Our Mission

To lovingly provide a small group ministry for single mothers of all ages both inside and outside of Eastview Christian Church to help them become intensely dedicated to Jesus Christ.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Tuesday, July 31 - Luke 1:46 -56

Good Morning!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Luke 1:46-56 ~ Mary understood; she was special only because God is great and He had gifted her. He has gifted you, too.  What song does your life sing?

Mary's song is simple and direct.  She gives praise to God for who He is and then praises Him for all He has done.  She knew that she was special and blessed because of what He was and had done for all His people. 
God's plan was in action and Mary knew her part!  Look at verse 50: "His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation."  Mary sang of history and future.  God had - did - and will always take care of His people.  We are included in that promise!

It says that Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months.  What do you think they discussed?  Baby stuff - wonder if he will have dark hair; will he be colicky; will he be a good sleeper...?  Or did they discuss the future - will John and Jesus be together; what will they do; how will their lives play out?  They both knew that Mary was carrying the Son of God and He would do great things.  Elizabeth also knew her son would be special.  I am sure that those three months together were very special for both women.

Have you ever thought about your life song?  Take some time and think about it and even write it down.  What is your life song?

Monday, July 30, 2012

Monday, July 30th - Luke 1:39-45

Good Morning!

Another gorgeous morning and the start of a new work week! 

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Luke 1:39-45 ~ How cool for Mary to get this amazing confirmation!  Elizabeth was available to and filled with the holy Spirit so she could bless Mary. 

Okay, Mary has just received the news of a lifetime and she takes a trip to go and see her relative Elizabeth to share the news.  She has to tell someone and what better person than family that will understand because they are kind of in the same condition - receiving a miracle!  Elizabeth was probably past child bearing age and had not had children and yet God chose her to carry a child that would "prepare the way" for Jesus - John the Baptist".
Their meeting was guided by God.  Notice that when Mary greeted Elizabeth, the baby leaped in her womb and she was filled with the Holy Spirit.  She knew Mary's news before Mary told her.  Verse 42 is a declaration from Elizabeth to Mary - "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!"  Mary was chosen and was special.
Elizabeth knew that Mary was carrying the Son  of God and wondered why Mary had come to her, but I think she knew.  Elizabeth confirms the blessing on Mary in verse 45 when she says, "Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
In just a few verses we see the plan of God unfolding and how He uses ordinary people to carry out His plan.

God still uses ordinary people to do great things for His Kingdom.  Are you listening?

Have a wonderful day and SHINE for Him in all that you do and say!

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Sunday, July 29th - Luke 1:26-38

Good Morning!

Happy Sunday!  It is a very pleasant day with much cooler temperatures.  I really enjoyed taking the puppy out for a short walk this morning! I didn't come in feeling like I needed another shower before I go to church!  :o)

Well, we are in the New Testament today and beginning to look at Mary!  Quite a lady!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Luke 1:26-38 ~ So, you're Mary, minding your own business and then BAM! an angel tells you that you're having God's Son. #nothingisimpossible4God

The beginning of the best love story ever told - the story of God's love!  God sent Gabriel to announce His plan to the virgin Mary and He spoke with authority and grace - "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." (vs. 28)
Can you imagine how Mary probably felt?  (I would have probably had an accident right then and there.)  Gabriel told her not to be afraid, but really?  The news she received was wonderful, life-changing (literally), magnificent, and miraculous!  Mary, a virgin girl (probably very young) was going to have a baby - the Son of God, and call Him Jesus!
Hallelujah!  His coming is announced!
Gabriel went on to tell Mary that her relative Elizabeth was also pregnant and would have a child in her old age (John the Baptist).  Verse 37 is a key: "For nothing is impossible with God."  Amen and Amen!
Mary listened to every word of the angel and then was obedient in verse 38 when she said: "I am the Lord's servant, May it be to me as you have said."  She accepted the challenge with humility and obedience.  He life had changed forever!
God's love for His people was announced and His plan was set into motion - His plan to save the world.

Has God ever asked you to do something?  Has He spoken to you and have you listened?  I pray that I always respond as did Mary - "I am the Lord's servant, may it be to me as You have said."

I hope to see y'all in church this morning!  Have a wonderful day!

SOMETHING NEW:  I am going to start posting the daily tweet on the GEMS Facebook page in the notes.  Be sure to look for it and I hope you enjoy!  Let me know what you think!

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Saturday, July 28th - Esther 9, 10

Good Morning!

What a beautiful day after a rather long night.  My son wasn't feeling the best and so I was up off and on throughout the night.  It is another day and one to be filled with praise for my Lord and Savior and my God!

Lisa's tweets: LMRMinistries: Esther 9-10 ~ Esther wasn't afraid to ask for more on behalf of the Jews for whom she was interceding ~ 9:13.  Let us be bold like her and ask for more
LMRMinistries: Interesting fact - Did you know that modern day Jews still celebrate Purim (Feb. 23-24th, 2013)?  That holiday is from the book of Esther.

God used Esther and Mordecai in a powerful way!  The Jews had victory and were saved.  Haman's son's were hanged - ten of them - and it was known that Haman had been an enemy of the Jews and he and his family were destroyed. 
Mordecai became great and the second in command under King Xerxes and was trusted by all the people as he looked out for the Jews and was an honest man. 
Esther and Mordecai wrote the letters that put into law the Celebration of Purim with was done on two days and a time of rest and feasts and helping the poor.  As Lisa indicated - it is still celebrated!
Esther was a quiet, but powerful woman used by God! 

Have a wonderful Saturday and enjoy God's beautiful creation.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Friday, July 27th - Esther 8

Good Morning!

Did you happen to see the double rainbow last evening?  It was so awesome!  I called my kids outside and we just stood on the deck and gazed at God's beauty - His promise.  It was a great moment with them!
God's promises are true and He is always present and watching over us!  We serve an awesome God!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 8 ~ Esther didn't quit. Sometimes, we do something big for God and we rest on that. Esther kept working for the next right thing.  Do you?

God's Plan was carried out through Esther and Mordecai.  Mordecai actually took Haman's place and was robed and crowned and given the King's signet ring.  He wrote the decrees that were sent to all the provinces and saved the Jews.  Did you notice that it says they were carried by couriers with very fast horses?  There was a celebration and Mordecai was able to celebrate with his family.

Esther continued to do the next right thing and continued to find favor in the eyes of the king.  God had used Esther in a mighty way.

How about you?  Do you continue to do or are you satisfied with one or two victories?  Keep on keeping on as that is what we have been called to do for our King, our God!

Have a great Friday!

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Thursday, July 26th - Esther 7

Good Morning!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 7 ~ God is the God of justice.  Haman thought he could harm God's people.  The Lord worked justice out of Haman's evil.  #trustGodtowork

Wow, this is a packed chapter and the result of many days of fasting and prayer for Esther and Mordecai and the Jews.  Did you notice how Esther was so calm and eloquent in her speech to the king?  She answered the king with intention - "...grant me my life - this is my petition, And spare my people - this is my request."
What do you think Haman was thinking and doing before Queen Esther announced his name?  The tables were definitely turned.  He made things even worse when he was pleading with Esther for his life.  Haman was hanged on his very own gallows.  God had worked justice for His people.

God is a God of justice.  It may not always be in our timing, but justice is/will be done!  Trust God with your life and all that you have - He will take care of you!

Have a great Thursday!

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Wednesday, July 25th - Esther 6

Good Morning!

Just got back in from taking the puppy out and it was very pleasant.  I expected it to be hot and sticky since it is suppose to get to 104 degrees today, but it was warm with a gentle breeze.  I like it when I am surprised like that! :o)  Thank you God for a beautiful early morning!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 6 ~ Isn't it "interesting" that the king just "so happened" to read about Mordecai on this night?  God is always at work.  #behindthescenes

What a story!  Can you see God's Hand in the details?  Working behind the scenes as His plan comes together.  Mordecai was probably shocked when Haman came and robed him and led him through the streets on the king's horse.  After all, he knew what Haman thought of him and had told Esther about his plot to kill all the Jews.  Did he know that Haman was building the gallows to hang him?  I don't think so, but God did!

God is always at work!  Like Mordecai, we may not see it, but HE is always there and protecting us and taking care of us.  Many times I can look back on things that I have done or have happened and see God's Hand, but can honestly say I did not know He was doing that when it was happening.  As the saying goes - hind-sight is 20-20!

We pray and ask for God to lead and guide us through each day and with decisions, but then we are surprised when He does.  Trust Him!  God has your best interest in mind and He will deliver on His promise - "I will be with you forever!"
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6,7

May you face the day with confidence and know that God is with you!  Have a great day!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Tuesday, July 24th - Esther 5

Good Morning!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 5 ~ I love Esther's restraint. She could've blurted out what she wanted, but she took her time to act.  Ever find yourself going ahead of God?

I too love the way that Esther restrains herself and asks the King and Haman to dine with her.  The old saying goes, "the way to a man is through his stomach."  I am sorry, I got side tracked!  :o)
The king truly admired Esther and he would give her anything - up to half of the kingdom.  She knew that and was preparing him for what she would ask, which was not for half of the kingdom at all. 

How many times have you found yourself so eager to do something that you get ahead of God?  We are an impatient people for the most part.  Look at our world today - every thing is instant or done so much faster than in years past. 
Esther had asked Mordecai and all the Jews to fast and pray.  She and her maid servants had done the same.  She sought God's guidance and He answered.  We need to do the same - with big decisions and little decisions.  God wants to be involved in every part of our lives - He cares about the big and the little.  I know it is easy to get ahead of Him and think we can do it on our own, but the results will be much bigger and better if we let Him lead.

Put it all in His Hands.  One day at a time!  He will lead and you will be blessed beyond your dreams.  Let go and let God!

Have a great day!

Monday, July 23, 2012

Monday, July 23rd - Esther 4

Good Morning!

Promises to be fairly hot today, but yet it looks like rain!  It is Monday and the first day of the work week.  How will you shine for Him this week?  How will you be a dangerous witness for Christ?  In your work place?  On vacation?  With your friends?  Remember:  "A fearless church of Christ followers whose ridiculous love and dangerous witness are irresistible."

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 4 ~ Such a time as this - powerful words.  All your life experiences prepare you for the work God has for you.  Who does God want you to bless?

God had a plan - He had been preparing Esther each step of the way - from the spa treatments, to the food, to the audience with the King - to such a time as this....  Esther knew that Mordecai would fast and pray for her as would all those that he asked to do so.  She and her maid servants also did the same.  This was a big decision and she needed to be clear minded and not have distractions.
What do you do when you have a big decision to make?  Do you ask God's guidance?  Do you fast?  It does help!  Try it!

On Friday, my friend in Tennessee tweeted the following: Allenjacksonwoc: With privilege comes purpose!  "For such a time as this!" Esther 4:12-16 #GodsPurpose

What does God want you to do?  Is He asking you to "GO".  What has He been preparing you for - what blessing will you be - what mission field will you go - how will you live the vision statement written above?

"For such a time as this....."

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Sunday, July 22nd - Esther 3

Happy Sunday! 

The first day of the week and I am so excited to go to church and worship my Lord and Savior - my God!  It is going to be a great day!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 3 - Egos are a funny thing.  Because Haman's ego was not stroked, he thought he'd just wipe out all of God's people  #ain'tgonnahappen

Mordecai would not bow to any man and especially not Haman.  He would bow only to the one true God!  The plot that Haman devised was elaborate to say the least, but still all a part of God's Plan.
It is easy for us to see the end of the story, but what do you think Mordecai and the rest of the Jews were feeling?  A day had been appointed for their demise and destruction - all the Jews in the region/kingdom.
As Lisa tweeted:  ain't gonna happen!

Stay tuned!  Same time tomorrow and same channel!

Have a wonderful Lord's Day!

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Saturday, July 21st - Esther 2:19-23

Good Morning!

I am running a little later today, but here just the same. :o)  I had a great evening as we celebrated with one of our GEMS and her son's accomplishment this summer.  He ran 100 miles in less than 2 months!  Wow!  God has gifted him and his personality and character shine bright for Him!  We also met a lady that was having a birthday and celebrating by herself because her husband was in the hospital.  We all shared and ministered to her and lifted her spirits.  She thanked us when she left for letting her break-in to our celebration and share it with us.  It was a great evening.  :o) 
However, today is going to be a fantastic day!  I don't have a list a mile long, but just spend time with the kids and friends!  The weather is great and we will enjoy God's great creation!  Happy Saturday!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 2:19-23 ~ One of Esther's admirable qualities was that she modeled submission.  Small acts of obedience led to her eventual greatness.

Esther was obedient and submissive and that led to her greatness.  She was trusted.  Again, God's plan was in motion.

Are you obedient and submissive - to God?  Are you listening to Him?  Do you have a good relationship with Him?  Are you walking and living the life He has for you?  This, too, will lead us to greatness in His Kingdom - eternal life!

Have a wonderful Saturday!
 

Friday, July 20, 2012

Friday, July 20th - Esther 2:1-18

Good Morning!

It's Friday!  It's a little cooler and the weekend is almost here!  Big plans this weekend?  We are just hangin' as a family!  Yeah! 

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 2:1-18 ~ Well yeah, I'd look amazing, too, if I had 7 maids and 12 months of nothing but spa days!  Still, wonder what Esther was thinking.

I just realized something as I re-read this passage again  - Esther had another name - Hadassah.  I like Esther better, don't you?  It also says that she was like a daughter to Mordecai, as he had taken her in when her parents died.  God was setting the stage.

What do you think Esther was thinking?  I see her as a very beautiful, shy, quiet, intelligent young woman who listened to her cousin - "father".  She caught the eye of Hegai and of everyone else.  Her year of spa treatments and food added to her beauty and she was chosen by the King to be his queen. 
Do you think she might have been a little fearful because she had not revealed her nationality or family background?  Again, it was all in God's plan.

I received another tweet yesterday from a minister in Tennessee that was on this very passage.  He took a little different spin and asked a different question.  Here is his tweet:  AllenJacksonWOC: Esther's purity of character commended her to the King - are you attracted to purity? Esther 2:17,18.
What do you think?  Another path of thought - purity!  Gives us something to think about today as we go through our day. 

Have a wonderful Friday!  Shine bright!

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Thursday, July 19th - Esther 1

Good Morning!

Praise the Lord!  We got a little bit of rain early this morning!  It was only 75 degrees when I took the puppy out and a gentle breeze.  Very pleasant! 

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Esther 1 ~ Times were different, but this is the same:  Power can cloud a man's thinking.  True love and respect from a woman can't be ordered.

I think this chapter is the story of many from history and from today.  Pride and power cloud a man's thinking (woman's too) and wrong doing, bad things and even destruction in one way or another are the results.   

Let us continually be in the Word and asking for His guidance and wisdom to handle all our decisions and all will be well.  I am not saying that it is easy, but doable!  Rest in Him! 

Have a great day!

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Wednesday, July 18th - 2 Chronicles 9:1-12

Good Morning!

It's Wednesday and usually considered "hump" day since it is in the middle of the week.  I say it is another great day to live for Jesus and share His love with all we meet!  Let's go out and shine brightly for Him!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: 2 Chronicles:1-12 ~ The queen asked Solomon (1 Kings 3) hard questions; he answered all.  If you're asked a hard question, does your answer reflect God?

God had blessed Solomon with great wisdom.  The queen had heard the reports, but didn't believe until she came and saw for herself.  Are we that way sometimes?  We don't believe something until we see it for ourselves.  The queen was quite impressed.  Look at verse 8:  "Praise be to the Lord your  God, who has delighted in you and placed you on his throne as king to rule for the Lord your God, Because of the love of your God for Israel and his desire to uphold them forever, he has made you king over them, to maintain justice and righteousness."
The queen recognized the responsibility and honor that had been given to Solomon.  God had blessed Solomon in everything.

Back to Lisa's question:  If you are asked a hard question, does your answer reflect God?  I would hope that you are in prayer about your answers and that you would ask for God's wisdom in answering.  He will be there every time!  Let all your answers reflect Him.  As our relationship with God becomes stronger and more intimate, our life, our actions, and our conversations and answers to questions begin to reflect Him - what we believe, what we live and who we are in Christ.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Tuesday, July 17th - Ruth 4

Good Morning!

It's going to be another hot day!  I took the dog out and it was hot and sticky already.  I will and do thank God for another day to sing His praises and share His love with others.

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries:  Ruth 4 ~ Ruth had no idea the big role God had designed for her (David's great-granny).  Your small acts of faithfulness lead to your greatness.

Wow!  What an exciting story!  Boaz bought the land and got not only the land, but Naomi and Ruth, who became his wife!  I thought it interesting in verse 11 it says, "...May you have standing in Ephratah and be famous in Bethlehem."  Little did they know how famous his name would be in Bethlehem - the birthplace of the Son of God, our Savior.

Boaz was the Kinsman-Redeemer who ultimately was included in the lineage of David from where the ultimate Redeemer was born - Jesus!  He purchased all of mankind - us - to be His own!

Go and share the Good News today!  Let Jesus shine through you!

Monday, July 16, 2012

Monday, July 16th - Ruth 3

Good Morning!

Well, the normal summer weather is back and it is a little "sticky" out this morning, but a beautiful morning just the same!  It's going to be a great day!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Ruth 3 ~ Sometimes, the wise mentors in our lives tell us to do things that make us uncomfortable - even though it's for our good.  Step out in faith.

I am sure Ruth was a little uncomfortable doing what Naomi had asked, but she was obedient and determined to do whatever and it was just as Naomi had said.  Boaz treated Ruth well and even gave her meal for Naomi. 

Is there something that you have been told by your mentor or asked about or even felt God urging you to do?  Are you ready?  Take that first step and do so in faith, knowing that He is right beside you and will lead and protect.

FEARLESS Church of Christ followers whose RIDICULOUS love and DANGEROUS witness are Irresistible. 

Let's do it!!

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Sunday, July 15th - Ruth 2:14-23

Good Morning!

"Praise the Lord.  Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them.  Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever."  Psalm 111:2,3

What a beautiful morning!  It seems like the rain that fell yesterday has refreshed everything!  I didn't mind at all walking into a restaurant with friends and being soaking wet!  :o)  Everyone else was wet too!  :o)  God is good!!!!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Ruth 2:14-23 ~ Ruth "so happened" into the field of a man who could redeem her.  When has God just "so happened" to put the right people by you?

God continued to watch out for Naomi and especially Ruth.  He blessed Ruth by guiding her to the right field - that of Boaz who was a relative of Naomi.  He blessed Naomi through that which Ruth brought back.  They had enough food to eat and be sustained.

I could type for pages on the times that God "so happened" to put the right people by me and/or my family.  He continues to bless me through strangers, through friends, through co-workers - and all at just the right time.  There are no "so happened" or coincidences in my life, but true blessings and gifts from my Heavenly Father Who loves me and cares for me! 

Take a moment and sit before the Throne and thank God for the different "so happened" times in your life.  I hope it will be a joyful and meaningful time for you.  He loves to spend time with you!  Look at His smile!

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Saturday, July 14th - Ruth 2:1-13

Good Afternoon!

Sorry with the later start for today, but I had appointments this morning!  I hope you are all enjoying your Saturday.  I have heard from several that they got rain, but we still haven't seen any over here !  :o(  We really need it too!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Ruth 2:1-13 ~ What characteristics do you see in Ruth?  Hard working, faithful, humble, loving, submissive.  In hard times, her godliness shone.

There are so many characteristics that Ruth demonstrates that are worthy or mentioning and studying.  Ruth was a leader, even though she was submissive and humble.  She was faithful to her mother-in-law and stayed with her after husband died.  She worked hard to provide for them and she was very faithful and loving.  It was Boaz that saw her faithfulness and love and blessed her with standing among his servant girls. 

In tough times, it is sometimes hard to always be "up" or faithful, but He does reward us and blesses us many times beyond what we deserve.  Is your godliness shining through?

Have a great day!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Friday, July 13th - Ruth 1

Good Morning!

I was a little later getting the tweet this morning and so I am a little later getting this out!  Sorry!  I have the day off and I am trying to get some things done around the house, but so far I have had other things come up! :o)  Know what I mean?

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Ruth 1 ~ Meet Naomi - a good woman or Ruth wouldn't have left her people to go with her.  But, her circumstances determined her joy (Mara)  #focus on God

Naomi - foreigner (Ephrathite living in Moab), widow, mother, mother-in-law, caring and loving, wise, and sad that she had lost her husband and her sons.
She gave the option to her daughters-in-law to return to their family's and possibly marry again, but Ruth wanted to stay with her.  When she saw Ruth's determination, she allowed Ruth to return to Judah with her.  (vs. 16-18)

Naomi was a good woman and a leader of her time.  She was like a mentor to Ruth and it all turned out well in the end.  Read on......

Have a wonderful Friday!

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Thursday, July 12th - Genesis 34

Good Morning!

Has it been a long week for anyone else?  I feel like it has been a very long week and I thought yesterday was Thursday and then woke up this morning and found it was Thursday....  Oh well, it was a beautiful sunrise and I am enjoying the cool breeze in the early mornings.  God is good!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 34 ~ Dinah was assaulted and her brothers avenged her.  Many women have been hurt like Dinah.  God works justice for His daughters.  Pray for it.

Have you ever felt like Dinah's brothers?  I know I have!  People can do things that hurt me and I handle it and move forward, but let something happen to one of my family members, and I am very upset and ready for revenge.  It's tough!

Did you notice that we didn't hear much of Dinah's thoughts or actions?  I am sure she was devastated and embarrassed and hurt.  I am sure she was even a little proud that her brothers stood up for her, but it is God that brings the healing and works justice for His own.
God cares for each of His children and He does and will always take care of them.  He brings healing and justice for each one!  Trust Him!  Pray for it!

Have a terrific Thursday!

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Wednesday, July 11th - Genesis 31:1-37

Good Morning! 

A few more clouds in the sky this morning, but there is still no rain in the forecast.  We do need rain!  It is one of my daily prayer requests! 

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 31:1-37 ~ Rachel shows a bad side.  She stole & lied - it almost cost her life (32).  Godly women can do wrong when they don't do things God's way.

God had definitely blessed Jacob with children and also with possessions.  It was time for him to return to his country.  When he told Rachel and Leah that they were leaving, they asked about inheritance.  Do you think that is why Rachel took the stuff she did?  Why would she take the (gods) idols?  Did she not believe completely in the One True God, the God of Jacob, the God that had given them everything they needed?
It was bad enough that she stole, but then she lied too.  Do you think she told Jacob of the theft and lie after her father left?  Do you think she might have given them back without Laban knowing?

Things don't go well and sometimes very wrong if we step out of God's ways.  God has our very best interest in mind and will lead and guide each step of the way.  Trust Him!  He is always with us - Emanuel!

Have a great day!

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Tuesday, July 10th - Genesis 30:1-22

Good Morning! 

It is so very pleasant outside this morning.  They started cutting down my tree yesterday afternoon and so now the sun pours in my window!  It is beautiful!  How has your morning been thus far?  Great I hope!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 30:1-22 ~ Mandrakes: believed to be aphrodisiacs & help with fertility.  Rachel wanted her sister to help her get what she wanted: children.

Does this story sound familiar?  Remember Sarai and Hagar?  Sarai gave Hagar to Abram so that she could have a family through her and now we see the same thing happening with Rachel and Leah giving their maidservants to Jacob so that they may have children.  Wow!
Quite a rivalry between Rachel and Leah, but several sons and one daughter later, God opens Rachel's womb. 

Why do you think God waited?  Was Rachel's son going to do great things?  Did God want to teach Rachel something?  What was the Plan?
As I thought about these questions and the whole story, I began to see similarities in my own life.  I will be living life and feel that God is telling me something and when it doesn't happen right away, I try and do it on my own.  I usually fail, but then God blesses me and delivers in His time and it is beyond words exciting.  Patience!  Our timing is not God's and His is perfect!

Trust and know that God is beside you and will continue to bless and take care of you.  Remember, His timing is perfect! 

Have a great day!

Monday, July 9, 2012

Monday, July 9th - Genesis 29:9-30:2

Good Morning!

It is a beautiful morning and I have to return to work after a wonderful vacation.  It will be good to be back though and see and work with my great co-workers.  I am blessed!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 29:9-30:2 ~ Rachel was loved - not because of what she could do (have kids), but simply because of who she was.  God loves you because of who you are.

Jacob loved Rachel and wanted only her as his wife, but was tricked by her father and given Leah, Rachel's sister.  Jacob had to work another 7 years in order to have Rachel as his wife, but he did so because He loved her. 

God loves us because of who we are and not because of what we have done. (That sounds like a song!)  God accepts us just like we are - dirty with sin, helpless, distraught, sad, depressed and looking for HOPE.  He beckons us to COME and REST!  Rest in Him who is the Almighty God and will care for us and love us forever!

God loves you and so do we!

Have a great day!

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Sunday, July 8th - Genesis 29:16-35, 30:9-21

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 29:16-35, 30:9-21 ~ Leah wasn't pretty; she wasn't loved - buy God gifted her to be the mother of 7.  She focused on what she didn't have - Do you?

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Saturday, July 7th - Genesis 29 - 30:24

Good Morning!

We are returning to Bloomington today and so I have a little bit of a drive, but it has been a great week!  I love spending time with my family and enjoying the wonderful creation God has made here in Missouri.  Wow! 
Please pray for our trip back as we travel and I hope to see y'all tomorrow at church!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 29-30:24 ~ "Times were so different" for Rachel and Leah - right?  No; some women still struggle with their kids' dad having kids with other women

The Bible, God's Words is true for today, just as it was 100 years ago, 500 years ago, 1000 years ago.  God knows what we are going through and He is there to guide us through whatever comes our way.  Even through our jealousy and feelings of low self-worth.  He IS beside you and willing to help, but you have to take His Hand and say, "I am yours and I will follow!"

Have a great day!

Friday, July 6, 2012

Friday, July 6th - Genesis 27:41-28:5

Good Morning!
It's going to be a great day!  We are going as a family to breakfast and enjoy God's creation and also some good food at a favorite restaurant!  :o)  My son is particularly looking forward to breakfast.  This is our last day down here on the Lake and we are going to enjoy every minute!  :o)

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 27:41-28:5 ~ The result of Rebekah telling her son to lie and cheat?  Most likely, she never saw him again.  Guide your children to be Godly.

There may be some tough times, but we must do our best to raise our children in the ways of God.  Share with them in daily devotions, pray with them and live by example!

Have a great day!

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Thursday, July 5th - Genesis 27

Good Morning!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries:  Genesis 27 ~ A mom encouraging her child to cheat and lie = ugly!  God can redeem all, but in the short run, Rebekah's advice almost got Jacob killed.

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Wednesday, July 4th - Happy Independence Day!!

Happy 4th of July - Independence Day!!!

Lisa's tweet: LMRMinistries: Genesis 26:34-35 ~ Rebekah didn't like Esau's choice of pagan wives.  It's hard to watch your kids make ungodly choices.  Speaktruth; continue to love.