1 Peter 4: 1,2 If you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin - you won't spend the rest of your lives chasing your own desires . . . why? because people sacrifice for the things they believe in. Until sacrifice is required, it's hard to tell if one feels gratitude or entitlement for the benefits given.
vs 7 the end of the world is coming soon (written 2,000 years ago) therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers . . show deep love fore each other. Soon is even sooner now!
The gifts are to be used to bring HIM the glory! That makes using your gift a joy!
Don't be surprised 12 if you have fiery trials - - a warning, all is not roses in the Christian walk -- at least not yet! see 5:10:)
2 of my favorite texts (thank you Peter!)
4:19 Keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to God who created you, for He will never fail you.
5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you:)
This is good right out of the gate "Since Jesus went through everything you're going through and more, learn to think like him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you'll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want."
Trying to get my own way is what stresses me out. And I shouldn't expect it. I should be looking for God's way & of course, I'm always happy when I find it & do it.
4:7 "...Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it..." That's the 2nd time I've heard that call - love each other as if your life depended on it. Must be something to it. And to stay wide awake, but in prayer. Nice call to active prayer.
4:12,13 "Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner." We usually ask "God where are You" But this is just another reminder that it's part of the refining process. Like Pastor Mike has said "He's more interested in our character than our comfort."
14-16 Man, I could just quote this whole chapter from MSG. Just really nails it & it's a reminder that my focus shouldn't be on me but on God & His Truth. Shouldn't be surprised to get flack & be made fun of for standing for what is right. Stand proud of Jesus & the privilege to suffer. Soldiers do that for their country. My country is heaven & I shouldn't be ashamed of it either.
v19 wraps it up good for 4 "So if you find life difficult because you're doing what God said, take it in stride. Trust him. He knows what he's doing, and he'll keep on doing it."
So yes Linda, I agree with you, if you don't sacrifice for something, then you don't appreciate it as much.
5:3 - good advice for anyone, but especially when I have an opportunity to lead. Do it "Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way." That's why they call it FOLLOW the leader, not listen to the leader.
5:10,11 "...So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does."
Great encouragement to end with!
Sorry it's raining there, I flew into bright, warm sun here. But even though it's nasty weather outside, I bet you have a flurry of activity going on inside! LOL
Bingo on the flurry!! Made it through the prep tho!! Going to Stuffy's with Duane after I'm done tomorrow:) Went to the gym this am, took Toby on a walk between rain showers -- laundry done; life is good:)
Glad you can enjoy the sunshine -- I said a prayer for your safe travels:)
If we would deal with temptation like God directed them in 13, it would be better for us! Instead we (I) debate with satan at times. He knows my weaknesses & when he comes at me with them I sometimes find myself justifying them or debating whether I should or not. How crazy! It's easier when I just say NO & walk away. Sometimes, run away to my Hiding Place! :D
Again, a lot of instruction on dealing with people & not being stingy with what God has given me. I'm to live with an open hand & and open heart. Listening to Him for instructions on when & who to help. I know there have been times when I've wanted to help & when I ask God He actually says NO. He knows the situation better & if it's my emotions or maybe He has someone else He needs to help there, not me. Really important to always listen.
Deut 13:--If there is a prophet whose predictions come true, but he worships other gods--don't listen to him. That prophet must be executed, even if he/she is a close relative, husband, son or daughter---the person must be killed.
The Lord is going to test us to see if we really know the truth and to see if we're true followers of Him. (vs.3) Satan's policy and purpose is to try to lead us to evil-- especially through the people we love. I was married to a man who said he loved the Lord Jesus-- prayed and even performed miracles in his name. But it was a different Jesus than the one I had a relationship with.
Chapter 14---don't cut yourselves or shave the front half of your head----we see this trend in our young people today. They think they're just following a fad---but they're not.
14:2---We as Christians are supposed to be a peculiar people. I looked up the definition of peculiar---it means we're to be "strange - particular - odd - special - singular - weird." Too bad so many Christians try to blend in with society.
Chapter 15---I wish they practiced the cancelling of all debts today at the end of every 7th yr. 15:6---We shall lend, but never borrow, when the Lord blesses us.
Yeah! These are good tests of a prophet; reminds me of our study on prophets Share (you were gone that week - but I sent the study home with you). Not only the predictions come true BUT they direct you to the Lord.
I love the commands - all 5 of them in 13:4 Serve Fear or Respect Obey Listen CLING!!! I want to always cling to Him; through good or bad!
Good stuff on eating and tithing
Canceling debts - so in our day, would this be toward believers as opposed to non-believers? Sounds like where it's heading to me! I know Dave Ramsey says to simply GIVE to a family member or friend -- once there's a loan in place, the "borrower is slave to the lender" and that wreaks havoc on relationships.
Share freely, that's why you'll have the poor among you (vs 11) sounds like God is watching for generosity!! Since He's such a generous God, he's giving us this "tree of knowledge of good and evil" even in our day!
What do you think 15:18 means? they have given you services worth double the wages of hired workers?? I don't get that concept!! Can someone translate?
Again, in 15:21, God reminds us that He deserves our best:) It's all about HIM! the cool thing, though is that He pours Himself out in sacrifice for US! What a beautiful picture of a close relationship. Kindof like what we read from Paul with husbands and wives: wives repect their husbands and husbands love their wives = GREAT relationship!!
Yeah Sherrie, so important for us to study the Bible for ourselves & not follow other people's thoughts.
Linda, 15:18 in MSG says that he's worked 6 years at half the cost of a hired servant. Makes more sense to me there. He didn't get paid because he was working off a debt
Ezra I had to peruse today. But I am impressed with Cyrus still. Giving all the credit to God & giving back all the temple furniture. That had to make a dent in his wealth.
Satan always stirs up issues & people to create stress when God is blessing His people. There are always people to detract from progress because we are such selfish people.
I give credit to Darius though, that he had his people look things up & not just take people's word for it.
I like at the end of 2 how the people were both shouting, laughing, praising & weeping for joy. And I bet it was all a joyful noise to the Lord!
Good thoughts Chris -- I was impressed, too with the heart of Cyrus. No wonder God used him in his historical plan, he "listened"
The leaders" (2:68-9) gave as much as a they could. There is nothing more inspiring than a servant-leader. Makes me want to get in and help too!
3:1 all the people assembled to Jerusalem with a unified purpose -- the alter. Before they started to build, they took time to worship; I like that. The connection with God was their first priority -- again, a sign of good leadership.
3:8 "The work force was made up of everyone who had returned from exile" loved that unified purpose showing up again!
Quite a story how the nations around tried to pull the rug out from under the feet of the people. They used negotiation, fear, gossip - - it happened then, it'll happen today. We gotta keep centered in Him to accomplish the work God has for us to do.
Good cliff hanger today! I guess we won't find out what Darius does for a whole week! (unless you read the heading of the next chapter!!)
131:2, 3 "I have calmed and quieted myself" -- (and how do I do this??) "put your hope in the Lord - now and always" Sometimes when I can feel myself getting worked up, I step back and try to get perspective - God can handle what I can't. It's that living in His presence and His peace, Chris!
132:6 -- it sounds like no one knew where the ark was!! Pretty amazing since that was a "symbol of God's power" (vs 8). It would almost be like loosing the church organ! LOL (that was a joke)
133 is all focused on harmony. God wants so badly for us to get along, and we have our little hissy-fits of jealousy, anger, frustration -- instead of extending grace as He does (I'm talking to myself here! - but does anyone else relate?)
I love how vs 3 says Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mt. Hermon and in harmony the Lord has pronounced his blessing - even eternal life! I guess God figures if we can get along down here, we're pretty safe to have up there:)
Psalm 133---Oh yeah--brotherly love--and unity. Now that's something I'm working on. I've found that ya can't always persuade people to live in peace with you. And I have come to the realization that for my peace of mind and sanity---I have to cut these people out of my life.
I have no relationship with my 40 yr old daughter. I love her dearly and you always have a special bond with your firstborn---but that child has anger issues and she scares me. She's a vice president of a bank at corporate headquarters in Walla Walla, so she does very well in her professional life. But in her personal life---well--all I can say is-- the mother/daughter relationship is a complicated one.
Being a mom is such a tough job - - sometimes it's best to just smile and wave. Does your daughter have anger issues towards others around her? or just family members?
My oldest seems to reserve most of her anger for me---but she has the ability to ream out anyone who gets in her way. Surprisingly-- I would have to say that she has the softest heart of all my kids.
the softest heart in what manner? toward God or people? Do you think it's born of contrition for getting so angry at times?
Ecc 7:2 - you learn more from a funeral than a feast. So true, so true.
v3 "Crying is better than laughing. It blotches the face, it scours the heart." Wow, I gotta remember that. Though I don't know anyone who prefers crying.
v9 Here's one for your daughter Sherrie - "Don't be quick to fly off the handle. Anger boomerangs. You can spot a fool by the lumps on his head."
v14 "On a good day, enjoy yourself; On a bad day, examine your conscience. God arranges for both kinds of days So that we won't take anything for granted."
end of 17 I gotta remember. "...And don't be reckless. Why die needlessly?" Then again, who determines if it was needless or not?
A lot of talk about wisdom & how it benefits us. Though Solomon in 8 says though he sought it, he never could get to the end of it & never could figure out God. So be content with what He gives/withholds. Good counsel from a wise man.
I think my child is angry because she feels like a victim. Her anger is a survival skill that she learned thru the yrs. and it served her well. She's powerless over her childhood, but she either doesn't realize that or can't accept it. She's a victim of emotions and circumstances beyond her control. Her anger over the past prevents her from accepting the love I have to offer her today.
Hee hee! In my book -- sliding down the side of Mt. Adams is . . . well, for me unthinkable!! I don't know if you'd call it reckless or not. I think reckless might have different labels for different people:):) I'm proud of you for doing it - really!
Sher -- who knows if your daughter will come to the place where she once again will receive and accept the love you have for her today. God can work miracles -- I'm praying for a few miracles myself concerning my kids!!
7:8 Finishing is better than starting -- I think that's because anyone can start a project, but it takes hard work and perseverance, and patience to finish -- really important lessons; and maybe that's why patience is more important than pride -- with patience, you can often accomplish big projects, pride just brags about the past and is not looking forward to what is in front of you.
One wise person (19) is stronger than ten leading citizens of a town (or a church, or any group). When a wise person talks, I want to listen - - even if they're not the "leader" I think it's because wise people are so good at listening, thinking things through, evaluating. Leaders are often leaders because of their temperaments, education, or charisma - - - I'd rather bank on wisdom over any of those qualifications.
8:5 those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right - - they don't try to finagle out of their problem, they find a workable solution - - I've been enjoying listening to Dave Ramsey help people find a way out of their debt. He'll often say, If you owe it, you need to pay it -- I appreciate that.
8:15 So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this wolrd than to eat, drink, and slide down Mt. Adams (O! did I say that?) hee hee! You don't always hear the Bible telling you to have fun! Thanx Sol for the reminder to experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives us under the sun:)
Hmm that 2nd to last paragraph reminds me of something I read recently. When there's a problem, the decided (committed/abandoned to God) heart looks for a solution. The undecided heart runs or seeks escape. Big smack upside my head!
Wow Sherrie, I am so familiar with that survival skill & feeling. And for most of my life I didn't know how that was controlling me. Like Linda said, God can work miracles to wake us up to what's holding us back. Then it's our choice what to do. It is possible, I'm living proof of it. I hope that encourages you! I will keep praying for you guys!
Well I wouldn't be able to see the bottom, cuz guarenteed my eyes would be CLOSED and my mouth would be OPEN with loud sounds emitting!!! LOL
Ok I love the simplicity of God's statement: 1:2 "Return to me, and I will return to you.
2:2 -- God does a lot of measuring in his word -- I guess it's to see if we "measure up" which of course, we simply can't without His help! Think He's trying to show us our need? Why don't we take notice!!
2:10 I am coming to live among you. Many nations will join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they, too, will be my people. God's blessings are not just for the Israelites -- Jesus made that very clear, and Paul's ministry was all about the gentiles! I think God's whole idea behind the Jewish race was a people that would invite the world to follow Him! Now, we as Christians have the same calling:)
3:1 Hebrews 8:6 talks about Jesus as our high priest. I'm thinking that Jeshua refers to Jesus -- maybe the filthy clothing in 3:3 are because of our sins? and then 3:8 Jeshua's filthy clothing turned beautifully new (3:3) is a symbol of what Jesus would do for us at the cross - - in a single day (3:9) I don't know if this is what God intended this scripture to mean, but it makes sense to me. God gives as many word pictures as possible to encourage us to turn in our filthy rags for his white pure clothes.
4:6 "Not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit!" "Nothing, not even a mighty mountain will stand" This is what happens when we rely on the Holy Spirit. another word picture -- that Golden bowl of oil (Holy Spirit - in 4:2) It's the Oil poured out (4 - 11) that brings power to move forward in His will -- and see MIGHTY things happen. We are powerless -- He is powerful. Rest in that thought!!
Again a picture of how much God loves and watches out for the underdog: 7:9-10.
and . . . a reminder to please keep your ears clean and open, God wants to speak to us (7:11) if we don't listen . . . (7:13)
15:8, 15 God knows people's hearts - he accepts . . He made no distinction between us and them, for He cleansed their hearts through faith! We can trust Him to make the right decisions. Our job is to keep our eyes on HIM:) Heb 12:2 - - we don't have to make the call if someone is saved or not, if someone is sincere or not -- He does:):)
16:6-9 Pretty awesome how the Holy Spirit was such a part of Paul and Silas' plans. They had an idea - and the Holy Spirit prevented and directed. So -- when things don't work out, it's all part of His plan, even tho it might not be part of our plan. Here comes the abandonment to His will and living in His presence, right?
I love how P and S -- went to the river. They didn't see the people they were looking for, so they just sat down and started chatting with the women there -- and lo and behold, found an open heart for their message! If we're willing to be used by Him, He will use us (I'm talking to me here!)
Power in music! Paul and Silas decided to witness even tho they were in the pit of the jail! How? Singing!! The other prisoners listened, the jailer listened - pretty awesome story!
and Paul's message: 16:31 "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household -- then they shared the word of the Lord". So there was teaching & belief - - I guess the Jailor had to know what he was believing before he could make his decisions! That is why I think it is important to read the Bible and study stuff out - not just take someone elses ideas.
It says twice in Acts 15 to abstain from food sacrificed to idols. I'm not sure if you guys are aware that Costco, Whole Foods and Subway and other grocery stores are selling food sacrificed to idols and the packages are marked with specific symbols saying so. This makes it easy for Christians to avoid these products, but many Christians aren't even aware of Biblical principles. http://www.wnd.com/?pageId=255825
In Chapter 16--Paul sets a slave girl free (from demons) and ends up in prison himself. Satan always uses these tactics--but Praise God--Jesus always wins in the end.
1 Peter 4: 1,2 If you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin - you won't spend the rest of your lives chasing your own desires . . . why? because people sacrifice for the things they believe in. Until sacrifice is required, it's hard to tell if one feels gratitude or entitlement for the benefits given.
ReplyDeletevs 7 the end of the world is coming soon (written 2,000 years ago) therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers . . show deep love fore each other. Soon is even sooner now!
The gifts are to be used to bring HIM the glory! That makes using your gift a joy!
Don't be surprised 12 if you have fiery trials - - a warning, all is not roses in the Christian walk -- at least not yet! see 5:10:)
2 of my favorite texts (thank you Peter!)
4:19 Keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to God who created you, for He will never fail you.
5:7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you:)
Those 2 texts wrap around me with His love!
This is good right out of the gate
ReplyDelete"Since Jesus went through everything you're going through and more, learn to think like him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you'll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want."
Trying to get my own way is what stresses me out. And I shouldn't expect it. I should be looking for God's way & of course, I'm always happy when I find it & do it.
4:7 "...Stay wide-awake in prayer. Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it..." That's the 2nd time I've heard that call - love each other as if your life depended on it. Must be something to it. And to stay wide awake, but in prayer. Nice call to active prayer.
4:12,13 "Friends, when life gets really difficult, don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner." We usually ask "God where are You" But this is just another reminder that it's part of the refining process. Like Pastor Mike has said "He's more interested in our character than our comfort."
14-16 Man, I could just quote this whole chapter from MSG. Just really nails it & it's a reminder that my focus shouldn't be on me but on God & His Truth. Shouldn't be surprised to get flack & be made fun of for standing for what is right. Stand proud of Jesus & the privilege to suffer. Soldiers do that for their country. My country is heaven & I shouldn't be ashamed of it either.
v19 wraps it up good for 4 "So if you find life difficult because you're doing what God said, take it in stride. Trust him. He knows what he's doing, and he'll keep on doing it."
So yes Linda, I agree with you, if you don't sacrifice for something, then you don't appreciate it as much.
5:3 - good advice for anyone, but especially when I have an opportunity to lead. Do it "Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way." That's why they call it FOLLOW the leader, not listen to the leader.
5:10,11 "...So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does."
Great encouragement to end with!
Sorry it's raining there, I flew into bright, warm sun here. But even though it's nasty weather outside, I bet you have a flurry of activity going on inside! LOL
Bingo on the flurry!! Made it through the prep tho!! Going to Stuffy's with Duane after I'm done tomorrow:) Went to the gym this am, took Toby on a walk between rain showers -- laundry done; life is good:)
ReplyDeleteGlad you can enjoy the sunshine -- I said a prayer for your safe travels:)
If we would deal with temptation like God directed them in 13, it would be better for us! Instead we (I) debate with satan at times. He knows my weaknesses & when he comes at me with them I sometimes find myself justifying them or debating whether I should or not. How crazy! It's easier when I just say NO & walk away. Sometimes, run away to my Hiding Place! :D
ReplyDeleteAgain, a lot of instruction on dealing with people & not being stingy with what God has given me. I'm to live with an open hand & and open heart. Listening to Him for instructions on when & who to help.
I know there have been times when I've wanted to help & when I ask God He actually says NO. He knows the situation better & if it's my emotions or maybe He has someone else He needs to help there, not me. Really important to always listen.
Deut 13:--If there is a prophet whose predictions come true, but he worships other gods--don't listen to him. That prophet must be executed, even if he/she is a close relative, husband, son or daughter---the person must be killed.
ReplyDeleteThe Lord is going to test us to see if we really know the truth and to see if we're true followers of Him. (vs.3)
Satan's policy and purpose is to try to lead us to evil-- especially through the people we love. I was married to a man who said he loved the Lord Jesus-- prayed and even performed miracles in his name. But it was a different Jesus than the one I had a relationship with.
Chapter 14---don't cut yourselves or shave the front half of your head----we see this trend in our young people today. They think they're just following a fad---but they're not.
14:2---We as Christians are supposed to be a peculiar people. I looked up the definition of peculiar---it means we're to be "strange - particular - odd - special - singular - weird."
Too bad so many Christians try to blend in with society.
Chapter 15---I wish they practiced the cancelling of all debts today at the end of every 7th yr. 15:6---We shall lend, but never borrow, when the Lord blesses us.
Yeah! These are good tests of a prophet; reminds me of our study on prophets Share (you were gone that week - but I sent the study home with you). Not only the predictions come true BUT they direct you to the Lord.
ReplyDeleteI love the commands - all 5 of them in 13:4
Serve
Fear or Respect
Obey
Listen
CLING!!! I want to always cling to Him; through good or bad!
Good stuff on eating and tithing
Canceling debts - so in our day, would this be toward believers as opposed to non-believers? Sounds like where it's heading to me! I know Dave Ramsey says to simply GIVE to a family member or friend -- once there's a loan in place, the "borrower is slave to the lender" and that wreaks havoc on relationships.
Share freely, that's why you'll have the poor among you (vs 11) sounds like God is watching for generosity!! Since He's such a generous God, he's giving us this "tree of knowledge of good and evil" even in our day!
What do you think 15:18 means? they have given you services worth double the wages of hired workers?? I don't get that concept!! Can someone translate?
Again, in 15:21, God reminds us that He deserves our best:) It's all about HIM! the cool thing, though is that He pours Himself out in sacrifice for US! What a beautiful picture of a close relationship. Kindof like what we read from Paul with husbands and wives: wives repect their husbands and husbands love their wives = GREAT relationship!!
Yeah Sherrie, so important for us to study the Bible for ourselves & not follow other people's thoughts.
ReplyDeleteLinda, 15:18 in MSG says that he's worked 6 years at half the cost of a hired servant. Makes more sense to me there. He didn't get paid because he was working off a debt
Ezra I had to peruse today. But I am impressed with Cyrus still. Giving all the credit to God & giving back all the temple furniture. That had to make a dent in his wealth.
Satan always stirs up issues & people to create stress when God is blessing His people. There are always people to detract from progress because we are such selfish people.
I give credit to Darius though, that he had his people look things up & not just take people's word for it.
I like at the end of 2 how the people were both shouting, laughing, praising & weeping for joy. And I bet it was all a joyful noise to the Lord!
Good thoughts Chris -- I was impressed, too with the heart of Cyrus. No wonder God used him in his historical plan, he "listened"
ReplyDeleteThe leaders" (2:68-9) gave as much as a they could. There is nothing more inspiring than a servant-leader. Makes me want to get in and help too!
3:1 all the people assembled to Jerusalem with a unified purpose -- the alter. Before they started to build, they took time to worship; I like that. The connection with God was their first priority -- again, a sign of good leadership.
3:8 "The work force was made up of everyone who had returned from exile" loved that unified purpose showing up again!
Quite a story how the nations around tried to pull the rug out from under the feet of the people. They used negotiation, fear, gossip - - it happened then, it'll happen today. We gotta keep centered in Him to accomplish the work God has for us to do.
Good cliff hanger today! I guess we won't find out what Darius does for a whole week! (unless you read the heading of the next chapter!!)
131:2, 3 "I have calmed and quieted myself" -- (and how do I do this??) "put your hope in the Lord - now and always" Sometimes when I can feel myself getting worked up, I step back and try to get perspective - God can handle what I can't. It's that living in His presence and His peace, Chris!
ReplyDelete132:6 -- it sounds like no one knew where the ark was!! Pretty amazing since that was a "symbol of God's power" (vs 8). It would almost be like loosing the church organ! LOL (that was a joke)
133 is all focused on harmony. God wants so badly for us to get along, and we have our little hissy-fits of jealousy, anger, frustration -- instead of extending grace as He does (I'm talking to myself here! - but does anyone else relate?)
I love how vs 3 says Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mt. Hermon and in harmony the Lord has pronounced his blessing - even eternal life! I guess God figures if we can get along down here, we're pretty safe to have up there:)
The reading was kinda unsettling for me. But I will ignore the illustrations & just focus on the principles.
ReplyDeleteMSG say's I have cultivated a quiet heart in 131. I like that. It tells me that if I do that, then I'm developing trust in my Defender.
132 sounds like when David brought the ark back to Jerusalem or maybe Solomon is reminding God of His promise to David at the temple dedication.
I liked what you said about the unity/harmony in 133 Linda. Yes, I can definitely relate!
Psalm 133---Oh yeah--brotherly love--and unity.
ReplyDeleteNow that's something I'm working on.
I've found that ya can't always persuade people to live in peace with you. And I have come to the realization that for my peace of mind and sanity---I have to cut these people out of my life.
I have no relationship with my 40 yr old daughter. I love her dearly and you always have a special bond with your firstborn---but that child has anger issues and she scares me. She's a vice president of a bank at corporate headquarters in Walla Walla, so she does very well in her professional life. But in her personal life---well--all I can say is-- the mother/daughter relationship is a complicated one.
Being a mom is such a tough job - - sometimes it's best to just smile and wave. Does your daughter have anger issues towards others around her? or just family members?
ReplyDeleteI know that one's a tough one for you Sherrie. I can only imagine how hard it is for you as her mother to have to do that.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you though that sometimes you have to cut people out of your life for your own sanity's sake though!
My oldest seems to reserve most of her anger for me---but she has the ability to ream out anyone who gets in her way.
ReplyDeleteSurprisingly-- I would have to say that she has the softest heart of all my kids.
the softest heart in what manner? toward God or people? Do you think it's born of contrition for getting so angry at times?
ReplyDeleteEcc 7:2 - you learn more from a funeral than a feast. So true, so true.
v3 "Crying is better than laughing. It blotches the face, it scours the heart." Wow, I gotta remember that. Though I don't know anyone who prefers crying.
v9 Here's one for your daughter Sherrie - "Don't be quick to fly off the handle. Anger boomerangs. You can spot a fool by the lumps on his head."
v14 "On a good day, enjoy yourself; On a bad day, examine your conscience. God arranges for both kinds of days So that we won't take anything for granted."
end of 17 I gotta remember. "...And don't be reckless. Why die needlessly?" Then again, who determines if it was needless or not?
A lot of talk about wisdom & how it benefits us. Though Solomon in 8 says though he sought it, he never could get to the end of it & never could figure out God. So be content with what He gives/withholds. Good counsel from a wise man.
I think my child is angry because she feels like a victim. Her anger is a survival skill that she learned thru the yrs. and it served her well. She's powerless over her childhood, but she either doesn't realize that or can't accept it.
ReplyDeleteShe's a victim of emotions and circumstances beyond her control.
Her anger over the past prevents her from accepting the love I have to offer her today.
Hee hee! In my book -- sliding down the side of Mt. Adams is . . . well, for me unthinkable!! I don't know if you'd call it reckless or not. I think reckless might have different labels for different people:):) I'm proud of you for doing it - really!
ReplyDeleteSher -- who knows if your daughter will come to the place where she once again will receive and accept the love you have for her today. God can work miracles -- I'm praying for a few miracles myself concerning my kids!!
7:8 Finishing is better than starting -- I think that's because anyone can start a project, but it takes hard work and perseverance, and patience to finish -- really important lessons; and maybe that's why patience is more important than pride -- with patience, you can often accomplish big projects, pride just brags about the past and is not looking forward to what is in front of you.
One wise person (19) is stronger than ten leading citizens of a town (or a church, or any group). When a wise person talks, I want to listen - - even if they're not the "leader" I think it's because wise people are so good at listening, thinking things through, evaluating. Leaders are often leaders because of their temperaments, education, or charisma - - - I'd rather bank on wisdom over any of those qualifications.
8:5 those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right - - they don't try to finagle out of their problem, they find a workable solution - - I've been enjoying listening to Dave Ramsey help people find a way out of their debt. He'll often say, If you owe it, you need to pay it -- I appreciate that.
8:15 So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this wolrd than to eat, drink, and slide down Mt. Adams (O! did I say that?) hee hee! You don't always hear the Bible telling you to have fun! Thanx Sol for the reminder to experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives us under the sun:)
Hmm that 2nd to last paragraph reminds me of something I read recently.
ReplyDeleteWhen there's a problem, the decided (committed/abandoned to God) heart looks for a solution. The undecided heart runs or seeks escape.
Big smack upside my head!
Wow Sherrie, I am so familiar with that survival skill & feeling. And for most of my life I didn't know how that was controlling me. Like Linda said, God can work miracles to wake us up to what's holding us back. Then it's our choice what to do. It is possible, I'm living proof of it. I hope that encourages you! I will keep praying for you guys!
Oh & Linda, I don't think sliding down Mt Adams is reckless at all! Course if I were to do it when I can't see the bottom.....that's reckless! LOL
ReplyDeleteWell I wouldn't be able to see the bottom, cuz guarenteed my eyes would be CLOSED and my mouth would be OPEN with loud sounds emitting!!! LOL
ReplyDeleteOk I love the simplicity of God's statement: 1:2 "Return to me, and I will return to you.
2:2 -- God does a lot of measuring in his word -- I guess it's to see if we "measure up" which of course, we simply can't without His help! Think He's trying to show us our need? Why don't we take notice!!
2:10 I am coming to live among you. Many nations will join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they, too, will be my people. God's blessings are not just for the Israelites -- Jesus made that very clear, and Paul's ministry was all about the gentiles! I think God's whole idea behind the Jewish race was a people that would invite the world to follow Him! Now, we as Christians have the same calling:)
3:1 Hebrews 8:6 talks about Jesus as our high priest. I'm thinking that Jeshua refers to Jesus -- maybe the filthy clothing in 3:3 are because of our sins? and then 3:8 Jeshua's filthy clothing turned beautifully new (3:3) is a symbol of what Jesus would do for us at the cross - - in a single day (3:9) I don't know if this is what God intended this scripture to mean, but it makes sense to me. God gives as many word pictures as possible to encourage us to turn in our filthy rags for his white pure clothes.
4:6 "Not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit!" "Nothing, not even a mighty mountain will stand" This is what happens when we rely on the Holy Spirit. another word picture -- that Golden bowl of oil (Holy Spirit - in 4:2) It's the Oil poured out (4 - 11) that brings power to move forward in His will -- and see MIGHTY things happen. We are powerless -- He is powerful. Rest in that thought!!
Again a picture of how much God loves and watches out for the underdog: 7:9-10.
and . . . a reminder to please keep your ears clean and open, God wants to speak to us (7:11) if we don't listen . . . (7:13)
15:8, 15 God knows people's hearts - he accepts . . He made no distinction between us and them, for He cleansed their hearts through faith! We can trust Him to make the right decisions. Our job is to keep our eyes on HIM:) Heb 12:2 - - we don't have to make the call if someone is saved or not, if someone is sincere or not -- He does:):)
ReplyDelete16:6-9 Pretty awesome how the Holy Spirit was such a part of Paul and Silas' plans. They had an idea - and the Holy Spirit prevented and directed. So -- when things don't work out, it's all part of His plan, even tho it might not be part of our plan. Here comes the abandonment to His will and living in His presence, right?
I love how P and S -- went to the river. They didn't see the people they were looking for, so they just sat down and started chatting with the women there -- and lo and behold, found an open heart for their message! If we're willing to be used by Him, He will use us (I'm talking to me here!)
Power in music! Paul and Silas decided to witness even tho they were in the pit of the jail! How? Singing!! The other prisoners listened, the jailer listened - pretty awesome story!
and Paul's message: 16:31 "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household -- then they shared the word of the Lord". So there was teaching & belief - - I guess the Jailor had to know what he was believing before he could make his decisions! That is why I think it is important to read the Bible and study stuff out - not just take someone elses ideas.
It says twice in Acts 15 to abstain from food sacrificed to idols. I'm not sure if you guys are aware that Costco, Whole Foods and Subway and other grocery stores are selling food sacrificed to idols and the packages are marked with specific symbols saying so. This makes it easy for Christians to avoid these products, but many Christians aren't even aware of Biblical principles.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.wnd.com/?pageId=255825
In Chapter 16--Paul sets a slave girl free (from demons) and ends up in prison himself. Satan always uses these tactics--but Praise God--Jesus always wins in the end.