I have a "Letters from God" journal where I keep any promise of God I come across in the Bible. These promises bring me so much comfort, especially when I remember that God has never gone back on a promise and He never will. Never. So for Inspirational Sunday, I'd like to post those promises. May they bring you as much comfort as they have brought me.
Letter #1
My child,
Are you tired? Weary? Weak? Then put your hope in Me. I will give you strength when you are weary and power when you are weak. If you are tired, I will renew your strength. You will soar like eagles. You will run without growing weary and walk without growing faint. All you need to do is put your trust in Me.
Love, your Father
(Isaiah 40:29,31)
My Father,
Yes, I am tired, weary, and weak. I don't have the energy to go on. But I thank you that I can find my strength in You. You have promised that, if I put my hope in You, I will be strengthened and given power. Thank you for giving me eagle's wings. Thank you for giving me the strength to go on. Thank you for allowing to run and walk this race called life without growing weary or faint. Thank you!
Love, Your princess
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By: Rae,
on 5/24/2014
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By: Rae,
on 1/20/2013
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2012 was an awesome year for me. I did things I only dreamed of doing, went to places I only dreamed of going, and met and befriended some wonderful people. I stepped out of my comfort zone and survived. 2012 also brought challenges that took a lot out of me. Looking back, there are things I would've done differently.
It's ok for me to reflect upon 2012; to remember the blessings as well as the challenges. Both the excitement and challenges of 2012 has helped mold me. But it's NOT ok for me to stay there. The old has gone (2012); the new has come (2013).
I'm so glad I serve a God of new-ness. I know "new-ness" isn't a word, but I'm practicing my creative license and making it one. Haha!
He doesn't leave me stuck with the old stuff. Once I became His, my old life passed away & I became a new creature. No longer am I the dirty sinner, doomed to spend eternity in hell. I am now a blood-washed believer, destined to spend eternity in heaven. Yes, I still sin. Yes, I still make mistakes. But, once I've asked for forgiveness, God casts those sins in the sea of forgetfulness, never to be seen or heard of again.
And what about His new mercies and grace? Do you know what God's grace and mercy are? His grace is giving to us that which we do not deserve. We don't deserve His love, but He gives it to us anyway. We don't deserve his forgiveness, but He gives it to us anyway. We don't deserve His blessings, but He gives it to us anyway. God's mercy is Him withholding that which we do deserve. Because of sin, we deserve to spend eternity in hell. But He gives us the chance to spend eternity with Him in heaven. This year, I'm bound to disappoint God at some time or other. That's a part of being human. But with every new day, comes God's new mercies and grace. And He's got enough to go around for all His children, 365 days.
2012, I didn't do all the things He'd asked me to do, I'm ashamed to admit. I'm not going to make excuses. Whatever the reason, the fact remains that I didn't do them. BUT, thank God this is the year of new chances. He's giving me more time to get things done. He's telling me to keep going. I'm disappointed you didn't do them last year, but I'm giving you another year to get it right. He's a God of second (and third, fourth, fifth, etc) chances. To me, this means He hasn't given up on me (even though sometimes, I want to give up on myself). Here's a new year, Rae. What are you going to do with what I gave you?
My God is good.
So, while I enjoyed 2012 and wish I could've done certain things differently, I choose not to dwell on the past. I plan to learn from it and move on. I'm excited about all that God has planned for me this year...the new adventures, relationships, assignments. I'm excited about experiencing God's new-ness.
By: Rae,
on 9/16/2012
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By: Rae,
on 7/8/2012
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By: Rae,
on 3/4/2012
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By: Rae,
on 2/11/2012
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God is calling for His children to put EVERYTHING in His hands. I can tell you through experience, it's easier said than done. You want to hold on to certain things. Maybe it's because you have a hard time relinquishing control over to someone else, let alone a Being you can't even see. Or maybe it's because of fear that He'll let you down. Oh, but when you've given everything over to Him who knows & sees all...what a relief! What peace you get! What freedom you experience!
Once it's in His hands and you've decided to fully trust God to be God, you'll totally understand Philippians 4:6-8, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." The peace that surpasses all understanding: when all hell breaks loose in your life, and you're still calm, smiling, and keeping a positive attitude...it's that kind of peace; when bills are due and money is low, but you're not worried...it's that kind of peace; when you have NO idea where God is gonna lead you or what "crazy" thing He may have you doing, but you trust Him enough to know He's got your back...it's that kind of peace.
I've given Him my all...will YOU?
By: Rae,
on 1/22/2012
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By: Rae,
on 7/2/2011
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Lesson #1: Believers should be united in heart and mind. Somewhere between the first century and now, Christians became divided over the legalities (how to worship God, church laws, what should be worn, etc) of Christianity. Now, we have several groups separated and sometimes even warring with each other. But it wasn't always like this. There was a time, in the infant stage of Christianity, when believers were just that...believers.
Christianity was birthed during the first century. At that time, the death/resurrection of Jesus was fresh on believers' minds. Some believed because they witnessed the events first-hand, while others became believers simply because they heard and chose to believe. Either way, the Bible says they were "united in heart and mind." There were no Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, etc. They were just Christians - those who believed in the resurrected Savior, the Son of God. They may have disagreed with each other on certain things, but still they were united.
By: Rae,
on 5/22/2011
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Matthew 24:36
Rae's Thought: For whatever reason, we humans think that we know when Jesus will come back (the Rapture). My question is, how can we have the audacity to think we're privy to that info when Jesus Himself, the Son of God, doesn't even know? I can see why unbelievers would believe the "end of days/rapture" predictions. After all, they don't have the Word of God to guide them. The children of God, on the other hand, have a Guide. And in that Guide, Jesus tells us that the only one who knows when the Rapture/End of the world will happen is God.
For months leading up to yesterday (May 21st), people were preparing to be taken up with Jesus. BUT, Thessalonians 5:1 - 2 says, "Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." Do thieves make themselves known? Do they make a grand entrance? "Hello, good people! I am a thief and I'm getting ready to rob you!" Do they make an appointment to let you know when they're coming? "Ok, so Monday, May 23rd. Does that work for you?" No, they do not. The Bible says Jesus will come "like a thief in the night." This means He's going to come when we least expect Him. Not when we're ready for Him. Not when we've spent months preparing for His second coming. I hate to break it to you, but we won't know when the Rapture is going to happen until it actually happens. God could decide for it to happen any second now. It could be today, tomorrow, next month, next year, 10 years from now or even thousands of years from now. We. Don't. Know.
Christians, instead of trying to predict the day of the rapture - I mean, because really, all attempts to predict are futile - or trying to figure out when the world is going to end, why not focus on living a godly life so when Jesus does come (like a thief in the night), you'll automatically be ready. Why not focus on actually reading your Bible, so when people do or say things contrary to what the Bible says, you'll know; you won't spend all of your money or sell all of your things because of what someone says. Why not focus on winning lost souls for Jesus so when He does come (like a thief in the night), you won't have to answer to God for the souls you could've won, but didn't.
By: Rae,
on 5/15/2011
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By: Rae,
on 3/27/2011
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By: Rae,
on 3/6/2011
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"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said."
Luke 1:38
Rae's Thought: I am at a point in my life where I'm standing on the cusp of a new change...a change that will more than likely take me in a completely different direction. I know God wants to use me in ways I've never imagined, but for a while, fear has held me back. It's like I'm standing on the roof of one building and God is on the roof of the building across from me, beckoning me to come to Him. I'm paralyzed with fear because all I see is open space between us with the streets below. What if I fall? How am I going to get there?
I love the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus. She was an ordinary girl - nothing particularly special about her - yet God used her for such an extraordinary thing. When the angel of God told her what God had planned for her, did she refuse? No. Did she run away in fear? Nope. She said, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said" (Luke 1:38). What a brave, powerful statement for such a young girl. I wonder what was going through her mind at the time. It wouldn't be far-fetched to say she was frightened, especially since she was so young (couldn't have been more than 14 years old). Yet she was brave enough to trust God completely and allow Him to use her in a major way. I can learn a lot from this young girl. I so want her bravery!
Francesca Battistelli has a song called "I'm Letting Go" that describes where I'm at right now.
By: Rae,
on 2/20/2011
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By: Rae,
on 11/21/2010
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Rae's Thought: Each week, the TV show, Hoarders, showcases a person/family who has a serious case of hoarding. The definition of hoarding is to accumulate for preservation, future use, etc, in a hidden or carefully guarded place. These people keep massive amounts of things, sometimes in hopes of using it again or because of sentimental value. Over time, they've collected so much stuff that their living conditions become unlivable. Despite the horror of their living conditions, some of these people have an extremely hard time getting rid of their "junk".
Just like the people showcased on the show, the children of God sometimes have a terrible habit of unnecessarily hoarding "junk". We hoard things like worries, hurts, pains, past events, and anxieties. We keep them in a carefully guarded place in our minds and hearts, either for sentimental reasons (we don't want to forget what's happened), future use (we like to dredge up old stuff), or comfort (sometimes, it's easier to hold on to things because it's familiar).
Hoarding all of these non-necessities can and will make our life conditions unlivable. Our focus is pulled away from God and put on our stash. We find it hard to concentrate. We get bogged down, depressed, weary, etc. As if that weren't enough, we have an enemy who's roaming the earth in search of some unsuspecting hoarder he can devour (1 Peter 5:8). This is why it's so important for us to keep our minds free and clear of these things. As soon as Satan finds a way, he wiggles his way in our hearts and minds, making it hard for us go through life.
Today's verse tells us to give it all to God. Everything. Your cares, anxieties...even the good stuff. Give it to the One who can handle any and everything. Once you've given it all to Him, let Him take care of it. Don't try taking it back. When you've given it up, God will replace it with extraordinary things. I'm talking about peace, joy, true happiness. Allow his Holy Spirit to fill you up and remove your anxieties. Then, and only then, can we live the life of freedom and abundance God has purposed for us to live. Once you're filled with his Spirit, it's like you hanging a "no vacancy" sign in your heart and mind. Satan sees that sign and begrudgingly moves on. He knows that where the Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit) reigns, he can't be. He has no other choice but to leave you alone. Isn't that awesome?
Let God come and clear your "junk" now and watch Him do marvelous things in your life!
By: Rae,
on 10/10/2010
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Rae's Thought: These two verses hold so much meaning, that I'm going to split this inspiration into two weeks. Today, I'm concentrating on the bold part.
By: Rae,
on 9/5/2010
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Rae's Thought: Can you imagine Philip's surprise when the angel told him to go to the desert? The verses before show Philip preaching in Samaria and, as a result, a spiritual awakening occurring. So now, God asks him to leave this place of great revival to go to the desert, for a reason unknown to him. Again I ask, can you imagine Philip's surprise? He may have wondered, "Why in the world is He sending me there" but he did something extraordinary: he went. Instead of complaining or begging God to allow him to stay and revel in the revival, Philip obeyed. Despite the weirdness of it, Philip "started out..."
What is God telling you to do that feels so off the wall? Maybe He's telling you to do something that seems so out of character for you. Maybe He's just telling you to do something that seems impossible. Whatever it is, do it. What happened with Philip? At the same exact time he reached his destination, a caravan passed by with an Ethiopian eunuch. This eunuch happened to be reading the book of Isaiah and stuck on a prophesy of Jesus. Philip witnessed to the eunuch and told him about Jesus, which caused him to become a believer and get baptized. This eunuch no doubt went back to Ethiopia and told others about Jesus. Awesome, isn't it?
"We must learn to obey whether or not it seems to make sense" (Avery Willis, MasterLife: The Disciple's Personality). Obviously God knows what's going to happen, even when you don't. He's confident that things will work out, even when you're not. Remember, His calling you isn't for you, but for the ones you'll touch and, ultimately, for His glory. When God leads you to do something, be obedient and watch God work!
By: Rae,
on 8/29/2010
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By: Rae,
on 8/15/2010
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By: Rae,
on 5/23/2010
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By: Rae,
on 4/11/2010
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By: Rae,
on 3/21/2010
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By: Rae,
on 3/7/2010
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By: Rae,
on 2/7/2010
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By: Rae,
on 1/31/2010
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By: Rae,
on 5/24/2014
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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By: Rae,
on 1/20/2013
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come."
2 Corinthians 5:17
Rae's Thought: Every year, I have a theme or word to focus on for that specific year. 2011 was all about change; 2012 was all about living outside my comfort zone. So, I wondered what would 2013's theme be? After prayer, consideration, and confirmation, the word that came to mind was "new." "New what?" I asked God. His answer? "New mercies. New grace. New adventures. New relationships. New chances. New assignments. New."
Well alright then. "New" it is.

As soon as God gave me a theme, He gave me 2 Corinthians 5:17, more specifically, the last part of the verse: the old has gone, the new has come. 2012 was an awesome year for me. I did things I only dreamed of doing, went to places I only dreamed of going, and met and befriended some wonderful people. I stepped out of my comfort zone and survived. 2012 also brought challenges that took a lot out of me. Looking back, there are things I would've done differently.
It's ok for me to reflect upon 2012; to remember the blessings as well as the challenges. Both the excitement and challenges of 2012 has helped mold me. But it's NOT ok for me to stay there. The old has gone (2012); the new has come (2013).
I'm so glad I serve a God of new-ness. I know "new-ness" isn't a word, but I'm practicing my creative license and making it one. Haha!
He doesn't leave me stuck with the old stuff. Once I became His, my old life passed away & I became a new creature. No longer am I the dirty sinner, doomed to spend eternity in hell. I am now a blood-washed believer, destined to spend eternity in heaven. Yes, I still sin. Yes, I still make mistakes. But, once I've asked for forgiveness, God casts those sins in the sea of forgetfulness, never to be seen or heard of again.
And what about His new mercies and grace? Do you know what God's grace and mercy are? His grace is giving to us that which we do not deserve. We don't deserve His love, but He gives it to us anyway. We don't deserve his forgiveness, but He gives it to us anyway. We don't deserve His blessings, but He gives it to us anyway. God's mercy is Him withholding that which we do deserve. Because of sin, we deserve to spend eternity in hell. But He gives us the chance to spend eternity with Him in heaven. This year, I'm bound to disappoint God at some time or other. That's a part of being human. But with every new day, comes God's new mercies and grace. And He's got enough to go around for all His children, 365 days.
2012, I didn't do all the things He'd asked me to do, I'm ashamed to admit. I'm not going to make excuses. Whatever the reason, the fact remains that I didn't do them. BUT, thank God this is the year of new chances. He's giving me more time to get things done. He's telling me to keep going. I'm disappointed you didn't do them last year, but I'm giving you another year to get it right. He's a God of second (and third, fourth, fifth, etc) chances. To me, this means He hasn't given up on me (even though sometimes, I want to give up on myself). Here's a new year, Rae. What are you going to do with what I gave you?
My God is good.
So, while I enjoyed 2012 and wish I could've done certain things differently, I choose not to dwell on the past. I plan to learn from it and move on. I'm excited about all that God has planned for me this year...the new adventures, relationships, assignments. I'm excited about experiencing God's new-ness.
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By: Rae,
on 9/16/2012
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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The "Footprints In The Sand" poem is one of my favorite poems. It reminds me that I am not alone. God is with me both through the good and the bad.
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking
along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed that
during the low periods of my life, when I was
suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,"You promised me
Lord, that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during the most trying periods
of my life there have only been
one set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson
along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed that
during the low periods of my life, when I was
suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,"You promised me
Lord, that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during the most trying periods
of my life there have only been
one set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?"
The Lord replied,
"The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints,
is when I carried you."
Mary Stevenson
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By: Rae,
on 7/8/2012
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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Since the end of our school year is very near here in Abu Dhabi, I'm posting inspirational quotes for teachers.
The world seldom notices who teachers are; but civilization depends on what they do. Lindsay J. Stiles
We all need someone who inspires us to do better than we know how. Anonymous
There is no way to judge the worth of a teacher except in the lives of those he has taught. Anonymous
Quality education is not just providing information, it is developing wiser minds. E. J. Oliver
Theories and goals of education don't matter a whit if you don't consider your students to be human beings. Lou Ann Walker
One good teacher in a lifetime may sometimes change a delinquent into a solid citizen. Phillip Wylie
Never give up on a child. Patricia Willis
The best teacher of children is one who is essentially childlike. H. L. Mencken
Everyone who remembers his own educational experience remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the kingpin of the educational situation. He makes or breaks programs. Sidney Hook
I touch the future. I teach. Christa McAulliffe
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By: Rae,
on 3/4/2012
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One of my favorite songs. It gives me goosebumps every time I hear it!
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By: Rae,
on 2/11/2012
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God is calling for His children to put EVERYTHING in His hands. I can tell you through experience, it's easier said than done. You want to hold on to certain things. Maybe it's because you have a hard time relinquishing control over to someone else, let alone a Being you can't even see. Or maybe it's because of fear that He'll let you down. Oh, but when you've given everything over to Him who knows & sees all...what a relief! What peace you get! What freedom you experience!
Once it's in His hands and you've decided to fully trust God to be God, you'll totally understand Philippians 4:6-8, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." The peace that surpasses all understanding: when all hell breaks loose in your life, and you're still calm, smiling, and keeping a positive attitude...it's that kind of peace; when bills are due and money is low, but you're not worried...it's that kind of peace; when you have NO idea where God is gonna lead you or what "crazy" thing He may have you doing, but you trust Him enough to know He's got your back...it's that kind of peace.
I've given Him my all...will YOU?
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By: Rae,
on 1/22/2012
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Have you ever wondered if you were making any headway in your obedience to God? He'd given you a task, you obediently took it (although it seemed so daunting) and now, it just doesn't seem like anything's happening. You'd asked God for a sign to let you know you were doing something right, but it doesn't seem like He hears you.
Yeah. I've felt that way...many times. I've felt that way just this past trimester. I knew God had sent me here to Abu Dhabi. I knew - for reasons only He knows - He put me in this specific class to teach these specific 3/4 year olds English, despite the fact that I haven't worked with kids that small in a classroom setting (I tend to avoid preschool aged kids). I must admit. I didn't want to. I prayed so hard for Him to put me with the older kids (a prayer I'm now glad He said no to). There were times when I struggled. Especially the times when I was left alone with 25+ preschoolers who didn't understand a word I was saying and who looked at me like I was an alien (which, I may as well have been since I was speaking an "alien" language). At the beginning, most were shy towards me and hardly ever talked. It was hard. And draining. And I wondered if I should give up and go home. I mean, I tried, right? But something within me - the Holy Spirit - kept me going. I kept asking God if I was doing it right. Was I reaching the kids? Did they feel His love through me?
I got my answer after our three-week break. When my kids saw me, they swarmed me with hugs as if - dare I say it - they missed me. They called out my name, snuggled their chubby faces in my neck, and grabbed my hand and wouldn't let go. At the end of the day, they eagerly waved bye to me, calling out my name from across the room (repeatedly, if I didn't answer right away), just to get my attention. This, my friends, is now an everyday occurrence. Even my shyest little angels make an effort to show me love. And OMG, their hugs! Man, but they make day! They spread their arms as wide as they could & squeeze. They race to see who would grab my hand first, like they want the privilege of holding Ms. Raenice's hand. I even got a sweet kiss on the cheek. One of my students, who never went for hugs last trimester, can't seem to get enough this trimester. He smiles at me everyday and sometimes, he's one of the first ones to grab my hand. And I just LOVE when they are so excited about showing me their work. "Ms. Raenice, shoofi!" Ahh, the joys of teaching.
I asked and God answered. Yes, they can feel His love shining brightly through me. Yes, I'm doing something right...reaching the children, despite the language barrier. Yes, I'm making some headway in this journey. They know Ms. Raenice is not like other people they've met, and I'd like to think it's cos of God's love. His love is what's drawing them to me. It's funny cos I've asked God to let His light shine through me so bright, that it draws His babies to me...and that's exactly what He's doing. God has given me the tools I need to succeed, even when it looks like I wouldn't. He's right here with me.
This trimester, I have a second class to teach. I still have my original babies, but now, I have double the chance to spread His love. I feel like I'm starting all over with these students. Some of them are shy and trying to feel me out. And yes, it's draining. But I believe just as God has used me to make an impact on my first group of babies, He will do the same with my second group. It's funny watching my first group look at kids in my second group with that "Who are you and what are you doing with my Ms. Raenice" look. And my second group looks at me like, "Who i
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By: Rae,
on 7/2/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"All the believers were united in heart and mind."
Acts 4:32
Lesson #1: Believers should be united in heart and mind. Somewhere between the first century and now, Christians became divided over the legalities (how to worship God, church laws, what should be worn, etc) of Christianity. Now, we have several groups separated and sometimes even warring with each other. But it wasn't always like this. There was a time, in the infant stage of Christianity, when believers were just that...believers.
Christianity was birthed during the first century. At that time, the death/resurrection of Jesus was fresh on believers' minds. Some believed because they witnessed the events first-hand, while others became believers simply because they heard and chose to believe. Either way, the Bible says they were "united in heart and mind." There were no Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, etc. They were just Christians - those who believed in the resurrected Savior, the Son of God. They may have disagreed with each other on certain things, but still they were united.
We, as twenty-first century believers, need to become united. Sometimes we get so stuck on whose way is better, on who's the better believer, that we forget that it isn't about us, but about God. When we focus on the differences, not only do we become divided, but we also take the focus off of God and put it on us.
The Bible later tells us that "God's great blessing was upon them all" (Acts 4:33). Do you know how much more God would bless us if we move our focus of off us and put it on Him? Do you know how big of an impact we can have on this world if we were united in heart and mind. We live in a dark world, thirsty and desperate for light. WE can be that light. But first, we need to get over our differences and realize that, under all the legalities, we're all believers who love and believe in Jesus, the Son of God and the resurrected Savior.
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By: Rae,
on 5/22/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."
Matthew 24:36
Rae's Thought: For whatever reason, we humans think that we know when Jesus will come back (the Rapture). My question is, how can we have the audacity to think we're privy to that info when Jesus Himself, the Son of God, doesn't even know? I can see why unbelievers would believe the "end of days/rapture" predictions. After all, they don't have the Word of God to guide them. The children of God, on the other hand, have a Guide. And in that Guide, Jesus tells us that the only one who knows when the Rapture/End of the world will happen is God.
For months leading up to yesterday (May 21st), people were preparing to be taken up with Jesus. BUT, Thessalonians 5:1 - 2 says, "Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." Do thieves make themselves known? Do they make a grand entrance? "Hello, good people! I am a thief and I'm getting ready to rob you!" Do they make an appointment to let you know when they're coming? "Ok, so Monday, May 23rd. Does that work for you?" No, they do not. The Bible says Jesus will come "like a thief in the night." This means He's going to come when we least expect Him. Not when we're ready for Him. Not when we've spent months preparing for His second coming. I hate to break it to you, but we won't know when the Rapture is going to happen until it actually happens. God could decide for it to happen any second now. It could be today, tomorrow, next month, next year, 10 years from now or even thousands of years from now. We. Don't. Know.
Christians, instead of trying to predict the day of the rapture - I mean, because really, all attempts to predict are futile - or trying to figure out when the world is going to end, why not focus on living a godly life so when Jesus does come (like a thief in the night), you'll automatically be ready. Why not focus on actually reading your Bible, so when people do or say things contrary to what the Bible says, you'll know; you won't spend all of your money or sell all of your things because of what someone says. Why not focus on winning lost souls for Jesus so when He does come (like a thief in the night), you won't have to answer to God for the souls you could've won, but didn't.
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By: Rae,
on 5/15/2011
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"Be still and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Rae's Thought: Ever tried to get an antsy child to keep still? Let me tell you, it's NOT an easy task. For whatever reason - whether it's ADHD or simply part of being a kid - they just can't seem to stay still. They may chill for a few seconds, but then they're right back to being antsy, moving around, getting into everything.
Isn't that like the children of God? Whether it's spiritual ADHD or simply a part of being human, we just can't seem to stay still. We may chill for a little bit, but then, we're right back to being antsy or worrisome. Sometimes, we're so busy with life and its struggles, that God has to take us by the hand and say, "Be still." Have you been there? Are you always on the move? Always busy? Always worrying?
I can tell you, being still is not always an easy task. You may sit, but your mind could be running a million miles a minute. Your mind is filled with mistakes you made yesterday, things you're going to do today, and worries about tomorrow. In Psalm 46:10, God is telling us to chill a bit. Recognize that He is God and let Him do what He does. Sometimes, we need to sit down, shut up, and listen. Listen for His voice. Relax in His presence. Let Him be God.
I so value my Jesus time, especially in the early morning. I meet with Jesus before I start my day as well as when I end it. Sometimes, my time is spent just sitting in silence and basking in His love. It's so awesome. When you're still and trust God to be God, oh the peace you will encounter! He fills you with such a wonderful sense of peace, you won't be able to explain it. Today, I invite you to be still and know that He is God!
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By: Rae,
on 3/27/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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Today, I'm posting something that brought joy to me as I read it. Hope it does the same to you!
Father's Love Letter
An Intimate Message From God To You.
My Child,
You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.
Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented
by those who don't know me.
John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.
Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.
1 John 4:10
I gave up eve
An Intimate Message From God To You.
My Child,
You may not know me,
but I know everything about you.
Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up.
Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways.
Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered.
Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image.
Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being.
Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring.
Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived.
Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation.
Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake,
for all your days are written in my book.
Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth
and where you would live.
Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born.
Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented
by those who don't know me.
John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry,
but am the complete expression of love.
1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you.
1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child
and I am your Father.
1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could.
Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father.
Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand.
James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs.
Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love.
Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless
as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you.
Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession.
Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you
with all my heart and all my soul.
Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things.
Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart,
you will find me.
Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you
the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires.
Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you
than you could possibly imagine.
Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you
in all your troubles.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted,
I am close to you.
Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb,
I have carried you close to my heart.
Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away
every tear from your eyes.
Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain
you have suffered on this earth.
Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you
even as I love my son, Jesus.
John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed.
John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being.
Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you,
not against you.
Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled.
2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression
of my love for you.
1 John 4:10
I gave up eve
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By: Rae,
on 3/6/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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Luke 1:38
Rae's Thought: I am at a point in my life where I'm standing on the cusp of a new change...a change that will more than likely take me in a completely different direction. I know God wants to use me in ways I've never imagined, but for a while, fear has held me back. It's like I'm standing on the roof of one building and God is on the roof of the building across from me, beckoning me to come to Him. I'm paralyzed with fear because all I see is open space between us with the streets below. What if I fall? How am I going to get there?
I love the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus. She was an ordinary girl - nothing particularly special about her - yet God used her for such an extraordinary thing. When the angel of God told her what God had planned for her, did she refuse? No. Did she run away in fear? Nope. She said, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said" (Luke 1:38). What a brave, powerful statement for such a young girl. I wonder what was going through her mind at the time. It wouldn't be far-fetched to say she was frightened, especially since she was so young (couldn't have been more than 14 years old). Yet she was brave enough to trust God completely and allow Him to use her in a major way. I can learn a lot from this young girl. I so want her bravery!
Francesca Battistelli has a song called "I'm Letting Go" that describes where I'm at right now.
- (Verse 1) My heart beats, standing on the edge, but my feet have finally left the ledge. Like an acrobat, there’s no turning back. (Chorus) I’m letting go Of the life I planned for me And my dreams. Losing control Of my destiny. Feels like I’m falling and that’s what it’s like to believe. So I’m letting go. (Verse 2) This is a giant leap of faith. Trusting and trying to embrace The fear of the unknown, Beyond my comfort zone. Giving in to your gravity Knowing You are holding me. I’m not afraid.
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By: Rae,
on 2/20/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light."
1 Peter 2:9 (NLT)
Rae's Thought: This verse comes after Peter mentions what happens to those who do not obey God's word (they stumble and meet the fate they deserve; vs 8). In verse nine, Peter describes those who do obey God's word. I'd like to break this verse down a bit.
- Chosen people. You may wonder how can we, as Christians, be God's chosen people when God gave that title to the Israelites. Israel's rebellion and disobedience caused them to be rejected by God (although there will be a time - during the end of days - when they'll have the chance to reclaim the title). The reason why Christians are now God's chosen is in our name: CHRISTians. It is because of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection that we are now able to say we too are God's chosen.
Now, some Christians take it to mean that the children of God are better than everyone else. This is a dangerous assumption. After all, the Pharisees and Sadducees - the main ones behind the brutal death of our innocent Jesus - had this same attitude. Jesus calls them a "brood of vipers" several times in His day. Matthew Henry says, "All true Christians are a chosen generation; they make one family, a people distinct from the world." Being God's chosen does not make us better...it makes us blessed. We are different from those around us.
- Royal priesthood. Also because of Christ's death/resurrection, we are now royal priests. What exactly does this mean? Well, first of all, we're royalty! God is the King of kings...the Ultimate in kingship. While it may be awesome to be a child of an earthly king, it's even more awesome to be a child of the Heavenly King. Just think: our Father owns EVERYTHING...even the possessions of all the earthly kings. With the title of "child of the King" comes benefits that far outweigh anything we could ever imagine: eternal life, a castle in Heaven, unconditional love, grace, mercy, a peace that no human can understand, provision for EVERY need...just to name a few.
Before Jesus died, the children of God had to go to priests to communicate with God. The priests were the middle men. The need for a middle man perished when Jesus died on the cross. Now, we have a direct connection to our Father. If we want to talk to God, we can do it ourselves. If we have sins to confess, we can do it ourselves. We now have the ability to experience the presence of God without first having to go to a priest.
- Holy nation. A "holy nation" doesn't mean a "perfect nation." Jesus is - and will be - the only perfect person to ever walk this earth. A "holy nation" is a nation set apart for a special purpose. We are to be different from nonbelievers. There should be a distinction between the children of God and the world.
I recently finished a book called, Captivate, by Carrie Jones.
Now, the book is fiction (werewolves, pixies, etc) but it contains something the children of God can learn from. Bear with me: in the book, pixies were distinguishable because they left a trail of gold dust behind. The characters in the story knew when they were in the presence of a pixie because of that dust. We as Christians should be distinguishable from other people. We don't leave a trail of gold dust, but we should leave a trail of God's love. When people are around you, can they tell that they're in the presence of one of God's own? Or do you look and act just like everyone else? Do they see you or do they see a reflection of God? Being sanc0 Comments on Inspirational Sunday as of 2/20/2011 7:32:00 AMAdd a Comment
By: Rae,
on 2/6/2011
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
JacketFlap tags: God, Inspiration, Jesus, Inspirational Sundays, Add a tagAdd a Comment"This is why God has given him an exceptional honor - the name honored above all other names - so that at the name of Jesus everyone in heaven, on earth, and in the world below, will kneel and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father."Philippians 2:9-11 (GWT)Rae's Thought: I love my name. Raenice (pronounced Ray-niece). It's different...sets me apart. There aren't too many women with my name. Makes me feel special. Even with the uniqueness of my name, it doesn't hold any power. Call my name and all that you'll get is me answering.Oh, but there is a name "honored above all other names." At the name of Jesus, things happen. Sick are healed. Demons tremble. Ungodly bonds are broken. The confused are given wisdom. Circumstances are worked out. That name holds so much power! I don't think we truly understand how much power. If we did, we wouldn't say it in vain. We'd reverence it and hold it in high regard.According to the Bible, there will be a day when, at the name of Jesus, every single created being - angels, demons, or humans; dead or alive; believer or nonbeliever - will bow before Him and confess that He is Lord. Awesome, isn't it? All will bow before Him.One of my favorite worship songs is Revelation Song. Both Kari Jobe and the group, Phillips Craig and Dean, have beautiful versions of this song. The chorus says, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty who was, and is, and is to come. With all creation I sing: Praise to the King of Kings. You are my everything, and I will adore You!" So. Beautiful.He is my everything. I am so in love with my Lord, the Lover of my soul. I absolutely adore Him! I cannot imagine life without Him. When I feeling low, all I have to say is, "Jesus" and I'll get a sense of peace that only He can give. He died for me. Do you know how awesome that is? He gave His life so that I won't spend eternity in Hell, but in Heaven with Him. He loves me...cherishes me...adores me. He thinks of me every day and night. I. Am. His. Child. I mean, can yall feel me? Do you see why I'm in love with Him? Do you see why I'd spend eternity worshipping Him? Do you see why I'm all about Him...not the world? How many people love me like God does? How many people would give their life for me - knowing that I'd sin over and over again - like Jesus did? NO ONE. No one loves me like Him. I praise You, Father! I adore You, Father! You are the air I breathe! I love You more than life itself!Every time I hear the Revelation Song, I envision all of God's creation reverencing the name of Jesus. Not only God's most cherished beings (humans), but ALL of creation: animals bowing; trees waving; sun shining brightly; stars twinkling; every human singing praises, etc. The picture I have in my head just gives me goosebumps. I leave you with both Kari Jobe and Phillips Craig and Dean's versions of the Revelation Song.
By: Rae,
on 11/21/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"Turn all your anxiety over to God because he cares for you. Keep your mind clear..."
1 Peter 5:7-8a
Rae's Thought: Each week, the TV show, Hoarders, showcases a person/family who has a serious case of hoarding. The definition of hoarding is to accumulate for preservation, future use, etc, in a hidden or carefully guarded place. These people keep massive amounts of things, sometimes in hopes of using it again or because of sentimental value. Over time, they've collected so much stuff that their living conditions become unlivable. Despite the horror of their living conditions, some of these people have an extremely hard time getting rid of their "junk".
Just like the people showcased on the show, the children of God sometimes have a terrible habit of unnecessarily hoarding "junk". We hoard things like worries, hurts, pains, past events, and anxieties. We keep them in a carefully guarded place in our minds and hearts, either for sentimental reasons (we don't want to forget what's happened), future use (we like to dredge up old stuff), or comfort (sometimes, it's easier to hold on to things because it's familiar).
Hoarding all of these non-necessities can and will make our life conditions unlivable. Our focus is pulled away from God and put on our stash. We find it hard to concentrate. We get bogged down, depressed, weary, etc. As if that weren't enough, we have an enemy who's roaming the earth in search of some unsuspecting hoarder he can devour (1 Peter 5:8). This is why it's so important for us to keep our minds free and clear of these things. As soon as Satan finds a way, he wiggles his way in our hearts and minds, making it hard for us go through life.
Today's verse tells us to give it all to God. Everything. Your cares, anxieties...even the good stuff. Give it to the One who can handle any and everything. Once you've given it all to Him, let Him take care of it. Don't try taking it back. When you've given it up, God will replace it with extraordinary things. I'm talking about peace, joy, true happiness. Allow his Holy Spirit to fill you up and remove your anxieties. Then, and only then, can we live the life of freedom and abundance God has purposed for us to live. Once you're filled with his Spirit, it's like you hanging a "no vacancy" sign in your heart and mind. Satan sees that sign and begrudgingly moves on. He knows that where the Holy Trinity (God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit) reigns, he can't be. He has no other choice but to leave you alone. Isn't that awesome?
Let God come and clear your "junk" now and watch Him do marvelous things in your life!
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By: Rae,
on 10/10/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"You have endured and gone through hard times because of me and you have not given up...To everyone who wins the victory, I will give some of the hidden food. I will also give each one a white stone with a new name written on it. No one will know that name except the one who is given the stone."
Revelation 2: 3, 17
Rae's Thought: These two verses hold so much meaning, that I'm going to split this inspiration into two weeks. Today, I'm concentrating on the bold part.
- You have endured and gone through hard times because of me and you have not given up. Life is hard. God doesn't promise us that life gets easier once we become believers. Sometimes, it may even be harder. I mean, as if having to cope with worldly battles isn't enough, we also have spiritual battles. We have an enemy who doesn't want to see us succeed in Christ. He's going to do whatever he can to keep us from reaching where God wants us to be. Make no mistake...you will go through hard times. It's a given. God sees you struggling. He knows you're going through hard times. He also sees whether you're enduring or not. Keep up the race and you will be blessed.
- To everyone who wins the victory. Verse 17 isn't talking to just anyone. It's written solely for those who win the victory. Now, remember, because Jesus died on the cross, we're already victorious. So, who then, is this verse talking about? Those who endure to the end (Matthew 24:13); those who persevere through life (James 5:11); those who keep running the race, even when it gets difficult (2 Timothy 4:7)...these are the ones this verse is talking to. I don't know about you, but this is one club I'd want to be a part of.
- I will give some of the hidden food. What is the "hidden food" this verse speaks of? Other versions call it "manna", which is said to be a cake or bread-like substance. When I read this, I'm reminded of the fact that Jesus is the Bread of Life. Those who win the victory will be able to have Jesus for an eternity. We get to hold Him and bow at His feet when god calls us home. It's hidden because only those who know of Jesus and believe will be able to see Him face to face. His glory is hidden from unbelievers.
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By: Rae,
on 9/5/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, 'Go south to the road - the desert road - that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.' So he started out..."
Acts 8:26-27
Rae's Thought: Can you imagine Philip's surprise when the angel told him to go to the desert? The verses before show Philip preaching in Samaria and, as a result, a spiritual awakening occurring. So now, God asks him to leave this place of great revival to go to the desert, for a reason unknown to him. Again I ask, can you imagine Philip's surprise? He may have wondered, "Why in the world is He sending me there" but he did something extraordinary: he went. Instead of complaining or begging God to allow him to stay and revel in the revival, Philip obeyed. Despite the weirdness of it, Philip "started out..."
What is God telling you to do that feels so off the wall? Maybe He's telling you to do something that seems so out of character for you. Maybe He's just telling you to do something that seems impossible. Whatever it is, do it. What happened with Philip? At the same exact time he reached his destination, a caravan passed by with an Ethiopian eunuch. This eunuch happened to be reading the book of Isaiah and stuck on a prophesy of Jesus. Philip witnessed to the eunuch and told him about Jesus, which caused him to become a believer and get baptized. This eunuch no doubt went back to Ethiopia and told others about Jesus. Awesome, isn't it?
"We must learn to obey whether or not it seems to make sense" (Avery Willis, MasterLife: The Disciple's Personality). Obviously God knows what's going to happen, even when you don't. He's confident that things will work out, even when you're not. Remember, His calling you isn't for you, but for the ones you'll touch and, ultimately, for His glory. When God leads you to do something, be obedient and watch God work!
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By: Rae,
on 8/29/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"We must hold tightly to the hope that we say is ours. After all, we can trust the one who made the agreement with us." Hebrews 10:23 (CEV)
Rae's Thought: Imagine yourself climbing a mountain using a rope. One wrong move can cause you to take a plunge. Now, tell me. Knowing what could happen, wouldn't you hold on to that rope for dear life? Wouldn't you keep a firm grip on the rope? That's exactly the picture I have of hanging on to God's promises. The Message version of Hebrews 10:23 says, "Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going..." A firm grip...holding on for dear life.
You have the promises that God has given all of His children (He loves us, He'll never leave us, He came so that we may have abundant life, etc) and you have the promises He's given you personally. I don't know about you, but I'm going to hold on to His promises. God has given me some personal promises that haven't come to pass yet (it's been 10 years for some), but I REFUSE to let go. You do the same! Satan will try to make me doubt God. He wants us to give up, not wait on God and do things on our own. Don't do it. Is it easy waiting? NO! Sometimes it may feel as though God has forgotten about you. He hasn't. He thinks about you 24/7! We have something that nonbelievers don't have: hope. Not only that, but also a God who keeps His word. Hold on to His promises, no matter how long it takes. Wait for God and you won't be disappointed!
You have the promises that God has given all of His children (He loves us, He'll never leave us, He came so that we may have abundant life, etc) and you have the promises He's given you personally. I don't know about you, but I'm going to hold on to His promises. God has given me some personal promises that haven't come to pass yet (it's been 10 years for some), but I REFUSE to let go. You do the same! Satan will try to make me doubt God. He wants us to give up, not wait on God and do things on our own. Don't do it. Is it easy waiting? NO! Sometimes it may feel as though God has forgotten about you. He hasn't. He thinks about you 24/7! We have something that nonbelievers don't have: hope. Not only that, but also a God who keeps His word. Hold on to His promises, no matter how long it takes. Wait for God and you won't be disappointed!
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By: Rae,
on 8/15/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"...none of you men who are over twenty years old will enter the land that I solemnly promised to give you as your own..."
Numbers 14:29-30 (CEV)
Rae's Thought: This week's inspiration is for those who have not reached their promised land. There could be several reasons why you haven't crossed over, but I'd like to focus on two main reasons: your own rebellion or lack of faith in God and God's raising you up to do His will.
Your own rebellion/lack of faith. Let's look at the Israelites as an example. In Numbers 13, Moses and Aaron sent 12 men to spy on the land God had promised the Israelites. The men spent 40 days spying on the inhabitants and taking notes. At the end of the 40 days, the 12 came back with two slightly different reports. Ten men reported that, although the land was flowing with milk and honey, just as God had promised, (1) the cities were huge and fortified, (2) the people were strong and of great size, and (3) there was no way the Israelites could conquer the land. Only two men - Joshua and Caleb - believed that they could definitely take on the inhabitants because the Lord was with the people of Israel (Numbers 14:9). Who did the Israelites listen to? The 10 men. Despite all that they'd seen God do - their exodus out of Egypt, parting the Red Sea, manna from heaven, to name a few - the Israelites forgot all about God's power. Because of their unbelief, all of the adults, except for Caleb and Joshua, missed out on the promised land.
"Those who do not trust God, continually vex themselves...Sinners are ruined by their own rebellion" (Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible). Sometimes, we, as children of God, get angry with God and wonder why, if we're going to church and saying our prayers, haven't we experienced life to the fullest. It never crosses our minds that it's not God, but it's us. Are you doubting God today? Despite all He's done for you, have you forgotten all about His power and who He is? Has God given you an assignment that you have yet to complete? Your doubt and/or rebellion is what's holding you back from your promised land...that abundant life God yearns for you to have.
God is raising you up to do His will. Did you know that, even though Joshua and Caleb were the only two who trusted God completely, they had to wander around in the desert for 40 years before reaching the promised land? When I first read that, I felt it was unfair. I mean, when the 10 men came back with the negative report, riling the Israelites up against God, Joshua and Caleb got upset, to the point of tearing their clothes - which, by the way, was a sign of great distress. I asked God why couldn't these two men of God automatically go to the promised land while the doubters died out. His answer: The desert was their training ground. You see, although Joshua and Caleb trusted God, they weren't completely ready for what God had in store for them. While in the desert, God molded, guided, and prepared them for what was to come. By the time the 40 years were up, both Joshua and Caleb were ready to do God's will. Joshua succeeded Moses in leading the people of Israel and Caleb conquered Hebron, the main city that had the 10 spies up in arms. If you remember, the city was large, fortified, and had people who were of giant size. Not bad for an 85 year old, right?
The Bible doesn't say how Joshua and Caleb felt after finding out that they'd have to wander in the desert, but from what I do know about them, I can imagine they took the news pretty well. They both strike me as men of God who trusted that God knew what He was doing. It was their faith in God that kept them from being banned from the promised land. It was their trust in God that brought them through the desert and across the Jordan River. If you're "wandering," keep that trust in Go
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By: Rae,
on 5/23/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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By: Rae,
on 4/11/2010
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"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."
2 Chronicles 15:7
Rae's Thought: Sometimes, you may feel like you're giving your all to God for nothing. It may seem like those who don't believe are prospering and you're not. You may be wondering what's the use of serving God. You're living your life to please God and it seems as though you have nothing to show for it. Take heart! Keep working and glorifying God. You will be rewarded! When? I don't know. How? Don't know that either. One thing I do know is God sees and knows how hard you're working. He's watching and He's proud. He will reward you somehow, someway, someday. Be strong. Keep up the good work.
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By: Rae,
on 3/21/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"...let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!"
John 8:7
Rae's Thought: This scripture comes from one of my favorite passages in the Bible. It's the story of a woman caught in the act of adultery...a pawn in the Pharisees' plat to discredit Jesus. The Pharisees were pompous religious leaders whose goal was to catch Jesus in a lie. They paraded this woman in front of a crowd, humiliating her, waiting to see what Jesus had to say. the crowd hurled insults at her, ready to stone her, while Jesus knelt down and silently wrote something in the dirt with his finger. We're not told exactly what he wrote, but some scholars believe he listed every sin of every person ready to stone the woman. "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?" (John 8:5) These leaders wouldn't leave Jesus alone until he gave an answer, so he finally stood up and said, "All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!" When the crowd heard this, they dropped the stones and left, one by one.
Unfortunately, this kind of Pharisaic behavior still goes on today...in the family of God, no less. Murderers, thieves, adulterers, drug addicts, homosexuals, etc. They all get labeled as filthy sinners unworthy of God's love, but worthy of the worst punishment available. We, as a people, point them out, hurl insults, and humiliate them in front of a crowd that's ready and willing to stone them. Recently, I heard stories of Christians persecuting homosexual men and women in God's name. When people found out that Tiger Woods cheated on his wife many times, they wanted to throw the book at him, calling for the ending of his career and life as he knew it.
By no means am I condoning these behaviors. People are so quick to judge and correct others and they're ignoring their own sins. Jesus addresses this in Matthew 7:1-5: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." We have absolutely NO right to judge others because of their sins.
Humans compare sins - making some worse than others - but God doesn't. In His eyes, the one who tells a little white lie is just as guilty as the man who lusts after another man. The one who disrespects their parents is no different from the murderer on death row. "For EVERYONE has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard" (Romans 3:23, NLT). The Bible tells us that "if we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth...we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our heart" (1 John 1: 8, 10).
Why didn't the crowd end up stoning the adulteress? Because they couldn't...and neither can we. "Let he who has never sinned throw the first stone."
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By: Rae,
on 3/7/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
1 Corinthians 10:13
Rae's Thought: This verse teaches us three things:
- No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. Tempted? You're not alone. When we're going through something - whether it's a temptation or hardship - it's easy for us to pity ourselves and feel that we're alone in our struggles. We're not. Men and women have struggled since the days of the Garden of Eden, when Satan tempted Eve. Even today, men, women, and children are constantly having to deal with temptation. We can take comfort in the fact that our own Savior, Jesus Christ, had to struggle with temptation. Though He didn't fall, He still knows what we're going through.
- And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. Did you know what, as a child of god, you have the power, through Him, to resist any temptation that comes your way - just as Jesus did? No temptation you encounter will be more than you can bear. God knows what you can and cannot bear. If you can't handle it, He wouldn't allow it. Whenever temptation comes your way, remember you are stronger...not the temptation. You have power because Jesus has power.
- But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out that you can stand up under it. The Bible doesn't say, if. It says when, meaning you will be tempted. If you haven't struggled with temptation yet, keep living. You'll get to it some time in your life. Maybe even several times. Temptation is a given. Sounds depressing? It is if you're not a child of God, but for those who love the Lord...well, we've got good news. There is ALWAYS a way out. Always. You may say, "But, when I was tempted, I didn't see a way out. The temptation was to strong, so I gave in." First of all, see point #2. NO temptation will be too strong for you, no matter what it seems like. Second of all, did you care to look for a way out? Look for it. It's there. The question isn't is there really a way out; it's are you gonna take the way out or will you give in - not because you're not strong enough, but because you choose to?
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By: Rae,
on 2/7/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"Wait on the Lord!"
Psalm 27:14 (NKJV)
Rae's Thought: Last week, I realized that I'm currently in a season of waiting: waiting for my Boaz; for my finances to get better; to have kids; to become a successful entrepreneur and a published author; to finally become Dr. Weakly...the list goes on. It seems like all I'm doing at this time is waiting. During my devotionals, God talked to me about waiting and trusting in Him. He brought to mind two examples - one of someone who didn't wait and one who did.
God had promised Sarah that He would bless her so that she will be the mother of nations. He promised that kings of peoples would come from her. Unfortunately, Sarah got impatient and gave Abraham her maidservant, Hagar, so they could have a son through her. The thing is, God promised Sarah that He'd make her mother of nations, not Hagar. Sarah's impatience cause a lot of unnecessary heartache.
David was a young teen when Samuel anointed him as God's replacement of Saul, the king of Israel, but he didn't see that promise come to pass until years later. Those years weren't exactly easy years either - he faced a giant, dealt with Saul's murderous attempts, went against huge armies, lost his best friend, was always on the run from his enemies - but David kept waiting. Even during his reign, he waited on and trusted God, proving that he clearly deserved the title, "man after God's own heart".
Have you ever had to wait on God? Not always an easy thing to do, is it? Sometimes, it seems like doing things for yourself is easier than waiting. I mean, who knows how long God's going to take, right? If you're not careful, Satan will convince you to take matters into your own hands. It is important for us not to entertain Satan and his devious thoughts. Resist him and he'll no other choice but to flee.
I love this quote by Michelle McKinney Hammond, author of Sassy, Single, and Satisfied: "You never know what you are getting if you conjure something up on your own. When we move out of time or out of season, we forfeit the protection of God over our lives as well as our hearts...Perhaps we don't understand why He does what He does or why He takes so long, but He knows best and He is sovereign..." Waiting on God is not always easy, but the alternative - doing things my way - is even worse. God works on His own time, not mine.
The way I see it, I have a choice: I can grow impatient and take matters into my own hands like Sarah, which will more than likely yield disastrous results; or I can wait and trust God like David, which can earn me the title "a woman after God's own heart". I truly believe that, if I wait on God, He will bless my diligence and patience. So, I choose to wait and trust that He knows what He's doing, no matter how long it takes. It could be years before I see His promises come to pass for me, but I'll wait. It may look like God has forgotten about me, but I'll wait. Time may seem like it's running out, but I will wait! How about you?
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By: Rae,
on 1/31/2010
Blog: Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication (Login to Add to MyJacketFlap)
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"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light..."
Ephesians 5:8
Rae's Thought: Sometimes, God talks to me in some of the weirdest ways. I love when He does that, though. It comes unexpected. This week's inspiration came to me during one of my walks in the park. At one point in my walk, I looked around me and saw that, in the midst of all the dead grass in the park, lay several small patches of lush, green grass. The withered, brown grass had the green grass surrounded, but it didn't take away from the beauty. In fact, it was the green grass that really caught my attention, despite the fact that there wasn't much of it.
"This," God told me, "is exactly how my children should be." Ephesians 5:8 immediately came to mind. We are told to walk as children of light. Oftentimes, Christians let the world influence them instead of the other way around. If people can't tell us apart from the nonbelievers, we are not doing our jobs...what God has called us to do. We are not living or walking as children of light. In Romans 12:2, we are told not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world. There should be a noticeable difference between the children of God and everyone else.
The children of God (lush, green grass) are surrounded by those who do not believe (withered, brown grass) everyday. The question is, are we letting dead grass take away from the beauty of lush, green grass or are we the ones making the world beautiful? Are you, as children of light, letting your light shine so bright that, in spite of being surrounded by darkness, it is you that draws attention? If you're the only child of God in the midst of a crowd of nonbelievers, would people be able to tell you apart, or are you a carbon copy of everyone around you?
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You are so right!!
False Prophet comes to my mind when time and time again these people predict such things.
As dumb as they are, their follower are even worse.
Sig
Sad thing is, this man is changing his story now, "Oops! Did I say May 21st? I meant,October 21st." And people are still going to follow him despite this being his second time getting it wrong.