May the Resurrected King live in your heart forever!
In Diva Love,
Pamela 👑🙏🏽🎈
Showing posts with label Religion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Religion. Show all posts
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Without Christ, There Couldn't Be a CHRISTMAS!!!
Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year! For some reason, I am having a difficult time getting into the spirit. Maybe it is the commercialism that has dulled my senses. Let's face it, Christmas decor is being displayed earlier and earlier each year. I keep joking that eventually, it will be on display year round. I wish there was a rule that Christmas displays can't be put out til Thanksgiving. I know that means we'd only see them for a month. At this point in my life, I'd settle for November 1st.
Christmas has lost its focus on Christ. I realize that many people have no spiritual grounding. During the month of December, I post a song, sometimes secular, sometimes spiritual, and this year a Christmas related quote. Who cares about being politically correct? My girlfriend watched A Charlie Brown Christmas for the first time this year and was pleasantly surprised that the special actually does focus on the true meaning of Christmas and that Linus' lines have not been edited out. He does quote directly form the Bible.
Our best hope for the season remains in Christ. For those that don't know what it means to have a relationship with Christ, one can only hope that they will embrace the best spirit of the holiday. That means that hopefully they are a little more patient with the salesclerks or a little more charitable with their possessions. More importantly, I hope they encounter at least one person who will share with them the love of Christ and what His birth and ultimately His death means to them. Only then can you know the real meaning of Christmas.
The story of Christ's birth is simple and plain but it is no short of a true miracle. I end this post by sharing it with you straight from the book of Luke, Chapter 2, verses 1-2: In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" When
the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one
another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has
happened, which the Lord has made known to us." And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (ESV)
I hope you have taken the time to reflect on the simplicity of Christmas. It really isn't about the gifts you give or receive but about the hope you have in your heart. It is about the character and joy you bring to others the whole year through. Like Mary, we need to ponder these things in our heart. Jesus was God's gift to us so that we could have eternal life. Without Christ, there would be no Christmas! Jesus is the reason for the season!
Diva Blessings,
Pam
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Weekend Round-up-Holy Week, 2011
We just returned from Ocean City, MD. We had a lovely Spring Break despite the less than warm weather. I am always thankful for time away from home. No routine and the pleasure of my little family, uninterrupted. I read two books this week. I read Satan's Sisters: A Novel Work of Fiction
by Star Jones and Private by James Patterson. I wasn't impressed with either books. Star's book read like a grocery store tabloid. I have higher expectations for such an intelligent woman. James Patterson and I have a love hate relationship. I hate it when his books are formulaic. This one was not, but it wasn't his best work
. The story had potential but it left you lacking in some ways. So life really is good for me. Oh and I didn't drive or cook the entire time. Yes, Lawd! It was a good week.
This is the end of Holy Week! Easter is not about bunnies, chocolate, or eggs. It is about the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, three days after He was wrongly crucified. Easter is really about hope. We all have a second chance to make things right. Jesus took the pain and suffering on the cross so that we can spend eternity with Him. It is up to each of us to choose Christ and accept that His blood has atoned for every one of our sins, past, present, and future. The concept is overwhelming and mind-blowing at the same time. Nuthin but the blood! The blood that gives me strength from day to day, it shall never lose it's power. There is Power in the Blood! That is one of things you simply have to know for yourself. Happy Resurrection, Day!!!!
by Star Jones and Private by James Patterson. I wasn't impressed with either books. Star's book read like a grocery store tabloid. I have higher expectations for such an intelligent woman. James Patterson and I have a love hate relationship. I hate it when his books are formulaic. This one was not, but it wasn't his best work. The story had potential but it left you lacking in some ways. So life really is good for me. Oh and I didn't drive or cook the entire time. Yes, Lawd! It was a good week.This is the end of Holy Week! Easter is not about bunnies, chocolate, or eggs. It is about the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, three days after He was wrongly crucified. Easter is really about hope. We all have a second chance to make things right. Jesus took the pain and suffering on the cross so that we can spend eternity with Him. It is up to each of us to choose Christ and accept that His blood has atoned for every one of our sins, past, present, and future. The concept is overwhelming and mind-blowing at the same time. Nuthin but the blood! The blood that gives me strength from day to day, it shall never lose it's power. There is Power in the Blood! That is one of things you simply have to know for yourself. Happy Resurrection, Day!!!!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
What About the Church??
Yes there is drama in the church! Lots of it! By now, we are all well aware of the scandal that has rocked Atlanta's mega church New Birth and it's Bishop Eddie Long. Initially I was going to make the blog about his inexcusable behavior. I think my space would be better utilized by me stating how things like this blight the church as a whole. It is not an African American church crisis, it is a church crisis. It is just one of many issues plaguing the church.
As parishioners, we have to be careful not to esteem our church leaders to a place reserved solely for God. Too many times, we place too much emphasis on the church leader as opposed to the church ministry. The church is not the pastor, it is the body. When the pastor stumbles, which he will, because he too, is simply a sinner saved by grace, the work of the church must continue. In Long's case, I believe he needs to sit down until his issues are worked out. He needs to be ministered to and encouraged. Souls still need to be saved, baby Christians still need to be nourished in order for growth, and other successful ministries still need to thrive.
The problem with church leaders falling from a place of grace, is it is really damaging for the testimony of church and the church body as a whole. One, we look like hypocrites. Two, there are folks struggling with their identity in Christ(as well as other areas) and some of the messages that the Bible teaches. Third, we really don't want to send baby Christians in the wrong direction.
Some of our greatest damaging behavior occurs in the church. The church is not a social club for saved folks, it is supposed to be a hospital for sinners. According to the Word, "All have sinned and fallen short"(Romans 3:23) So we are all sinners in need of God's mercy and grace. So, none of us saved for a really long time folks, have the right to judge those who took a little longer in their journey to get to know Christ. Perfect example, you are in your finest threads, dressed to the nines, church hat cocked to the side and in walks a scruffy looking brother or sister in jeans and t-shirt. How do you react? Do you welcome with open arms? or do you pull your purse closer and act as if there is no room on your row? Heck, I've been dressed real cute and had people who felt entitled to "their seat" not move. What happened to the love? Love is the true basis for the church's existence.
We know lots of folks attend to church because it is simply the right thing to do. They zip in and zip out with no regard for real ministry. Ministry means you are dealing with people and showing them love care and concern to meet a need. Some people only open their Bibles in church. There is a fundamental problem with that. One, how can you test what you are being taught if you don't know what Christ said for yourself. Two, what if your church leader has personal bias on a particular subject. Or maybe their interpretation is off. God told us to search the scriptures for ourselves. (1 John 4:1 or 2 Timothy 2:15)
Oh, I could go on and on about what does and doesn't go on in the church. The church has been relegated to a place of minimal importance in our society. Pastors are exposed for lewd and evil deeds daily. The church isn't dealing with real issues and in many cases has become tolerant and blase about serious moral issues. More and more, the church resembles the world at large. What a sad commentary!
I leave you with this thought. Ezekiel 18:24(CEV) states, "But when good people start sinning and doing disgusting things, will they live? No! All their good deeds will be forgotten, and they will be put to death because of their sins." This passage was quoted by my brother last week in response to the Eddie Long scandal. I loved it! While it certainly applies to any leader, it also applies to us as Christians. We can be doing a ton of good for God but what people remember is the bad stuff. I know the Bible tells us that "only what you do for Christ will last." Another instance of church view versus world view. People remember the bad stuff, Christ only remembers what we do for Him.
Wouldn't it be something if Christ still smote people? Nothing like an Ananias and Sapphira experience(read it for yourself in Acts 5) to straighten up the on-lookers or other members of the church. If you are a Christian do your friends know it? Can they tell by your lifestyle? Take some time to get your testimony/legacy in order. The church suffers when our walk is suspect. Lord knows we don't need that in light of priests molesting boys, gay marriage and no prayer in schools. Enough really is enough! What do you think? Is the church effective? Would Christ be pleased? Please share! Till next time, be a blessing!
Copyright September 30, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
As parishioners, we have to be careful not to esteem our church leaders to a place reserved solely for God. Too many times, we place too much emphasis on the church leader as opposed to the church ministry. The church is not the pastor, it is the body. When the pastor stumbles, which he will, because he too, is simply a sinner saved by grace, the work of the church must continue. In Long's case, I believe he needs to sit down until his issues are worked out. He needs to be ministered to and encouraged. Souls still need to be saved, baby Christians still need to be nourished in order for growth, and other successful ministries still need to thrive.
The problem with church leaders falling from a place of grace, is it is really damaging for the testimony of church and the church body as a whole. One, we look like hypocrites. Two, there are folks struggling with their identity in Christ(as well as other areas) and some of the messages that the Bible teaches. Third, we really don't want to send baby Christians in the wrong direction.
Some of our greatest damaging behavior occurs in the church. The church is not a social club for saved folks, it is supposed to be a hospital for sinners. According to the Word, "All have sinned and fallen short"(Romans 3:23) So we are all sinners in need of God's mercy and grace. So, none of us saved for a really long time folks, have the right to judge those who took a little longer in their journey to get to know Christ. Perfect example, you are in your finest threads, dressed to the nines, church hat cocked to the side and in walks a scruffy looking brother or sister in jeans and t-shirt. How do you react? Do you welcome with open arms? or do you pull your purse closer and act as if there is no room on your row? Heck, I've been dressed real cute and had people who felt entitled to "their seat" not move. What happened to the love? Love is the true basis for the church's existence.
We know lots of folks attend to church because it is simply the right thing to do. They zip in and zip out with no regard for real ministry. Ministry means you are dealing with people and showing them love care and concern to meet a need. Some people only open their Bibles in church. There is a fundamental problem with that. One, how can you test what you are being taught if you don't know what Christ said for yourself. Two, what if your church leader has personal bias on a particular subject. Or maybe their interpretation is off. God told us to search the scriptures for ourselves. (1 John 4:1 or 2 Timothy 2:15)
Oh, I could go on and on about what does and doesn't go on in the church. The church has been relegated to a place of minimal importance in our society. Pastors are exposed for lewd and evil deeds daily. The church isn't dealing with real issues and in many cases has become tolerant and blase about serious moral issues. More and more, the church resembles the world at large. What a sad commentary!
I leave you with this thought. Ezekiel 18:24(CEV) states, "But when good people start sinning and doing disgusting things, will they live? No! All their good deeds will be forgotten, and they will be put to death because of their sins." This passage was quoted by my brother last week in response to the Eddie Long scandal. I loved it! While it certainly applies to any leader, it also applies to us as Christians. We can be doing a ton of good for God but what people remember is the bad stuff. I know the Bible tells us that "only what you do for Christ will last." Another instance of church view versus world view. People remember the bad stuff, Christ only remembers what we do for Him.
Wouldn't it be something if Christ still smote people? Nothing like an Ananias and Sapphira experience(read it for yourself in Acts 5) to straighten up the on-lookers or other members of the church. If you are a Christian do your friends know it? Can they tell by your lifestyle? Take some time to get your testimony/legacy in order. The church suffers when our walk is suspect. Lord knows we don't need that in light of priests molesting boys, gay marriage and no prayer in schools. Enough really is enough! What do you think? Is the church effective? Would Christ be pleased? Please share! Till next time, be a blessing!
Copyright September 30, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Monday, August 23, 2010
Faith-Do You Have It?
Has anyone ever wondered why some people have faith and others don't? I wonder it all the time. I grew up in the church and I have a strong faith based foundation. God really has never failed me so I put my trust in Him. Please don't think I am perfect and that my faith doesn't waiver...it does from time to time. Honestly , my experience is that the promises of God are true.
When trouble comes and finds me, as it usually does, I meditate on it for a while and then I let God do what He does. I have my own preconceived notions about how I'd like Him to move in situations and He never quite does it in the manner I expect. He does, however, always work in His time and His way. There is an old hymn that goes, "on Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand." I sing that verse to myself often because you really can't count on your spouse, your friends, or family 100% of the time but you can trust God to do and be all that He promises to be. It took me becoming an adult to appreciate the truth and wisdom of that hymn.
I am currently out of fellowship and I feel more and more guilty about it on a daily basis. Being out of fellowship is one thing but being out of relationship is another. Despite not having a church to call home, I still pray and read my Bible and do devotions regularly. I love the Lord and I trust His plan for my life. He has blown my mind in countless ways as I go through this life's journey. God will find a way to humble you and let you know that He is in control and you are just a vessel that He placed here to do His will. I know that some problems have worked out not because of my fleshly efforts but because I put my trust in Him to work things out. So most nights, I sleep peacefully and without anxiety or fear. I know He's in control, not me. We should all be thankful for that.
I encourage you to step out of your box and trust God with all of your stuff for just one day and see what happens. It is so wonderful not to feel burden by life's problems. Once you try one day, try another. If you stumble and become self reliant, God offers second and third( and infinite) chances. We are all works in progress. All it takes is the faith of a mustard seed. FYI-mustard seeds are really tiny. Should you need an account of how faithful God really is, read Hebrews 11. (Check out www.biblegateway.com). Till next time, I will be praying for you to increase your faith an I hope you will do the same for me! Ciao!
Copyright August 23, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
When trouble comes and finds me, as it usually does, I meditate on it for a while and then I let God do what He does. I have my own preconceived notions about how I'd like Him to move in situations and He never quite does it in the manner I expect. He does, however, always work in His time and His way. There is an old hymn that goes, "on Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand." I sing that verse to myself often because you really can't count on your spouse, your friends, or family 100% of the time but you can trust God to do and be all that He promises to be. It took me becoming an adult to appreciate the truth and wisdom of that hymn.
I am currently out of fellowship and I feel more and more guilty about it on a daily basis. Being out of fellowship is one thing but being out of relationship is another. Despite not having a church to call home, I still pray and read my Bible and do devotions regularly. I love the Lord and I trust His plan for my life. He has blown my mind in countless ways as I go through this life's journey. God will find a way to humble you and let you know that He is in control and you are just a vessel that He placed here to do His will. I know that some problems have worked out not because of my fleshly efforts but because I put my trust in Him to work things out. So most nights, I sleep peacefully and without anxiety or fear. I know He's in control, not me. We should all be thankful for that.
I encourage you to step out of your box and trust God with all of your stuff for just one day and see what happens. It is so wonderful not to feel burden by life's problems. Once you try one day, try another. If you stumble and become self reliant, God offers second and third( and infinite) chances. We are all works in progress. All it takes is the faith of a mustard seed. FYI-mustard seeds are really tiny. Should you need an account of how faithful God really is, read Hebrews 11. (Check out www.biblegateway.com). Till next time, I will be praying for you to increase your faith an I hope you will do the same for me! Ciao!
Copyright August 23, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Church Shopping
I promised you that I would post some advice given to me about choosing a church. It has been an elusive journey for the Thorpes and I know that Satan would love to see my family fail. I know there is a church out there for us and this is the year that we are going to find it. If you are in the same boat, I hope this will help you too. I think it is rather valuable information. I wish someone had given it to me about 2.5 years ago. Better late than never. Choosing the right place to worship is very important and has eternal value for you and your family.
1. Choose a church that is close geographically. You will be able to participate in activities, and children will have peers they can relate to.
2. Don't look at the "label" on the door. Unless you have a thing about a denomination, give each church their own try! It's the people, not the denomination - attend where you feel loved and comfortable.
3. Attend where you prefer the style of worship... some like what is called "high church", others, a more casual style. Some like hymns, some like contemporary music, or a blend of both.
4. You need to get to know a church before making a decision... attend at least 3-4 weeks. However, you sometimes know a church is not for you after one!
5. Ask to see the church's constitution and statement of faith. Be sure you agree with it, and that there are not things missing that you want to see in a church's statements. Some churches offer this as a welcome class that meets for a few weeks. (You will learn about membership requirements there too!)
6. Visit the children's department. ask how it is run - who the teachers are, security programs, and curriculum used. Then visit the curriculum's website to see their statement of faith - make sure it lines up with the church's!
7. Most important... is the Bible, the whole counsel of God, preached from the pulpit? Which translation of the Scriptures does the pastor like to use? Be sure it's a good translation, (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, RSV, NRSV) not a paraphrase such as The Living Bible or The Message. It's ok to use paraphrases to clarify, but not for the entire passage.
I hope this helps! Pass it on! God bless you if you too are on a journey to find the church that best meets the needs of every member of your household. Finally, don't forget to seek the Lord and ask Him where He wants to place you to utilize the gifts and talents that He has given you. Till we chat again, God bless~
Copyright February 28, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
1. Choose a church that is close geographically. You will be able to participate in activities, and children will have peers they can relate to.
2. Don't look at the "label" on the door. Unless you have a thing about a denomination, give each church their own try! It's the people, not the denomination - attend where you feel loved and comfortable.
3. Attend where you prefer the style of worship... some like what is called "high church", others, a more casual style. Some like hymns, some like contemporary music, or a blend of both.
4. You need to get to know a church before making a decision... attend at least 3-4 weeks. However, you sometimes know a church is not for you after one!
5. Ask to see the church's constitution and statement of faith. Be sure you agree with it, and that there are not things missing that you want to see in a church's statements. Some churches offer this as a welcome class that meets for a few weeks. (You will learn about membership requirements there too!)
6. Visit the children's department. ask how it is run - who the teachers are, security programs, and curriculum used. Then visit the curriculum's website to see their statement of faith - make sure it lines up with the church's!
7. Most important... is the Bible, the whole counsel of God, preached from the pulpit? Which translation of the Scriptures does the pastor like to use? Be sure it's a good translation, (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, RSV, NRSV) not a paraphrase such as The Living Bible or The Message. It's ok to use paraphrases to clarify, but not for the entire passage.
I hope this helps! Pass it on! God bless you if you too are on a journey to find the church that best meets the needs of every member of your household. Finally, don't forget to seek the Lord and ask Him where He wants to place you to utilize the gifts and talents that He has given you. Till we chat again, God bless~
Copyright February 28, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Who Runs Your Life?
Do you make plans and expect everything to go exactly as you've mapped them out? I think we all do. When those plans fall apart, how do you react? Do you assess why they failed? I have friends who are serious planners and I have others who are a bit more relaxed. Whatever the case, we all have things we want or expect to happen in our lives.
I am guilty of making plans and having things mapped out a particular way. In my life, I've noticed that some plans have come to fruition while others tend to remain an elusive dream. The things that I really pray about and take to God tend to work out best. The plans that are really all about me, never quite turn out the way I expect. That is a reminder that while we have free will and can make all kinds of choices, God is really in control. Some days, I love being reminded of that fact, other days, I want God to consult me before He uproots my life. Not being disrespectful, just real.
Of course, God never consults me(I doubt He consults you either). He determines the times and places that we can best use His divine input. He has set some divine appointments for all of us; and all of our own planning can't do anything to change His plan or purpose for us. I don't know about any of you out there I times, that I wish the God would come down and knock on my door and give me my directions. There are other times that I wish He'd drop me a little heavenly note to provide clarity as to the path I should take.
I have been a Christian for quite a long time. I still mess up. I still fail. I still forget to bring my desires/requests to God. Yet, He is always there. He will lovingly embrace me whenever I run into His comforting arms. I think I know what is good for me, but God knows what is best for me. He has provided His Word to aid us on this life journey. We need to make the time to consult Him because there are verses to meet every need. Failing to plan can be a plan for failure but if we are led by the Holy Spirit, He will reveal things to us. That revelation can strengthen our plans or change it.
So, who runs your life? Are you in control or are you controlled by God? I hope you haven't fooled yourself into believing that you are in control. God has an absolutely great sense of humor. I bet He spends a good deal of time laughing at us, His children. I know I spend a lot of time laughing at my daughter, Chante, as I hear her make plans with her friends without consulting either my husband or myself, Silly girl! We are all like Chante sometimes. We forget that we have someone who cares for us and loves us. He wants us to grow and mature. Don't forget to consult your Daddy, He can direct your paths and oftentimes, He can save you stress and heartache. He wants you to live out your purpose. After all, that is what He created you for. So next time you make plans, remember who really is in control, because it certainly is NOT you. Till next time, be a blessing!!!!!
Copyright February 27, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
I am guilty of making plans and having things mapped out a particular way. In my life, I've noticed that some plans have come to fruition while others tend to remain an elusive dream. The things that I really pray about and take to God tend to work out best. The plans that are really all about me, never quite turn out the way I expect. That is a reminder that while we have free will and can make all kinds of choices, God is really in control. Some days, I love being reminded of that fact, other days, I want God to consult me before He uproots my life. Not being disrespectful, just real.
Of course, God never consults me(I doubt He consults you either). He determines the times and places that we can best use His divine input. He has set some divine appointments for all of us; and all of our own planning can't do anything to change His plan or purpose for us. I don't know about any of you out there I times, that I wish the God would come down and knock on my door and give me my directions. There are other times that I wish He'd drop me a little heavenly note to provide clarity as to the path I should take.
I have been a Christian for quite a long time. I still mess up. I still fail. I still forget to bring my desires/requests to God. Yet, He is always there. He will lovingly embrace me whenever I run into His comforting arms. I think I know what is good for me, but God knows what is best for me. He has provided His Word to aid us on this life journey. We need to make the time to consult Him because there are verses to meet every need. Failing to plan can be a plan for failure but if we are led by the Holy Spirit, He will reveal things to us. That revelation can strengthen our plans or change it.
So, who runs your life? Are you in control or are you controlled by God? I hope you haven't fooled yourself into believing that you are in control. God has an absolutely great sense of humor. I bet He spends a good deal of time laughing at us, His children. I know I spend a lot of time laughing at my daughter, Chante, as I hear her make plans with her friends without consulting either my husband or myself, Silly girl! We are all like Chante sometimes. We forget that we have someone who cares for us and loves us. He wants us to grow and mature. Don't forget to consult your Daddy, He can direct your paths and oftentimes, He can save you stress and heartache. He wants you to live out your purpose. After all, that is what He created you for. So next time you make plans, remember who really is in control, because it certainly is NOT you. Till next time, be a blessing!!!!!
Copyright February 27, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
The Sacrificial Lamb
It is two weeks into 2010 and I feel pretty good. I am resolute about making some changes. I gotta stay positive to make them happen.....a little focus and determination coupled with less procrastination should serve me well. Like most people, I am fairly optimistic about the year ahead. For me, optimism remains a constant throughout the year. What is difficult for me is being obedient to the point of sacrifice. Currently I am studying the book of Genesis in a Community Bible Study. It is a great study! Yes, the stories are familiar but the nuggets of wisdom are very thought provoking.
Recently, we studied about Abraham being commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his promised child, for the Lord. Well that lesson got me to thinking really hard. Could I do what Abraham did? I really don't know. It is that confusion that led me to think about what blessings that I might have missed because of my lack of sacrifice. God may ask us to give up small things because He has something so much better in store for us. How often do we miss the blessing because we like what we have or we are not willing to have the faith to get rid of it so that God can give us something new and greater?
We are guilty of blocking our own blessings. God's will is always going to prevail but we may miss being taken to a higher level of relationship, praise, and worship because of our inability to trust God with what we consider most precious to us. Wouldn't it be a tragedy to find out that we held on to, say a house, when God told us to move, only to find out that he had several mansions or an island for us in return.
Our sacrifice is really not for God. Everything already belongs to Him. He wants our faithful hearts. He wants to know that we love Him and trust Him to have our best interests at heart. He wants to know that whatever we love the most has not become our idol. An idol is anything that we love more than the Lord. So my dear readers, what are you holding on to? What do you treasure most? If God asked you tomorrow, what would your answer be? "Here Lord, take it, I know whatever You have for me has to be better than this." Or will it be, "No Lord, I love you but I need/can't_____________(you fill in the blank)." It is something to think about.
Now Abraham actually got to talk directly to God. God continued to bless Abraham even though he messed up and messed up often. God will do the same thing for us. We have to be willing to let go because when it comes to God, a bird in the hand is not necessarily better than two in the bush. Please don't confuse me as saying that the blessings will necessarily be material. Sometimes, they might but often, they might not. You never can predict what God will do, but whatever it is, it's His business. Whatever His Business is, He set that plan in motion a long long time ago. This, I know, God is in the blessing business and all that He requires of us, is our obedience, even if it means we have to make a monumental sacrifice. So I challenge you(and myself) to be willing to let go of whatever you treasure so that God can bless your socks off. It will not e easy but it will be one of the best decisions you could ever make. Let me know your thoughts, it's real deep when you really really think about it. Could you do it, even if it made no sense to you? Would you trust God enough with your prized possession? Inquiring minds really do want to know........Til next time.....God bless!
Copyright January 19, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Recently, we studied about Abraham being commanded to sacrifice Isaac, his promised child, for the Lord. Well that lesson got me to thinking really hard. Could I do what Abraham did? I really don't know. It is that confusion that led me to think about what blessings that I might have missed because of my lack of sacrifice. God may ask us to give up small things because He has something so much better in store for us. How often do we miss the blessing because we like what we have or we are not willing to have the faith to get rid of it so that God can give us something new and greater?
We are guilty of blocking our own blessings. God's will is always going to prevail but we may miss being taken to a higher level of relationship, praise, and worship because of our inability to trust God with what we consider most precious to us. Wouldn't it be a tragedy to find out that we held on to, say a house, when God told us to move, only to find out that he had several mansions or an island for us in return.
Our sacrifice is really not for God. Everything already belongs to Him. He wants our faithful hearts. He wants to know that we love Him and trust Him to have our best interests at heart. He wants to know that whatever we love the most has not become our idol. An idol is anything that we love more than the Lord. So my dear readers, what are you holding on to? What do you treasure most? If God asked you tomorrow, what would your answer be? "Here Lord, take it, I know whatever You have for me has to be better than this." Or will it be, "No Lord, I love you but I need/can't_____________(you fill in the blank)." It is something to think about.
Now Abraham actually got to talk directly to God. God continued to bless Abraham even though he messed up and messed up often. God will do the same thing for us. We have to be willing to let go because when it comes to God, a bird in the hand is not necessarily better than two in the bush. Please don't confuse me as saying that the blessings will necessarily be material. Sometimes, they might but often, they might not. You never can predict what God will do, but whatever it is, it's His business. Whatever His Business is, He set that plan in motion a long long time ago. This, I know, God is in the blessing business and all that He requires of us, is our obedience, even if it means we have to make a monumental sacrifice. So I challenge you(and myself) to be willing to let go of whatever you treasure so that God can bless your socks off. It will not e easy but it will be one of the best decisions you could ever make. Let me know your thoughts, it's real deep when you really really think about it. Could you do it, even if it made no sense to you? Would you trust God enough with your prized possession? Inquiring minds really do want to know........Til next time.....God bless!
Copyright January 19, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
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