As I continue to reflect on my past week in the mountains and at the beach - something becomes clear... This recession is hard to find in some places. While out on the boat going up the inter coastal waterways, a place where Carols mom and dad spent a lot of time on their boat, it is amazing to see the $$ going up and down and on the coastline. I often wonder what these folks do for a living, what kind of business do they own or what paths in life they have walked. These are all things that come to mind about my post yesterday - we can't take it with us but in the same breath - did we ruin our chances to invest in family, friends, church, our children to obtain such possessions and things.
I am reminded in Psalm 106:36 for just one reminder in Gods word: 36 They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them.
Sure it takes such a big investment of our time, energy and passion to obtain such things in this life but at what costs?
I am reminded by a few things from an email yesterday and I want to share them now. Great email Carol and thanks for sharing!
~Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your Friends and parents will
~Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone
~Its OK to get angry with God. He can take it
~Its OK to let your children see you cry
~Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
~No one is in charge of your happiness but you
~Believe in miracles
~God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
~Your children get only one childhood
~All that truly matters in the end is that you loved
~Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need
~The best is yet to come
~Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift
Our church Student/Youth camp is starting next week. I am especially pumped for what God is going to do through our kids and our leaders. I am especially pumped to be investing a LOT of myself into my team of kids and those 7 kids that Carol and I are hosting for the week. It should prove to be an awesome week on many fronts. These kids have different strides in life, have struggles and experiences and I look forward to molding them together in unity for Gods purpose for them. I especially am praying hard for their return home knowing that their families are important and their parents, especially dads, leadership for them. If dad is not there - then my role is that role.... I accept that and pray it honors Jesus in doing so.
In the end we each matter .... its personal .... its special. Things don't fulfill us and make us happy but having each other will do that and all through the love that Jesus has for us as He is the example of what Love is for each of us. Our sins put Him on the cross and He came to complete us. Life is not meant to do it alone - reach out loved ones..... there is someone who needs you. A daughter, son, family member, mom or dad, uncle/aunt, church friend, coworker or someone elses son or daughter who you have influence in their lives......
These are the big investments........
Humbled today and thankful for what the Lord has blessed me with - You.
Lonnie~
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
A fresh start ...
It is good to be back. I basically left everyone - hanging up my keyboard and laptop and basically unplugged. Wow it was weird the first day or 2 but then it was ok. I enjoyed the time I would normally be online, checking email, writing on this blog, reading other blogs and of course facebook. It was a good and much needed time to unplug and unwind from the technology world we live in today. I basically did not even watch much TV.
Vacation was good with time spent with friends to start the weekend off - family with Bob and Katie coming into town from Penn until Thursday and then finishing up the week at the beach with a great family. I for sure got too much sun on my face, played too hard, enjoyed good food and fun and slept like I have not done in years. Usually it takes me days to unwind but this past week was much different. I was content where I was, when I was and who I was and who I was with. Life is good....
First day back to work this morning had me hitting the snooze button - no time for breakfast and really wanting to unwind into a good cup of coffee. I am thankful for my job and once here it was ok. Groove will be back tomorrow.
Have a meeting now so I am off here. I am just feeling very blessed with the people in my life and the people that look to me for guidance, advise, council and for showing them the practical love of Jesus. It is because of Him - I am where and who I am today.
I will leave you with 1 Timothy 6 today ....
6But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
More tomorrow about this.
Love and peace always and bless the peacemakers in our families~
Lonnie
Vacation was good with time spent with friends to start the weekend off - family with Bob and Katie coming into town from Penn until Thursday and then finishing up the week at the beach with a great family. I for sure got too much sun on my face, played too hard, enjoyed good food and fun and slept like I have not done in years. Usually it takes me days to unwind but this past week was much different. I was content where I was, when I was and who I was and who I was with. Life is good....
First day back to work this morning had me hitting the snooze button - no time for breakfast and really wanting to unwind into a good cup of coffee. I am thankful for my job and once here it was ok. Groove will be back tomorrow.
Have a meeting now so I am off here. I am just feeling very blessed with the people in my life and the people that look to me for guidance, advise, council and for showing them the practical love of Jesus. It is because of Him - I am where and who I am today.
I will leave you with 1 Timothy 6 today ....
6But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
More tomorrow about this.
Love and peace always and bless the peacemakers in our families~
Lonnie
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Shoulders.....
I have had such a peace about me the last day or so. Trying to work out a deal with replacing the family vehicle, making the decision to trade in a vehicle that I have always wanted and have had for the last 6 months or so - as well as parting with something that belonged to Carol's dad. It was a tough decision choosing what is best for my family and not what feels good and what I wanted. If I had to get the old van fixed - fine. If I got the deal I wanted to get the new van - fine. Its in Gods hands and that is where I placed it. He is in control..... and I realize that this is all part of my story.
See loved ones, we each have a story. Our lives share that story with others. What we do for a living, how we lead and raise our families, where we live, how we treat people, how we adjust to struggles and we even have a story when it comes to God. How we come to a place where we decide to follow Him or continue to reject Him.
I am reminded by a scripture in Romans 10:14
14How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
I have been talking the last few days about the grip that God has on you and how folks who have been walking with Jesus have fallen off and are walking alone now. That really does break my heart but what also breaks my heart is the dear ones who we continue to pour into every aspect of their lives and they continue to follow their paths. They have their fingers in their ears so they can't hear like little children. They continue to fall and scrape their knees and cause so much drama. Is that the story for them? Is there a better story? The hope of the world does not rest on your shoulders, but the hope of someone does. Sharing your story is part of a big step forward. As I look around and see so many struggling it is deep in my heart to continue to reach them. My story as an example that God has the shoulders to carry them. When life is hard - don't unplug but PLUG IN. Do the things that allow you to grow in your understanding of God. Even if you are mad and confused - His grace and love will shine through it. As I said in an earlier post - the longer we are away from God and the things of Him (church, small group, quiet time, godly friends) the harder it is to hear, to see, to feel, to know and to experience Jesus.
God uses all kinds of people with all kinds of issues and struggles ... to expand and glorify His kingdom. He can use you right where you are right now. In that place .......
Surround yourself loved ones, feel the encouragement, feel the prayers, listen with open ears, a loving heart and an open mind - share your story. I bet someone listens.......
Who is on your shoulders?
Lord I pray for those who are struggling today. I pray for that person or persons who are walking along side someone today who need direction and encouragement. I ask that You give them encouragement and strength Lord to continue to carry the load. I pray for the person with closed ears who is walking their paths Lord, that they may hear, that they may see, and that they may feel what is around them. I pray that not only are they preaching your word Lord but also living Your word. I pray that Your light shines for others to see who You are and just how big Your shoulders are. Carry us Lord, lift us through those tough places we are in today so that we can build our lives around You. Help us to focus in and stay plugged in and doing the things to keep us walking on Your paths Lord. Surround us in every direction... take our hearts, our minds and our souls. Lord You are MIGHTY to save - You can move our mountains. Help us with our stories Lord.... may they be stories that glorify You and Your son Jesus. Its in His mighty name I pray, Amen
Love you all~
Lonnie
See loved ones, we each have a story. Our lives share that story with others. What we do for a living, how we lead and raise our families, where we live, how we treat people, how we adjust to struggles and we even have a story when it comes to God. How we come to a place where we decide to follow Him or continue to reject Him.
I am reminded by a scripture in Romans 10:14
14How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
I have been talking the last few days about the grip that God has on you and how folks who have been walking with Jesus have fallen off and are walking alone now. That really does break my heart but what also breaks my heart is the dear ones who we continue to pour into every aspect of their lives and they continue to follow their paths. They have their fingers in their ears so they can't hear like little children. They continue to fall and scrape their knees and cause so much drama. Is that the story for them? Is there a better story? The hope of the world does not rest on your shoulders, but the hope of someone does. Sharing your story is part of a big step forward. As I look around and see so many struggling it is deep in my heart to continue to reach them. My story as an example that God has the shoulders to carry them. When life is hard - don't unplug but PLUG IN. Do the things that allow you to grow in your understanding of God. Even if you are mad and confused - His grace and love will shine through it. As I said in an earlier post - the longer we are away from God and the things of Him (church, small group, quiet time, godly friends) the harder it is to hear, to see, to feel, to know and to experience Jesus.
God uses all kinds of people with all kinds of issues and struggles ... to expand and glorify His kingdom. He can use you right where you are right now. In that place .......
Surround yourself loved ones, feel the encouragement, feel the prayers, listen with open ears, a loving heart and an open mind - share your story. I bet someone listens.......
Who is on your shoulders?
Lord I pray for those who are struggling today. I pray for that person or persons who are walking along side someone today who need direction and encouragement. I ask that You give them encouragement and strength Lord to continue to carry the load. I pray for the person with closed ears who is walking their paths Lord, that they may hear, that they may see, and that they may feel what is around them. I pray that not only are they preaching your word Lord but also living Your word. I pray that Your light shines for others to see who You are and just how big Your shoulders are. Carry us Lord, lift us through those tough places we are in today so that we can build our lives around You. Help us to focus in and stay plugged in and doing the things to keep us walking on Your paths Lord. Surround us in every direction... take our hearts, our minds and our souls. Lord You are MIGHTY to save - You can move our mountains. Help us with our stories Lord.... may they be stories that glorify You and Your son Jesus. Its in His mighty name I pray, Amen
Love you all~
Lonnie
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Struggle...
Decisions ... Decisions. They are tough sometimes. I had a moment last night while swimming with Kyle to talk about decisions. As the leader of the family, something he will be one day, we must make wise and sound decisions. We can't always base a decision on our feelings or even with what we WANT to do. Sometimes we have to make decisions to do what is best for the family. I don't ever remember a conversation like that growing up. If it did happen - sorry pops - I just don't remember them :) - but I do have to say that money and debt is such an important thing to understand - especially when it comes to our kids and the lessons we are teaching them even as we practice and teach them how we handle money, finances and debt. These things have such a huge impact on our lives.
After much prayer and council from others - I am moving forward with a decision and one that if it works out will be a good long term decision. In my quiet time this morning I am in Jeremiah 29. It is speaking about the children of God (Israel) being in exile.
7 And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 14 I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes.
Exile is defined by dictionary.com:
1. expulsion from one's native land by authoritative decree. 2. the fact or state of such expulsion: to live in exile. 3. a person banished from his or her native land. 4. prolonged separation from one's country or home, as by force of circumstances.
So many of us are in a place in our lives where we are in exile. We are basically in a place where we don't want to be. Either it is from some poor choices or by something else that has caused us to be where we are today like sickness, loss of a business or job. We are wandering and looking for directions. Our lives are not so much in exile from our home country but is more like our exile in being alone as we struggle with finding a new job, getting our life back together, saving a marriage, getting out of debt; basically overcoming the circumstances that we are facing today. Its not right that most Americans run thousands and thousands on their credit cards. Debt controls them and keeps them a slave to the lenders. They can't give the way they want to, they can't help that family, they can't invest like they need to because they are trapped and in exile - slaved to the lenders.... credit cards, mortgage company...etc.
So many times we must make decisions based on what is right and what is best ~ NOT what we want or what we feel.
Debt controls your freedom loved ones. It presses down the ceiling of life..... and we feel its weight don't we?
Lord I pray today for wise and sound decisions. I pray for those around me to seek Your council as I am seeking it. I pray for those decisions to be worthy of praise and honor for you. I pray that Your hands guide us in the decisions ahead. Help us have the wisdom to do what is right and not what we feel or want to. Sound choices Lord as we seek the long term gain and not the shortsighted gain that turns into a loss. I pray these things in your sons name, Amen
After much prayer and council from others - I am moving forward with a decision and one that if it works out will be a good long term decision. In my quiet time this morning I am in Jeremiah 29. It is speaking about the children of God (Israel) being in exile.
7 And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. 14 I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes.
Exile is defined by dictionary.com:
1. expulsion from one's native land by authoritative decree. 2. the fact or state of such expulsion: to live in exile. 3. a person banished from his or her native land. 4. prolonged separation from one's country or home, as by force of circumstances.
So many of us are in a place in our lives where we are in exile. We are basically in a place where we don't want to be. Either it is from some poor choices or by something else that has caused us to be where we are today like sickness, loss of a business or job. We are wandering and looking for directions. Our lives are not so much in exile from our home country but is more like our exile in being alone as we struggle with finding a new job, getting our life back together, saving a marriage, getting out of debt; basically overcoming the circumstances that we are facing today. Its not right that most Americans run thousands and thousands on their credit cards. Debt controls them and keeps them a slave to the lenders. They can't give the way they want to, they can't help that family, they can't invest like they need to because they are trapped and in exile - slaved to the lenders.... credit cards, mortgage company...etc.
So many times we must make decisions based on what is right and what is best ~ NOT what we want or what we feel.
Debt controls your freedom loved ones. It presses down the ceiling of life..... and we feel its weight don't we?
Lord I pray today for wise and sound decisions. I pray for those around me to seek Your council as I am seeking it. I pray for those decisions to be worthy of praise and honor for you. I pray that Your hands guide us in the decisions ahead. Help us have the wisdom to do what is right and not what we feel or want to. Sound choices Lord as we seek the long term gain and not the shortsighted gain that turns into a loss. I pray these things in your sons name, Amen
Monday, June 29, 2009
Heavenly Arms.....
What a great weekend. Carol and I got to have a few friends over on Friday night. Out on the deck over some burgers and dogs.... with tunes playing. It was great to get to know some new families that have been on my heart for months now. It was good to get a chance to talk, have some fun and just enjoy each others company. It really was a great evening and a MUST to have happen again. My dad and his girlfriend came to visit on Saturday. We got to see dad bowl down in Matthews and enjoyed a meal out afterwards. It is always good to see them - It makes me smile knowing that dad is smiling again. He looks happy and that makes me happy. He has been through a lot with the passing of my mom even after 3 years ... that pain never leaves our hearts. Yesterday we were at church. Skipping a week is just an odd place for us since that does not happen all that much - but one thing is for sure - the longer that you are away... the easier it is for the excuses to take priorities. When you are in tune with God and what He is doing in your life, when you are surrounded by people who are also walking with God and when you have a clear vision and direction towards God over your life... it is easier to keep your walk going. Once away for some time .... some disconnection .... it is easy to lose the vision. I guess that is why backsliding is something that happens even to the most connected and plugged in followers of Christ. If it can happen to them it can happen to anyone.
I have several friends who have lost touch with church or who have dropped out and seem to have lost their step with Jesus. Maybe their faith is being tested in different ways or they are questioning if God is even there. Why would he not be? He was with you when things were good ... maybe you just did not notice because you were wrapped up in YOUR life and things. But now that things are hard... He is still there.
So the question is - How much of a grip does God have on you?
One of the darkest places in my Christian experience is the grief I feel over Christians who quit—those who used to be in the race and stretching for the tape with their whole hearts. What happened and why did they pack it in? I've heard it said that "the crisis of life reveals something that has been happening for a long time." In the case of AWOL Christians, I believe that is true. We tend to focus on the shock of the tire blowing out, but in reality there were a lot of maintenance issues that preceded the flashing lights and flares by the side of the highway. That same grief is felt when I see people walking out of church. I see it when they don't come anymore but knowing that God is doing something in and through their children. I see it when they leave because the church doesn't fit them anymore or they don't like the music or something that was said from the stage. I often remind myself that this is GOD we are talking about! How can I not come to church because I don't like the style or it doesn't fit my schedule or I need to take Jr. to the ballgame or whatever. How much grip does God have over your life?
There were a lot of folks missing from church yesterday. I can't help but to notice some of the people who I really pour a lot of energy and passion into when they are not there. I miss them, I miss their connection but more importantly - there is something there that God wanted them to know and they didn't hear it...they didn't get it ... a missed opportunity.
Too many of us are on the side of the road with a blow out. Sidetracked and sidelined. I have to take the van in to get the check engine light serviced. It will cost some $$ but it will be much cheaper than something new or newer. Our life is like that check engine light .... something is wrong but sometimes we dont know what the problem is but many times we have an idea. We sometimes even know exactly what it is. Get to the problem loved ones. Quite doing the same ol things over and over again with the same results. I don't want to leave you on the side of the road, stranded and idle. This passion compels me. It keeps me very honest and humble before God. How about you? Are you running a good race? Does weariness threaten your faithfulness? C'mon, run along side me for a while—I want to show you the phenomenal work that God is doing—not just a long time ago, but in our world today and potentially in our hearts through the summer. The reminder will keep us on track. Are you with me?
Many of us start ....and some don't finish.
I am reminded about a song from 33 Miles - "Come with me"
looking for/You can't see it anywhere anymore
You've been knockin' downfences just to find it
Seems no matterhow hard you try
You can't fill thevoid you have inside
With anythingthe world says is enough
You know that it will never be enough
Come withme
And I will show you Jesus
And Hewill give you more than you could ask or imagine
Come with me
If you're lookin' for a Savior, If you're lookin'for a friend
I know someone you should meet
So come with me
Come with me
Tired of everyday being just another day
You can't take it anymore anyway
You've done everything in your power To change it
Seems no matter howmuch you do -Well all your plans keepfalling thru
You need wings to get you off the ground
For every time theworld has let you down
Chorus
I'm notclaiming to hold all the answers ButI'm holdin' on to the One who does
Come with me and I will show you Jesus
Come with me and Iwill show you Jesus
I have several friends who have lost touch with church or who have dropped out and seem to have lost their step with Jesus. Maybe their faith is being tested in different ways or they are questioning if God is even there. Why would he not be? He was with you when things were good ... maybe you just did not notice because you were wrapped up in YOUR life and things. But now that things are hard... He is still there.
So the question is - How much of a grip does God have on you?
One of the darkest places in my Christian experience is the grief I feel over Christians who quit—those who used to be in the race and stretching for the tape with their whole hearts. What happened and why did they pack it in? I've heard it said that "the crisis of life reveals something that has been happening for a long time." In the case of AWOL Christians, I believe that is true. We tend to focus on the shock of the tire blowing out, but in reality there were a lot of maintenance issues that preceded the flashing lights and flares by the side of the highway. That same grief is felt when I see people walking out of church. I see it when they don't come anymore but knowing that God is doing something in and through their children. I see it when they leave because the church doesn't fit them anymore or they don't like the music or something that was said from the stage. I often remind myself that this is GOD we are talking about! How can I not come to church because I don't like the style or it doesn't fit my schedule or I need to take Jr. to the ballgame or whatever. How much grip does God have over your life?
There were a lot of folks missing from church yesterday. I can't help but to notice some of the people who I really pour a lot of energy and passion into when they are not there. I miss them, I miss their connection but more importantly - there is something there that God wanted them to know and they didn't hear it...they didn't get it ... a missed opportunity.
Too many of us are on the side of the road with a blow out. Sidetracked and sidelined. I have to take the van in to get the check engine light serviced. It will cost some $$ but it will be much cheaper than something new or newer. Our life is like that check engine light .... something is wrong but sometimes we dont know what the problem is but many times we have an idea. We sometimes even know exactly what it is. Get to the problem loved ones. Quite doing the same ol things over and over again with the same results. I don't want to leave you on the side of the road, stranded and idle. This passion compels me. It keeps me very honest and humble before God. How about you? Are you running a good race? Does weariness threaten your faithfulness? C'mon, run along side me for a while—I want to show you the phenomenal work that God is doing—not just a long time ago, but in our world today and potentially in our hearts through the summer. The reminder will keep us on track. Are you with me?
Many of us start ....and some don't finish.
I am reminded about a song from 33 Miles - "Come with me"
looking for/You can't see it anywhere anymore
You've been knockin' downfences just to find it
Seems no matterhow hard you try
You can't fill thevoid you have inside
With anythingthe world says is enough
You know that it will never be enough
Come withme
And I will show you Jesus
And Hewill give you more than you could ask or imagine
Come with me
If you're lookin' for a Savior, If you're lookin'for a friend
I know someone you should meet
So come with me
Come with me
Tired of everyday being just another day
You can't take it anymore anyway
You've done everything in your power To change it
Seems no matter howmuch you do -Well all your plans keepfalling thru
You need wings to get you off the ground
For every time theworld has let you down
Chorus
I'm notclaiming to hold all the answers ButI'm holdin' on to the One who does
Come with me and I will show you Jesus
Come with me and Iwill show you Jesus
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
3rd night of VBS
I am really looking forward to our 3rd night of VBS this evening. Almost ready to roll out and get into action. Hey being Professor Duncan Donut has been fun and having to stop at Dunkin Donuts has been such a treat all this week. I am loving the cold coffee around 5:00 ..... its getting me through. BUT there is something much more - other than the fact a sweet child screamed across the parking lot as she was getting in the van with mom - I love you Mr. Lonnie - it is teaching these kids about Jesus. It is reaching out in love to the families and making smiles all this week. It has been nuts at times, stressful at times but it has been a blast.
I am leaving with a piece of scripture that has been with me all day today. It comes from Proverbs 3:
5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!
I feel more alive than ever, I can't say my bones are vibrating but I can say my heart is. I can remember my mom telling me after a long trip to her house from mine and having 2 hours of worship and praise in the truck ...that I was glowing when I came in. I am feeling that again this week.... so very blessed and so very thankful. God You Rock!
VBS now ... got to roll out.....
Lonnie ~
I am leaving with a piece of scripture that has been with me all day today. It comes from Proverbs 3:
5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!
I feel more alive than ever, I can't say my bones are vibrating but I can say my heart is. I can remember my mom telling me after a long trip to her house from mine and having 2 hours of worship and praise in the truck ...that I was glowing when I came in. I am feeling that again this week.... so very blessed and so very thankful. God You Rock!
VBS now ... got to roll out.....
Lonnie ~
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
2 parts....
VBS was great last night. Carol and our leaders got to touch the hearts of 45 or so kids last night for Jesus. With summer here and vacations and such started...we were missing some great kids but excited about the many new faces. There is nothing like investing in these kids and in their families for Jesus. Can't wait for tonight!
This brings me to a tough place that is in my heart and has been for some time now.
1 Peter 4:14-16
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
We are all suffering to some degree. Some of us more than others but also some are suffering because of their own decisions, their own sins that they have planted long ago and some are suffering because God is shaping our character. Our past is a tough place to look back on. We sometimes continue to relive it and keep an eye on it through that little rear view mirror instead of looking out the windshield to see what is coming. To see what is new and have yet to experience. You know what is insane? Continuing to do what you have always done and expecting to have different results. Over and over and over again ..... up and down the emotional roller coaster. Life has its ups and downs and has its twists and turns. The real question becomes are you going to let life or your past define who you are? Are you going to continue to carry this "thing" whatever it may be around with you? Sometimes our suffering is from our own choosing. The bars are full of people not there to have a good time with friends but are full of people trying to numb life but only finding their struggles still there in the morning.
Who is God in your life? Thats my question today. God speaks to us in different ways. He sometimes grabs us with a powerful wake up call, like a parent who suddenly passes away or a good friend who has no history of cancer is now struck with it. He also uses friends and people who can speak truth to us. We would not build a home without some kind of advise from others and people who can help us right? Who in your life has never failed to help out when called on? Is there a family that you totally trust? Often times we look right over the people in our lives that have the greatest of influence to help when we need it. - God can also use a soft little whisper. He is in the moments ahead of you before you even get there. He is already putting in motion that special someone you have yet to meet. He is already working on that deal that your business needs to stay up and running. But are you listening to His ways or your ways? How big is God in your life?
I am not much for living life in the same 'ol same 'ol. Time is short here and I want to make the biggest impact for Jesus in not only my life but also all those who I am doing life with. The big picture...... Let God draw on your canvas and imagine the bright colors and wonderful tapestry that He is making. He is not done yet.......
Love you all,
Lonnie~
This brings me to a tough place that is in my heart and has been for some time now.
1 Peter 4:14-16
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.
We are all suffering to some degree. Some of us more than others but also some are suffering because of their own decisions, their own sins that they have planted long ago and some are suffering because God is shaping our character. Our past is a tough place to look back on. We sometimes continue to relive it and keep an eye on it through that little rear view mirror instead of looking out the windshield to see what is coming. To see what is new and have yet to experience. You know what is insane? Continuing to do what you have always done and expecting to have different results. Over and over and over again ..... up and down the emotional roller coaster. Life has its ups and downs and has its twists and turns. The real question becomes are you going to let life or your past define who you are? Are you going to continue to carry this "thing" whatever it may be around with you? Sometimes our suffering is from our own choosing. The bars are full of people not there to have a good time with friends but are full of people trying to numb life but only finding their struggles still there in the morning.
Who is God in your life? Thats my question today. God speaks to us in different ways. He sometimes grabs us with a powerful wake up call, like a parent who suddenly passes away or a good friend who has no history of cancer is now struck with it. He also uses friends and people who can speak truth to us. We would not build a home without some kind of advise from others and people who can help us right? Who in your life has never failed to help out when called on? Is there a family that you totally trust? Often times we look right over the people in our lives that have the greatest of influence to help when we need it. - God can also use a soft little whisper. He is in the moments ahead of you before you even get there. He is already putting in motion that special someone you have yet to meet. He is already working on that deal that your business needs to stay up and running. But are you listening to His ways or your ways? How big is God in your life?
I am not much for living life in the same 'ol same 'ol. Time is short here and I want to make the biggest impact for Jesus in not only my life but also all those who I am doing life with. The big picture...... Let God draw on your canvas and imagine the bright colors and wonderful tapestry that He is making. He is not done yet.......
Love you all,
Lonnie~
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