tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.comments2013-09-03T13:13:30.658-04:00Directions for Daily LivingPastor Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07153344379259118142noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-27920234832144096562013-09-03T13:13:30.658-04:002013-09-03T13:13:30.658-04:00While reading this message the word "honest&q...While reading this message the word "honest" is shedding a glaring light on the reality of my own confessions. Time for a little self evaluation. I've asked for forgiveness for my sins and yet sometimes I still feel a bit unclean. Perhaps I need to use a little of God's soap to clean those areas I keep seeming to forget...like "honest" confession...actually seeking and acknowledging all sin. Am I just going through the motions and not washing behind my heart? Have I gotten lazy and just take God for granted that I don't have to honestly search my heart, my words and my actions? Am I sincerely confessing or am I giving God a blanket statement to cover all my sins for the day? How can I grow without acknowledging the areas I honestly need to confess. I know God understands I won't get it accurately or adequately, but what I can do is to make sure that my confessions are more specific. Father God, forgive me for all the times that I don't honor your forgiveness because I simply take it for granted. Help me to understand that it is in the honest confession that I should be asking forgiveness. I want to always feel the true joy of your love, your grace, your mercy and your forgiveness. Thank you Father for your sacrifice of your son, Jesus so that I can be forgiven and live a joyous life. I pray that I'll always live a life that will honor and glorify you. I ask these things according to your will...not mine. Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-48989679475858456622013-08-21T20:07:11.820-04:002013-08-21T20:07:11.820-04:00When I think of taking risks for God I'm alway...When I think of taking risks for God I'm always reminded of the young student from Columbine High school when at Gun point the shooter asked, "Do you believe in God?" she said "yes" and he shot her. The risk she took on this earth for her God is imprinted in my mine and heart. We all take some risks but I know I've often chosen the risks I'll take instead of embracing the risks that truly matter to God. The risks that say I will never deny you regardless of the circumstances or consequences from this world. It's very easy to say in the face of danger that I would die for Christ...but what if I was told that if I believed in God that my child would be killed? If I hesitate for a moment what does that say about my faith? Father God, I pray that I will never hesitate to take the risks for the cause of Christ. Help me build my faith from your love and promises. Give me the insight to know the difference between Godly risks and Satan's attempts to distort the truth. I pray that I'll live my life not on my wishes and desires but by your will for my life which includes accepting the risks and trusting that you will lead me in the crusade for Christ. May those who have taken the risks and suffered in tortuous ways and even death be lifted up in the glory of your eternal love and protection. If you are in me who can stand against? Thank you for walking with me every step of the way. Teach me to be a warrior for Christ. all these things I ask in your precious son's name, Jesus according to your will for me. Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-9919837126083979172013-08-17T09:04:15.941-04:002013-08-17T09:04:15.941-04:00Thank you Pastor David for this message. Money ha...Thank you Pastor David for this message. Money has always been a subject that many Pastors seem reluctant to discuss while others will speak of nothing else as though it is the path to eternity. It's equally puzzling to me that people who call themselves Christians could become angry or disgruntled about this act of obedience. People seem to be okay with obedience in other areas. Concerning Pastors, perhaps it's because they don't want a Guest or a church member to leave thinking this church is all about money. Truthfully it does cost money to keep the doors of the church open. For the church member perhaps it's fear, control, guilt, etc. I know I've felt those things in the past. I don't think we can learn to be carefree (not worry) about money and step out in faith to be obiedient until this message "is" taught and it becomes evident in a person's life. Some of the happiest times as a child in Sunday School was dropping my nickel, dime or quarter in the collection plate. I loved being included in giving to God. Starting young creates a giving spirit that hopefully will continue as they become adults. Most of my life I've had no money or very little money, but when I trusted God to provide the opportunities to meet my needs...He always provided and often in abundance. Then comes the message of tithing...giving to God your first fruits (the best you have to give.) Like many I have given what I "thought" I could give. It has taken way to long in my life to realize that in doing that I wasn't obeying God's word. He didn't say give me a little of your first fruits...but 10%. I soon realized that I had fallen into a dangerous situation assuming I was being faithful and trusting...but the truth was that I had put limits on my faith. God doesn't put limits on His giving. Although I feel ashamed to admit my past lack of faith I feel free in knowing I no longer live that life. Father God, forgive me for the years of unfaithfulness. Thank you for your patience knowing that I would finally get this message and begin a true life of faith. You have never failed me...you have saved me from some of the lowest moments of my life...you saved my life. Thank you Father for your mercy, your forgiveness, your patience, and your eternal love for me. I pray that I will never forget that you are still working in and for me all the days of my life. Show me paths I need to take. Hold my hand and my heart so that your presence will fill me with a peace that is beyond understanding. Father I give you all the praise and glory for all that I have and all that I am knowing that I'm just the caregiver of these precious gifts. Help me to share your word truthfully...by living your word. All these things I ask in Jesus name according to your will for my life. Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-53449983514703173622013-08-06T13:30:44.666-04:002013-08-06T13:30:44.666-04:00What a powerful message. I've been so preoccup...What a powerful message. I've been so preoccupied in trying to figure out my place in serving others I realize all I've been doing is setting the table. I've yet to seat them or show them God's menu. Like a new inexperienced waitress I've been afraid that I might do something wrong like spill something or serve the wrong thing. The truth is that I need to spill something...spill the beans about God's love and promises. I have the perfect menu...my Bible. All I have to do is invite them to be seated...at the Lord's table. Thank you Pastor David for reminding me that there is a time to move beyond the preparations and serve the food of life...Jesus. Father God forgive me when I get caught up in the details instead of the content. I pray that you will help guide me inviting people to accept your invitation for eternal life through Jesus. May the people I serve find their seat at your table not mine. I give you all the praise and glory for all that I have is yours. Thank you for trusting me to care for your gifts according to your will. Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-78738606120287021752013-07-31T08:24:15.358-04:002013-07-31T08:24:15.358-04:00When I ponder on the words Jesus said about making...When I ponder on the words Jesus said about making himself at home in his fathers love it made me stop and think about what a loving home would feel like. Surely it is a place where I feel safe, provided for and protected. It is a place to learn right from wrong and for celebrating success. It is also a place of respect and obedience meaning there are consequences for disobedience. But the word home sounds so comforting. Our earthly homes can sometimes be just the opposite of the home Jesus described. Father God, I pray that I will make my home in your love. Help me to be the child you desire me to be. Forgive me of my selfish desires and place in my heart the desires that truly matter. I want to build my home in your love so that I might be filled with a joy that exceeds earthly understanding. I want to grow in all areas of my life that will be pleasing to you and honor you as my Father. At the end of the day may I always know that my home with you has wheels...you travel with me everywhere I go. Thank you for giving me a loving and forever home to grow up in. You are my joy, and my hope and I look forward to coming to your home one day in heaven. Until then I thank you for Providing me a home with you in my heart. For all these things I give you all the praise and glory. In your precious son's name and according to your will...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-66336186080717699362013-07-16T08:52:03.817-04:002013-07-16T08:52:03.817-04:00In years past I not only sailed close to the shore...In years past I not only sailed close to the shore I often stayed tied to the pier...drifting only a feet from what I believed to be safe. Did I feel safer, was my life joyous and fulfilled...no. The closer I stayed to shore the more fear I harbored. This year when Gordon and I made the decision to take a giant leap of faith and get married we cut the rope at the pier and set sail on a journey of faith knowing what earthly challenges we would face, but eager to experience God's power, love and promises for our lives. When we worried about food...He prepared for us a feast; when we worried about the monthly budget...he has balanced it perfectly; when we wanted to increase out tithe and find a way to save a little and still live...he introduced us to the 10% Give, 10% Save and the %80 live. When I saw the 80% to live on I said, "Really God. this can be done?" Yes it can. Now that we have set sail in God's waters we feel safe, well nourished, we are saving, and giving to others and to God all that is His. We recognize that we aren't the owners of our lives or our things and we are so grateful that God has been so generous to share this with us. When the storms start to churn the waters I'm reminded of Peter...and I pray, Father, never let me take my eyes off of you and find myself sinking to the bottom of the sea. Help me to see you as the compass in my life leading only to you. Thank you for your love, forgiveness, mercy, wisdom and discipline so that I might serve you in a more powerful way. Thank you for my sweet husband who loves you more than me so that our love for one another is more pure. I'm so grateful for your sacrifice of your only son so that I can live an eternal life with you. Help me live my life in a way that is pleasing to you and that others will see you in me. In Jesus name and according to your will for my life...Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-78749561801099698322013-07-16T08:22:10.946-04:002013-07-16T08:22:10.946-04:00We live in a world where the word love is tossed a...We live in a world where the word love is tossed about in general. It is spoken so often as though it were just an ordinary hello. You know, a quick hug and an "I love you." This message has made me stop and think not only about the word "love" but the many meanings of love. As I was reading the definitions in the dictionary I was overwhelmed with all the ways the word loved is described. From affection to sexual passion...and then I saw a meaning that was more powerful than all the others, "God's mercy and benevolence toward humans." God's mercy...an act of compassion and kind treatment. His benevolence...kind and charitable acts. Through this message and through what I've learned this morning I will never see love in the same light nor will I use it lightly. Father God, thank you for loving me with a pure and true love that is unending. A love that not only embraces me but provides mercy and kind acts that will guide me toward your presence. Teach me Father to love others in the way you love me. Help me to see that love is a precious gift and that without using it...it loses it's value. Plant in my mind the love you have for me so clearly that I will always be reminded that you are with me always. I ask all of these things in your precious son's name, Jesus. Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-63355154819765535752013-06-25T08:07:00.253-04:002013-06-25T08:07:00.253-04:00This has been my year of personal giant leaps of f...This has been my year of personal giant leaps of faith. This message reminds me of my marriage this past April. The word united as applied to marriage made me stop and think..."until death due us part" leaving a person to be open to marry again if one should die. To be united with Christ in many ways is much like a marriage filled with our commitments to be faithful, love, to forgive and to be forgiven, to be patience, and remaining steadfast with joyful expectation. However, I'm so grateful that to be united with Christ is not like an earthly marriage in that death will never part us. I have often wondered if more people entered marriage with the commitment to truly stay united "when life circumstances tries to part them," there would be less divorce and a stronger desire to not fight with each other but in unity fight that which is in the world that serves to disconnect them. In marriage we need to be all in...however to be "All in" for God...connecting, growing and serving others is our greatest purpose and a foundation to experience real joy. Father God, I ask you to forgive me for my slips in faithfulness. Father take my weaknesses and show me how to turn them into strengths. Help me to know there is no limit on how long it takes for me to grasp your wisdom...you are a patient teacher, loving and kind. I have much to learn about releasing self doubt and leaning always on my faith knowing that you will never forsake me. I praise you Father for all that I have and for all that I am. You are always "all in" for me and I want to show you I'm "all in" for you. Guide me Father so that others might desire the same united relationship I have with you to be part of their lives for now and for eternity. All these things I ask in your precious son's name, Jesus. Thou will be done...Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-48652362301199004982013-06-19T10:46:57.610-04:002013-06-19T10:46:57.610-04:00I know that I have been guilty of trying to be a p...I know that I have been guilty of trying to be a perfectionist. An A in obedience isn't good enough...somehow I need to be an A+. How sad when I think about it. God already created me "good enough" to have a relationship with him and yet I've wasted time living for him by thinking at times I'm not good enough, talented enough or experienced enough. It's so easy to slip into unhealthy and disobedient patterns in our lives when we start to believe that we are the ones that are in control. That explains a lot about my life and how feeling out of control led me to do nothing at all most of the time. Father God, forgive me for my arrogance in thinking I can improve on your perfect plan in my life. Help me to know the guardrails I need to put in place so that I don't wander into dangerous territory. I pray that I will continue to influence my mind by your love, forgiveness, mercy and wisdom so that my feelings will be in align with the actions you would have me take. I thank you Father for always being there for me and continuing to love & bless me even in times of my ignorance and disobedience. You are the Great I Am and I am your child. May I always remember that and give you the love and respect you always deserve. All these things I pray and ask in your precious son's name...Jesus. Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-86615243533793208872013-04-02T09:17:43.120-04:002013-04-02T09:17:43.120-04:00What interesting information on behavior. Whether...What interesting information on behavior. Whether great or small our behaviors effect our lives in many different ways. I see in me that certain behaviors have become habits...I'm often not even conscious of the consequences. Other times my sinful nature connected to my wants is so strong that I end up trying to justify my behavior. Sometimes I find myself hiding in a dark place that somehow feels familiar and safe. Reading my own words I'm beginning to see a correlation between my behaviors. Like the flea I feel trapped...except trapped by my own unconscious behaviors with endless consequences like guilt, unworthiness and shame. At other times I'm focused on what I think I need trying to disguise and justify my sinful wants. The consequences from this selfish behavior is that I never feel satisfied which causes me to repeat this behavior in constant search for fulfillment. Finally I end up running to a familiar dark place where I can hide my depression from the consequences of my sins. I find it interesting that many people will return to places that aren't good for them simply because it is familiar which gives a false sense of safety. "Father God I come to you today to ask for forgiveness for the times when I have ignored what I know is what you would have me do. Father I ask that you remove my running shoes so that I can stop running from you into the dark areas of my life. I know you already know this but I ask for a size 8 1/2 "walking shoe"...so that I may always walk toward you in the "light" of your Word and your presence. I ask for your mercy and to provide me with a godly awareness, a tap on my shoulder or simply a bench to sit and rest my heart in your love for me. Help me to resist self loathing so that I might see myself as you see me...pure, and saved by your precious son Jesus. Thank you for never abandoning me. You are the great "I Am" and there is no other God but you Father. Thank you for loving me always. I ask these things according to your will for me in Christ's name...Amen" nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-42580897402751150562013-02-26T08:38:06.175-05:002013-02-26T08:38:06.175-05:00A very good lesson and one I just had with a famil...A very good lesson and one I just had with a family member. I've learned over the years that being judgmental can lead to a bit of paranoia concerning any comment someone makes to you that isn't acceptable to you. I had a tendency to believe I wasn't a good person when someone placed judgement on me, and yet I knew I was. Unfortunately being judgmental can become a habit that can kill...your spirit, your connection with God and all the love that is waiting to comfort you. Judging what is right or wrong with the wisdom and influence of Christ there is a peace. Being judgmental steals ones peace. Thank you Father God for this message...a reminder to always check my comments before I speak. Let no word leave my mouth that would be judgmental and cause harm to another's spirit. Lead me in all areas of my life with a clear knowledge to be able to judge what is right or wrong...especially when it brings me out of my comfort zone. I thank you for your forgiveness and mercy and give you all the praise and glory for the peace in my life. May my life be guided by your will for me in your son's name Jesus...Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-30914627380129467642013-02-12T09:29:29.209-05:002013-02-12T09:29:29.209-05:00This message strikes at the heart of my method of ...This message strikes at the heart of my method of achieving a long term goal. How many times have I set a long term goal with several steps to achieve it...all my life. How many times have I chosen to pick the order of those steps based on how easy or difficult they are...almost always. Why? I wanted to see immediate results. That was my motivation. Wow! What a revelation. the truth is my choices were based on feelings not actual results. Getting honest doesn't feel so good. This message is such a life changer. The short and long term satisfaction of achieving a worldly goal is "SHORT" lived. The short and long term satisfaction of accomplishing God goals designed for me is "LONG" lived...eternal. Character isn't built in a day, trust isn't earned in a day, peace isn't earned in a day. All of these things require ongoing commitment..."long term." Father God, I pray for wisdom, patience, endurance so that my testimony will reveal a true long term commitment to serve you. Forgive me my shortsightedness and trying to choose the easy path. Spiritual growth is a long term commitment with much action on my part. I pray for understanding and guidance as I seek to grow beyond living just for today. I ask these things in your precious son's name Jesus, according to your will...amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-47573452757835634402013-02-12T08:58:39.692-05:002013-02-12T08:58:39.692-05:00This message made me stop and think about visions,...This message made me stop and think about visions, missions, steps to reach and attain those visions. The visions I've faced to move forward have been visions for living in this world as though I would live forever here on earth even though as a Christian I know my eternal life is forever in Heaven with God. So why wasn't I thinking long term? Why were all my visions based on what I thought I needed or wanted and not on what God's vision is for my life? After reading this message it becomes more clear to me. When I focused on a goal I had forgotten to include God so my hallway had no walls...leaving me with open spaces filled with distractions. Soon I was coping with distractions more than I was focused on attaining my goals. I like knowing that Christ's love constrains us...blocking out the worldly distractions that keep me from moving toward God's purpose in my life. I also realize that with the protective walls that line my path will keep out Satan from the outside but he will not give up and will try to attack me from within my thoughts to distract me. Father God I pray that you will constrain me with your wall of love not only down the visual halls I will walk but that you will provide the same wall of love to protect me from the distractions in my thought life. Help me to remember that the first steps I took on earth were baby steps and from this day forward I will be taking giant steps of faith into your Kingdom. Help me Father to remember my true direction through your unending love for me...your child. In Jesus name, Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-60912076472461355472013-02-12T08:29:22.909-05:002013-02-12T08:29:22.909-05:00It has taken a few months and many conversations w...It has taken a few months and many conversations with God to comment on this message. The result of those conversations has led Gordon and I to a giant leap of faith...getting married. The more we learn and grow in Christ the more we are committed to his will for us. In December we set a date to be married April 6th. To say I wasn't nervous knowing that our already small income would become a lot smaller would be to lie. However, in my heart I chose to lean on God's understanding, His promises and let him lead us down any path we will face in the future. We no sooner announced our wedding plans and the blessings came pouring down on us. Thank you Father God for always honoring your word and promises. I pray that our wedding will be a testimony of our faith and encourage others who have walked our path to lean on your strength, love and giving heart. Thank you for helping me to understand your will for my life. Thank you for all the wonderful people who have given their hearts to be vessels of your love for us. May I always remember my long awaited marriage as a reminder that you are the Great I Am. The one and only God who created all things and can do all things. Thank you for loving me, for forgiving me and for your mercy in every aspect of my life. To you I give all the praise and glory and ask that you bless our marriage...I ask this in your precious son's name Jesus according to your will...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-86234113179688874242013-01-30T19:03:23.365-05:002013-01-30T19:03:23.365-05:00This message caused me to do some real soul search...This message caused me to do some real soul searching. I've made goals all my life and created steps to achieve them only to discover once I achieved my goal I often felt empty and confused as to where to go from there. I'm beginning to see that the goals I set for myself weren't based on my calling from God. My goals were focused on what I thought I could accomplish without learning what my true and unique gifts God has called me to do. My goals were filled with constant detours created by worldly distractions. I was actually running a race that stunted my spiritual growth and just led me to another goal that was all consumed by me...me...me... No wonder I felt alone, frustrated with my faith and hope wavering each lap of my race. Dear Father God, thank you for your merciful understanding and forgiveness of my prideful race in a world that is filled with ends. Father I ask that you show me the gifts that you have designed for me so that I might mature spiritually and bring others to Christ. I pray father that each new goal that I set will reflect your will in my life and that I will never stop running the race that will lead me straight into your arm. Forgive me for my prideful ways and lead me toward the path you desire for my life. All these things I ask in Jesus name according to your will...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-66661136317771498772013-01-28T11:30:57.784-05:002013-01-28T11:30:57.784-05:00Gordon and I are really stretching our challenges ...Gordon and I are really stretching our challenges in 2013. It will be a test of faith and balance. Balancing our rubber band so that it isn't stretched in unhealthy ways that would cause it to break leaving our faith dangling. It already has been a year of amazing blessings resulting from our commitment of faith. God doesn't waste time and we both realize we needed to follow his lead. I plan to stretch my faith this week by locking up my control issues; I'll deepen my belief by reading my Bible leaning on God's truth, promises and love in His words; I plan to serve others by learning more about the gifts that God has given me so that my service will be effective; I will trust God this week by practicing total surrender through a prayerful heart, acting on his wisdom and instruction, and praising Him in advance of answered prayer and blessings; I anticipate great things from God...I will look for the good in all things this week which will be evidence of his love and greatness. Father God, Help me to stretch my rubber band of faith so that it will reflect your love, mercy, forgiveness and strength. Help me to balance my life so that I don't jeopardize my faith. Thank you for loving me and giving me such an abundant life. I look forward to April 6th when you walk me down the aisle as Gordon and I show our true love, faith and commitment to honor your will for our lives. Thank you for showing me your greatness as that is my anchor in the future when times may be hard. All these things I ask and give praise for in Jesus name according to your will. Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-52784503309122020742012-12-23T07:03:22.651-05:002012-12-23T07:03:22.651-05:00Christmas...am I joylessly or anxiously waiting fo...Christmas...am I joylessly or anxiously waiting for it to get here, or am I just waiting to get through it? What does Christmas really mean to me and am I sharing that with others? Am I showing God's love and promises with others and serving in the manner that would be pleasing to Him? Christmas is a perfect opportunity to remind me how much I need to be connected to God. He is my strength, and my salvation in all times. I need his word to grow emotionally and spiritually so that I will be able to share his good news with others. I also need to remember that to stay connected to God and grow spiritually that I need to serve others according to his will for me. When I take time to reflect on what I'm writing my heart is whispering to my soul..."It isn't just the buying of "presents," but "presence" of God that is the gift that I need to be giving. Father God, thank you for all the opportunities you have given me this year to connect with you especially through my Pastor's messages, your Word, my Bible study group and my Christian family. Thank you for equipping me with all I needed to be able to serve others in need this Christmas. Help me Father to remember to ask myself often 3 questions through this coming year: 1. Am I still connected with you and how? 2. Am I growing emotionally and spiritually and how? 3. Am I serving others according to your will for me and how? I pray that my answers will be pleasing to you. Thank you for your forgiveness, mercy and endless love. May my words and actions during this season of celebration reflect the true meaning of Christmas. All these things I ask in your precious son's name...Jesus...Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-73686865265127545222012-12-23T05:53:54.820-05:002012-12-23T05:53:54.820-05:00Thank you for this powerful message concerning fea...Thank you for this powerful message concerning fear. I'm ashamed that fear has been a driving force that has kept me from being all that God has chosen for me to be. It is so difficult sometimes when we live in a world that feeds our worldly nature to fear all that is happening around us, in us and in the future. That should be a red light for me as a Christian. My favorite verse is,2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind." So often the word "fear" itself should not remind me of its more worldly definition but of the Godly one meaning to respect or be in awe of someone or something. Father God I ask you to remove my inclination to live in the fear of man and this world with all its consequences and focus on my fear (awe) of you and all your blessings. Help me to release your light inside of me so that Your love may shine brightly on those who are lost and living in fear. Thank you God for loving me and your merciful forgiveness. For today I will be conscious of the words I speak and thoughts I think so that fear will not leak into my heart and soul. I pray for our Pastor who continues to minister to us with his love for you and desire to bring others to know you. Thank for this new day and a new chance to practice my faith in the way you would desire me to do. I ask all of these things in your son's name...Jesus...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-26818068435949714812012-12-18T10:06:08.622-05:002012-12-18T10:06:08.622-05:00I wanted to share a recent conversation my daughte...I wanted to share a recent conversation my daughter had with her 8 year old daughter about this tragedy... "finally had a talk with my oldest about the incident. I figured it would upset her...I got the opposite response. She was calm as can be and says "mommy, its ok. Those children and teachers are in heaven with Jesus. Its sad what happened but we have drills in school so we know what to do if a bad person comes in our school. I will be fine at school , mom" Talk about strength in a 8 yr old. I am glad to have instilled Jesus Christ in our lives. In fact she closed with, "while we are at school who will take care you?" I told her God will." That is the kind of faith we need to have in our lives. The faith of a child is so pure, simple and not complicated by adult thoughts. A great lesson in this tragedy is knowing that evil does exist in this world and that not one of us is immune to the effects of it. How we overcome evil is a personal choice. It can strengthened our faith or we can choose to let it steal our faith. We don't remove evil by removing or blaming God. Our country is fast placing the futures of our children in jeopardy by making them fearful of praying and speaking about God. Father God, I pray today for all the families who have been effected by this tragic event. May our hearts stay open to your presence, your love, forgiveness and mercy. Help us to spread the Good News about Jesus and Salvation. We know that sometimes we feel powerless over evil but then we are reminded that you are powerless over nothing. Help us all to lean on your understanding, love and strength to live in this world filled with evil, hate, envy and destruction. Lord we praise your Holy Name and give you all the praise and glory. We ask these things in your precious son's name Jesus according to your will...Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-49686671520335508382012-11-26T17:10:56.634-05:002012-11-26T17:10:56.634-05:00As I look back on the last two years I see a perso...As I look back on the last two years I see a person who had become very comfortable with her immediate family and friends. Then I discovered Clay Community Church. It was a little uncomfortable at first meeting new people but before long my family grew as it included my church family. I also discovered that I was settling in to that comfortable feeling with my expanded family. Becoming comfortable in any circumstance can stunt your growth...A very important lesson I'm learning. If I want Jesus to be the center of my life then I need to learn how to introduce him to others so that they may have the opportunity to invite him into their lives and families. This requires me to be willing to step away from what is comfortable and familiar. Father God, I ask that you forgive me for the times that I close off my family circle. I pray that I will always remember if I place you at the door it will always be open to me and to others. Lord help me to eliminate any thought, action or words that reflect selfishness. Thank you for your mercy, forgiveness and grace. I accept your will for me whether it be pain or gain and know that the only family that matters is your family. All these things I ask in your son's name Jesus and according to your will...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-25252401697293707912012-11-24T08:08:26.849-05:002012-11-24T08:08:26.849-05:00I have had some time to reflect on the special eve...I have had some time to reflect on the special events that I have celebrated and realize that although each is filled with joy and gratefulness that they have another thing in common and that is food. Have you ever been to a celebration that didn't have food? For me and others like me food can become like an idol...something that is used to pleasure insecurities, sedate anxiety, and to fulfill a personal desire, or missing link in an empty corner of our life. Father God, I come to you with a prayerful heart. Help me to be aware of idols that sneak into my life only to sabotage the real meaning of celebrating all that you are, all that you have given me and all that you have planned for me in the future. Thank you for your faithfulness in my ongoing journey to provide a healthier temple for you to reside in. Thank you for your mercy when I fail to listen to my heart and when I don't lean on your understanding, strength and love. Father I look forward to celebrations that no longer whet my appetite and over stuff my selfish desires. I give you all the praise and glory as I remember that what you feed me will not only sustain me, but give me joy, peace and grow my relationship with you. For my next celebration I will remember to pull out the most important recipe...Your delicious and fulfilling "Bread" of life. Thank you Father for everything...especially your precious son Jesus who died so that I might live forever with you...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-69890802928172173882012-10-30T09:18:29.421-04:002012-10-30T09:18:29.421-04:00This message leads me to examine the real truth in...This message leads me to examine the real truth in my life. Oh how I wish I could say that every area of my life I have surrendered completely to Christ. I have given him my soul completely, but it's in the act of surrendering my worldly circumstances I fail miserably at times. I know that the times I have fallen on my knees when I have nowhere to look but up into the loving eyes of my faithful God do I find comfort and peace. Knowing this...why wouldn't I always surrender to God's direction and authority for my life before I end up confused, crushed and broken? Why do I run from God at times? Is it shame, fear, unworthiness? Father God I come to you this day to ask for your forgiveness in the moments when I turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to your direction. Release in me my desire to control my life so that I can see and hear your direction and wisdom. Help me to understand the consequences in my life so that I can use them to grow and mature spiritually. I desire a continuing more deepening relationship with you. Thank you Father for you mercy, grace and forgiveness. All these things I ask in your precious son's name Jesus according too your will not mine. Amennfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-33784408709720540902012-10-16T08:58:27.675-04:002012-10-16T08:58:27.675-04:00I thank God for his gift of not giving me everythi...I thank God for his gift of not giving me everything I wanted. This has allowed me to experience a deeper understanding and contentment in my circumstances...trusting always in his promises to provide for my needs. The times when I step out into my will I always find discontent, guilt and feelings of unworthiness about myself. The aroma of the "human instinct" really "stinks" sometimes. The aroma of a godly grateful heart carries the scent of peace, contentment, and the knowledge that I am loved continuously through all my circumstances in life by my father...God. Thank you Father for giving me opportunities to exercise and experience contentment as I rejoice in your love and power knowing that that through faith I can overcome any circumstance. Father I pray that you will continue to lead, uplift and bless Pastor David. I pray that our church will continue to grow and mature in ways that will reach out to our community and bring them to Christ. I ask all these things in Jesus name according to our will...Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-32311262275280706372012-10-01T12:42:34.178-04:002012-10-01T12:42:34.178-04:00This message has made me think more about what mer...This message has made me think more about what mercy really is. It is more than just caring...it's about love and forgiving too. Perhaps I need to ask myself if I have a true merciful heart, do I care, forgive and love the way God loves me? Or do I choose to selectively care, forgive and love? Do I forget that my merciful heart has a purpose and that is to choose to lead others to Christ, or do I serve my own purpose in trying to avoid confrontation or rejection by eliminating that choice? Father God I pray that the choices I make will always bring glory to you because of your mercy, forgiveness, and sacrificial love that you have given me. Forgive me Father when I allow myself to be influenced by the world and help me to remain vigilant in awareness of your will for my life. I ask all of this in your precious son's name Jesus...your will be done...in your time. Amen nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7970618218959871569.post-61166232204394932352012-08-28T09:27:40.658-04:002012-08-28T09:27:40.658-04:00What a wonderful way to remember how to grow spiri...What a wonderful way to remember how to grow spiritually and live healthy fulfilled lives towards our Godly purpose. Although I rarely sleep for any length of time...I'm sure I can experience a little REM (Relate, Evaluate & Meditate)moments with the assurance that God will help me become an authentic and faithful "DREAMIE." Thank you Father for your mercy, patience and love as I go back to face the pains so that I can go forward in your will for me. nfudge1https://www.blogger.com/profile/10278162714869620541noreply@blogger.com