Meditation
Ephesians 4:20-24
(We are studying the "Celebration of Discipline" by Richard Foster. The numbers you see below (x) are the page numbers from the book where the quote is found.)
10 Big Questions about Meditation:
1. What are Spiritual Disciplines?
God gives us the Disciplines so that we can place ourselves in His presence so He can transform us (8)
2. Why do we need them?
You cannot will yourself to be good - you must become good and then you will act good. The Disciplines lead you to this inner transformation.
3. Who can do them?
Anyone - it's not for spiritual giants.
4. What is meditation?
"Christian meditation, very simply, is the ability to hear God's voice and obey His Word" (17)
5. To whom does God speak?
Those who are willing to listen.
6. What is meditation not?
"Eastern meditation is an attempt to empty the mind. Christian meditation is an attempt to fill the mind with Christ!" (20)
7. What happens in meditation?
We make emotional and spiritual space by pushing aside all our concerns to create room for Christ to fill us more. We stop and put our ways aside - we meditate and ask Him for His guidance.
8. What does meditation do?
"Meditation sends us into our ordinary world with greater perspective and balance." (22)
9. How does meditation work; how do I do it?
Through our imagination or imagery.
He will give you a picture of how things could be - and as you meditate, you realize what your role is supposed to look like.
Practical ideas:
i. Pray for the desire to meditate
ii. Set aside the same time each day
iii. Consider your posture
iv. Palms up/palms down
10. On what do I meditate?
Meditate on creation
Meditate on scripture; interact with it through your senses
This is the difference between our will that makes us have peace and His power that grants us peace.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Bible Reading: December 3rd - December 16th!
I can do everything through Him who gives me strength! --Philippians 4:13
Wow! What a great night we had last night. The above is our memory verse for the next two weeks. I have put our Bible Reading below too! Remember to take time to "Meditate" as you go through your day!
Thursday, 12/3 Psalm 19:14
Meditate on desiring to meditate. Meditate on Whom you are talking to - your Rock and your Redeemer!
Friday, 12/4 Psalm 139:1-18
Meditate on verse 14 - praising Him and truly receiving deep in your soul that you are a precious work of God.
Saturday, 12/5 Psalm 1:1-3
Meditate on wanting to be a Christian that people want to be like. This Psalm shows us the benefit of meditating - we prosper.
Sunday, 12/6 Psalm 104:33-35
On this Sunday, celebrate God by meditating on the joy you feel when you are in His house. Meditate on praying for the lost and asking God how He can use you to reach them.
Monday, 12/7 Psalm 73:21-26
Meditate on what you are like when you are not walking closely with God (vs. 21-22) Then meditate on the amazing truth that God is always with you!! (vs. 23-26)
Tuesday, 12/8 Psalm 139:23-24
Meditate on coming clean before God. What is bothering you? What do you need to confess to God? Allow yourself to be completely honest with Him and then just listen...just listen.
Wednesday, 12/9 Psalm 143:5-6
Meditate on what God has already done for you in your life. Think about how He has already been there for you. Open your hands upward and receive His strength in your soul.
Thursday, 12/10 Psalm 119:105-112
Meditate on how amazing the Bible - God's Word - is.
Friday, 12/11 Psalm 119:41-48
Meditate on God's unfailing love and the fact that you have salvation!! Out of gratitude, we want to follow His laws and precepts.
Saturday, 12/12 Psalm 119:73-80
Look again at vs. 78. Meditate on God's justice. We need to focus on living the way God wants us to - and let Him handle justice for those who will not follow Him.
Sunday, 12/13 Joshua 1:7-9
Look at how important God thinks His Word is through the words He speaks to His leader, Joshua. Meditate on the power of the words in the Bible and asking God to let them transform you.
Monday, 12/14 Psalm 4
Meditate about allowing speaking to God to replace speaking to others in anger.
Tuesday, 12/15 John 14:27
Meditate on this peace that Jesus wants to give you. Make room in your spirit and soul to receive this peace by meditating on Him.
Wednesday, 12/16 Philippians 4:8
This is a great list of things to meditate on. Nothing on this list would lead to stressful thinking!
See you tonight at GEMS!!
Love y'all!
Wow! What a great night we had last night. The above is our memory verse for the next two weeks. I have put our Bible Reading below too! Remember to take time to "Meditate" as you go through your day!
Thursday, 12/3 Psalm 19:14
Meditate on desiring to meditate. Meditate on Whom you are talking to - your Rock and your Redeemer!
Friday, 12/4 Psalm 139:1-18
Meditate on verse 14 - praising Him and truly receiving deep in your soul that you are a precious work of God.
Saturday, 12/5 Psalm 1:1-3
Meditate on wanting to be a Christian that people want to be like. This Psalm shows us the benefit of meditating - we prosper.
Sunday, 12/6 Psalm 104:33-35
On this Sunday, celebrate God by meditating on the joy you feel when you are in His house. Meditate on praying for the lost and asking God how He can use you to reach them.
Monday, 12/7 Psalm 73:21-26
Meditate on what you are like when you are not walking closely with God (vs. 21-22) Then meditate on the amazing truth that God is always with you!! (vs. 23-26)
Tuesday, 12/8 Psalm 139:23-24
Meditate on coming clean before God. What is bothering you? What do you need to confess to God? Allow yourself to be completely honest with Him and then just listen...just listen.
Wednesday, 12/9 Psalm 143:5-6
Meditate on what God has already done for you in your life. Think about how He has already been there for you. Open your hands upward and receive His strength in your soul.
Thursday, 12/10 Psalm 119:105-112
Meditate on how amazing the Bible - God's Word - is.
Friday, 12/11 Psalm 119:41-48
Meditate on God's unfailing love and the fact that you have salvation!! Out of gratitude, we want to follow His laws and precepts.
Saturday, 12/12 Psalm 119:73-80
Look again at vs. 78. Meditate on God's justice. We need to focus on living the way God wants us to - and let Him handle justice for those who will not follow Him.
Sunday, 12/13 Joshua 1:7-9
Look at how important God thinks His Word is through the words He speaks to His leader, Joshua. Meditate on the power of the words in the Bible and asking God to let them transform you.
Monday, 12/14 Psalm 4
Meditate about allowing speaking to God to replace speaking to others in anger.
Tuesday, 12/15 John 14:27
Meditate on this peace that Jesus wants to give you. Make room in your spirit and soul to receive this peace by meditating on Him.
Wednesday, 12/16 Philippians 4:8
This is a great list of things to meditate on. Nothing on this list would lead to stressful thinking!
See you tonight at GEMS!!
Love y'all!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
A "special" Advent Calendar.....
Hey Fellow GEMS!
Lisa sent me a note today and had a suggestion for an Advent Calendar. I have seen many different styles, but I like the idea of this one that Lisa designed. She went back to the prophesy of Isaiah and Malachi and started with the prediction of John and Jesus. You could use it in different ways:
* make a copy for each child, cut up the days and make your own calendar
* use the sheet or readings as a daily family devotional
* use the devotional as a dinner time conversation
We will explain a little more tomorrow night. I haven't decided how we are going to use it, but we are going to in some way.
I haven't been able to attach the document link and so I will do some research and see what I can do. Hopefully I will have it solved by tomorrow.
Have a great evening and I will see you tomorrow night!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Lisa sent me a note today and had a suggestion for an Advent Calendar. I have seen many different styles, but I like the idea of this one that Lisa designed. She went back to the prophesy of Isaiah and Malachi and started with the prediction of John and Jesus. You could use it in different ways:
* make a copy for each child, cut up the days and make your own calendar
* use the sheet or readings as a daily family devotional
* use the devotional as a dinner time conversation
We will explain a little more tomorrow night. I haven't decided how we are going to use it, but we are going to in some way.
I haven't been able to attach the document link and so I will do some research and see what I can do. Hopefully I will have it solved by tomorrow.
Have a great evening and I will see you tomorrow night!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Monday, November 23, 2009
Drinking from my Saucer!
May you be blessed:
DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER
I've never made a fortune
And its probably to late now,
But I don't worry about that much
I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way
I'm reaping better than I sow.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
Haven't got a lot of riches
And sometimes the going's tough,
But I've got loving ones around me
And that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for His blessings
And the mercies He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
Oh, I remember times when things went wrong
And my faith wore somewhat thin.
But all at once the dark clouds broke
And sun peeped through again.
So Lord, help me not to gripe
About the tough rows that I've hoed.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
If God gives me strength and courage
When the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings
I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy
To help others bear their loads,
Them I'll keep drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
From a song written by: Michael Combs
DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER
I've never made a fortune
And its probably to late now,
But I don't worry about that much
I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way
I'm reaping better than I sow.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
Haven't got a lot of riches
And sometimes the going's tough,
But I've got loving ones around me
And that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for His blessings
And the mercies He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
Oh, I remember times when things went wrong
And my faith wore somewhat thin.
But all at once the dark clouds broke
And sun peeped through again.
So Lord, help me not to gripe
About the tough rows that I've hoed.
I'm drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
If God gives me strength and courage
When the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings
I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy
To help others bear their loads,
Them I'll keep drinking from my saucer
'Cause my cup has overflowed!
From a song written by: Michael Combs
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Bible Readings for 11/19 - 12/2/09
Hey Beautiful GEMS!
Here are the Bible passages Lisa gave us last night. For your reading pleasure and spiritual growth....
Thursday, 11/19 Colossians 3:15-17
Several keys to strong Christian living are outlined here: Peace, be thankful, let the WORD dwell in your heart! (remind you of our memory verse?)
Friday, 11/20 Colossians 1:9-14
Vs. 12 - Did you know that as a follower of God, you are a saint? That doesn't mean you're perfect - it means you are saved and set apart to live according to God's ways. That should make you walk taller today - you are a saint of God!
Saturday, 11/21 Colossians 2:6-7
The more you "live in Christ" - the more you think about Him and His ways, the less time you have to make bad choices that lead you away from the strength He wants to give you.
Sunday, 11/22 Psalm 100
We are HIS! That is a really awesome way to live life. We're strong and joyful because God knows us and cares what happens in our lives! That's something to be thankful for!
Monday, 11/23 Psalm 116
This psalm is FULL of amazing characteristics about God - He listens, He helps, He saves, He protects...on and on! Vs 17 tells us that because He is so great - we stop in our day and offer up our thanks to Him.
Tuesday, 11/24 Jonah 2:1-10
In the famous story of Jonah (if you do not know it yet, read the whole book of Jonah) Jonah is in the belly of the whale. Look at the end of vs. 6 - can you relate to God bringing you out of the pit? Be thankful that He's calling you to "what's next" in your life!
Wednesday, 11/25 Romans 1:18-32
This is an interesting look at what the lives of people who do not love God and follow Him look like. Don't be fooled by thinking God doesn't know what's going on. They are not thankful to God - and He lets them live in their misery.
Thursday, 11/26 2 Corinthians 4:13-18 Happy Thanksgiving!
Today as you are with your families, think about these words, "I believed; therefore, I have spoken." Look for opportunities today to influence your family for Christ - to show them what He means in your life.
Friday, 11/27 Ephesians 5:15-20
Choosing to live in God-honoring ways leaves room in our lives for us to be joyful and "make music in your heart" - you literally feel like thanking God because you are feeling good about life.
Saturday, 11/28 Philippians 4:4-8
Get your focus off of yourself and your problems. Spend some time praying and laying it out to God - and start by focusing on good things. Talk to God about how amazing He is, how you are curious about Him...get focused on Him first - then lay your problems on Him.
Sunday, 11/29 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Short and sweet. These are some keys to Christian living!
Monday, 11/30 1 Timothy 2:1-6
This is a good reminder to pray for others - especially the leaders of our country. Offer thanks for the good things they do - pray for God to lead them when they fall short.
Tuesday, 12/1 Psalm 106:1-6
These verses remind me of how big God is. He is good - and He deserves our thanks for all that He is and that He counts us in His "inheritance".
Wednesday, 12/2 Psalm 136 GEMS tonight!!!!
Give thanks to the Lord - for He is good. This Psalm lets us remember that God is the creator of everything! And He still cares about each of us. That's amazing and worthy of our thanks! See you tonight!!!
Enjoy the next two weeks as you read, pray and thank God for His love, His care, and His grace!!! God is good all the time - All the time God is good!!!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Here are the Bible passages Lisa gave us last night. For your reading pleasure and spiritual growth....
Thursday, 11/19 Colossians 3:15-17
Several keys to strong Christian living are outlined here: Peace, be thankful, let the WORD dwell in your heart! (remind you of our memory verse?)
Friday, 11/20 Colossians 1:9-14
Vs. 12 - Did you know that as a follower of God, you are a saint? That doesn't mean you're perfect - it means you are saved and set apart to live according to God's ways. That should make you walk taller today - you are a saint of God!
Saturday, 11/21 Colossians 2:6-7
The more you "live in Christ" - the more you think about Him and His ways, the less time you have to make bad choices that lead you away from the strength He wants to give you.
Sunday, 11/22 Psalm 100
We are HIS! That is a really awesome way to live life. We're strong and joyful because God knows us and cares what happens in our lives! That's something to be thankful for!
Monday, 11/23 Psalm 116
This psalm is FULL of amazing characteristics about God - He listens, He helps, He saves, He protects...on and on! Vs 17 tells us that because He is so great - we stop in our day and offer up our thanks to Him.
Tuesday, 11/24 Jonah 2:1-10
In the famous story of Jonah (if you do not know it yet, read the whole book of Jonah) Jonah is in the belly of the whale. Look at the end of vs. 6 - can you relate to God bringing you out of the pit? Be thankful that He's calling you to "what's next" in your life!
Wednesday, 11/25 Romans 1:18-32
This is an interesting look at what the lives of people who do not love God and follow Him look like. Don't be fooled by thinking God doesn't know what's going on. They are not thankful to God - and He lets them live in their misery.
Thursday, 11/26 2 Corinthians 4:13-18 Happy Thanksgiving!
Today as you are with your families, think about these words, "I believed; therefore, I have spoken." Look for opportunities today to influence your family for Christ - to show them what He means in your life.
Friday, 11/27 Ephesians 5:15-20
Choosing to live in God-honoring ways leaves room in our lives for us to be joyful and "make music in your heart" - you literally feel like thanking God because you are feeling good about life.
Saturday, 11/28 Philippians 4:4-8
Get your focus off of yourself and your problems. Spend some time praying and laying it out to God - and start by focusing on good things. Talk to God about how amazing He is, how you are curious about Him...get focused on Him first - then lay your problems on Him.
Sunday, 11/29 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Short and sweet. These are some keys to Christian living!
Monday, 11/30 1 Timothy 2:1-6
This is a good reminder to pray for others - especially the leaders of our country. Offer thanks for the good things they do - pray for God to lead them when they fall short.
Tuesday, 12/1 Psalm 106:1-6
These verses remind me of how big God is. He is good - and He deserves our thanks for all that He is and that He counts us in His "inheritance".
Wednesday, 12/2 Psalm 136 GEMS tonight!!!!
Give thanks to the Lord - for He is good. This Psalm lets us remember that God is the creator of everything! And He still cares about each of us. That's amazing and worthy of our thanks! See you tonight!!!
Enjoy the next two weeks as you read, pray and thank God for His love, His care, and His grace!!! God is good all the time - All the time God is good!!!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Psalm 119:11
"I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You." -Psalm 119:11
Hey Fellow Gems:
What a great night of Fellowship and Thanksgiving we enjoyed last evening. We learned more about each other and even some fun stuff of our Leadership Team. :o)
As Lisa stated in her email, we are going to start memorizing scripture as a group. The verse above is our first one! Let's ALL do this and keep His Word in our hearts and available at all times! We may not always have our Bibles, but we can ALWAYS have His Word in our hearts!
Lisa also shared a video with us last night and I have provided the link for that. Enjoy!
http://www.vimeo.com/1371841?pg=embed&sec=1371841
I will post the scripture reading soon. Everybody take care and know that we are special in His sight and that we are loved!
Have a great Thanksgiving!!
Love and prayers,
Cheri Lynn
Hey Fellow Gems:
What a great night of Fellowship and Thanksgiving we enjoyed last evening. We learned more about each other and even some fun stuff of our Leadership Team. :o)
As Lisa stated in her email, we are going to start memorizing scripture as a group. The verse above is our first one! Let's ALL do this and keep His Word in our hearts and available at all times! We may not always have our Bibles, but we can ALWAYS have His Word in our hearts!
Lisa also shared a video with us last night and I have provided the link for that. Enjoy!
http://www.vimeo.com/1371841?pg=embed&sec=1371841
I will post the scripture reading soon. Everybody take care and know that we are special in His sight and that we are loved!
Have a great Thanksgiving!!
Love and prayers,
Cheri Lynn
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
There is a need .....
Good evening all you beautiful GEMS!
I received a note from Angela and she has a real need that possibly we can help fulfill. She has opened her home to a friend that is 6 months pregnant. They are in desperate need of a twin size bed! Presently the young lady is sleeping on a full size blow-up mattress in the guest room. The room is small and quickly filling up with items that have been obtained for the arrival of the "little one". A twin bed would be a good fit!
Does someone have a twin bed to give away? Please contact me (Cheri Lynn) with questions or any information.
I hope everyone is having a great week! Are you enjoying the Bible Study devotionals? I really have enjoyed reading them and knowing that everyone is reading the same thing sometime during the day!
God Bless! I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
I received a note from Angela and she has a real need that possibly we can help fulfill. She has opened her home to a friend that is 6 months pregnant. They are in desperate need of a twin size bed! Presently the young lady is sleeping on a full size blow-up mattress in the guest room. The room is small and quickly filling up with items that have been obtained for the arrival of the "little one". A twin bed would be a good fit!
Does someone have a twin bed to give away? Please contact me (Cheri Lynn) with questions or any information.
I hope everyone is having a great week! Are you enjoying the Bible Study devotionals? I really have enjoyed reading them and knowing that everyone is reading the same thing sometime during the day!
God Bless! I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
******* GEMS - September 9th - Kick-off!!!!!! *******
It's here!!! We're back!!!!! Wednesday night - 9/9/09!!!!! Yeah!
I can't wait to see everyone and see how God has been working in all of our lives! Wow! What a summer! We have had ups and downs, good times and bad times, sunshine and rain, laughter and tears, but always rejoicing as Women of the King - GEMS!!!!!
I hope to see everyone tomorrow night and get re-acquainted and caught up with everyone! I did receive a request for help today from Lisa. A family in our community lost their home and nearly everything to fire and they are trying to rebuild their lives. They need everything and so I have put the information below about sizes for clothes and some events that are happening next week. Most of all, I ask that you remember the Navarro family in your prayers!
The Navarro family has received a house to live in for the next six months - free of rent or mortgage. They need furniture as well as clothes and stuff. Their sizes are as follows:
Adult male: shirt - L, pants - 34w x 30l, and shoes - 9.5
Adult female: size 0, tops - S or XS, and shoes 7.5 medium
Child #1 - male: shirt - S juniors, pants - 30w x 32l; and shoes - 11
Child #2 - male: shirt - M juniors, pants - 29w x 30l, and shoes - 6
Child #3 - female: size 3 juniors, and shoes - 6.5 to 7
Child #4 - female: size 14 - 16, and shoes - 7
Child #5 - male: size 10 and shoes - 3
Child #6 - female: size 5T and shoes - children's 11
If you have furniture or clothes to give, please contact Christine at: cmdoman@ilstu.edu or Alauna at: asakins@ilstu.edu.
We will announce more tomorrow night, but this is the info we have to pass along.
See y'all tomorrow night!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
I can't wait to see everyone and see how God has been working in all of our lives! Wow! What a summer! We have had ups and downs, good times and bad times, sunshine and rain, laughter and tears, but always rejoicing as Women of the King - GEMS!!!!!
I hope to see everyone tomorrow night and get re-acquainted and caught up with everyone! I did receive a request for help today from Lisa. A family in our community lost their home and nearly everything to fire and they are trying to rebuild their lives. They need everything and so I have put the information below about sizes for clothes and some events that are happening next week. Most of all, I ask that you remember the Navarro family in your prayers!
The Navarro family has received a house to live in for the next six months - free of rent or mortgage. They need furniture as well as clothes and stuff. Their sizes are as follows:
Adult male: shirt - L, pants - 34w x 30l, and shoes - 9.5
Adult female: size 0, tops - S or XS, and shoes 7.5 medium
Child #1 - male: shirt - S juniors, pants - 30w x 32l; and shoes - 11
Child #2 - male: shirt - M juniors, pants - 29w x 30l, and shoes - 6
Child #3 - female: size 3 juniors, and shoes - 6.5 to 7
Child #4 - female: size 14 - 16, and shoes - 7
Child #5 - male: size 10 and shoes - 3
Child #6 - female: size 5T and shoes - children's 11
If you have furniture or clothes to give, please contact Christine at: cmdoman@ilstu.edu or Alauna at: asakins@ilstu.edu.
We will announce more tomorrow night, but this is the info we have to pass along.
See y'all tomorrow night!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Thursday, July 9, 2009
A need from a fellow Single Mom
Hey all!
I hope you are having a great summer! It is going by really fast. I have had one computer problem after another, but all is well! I moved and things are still in disarray and in boxes and not in the right rooms, but we are settling in a little at a time!
I got an email from Nicki with a need from one of our single moms. If you have a response or want to know more, please send me an email with your phone number and I will call and give you more infomation. Here is the need!
"Greetings!
I just got a call from a single mother that is looking for a roommate - or something that would help pay living expenses. If you or someone you know is interested in this, please contact Cheri Lynn."
Hope to talk to y'all again soon!
Love and prayers!
Cheri Lynn
I hope you are having a great summer! It is going by really fast. I have had one computer problem after another, but all is well! I moved and things are still in disarray and in boxes and not in the right rooms, but we are settling in a little at a time!
I got an email from Nicki with a need from one of our single moms. If you have a response or want to know more, please send me an email with your phone number and I will call and give you more infomation. Here is the need!
"Greetings!
I just got a call from a single mother that is looking for a roommate - or something that would help pay living expenses. If you or someone you know is interested in this, please contact Cheri Lynn."
Hope to talk to y'all again soon!
Love and prayers!
Cheri Lynn
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Poem - Do You Know?
Below is the poem that Lisa's kids read at GEMS Wednesday night. She said that she will be praying for each o you to grow in your expressions of gentleness this week and next. i will be praying too!
Do You Know - by Maggie Gross
Do you know, do you understand, that you represent Jesus to me?
Do you know, do you understand, that when you treat me with gentleness
It raises the question in my mind that maybe He is gentle too?
Maybe He isn't someone who laughs when I am hurt.
Do you know, do you understand, that when you listen to my question and you don't laugh, I think,
What if Jesus is interested in me too? . . . .
If you care, I think maybe that He cares.
And then there is this flame of hope that burns inside of me for a while....
Do you know, do you understand, that to someone like me;
Your words are His words?
Your face, His face.
Do you know, do you understand Who you are?
Do You Know - by Maggie Gross
Do you know, do you understand, that you represent Jesus to me?
Do you know, do you understand, that when you treat me with gentleness
It raises the question in my mind that maybe He is gentle too?
Maybe He isn't someone who laughs when I am hurt.
Do you know, do you understand, that when you listen to my question and you don't laugh, I think,
What if Jesus is interested in me too? . . . .
If you care, I think maybe that He cares.
And then there is this flame of hope that burns inside of me for a while....
Do you know, do you understand, that to someone like me;
Your words are His words?
Your face, His face.
Do you know, do you understand Who you are?
Friday, May 1, 2009
Bible Readings April 30 through May 15th
Hey GEMS! I have put our readings for the next two weeks below and hope you keep up with the Word. I enjoyed our study on gentleness so much. I hope each of you have a great two weeks. We are praying for each of you. I will also post the Prayer that Lisa's kids shared as well.
Here are the readings for the next two weeks:
Thursday, 4/30
Proverbs 25:15
Another verse showing how important our words are to making an impact on others.
Friday, 5/1 Happy May Day!!!
Ephes. 4:1-6
Read in this passage how important humility and gentleness are to the body of the Church.
Saturday, 5/2
Phil. 4:4-7
The key verse is vs. 5 - but the other verses are revisiting some of the other aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit. :o)
Sunday, 5/3
2 Tim. 2:23-26
Paul is giving Timothy advice as a spiritual leader. As the spiritual leader in your home - read and apply these words of wisdom.
Monday, 5/4
Prov. 10:12, 15:4
Our words have the power to heal or to do a lot of damage. Choose your words wisely.
Tuesday, 5/5
1 Tim. 6:11-16
Strong characteristics for Christians to model.
Wednesday, 5/6
Matt. 11:28-30
Another view of gentleness from Jesus.
Thursday, 5/7
1 Pet. 3:15-17
Be gentle when you are using your words to speak about your faith.
Friday, 5/8
Col. 3:12-16
Put on gentleness - again, this passage is a great review of other aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit.
Saturday, 5/9
Zech. 9:9 and Matt. 21:5
Look at the kind of King we have - a gentle, humble and powerful one!
Sunday, 5/10
Galatians 6:1
Another application of Christian gentleness.
Monday, 5/11
Hebrews 5:2
Love this - a high priest deals gently with the ignorant...we have all resembled that is our lives! Thank God He is gentle as we continue to grow.
Tuesday, 5/12
Gals. 5:22-23
Review the Fruit of the Spirit! Are you growing in some key areas?
Wednesday, 5/13 It's GEMS night!!!
1 Pet. 4:7-8
Tonight we finish studying the Fruit of the Spirit by looking at "self-control"
See you tonight!!!!
Here are the readings for the next two weeks:
Thursday, 4/30
Proverbs 25:15
Another verse showing how important our words are to making an impact on others.
Friday, 5/1 Happy May Day!!!
Ephes. 4:1-6
Read in this passage how important humility and gentleness are to the body of the Church.
Saturday, 5/2
Phil. 4:4-7
The key verse is vs. 5 - but the other verses are revisiting some of the other aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit. :o)
Sunday, 5/3
2 Tim. 2:23-26
Paul is giving Timothy advice as a spiritual leader. As the spiritual leader in your home - read and apply these words of wisdom.
Monday, 5/4
Prov. 10:12, 15:4
Our words have the power to heal or to do a lot of damage. Choose your words wisely.
Tuesday, 5/5
1 Tim. 6:11-16
Strong characteristics for Christians to model.
Wednesday, 5/6
Matt. 11:28-30
Another view of gentleness from Jesus.
Thursday, 5/7
1 Pet. 3:15-17
Be gentle when you are using your words to speak about your faith.
Friday, 5/8
Col. 3:12-16
Put on gentleness - again, this passage is a great review of other aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit.
Saturday, 5/9
Zech. 9:9 and Matt. 21:5
Look at the kind of King we have - a gentle, humble and powerful one!
Sunday, 5/10
Galatians 6:1
Another application of Christian gentleness.
Monday, 5/11
Hebrews 5:2
Love this - a high priest deals gently with the ignorant...we have all resembled that is our lives! Thank God He is gentle as we continue to grow.
Tuesday, 5/12
Gals. 5:22-23
Review the Fruit of the Spirit! Are you growing in some key areas?
Wednesday, 5/13 It's GEMS night!!!
1 Pet. 4:7-8
Tonight we finish studying the Fruit of the Spirit by looking at "self-control"
See you tonight!!!!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Info for GEMS
Here is some information that you might not have been aware of and could use!
I wanted to pass along some information that some moms may be able to use. Some may already know about this program. My son recently got added to the Kid Care program for the State of Illinois (this also works for Medical card). We went to Bard optical in normal by the Wal-mart on Veterans and with his insurance we received an eye exam for free and he got to pick out a new pair of glasses that were free also. There is a selection of frames that you have to choose from but they are some really cute styles or I guess for boys some "cool" styles. They have to send them off to be made and there is a turn around time of about 6-8 weeks or less. This helped me out a ton and I wanted to pass it along.
Thanks !
See y'all on Wednesday night!
Love and Prayers,
Cheri Lynn
I wanted to pass along some information that some moms may be able to use. Some may already know about this program. My son recently got added to the Kid Care program for the State of Illinois (this also works for Medical card). We went to Bard optical in normal by the Wal-mart on Veterans and with his insurance we received an eye exam for free and he got to pick out a new pair of glasses that were free also. There is a selection of frames that you have to choose from but they are some really cute styles or I guess for boys some "cool" styles. They have to send them off to be made and there is a turn around time of about 6-8 weeks or less. This helped me out a ton and I wanted to pass it along.
Thanks !
See y'all on Wednesday night!
Love and Prayers,
Cheri Lynn
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Shoes in church.......
I received this from a friend and thought it was definitely worth the read! Let me know what you think! Do you look at shoes in church?
I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me...... Touching my own.
I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, 'Why must our soles touch?'
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.
A prayer began: 'Our Father'............... I thought, 'This man with the shoes, has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!'
'Thank You for blessings,' the prayer went on.
The shoe man said............... A quiet 'Amen.'
I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best - When walking through that door?
'Well, this certainly isn't it, I thought, Glancing toward the floor..
Then the prayer was ended........... And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear. The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering....... And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached..... Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out.......... What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft 'clink'.. As when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me.......... To tears, and that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service....... As is the custom here.
We must greet new visitors, And show them all good cheer.
But I felt moved somehow............... And wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer.......... I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest.
He said, 'My names' Charlie............ I'm glad to meet you, my friend.'
There were tears in his eyes........ But he had a large, wide grin.
'Let me explain,' he said........... Wiping tears from his eyes.
'I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.''
'I know that my appearance..........'Is not like all the rest.
'But I really do try..................'To always look my best.'
'I always clean and polish my shoes..'Before my very long walk.
'But by the time I get here.........'They're dirty and dusty, like chalk.'
My heart filled with pain.......... And I swallowed to hide my tears.
As he continued to apologize........ For daring to sit so near
He said, 'When I get here...........'I know I must look a sight.
'But I thought if I could touch you..'Then maybe our souls might unite.'
I was silent for a moment........... Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.
'Oh, you've touched me,' I said.......'And taught me, in part;
'That the best of any man............'Is what is found in his heart.'
The rest, I thought,................. This shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul!
You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.
I respect you, and truly cherish you.
I showered and shaved............. I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me...... Touching my own.
I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side...... I thought, 'Why must our soles touch?'
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.
A prayer began: 'Our Father'............... I thought, 'This man with the shoes, has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!'
'Thank You for blessings,' the prayer went on.
The shoe man said............... A quiet 'Amen.'
I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best - When walking through that door?
'Well, this certainly isn't it, I thought, Glancing toward the floor..
Then the prayer was ended........... And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear. The shoe man's voice from the sky.
It was time for the offering....... And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached..... Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out.......... What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft 'clink'.. As when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me.......... To tears, and that's no lie.
It was the same for the shoe man... For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service....... As is the custom here.
We must greet new visitors, And show them all good cheer.
But I felt moved somehow............... And wanted to meet the shoe man.
So after the closing prayer.......... I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess.
But I thanked him for coming......... For being our guest.
He said, 'My names' Charlie............ I'm glad to meet you, my friend.'
There were tears in his eyes........ But he had a large, wide grin.
'Let me explain,' he said........... Wiping tears from his eyes.
'I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.''
'I know that my appearance..........'Is not like all the rest.
'But I really do try..................'To always look my best.'
'I always clean and polish my shoes..'Before my very long walk.
'But by the time I get here.........'They're dirty and dusty, like chalk.'
My heart filled with pain.......... And I swallowed to hide my tears.
As he continued to apologize........ For daring to sit so near
He said, 'When I get here...........'I know I must look a sight.
'But I thought if I could touch you..'Then maybe our souls might unite.'
I was silent for a moment........... Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.
'Oh, you've touched me,' I said.......'And taught me, in part;
'That the best of any man............'Is what is found in his heart.'
The rest, I thought,................. This shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul!
You are special to me and you have made a difference in my life.
I respect you, and truly cherish you.
Listen for the bell!
There is a field, with two horses in it. From a distance, each horse looks like any other horse. But if you stop your car, or are walking by, you will notice something quite amazing. Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner Has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him . This alone is amazing. If you stand nearby and listen, you will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to the horse's halter is a small bell. It lets the blind friend know where the other horse is, so he can follow. As you stand and watch these two horses, you'll see that the horse with the bell is always checking on the blind horse, and that the blind horse will listen for the bell and then slowly walk to where the other horse is, trusting that he will not be led astray. When the horse with the bell returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, it stops occasionally and looks back, making sure that the blind friend isn't too far behind to hear the bell.
Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges. He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need. Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by the little ringing bell of those who God places in Our lives. Other times we are the guide horse, helping others to find their way....Good friends are like that... You may not always see them, but you know they are always there. Please listen for my bell and I'll listen for yours. And remember..be kinder than necessary-everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.
Live simply,
Love generously,
Care deeply,
Speak kindly....Leave the rest to God.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Bible Reading 4/16 through 4/29/09
Hey GEMS!
How goes things? Hope everyone is having a great two weeks! I think Spring is around the corner - at least I hope so! See y'all in two!
Thursday, 4/16
Eph. 2:4-10
Remember to stay humble and in touch with the amazing kindness of God to you!
Friday, 4/17
Psalm 86
There is so much emotion in this Psalm. These are great words to pray when asking the Holy Spirit to help you be kind to a difficult person.
Saturday, 4/18
Romans 12:2 and Eph. 4:22-24
Christians don't act like the rest of the world. With the Holy Spirit in you, you can be transformed in your mind and actions when you partner with Him.
Sunday, 4/19
Psalm 51:10
This is my battle cry when i am caught up in thinking and/or acting ugly. I have this verse memorized so I can call on it like Spiritual 911!
Monday, 4/20
John 14:16-17
Look at Jesus' promise that His followers would receive the Holy Spirit and He would live in them. The Holy Spirit gives you the power to be better than you are on your own.
Tuesday, 4/21
Matt. 5:46-47
Another look at Jesus' challenging teaching for us to be other-centered and to give kindness to those who have not necessarily been kind to us.
Wednesday, 4/22
1 Peter 2:19-20
These verses show that God is aware that there are times when we have to suffer even when we haven't done anything wrong. He gives a strong teaching here.
Thursday, 4/23
Romans 15:1-7
Sometimes, a good step to being kind is to start with being accepting of another person.
Friday, 4/24
1 Cor. 13:4-7
As you read this, remember that Jesus wants you to show love even to those who are difficult to love.
Saturday, 4/25
Col. 3:12-14
We have talked about these verses before in GEMS - but they are powerful words to direct how we live.
Sunday, 4/26
2 Peter 1:5-9
What an incredible list! Especially key in on the words "increasing measure". We're not supposed to be perfect - just constantly increasing!
Monday, 4/27
Psalm 119:65-72
A beautiful picture of God's goodness. Again, I think this is a great Psalm to pray to God in order to grow in goodness.
Tuesday, 4/28
2 Thes. 1:11-12
I love verse 11 - by His power He fulfills every good purpose of ours. SO COOL!!!!!
Wednesday, 4/29
Gal. 6:1-7
Tonight we will be talking about "gentleness".
See you there!!
How goes things? Hope everyone is having a great two weeks! I think Spring is around the corner - at least I hope so! See y'all in two!
Thursday, 4/16
Eph. 2:4-10
Remember to stay humble and in touch with the amazing kindness of God to you!
Friday, 4/17
Psalm 86
There is so much emotion in this Psalm. These are great words to pray when asking the Holy Spirit to help you be kind to a difficult person.
Saturday, 4/18
Romans 12:2 and Eph. 4:22-24
Christians don't act like the rest of the world. With the Holy Spirit in you, you can be transformed in your mind and actions when you partner with Him.
Sunday, 4/19
Psalm 51:10
This is my battle cry when i am caught up in thinking and/or acting ugly. I have this verse memorized so I can call on it like Spiritual 911!
Monday, 4/20
John 14:16-17
Look at Jesus' promise that His followers would receive the Holy Spirit and He would live in them. The Holy Spirit gives you the power to be better than you are on your own.
Tuesday, 4/21
Matt. 5:46-47
Another look at Jesus' challenging teaching for us to be other-centered and to give kindness to those who have not necessarily been kind to us.
Wednesday, 4/22
1 Peter 2:19-20
These verses show that God is aware that there are times when we have to suffer even when we haven't done anything wrong. He gives a strong teaching here.
Thursday, 4/23
Romans 15:1-7
Sometimes, a good step to being kind is to start with being accepting of another person.
Friday, 4/24
1 Cor. 13:4-7
As you read this, remember that Jesus wants you to show love even to those who are difficult to love.
Saturday, 4/25
Col. 3:12-14
We have talked about these verses before in GEMS - but they are powerful words to direct how we live.
Sunday, 4/26
2 Peter 1:5-9
What an incredible list! Especially key in on the words "increasing measure". We're not supposed to be perfect - just constantly increasing!
Monday, 4/27
Psalm 119:65-72
A beautiful picture of God's goodness. Again, I think this is a great Psalm to pray to God in order to grow in goodness.
Tuesday, 4/28
2 Thes. 1:11-12
I love verse 11 - by His power He fulfills every good purpose of ours. SO COOL!!!!!
Wednesday, 4/29
Gal. 6:1-7
Tonight we will be talking about "gentleness".
See you there!!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Bible Reading 4/2 - 4/15/09
Hey y'all! Better late than never! Have a great two weeks!
Thursday, 4/2
Col. 1:9-14
Man, if this doesn't make you want to stand up and shout "Glory, Hallelujah!" you are reading with your eyes closed! How marvelous is the love of God!
Friday, 4/3
Col. 3:12-13
Another loving list of the characteristics of a Christian.
Saturday, 4/4
1 Timothy 1:15-17
When we are tempted to lose our patience, these verses remind us that Jesus has unlimited patience with us!
Sunday, 4/5 ((My son Nathaniel's 8th birthday!)
James 5:7-12
Brother James has a lot to say about patience. It helps us to remember that we are not living for this world - but we are living for our eternal life with Christ!
Monday, 4/6
1 Corinthians 13: 4-7
A beautiful look at how the virtue of patience and perseverance affects the way we love.
Tuesday, 4/7
Micah 7:7
This verse shows us the heart of a faithful prophet who knew that his hope is in the Lord - even if he has to wait on God to work on his behalf.
Wednesday, 4/8
Lamentations 3:25-26
Another look at waiting on the Lord in faithful hope.
Thursday, 4/9
Psalm 27:14
While we wait - we actively choose to be strong...and we actively choose to wait...this is the source of our quiet confidence.
Friday, 4/10
Proverbs 16:32
It's interesting how the Bible defines strength...patience is stronger than a person who can wipe out other people.
Saturday, 4/11
Romans 8:17, 18, 35-37
Paul develops an interesting argument for how important it is to view our suffering in light of Christ's eternal grace.
Sunday, 4/12 Happy Easter!! Happy Resurrection Day!!!!!
Hebrews 12:1-3
We want to be free from all the hindrances of this world so that we can reflect God's glory. When we make active choices to let His light shine in us...to live according to His will, we honor His sacrifice for us on the cross!
Monday, 4/13
1 Peter 4:13-16
Sometimes we suffer because we are Christians - others make fun of us or leave us out of things. Praise God that they can tell you are a believer in the Risen Lord!
Tuesday, 4/14
Romans 2:7
It is "worth it" to live our lives in ways that honor God...to persevere even when things are hard.
Wednesday, 4/15
Ephesians 4:32
Tonight at GEMS. we will discuss "kindness" and "goodness" as they relate to us growing in our fruit of the Spirit.
See you tonight!!!!
Thursday, 4/2
Col. 1:9-14
Man, if this doesn't make you want to stand up and shout "Glory, Hallelujah!" you are reading with your eyes closed! How marvelous is the love of God!
Friday, 4/3
Col. 3:12-13
Another loving list of the characteristics of a Christian.
Saturday, 4/4
1 Timothy 1:15-17
When we are tempted to lose our patience, these verses remind us that Jesus has unlimited patience with us!
Sunday, 4/5 ((My son Nathaniel's 8th birthday!)
James 5:7-12
Brother James has a lot to say about patience. It helps us to remember that we are not living for this world - but we are living for our eternal life with Christ!
Monday, 4/6
1 Corinthians 13: 4-7
A beautiful look at how the virtue of patience and perseverance affects the way we love.
Tuesday, 4/7
Micah 7:7
This verse shows us the heart of a faithful prophet who knew that his hope is in the Lord - even if he has to wait on God to work on his behalf.
Wednesday, 4/8
Lamentations 3:25-26
Another look at waiting on the Lord in faithful hope.
Thursday, 4/9
Psalm 27:14
While we wait - we actively choose to be strong...and we actively choose to wait...this is the source of our quiet confidence.
Friday, 4/10
Proverbs 16:32
It's interesting how the Bible defines strength...patience is stronger than a person who can wipe out other people.
Saturday, 4/11
Romans 8:17, 18, 35-37
Paul develops an interesting argument for how important it is to view our suffering in light of Christ's eternal grace.
Sunday, 4/12 Happy Easter!! Happy Resurrection Day!!!!!
Hebrews 12:1-3
We want to be free from all the hindrances of this world so that we can reflect God's glory. When we make active choices to let His light shine in us...to live according to His will, we honor His sacrifice for us on the cross!
Monday, 4/13
1 Peter 4:13-16
Sometimes we suffer because we are Christians - others make fun of us or leave us out of things. Praise God that they can tell you are a believer in the Risen Lord!
Tuesday, 4/14
Romans 2:7
It is "worth it" to live our lives in ways that honor God...to persevere even when things are hard.
Wednesday, 4/15
Ephesians 4:32
Tonight at GEMS. we will discuss "kindness" and "goodness" as they relate to us growing in our fruit of the Spirit.
See you tonight!!!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
God's Wings
God's Wings -
A little something to put things in perspective...
After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park , forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he gently struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise. She could have flown to safety, but had refused to abandon her babies. Then the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast ...because she had been willing to die, so those under the cover of her wings would live. 'He will cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you will find refuge.' (Psalm 91:4)
Being loved this much should make a difference in your life. Remember the One who loves you, and then be different because of it.
A little something to put things in perspective...
After a forest fire in Yellowstone National Park , forest rangers began their trek up a mountain to assess the inferno's damage. One ranger found a bird literally petrified in ashes, perched statuesquely on the ground at the base of a tree. Somewhat sickened by the eerie sight, he knocked over the bird with a stick. When he gently struck it, three tiny chicks scurried from under their dead mother's wings. The loving mother, keenly aware of impending disaster, had carried her offspring to the base of the tree and had gathered them under her wings, instinctively knowing that the toxic smoke would rise. She could have flown to safety, but had refused to abandon her babies. Then the blaze had arrived and the heat had scorched her small body, the mother had remained steadfast ...because she had been willing to die, so those under the cover of her wings would live. 'He will cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you will find refuge.' (Psalm 91:4)
Being loved this much should make a difference in your life. Remember the One who loves you, and then be different because of it.
God's Wife?
Hey GEMS!
I thought the following snippets were cute and thought provoking! Do we ask the right questions? Do we see Jesus in those around us and help them as He would?
Do we think more about ourselves instead of others? Who have you helped cry recently? Have you been chosen to clap and cheer? Some very
interesting thoughts came to mind as I read these short notes. Enjoy!
LOOK OUT FOR THE LAST STORY....IT WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF
Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge.
The purpose of the Contest was to find the most caring child. The winner was a four-year-old child, whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman, who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old Gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.
When his mother asked him what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy just said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry."
*********************************************
Teacher Debbie Moon's first graders were discussing a picture of a family. One little boy in the picture had a different hair color than the other members. One of her students suggested that he was adopted. A little girl said, 'I know all about Adoption, I was adopted.
''What does it mean to be adopted?', asked another child.
'It means', said the girl, 'that you grew in your mommy's heart instead of her tummy!' *********************************************
On my way home one day, I stopped to watch a Little League baseball game that was being played in a park near my home. As I sat down behind the bench on the first-base line, I asked one of the boys what the score was. 'We're behind 14 to nothing,' he answered with a smile. 'Really,' I said. 'I have to say you don't look very discouraged. ''Discouraged?', the boy asked with a puzzled look on his face...'Why should we be discouraged? We haven't been up to bat yet.'
*********************************************
Whenever I'm disappointed with my spot in life, I stop and think about little Jamie Scott. Jamie was trying out for a part in the school play. His mother told me that he'd set his heart on being in it, though she feared he would not be chosen. On the day the parts were awarded, I went with her to collect him after school. Jamie rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement. 'Guess what, Mom,' he shouted, and then said those words that will remain a lesson to me....'I've been chosen to clap and cheer.' *********************************************
An eye witness account from New York City , on a cold day in December, some years ago:
A little boy, about 10-years-old, was standing before a shoe store on the roadway, bare footed, peering through the window, and shivering with cold. A lady approached the young boy and said, "My, but you're in such deep thought staring in that window!'' 'I was asking God to give me a pair of shoes,' was the boy's reply. The lady took him by the hand, went into the store, and asked the clerk to get half a dozen pairs of socks for the boy. She then asked if he could give her a basin of water and a towel. He quickly brought them to her. She took the little fellow to the back part of the store and, removing her gloves, knelt down, washed his little feet, and dried them with the towel. By this time, the clerk had returned with the socks. Placing a pair upon the boy's feet, she purchased him a pair of shoes. She tied up the remaining pairs of socks and gave them to him. She patted him on the head and said, 'No doubt, you will be more comfortable now.' As she turned to go, the astonished kid caught her by the hand, and looking up into her face, with tears in his eyes, asked her: 'Are you God's wife?'
I thought the following snippets were cute and thought provoking! Do we ask the right questions? Do we see Jesus in those around us and help them as He would?
Do we think more about ourselves instead of others? Who have you helped cry recently? Have you been chosen to clap and cheer? Some very
interesting thoughts came to mind as I read these short notes. Enjoy!
LOOK OUT FOR THE LAST STORY....IT WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF
Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge.
The purpose of the Contest was to find the most caring child. The winner was a four-year-old child, whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman, who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old Gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.
When his mother asked him what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy just said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry."
*********************************************
Teacher Debbie Moon's first graders were discussing a picture of a family. One little boy in the picture had a different hair color than the other members. One of her students suggested that he was adopted. A little girl said, 'I know all about Adoption, I was adopted.
''What does it mean to be adopted?', asked another child.
'It means', said the girl, 'that you grew in your mommy's heart instead of her tummy!' *********************************************
On my way home one day, I stopped to watch a Little League baseball game that was being played in a park near my home. As I sat down behind the bench on the first-base line, I asked one of the boys what the score was. 'We're behind 14 to nothing,' he answered with a smile. 'Really,' I said. 'I have to say you don't look very discouraged. ''Discouraged?', the boy asked with a puzzled look on his face...'Why should we be discouraged? We haven't been up to bat yet.'
*********************************************
Whenever I'm disappointed with my spot in life, I stop and think about little Jamie Scott. Jamie was trying out for a part in the school play. His mother told me that he'd set his heart on being in it, though she feared he would not be chosen. On the day the parts were awarded, I went with her to collect him after school. Jamie rushed up to her, eyes shining with pride and excitement. 'Guess what, Mom,' he shouted, and then said those words that will remain a lesson to me....'I've been chosen to clap and cheer.' *********************************************
An eye witness account from New York City , on a cold day in December, some years ago:
A little boy, about 10-years-old, was standing before a shoe store on the roadway, bare footed, peering through the window, and shivering with cold. A lady approached the young boy and said, "My, but you're in such deep thought staring in that window!'' 'I was asking God to give me a pair of shoes,' was the boy's reply. The lady took him by the hand, went into the store, and asked the clerk to get half a dozen pairs of socks for the boy. She then asked if he could give her a basin of water and a towel. He quickly brought them to her. She took the little fellow to the back part of the store and, removing her gloves, knelt down, washed his little feet, and dried them with the towel. By this time, the clerk had returned with the socks. Placing a pair upon the boy's feet, she purchased him a pair of shoes. She tied up the remaining pairs of socks and gave them to him. She patted him on the head and said, 'No doubt, you will be more comfortable now.' As she turned to go, the astonished kid caught her by the hand, and looking up into her face, with tears in his eyes, asked her: 'Are you God's wife?'
Friday, March 6, 2009
Bible reading and thoughts 3/5-3/18
Hey all you GEMS! I am back! I am so sorry that i couldn't get things posted, but everything is good to go now with my computer and I will catch up with everything. It was so great to be with everyone at GEMS on Wednesday night. I am praying for all of you! Take care and keep on keeping on! I love you gals!
Thursday, 3/5/09
Nehemiah 8:12
Look at the people's response to what Nehemiah said in 8:10. Now that you have heard from the Word about joy - go out and celebrate!
Friday, 3/6/09
Psalm 119 verses 14,16,72,97,103,104,111,127
In these verses, we see how sweet it is to love God's commands - and the joy they bring.
Saturday, 3/7/09
Isaiah 12:1-3
Verse 3 is one of my favorite Bible verses. When i am weak - I picture myself drawing from the well of His salvation - that is JOY!
Sunday, 3/8/09
Romans 14:17-18
Another great look at what equals true joy.
Monday, 3/9/09
Psalm 4
This is a great Psalm - "God please hear me when I call - thank You for being holy - I will follow Your ways - thank You for giving me JOY"
Tuesday, 3/10/09
Psalm 97
Exalt the name of the Lord! vv 10-12 are so powerful as they speak to us! Be faithful!
Wednesday, 3/11/09
Psalm 32
This is a good reminder of the JOY that comes when we confess our sins to God and know that we are walking in forgiveness.
Thursday, 3/12/09
Psalm 16
Wow - this is so full of amazing images of God's love and provision for us. Verse 11 is just good stuff.
Friday, 3/13/09
Luke 10:20
A large group of disciples have come back to Jesus reporting that "even demons are submitting to them". Jesus breaks it down for them "rejoice because your names are written in heaven."
Saturday, 3/14/09
Psalm 5:11-12
Rejoice in God's protection!
Sunday, 3/15/09
Psalm 28:6-7
God hears your cry for mercy and He helps. Quiet your life so that you don't miss the ways in which God is helping you.
Monday, 3/16/09
Psalm 68:4-6
I especially love how God provides families/community to those who need them. Rejoice before Him in prayer and worship.
Tuesday, 3/17/09
1 Peter 1:3-9
This is a very full passage - and at the root is the true source of our joy....we have salvation and He gifts us with JOY.
Wednesday, 3/18/09
Philippians 4:4-9
Paul wrote these word when he was in prison! Be diligent in prayer and keeping your focus on God - not your problems. Receive the JOY He has for you when you fill yourself with Him.
See you tonight! :o)
Thursday, 3/5/09
Nehemiah 8:12
Look at the people's response to what Nehemiah said in 8:10. Now that you have heard from the Word about joy - go out and celebrate!
Friday, 3/6/09
Psalm 119 verses 14,16,72,97,103,104,111,127
In these verses, we see how sweet it is to love God's commands - and the joy they bring.
Saturday, 3/7/09
Isaiah 12:1-3
Verse 3 is one of my favorite Bible verses. When i am weak - I picture myself drawing from the well of His salvation - that is JOY!
Sunday, 3/8/09
Romans 14:17-18
Another great look at what equals true joy.
Monday, 3/9/09
Psalm 4
This is a great Psalm - "God please hear me when I call - thank You for being holy - I will follow Your ways - thank You for giving me JOY"
Tuesday, 3/10/09
Psalm 97
Exalt the name of the Lord! vv 10-12 are so powerful as they speak to us! Be faithful!
Wednesday, 3/11/09
Psalm 32
This is a good reminder of the JOY that comes when we confess our sins to God and know that we are walking in forgiveness.
Thursday, 3/12/09
Psalm 16
Wow - this is so full of amazing images of God's love and provision for us. Verse 11 is just good stuff.
Friday, 3/13/09
Luke 10:20
A large group of disciples have come back to Jesus reporting that "even demons are submitting to them". Jesus breaks it down for them "rejoice because your names are written in heaven."
Saturday, 3/14/09
Psalm 5:11-12
Rejoice in God's protection!
Sunday, 3/15/09
Psalm 28:6-7
God hears your cry for mercy and He helps. Quiet your life so that you don't miss the ways in which God is helping you.
Monday, 3/16/09
Psalm 68:4-6
I especially love how God provides families/community to those who need them. Rejoice before Him in prayer and worship.
Tuesday, 3/17/09
1 Peter 1:3-9
This is a very full passage - and at the root is the true source of our joy....we have salvation and He gifts us with JOY.
Wednesday, 3/18/09
Philippians 4:4-9
Paul wrote these word when he was in prison! Be diligent in prayer and keeping your focus on God - not your problems. Receive the JOY He has for you when you fill yourself with Him.
See you tonight! :o)
Sunday, February 22, 2009
A song of praise......
Hey GEMS,
Being a part of the choir we often get to introduce a new song or sing a song that isn't new to all of us. One of my friends sent an email to our choir director and said he remembered the song "Overcome" when we sang it in church. It had been sung in a church service he attended in Brazil. Below is the link to the song with the Portuguese translation. Of course, I really enjoy it and had heard it being sung in Portuguese in a church service.
Listen to the words and close your eyes and let the music bring you before the Throne of God!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXMoNAtlu3Q
I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Being a part of the choir we often get to introduce a new song or sing a song that isn't new to all of us. One of my friends sent an email to our choir director and said he remembered the song "Overcome" when we sang it in church. It had been sung in a church service he attended in Brazil. Below is the link to the song with the Portuguese translation. Of course, I really enjoy it and had heard it being sung in Portuguese in a church service.
Listen to the words and close your eyes and let the music bring you before the Throne of God!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXMoNAtlu3Q
I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Patriotism and our love for God and Country..
Hey GEMS,
I received this yesterday and thought it was worth sharing. I had to get a tissue half way through, but thought it was a great rendition of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic". Take a listen and see what you think! Let me know your thoughts and what you were thinking as you watched and listened.
http://www.greatdanepromilitary.com/Battle%20Hymn/index.htm
God Bless!
Cheri Lynn
I received this yesterday and thought it was worth sharing. I had to get a tissue half way through, but thought it was a great rendition of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic". Take a listen and see what you think! Let me know your thoughts and what you were thinking as you watched and listened.
http://www.greatdanepromilitary.com/Battle%20Hymn/index.htm
God Bless!
Cheri Lynn
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Bible reading for 2/5/09 through 2/18/09
What a great evening and how intimate! I am still thinking about it and continuing to reflect and look to see if there is something holding my relationship with God back! Wow!
Here is our reading for the next two weeks. Keep on keeping on!
Thursday, 2/5
Luke 16:11-13
Can you serve two masters?
Friday, 2/6
Matthew 6:19-21
Store up treasures that are better than things of this world
Saturday, 2/7
Proverbs 30:8-9
Heart check! Are you content with what you have?
Sunday, 2/8
Philippians 4:11-13
More about contentment from the Apostle Paul.
Monday, 2/9
Job 31:24-25, 28
God wants us to trust in Him.
Tuesday, 2/10
Luke 9:23-26
Jesus talks about the "cost" of being a disciple - and the reward!
Wednesday, 2/11
Luke 12:29-34
Jesus shows us what we should value.
Thursday, 2/12
Jeremiah 9:23-24
Look what God says we should boast about :o)
Friday, 2/13
1 John 3:16-24
John gives us a picture of how much Jesus loved us - and how we, as His disciples, can show love to others.
Saturday, 2/14 Happy Valentine's Day
John 3:16
This is the best Valentine's ever - You are loved!
Sunday, 2/15
Proverbs 11:28
In what do you trust? Are you willing to trust God with everything?
Monday, 2/16
Psalm 84:11
Be blameless - withhold nothing from God and He will bestow His favor.
Tuesday, 2/17
Philippians 3:8-9
Knowing Christ and giving Him control is the best thing in life.
Wednesday, 2/18
John 6:60-69
After hearing some hard teaching, a lot of people deserted Jesus. Let us not desert the One who has the words of eternal life.
See y'all tonight!
Here is our reading for the next two weeks. Keep on keeping on!
Thursday, 2/5
Luke 16:11-13
Can you serve two masters?
Friday, 2/6
Matthew 6:19-21
Store up treasures that are better than things of this world
Saturday, 2/7
Proverbs 30:8-9
Heart check! Are you content with what you have?
Sunday, 2/8
Philippians 4:11-13
More about contentment from the Apostle Paul.
Monday, 2/9
Job 31:24-25, 28
God wants us to trust in Him.
Tuesday, 2/10
Luke 9:23-26
Jesus talks about the "cost" of being a disciple - and the reward!
Wednesday, 2/11
Luke 12:29-34
Jesus shows us what we should value.
Thursday, 2/12
Jeremiah 9:23-24
Look what God says we should boast about :o)
Friday, 2/13
1 John 3:16-24
John gives us a picture of how much Jesus loved us - and how we, as His disciples, can show love to others.
Saturday, 2/14 Happy Valentine's Day
John 3:16
This is the best Valentine's ever - You are loved!
Sunday, 2/15
Proverbs 11:28
In what do you trust? Are you willing to trust God with everything?
Monday, 2/16
Psalm 84:11
Be blameless - withhold nothing from God and He will bestow His favor.
Tuesday, 2/17
Philippians 3:8-9
Knowing Christ and giving Him control is the best thing in life.
Wednesday, 2/18
John 6:60-69
After hearing some hard teaching, a lot of people deserted Jesus. Let us not desert the One who has the words of eternal life.
See y'all tonight!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Jesus Painter
I received this from a friend and thought it was really good! I sat and watched with tears rolling down my face! We are CHOSEN by HIM!
I watched Fireproof last night at Eastview and was blown away! Wow! It was great!
This is a little bit longer than some clips, but definitely worth watching!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M4_IlbaZHA
Enjoy!
I watched Fireproof last night at Eastview and was blown away! Wow! It was great!
This is a little bit longer than some clips, but definitely worth watching!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M4_IlbaZHA
Enjoy!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Bible Reading January 23rd - February 4th, 2009
Hey Sisters! I am so sorry I had to miss the other night, but I had another commitment! I hear it was good. I hope you all enjoyed your study! Following I have listed the Bible Reading for the next two weeks. Have a great two weeks and I'll see you on the 4th!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Thursday, 1/22/09
Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
Wisdom and money are a shelter in this world. Money is helpful, but being wise is better!
Friday, 1/23/09
Luke 12:13-21
Having stuff is great - but look at the warning that Jesus laid out to the man who was so concerned about his possessions.
Saturday, 1/24/09
Psalm 119:33-37
Verse 37 is a great memory verse when you're feeling the itch to buy something that you know you can't afford!
Sunday, 1/25/09
Luke 16:19-31
Having money can blind us to how we should help others. Use the money that God has given you for good - and to help others when you can.
Monday, 1/26/09
Luke 14:15-23
God invites us to hang out with Him. We need to be careful that we don't get so caught up in living our lives and taking care of our "stuff" that we miss out on this!
Tuesday, 1/27/09
Matthew 4:8-10
Look how Jesus responded to Satan when the devil tried to tempt him with "stuff".
Wednesday, 1/28/09
Psalm 49:1-12
Riches don't redeem us! At the end of the day, you can't take it with you!
Thursday, 1/29/09
Psalm 49:13-20
Verse 15 is a HUGE HALLELUJAH!!!
Friday, 1/30/09
Ecclesiastes 5:13-20
Another look at "you can't take it with you". Enjoy the gifts of God.
Saturday, 1/31/09
Luke 16:9-11
Be faithful with what God has given you!
Sunday, 2/1/09
Matthew 25:14-30
Notice the theme, "Well done good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things!"
Monday, 2/2/09
Matthew 6:24
Who do you serve?
Tuesday, 2/3/09
Proverbs 30:7-9
Good, grounding prayer.
Wednesday, 2/4/09
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
How we sow is how we reap. We are blessed with things so that we can be a blessing to others.
See y'all tonight!!!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Thursday, 1/22/09
Ecclesiastes 7:11-12
Wisdom and money are a shelter in this world. Money is helpful, but being wise is better!
Friday, 1/23/09
Luke 12:13-21
Having stuff is great - but look at the warning that Jesus laid out to the man who was so concerned about his possessions.
Saturday, 1/24/09
Psalm 119:33-37
Verse 37 is a great memory verse when you're feeling the itch to buy something that you know you can't afford!
Sunday, 1/25/09
Luke 16:19-31
Having money can blind us to how we should help others. Use the money that God has given you for good - and to help others when you can.
Monday, 1/26/09
Luke 14:15-23
God invites us to hang out with Him. We need to be careful that we don't get so caught up in living our lives and taking care of our "stuff" that we miss out on this!
Tuesday, 1/27/09
Matthew 4:8-10
Look how Jesus responded to Satan when the devil tried to tempt him with "stuff".
Wednesday, 1/28/09
Psalm 49:1-12
Riches don't redeem us! At the end of the day, you can't take it with you!
Thursday, 1/29/09
Psalm 49:13-20
Verse 15 is a HUGE HALLELUJAH!!!
Friday, 1/30/09
Ecclesiastes 5:13-20
Another look at "you can't take it with you". Enjoy the gifts of God.
Saturday, 1/31/09
Luke 16:9-11
Be faithful with what God has given you!
Sunday, 2/1/09
Matthew 25:14-30
Notice the theme, "Well done good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with a few things. I will put you in charge of many things!"
Monday, 2/2/09
Matthew 6:24
Who do you serve?
Tuesday, 2/3/09
Proverbs 30:7-9
Good, grounding prayer.
Wednesday, 2/4/09
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
How we sow is how we reap. We are blessed with things so that we can be a blessing to others.
See y'all tonight!!!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Free tax preparation......
Check it out ladies!
Heartland Community College will be one of the free tax sites in Bloomington-Normal where trained volunteers from the Center for Economic Progress will be preparing and filing FREE tax returns for qualifying individuals and families throughout Illinois.
The HCC tax site will be open every Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 7:30pm starting January 29 through April 9, 2009.
You do not need to be a current HCC student to take advantage of this service. Tax preparation services are free to families with income of less than $55,000 and individuals with incomes less than $35,000.
Please bring all tax documents with you including:
W-2s and 1099s (if any),
Social Security Cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers for all family members,
a copy of last year's tax return if available,
bank account number and routing number to direct deposit your refund,
and a valid Photo ID.
No appointment is necessary since clients are served on a first-come first-served basis.
Questions? For more details and other tax site locations in Illinois, call 1-888-827-8511 or visit the website www.economicprogress.org.
Heartland Community College will be one of the free tax sites in Bloomington-Normal where trained volunteers from the Center for Economic Progress will be preparing and filing FREE tax returns for qualifying individuals and families throughout Illinois.
The HCC tax site will be open every Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 7:30pm starting January 29 through April 9, 2009.
You do not need to be a current HCC student to take advantage of this service. Tax preparation services are free to families with income of less than $55,000 and individuals with incomes less than $35,000.
Please bring all tax documents with you including:
W-2s and 1099s (if any),
Social Security Cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers for all family members,
a copy of last year's tax return if available,
bank account number and routing number to direct deposit your refund,
and a valid Photo ID.
No appointment is necessary since clients are served on a first-come first-served basis.
Questions? For more details and other tax site locations in Illinois, call 1-888-827-8511 or visit the website www.economicprogress.org.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Amazing Grace
Hey everyone!
I thought y'all might enjoy this great old hymn. I really enjoyed it! Turn up the sound.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtrnB4FZ-yc
Have a great day and stay warm!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
I thought y'all might enjoy this great old hymn. I really enjoyed it! Turn up the sound.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtrnB4FZ-yc
Have a great day and stay warm!
Love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Inspiration....
Good morning!
I had a friend that sent the following video clip to me and I thought it was great and wanted to share. I hope you are inspired to keep moving forward and will never give up! We are CHOSEN! We are SPECIAL in HIS eyes! HE is with us every step of the way and we will live with Him forever in eternity! Wow! Don't give up!
http://www.charliephillips.net/Video/Theater3/NickVujicic/tabid/866/Default.aspx
I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
I had a friend that sent the following video clip to me and I thought it was great and wanted to share. I hope you are inspired to keep moving forward and will never give up! We are CHOSEN! We are SPECIAL in HIS eyes! HE is with us every step of the way and we will live with Him forever in eternity! Wow! Don't give up!
http://www.charliephillips.net/Video/Theater3/NickVujicic/tabid/866/Default.aspx
I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Thursday, January 8, 2009
An Opportunity for a child/student in grades 5-10
This is an opportunity for a student or more to attend a great conference. If you are interested, please contact Nikki Green! The information below explains the conference!
Colleagues,Please consider taking advantage of an opportunity for your children. The 19th annual Expanding Your Horizons through Math, Science, and Technology conference will be held on the Illinois State University campus on Saturday, January 31, 2009. This is a one-day conference to encourage students in grades 5-10 to consider careers that involve skills in mathematics, science, and/or technology. While the focus is on recruitment of young women into these fields, male students are also welcome.Please check out our website: http://www.eyh.ilstu.edu and register your children for this worthwhile one-day conference that includes a keynote speaker, career mystery women, displays, and a choice of three hands-on workshops. Registration is being accepted through January 20th. Cost is only $25 and includes, t-shirts, bags, lunch and a full day of activities.
Colleagues,Please consider taking advantage of an opportunity for your children. The 19th annual Expanding Your Horizons through Math, Science, and Technology conference will be held on the Illinois State University campus on Saturday, January 31, 2009. This is a one-day conference to encourage students in grades 5-10 to consider careers that involve skills in mathematics, science, and/or technology. While the focus is on recruitment of young women into these fields, male students are also welcome.Please check out our website: http://www.eyh.ilstu.edu and register your children for this worthwhile one-day conference that includes a keynote speaker, career mystery women, displays, and a choice of three hands-on workshops. Registration is being accepted through January 20th. Cost is only $25 and includes, t-shirts, bags, lunch and a full day of activities.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Bible Reading January 8th - January 21st!
Hey GEMS!
Wasn't tonight just awesome? I just love our nights together. You guys are my family and I so appreciate each one of you. I love you guys!
I am going to post the Bible Readings for the next two weeks and will also try and make a few posts during the two weeks.
Here you go!
Thursday, January 8th
Hebrews 13:5
Be content - enjoy the blessing that God will never leave you nor forsake you!
Friday, January 9th
Proverbs 10:4 and Ephesians 4:28
Plan to use your hands to do the work it takes to achieve your goals! In Ephesians, notice why the Bible says we should do something useful with our hands....
Saturday, January 10th
Malachi 3:6-12
A look at God's wrath when His people withhold from Him.
Sunday, January 11th
I Timothy 6:1-10
Look at the basic necessities - really we have what we need - thank God for those blessings.
Monday, January 12th
Proverbs 14:29 and 20:21
Make a plan and be patient to see it all the way through.
Tuesday, January 13th
Matthew 6:25-34
A great look at how we should trust God to meet our needs. Verse 33 is amazing if you really think about it - seek FIRST the Kingdom - then worry about the "stuff".
Wednesday, January 14th
Proverbs 30:8-9
Another reason being content is so important. If we "get" too much, we may turn our eyes away from God. Better to stay hungry for Him and dependent on Him!
Thursday, January 15th
Matthew 19:16-30
Here is a look at what Jesus sees when he sees us loving our treasure more than Him.
Friday, January 16th
I Timothy 6:17-19
Real treasures - according to the Bible.
Saturday, January 17th
Proverbs 16:8
Be a good manager of what you have - it's better to have a little and know that you stand righteous before God than to have a lot of "toys" but no good standing with God.
Sunday, January 18th
2 Corinthians 9:7-8
A cheerful giver....it's easy to do when you remember that God is the one you are giving to!
Monday, January 19th
Proverbs 22:9
Your "food" could be a lot of things...literally food, money, clothes. It's just the idea that God's children share!
Tuesday, January 20th
Psalm 37:7-16
Don't worry if other people are getting ahead of you - especially ones who are not committed to God. He sees it all and will administer justice.
Wednesday, January 21st
Luke 12:13-21
If you know that your heart is right toward God - then you're not a fool. Tonight, we'll look at how to grow in our financial security in God-honoring ways!
See you there!!
Have a great two weeks! I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Wasn't tonight just awesome? I just love our nights together. You guys are my family and I so appreciate each one of you. I love you guys!
I am going to post the Bible Readings for the next two weeks and will also try and make a few posts during the two weeks.
Here you go!
Thursday, January 8th
Hebrews 13:5
Be content - enjoy the blessing that God will never leave you nor forsake you!
Friday, January 9th
Proverbs 10:4 and Ephesians 4:28
Plan to use your hands to do the work it takes to achieve your goals! In Ephesians, notice why the Bible says we should do something useful with our hands....
Saturday, January 10th
Malachi 3:6-12
A look at God's wrath when His people withhold from Him.
Sunday, January 11th
I Timothy 6:1-10
Look at the basic necessities - really we have what we need - thank God for those blessings.
Monday, January 12th
Proverbs 14:29 and 20:21
Make a plan and be patient to see it all the way through.
Tuesday, January 13th
Matthew 6:25-34
A great look at how we should trust God to meet our needs. Verse 33 is amazing if you really think about it - seek FIRST the Kingdom - then worry about the "stuff".
Wednesday, January 14th
Proverbs 30:8-9
Another reason being content is so important. If we "get" too much, we may turn our eyes away from God. Better to stay hungry for Him and dependent on Him!
Thursday, January 15th
Matthew 19:16-30
Here is a look at what Jesus sees when he sees us loving our treasure more than Him.
Friday, January 16th
I Timothy 6:17-19
Real treasures - according to the Bible.
Saturday, January 17th
Proverbs 16:8
Be a good manager of what you have - it's better to have a little and know that you stand righteous before God than to have a lot of "toys" but no good standing with God.
Sunday, January 18th
2 Corinthians 9:7-8
A cheerful giver....it's easy to do when you remember that God is the one you are giving to!
Monday, January 19th
Proverbs 22:9
Your "food" could be a lot of things...literally food, money, clothes. It's just the idea that God's children share!
Tuesday, January 20th
Psalm 37:7-16
Don't worry if other people are getting ahead of you - especially ones who are not committed to God. He sees it all and will administer justice.
Wednesday, January 21st
Luke 12:13-21
If you know that your heart is right toward God - then you're not a fool. Tonight, we'll look at how to grow in our financial security in God-honoring ways!
See you there!!
Have a great two weeks! I love y'all!
Cheri Lynn
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
