It has been a few weeks since really posting something here on "thewalk". Other than Monday sharing a few things, I just have not had time nor have I had the energy to do so. I am somewhat back in the groove though with getting back to work and getting normal sleep again. I feel like in some ways a huge weight off my shoulders knowing Kate is safe, in a place where she is getting help and I don't have to be on red alert all the time. I have some time and energy now to focus on a few things and a few relationships.
As I look back being the leader of my home - I have question my leadership in the home as a husband, a father and spiritual leader over the last year - especially the last few months. How could I even get to this place without God? How could I continue to stay focused and trust when everything seems to be falling apart and maybe even leading in the wrong direction?
As I begin to open my bible the last few mornings it became very clear to me that - get this - every family mentioned in the bible is jacked up. I mean here are families that is part of Gods story to us and they are having the same issues as I am. I am no different.... I have doubts in my ability and in my decisions. I give things to God every single day and plead for Him to help me with this or lead me in that or even help me understand if its in my purpose to understand. Help me trust no matter what Lord that you are in the details and you have promised a good result regardless if it works out in favor for me. Everything has a God purpose and God doesn't waste an experience to teach us something.
It was awesome to get to invest into one of my close kids last week while at the cabin. Miss Anna is for sure one of those leaders that people follow. She is such a great young lady and I love talking about church, youth programs and Jesus with her as well as a bunch of other things. I look forward to having more time to do that again soon. This is a student that gets it. It doesn't take much pouring into and energy into looking forward in life and making good choices... its just easy. I love those kind of relationships with mykids. Even though some relationships are hard - thats ok - they are worth the extra vision, heart sharing and talks that we have. God has a purpose for them and has a high value on them and so do I.
Student ministry is not easy. It has so many ups and downs and places that really require me to stay focused on Christ if I am to make an impact at all. I wouldn't trade it for anything and I know that this season will end too one day but I am going to fight hard for these students, mykids, because my heart breaks for them and loves them all in the same heartbeat.
Moving forward today ... looking around me and seeing who is sticking. I see good things happening and that pumps me up. Glad I am not alone in this journey and that God has given us examples of families and leaders who also have struggled but trusted God with a good result.
Lonnie~
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Just wanted to let everyone know that I have taken some time off the last week or so from blogging and well honestly - almost totally unplugging from the digital world. It has been a great time off, with some much needed rest and time invested in some folks. I have to say that I could not, my family could not, have done and went through what we had to do without the love, prayers and support from so many. We love you all and give our heavenly father all the praise and glory for this as our faith was tested the last few weeks - hope was never lost and by everyone stepping forward and helping with whatever they could to help find Kate and support our family .... Special thanks to Tony Beaver who took time off away from his life and family to go and find Kate at the beach with Carol. I want to thank Bob for driving 2000+ miles in 2 days to be with his daughter and go and drop her at a place where she is now safe. I want to thank the Barbara and Madison for stepping forward and helping me at home with keeping me focused with phone calls, txt messages, facebook posts and WBTV interviews and followups. I want to thank Donna, Morgan and Taylor for coming to stay with Kyle when we were at the beach. I want to thank Pastors Jimmy, Travis and Donnie for their personal prayers as well as leading our church family in prayers. Their personal phone calls meant so much to me and my family during this time. I want to thank our Rock Group for their support, prayers and love and all the students in the flood who reached out to help, pray and worry about Kate. I especially want to thank a few of those students who called me to pray with me and even be at a different worry level for the Batemans during this time.
I dont have words to express the emotions of a lost child and with every phone call brings a skip in the heart, knowing that the news on the other end may not be good. Through all this God is still in control and still has a story to write in each of our lives. With thousands of teens at the beach - finding Kate was a needle in the haystack. God is not done with her story..... Praise God!!
I know Carol this was a tough week for you and the weeks to follow will hopefully bring peace and a comfort knowing we still have Kate and that she is getting the help she needs. Your love for her is amazing and I just wish all kids had this kind of love from someone. Kyle you held it together during all this buddy. You were meant to lead and you showed it that week. You stepped up when you had to and even though you were sad that you didn't get to see Kate before she left - Your influence is not going unnoticed by her. She has written you already from her base camp and you should hold your head up high buddy ... You are leading people all around you in all you do. People want to be around you and take notice who is sticking... they need a light that you shine. So proud of you.
I look forward to getting back to "thewalk" and sharing my journey. I am at work the next week and then some more time off with my family and extended families. I am blessed beyond anything I can comprehend even during this tough mountain we had to climb. Thankful we have so many to help us along that journey.
Joy and peace in your hearts today,
Lonnie
I dont have words to express the emotions of a lost child and with every phone call brings a skip in the heart, knowing that the news on the other end may not be good. Through all this God is still in control and still has a story to write in each of our lives. With thousands of teens at the beach - finding Kate was a needle in the haystack. God is not done with her story..... Praise God!!
I know Carol this was a tough week for you and the weeks to follow will hopefully bring peace and a comfort knowing we still have Kate and that she is getting the help she needs. Your love for her is amazing and I just wish all kids had this kind of love from someone. Kyle you held it together during all this buddy. You were meant to lead and you showed it that week. You stepped up when you had to and even though you were sad that you didn't get to see Kate before she left - Your influence is not going unnoticed by her. She has written you already from her base camp and you should hold your head up high buddy ... You are leading people all around you in all you do. People want to be around you and take notice who is sticking... they need a light that you shine. So proud of you.
I look forward to getting back to "thewalk" and sharing my journey. I am at work the next week and then some more time off with my family and extended families. I am blessed beyond anything I can comprehend even during this tough mountain we had to climb. Thankful we have so many to help us along that journey.
Joy and peace in your hearts today,
Lonnie
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
I am going to do what I am going to do. Thats the hardest part of leading students. Family teens as well - you can role model, speak to them, share your heart, cry over them, pray until you have no more heart left, spend more time with them than my wife, invest countless hours into them - and they still do what they want to do. Regardless of you are anyone else. I WANNA - is those selfish words that just screams "its all about me". Yesterday was such a blurr for me, Carol, Kyle and my Beaver family ... Tony and I searched every avenue we could in reaching out into the community looking for Kate. I have so many emotions right now dealing with this and rightly so - yesterday I was just numb and thinking that this would be over any minute now. But here we are ... a television show in reality. Lost teenage daughter living on the streets in a city far away which she has never been. No money, no credit cards, no ID - she has nothing. LOST- lost in this world and also in the next. God is not in her life - yes going to church but I just dont get it. Forgiveness - I have experienced that because everyone just keeps forgiving me. WHY? I dont' understand that. Kate just doesn't understand the power that grace and forgiveness gives us. We don't deserve it but she has experienced it and wonders about it ... but like many of us - she does what she wants to do and they will forgive... I am good. I wonder what God thinks of that sin we keep doing...knowing that He will forgive us when we come back to reality and ask for it? Its such a sad place to be. We are supposed to turn from our sin knowing that by turning from it - it is removed from our lives.
Living on the streets - teenager - lost. Hurting people all around because of the choices that were made - a WILL that is lived out over everyone elses and to every ones expense. "I am going to do what I want to do."
That is a sad place to be. If you are in this place today - I pray that you look around and see what your decisions are doing to others. If mom and dad have told you "no" and you are doing that anyways - in secret or not - think about that and honor them. If you are doing something in your life that is bringing shame to your family... honor them and turn from it. Change the life direction that you need and align yourself with Christ. Our sin nature pulls us away from that Christ center line in our lives. Many of us are hitting the guard rail with sparks flying thinking we wont go over the edge. No harm from this can come to me or those around me. Believe me - it already is causing harm if that is where you are today. Get to the center line loved ones and align your life with the power and perfect will that Christ has for you.
Nehemiah 9:5-6
"Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. [a] " "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. 6 You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
Such a tough place to be in day 2 of this nightmare. I am trusting you God for a good result in all this mess and pit that this morning brings. I praise your name above all this junk and decisions and personal will over yours. I pray your hand is mighty in the direction that all this needs to take. I thank you for those who are praying for Kate and for us. I thank you for each of them, their hearts, their words and their friendships - brothers and sisters in You.
Amen
Living on the streets - teenager - lost. Hurting people all around because of the choices that were made - a WILL that is lived out over everyone elses and to every ones expense. "I am going to do what I want to do."
That is a sad place to be. If you are in this place today - I pray that you look around and see what your decisions are doing to others. If mom and dad have told you "no" and you are doing that anyways - in secret or not - think about that and honor them. If you are doing something in your life that is bringing shame to your family... honor them and turn from it. Change the life direction that you need and align yourself with Christ. Our sin nature pulls us away from that Christ center line in our lives. Many of us are hitting the guard rail with sparks flying thinking we wont go over the edge. No harm from this can come to me or those around me. Believe me - it already is causing harm if that is where you are today. Get to the center line loved ones and align your life with the power and perfect will that Christ has for you.
Nehemiah 9:5-6
"Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. [a] " "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. 6 You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
Such a tough place to be in day 2 of this nightmare. I am trusting you God for a good result in all this mess and pit that this morning brings. I praise your name above all this junk and decisions and personal will over yours. I pray your hand is mighty in the direction that all this needs to take. I thank you for those who are praying for Kate and for us. I thank you for each of them, their hearts, their words and their friendships - brothers and sisters in You.
Amen
Monday, June 14, 2010
busy weekend...
This past weekend was busy but a great one! Even with the temps hot as the suns surface here in NC - its ok. Friday night was spent with 100 or so folks who came out to the Intimidators game for some minor league baseball. It was a fun time for sure and great fireworks show after the game. Saturday morning was spent moving a great family into their new home. It pretty much wiped me out for the day - Kyle too. We just chilled at pool side trying to stay cool. Enjoyed some time with Madison, Barbara and Tony. I am so very thankful for them and blessed we are doing life together. Couldn't ask for better friends.
They have our back and have been through so much this past year together. God sure knew we would need them with the past year.
I will leave you with Colossians 1:13 (The Message)
13-14God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He's set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating.
Repeating is the key word there.
Good choices begin with good thinking.
Lon
They have our back and have been through so much this past year together. God sure knew we would need them with the past year.
I will leave you with Colossians 1:13 (The Message)
13-14God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He's set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating.
Repeating is the key word there.
Good choices begin with good thinking.
Lon
Friday, June 11, 2010
Thankful Friday~
It has been a busy week for sure. I am thankful for Friday. Last night we got to spend some time at one of my close kids end of year party with a bunch of her friends, pizza and pool. It was great spending time with those students, a few of which I did not know at first but glad I got to, talking with some parents and catching up and also just watching the kids have fun. No issues, no pressures, no details ... just smiles and having fun. It was pretty hard getting up for work this morning though but totally worth it. Might have something to do with that flip on the trampoline but I can't be sure :) - I had a parent this week tell me after getting to know a little about me and watching me calm a 2nd grader who was for sure over tired and having a melt down -remove the tears and bring smiles - I am like the kid whisperer. I had to laugh at that - nobody has ever said that to me before. I am humbled by that comment and give God the praise - He has given me a gift and I am blessed to finally in my life be living out that gift. My heart really is humbled to those around me who God has placed in my walk.
Today I want to share Nehemiah 9:5-6 (New International Version)
5 And the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah and Pethahiah—said: "Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. [a] " "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. 6 You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
God you are amazing and we dont have to understand everything to believe in something. As I look at this past week and the multitude of prayer requests I have been given for others there is one thing Lord that makes me fully aware of .... I know that my prayers in changing a person may or may not change that person but those prayers I pray for them --- change me. How wonderful to know that! I thank You Lord for that wisdom. I can stand in front of 50 students and model to the best I can what following you with my life is about and share with students about dating and relationships not only with you but others and they sometimes do whatever they are going to do. Its hard left standing on the sidelines when you have been left there to watch their story unfold. I must keep my eyes on you Lord, keep my heart humbled and continue to lift what is on my heart in prayer to You. I pray You continue to take these things from me Lord and place them, place these folks Lord, these students and families and the relationships in your will. Protect them all from harm, lead them to the cross Lord always showing Grace. Its through Your grace Lord we can live with a heart that is sinful but seeking You. I am thankful for Friday and I am thankful to be serving You and those around me. May my life be a blessing and praise to You in all that I do. I love you and praise you this day.
In Jesus name I pray,
Amen
Today I want to share Nehemiah 9:5-6 (New International Version)
5 And the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah and Pethahiah—said: "Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. [a] " "Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. 6 You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.
God you are amazing and we dont have to understand everything to believe in something. As I look at this past week and the multitude of prayer requests I have been given for others there is one thing Lord that makes me fully aware of .... I know that my prayers in changing a person may or may not change that person but those prayers I pray for them --- change me. How wonderful to know that! I thank You Lord for that wisdom. I can stand in front of 50 students and model to the best I can what following you with my life is about and share with students about dating and relationships not only with you but others and they sometimes do whatever they are going to do. Its hard left standing on the sidelines when you have been left there to watch their story unfold. I must keep my eyes on you Lord, keep my heart humbled and continue to lift what is on my heart in prayer to You. I pray You continue to take these things from me Lord and place them, place these folks Lord, these students and families and the relationships in your will. Protect them all from harm, lead them to the cross Lord always showing Grace. Its through Your grace Lord we can live with a heart that is sinful but seeking You. I am thankful for Friday and I am thankful to be serving You and those around me. May my life be a blessing and praise to You in all that I do. I love you and praise you this day.
In Jesus name I pray,
Amen
Thursday, June 10, 2010
SUMMA IS HERE!
I am just excited for the kiddo's today. I remember these days in my youth with such great happiness and excitement. Very cool - Both Kyle and Kate did well this year in school. Both with huge adjustments in their lives with attending a new school, new friends, new grade, new challenges ... both made it through the year. Very proud of them both. I am actually looking forward to the change of pace for sure. Time to switch gears, enjoy some bbq cooking, pool time, lake time and picking fresh garden stuff out of my garden... all while enjoying family and friends.
Today I am in Psalm 63:6-8 and I am really excited about the Message translation of this verse.
Psalm 63:6-8 (The Message)
5-8 I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises! If I'm sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection. Because you've always stood up for me, I'm free to run and play. I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post.
Man I am all about the meat. A few years ago I was almost a vegetarian as I was doing my best to get my cholesterol down. I was one small step from that - even though I was lighter in my frame - I was pretty miserable. I wanted to eat.... hamburgers, bbq, steak and other such yummy critters. I wanted that fillet - even though I prolly wont live as long as a vegetarian .. I will be happy, smiling and meet Jesus before you. I got it going on..... so I have meds now and I do enjoy cooking on my bbq grill!!
The verse about the sleep really hits home for me. I have been sleeping good lately so I am not complaining but there are seasons where - sleep is hard for me. I go to sleep easy ... its staying asleep that bothers me. I sleep for a few hours and then wake up... and I am done. Tossing back and forth... getting aggravated as my mind thinks about this or this situation or this person or student.... then prayers and then more thinking. To keep Carol from getting mad - I usually get up and hit my chair. Sitting with the light on - I usually pray and let God know where my heart is and I open His word. Random usually where it opens but usually a good place to be for His words to come to life.
Gods word has always stood up for me. People should know pretty quickly if you are following Christ - by your actions, your tone, your mood, your words, your personality, and even your company... they should just sense something different about you. I do my best to show people around me and in my life Jesus - praying they see Him before me. I do my best to live by those standards. Normal ... no.... Normal Sucks....normal is what society is telling us and its not telling us or our families and kids anything that is much good. SO NORMAL - is out ...do something NOT NORMAL ...... to get a different result. I am all about that...I tell our students in our student ministry that all the time. I pray they are listening..... and our leaders and Pastor is getting through to them.
This walk I have been on with Christ in my life... leading me, teaching me and showing me so much the last few years. I often say I am just hanging on ..... because it has been a ride! The best ride of my life and I know with all my heart... its just getting started and there is SO much more to go.
I'll end today with Happy SUMMA everyone!
I am just excited for the kiddo's today. I remember these days in my youth with such great happiness and excitement. Very cool - Both Kyle and Kate did well this year in school. Both with huge adjustments in their lives with attending a new school, new friends, new grade, new challenges ... both made it through the year. Very proud of them both. I am actually looking forward to the change of pace for sure. Time to switch gears, enjoy some bbq cooking, pool time, lake time and picking fresh garden stuff out of my garden... all while enjoying family and friends.
Today I am in Psalm 63:6-8 and I am really excited about the Message translation of this verse.
Psalm 63:6-8 (The Message)
5-8 I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises! If I'm sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection. Because you've always stood up for me, I'm free to run and play. I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post.
Man I am all about the meat. A few years ago I was almost a vegetarian as I was doing my best to get my cholesterol down. I was one small step from that - even though I was lighter in my frame - I was pretty miserable. I wanted to eat.... hamburgers, bbq, steak and other such yummy critters. I wanted that fillet - even though I prolly wont live as long as a vegetarian .. I will be happy, smiling and meet Jesus before you. I got it going on..... so I have meds now and I do enjoy cooking on my bbq grill!!
The verse about the sleep really hits home for me. I have been sleeping good lately so I am not complaining but there are seasons where - sleep is hard for me. I go to sleep easy ... its staying asleep that bothers me. I sleep for a few hours and then wake up... and I am done. Tossing back and forth... getting aggravated as my mind thinks about this or this situation or this person or student.... then prayers and then more thinking. To keep Carol from getting mad - I usually get up and hit my chair. Sitting with the light on - I usually pray and let God know where my heart is and I open His word. Random usually where it opens but usually a good place to be for His words to come to life.
Gods word has always stood up for me. People should know pretty quickly if you are following Christ - by your actions, your tone, your mood, your words, your personality, and even your company... they should just sense something different about you. I do my best to show people around me and in my life Jesus - praying they see Him before me. I do my best to live by those standards. Normal ... no.... Normal Sucks....normal is what society is telling us and its not telling us or our families and kids anything that is much good. SO NORMAL - is out ...do something NOT NORMAL ...... to get a different result. I am all about that...I tell our students in our student ministry that all the time. I pray they are listening..... and our leaders and Pastor is getting through to them.
This walk I have been on with Christ in my life... leading me, teaching me and showing me so much the last few years. I often say I am just hanging on ..... because it has been a ride! The best ride of my life and I know with all my heart... its just getting started and there is SO much more to go.
I'll end today with Happy SUMMA everyone!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
I am really pumped for our student ministry bible study tonight. (LOL) - we are having a party tonight with pizza, a cool game and some music to kick off the summer. School is out tomorrow and I am sure the students will be all jacked up tonight. Thankful for a few parents coming in to help me - I cant imagine what would happen with just me there.... I may be in the corner all taped up and M&M's stuck all over me. na.... just kidding - we have awesome students.
Anyways - I am trying to decide if I will have a small nugget as it is referred to for the students or just put things in motion and let them have some fun. I do want to leave them with something as one season comes to a close in their life and another opens.
I want to share Hebrews 11:24-26
24-28By faith, Moses, when grown, refused the privileges of the Egyptian royal house. He chose a hard life with God's people rather than an opportunistic soft life of sin with the oppressors. He valued suffering in the Messiah's camp far greater than Egyptian wealth because he was looking ahead, anticipating the payoff. By an act of faith, he turned his heel on Egypt, indifferent to the king's blind rage. He had his eye on the One no eye can see, and kept right on going. By an act of faith, he kept the Passover Feast and sprinkled Passover blood on each house so that the destroyer of the firstborn wouldn't touch them.
Faith is moving forward with God regardless of what we see. Walk by faith as the Jeremy Camp song goes. Even with a life full of luxary and servants and everything handed to him, Moses chose to road less traveled. Often times harder in life but surely harder for Moses when he had everything a country could give him. We often times do the same thing when we switch jobs or move our families across country for a better paying job. Sometimes we move friends in order to jump ship and get with the better IN crowd or select cool group. A few months back we were in a series in the student ministry "To Save a Life" and we often spoke of reaching out to the lonely in our daily walk. Reaching that student sitting by themselves at lunch... speaking nicely to the lady behind the counter at the hardware store who looks grumpy as anything. We just dont know what their story is. I had a student tell me this week that they got upset with a table of students in her lunch room because they were making fun of another student who's family was on food stamps. Many of us are a few paychecks away from that place too and even if we dont have a palace or luxery items that the hollywood stars have - we also have to be thankful with what we do have and not focus on the things we dont. Those things can be taken away in a blink of an eye ... and when we use our money for earthly things...we often times use it to use people. Put your money and luxery things into Gods hands ... help those around you and invest in the kingdom of God - God will use your money far greater than you will.
Anyways - I am trying to decide if I will have a small nugget as it is referred to for the students or just put things in motion and let them have some fun. I do want to leave them with something as one season comes to a close in their life and another opens.
I want to share Hebrews 11:24-26
24-28By faith, Moses, when grown, refused the privileges of the Egyptian royal house. He chose a hard life with God's people rather than an opportunistic soft life of sin with the oppressors. He valued suffering in the Messiah's camp far greater than Egyptian wealth because he was looking ahead, anticipating the payoff. By an act of faith, he turned his heel on Egypt, indifferent to the king's blind rage. He had his eye on the One no eye can see, and kept right on going. By an act of faith, he kept the Passover Feast and sprinkled Passover blood on each house so that the destroyer of the firstborn wouldn't touch them.
Faith is moving forward with God regardless of what we see. Walk by faith as the Jeremy Camp song goes. Even with a life full of luxary and servants and everything handed to him, Moses chose to road less traveled. Often times harder in life but surely harder for Moses when he had everything a country could give him. We often times do the same thing when we switch jobs or move our families across country for a better paying job. Sometimes we move friends in order to jump ship and get with the better IN crowd or select cool group. A few months back we were in a series in the student ministry "To Save a Life" and we often spoke of reaching out to the lonely in our daily walk. Reaching that student sitting by themselves at lunch... speaking nicely to the lady behind the counter at the hardware store who looks grumpy as anything. We just dont know what their story is. I had a student tell me this week that they got upset with a table of students in her lunch room because they were making fun of another student who's family was on food stamps. Many of us are a few paychecks away from that place too and even if we dont have a palace or luxery items that the hollywood stars have - we also have to be thankful with what we do have and not focus on the things we dont. Those things can be taken away in a blink of an eye ... and when we use our money for earthly things...we often times use it to use people. Put your money and luxery things into Gods hands ... help those around you and invest in the kingdom of God - God will use your money far greater than you will.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Challenges - sometimes they do us good and sometimes they really add some weight to us. As this past year has certainly had its challenges - one thing I can honestly say is that I have not lost my words for encouragement. It is something that makes me who I am. I know this, recoginize it and use it to the best of my ability. God has given me this gift and there is nothing like a kind word, a smile or a hug to lift someone's spirit who is down. There is so much to be thankful for even if the world around us is falling down... there is something good that God wants us to focus on even amongst the darkness. I have had it on me the last few days that no matter what - I will seek and find God this summer in all that I am doing. If its talking with a student who just made a major boo boo - I have to seek God in that and focus that student on the good that God has in that situation. No matter if I have a friend who is out of work - I will do my best to seek God and possibly expose an area of his/her character that God wants to show some future employer. No matter if a student has had a terrible year and summer school is in the coming weeks. Seek God and focus on that student to help remove the distractions and focus on giving God his/her best in doing well.
It's hard at times for sure ... but seeking God in those opportunities is a place that I find such joy. People want to come and be lifted - who wouldn't and I know there are times when I need it too and so often - I recieve. Thankful and blessed for those who lift me in prayer and speak volumes into my life.
A few weeks back I sent out some text messages early in the morning to some of our students praying for them over their exams and their day ahead. It was nice getting text messages back saying "thank you" - "I did great on my exam today because of your prayer this morning!" - Parents sending me an email to say "thank you"..... what makes this all very special is the text that I got one morning. Never has that happened in all the morning prayers - A student without prompting .... sending me a text, praying for me, my family and for my day.
Tears as I think about that. What a special student to do such a thing in return. That is owning your faith and living a life with a heart full of love. Jesus smiled that morning for sure :)
Scripture today ... it comes from Ephesians 5:3-5
3-4Don't allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don't talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn't fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect.
5You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.
We should always be the same person all the time. No matter if behind a computer screen, a text message, on the phone, in person, at the mall, in a movie, with friends, parents, schools ... we should always be the same person and never changing our character for any reason. Doing so brings out those different people we all are at times. Some of us more so than others. We should always act like our parents or our Pastors are in the room with us. Jesus is ....... that alone should keep our character in check no matter where our day leads us and who comes along our paths.
Faith and Character = Defining our lives.
Lonnie~
It's hard at times for sure ... but seeking God in those opportunities is a place that I find such joy. People want to come and be lifted - who wouldn't and I know there are times when I need it too and so often - I recieve. Thankful and blessed for those who lift me in prayer and speak volumes into my life.
A few weeks back I sent out some text messages early in the morning to some of our students praying for them over their exams and their day ahead. It was nice getting text messages back saying "thank you" - "I did great on my exam today because of your prayer this morning!" - Parents sending me an email to say "thank you"..... what makes this all very special is the text that I got one morning. Never has that happened in all the morning prayers - A student without prompting .... sending me a text, praying for me, my family and for my day.
Tears as I think about that. What a special student to do such a thing in return. That is owning your faith and living a life with a heart full of love. Jesus smiled that morning for sure :)
Scripture today ... it comes from Ephesians 5:3-5
3-4Don't allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don't talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn't fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect.
5You can be sure that using people or religion or things just for what you can get out of them—the usual variations on idolatry—will get you nowhere, and certainly nowhere near the kingdom of Christ, the kingdom of God.
We should always be the same person all the time. No matter if behind a computer screen, a text message, on the phone, in person, at the mall, in a movie, with friends, parents, schools ... we should always be the same person and never changing our character for any reason. Doing so brings out those different people we all are at times. Some of us more so than others. We should always act like our parents or our Pastors are in the room with us. Jesus is ....... that alone should keep our character in check no matter where our day leads us and who comes along our paths.
Faith and Character = Defining our lives.
Lonnie~
Monday, June 7, 2010
Monday morning. Where did the weekend go? I am thankful this is the last week of school and my family and I can get some much needed rest and that begins with changing of routines. I am really looking forward to this summer even if June is a busy month. I will be leaving in a few hours to head over to Kyle's school. We were informed last week that he has won an award at school and there is an awards cerimony that we will be attending. I am just so proud of him and his leadership, example, love for God, grades and his character - even with a year that has been hard and trying this year for my family. He has rose above all that and has really shined.
This morning I am in a place that Matthew 7:24-27 really speaks to me. No matter what is going on in your life - stand firm and know where your feet are planted. I am thankful to be reminded that God has my footing. Even with all kinds of crap crashing down, trying to knock me over - I can stand tall and withstand all that is being thrown my way. Yes its hard, its hard leading others, its hard being strong for others, its hard to get a call from a parent that is in need of help with their child because they did something or made a bad decision. Its hard to lead someone who doesn't want to be lead. Its just hard this life that we are living but I am thankful for those seasons. Seasons that come and go - chapters of one book so we can close them and begin a new one. Matthew 7:24-27.
24-25"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.
26-27"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards."
One of the things I love about being at the beach is standing in the water's edge with my feet buried in the sand. As the waves come in and go out - the sand buries your feet further and further in the sand. Soon the ankles are covered and its hard to move your feet. Gods word is much like that sand. No matter what is going on above the ankles - the feet are firmly planted. Lord thank You for Your word. Thank You for your guidance and for your endless supply of what we need in this life - and then some. Amen
This morning I am in a place that Matthew 7:24-27 really speaks to me. No matter what is going on in your life - stand firm and know where your feet are planted. I am thankful to be reminded that God has my footing. Even with all kinds of crap crashing down, trying to knock me over - I can stand tall and withstand all that is being thrown my way. Yes its hard, its hard leading others, its hard being strong for others, its hard to get a call from a parent that is in need of help with their child because they did something or made a bad decision. Its hard to lead someone who doesn't want to be lead. Its just hard this life that we are living but I am thankful for those seasons. Seasons that come and go - chapters of one book so we can close them and begin a new one. Matthew 7:24-27.
24-25"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.
26-27"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards."
One of the things I love about being at the beach is standing in the water's edge with my feet buried in the sand. As the waves come in and go out - the sand buries your feet further and further in the sand. Soon the ankles are covered and its hard to move your feet. Gods word is much like that sand. No matter what is going on above the ankles - the feet are firmly planted. Lord thank You for Your word. Thank You for your guidance and for your endless supply of what we need in this life - and then some. Amen
Sunday, June 6, 2010
I didnt take the chance yesterday to update the devotion yesterday so I am playing catch up. Its ok to miss a day or not get the chance to get to it - just pick up again where you left off, ask God to give you a path to free up some space and then get right back on it.
It reminds me of a time when I was a kid and my little brother and I had this dirt bike. We took turns riding it and enjoyed a few summers riding it in the woods behind my parents house. It was like 20 extra backyard acres and to a kid - that is heaven. Room to play, build forts, dig holes, play capture the flag, climb trees... every kid should be so lucky. After riding the dirt bike for some time and not hurting yourself, you have a tendency to become over confident. It happens - so one time riding on the self made track we had constructed - I hit the turn at about 45 and then proceeded to the jump. I hit the jump faster than I had ever hit it before and through the air I flew. Not being experienced on a dirt bike that flies ... I over compensated, went over the handle bars and then onto the ground. Flat on my back, bike landing on me and with no helmet. Hey we didnt have helmets back then :) - Anyways -amazed I was not hurt, just pride bruised and a bike that didnt work any longer - I swore I would not get back on one. It has only been recently that I have. It was scary at first and reliving that wreck sure was vivid in my memory even after all these years. Sometimes we just have to get right back to it. So if you have been away from God, maybe a few seasons of time have passed since you last spoke with our heavenly father... just get back on that bike loved ones and pick up where you left off. You will be glad you did and that first step is usually the toughest to make.
I want to share - Psalm 119:9-11 today.
9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Keeping a heart that is pure is such a tough thing to do at times. This afternoon in the Flood, Our student Pastor challenged the students to do what it takes to put safe guards into their lives. Dont be tempted by the cell phone in the late hours when our guard is down. Watch what we say on facebook, remove the TV from the bedroom - get help from a parent or trusted friend to hold you accountable. I was really challenged with those words that were shared today - it has me fired up this afternoon because there are many sitting in those seats that are being tempted, choosing poorly or selfishly, and living the lie that this world offers them. Loved ones, living a pure life before Christ is hard. Its not the normal - normal sucks! Its time to take steps forward in your faith, your trust in Jesus and put those things - those people - in your lives to help you succeed and to live a life above all the noise.
As the saying goes - choose to sin - choose to suffer. I will be asking the question tonight at rock group and I will challenge you here.
What is the difference between a mistake and a sin? define both of them and then share with me the difference. Share that with your children and then challenge them in that discussion.
Can't wait to hear from you.
Lonnie
It reminds me of a time when I was a kid and my little brother and I had this dirt bike. We took turns riding it and enjoyed a few summers riding it in the woods behind my parents house. It was like 20 extra backyard acres and to a kid - that is heaven. Room to play, build forts, dig holes, play capture the flag, climb trees... every kid should be so lucky. After riding the dirt bike for some time and not hurting yourself, you have a tendency to become over confident. It happens - so one time riding on the self made track we had constructed - I hit the turn at about 45 and then proceeded to the jump. I hit the jump faster than I had ever hit it before and through the air I flew. Not being experienced on a dirt bike that flies ... I over compensated, went over the handle bars and then onto the ground. Flat on my back, bike landing on me and with no helmet. Hey we didnt have helmets back then :) - Anyways -amazed I was not hurt, just pride bruised and a bike that didnt work any longer - I swore I would not get back on one. It has only been recently that I have. It was scary at first and reliving that wreck sure was vivid in my memory even after all these years. Sometimes we just have to get right back to it. So if you have been away from God, maybe a few seasons of time have passed since you last spoke with our heavenly father... just get back on that bike loved ones and pick up where you left off. You will be glad you did and that first step is usually the toughest to make.
I want to share - Psalm 119:9-11 today.
9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
Keeping a heart that is pure is such a tough thing to do at times. This afternoon in the Flood, Our student Pastor challenged the students to do what it takes to put safe guards into their lives. Dont be tempted by the cell phone in the late hours when our guard is down. Watch what we say on facebook, remove the TV from the bedroom - get help from a parent or trusted friend to hold you accountable. I was really challenged with those words that were shared today - it has me fired up this afternoon because there are many sitting in those seats that are being tempted, choosing poorly or selfishly, and living the lie that this world offers them. Loved ones, living a pure life before Christ is hard. Its not the normal - normal sucks! Its time to take steps forward in your faith, your trust in Jesus and put those things - those people - in your lives to help you succeed and to live a life above all the noise.
As the saying goes - choose to sin - choose to suffer. I will be asking the question tonight at rock group and I will challenge you here.
What is the difference between a mistake and a sin? define both of them and then share with me the difference. Share that with your children and then challenge them in that discussion.
Can't wait to hear from you.
Lonnie
Friday, June 4, 2010
Happy Friday!
I have been really digging this daily devotional Bible study that I have been doing with one of my "Pauls" and with one of my "Timothy's". Today is especially awesome but first let me just share that its Friday! I am headed to Kyles old school - Harrisburg Elementary School - to have lunch with one of my 2nd grade kids. First time this year stepping foot in the school. It should be awesome seeing all the students that I know as well as the teachers that I have made lasting friendships with. Sad some of them will be moving to the new school next year so this snapshot in time today - will be one I will remember with the way it was when Kyle and so many of his peeps were there! That makes me smile...... and sad all at once.
Yesterday I was at Walmart and picked up a couple garden hoses because somewhere in the messy part of life I have lost my garden hose that I used out front. I specifically use that hose for washing the vehicles, something I don't do much anymore since I don't have time and well - its just a pain to move the hose from the back yard to the front yard. So now - I should be able to do this a little easier. My plan is to work with Kyle and give him the low down on keeping the vehicles clean and detailed - both inside and out. This brings me to my thoughts this morning. I am pretty odd with having a clean car - both inside and out. Nothing bugs me more than having a vehicle that is like a trash can on the inside. I do have some grown peeps that this is normal for them and thats ok ... its just not me. I like my trucks clean on the outside looking good and inside feeling good. Also clean windows ...and no TOE prints on the front windshield! This is very much like our walk with Christ. We may appear to have everything right and in order on the outside - its what everyone sees...but what about the inside? What about where your heart is today? IS there no encouraging nice words being spoken to others? Are you a slave to your schedule and there is just not a spare moment to stop and spend time or have a conversation with someone who could use a special word spoken into their lives? God is interested on our inside and like a car for me ... being clean on the inside makes everything FEEL just better.
I want to share Romans 12 this morning.
Place Your Life Before God
1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Loved ones pay close attention where you heart is today. Not so much worry about your outside appearance because that is pleasing people. Show them what is on the inside and that alone will make your outside appearance that much better. Like the cars in your driveway - are they clean on the outside, wheels shined and a spring coat of wax and just trashed on the inside? It might be time to clean up those Wendy's wrappers, Starbucks cups, straws and used napkins and give it a good cleaning. Your life may need a good cleaning right now ... God cares about your inside.
Happy cleaning and happy Friday loved ones,
Lonnie~
Yesterday I was at Walmart and picked up a couple garden hoses because somewhere in the messy part of life I have lost my garden hose that I used out front. I specifically use that hose for washing the vehicles, something I don't do much anymore since I don't have time and well - its just a pain to move the hose from the back yard to the front yard. So now - I should be able to do this a little easier. My plan is to work with Kyle and give him the low down on keeping the vehicles clean and detailed - both inside and out. This brings me to my thoughts this morning. I am pretty odd with having a clean car - both inside and out. Nothing bugs me more than having a vehicle that is like a trash can on the inside. I do have some grown peeps that this is normal for them and thats ok ... its just not me. I like my trucks clean on the outside looking good and inside feeling good. Also clean windows ...and no TOE prints on the front windshield! This is very much like our walk with Christ. We may appear to have everything right and in order on the outside - its what everyone sees...but what about the inside? What about where your heart is today? IS there no encouraging nice words being spoken to others? Are you a slave to your schedule and there is just not a spare moment to stop and spend time or have a conversation with someone who could use a special word spoken into their lives? God is interested on our inside and like a car for me ... being clean on the inside makes everything FEEL just better.
I want to share Romans 12 this morning.
Place Your Life Before God
1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Loved ones pay close attention where you heart is today. Not so much worry about your outside appearance because that is pleasing people. Show them what is on the inside and that alone will make your outside appearance that much better. Like the cars in your driveway - are they clean on the outside, wheels shined and a spring coat of wax and just trashed on the inside? It might be time to clean up those Wendy's wrappers, Starbucks cups, straws and used napkins and give it a good cleaning. Your life may need a good cleaning right now ... God cares about your inside.
Happy cleaning and happy Friday loved ones,
Lonnie~
Thursday, June 3, 2010
I am pretty pumped today but humbled in the kindest of ways. I have a smile today because of some things taking place around me. This morning, the great people of Harrisburg NC got together to line the streets of one of our fallen hero's. Chris Barton was killed in duty this past week and his body came through the town and past his home and through the streets on his way to his funeral. The town has really come together and even though I was unable to make it this morning, Carol, Kyle, Barbara, Madison and a host of others that I know did. Pictures on facebook makes me proud but also makes my heart hurt for that family as well as the fighting and war that still takes place on this earth. God never promised us peace - He did promise us peace in our hearts. War will happen and sides will fight - 2 people with sinful natures and in time there will be a dissagreement.
Last night after LOL and an awesome message on Forgiveness - one of my close kids and I had a great conversation concerning that topic. Forgiveness. I studied some last night and put some thoughts behind what I wanted to say and this morning I held my promise to put something down in writing that I could give her and share. It is really awesome when one of my students, your children, comes to me or one of our leaders and church and really shares the heart. That screams trust and I am honest when I say that I value that trust so much. It really makes or breaks leading students and getting to the heart of the matter.
Today I am encouraged to be sharing Joshua 1:8-9 today. I love the book of Joshua because several months ago, I got to teach a few LOL bible studies as well as a Sunday morning LifeTalk message.
Joshua 1:8-9
8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Today this passage screams at me to be "Strong and courageous" - no matter what is going on in life, good or bad, trust in Gods word and stand strong in His word. Even though there are times where we may be scared and paralyzed in fear - Gods word will bring you through it. I have said before that God places things on our shoulders that sometimes we can't handle, so that we may turn to Him and seek His will, strength and power so that we may over come whatever we are facing. If we could handle those things we would not need God when trials come into our lives. Temptation is another story - that is where God will not give us more than we can handle. He ALWAYS gives us a way out. ALWAYS!
So I leave you with this today loved ones, no matter what you are facing today. No matter if the doc just spoke the "C" word, your loved one just came through town in a hurst, your marriage is falling apart or you son or daughter is rebelling against you - Meditate on Gods word, seek to understand it and let it penetrate your heart so that not only you are blessed but also those around you as you pour that blessing into them. God is a God of "Them Some" and not just meeting your needs. He meets them and "Then Some". Picking up your cross is a daily thing... Joshua led millions of people across the river to the promised land after Moses died. He had a calling and a purpose on his life. So do you ...... I was asked this morning after talking with a parent and someone overheard the conversation here at the office. "Lonnie, do you think you missed your calling?" - "I said no, I may work here but I am living my calling every day because I'm following Jesus and leading these students and their families - Is my calling".
Lonnie~
Last night after LOL and an awesome message on Forgiveness - one of my close kids and I had a great conversation concerning that topic. Forgiveness. I studied some last night and put some thoughts behind what I wanted to say and this morning I held my promise to put something down in writing that I could give her and share. It is really awesome when one of my students, your children, comes to me or one of our leaders and church and really shares the heart. That screams trust and I am honest when I say that I value that trust so much. It really makes or breaks leading students and getting to the heart of the matter.
Today I am encouraged to be sharing Joshua 1:8-9 today. I love the book of Joshua because several months ago, I got to teach a few LOL bible studies as well as a Sunday morning LifeTalk message.
Joshua 1:8-9
8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Today this passage screams at me to be "Strong and courageous" - no matter what is going on in life, good or bad, trust in Gods word and stand strong in His word. Even though there are times where we may be scared and paralyzed in fear - Gods word will bring you through it. I have said before that God places things on our shoulders that sometimes we can't handle, so that we may turn to Him and seek His will, strength and power so that we may over come whatever we are facing. If we could handle those things we would not need God when trials come into our lives. Temptation is another story - that is where God will not give us more than we can handle. He ALWAYS gives us a way out. ALWAYS!
So I leave you with this today loved ones, no matter what you are facing today. No matter if the doc just spoke the "C" word, your loved one just came through town in a hurst, your marriage is falling apart or you son or daughter is rebelling against you - Meditate on Gods word, seek to understand it and let it penetrate your heart so that not only you are blessed but also those around you as you pour that blessing into them. God is a God of "Them Some" and not just meeting your needs. He meets them and "Then Some". Picking up your cross is a daily thing... Joshua led millions of people across the river to the promised land after Moses died. He had a calling and a purpose on his life. So do you ...... I was asked this morning after talking with a parent and someone overheard the conversation here at the office. "Lonnie, do you think you missed your calling?" - "I said no, I may work here but I am living my calling every day because I'm following Jesus and leading these students and their families - Is my calling".
Lonnie~
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Day 2
I just finished up almost the last touches to the June calendar for our student ministry "The Flood" for church. Its going to be a busy month! Vacation will be needed come the week of July 4th for the Bateman crew adn those who are along for the ride. (stick with me!) I am pretty excited about it though as we reach out into the community with our "Flood" students as well as some time to just hang out and enjoy the summer! Yeah for summer!!
Isaiah 40:28-31
28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
I really needed these words from God today. Yesterday was a pretty tough day with some things going on at home. People only see what they want to see and when we focus only on ourselves - we tend to only see what is wrong in our life and not the good. Not even the good in others and what they are trying to do, how they reach out to walk with us and how much they really love us. Self centeredness is such a trap that this life uses to keep us focused on ourselves and always in the mind set of making ourselves happy. It takes so much more energy and focus to reach people like this because they dont accept it; Because they don't see the good you are trying to do. They don't see the benefit in it because they only see themselves. Though life may be hard at the moment - we have to forget the past, look forward in the future and evaluate what we have right now. God wants to use us with what we currently have. He doesn't wait for us to get it all together to use us. God has given us so many examples in history of using people right where they were and with what they had. Nobody had it all together and everyone was broken and struggling and God still used them to do great things! Who am I to do this for God? We often times don't feel worthy of doing something for God because we don't see ourselves that way. God wants to do great things in us and once we get past that vision that we are GOOD ENOUGH for God - You will put down the pity party and get going. The Lord does not like pity parties and those who have them are shocked to find that although He is invited, He seldom attends.
The real price of success lies within the need to persevere. The trophy is never given to someone who does not complete the task. Setbacks are just setups for God to show what he is able to do. Funerals are for people who have accepted the thought that everything is over.
If you could sum up in one word what it takes to be effective in ministry (your personal ministry and walk with Christ), what would that word be? – Relentless – You must be a person who is relentless, always abounding in the work of the Lord. If you give up easily, there is no need for you to attempt to accomplish much for God. Relentless is a word to describe people who will not take no for an answer. They try things one way, and if that doesn’t work, then try it another way. But they don’t give up. Giving up puts us in a place to have regrets.
Help us today Lord, soar like wings of eagles. Help us walk and not grow faint. Your love and steadfastness will keep us on your paths. Lead us today Lord and help us not give up. Give us a place to lean and rest on this path in life Lord... speak to us and enable us to do great things for You. Help us be relentless in our pity parties so that we may see with Your eyes and not our own. We praise you and love you this day. Amen
Isaiah 40:28-31
28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
I really needed these words from God today. Yesterday was a pretty tough day with some things going on at home. People only see what they want to see and when we focus only on ourselves - we tend to only see what is wrong in our life and not the good. Not even the good in others and what they are trying to do, how they reach out to walk with us and how much they really love us. Self centeredness is such a trap that this life uses to keep us focused on ourselves and always in the mind set of making ourselves happy. It takes so much more energy and focus to reach people like this because they dont accept it; Because they don't see the good you are trying to do. They don't see the benefit in it because they only see themselves. Though life may be hard at the moment - we have to forget the past, look forward in the future and evaluate what we have right now. God wants to use us with what we currently have. He doesn't wait for us to get it all together to use us. God has given us so many examples in history of using people right where they were and with what they had. Nobody had it all together and everyone was broken and struggling and God still used them to do great things! Who am I to do this for God? We often times don't feel worthy of doing something for God because we don't see ourselves that way. God wants to do great things in us and once we get past that vision that we are GOOD ENOUGH for God - You will put down the pity party and get going. The Lord does not like pity parties and those who have them are shocked to find that although He is invited, He seldom attends.
The real price of success lies within the need to persevere. The trophy is never given to someone who does not complete the task. Setbacks are just setups for God to show what he is able to do. Funerals are for people who have accepted the thought that everything is over.
If you could sum up in one word what it takes to be effective in ministry (your personal ministry and walk with Christ), what would that word be? – Relentless – You must be a person who is relentless, always abounding in the work of the Lord. If you give up easily, there is no need for you to attempt to accomplish much for God. Relentless is a word to describe people who will not take no for an answer. They try things one way, and if that doesn’t work, then try it another way. But they don’t give up. Giving up puts us in a place to have regrets.
Help us today Lord, soar like wings of eagles. Help us walk and not grow faint. Your love and steadfastness will keep us on your paths. Lead us today Lord and help us not give up. Give us a place to lean and rest on this path in life Lord... speak to us and enable us to do great things for You. Help us be relentless in our pity parties so that we may see with Your eyes and not our own. We praise you and love you this day. Amen
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
31 day walk .....
Before I get into this post - I just wanted to share that my family and I had a good time at the cabin this past weekend. Shared some smiles and laughs with the Beaver family- always love spending time up there with them. Nothing better than the smiles shared on the tube and watching Kyle and Madi doing their thing. There is a time for being tired but not until they get their FULL share of tubing and a day on the lake complete. This past weekend was a first on the lake. An accident happened that took the life of 2 people, a son and a father. It really was a somber experience as we watched the crews work to find them. So sad for that family.
Being that its Tuesday already - I am feeling stressed because I just don't have it together today. But its the first of the month and I am going through a 31 day devotional and for the past 2 days I am being led to post the walk on here. I am cool with that as of right now but might change my view on that at some point as God's word speaks for the next month. I did enjoy my quiet and study time on the porch at the cabin with a cup of coffee and listening to the birds, the occasional turkey call and the wind - yesterday's rain sure was peaceful. No mom talks this time around. I am ok with that though. Just wish a family member would step up her game and plug into a family that loves her instead of pushing away and chosing to be grumpy and crabby.
Anyways - Habakkuk 3:17-19 begins today:
Even though the fig trees have no blossums, and there are not grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails; and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are emtpy, yet I rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.
As I read this today, I think about all the tough things going on my life and with those I am doing life with. Some of my close kids are going through some tough things. Call it - growing up - decisions etc... its still hard. Sometimes I feel like I am not making a difference at all. Sometimes its like stepping back a few steps to only occasionally stepping forward. I know I am in this for the long haul and leading even when its tough. God didn't tell me this was going to be easy and the weight is heavy at times. I wrote "I Promise" on a napkin to my mom and in my own way - I have personally wrote "I Promise" on the hearts of some. I continue to say I promise and I will rejoice in the fact that God is in the details. All the details!
Blessed to be walking on the paths that God is leading me on. I am praying for many to follow along. If you are at a place where you won't be lead by someone - it is your loss in this life. We all need a Paul in our lives to follow. If your the Paul to someone - where are you leading the Timothy's in your life? I think about the hill at the end of my driveway at the cabin. Steep and full of brush. Deer go up that without a problem. Surefooted .... Just like Christ leads us.
Peace today,
Lonnie
Being that its Tuesday already - I am feeling stressed because I just don't have it together today. But its the first of the month and I am going through a 31 day devotional and for the past 2 days I am being led to post the walk on here. I am cool with that as of right now but might change my view on that at some point as God's word speaks for the next month. I did enjoy my quiet and study time on the porch at the cabin with a cup of coffee and listening to the birds, the occasional turkey call and the wind - yesterday's rain sure was peaceful. No mom talks this time around. I am ok with that though. Just wish a family member would step up her game and plug into a family that loves her instead of pushing away and chosing to be grumpy and crabby.
Anyways - Habakkuk 3:17-19 begins today:
Even though the fig trees have no blossums, and there are not grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails; and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are emtpy, yet I rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.
As I read this today, I think about all the tough things going on my life and with those I am doing life with. Some of my close kids are going through some tough things. Call it - growing up - decisions etc... its still hard. Sometimes I feel like I am not making a difference at all. Sometimes its like stepping back a few steps to only occasionally stepping forward. I know I am in this for the long haul and leading even when its tough. God didn't tell me this was going to be easy and the weight is heavy at times. I wrote "I Promise" on a napkin to my mom and in my own way - I have personally wrote "I Promise" on the hearts of some. I continue to say I promise and I will rejoice in the fact that God is in the details. All the details!
Blessed to be walking on the paths that God is leading me on. I am praying for many to follow along. If you are at a place where you won't be lead by someone - it is your loss in this life. We all need a Paul in our lives to follow. If your the Paul to someone - where are you leading the Timothy's in your life? I think about the hill at the end of my driveway at the cabin. Steep and full of brush. Deer go up that without a problem. Surefooted .... Just like Christ leads us.
Peace today,
Lonnie
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