Verse and Message for Mother’s Day 2012 May 11, 2012

Psalm 31:26-29 (The Message)

When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, 
   and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, 
   and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her; 
   her husband joins in with words of praise:
“Many women have done wonderful things, 
   but you’ve outclassed them all!”

In honor of my mother this Mother’s Day, I want to share the best advice she ever gave me:

“Surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself.”

Seems simple, yet, it’s quite difficult when we are all different, with different goals, different backgrounds, different personalities, different passions, different agendas, different lives.  If you want to be “different” in a good way, in a pleasant way, then you will radiate an air of true contentment when you choose to cut the cord with negative people and embrace encouraging people.

God created us for relationship.  He designed us to be in relationship with Him as well as in relationships with other people.  When our relationship with Him is in the right place, it’s easier to be in relationships with others. Human relationships are imperfect,  nonetheless, when we don’t have our relationships on earth in order, it’s difficult to have the proper perspective and relationship with God.  It starts with God however.

We can’t always choose who we come face to face with each day. However, we can choose how we respond to these people. Treating  people the way you like to be treated is definitely a start. And, if they start to drain you dry, make sure you are “FILLED” up with HIM so that HIS LIGHT in you can overcome the dark cloud they are under.

Another way to surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself is to treat yourself well too. People are drawn to happy people. Speak words of life. Instead of complaining, create a “grateful board” or write in a journal what you are thankful for each day. Going back to re-read these entries will give you a lift each time you throw yourself a pity party.

Another great spin-off from the original advice above can be used when you are having a bad day; when you are having a bad day, help someone else.  Reach out and touch someone. Make a phone call, or offer to serve someone in some capacity. It will take the focus off of your problems. In fact, you might realize when helping someone else, your problem is really not a problem.

I am so happy God gave me such a mother of great wisdom. I am thankful God gave me a beautiful Savior of the wisdom that she has taught me and continues to reflect. 

Happy Mother’s Day to Moms everywhere.

You are LOVED!

Father God,

Thank you for creating me to be in relationship with You and with people. Help me to be “others focused” and not all about me.  Guide me to encourage others, even when I have a bad day. Give me the proper perspective—open my eyes to your beautiful blessings. May I be a blessing to others each day, because of all you have done for me. And, God, please bless my precious mom!

In Your Name,

Amen

Verse and Message (Week of April 28-May 5, 2012) May 1, 2012

My husband and I were discussing faith the other day. He brought to my attention how it would appear to our little minds that Jesus contradicts Himself regarding faith in The Word.

 

In one verse, He shares that we don’t need much faith to make things happen. 

 

Matthew 17:20

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” 

 

In an earlier chapter of Matthew, we hear Him in a different tone. If Peter had “little faith” shouldn’t he have been able to CONTINUE walking on the water?

 

Matthew 14:29-31

“Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

Actually, what I learned from both of these verses is that REAL FAITH is FAITH that ENDURES. Many of us have had “temporary faith” or momentary “confident hope.” 

Jesus applauds a heart of faith that endures. 

It kind of reminds me of when I first played carpet golf as a child. I got a hole in one almost immediately. The reaction of my audience was “beginner’s luck.” It was temporary “greatness” in putt-putt golf. However, success as a professional carpet golfer would be the result of consistency and endurance. 

If you want your faith to increase, you have to ask for it. But, you must be willing to take the responsibility to be mature enough to release anything that would get in the way of that faith. True faith involves surrender (just like Peter had true but temporary faith when he walked on water).  True faith most often involves long-suffering. If something doesn’t appear to be turning out as you believe and hope and pray, then maybe you are choosing to view things from your perspective alone. You have to give it over, release the wheel ‘if you will’ in order to see the movement of the mountains you are staring at.  

Again, if you think you can do something on your own, then you are not in a posture of surrender. In addition, if you don’t want to wait on the mountain to move, you are not practicing enduring faith. God’s ways are higher. We are not supposed to understand how it all works. If we could comprehend it, then there would be no purpose in faith.

Father God,

Please increase my faith, not just the QUALITY of my faith, but the QUANTITY of my faith. I know that you have said that my faith needs to be a mere mustard seed to move a mountain. Keep me humble, and HELP me keep my eyes on YOU. When I consistently  surrender to your will, the mountains ahead crumble.  I am grateful for the faith you have in me and the lessons you teach me.  

In Your Holy Name,

AMEN

 

Verse and Message for Easter 2012 April 9, 2012

 

 Luke 23:34-35

Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; they don’t know what they’re doing.”

 

We went to the beach for spring break. I always pay attention to the flags. A lot of folks ignore the meaning of these warning flags, but I have learned to respect the water. The following is a key to what each flag color represents:

 

RED FLAG with a line across – WATER CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC

 

RED FLAG – HIGH HAZARD

High Surf and / or Strong Currents

 

YELLOW FLAG - MEDIUM HAZARD

Moderate Surf and / or Currents

 

GREEN FLAG - LOW HAZARD 

Calm conditions / exercise caution

 

PURPLE FLAG - DANGEROUS MARINE LIFE

 

I had never noticed the purple flag before. When I think about dangerous marine life, I consider sharks, eels, jellyfish, and stingrays. 

 

People have been compared to sharks. Sharks are obviously dangerous, but interestingly enough, jellyfish, which are almost transparent in the water, can be quite dangerous creatures as well.

 

I was thinking about the significance of Easter in the life of each Christian.  I visualize the cruelty of those who wanted Jesus crucified. I think of the people who jeered, scoffed, beat, and spat on Jesus. I think of how He is God, yet, He responded to this horrific treatment in humility. Their actions toward Him stung. He experienced even more emotional and mental abuse aside the obvious physical pain He endured on the Cross. 

 

We have all dealt with dangerous marine life in our world. Jesus reminds us daily that “they know not what they do.” We must forgive, take the high road, and look ahead to the Glory, in order to get through the wall of jellyfish we sometimes encounter. In fact, because WE ARE ALL SINNERS, we can be jellyfish as well. The GOOD NEWS, we know as sinners, we need a Savior. When we recognize our need for a Savior, we receive the gift of His precious redemption and salvation!

 

Even though we must face dangerous marine life head-on at times, we can choose how we will respond to the sting, the bite, and the venom. We must encourage ourselves to believe and know that we will not go through any pain that has not first gone through JESUS. 

 

The temporary troubles we experience are but a vapor of the beautiful finish we have that awaits us. 

 

So, if you are struggling with real pain, or if you are tired of the mundane. If you are hurting, betrayed, accused, and judged. If you are burned out on life. If you are at the end of your rope…. ….FOCUS on the JOY that is before you……ALL BECAUSE of HIS BEAUTIFUL SACRIFICE. It really is ALL GOOD. He’s been there ..done that.. for you and for me. We are overcomers, because He loved us that much. 

 

Friday happened….but oh hallelujah for the Sunday that followed!

Happy Resurrection Sunday everyone!

 

Father God,

Thank you for the beautiful sacrifice of the Perfect Lamb Jesus. We are so grateful you have provided a way out of death. Nothing but the BLOOD of JESUS can carry us to Eternity with YOU.

May we reflect the GRACE that was given to us.

In Your Holy Name,

AMEN

 

 

Verse and Message (Week of March 4-10, 2012) March 8, 2012

Hebrews 4:12 (Amplified)

For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart. 

A few weeks ago, I got on my soap box about  someone’s opinion regarding my favorite verse Jeremiah 29:11.  This past weekend I read a very thought-provoking devotional by Rick Warren called “Six Principles for Interpreting Scripture.” As my husband and I have been leading a small group for couples called “Mid-Week Dig” I realize how these points can provide a wise foundation for studying and digging into the Word of God.  I plan to share these steps with our group, but I also thought this would be of interest to my readers, since not all of you receive Rick Warren’s “Purpose Driven Connection.” I am paraphrasing the six principles and in some cases adding my own thoughts.

 

*YOU NEED FAITH AND THE HOLY SPIRIT TO INTERPRET SCRIPTURE*

I find it amusing to hear folks debate over Scripture.  Simply put…the Word of God will not make any sense to non-believers.  The Bible is “Greek” to a person who doesn’t know God. Excuse the pun!

The Bible is God’s love letter and instruction book for those who seek Him.

 

*THE BIBLE IS ITS OWN BEST COMMENTARY*

A lot of people rely on the information of devotionals and spiritual books to answer their questions. The Bible contains 100% TRUTH. Christian authors have amazing insight, but we must use Scripture as the ultimate source for living life. 

 

*READ THE OLD TESTAMENT WITH THE NEW TESTAMENT IN MIND*

I think it’s so cool how the Old Testament is a prophetic reflection of the New Testament.  The Old Testament cannot stand alone. The New Testament cannot stand alone. Each requires the other. They are equally significant. The New Testament can be found in the Old Testament. The Old Testament is fulfilled in the New Testament.

 

*ALWAYS INTERPRET UNCLEAR PASSAGES IN THE LIGHT OF CLEAR PASSAGES*

Pay attention to the full realm of the Holy Spirit in Scripture to comprehend a passage that seems contradictory or puzzling. Use the verses that are clear to explain one that doesn’t seem clear. God will reveal the Truth as you chew on the passages.

 

*DON’T FORM A DOCTRINE BASED SOLELY ON A HISTORICAL EVENT*

Historical data in the Bible is meant to teach us. We cannot try to build doctrine upon historical stories. We need to understand the narratives are there to teach lessons and true doctrinal passages should be used to base doctrine on.

 

*NEVER INTERPRET SCRIPTURE BASED ON YOUR OWN EXPERIENCES*

Many try to manipulate and shape Scripture to line up with their experiences and opinions.  We cannot base TRUTH on our feelings and emotions.  It’s important that we analyze The Word with an open heart. God will work in our spirit to line us up to His Word.

 

I hope these points assist you as much as they are helping me. The most important thing is that we are reading the Bible. The Word will come alive and His Truth with penetrate us when we are consistent and when we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and transform us.  His treasures are revealed when we genuinely meditate on His promises. 

 

Father God,

Thank you for your precious Word. May we use it to claim your promises, learn valuable life lessons, guide our day-to-day steps, and protect us from the enemy. Make us passionate to be straight ‘A’ students of Your Word.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Verse and Message (Week of Feb 19-25, 2012) February 24, 2012

 

1 Peter 2:21 (Amplified)

For even to this were you called [it is inseparable from your vocation]. For Christ also suffered for you, leaving you [His personal] example, so that you should follow in His footsteps.

Yesterday, I along with many others witnessed the precious celebration of the life of Jim Anthony of Trussville, Alabama. The Anthony’s have been a big part of the lives in my family for as long as I can remember. Jim and Marilyn have been best friends of my parents, and Jeff and I went to school with and grew up with Alan, Laura, and Adrianne.

There were so many beautiful words spoken of Jim yesterday–the celebration touched so many. Lots of memories and sweet tears were shared. One thing that sticks out most in the many sentiments spoken yesterday is that Jim was such an incredible EXAMPLE.

Dictionary.com defines EXAMPLE as “a pattern or model, as of something to be imitated or avoided: to set a good example.”

Jim’s grandson said that the shoes of his grandfather would be difficult to fill, and he noted that  if he could be half the man his grandfather was, he would consider himself successful. Mr. Anthony was indeed a wonderful example of a godly man, husband, father, grandfather, leader in business, friend, servant….you name it, he excelled in it.

Jesus Christ was our PERFECT EXAMPLE for living. Jim Anthony faithfully honored the example of Christ. When we live a life aiming to imitate Jesus Christ, people cannot help but see the reflection of the Son in us. Jesus came into this world not to be served, but to serve others passionately. When we offer our lives as “living sacrifices” daily, we learn the art of being true servants.

This verse and message is dedicated to James Franklin “Bo” Anthony and all those who have gone on before us to receive the delightful compliment from The Father,

“Well done, good and faithful servant!”

http://obits.al.com/obituaries/birmingham/obituary.aspx?n=james-franklin-anthony&pid=156019944

Father God,

Thank you for sending the perfect example for living life successfully, JESUS CHRIST. May we reflect His likeness more each day and be eager to share Your love consistently. Please comfort the Anthony family, loved ones, and friends as we say “Farewell” to a wonderful man.

AMEN

Verse and Message (Week of Jan 30 – Feb 4, 2012) January 31, 2012

**CAUTION**  Susie Mc doesn’t get on her “soapbox” often. This is one of those rare times!

Matthew 7:8
For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

I am a part of a group on facebook known as “Christian Bloggers Network.” When I have time, I will read a couple of blog posts written by fellow Christian bloggers.  Let me just say, we expect our Christian brothers and sisters to be on the same team, right? The other day, there was a certain post that got my attention. It was about Big Macs and Supersized Meals, or so I thought. Actually, I figured it had to do with feeding on the right things. That’s a subject for another blog post.

Well, instead, the writer shared his disgust about people overusing Scripture, specifically how people use the verse Jeremiah 29:11, which incidentally is my FAVORITE VERSE. Don’t talk bad about my favorite verse!

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

The writer’s opinion is as follows (not my opinion):

“This was a Scripture originally meant for exiles. Anyone who has ever thrown away their half- finished strawberry milkshake, or lives in a house of more than 20 square feet, or who doesn’t know (“verb; to be on familiar terms with”) pain, should be banned from quoting this scripture.”

Are there times in life when asking for God’s blessing is out of line?

REALLY?

REALLY?

Granted, I may have totally interpreted the blog incorrectly. But, for the most part, I believe I am like most growing Christians. I don’t know the Greek or Hebrew translations like the back of my hand. I know what I know what I know.

Scripture is 100% TRUTH!

I think that we should be able to claim ANY and EVERY verse in Scripture. I don’t care how it was originally written, God knew I would read His Word, and IF IT IS WRITTEN, then it’s for ME and for YOU! That’s right!

In the grand scheme of things, yes, I know that there is trouble in this world, because we live in a fallen world. But I don’t live here. I am just passing through. My plans and hopes are lined up with Eternity. That promise of HOPE and a FUTURE…..it’s mine! Even if my circumstances get messed up here, I know my REDEEMER lives. In Him, I prosper. In Him, I am not harmed. In Him, I have the perfect plans for HOPE and a FUTURE. So no one, especially another Christian, better tell me that I am banned from claiming a Scripture! 

Father God,

Help me not to get bent out of shape by how another Christian views YOU and Your Word. I know that your Word is 100% TRUTH, and I have the confident assurance that as long as I stay in communion with you, I can resist the lies of the enemy. You are a God of order, not confusion. I just pray that I have the perspective that YOU have Father. I beg you to make me more like you each day!

In Your Beautiful Son’s Name,

AMEN

Verse and Message (Week of January 15-21, 2012 January 18, 2012

 

 Matthew 25:40 (Amplified)

And the King will reply to them, Truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least [in the estimation of men] of these My brethren, you did it for Me.

Romans 8:1-2 (The Message)

With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ’s being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death.

“Soul Surfer” (the inspiring true story of Bethany Hamilton) was on television a few nights ago. We have seen it at the theater, and we have also viewed it on DVD. I have even written about this movie in a previous post. By now, I am surprised we don’t own a copy.  The nice thing about seeing a movie a second or third time is that you catch things that you didn’t discover the first time.

At the end of the movie, Bethany Hamilton who had lost her left arm in a shark attack, had finally made it to regional competition after much struggle to re-learn so many things having only one arm.  As time was running out on the clock, and after several failed attempts to catch a wave, she felt something. She sensed the energy of a wave approaching, although the water was very calm. Her intuition answered true as a large wave surfaced and she mounted her board. However, the bullhorn exclaimed that time had run out, therefore, according to the judges of the competition, her spectacular exhibition “didn’t count.” 

When she made it to the shore, she showed no appearance of disappointment, although her supporters were upset that her final “perfect” performance “didn’t count.” She confirmed confidently, “It counted.”

How many times have we done something that we thought didn’t count? The cool thing about God….He sees all, knows all, and recognizes our true heart. So, if you feel discouraged that something “big” you did….didn’t count….think again. God keeps the good scores of His children and throws out the bad scores. Come again? Yes, indeed, any small or big action you do in serving others, you have done for Him. On the flip side — when you sin – IT DOESN’T COUNT. Instead, HE SEES JESUS. That’s right….YOUR SIN DOESN’T COUNT once you have surrendered to Him and asked Him to be your Savior!  

All that we need to know is that He sees all the GOOD we do for His Kingdom, even if the world doesn’t see it. In addition, He disqualifies our sin, because He QUALIFIED US THROUGH CHRIST AT THE CROSS! So, be ready to catch the next wave, He loves seeing us being perfected day by day through His perfect sanctification!

Father,

Thank you for Your precious mercy that my sin no longer counts because of the incredible sacrifice of your Son, Jesus Christ. May I rest in Your beautiful GRACE, although I never want to take Your priceless GIFT for granted.  Thank You that you see my heart and every act of kindness and You smile….even if the credit of the world may not take place. Help me Father to make every second count in this life by sharing the TRUTH with the world.

In your precious NAME,

AMEN

Verse and Message (Week of January 8-14, 2012) January 13, 2012

 

James 4:6

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 

 “God opposes the proud
   but shows favor to the humble.”

According to Merriam-Webster online, FAVOR is defined as “approving consideration or attention.”

In addition, if you look up FAVORITE, you will find the following definition:

One that is treated or regarded with special favor or liking; especially : a person who is specially loved, trusted, or provided with favors by someone of high rank or authority.

I don’t know about you, but I like attention. Who doesn’t? You may not want “public attention” but no human being would frown at approval.

 Although God doesn’t play “FAVORITES” there’s something to be said about when and how He chooses to display His favor. Teachers usually recognize or smile upon the student who goes the extra mile. Well, in much the same way, when we seek to please our Father in the way we live, favor is His natural reaction.

 It’s not necessarily about how much we do or exactly what we do, it’s about the attitude we have and the will and the heart in which we do it. Consistency and persistency get the attention of God.

 Therefore, if we seek Him and live a life reflecting His desires consistently and persistently, favor takes place. Now, if we are only doing something to get His attention, He knows it. When we truly love Him and people, He smiles. True love consists of action and selflessness.

 Once we genuinely begin to make it all about “God and people” the focus comes off of ourselves, and we are less concerned about us and how we can benefit. However, in that position of humility, God cannot help but unload His favor in our lives.

 If we make GOD our FAVORITE — FAVOR JUST HAPPENS.

 Father God,

Give me the right heart and attitude to serve You and people. I desire Your attention and approval Lord, but I know these benefits will be a by-product when my actions are sincere and my love is real.  Give me the heart to be consistent and persistent in serving You and Your people. I pray favor on my friends and family.

In your beautiful NAME,

AMEN

Verse and Message for the New Year – Happy 2012! January 3, 2012

 

Isaiah 43:19

See, I am doing a new thing!
   Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
   and streams in the wasteland.

I love routine. I despise change. Hence, we finally took our Christmas decorations down yesterday, after enjoying them since the weekend before Thanksgiving.  

One thing I have discovered as I painfully take the steps to move  past Christmas is that when I have put the last ornament away, boxed the last nutcracker, and folded the last Christmas towel, there is a sense of relief when everything is in order and in place in the attic.

I think it’s so cool that the New Year falls right after Christmas, because  a “fresh start” seems to be fitting after the hoopla of the Christmas festivities and events. We all appreciate new beginnings. 

The funny thing, we get a “do-over” every 24 hours. That’s right, at the dawn of each new day we are blessed with a new beginning. We can choose to “carry-over” the burdens of yesterday, or start anew each morning, as the sun rises and the SON SHINES.

Pastor Mark Pettus of Church of the Highlands shared three inspiring points on new beginnings, especially how to embrace the New Year.

*Don’t ignore the fresh opportunity God gives us. Don’t waste the opportunity for a fresh start.

*Don’t try to do everything on your own. We need more than what’s in us alone.

*Live in the power that Christ has given us.

We live in a fallen world, and we were told there would be trouble. When we have a “God-Focus” we can be victorious no matter what we face. Our thoughts make all the difference. “Godly thoughts lead to Godly behavior.” (unknown)

So, whether you resolve to lose weight, work harder, eat better, exercise more, read the Bible each day in this new year–whatever it is, remember, Jesus Christ is the Author of the “Do Over” and your success depends on how much you give Him of YOU. If you want a NEW YOU in the NEW YEAR, live your days for Him and others. It’s the BEST way to make a fresh start in 2012!

Father,

Thank you for new beginnings, “do-overs”…a fresh start.  Because of your SON  ”all things new” is possible. Help us to make the most of this year ahead in 2012. We want our desires to line up with your desires. Give us fresh vision and passion for your Word and your people.

In Jesus Precious Name

AMEN

Christmas Verse and Photo Greeting 2011 December 21, 2011

Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

 

We wish you a joyous CHRISTMAS with a NEW YEAR IN 2012 filled with His beautiful favor and abundance!

Love,

Jeremy, Susan, Connor, and Lena-Belle