Monday, January 26, 2009

I could not make this up!

Joel has found the words again!
You Are Equipped
Today's Scripture
"…I have equipped you…" (Isaiah 45:5, NLT).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Do you feel like you are facing something that is over your head? You may be facing something big today, but that is a sure sign that you have a big destiny. You may feel small, you may not see how it´s going to work out, but you´ve got to remember who you are: a child of The Most High God. You have been created in His image, and you are equipped to overcome.When times get tough and you don’t see a way out, don´t allow yourself to get discouraged. Dig your heels in and have the attitude, "I’ve come too far to stop now. This may be extraordinary, but I know I´m an extraordinary person serving an extraordinary God."Every morning when you wake up, remind yourself that you are equipped. You are empowered. You are anointed. You are strong. You are talented. You are creative. You have been armed with strength for every battle. There is no challenge that´s too difficult for you. No sickness that can hold you back. Your enemies may be powerful, but your God is all-powerful. Keep standing, keep believing because you are equipped to live in victory in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
Father in heaven, I come before You today with an open and humble heart. Fill me with Your peace and confidence and help me to stand strong in You. Thank You for Your faithfulness today and always. In Jesus´ Name. Amen.

Yesterday was a great day. I started the day off at Brookside ... this is my first Sunday back since December, before Christmas. I was reluctant to go, for many reasons - but the main thing is facing people. Those that I have not seen since Jeremy passed, so you can image there were many in the Brookside Congregation that I have not seen. My fears were silly - I left the service receiving hugs, well wishes and blessings - that I can not even count. Next Sunday Aaron will preach, which will be his first of the year - so please pray for his preparation this week.

The day ended with our life group and Extreme Worship ... this go round, the students from North Beach lead the worship. STUDENTS, high school students lead a spirit filled night with a mix of original songs they wrote and favorites from weekend services. It was awesome. The room is always electric - what an amazing way to worship and bring glory to God. North Beach Worship Team also released a CD with their original worship music will all the money going to Horizon International, an organization that helps fight the AIDS epidemic in South Africa. It was powerful. The evening was topped off when the life group gathered - one family lives VERY VERY close to the church and they enjoy having their house full:)

The night was topped with a special conversation with one of the girls - Aaron and I are the only couple in the group that does not have children. Our final conversation was in regards to how I felt being around all the kids and the conversations revolving around the children. Specifically if it made me jealous, angry or hurt. And I could honestly say with out a doubt the God has added an extra layer of protection around my heart. I do not have those feelings of "why not me" and "can't they all see this hurts me" God has removed that from me - any time it has sneaked in, it is gone before I can get the words out or dwell on any of those destructive feelings. Over the past 6 months, our Special Nurse talked to Aaron and I about the feelings of anger and resentment that could creep in, that is being HUMAN. For me, that has been a prayer of mine, I did not want to have that burden weighing me down. So when our conversation went there last night, I was appreciative of the realization by her that I could feel that way - but I serve an awesome God that has cushioned my heart and there is no room for jealousy or resentment - only love. I certainly see all children as a blessing and I know Aaron and I will add to our family - in Gods time. Because he has equipped me!

As I look ahead to this week, I can tell my body is just about healed and I am ready to "reclaim" my body. I plan to walk a little faster and add some weights to tone my arms. I will create a schedule for my Graduate Classes to be completed and set my jewelry studio up in the office. I will continue to listen for promptings for paths to follow and know that I am EQUIPPED.

GRACE AND PEACE!

3 comments:

DURHAM FAMILY said...

All I can say is, "You Go Girl"!!!

Sheri said...

You've said before there are no coincidences...the readings that you are getting each day - is grace! Glad you've had a good start to the week. I was also happy to hear your feelings about being around other kids - I REALLY didn't want to bring Ron to the service that day, but with all the illness that is just how it worked out and I wanted to be sure you and Aaron got my hugs. Glad you are feeling healthy. I offered up my run for you all today...b/c I really wanted to quit, but I got through it. Stay strong! Love and dimes!

Two Kids and a Mommy said...

Amen sister!!!