My job was to bring 24 small water bottles to Raney’s class for a party. I was afraid that if I bought them too far in advance- they would mysteriously disappear in the hands of the many and various children that come through my doors on any given day. My children love to provide water to the masses for some reason. So, I waited until the day of the party went to the store closest to my house and lo and behold- the shelves were bare!
There was water with raspberry, lemon and other flavors; there was water with electrolytes, added vitamins, and fluoride. There was boxed water with light sugar added for flavor and all other such nonsense. However, I could not find JUST WATER.
All of the sudden- a quote came to mind from earlier in the week. I had read it within my precepts class and the lesson God was teaching me reverberated in my head. This is the quote:
Who will honor God by treasuring His every word- especially over the words of human beings? O Beloved, woe to you if you have time for the writings of humans and not the writings of God. Kay Arthur (Isaiah Precepts- Lesson 4)
Maybe you don’t get distracted throughout your week by the creations of humans- whether it is music, written words or video- but I do. I was struck by the failure to find JUST WATER…and JUST JESUS not always being enough for me struck me. Sometimes I do my Bible study SO THAT I can read other stuff without guilt. Wow! So convicted…. The Bible is my speed bump to the rest of the road? How backwards is that?
Throughout the Bible we find references to thirst, hunger, and water in regards to the satisfaction found in Jesus/God/our relationship with Him. A profound example is when Jesus talks to the Woman at the Well (John 4). He doesn’t offer her anything except the Living Water-, which is Himself. It was enough for her…is it enough for me?
On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and shouted, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink! John 7:37
Matthew Henry says this about John 7:37- “If any man desires to be truly and for ever happy, let him apply to Christ, and be ruled by him. This thirst means strong desires after spiritual blessings, which nothing else can satisfy.”
People who make the water products today add all these extra things to make the water more palatable- ‘easier to go down’ so to speak. I think many of us Christians and Churches today do the same thing. We worry that teachings of Jesus and God are not enough- we have to make them exciting- adding elements that may or may not enhance people’s understanding of Jesus.
I would challenge us to think about this over the next few days or weeks. Is Jesus enough? Why or why not?
Dwell on God’s word, sit and be still listening for Just Jesus- blocking all other ‘enhancers’ so that you are able to hear God’s voice without all the other distractions. There is peace to be found when we realize that all our satisfaction can truly be found in JUST JESUS, we only have to reach for Him.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
Not a Sermon, just a itty bitty Thought
Parker has his first EVER basketball practice today. We are making our rounds through the sports- we have tried soccer, baseball and lacrosse. So far, soccer and lacrosse are the winners, but he is really excited about playing basketball.
We went last night to buy basketball shoes. Parker was immediately drawn to the most expensive. I told him he could try all of them on- but just because it was expensive didn't mean it was the best. I could tell he didn't believe me.
He cracked me up. He would put on the shoes and do this little 'run, jump stop, run' routine. After the 6th shoe, I asked him what he was doing. He informed me that he was waiting to see which one squeaked like real basketball players.
So funny! He wanted the most expensive shoes, and he wanted them to squeak like 'real' basketball players and yet, Parker had never even been to a basketball practice!
I told him that the 'squeaking' would come with a real basketball floor, and also after he had actually learned some drills. He then reluctantly admitted that the shoes on sale were the most comfortable. Life lessons.
Isn't that often what we do in our Christian walk, journey, experience? So often, we look to those with more experience walking closely with the Lord and we try to imitate them. But, without actually 'practicing' the activities that draw us closer to being a more mature Christian. We talk the talk- but fail to walk the walk.
We must remain, and abide in Christ fully. He is the only one truly worthy of imitation even though there are people in our lives that we can emulate to bring us closer to God. However, if we are only focused on the outward trappings rather than the inner man or woman, we are missing the mark.
Colossians 1:9-17
For this reason, since the day we heard about this, we have not stopped praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the full knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you might live in a manner worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to him as you bear fruit in every good work and grow in the full knowledge of God. You are being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might, so that you might patiently endure everything with joy and might thank the Father, who has enabled us to share in the saints’ inheritance in the light. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and has brought us into the kingdom of the Son whom he loves. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether they are kings, lords, rulers, or powers. All things have been created through him and for him. He himself existed before all things, and by him all things hold together.
If you are desiring your life to 'squeak' like a mature Christian- focus on those things that help you grow- prayer, Bible study, a preoccupation with things that please Christ. Just a little reminder to myself and to you.
Blessings,
Julie
We went last night to buy basketball shoes. Parker was immediately drawn to the most expensive. I told him he could try all of them on- but just because it was expensive didn't mean it was the best. I could tell he didn't believe me.
He cracked me up. He would put on the shoes and do this little 'run, jump stop, run' routine. After the 6th shoe, I asked him what he was doing. He informed me that he was waiting to see which one squeaked like real basketball players.
So funny! He wanted the most expensive shoes, and he wanted them to squeak like 'real' basketball players and yet, Parker had never even been to a basketball practice!
I told him that the 'squeaking' would come with a real basketball floor, and also after he had actually learned some drills. He then reluctantly admitted that the shoes on sale were the most comfortable. Life lessons.
Isn't that often what we do in our Christian walk, journey, experience? So often, we look to those with more experience walking closely with the Lord and we try to imitate them. But, without actually 'practicing' the activities that draw us closer to being a more mature Christian. We talk the talk- but fail to walk the walk.
We must remain, and abide in Christ fully. He is the only one truly worthy of imitation even though there are people in our lives that we can emulate to bring us closer to God. However, if we are only focused on the outward trappings rather than the inner man or woman, we are missing the mark.
Colossians 1:9-17
For this reason, since the day we heard about this, we have not stopped praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the full knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you might live in a manner worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to him as you bear fruit in every good work and grow in the full knowledge of God. You are being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might, so that you might patiently endure everything with joy and might thank the Father, who has enabled us to share in the saints’ inheritance in the light. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and has brought us into the kingdom of the Son whom he loves. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether they are kings, lords, rulers, or powers. All things have been created through him and for him. He himself existed before all things, and by him all things hold together.
If you are desiring your life to 'squeak' like a mature Christian- focus on those things that help you grow- prayer, Bible study, a preoccupation with things that please Christ. Just a little reminder to myself and to you.
Blessings,
Julie
Monday, November 3, 2008
God's Word
I woke up today and really nothing had changed from yesterday. And I will wake up tomorrow and though it is election day- for the most part- my world will go on as normal. And the day after, barring a miserable recount, I will wake up the same way as the day before.
Voting is essential and an expression of a right bought and paid for by many noble men who had a vision for democracy and freedom. Todd and I have recently watched the John Adams miniseries and it is an outstanding look at the heart-wrenching, soul- searching issues that our founding fathers went through in creating our United States. I don’t think I had ever realized the extent though, the written letters have always amazed me, as well as the formal documents created during this time. It was not an easy choice to remove themselves from their country- the issues were not always black and white.
But I woke up this morning being reminded of something even more profound:
For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you. (1 Peter 1:24-25).
No matter the outcome of the election, we as Christians need to be reminded that God’s word is what stands FOREVER. No matter who is on the proverbial throne- we have King that we follow no matter who is ‘leading’. We have statutes, principles, and laws that stand the test of time. We have a higher calling:
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:3-8.
So, whether your candidate wins tomorrow or not, you still belong to the King of Kings. Let go of all bitterness, malice and contempt. Do not stop fighting for what you believe in, but let’s all realize that someone much higher than any earthly person is in charge. And though we don’t always understand God’s ways- they are HIS ways and His word is filled with responsibilities for us as Christians to pursue. His Holy Spirit will enable us to live a life filled with faith, goodness, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. These are requirements of us, as Christians- and they DO NOT CHANGE. Just as God’s word doesn’t change.
Blessings.
Voting is essential and an expression of a right bought and paid for by many noble men who had a vision for democracy and freedom. Todd and I have recently watched the John Adams miniseries and it is an outstanding look at the heart-wrenching, soul- searching issues that our founding fathers went through in creating our United States. I don’t think I had ever realized the extent though, the written letters have always amazed me, as well as the formal documents created during this time. It was not an easy choice to remove themselves from their country- the issues were not always black and white.
But I woke up this morning being reminded of something even more profound:
For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you. (1 Peter 1:24-25).
No matter the outcome of the election, we as Christians need to be reminded that God’s word is what stands FOREVER. No matter who is on the proverbial throne- we have King that we follow no matter who is ‘leading’. We have statutes, principles, and laws that stand the test of time. We have a higher calling:
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:3-8.
So, whether your candidate wins tomorrow or not, you still belong to the King of Kings. Let go of all bitterness, malice and contempt. Do not stop fighting for what you believe in, but let’s all realize that someone much higher than any earthly person is in charge. And though we don’t always understand God’s ways- they are HIS ways and His word is filled with responsibilities for us as Christians to pursue. His Holy Spirit will enable us to live a life filled with faith, goodness, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. These are requirements of us, as Christians- and they DO NOT CHANGE. Just as God’s word doesn’t change.
Blessings.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Jesus Comes Near
Sometimes I wonder if I am ‘too familiar’ with my Savior. A book that has impacted me regarding the person of Christ is called God Came Near by Max Lucado. I loved it when I read it during college and it was the very first book I ever gave to Todd.
Why? You wonder. It is not a theological exegesis on the Savior of the World- but does exactly what the title suggests. It brings God, in the person of Christ, near to me.
One of my favorite chapters is Twenty-five questions for Mary. I loved reading it then writing my own questions out to the side. Maybe, like Jessica Thompson does regarding her questions for God, I will just ask God to ‘add them to my list’ in my prayer time.
You see Mary was a mother like me. A mother with fears, frustrations, love and joy- just like me. But, unlike me, she was the mother to a perfect God- in the form of a baby that she watched grow. She nurtured him, and took care of him; she watched in the doorway as Jesus worked with Joseph in the carpentry shop, if Jesus was sick, she probably stayed up with Him. And that is another question for Mary- does a perfect God get sick?
Now, I would love to sit at Mary’s feet and learn from her. What would she do with the internet and her son Jesus? Would she run out and protect Him from bullies? Did Jesus clean His room? Help around the house? Have chores? Would she let Him watch PG-13 movies? And would He even want to?
How did she feel to see her son teaching in the temple? Proud? Or sad, knowing that He was really not hers that He belonged to the world and was stepping into His role- as Teacher, Master, Redeemer, and Savior.
All of these thoughts echo in my head as Frontline begins a three-week series on 'Who is Jesus?' (www.frontlinedc.com)
Over the years my understanding of who He is has been shaped by many things- most recently by studying the book of John, verse by verse. At times I felt that Jesus was austere, removed, but at others I sensed his passion in the fervent expressions of the words He spoke. He was a man burdened, a man of sorrows and a man of love. God came near to me again as we studied John 17. In this chapter you hear Jesus’ heart for His disciples, and those coming after.
Who is Jesus to me? At times He is my closest friend, at others He is my teacher and one who convicts me, but at all times HE IS MY SAVIOR.
All the way my Savior leads me, What have I to ask beside? Can I doubt His tender mercy, Who through life has been my Guide? Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort, Here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well; For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.
All the way my Savior leads me, Cheers each winding path I tread, Gives me grace for every trial, Feeds me with the living Bread. Though my weary steps may falter And my soul athirst may be, Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see; Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see.
All the way my Savior leads me, Oh, the fullness of His love! Perfect rest to me is promised In my Father’s house above. When my spirit, clothed immortal, Wings its flight to realms of day This my song through endless ages: Jesus led me all the way; This my song through endless ages: Jesus led me all the way. (Fanny J. Crosby 1875)
Why? You wonder. It is not a theological exegesis on the Savior of the World- but does exactly what the title suggests. It brings God, in the person of Christ, near to me.
One of my favorite chapters is Twenty-five questions for Mary. I loved reading it then writing my own questions out to the side. Maybe, like Jessica Thompson does regarding her questions for God, I will just ask God to ‘add them to my list’ in my prayer time.
You see Mary was a mother like me. A mother with fears, frustrations, love and joy- just like me. But, unlike me, she was the mother to a perfect God- in the form of a baby that she watched grow. She nurtured him, and took care of him; she watched in the doorway as Jesus worked with Joseph in the carpentry shop, if Jesus was sick, she probably stayed up with Him. And that is another question for Mary- does a perfect God get sick?
Now, I would love to sit at Mary’s feet and learn from her. What would she do with the internet and her son Jesus? Would she run out and protect Him from bullies? Did Jesus clean His room? Help around the house? Have chores? Would she let Him watch PG-13 movies? And would He even want to?
How did she feel to see her son teaching in the temple? Proud? Or sad, knowing that He was really not hers that He belonged to the world and was stepping into His role- as Teacher, Master, Redeemer, and Savior.
All of these thoughts echo in my head as Frontline begins a three-week series on 'Who is Jesus?' (www.frontlinedc.com)
Over the years my understanding of who He is has been shaped by many things- most recently by studying the book of John, verse by verse. At times I felt that Jesus was austere, removed, but at others I sensed his passion in the fervent expressions of the words He spoke. He was a man burdened, a man of sorrows and a man of love. God came near to me again as we studied John 17. In this chapter you hear Jesus’ heart for His disciples, and those coming after.
Who is Jesus to me? At times He is my closest friend, at others He is my teacher and one who convicts me, but at all times HE IS MY SAVIOR.
All the way my Savior leads me, What have I to ask beside? Can I doubt His tender mercy, Who through life has been my Guide? Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort, Here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well; For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.
All the way my Savior leads me, Cheers each winding path I tread, Gives me grace for every trial, Feeds me with the living Bread. Though my weary steps may falter And my soul athirst may be, Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see; Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! A spring of joy I see.
All the way my Savior leads me, Oh, the fullness of His love! Perfect rest to me is promised In my Father’s house above. When my spirit, clothed immortal, Wings its flight to realms of day This my song through endless ages: Jesus led me all the way; This my song through endless ages: Jesus led me all the way. (Fanny J. Crosby 1875)
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Prevent and Prepare
Todd got a ticket on the way home from taking Parker to camp last Sunday. It wasn’t for speeding or doing anything blatantly wrong- it was for expired license plate tags. I wrote a blog about this same thing happening to me (http://juliegphillips.blogspot.com/2008/03/journey-with-julie.html) in March. Obviously there are some preventative steps Todd and I can take to keep this from happening to us.
When we lived in San Antonio we had the blessing of purchasing our first NEW home. We went through the whole finishing the building, the inspection process, etc. I was 6 months pregnant with Parker. It was so much fun! We had lived there about one year when we were woken up one night to continuous beeping. It was not fun to wake up to this annoying sound. It was the smoke alarms. They were going off but not from smoke. The batteries were going out. If there had been a hidden camera- we could have won money! We were going through our house waiting by each of the smoke alarms trying to figure out which one was beeping! But they were taking turns…
“It is this one!”
“No, this one…”
“It is coming from over there”
“Quick, before Parker wakes up!”
Complete chaos! Needless to say, we didn’t figure it out. Todd ended up just taking the batteries out of all of them and we prayed there wasn’t a fire for the rest of the night. We didn’t have a plethora of nine-volt batteries in the house to replace them and would have to make a run to the store.
Now before all of you kindly people out in blog-o-sphere offer all of your ideas…we know and have learned that it is best to change the batteries with Daylight Savings time. See…preventative measures to keep the alarms from going off in the middle of the night.
God desires us to enact preventative measures in our life as well. The Bible is filled with verses to inspire, encourage, and challenge us to be Holy, pursue a life of righteousness and share the hope that lies within. However, many of us just remove the batteries and go back to sleep. We don’t get to the bottom of our sin, we don’t seek out the root of our issue and we keep going along half-heartedly following Jesus. Here are some verses that I hope will encourage you to dig deeper into your own walk- seeking to clean out the hidden closets of unrighteousness in your life- why? Because God commands us to “Be Holy”. Isn't that reason enough? And like Jude 3- we must all FIGHT for our faith- but for many of us the fight begins in the preventative and the preparation of our armor (Eph 6).
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep a clear head, and set your hope completely on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not be shaped by the desires that you once had in your ignorance. Instead, just as the one who called you is holy, be holy in every aspect of your life. For it is written, "You must be holy, because I am holy. 1 Peter 1:13-16
Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more...Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his,"and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. 2 Timothy 2 14-15,19, 21-26; 4:2, 5
When we lived in San Antonio we had the blessing of purchasing our first NEW home. We went through the whole finishing the building, the inspection process, etc. I was 6 months pregnant with Parker. It was so much fun! We had lived there about one year when we were woken up one night to continuous beeping. It was not fun to wake up to this annoying sound. It was the smoke alarms. They were going off but not from smoke. The batteries were going out. If there had been a hidden camera- we could have won money! We were going through our house waiting by each of the smoke alarms trying to figure out which one was beeping! But they were taking turns…
“It is this one!”
“No, this one…”
“It is coming from over there”
“Quick, before Parker wakes up!”
Complete chaos! Needless to say, we didn’t figure it out. Todd ended up just taking the batteries out of all of them and we prayed there wasn’t a fire for the rest of the night. We didn’t have a plethora of nine-volt batteries in the house to replace them and would have to make a run to the store.
Now before all of you kindly people out in blog-o-sphere offer all of your ideas…we know and have learned that it is best to change the batteries with Daylight Savings time. See…preventative measures to keep the alarms from going off in the middle of the night.
God desires us to enact preventative measures in our life as well. The Bible is filled with verses to inspire, encourage, and challenge us to be Holy, pursue a life of righteousness and share the hope that lies within. However, many of us just remove the batteries and go back to sleep. We don’t get to the bottom of our sin, we don’t seek out the root of our issue and we keep going along half-heartedly following Jesus. Here are some verses that I hope will encourage you to dig deeper into your own walk- seeking to clean out the hidden closets of unrighteousness in your life- why? Because God commands us to “Be Holy”. Isn't that reason enough? And like Jude 3- we must all FIGHT for our faith- but for many of us the fight begins in the preventative and the preparation of our armor (Eph 6).
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep a clear head, and set your hope completely on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not be shaped by the desires that you once had in your ignorance. Instead, just as the one who called you is holy, be holy in every aspect of your life. For it is written, "You must be holy, because I am holy. 1 Peter 1:13-16
Keep reminding them of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more...Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his,"and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. 2 Timothy 2 14-15,19, 21-26; 4:2, 5
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
A little talk with Jesus
While in Texas my children listened to many CDs driving around. My mother has a kids’ cd that has many old hymns on it. Raney just loved it! She would sing and sing. One of the songs is “Just a little Talk with Jesus”. The refrain says, “A little talk with Jesus makes it right” but Raney would sing…. “A little talk with Jesus makes ME right”.
I laughed because so many times that is true! There is self-satisfaction in reading God’s words or praying and saying to ourselves… “See…I am RIGHT!” But we have to be careful in how we allow those thoughts to manifest themselves.
Just a little difference in words but it can be profound. Now, talking to Jesus does make us feel better, but it doesn’t always make us ‘right’ as in correct!
However, I think many of us make assumptions of what God is saying…and then we generously share those thoughts with others.
We get the idea of prayer, and reading the Bible out of whack. Rather than going to Jesus to align our thoughts with His…we try to make His words JUSTIFY our actions, thoughts, and ‘holier than thou’ attitudes. I am not saying this always happens but that it CAN happen…and very subtlety.
Matthew 7:1-5 says, "Stop judging, so that you won't be judged. For with the judgment you use, you will be judged. And with the measure you use, you will be measured. "Why do you see the speck in your brother's eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when the beam is in your own eye? You hypocrite! First remove the beam from your own eye, and then you will see clearly enough to remove the speck from your brother's eye."
Humility. A character trait sorely missing in many of us at times. We must check ourselves often and allow God to work out the motives in our heart. Do we want to be ‘right’ so that we can be more like Jesus? Or are we wanting to be ‘right’ so that we tell others they are wrong and in doing so- puff up ourselves?
It is a dangerous line to walk and one I wanted to bring to light.
Not a new thought by any means. We all struggle with this. Our goal is to be Holy like God. When I find myself feeling some self righteous thoughts- I try to take a step back and just allow my life to speak for me- allowing God’s words and my time with Him to be my focus, rather than pushing my own agenda.
Jeremiah 17:9-109 "The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? 10 But I know! I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve."
I laughed because so many times that is true! There is self-satisfaction in reading God’s words or praying and saying to ourselves… “See…I am RIGHT!” But we have to be careful in how we allow those thoughts to manifest themselves.
Just a little difference in words but it can be profound. Now, talking to Jesus does make us feel better, but it doesn’t always make us ‘right’ as in correct!
However, I think many of us make assumptions of what God is saying…and then we generously share those thoughts with others.
We get the idea of prayer, and reading the Bible out of whack. Rather than going to Jesus to align our thoughts with His…we try to make His words JUSTIFY our actions, thoughts, and ‘holier than thou’ attitudes. I am not saying this always happens but that it CAN happen…and very subtlety.
Matthew 7:1-5 says, "Stop judging, so that you won't be judged. For with the judgment you use, you will be judged. And with the measure you use, you will be measured. "Why do you see the speck in your brother's eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when the beam is in your own eye? You hypocrite! First remove the beam from your own eye, and then you will see clearly enough to remove the speck from your brother's eye."
Humility. A character trait sorely missing in many of us at times. We must check ourselves often and allow God to work out the motives in our heart. Do we want to be ‘right’ so that we can be more like Jesus? Or are we wanting to be ‘right’ so that we tell others they are wrong and in doing so- puff up ourselves?
It is a dangerous line to walk and one I wanted to bring to light.
Not a new thought by any means. We all struggle with this. Our goal is to be Holy like God. When I find myself feeling some self righteous thoughts- I try to take a step back and just allow my life to speak for me- allowing God’s words and my time with Him to be my focus, rather than pushing my own agenda.
Jeremiah 17:9-109 "The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? 10 But I know! I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve."
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Heritage of Faith
Heritage...women in the Bible...female relationships...Women of Faith...
I read a book a while back called The Red Tent. It is about the relationships of women in the old Testament- particularly Leah, Rachel and kin. I don't know that I would recommend the book- but one thing stood out to me and that was the importance of female relationships. Let's be honest- relationships among women can be really difficult. There is the unspoken competition, the PMS 'you are getting on my last nerve' reactions, the ups and down of weight, the comparisons, etc, etc. However, there is also strength. We, as women, have the ability to walk along side one another in a way that men can never have.
And in our families...we women can be the bearers of faith- passing down faith and our relationship with God to the next generation.
When I was home this past month, I went through some things that mother had kept for me. I came across an email that my grandmother had sent me. She never went to college, her life was not easy by any means, her love wasn't always felt by all... but she was a woman of faith and I saw it, experienced, received it and counted on it. It is one of the reasons I miss her. This email was in response to an email I had sent out in regards to Todd not getting a job- it was in the time of our 18month desert experience where we didn't have any income. Two weeks later we were interviewing for a job at Frontline. Isn't it funny how God works?
March 29, 2004
Hi Todd and Julie,
I wanted to say thank you for keeping us informed on what is going on in your life. There is no need for me to tell you that we all have things that don't work out the way we want, but that God is in control and all is well. I thank God for your faith and leaning on God to direct your lives. Enough said, except I thank God for both of you and your dedication in following him.
I don't know if you use the Upper Room or not, being an old Methodist I cannot get a way from it. If you do use it you have probably seen today's devotion, but just in case I felt it fit my life as well as yours. I would like to share a part of it. The title is "Out of the Fire", scripture is 1 Peter 4:12-19. It talks of a forest fire and how after the fire things come to light. New plants spring up and it is God's way of bringing new life. The last paragraph says, "Like those forest fires, the fiery trials we endure are forces that can produce spiritual growth in our lives. God uses these experiences to refine us. To be sure, we are changed forever by the fires, but the purifying of our hearts and minds also allows seeds of spiritual maturity to take root and grow."
I think this applies to everyone, but I wanted to share it with you today. Please know we love you and you are in our prayers. Give the kids a big hug!!
Love, Grana
My response:
Grana, Thanks so much for sharing. Todd and I really appreciated your words...it brought tears to my eyes to realize what a gift I have in having a grandmother that actually pursues her faith on a DAILY basis- your wisdom (and don't send me an email saying Grana isn't wise) is wonderful. I love being at least a 3rd generation woman of God.
* The pictures above are from Raney's 1st birthday and dedication. We dedicated her at home among friends and family and had Todd's mom, my mom, my grana and myself pray over Raney. I wanted her to be surrounded by strong women of faith. All of our faith, over the years, had been tested and yet was still strong.*
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Phillips Family- Life on the Road
Hello all,
Many of you know the kids and I are in Texas visiting family while Todd is on a Mountain Climb in Russia. Todd is with a group of Frontliners raising money and awareness for water in Liberia. Their goal is to provide water for the entire nation over the next 5-7 years. The group is working with Living Water International to organize water wells, pumps, etc. so that clean water will be provided for the people of Liberia. I thought I would share Todd's blog regarding the team's progress in Russia.
http://www.thelastwell.com/blog-content.html
As far as the kids and I...
We are doing extremely well though we have been surprised at the whirlwind pace we are moving! We have been to Houston, a visit to a Lakehouse-( lots of fun, sunburn and sore muscles). We have plans to go to San Antonio, and East Texas this next week. Though we had scheduled a time to visit the Hurt Family at their new home in Victoria-we had a minor emergency room visit that took precedence. Katherine had a fall from her bed which caused a concussion...but we hear the Hurts are taking Victoria by storm!
Many blessings to you all,
Julie
Many of you know the kids and I are in Texas visiting family while Todd is on a Mountain Climb in Russia. Todd is with a group of Frontliners raising money and awareness for water in Liberia. Their goal is to provide water for the entire nation over the next 5-7 years. The group is working with Living Water International to organize water wells, pumps, etc. so that clean water will be provided for the people of Liberia. I thought I would share Todd's blog regarding the team's progress in Russia.
http://www.thelastwell.com/blog-content.html
As far as the kids and I...
We are doing extremely well though we have been surprised at the whirlwind pace we are moving! We have been to Houston, a visit to a Lakehouse-( lots of fun, sunburn and sore muscles). We have plans to go to San Antonio, and East Texas this next week. Though we had scheduled a time to visit the Hurt Family at their new home in Victoria-we had a minor emergency room visit that took precedence. Katherine had a fall from her bed which caused a concussion...but we hear the Hurts are taking Victoria by storm!
Many blessings to you all,
Julie
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Impact?
The vision of McLean Bible Church is to make an impact on secular Washington with the message of Jesus Christ.
Vision Statement of McLean Bible Church. This town is all about impact. This week, in the death of Tim Russert- we saw how impact has ripple effects. I am a Russert Fan. I am also a Chris Matthews fan, an Anderson Cooper Fan and a Brit Hume Fan. I am NOT a Bill O’Reilly fan, a Glenn Beck fan or a Keith Olberman fan. I am sad that Tim Russert will not be there to guide me in processing the political climate of our nation.
But, what I noticed most this last weekend was the impact that he had on so many people- and not just politically. Russert was known to be a wonderful father, son, and husband as well as- boss. Though he was a well-known public figure- he also seemed to know the details of people’s lives. I am sure he wasn’t perfect- but I still was consistently struck by the bipartisan love he drew- something difficult in this town. The remembrances were personal, touching, and authentic. That says a lot for a man whose influence extends into the highest echelons of power. Details. That is where impact is made.
And I was left with a question. Impact? What is my impact? AND…is the impact am I making tied to the gospel of Christ? Once again I go back to Todd’s words to me so many years ago: “Julie, you are either drawing people to Jesus or drawing them away.”
By this time the crowd, unwieldy and stepping on each other's toes, numbered into the thousands. But Jesus' primary concern was his disciples. He said to them, "Watch yourselves carefully so you don't get contaminated with Pharisee yeast, Pharisee phoniness. You can't keep your true self hidden forever; before long you'll be exposed. You can't hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can't whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public; the day's coming when those whispers will be repeated all over town. Luke 12:1-3 (The Message)
Does my inside life and my outside life match? Do people know the passion of my heart? Is Jesus a part of my conversation? I cannot just ‘preach’- I have to LIVE out a life that draws people to God. Not only do I need to love God- but also I need to truly LOVE the people God created…all people- even the drive through worker that gets my order wrong. To make Jesus known…hmmmmm.
And I ask you the same questions:
What is your impact?
Is the impact you are making tied to the gospel of Christ?
Are you, and your life, drawing people to Jesus?
Does the inside of your life and the outside of your life match?
What is the passion of your heart?
Is Jesus a part of your conversation?
Are you LIVING a life that pleases God and draws people to you so that you can direct them to God?
Vision Statement of McLean Bible Church. This town is all about impact. This week, in the death of Tim Russert- we saw how impact has ripple effects. I am a Russert Fan. I am also a Chris Matthews fan, an Anderson Cooper Fan and a Brit Hume Fan. I am NOT a Bill O’Reilly fan, a Glenn Beck fan or a Keith Olberman fan. I am sad that Tim Russert will not be there to guide me in processing the political climate of our nation.
But, what I noticed most this last weekend was the impact that he had on so many people- and not just politically. Russert was known to be a wonderful father, son, and husband as well as- boss. Though he was a well-known public figure- he also seemed to know the details of people’s lives. I am sure he wasn’t perfect- but I still was consistently struck by the bipartisan love he drew- something difficult in this town. The remembrances were personal, touching, and authentic. That says a lot for a man whose influence extends into the highest echelons of power. Details. That is where impact is made.
And I was left with a question. Impact? What is my impact? AND…is the impact am I making tied to the gospel of Christ? Once again I go back to Todd’s words to me so many years ago: “Julie, you are either drawing people to Jesus or drawing them away.”
By this time the crowd, unwieldy and stepping on each other's toes, numbered into the thousands. But Jesus' primary concern was his disciples. He said to them, "Watch yourselves carefully so you don't get contaminated with Pharisee yeast, Pharisee phoniness. You can't keep your true self hidden forever; before long you'll be exposed. You can't hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known. You can't whisper one thing in private and preach the opposite in public; the day's coming when those whispers will be repeated all over town. Luke 12:1-3 (The Message)
Does my inside life and my outside life match? Do people know the passion of my heart? Is Jesus a part of my conversation? I cannot just ‘preach’- I have to LIVE out a life that draws people to God. Not only do I need to love God- but also I need to truly LOVE the people God created…all people- even the drive through worker that gets my order wrong. To make Jesus known…hmmmmm.
And I ask you the same questions:
What is your impact?
Is the impact you are making tied to the gospel of Christ?
Are you, and your life, drawing people to Jesus?
Does the inside of your life and the outside of your life match?
What is the passion of your heart?
Is Jesus a part of your conversation?
Are you LIVING a life that pleases God and draws people to you so that you can direct them to God?
Monday, June 9, 2008
Ode to Campbell
My niece is growing up and I cannot wait to see her this summer. One my favorite things that she has done over the past couple of years is say, "I hold you" when she wants to be picked up.
Todd, myself, and my parents are never immune when she runs to you with her arms wide open, squeezing her little fists open and close and reaching for you, "I hold you, Aunt Joolie".
I love to pick her up and just hold her as she cuddles into me. It is a feeling too precious for words and makes me feel like I have conquered the world.
So very cute...but she is growing up and probably no longer says that anymore so I wanted to document it through this short little tidbit as I look forward to seeing her soon.
I was thinking about it this morning and was struck with a thought- Campbell reaching out to me and saying, "I hold you" reminds me of Jesus- reaching out to us with his arms wide open in the midst of trials, joys, and the normal hours of our day.
Jesus reaches out, his arms ready and says, "I hold you".
Not only does He desire for us to respond to Him, but He is telling us a truth- He already holds us! All we have to do is rest in his arms.
Isaiah 49
13 Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. 14 But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me." 15 "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! 16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands
Romans 8
38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Psalm 62
5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. 6 He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
Matthew 11
28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Todd, myself, and my parents are never immune when she runs to you with her arms wide open, squeezing her little fists open and close and reaching for you, "I hold you, Aunt Joolie".
I love to pick her up and just hold her as she cuddles into me. It is a feeling too precious for words and makes me feel like I have conquered the world.
So very cute...but she is growing up and probably no longer says that anymore so I wanted to document it through this short little tidbit as I look forward to seeing her soon.
I was thinking about it this morning and was struck with a thought- Campbell reaching out to me and saying, "I hold you" reminds me of Jesus- reaching out to us with his arms wide open in the midst of trials, joys, and the normal hours of our day.
Jesus reaches out, his arms ready and says, "I hold you".
Not only does He desire for us to respond to Him, but He is telling us a truth- He already holds us! All we have to do is rest in his arms.
Isaiah 49
13 Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. 14 But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me." 15 "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! 16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands
Romans 8
38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Psalm 62
5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. 6 He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
Matthew 11
28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Twisters and Kids
Interesting. That is a word that Parker used quite frequently on Wednesday afternoon. Around 2:45 a major thunder storm blew in with tremendous winds, lightning, and thunder. I took a large golf umbrella outside to wait for the bus so I could walk my kids home in the rain. But...the bus didn't come. I went back inside and found out, between the power going out, that the schools were keeping the children at the school due to the various tornadoes that had been spotted throughout the area.
When the kids finally came home and I met them at the bus, there were some tears, whoops of 'coolness', and lots of talking about their experience at school. Their tornado drill was for real today. Now unlike my friend Carie and her kids in Alabama- who are quite used to tornado drills, sirens, and late buses- this was a new experience and somewhat frightening episode for my children.
Katherine wanted hugs, Parker wanted to talk about what an interesting day at school it was, and Raney wanted to talk about 'twisters'. And talk, and talk, and talk. Three children with three different responses.
At one point, Katherine came up to me and whispered, "Why does Jesus make tornadoes?"
Parker jumped all over dad when Todd came home and did a play by play of his afternoon and all the cool things that happened.
And Raney continued to talk about tornadoes.
On the way to the baseball game later that night- Raney was STILL talking about twisters. She had a running commentary going at ALL times. Katherine had her hands over her ears while Raney commented on the leaves, branches and other debris over the roads. These are some of her thoughts/compulsive talking:
"Twisters, I was in a twister when I was three at a museum" (I can't remember this but whatever!).
"I wonder if people died in that house?"
Katherine responded, "No, Raney- there are no windows broken".
And finally- my favorite:
"Twisters are good because they pick you up and put you down in a garden like on Wizard of OZ, right mom?"
Trying to make sense of life's occurrences. Recently Frontline did a Q and A service and addressed the question of why God allows natural disasters. Thought I would share. Enjoy.
When the kids finally came home and I met them at the bus, there were some tears, whoops of 'coolness', and lots of talking about their experience at school. Their tornado drill was for real today. Now unlike my friend Carie and her kids in Alabama- who are quite used to tornado drills, sirens, and late buses- this was a new experience and somewhat frightening episode for my children.
Katherine wanted hugs, Parker wanted to talk about what an interesting day at school it was, and Raney wanted to talk about 'twisters'. And talk, and talk, and talk. Three children with three different responses.
At one point, Katherine came up to me and whispered, "Why does Jesus make tornadoes?"
Parker jumped all over dad when Todd came home and did a play by play of his afternoon and all the cool things that happened.
And Raney continued to talk about tornadoes.
On the way to the baseball game later that night- Raney was STILL talking about twisters. She had a running commentary going at ALL times. Katherine had her hands over her ears while Raney commented on the leaves, branches and other debris over the roads. These are some of her thoughts/compulsive talking:
"Twisters, I was in a twister when I was three at a museum" (I can't remember this but whatever!).
"I wonder if people died in that house?"
Katherine responded, "No, Raney- there are no windows broken".
And finally- my favorite:
"Twisters are good because they pick you up and put you down in a garden like on Wizard of OZ, right mom?"
Trying to make sense of life's occurrences. Recently Frontline did a Q and A service and addressed the question of why God allows natural disasters. Thought I would share. Enjoy.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Undivided Heart- Holy Abandon
Deuteronomy 32:1-4
Listen, O heavens, and I will speak; hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants. I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Oh, praise the greatness of our God! He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
I just know in heaven I will be tremendously musical. It can be so frustrating to be so talented in my dreams, in my shower, or in my car and yet when others are around me- I am sure I hurt their ears.
How wonderful that God hears my praise- purely.
Undivided Heart:
Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. Psalm 86:11
In my search to try to live with an undivided heart- I have found this idea to be true as well. You must live life with a HOLY abandon. It is a realization of what true freedom in Christ actually is without taking advantage of His grace.
Living life with Holy Abandon in response to God- for who He IS- the great I AM and not for what He has done in my life. Not living life in avoidance of sin (see John McGowans blog: http://thegatheringonline.blogspot.com/)- but embracing Christ and Christ crucified.
Worship- Holding onto the hand of God in the midst of great trial, suffering and even joy. Finding comfort in the greatness of God. It is like walking outside in rain and having one little ray of sunshine just for you- that is what worshipping God with Holy Abandon can be like.
These are just short snippets of thoughts- I haven't quite finished thinking on this.
Any of YOUR thoughts are always welcomed.
Listen, O heavens, and I will speak; hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants. I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Oh, praise the greatness of our God! He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
I just know in heaven I will be tremendously musical. It can be so frustrating to be so talented in my dreams, in my shower, or in my car and yet when others are around me- I am sure I hurt their ears.
How wonderful that God hears my praise- purely.
Undivided Heart:
Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. Psalm 86:11
In my search to try to live with an undivided heart- I have found this idea to be true as well. You must live life with a HOLY abandon. It is a realization of what true freedom in Christ actually is without taking advantage of His grace.
Living life with Holy Abandon in response to God- for who He IS- the great I AM and not for what He has done in my life. Not living life in avoidance of sin (see John McGowans blog: http://thegatheringonline.blogspot.com/)- but embracing Christ and Christ crucified.
Worship- Holding onto the hand of God in the midst of great trial, suffering and even joy. Finding comfort in the greatness of God. It is like walking outside in rain and having one little ray of sunshine just for you- that is what worshipping God with Holy Abandon can be like.
These are just short snippets of thoughts- I haven't quite finished thinking on this.
Any of YOUR thoughts are always welcomed.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Follow Me
They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," he said to them. "Stay here and keep watch." Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Simon," he said to Peter, "are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him. Returning the third time, he said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
Mark 14:32-42 (other references Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46)
This is a passage or story that I have heard many times. Most of the time I listen from the point of the disciples. However, recently, I looked at it from Jesus’ point of view and found comfort.
"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
How many times have I thought this? And even as I pray it- do I really mean “not my will but yours?”
We see Jesus praying this THREE times. Even though he knew the end of the story, even though he knew God’s plan, even though he knew Heaven more than any one of us could- He still prayed for a ‘plan b’. If there were any other way to accomplish eternal life for us beside what was to come- then that is what Jesus wanted. But there wasn’t, so He went willingly to death, choosing us, suffering for us so that we might live forever with Him, when we receive Him into our hearts.
I find comfort in the truth that Jesus was the only guiltless man, sinless soul and yet He still prayed about following God’s will.
Todd and I were having a discussion recently about life in general and he was challenging me by repeating words to me that I had said (I just hate that!). He said, “Julie, I thought you love being ‘in God’s pocket’”.
And I really, really do. I have learned over the years that not being where God wants me is not fun- to say the least. However, sometimes I struggle to accept and pursue God’s will for me because I see the road ahead fraught with pain, unknowns, and struggle. So, I pray. And I have to admit that many times it takes me a while to say, “not my will, but yours Lord” because I spend the first few days, months, years trying to convince God that my will is probably best. Isn’t that a lark? And yet I know deep down within my soul that God’s will is best for me, even with all the struggles that come. He has promised to be with me.
In the Luke passage it says that an angel came down and strengthened Jesus and ministered to him in the midst of his sorrow. Wow!
Jesus said, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death".
Sorrow, prayer, the need to be strengthened and even frustration is acceptable. But at the end of the day, we need to put all of that ‘stuff’ away and follow God. Down the road knowing that even as hard as God’s will is in our lives- He goes before us, He is within us, and He will be there at the end. And we cry out, Abba Father- Daddy be with me, please hold my hand!
It may be a little blasphemous to use John Denver lyrics to show God’s love- but I kept hearing this chorus in my head and thought it appropriate to express what God desires:
Follow me where I go what I do and who I know
Make it part of you to be a part of me
Follow me up and down all the way and all around
Take my hand and say you'll follow me
You see I'd like to share my life with you
And show you things I've seen
Places that I'm going to places where I've been
To have you there beside me and never be alone
And all the time that you're with me
We will be at home
Follow me where I go what I do and who I know
Make it part of you to be a part of me
Follow me up and down all the way
Take my hand and I will (be with) you
Mark 14:32-42 (other references Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46)
This is a passage or story that I have heard many times. Most of the time I listen from the point of the disciples. However, recently, I looked at it from Jesus’ point of view and found comfort.
"Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
How many times have I thought this? And even as I pray it- do I really mean “not my will but yours?”
We see Jesus praying this THREE times. Even though he knew the end of the story, even though he knew God’s plan, even though he knew Heaven more than any one of us could- He still prayed for a ‘plan b’. If there were any other way to accomplish eternal life for us beside what was to come- then that is what Jesus wanted. But there wasn’t, so He went willingly to death, choosing us, suffering for us so that we might live forever with Him, when we receive Him into our hearts.
I find comfort in the truth that Jesus was the only guiltless man, sinless soul and yet He still prayed about following God’s will.
Todd and I were having a discussion recently about life in general and he was challenging me by repeating words to me that I had said (I just hate that!). He said, “Julie, I thought you love being ‘in God’s pocket’”.
And I really, really do. I have learned over the years that not being where God wants me is not fun- to say the least. However, sometimes I struggle to accept and pursue God’s will for me because I see the road ahead fraught with pain, unknowns, and struggle. So, I pray. And I have to admit that many times it takes me a while to say, “not my will, but yours Lord” because I spend the first few days, months, years trying to convince God that my will is probably best. Isn’t that a lark? And yet I know deep down within my soul that God’s will is best for me, even with all the struggles that come. He has promised to be with me.
In the Luke passage it says that an angel came down and strengthened Jesus and ministered to him in the midst of his sorrow. Wow!
Jesus said, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death".
Sorrow, prayer, the need to be strengthened and even frustration is acceptable. But at the end of the day, we need to put all of that ‘stuff’ away and follow God. Down the road knowing that even as hard as God’s will is in our lives- He goes before us, He is within us, and He will be there at the end. And we cry out, Abba Father- Daddy be with me, please hold my hand!
It may be a little blasphemous to use John Denver lyrics to show God’s love- but I kept hearing this chorus in my head and thought it appropriate to express what God desires:
Follow me where I go what I do and who I know
Make it part of you to be a part of me
Follow me up and down all the way and all around
Take my hand and say you'll follow me
You see I'd like to share my life with you
And show you things I've seen
Places that I'm going to places where I've been
To have you there beside me and never be alone
And all the time that you're with me
We will be at home
Follow me where I go what I do and who I know
Make it part of you to be a part of me
Follow me up and down all the way
Take my hand and I will (be with) you
Monday, May 5, 2008
Phunny Phillips' Kids Thoughts
I told Raney it was time to get out of the shower- she tells me she can’t get out yet because her knees are not clean- so I go to check on her. I look at her knees, which she displays very prettily- and then I say to her, “That isn’t dirt Raney- those are bruises! You can’t wash them off.” She giggles, turns off the water and steps out.
My kids were talking about the shots they might have to have before school next year. They seem to worry and talk about this often. At least, Raney does. Katherine was earnestly trying to explain to Raney about one of the shots. She kept saying, “Raney- you have done it before, it’s that computer test”.
I was listening and trying to help Katherine along, “Computer test? What kind of shot are you talking about?”
She crinkled up her face like she was trying to find the right words, “Hmmm not computer test, the TV test?” “You know, the blow a bubble on your arm…”
At this point the light bulb went off in my brain, “Oohhh a TB test!”
“Yes!” Katherine agreed loudly.
Very interesting- she knew that TB sounded like TV and TV was a type of electronic thing like a computer…funny thing about our brains…
Parker, Katherine and Raney were having a discussion about milkweed. Raney has loved walking around our neighborhood, and anywhere else she is, blowing the puffballs. Raney was pointing out the ‘dandelions’ on the side of the road. Katherine firmly informed her that they were NOT dandelions they were called something else. Parker quickly jumped in and argued that they WERE dandelions and that Katherine was WRONG. They went back and forth for a while. I thought about intervening- but the idea of trying to get into the mix was rather daunting.
Parker then went on to share the strangest little theory- especially for my information savvy 8 year old.
He said that those were called ‘dead dandelions’ and that when you blew the seeds, they flew off and planted themselves. The next day- you would find more ‘dead dandelions’ wherever the seeds had been landed. He said, “I know this is true because we do it everyday at school”.
WHATEVER! The lengths they will go to be heard….
My kids were talking about the shots they might have to have before school next year. They seem to worry and talk about this often. At least, Raney does. Katherine was earnestly trying to explain to Raney about one of the shots. She kept saying, “Raney- you have done it before, it’s that computer test”.
I was listening and trying to help Katherine along, “Computer test? What kind of shot are you talking about?”
She crinkled up her face like she was trying to find the right words, “Hmmm not computer test, the TV test?” “You know, the blow a bubble on your arm…”
At this point the light bulb went off in my brain, “Oohhh a TB test!”
“Yes!” Katherine agreed loudly.
Very interesting- she knew that TB sounded like TV and TV was a type of electronic thing like a computer…funny thing about our brains…
Parker, Katherine and Raney were having a discussion about milkweed. Raney has loved walking around our neighborhood, and anywhere else she is, blowing the puffballs. Raney was pointing out the ‘dandelions’ on the side of the road. Katherine firmly informed her that they were NOT dandelions they were called something else. Parker quickly jumped in and argued that they WERE dandelions and that Katherine was WRONG. They went back and forth for a while. I thought about intervening- but the idea of trying to get into the mix was rather daunting.
Parker then went on to share the strangest little theory- especially for my information savvy 8 year old.
He said that those were called ‘dead dandelions’ and that when you blew the seeds, they flew off and planted themselves. The next day- you would find more ‘dead dandelions’ wherever the seeds had been landed. He said, “I know this is true because we do it everyday at school”.
WHATEVER! The lengths they will go to be heard….
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Let the little Children Come...
I saw a headline today. It said, “Afghans Sell Daughters to Repay Loans”. Is someone kidding? Unfortunately not.
When you read the article you realize it is not for lack of love that these fathers are selling their daughters…but for the lack of a choice- at least in their own minds. And in some places in this world- women, and children are commodities. Just pieces of silver.
I look at my own precious daughters and I see Todd love them, play with them, giggle and wrestle with them. My heart breaks for those who don’t have a father like that. I think of my own father who used to hold me in front of a mirror and say, “Didn’t God do good?” He hugged me when I didn’t want to be hugged and chased away the monsters from my room.
In so many lives- fathers are the monsters in the room. What do we do with that? How do we reconcile God’s love with the reality of so many broken lives?
The only thing I can hold on to and express to my friends who have past broken bodies and hearts is that in God YOU have value- not as a commodity but as a REASON for sacrifice. Jesus is our HOPE. But for those you have experienced this type of betrayal- hope can be elusive because it has never been experienced.
As little children we are all taught John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” And at first glance- it seems rather basic but do we really understand- that God so loved YOU that he gave his only son?
Young women everywhere need to understand that they are daughters of the King of Kings. That is not something to be taken lightly. His Fatherhood is something God takes very seriously.
John 1:12-13
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
I love those verses- because God understood the culture he was speaking into and realized that children were at the whims of sinful men. He wanted us to all understand that HE CLAIMS US! Not because of anything we do but because he loves us. God has a plan for each one of us even in the midst of extreme suffering. He desires the truth laid out in the Bible to surround and comfort you. When I used to be scared in the middle of the night- I used to repeat memory verses I had learned. I encourage my children to do the same. Or sing praise songs- you see, even as loving parents, Todd and I cannot chase away all my children’s fears.
People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Mark 9:13-14
We just talked about this passage in our small group the other night. The phrase that our leader brought to our attention was that Jesus was indignant! He felt offense that His disciples were trying to keep the children away from Him. He placed value on the children and raised them up in the eyes of those around him. I can just picture a few children who had no understanding of love or value at home- clinging to Jesus’ robes. I see him putting his hands gently on their backs, bowing his head over them. He was a refuge. There are just so many verses in the Bible about God being our refuge. I encourage you to do a word study of them if you struggle with shadows in the night.
Remember. You are precious children. Daughters and Sons of a King.
When you read the article you realize it is not for lack of love that these fathers are selling their daughters…but for the lack of a choice- at least in their own minds. And in some places in this world- women, and children are commodities. Just pieces of silver.
I look at my own precious daughters and I see Todd love them, play with them, giggle and wrestle with them. My heart breaks for those who don’t have a father like that. I think of my own father who used to hold me in front of a mirror and say, “Didn’t God do good?” He hugged me when I didn’t want to be hugged and chased away the monsters from my room.
In so many lives- fathers are the monsters in the room. What do we do with that? How do we reconcile God’s love with the reality of so many broken lives?
The only thing I can hold on to and express to my friends who have past broken bodies and hearts is that in God YOU have value- not as a commodity but as a REASON for sacrifice. Jesus is our HOPE. But for those you have experienced this type of betrayal- hope can be elusive because it has never been experienced.
As little children we are all taught John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” And at first glance- it seems rather basic but do we really understand- that God so loved YOU that he gave his only son?
Young women everywhere need to understand that they are daughters of the King of Kings. That is not something to be taken lightly. His Fatherhood is something God takes very seriously.
John 1:12-13
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
I love those verses- because God understood the culture he was speaking into and realized that children were at the whims of sinful men. He wanted us to all understand that HE CLAIMS US! Not because of anything we do but because he loves us. God has a plan for each one of us even in the midst of extreme suffering. He desires the truth laid out in the Bible to surround and comfort you. When I used to be scared in the middle of the night- I used to repeat memory verses I had learned. I encourage my children to do the same. Or sing praise songs- you see, even as loving parents, Todd and I cannot chase away all my children’s fears.
People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Mark 9:13-14
We just talked about this passage in our small group the other night. The phrase that our leader brought to our attention was that Jesus was indignant! He felt offense that His disciples were trying to keep the children away from Him. He placed value on the children and raised them up in the eyes of those around him. I can just picture a few children who had no understanding of love or value at home- clinging to Jesus’ robes. I see him putting his hands gently on their backs, bowing his head over them. He was a refuge. There are just so many verses in the Bible about God being our refuge. I encourage you to do a word study of them if you struggle with shadows in the night.
Remember. You are precious children. Daughters and Sons of a King.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Journey with Julie
Thursday morning...much like other mornings. Getting kids ready for school, breakfast, coffee, checking in with Todd before he leaves and then getting Raney ready for her preschool. She and I started off...and then the flashing lights behind me caught my attention.
"Oh no...here we go again" I thought to myself.
You see, I am driving around with expired license plate tags....Yes, I can hear the gasps all around. I could share the multiple reasons why- but then you would be as bored as the police officer who stopped me. This is my 3rd time stopped for this same reason. So...I decide to take matters into my own hands rather than waiting on Todd to do it. Obviously that is just not working out for me.
I drop Raney off at her school, call my best friend in Alabama to vent my frustrations and pump myself up to go hang out at the DMV. I take my number just like everyone else, watch the myriad of people go up to the counters, and I wait patiently for A10 to be served. I spend my time trying to guess which window will I get to go to.
And then...my number is called! I go up to the window, give him all the required information and find out....I am not Todd Phillips- just the wife....who is not on the title for the car that is driven by the wife- at all times. So....I cannot renew the license plate registration. I chuckle to myself...walk out dialing my best friend in Alabama again to talk about how frustrating it is to try and get things done but unable to because nothing is in our name...except for the birth of our precious, painful at the time, children.
I get off the phone to treat myself to coffee....whooo hoooo! Dunkin Donuts here I come. I walk up and see a paper sign "Cash only Today". Criminy! No cash in this purse- just plastic. I cannot believe it- thwarted again!
So I call my friend (hopefully for the last time today) and she jokingly says, "What, they didn't allow you to buy coffee?" And I tell her what the sign said- she burst into laughter and I just had to join in. I mean, what else can you do?
And of course, all the while my radio is playing a song "There is a God" by 33 Miles. I think to myself Romans 8:31 "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
And I laugh because the joy of the Lord is my strength- even in the monotony of meaningless trials...and I smile because through the meaningless trials, I am reminded of God's promises and his gift of life to me.
"Oh no...here we go again" I thought to myself.
You see, I am driving around with expired license plate tags....Yes, I can hear the gasps all around. I could share the multiple reasons why- but then you would be as bored as the police officer who stopped me. This is my 3rd time stopped for this same reason. So...I decide to take matters into my own hands rather than waiting on Todd to do it. Obviously that is just not working out for me.
I drop Raney off at her school, call my best friend in Alabama to vent my frustrations and pump myself up to go hang out at the DMV. I take my number just like everyone else, watch the myriad of people go up to the counters, and I wait patiently for A10 to be served. I spend my time trying to guess which window will I get to go to.
And then...my number is called! I go up to the window, give him all the required information and find out....I am not Todd Phillips- just the wife....who is not on the title for the car that is driven by the wife- at all times. So....I cannot renew the license plate registration. I chuckle to myself...walk out dialing my best friend in Alabama again to talk about how frustrating it is to try and get things done but unable to because nothing is in our name...except for the birth of our precious, painful at the time, children.
I get off the phone to treat myself to coffee....whooo hoooo! Dunkin Donuts here I come. I walk up and see a paper sign "Cash only Today". Criminy! No cash in this purse- just plastic. I cannot believe it- thwarted again!
So I call my friend (hopefully for the last time today) and she jokingly says, "What, they didn't allow you to buy coffee?" And I tell her what the sign said- she burst into laughter and I just had to join in. I mean, what else can you do?
And of course, all the while my radio is playing a song "There is a God" by 33 Miles. I think to myself Romans 8:31 "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
And I laugh because the joy of the Lord is my strength- even in the monotony of meaningless trials...and I smile because through the meaningless trials, I am reminded of God's promises and his gift of life to me.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Raney, Sin and Parker
*Note* Some of the stories, from my previous blogs might be repeated as I update and write new blogs for Frontline Roundtable, which is a blog for our church (http://blogs.frontlinedc.com/)
My two daughters play together like angels and fight like the devil. One day after one of their fights I asked Raney why were they fighting? She informed me that she and Katherine did not like one another that day.
I asked what she thought God would say to that. She eagerly responded, "I don't know- what would He say- tell me!"
I told her that God gave them to one another and He doesn't like it when we are not kind to each other. God wants them to be friends and to be sweet with one another and that it hurts his Heart when we hurt one another.
To which Raney angrily replied, "Ahhgg, Stop telling God stuff! Don't tell Him what I am doing!"
I hated to inform her that God was already quite aware of what was going on in our house....
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:29-32
Sometimes we feel the same way. We hope that God doesn’t really ‘see’ what we are doing. And yet, most of us know that God sees our hearts and knows the thoughts we are thinking though we do not speak or act on them. He knows us. That realization is comforting and rather frightening at the same time.
Yes, God knows when we sin. But, He desires us to know as well. As I told Parker, maybe the more he confessed his sins to God and asked for forgiveness, the more he (Parker) would understand what actions grieve God. The same is true for us as well.
We all need to realize the things in our lives that come between us and God, we need to confess, and then we need to repent- turning back to God and His desires for us…. because we love God too much to keep doing what we were doing.
"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." 2 Corinthians 7:1
My two daughters play together like angels and fight like the devil. One day after one of their fights I asked Raney why were they fighting? She informed me that she and Katherine did not like one another that day.
I asked what she thought God would say to that. She eagerly responded, "I don't know- what would He say- tell me!"
I told her that God gave them to one another and He doesn't like it when we are not kind to each other. God wants them to be friends and to be sweet with one another and that it hurts his Heart when we hurt one another.
To which Raney angrily replied, "Ahhgg, Stop telling God stuff! Don't tell Him what I am doing!"
I hated to inform her that God was already quite aware of what was going on in our house....
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:29-32
Sometimes we feel the same way. We hope that God doesn’t really ‘see’ what we are doing. And yet, most of us know that God sees our hearts and knows the thoughts we are thinking though we do not speak or act on them. He knows us. That realization is comforting and rather frightening at the same time.
My son Parker is learning to confess his sins, he is relying much on the fact that God knows everything about him. He thinks that he shouldn’t have to tell God since he cannot remember all of the sin and God is all knowing anyway. Parker is also trying to work a deal with me that once a week should about cover it, that way he can store up the sins before confessing them. However, we all need to come face to face with our sins, calling them by name so we understand the depravity of our sinful nature and how it grieves God when we choose to sin.
"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." 1 John 1:8-10
Yes, God knows when we sin. But, He desires us to know as well. As I told Parker, maybe the more he confessed his sins to God and asked for forgiveness, the more he (Parker) would understand what actions grieve God. The same is true for us as well.
We all need to realize the things in our lives that come between us and God, we need to confess, and then we need to repent- turning back to God and His desires for us…. because we love God too much to keep doing what we were doing.
"Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." 2 Corinthians 7:1
Monday, February 18, 2008
Friday Night Lights
This is a purely selfish blog...one of my favorite shows may go off the air and just when I became a faithful viewer!
If you have any feelings regarding Friday Night Lights...go to this website: http://www.savefridaynightlights.tv/
I have to say, I am encouraged. When I signed the petition- I was seven hundred and something but now they are up to 8,000!
blessings,
julie
If you have any feelings regarding Friday Night Lights...go to this website: http://www.savefridaynightlights.tv/
I have to say, I am encouraged. When I signed the petition- I was seven hundred and something but now they are up to 8,000!
blessings,
julie
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Gender Gaps
My young son was walking up the stairs talking to one of his friends. I could hear their conversation clearly and though I wasn’t eavesdropping, I don’t think Parker would have appreciated knowing that I was listening.
“How do you get to have more phone calls to her cell phone?” asked Parker’s friend Matthew.
“If I am nice to her and do what she says I can earn more phone calls, “ Parker replied.
Are you kidding me? Parker is trying to EARN the ability to make phone calls to a girl?
I didn’t confront him at that time but the thought of my eight-year-old son being manipulated really frustrated me.Parker is discovering girls. And he is enjoying the discovery very much. As parents, it is hard to stand by and not do anything to stop the journey. I am realizing that the many hang-ups we receive are little girls calling. Star 69 and caller ID are such wonderful inventions.
Parker still likes to use the standard elementary party line that ‘he doesn’t like girls’ but Todd and I watch him get wrapped around the axle regarding a few of the girls in his class, not knowing what to do with all the feelings he has especially because the girls are interfering with his other boy relationships. The girls are dividing the boys and inserting themselves into their business. Todd would definitely say that I still do this and it is not regulated to just 3rd grade girls!
I have to tell you that I have been surprised by how aggressive the young girls can be. I have heard the same thing from my other Christian friends with sons in high school. Boys don’t have to work very hard to get what they want…the girls are making themselves available- manipulating situations, parents, rules, and the boys themselves to be in control. They are offering themselves- wholeheartedly- and our young men find it very hard to always be the one to say ‘no’.
In my opinion these characteristics are prime examples of what is going wrong with leadership in the church and home. Boys are failing to become the leaders that they were intended to be because women who do not allow them to lead surround them.
Uh, oh…I can already hear many of you freaking out.
Women do not have to push overs, allowing men to walk all over them- but we do need to learn to step back sometimes. I would use the term ‘stand down’ allowing for the men in our lives to ‘stand up’.
While doing a Beth Moore bible study years ago, I came across a scripture that has stayed with me. Acts 13:49-50:
"The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region."
You see, when the Jews wanted to get Paul and Barnabas out of town- they not only went to the male leaders- but also to the women. Women have influence and can be the cause of stirring up things that are not of God. So can men…but….
After talking to Todd about this whole issue, I understand I don’t have all the answers. I desire to raise my daughters to be strong, independent women after God’s own heart. I want them to wait until the phone rings, I want them to demand respect, courtesy and Godly leadership from the men they meet, and I think that is easier to accomplish in this day and age than for Todd and I to raise our son to be the leader God desires him to be. We fear that if he never has to put forth effort- then where will his passion come from?
I don’t want to have the gender relationships regress to women becoming property of no value- but I desire there to be more balance in our culture. And if our culture refuses to change, then our churches still need to.
I completely understand that many of the young girls are just looking for some type of affirmation because many of them come from homes without male influence, leadership or even presence.
So, where do we stop the cycle? How? Why? Why do women make up most of the volunteer base in most churches? Why do so many women attend church by themselves or with just their children? Why is there a vacuum of Godly Christian male leadership?Any ideas?
“How do you get to have more phone calls to her cell phone?” asked Parker’s friend Matthew.
“If I am nice to her and do what she says I can earn more phone calls, “ Parker replied.
Are you kidding me? Parker is trying to EARN the ability to make phone calls to a girl?
I didn’t confront him at that time but the thought of my eight-year-old son being manipulated really frustrated me.Parker is discovering girls. And he is enjoying the discovery very much. As parents, it is hard to stand by and not do anything to stop the journey. I am realizing that the many hang-ups we receive are little girls calling. Star 69 and caller ID are such wonderful inventions.
Parker still likes to use the standard elementary party line that ‘he doesn’t like girls’ but Todd and I watch him get wrapped around the axle regarding a few of the girls in his class, not knowing what to do with all the feelings he has especially because the girls are interfering with his other boy relationships. The girls are dividing the boys and inserting themselves into their business. Todd would definitely say that I still do this and it is not regulated to just 3rd grade girls!
I have to tell you that I have been surprised by how aggressive the young girls can be. I have heard the same thing from my other Christian friends with sons in high school. Boys don’t have to work very hard to get what they want…the girls are making themselves available- manipulating situations, parents, rules, and the boys themselves to be in control. They are offering themselves- wholeheartedly- and our young men find it very hard to always be the one to say ‘no’.
In my opinion these characteristics are prime examples of what is going wrong with leadership in the church and home. Boys are failing to become the leaders that they were intended to be because women who do not allow them to lead surround them.
Uh, oh…I can already hear many of you freaking out.
Women do not have to push overs, allowing men to walk all over them- but we do need to learn to step back sometimes. I would use the term ‘stand down’ allowing for the men in our lives to ‘stand up’.
While doing a Beth Moore bible study years ago, I came across a scripture that has stayed with me. Acts 13:49-50:
"The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region."
You see, when the Jews wanted to get Paul and Barnabas out of town- they not only went to the male leaders- but also to the women. Women have influence and can be the cause of stirring up things that are not of God. So can men…but….
After talking to Todd about this whole issue, I understand I don’t have all the answers. I desire to raise my daughters to be strong, independent women after God’s own heart. I want them to wait until the phone rings, I want them to demand respect, courtesy and Godly leadership from the men they meet, and I think that is easier to accomplish in this day and age than for Todd and I to raise our son to be the leader God desires him to be. We fear that if he never has to put forth effort- then where will his passion come from?
I don’t want to have the gender relationships regress to women becoming property of no value- but I desire there to be more balance in our culture. And if our culture refuses to change, then our churches still need to.
I completely understand that many of the young girls are just looking for some type of affirmation because many of them come from homes without male influence, leadership or even presence.
So, where do we stop the cycle? How? Why? Why do women make up most of the volunteer base in most churches? Why do so many women attend church by themselves or with just their children? Why is there a vacuum of Godly Christian male leadership?Any ideas?
Saturday, February 9, 2008
God's Touchdowns
I got out of the shower and heard my children fighting in the distance. But, rather than facing being the arbitrator in one more ridiculous argument, I turned on the blow dryer to drown out their sounds. My thoughts were repetitive: "Why me?" "Why can't they just get along for more than thirty minute increments?" "I just want them to be quiet!" and the always-effective silent scream in my head, "AGGHHH!"
Suffering. You might think that I don't know what true suffering actually is...and you might even be right. However, we all experience different types of sufferings in various seasons of life. For a stay at home mother- I can tell you- these kinds of days are truly days of suffering. They are the kind of days that give feet to the song, "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to".
Recently, in my studies of the Gospel of John as well as Nancy Guthrie’s One Year Book of Hope, I have come to the understanding that it is okay to sit down and weep, to cry out, to have a pity party...as long it is for a short time. Jesus is present even in those seemingly senseless times of pain.
He is Savior, Lord, and Messiah. But, He is also Friend, Father, the Good Shepherd and the Great High Priest.
I was watching one of my very favorite TV shows, Friday Night Lights. One of the star players had his hopes dashed regarding his future college plans. His wonderful mother came in and offered one of those phrases that seem rather trite but are stuffed full of truth. She said, "I know Whitmore wasn't your dream, but when a door closes, God opens a window. He don't ever fumble the ball-He always gets a touchdown- that is God's plan". And I thought, "Wow... that is so true."
Sorrow. Grief. Suffering. The ending of dreams, the realization that fantasy doesn't match reality, and the experience of weeping by yourself when no one is around- But God's plan and His sovereignty reigns.
Jesus, even knowing what was going to happen with Lazarus still understood loss and comforted the people in their sorrow and yet pointed them to the truth found in Him.
John 11
33When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34"Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, Lord," they replied. 35Jesus wept. 40Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" 41So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me."
God's touchdown. It may not come about in a play you recognize, understand or even appreciate at the time...but He still comes. He comes to wrap His arms around you, sharing in your sorrow and guiding you to His truth.
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered
Hebrews 5:7-8
Jesus gave us an example...we can learn obedience in the midst of suffering. Following and hearing God with reverent submission.
My favorite truth of sorrow or suffering is the gift of the Holy Spirit. Guthrie says, "The Holy Spirit is God loving you up close, drawing near to you, living inside you...He brings conviction of sin, but he also brings comfort in distress" (One Year Book of Hope, pg. 25). And when you cannot pray due to numbness, frustration, grief, or heartache- the Holy Spirit is there to intercede for you:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. Romans 8:26-27.
Sometimes you might even be expressing "trust more out of a desire to trust than a confession of the reality of {your} souls" (One Year Book of Hope, pg. 29).
Thoughts?
Suffering. You might think that I don't know what true suffering actually is...and you might even be right. However, we all experience different types of sufferings in various seasons of life. For a stay at home mother- I can tell you- these kinds of days are truly days of suffering. They are the kind of days that give feet to the song, "It's my party and I'll cry if I want to".
Recently, in my studies of the Gospel of John as well as Nancy Guthrie’s One Year Book of Hope, I have come to the understanding that it is okay to sit down and weep, to cry out, to have a pity party...as long it is for a short time. Jesus is present even in those seemingly senseless times of pain.
He is Savior, Lord, and Messiah. But, He is also Friend, Father, the Good Shepherd and the Great High Priest.
I was watching one of my very favorite TV shows, Friday Night Lights. One of the star players had his hopes dashed regarding his future college plans. His wonderful mother came in and offered one of those phrases that seem rather trite but are stuffed full of truth. She said, "I know Whitmore wasn't your dream, but when a door closes, God opens a window. He don't ever fumble the ball-He always gets a touchdown- that is God's plan". And I thought, "Wow... that is so true."
Sorrow. Grief. Suffering. The ending of dreams, the realization that fantasy doesn't match reality, and the experience of weeping by yourself when no one is around- But God's plan and His sovereignty reigns.
Jesus, even knowing what was going to happen with Lazarus still understood loss and comforted the people in their sorrow and yet pointed them to the truth found in Him.
John 11
33When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34"Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, Lord," they replied. 35Jesus wept. 40Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" 41So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me."
God's touchdown. It may not come about in a play you recognize, understand or even appreciate at the time...but He still comes. He comes to wrap His arms around you, sharing in your sorrow and guiding you to His truth.
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered
Hebrews 5:7-8
Jesus gave us an example...we can learn obedience in the midst of suffering. Following and hearing God with reverent submission.
My favorite truth of sorrow or suffering is the gift of the Holy Spirit. Guthrie says, "The Holy Spirit is God loving you up close, drawing near to you, living inside you...He brings conviction of sin, but he also brings comfort in distress" (One Year Book of Hope, pg. 25). And when you cannot pray due to numbness, frustration, grief, or heartache- the Holy Spirit is there to intercede for you:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. Romans 8:26-27.
Sometimes you might even be expressing "trust more out of a desire to trust than a confession of the reality of {your} souls" (One Year Book of Hope, pg. 29).
Thoughts?
Thursday, January 24, 2008
MORE
There is a saying in life ‘that too much of anything is never a good thing’. I would tend to agree with that quote in all things except in regards to Jesus.
Jesus himself says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
Todd always loves to point out in his sermons that having life more abundant in Christ doesn’t always mean just the good things. Living more abundant in Christ, possessing more of Jesus, allowing God to seep into all parts, and letting the Holy Spirit indwell every aspect of your life is not always easy…and the result is not always smooth.
We visited with some friends of ours recently and they told us their family’s theme of the year was going to be ‘wisdom’. Todd and I thought that was pretty cool. I left them thinking about what our family’s them might be. Todd and I haven’t talked about this directly, but at the end of this past year what was becoming clear to he and I was the idea of ‘more of Jesus’. That is what we put in our Christmas card not just as a trite sentiment but because that is truly what we wished for those we cared about. We wanted 2008 to be a year that they saw more of Jesus in their own life…no matter what that looked like.
I reviewed my blog on satisfaction (http://juliegphillips.blogspot.com/2007/11/satisfaction.html) and realized that God was working, even then, on making this concept clear in my life. And as with most truths that God reveals to me, I have to process them for a while before I can truly claim them for my own life. Why? Well, because my Christian experience has taught me that nothing from God is cheap. We see that especially in the cost that Jesus paid for our lives. There is a cost in truly following God and one should always be willing to pay the price before stepping out in faith.
I don’t mean to sound negative because the rewards are great. God’s peace and God’s joy is worth anything…truly! And…we know, that we know, that we know- that God will always catch us. But…there might be a time of falling. And a time of struggle.
Todd, Parker and I were watching the 3rd Indiana Jones movie and at the end he has to step out into the abyss in faith…and as you know- there appears a walkway, seemingly in the midst of thin air. But there is a short time of falling before the walkway appears.
More of Jesus…more faith, more willingness to face trials, more opportunity to fall, and more opportunity for your faith to mature and be strengthened in the understanding of ultimate dependence on God.
John 15 and 16 are so very powerful. Jesus begins chapter 15 with the example of the vine and the branches and how important it is to stay tied to the vine, Jesus and His word, to gain sustenance. He goes on in chapter 16 to express why…because the disciples were going to face many trials after Jesus’ death- including grief and sorrow. There is a lot of truth and promises revealed in both of these chapters but one of the most powerful statements occurs in the very last verse of Chapter 16:
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
And that is what we hold onto…that is what gives us hope- the knowledge that Jesus has overcome the world and all that is in it. The victory is already won…so we can safely pursue more of Jesus, even knowing we might have a time of free fall, because in HIM we find peace…and ultimately victory.
But…apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.”)
Are you ready to have more of Jesus…More trials, more learning, more conviction, more sorrow, more fruit, more peace, more joy, and more victory?
All I can tell you is that for me…it is a daily struggle…and right now I am holding on to the verse in John 16:33 to take heart! He has overcome….
Jesus himself says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
Todd always loves to point out in his sermons that having life more abundant in Christ doesn’t always mean just the good things. Living more abundant in Christ, possessing more of Jesus, allowing God to seep into all parts, and letting the Holy Spirit indwell every aspect of your life is not always easy…and the result is not always smooth.
We visited with some friends of ours recently and they told us their family’s theme of the year was going to be ‘wisdom’. Todd and I thought that was pretty cool. I left them thinking about what our family’s them might be. Todd and I haven’t talked about this directly, but at the end of this past year what was becoming clear to he and I was the idea of ‘more of Jesus’. That is what we put in our Christmas card not just as a trite sentiment but because that is truly what we wished for those we cared about. We wanted 2008 to be a year that they saw more of Jesus in their own life…no matter what that looked like.
I reviewed my blog on satisfaction (http://juliegphillips.blogspot.com/2007/11/satisfaction.html) and realized that God was working, even then, on making this concept clear in my life. And as with most truths that God reveals to me, I have to process them for a while before I can truly claim them for my own life. Why? Well, because my Christian experience has taught me that nothing from God is cheap. We see that especially in the cost that Jesus paid for our lives. There is a cost in truly following God and one should always be willing to pay the price before stepping out in faith.
I don’t mean to sound negative because the rewards are great. God’s peace and God’s joy is worth anything…truly! And…we know, that we know, that we know- that God will always catch us. But…there might be a time of falling. And a time of struggle.
Todd, Parker and I were watching the 3rd Indiana Jones movie and at the end he has to step out into the abyss in faith…and as you know- there appears a walkway, seemingly in the midst of thin air. But there is a short time of falling before the walkway appears.
More of Jesus…more faith, more willingness to face trials, more opportunity to fall, and more opportunity for your faith to mature and be strengthened in the understanding of ultimate dependence on God.
John 15 and 16 are so very powerful. Jesus begins chapter 15 with the example of the vine and the branches and how important it is to stay tied to the vine, Jesus and His word, to gain sustenance. He goes on in chapter 16 to express why…because the disciples were going to face many trials after Jesus’ death- including grief and sorrow. There is a lot of truth and promises revealed in both of these chapters but one of the most powerful statements occurs in the very last verse of Chapter 16:
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
And that is what we hold onto…that is what gives us hope- the knowledge that Jesus has overcome the world and all that is in it. The victory is already won…so we can safely pursue more of Jesus, even knowing we might have a time of free fall, because in HIM we find peace…and ultimately victory.
But…apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.”)
Are you ready to have more of Jesus…More trials, more learning, more conviction, more sorrow, more fruit, more peace, more joy, and more victory?
All I can tell you is that for me…it is a daily struggle…and right now I am holding on to the verse in John 16:33 to take heart! He has overcome….
Monday, January 21, 2008
My submission
I have been quiet over the past few weeks for many reasons. The cold air seems to bring my spirits down, my grandmother's passing still resonates in my soul, and just getting back into the swing of things after the holidays leaves my brain rather numb.
However, after listening to Todd's sermon from Sunday night, I felt the need to speak. Todd did a wonderful job addressing a difficult passage in Colossians. I listened live online and enjoyed, agreed with, and laughed with him as he spoke. But...I felt he gave me way too much credit regarding submission to my husband. You can listen to it as well at www.frontlinedc.org.
Todd was correct in his description of how we work together in our marriage- that we both do not see submission as direct obedience but as the voluntary surrendering of my will at those difficult times when we have not agreed. One of the reasons I fell in love with Todd was that he was unafraid of my strong personality or my strong opinions. He relished discussions and I never ever felt I had to deny who I was to be around him. His will, his security and his relationship with Christ was strong enough to allow me to be who I was. To say that I was always Godly or biblical in my expression would be incorrect, but Todd has most always allowed me leeway and allowed God to be my teacher except in some direct situations where he pointed out false thinking or ungodly action. Most of the time this has been in regards to gossip or speaking badly about someone.
I wanted to speak out about submission because in those instances where I submitted to Todd's leadership- it was not always easy for me. There were times where I held resentment in my heart and though I didn't express superiority to Todd- I felt it in my heart. I confess this to you all so that you know that you are not alone if you struggle with submission. However, I do not regard my response as one that God honors.
I too, see those times as growth for Todd, but I wanted you all to understand they were also times of growth for me. Those times were used to shape me to understand and trust the sovereignity of God. Those times were used to bring me face to face with my own issues of pride. Those times were used to break me, and mold me. I learned that in being 'one' with my husband- that also includes suffering with Him. I was taught how to uplift him, and how to esteem Todd up through learning how to pray through my resentment, allowing the Spirit of God to shatter my superior feelings and reminding me that I am also a person with much sin that has to be forgiven.
Realizing that God knew the innermost parts of my heart was humbling. Understanding that any issues we might have been having as couple might have been because of my own actions was eye opening.
I still see the strengths I bring to our marriage partnership. But, as most of all us know, many of our strengths have an underside to them- a weakness, if not kept in check with the truth of God.
God has an amazing purpose for marriage- and for leadership and submission. And it requires both the husband AND wife to belong to Jesus first. To be seeking Him in all things- to remaining tied to the vine of Christ on a daily basis and to voluntarily surrender your will to that of God. There might be times when you as a wife, have to submit to your husband, and it might be a challenge. But, I pray that you all are able to do it with more grace and obedience to God that I was able to do at times.
Blessings,
Julie
However, after listening to Todd's sermon from Sunday night, I felt the need to speak. Todd did a wonderful job addressing a difficult passage in Colossians. I listened live online and enjoyed, agreed with, and laughed with him as he spoke. But...I felt he gave me way too much credit regarding submission to my husband. You can listen to it as well at www.frontlinedc.org.
Todd was correct in his description of how we work together in our marriage- that we both do not see submission as direct obedience but as the voluntary surrendering of my will at those difficult times when we have not agreed. One of the reasons I fell in love with Todd was that he was unafraid of my strong personality or my strong opinions. He relished discussions and I never ever felt I had to deny who I was to be around him. His will, his security and his relationship with Christ was strong enough to allow me to be who I was. To say that I was always Godly or biblical in my expression would be incorrect, but Todd has most always allowed me leeway and allowed God to be my teacher except in some direct situations where he pointed out false thinking or ungodly action. Most of the time this has been in regards to gossip or speaking badly about someone.
I wanted to speak out about submission because in those instances where I submitted to Todd's leadership- it was not always easy for me. There were times where I held resentment in my heart and though I didn't express superiority to Todd- I felt it in my heart. I confess this to you all so that you know that you are not alone if you struggle with submission. However, I do not regard my response as one that God honors.
I too, see those times as growth for Todd, but I wanted you all to understand they were also times of growth for me. Those times were used to shape me to understand and trust the sovereignity of God. Those times were used to bring me face to face with my own issues of pride. Those times were used to break me, and mold me. I learned that in being 'one' with my husband- that also includes suffering with Him. I was taught how to uplift him, and how to esteem Todd up through learning how to pray through my resentment, allowing the Spirit of God to shatter my superior feelings and reminding me that I am also a person with much sin that has to be forgiven.
Realizing that God knew the innermost parts of my heart was humbling. Understanding that any issues we might have been having as couple might have been because of my own actions was eye opening.
I still see the strengths I bring to our marriage partnership. But, as most of all us know, many of our strengths have an underside to them- a weakness, if not kept in check with the truth of God.
God has an amazing purpose for marriage- and for leadership and submission. And it requires both the husband AND wife to belong to Jesus first. To be seeking Him in all things- to remaining tied to the vine of Christ on a daily basis and to voluntarily surrender your will to that of God. There might be times when you as a wife, have to submit to your husband, and it might be a challenge. But, I pray that you all are able to do it with more grace and obedience to God that I was able to do at times.
Blessings,
Julie
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Be thou Near to Me
http://www.dizzler.com/music/Jim_Brickman/Be_Thou_Near_To_Me
BE THOU NEAR TO ME
O, Lord I come with heart here open
For in my hour of darkness, I may be
Seeking the joy unspoken
O Lord, be thou near to me
And the holy voices sing hallelu
Ever will thy reign be
As I wander through this life,
O Lord, Be thou near to me
Though in this burden of my making,
Yet in the shadows still a light I see
Maker, whose love is not forsaken,
O Lord, be thou near to me
And the holy voices sing hallelu
Ever will thy reign be
As I wander through this life,
O Lord, Be thou near to me
I gave my mother a Greatest Hymns CD from Selah for Christmas. This song is on it. I can't express the feelings of peace I felt as I listened to it while driving around in Texas. Though there seemed to dark clouds- as I listened to this song and the truths expressed- there was a break in the clouds and I heard the voice of God...
There is a reality to our lives...and we all come face to face with it at various times. Our life will have pain...and suffering...and joy...and peace.
Grief is like being dropped off a cliff. It is like you are walking along and then all of the sudden you are down, down, down...and all the faces peering over the edge seem so very far away. It can surprise you and overcome the sunniest day.
And yet...there is peace. Peace because God reigns- His reign is forever and He is near.
Psalm 146:1-2;10
Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul. I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. The LORD reigns forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the LORD.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you...James 4:8a
And as you realize the truths of God- you step away from your darkness, from your wandering and from your grief...and you understand that the gift we have been given is for today. That though God is forever and the beginning and the end- we are to live today for Him. That is all I can do. I can get up today and get out of bed and live for God. I can draw near to him and allow Him to draw near to me. I can open myself up to His guidance today. Tomorrow is not here yet and worries or fears or anticipation will do no good.
We listen to some children's songs by Steve Green. They are scriptures set to music. One of the songs is Proverbs 18:24 "A man of too many friends comes to ruin,But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." And in the song it jokingly says, "A friend who stinks?" and then goes on to correct that with the right words.
One day recently, Raney was going around and repeating herself (which she does quite often) and she was repeating this song, dancing around and singing to herself, "There is a friend, There is a friend, a friend that sticks, a friend that stinks? No! A friend that sticks...closer than a brother!"
Again and again I heard her sing. What a gift! We have a friend in Jesus and He sticks to us like glue...
So again...while I sit with eyes closed and hands open on my lap...from the song I sing in my heart
O, Lord I come with heart here open
For in my hour of darkness, I may be
Seeking the joy unspoken
O Lord, be thou near to me
So if you are in the darkness, or wandering around in the wildnerness- sit and and allow God to be near to you...
BE THOU NEAR TO ME
O, Lord I come with heart here open
For in my hour of darkness, I may be
Seeking the joy unspoken
O Lord, be thou near to me
And the holy voices sing hallelu
Ever will thy reign be
As I wander through this life,
O Lord, Be thou near to me
Though in this burden of my making,
Yet in the shadows still a light I see
Maker, whose love is not forsaken,
O Lord, be thou near to me
And the holy voices sing hallelu
Ever will thy reign be
As I wander through this life,
O Lord, Be thou near to me
I gave my mother a Greatest Hymns CD from Selah for Christmas. This song is on it. I can't express the feelings of peace I felt as I listened to it while driving around in Texas. Though there seemed to dark clouds- as I listened to this song and the truths expressed- there was a break in the clouds and I heard the voice of God...
There is a reality to our lives...and we all come face to face with it at various times. Our life will have pain...and suffering...and joy...and peace.
Grief is like being dropped off a cliff. It is like you are walking along and then all of the sudden you are down, down, down...and all the faces peering over the edge seem so very far away. It can surprise you and overcome the sunniest day.
And yet...there is peace. Peace because God reigns- His reign is forever and He is near.
Psalm 146:1-2;10
Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul. I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. The LORD reigns forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the LORD.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you...James 4:8a
And as you realize the truths of God- you step away from your darkness, from your wandering and from your grief...and you understand that the gift we have been given is for today. That though God is forever and the beginning and the end- we are to live today for Him. That is all I can do. I can get up today and get out of bed and live for God. I can draw near to him and allow Him to draw near to me. I can open myself up to His guidance today. Tomorrow is not here yet and worries or fears or anticipation will do no good.
We listen to some children's songs by Steve Green. They are scriptures set to music. One of the songs is Proverbs 18:24 "A man of too many friends comes to ruin,But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." And in the song it jokingly says, "A friend who stinks?" and then goes on to correct that with the right words.
One day recently, Raney was going around and repeating herself (which she does quite often) and she was repeating this song, dancing around and singing to herself, "There is a friend, There is a friend, a friend that sticks, a friend that stinks? No! A friend that sticks...closer than a brother!"
Again and again I heard her sing. What a gift! We have a friend in Jesus and He sticks to us like glue...
So again...while I sit with eyes closed and hands open on my lap...from the song I sing in my heart
O, Lord I come with heart here open
For in my hour of darkness, I may be
Seeking the joy unspoken
O Lord, be thou near to me
So if you are in the darkness, or wandering around in the wildnerness- sit and and allow God to be near to you...
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