating on the adrenalin that had been keeping me up to and through the revival in Dallas. However, the material was not working for me. The Director told me when she brought it that I didn’t have to use it if I didn’t want to. She had total confidence in me. Actually, much more than I felt within myself, yet I trusted God to work through me. And in my trusting and my praying and my leaning on Him, His Spirit kept leading me to some material that I’d already written myself some weeks prior to this. Actually, it was a combination of things that He’d already given me. At this 11th hour, I totally depended on Him to guide me and I was able to put together a lesson plan.
Everything went well. God truly prepared me, as everything that He’d previously given me was exactly what was needed for my classes. In fact, the themes and subjects were in perfect alignment with the overall Vacation Bible School’s. I had no idea because I had not seen any material for the school in advance. But God………God had already worked it out. And my class loved the presentation, praise God.
My only dismay, after all of this was over, was with the expectations that were put on me. It was believed that regardless of the mishaps, I would be able to do the job. I am dismayed because unfortunately, this is something that has been going on for way too many years, from too many people. I don’t know why they think that I can just do things off the top of my head with little or no preparation. That drives me crazy! I don’t like to function like that. It is unnecessary stress and poor planning. I need to be prepared! But, I blame myself because I know and truly believe that people will treat you as you allow them to treat you. I’m working on this…
Well, the adrenalin was still flowing. I was able to give a short sigh of relief that VBS was over and the revival in Dallas. All of that was behind me, yet I had so much inside of me that I continued to work on my own projects and the things that God is allowing me to do with my online ministry, the radio show, and my writing. Meanwhile, I am still working on putting together my own media/marketing information and packet. Working on my writing, my studying, and even on finding ways to generate income for myself. Of course, I still have a family and am wife and mother. That job never ends and is my first priority over everything else.
With the adrenalin still flowing, and no real break from anything, I shifted into yet another gear as my husband’s family reunion took place. It was a wonderful 3-day event with basically non-stop activities. It was great and I enjoyed meeting the Nix/Nicholson family members that I didn’t know. And it was definitely a blast to be with those family members that I know, but don’t get to see too often. I am happy that my children got to meet and greet their family! They know more of my family than they do the Nix’s. It was nice for me to see them with this other side.
Well, finally, we approach this week. I still never really stopped anything. Never took a break. I guess the adrenaline eventually waned and took its toll. It’s amazing, though, that some people think that just because I do not go to a 9 to 5 anymore that I don’t do anything. They think that I “play” on the computer and I am doing nothing significant in my life. In fact, I was contacted to do some small administrative projects for someone I know. I accepted to do the work, but it amazed me that it was believed that since I am “home”, I have nothing else to do and they……like some others…….needed the work like yesterday! They figured that I could do that, since, after all, I’m home. I did do the work, but I had to let them know that I had other things I was already working on and I did it in a manner that was more timely for me (see, I’m working on teaching others how to treat me…….).
Never forgetting my most important job – being mother and wife – no matter how tired I’d become, it doesn’t matter because they are my work. They are my true ministry. They are my responsibility. So, I spent a great week of quality time with my girls, and my husband. Never forgetting my responsibility as Mom even to my 23 year old son who lives in North Carolina, I even had my share of phone discussions with him. I am truly blessed to have my family. I love them so much. God has a way of encouraging us as we do the work we were called to do. My husband told me the other day that he loves me so much and he thanks God for me. He went on to thank me for loving him and for always standing behind him in support and with him in partnership. He said that he needs me and he appreciates me. That warmed my heart, and more than he knew, it was a huge sense of encouragement for me.
Well, yesterday, as I’d entered into that stupor of sleep unaware, two things happened. One being that my husband was thinking about me. He said that he was just thanking God in his heart for me and he felt so much love for me. He couldn’t call me at that time (he works 2nd shift), as they can’t use their phones in the building. So, his thought was that he would call me on his break. Meanwhile, I’m in the heavy sleep, and God shows me the number 52. I don’t remember dreaming about anything, or hearing anything around me (i.e., television). But, I SAW the number 52, and I remember thinking, “Oh, don’t tell me that my ‘sugar’ is as low as 52”. Yet, I couldn’t wake up. I remember that. But, eventually I did awaken and as I got up, I felt the signs of the low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). I struggled to test my blood and in the back of my mind, I remembered the 52. Lo and behold, my blood sugar read 51. Yes, 51. Way too low (blood glucose
I know that God was showing me this……and I’m assuming that when He was showing me, I was at 52. However, by the time that I’d awaken and tested myself, it dropped one more point down to 51. I could’ve slept away into a coma!
Praise God for awakening me.
This is not the first time that my sugar has dropped while asleep. However, I thought that I was maintaining better by now. I am thinking that the fact that I was so tired from the non-stop adrenalin and the running, I just crashed yesterday and I didn’t even have much energy. I had eaten a small breakfast that morning, but as the day went on, just being exhausted I didn’t even feel like eating anymore (I missed lunch, and by the time I’d awaken, it was even past dinner time). Before I’d fallen asleep, I’d cooked and fixed my husband’s plate to bring to work for his supper. When he left, I’d even made sure that my girls ate, or at least, had access to things to eat in the house. Yet, all I could do for myself was to crash even though that wasn’t my intention.
I am still in awe as to how God showed me 52. And, simultaneously, He had me on my husband’s mind in a very strong way. Who knows. Maybe knowing that number in my subconscious mind forced me to respond to God’s nudging to awaken me. And maybe that was in response to my husband subconsciously praying for me because God laid me on his mind.
Never doubt the power of prayer, and never, ever, lightly wipe aside thoughts of people that God places in your spirit. I have learned to simply pray when it happens to me and I truly believe that my husband’s prayer for me exemplified James 5:16 - simply put, that our prayers are powerful and effective!
It is no coincidence that my radio show on Tuesday was about the power of prayer. I am so thankful for Robert Cushman being my guest. I thoroughly enjoyed that show and I am still reading his book, “What If You Pray?” It’s a great read and one that you want to read over and over.
There are no coincidences in God. He order our steps, He’s the author and finisher of our faith, He orchestrates the experiences of our lives, and He is in full control. The number 52 that He flashed in my mind simply proves, yet again, His power! I’ll probably never forget that number (although I pray that I don’t see it again on my glucose meter).
Friday, July 04, 2008
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” ~John 8:36
I know that I am probably a whole year behind everybody else, but for the first time last night, I watched Tyler Perry’s movie “Why Did I Get Married”. Excellent movie. Superb acting, writing, and directing.
As a married woman, I laughed and even cried with (and at) some of the characters. The movie was about four (well, actually five) couples and their ups and downs. I am most impressed with the character played by Jill Scott. She was a sweet, beautiful, spiritual, and unfortunately an extremely naïve woman who suffered the verbal and emotional abuse from her jerk of a husband. She loved this man and wanted nothing but for her marriage to work. She was willing to endure his constant hurting and cruel remarks to her, as well as heartless rejection as a woman and total disrespect as his wife. She put up with it because she was not free as a person. She built her existence and validity around him. Sadly, he broke her down at every opportunity he got.
She began to see herself as he saw her; not as the wonderful person she really was. Her soul and spirit was in bondage to him.
I’ve never been abused as this character was, yet I related to her. For, I understand what it means to seek validation and approval from others. From my husband, yes, but also from others. I understand what it is to desire to be accepted and to have the need to fit in. I know what it is to feel unappealing, undesirable, and unloved.
Yet, I can rejoice because I also know what It is to come to the realization that self-imposed chains is a trick of the enemy who wants us not to live or walk in the freedom and liberation that is already ours. When we look to man to justify us, we will fall every time. When we seek approval from others, it diminishes who we really are.
We have to realize where our freedom comes from. We have been set free when Jesus Christ died for our sins and we received this gift of freedom when we accepted Him as our Savior. Because of this free gift, we have the right to hold our heads up, walk uprightly, and carry ourselves like the royalty that we are. No one……….nobody…….should make us feel inadequate and insignificant. They don’t have the right to do so, and we shouldn’t allow them to even try. It doesn’t matter what they say, or don’t say; what they do, or don’t do. We should know who we are!
Declare your independence today!
I know that I am probably a whole year behind everybody else, but for the first time last night, I watched Tyler Perry’s movie “Why Did I Get Married”. Excellent movie. Superb acting, writing, and directing.
As a married woman, I laughed and even cried with (and at) some of the characters. The movie was about four (well, actually five) couples and their ups and downs. I am most impressed with the character played by Jill Scott. She was a sweet, beautiful, spiritual, and unfortunately an extremely naïve woman who suffered the verbal and emotional abuse from her jerk of a husband. She loved this man and wanted nothing but for her marriage to work. She was willing to endure his constant hurting and cruel remarks to her, as well as heartless rejection as a woman and total disrespect as his wife. She put up with it because she was not free as a person. She built her existence and validity around him. Sadly, he broke her down at every opportunity he got.
She began to see herself as he saw her; not as the wonderful person she really was. Her soul and spirit was in bondage to him.
I’ve never been abused as this character was, yet I related to her. For, I understand what it means to seek validation and approval from others. From my husband, yes, but also from others. I understand what it is to desire to be accepted and to have the need to fit in. I know what it is to feel unappealing, undesirable, and unloved.
Yet, I can rejoice because I also know what It is to come to the realization that self-imposed chains is a trick of the enemy who wants us not to live or walk in the freedom and liberation that is already ours. When we look to man to justify us, we will fall every time. When we seek approval from others, it diminishes who we really are.
We have to realize where our freedom comes from. We have been set free when Jesus Christ died for our sins and we received this gift of freedom when we accepted Him as our Savior. Because of this free gift, we have the right to hold our heads up, walk uprightly, and carry ourselves like the royalty that we are. No one……….nobody…….should make us feel inadequate and insignificant. They don’t have the right to do so, and we shouldn’t allow them to even try. It doesn’t matter what they say, or don’t say; what they do, or don’t do. We should know who we are!
Declare your independence today!
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