Monthly Archives: January 2015

Who is Sarah in me???

10273498_10152872482697785_4759740883235335450_n 10306086_10152872579252785_3709332042092437188_n 10307200_10152921095957785_5214134257696538820_n 10352415_10152872570037785_57820785466710800_n 10424365_10153046332817785_5166810245314112769_n 10534117_10153035712682785_3149373111854498049_n 10551057_10153035975977785_1329849181222001721_n 10584071_10153041342612785_1766653364807497367_n 10629809_10153111053447785_7211140165111379869_n (1)When WE get words, ideas, or insights, it is important to ask for when He wants them shared. SOmetimes, it is critical, because there are times when He wants to give us a personal one. It may NOT be meant for everyone else, and it is a special gift just from God. Our family that blogs has random titles come to us. Some are for books, movies, or simply titles of an entry. A family that prays together, definitely stay together. A family that blogs together, stays out of the SMOG together. 😉

I believe it was yesterday, that the LORD started speaking to me about this topic. I was reflecting on the story of Sarah and Abraham. Now, THIS is a story I love. As a kid, I thought I understood it. But, NOW there is a whole new level of understanding. Sarah and Abraham had a deep desire. Their desire was for children yes, but they also desired to please GOD. Abraham, just wanted to exist to please HIM, and did. Sarah was worn a bit, by the world. But, she did LOVE Him. There is no doubt about that.

Sarah was given so many promises. Even before she married Abraham, she was promised that the LORD would do much in her and through her. She was used to seeing things happen in front of her. She was not used to just accepting it, from the perspective of TRUST in God.

http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/a/Sarah.htm

This is a profile of her from scripture.

http://christianity.about.com/od/oldtestamentpeople/p/abraham.htm

Here is one of Abraham.

It is interesting to me, how much they compliment each other. Such Heavenly orchestration taking place, because HE loves so deeply for us all.

Now, I bring up this SARAH to also speak about our Sarah. She lived up to her name. This kid shined FaITH. She lived faith in a way that was like SARAH and ABRAHAM infused. It was and still IS inspiring to us.

So who is Sarah in me? Well, Sarah our daughter, in me, is the one who just loves to have fun. But, also, the greatest fun and JOY that can be acquired is through JESUS.  She knew that, and she would tell everyone she knew. So, I am learning to do that too. His command is, “GO and tell the world, what you know.” It is an honor and a gift to do this through HIM. In Heaven our daughter Sarah, is called Sar AH. I really adore that. God sees her as a breath of fresh air. It is beautiful to see things through her eyes. But, I admit it is often a challenge too.

Sarah from scripture in me, is the one that has been taught to want proof of something. IT is the battle that wages within. Faith v/s proof. But, when WE have full and immovable and unstoppable faith, then when the enemy demands proof, WE can REST. Knowing that in time our GOD will provide everything that is needed, and HE alone is our vindicator. I would love to say that the taunting, teasing, and name calling stops, but it does not. Persecution, strange as it seems, is also a gift from God. It let’s us know HE is moving, and that WE are still on the right path.

When I got married, I was given the gift and responsibility of being the head of the house. Now, let me explain this part, because I did not want it. My husband David, was practically an atheist when we first got together. Deep within, HE was very against things of God. This was because HE was exposed to GOD in a pretty harsh way. He was brought up, pretty brow beaten by Christianity. So, because I was in a different place, and knew how to lead, I was a “temporary head.” I am glad I got to have that chance. Because, what I learned was, It is a HaRD job. It is impossible without GOD.

For years into the marriage, I kept trying to push my husband to step up and out. He took baby steps, and it was a HArD time. I cried out to GOD every single moment. His work was HIS God, and HE would indirectly bring HELL into our home. So, one day I sat down with him and explained, He had to be ALL in, or ALL out. It was around 2 years into our marriage. WE had to make this decision together. But, HE had to choose to agree with GOD, by faith. He began to see more of ABraham. I asked D one day, when he became a believer. He said, hard to say. He did say, if He had to pinpoint a time of change, he would say, when we married. I believe THAT is significant.

Because God gave us the GRacE to walk through this process, I have a great respect for the headship position. Unknowing to me, my husband was used to pray me through the challenges. I am going to be really REAL and RAW about something. For years, I loved my husband, but I was NOT in LOVE with him. I struggled with that, because I knew, somehow it was also related to how I was with God. It was NOT until our faith and endurance, as well as loyalty to GOd, was tested, that I and WE began to see just how much LOVE had been sown. It overrode any of the dischord. We both chose HIM and HIS ways, by faith then, and do so now united.

Once, WE took any focus off of us, and put it on JESUS and what HE wanted, WE started to see a BIG change. Now, mind you, this did not completely happen overnight. However, it did and does happen. My husband knows how to be quiet. Thank GOd for that, because when we married, I hated quiet. I was terrified of it. When Sarah Beth was little, I was so taunted about what could happen, that I battled accepting what GOD wanted to be, by FAITH. Because for a while we were unequally yoked, it was a constant surrender process. Even with us being equally yoked, surrender is still the BEST gift we can give to HIM. In our lives WE surrender everything and everyone daily.

In the process of ALL these changes, my husband and I learned so much. We have been given schools of knowledge and wisdom through our time together. Life is surreal, it is most days like a dream for us. Some ask if it is a nightmare. Very rarely do WE endure the nightmare stage any longer, because JESUS has taught us to WAR through REST. There is a time for everything. Looking back on our past, is fascinating, because it is such a whirlwind, tornado, earthquake, and every other disaster rolled into one. Yet, the rainbows stand and WE look forward to the promises as WE dance in the storms. We thank GOD for the gifts a plenty all around us. Not one day passes, where WE don’t appreciate what was, is and will be.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/child_of_god

John 1:12 ESV / 185 helpful votes

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,

Galatians 3:26 ESV / 114 helpful votes

For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.

Romans 8:17-19 ESV / 63 helpful votes

And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.

1 John 2:28-3:10 ESV / 51 helpful votes

And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming. If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who practices righteousness has been born of him. See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. …

1 Peter 2:10 ESV / 44 helpful votes

Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Romans 5:1-21 ESV / 32 helpful votes

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. …

Romans 8:28 ESV / 30 helpful votes

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:17 ESV / 27 helpful votes

And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Romans 12:2 ESV / 23 helpful votes

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 5:8 ESV / 23 helpful votes

But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Matthew 5:9 ESV / 20 helpful votes

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Galatians 3:28 ESV / 19 helpful votes

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

1 John 1:9 ESV / 15 helpful votes

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,

Romans 8:16 ESV / 13 helpful votes

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

John 3:16 ESV / 12 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

2 Peter 3:9 ESV / 10 helpful votes

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

Ephesians 2:13 ESV / 10 helpful votes

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV / 10 helpful votes

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.

Romans 10:9-10 ESV / 10 helpful votes

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.

Matthew 6:1-34 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. …

Psalm 119:1-176 ESV / 10 helpful votes

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! …

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; …

Acts 16:31 ESV / 9 helpful votes

And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Through the STORMS, His faithfulness rains. That is the title of our daughter Ruby’s book. It is fitting to think about Sarah and Abraham. How they began, what they endured. Who is Sarah to you? Who is Abraham? I encourage you to seek the LORD, while HE can be found. Oh how HE LOVES us, and HE is faithful indeed.

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22 days ago, I was led to write this entry prior. I need to be upfront and tell you, it was not an easy entry, and I knew it was unfinished. I prayed asking God when to finish it. I just kept waiting for HIS peace to rise up. But, every corner I was turning seemed to hold chaos, and craziness. Not to mention darkness, and deep discouragement. I would have people tell me how depressed I was. But, the truth is it was NOT depression.

What it was, was like a trip. Every dream would be darker and more complicated than the one before. For those who know about warfare, it was THAT and then some. But, last night my husband, being used and led by Jesus spoke something to me. He said, “Perhaps the point of all of this is to teach you that, even if you don’t feel the peace in the midst of the darkness, it is there. To show you how to be content in the chaos. ”

I am not sure where Jesus ended, and where David began. But, hearing the kindness in the words, really was healing to my soul. In scripture it speaks about nectar of the lips.( Proverbs 16:24 ) Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the mind and healing to the body. I had never had THIS experience in THIS way, with my spouse. Though, I have with Jesus, one on one before. Women, it takes courage to heal. Men, it takes courage to heal. THAT courage can ONLY come from JESUS. It is a gift that we are given, when we agree to do things GOd’s way. The next proverb after this one, speaks of a man’s ways. How, the ways of man lead to death. BUt, the ways of God lead to eternal life. There is a way that seems right to a man and appears straight before him, but at the end of it is the way of death. (Proverbs 16:25)

Something happened, when KINDNESS fell upon my spouse. I had experienced MANY times of darkness with him. But, NEVER had I been so showered by the SON in my spouse. It was like all of the sudden, the clouds parted and all I could see was the SON. Perhaps we need to have those times to draw into Jesus. Maybe it is even a good reminder that it takes a voyage through Hell to get to Heaven. Jesus did not escape this, nor shall we. Because of this ONE moment in time, I was able finally to SEE the fruit of the labor of almost 9 years. Constantly, praying for and with each other, and seeking GOD to remove the pain, was suddenly worth it. But, what WE did not understand was that PAIN is something that must be worked through.

It is the greatest TRAP that there is. PAIN, is a catalyst and a close kin to DEATH. Remember surrendered anything can be made beautiful by the LOVE of GOd. BUt, unsurrendered, and worshipped, PAIN only brings the enemy gain. I say this to share something more. I spoke about Sarah our daughter, and I did not speak about Sarah my mother.

I had a very interesting relationship with my mother. IT was almost as if we were part of each other. According to science, we very much were. I wanted and craved mom’s approval, attention, support and anything she could give me. I looked to my mom as God, in a sense, because I lived in such fear of everything. The reason why is, because it was what I knew. SO, when GOD at an early age began introducing me to faith, it was foreign to me. Yet, IT was like a piece of me that was missing.

So, when my mom went home to Heaven in 2000, I died with her. The child I was, the pain I had buried, died with her. But, God kept me here. I did NOT know why. I did NOT want to be here on earth. In fact, the pain cut so deep, that I was promiscuous, I cut myself, I lived in a prison of PAIN. I indirectly, while preaching GOD served the devil. Why? Because that darkness had become a comfort to me. I was trapped, and yet felt found. But, my heart and my feelings were so mixed up. The only thing I knew that was REAL is that somehow GOd would use every ounce of hurt, pain, and gut wrenching agony for a purpose. I always knew, even in the darkness that Jesus was my saving light.

I lived, in a sense in my mother’s shadow. Much like a preacher’s child, I was a teacher’s child. Everyone knew and knows my family. Especially, in my home town, we were well known, and had an image to uphold. I don’t believe it was a conscious choice, it was more a subconscious training, about not airing dirty laundry. I was the kid, who at a very young age would get consumed by sadness. But, the sadness was never my own. Even when things happened to me, it really was never about me. Yet, everywhere I turned, I was told I was selfish. I kept trying to make everyone happy. I wanted everyone to just get along. My mother did everything she could to be a good mom to me. I needed a lot of LOVE, and I did not understand that ONLY God could give it to me.

In some ways I have become Sarah’s daughter. I have her wit at times, and her smile. I see my body going through changes I recall with her. My mom gave me everything she had, and then there was nothing left. I am grateful for her sacrifices, and I feel sad for what was lost, and at times what has been left behind. But, I do believe that giving these thoughts, feelings, and even memories over to God is a gift to HIM. He wants ALL of us. I have such a strong desire for all of my family to really KNOW God. Not just as a name, or a word, but as a REAL live gift and treasure. I tried for years to carry on what mom started in the family. For years I felt I had failed. As I watched pain after pain come and go, I would question GOd asking why is this happening? I would say, “You promised SO much more.”

What I would hear is this, “MY GRACE is sufficient and my power is made perfect in your weakness.” So, I gift all of it, once again back over to the cross. I give freely all of my relatives, friends, and enemies to HIM. Because, it is no longer a burden I can bear. I choose THIS day to be Sarah’s daughter, and Vernon’s daughter, but also to know that they are not my only parents. That before I look to them, or anyone else for guidance, I must seek the FACE of my KING. I must seek the hand of GOD to hold me, when I can’t feel it, but when I know it.

There is a time and season for everything. Each day, the past must die, but what was GOOD must live. What is GOD must thrive. There is a balm in gilead, and HIS name is JESUS. Who is Sarah to me? Who is Sarah in me? I hope that it is the part of me that clings to FAITH. The part of me that even when I am lying there dying, knows there is a purpose and a plan far beyond me. That somehow and someway, healing will not just trickle, but will FLOW as HIS Love envelops the ashes, and transforms them into something that is of HEAVEN and NOT Hell anymore.

I bring this to you LORD, and I thank you for ALWAYS being exactly what I need, when I need it, and ALWAYS believing in me, even when I cannot connect on this earth. I thank you JESUS, for always keeping your word and promises. You might not always be obvious to others, but I can safely say it has BECOME and IS becoming obvious to me. I give you my heart, my soul, my life. I thank you for giving me life. In Jesus Holy name. Amen

In His Grace and Glory,

E and Fam

 

29 Jan 2015

Erase, Destroy, and Reverse

I was woken around 5am today. I opened my eyes, thankful for another day. Feeling weary a bit, and surrendering deeper. The first words I heard were, “There is ALWAYS something that MUST go.” It has been an interesting few days. WE and I, am thankful for HIS protection, guidance and strength. I am learning a lot. Because, GOD loves me, and you as well. He wants to teach HIS kids.

Yesterday, at a conference I realized something. It is so simple, in retrospect. I got the revelation that our ashes are beautiful, and a gift to God. The places in our lives that are so deep, WE can barely speak, and those thoughts that we dare not even say again, and ALL of who WE are, burned, or shining is so PRECIOUS to God.

Now, I have always known HE loved me, yes. But, ONLY recently did I come to a NEW level of intimacy and appreciation of that amazing LOVE. A place where I can REST in it, and just exist with HIM holding me. Before I fell asleep, I was listening to a song about the KING being enthralled with my beauty. I was reflecting on what God sees as beautiful.

I’m sharing this because to understand what God desires for us, WE need to have more insights on how HE thinks and what HE believes about us. So many focus on “fixing the outside.” What happens as a result, is the inside gets neglected. We can lose weight, gain muscles physically, and many more healthy habits, but IF we are not gifting to GOD the INSIDE, then WE cannot become truly FREE from any type of bondage or captivity.

The fact IS that the GOD who created US desires to ERASE, DESTROY, and REVERSE all the bad, ugly,negative, and EVIL in our lives. Yet how can WE walk in PURE FREEDOM, while rejecting HIS LOVE? The LOVE that truly reaches far past the ends of the earth, is the LOVE of God. It comes in SO many ways. In fact, there are countless ways that God sends HIS LOVE to us.

The LORD is WAY more concerned with your inside, than the outside.

http://www.openbible.info/topics/inner_beauty

1 Peter 3:3-4 ESV / 1,401 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Song of Solomon 4:7 ESV / 1,011 helpful votes

You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.

Proverbs 31:30 ESV / 846 helpful votes

Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Psalm 139:14 ESV / 658 helpful votes

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

1 Samuel 16:7 ESV / 542 helpful votes

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Peter 3:4 ESV / 477 helpful votes

But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Proverbs 3:15 ESV / 438 helpful votes

She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

2 Corinthians 4:16 ESV / 335 helpful votes

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.

Proverbs 3:15-18 ESV / 195 helpful votes

She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 ESV / 187 helpful votes

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

Psalm 34:5 ESV / 171 helpful votes

Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 ESV / 129 helpful votes

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

Proverbs 31:10-31 ESV / 121 helpful votes

An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. …

1 Peter 3:1-6 ESV / 116 helpful votes

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, …

Matthew 6:28 ESV / 114 helpful votes

And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,

1 Peter 3:3 ESV / 101 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—

Matthew 5:8 ESV / 100 helpful votes

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Galatians 5:25 ESV / 71 helpful votes

If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.

Proverbs 31:25 ESV / 71 helpful votes

Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.

Romans 8:6 ESV / 67 helpful votes

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

Song of Solomon 4:9 ESV / 64 helpful votes

You have captivated my heart, my sister, my bride; you have captivated my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace.

Psalm 45:11 ESV / 64 helpful votes

And the king will desire your beauty. Since he is your lord, bow to him.

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 ESV / 56 helpful votes

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; …

1 Timothy 2:9-10 ESV / 50 helpful votes

Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.

Ephesians 6:11 ESV / 45 helpful votes

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

Psalm 139:13 ESV / 41 helpful votes

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.

John 13:35 ESV / 40 helpful votes

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Song of Solomon 2:2 ESV / 32 helpful votes

As a lily among brambles, so is my love among the young women.

Everything must happen first in the spirit. No matter how things appear, THEY always start there. So, it is important to remember WE are spirit beings first. Then, we have a soul and will. Not the other way around. Most often the focus gets skewed. When our focus is on Christ, our spirit becomes ONE with HIS. This happens through surrendering our will and soul to HIM. It is a choice, a VERY important one.

So many WE love dearly are struggling. Some of them know the truth, and for various reasons choose NOT to acknowledge it. Perhaps it is more comfortable living the lies. But, the point is the LIES will kill you. IT is just a matter of time, and the DEATH that comes without holy surrender leads only to eternal DEATH. I don’t know about you, but I would much rather have eternal LIFE.

Today, WE come and choose JESUS, the author and finisher of our FAITH. Today, WE reaffirm what was nailed to the cross, and even things we may have forgotten were there. Thank you LORD for taking our place, kissing our faces, and LOVING the Hell out. It is absolutely the HOLY escalator to Heaven, surrender.

Deep calls unto DEEP. Tears FALL as WE weep. YOU know the way, and WE choose THIS day, to pick up our nets again and  follow you. The enemy will bring no destruction that you cannot undo. WE worship you OUR KING.

As WE are obedient to HIM, HE will rain down Heaven or HELL. JESUS had to endure HELL to get HOME. In this regards, WE are no different. JUst think how much you are loved. It REALLY is overwhelming.

It is NOT too late. YOu can still choose to receive HIS LOVE.

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I honestly did NOT want to post this picture at first. But, I am doing so because I see a FIGHTER in this picture. I see a child who did NOT give up, she chose the way of FAITH, and RAN her race practically flawlessly, through Jesus. I see her in this photo, as asleep to the world and awakening MORE to Heaven. I am so honored that GOD loves her and us so much. Instead of sadness, when I see this picture it reminds me of COURAGE.

It absolutely takes courage to heal. It takes courage to BE REAL, and to FEEL at times. This child had nothing but HEAVEN in her when she went home. She took leaps of faith, every single day. I guarantee, that she still does. I am grateful for the example of JESUS in her. I am grateful for JESUS in David, and JESUS in ALL of our children. I am grateful for JESUS in me too. Without the reconnection, resurrections, and restorations of CHRIST in our lives. Without that, WE could not even breathe.

But, WITH the LOVE of GOD the FATHER united with HIS SON JESUS and the Holy Spirit, WE can REST easy. WE can not ONLY walk in FREEDOM, WE can speak it, and even BREATHE it, by HIS Grace, and in HIS GLORY. We speak forgiveness over those who do not understand, peace and blessings from HEAVEN to fall down. His Light to shine in the darkest places, and more to come and receive the victor’s crown.

http://www.metrolyrics.com/we-fall-down-lyrics-chris-tomlin.html

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy
Holy, holy, holy

We fall down, we lay our crowns
At the feet of Jesus
The greatness of mercy and love
At the feet of Jesus

And we cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

We cry holy, holy, holy
You are holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
Is the Lamb

Read more: Chris Tomlin – We Fall Down Lyrics | MetroLyrics

THIS angel in disguise had more to do elsewhere, and WE have more to do as well. The time has not ended, but A new space in time has been acquired. Let freedom RING indeed! Thank you mighty GOD for keeping our treasures safe. 🙂

“Overwhelmed”

I see the work of Your Hands
Galaxies spin in a Heavenly dance oh God
All that You are is so overwhelming

I hear the sound of Your Voice
All at once it’s a gentle and thundering noise oh God
All that You are is so overwhelming

I delight myself in You
Captivated by Your beauty
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

God, I run into Your arms
Unashamed because of mercy
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

I know the power of Your Cross
Forgiven and free forever You’ll be my God

All that You’ve done is so overwhelming
I delight myself in You
In the Glory of Your Presence
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

God, I run into Your arms
Unashamed because of mercy
I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You

You are Beautiful, You are Beautiful
Oh God, there is no one more Beautiful
You are Beautiful, God you are the most Beautiful

You are Wonderful, You are Wonderful
Oh God, there is no one more Wonderful
You are Wonderful, God You are the most Wonderful

You are Glorious, You are Glorious
Oh God, there is no one more Glorious
You are Glorious, God you are the most Glorious

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/bigdaddyweave/overwhelmed.html
As much as MANY of us feel THIS way about HIM, HE also SEES us THIS way. He is overwhelmed by US. I pray THIS day someone can grasp this. GOD does not desire us to be bound by ANYTHING but HIS amazing and unfailing LOVE. The enemy cannot kill you, if THAT is what you cling to. GLORY!!!!!!!!! Take the LEAP of FAITH, and let GOD fly you into HEAVEN. The view is beyond CLEAR. It is so worth it! It is time for HIM to Erase, Destroy, and Reverse all that is in the way of HIS plans. Will you say yes?
In HIS Grace and GLORY,
E and Fam

 

 

 

 

25 Jan 2015

Wisdom, Retreat, Revelation

1459750_1000080833353916_2915999975910128314_n default-ds-photo-getty-article-69-96-136169256_XS Retreat-Canal-II wisdom wisdom-2Woke seeming a bit more fragile than I am used to. I don’t always know if my pain is mine today. But, I do absolutely KNOW that OUR pain is HIS. If i could always choose to be happy and joyful, I would. In fact, I usually do. I’m probably filled with more JOY than I ever have been. It is not dependent on things, or people. It is dependent on GOD.

I used to always write from JOY. I would not even attempt to do so, unless I was happy, or feeling complete. But, the problem with that is, I was basing it on emotions. I was not totally aware of that. But, am learning that GOD has called us to feel yes, but not be overcome by the feelings. Deeper levels of surrender. So much happening that is so tough to understand, or make sense of, in our world we live in.

Sometimes we must express from sorrow. Sometimes we CRY. No one is happy 100% of the time. Even God experiences what we do. He loves us so much, that He sent HIS son to walk through it all with us. Let’s take a look at the fruits of the spirit. Our emotions need to be grounded in HIS LOVE.

Galatians 5:22-23 Amplified Bible (AMP)

22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,

23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [[a]that can bring a charge].

We’ve experienced some very difficult personal circumstances. But, do not keep focus on those. Like most, the enemy tries hard to distract us. Sometimes it appears to work, all be it temporarily. 😉 What ultimately happens is MORE surrender. Why? Because it is probably the greatest gift we can give to God.

It takes Wisdom from God to stay surrendered, to swim deeper into HIS world. Retreat from THIS world is also required. He says, “You must hate the world.” Now, that does not mean the people in it. It refers to the things of the world. Revelation arrives with more intimacy with God. If you desire more to know about your homeland, ASK.

Proverbs 24 Amplified Bible (AMP)

24 Be not envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them;

For their minds plot oppression and devise violence, and their lips talk of causing trouble and vexation.

Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

A wise man is strong and [a]is better than a strong man, and a man of knowledge increases and strengthens his power;

For by wise counsel you can wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory and safety.

Wisdom is too high for a [b]fool; he opens not his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

He who plans to do evil will be called a mischief-maker.

The plans of the foolish and the thought of foolishness are sin, and the scoffer is an abomination to men.

10 If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

11 Deliver those who are drawn away to death, and those who totter to the slaughter, hold them back [from their doom].

12 If you [profess ignorance and] say, Behold, we did not know this, does not He Who weighs and ponders the heart perceive and consider it? And He Who guards your life, does not He know it? And shall not He render to [you and] every man according to his works?

13 My son, eat honey, because it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste.

14 So shall you know skillful and godly Wisdom to be thus to your life; if you find it, then shall there be a future and a reward, and your hope and expectation shall not be cut off.

15 Lie not in wait as a wicked man against the dwelling of the [uncompromisingly] righteous (the upright, in right standing with God); destroy not his resting-place;

16 For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.

17 Rejoice not when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles or is overthrown,

18 Lest the Lord see it and it be evil in His eyes and displease Him, and He turn away His wrath from him [to expend it upon you, the worse offender].

19 Fret not because of evildoers, neither be envious of the wicked,

20 For there shall be no reward for the evil man; the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

21 My son, [reverently] fear the Lord and the king, and do not associate with those who are given to change [of allegiance, and are revolutionary],

22 For their calamity shall rise suddenly, and who knows the punishment and ruin which both [the Lord and the king] will bring upon [the rebellious]?

23 These also are sayings of the wise: To discriminate and show partiality, having respect of persons in judging, is not good.

24 He who says to the wicked, You are righteous and innocent—peoples will curse him, nations will defy and abhor him.

25 But to those [upright judges] who rebuke the wicked, it will go well with them and they will find delight, and a good blessing will be upon them.

26 He kisses the lips [and wins the hearts of men] who give a right answer.

27 [Put first things first.] Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home.

28 Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and deceive not with your lips.

29 Say not, I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed.

30 I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

31 And, behold, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles were covering its face, and its stone wall was broken down.

32 Then I beheld and considered it well; I looked and received instruction.

33 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep—

34 So shall your poverty come as a robber, and your want as an armed man.

This scripture is interesting for so many reasons. One reason is 24, is the Biblical number of Royal Priesthood. We are going to focus on just a few verses from this passage.

Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

——— It is the wisdom of the LORD that establishes and builds a HOME. True, on earth and in Heaven, He provides wisdom to ALL who have repentant hearts, and who ask.———

And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

——–Whose knowledge is it? Is it man’s knowledge? NO! It is only the knowledge of CHRIST.——-

A wise man is strong and [a]is better than a strong man, and a man of knowledge increases and strengthens his power;

For by wise counsel you can wage your war, and in an abundance of counselors there is victory and safety.

—–Who makes us strong? JESUS. So, who is strong within? JESUS. It can be tough to find wise counsel in the world. But, the counsel of JESUS never leads us astray.——–

Wisdom is too high for a [b]fool; he opens not his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

——A wise person takes the problems, questions, and ideas to CHRIST.——–

Years ago, WE came to the revelation that the BOOKS we were taught from, carried many flaws. But, the HOLY BIBLE does not. Everything that is in HIS word has purpose. There is healing in HIS word and much FREEDOM resides there. As long as WE receive from HIS word by LOVE and not guilt, it will be a beautiful gift to open each day. It is by His Grace, LOVE, and peace that WE can learn more about Heaven. We don’t have to wait till we die physically to see His wonders. He is making them much more readily available to those who desire to SEE.

Would you rather stay where you are? Or, will you choose to FORGE forward as GOD moves you quickly to a new place? I have been faced with these questions. I have even gone to God about them. There was a part of me getting used to where we are. I wouldn’t say comfortable, but seeing it as a “new normal.” Though, I really do not adore that phrase. Anyway, I was reminded that when we get to a set place, is when God moves us.

That can be tough for many to process. For me, I am still learning to see it as an adventure. Sometimes, like others, I want to crawl into bed, and throw the covers over my head, and just quit. But, I don’t. I choose CHRIST instead. To accept the LOVE and cleansing, however deep God wants to go, is my responsibility and honor. Today, and everyday I ask God to open me up to Heaven. Knowing people may not understand, and likely persecution will heighten, I still have a hearts desire to know about my permanent HOME.

So, are you willing to give UP the comforts of this world? When you do, they are given back after they are surrendered. God cannot help but RESTORE. He cannot help but HEAL. The view from HEAVEN is indeed extraordinary. The battle wages within as well as on the outside. Yet, the WAR is won.

Yesterday I heard a story about a lady in Britain. She is doing a documentary on food, and how it affects people. When she spoke she was mean and cold. All I could think was, “She needs Jesus.” It does not matter how thin, fit, and in shape you are. That is just an outer shell. It matters where your heart is. THAT is the KEY to Heaven. Whom does your heart serve?

In His Grace and GLORY,

E and Fam

15 Jan 2015

What DREAMS may Come?

heaven-and-hell-300x225 5734371007_c47137bc23_z hell_and_heaven__by_mrnikosn-d6a2o6hWhat_Dreams_May_Come_G_01 imagesYears ago, there was a film I watched with this title. Recently, I watched it again, with my spouse.  I was always captivated by the story. I never knew that the reason I felt like that, was because I would participate very deeply. I remember at the time, crying ALL the way through it. I was a teenager, and some would call it hormones. But, there was so much MORE to it than that.

The film tells the story of a family. It is TORN apart by death and tragedy. I remember, even then, saying silently to God, “No matter what comes, I will choose you.” The family experiences both Heaven and Hell. For those who don’t believe in hell, I encourage you to ask God about it. He has shown us vivid images. There is an accident in the movie. The family has to deal with the ramifications. The father does what he can to be strong. But, as the mother grieves, she just can’t come out of the pain. Eventually, another tragedy hits, and then another.

I recall watching this film, and wondering something. I wondered. “Where is GOD in all of this?” I remember thinking how sad it all was. God is eluded to. But, it is distant, and cold. Then, later at the end, the main character goes to help his spouse. It reminded me of how GOD fights for us. He will make HIS bed in Sheol, if we choose to. He LOVES us that much.

So, today I ask this, where are your dreams rooted? Because, that is where they will be birthed from. They can arrive from Heaven or Hades. They can be a blessing, or a hindrance. Are your dreams to help and heal? Or, are the dreams to control and manipulate? Who is the master in your life? Because, if it is you, anyone else, stuff, emotions, or other “mini gods”; then it won’t be coming to you from Heaven.

Not everyone understands our family. We do NOT move unless God okay’s it. Meaning, if God says not to participate with something, we don’t. No matter how man reacts, or what persecution comes, we follow the ways of the LORD. We live and function by and through HIS peace and REST. This means WE do NOT dwell on hell. It means, we live from Heaven and we surrender deeper to our KING each day. This is not done from a place of religion, but relationship. It is accomplished, only through reverence and respect, as well as repentance before our God.

Our lives do not revolve around anything but the Heavenly Father, His son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. We love from a distance, when necessary and are used to people telling lies, blaming us, and criticizing our choices. Why? Because, we will never be greater than Jesus. The closer we get to HIM, the more FIRE we experience.

WE LOVE what was in our life, but we lay it down for the GLORY of God. Because, the fact is, if we don’t then it can hinder HIS plans. WE want to be a blessing to GOD. Some say, that we are a blessing because we exist. That is true, but surrendered repentant hearts, are a GLORY blessing. Those children of God, seek to work, breathe, and move ONLY by His hand and commands. We LOVE what is, and WE LOVE what will be. For HIS faithful ones, good things are coming.

 

http://www.openbible.info/topics/heaven_and_hell

Romans 2:6-8 ESV / 125 helpful votes

He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.

Revelation 21:8 ESV / 95 helpful votes

But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

Revelation 21:1-27 ESV / 78 helpful votes

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

Hebrews 9:27 ESV / 46 helpful votes

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,

Matthew 25:41 ESV / 33 helpful votes

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

Revelation 20:10 ESV / 32 helpful votes

And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

1 Peter 3:18-22 ESV / 26 helpful votes

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV / 25 helpful votes

But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.

Romans 6:23 ESV / 25 helpful votes

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Matthew 25:46 ESV / 25 helpful votes

And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

John 3:13 ESV / 24 helpful votes

No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.

John 14:2 ESV / 22 helpful votes

In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?

Revelation 20:14 ESV / 21 helpful votes

Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.

James 2:20-24 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.

Revelation 20:6 ESV / 14 helpful votes

Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.

Luke 23:43 ESV / 14 helpful votes

And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

2 Thessalonians 3:6 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.

John 13:36 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow afterward.”

John 3:5 ESV / 13 helpful votes

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

1 Corinthians 11:1-2 ESV / 12 helpful votes

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you.

Luke 13:3 ESV / 12 helpful votes

No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.

Psalm 16:11 ESV / 12 helpful votes

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

1 John 5:16-17 ESV / 11 helpful votes

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life—to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that does not lead to death.

1 John 3:2 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

Romans 11:19-22 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.

John 3:16 ESV / 11 helpful votes

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Genesis 19:24 ESV / 11 helpful votes

Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah sulfur and fire from the Lord out of heaven.

Revelation 19:20 ESV / 10 helpful votes

And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.

2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV / 10 helpful votes

So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.

John 14:1 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.

John 6:58 ESV / 10 helpful votes

This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.”

Luke 16:1-31 ESV / 10 helpful votes

He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’

Mark 9:1-50 ESV / 10 helpful votes

And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.”

Matthew 7:13-14 ESV / 10 helpful votes

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

2 Timothy 4:7-10 ESV / 9 helpful votes

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. Do your best to come to me soon. For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

1 Corinthians 5:7 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.

1 Corinthians 1:10 ESV / 9 helpful votes

I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

John 6:53 ESV / 9 helpful votes

So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.

John 4:24 ESV / 9 helpful votes

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Luke 1:47-48 ESV / 9 helpful votes

And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV / 9 helpful votes

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Revelation 22:3 ESV / 8 helpful votes

No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him.

Revelation 21:1 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.

Revelation 3:20-21 ESV / 8 helpful votes

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.

Revelation 2:11 ESV / 8 helpful votes

He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’

James 2:25-26 ESV / 8 helpful votes

And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.

As a child, I thought it would be so fun to have a big house and kids. I remember thinking about how “fun” it would be to have money and stuff. I remember also thinking about “fame” and just how “fun” that would be. Then, I got older. Eventually, I had the big house and kids. I loved them and appreciated them, but when asked to walk away from it all, I did. How was that possible, when most of the world is “drunk” on all this stuff? It is very simple. It had to be done, and it blessed God. The world is amused by “dark culture.” The kids and teens often are enamored by fame, stuff, and money. But, the truth is, ALL of that, is a pathway to evil, and more evil, without JESUS. Not, the jesus the world tries to sell you. Jesus Christ of Nazareth, is the ONLY way, truth, life and LIGHT.

God has always taught us, that HIS ways are so VERY different from the world. That, without the mind of Christ, WE cannot even fathom the ways of God. Life is messy, and often we feel like we want to runaway. But, the ONLY place safe to run to is to God. It is the place, WE will NOT get judged, and we will get loved on. Why do people reject God? Because their dreams are self motivated. Because, they are so afraid that their needs will not get met, and they do everything possible to “Play God” and make them happen. Forgive us Lord.

What dreams are coming from and for you? Are you dreaming of darkness disguised as light? Or are you dreaming of Heaven, and HOPE? Because, whatever you focus on, will eventually arrive. Your heart, soul, mind, and spirit, and emotions are designed to work as one. THIS can only happen when ALL is surrendered to God. Often, God will permit what we think we want, so that when we get what we actually do, we will appreciate it. Remember, it is ONLY a test.

God never fails, He never leaves us of forsakes us, and as LONG as we stay surrendered before HIM, WE will always pass with flying colors. The rainbow is behind the clouds, and I am dreaming of HEAVEN. What about you?

 

 

 

06 Jan 2015

The Glory Gate

When I was told I was going to write this, I was a bit well, out of it. I mean, I could still hear the instructions, but I wondered how? I guess, more specifically I wondered, HOW can I share THIS with the world? My thoughts were, “They already hate me, and pretend they love me, or Jesus in me, so why even bother?” Of course, then I took that to GOD and He had a simple answer. He said, “Because I said so.” I cannot argue with that. What the LORD says goes, must GO!
I was thinking about people that I admire today, and I thought about my mother, my aunt Kay, and my sister Robin Main. But, what I really admire about these lovely ladies, is JESUS. It is how JESUS shines. Words often escape me about certain topics. I know, that may be tough to understand, with my call to writing. But, writing is different. Somehow I have an intimacy with GOD, to be able to put HIS thoughts and perceptions into print. When I speak, sometimes I stumble over what I desire to say.
When I hear others speak, I often prepare for WAR. I have not experienced a wealth of kindness. I’m not saying no one cared, but the tangible LOVE was so often missing. I had to become so broken, that through the unending, undying Heavenly LOVE of God, I could be made whole. You may have heard this in a blog before; HE breaks us down to feed us to the multitudes. Like the feeding of the 5,000, WE are fed to the world. We become nourishment or malnourishment. We can speak LIFE or DEATH.
Sometimes, for various reasons we speak from pain. I don’t like to do that. Sometimes, I have trouble biting my tongue, and hearing the things of THIS world. They hurt my ears. I thought,” I doubt I am the ONLY one who battles this.” I thought about the sisters and mothers I admire. I know, for a fact, they have the same battles. So, why is it so hard to help each other?
Well, what I am learning is EVERY person is a puzzle piece to God’s holy tapestry. It may be a small piece or one that completes a FULL area. But, ever single CHILD is important and has a VERY specific purpose. These ladies, I have seen humbled. My mother often was overlooked so others could succeed. My aunt lost her spouse at a young age, and had children. She later remarried, and has been very blessed by God with lots of LOVE to give, and receive. Robin is used to run a farm, and a ministry. I can GLEAN from them all. In their own ways, they receive the LOVE from GOD and of God.
Part of walking through the GLORY gate is forgetting what lies behind, and running the race. When I look at these amazing Godly women, I see a well run race for each. There were and are times of great difficulty, and opposition, but none of them quit. They surrender to God, but do NOT quit. I thank GOD for the legacy of these Heavenly women. It is honor to be part of the gift of learning from JESUS in them. Even though, my mom went home in 2000, I still learn from her. I hope and pray that what God uses me and our family to do, is a blessing to ALL, especially these precious ladies.
This is not taking the direction I expected. In fact, NOTHING I do through the LORD, ever does. But, what I am continuing to learn is, sometimes and most times the direction HE takes it, is so much better. In the LONG run, it always is. But, that does not mean that it doesn’t hurt like HELL to experience full throttle. I thought about RUTH and Naomi. I truly was reflecting on the story. I could not help but remember it being Sarah Elizabeth’s favorite. These ladies were Ruth and Naomi to me. They still are such a gift, and because I treasure it, I don’t always know what to say. I have always been good at giving and horrible at receiving. Not that I can’t be corrected, but even the good stuff is very tough for me to receive. Why? Because I guess, I just do not understand it.
But, how can WE fathom the GLORY?Even when we enter into it, if we don’t take time to appreciate it, we will MISS the gifts. I had a vision of a pile of dirt. It was just an ordinary pile. On the surface it looked like every other one. But, underneath was buried the most beautiful rare jewel. I believe GOD is saying, under the pain is the wholeness. Also, it takes dirt to fertilize the ground. His GLORY is MESSY. Oh, how MESSY it is. I asked the LORD, “How do people get expanded vision, dreams and more?” He said, “These things come with intimacy in and with me. I require FULL surrender. Half way will not cut it in the KINGDOM of Heaven.”
So, I ask today for you to think about special gifts GOD has given to you. The most precious WOMAN I have ever known is Sarah Elizabeth Sharpe. I know she was 4 days shy of 8 years old. But, TRUST me when I tell you, she knows and knew secrets to Heaven that some will never know until they go through the HOLY gates. Even now, she still is used to LOVE me through things, and to remind me how LOVED I am. She may have been a child, but because of her being an angel, she had insights that others cannot fully even grasp.
I thank GOD for the gifts of HIS children. I thank God for bringing precious Rubies into our lives. I thank GOD for LOVING me and US more than I can comprehend. I am grateful for each fight, hurt, JOY, lesson, gift, blessing, and pain. HE brings the JOY, PAIN, SONSHINE and RAIN. This flower will BLOOM again. Winter will thaw, and FREEDOM will reign. The enemy doesn’t have a prayer with JESUS at the helm. I know this, but sometimes forget. I thank GOD that just as much as He is fighting for me, HE is fighting for HIS other COGS. I thank GOD that victory arrives through LOVE. Sometimes it takes walking away, and just breathing in JESUS to be able to come back and fight again.
The GLORY gate entry requires FULL and consistent surrender. Some never get there until they are home in Heaven for good. A song kept coming to me, as I thought of ALL these women, and myself. As I think about the men who are amazing as well, it still resonates.
This warrior is a child
BY: Twila Paris
Lately I’ve been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I’m amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don’t see inside of me
I’m hiding all the tears

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
‘Cause deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child

Unafraid because His armor is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I’m amazing
Never face retreat
But they don’t see the enemies
That lay me at His feet

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and and cry for just a while
‘Cause deep inside this armor
the warrior is a child

They don’t know that I go running home when I fall down
They don’t know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and look up for a smile
‘Cause deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
Deep inside this armor
The Warrior is a Child

Read more: http://artists.letssingit.com/twila-paris-lyrics-warrior-is-a-child-dcc26pg#ixzz3NJJ9zPnR 
LetsSingIt – Your favorite Music Community
I played this song, shortly before our only child then, took her last breath on earth. I play it now, thanking GOD for ALL the memories, we could have missed. But, WE did not miss them, and each is a beautiful treasure in HIS holy treasure box.
For every single precious moment, and EVERY hug and kiss. I cry, and I thank HIM that the mourning time in many ways is done. Hard to say, but I know the victory is won. He needs ALL of me, even what was. Because, He said so. Even when I do not know, or understand. He reaches out HIS hand, saying please come with me. I died so you could LIVE FREE. I know it is tough,  but think how rough it will be if you hold onto this. You cannot resist release. My captives must be freed. There is responsibility and VERY deep needs. I trust you. I love you MY CHILD. You are a treasure to me, ALWAYS. I am not a little while GOD. I never walk away, I STAY. I never fail, I never falter I just LOVE you through the trials. Because you are mine. My precious one. I know you hurt, and I do too. But, there was no other way. Deep within you always knew. It wasn’t a shock to your spirit, just your flesh. Your heart was prepared, much more than you know. Eventhough you did not want to let go. Now, it is time to love him anyway. It is time to say okay. To no longer speak in anger, and HUG when all hell breaks loose. It will be MY love that conquers, and hangs the enemy with his own noose. My eagles are flying, and no matter what they think. They cannot shoot them down. You WEAR the holy crown, and it will cause defeat. The enemy is terrified, and quaking in his feet. For there is a landslide in the camp of the betrayers. The Heavenly warriors are coming. THEY are dragon slayers. So, be encouraged, because all the hurts will heal. ALL will see how REAL I am. SOon, and VERY SOON. GLORY.
LIVE FREE
http://www.openbible.info/topics/being_a_women_of_god_

1 Peter 3:3-6 ESV / 85 helpful votes

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Proverbs 31:20 ESV / 66 helpful votes

She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.

1 Peter 3:15 ESV / 51 helpful votes

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV / 33 helpful votes

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

Proverbs 31:28 ESV / 32 helpful votes

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:

Philippians 4:13 ESV / 31 helpful votes

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:6 ESV / 31 helpful votes

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Ephesians 5:1-33 ESV / 31 helpful votes

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.

Isaiah 58:11 ESV / 29 helpful votes

And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Ephesians 5:16 ESV / 27 helpful votes

Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.

Psalm 20:4 ESV / 27 helpful votes

May he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans!

Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV / 25 helpful votes

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

Isaiah 40:28-31 ESV / 25 helpful votes

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Ephesians 4:29 ESV / 24 helpful votes

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:25-32 ESV / 23 helpful votes

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Proverbs 14:1-35 ESV / 23 helpful votes

The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down. Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord, but he who is devious in his ways despises him. By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them. Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox. A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies.

1 Peter 3:1-22 ESV / 21 helpful votes

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands,

1 Chronicles 16:11 ESV / 20 helpful votes

Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!

1 John 4:7 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

Psalm 143:10 ESV / 19 helpful votes

Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!

Philippians 2:14 ESV / 17 helpful votes

Do all things without grumbling or questioning,

Hebrews 10:23-24 ESV / 16 helpful votes

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,

Titus 2:1-15 ESV / 16 helpful votes

But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 ESV / 16 helpful votes

Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work.

Matthew 6:33 ESV / 16 helpful votes

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Proverbs 14:1 ESV / 16 helpful votes

The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down.

1 Timothy 6:10 ESV / 15 helpful votes

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV / 15 helpful votes

Pray without ceasing,

1 Thessalonians 5:15 ESV / 14 helpful votes

See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.

Psalm 139:14 ESV / 14 helpful votes

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

Philippians 3:14 ESV / 13 helpful votes

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
images King-of-Glory Who-is-the-king-of-glory
I hope this entry has been a blessing to all who read it. JESUS will put the enemy to flight, and I am going to let HIM. I don’t know about you, but it is TIME for us. The WAR is WON.
In His Grace and Glory,
E and Fam

 

01 Jan 2015

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