Today at school we had communion in chapel time. For the first time, I was overwhelmed with all that Jesus took on for us. I loved the service!
The choice of worship songs focusing on the cross was wonderful and the end of the service with celebrating and singing Hosanna was the perfect ending!
What I did get to thinking about later on today was the fact as we live in this "time period", we are probably becoming quite complacent about certain things. Do we really get shocked over the language we hear? What about the movies on cable tv?
When we hear of a shooting in another city, do we really even stop and think about the families of the victims?
Today I shed a tear for someone that was my best friend for many years. I pray that this person will turn around and get things right with God. I cried for this person and it made me realise that it has been a really long time since I have grieved over the things that grieve God.
He may love us unconditionally, and he may accept me for who I am in all of my frailty HOWEVER He still grieves over our choices.
May our hearts never grow hard and may we always be soft and sensitive to things that grieve our heavenly Father.
That's all for today, Jacqueline
Friday, September 19, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
School Days ...
Well it has been two days of classes and we have survived!
I am actually surprised at how I handled the beginning of school, meeting new people and getting back into the swing of things. I was no better than my kids were! LOL
I was nervous and excited at the same time. I was worried about where to go, where my classes were ( which by the way worked out wonderfully, they are all in the same room, every single one of them!), and of course ... I thought long and hard about what to wear! (GRIN)
I kind of feel like I am part of a movie and that after 17 years, this actress is going back to school to write a paper. ( OH, I suppose a movie has been done about this already - that movie would be called "Never Been Kissed"- but, just for the record, I have no intention of kissing anybody at school this year!
In all seriousness, it has been a great couple of days, and I am already learning so much, but most importantly God has already been showing me things that He wants to do this semester in my life and heart. So, If you havent guessed already, I am really happy that I obeyed God and went back to school.
My children are all adjusting well and the boys are doing just fine in High School - I still can hardly believe it that I have high school students, but I guess the deep voices and the fact that theystand over me by about two inches should have given mom a clue!
Anyways, take care everyone and remember to keep talking to Jesus!
Love, Jacqueline
Anyways, take care everyone and remember to keep talking to Jesus!
Love, Jacqueline
Saturday, August 30, 2008
I love September!!
Every fall I get excited around this time of year ( and no it is not because all the kids go back to school!) Fall is a great time for beginnings. I like it better then January, it's a new school year, a new ministrey year. Bible studies start up, programs resume after a summer break - I love September! I can get out the comfy clothes again - and yes there is something in me that thrives on routine.. so that being said I LOVE SEPTEMBER!
This year will be a bit different. (Oh, for those of you who actually read this and are wondering - I did get into school by the way), so every morning we will all be heading out the door (school bags and all); and every evening after dinner is cleaned up, out will come the homework.
I am sure there will be moments where this will not run smoothly, but that;s ok. I am learning to take it all one moment at a time. We have made it this far and Father God is faithful in all his promises. He is rebuilding and restoring in the lives of the Williams Family.
So, before I close - I am changing my name ( well sort of..)
I have thought about going back to my maiden name ( but then I am different from the kids) and I became a Williams from a Freeman, so changing a name will not take me back 15 years.
But, there is something to be said about living out of a new name. It adds to the "new beginnings" a brand new start. So, I am going to start the transition of going from "Jackie" to "Jacqueline" - which is techinically my real name anyways.
We are new creations in Christ, He has called us by a new name.. and it is up to us to live out of that new identitiy!!
That's all for now.. blessings to each of you as you get your families ready for the new beginnings that fall brings for each of you!
Jacqueline
This year will be a bit different. (Oh, for those of you who actually read this and are wondering - I did get into school by the way), so every morning we will all be heading out the door (school bags and all); and every evening after dinner is cleaned up, out will come the homework.
I am sure there will be moments where this will not run smoothly, but that;s ok. I am learning to take it all one moment at a time. We have made it this far and Father God is faithful in all his promises. He is rebuilding and restoring in the lives of the Williams Family.
So, before I close - I am changing my name ( well sort of..)
I have thought about going back to my maiden name ( but then I am different from the kids) and I became a Williams from a Freeman, so changing a name will not take me back 15 years.
But, there is something to be said about living out of a new name. It adds to the "new beginnings" a brand new start. So, I am going to start the transition of going from "Jackie" to "Jacqueline" - which is techinically my real name anyways.
We are new creations in Christ, He has called us by a new name.. and it is up to us to live out of that new identitiy!!
That's all for now.. blessings to each of you as you get your families ready for the new beginnings that fall brings for each of you!
Jacqueline
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Moving On ...
For the past few years, I was holding on to what "might" happen. I wasnt ready to move on and I wanted what was before. I wanted my life back as I knew it! I didnt want to face anything new. (Now, to give myself a break, I was also not emotionally ready to begin something new either.).I had my life all planned out, and being a single mom was not in those plans. I was going to be a mom and wife for the rest of my days. There was nothing wrong with those plans and goals, but obviously, there was a change and now I need to think beyond all that.
So, I am taking steps to moving forward... (and it feels great!) I have applied to go back to school and it is scarey but exciting all at the same time! I had no idea what the process would all entail and it has been ( umm.. approx 19 years ) a long time since I have been in school.
I had to track down transcripts, proof of marital status, financial records etc etc .. find three people who would give a very honest reference and most importantly, pray continously about whether Father wants me to attend this particular school or not. This has been really good for me to do this and to see that I can move on - everything will be ok.
I only want to go to school if it is what Father wants for me - so please continue to pray for me as I seek His will on all of this. There is a good chance that I will hear this week if I was accepted or not, but it is looking good so far. Now we just need to wait on the "financial" stuff to be figured out. But this I know, if Father wants me to go to school, He is going to provide and work out all the details!!
Moving on is scarey stuff, letting go of the familiar is a little tough, but it is how you press on as well. God has exciting things ahead and He promises to rebuild and restore. How can we experience all that if we are still holding back and walking out of fear instead of faith?
Now, Jackie needs to daily remind herself that I am not to be doing this in my own "Jackie strength" but with Jesus - but, that's another day's blog ... Til next time, Jackie
So, I am taking steps to moving forward... (and it feels great!) I have applied to go back to school and it is scarey but exciting all at the same time! I had no idea what the process would all entail and it has been ( umm.. approx 19 years ) a long time since I have been in school.
I had to track down transcripts, proof of marital status, financial records etc etc .. find three people who would give a very honest reference and most importantly, pray continously about whether Father wants me to attend this particular school or not. This has been really good for me to do this and to see that I can move on - everything will be ok.
I only want to go to school if it is what Father wants for me - so please continue to pray for me as I seek His will on all of this. There is a good chance that I will hear this week if I was accepted or not, but it is looking good so far. Now we just need to wait on the "financial" stuff to be figured out. But this I know, if Father wants me to go to school, He is going to provide and work out all the details!!
Moving on is scarey stuff, letting go of the familiar is a little tough, but it is how you press on as well. God has exciting things ahead and He promises to rebuild and restore. How can we experience all that if we are still holding back and walking out of fear instead of faith?
Now, Jackie needs to daily remind herself that I am not to be doing this in my own "Jackie strength" but with Jesus - but, that's another day's blog ... Til next time, Jackie
Friday, August 15, 2008
A quote ....
".. You can't carry the weight of the past-that's what FORGIVENESS is for. You can't carry all the uncertainties of the future-that's what FAITH is for; you must focus on today. Let's deal with what we can....." James MacDonald
Time to get up and walk without "the crutch" ...
Well, my journey continues - and it is time to to walk without the crutch. For me, the crutch of waiting for the " next shoe to drop" - to be waiting for the next " hurt" to come along. For what I have been doing is using the events of the past to protect myself and to dictate how I live today. I have been walking leaning on that and it has been getting in the way. As of late, Father has been faithful in showing me that it has been slowing me down and preventing me from being completely whole.
We are not promised an "easy road", in fact we are promised trials and pressures .. so why do I continually be surprised by the "crap" that comes my way? I am coming to understand that I am "surprised" and left discouraged when I cant seem to see things from God's perspective.
I tend to look at my circumstances from my view point, but forgetting all those times that I have prayed - "continue to prepare me for what you want ... make me into a godly woman.... continue your loving, refining process ... " YES those are all very dangerous prayers to pray, but He is completing a work that he began! God is faithful and He does not allow anything to happen that is not / cannot be used for HIS good.
Yes, the events of becoming "single again" were life changing and very hurtful, however they do not have to dictate how I live today nor dictate my future. After talking with a friend yesterday, I was encouraged to stop looking at the present events thru the "filter of the past" - but rather trusting that whatever is going to happen, I need to have Faith that Father God loves me and will use whatever is ahead. Its time to be free of the past once and for all .. to dump that burden at the foot of the cross once and for all.
What I have been doing, is everytime a new hurt comes along.. instead of just dealing with that hurt ( ie my grandma dying) - I would then add that to the other hurts and it would become "bigger". I was not just grieving the death of my dear grandma, but I was also "adding up" in my head all the losses that have happened and then I end up taking a downward spiral.
Thanks R for your continued encouragement and pushing to walk in truth!
Today, I am choosing to walk differently ( and yes, I am aware that it will take time to learn to walk this new way) - but I am purposing to look thru the filter of Jesus and the cross and not the filter of the past. Here's to new beginnings ... til next time, jackie
We are not promised an "easy road", in fact we are promised trials and pressures .. so why do I continually be surprised by the "crap" that comes my way? I am coming to understand that I am "surprised" and left discouraged when I cant seem to see things from God's perspective.
I tend to look at my circumstances from my view point, but forgetting all those times that I have prayed - "continue to prepare me for what you want ... make me into a godly woman.... continue your loving, refining process ... " YES those are all very dangerous prayers to pray, but He is completing a work that he began! God is faithful and He does not allow anything to happen that is not / cannot be used for HIS good.
Yes, the events of becoming "single again" were life changing and very hurtful, however they do not have to dictate how I live today nor dictate my future. After talking with a friend yesterday, I was encouraged to stop looking at the present events thru the "filter of the past" - but rather trusting that whatever is going to happen, I need to have Faith that Father God loves me and will use whatever is ahead. Its time to be free of the past once and for all .. to dump that burden at the foot of the cross once and for all.
What I have been doing, is everytime a new hurt comes along.. instead of just dealing with that hurt ( ie my grandma dying) - I would then add that to the other hurts and it would become "bigger". I was not just grieving the death of my dear grandma, but I was also "adding up" in my head all the losses that have happened and then I end up taking a downward spiral.
Thanks R for your continued encouragement and pushing to walk in truth!
Today, I am choosing to walk differently ( and yes, I am aware that it will take time to learn to walk this new way) - but I am purposing to look thru the filter of Jesus and the cross and not the filter of the past. Here's to new beginnings ... til next time, jackie
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
a few blogs to catch up ...
ok - so I tried myspace..didnt like it so much.. plus all I really wanted to do is blog.. so here is the last few blogs .... hope you enjoy reading!!
13 Aug 2008 - Get Up and Walk
Jesus says " Get up and Walk" - seems simple doesnt it? I always read that portion of scripture and was somewhat judgemental. "Who wouldnt want to get up and walk?" If I was lame and then healed, I sure would have been jumping up and down and running down the street. Oh really? I need to take all that judgement back... Over the past three years Father has done alot of healing in me.. and last week I was encouraged to "get up and walk". Hmmm, it would appear that one week later, I am still sitting here .. scared to get up.
So, what does get up and walk really mean? Well in my story, it means to be well. Take the steps Father is asking me to do. Continue with the "physiotherapy" and trust. It means, stop sitting there being sick. In another story, Jesus asks someone " do you want to be well?" ( again Jackie would have answered.. duh.. of course - who wouldnt want to be well?")
Now, there are alot of reasons and excuses for why people refuse to get up. I have been saying "I cant" but a good friend has said "no Jackie, you wont". He has said to me that I am still not ready to let go of what is comfortable. Yes, I am tired of sitting there and I want to be doing what Father has instore for me.. but to get to the next point.. I need to be ready to let go of what I have known for over 30 years.
I admit, I am scared.. but I know that until I do, I sit frustrated. (I have even been looking for other ways to be able to walk.. and it all leads to frustration!) Now, let's be honest, who wants to let go of their crutch if they dont know if their legs will hold them right? But, until we do, we continue to miss out what is ahead.
I realise this blog isnt going to make sense to everyone, and that is ok.. as it is mostly for me anyways. But, I am also positive that I am not the only one that struggles with this. Most of us have something that we are still not willing to let go of; or maybe Father is asking you to get up and jump up on the surgery table. It is time to cut away something that is no longer needed for His purpose ..( ok.. who's ready to go under the knife of our loving God?)
Jesus has not given us a spirit of Fear... so why are we so chicken? That's the bottom line right? Too scared to take that step away from, or let go of what we know. So, what are we scared of? Where are we putting our trust? In myself?
Let's go with the biggest one for me - fear of rejection and more hurt. Why would I willing put myself out there , waiting to be rejected again? BUT, if this is the way that I am going to live the rest of my days, then that means that I am focusing on ME and I am not walking in the spirit, but rather in the flesh. Trying to protect Jackie at all costs. Which, ultimately, results in defeat and frustration - death, not life.
I heard a speaker who told the story of playing in the pool with his two children. (Forgive me if I dont get the story exactly how it was said). While playing, his son was having a great time jumping from the side of the pool into his Daddy's arms. However, his daughter was too scared to try.
Isnt that like us? Our Abba Daddy is standing there saying "jump - I will catch you" and we are too scared. Pastor Frank Freidmann goes on to say, that if we are "scared to jump" this means we believe one of two things - 1.We dont trust that Father wants to catch us or 2. We doubt that Father CAN catch us.
Until we are ready to trust the one who created us and gave His son's life for us... we will continue to be "lame" and be left sitting on the side of the road missing out. There is nothing that we need or are in need of that Father doesnt promise me. Ps 23:1 "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want".
That's all for now, jackie
12 Aug 2008 - Without Him I Can Do Nothing ...
Today is a day that I am aware that I need Jesus to get thru this day. Nothing major is going to happen today ( that I foresee) but I am more aware of my own weakness today. (Itmight have something to do with the fact that I stayed up too late watching Olympics) But, it is vain to think that I, in myself am a "good mom"or a "good friend" I need to keep reminding myself, that if Jesus knew he could do NOTHING without the Father.. then the same goes for us ( John 15:5). I cannot be the mom I need to be - without Jesus. I cannot be the "loving neighbour or friend" that I should be - without Jesus.
I think that sometimes we have this list of things that we think is " Jesus stuff" and then we have this list of things that we think we have to handle on our own. So who decides what goes on what list? Could it be that Jesus is part of every decision and action anyways? Why not let him in on all the decisions as well?
I write this today as a reminder to me. I have realised that over the past few days, I have done alot out of " Jackie Strength" and that is not the way that Jesus wants it to be. HE lives in me, He is my life, so why not stay plugged into Him every moment of the day? (Not to mention, if I only spoke the words "out of Jesus strength" .. I wouldnt have near the amount of times that I ask myself "oh why did I just say that?"
Jesus says he wants to be involved in every area of our life. For, even if what I am trying to do is a "good and noble thing" ( eg . be a good friend by helping with the little kids) - If I do this in my own "jackie strength" - it is not pleasing to Jesus. Maybe Jesus wants me to stay home and spend time quiet before him instead of helping babysit? Maybe Jesus wants to do a work in my friend that day, and if I was to go help "relieve" her with the kids, maybe that gets in the way of my friend coming to know that she needs "JESUS to be mommy today"?
He wants to be our everything.. He wants us to be plugged in to him every moment of the day .. not trying and trying to do things in our own strength. This is the best way for us to let our light shine to those around us. To be used how HE wants to use us.
So that being said, I am going to be Mom today - plugged into Jesus. I am sure my kids will be glad for that!
Til next time - jackie
11 Aug 2008 - Where has the time gone?
As I was leaving Karen's house today, I was thinking about how excited her little girl Anna is about starting kindergarten. It seems like just a couple years ago, I packed my boy's bags with indoor running shoes and a snack, and sent them off to Mrs Haines' class. But that was 10 years ago, and this week I have to sit down and figure out who needs what for this upcoming school year. My boys are now starting High School. Where has the time gone?
Some days, I wish I could go back and redo it. To take time to enjoy all the littleents and not be in such a hurry. Remember when they were babies? How we got so excited when they said their first word, took their first step.. and we could hardly wait until they were out of diapers and starting to put on their own shoes...
But today, I am wishing I could go back and redo some of those moments. To really enjoy sitting and watching Barney and learning to count; to enjoy the cuddles all I can, to stop worrying about getting dishes done and to just sit and read a book. If only we could know what we know now to redo life again...
Matthew, my oldest, told me yesterday that in 18 months he can drive.... WHAT>??? I am not ready to be mom of a driver that is foresure!!
Our time with our children is short, and I need to remember to make the most of each of the moments that I have with my children. It seems like we have gone from a home with babies and toddlers - to a home with teen agers - as quick as over night!! Where has all the time gone? I am purposing to make the most of the next few years, because all too soon, they will be graduating high school, moving on to bigger things .. and I will then once again ask "Where has all the time gone?"
That's all for today, til next time - jackie
06 Aug 2008 - What’s on your fix it list?
I was wondering today, how long are other people's lists of the things you would like to change about yourself? I know my list seems to get longer and longer every day. But, then I need to stop and ask myself, "What if nothing on that list ever changes? Do I accept me for me inspite of the flaws?"
Have you ever taken the time to ask Jesus what He has to say about your "fix it list?" Maybe you think that is something that He isnt even interested in hearing about.. that is a lie. He wants us to take EVERY burden to him... take EVERY thought to him ...
Are those items on your list really there because God has laid them on your heart or is that your own personal opinion and estimated worth of the value of HIS MASTERPIECE?
Are you still living with this lie that you are not acceptable until you fix that list? These are just some of the questions I have been thinking about over the past few days. What if Father God asked you " do you like you?" How would you respond? (Notice I didnt ask " do you love yourself?")
As I have been reading the book " Abba's Child" by Brennan Manning, I have been challenged to see things from Father's perspective, and this has made me do ALOT of thinking, so be ready for several blogs on this very issue for the next while.
My point of this entry is not to make anyone feel bad about having "their list" - I have my own list to, but I have been challenged to take time to ask God what HIS list is.. and I think that we would all be surprised at what He would have at the top of is list. Perhaps He would have one thing on His list.. and that would simply read " Get to know me".
Before I close for today, here is a quote that I just love .."All I am or ever hope to be is in Him. without Him I am nothing, with him, I am everything, and when I am not "everything" He loves me still!"
For now, jackie
13 Aug 2008 - Get Up and Walk
Jesus says " Get up and Walk" - seems simple doesnt it? I always read that portion of scripture and was somewhat judgemental. "Who wouldnt want to get up and walk?" If I was lame and then healed, I sure would have been jumping up and down and running down the street. Oh really? I need to take all that judgement back... Over the past three years Father has done alot of healing in me.. and last week I was encouraged to "get up and walk". Hmmm, it would appear that one week later, I am still sitting here .. scared to get up.
So, what does get up and walk really mean? Well in my story, it means to be well. Take the steps Father is asking me to do. Continue with the "physiotherapy" and trust. It means, stop sitting there being sick. In another story, Jesus asks someone " do you want to be well?" ( again Jackie would have answered.. duh.. of course - who wouldnt want to be well?")
Now, there are alot of reasons and excuses for why people refuse to get up. I have been saying "I cant" but a good friend has said "no Jackie, you wont". He has said to me that I am still not ready to let go of what is comfortable. Yes, I am tired of sitting there and I want to be doing what Father has instore for me.. but to get to the next point.. I need to be ready to let go of what I have known for over 30 years.
I admit, I am scared.. but I know that until I do, I sit frustrated. (I have even been looking for other ways to be able to walk.. and it all leads to frustration!) Now, let's be honest, who wants to let go of their crutch if they dont know if their legs will hold them right? But, until we do, we continue to miss out what is ahead.
I realise this blog isnt going to make sense to everyone, and that is ok.. as it is mostly for me anyways. But, I am also positive that I am not the only one that struggles with this. Most of us have something that we are still not willing to let go of; or maybe Father is asking you to get up and jump up on the surgery table. It is time to cut away something that is no longer needed for His purpose ..( ok.. who's ready to go under the knife of our loving God?)
Jesus has not given us a spirit of Fear... so why are we so chicken? That's the bottom line right? Too scared to take that step away from, or let go of what we know. So, what are we scared of? Where are we putting our trust? In myself?
Let's go with the biggest one for me - fear of rejection and more hurt. Why would I willing put myself out there , waiting to be rejected again? BUT, if this is the way that I am going to live the rest of my days, then that means that I am focusing on ME and I am not walking in the spirit, but rather in the flesh. Trying to protect Jackie at all costs. Which, ultimately, results in defeat and frustration - death, not life.
I heard a speaker who told the story of playing in the pool with his two children. (Forgive me if I dont get the story exactly how it was said). While playing, his son was having a great time jumping from the side of the pool into his Daddy's arms. However, his daughter was too scared to try.
Isnt that like us? Our Abba Daddy is standing there saying "jump - I will catch you" and we are too scared. Pastor Frank Freidmann goes on to say, that if we are "scared to jump" this means we believe one of two things - 1.We dont trust that Father wants to catch us or 2. We doubt that Father CAN catch us.
Until we are ready to trust the one who created us and gave His son's life for us... we will continue to be "lame" and be left sitting on the side of the road missing out. There is nothing that we need or are in need of that Father doesnt promise me. Ps 23:1 "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want".
That's all for now, jackie
12 Aug 2008 - Without Him I Can Do Nothing ...
Today is a day that I am aware that I need Jesus to get thru this day. Nothing major is going to happen today ( that I foresee) but I am more aware of my own weakness today. (Itmight have something to do with the fact that I stayed up too late watching Olympics) But, it is vain to think that I, in myself am a "good mom"or a "good friend" I need to keep reminding myself, that if Jesus knew he could do NOTHING without the Father.. then the same goes for us ( John 15:5). I cannot be the mom I need to be - without Jesus. I cannot be the "loving neighbour or friend" that I should be - without Jesus.
I think that sometimes we have this list of things that we think is " Jesus stuff" and then we have this list of things that we think we have to handle on our own. So who decides what goes on what list? Could it be that Jesus is part of every decision and action anyways? Why not let him in on all the decisions as well?
I write this today as a reminder to me. I have realised that over the past few days, I have done alot out of " Jackie Strength" and that is not the way that Jesus wants it to be. HE lives in me, He is my life, so why not stay plugged into Him every moment of the day? (Not to mention, if I only spoke the words "out of Jesus strength" .. I wouldnt have near the amount of times that I ask myself "oh why did I just say that?"
Jesus says he wants to be involved in every area of our life. For, even if what I am trying to do is a "good and noble thing" ( eg . be a good friend by helping with the little kids) - If I do this in my own "jackie strength" - it is not pleasing to Jesus. Maybe Jesus wants me to stay home and spend time quiet before him instead of helping babysit? Maybe Jesus wants to do a work in my friend that day, and if I was to go help "relieve" her with the kids, maybe that gets in the way of my friend coming to know that she needs "JESUS to be mommy today"?
He wants to be our everything.. He wants us to be plugged in to him every moment of the day .. not trying and trying to do things in our own strength. This is the best way for us to let our light shine to those around us. To be used how HE wants to use us.
So that being said, I am going to be Mom today - plugged into Jesus. I am sure my kids will be glad for that!
Til next time - jackie
11 Aug 2008 - Where has the time gone?
As I was leaving Karen's house today, I was thinking about how excited her little girl Anna is about starting kindergarten. It seems like just a couple years ago, I packed my boy's bags with indoor running shoes and a snack, and sent them off to Mrs Haines' class. But that was 10 years ago, and this week I have to sit down and figure out who needs what for this upcoming school year. My boys are now starting High School. Where has the time gone?
Some days, I wish I could go back and redo it. To take time to enjoy all the littleents and not be in such a hurry. Remember when they were babies? How we got so excited when they said their first word, took their first step.. and we could hardly wait until they were out of diapers and starting to put on their own shoes...
But today, I am wishing I could go back and redo some of those moments. To really enjoy sitting and watching Barney and learning to count; to enjoy the cuddles all I can, to stop worrying about getting dishes done and to just sit and read a book. If only we could know what we know now to redo life again...
Matthew, my oldest, told me yesterday that in 18 months he can drive.... WHAT>??? I am not ready to be mom of a driver that is foresure!!
Our time with our children is short, and I need to remember to make the most of each of the moments that I have with my children. It seems like we have gone from a home with babies and toddlers - to a home with teen agers - as quick as over night!! Where has all the time gone? I am purposing to make the most of the next few years, because all too soon, they will be graduating high school, moving on to bigger things .. and I will then once again ask "Where has all the time gone?"
That's all for today, til next time - jackie
06 Aug 2008 - What’s on your fix it list?
I was wondering today, how long are other people's lists of the things you would like to change about yourself? I know my list seems to get longer and longer every day. But, then I need to stop and ask myself, "What if nothing on that list ever changes? Do I accept me for me inspite of the flaws?"
Have you ever taken the time to ask Jesus what He has to say about your "fix it list?" Maybe you think that is something that He isnt even interested in hearing about.. that is a lie. He wants us to take EVERY burden to him... take EVERY thought to him ...
Are those items on your list really there because God has laid them on your heart or is that your own personal opinion and estimated worth of the value of HIS MASTERPIECE?
Are you still living with this lie that you are not acceptable until you fix that list? These are just some of the questions I have been thinking about over the past few days. What if Father God asked you " do you like you?" How would you respond? (Notice I didnt ask " do you love yourself?")
As I have been reading the book " Abba's Child" by Brennan Manning, I have been challenged to see things from Father's perspective, and this has made me do ALOT of thinking, so be ready for several blogs on this very issue for the next while.
My point of this entry is not to make anyone feel bad about having "their list" - I have my own list to, but I have been challenged to take time to ask God what HIS list is.. and I think that we would all be surprised at what He would have at the top of is list. Perhaps He would have one thing on His list.. and that would simply read " Get to know me".
Before I close for today, here is a quote that I just love .."All I am or ever hope to be is in Him. without Him I am nothing, with him, I am everything, and when I am not "everything" He loves me still!"
For now, jackie
Saturday, March 8, 2008
What a MIGHTY God we serve!
This week has been so absolutely amazing! I know that I am still being somewhat vague... but I promise I will fill everyone in as this all unfolds. God has a plan for each and every one of us Right? do you agree? Do you get that?
Well, this week my loving Father has very quickly been unfolding a plan for me. It has been a rollar coaster of emotions for us as we take each step of the process and wait to see if God will either - open yet another door, or will He close it and say "nope this is far enough for now".
It takes such steps of faith doesnt it? It's easy to walk ahead with something when there are road markers along the road saying " go this way - you are going the right way" BUT what if the directions are coming from behind? What if God wants you to trust Him and you are not knowing where each step will take you? That voice from behind saying "keep walking" and like Jesus said to Peter "Keep walking - keep your eyes on me!" (Okay so I admit that was my paraphrase)
Our loving God has a plan for each of us. And my prayer today is that everyone who reads this may know that no matter what is going on around you today - God knows, God understands and if you are HIS child - He is with you each and every step of the way.
That's all for now, I am off to take the next step of this journey and see what will come of it.
I will keep you "posted"!
Walk in Faith today
Jackie
Well, this week my loving Father has very quickly been unfolding a plan for me. It has been a rollar coaster of emotions for us as we take each step of the process and wait to see if God will either - open yet another door, or will He close it and say "nope this is far enough for now".
It takes such steps of faith doesnt it? It's easy to walk ahead with something when there are road markers along the road saying " go this way - you are going the right way" BUT what if the directions are coming from behind? What if God wants you to trust Him and you are not knowing where each step will take you? That voice from behind saying "keep walking" and like Jesus said to Peter "Keep walking - keep your eyes on me!" (Okay so I admit that was my paraphrase)
Our loving God has a plan for each of us. And my prayer today is that everyone who reads this may know that no matter what is going on around you today - God knows, God understands and if you are HIS child - He is with you each and every step of the way.
That's all for now, I am off to take the next step of this journey and see what will come of it.
I will keep you "posted"!
Walk in Faith today
Jackie
Thursday, March 6, 2008
WOW - WOW - WOW
Has God ever done so something SO remarkable in your life.. that you have to blink and ask someone to pinch you?
Yesterday I went to a job interview (well it was more like a info sharing mtg). Anyways, from the moment I stepped in - the love of Jesus flowed out of each person there. (If any of them are reading this - I want you to know that I prayed for you all this morning and asked God to especially Bless you all today!!!)
I went with my "own agenda" and walked out of there with a WOW! (a friend of mine once said to me "If you ever want to make God laugh - just tell Him YOUR plans!)
I cant really say more yet, as I am still praying thru some of the details.. but know this - Our Loving Father loves us all so very much. Every single detail he has worked out, and if we can just rest in him and know that He is in control - He will do abundantly more then we can imagine!
I suppose some of this is still in my head from reading "The Shack"- but let me tell you - that book was the best piece of fiction I have ever read. It was so full of truths and yet a story that kept you coming back for more (Yes the author takes some writer's freedom )- and yes he writes and describes "God" in a way that perhaps we havent thought of before - however as long as you read this with the intent of reading a STORY - and not a BIble study commmentary - you will do just fine!
My hats off to William Young on a job well done! I pray this book draws people back into the loving arms of a loving Father!
Well, I will write more later - have a good one!
Yesterday I went to a job interview (well it was more like a info sharing mtg). Anyways, from the moment I stepped in - the love of Jesus flowed out of each person there. (If any of them are reading this - I want you to know that I prayed for you all this morning and asked God to especially Bless you all today!!!)
I went with my "own agenda" and walked out of there with a WOW! (a friend of mine once said to me "If you ever want to make God laugh - just tell Him YOUR plans!)
I cant really say more yet, as I am still praying thru some of the details.. but know this - Our Loving Father loves us all so very much. Every single detail he has worked out, and if we can just rest in him and know that He is in control - He will do abundantly more then we can imagine!
I suppose some of this is still in my head from reading "The Shack"- but let me tell you - that book was the best piece of fiction I have ever read. It was so full of truths and yet a story that kept you coming back for more (Yes the author takes some writer's freedom )- and yes he writes and describes "God" in a way that perhaps we havent thought of before - however as long as you read this with the intent of reading a STORY - and not a BIble study commmentary - you will do just fine!
My hats off to William Young on a job well done! I pray this book draws people back into the loving arms of a loving Father!
Well, I will write more later - have a good one!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Living Like The Person I Am ...
I wonder what it would be like if I lived every moment of the day - by my TRUE identity?
That is - as the Daughter of THE KING - a Princess - Royalty - One who is TOTALLY loved and accepted?
How would this affect how we lived? how we acted? How does one parent who knows that she is totally and completely loved and accepted (not to mention totally acceptabe - which is something I am still learning!)
Does this mean that I would act perfect all the time? No of course not. But if I could always remember who I was - then it would become so natural to act like royalty, one who is loved and accepted ... it would be comfortable - natural just like breathing or putting one foot in front of the other.
How many times today did you double guess something you said or did? If we truly believed and understood our true identity in Christ... we would find a rest that was so great, it wouldnt matter what we said or did - we woudl put an end to beating ourselves up for every little thing that we do. We would stop trying and striving and learn to REST.
As you can probably tell, I am completely overwhelmed tonight by the love of God. I just finished reading the book "The Shack" by William Young. What a good good book! If you get a chance, give it a read and be sure to check out the website for more information - www@theshackbook.com
How many times during the day do you have to remind yourself of what your name is? or how old you are? or even what your phone number is?
My prayer is that knowing our true identity in Christ, would become SO natural - so familiar - that it becomes part of our everyday, moment by moment - part of life.
Well that's all for today
In Him
Jackie
That is - as the Daughter of THE KING - a Princess - Royalty - One who is TOTALLY loved and accepted?
How would this affect how we lived? how we acted? How does one parent who knows that she is totally and completely loved and accepted (not to mention totally acceptabe - which is something I am still learning!)
Does this mean that I would act perfect all the time? No of course not. But if I could always remember who I was - then it would become so natural to act like royalty, one who is loved and accepted ... it would be comfortable - natural just like breathing or putting one foot in front of the other.
How many times today did you double guess something you said or did? If we truly believed and understood our true identity in Christ... we would find a rest that was so great, it wouldnt matter what we said or did - we woudl put an end to beating ourselves up for every little thing that we do. We would stop trying and striving and learn to REST.
As you can probably tell, I am completely overwhelmed tonight by the love of God. I just finished reading the book "The Shack" by William Young. What a good good book! If you get a chance, give it a read and be sure to check out the website for more information - www@theshackbook.com
How many times during the day do you have to remind yourself of what your name is? or how old you are? or even what your phone number is?
My prayer is that knowing our true identity in Christ, would become SO natural - so familiar - that it becomes part of our everyday, moment by moment - part of life.
Well that's all for today
In Him
Jackie
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