A Common Life: ENCOURAGEMENT

Showing posts with label ENCOURAGEMENT. Show all posts

The Table-A Message From Psalm 23:5, Encouragement During Difficult Times

Pastor Darrin brings some real encouragement to Christians in this message about shepherds caring for their sheep. The parallels of how the Lord works with His children are readily apparent. God is no stranger to the realities of VERY hard circumstances Christians will endure. In the days we're living in, this is the sort of message to take time to listen to. It will help us respond rightly to challenging times and bring a calmness to the soul, much more than reading the news or reading people's Facebook rants.

The Table-Psalm 23:5

What No One Dreams Of

No one plans to grow up to then end their life.

No one plans to become an alcoholic.

No one dreams of being a drug addict.

No one hopes for being abused, or abusing.

Few at the altar are planning the day they break their spouses heart and leave them.

But people do commit suicide.

People do take that first drink, risking a lifetime of regret.

People are fooled into thinking they can do a line once, or smoke some weed just occassionally.

People do get abused, and someone is abusing them.

When these things happen to us, around us, to those we love, around those we love, the question isn't 'why can't God fix it or stop it or make it not happen?'

The question should be, 'why didn't God fix it or stop it or make it not happen?', because He could have.

But then this wouldn't be a fallen world, and that was not His choice--for us to live in a fallen world. He created, blessed, and let man do what he would. Man sinned.

And God intervened, offering forgiveness and grace to those who would accept His provision of a perfect sacrifice to stand in our place as the payment for our sin. A system set up whereby a blood sacrifice is all that could wash away sin once and for all.

Oh, I know it sounds like a fairytale in some way and to some people. I wasn't born a follower of Jesus Christ; none of us are. But unless someone is living in utter denial, it is apparent we all sin, which means falling short of God's standard of perfect holiness. He didn't have to offer a way out of our sin. He doesn't have to allow any of us into Heaven, but the fact is, some of us will get to go. It isn't because of our goodness or brightness, but because we respond in faith to the calling of His Holy Spirit. Does His Spirit call everyone the same? I don't think so, and what does it really matter? If He is calling you, then you must respond.

What life brings our way isn't the issue. The issue is this, what are we going to do with the hand we're dealt? It was said well in Rocky 6 when Rocky is talking to his son outside his restaurant.

"The question isn't how hard you get hit, the question is how many times can you get hit and keep moving forward?" (apologies if I'm off here a bit)

We have to keep moving forward. We have to forgive. I was listening to a John MacArthur sermon tonight that stated the greatest thing we can do to be like God is to forgive others.

Amen.

What Secular Psychologists Won't Tell You

Being Feminine

The modest mom blog has a nice post about femininity. Rather than say what she's said, I'll just share her words.

Too often we women feel showing more skin than covering ourselves is ideal...and what we think shows strength is actually, weakness. I recall mocking feminine grace and loveliness and exchanging it for working out hard and doing things that were more masculine than feminine.

Christ has such a way of transforming us. I'm not saying everyone woman who drives a motorcycle or rock climbs or caves is the way I was, but rather than cultivate feminine ways (which I had no clue about at the time), I hung out with the guys or women who were like me.

It is truly liberating to not compete with men or engage in activities which are dangerous that I really do not like, at least not anymore (if I ever really loved those things it's hard to say so many years later, but I have serious doubts).

Just as submitting to a husband appears weak to the unsaved or rebellious, it offers a liberating freedom and strength of reliance upon God that otherwise goes unknown.

Revelations as Time Goes On

I know I've heard people talk about having things to accomplish which they really couldn't do themselves, things that had to happen, but they needed the Lord to work it out. At this point in time, I have no specific stories like this (probably due to my lack of realizing it!), but it makes sense to me.

Once upon a time I thought a schedule, a plan, resources and determination would be all I needed to have a great school year. The older I get, the more I don't want to say definitively anything about how to do this or that...there are times and situations where you are called to do something which in your heart of hearts, is a task bigger than you. There are times as a parent, specifically a homeschooling parent, where you know something HAS to happen, and it has to happen that year. Yet, when it's all laid out, you just throw up your hands and say, "Well, we'll see what miracle occurs to make this come to pass." The reason could be there are intangibles mingled throughout; elements only you as the mom/teacher know.

I just wanted to write about this to encourage other homeschooling if you find yourself feeling this way about the upcoming school year. It is a good place to be when that place has you at the feet of Jesus, relying solely on Him to see you through. Our own strength just fades as we get older. Raising kids gets harder and harder as they age. School gets complicated. Discipling gets more serious and the need for it more urgent. And in a world that says we can't really KNOW anything about the Bible or God, it takes diligence to remember we can, should and have to know plenty about the Bible and God.

If you are 'in Christ'--have been aware of your sin and how it offends God Almighty; have gone to God and asked forgiveness for your sins, trusting in the work of Jesus on the cross at Calvary (dying in your place) and believe Jesus rose from the dead, conquering the death and separation from God (ie the eternal penalty for unrepentant sin is Hell), you can stand on the solid rock and ask Him to help you accomplish what you need to accomplish.

Don't be discouraged or afraid. Keep your eyes on God and walk close to Him. He wills how you the way if you ask and trust Him.

Hurting

Are you ever hurting and can't exactly put your finger on it? Even giving a more descriptive adjective is a struggle. You aren't irritated, lonely, sad, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed, underwhelmed...

You are simply...hurting. On the inside.

Maybe it's due to difficulties in raising children, trying to help them see what you see in the world. Maybe it's due to struggles with school--your kids have to contend with mean children, or they are having a hard time learning and you can't figure out what the problem is. Maybe your marriage is not what you thought it would be and there is an ache deep inside for more. Maybe you are different from your family and sometimes it just really hurts to think about it. (what fellowship does light have with darkness?) Perhaps it is a general hurting, physical as well as emotional, because the church is going astray...

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matt 11:28-30 NASB

Let us hide beneath His wings--Ps 91 (it is all great but I'll just post the start). This is the KJV b/c it is how we learned it to song.

1He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Thy Word Creations is a wonderful resource for long Bible memory.

The Morning After

So we take time to grieve for Ken Cuccinelli and his family, and for E.W. Jackson and his. I only got to hear a little of E.W.'s speech, but what I heard was true and powerful. The fight continues, and it is a fight against evil (my words). Abortion, gay marriage--things God abhors, and those who support it must be approached with love but firmness that sin is sin, and God's judgment will come as a result of these abominations. Other issues matter of course, but nothing compares to these issues. We all know the country will eventually crumble under the oppressive weight, but there was a flicker of hope in the preservation of Virginia. Yet still, I rejoice, because God tells us "joy cometh in the morning" and "Great is THY faithfulness". God is not moved by elections; His purposes are secure. The hope of Christians hasn't wavered, for politics has never saved a soul for eternity. I turn to Jeremiah 29 on a day like today. Plant gardens, have children, work, and live normally; at some point our God will deliver us from what is and what is to come.

Must Read Books!

*I have been thinking of posting about The Heart of Anger by Lou Priolo and instead have opted to re post this in it's entirety. Just a quick thought, if you or your children don't handle anger biblically, I heartily recommend the aforementioned book and the study guide that goes with it. If you parent in anger, spank in anger and find yourself going from zero to ten when your kids disobey, you need this study. Children disciplined in anger, even if it's consistent, will not display the sweet spirit of obedience most of us are seeking. I've led a study on this book and everyone found it beneficial. This was originally posted Oct 27, 2010. Irony!

Years ago when I had our first family blog, before the era of not needing to know HTML, I would post book reviews. It was a thrill because I had time and loved to read. Here I am nearly a decade beyond that point in time, and some of the titles I'd recommend haven't changed. I won't be listing an in depth review though, as time is much shorter these days!

On raising children-Shepherding A Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp (the title says it all--it's our hearts that God is concerned with and in this culture of focusing on externals, the heart is so often lost..the busy pace of life can leave their little hearts lonely and hurting while Mom and Dad pass them from daycare to the bus to strangers at school for 8 hrs a day, then to sports and dance etc etc. This book cuts to the chase on how to lovingly raise our children for the Lord.)

On being a Biblical wife-Created to Be His Helpmeet by Debi Pearl and The Power of A Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian. While you may not agree with everything Pearl says, she really does a good job showing the attitude of a wife desiring to follow the Lord's outline according to His word. Hard situations are dealt with in the book-real life situations are investigated. Omartian's book is a favorite of mine because my life wouldn't be what it is without serious prayer that is answered by God Almighty. If you are struggling in your marriage, get this book and the study guide. I've seen ladies lives transformed by going through The Power of A Praying Wife. (my only disagreement with it is that she alludes to losing our salvation which is unscriptural, see Eph 1:13-14, Heb 13:5, John 10:27-30).

To understand the Bible better, get Warren Wiersbe's Bible Exposition Commentary. A great way to study scripture with your older children would be to read the Word of God and then read the commentary for further understanding, praying for the Holy Spirit to lead and direct since He is our teacher.

For those unequally yoked (Christian married to a non-Christian) I highly recommend Surviving A Spiritual Mismatch in Marriage by Lee Strobel. Talk about encouraging and sound advice on how to love your spouse as God directs! Here it is--wonderful book for believers in different spots also.

Do you ever think of home education or just how to spruce up your child's education that is outside of your house? My all time favorite book on education right now is The Core by Leigh Bortins. Leigh gives the history of education and how standards have plummeted, but also gives clear help and hope for those who do not want to see their children become a product of today's low standards in public schools.

Beliefs

The majority of people live what they believe is acceptable.

However, true satisfaction comes from living according to what you believe is right.

Bonhoeffer is Riveting

I won't say a lot, but I hope you will take time to read Bonhoeffer. It is readily seen why it is a best-seller. I've found such encouragement and truth in what he observed years ago in the church in America...it is happening even now at such warp speed. Reading the Martyn-Lloyd Jones book I've recommended on here already goes along well with Bonhoeffer as he got a lot from that sermon.

7/27/13

Hope

Dear Friend,

Sometimes days which will get bright, start out much like the sky before dawn. Therefore all I can tell you is this...and pray it helps.

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand, All other ground is sinking sand; All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood, Support me in the whelming flood. When all around my soul gives way, He then is all my Hope and Stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound, Oh may I then in Him be found. Dressed in His righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Song adapted for this letter~

Love,

me

Weekend Away-Encouragement Before I Go

I'm leaving the computer for a few days, taking a weekend off :). I hope you all have a delightful weekend and will perhaps find some measure of entertainment if you scroll through the posts here LOL!

Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.

Comfort And Encouragement Bible Verses

Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

Psalm 9:9 The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.

Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.

Matthew 11:28-29 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Peace Scripture Quotes For Encouragement

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

God bless

God Leads Us Along-Hymn

This is such a wonderful hymn, full of encouragement and inspiration. 
We all go through different seasons of life. The chorus speaks to 
this issue and I think it is a lovely reminder to be merciful with
those who have gone a path that may be harder, as well as a good 
reminder to those going through a trial that others are, or have, too. 
We shouldn't feel alone, but we also shouldn't have a twisted pride that
our suffering outweighs someone else's. 


1. In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water's cool flow bathes the weary one's feet,
God leads His dear children along.

2. Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.

3. Though sorrows befall us and Satan oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.

4. Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity's day,
God leads His dear children along.

Chorus:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.