tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4110346584530879432024-03-05T20:04:18.414-08:00New Adventure Each Day Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-71626747495589571482014-07-26T12:12:00.001-07:002014-07-29T10:41:46.703-07:00The Real Adventure of Life: Part 1<div style="text-align: left;">
Hello Readers! </div>
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I'll start this by saying it has been over two months since I last posted here, and while the reasons were not clear this summer as to why I had writers block, it is becoming more apparent to me every time I write a word here as to why it has been so long. It has been quite the adventure with Jesus this summer and my heart and soul are constantly learning what it is really like to pursue a life after Christ. What he is teaching me right now, in this moment is that sometimes life's biggest adventures don't include traveling the world and doing exotic things. While those may be desires and wants that I have (I very much do) those adventures and experience do not: define who I am, make me more or less saved or make me a more valued human. </div>
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<i><b>THE REAL ADVENTURES OF LIFE BEGIN AND END WITH JESUS. </b></i></blockquote>
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If you are anything like me, settling is hard and in lots of cases isn't an option. You want the best and hardly give the time of day to anyone or thing that doesn't measure up to what you want. This way of thinking has its positives, but in this summer's case my attitude and spiritual life experienced some major turmoil. For those of you who don't know me personally, I grew up in small town Iowa- and when I mean small that doesn't mean 10,000 people, it means less than 2,000. A classic Midwest small town in the heart of American soil. I moved away to study in Phoenix for college and was introduced to the culture and lifestyle of the city and west coast. Living in Arizona has been such a wonderful opportunity to explore God's glory there and when school came to an end I didn't want to leave.</div>
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Plans needed to start being made for this summer during my second semester (this spring) of school. With that said I sought the options of serving at a Christian Camp I had served for four years or finding a job on campus so I could stay in the comfort of my new friends. Living at home didn't seem to be an option, and if I am being honest my pride is what made me hesitant. I see that clearer than ever as I write and reflect and it hurts me to the core that I have acted in such a way. My self righteous attitude led me to believe that I was too good to be stuck in podunk Iowa again. After all, I left to seek adventure and Jesus' purpose for my life, but the problem I see now is that although my intentions were good, I didn't need to prove myself to anyone, because Jesus has already proven himself to the world when he died for our sins. I know that God has placed me at GCU for a reason and I am forever thankful for that. But over the past year I have seen that although my intentions were good, they were probably underlined with ulterior motives to prove "superiority" to the Midwest culture. </div>
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Despite the love I have for my family and a few friends back home I was too proud to consider living back in Iowa for four months, to me it sounded more like a punishment. My roommate and best friend can attest that deciding on plans for the summer was incredibly difficult and frustrating for me. I spent many of my days being consumed with what I was supposed to do. To this day and until eternity I am so thankful that Hayden called me out and was brutally honest with the way I was acting. It was clear to her where I needed to be, but I had no desire to seek God's plans, so I succumbed to my own selfishness. Little did I know that while I was trying to find the best option for myself, I was unintentionally and blindly hurting my family. I had stopped asking God how he wanted to use me and instead made plans that were for my personal benefit and gain. The adventures I hoped and dreamed for were the ones I wanted to do and so naturally I tossed aside the adventures that seemed to "common" or "mediocre". Friends, I was basically disregarding the plans Jesus had already set out for me. I desired (and continue to desire) to live a life that is extraordinary, but <b style="font-style: italic;">Jesus shows me now that in order for his love to be extraordinary and for him to use me in extraordinary ways I must be content with doing ordinary things. Because only when I commit to living an ordinary life is his extraordinary love and plan revealed. </b>Woah, the Spirit is moving. </div>
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<i><b>Phillipians 2:3 says, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility value others above yourself, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interest of others." </b></i></blockquote>
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I came across this verse recently, and it crushed my spirit. Its says do nothing for selfishnesss but rather for selflessness yet here I was pursuing my own passions, forgetting that I may be hurting people in the process. Though it is true I am no longer dead to sin, that doesn't mean that I will never make mistakes. I will, we all will. We will continue to mess up until our souls are united in heaven. It is so important, especially in times of trial, why God would sent his son to die for us, its simple: </div>
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<i>because he loves us</i></div>
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<i>because he loves us </i></div>
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<i>because he loves us. </i></div>
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<i>Can you imagine that kind of love? </i></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I know that Philippians 2:3 directly applies to me this summer, and sitting here reflecting on my attitude makes me feel ashamed that I would think so highly of myself that I would think I have a right to plan my life. I gave up that right along time ago when I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. </span><span style="text-align: left;">Salvation is giving your life over to Jesus, no longer considering it your own. The fact that I struggle</span><span style="text-align: left;"> with controlling my own life just shows me yet again how much I really need Jesus. Right now as I write I am beyond thankful that Jesus gives me mercy and grace, despite my disobedience and doubts. Yet, it is in those times of disobedience and doubt that God takes you, breaks you and makes you whole again. It</span> happens to all of us who pursue a life after Christ.</div>
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Stayed tuned to find out what happens next. </div>
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In Christ, </div>
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Taler Ray </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-50395999422883301172014-05-31T16:32:00.001-07:002014-05-31T16:32:13.982-07:005 Things Every Woman of God Needs: Little Black NotebookIts been way to long readers!<br />
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Words. Often too many spoken, yet so much left unsaid. I love talking, but if there is one thing I love almost as much as talking it is writing. There is something about the power of the written word. I sit here, over a month after finishing my first year of college. During this transition back home I have had lots of time to reflect over the past year. I wanted to share with you some of the importances I have found in keeping a journal. With that being said, #4: Every woman of God needs a journal.<br />
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Ever since I could pick up a pen and write I have kept tons of journals filled with different topics. Some are filled with songs, others with prayers and even some fantastic ocean research (I was obsessed with the ocean as a child, and still am). As I approached my tween years I began writing about the things that were going on in my life: the good, bad and the ugly. Some of the stories are just downright hilarious and ridiculous, making me question my thought process as a teen. However, all of the things I have written about are near and dear to my heart because they all signify apart of my spiritual walk. My favorite part is going back and reading all of the amazing things Jesus has done in my life so far.<br />
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There is no set way of journaling, but rather is more of a feeling of words. For me it is a place where I can go and talk with my savior, through words, about the things going on in my heart. One thing I often write about is the blessings he has given me. Life gets busy, and when things are going well we often neglect acknowledging the One who gives us those blessings. I think there is such a unique beauty and vulnerability when writing words of thanks. It gives us a visual so that we can look back and say "Hey, look what the Lord gave me!" <i>When we take time to acknowledge the good things happening, we are giving the glory and credit to Jesus that he deserves.</i><br />
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Not only do I use my journal for moments of praise and thanks, but also for prayer. The Lord is so faithful, there is no better way to put it. So many times this year I wrote down prayer requests or concerns about things going on, and quickly realized that they were taken care of, God's way. By writing down prayers somewhere other than saying them, we can literally see just how faithful God really is! He hears what we have to say and faithfully listens. Sometimes we get so caught up in the things that are going wrong, rather than focusing on the things that are going right. Somehow, at least in my busy life, the negative overrides the positive that sometimes I am so blinded and unable to see the blessings! Having a journal is such a visual reminder that--Hey! Life isn't easy, there is going to be hard times but look what <i>good </i>is happening HIS WAY.<br />
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Third, I write to my future husband. I know for some of you this seems way to cheesy, but for those unmarried and for those with children I highly encourage you to suggest it! I don't write everyday, or even every week for that matter, but when I do I just write about life. I write about the things going on in my life that will give him a window into the me before we met. A lot of my entries are simply prayers for my future home, that it would be centered around Christ and that we would live our lives for him through everything, always. I am so excited to see my husband someday open a journal full of letters written specifically for him.<br />
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Lastly, I write about everyday life<br />
Keeping a series of journals is such a cool thing, but if you haven't started yet there is never a better time than the present. Someday I hope to show these journals through all the different stages of life to my kids. By doing this,they can plainly see that God is so real and so good all the time.You may not be an avid writer, or a poet but friends it doesn't matter! Allow yourself to be open to the idea of writing down a few thoughts a day and go from their! Experience a new way of seeing the blessings in disguise that can be revealed by the Lord through writing!<br />
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Until next time!<br />
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In Christ,<br />
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Taler Ray<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-27520806855356074272014-04-21T23:44:00.004-07:002014-04-21T23:52:03.295-07:005 Things Every Woman of God Needs: Godly Women (#3) Dear friends,<br />
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The power and beauty of prayer is a powerful thing as I said in my first and second blog of this series. I just spent the evening at my last Monday night girls fellowship of the year. My friends and I took the this time to pray for each other individually and as a group. Today my heart is happy and thankful. As we prayed out loud, my heart had a million others things that needed to be said. So here it is. Enjoy.<br />
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My first year of college is coming to an end. 2 days to be exact. 2 days until I leave the place that I have fallen in love with. 2 days from leaving the place I now call home. It's not forever, in fact, in four short months I will back full of excitement for the year Jesus is going to bring. But for now, I'm learning that is okay to be sad. It has to be okay. My heart is cracking, yet it is so thankful and full of hope. Hope that as I leave, my friendships will not. Every woman of God needs Godly friends, so let me tell you about mine.<br />
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Coming into my first my year of college I had no expectations at all. I was excited to meet some friends, get involved and just have fun. Never in a million years did I think that Jesus would bring me friends who would be such a big part of my life. My mom always told me that my dad and her had been praying for my roommate and friends for years and years and when I entered high school I decided to do the same. As high school went on I had a couple awesome friends but that was the end of it. I went to camp every summer in between years and met beautiful people, but even many of those friendships were for short periods of time and others are still long distance and sporadic. You can see where this is going can't you? Well, naturally I came to college with the attitude that there would be a couple close friends, but we would part ways eventually. Turns out I was completely wrong. </div>
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Never in my life have I experienced so much grace, acceptance and love in this group of women I now call my best friends. I found a group where I can go to take refuge; where we can all go to take refuge in Him. I found a place that is full of wisdom, truth and integrity; where honesty is always, in every circumstance, the best policy. Most importantly, I have found a place where the desire to be a better person in Jesus is always encouraged. As I look at my friends, I see Jesus in them. The way that Jesus calls us to love and forgive in reflected in their lives each and everyday. Their attitudes for their futures, although unsure at times, are always followed by a faith that seems so unshakable. Grace and mercy are overflowing in their words, actions and prayers towards me and others each and every day. Jesus is alive, present to the core of their beings. <b><i>The love they show to me is the kind Jesus calls us all to share, and for that I am humbled. </i></b></div>
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Right now I am heart broken to be done with the best year of my life. However I keep reminding myself that it is not the kind of heartbreak that I cannot recover from; instead its the kind that reassures me that I have been given such precious blessings that I never want to take for granted. It is in these moments that I am reminded of how much my Savior truly knows me better than anyone else. He knows and hears my thoughts, needs and prayers even before I think or say them. Take this time to sit and be thankful for those friends that encourage and uplift you. Then write them a letter, letting them know just how much you love them. Pray that Jesus will bring people into your life (if he hasn't already) that will show you to love as he has loved us because it is the most beautiful gift in the world.<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy or art...it has no survival value; rather is is one of those things that gives value to survival." -C.S Lewis </span></b></i></blockquote>
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Today I am thankful. </div>
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In Christ, </div>
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Taler Ray</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-32210402315337280222014-04-16T09:38:00.000-07:002014-04-16T09:38:11.644-07:005 Things Every Woman of God Needs: Quiet Do you know what it is to be quiet? For those of you who do not know me personally, being silent or even remotely quiet is nearly impossible for me. I blame this mostly on the fact that I am extremely extroverted; always wanting to be talking and hanging out with people. With that said, Jesus has taught me the beauty of spending time with him in the one place that I don't like to be: the quiet.<br />
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As I said in my first blog of the series, reading the Bible is important to gain knowledge and understanding. Along with reading the Bible we all need time away from everyday life to listen, reflect and pray on the things that are tucked away in the crevasses of our hearts. So how do we spend time properly with the Lord? There is no set list of rules to follow but the Bible clearly says that spending time in prayer is vital to our relationship with Jesus!<br />
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The power of prayer is a beautiful thing, that directly connects us with God. So many times in life I have neglected to go to the One who deserves to hear my problems because I think I can figure them out myself, when in all reality I can't. Friends, we shouldn't harden our hearts, but instead should be vulnerable and transparent with our Creator<b> in the quiet</b>. <b><i>For at the loudest times in our lives, we should seek silence</i></b>. In Psalm 145:18 it says, "<i>The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." </i>In your time alone with the Lord be honest about what is going on inside and out; although he already knows everything, he wants us all to communicate directly with him. That's the beauty of prayer and reflection. Our creator is longing for you to take time for him, for he wants to understand and know his beautiful creation. Part of letting him fully understand you is spending time alone in a quiet place.<br />
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There are few places I would rather be than outside under a big tree sitting in my hammock. It is my place where I can relax and just talk with Jesus in such a casual way, just like I would with my best friend. If you will, my hammock is my favorite place to "hang out with Jesus" (pun intended). Some of the best times I have spent with the Lord recently haven't involved me even talking; rather I spend it listening and reflecting in silence. Instead of listing the endless amounts of petty problems I simply wait and listen to what he wants to teach me through his Word. My encouragement for those of you reading would be to go and find that place where you can be with the Lord, letting his speak into your life while you listen patiently, in the quiet. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-35727651591636771652014-04-02T11:32:00.001-07:002014-04-02T11:32:17.497-07:005 Things every Woman of God Needs: #1 <div style="color: #404040; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.5em;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There is so much beauty in watching the Lord transform, nurture and bless your life in ways that you never thought possible. What is even more incredible is that as we follow a life after Christ, we can never stop learning, because we are creatures who long for knowledge and wisdom. As women, whether young or youthfully old (age is but a number), it is vitally important to have things in your life that are constantly leading you to better your relationship with Christ; because it is never finished. Our love story with the Lord is one that is constantly being written and revised. In the next few weeks I want to share with you some things that the Lord has showed me that are vital to my relationship with him. The first is time in the Word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Life gets busy and I can't imagine what it will be like when I am a working mom and wife. College is crazy enough trying to balance my social life with work and then I suppose homework should be included too ( I mean that is the point of college...right?!). Whatever is keeping you busy, I understand. Every woman does. Life gets in the way, even when we have the best of intentions. However even with those good intentions we often neglect the things that are the most important and in this case it is spending time with the One who created us. How are we supposed to find who we are in Christ if we don't make time for the Word? The answer? We can't. It doesn't matter if you are superwoman with superpowers. <em>We cannot grow in wisdom if we aren't in the Word.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Woah, <strong>the word of God is <em><strong>alive and a</strong>ctive!</em></strong><em> </em>I am jumping for joy as I write this.How cool is that? Even after thousands of years this precious document has been preserved and is good as new. Friends it is so powerful, just as it says here in Hebrews. When we take time to read God's truth it reveals the things that we need to re-evaluate in our lives. If you want a heart and attitude check, read God's word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Ladies, the Lord has so much for us all to learn, together and separately in Him. It seems comedic to me that we spend so much time searching for affirmation and wisdom from anywhere other than the Bible. This year I learned just how much Jesus longs to be in relationship with us, but it is completely up to us whether or not we want to fully commit the time and energy. He wants to scratch beneath the surface and dig deep into the depths of our souls. If you want to pursue that deep relationship with Jesus then spending time soaking in his Truth is vital; without it our relationship will never reach it's full potential.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Word gives us everything we need to know about how to live life according to God's will. Reading the Bible shouldn't be something we do just to check it off the list so we can say we did it for the day. No, <em>the Word is food for our spiritual bodies. We should long and yearn to spend time alone with the One who created us. </em>Without it, our spiritual lives shrivel up and die. I know that seems a bit dramatic but it really isn't. Jesus came to earth to die for ours sins and offers us eternal life; therefore we should be doing everything we can to make our relationship our first priority. After all, our earthly relationship will pass away; however our relationship with Jesus is eternal! Praise the Lord for that!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wherever you are in life and in relationship with Jesus, I pray that your hearts would be convicted. I pray that your everyday lives would include spending time with Jesus digging deep into the Bible and listening to what the words are saying for your heart specifically. Let your hearts be filled and encouraged by his words, for they are beautiful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> In Christ, Taler Ray </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-82963307472092521732014-03-12T11:24:00.000-07:002014-03-12T11:24:05.463-07:00Airport Adventures<div style="text-align: center;">
It's spring break and I finally get to see my family for the first time in 2 and a half months. I don't know about any of you but flying home to see your loved ones after it has been a while is one of the most exhilarating and humbling feelings in the world. This day has already been quite stressful, as I couldn't make a flight that the company said I would be able to get on. Luckily, the Lord provided me a seat on another plane that was originally booked! Meanwhile, I've had about 4 hours of people watching and bible reading time and of course God teaches me something new yet again, even in the midst of my worrying. </div>
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As I was eating breakfast this morning I began to pick up where I left off reading Matthew 7: 25-33. If you aren't familiar with this passage I suggest you read it because it is completely applicable to our lives as humans. This is what is says: </div>
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<span class="text Matt-6-25" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">25 </span>“Therefore I tell you, do not worry<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23308B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?</span><b style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Matt-6-26" id="en-NIV-23309"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; vertical-align: top;">26 </span>Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23309C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span> Are you not much more valuable than they?<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23309D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span></span> </b><span class="text Matt-6-27" id="en-NIV-23310"><b><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; vertical-align: top;">27 </span><span style="font-size: small;">Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life</span><span class="footnote" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-NIV-23310a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]">[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6%3A25-33&version=NIV#fen-NIV-23310a" style="color: #b37162; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</span><span style="font-size: small;">?</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></b></span><span class="text Matt-6-28" id="en-NIV-23311" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">28 </span>“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-29" id="en-NIV-23312" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">29 </span>Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23312F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> was dressed like one of these.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-30" id="en-NIV-23313" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">30 </span>If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23313G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span></span><span class="text Matt-6-31" id="en-NIV-23314" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">31 </span>So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-32" id="en-NIV-23315" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">3</span><b><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; vertical-align: top;">2 </span>For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23315H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span></b></span><b><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-6-33" id="en-NIV-23316" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; vertical-align: top;">33 </span>But seek first his kingdom<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23316I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></span> and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.</span></b></div>
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Take a deep breathe and let that soak in. As soon as I read that passage this morning I felt completely stupid. I just spent all this time getting frustrated and annoyed because I couldn't get what I wanted, how completely selfish. If I would have been on that 9:05 flight I would have been home earlier, yes. But this is what I needed to hear and understand. In verse 26 Jesus tells us to look at the birds. Even thought the value of the birds isn't high and they don't do anything of major significance, God provides for their needs. So why is it that we don't think that God will take care us? Do we really find ourselves of as little worth as the birds in the sky? The Lord says we shouldn't! He tells us throughout the Bible what our worth is, yet we constantly battle with that everyday. We go on worrying about every little things that is going to happen today, tomorrow and ten years from now. I, myself spend way too much time focusing on the future plans He has for me rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to work through me in the moment. I'm guilty and know that I need to do a better job of not worrying about tomorrow, because today has enough trouble! </div>
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The final verse of this passage also speaks volumes to me because this is how we should be living our lives as Christians. Instead of worrying everyday about our time schedule, calendar and list of things to do we should be seeking righteousness and bringing everyday glory to God. He knows what we need to survive and he promises to provide for us. It may not always be in the way we want but our way doesn't matter. It should be God's way or no way. Easier said then done right? You nor I will ever be perfect but we give the best effort in giving our worries to him. God's got our backs, all the time. Amen? As I sit in the airport pondering this I am smiling, because this is exactly what Jesus wanted to teach me today.<br />
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Taler </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-77545640082968634372014-02-12T23:04:00.004-08:002014-08-18T22:51:31.839-07:00Beautiful: My Story<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We all long to know what is means to feel beautiful, for those 9 letters alone are the epitomy of worth to most women around the world. Have you ever thought about how important in essence the word </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">beautiful </i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">is? This word makes and breaks millions of women everyday- and for those that do not live up by society's definition. How do I know this? Because I've been there, we probably all have. If we are honest we judge our level of beauty off what culture says. Today we have social media, magazines, commercials etc. to thank for "idols" that clearly and visually, show us how little our hearts and passions matter. Because to the world we are how we look- the definition of who we are depends on it. But, friends, beautiful really isn't an adjective that supports the noun. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>Being beautiful is a verb. </i></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Beauty by social standard has destroyed the woman's heart and I am a victim. </i></b></blockquote>
Yes, I finally said it. I have been a victim of society and the media when it comes to feeling beautiful, but not until recently did I realize how deep these influences have affected my heart. For so many years I have tried to pretend I knew what it felt like to love myself, to feel completley confident and pretty-but I was so very wrong. My standards of beauty have been skewed by the world and the devil, who is always seeking to destroy. I have struggled with my weight and outer body image my whole life, but didn't address it. Instead I allowed the devil to capitalize on my insecurities- but worse was the denile that covered them. <br>
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<b><i>I neglected the aching in my heart to feel beautiful and shoved my insecurity to the depths of my soul, hoping no one would ever find it</i>. </b></blockquote>
But, Jesus did. He found & revealed them. Jesus dug out my deepest insecurities and put them on display. Ultimatley, he showed me that I failed to realize that my struggle with being beautiful was keeping me from being the truest version he created. I had been lying to myself for years, but lie I will no more. <div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; text-align: center;">Being pre-diabetic since high school, I have never really been healthy. Loosing weight was hard, no matter how healthy I ate. Returning from my first year of college heavier and more in denial than ever I was headed for type 2 diabetes which is hereditary. I knew that I had to make a change, but I just felt trapped in these chains of self-pity, guilt and frustration. I started baby steps and took the advice of my dear friend Claire and started approaching excerise totally different- as an act of worship. It was during one of my runs in early May that I finally surrendered my burden of self image to Jesus. I surrendered the lies that Satan and culture. My chains were broken and set free through Jesus. </span><div><div>
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Being broken is not fun, and I am slowly beginning to be made whole with the help of the Lord. For so many years I failed to realize that my body is a temple for the Lord. What I put into my body and how I treat it directly effects my relationship with Jesus. <br>
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<b><i>How can I be the truest version of myself in Jesus if I can't even treat the body he has given me with respect? </i></b></div>
<br>I only have one body, one life to give him the Glory. Why was I treating my body like a piece of art bought at a garage sale for 99 cents, instead of a beloved masterpiece created by the Master? Through reading scripture and having conversation with others I have realized that as long as I continue to neglect my body, I am neglecting my relationship with Jesus. <i>Only when we surrender our flesh do we being to be shaped into something new.</i> I<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> am no longer choosing to hide my insecurities but rather </span><b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><i>I am choosing to live life as a beautiful verb</i></b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">- because we weren't called to let others define our worth. We are called to live as he has defined us: </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">beloved</i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">. </span></div><div><br>
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In Christ Jesus, </div>
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If you are reading this part, but haven't read part one of this blog, click below!<br />
<a href="http://newadventureeachday.blogspot.com/2014/01/unspeakable-joy-part-one.html" target="_blank">Unspeakable Joy: Part </a><br />
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As I said in part one, I was starting to be filled with the lies of Satan and others who questioned and discouraged my happiness and laughter. Their comments were consuming me and it got to the point where I eventually started to listen. Satan was trying to convince me that conforming to my peers would be for the best. Although there was no way to avoid that negativity, Jesus showed me that there was a way to walk against in. It just took me a while to understand how.<br />
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First and most importantly I have learned that being joyful is normal and is a precious gift from him! I don't need to go on living as a person of negativity because that is exactly the lifestyle that the devil provokes. As soon as the Lord showed me what real joy was, I forgot about what other where saying to and about me. I finally understood why my peers didn't understand where my joy was coming from. You see I was happy and carefree in school because I had Jesus by my side every step of the way. I didn't have to worry about being popular or going to parties on the weekends. My identity was not found in my peers, nor in my achievements. I attended school with a joy that words could not express. The joy I have is not found in material things or others. It is found in the freedom that Christ so graciously offers to anyone who will submit themselves to his glory. </div>
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Readers, Jesus showed me that my identity and joy is in Him. I took what the Bible says about joy, along with what the Holy Spirit had put on my heart and turned it into action. Did I stop laughing and smiling? <b><i>No, I laughed and smiled more. </i></b>Was I constantly complaining? <b><i>No, I thanked Jesus for another day of living as a example.</i></b> Friends, the Lord called me to walk the halls of Alta-Aurelia High School with unspeakable joy.<br />
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I now have an unexplainable peace and happiness because I know that my soul has not gone to waste. It has been filled with joy, laughter and energy because I know where my eternal existence is. I don't continue to live my life based off of what other people say. My heart is full because the God of Heaven and Earth has filled my spirit with contentment.<br />
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<b>This is unspeakable joy. </b><br />
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Joy in Jesus is knowing that your life is not for nothing. It is knowing that no matter how low you feel you can have confidence that Jesus will carry you. It is believing with your mind, body and soul that this life is not for your own purposes. Just like anything in life there will be bad days, I have them and so will you. But do not be disheartened, instead find joy in the smallest of things and take life day by day. Choose Joy.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls." - 1 Peter 1:8-9</span></b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-13835464166329442502014-01-09T17:39:00.001-08:002014-01-09T17:52:13.787-08:00Unspeakable Joy: Part One.I want to share something with you that I have found in the past 6 months. It's something that each and every person can receive and should want to have in their lives. This thing that I have found is with me everyday, sometimes loudly and sometimes softly. Often it swells within me whole being, and other times it is radiated to me through other people or events. This gift is something that is so valuable and precious that I never want to loose or misplace it. If I did my life would be in shambles. With this gift I am able to conquer everyday; without it I would be a very unhappy person.<br />
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This thing I have is Unspeakable Joy. </div>
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Do you know this kind of joy? </div>
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Let me tell you my story that God has been writing for a while, and now He wants me to share my pain and triumph with you. </div>
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Life is not easy, and as I went through middle school and high school I was always very talkative, loud and full of laughter. I found the simplest of things to be absolutely hysterical. Most of the time I laughed alone or with my best friend Katie. We conquered middle & high school together, through laughter and friendship. I am forever grateful to have a best friend who laughed at and with me everyday. The Lord knew what he was doing when he gave me a best friend in the whole wide world that would be crazy, silly and fun with me! </div>
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Although high school was full of laughing for me and Katie, not many other people would laugh or have joy the way we did. Each day I felt the negativity and wickedness of the world in my school, (which was well under 180 kids 9-12). A lot of the time when I found myself laughing or being happy, there was a negative comment or face telling me that it wasn't okay to be joyful. People would make comments about the way I laughed, often telling me to be quieter or to change the way I laughed all together. Some even called my laugh " inconsistent and fake." Katie and I were often told we were way too happy and very annoying. </div>
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Though on the outside I didn't care what they said, Satan began to use those words and expressions to stir up some turmoil in my heart. I started asking myself "Am I really too happy?" or "should I cut my joy short or laugh less because people were annoyed with me?" These were the lies the devil began to overtake my thoughts with. <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">For a while the answer to me seemed to be yes. I ultimately thought that maybe I should stop being joyful and submit to the negativity of high school. Although these thoughts </span>were far from what God desired for me and my life, I chose to believe these lies. But not for long. </div>
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Read next time to how God changed my heart and gave me Unspeakable Joy. </div>
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In Christ, </div>
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Taler Ray </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-40931459586070594162014-01-02T20:18:00.002-08:002014-01-02T20:23:25.060-08:00Act Justly, Love Mercy & Walk Humbly. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As the New Year rings in there are many resolutions being made. I came across this passage from Micah 6:8 and thought it very well suited how how I want to grow in my relationship with Christ and others this year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 16px;"><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Mic-6-8" style="position: relative;">And what does the <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> require of you?</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="text Mic-6-8" style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">To act justly<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-22657G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span> and to love mercy</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Mic-6-8" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative;">and to walk humbly with your God."</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Read those words again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This isn't some inspirational quote from Pinterest or the wise words of a philosopher. These are the words of the most holy and mighty Creator that we serve. When I heard and read this verse, it immediately resonated in my heart. I want to get better in these areas so here is one of my resolutions this year and my challenge to you! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>To Act Justly</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Stand up for what is right, even when that means standing alone. </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have a moral compass that is firmly grounded by the word of God. Speak </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">honestly and be ready to l</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">ive radically. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>To Love Mercy</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank the Lord everyday for the Mercy he shows us, though none of us deserve it. Forgive those who are hardest to forgive; becoming less selfish and more selfless. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">To Walk Humbly with your God</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Praise our heavenly father everyday for the gift of Salvation through Jesus. Give all the Glory to God in your accomplishments and failures. Submit to His timing and plans instead of controlling your own life, for it is not your own.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">May Christ be our focus this year as we listen to what He plans for us in the year 2014.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Blessings in Christ,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Taler</span> </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-19111479517955716142013-12-02T20:38:00.003-08:002013-12-02T20:40:39.692-08:00Home is Where the Heart is <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Home. </b>What a strange word indeed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It is the Holiday season and I am missing my family more than ever. As thanksgiving comes to a close I am thankful for many many things, we all are. The thing I am most thankful for is<b> home</b>. In my quiet time this morning with Jesus I was journaling and I really got to thinking what h<b>ome </b>actually means to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">1- God has prepared for us an eternal home. I don't know about any of you readers, but as a follower of Jesus I am totally stoked to see our eternal home. God promises us several times in the Bible that he has prepared us a place to spend all eternity with Him! I can't wait to be HOME and worship my savior and eat lots of food! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><b>"And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise." </b></span><b><span style="line-height: 21px;">-</span><span style="line-height: 21px;">Galatians 3:29 </span></b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><b>"But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He has prepared a city for them." </b></span><b style="line-height: 21px;">-Hebrews 11:16</b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">2- I have been blessed with an earthly home. But home to me is not a place I sleep or live. It is a place where I am loved completely no matter what. Home is when I can go to my parents for advice and help. It is a place where I can love my sisters and be an example to them, praying for them as they grow into young woman of Jesus. This kind of home is the home that I can be my one hundred percent goofy self; a place where we can grow together! I am thankful that no matter where I go in life I can always call my family my home. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” -</span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Proverbs 22:6</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">"But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” -</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; line-height: 21px;">Joshua 24:15</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"> 3- The third home for me is camp. Now I know this is a place, but in all reality it is much more than that. This home is the place where I have grown the most in Christ the past four years. It is the place where the simple joys in life are enlarged; where I can drink coffee, grow friendships and seek the Lord in creation. My soul yearns to be in the woods most days, where being in good company while serving others is the only thing we have to worry about. This home is where life is simple. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">4- My fourth type of home is college. I am growing up, away from my family. This is the place I am getting an education and making life long friends. Arizona is where my soul currently belongs. It belongs to a place of amazing community and even more amazing people. It belongs to adventure of all kinds; exploring the unknown west to me. This home is the place where I am learning who I am and who I am becoming. This is the place where my service to the Lord and others is current. This city is my home. </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-3151884131310028412013-11-20T09:46:00.001-08:002013-11-20T09:46:12.424-08:00Dear Kids: Honor your father and mother...<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Honor your father and mother so that you may live long in the land that the Lord your God is giving to you." - Exodus 20:12</b></span><br />
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College is exciting. But if I'm being honest I was most excited about going to college for two reasons: I wanted to get away from Iowa and I didn't want to live with my parents any longer than necessary. So, I did exactly as I planned and moved 1500 miles from home to start a completely new adventure, one that I didn't think would include my parents in any aspect. Recently, I was able to go home for the first time in over 11 weeks. I will be the first to admit that I have struggled with respecting my parents since I was born. However since college and visiting home I have been able to reflect just how much Jesus is changing me, and how much more I value and respect my parents now.<br />
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As I wrote, visiting home has made me appreciate both of my parents so much more. I am finally starting to learn just how much they really do love and care for me. The Lord has been teaching me that in order for me to grow closer with Him I need to do a better job of respecting and loving my parents.<br />
However, not until college did I realize just how selfless both my parents were to me and continue to be to my younger sisters. My dad spends his days traveling and working extremely hard. He shows his love towards me and my sisters by providing for us in more ways than one. My dad is one of the most driven people I know and I am beyond thankful for him and his work ethic. My mom works part time, and is by far the most selfless in my family. She has tended to our every need from infancy. Need something from school? Mom's on it. Feeling sick and need a nurse? Momma is there (plus she is actually a nurse, which makes for an extra special caretaker). Her compassion and love for us is overwhelming and I forever grateful for her.<br />
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Most importantly my parents together have helped me in every step of my spiritual walk with the Lord. I would not be the person I am today without them, so I think I need to make it a priority to respect them and their wishes. Now that doesn't mean I see eye to eye with them on everything, but I owe it to my parents and myself to respect and honor the people who mean the most to me. By the Grace of my Lord Jesus Christ, and support from my parents I am continuing to grow into a woman after God's own heart.<br />
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When we look at the Bible, God is very clear on what he wants from us. We are called to <b>Honor </b>our father and mother. <b>Honor means to "regard with great respect"</b>. I don't know about any of you readers, but according to the Bible and that definition, I have done a pretty cruddy job of respecting my parents with high regard. Now with that in mind, God leaves us a promise at the end of this verse! This part gets so overlooked but I think it is actually very important! God is telling us that when we choose to honor and respect our parents, we will live a long life and a much better one at that! How are we supposed to live the life we are called to live if we can't even respect our parents? I have pondered this for quite some time and have come to the realization that if we don't give our parents the respect and honor they deserve, we cannot and will not grow closer in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Only when we choose to <b>appreciate, value and cherish </b>our parents will our relationship with Jesus grow and we will be blessed!<br />
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Let us make it a priority to give our parents the respect they deserve, so that we may live long lives full of blessing and promise!<br />
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In Christ,<br />
Taler<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-12775621849130324402013-10-24T12:18:00.001-07:002013-10-24T12:18:05.045-07:00How to Bake a Cake<b>Let's have some real talk. Girl talk. Real girl talk.</b><br />
Wednesday nights are one of my favorite nights of the week. I attend a bible study with girls from on and off campus, along with an awesome woman of God, Shannon. We spend our nights being filled up with the Bible, being challenged in our faith and growing together as women of God.<br />
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In a random conversation with the ladies, my lovely friend Heather decided to share an analogy about dating and finding the right guy with us. Let's call it, The Cake Theory. I decided to elaborate on this subject.<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6XPJGcz76n3LuGQJG4pDaXphu3xI3XhF9H0IMGfCxmoDnSVg5s2qEnIMUytBbMdINsJMbee71o7JAI4V0czB67iNfxeJlHwUT8gCcnQLH7ivQmRky2l62-kmNyPdytHwCpoO8cepW1ij/s1600/chocolate-cake-ingredients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6XPJGcz76n3LuGQJG4pDaXphu3xI3XhF9H0IMGfCxmoDnSVg5s2qEnIMUytBbMdINsJMbee71o7JAI4V0czB67iNfxeJlHwUT8gCcnQLH7ivQmRky2l62-kmNyPdytHwCpoO8cepW1ij/s400/chocolate-cake-ingredients.jpg" width="320" /></a>Becoming a woman of God is a journey in itself, and for us girls we always wonder when we are going to be ready for Christ centered relationship? In order for us to be ready there are a few things we need to have in line first, just like baking a cake.<br />
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Having the right ingredients is the first step in the baking process and relates to us as women growing in Him. We each have qualities that we wish we could or hide or get rid of; on the contrary we also possess qualities and attributes that are strong, the ones that make our personalities distinct. In order for our ingredients to be correct, we need to ask the Lord to first search our hearts and reveal the things that we need to work on. No one is every finished growing, but I whole heartedly believe that there are certain qualities every woman should posses before entering into a Christ centered relationship. As we learn these qualities, there comes a point when the "ingredients" if you will, are at the right measurements.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4UprHRhc2nRnjE3sa2JmTh1pgzduqZZVyBIEtmE9gfOJAuqHyP8fT8WVD8zih6mhpmUaHvDWnt-t9Ph27sWzZ-3F3-rdRUVvCHQDLwdU_Gs6bh_en7cpi1TAqoyiqRfCptBtVVvKpm8K/s1600/mixing+cake.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4UprHRhc2nRnjE3sa2JmTh1pgzduqZZVyBIEtmE9gfOJAuqHyP8fT8WVD8zih6mhpmUaHvDWnt-t9Ph27sWzZ-3F3-rdRUVvCHQDLwdU_Gs6bh_en7cpi1TAqoyiqRfCptBtVVvKpm8K/s1600/mixing+cake.jpeg" /></a><b>Mixing the Batter:</b><br />
To make a cake, all the ingredients must be combined to make a yummy batter. Just like batter, once we have worked on finding our identity in Christ we can begin to grow in our relationship with the Lord. Jesus gives us a fruitful spirits: love, joy, patience etc. Of course with anything it is going to be a continuous learning process. But the Holy Spirit helps us with the perfect ingredients. Let the Holy Spirit continue to mix in the perfect amount for your life.<br />
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<b>"Put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. </b><br />
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<b style="text-align: center;">-</b><b style="text-align: center;">Ephesians 4:22-24</b><br />
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<b>Oven Time:</b><br />
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Putting the batter in the oven is one of the most exciting parts of the cake process. As the batter is in the oven, all of the separate ingredients that were mixed together, bake and form into one structure. It rises and becomes more firm. Just like a cake, our relationship with Christ is a constant uphill battle, but as we seek and know Him we will continue to be more firm in our faith. The awesome thing about a relationship with Jesus is there is always room for growth. As we grow in Him, different pieces of our personality and spirit develop and grow into something really beautiful.<br />
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<b>Cooling:</b><br />
When the cake is done baking, it needs time to set. We describe this as the waiting process. Although our cake is done, it needs to time to cool. This part is also the most difficult because it takes the most patience, and let's be honest: patience for a girl is often very difficult especially when it comes to finding prince charming. But with patience comes perseverance and with perseverance comes blessings.<br />
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My mom continues to encourage me by telling me that I will be glad that I waited for the right guy to come along. I have been learning that it is important to take this "cooling time" and spend it with Jesus. As I wait, I have started to understand that Jesus first captivated my heart and is waiting for the perfect time to give you a respectful and Godly man that his precious daughter deserves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv9D7vTxYFk9vevNm_aALMfZwX3kabykhLP1H39-ZVZjRw0bVjjh4VQnKMC_LKd2Z0Opr_shsqiUu5iPQmiIPePMUwBdWPW9z46TYhTSRJxJJA361o3BhOWBcYW1R-5alknRxz94bo2Nh/s1600/funfetti-cake_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcv9D7vTxYFk9vevNm_aALMfZwX3kabykhLP1H39-ZVZjRw0bVjjh4VQnKMC_LKd2Z0Opr_shsqiUu5iPQmiIPePMUwBdWPW9z46TYhTSRJxJJA361o3BhOWBcYW1R-5alknRxz94bo2Nh/s320/funfetti-cake_21.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<b>Frosting the cake.</b><br />
There are many different flavors or types of frosting out there and we develop certain once that we prefer over others. This concept is the same when it comes to finding a Godly man. He should first and foremost love Jesus with all his heart and be the spiritual leader of the relationship. Only then will he be the best frosting for the cake. Once the cake is complete and the right frosting comes along you will have a beautiful Christ centered cake that lasts a lifetime!<br />
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<b>"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!"</b><br />
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If this blog has interested you in the slightest bit, please share it with your friends. These words that I write are not my own, but they come from Jesus who is the writer of life.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-54197969865647711582013-10-15T13:33:00.001-07:002013-10-15T13:33:58.887-07:00Ready or Not Here Jesus Comes. My favorite thing about living a life for Jesus is things are completely unexpected. Last night I was reading from the book of John and a question shouted loudly to me. Am I ready for the life that Jesus has called me to? Am I ready to put my faith to the test?<br />
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If you have ever played on any sort of team you understand how much work and effort it takes. You spend numerous hours practicing, perfecting the skills you are good at and improving the ones that you lack. When it comes to game time, you hope that your hard work has paid off. You eagerly warm up and sit on the bench, hoping that the coach will put you in. The moment that the coach yells your name, you start to question whether or not your hard work and skills will pay off. Rather then spending time dwelling on it, you go into the game and play with what you have. </div>
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Let's look at this from a Christian perspective. We are the players, or God's servants, and Christ is the coach. We spend our lives following Jesus, trying to imitate his life to the best of our ability. We spend plenty of time sitting on the bench, waiting for Jesus to loudly call out his purpose to us. When Jesus calls us or leads a certain way we question whether or not we have the ability to live the life he has called us. But then we learn that whether we are ready or not, life comes and has struggles and triumphs. Jesus gives us things that we must overcome with Him. </div>
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I've been learning that we have to be ready at all times. No, we will not and cannot live perfect lives as Jesus did, for we are sinners of the world. However, with that said, it is our duty to be ready for whatever Jesus calls us to. I have been encouraged by others and the Word to keep on keeping on. The Lord has things planned for our lives that we do not have planned for ourselves. It is our duty as Christ followers that we are in the Word constantly and have a good prayer life. When things happen in life whether good or bad, you will be ready.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-56655356106999378352013-10-01T00:09:00.000-07:002013-10-01T00:09:05.217-07:00Here I Am.<div>
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College has begun and my new lifestyle is in full swing. My clothes and things are settled in, yet my heart and soul are not. My eyes and mind are wandering, searching for the next place to settle in. I began attending a new church on Sunday, and my heart began to find a new church to call home. The Lord quickly captured my attention with a message that my heart and soul so desperately needed to hear and that message was this: </div>
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Life following Jesus is a crooked road. Yes, we are called to live on the straight and narrow path, absolutely true. But do we honestly think that life following Jesus will be easy? If you are a Christian, your answer should be no. We have to come to the realization that our lives are going to be messy; you could even go as far as saying they will be miserable sometimes. Sure, the Lord will bless us in bountiful ways. But along with blessings and triumph comes suffering and confusion. We often wonder why: </div>
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As a young Christian woman, I am searching for my future. I feel that God's purpose is so clear, yet I am still wandering through the fogginess of life. I see bits and pieces of my future, but never the whole thing. I know it is near, so why is it so hard for me to grasp it? These past few weeks I have been searching my heart and letting my guard down.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">I </span><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">am searching through the canyon.</span></i></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">It is your name that I am calling.</i></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Though you're so far away </i></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I know you hear my plea </i></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Why won't you answer me? </i><br />
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Here I am.<br />Here I am.<br />- Emmylou Harris, "Here I am."</i></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-30920773926701184722013-08-17T19:23:00.001-07:002013-08-17T19:23:30.073-07:00Tall Trees and Lovley Souls.<span style="font-family: inherit;">Summer has come to an end once again. Isn't it crazy to think that you spend most of the year anticipating the warmest three months of the year, and then with a blink of an eye, it's over. Summer has indeed come to an end, which meant that summer camp yet again came to a close. Imagine your most favorite place in all the world, now leave it. Each summer I experience that heartache leaving Fort Wilderness, the place I call my second home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Each summer I contemplate whether or not I want to go back to camp, mostly because the logical side of me says that I need to make as much money as I can. ( I am now a poor college student, so every little bit adds up). I convince myself that every year I finish camp will be my last, which has yet to be followed. Somehow, I end up going to the place that my soul years for in all seasons of the year. I crave the wilderness. The smell of waking up every morning that nearly takes my breathe away. The mirror effect that lake displays on a sunny day. I yearn for the friendships I have built in past summers and the future ones yet to be built. Being able to be surrounded amidst God's most lovely creation, serving alongside of amazing people will forever be dear to my heart. I know that each summer I spend there is a gift from the Lord, and he continues to show his purpose with my time there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The people I have met and relationships I have formed are such a blessing in my life. They define what it means to be a friend. Now lets make one thing clear, I do not keep in touch with every single person I have met, because that would impossible. However, the staff at Fort understands that to a T. The kindness and respect people have for each other is precious. It truly is a little slice of Heaven. And to all you Fort people reading this. Thank you, for simply being you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Each summer spent at camp is spent serving those who come to camp. But a lot of time is also spent growing my relationship with Christ. I use this time to reflect on the past school year and to have the Lord prepare my heart and mind for the next season of life. Well He has been doing just that. Not only has God been a provider of my physical needs, but also my emotional and spiritual ones. He has been constantly reminding me that He is greater than me. I can't "do life" without him, because if I did I would fail miserably. His word reminds me that I am given grace over and over again, and that I need to give grace to those who have hurt me. I am reminded that when I have my life planned out, He is going to take it and make it a beautiful mess. I cannot lean on my own understanding, I must acknowledge Him ( Proverbs 3:5). I have to submit my wants, my needs and my plans humbly before the Creator of the world. Only then can He lead and I'll follow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So thank you Jesus for your word. Thank you for seasons of life. Thank you for grace and mercy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And thank you for the tall trees and lovely souls. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-411034658453087943.post-43105827291986823582013-08-10T19:23:00.001-07:002013-08-10T19:23:21.262-07:00Old before New. <br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I leave for college in 10 days. I am getting rid of old things, packing up the remaining items & moving to a completly new state full of new people. I'm leaving the central time zone and trading it in for the west coast time zone. I'm trading the changing seasons of summer spring, winter and fall for all of my school days of warm weather. I'm leaving behind the people I love more than life itself. Yet, my God goes with me wherever I go. I'm not leaving behind my laughter nor my faith. That will be constant. Maybe different but constant.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">As Iook at all the old clothes and things that I have decided to throw away I </span>can't help but sit here and ponder what old things I need to leave behind in order to start this new chapter of my life. Old things like being self centered and bitter. Things like not caring or giving my whole effort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This summer I counseled at a girls camp, where we talked about taking off our old self and putting on the new. This is exactly what The Lord is speaking to me about right now. Just like me throwing out my old clothes,Jesus has given us the chance to exchange our old "clothes" (which are dirtied with sin) for a brand new pair which are clean. We no longer have to wear those old rags with our painful past, because we have been redeemed in Christ!? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What things do you need to "throw away"? Re-evaluate what old "pieces of clothing" are hindering you from fully accepting the new self He has offered us? Jesus takes our old clothes, and trades them in for brand new. What an awesome God. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11343772497347021315noreply@blogger.com0